Town-Crier Newspaper May 17, 2013

LOX GROVES RESPONDS TO CAMPUS SUIT SEE STORY, PAGE 3

RPB DISCUSSES CANDIDATE FORUMS SEE STORY, PAGE 7

THE

TOWN - CR IER WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE

Your Community Newspaper

INSIDE

Last-Minute Changes As Wellington Finalizes New Biz Hour Rules

Volume 34, Number 20 May 17 - May 23, 2013

ART SOCIETY AWARDS SCHOLARSHIPS

Wellington businesses located within 300 feet of homes can now open an hour earlier and stay open an hour later after members of the Wellington Village Council gave final OK Tuesday to new rules governing hours of operation. But council members debated for more than an hour over some lastminute changes. Page 3

WHS Dance Helps Fight Breast Cancer

ThinkPINKkids held its Dance Night for the Fight on Friday, May 10 at Wellington High School.

The student-run organization hosted a community dance to celebrate those who are fighting breast cancer and to bring awareness to the cause.

Page 5

County To Consider IG Funding Next Week

Palm Beach County Inspector General Sheryl Steckler, guest speaker at the monthly community forum hosted by County Commissioner Jess Santamaria, said Wednesday that she faces another challenge next week when the Palm Beach County Commission considers financing and support options for her office. Page 7

RPB Honors Moms With Special Concert

The Royal Palm Beach Community Concert Band played a Mother’s Day concert Sunday, May 12 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. Page 9

OPINION Hats Off To The Class Of 2013!

Area seniors will celebrate the end of their high school careers next week. As we do every year, the Town-Crier offers some practical advice to those preparing to take the next step in their lives, wherever that may be.

Page 4

Wellington Art Society held its annual scholarship presentation on Wednesday, May 8 at the Wellington Community Center. Five local art students each received $1,000 to further their art studies at the college level. Each of the scholarship winners brought artwork to show. Here is honoree Marisa Waddle with her work. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 9 PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

ITID Budget Earmarks More Money For Drainage Work

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors held a public hearing Monday on its draft budget for fiscal year 201314 budget. The budget emphasized holding the line on assessments while still making major drainage improvements.

Key goals of the draft budget were a comprehensive drainage plan, in-house canal improvements, telemetry to continue the automation of manually operated water control structures, in-house mowing and a road improvement schedule, Director of Finance Katrina Myers-Arnold said.

ments. The department got $1.7 million in FEMA reimbursements from Tropical Storm Isaac.

The parks draft budget is down 3 percent from the previous year, from $1.08 million in 2013 to $1.05 million in 2014, with $69,500 in renovations planned at Hoefl Park, the district’s oldest park, to include installation of permanent restroom facilities and new playground equipment, according to Parks Director Tim Wojnar.

Wojnar said ITID staff is waiting for a board decision on which way to go on the Acreage Community Park expansion, which was budgeted in 2012 but put on hold See ITID BUDGET, page 4

County Explores New Outlets In Planning For Storm Season

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Palm Beach County’s Department of Public Safety and the American Red Cross gave a joint presentation Tuesday to the Palm Beach County Commission focused on preparations for the 2013 hurricane season. Among the highlights was a new, interactive social media project.

Assistant County Administrator Vince Bonvento said experts predict an above-average hurri-

DEPARTMENT INDEX NEWS ............................. 3 - 13 OPINION .................................4 CRIME NEWS .........................6 NEWS BRIEFS........................ 8 SCHOOLS .....................14 - 15 PEOPLE ............................... 16 COLUMNS .................... 23 - 24 BUSINESS .................... 25 - 27 ENTERTAINMENT .................31 SPORTS ........................ 35 - 37 CALENDAR ...................38 - 39 CLASSIFIEDS ................ 40 - 43 Visit Us On The Web At WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

A majority of the budget is allocated to maintenance of the district’s 389 miles of unpaved roads and 70 miles of paved roads.

The overall proposed budget is up from $9.6 million this year to $10.8 million next year, due largely to an increased focus on drainage.

The average assessment increase for all active units is 1.48 percent, with the average assessment being $426 a year.

For 2013, the administrative draft budget would increase by 2 percent from $1.65 million to $1.66 million. Myers-Arnold pointed out that the department has three years of unqualified audit opinions with no management com-

The new Palm Beach County DART app as it appears on an iPhone.

cane season, with 18 named storms, nine hurricanes and four intense hurricanes.

“What we’d like to do today is talk about some of the new programs that have been developed,” Bonvento said. “One of the things we’re excited about is our new web site redesign that’s available to all our citizens and businesses. We also have a new social media room where we monitor Facebook and Twitter so we can get the information out to the people, and most importantly, we can find out what’s happening in the community.”

The Department of Public Safety also has new hurricane guides and evacuation and shelter maps.

It can also identify the locations of all the gas stations and grocery stores with generators. The digital information and social media support center can give real-time information, such as shelters that are open or closed, or roads that are closed.

“We’re really proud of our new DART, disaster and recovery information tool,” Bonvento said.

“This application is going to allow us to provide information over mobile phones.”

Bonvento said it will be a great evacuation tool, allowing the Emergency Operations Center to identify shelters and give directions to

those shelters, and also tell what hardware stores, grocery stores or gas stations are open with generators.

“Most importantly, people all have mobile phones, and they’re all taking pictures, and they can send those pictures in, which will allow the community to send information to us that we can use in delegating our resources,” he said.

Bill Johnson, director of emergency management, said 58 percent of the population now has a smartphone that can access the site. The new mobile phone application currently has two phases, before the emergency and after the emergency.

Users will be able to use built-in GPS or type their address in for full interface with the site, which will tell the user what evacuation zone they are in, whether they are in an emergency and where they are in relation to their nearest shelter, as well as driving directions.

There are also elements on how to make a plan, build a survival kit, be informed and be involved.

The after-emergency portion of the application works similarly but includes real-time information on gas stations, hardware stores and grocery stores that are open, with directions how to get there. “In the See HURRICANES, page 18

Serving Palms West Since 1980

Wellington Tennis Center Moving To Village Walk Site

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington Tennis Center is getting a new home outside the Village Walk community on Lyons Road.

The controversial decision divided members of the Wellington Village Council 3-2, with Vice Mayor Howard Coates and Councilwoman Anne Gerwig opposed.

The Wellington Tennis Center has been located adjacent to the Wellington Community Center since the village purchased the property in the late 1990s. But concerns about parking, along with a planned expansion for the community center, prompted a council decision in January to look for a new tennis home.

Council members and village staff considered several sites for a new tennis center, including the former Wellington Boys & Girls Club property on South Shore Blvd., the K-Park property on State Road 7, village-owned land behind the Hampton Inn near the Mall at Wellington Green and the Village Walk site on Lyons Road.

Councilman Matt Willhite said that his goal was to move tennis

“while having the least impact on the most residents.”

Councilman John Greene asked how long it would take for construction of a new tennis center.

“I’m looking for a way to have the least impact on all of the programs,” Greene said.

Operations Director Jim Barnes said that it could take about 18 months once a site is chosen.

Demolition of the community center would come after that.

“The existing tennis facility would not be disrupted until a new facility was in place,” he said.

“That directly impacts how soon you can start the new community center. You can’t do any new construction on the existing site unless you decide not to use any of the areas where the tennis center and courts are.”

Mayor Bob Margolis asked Wellington Tennis Center Director Tommy Cheatham to weigh in on the new site.

“I think the tennis community would like to see a facility where we have more tennis courts than we do right now,” Cheatham said.

“We’d like to see a minimum of 20.

See TENNIS, page 18

A SPECIAL BIRTHDAY

The Royal Palm Beach Seniors Activities Group hosted a Mother’s Day Celebration on Friday, May 10 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. At the event, longtime resident Ruth Hamlyn was surprised with a cake for her 100th birthday.

Shown here, Hamlyn is delighted by the cake brought to her by Joe Schelorke. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 12 PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

June 8 Benefit For Town-Crier Staffer Jason Budjinski

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Facing several major surgeries — including a liver transplant — local musician and longtime TownCrier employee Jason Budjinski has often worried how he will weather his current health crisis.

One thing is sure: he won’t do it alone.

Family and friends, along with the Town-Crier and many others in the western communities, will host a benefit for the Jason Budjinski Surgery Relief Fund on Saturday, June 8 from noon to 3 p.m. at the Madison Green Golf Club in Royal Palm Beach.

“People here, along with all my friends from over the years, and even people from as far away as Okeechobee, have reached out to support me,” Budjinski said. “It’s beyond words, the way I feel. My

gratitude to everyone can’t be measured.”

The entire community is invited to join for music, fun and food, along with live and silent auctions that will benefit Budjinski’s medical fund.

In 1999, Budjinski was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), an autoimmune disease that affects the liver.

“It’s an autoimmune disease of the bile ducts,” Budjinski explained. “The ducts get narrow and scar, and ultimately it affects the liver.”

Budjinski and his family moved to the western communities in 1979. He grew up in the area, playing little league sports and attending local schools.

Western Pines Middle School See BUDJINSKI, page 18

High School Seniors Prepare To Don Cap And Gown

By Alexandra Antonopoulos Town-Crier Staff Report Hundreds of seniors from the western communities will descend upon the South Florida Fairgrounds next week for graduation ceremonies celebrating the end of their high school careers.

The commencement season kicks off with Wellington High School’s graduation Tuesday, May 21, and continues with graduation ceremonies for Seminole Ridge High School and Palm Beach Central High School on Thursday, May 23. Royal Palm Beach High School will celebrate the Class of 2013 on Friday, May 24.

Each spring, students power through their days with laser focus, patiently biding their time until the bell rings that final chime of the semester, marking the arrival of summer.

For high school seniors, though, the last weeks of May present an opportunity for both reflection on school years past and excitement for what lies ahead.

Their years of effort and determination have all led up to this: graduation day.

In the western communities, the graduating classes each have their own standouts. These students represent the top of their class.

They have worked tirelessly to achieve academic success. In their ranks are future entrepreneurs, cultural icons and the bold leaders of tomorrow.

At Wellington High School, graduate coordinator Susan Cooperman witnessed a kind and motivated graduating class overcome distractions and focus on the task at hand. “We had a lot of scheduling changes and interruptions due to testing this year, but they handled it with aplomb,” she said.

“They adapted very easily.”

Ali Sina Booeshaghi is this year’s WHS valedictorian. After graduation, his sights are set on

the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he intends to study engineering. The school’s salutatorian, Marc Nebb, will attend the University of Florida in the fall.

Cooperman went on to stress the strength of character that she saw in the graduating WHS seniors. “This class is a very nice group of people; they’re really a motivated, good group,” she said.

WHS graduation exercises will be held Tuesday, May 21 at 4 p.m. at the South Florida Fairgrounds Expo Center.

A similar sentiment was echoed

by Seminole Ridge High School

Principal James Campbell, who remarked on the achievements of his 525-student graduating class, despite a rocky back-to-school transition.

“Hurricane Isaac closed the school for six days,” he said. “Regardless, it was a quiet but successful year,” Campbell said.

“Many of our students received scholarships, both athletic and academic.”

One of them is valedictorian Ryan Meingasner, who accepted a full academic scholarship to Duke University and plans to study neuroscience. Meingasner is one of See GRADUATIONS, page 18

Page 2 May 17 - May 23, 2013

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

The Town-Crier

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

May 17 - May 23, 2013 Page 3

NEWS

Wellington Finalizes New Biz Hour Rules With Last-Minute Changes

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Wellington businesses located within 300 feet of homes can now open an hour earlier and stay open an hour later after members of the Wellington Village Council gave final approval Tuesday to new rules governing hours of operation.

But last-minute changes divided council members, who debated for more than an hour over requiring businesses to come before the council for hours beyond 2 a.m. and whether to hold professional offices to the same rules.

“This is to protect our residents and be fair and balanced with our business community,” Councilman Matt Willhite said.

Businesses within 300 feet of homes have long been restricted to operating hours between 6 a.m.

and 11 p.m., though the rule went largely unenforced. The ordinance will now allow businesses to open at 5 a.m. and stay open until midnight.

Outdoor activity, however, will remain limited to between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m.

Any business looking to operate outside those hours will have to apply for a permit and pay a $500 fee, but council members voted to include a 60-day grace period during which the fee will be waived for existing businesses.

On the ordinance’s first reading, the decision to allow for extended hours was left to the village’s growth management director. But Willhite said he thought the council should decide which businesses could operate beyond 2 a.m.

“I think 2 a.m. is a reasonable hour for most businesses to be

open,” he said. “Beyond that, I think they should come before the council.”

But Vice Mayor Howard Coates noted that Wellington was trying to make the process easier.

“The whole idea in [changing the rules] was to avoid these types of things coming back to the council,” he said. “That’s why we are relying on our growth management director to decide.”

Coates also noted that making businesses come before the council creates uncertainty.

“Not only will businesses that operate 24 hours have to come back for a permit, but they will also have to subject themselves to the political uncertainties of what this council might do with one business versus another business.”

Coates said that council members had agreed to add criteria for

businesses looking to stay open late so as to avoid having to come before the council.

“I was hoping that by applying the criteria we’ve set out, we will get consistent applications,” he said. “I don’t have a problem with extraordinary circumstances coming before us, but I think we’re just going to mess this up and create more uncertainty.”

But Willhite said that leaving the decision to an employee could also lead to inconsistency. “We get inconsistent opinions from time to time,” he said.

Another issue was an exemption in the rules for professional offices. Coates asked how those businesses are defined and controlled. “Even if they are in an office, they may not be traditional businesses,” Coates said.

Growth Management Director

Rooney: Plenty Of Local Funding In State Budget

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report State Rep. Pat Rooney (R-District 85) gave a legislative update to the Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors last week, listing $4 million to reinforce the berm separating the J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area from The Acreage as the biggest benefit for the district in the new state budget.

The $4 million was about half of the more than $8 million recommended by Gov. Rick Scott. “We tried to get something for the Corbett this year, and hopefully we can get the other half next year,” Rooney said at the ITID meeting Wednesday, May 8.

The legislature approved a $74.5 billion budget. “That’s about $4.5 billion more than it was last year,” Rooney said. “The state’s economy is getting better. Our sales tax receipts were up. Tourism is better. A lot of people are spending money. That’s the primary reason why we are able to have a little bit more money this year than in the past couple of years.”

Out of the $74.5 billion, $31.1 billion is for the healthcare budget, and $20.3 billion is for education, which includes $480 million set aside for teacher merit pay raises. State employees will receive across-the-board raises between $1,000 and $1,400. State law enforcement officials will get an additional increase.

In addition to the Corbett levee financing, Palm Beach County specifically will get $4.3 million toward restoration of the Loxahatchee River and $1 million for Jupiter Carlin Park Beach restoration. Funding of $70 million was approved for Everglades restoration.

The legislature approved an elections bill that will address early voting issues that arose in the last election.

“It gives the supervisors of elections much more flexibility in terms of sites for early voting,” Rooney said. “It’s not going to be limited now to city halls and libraries. It will give the supervisor more flexibility in terms of hours of early voting and locations. It really puts the issue with your local supervisor, which everybody in Tallahassee thought was a good thing to do.”

The legislature also increased the age for foster care emancipation from 18 to 21. “Some of these kids just aren’t ready to be out on their own,” Rooney said, explaining that some want to go to college and some are just not ready to join the workforce at 18. “The testimony that we got was that if you could make it 21, that would help them get to a stage in life that they would be better able to handle some of those big decisions.”

The legislature also approved Florida’s first texting-while-driving ban, making it a secondary offense. “If you’re stopped for some-

thing else and caught texting while driving, you can be cited for that,” Rooney said. “The last-minute amendment that was put in there does not allow law enforcement to use your phone records in terms of the texting unless there was a crash involving bodily injury or death. It’s a starting point. It’s not really where we want it to be with texting and driving, but it’s like when we started doing things with seat belts. I think this will evolve as it goes along.”

The legislature also approved the Cancer Treatment Fairness Act, which was strongly advocated by State Sen. Majority Leader Lizbeth Benacquisto (R-District 30), that will mandate that insurance companies have to pay for oral cancer treatment in the same manner that they pay for intravenous treatment.

“With technology and advances in science, a lot of oral medications do just as good a job as the intravenous, but it was not mandated that the insurance companies pay for it,” Rooney said. “If the governor signs this, it will be.”

Rooney was able to get three of his six bills passed. “I was able to get three of the six in front of the governor,” he said. “He has already signed one of them. That was the funeral buffer zone. This basically provides a 500-foot buffer around a funeral or memorial service to protect free speech but at the same time give those peo-

ple mourning the death of a loved one some comfort.”

The law was prompted by the controversial Westboro Baptist Church in Kansas and its penchant to protest funerals of military members and other high-profile casualties.

“What we came up with was, based on some lower court rulings, is a buffer zone where the free speech can still be heard, but at the same time there is a zone there that they’re not right on top of everybody yelling and screaming,” Rooney said. “The governor signed that, and it’s going to be going into law July 1.”

He also was able to get a Disposition of Human Remains bill passed. “Right now there is an industry, believe it or not, in Florida where unclaimed or indigent bodies or body parts are being sold,” Rooney said. “It’s almost like an underground industry right now.

It’s unregulated, so we got involved in this and set parameters on what you can and can’t sell of unclaimed bodies.”

Another approved Rooney bill benefits deaf and hard-of-hearing students who were previously lumped in school with other special-needs children. “The bill that I was able to pass basically puts in place a plan so that the kids are differentiated a little bit so they get more and better resources to deal with their hard-of-hearing or deafness issues,” he said.

Tim Stillings said the business is defined by its operation. “It doesn’t matter what type of structure they are in,” he said. “It matters what type of business they are operating.”

Coates asked why professional business offices were exempt from the new ordinance.

“As I see it, there is a distinction between being able to go into your office and work all night versus having the doors open for cli-

ents and customers,” he said.

“What we’re trying to do is protect the ability of [someone] to be in their office all night long. Can they do that as long as the doors aren’t open for business?”

Stillings said the ordinance did not specify whether customers were in the office.

“It doesn’t differentiate between whether you’re open for business or not,” Stillings said. “It See BIZ HOURS, page 18

Lox Groves Attorney Responds To Lawsuit Over College Campus

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Loxahatchee Groves Town Attorney Mike Cirullo filed a response Tuesday to a lawsuit filed by residents who circulated a petition to stop the construction of the planned Palm Beach State College on Southern Blvd.

In March, Town Clerk Sue Eichhorn deemed the petition insufficient because there was no indication that the text of the petition had been attached to the list of signatories when it was circulated, as required by the town charter.

Town resident Todd McLendon, on behalf of Petitioners’ Committee for the Repeal of Ordinances, filed a writ of mandamus April 24 to compel the town to show cause why it had not acted upon the petition.

Cirullo’s response contended that the clerk and council responded appropriately when the clerk deemed the petition insufficient and the council upheld the clerk’s decision.

McLendon and the committee are seeking an order compelling the town clerk to perform the ministerial act of processing the citizens’ initiative and moving forward with a referendum.

However, the town does not believe its role in the matter is purely ministerial.

“On the other hand, the members of the committee did not do what they were obligated to do,” Cirullo wrote in the town’s response. “The amended petition is utterly without merit and must be rejected by this court.”

The response also asserts that

the court needs to ascertain the petitioners’ standing as a legal entity to bring action against the town. If it is not a legal entity, the individual members, as opposed to an individual member, should collectively sue the town.

Cirullo’s response further points out that the town charter provides for a determination by the town clerk that specific criteria have been satisfied, and the clerk found that the initiative petition did not satisfy those criteria. The determination was subsequently upheld by the council. “The decision of the town council to uphold the town clerk’s determination of insufficiency necessarily involved the exercise of judgment and discretion,” Cirullo wrote.

During the council’s consideration of the petition and the clerk’s finding of insufficiency, McLendon had said that copies of the ordinance were attached to the list of signatories, but they had been removed when the committee submitted the petition.

“The petitioner admits that the initiative documents were altered in that required items were removed,” Cirullo noted.

The response also contends that the petition is unconstitutional in that it conflicts with a state law that prohibits amendments to comprehensive plans from being the subject of initiatives or referenda except in very limited circumstances not applicable in this case.

Cirullo added that two bills have been approved by the Florida Legislature and are on Gov. Rick Scott’s desk awaiting signatures that would render the petition invalid if either bill becomes law.

Page 4 May 17 - May 23, 2013

The Town-Crier

WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

OUR OPINION

It’s Graduation Time: Words Of Wisdom For The Class Of 2013 Area seniors will celebrate the end of their high school careers next week. The commencement season kicks off with Wellington High School’s graduation on Tuesday, May 21 and continues with graduation ceremonies for Seminole Ridge High School and Palm Beach Central High School on Thursday, May 23. Royal Palm Beach High School will celebrate the Class of 2013 on Friday, May 24.

Don’t we all wish we could go back to graduation day? For a few hours surrounded by friends and family, graduates find themselves in that magical limbo between high school and whatever comes next, without academic obligations to classes past or responsibilities yet to come. Everything is promise; it is too late for nothing. If we could turn back the clock, there are certainly a few things we’d all do differently. As we do every year, the Town-Crier offers some practical advice to those preparing to take the next step in their lives, wherever that may be.

• Slow Down — As the saying goes: “Life moves fast, if you don’t slow down you might miss it.” Though your new-found freedom may bring exciting twists and turns, opening you up to new opportunities, it is important to remember to stop and appreciate the moment before jumping head-first into new excitement. At the same time, it’s important not to get so bogged down with life that you power through, wasting precious moments. Think back to the days when being a high school graduate was just a far-off dream. One day, you might be dreaming of the next big thing; but don’t wish your life away. It’s easy to get caught up in the minutia of

daily tasks and focus on your frustration. Every so often, take a deep breath and look at where you are, who your friends are and what you love about your life today.

• Trust Yourself — That tiny voice in the back of your head is often a guiding light that will help you make smart decisions. Trust it. You know yourself better than anyone else, and only you can make the right decisions for your future. Whether that voice is telling you to take a risk in your profession, warning you away from getting in a car with a friend who’s had a few drinks, or begging you to major in architecture and not engineering, ignoring your intuition is a bad idea. Learning to trust yourself will make you a stronger and more confident person who can truly stand proud behind their work, their beliefs and their goals.

• Nothing Comes Easy — No matter how talented you may be, nothing impresses like hard work and dedication. Be it in school, in your chosen profession, or on the ladder up to your dream job. Hard work is never fun, and it’s easy to let pride and laziness get in the way of success. Not everyone lands his or her dream job on the first try, and that’s OK. Accept the fact that life isn’t always fair, but that doesn’t mean you throw your hands up and admit defeat.

Don’t be afraid to take a job that isn’t perfect. Work really hard for what you want; you’ll be a better person for it.

Grads, you’ve got the world at your fingertips and this is the most exciting challenge you have faced yet. Your family and friends love you and are waiting to be impressed. We know you won’t let us down. No pressure, Class of 2013.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Support The Inspector General I, like most, if not all, of the 72 percent of Palm Beach County voters who voted for the creation of the Office of the Inspector General, am absolutely appalled by the contempt being shown not only to the OIG, but also to the desire of we, the people.

It is absurd to try to tie the hands of [Inspector General] Sheryl Steckler behind her, blindfold and gag her and then have the audacity to criticize her performance.

Shame on you, [County Administrator] Bob Weisman, who had been an excellent administrator until you eliminated over 700 jobs during a recession, and now your relentless attack on the IG. Shame also on the cities who are part of this clandestine conspiracy. The Town-Crier and every other newspaper that I read fully support the OIG and Sheryl Steckler.

What on Earth is scaring a minority who seem to have no problem with our label Corruption County?

It was encouraging to see Rhonda Ferrin-Davis get up for the very first time in chambers and speak in support of the IG. (You go, girl!)

Eloquent speeches were given by the majority that spoke (97% in favor). One commissioner pointed out that all the speakers in support of the IG came from the same place. Is it relevant where they came from?

What’s happening to Sheryl is wrong. What the detractors are doing to her and her office is deplorable. It’s like taking a sleeping pill and a laxative in the same night.

Keep up the good work, Sheryl.

We, the people are behind you 100 percent.

Alma Slater Wellington

Support The Office, Not The Person There seems to be no end to the turmoil created by the Palm Beach County Office of the Inspector General. Each side seems to put the blame everywhere but where it should rightly be. First it was the cities filing suit over the funding matrix. I clearly heard the County Administrator [Robert Weisman] say that the funding mechanism in the referendum was not enough to fund the office and that early on he had recommended another method which the commissioners employed. That means the cities are correct that the funding is not in line with what the people voted.

Next we have the county administrator at fault because he criti-

cized his employee, Sheryl Steckler, for circumventing her employer to become involved in the lawsuit and to expand the budget and personnel of her office.

But let’s take a look at the common denominator here — Ms. Steckler. She certainly has been an inappropriate employee. There is no solution that satisfies her, and when she does not get her way, she begins a public rant with the unfortunate support of one of the commissioners. It is time for this to end. The public continues to support the Office of the Inspector General, but it can no longer continue to support the individual who sits in that position. It is Ms. Steckler who is the embarrassment of the county.

According to Mayor [Steven] Abrams, the inspector general is recommended by the state attorney, public defender and the ethics commission, I urge them to secure an individual for the Office of the Inspector General who will follow the guidelines of the position, work within the budget and provide the public with the service that they voted for.

Jerry Coffman Royal Palm Beach

Letter Was From Sore Losers The following is my response to last week’s letter by Gary Webster, husband of former Royal Palm Beach Councilwoman Martha Webster (Dave Swift’s Sign Fixation, May 10). Losing an election is tough. I should know because my husband David has lost two of them during his political career. I understand your frustration, but I never expected to be personally attacked with false statements and outright lies in our local paper. I recognize that as a political figure, my husband is fair game, but as a private citizen, I am not.

This is the second time that you or your wife have attempted to smear my reputation by filing false charges of stealing campaign signs in 2006, and again restating the same nonsense in last week’s Town-Crier as a spiteful way to get back at my husband. All I can say is shame on you. If anyone would like a copy of the 2006 police report, they can make a public records request at the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office District 9 substation, located at 11498 Okeechobee Blvd. in Royal Palm Beach and request a copy of case No. 06-042241 (March 28, 2006).

Based on Mr. Webster’s letter, it is clear he has not read the 2006 report. What it says is that I was “exceptionally cleared” of all charges filed against me. His letter also states that Martha Webster had nothing to do with filing these false charges against me. Page 1

of the report clearly identifies Martha as one of the two complainants interviewed in the case.

Mr. Webster’s letter also states that I was “caught red handed with the goods.” The report states that a search of my car produced no stolen campaign signs. His letter goes on to say that the charges were “suspiciously dropped” suggesting my husband has some kind of influence over the PBSO and the state attorney’s office that handled this case. There is nothing suspicious about it. There was no evidence found that I did anything illegal or inappropriate — end of story.

His letter ends stating that my husband wants to limit political campaign signs in the village. Nothing could be further from the truth.

At last week’s council meeting, my husband voted to allow campaigns signs on certain areas of village-owned property with no change to what is allowed on private property. This change will increase sign exposure for new, less-experienced candidates who might want to challenge an incumbent.

When you make the decision to run for public office you need to understand three basic things: 1) it is very competitive, 2) there are only winners and losers, and 3) the voters seldom get it wrong.

You and your wife need to accept these facts, move on and refocus your lives to help make this a better community. The election is over. Nobody likes a sore loser.

Nixie Swift Royal Palm Beach

OIG Is Wasting Our Money I respectfully disagree with your editorial endorsement of the Office of Inspector General (OIG) and your denouncement of the efforts of municipalities to challenge the proposed funding methods for the office.

You correctly stated that “72 percent of Palm Beach County voters” agreed with the “goal... to stamp out corruption” when they voted to accept oversight by an OIG. But the voters could not possibly have known the details of how the OIG was to operate nor how it was to be funded, since those details were not established until several months after the vote.

Here is exactly what was approved: “Shall the Palm Beach County Charter be amended to require the Board of County Commissioners to establish by ordinances applicable to Palm Beach County and all municipalities approving this amendment: a code of ethics, an independent commission on ethics funded by the county commission, and an independent inspector general funded by the county

commission and all other governmental entities subject to the authority of the inspector general?”

When the ordinances were finalized, in 2011, the voters had no opportunity to reconsider their votes. The specific funding method that was established is what the municipalities took to the courts. As they should have. And the courts may well disallow the method. That is a legal question that is yet to be settled.

As to the actual operation of the OIG, there are some very rational concerns that most voters are unaware of. I investigated in depth two OIG actions regarding Wellington. One was the Patriot Memorial “Contract Oversight Observation” and the other was the “Audit Report” of Purchasing/ Fuel Card Controls. The direct cost to the citizens of the village of those OIG actions was around $60,000 in staff time and expenditures in order to provide the OIG with the demanded information.

The OIG found no illegal behavior or spending. The total amount of even questionable spending was less than $1,000. No substantial change was made in village policies or operations, because no change was necessary. They were doing nothing wrong.

So village citizens were required to spend $60,000 for absolutely no reason except the whim of the OIG. Also, the amount that all Palm Beach County citizens had to pay for the OIG time and effort is unknown. Even though the OIG ordinance clearly states that, “The inspector general shall establish policies and procedures and monitor the costs of investigations undertaken...” Why do citizens not know? Because the OIG arbitrarily decided that observations and audits are not investigations and do not require monitoring of their costs. In fact, it is unclear that the OIG actually monitors costs for individual investigations. I do not consider those arbitrary decisions to be ethical.

Nor do I consider the OIG’s claims of effectiveness to be ethical. The OIG annual report for FY 2012, for example, claimed an OIG “Return on Investment” of nearly $2,500,000. In actual fact, the only potential recovery of money was a “pending” $226,028.

My personal opinion of proper and effective methods to reach the goal of stamping out corruption does not include an OIG that is not answerable to the public, who has unlimited power to require the county and municipalities to provide it with any and all information demanded by the OIG without regard to cost and effort, and who makes its own decisions as to how to report its expenditures.

Phil Sexton Wellington

A Chat With Bob Weisman After reading about County Administrator Bob Weisman’s call that Inspector General Sheryl Steckler be fired, I sent him an email on April 23, as follows: “Dear Mr. Weisman: With regard to the article in today’s Palm Beach Post, where you call for the ‘firing’ of the county inspector general, please note that I highly respect you, but please also note that the inspector general is ‘ours,’ not yours! There is a very good reason for that. Such comments and actions on your part are not appreciated by ‘we, the people!’”

Within an hour I received a reply e-mail from Mr. Weisman as follows: “Mr. Zakrzewski: With all respect, the inspector general is an office occupied by a person. The public voted for the office, not the person. The person in this case is Ms. Steckler. I hope you would agree that just because a person is employed and given a title that they should not be viewed as infallible and that their job performance can be challenged. I think her job performance should be severely questioned. As there is no real oversight/supervision of her decisions and her office’s work, I am prepared to make a case in public forum, which is my only alternative. It is my position that Ms. Steckler does not conduct herself in accordance with the principles of the Association of Inspector Generals or in accordance with her office motto: “enhancing public trust in government.” If I am correct, the overall public good is not being well served. I hope you will have an open mind as her job performance is publicly reviewed in accordance with ordinance procedure in coming months. I may or may not find support for my position. You are absolutely right, she is not ‘mine.’ If she was, I would have terminated her some time ago.”

After receiving his e-mail, I sent a response back as follows: “Dear Bob: Again, with all due respect, as a business owner for many years contracting with the federal government on nationwide engineering and construction projects, my firm was always open to the government’s Office of the Inspector General, meaning fullblown financial audits, of which we had no control whatsoever in directing how that office and their

auditors were supposed to act or what to do. That is the nature of the beast, in order for it to work, whether I, or others liked it or not.

As the highest and almightiest longtime non-elected county public employee, you obviously do not like the idea that there is another non-elected county employee who is able to act above you.

Sad, Bob, but that is the real world that all other non-public employees in our country deal with daily.

You have been in your position so long that you have forgotten.

By the way, other than this and a couple minor issues, I fully support what you have accomplished as our county administrator, and I fully support you. And what I know of you from the press and Channel 20, you seem like an outstanding person. P.S.: There is a very good reason why the people have decided that the inspector general not fall under your purview. The inspector general’s oversight is provided by the people. If ‘we, the people’ do not approve of her actions, all will know. We will act and let all know. Just look at [former] Congressman Allen West. No amount of money could stop the uprising of people against his hate-filled rhetoric.”

Hopefully this will enlighten your readers who do not have real life dealings with an inspector general and an understanding as to why IGs must have full autonomy and answer only to the people, and to work in hand with the state attorney.

Ed Zakrzewski The Acreage

Support For Gun Regulations The Second Amendment states, “A well-regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.”

What part of it says that “a wellregulated militia” excludes a wellregulated gun ownership? No spin of this amendment can justify the right to bear war weapons against unarmed kids and all citizens.

Closed case! Enough with the fake arguments and false rhetoric. The only ones who really object to background checks and regulation are nuts, criminals and people with something to hide. Honest people have nothing to hide.

Jude Smallwood Royal Palm Beach

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 TownCrier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414; fax them to (561) 793-6090; or you can e-mail letters@goTownCrier.com.

NEWS ITID Budget

Drainage Budget Up

continued from page 1 following the flooding from Tropical Storm Isaac.

Director of Maintenance & Operations Michael Guinaugh said his department’s budget is up 6 percent, which highlights four mowing positions, replacement of one motor grader, equipment for a road and canal crew, 24 road maintenance projects

and $875,000 in road improvements.

Pump operations and aquatics would see a 78 percent increase from about $1.2 million to $2.2 million, with a major focus on comprehensive drainage planning to include ongoing telemetry upgrades, canal maintenance, and pump and engine rebuilding and replacement.

ITID Administrator Tanya Quickel pointed out that only one motor grader is scheduled for replacement instead of two as originally planned. Two mowers are

THE

TOWN-CRIER Your Community Newspaper

Serving The Palms West Communities For 33 Years Published Weekly By Newspaper Publishers, Inc.

12794 West Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31 The Original Wellington Mall

Wellington, Florida 33414 Phone: (561) 793-7606 Classified Ads: (561) 793-3576 • Fax: (561) 793-6090 World Wide Web: http://www.goTownCrier.com E-Mail Address: news@goTownCrier.com

scheduled to be purchased, as well as a heavy equipment trailer, sweeper attachment, skid steer, vibratory roller and box blade.

None of the district’s 26 vehicles are scheduled for replacement, and no dump truck replacement is scheduled as originally planned.

Resident Patricia Curry asked how much use Hoefl Park gets, and Wojnar said it is not used as much as other parks because it only has a portable toilet.

“Hoefl Park has one of the largest pavilions in the district,” Woj-

nar said. “The parking lot is one of the largest in the district. It can accommodate a lot of people, and we get a lot of requests to do wedding receptions there. But as soon as people find out there is a porta-potty there, that’s a turn-off.”

The playground equipment was installed in 1995, and it was designed to last 10 to 12 years. “A lot of the replacement parts for that playground are no longer available,” Wojnar said, adding that the playground equipment is heavily used by daycare centers and home-school families.

BARRY S. MANNING Publisher

JOSHUA I. MANNING Executive Editor

JODY GORRAN Associate Publisher

DAWN RIVERA General Manager

JASON BUDJINSKI Community Editor

RON BUKLEY Managing Editor

EDITORIAL STAFF/ Chris Felker • Denise Fleischman Jessica Gregoire • Lauren Miró CONTRIBUTORS/ Jules Rabin • Ellen Rosenberg • Leonard Wechsler • Deborah Welky ART & PRODUCTION MANAGER/ Stephanie Rodriguez ADVERTISING/ Betty Buglio • Evie Edwards • Wanda Glockson STAFF/ Shanta Daibee • Carol Lieberman • Geri O’Neil

Resident Alan Ballweg suggested that the district replace the pumps scheduled for rebuilding and keep the old pumps as portables in the event of another flood.

Ballweg also asked about the planned telemetry upgrades, as he was under the impression there was only one telemetry failure during the flood.

Guinaugh said some of the sites require a new telemetry installation because they are required as part of the South Florida Water Management District permit application. Other sites do not interface

well with the district’s computer system, he said.

ITID Vice President Carol Jacobs complimented Guinaugh on his work since he took over the directorship of maintenance and operations several months ago.

“Everywhere I go, people are working,” Jacobs said. “I think the more efficient we get inhouse, a lot less money will be wasted.”

The Truth in Millage (TRIM) resolution, budget and assessment rates will be presented at the June 5 ITID board meeting.

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 TownCrier, c/o Newspaper Publishers Inc., 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 334147458.

Founded In 1980 By Bob Markey Sr. Copyright 2013, Newspaper Publishers Inc. The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising.

MEMBER OF

The Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce The Wellington Chamber of Commerce

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

May 17 - May 23, 2013 Page 5

NEWS

DANCE AT WELLINGTON HIGH SCHOOL PROMOTES BREAST CANCER AWARENESS ThinkPINKkids held its Dance Night for the Fight on Friday, May 10 at Wellington High School. The student-run organization hosted a community dance to celebrate those who are fighting breast cancer and to bring awareness to the cause. In attendance were Amy and Adam Aqua, who launched the South Florida chapter of thinkPINKkids in 2009. For more information, visit www.thinkpinkkids.com.

PHOTOS BY ALEXANDRA ANTONOPOULOS/TOWN-CRIER

The dance’s coordinators watch and celebrate a job well done.

Lindsay Rosenthal, Adam Aqua, Jacob Aqua and friends celebrate thinkPINKkids with Amy Aqua.

Young thinkPINKkids supporter Natalie Noland with mom Nicole.

Amelia Haymond rocks her pink hair with parents Dennis and Susie Haymond.

Bonnie Koos hugs Valen Adams and Briana Koos as the party gets started.

Jack and Madeline Farias with Christine Rolin and Suzi McGann.

MELISSA GANZI LEADS INTRODUCTORY POLO SESSION AT WELLINGTON LIBRARY

Professional polo player Melissa Ganzi hosted a children’s introduction to polo workshop Saturday, May 11 at the Wellington library.

Attendees learned the rules of the game and tried on some of Ganzi’s gear. After watching video of polo players in action, everyone tried their hand at goal scoring in a mini-match. A question-and-answer session wrapped up a fun and educational seminar.

PHOTOS BY ALEXANDRA ANTONOPOULOS/TOWN-CRIER

Ganzi joins workshop attendees as they show their new mallets.

Kathryn Stepp tries on Ganzi’s gear.

Melissa Ganzi with workshop attendee Briana Marturano.

Page 6 May 17 - May 23, 2013

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

CRIME NEWS

Several Drug Arrests Reported In RPB

By Lauren Miró and Alexandra Antonopoulos Town-Crier Staff Report MAY 8 — An Acreage man and a Royal Palm Beach woman were arrested early last Wednesday morning on drug charges following an incident in the Shoma Homes community. According to a PBSO report, at approximately midnight, a deputy from the Royal Palm Beach substation received a report of a disturbance coming from the home. According to the report, the deputy arrived and made contact with 23-year-old Barbara Conlin. A second suspect, 29-year-old Sean Taylor, fled the home when deputies arrived. According to the report, the deputy discovered syringes with heroin at the scene and placed Conlin under arrest. According to the report, Taylor later returned to the scene, and the deputy ordered him to leave. When he did not comply, he was placed under arrest. According to the report, the deputy found an unidentified controlled substance in a pack of cigarettes during a search. The deputy also discovered that Taylor had failed to change his address, a violation of his sex offender status. Conlin and Taylor were taken to the Palm Beach County Jail, where Conlin was charged with possession of heroin. Taylor was charged with trespassing, possession of a controlled substance without a prescription and failure to report a residence change.

MAY 9 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach responded to a complaint of public intoxication at a liquor store on Southern Blvd. last Thursday night. According to the report, at approximately 9:30 p.m. the deputy discovered 48-year-old John Booth of West Palm Beach and a second subject in the parking lot of the store. Booth appeared to be intoxicated with slurred speech, red glassy eyes and a strong smell of alcohol. According to the report, he also had several open containers of beer.

Booth yelled and cursed at the deputy and was detained. According to the report, Booth tried to flee the scene but fell to the ground. He was arrested and issued a notice to appear in court.

The second man was arrested for shoplifting liquor from the store.

MAY 9 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach was on patrol in the Southern Palm Crossing shopping plaza last Thursday evening when he discovered a burglarized vehicle.

According to the report, the deputy made contact with the victim who said she had parked her vehicle in the parking lot at approximately 6:15 p.m. and left her Louis Vuitton purse in the back seat. The victim said she then went to Seminole Palms Park. Sometime between then and 6:30 p.m., someone smashed the rear window of the victim’s vehicle and removed the purse. According to the report, the purse contained a matching Louis Vuitton wallet and a second monogrammed wallet containing the victim’s credit cards. The stolen items were valued at approximately $1,900. According to the report, a witness reported that a school bus dropped off high school students at approximately 6:15 p.m., and several walked through the parking lot near the victim’s car. There was no further information available at the time of the report.

MAY 10 — Three Royal Palm Beach residents were arrested on drug charges last Friday evening following an incident at a home on Lakeview Drive. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 5:30 p.m., deputies from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach executed a search warrant at the home. Once inside, the deputies made contact with 18-year-old Mikeis Williams, 21-year-old Brittany Roberts and 37-year-old Phillip Whitfield. According to the re-

port, the deputies searched Williams’ bedroom and discovered several plastic baggies, a grinder with marijuana residue, a red glass bong and a small box with .1 gram of marijuana inside. According to the report, a loaded black Hi-Point .380 caliber semi-automatic handgun was found in an air vent in Williams’ room, and two pellet guns were retrieved from a kitchen cabinet. The deputies also discovered a digital scale under the stairs in the main hallway along with 33 baggies of marijuana hidden behind a mirror in the living room and three small, dead marijuana plants on the back patio.

Williams, Roberts and Whitfield were arrested and taken to the county jail where they were charged with several counts of possession of marijuana with intent to sell, along with other individual charges.

MAY 12 — A Boynton Beach woman was arrested on charges of drunken driving following an incident at the intersection of Southern Blvd. and Lamstein Lane early last Sunday morning. According to a PBSO report, a deputy from the Royal Palm Beach substation was diverting traffic from an accident when he observed a vehicle drifting in its lane. According to the report, he made contact with the driver, 19-year old Chloe Kovacs, who smelled strongly of alcohol. The deputy administered roadside tasks and subsequently arrested Kovacs. Kovacs was taken to the county jail where a breath test revealed she had a blood alcohol level of .2. Kovacs was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol.

MAY 13 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation responded to a home on 89th Place North on Monday morning regarding a stolen vehicle. According to the report, the victim’s gray 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe was stolen from her driveway sometime between 10 p.m. last Sunday night and 6 a.m. the following morning. According to the report, the perpetrator(s) also caused approximately $100 in damage to the victim’s mailbox. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

MAY 13 — An employee of a company on Business Parkway in Royal Palm Beach contacted the PBSO on Monday to report a case of fraud. According to a PBSO report, on Saturday, Feb. 2, the company sold a water system to a Miami man who used a stolen Visa credit card to pay for the item, which cost $3,445. According to the report, the business got a notice from Visa that the company would not pay for the water system because the cardholder said he had never purchased it. The suspect and two other men arrived to purchase the water system, and the incident was caught on video surveillance tape. The suspect was described as a Hispanic male approximately 6’ tall. There was no further information available at the time of the report.

MAY 13 —A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach was dispatched Monday morning to a home on Meander Circle regarding a residential burglary. According to a PBSO report, the victim left his garage door open and sometime between 4 p.m. last Sunday and 10:35 a.m. the following morning, someone stole four chrome and black rims and a radio from inside the garage. The stolen items were valued at approximately $1,530. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

MAY 14 — An employee of a Fort Lauderdale-based business contacted the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach on Tuesday to report a case of fraud. According to a PBSO report, last Sunday evening someone used the business’s credit card to make more than 25 fraudulent charges at sevSee BLOTTER, page 18

Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County is asking for the public’s help in finding this wanted fugitive: Kristel Tasane, alias Kristel Alben, is a white female, 6’6” tall and weighing 160 lbs., with brown hair and brown eyes. Her date of birth is 03/23/1979. Tasane is wanted for violation of probation on charges of child neglect and failure to appear on charges of driving under the influence, driving without a valid driver’s license, leaving the scene of an accident and causing damage over $2,500. Her last known address was Pine Circle in Greenacres. She is wanted as of 05/09/13.

Remain anonymous and you may be eligible for up to a $1,000 reward. Call Crime Stopper s at (800) 458-TIPS (8477) or visit www.crimestopperspbc.com.

Kristel Tasane

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

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

May 17 - May 23, 2013 Page 7

NEWS

RPB Supports Having Outside Group Stage Candidate Forums

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Village Council directed its staff earlier this month to take steps to make sure that there is a televised candidate forum held before each village election.

Up until this year, there had been an official village-sanctioned candidate forum held shortly before the annual Royal Palm Beach election each March. However, there was no forum held during the last campaign.

The council had asked village staff to look into candidate forum policies in other municipalities and found that only seven of the county’s 37 municipalities were involved with forums or debates in some manner.

At the May 2 council meeting, Village Manager Ray Liggins said that during the last election, neither village staff nor the organization that usually stages the preelection forum initiated the process to have one. “Without specific direction from the council, staff

would continue not taking initiative on it,” Liggins said.

Aside from polling the procedures in other municipalities, Village Clerk Diane DiSanto requested candidate forum proposals from several organizations known to have hosted such events before.

Among them were the Palm Beach County League of Women Voters, which has produced Royal Palm Beach candidate forums in previous years, as well as the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce and the Town-Crier newspaper.

“That does not mean they are the only choices,” Liggins said. “It was just the groups that have done them before in the western communities.”

Liggins said the village could host the forums, airing them on the village’s cable channel as is done for other public meetings.

“In order to be prepared for the next election, if it is the council’s desire to have a televised debate, we would just need some direction from you,” Liggins said.

Liggins said the village should be involved in some manner since it is the village’s facilities and broadcasting equipment that are being used.

Mayor Matty Mattioli said he felt it should be incumbent upon candidates to notify the clerk if they would like to take part in a forum.

Councilman David Swift said he did ask about having a forum during the recent election, and the clerk’s office told him it would be up to him to contact the League of Women Voters. “I did that, and the League of Women Voters said I need to coordinate with the clerk’s office,” Swift said. “I’m not blaming anybody, but it didn’t happen.

I’ve been in politics for more than 20 years, and I believe we have always had a televised forum in every election cycle that I can remember.”

Swift said that while he does not believe that the village should run candidate forums, he does believe it should be a staff responsibility to make sure one is scheduled.

“I would like to make it our re-

LGWCD Agrees To Negotiate Road Contract With Town

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District Board of Supervisors directed its staff Monday to negotiate a contract for road grading and maintenance with the Town of Loxahatchee Groves.

On May 7, the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council awarded a contract to the district for road grading, rock material, road repairs and emergency call-outs, LGWCD Administrator Steven Yohe said.

A contract for mowing, vegetation removal and dumping fees was awarded to C&C Loader.

Supervisor Frank Schiola said he favored the contract but cautioned that he did not want to fall behind on district road maintenance. “I know the town roads need to be done, too, but we need to be mindful that if we have a grader breakdown, or something like that, we might not be able to keep up with it,” he said.

Supervisor Don Widing said that as the district continues to upgrade its roads to open-graded emulsion mix (OGEM) paving, the labor intensity with watering and grading would diminish. “I’m confident that Mr. Yohe will keep a watchful eye on that,” he said.

Supervisor John Ryan said it was a complicated bid, with responsibilities broken down into separate segments. The district was the second low bidder to supply gravel, but the town awarded the contract to the district in order that it not become too complicated. “My understanding was that

the prices were firm, good for a year,” Ryan said, adding that he would like to participate in negotiating details of the contract.

Widing said the contract is significant in bringing the district and the town into a mutually beneficial relationship after an initially rocky relationship.

“This is something that we’ve talked about ever since incorporation,” Widing said. “The idea is to use the community’s assets, our residents’ money, and apply it back into both entities, kind of like an extension of a public works department to a typical municipality.

It makes perfect sense to me, and I have confidence that the staff is going to make this work.”

Widing made a motion to direct staff to enter into the grading contract agreement, and it carried 3-0 with Chairman David DeMarois and Supervisor Robert Snowball absent.

In other business, Yohe said he had made headway toward getting a quit claim from Southern States Land & Timber Company to release all claims to road easements to the district, in preparation for turning over paved roads to town jurisdiction.

Yohe said he had spoken with Stephanie Clement, property administrator for Southern States, on Thursday, May 2. She said they had received the district’sApril 19 cover letter, quit claim deed and attachments.

Clement discussed the package with Southern States Vice President Harry Smith, who called Yohe on May 10 and said the Southern

States board is receptive to executing a quit-claim deed, and it was a matter of dollars.

“I mentioned to him that the board would be receptive to paying for his time and his attorney’s time, and Ms. Clement’s time, and let us know when his attorney provides his review,” Yohe said. “He anticipated that would take about two weeks.”

Ryan said he thought the letter and attachments are complete in terms of how the request was presented and as a reminder of the background of the district’s involvement with Southern States, which goes back to the right-ofway deed acquired in 1917.

“While the overall acreage involved is approximately 220 acres, it’s not contiguous, and it’s basically committed to public use roads and canals,” Ryan said.

Widing said he found the documents interesting from a historical standpoint. “It’s a good read,” he said. “It’s a good historical piece.

The vision of this company and the individuals involved back in the day, I don’t think they realized just what this was really going to become.”

Ryan pointed out that the original surveyors who carved out Loxahatchee Groves were part of Southern States Land & Timber.

“I think it’s also interesting that some of the original families involved with Southern States Land & Timber had some official positions based on minutes of some of the early Loxahatchee Groves Drainage District meetings,” he noted.

sponsibility to say on a certain date that we go ahead and ask for someone who would be interested in running a debate, and provide a prospectus of how they would run the debate,” Swift said. “I think the League of Women Voters has done a good job in the past, but there’s a couple of rules that I do not like.

One of them is if one candidate shows up and the other does not, the candidate in attendance can’t speak. To me, it favors the incumbent.”

Swift added that the League of Women Voters is also not a village organization and is not up to speed on local issues. “I really feel we need to have a televised debate, and we need to initiate the debate and provide it to the public,” he said.

Mattioli, who chose not to attend a debate hosted by the League of Women Voters when he was challenged in 2012 by candidate Felicia Matula, said he did not see why the village should be in the position of having a debate if some candidates do not want a

debate. “I don’t know what your problem is, but that’s beside the point,” Mattioli said.

Councilman Fred Pinto said he thought it was more of a procedural than philosophical issue, and recommended that they authorize the village manager and clerk to officially notify organizations that typically host candidate forums that the village has an election coming up.

“Upon that notification, that should trigger that agency to begin whatever process they do to put on the debate,” Pinto said. “It is up to that entity to vet the candidates, whether they want to have a debate or not... All our staff is doing is notifying that entity that we are having an election and here are the candidates. From that moment on, we’re done. The only thing we have to do is assure that we coordinate the date, so we can make sure the facility is available and we have our electronics staff so that it can be televised.”

Vice Mayor Jeff Hmara said he was not sure what the goal of the

discussion was. “I thought it was a question of whether or not we wished to have a candidate forum on a regular basis,” Hmara said, pointing out that discussion had used the expressions “debate” and “forum,” which he felt were different.

He preferred a forum format where, if candidates showed up and their opponents did not, they could still participate. “I would like us to support as much an opportunity to hear all of the candidates, and I know what I’m talking about because I get to be in a barrel next,” Hmara said. “I think it’s an opportunity for individuals to be heard in public.”

Councilman Richard Valuntas agreed that the village should support televised candidate forums but have them run by outside organizations. “My suggestion would be just to solicit providers for it, the village provides the cameras and the venue,” he said.

Valuntas’ opinion fairly well matched a motion put forward by Pinto, which carried 5-0.

County To Consider Inspector General Funding Next Week

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Palm Beach County Inspector General Sheryl Steckler, guest speaker at the monthly community forum hosted by County Commissioner Jess Santamaria, said Wednesday that she faces another challenge next week when the Palm Beach County Commission considers financing and support options for her office.

The Office of the Inspector General has been under attack from a variety of sources, she said, including 14 municipalities led by West Palm Beach, which filed a lawsuit in 2011 objecting to the method of funding.

Discussion at the county commission meeting Tuesday, May 21 will include whether the county should continue its defense of that lawsuit and continue its current method of calculating and financing the inspector general’s office, or consider two alternatives.

The alternatives are to continue its defense of the funding law-

suit but direct county staff to implement a 0.25 percent contract fee as indicated by the inspector general’s enabling ordinance approved by voters; or try to negotiate a settlement of the lawsuit that would implement the 0.25 percent contract fee via county ordinance, but make it a choice of the cities to use the inspector general’s audit services, with the cities independently contracting and paying for those services if desired.

Steckler said the question has gone from being a financing issue to being an independence issue.

Since the lawsuit was filed by the cities, the clerk’s office has withheld payments from all municipalities, including the 24 cities not involved in the lawsuit.

In addition, under the current funding scheme utilizing the Local Government Electronic Reporting (LOGER) system, Steckler said her financing has been further reduced, forcing her to curtail hiring for her office. The office currently

has 24 staff members when it should have 40, she said.

“A settlement agreement that would virtually take our funding away is a problem for us,” Steckler said. “The ordinance very clearly states that the purpose of establishing this funding base is to insure that the office is adequately funded.”

Steckler said that another problem that has arisen has been the Office of the Inspector General being represented by the county attorney, whose client is the county and the county commission, while Steckler believes that her office should be represented by its own attorney.

She pointed out that the inspector general’s office in Miami-Dade, which the Palm Beach office was modeled after, has its own legal team, and not having its own legal team tears down the office’s independence.

The discussion by the county commission is scheduled for 10 a.m. Tuesday.

History Presentation At LGLA Meeting May 23 The Loxahatchee Groves Landowners’ Association will meet Thursday, May 23 at 7 p.m. at Palms West Presbyterian Church (13689 Okeechobee Blvd.).

The guest speaker will be Michelle Williams of the Florida Public Archaeology Network’s Southeast Region. Her topic will be “Then & Now: Life Along the New River.” She will discuss Fort Lauderdale’s rich past, told through the stories of those who

lived along the banks of the New River. Her discussion will include information about the prehistoric artifacts, historic objects and photographs that have been found that reveal how the river shaped the cultures and communities of the past and how it continues to influence the present city.

Come and hear about the dugout canoes, skiffs, tour boats and paddleboards that floated down the New River as vehicles for hunt-

ing, transportation and recreation; find out the age of the oldest dugout canoes discovered in the area and what Indian tribe made them; and learn when and why the Seminoles came to the area and made dugout canoes from cypress logs.

This is an open meeting, but only paid LGLA members can make motions or vote on a motion.

For more information, contact Marge Herzog at (561) 818-9114 or marge@herzog.ms.

Wellington, Horse Park Development Team Host Auburn University

Representatives from Wellington, Auburn University and the Palm Beach Horse Park development team: (L-R) Alexander Van Dell, Bob Basehart, Paul Schofield, Jack Van Dell, Dana Marquez, coach Greg Williams, Marrell Jerkins and Mike O’Dell.

The development team for the proposed Palm Beach Horse Park, in coordination with the Wellington staff, hosted representatives from Auburn University on Wednesday, May 8 for a tour of Wellington’s equestrian community.

The K-Park site in Wellington, located on the corner of Stribling Way and State Road 7, is the proposed site for a new, world-class equestrian complex with a focus on quarter horses and western riding.

The Palm Beach Horse Park on the K-Park property is designed to supplement the existing equestrian scene, and also provide venues for the use of the broader community. With its spotlight on quar-

ter horses, the park introduces a new element to Wellington’s equestrian community. The plans include an enclosed, climate-controlled stadium, a number of indoor and outdoor show rings, a supporting commercial district, a hotel, a veterinary instructional facility and a riding school.

The May 8 meeting was the third time that representatives from Auburn University and its veterinary school visited Wellington to discuss the partnership possibilities that the creation of the Palm Beach Horse Park offers. By partnering with a prominent university and veterinary school such as Auburn, the Palm Beach Horse Park could become home to a lead-

ing veterinary instructional facility, serving as a satellite to Auburn’s existing programs.

“The creation of a satellite veterinary instructional facility would enable us to host industry-leading professors and interning students, offer a program to introduce local students to veterinary science, and house equine operating rooms, pre-op and post-op locations, a research and development department, and even a quarantine facility,” explained Wellington businessman Jack Van Dell, one of the leaders of the Palm Beach Horse Park’s development team.

The Palm Beach Horse Park development team and the group from Auburn are excited about the

project’s plans and proposed development.

“This was their third time coming down here to Florida to discuss the project,” Van Dell said.

“Being able to partner with a university like Auburn to establish a satellite veterinary teaching and R&D facility at our horse park would be fabulous.”

Van Dell added that it would enhance the equestrian and nonequestrian benefits to the community and further increase Wellington’s premier position in the equestrian world.

For information about the Palm Beach Horse Park, contact Jack Van Dell at (561) 333-3100 or palmbeachhorsepark@gmail.com.

Page 8 May 17 - May 23, 2013

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

NEWS BRIEFS Coast Guard Boating Safety Class June 22 Wellington has partnered with the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary to offer residents a certified boating safety class. The cost is $35 per person, and there is a multi-family discount.

The examinations will take place in the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) on Saturday, June 22 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a break for lunch.

The course is designed for individuals ages 17 and older and will teach them how to safely operate a boat, along with local laws and regulations. Participants will receive a certification at the conclusion of the course.

To register for the boating safety class, call (561) 791-4082. No payment is necessary to register; bring it on the day of the class.

For more information on boating and water safety, contact the Coast Guard Auxiliary at (561) 8187905.

Singles Dance The Singles Dance Club of the

Palm Beaches has moved its Friday dances to St. Mary’s Orthodox Church (1317 Florida Mango Road, West Palm Beach). The club is for singles 50 and over and married couples. The dances are from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. with live bands.

Men are required to wear coats and ties, and women should also be dressed up. The cost is $10 for members and $12 for non-members, BYOB and snacks. For more info., call Susan at (561) 967-0036.

tional music, sports and dancing are some of the activities and entertainment that will be featured.

Community organizations and civic groups are invited to participate in this free community event.

The event is also sponsored by the Palm Beach County Cultural Council. For more information, or to register for a display booth, call event chair Elet Cyris at (561) 7919087, Ernie Garvey at (561) 6765664 or e-mail cafci@pbc.org.

RPB Cultural Diversity Day

Community Shred Event May 18

Caribbean-Americans for Community Involvement (CAFCI) and the Royal Palm Beach will host the annual Cultural Diversity Day Celebration on Saturday, May 25 from 1 p.m. to sundown at Veterans Park (corner of Sparrow Drive and Royal Palm Beach Blvd.). Show time is 3 p.m.

This year’s event promises to be a great opportunity for everyone to celebrate, share and enjoy diverse food, arts, entertainment and cultural programs.

There will be exciting performances from local and international artists. Food, artwork, interna-

IberiaBank, in partnership with Families First of Palm Beach County and the Royal Palm Beach Rotary Club, will host a community shred party on Saturday, May 18 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the IberiaBank branch located at 119 S. State Road 7 in Royal Palm Beach.

Residents and small business owners are invited to dispose of outdated bank statements, checks, contracts, junk mail and other documents in a safe and secure manner. Shredding will be provided by Total Shredding, a company certified by the National Association for Information Destruction.

In addition to shred services, there will be plenty of activities for the family. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office will host a crime prevention booth complete with McGruff the crime dog, and a child identification card and finger printing service.

Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue will showcase fire and rescue vehicles along with fire prevention safety tips. Lowe’s Home Improvement will host a kids workshop complete with complimentary building kits for all children in attendance. Lowe’s will also provide use of their parking lot for the shred event.

Live broadcasts and music will be provided by the WEI Network and Tony the Tiger DJ. Tasty food samples will be provided by Chickfil-A from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

A $5 voluntary donation will be collected for each box or bag of shredded material. All proceeds will benefit Families First of Palm Beach County and the Royal Palm Beach Rotary Club.

For more information about the shred event, call Des Romm of IberiaBank at (561) 204-2400 or Selena Smith of Families First at (561) 253-1451.

You Deserve Quality CARE

SERVING OUR COMMUNITY FOR OVER 20 YEARS

SPECIALIZING IN: (BTUSPFOUFSPMPHZ t )FQBUJUJT .BOBHFNFOU 3FTFBSDI &OEPTDPQZ $PMPOPTDPQZ t "CEPNJOBM #MPBUJOH t $PMJUJT $POTUJQBUJPO t $SPIO T %JTFBTF t %JBSSIFB t )FBSUCVSO (&3%

)FNPSSIPJET t 3FDUBM #MFFEJOH t 6MDFST ."55)&8 + 4.*5) % 0 '"$0* .*5$)&-- / %"7*4 % 0 '"$0* 45&7&/ 3 4"$,4 % 0 .FEJDBM 1BSL #MWE 4VJUF 8FMMJOHUPO '- 0LFFDIPCFF #MWE 8FTU 1BMN #FBDI '- 7JMMBHF #MWE 4VJUF 8FTU 1BMN #FBDI '-

| XXX NZHBTUSPEPDUPST DPN

Blanchette To Present Audition Workshop The Burt Reynolds Institute for Film and Theatre will offer a Monologue Audition Workshop for actors beginning Tuesday evening, May 28, at BRIFT’s Tequesta location. This course, taught by actor/director Beverly Blanchette, will cover all the topics actors need to know if they are serious about succeeding at their craft.

Blanchette, a Wellington resident, has had a fulfilling career as a theater arts educator including as dean of theatre for the Dreyfoos School of the Arts. She has directed over 100 plays and musicals and has acted on stage, film and television. She has been teaching the “business of the business� for many years and is an expert at guiding students in how to choose the right monologue to showcase their talents. Her course will teach students how to selfmarket, get an agent, choose a photographer, write a resume and prepare for an audition. This course will also cover the audition process for actor training pro-

grams at colleges, universities and conservatories.

The monologue audition workshop begins on May 28 at the Burt Reynolds Institute at 304 Tequesta Drive. The six-week course costs $150 ($125 if paid in full at the time of registration).

For a limited time, anyone registering for the Monologue Audition Workshop may also register for the six-week Teleprompter Proficiency Course at the reduced rate of $100.

It will be taught by Patty Serrano, owner of Little Panther Prompter, who is known in the industry for her expertise in helping actors get comfortable in front of the camera.

To register for BRIFT courses, call Donna Carbone at (561) 7439955 or write info@brift.org. Seating is limited.

PBC Thrift Store The Palm Beach County Thrift Store (2455 Vista Parkway, West Palm Beach) will hold its monthly auction Saturday, May 18. Store hours are 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. with bidding from 8 to 11 a.m. Bid awards will be immediately after the close of bidding. Call (561) 233-2256 or visit www.pbcgov.com for info.

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

May 17 - May 23, 2013 Page 9

NEWS

ROYAL PALM BEACH HONORS MOTHER’S DAY WITH CULTURAL CENTER CONCERT The Royal Palm Beach Community Concert Band pla yed a Mother’s Day concert Sunday, May 12 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. The event featured big band sounds, sho w tunes and patriotic songs. Refreshments from Butterf ields Southern Café were ser ved to a crowd of approximately 300 people. The band’s next concert is set for Tuesday, June 25 at 7 p.m.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

The RPB Community Concert Band conducted by Ben Skinner.

Dr. Al and Marcia Berwick with Roz Schwartz.

Announcer Sandra Beck on stage.

Sam and Evelyn Pittaro.

Iris and Larry Kamerman.

Linda Feinholtz and Catherine Amico.

WELLINGTON ART SOCIETY PRESENTS SCHOLARSHIPS TO FIVE YOUNG ARTISTS Wellington Art Society held its annual scholarship presentation on Wednesday, May 8 at the Wellington Community Center. Five local art students each received $1,000 to further their art studies at the college level. Also at the meeting, photographer Cliff Finley offered tips on how to correctly photograph artwork. For more info., visit www.wellingtonartsocie ty.org.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Scholarship recipients (L-R) Taylor Goldenberg, Kathia St. Hilaire, Cindy Perdomo, Marisa Waddle and Lauren Escalada with Suzanne Redmond and Leslie Pfeiffer.

Each of the scholarship winners brought their art to show. Here is Lauren Escalada with her work.

Cliff Finley discussed how to correctly photograph artwork.

Page 10 May 17 - May 23, 2013

WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

The Town-Crier

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

May 17 - May 23, 2013 Page 11

Page 10 May 17 - May 23, 2013

WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

The Town-Crier

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

May 17 - May 23, 2013 Page 11

Page 12 May 17 - May 23, 2013

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

The Town-Crier

NEWS

SENIORS GROUP CELEBRATES MOTHER’S DAY AT ROYAL PALM CULTURAL CENTER The Royal Palm Beach Seniors Activities Group hosted a Mother’s Day Celebration on Friday, May 10 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. At the e vent, longtime resident Ruth Hamlyn was surprised with a cake for her 100th birthday. Appetizers, desserts and beverages were served. Guests enjoyed dancing and sing-alongs with music provided by Rick Nelson. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Elaine Goodman, Hank Morris, Claire Freed, James Ruchel and Irene May.

Catherine Amico and Fabia Gritzalis.

Volunteers gather around Ruth Hamlyn (seated left) to celebrate her 100th birthday.

Birthday girl Ruth Hamlyn with singer Rick Nelson.

Laurie Gladstone and Selma Islat.

C.S. and Alice Stern dance.

WHS AND WLMS JAZZ BANDS PRESENT SPRING CONCERTS AT AMPHITHEATER Wellington High School and Wellington Landings Middle School jazz bands presented their spring concerts at the Wellington Amphitheater on Monday, May 13. The event was free and open to the public with both bands playing various jazz pieces.

PHOTOS BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER

The Wellington Landings Middle School jazz band gets applause from the audience.

(Left) Wellington Landings Middle School band members Shane Harland and Jacob De Fazio. (Right) Melissa Feurich sings while the Wellington High School jazz band plays.

Wellington High School jazz band members Paul Herrick, Mike Leatherman, Christian Jansen and Zach Landress.

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

May 17 - May 23, 2013 Page 13

NEWS

CAREER DAY HELPS EMERALD COVE MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS SEE THE FUTURE Emerald Cove Middle School held a career day for seventh-grade students on Thursday, May 9. The day gave students various career options focused on careers that get you out of the office. Participating organizations included the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue, the Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League and Sunshine Circus Arts.

PHOTOS BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER

Michelle Quiroga and Lauren Bordeaux groom ponies from Schmitt’s Pony Ranch.

Jimmy and Danielle Behar look at kittens from Peggy Adams.

Stone Harward explores a Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue truck.

Principal Dr. Nancy Lucas, PTSA Vice President Angel Mason, Barbara Masi from the PBSO Animal Kindness Unit, Tom Mulligan, and event organizer Helen-Marie Harward.

Kayla Soy and Daron Andrews try out a Volkswagen.

Zack McCollum with the Strikers mascot.

WELLINGTON BALLET THEATRE’S SPRING CONCERT A SUCCESS DESPITE RAIN Rain did not hinder Wellington Ballet Theatre’s spring dance concert, An Evening of George Winston, on Friday and Saturday, May 10 and 11 at the Wellington Amphitheater. Dancers from Wellington Ballet Theatre, Ballet Etoile, CenterStage Dance Company, Momentum Dance Company and Giselle’s Dance Studio performed choreographed routines for the audience of friends, family and residents.

Special guest artists included Tomas Mazuch and Emily Ricca. For more info., visit www.wellingtonballettheatre.org.

PHOTOS BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER

Wellington Ballet Theatre founders Dorie and Rocky Duvall.

Special guest artist Emily Ricca performs a solo.

Madison Brown performs “Warrior Princess.”

Special guest ar tists Tomas Mazuch and Emily Ricca perform “Sleeping Beauty Grand Pas de Duex.”

Page 14 May 17 - May 23, 2013

WES STUDENTS CLEAN CAMPUS FOR EARTH DAY

Wellington Elementary School participated in Earth Day activities with a campus cleanup Wednesday, May 1. Classes picked up trash and debris. Gloves and bags were donated by Chris Stewart and the Wellington Public Works Department.

SCHOOL NEWS

Huntington Kicks Off Summer Reading Program With summer around the corner, Huntington Learning Center of Wellington is kicking off its annual Reading Adventure program for children in kindergarten through eighth grade.

To participate, students first choose books from Huntington’s pre-selected book lists, which cater to all grade levels and reading abilities.

Reading Adventure underscores the excitement that a good book can bring into a child’s life.

Each participating reader receives

a reading “passport” in which he or she records each book and writes a journal entry.

The program encourages students to explore new ideas, interests, places and people through reading. “We believe that summer is an ideal time to nurture the reading habit because children have more time to read for pleasure than they do during the school year,” said Mary Fisher of the Wellington Huntington Learning Center.

“Our Reading Adventure program is designed with fun in mind. Our

perform. They include dramatic interpretation performances by RPB’s Anthony Nadeau and Delisa Stephenson, and the duo interpretation team of Alicia Morales and Theresa Morales; and Wellington duo interpretation teams of Michael Reynolds and Nick Thibault, and Dylan Race and Savannah Race.

Dinner (chicken marsala and cheese ziti, garlic rolls and salad) will be provided by Mario Brothers.

For more info., contact RPBHS debate coach Eric Jeraci at eric. jeraci@palmbeachschools.org or WHS debate coach Paul Gaba at paul.gaba@palmbeachschools.org.

experts have identified a variety of books for children of all ages and reading abilities — stories that engage children and get them excited about books.”

The program runs May through August. At the end of the program, Huntington Learning Center of Wellington will honor participants’ reading achievements.

“Experience has proven to us time and time again that the more children read, the better readers they become and the more they enjoy it and choose it as an activ-

ity they want to do,” Fisher said.

During the celebration, each child is recognized and receives a special award.

“Reading Adventure is one of our favorite programs at Huntington because it gets children excited about reading,” Fisher said.

To learn more about the program and the Huntington Learning Center, contact Fisher at (561) 594-1900 or FisherM@hlcmail.com.

For more information about Huntington Learning Center, visit www.huntingtonhelps.com.

CAREER DAY AT NEW HORIZONS ELEMENTARY

SPELLERS COMPETE AT WELLINGTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

New Horizons Elementary School students recently experienced a day full of career explorations. Students heard from 25 indoor speakers and 16 outside presenters. Students encountered a plethora of careers including scientists, healthcare providers, farmers, artists and others represented by local professionals, businesses and agencies. Pictured here are Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Mounted Unit Deputy Brandi Tenlen and Arthur the horse with curious students.

Fourth- and fifth-grade students at Wellington Elementary School participated in a school-wide spelling bee Wednesday, May 8. Those who participated were the winners of their classrooms. The busy bees did well, with the following students coming out on top: first place, Nathan Kocenko of Nesty Nunez’s fifth-grade class; second place, Luna Macias of Maurita Sams’ fifth-grade class; and third place, Gisele Poitras of Eileen Sweeney’s fifth-grade class. Shown above are participants in the spelling bee.

WHS, RPBHS Debaters Spring Showcase May 17 On Friday, May 17, students from Royal Palm Beach High School and Wellington High School will perform at the 2013 Spring Showcase Dinner Theatre at Royal Palm Beach High School (10600 Okeechobee Blvd.) starting at 7 p.m.

Tickets cost $10 and proceeds will help fund the teams’ upcoming national championship tournament competitions. Students who have qualified for the National Catholic Forensic League Grand National Championship in Philadelphia and the National Forensic League National Speech & Debate Championship in Birmingham will

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

SCHOOL NEWS

Emerald Cove Middle School Nurses Honored For Saving Student’s Life At its public meeting Wednesday, May 8, the Health Care District Board of Commissioners recognized school nurses Helene Schilian and Chelsea LaVeigne for the lifesaving medical care they provided to student Nehemiah Derosier on Thursday, March 7 at Emerald Cove Middle School in Wellington.

Around noon that day, the school nurses were working in the school health room when they were alerted by a student that

Derosier had collapsed in a school hallway and needed their help.

The nurses ran to the 11-yearold’s side, quickly assessed him, and found him to be totally unresponsive. He had no pulse and was not breathing. They began administering emergency care in unison.

“I positioned myself at the student’s head to manage his airway, and Nurse Chelsea positioned herself to do compressions,” Schilian said. “We worked together

and a piece of gum flew out of his mouth. He began breathing and was able to answer questions before the paramedics arrived on campus.”

After a brief hospitalization, Derosier was able to return to school and is doing fine. “Without the nurses, he’d be gone,” said Wisner Derosier, the boy’s father.

“I thank God for the school nurses. They knew what to do.”

Dr. Ronald J. Wiewora, chief executive officer of the Health Care

(Left) Golden Grove Elementary students in costume for their performance of Organwise Guys on Wednesday, May 8.

its benefits to various body organs.

The costumes, hand-sewn by Gastesi and student volunteers, were made from recycled materials such as Capri Sun pouches and plastic bottles.

Golden Grove’s latest production has already garnered interest from the Organwise Guys Foundation, which contacted Gastesi for pictures and additional information.

The show was supported by several local businesses, including Publix, Pero Farms, R.C. Hatton and Erneston.

Seminole Ridge TV Production Program Earns State Honors At Orlando Convention The Seminole Ridge High School TV production program was recognized by the Florida Scholastic Press Association last month, coming home with several awards.

“We had a great showing this year at the Florida Scholastic Press Association state convention,” said Earle Wright, the SRHS TV production program instructor.

The showing in Orlando last month included four video submissions that earned All-Florida recognition — one of them named Best of the Best for the state.

The Hawks’ first-place winners are as follows: • Best of the Best and All-Florida Public Service Announcement (PSA): Above the Influence, David Freund and Chris Waddington.

• All-Florida News Show Open: Powers Perrotta.

• All-Florida PSA: Sexting: Forwards Last Forever, Andres Duenas and Jordan Meredith.

• All-Florida Short Film: Imaginary Jane, Elizabeth Dimpflmaier, Corey Huff, Jamie King and Jordan Meredith.

Seminole Ridge students also competed in several On the Spot contests, where they were given only a few hours to complete a project, from idea to publication.

The winners are as follows: • First place, PTI (Pardon the Interruption sports debate): Connor Nugent.

• Second place, Collaborative Commercial: Summer Bong.

• Second place, Edit to the Beat (a grueling overnight music video contest): Nataly Berdecia, Jonah King and Chris Waddington.

• Third place, News Package: C.J. Bates, Ricky Bong, Jamie King and Shannon Kearney.

• Honorable mention, Individual News Anchor: Shannon Kearney.

Hawk Writer Earns NASA Recognition — Seminole Ridge freshman Courtney Muscarella is a semifinalist in a NASA-hosted national essay contest. The topic: “Where should NASA’s next mission to the outer solar system go: Titan or Europa?”

Muscarella and other Earthspace science students watched videos about astrobiology and the engineering challenges of exploring Titan and Europa, then explained which moon to send a spacecraft to explore and why.

NASA posted the winning essays at http://icyworlds.jpl.nasa.gov/ contest.

Barrett Breaks to Quarterfinals — Hawk debater Cassandra Barrett competed at the Florida Forensics League novice state cham-

WRITER DONNA GEPHART VISITS BINKS FOREST

District of Palm Beach County, congratulated the nurses on their quick response. “We are very proud of our nurses and the lifesaving emergency care they provided to this student,” he said.

“The positive outcome underscores the critical value of the Health Care District’s School Health program, which staffs more than 200 registered nurses in the county’s public schools who keep over 170,000 students healthy and ready to learn.”

Golden Grove Musical Encourages Healthy Eating Aiming at boosting the Palm Beach County School District’s Healthy Foods Program, students from Golden Grove Elementary School presented the show Organwise Guys to an auditorium filled with parents and friends Wednesday, May 8.

Under the direction of long-time Music Director Dr. Estibaliz Gastesi, students danced and sang songs about healthful eating and

May 17 - May 23, 2013 Page 15

pionship tournament recently and made it to the quarterfinals in the category of oral interpretation.

“I’m so proud of her, and I only wish she had started debate sooner,” coach Mierka Drucker said.

Hawks Awarded Blood Drive Scholarships — Several Hawks were presented with community service scholarships from One Blood at senior awards night, Thursday, May 16. Each scholarship winner had donated blood a minimum of four times and written an essay about the importance of blood donation.

The school congratulates Shayla Bass, Breanna Beardsley, Elizabeth Dimpflmaier, Jessica Dodd, Jamie Hernandez, Courtney McGowan, Ryan Meingasner, Rosemary Murray, Sarah Probst, Cristina Richards, Tim Sumell, Jessica Vasco and Christopher Waddington.

Students at Binks Forest Elementary School recently met author Donna Gephart. Gephart is the author of As If Being 12¾ Isn’t Bad Enough, My Mother Is Running For President!, How To Survive Middle School and Olivia Bean, Trivia Queen. Students were enter tained by the many childhood and publishing stories Gephart shared. Gephart lives in Jupiter with her husband and two sons.

Shown above is Gephart sharing stories with students.

Seniors Graduate Saturday From #1 Education Place Students from #1 Education Place will celebrate their high school graduation with a ceremony Saturday, May 18 at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington.

Following the ceremony, the school will host a buffet dinner and pool party for the graduates and their families, and for the fac-

ulty, students and parents of the #1 Education Place community.

The school, located in the original Wellington Mall, serves students in first through 12th grade.

It offers an accredited curriculum in an alternative school environment and specializes in meeting the needs of equestrian families.

(Front row) Bella Cramer, Kirsten Tiburzio and Paige Biggs; (back row) Max Cohen, Caulen Coe, Jared Johnson and Ian Hagenmiller.

Not pictured: Alana Bentz, Courney McDeavitt, Nikki Carr, Raquel Garcia and Chance Boulanger.

Page 16 May 17 - May 23, 2013

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

PALMS WEST PEOPLE

Esther Delaney Of Dreyfoos Receives National Language Initiative Scholarship

Author Greg Neri, Talia Fradkin and Stefanie Pectal of the Palm Beach County School District.

Wellington Student Wins Award At ‘April Is For Authors’ Event An “April is for Authors” event was held April 27 at Palm Beach Gardens High School. This literary event for the whole family brought together a selection of authors who write for children and young adults.

The public was treated to panel discussions and author sessions by a distinguished group of over 20 authors, which included Paul William Catanese, the author of fantasy adventure novels such as The Thief and the Beanstalk; Alex Flinn, the author of nine novels, including Beastly, which was recently made into a movie starring Vanessa Hudgens; Shayne Leighton, the author of Of Light and

Darkness; Greg Neri, the author of Yummy, which won the Coretta Scott King Award; and James Ponti, a screenwriter for Nickelodeon, Disney, the History Channel, PBS and the series “Dead City.” The authors discussed their writing, motivation and future plans.

Wellington resident Talia Fradkin was honored at the event, receiving an award for her poem, “The True Account of Reading and Me.” “It is wonderful when established authors are willing to share their knowledge and encourage students,” Fradkin said.

“It was truly a pleasure to meet them.”

Ryan Meingasner Wins Scholarship From Duke Seven high school graduates, including two international students, have been named winners of the prestigious University Scholarships at Duke University.

This year’s recipients include Ryan Christopher Meingasner of Loxahatchee, a graduate of Seminole Ridge High School. He is the son of Monique and Thomas Meingasner.

The University Scholars Program was created in 1998 with a gift from Duke alumna Melinda French Gates and her husband Bill Gates, through the William H. Gates Foundation. The program is designed to stimulate an interdis-

ciplinary, intergenerational community of scholars.

The full value of each scholarship is estimated to be more than $220,000 over four years and covers full tuition, room, board and mandatory fees. The award is given to financially deserving students who represent a range of personal and intellectual backgrounds and share an excitement for original research, collaborative thinking and innovative scholarship.

For more information about the incoming class of university scholars, visit the scholarship’s web site at www.usp.duke.edu.

Esther Delaney, a Dreyfoos School of the Arts student from Wellington, has been awarded one of approximately 625 National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y) scholarships for 2013-14. The NSLI-Y program is funded by the U.S. Department of State and provides merit-based scholarships for eligible high school students to learn less commonly taught languages in summer and academic-year overseas immersion programs. NSLI-Y offers overseas study opportunities in Arabic, Chinese, Hindi, Korean, Persian, Russian and Turkish.

The NSLI-Y scholarship enables Delaney to study Hindi in

India for the summer. The scholarship covers all program costs for participants including domestic and international travel, tuition and related academic preparation, language testing, educational and cultural activities focused on language learning, orientations, meals and accommodations, usually with a host family.

Launched as part of a U.S. government initiative in 2006, NSLI-Y seeks to increase Americans’ capacity to engage with native speakers of critical languages by providing formal instruction and informal language practice in an immersion environment. Educational and cultural activities pro-

mote language learning and build mutual understanding and longlasting relationships.

The goals of the NSLI-Y program include sparking a lifelong interest in foreign languages and cultures, and developing a corps of young Americans with the skills necessary to advance international dialogue in the private, academic or government sectors.

Through her participation in the program, Delaney will serve as a citizen diplomat while developing the skills necessary to be a leader in the global community. Applications for 2014-15 NSLI-Y programs are expected to be available at www.nsliforyouth.org in the early

Esther Delaney fall. For information about exchange programs sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, visit www.exchanges.state.gov.

Young Singers Names Two New Board Members Young Singers of the Palm Beaches recently announced two new board members, North Palm Beach resident Kenneth P. Dwyer and Wellington resident Jody Young.

Young Singers is Palm Beach County’s premier youth choir, featuring more than 350 of the area’s most talented voices spanning ages 8 through 18. The award-winning, world-class troupe of youth singers has performed concerts all over Palm Beach County, as well as at Lincoln Center in New York City, with Native Americans in New Mexico, and at international music festivals in Salzburg and Vienna. The group’s two annual concerts are held in December and May on the main stage of the Kravis Center. A multi-racial, multicultural arts education organization based in Palm Beach County, its enrollment is comprised of singers in grades 3 through 12.

“As we celebrate our 10th anniversary year, we are thrilled to have Ken and Jody join our board team,” Chairman Hank Gonzalez said. “Their commitment to YSPB’s goals benefits local children. Ken’s experience in finance comes at an important time in our organization’s growth. ” Young is a freelance marketing professional and project manager specializing in political election campaign management, consulting and fundraising. He has more than 35 years of experience in live entertainment event promotion and management of national touring artists. He and his wife Connie have been active volunteer parents with YSPB over the past seven years. He has served as a board member on several nonprofit boards focused on the arts and youth activities.

Dwyer is a financial analyst with Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne and

Jody Young the father of two YSPB singers. In addition to volunteering for YSPB for the past three years, he has also served on the St. Paul of the Cross Parish Financial Council.

The group’s next concert, “Ubuntu,” will be held Sunday, May 19 at the Kravis Center with tickets starting at $10. “Ubuntu”

Ken Dwyer is a South African concept illustrating the connectivity of humanity. The performance will be highlighted by an original song of the same name.

Auditions for 2013-14 season are scheduled for June 1. For more information, call (561) 659-2332 or visit www.yspb.org.

Palm Beach Central Student Selected As Gates Scholar Palm Beach Central High School student Stephanie Berra has been selected as one of the 1,000 Gates Millennium Scholars for the GMS Class of 2013. Her strong leadership, community service and academic achievements contributed to the selection as a Gates Millennium Scholar.

More than 54,000 students applied, making this year the largest and most competitive group of candidates in the program’s history.

Berra joins the community of Gates Scholars and will now receive the distinction of Leader for America’s Future. As a Gates Millennium Scholar, she will receive funds to attend any college or university that she desires in the United States. This is a renewable scholarship, which means that throughout her undergraduate career, the organization will review and determine a new scholarship amount each year.

If Berra decides to pursue grad-

uate studies in the fields of computer science, education, engineering, library science, mathematics, public health or science, she will be eligible for GMS fellowship funding for her master’s and doctoral degree.

The GMS program is much more than scholarship funds.

Many GMS programs and activities have been designed as resources, to assist recipients in their continued development as leaders and to allow them to con-

nect to the Gates Scholar community in a variety of ways. One example among the wide range of resources is the GMS Freshmen Leadership Conference designed to prepare students for a smooth transition to college and to help maximize their GMS experience.

Other GMS Leadership Development Programs include Academic Empowerment (ACE) services to support academic success, graduate school planning and a mentoring program.

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

NEWS

May 17 - May 23, 2013 Page 17

CAFCI HONORS 11 STUDENTS WITH SCHOLARSHIPS AT ROYAL PALM CEREMONY

Caribbean-Americans for Community Involvement (CAFCI) awarded 11 students scholarships during its annual Student Assistance Awards presentation “Beyond the Finish Line” on Saturday, May 11 at the Harvin Center in Royal Palm Beach. Scholarships were giving in various categories to local college-bound high school students of Caribbean descent. This year’s guest speaker, Crestwood Middle School Principal Dr. Stephanie Nance, gave valuable advice during an inspirational speech.

PHOTOS BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER

Vinnet Douglas (left) and Kaitlyn Cameron (right) receive awards from Royal Palm Beach Vice Mayor Jeff Hmara.

Rachelle Eloizin (left) and Brad Lewis (right) receive their awards from Royal Palm Beach Vice Mayor Jeff Hmara.

Rhonda Ferrin-Davis presents the Vivian A. Ferrin Memorial Scholarships to David Gouge and Brandon LaRosa.

Wellington Playground Equipment In Kenya

Sashia Thompson receives the Simms Nursing Award from Lauriston Simms.

Robert Simms accepts the Junior Citizen Award from CAFCI’s Dennis Wright.

Sara Pengelley (left) and Gillian Strowbridge (right) receive awards from Dr. Colette Brown-Graham.

Parrotheads Planning Golf Fundraiser June 8 At Wellington’s Wanderers Club

Tournament Coordinator Ed Portman, Parrotheads for the Palm Beaches Golf Chairman Dan Getson, Wanderers Club Director of Golf Justin Thompson and Outside Services Manager Roger Worrell.

PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Members of the Parrotheads for the Palm Beaches, a Jimmy Buffett–themed social organization, met on Saturday, May 11 at the Wanderers Club in Wellington to discuss plans for the upcoming “PHairway PHlocking Golf Tournament and Dinner Dance Party” to be held Saturday, June 8.

The tournament will begin with an 11:30 a.m. check-in and 12:15 p.m. putting contest with a shotgun start at 1 p.m.

The exciting day will include games and contests on the course followed by raffles, a silent auction, and an island-style buffet, trivia contest and dance party featuring live music by Jason Collannino and his island band from 5 to 8 p.m.

The real winners of this fun-

filled day and night will be Adopta-Family of Palm Beach County, the charitable organization which helps families in crisis and keeps them from the risks of homelessness.

The cost to enter the tournament and play at this exclusive private club is $115 per golfer or $440 per foursome, which includes golf and the dinner dance party.

To just attend the dinner dance party, the cost is $25.

Event sponsorships and advertising opportunities are still available.

For more information, call Dan Getson at (561) 239-0484 or Ed Portman at (561) 602-4409. To pay by credit card, visit www.palm beachparrotheads.com and use the PayPal connection.

Used playground equipment from Wellington has found a new home in Migori, Kenya.

Last year, Wellington’s Tiger Shark Cove Park was renovated and new playground structures were installed.

Prior to the reconstruction, Wellington was contacted by Alex DeLange, who had read an article about the upcoming renovation project and requested that the used equipment be donated to KenyaRelief.org.

“American children are blessed to be able to enjoy state-of-the-art recreational areas, but in Africa, our old is new,” DeLange said.

KenyaRelief.org partners with Kenyans to provide such things

as medical assistance, supplies, education and vocational training.

Wellington was delighted to provide the equipment to the children. Parks & Recreation Director Bruce DeLaney cooperated with DeLange to arrange for the equipment to be shipped via cargo container and installed near an orphanage in Migori.

“Wellington is proud to be able to repurpose our equipment to provide recreational opportunities for the children in Kenya,” DeLaney said.

Wellington officials recently received photos of Kenyan children playing on their “new” equipment and were very pleased to see the items going to good use.

Children in Migori, Kenya enjoy the playground equipment from Wellington. It was formerly part of the playground at Tiger Shark Cove Park.

Page 18 May 17 - May 23, 2013

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

NEWS

Palms West Hospital Partners With Kids Cancer Foundation As A Member Of The Nonprofit’s New Founders Campaign The Kids Cancer Foundation recently started the Founders Campaign, a program that provides an opportunity for leading individuals, families, corporations and foundations to provide sustaining financial support for the programs of the Kids Cancer Foundation & Cancer Center. Palms West Hospital has recently be-

come a “Founding Partner” supporter through the program.

The Kids Cancer Foundation is devoted to assisting the children in the community who are battling cancer and/or a blood disorder. This assistance includes help for the whole family — the parents, the siblings and the patient.

“When a child is diagnosed with cancer, it seems to hit the whole family like a ton of bricks, and it tends to knock them off of their feet,” said Michelle O’Boyle, founder and executive director of the Kids Cancer Foundation.

“Their carefree childhood days quickly seem to disappear, and they are consumed with endless

Founding Partner — Kids Cancer Foundation volunteers with Palms West Hospital officials: (L-R) Dr. Steven Pliskow, Michelle O’Boyle, Palms West Hospital CEO Eric Goldman, Chief Operating Officer Madeline Nava, Chief Nursing Officer Silvia Strada, Chief Financial Officer Scott Herndon, Frank Dowling and Sandy Erb.

Tennis

New Site Chosen

continued from page 1 We could definitely fill all those courts up.”

If the facility had to move, Cheatham said his tennis players would prefer to see a new site behind the Hampton Inn. “It’s the closest place to where we are now,” he explained.

Cheatham said that more courts would allow for more league and

Budjinski

Benefit June 8 In RPB

continued from page 1 teacher Robert Bray taught Budjinski, then a gifted student at H.L. Johnson Elementary School.

“Jason was a fun, lively little kid,” Bray recalled. “He was very curious, and eager to learn about everything. He’s a great guy, a talented musician, a gifted writer and a great person. He more than deserves our support.”

Budjinski is an avid musician and was a fixture in the South Florida music scene for years, playing under the name Billy Boloby.

But while he used to be plugged into an amp making music, Budjinski now spends 12 hours each day plugged in to an IV that feeds his body much-needed nutrients.

Since he began to see symptoms of the diseases, Budjinski’s weight dropped to under 100 lbs., and he has suffered from itching and jaundice, along with pain and fatigue. In April 2012, he was put on the list for a liver transplant.

“It’s a very volatile disease,” Budjinski said of PSC. He noted that the disease causes enzymes in his body to fluctuate dramatically, affecting his position on the transplant list. The Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) system is used to determine who needs a transplant

Graduations

Class Of 2013

continued from page 1 seven high school students nationwide to be named winners of Duke’s University Scholars Program. Andrea Olave, this year’s salutatorian at Seminole Ridge, plans to attend the University of Florida.

Commencement for Seminole Ridge’s Class of 2013 will be Thursday, May 23 at 8 a.m. at the South Florida Fairgrounds Expo Center.

Biz Hours

Professional Offices?

continued from page 3 simply says you have to be operating the business. If the lights are on and you’re in checking your email, you’re effectively operating your business.”

The exemption was made, Stillings said, because staff didn’t think professional offices would generate enough noise to be a concern.

“We felt the office uses didn’t have a negative impact on those adjacent residential spaces,” he said.

Coates was concerned the loophole could be exploited.

“When you have a business that is considered a traditional of-

doctors’ appointments and hospital visits. It is at this point that the Kids Cancer Foundation steps in to provide the families with some much-needed support as they battle this horrible disease. We refer to our patients as ‘Our Little Warriors.’”

With the support of Commissioner Jess Santamaria, the foundation recently opened a cancer center in Royal Palm Beach. The center allows the Kids Cancer Foundation to have a centralized, yet “homey” facility for families to enjoy during the long hours involved in their child’s cancer treatment.

“We are right up the street from Palms West Hospital,” said Sandy Erb, a board member and full-time volunteer. “The parents can drop off their kids with us while they take their child with cancer to the hospital for a treatment or a doctor’s appointment.”

The center offers assorted services, such as tutoring, nutritional education and cooking, art therapy and a place to relax.

Palms West Hospital’s donation and support of the Founders Campaign denotes the intrinsic value that the hospital places on the ser-

vices and programs of the Kids Cancer Foundation.

“As the only pediatric hospital in the western communities, we believe that children and their families should have a place to feel safe and supported during difficult times,” Palms West Hospital CEO Eric Goldman said. “We strive to provide that family-friendly environment for them while receiving treatment at Palms West, but the Kids Cancer Foundation offers another safe haven for parents and other family members, which is invaluable.”

It has been proven that optimal treatment can be achieved when a patient is viewed and treated as a “whole picture” and not just concentrating on the medical aspects of treatment.

“One family might need nutrition counseling to ensure their child maintains a strong energy level, and another child might need some tutoring due to absences from class due to treatment.”

O’Boyle explained. “We can provide that at the Cancer Center.”

The Kids Cancer Foundation, due to its proximity to Palms West Hospital, provides many of the supplemental services that Palms

West’s young cancer patients need. But the foundation’s services are available to many other children in South Florida, as well.

“Currently we have more than 100 children utilizing our various programs and services,” O’Boyle said. “Unfortunately, our numbers are up, and we have more patients than we have ever had. Our outreach into the community is growing and strengthening every month.”

The Founders Campaign will enable the Kids Cancer Foundation to build an enduring relationship with many leading businesses and organizations in the community, such as Palms West Hospital. The synergistic nature of that relationship only strengthens both organizations.

Founders Campaign donations will help to ensure that the Kids Cancer Foundation will be able to continue offering these supportive services and programs for years to come.

For information on the Kids Cancer Foundation & Cancer Center, and/or the Founders Campaign, visit www.kidscancersf.org, call O’Boyle at (561) 371-1298 or e-mail michelleoboyle@bellsouth.net.

The comment elicited jeers from the audience.

Coates said he thought the Village Walk site was the least favorable of all the options.

“To put the tennis center in the Village Walk area would make it the longest drive for our residents who live in the western part of the community,” he said, garnering applause from residents. “I have heard from residents of Village Walk and Olympia that tennis is not a use they’d like to see over there.”

Coates said he’d rather see the

tennis center stay put. “I would vote to keep tennis here,” he said.

“I originally voted to move it because my perception was that there was a parking problem in this area. I’ve now become somewhat persuaded that there is not the parking problem I had originally thought.”

Coates also had concerns about the $5 million price tag to move the facility.

“That’s a huge amount of money to justify to residents,” he said.

“We’re going to take perfectly good courts and tear them up, then we’re going to move them.”

The money could go instead to fix drainage problems, Coates said. “That is very much needed to address recent issues with flooding,” he said. “Last year, the village was underwater at least twice.”

Gerwig asked whether any other municipality had more than 16 clay courts, and Barnes said Wellington was the only one.

“I’m very proud of our tennis program,” Gerwig said. “It’s fantastic. We have 16 clay courts, and they get a lot of use.”

She noted that upgrading the existing courts would cost about half what moving the facility would.

“This is our city center,” Gerwig said. “I think tennis should stay here. I realize it’s tight, but I’ve never been here and found that there were no [parking] spaces.”

During public comment, residents and tennis players asked council members to either keep the existing site or move it only to the site behind the Hampton Inn. No

one spoke in favor of moving to Village Walk.

Resident and tennis player Judith Rosner said that the Hampton Inn site would be the least inconvenient choice.

“It’s the closest in location to the existing tennis facility,” she said. “We won’t inconvenience nearby residences with increased traffic and brightly-lit nighttime play.”

Rosner also noted that to get to the Village Walk site, tennis players would have to drive through several school zones.

“Traffic will be horrendous,” she said.

Longtime tennis player Toni Siskind, who lives in Binks Forest, said that the current tennis facility is ideally located with beautiful views.

“It’s good for the mind and the soul,” she said. “We are used to the open air and the freeness of the environment. It is a wonderful site, and tennis should remain where it is.”

Though some residents refuted the idea that parking was an issue, Margolis noted that popular events like the Food Truck Invasion and senior luncheons had people parking illegally on swales and other locations.

“We have to move the tennis center to start the community center,” Margolis said. “I believe the Village Walk site is the best place.

Once it’s built, it will be the gemstone for the Village of Wellington and its tennis players.”

Greene made a motion to move the site to Village Walk, which carried 3-2 with Coates and Gerwig opposed.

tournament play. “We’re overflowing with leagues,” he said. “We have to turn people away because we just don’t have enough courts.”

Margolis noted that a petition signed by Wellington Tennis Center players asked for the tennis center to stay put, but Margolis said he didn’t feel that was realistic.

“There isn’t enough space for all the teams and everyone not on teams,” Margolis said. “I hope that the people who signed the petition will understand that.”

Willhite noted that many of the sites up for consideration are already being used for other purposes. For example, the former Boys & Girls Club site has baseball fields that are in use, while the Hampton Inn site has multipurpose fields often used by families or people playing informal sports games.

“I support relocating the tennis facility,” Willhite said. “I think in order to not disrupt any programs, and for the benefit of everyone, the Village Walk site is the best location.”

organ the most. One of the calculations is bilirubin, which measures how effectively the liver excretes bile.

“It’s a point system,” Budjinski said. “Because of my disease, if I go to the lab right now and then go to the lab a week from now, I could have completely different [bilirubin] readings. The last time I had bloodwork done, my bilirubin score was high for average people, but lower than it had been.

That caused my MELD score to drop.”

Things grew more complicated when doctors found precancerous cells in his colon. Budjinski must now have his colon removed before he can have the transplant. If he develops colon cancer, he will be kicked off the list and ineligible to receive a new liver.

“If you get colon cancer, you get kicked off,” Budjinski stressed.

“Because I have precancerous cells, my situation has been completely re-prioritized.”

But before he can even have surgery, Budjinski must gain weight. At 5’11”, his weight dropped to about 95 lbs., which posed a risk for surgery. Since beginning the IV nutrition, he has already gained more than 15 pounds. “You have to be physically fit to have surgery,” he said.

“The better shape you’re in, the better your recovery will be.”

The disease has taken not just a physical toll, but also put him in a precarious financial position. “I haven’t even had surgery yet, and

I’ve already been hospitalized twice,” Budjinski said.

Because of his physical state, Budjinski has been unable to perform as a musician, or work the type of hours he did before.

“Surgery and hospital stays are one thing, but when you get a transplant, they put you on a whole new regimen of medicines, some being very expensive,” he said. “Then there’s the loss of wages from not being able to work; then I won’t be able to work at all.

I don’t know what to expect.”

Budjinski has worked for the Town-Crier for almost 10 years and currently serves as community editor. A dedicated writer and editor, he is the tireless force behind the newspaper’s e-mail system, helping to put the spotlight on local news.

New Horizons Elementary School Guidance Counselor Lynne Bray has known the Budjinski family for many years and seen firsthand the positive impact Budjinski has had on the community.

“They’re a wonderful, sweet family,” she said. “Jason has done so much for the community by promoting our schools and community events, and I appreciate his faithfulness. The least we can do as a community is to rally around him and help him. He has done so much for so many; now it’s time for us to give back to him.”

Donations will be accepted at the fundraiser, and you can also donate online by visiting www. gofundme.com/2c4qhk.

Budjinski said that the support from the community, friends and family has been invaluable to help him trudge on.

“For all the pain and daily frustrations I suffer, it could be so much worse,” he said. “I could be going through it alone. Knowing everyone is supporting me makes it much more manageable. It gives me something to try to be strong for. Any time I start to feel upset or down on myself, I think of everyone pulling for me. It gives me the extra motivation I need.”

The June 8 fundraiser will take place at the Mar Bar Grille at the Madison Green Golf Club (2001 Crestwood Blvd. North, Royal Palm Beach). Call (863) 484-0110 to RSVP.

With 675 students set to walk across the stage, Palm Beach Central High School has one of the largest graduating classes the western communities will see this year. Donna Baxter, PBCHS student activities director, applauded the philanthropic efforts of the school’s seniors as Palm Beach Central celebrates its 10-year anniversary.

“What’s significant about this class is their commitment to philanthropy,” Baxter said. “These seniors raised over $40,000 for St. Baldrick’s pediatric cancer research, over $20,000 for the Children’s Miracle Network and over

$15,000 to help build a school for Darfur refugees in Africa.”

In addition, PBCHS seniors donated in excess of 700 pints of blood over the course of the 201213 year.

Palm Beach Central’s valedictorian Dimitri Alexis will attend the University of Miami, while salutatorian Alexis McClanahan will attend the University of Florida.

The PBCHS commencement will take place at the South Florida Fairgrounds Expo Center on Thursday, May 23 at noon.

Robert Grossman, guidance counselor for the senior class at Royal Palm Beach High School,

said that this year’s graduates are truly a multitalented bunch.

“They’re a diverse, dynamic and bright group,” he said.

The school’s valedictorian is Hannah Locop, who will attend the University of Florida, while salutatorian Christina Lam will attend the University of Central Florida.

The RPBHS Class of 2013 saw many academic and extracurricular honors, such as the National Achievement Award, the George Snow Scholarship and Pathfinder scholarships. The school will graduate 500 seniors Friday, May 24 at 8 a.m., also at the South Florida Fairgrounds Expo Center.

fice use, like a doctor, lawyer or accountant, I agree with you,” he said. “But this is an area that is ripe for potential exploitation.”

If clients are allowed to visit the offices, Coates said he felt there could be a noise concern.

“There is the potential for it to be a problem if you have a high intensity of clients coming to the office in the middle of the night,” he said.

Coates didn’t believe professional business offices should be treated any differently.

“I’m all for protecting the professional who wants to be in the office working all night long,” he said. “But I don’t see any reason that an office should be protected any more than a restaurant or drugstore. You could have increased activity at night with noise from

people driving to and from the place of business.”

Councilwoman Anne Gerwig said that council members had assured several business owners on first reading that professional office space wouldn’t be affected.

“I’m not comfortable with us [removing the exemption] without letting them have a chance to speak,” she said. “You can see how there would be circumstances that there would be someone there besides yourself, and you may be doing more than checking your email.”

She made a motion to table the item until the next meeting. The motion was seconded by Coates, but failed 3-2.

Coates asked Stillings whether professional business offices within 300 feet of homes could operate

24 hours under the current code, and Stillings said they could not.

Willhite made a motion to tweak the ordinance to limit outdoor activity to 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., to remove the exemption for professional office space and to require businesses looking to operate beyond 2 a.m. to come before the council.

Councilman John Greene seconded, and the motion passed 3-2 with Coates and Gerwig opposed.

Gerwig requested that all professional business offices within 300 feet of homes be notified that they must now get a permit to operate past midnight.

“I want them to know so they can come in during the grace period,” she said.

Village Manager Paul Schofield said staff would send out notices.

Jason Budjinski shows off one of the IV nutrient packs.

PHOTO BY LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER

Hurricanes

New Media, Phone App

continued from page 1 next few years, we plan to add other things such as pharmacies,” Johnson said.

The site also has a damage reporting tool for homes or businesses, which is used for rapid assessment by the EOC to get whatever assistance is needed to an area.

Johnson said about 3,000 people have downloaded the application and some actually used it during Tropical Storm Isaac.

Commissioner Priscilla Taylor asked what is available for people who do not have cell phones or whose cell phone is not working, and Johnson said the web application is a supplement to services that have always been available.

He said damage assessment teams will still be out establishing damage assessment grids.

“This program gets our community involved, but it’s not mandatory, and it’s not a means of requesting any assistance,” Johnson said. “It’s not meant to be a means of damage reporting.”

Bonvento said the county will continue to work closely with the media as it has in the past. “The critical information will be dissem-

Blotter continued from page 6 eral stores across Palm Beach County, including two at the Walmart Supercenter on Belvedere Road. The suspects made approximately $22,770 in total fraudulent charges. According to the report, the victim said that the cardholder was still in possession of the credit card that had been used, and that all business credit cards had been canceled to prevent further loss.

There were no suspects at the time of the report.

MAY 14 — A resident of Tan-

inated to the media, via radio, TV,” he said. “This is just another tool that will be available to us to disseminate that information, but we will make every effort and use every resource available.”

Bonvento stressed that emergency preparation and response are a team effort with other organizations such as the Red Cross but said that the new application, developed by a county staff member in-house, is probably the only one of its kind currently. More information about the application can be found at www.pbcgov.com/ dem.

Rob Levine, regional executive director of the Red Cross, said his organization works closely with the county to assure that families have shelter, food and psychological help after a disaster. Its most common response is for fire victims.

“We are part of a national disaster response framework, and we are a vital part of the county framework, so we have a team that works with emergency management each and every day, with the school board to make sure all our shelters are prepared, and after the storm when life returns to normal for so many, but for some it doesn’t,” he said. “We work with many faith-based and community organizations so we can help people rebuild their lives.” gerine Blvd. contacted the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation Tuesday morning to report a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 5 and 6 a.m. someone entered the victim’s open garage and removed one barbell and two 25-pound plates. The victim said that the water pump had also been tampered with, causing approximately $300 in damage. The stolen items were valued at approximately $150. At the time of the report, there were no suspects or witnesses.

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

May 17 - May 23, 2013

Page 19

Page 20 May 17 - May 23, 2013

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

The Town-Crier

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

Pure Thoughts Rescues Nurse Mare Foals

The cruel practice of using nurse mares produces unwanted foals. Many of these foals die, but not all. Rescuers can pay anywhere from $200 to $400 apiece for the foals, which is what Pure Thoughts Horse Rescue in Loxahatchee Groves decided to do. Ellen Rosenberg’s Column, Page 23

May 17 - May 23, 2013

Page 21

Students Score Scholarships Through IPC

For successfully running the International Polo Club’s popular Kids Fun Zone during the 16-week polo season, two students from Palm Beach Atlantic University were awarded scholarships to travel to Brazil for a 10-day educational business trip this month. Page 35

Shopping Spree A TOWN-CRIER PUBLICATION

INSIDE

Business Wellington’s Idlewild Specializes In Unique Wood Furnishings

Idlewild Furnishing is a fine furniture store that offers custom-made furniture, antique pieces and plantation-style décor for an upscale clientele. Located on South Shore Blvd. in Wellington, owner John Grimes provides furnishings for many of the area’s country clubs, hotels, equestrian estates and homes.

Page 25

Sports SRHS Flag Football Wins State Title

For the second consecutive year, the Seminole Ridge High School flag football team has captured the state championship title. Coming off an undefeated season, the Lady Hawks defeated Mandarin High School 27-6 in Kissimmee on Saturday, May 4 to take home the championship trophy. Page 35

THIS WEEK’S INDEX COLUMNS & FEATURES ........................ 23-24 BUSINESS NEWS.................................. 25-27 DINING & ENTERTAINMENT ...................... 31 SPORTS & RECREATION........................ 35-37 COMMUNITY CALENDAR ......................38-39 CLASSIFIEDS ........................................40-43

Page 22 May 17 - May 23, 2013

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

The Town-Crier

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

May 17 - May 23, 2013 Page 23

FEATURES

Pure Thoughts Rescues Nurse Mare Foals From Kentucky Some practices are so cruel that you shake your head in bewilderment and wonder, who thinks of such things?

Apparently enough people that the practice of producing nurse mare foals is fairly common. Here’s how it works.

Let’s say you own an expensive, well-bred mare, either a show horse or, more commonly, a Thoroughbred race horse you’d like to breed. If she’s a show horse, you’d like to continue competing as soon as possible, which won’t happen if the mare is nursing a foal for the next three to six months. The answer: find another mare who has recently given birth and therefore lactating, and “graft” the expensive foal onto that mare so she can raise it. But mares only produce enough milk to raise one foal at a time. So, what happens to the nurse mare’s own foal?

Then there’s the horse racing industry.

Once their racing days are over, typically at the young age of three to five, Thoroughbreds who’ve raced well or come from exceptional bloodlines exist only to produce more Thoroughbreds. Unlike most other registries, the Jockey Club insists that each Thoroughbred be conceived through live cover: mare and stallion meet in the flesh; no artificial insemination.

After a mare gives birth, she needs to travel 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 to the stallion’s farm to be rebred during the foal heat, as soon as a week to ten days after dropping her foal. Shipping a mare with a young foal is traumatic to the foal, the insurance costs prohibitive. The answer: “graft” that foal onto another mare that has recently given birth. Again, there’s that question. What happens to the nurse mare’s foal?

What happens is these less-desirable foals are unwanted byproducts of this cold-blooded custom. According to Greenhorn Horse Facts, some are killed immediately, some left to starve to death. However, their hides can be sold as “pony skin” in the fashion and textile industry, used to make shoes, purses and other high-end leather products. Some countries consider their meat a delicacy.

Not all breeders use nurse mares, nor do they all kill the extra foals. Rescuers can pay anywhere from $200 to $400 apiece for the foals, which is what Pure Thoughts Horse Rescue in Loxahatchee Groves decided to do.

“We contracted with a farmer in Kentucky and agreed to buy all his nurse mare foals this year,” co-owner Jennifer Swanson said.

Charles Adkins with Lily, his rescued nurse mare foal.

Simply agreeing to take all the foals was “We needed a lot of volunteers, any day only the beginning. These babies had to be and time, with or without prior horse experihand-fed milk formula every three hours ence,” Swanson said. “These foals need to around the clock. This is not a job for the faint be socialized. In addition to feeding, they need of heart nor for anyone who enjoys sleeping. to get used to leading, grooming, all sorts of The original group of 16 foals arrived in March things.” after spending a stabilizing week in North The foals, of course, are incredibly cute.

Carolina.

See ROSENBERG, page 24

Page 24 May 17 - May 23, 2013

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

The Town-Crier

FEATURES

Taking Care Of A Baby Is Tough... And More So With A Cold!

I’m better now, but I had a raging cold last week. Having any cold is miserable when you’re by yourself, but when you are responsible for the daytime care of an 8-month-old, you need to be “on point.”

Because from the time Skippy wakes up until the time he goes to bed, he wants to play. And forget what you see in the magazine ads — an adorable toddler snuggling cozily in his grandma’s lap while she serenely turns the pages of a book. No. Skippy is adorable — but in a Frenetic Hummingbird sort of way. In a Whirling Dervish sort of way. In a High-Speed Blender sort of way. He wants to go, go, go and never stop. Unfortunately, he is fairly short and has not mastered the ancient art of walking, so this means you have to hold both his hands and help him. He loves this.

Get your Sonic Boomer humor every day!

Follow Deborah Welky on Twitter at twitter.com/TheSonicBoomer or stop by “The Sonic Boomer” page on Facebook.

Deborah Welky is

The Sonic BOOMER If it were up to Skippy, you would spend your day hunched over him like a human crane while he propelled you this way and that by your thumbs. When you have unhappy sinuses, this is a torture track, but you do it because you want him to learn.

There is also the scooter option. Baby scooters completely encircle the baby, provide a padded seat for resting (ha!) and have four wheels that go in any direction the baby points them. The pediatrician recommends no more than 20 minutes a day in this contraption because she prefers that the baby spends most

of his time crawling. “Crawling is important for his hip development,” she said.

We started the day crawling, he in the lead of course, but I caved when he kept reaching under the washer, pulling out fuzz and eating it. I weighed the lack of proper hip development against ingesting an errant paperclip and plopped him into the scooter.

Lest you think this bought my ailing self some much-needed couch time, let me correct you. The preferred activity among babies in scooters is to charge wildly up behind the household’s 13-year-old, deaf dog and scare the crap out of him by yanking his tail. Babies will do this despite all warnings and cautions until you finally get up and put the poor dog outside. This will last until the dog, whose age in human years is 91, forgets why he is outside and starts barking to be let in. Back up from the couch.

The baby itself had a milder version of this very same cold for a day and a half the week before, and I begin to question where he got

it. The floor is clean (except under the washer), the rugs are routinely vacuumed (due to the excessive shedding of the 91-year-old), all his bottles and eating utensils are boiled after use, and he is constantly being put into fresh, clean clothing.

Then I remember. His mother took him to a baby sign language class where there were (the very thought of it makes me shiver) other babies. And one of these babies was sick, and all of these babies shared the communal toys thoughtfully provided by the session leader (probably in a futile effort to teach the sign for “disease”). So Skippy came home, spent three days incubating and then (I remember this well) gave me his first kiss ever.

As awkward as a preteen kisser but with none of the shyness, he opened his mouth as wide as it would go, lunged toward my yawn and slopped his baby spit into my mouth. Then he sat back proudly and smiled at me.

So you can see how this whole illness is worth it.

‘Gatsby’ Gets The Look Right, But Not The Author’s Subtlety Baz Luhrmann’s The Great Gatsby is a hodgepodge film that works very well on some levels and terribly on others. To understand it, you must realize that this is not F. Scott Fitzgerald’s version of the novel. Much of the book was written from inside the characters’ heads. This movie is all about the exteriors. It works because in many ways, the novel itself is all about surface appearances vs. morality.

But there was subtlety in the book that the movie lacks.

The story is narrated by Nick Carraway (Tobey Maguire), a bond trader from the Midwest who lives in the nouveau riche Long Island community of West Egg, next to the home of Jay Gatsby (Leonardo DiCaprio), known for shady business deals and wild parties. He is invited to a party at Gatsby’s home and learns that the man longs for Carraway’s cousin Daisy (Carey Mulligan), his first love, who is married to aristocrat Tom Buchanan (Joel Edgerton) and makes her home in East Egg, a far more prestigious area. Since most of us who have finished high school English know that in the end Gatsby sacrifices himself for Daisy, the plot can remain where it is since the movie stays pretty close to the story.

Rosenberg

Nurse Mare Foals continued from page 23 Almost irresistible. Charles Adkins couldn’t resist.

“I have two miniature horses and two miniature donkeys,” Adkins said. “One of my friends told me about the nurse mare foals. I came out to see them one Saturday. They were really, really cute. I talked with Jennifer and asked which one would be best for me. She showed me Lily, who’s small, very calm and gentle, eager to please. I brought her home on April 19. She’s doing fine and likes hanging out with the mini donkeys. My friend is going to help me work with her and train her. Maybe I’ll ride her one day. Right now, I just enjoy having her around.”

Zina Browning is one of Pure Thoughts’ devoted volunteers. She works with the foals

The problem is that the movie, like the book, tries to delineate between the images people create and the real world. Nothing is as it seems.

Gatsby, of course, is not an aristocrat, but a kid from the Midwest who attempts to present a rich, noblesse oblige façade that is easily pierced by all the blue bloods. Essentially, he is a tool for their entertainment. Daisy is hardly a great catch; although beautiful, she has the intelligence and personality of your average Kardashian. She is not much more than a showpiece for her husband, who has at least one mistress. Tom, although from a wealthy family, is essentially a thug, more interested in his possession of Daisy than loving her. Carraway, particularly as presented in this movie, is a weak sycophant.

Luhrmann recaptures the look of the era, the early 1920s, brilliantly. Ironically, since the parties and a lot of the action is only superficial, the use of 3-D becomes somewhat overwhelming. You can feel as though you are actually at the parties, even though very little of importance happens there. Unfortunately, his choice of music, almost all of it modern, distances us from the time. Jay-Z and other modern musicians may be popular now, but he probably would have done better to let them do cover versions of the music of the time. It would have enhanced reality. Luhrmann is famous for using modern music, but it worked far better in Moulin Rouge and Romeo + Juliet than in this one.

The cast is uniformly very good. DiCaprio is one of our era’s best actors and manages to capture many of the aspects of Gatsby. It is a star turn. Mulligan, a very talented Brit, handles the accent and personal vacuity of Daisy. Maguire is good as Carraway despite a bad characterization by the script. Edgerton was good as an appropriate villain. I particularly liked Elizabeth Debicki as the enigmatic Jordan Baker, and Jason Clarke was especially effective as George Wilson.

Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

“I’ve become the foal herd mama.,” she said.

“The babies, some of whom arrived at only a week old, stay with us four to eight weeks.

Before they can go to their new homes, they have to be eating grain and hay, in addition to milk formula a couple of times a day.

When Browning first started working with them, it was overwhelming. “I didn’t know what to expect,” she said. “They melt your heart. I was fascinated to see their personalities so clearly defined even at such a young age. On the whole, they’re very trusting and easy to work with. I think they’ll do fine with their new owners. Working with them has been amazing.”

Kristin Welker of West Palm Beach is another new owner.

“I adopted Fiona in mid-April,” she said.

“My dog recently passed, and I came out to Pure Thoughts to look around. The foals are

so cute and sweet. Fiona came up and nuzzled me. She picked me. I’m going to keep her here, work with her, and eventually ride her.

And I’m going to volunteer here, too.”

Isabella Harding of Delray Beach also volunteers. She has been helping out for a year, boards her two horses at Pure Thoughts, and also adopted a foal.

“I saw the foals when they arrived,” she said. “I adopted the first one, Scarlet. Everyone says she’s like a Wal-Mart greeter; she’s that friendly. She’s the sweetest one. She follows me and plays with me. I just love her.”

Almost all of the original group of 16 have found their new homes. “We have ten more arriving in May,” Pure Thoughts co-owner Brad Gaver said. “We know that we can’t save every nurse mare foal. We did this to save these few, and also to create awareness of this horrible practice. Rescuing a few is just a Band-Aid on the industry. Vets can induce

‘I’ On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler

But the movie seemed empty; the characters went through their lines well, the costumes and look of the movie were great, but somehow things just did not come together.

Fitzgerald wanted a commentary on class warfare, with a rather harsh look at the pretentiousness of the formerly poor. But times have changed, and when the real stars of a film are mostly playing the “little guys,” things turn on their ear.

Fitzgerald originally thought of Gatsby as a kind of tragic clown, the small-town war veteran who gets rich too quickly, changes his name, and is put down by society for his presumptuousness. But when the really big star at the center of the film plays the part, Daisy’s willingness to be with him is far more understandable. That has been a problem in all the movies made of the story; I believe this is the fourth. We wind up rooting so hard for the hero that it tilts the essential points offered by Fitzgerald. We like the nouveau riche, partly, because many of us fit that category.

It is nicely done but hardly a great film, a nice break from the superhero movies coming out. But you might be disappointed if you expect something really special.

Kristin Welker with Fiona. lactation in non-pregnant mares. I’d like to see the practice of using nurse mares end.”

For more information, call (561) 951-2108 or visit www.purethoughtshorserescue.org.

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

BUSINESS NEWS

Idlewild Furnishing designer Ali Solimine and owner John Grimes in the showroom.

PHOTO BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER

Idlewild Specializes In Unique Wood Furnishings

By Jessica Gregoire Town-Crier Staff Report Idlewild Furnishing is a fine furniture store that offers custom-made furniture, antique pieces and plantation-style décor for an upscale clientele.

Located on South Shore Blvd. in Wellington, Idlewild provides furnishings for many of the area’s country clubs, hotels, equestrian estates and homes.

As an equestrian with years of experience in industrial design, owner John Grimes decided to combine his two worlds, opening Idlewild in 1999. “I knew where all the finest teak came from in the Far East,” Grimes said.

“I saw that there was a big need for fine furniture in this area because there wasn’t really much to choose from.”

For Grimes, it was only fitting he should open up a furniture store in Wellington. “With my expertise, it was a natural progression,” Grimes said. “We are able to offer custommade furniture designed and crafted by us, and antiques that you can’t find anywhere else in the world.”

With assistance from interior designer Ali Solimine, Idlewild provides customizable furniture based on what the client wants. Clients are able to view the showroom with custom furniture on display or create something totally different and unique to their style.

“We have clientele who come in here just looking for one or two specific pieces,” Solimine said. “Then we have clients who come in and want their whole house decorated.”

What sets Idlewild’s furniture apart is its many distinctive qualities. A large percentage of Idlewild’s rustically designed pieces are made from reused teak wood from Southeast Asia. “It’s really one-of-a-kind stuff that’s beautifully handcrafted,” Solimine said. “It’s

all tropical hardwood, which is conducive to the South Florida environment.”

Every piece of furniture that isn’t antique, is customizable. “If you like a table in the showroom, but you want it a little shorter or thinner, we are able to design it to your liking,” Solimine said. “We can even recreate pieces that are antique.”

The reused teak wood comes from old structures, which Grimes salvages and repurposes. “The furniture is made from recycled old wood from typical old beams that come from old structures,” he explained.

Many of the structures are from as far back as colonial times, and Grimes knows much of the history behind each piece of wood he obtains. “This piece here,” Grimes said as he pointed to a long wooden dining table, “comes from the original cut of teak tree, which would have been mammoth trees that were growing in the ground before Columbus’ ships were built. That’s how old this 500-year-old lumber is.”

When Grimes cuts and makes the old wood into new furniture, it still retains its original character and charm. “This is what many people like about our furniture,” he said. “When they come here, they know what they are getting, and that it’s something special and not something they would buy in a typical furniture store.”

Idlewild wants to continue to provide sustainable wood in the community and remain a staple for fine furnishings that last forever.

“Since our furniture is so durable,” Grimes said, “our clients are able to pass it on from generation to generation and it becomes a family heirloom.”

Idlewild Furnishing is located at 13501 South Shore Blvd., Suite 102, Wellington. For more info., visit www.idlewildstables.com or call (561) 793-1970.

May 17 - May 23, 2013 Page 25

Page 26 May 17 - May 23, 2013

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

The Town-Crier

BUSINESS NEWS

FLORIDA XI XI TAU SUPPORTS Rocky’s Ace Hardware Earns THE CHILDREN’S HOME SOCIETY Retailer Of The Year Award

The Florida Xi Xi Tau chapter of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority recently presented a check for $100 to Cora L. Brown, director of development of the Children’s Home Society. Florida Xi Xi Tau has chosen the Children’s Home Society as one of their ongoing projects and plans to continue to help restock the reward items that are made available to the children for good behavior and achievements. Pictured above are (L-R) Treasurer Helen Martinson, Service Chairman Jill Pando, Brown and Chapter President Mary Ann Hedrick.

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

Rocky’s Ace Hardware, a family-owned business with 33 neighborhood-based stores, is proud to announce that the chain has been selected to receive the Retailer of the Year Award. The award recognizes a home improvement retail company for its operational success, as well as commitment to best practices and the values of quality and service.

Rocky’s Ace Hardware has been in continuous operation under the same family ownership since 1926, when the first store opened in Springfield, Mass. “We are all very proud of this phenomenal achievement,” CEO Rocco Falcone said. “This award reflects a solid commitment to excellence from every individual in our organization. It is the culmination of their efforts that made this accomplishment possible.”

This is the first time the chain has won the award. “Home Channel News has for a long time admired Rocky’sAce Hardware,” said Ken Clark, editor of Home Channel News. “It’s a family business with a great history, an eye on the future and an ability to grow.”

In November 2012, the company expanded its store count and entered a new market, with its opening of a 12,500-square-foot store in Fairhaven, Mass. “Our strengths include paint, outdoor power, pet, and lawn and garden,” Falcone said. “Our extensive selection along with friendly, expert advice helps us stand out from the rest.”

The company launched their “Re-Discover Rocky’s” campaign in 2012 to successfully call out their improved product assortment in areas of paint, tools, lawn care, outdoor power equipment, pet, cleaning supplies, grills and outdoor living, in addition to traditional hardware departments.

The Second Annual Pet Food Drive, held late in 2012, also served to reinforce its commitment to the local community. “The extraordinary efforts of our store members in rallying behind this worthy cause, along the outstanding generosity of our customers, resulted in an unprecedented overall donation to local, community based shelters and humane societies,” said Geoffrey Webb, director of marketing and advertising.

The program resulted in more than 6,500 pounds of pet food being donated.

The Retailer of the Year Award was presented during the 2013 National Hardware Show held in Las Vegas May 7-9. The show is recognized as the prime home improvement event of its kind, featuring more than 600 exhibitors and attracting over 27,000 industry professionals.

Rocky’s Ace Hardware, based in Springfield, Mass., operates 33 stores in Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Florida. The firm has been in operation since the first store opened in Springfield in 1926. For info., visit www.rockys.com.

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

May 17 - May 23, 2013

Page 27

BUSINESS NEWS

Wellington Chamber Welcomes Tresses Color Bar Salon The Wellington Chamber of Commerce recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Tresses Color Bar Salon, located at 13873 Wellington Trace.

Brianne Purnell is the resident expert in hair cutting, coloring, extensions and styling. She operates her salon like those found in New York City, Boston or Los Angeles with “mixologists” creating hair color at a festive color bar for all to see.

Purnell was born in Reading, Pa., and moved to Wellington at a

young age. Her grandfather lived and played polo in Wellington, so moving here was an easy step for the family. She graduated from Wellington High School.

After high school, Purnell attended Palm Beach Community College and earned an associate’s degree before studying cosmetology at New England Tech. For eight years, she worked at a spa/salon in Wellington doing coloring, cutting, extending and styling. During that time, she continued her education

by attending courses in different cities and earned a degree from Redkin. She then attended many programs to become an educator for L’Oreal. At L’Oreal, Purnell learned all types of styling including avantgarde runway type styles. Eventually, she began to teach classes at the Soho Academy in N.Y., which required her to travel every two weeks for L’Oreal.

While working with other Wellington area salons, Purnell kept thinking about her trips to New York and the vibe that the hair salons had up there. Since there were no similar type shops here, she decided to

open her own shop with that Soho NY feel. She launched her new business last August.

“That’s why I created the color bar — mainly because it’s just totally different,” Purnell said. “Ours is more of a laid-back atmosphere. You can see everything that’s going on.

We ‘mixologists’ showcase the mixing and the making of color. Usually it’s all hidden in a back room and you can’t see anything. Seeing us mixing kind of brings the client into our world. I am a Great Lengths certified stylist, and I do cold fusion, which is a new method of bonding.

It uses ultrasonic vibration waves

to extend hair so you don’t actually have to use heat. It’s much better for the hair. The hair actually stays in longer.”

Tresses Color Bar Salon helps in the community. They work with JustWorld International to raise money by providing hair styling for fashion shows.

For more information about Tresses Color Bar Salon, call (561) 290-2457.

For more information about businesses in the Wellington area, call (561) 792-6525 or visit the Wellington Chamber of Commerce web site at www.wellingtonchamber.com.

Gonzalez New Chairman Of Central Chamber

Tresses Color Bar — Chamber ambassadors Carmine Marino, Mark “Boz” Bozicevic, Denise Carpenter and Joanne Dee with owner Brianne Purnell (center with the scissors) and Tresses staff.

Francisco J. Gonzalez of the Wellington law firm of Gonzalez & Shenkman P.L. was installed as chairman of the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors on April 26.

Gonzalez will lead the chamber organization for the 2013-14 fiscal year. For the past four years, Gonzalez served on the chamber’s board as legal counsel and chair-elect. He also is a trustee member of the chamber and serves as the vice chair of the chamber’s Economic Development Task Force.

The Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest business groups in the county, representing 1,200 member businesses in 15 municipalities.

Gonzalez concentrates his practice in real estate and business transactions. He received his bachelor’s degree with honors from the University of Florida and his juris doctor degree from the Catholic University of America, Columbus School of Law in Washington, D.C. He was formerly with Steel Hector & Davis LLP and Akerman Senterfitt, and

also served as in-house counsel to a billion dollar corporation.

In addition to assisting clients with real estate and business transactions, Gonzalez & Shenkman P.L. provides estate planning and probate administration services. The firm is committed to providing quality legal representation in the areas of real estate, business transactional and estate planning law. The firm combines large-firm experience and expertise with small-firm responsiveness and accessibility.

Page 28 May 17 - May 23, 2013

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

Camp Cambridge, serving age two through second grade, combines academic excellence, summertime fun and a safe environment to create an unforgettable summer experience.

Theme-based curriculum and in-house field trips complement the concepts explored by all.

There are nine weeks of camp offered at Cambridge Schools, located at 1920 Royal Fern Drive in Wellington. Activities include swimming, art, math, computers, sports, science and cooking. A certified swim instructor provides instruction to children ages three and up, Mommy & Me classes, private/group lessons and team swim programs. Bilingual classes, kindergarten readiness and enrichment classes are available as well. For more information, visit www.cambridgepreschools.com .

Camp Giddy-Up at Ravenwood Riding Academy has been located in Wellington for 23 years.

Licensed and insured, with all safety equipment provided, they are located on a beautiful, safe and clean farm with plenty of shade. Ravenwood is now accepting 12 students per session, ages 6-14, for Camp Giddy-Up. Camp hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Campers learn safety, horse care and grooming, with riding lessons daily, as well as scheduled visits with a blacksmith, horse vet and equine dentist. Sibling discounts or multi-session discounts are available. Camp Giddy-Up has a full staff and a hands-on director. Register today by calling (561) 793-4109 or visit www.ravenwoodridingacademy.com. Hurry, sessions f ill up quickly!

Dance Theatre Summer Dance Camp is available for ages 4 to 7 and 8 to 11. Three sessions are offered June 10-28, July 1-19 and July 22 - Aug. 9. The camp offers ballet, jazz, tap, lyrical, flexibility, hip-hop, acro, musical theatre, drama, modeling, ballroom, ar ts & crafts and more!

As well, Dance Theater offers intensive for intermediate and advanced dancers. A $100 deposit is required to hold space. Space is limited, so reserve today. The cost is $450 per session (3 weeks) from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, with aftercare available until 6 p.m. for as little as $15 per day. Weekly rates and daily rates are available as well, as are multiple-child and multiple-session discounts. Dance Theater is located at 10620 W. Forest Hill Blvd, Suite 30 (between Pei Wei and Fresh Market). Call (561) 784-4401 for info.

Join the Summer Junior Golf Camp at Okeeheelee Golf Course, Park Ridge Golf Course and John Prince Golf Learning Center through the Junior Golf Foundation of America Golf Camp.

New or seasoned golfers will de velop skills while having a blast doing so. The JGFA provides junior golfers with the tools to enjoy the game for a lifetime. Professional PGA/LPGA golf instructors, trained coaches and staff are carefully picked for their love of junior golf, teaching abilities and inspirational approach. The pr ogram emphasizes safety, fun, spor tsmanship and personal attention. Camps run June 10 through Aug. 16 from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., Monday through Friday, with extended camp available until 3 p.m. at Okeeheelee. Written evaluation repor ts, prizes/trophies, of ficial JGFA items, a certificate of completion and a pizza party on the last day is included. Also available: camps for 3-5 year olds, camps for advance/tournament golfers, Junior Golf tournaments, weekly programs and leagues, walk-up clinics and more. Visit www.JGFA.org or call (561) 964-GOLF for more information.

The Lab/High Touch High Tech brings science t o life with hands-on experiments provided by High Touch High Tech, the leader in science education for the last 18 years. Each day will be a new adventure, from interacting with real lab critters to launching rockets and panning for gems. Conveniently located off State Road 7 and Lantana Road, this unique facility offers affordable pricing, experiments with lots of cool take-homes, arts and crafts, physical activities and more. The Lab taps into children’s natural curiosity and provides them with safe and fun activities that help them learn about the world. Children can expect to have fun while they make slime, erupt volcanoes, make ice cream, make tie dye t-shirts and more. Call (561) 4443978 or visit www.thelabforkids.com for info.

The Learning Foundation of Florida’s (TLFF) Academic Summer School/Camp 2013 has several options available to assist the diverse needs of community students. The program begins June 18 runs through Aug. 8 and allows for attendance flexibility in scheduling. TLFF’s K-8 summer program focuses on individualized academic remediation using weekly themes

The Town-Crier

and a variety of t eaching strategies. Middle school students can take FLVS courses for promotion to the next grade level. There are two sessions available: 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and/or 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. TLFF’s high school summer program allows students to accelerate and/or redo classes for higher grades. The session is open on Tuesdays through Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For more information, call Debra Thornby at (561) 795-6866.

The Little Place Pre-School has served the western communities for over 35 years. They are now taking summer camp registration at their two convenient Wellington locations. The Little Place offers a pre-school program for children 2 to 5 years old, and a program for children ages 6 to 8. Various classes are offered as well as arts and & crafts and much more.

The Little Place will make y our child’s summer fun! Contact them at 1040 Wellington Trace (561-793-5860) or 2995 Greenbriar Blvd. (561-790-0808).

At Noah’s Ark Summer Camp, children will enjoy field trips and activities such as swimming, bowling, skating, South Florida Science Museum, movies and picnics. Tuition includes camera surveillance, creative curriculum, computers and all meals. Registration is now being accepted. Registration 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.

The Scientastic Institute is taking hands-on science to a whole new level. Developed exclusively for students entering grades 6 through 8, its Scientist-In-Training summer camp takes advantage of the power of curiosity to turn everyday students into extraordinary scientists.

Through a wide variety of activities — such as hands-on projects, edible experiments, creature features, DIY labs, scientist spotlights, dynamic demonstrations and much more — each week addresses an amazing new theme that relates to essential academic content. Students can have fun all summer and get a head start for the fall. The Scientastic Institute offers competitive rates, extended hours, organic lunch options and one amazing summer experience in the heart of Wellington. Visit www.scientasticinstitute.com or call (561) 459-1724 for more information.

Are you looking for a convenient and fun place to send your kids this summer? Look no further than Camp Eagle at Wellington Christian School. They offer an exciting 9-week program for children ages 3-12, which includes VPK, local field trips for older campers, oncampus sports and group building activities, daily devotions, silly songs, crazy competitions and much more. You can choose one of the themed weeks or come all summer long. For more information, call (561) 793-1017.

Tiny Tikes Preschool Camp is geared t oward the elementar y-age camper. Daily activities are sure to keep the campers happy, busy and engaged. Trips include bowling, skating and weekly movies, as well as special trips to the zoo, the science museum and more. Tiny Tikes has three conveniently located centers, which are open from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Activities occur throughout the day, both at the center and out on the bus. Meals are included. Call (561) 7901780 now to reserve your space or visit Tin y Tikes Academy at 16245 Okeechobee Blvd. in Loxahatchee.

Wellington Children’s Theater Camp invites campers to join them for Summer Musical Theater Camp. Classes are offered in acting, voice, specialized dance, script writing, audition techniques, music theory, and much more. Campers will creat e their own props and backdrops. A revolving schedule has visiting guest artists leading special workshops daily. Campers will rehearse and perform a fully staged Broadway musical production at the conclusion of camp. The program is open to ages 7 to 16. Rehearsals and classes meet at #1 Education Place in the original Wellington Mall at Forest Hill Blvd. and W ellington Trace in the heart of Wellington. For info., call (561) 223-1928, e-mail karen@wellingtonchildrenstheatre.com or visit www.wellingtonchildrenstheatre.com.

The Town-Crier

WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

May 17 - May 23, 2013 Page 29

Page 30 May 17 - May 23, 2013

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

The Town-Crier

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

May 17 - May 23, 2013

Page 31

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Upcoming Family-Friendly Events At Palm Beach County Venues The Cultural Council of Palm Beach County invites the community to enjoy a fun variety of familyfriendly activities, venues and locales taking place all over the county and discover why Palm Beach County is “Florida’s cultural capital.”

With a colorful and diverse array of arts and cultural activities, offerings and fun, there’s sure to be something for families of varying age, taste and budget. Check out happening events on tap, visit web sites and even purchase tickets at www. artscalendar.com/thepalmbeaches.

It’s all about “outdoor Florida” on the south end of Palm Beach County at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center.

Nestled along AIA in Boca Raton, this venue offers visitors an expansive outdoor nature center with its sea turtle garden, container garden of herbs and local flora, gopher tortoise exhibit and a butterfly nursery.

Nature Craft for Father’s Day is scheduled for Saturday, June 15 from 11 a.m. to noon for ages 7 to 12.

RSVP to (561) 544-8615.

Enjoy live theater by taking the family for a “peek under the sea” through the eyes of the Sol Children Theatre Troupe’s musical play adaptation of Disney’s Broadway production The Little Mermaid Jr. July 4-5 at the Olympic Heights High School Performing Arts Theater in Boca Raton. Call (561) 447-8829 for more information.

Just north of Boca Raton in the heart of downtown Delray Beach, visitors will find the charming and whimsical PuppetryArts Center of the Palm Beaches. Robin Hood, by master puppeteer Jerry Bickel with the Bits ’N’ Pieces Marionettes, continues Friday and Saturday, May 17 and 18. Show times are 10:30 a.m.

Friday and 2 p.m. Saturday. Call (561) 243-4330 or visit www.puppetcenter. org for more information.

A short walk from the Puppetry Arts Center finds Arts Garage, home of jazz, blues, big band, live theater, comedy and more. Dance in your seats to the popular family musical

Footloose May 16-19. Table reservations are available; show times vary. For more information, call (561) 450-6357 or e-mail info@artsgarage. org.

On the western end of Delray Beach, visitors can experience the magical and serene setting of the Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens. This year, its annual Sushi and Stroll event offers several dates and themes to enjoy. The Morikami will host the evening event “Sip & Stroll: An All-About-Sake” on Friday, June 7 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Enjoy a unique selection of sake and menu items from the Cornell Café and learn all about the appeal of this ageold Japanese spirit. For more information, visit www.morikami.org.

Nature enthusiasts can also enjoy a visit to the Sandoway House Nature Center, found along AIA in northern Delray Beach. Sandoway is home to the largest private collection of shells in southeast Florida with 10,000 museum-quality shells on display. Shark feeding anyone?

Plan to arrive at 1:30 p.m. sharp Tuesday through Sunday to participate in this thrilling local favorite. If getting your toes in the sand is more your thing, sign up for its May 25 beach walk, taking place from 11 a.m. to noon. For more information, visit www.sandowayhouse.org.

For those who like to shop until they drop, explore artsy and trendy Lake Avenue in downtown Lake Worth. At the corner of Lake Avenue and L Street, visitors will not want to miss stopping in at the Cultural Council of Palm Beach County to find over 1,200 artist-created items for sale in its Uniquely Palm Beach Store. While there, check out its exhibitions by Palm Beach County artists: “Artist as Author” through May 18 and “County Contemporary: All Media Juried Show” June 14 through Sept. 7. At the Cultural Council’s Cultural Information Center, take advantage of utilizing its interactive, touch-screen Explore Board to peruse arts and cultural venues. Guests can also pick up bro-

Classmates discover their inner artists during an educational program at the Norton Museum of Art.

At the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, you can explore the artist’s studio, gardens and historic home.

Kids and adults alike will gasp in awe at Archelon, a 17-foot-wide sea turtle on display as part of the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium’s newest traveling exhibit “Savage Ancient Seas: The Ancient Aquatic Deep,” opening to the public Friday, May 17.

chures, event calendars, maps, a copy of art&culture magazine, and fill your day book or extended stay itinerary with destination stops sure to fulfill your quest for exciting arts and cultural happenings fun for the entire family. For more information, visit www.palmbeachculture.com.

Heading north to the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in downtown West Palm Beach, Palm Beach County’s world-class community youth choir, the Young Singers of the Palm Beaches, will present “Ubuntu,” a special 10th anniversary performance at the annual spring concert Sunday, May 19 at 7 p.m.

This award-winning community chorus features 350 of the area’s top, talented youth voices. For more information, call (561) 832-SHOW or visit www.kravis.org.

A constant nearby draw for visitors of all ages is the Palm Beach Zoo, with exciting and educational encounters available to help you get to know some of the county’s resident animals. Daily Keeper Talks and informative feeding and enrichment events give visitors an up close and personal look into topics such as what makes tigers so “chuffed” (happy), how alligators and pelicans eat, and what monkeys like to do when they “monkey around.” The zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. For more information, visit www.palm beachzoo.org.

Hop across the street to see what’s happening at the newly expanded South Florida Science Center & Aquarium, formerly known as the South Florida Science Museum.

Celebrate with fun, interactive science at its Community Opening Day on Friday, June 7 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free. Experience the first blockbuster exhibit to fill the newly opened exhibit hall, “Savage Ancient Seas: Dinosaurs of the

Deep.” For more information, visit www.sfsm.org.

Have a budding artist in the family? On the first Saturday of each month, the Armory Art Center in West Palm Beach offers “Art on the Go!” for children in kindergarten to fifth grade. These art workshops are designed just for kids. Dates vary; RSVP at www.armoryart.org.

It’s well-known that the acclaimed Norton Museum of Art in downtown West Palm Beach has permanent collections and exhibitions of masterpiece works of art year-round, but did you know it also offers family-friendly, hands-on activities for kids of all ages? On Thursday, June 20, the museum invites guests to “Be a Lego Architect.” Begin in the classroom and learn about types of buildings. Next, participants draw designs and take plans to the Lego building activity area to construct it in 3-D on a special city map. Are you a Florida resident planning a staycation? The Norton offers free admission for Florida residents in June, July and August and free admission to Palm Beach County residents every Saturday from June 1 through Aug. 3. For more information, visit www.norton.org.

Nearby, along the Intracoastal Waterway, is the serene and tranquil Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens.

Gain rare insight into the life’s work of American sculptor Ann Weaver Norton by exploring her studio, gardens and historic home. The vast, meticulously landscaped property is adorned with Norton’s monumental sculptures. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.

The sculpture gardens are closed in August. For more information, visit www.ansg.org.

A natural, outdoor setting that invites guests to set their own pace and explore nearly three acres of

striking sculpture and native landscape is the Society of the Four Arts in Palm Beach. The gardens are open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and there is no charge for admission. To learn more, visit www. fourarts.org/gardens.

North Palm Beach is home to the beautiful, tucked away John D. MacArthur Beach State Park. Learn about the park’s ecosystems and history with an array of events. Enjoy a butterfly walk Saturday, May 25 from 11 a.m. to noon, and daily nature walks at 10 a.m. (10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturdays), which are free with park admission. Guided twohour kayak tours occur daily at high tide. Turtle walks are held May 28 through July 19 with RSVP required.

Turtle walk hours are 8 to 11 p.m. or later, depending on the turtles. For additional information, call (561) 6246952.

North on U.S. 1 is Juno Beach’s Loggerhead MarineLife Center, filled with nature-based exhibitions to explore and a state-of-the-art turtle rehabilitation center. Each Wednesday at 10:30 a.m., children under 5 can bring their own “hatchlings” to share and enjoy ocean-inspired stories, crafts and more with Hatchling Tales story time.

Enjoy books, music and group activities for free. Celebrate World Oceans Day at Loggerhead on June 8 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to honor the body of water that links us all and to learn ways we can all generate awareness about conserving and protecting our world’s oceans. Admission is free. Visit www.marinelife.org for more information.

Admission to the Cultural Council is free and open to the public Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information, visit www. palmbeachculture.com.

Page 32 May 17 - May 23, 2013

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

The Town-Crier

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

May 17 - May 23, 2013 Page 33

Page 34 May 17 - May 23, 2013

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

The Town-Crier

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

May 17 - May 23, 2013 Page 35

SPORTS & RECREATION

Sem Ridge Flag Football Team Repeats As State Champs

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report For the second consecutive year, the Seminole Ridge High School girls varsity flag football team has captured the state championship title.

Coming off an undefeated season, the Lady

Hawks defeated Mandarin High School 27-6 in Kissimmee on Saturday, May 4 to take home the championship trophy.

“We are incredibly excited,” head coach Austin Bowe told the Town-Crier. “The girls worked really hard for this, and it’s nice to see them get the reward at the end of it all.”

The Lady Hawks went 19-0 this season, which includes 15 shutout games and 17 games that ended with the mercy rule. Seminole Ridge easily took down top teams like Dr. Phillips (Orlando) High School and Tarpon Springs High School.

The Lady Hawks allowed only three touch-

The Seminole Ridge High School flag football team, shown here celebrating after they won the state title for the second year in a road.

downs and a total of 20 points to be scored against them all season, finishing 637-20 against all their opponents combined this year.

Bowe attributed this to teamwork.

“They really bought into it and played well together,” Bowe said of his team. “It wasn’t just about one player catching a touchdown pass; it was also about the other girls acting as decoys to trick the defenders. They really understood how important every player was, and there was as much congratulation for someone fooling a defender as for scoring a touchdown. We have a lot of talented players.”

This marks the third state championship title for the Lady Hawks in four seasons — the team also won the title in 2010.

“Our team really came together in 2010,” Bowe said. “This year, the girls were really serious about winning. They wanted to be the best team out there, and they succeeded.”

He noted that the school recruits many players through the Acreage Flag Football League, which starts girls playing from a young age.

“The league definitely helps,” he said. “Having the advantage of girls who have played before is a big help. Our team has been playing together for three years, and some of the girls played together before that.”

This creates a team with synergy, Bowe said.

“They really help each other out,” he said.

“The defense works hard to give the offense a good field position, and the offense tries not to give the defense extra work by not turning over the ball. They [the offense] make sure the other team has to march all the way down the field every time.”

Bowe expressed pride in his team. “What they accomplished was truly amazing,” he said.

Students Score Scholarships Through IPC’s Kids Fun Zone As world-class polo players and fans celebrated the close of another exciting season at the International Polo Club Palm Beach, enterprising business students from Palm Beach Atlantic University may have come out the biggest winners of all — at least from their perspective.

For successfully running the club’s popular Kids Fun Zone during the 16-week polo season, the students — both attending PBAU’s Rinker School of Business — were awarded scholarships by the International Polo Club to travel to Brazil for a 10-day educational business trip this month.

“This program is a win-win. It is so nice to know that the money we spend on the Kids Fun Zone is helping to educate and train future business leaders. This is one of the great things about my job. I get to make decisions daily that help other people,” said John Wash, president of the International Polo Club.

Lewis Thompson, a graduating senior, and Angie Moreau, a junior, netted over $10,850 running the Kids Fun Zone, a service designed to entertain the children of parents who

want to spend a relaxing Sunday afternoon watching professional polo. The money will be applied to the IPC scholarships funding the business trip.

“Managing the Kids Fun Zone every Sunday for four months was like running a small business for them, and they did a fantastic job in raising money and awareness about the service,” said Dr. Ann Langlois, an associate professor at the Rinker School of Business, who oversees the scholarship program with the International Polo Club.

Langlois explained that each week the students were given a $1,000 budget to entertain the children.

They had to contact and book vendors, negotiate contracts, schedule dates, keep the books and troubleshoot problems on the fly — all while staying under budget. The students booked vendors as diverse as a face painting service to pony rides to a science presentation.

Thompson and Moreau also created a marketing program, with flyers distributed to parents every week, in the hope of generating greater awareness about the Kids Fun Zone. The service cost parents

only $10 — but it was all profit to the students.

Any profits generated or money saved under budget, the students could keep and apply toward their scholarships. This season, the students created enough profit and savings to cover the full cost of the trip to Brazil, Langlois said.

This is the second year the International Polo Club has offered scholarships to Rinker business students.

Last year ’s participants used the Kids Fun Zone experience to fund a 10-day trip to Dubai.

“The IPC scholarship program has given our students a chance to run a business, travel abroad and expand their knowledge of international business,” Langlois said. “It’s a great opportunity. The students learn leadership skills that will prove invaluable after college.”

Along with the entertainment, the Kids Fun Zone also featured a bounce house for children age 7 and under, a giant inflatable slide, a huge rock climbing wall, an inflatable obstacle course, spin art and sand art, and a bungee trampoline, as well as food and drinks.

With the successful 10th anniver-

Dr. Ann Langlois, student Lewis Thompson and IPC’s John Wash.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LILA PHOTO

sary season now in the record books, the International Polo Club will shift to the off-season and hosting several global sporting events, including USPA Youth Polo events, as well as summer polo camps, large charity events and fundraisers.

The International Polo Club Palm Beach is located at 3667 120th Avenue South, between Pierson Road and Lake Worth Road in Wellington. For more information, call (561) 204-5687 or visit www.international poloclub.com.

Page 36 May 17 - May 23, 2013

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

SPORTS & RECREATION

Cats Gymnasts Perform Well At Invitational In Jupiter The Cats of Wellington competitive gymnastics team recently competed in the 2013 Cats of Jupiter Beach Blast Invite, held April 6-7 in Jupiter.

In Level 2, Keelin Coleman earned first all-around with a 38.4, including first on bars (9.8), first on vault (9.8), first on floor (9.5) and a 9.5 on beam. Sophia Roberts was awarded a first on beam (9.45) and first on floor (9.5), and scores of 9.6 on vault and 9.1 on bars. Enacoret Parziale scored a 9.5 on vault and 9.25 on beam. Guilbrhea Pacheco received a 9.15 on vault, 9 on bars, 9.1 on beam and 9.05 on floor. Julianna Stebbins was awarded a first on vault (9.65) and 9.15 on bars. Natalie Bornel earned a 9.2 on vault, 9 on bars and 9.2 on floor. Kyleigh Gardner received a first on floor (9.25) and a 9 on vault. Allison Franck scored a 9.1 on vault and 9 on bars.

Juliana Lettera earned an 8.95 on vault. Ava Delafe was awarded a 9.05 on vault. Agostina Fontana received an 8.65 on floor. The Level 2 girls finished second all-around in the team standings.

In Level 3, Zoe Kyrkostas was awarded first on bars (9.525), first on beam (9.525), first on floor (9.6) and 8.8 on vault, finishing first allaround in her age group with a 37.45.

Kayla Levins earned a first on floor (9.325) and scores of 9.1 on vault, 9.3 on bars and 9.225 on beam, finishing first all-around in her age division. Ruth Anne Lively received first on bars (9.375) and first on beam (9.3), and a 9.275 on floor. Angelina Apicella scored a 9.225 on vault, 9.125 on bars, 9.25 on beam and 9.175 on floor. Arianna Nettles was awarded first on vault (9.425) and scores of 9 on bars and 9.125 on floor. Sasha Campbell earned a 9.3 on bars and a 9.15 on floor. Sophia LaCosta received a 9.1 on vault and a 9.05 on bars. Sophia Rodriguez was awarded first on vault (9.35) and scores of 9.325 on bars and 9.05 on floor. Katie Lettera received a 8.975 on floor.

Ashleigh Altfest scored a 9.2 on floor. Karlie Navor received a 9.05 on vault. Nicole Campos was awarded an 8.9 on vault. The Level 3 girls finished second all-around in the team standings. Sasha Campbell also competed in the Gasparilla Classic and was inadvertently not included in that article. She earned a 9.325 on bars and a 9.4 on floor.

In Level 4, Alexa Alvarez was first all-around with a 36.45, including first on bars (9.2) and first on floor (9.2), and scores of 9.45 on vault and 8.6 on beam. Alexis Merritt earned first on vault with a 9.2, and scores of

Cats Gymnastics students with trophies from the Jupiter Beach Blast.

9.15 on bars and 9.325 on floor. Faith Campagnuolo received first place on vault with a 9.525 and a 9.1 on floor.

Allison Bunchuk was awarded first place on beam (9.05) and a 9 on bars.

Hannah Hutchins earned an 8.9 on bars. The Level 4 girls finished second all-around in the team standings.

In Level 5, Arabella Campbell finished first all-around with a 35.575, including first on bars (9.2), and scores of 8.85 on vault, 8.725 on beam and 8.8 on floor. Kinsey Cribbs was awarded an 8.375 on floor and 8.35 on both bars and beam. Bianca Sileo received scores of 8.575 on vault and 8.45 on bars. Brieanna McCaf-

frey earned scores of 8.625 on vault and 8.7 on floor. Samantha Baez was awarded an 8.75 on bars and an 8.725 on floor. The Level 5 girls finished third all-around in the standings.

The girls are dedicated and work hard, with training from coaches Margarita Martinez, Felipe Restrepo and John Levy.

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

May 17 - May 23, 2013

Page 37

SPORTS & RECREATION

Acreage Yankees Win Championship The Acreage Major League Yankees recently ended the regular season in first place with a 9-2 record, defeating the Red Sox 6-1 in the championship game.

Right-handed pitcher Will Keifer pitched four strong innings, and right-handed pitcher Dylan Istock came in and closed out the game with

the Red Sox threatening in the top of the fourth inning. “The Red Sox had a very strong team, but they just came up short today. Our team played hard and kept their composure to come up with the victory,” Yankees Manager George Domaceti said. “The season may be over for some of the players, but quite a few

have been chosen for the all-star team, which will play for the district championship in June.”

The first leg of the Babe Ruth World Series is being hosted by the Acreage Athletic Baseball League this year from June 25-30, with the finest players from each league being chosen to compete.

Cameron Sarni, Shaquel Wisdom, Kim Ruderman and Ashley Humm (back row) with their Soaring Eagles tennis stars.

RPB Tennis Players ‘Share The Love’ At Glade View

The Acreage Major League Yankees with their trophies.

When four members of the Royal Palm Beach High School tennis team visited Glade View Elementary School on May 8, they had one goal in mind: “Share the Love.”

Earlier this year, the team received a $1,000 Share the Love grant from the United States Tennis Association for just such a mission. The Wildcats used brand-new rackets, balls and temporary nets to teach

the elementary students tennis fundamentals. The team left most of the grant equipment at the school for the students to use. “Building bridges to connect humanity at tender ages will strengthen humanity for generations to come,” Glade View Principal Linda Edgecomb said.

For more about Wildcat athletics, contact Eric Patterson at eric. patterson@palmbeachschools.org.

Page 38 May 17 - May 23, 2013

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Saturday, May 18 • The third annual Women for Women 5k/ 10k will take place Saturday, May 18 starting at 7 a.m. on Lake Worth Beach. Proceeds benefit the Palms West Community Foundation and Girls on the Run. For more info., visit www.womenforwomenrun.com or call (561) 790-6200.

• The fall kickoff of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s signature national fundraising program Team in Training is set for Saturday, May 18 beginning at 7 a.m. at the Community Foundation building (700 South Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach). This event brings together groups of athletes and aspiring athletes to raise money for lifesaving blood cancer research. For more info., contact Nicole Switzer at nicole.switzer@lls.org or visit www.teamintraining.org/pb.

• Cub Scout Pack 125 and the St. Peter’s United Methodist Men’s Group will host a pancake breakfast Saturday, May 18 from 8 to 11 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church (12200 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington). The cost is $5 per person. For more info., visit www.pack 125.com or call (561) 907-8125.

• The Mounts Botanical Garden (531 N. Military Trail, West Palm Beach) will host “Summer Gardening Strategies” on Saturday, May 18 at 9 a.m. Learn how to help a garden thrive during the hot, humid season.

The cost is $20 for members and $25 for nonmembers. To register or for more info., call (561) 233-1757.

• IberiaBank (119 South State Road 7, Royal Palm Beach) will host a Community Shred Party on Saturday, May 18 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in partnership with Families First of Palm Beach County and the Royal Palm Beach Rotary Club. In addition to shred services, there will be plenty of activities for the family. For more info., call Des Romm at (561) 204-2400 or Selena Smith at (561) 253-1451 or visit www.iberiabank.com or www.familiesfirstpbc.org.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Get Your Game On...” Saturday, May 18 at 10:30 a.m. Bring the family for board games and puzzles. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• A fundraising lunch will be held Saturday, May 18 at 11 a.m. at Kidscape Park (74th Street North and Seminole Pratt Whitney Road in The Acreage) to help pay medical and travel expenses for Sharon Vomero, a Loxahatchee resident diagnosed with stagethree breast cancer. Barbecue lunches will

be sold and vendor fees will go directly to the Vomero family. Donations are also requested for a raffle. E-mail shaunsantoro@aol. com for more info.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host “Viva la Bells” for adults Saturday, May 18 at 2 p.m. Savor the sights and history of the Sunshine State in stories and songs performed by the Clarion Handbell Ensemble. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• The Acreage Community Park Jam will take place Saturday, May 18 from 5 to 10 p.m. at Acreage Community Park (6701 140th Avenue North). A signup application and contact information can be found at www.acreagelandowners.org or contact Bob Renna at bobrenna@bellsouth.net.

• Wellington will host “Murder in the Wild West” mystery theater Saturday, May 18 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at Village Park (11700 Pierson Road). Call (561) 791-4005 or visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

Monday, May 20 • Leading health care professionals will discuss the importance of health care reform at the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon Monday, May 20 at 11:30 a.m. at Wycliffe Golf & Country Club. Call Mary Lou Bedford at (561) 578-4807 or e-mail marylou@cpb chamber. com for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Finance & Your Small Business for adults Monday, May 20 at 1 p.m.

The Small Business Development Center and the Office of Small Business Assistance will explore alternative ways to finance your small business, avoiding costly tax mistakes and planning for success. Call (561) 7906070 to pre-register.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Legos for ages 8 and up Monday, May 20 at 4 p.m. Builders create vehicles or buildings out of Lego pieces. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• Wellington Christian School (1000 Wellington Trace) will host a blood drive for Piper Apfel on Monday, May 20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Donors must be at least 17, have a valid picture ID and weigh more than 110 pounds. For more info., visit www.pipers keepers.com.

• State Rep. Mark Pafford and State Sen. Joseph Abruzzo will be the featured speakers at the Mid-County Democratic Club meeting Monday, May 20 at 7 p.m. at Tree’s Wings and Ribs in the northeast corner of See CALENDAR, page 39

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

COMMUNITY CALENDAR CALENDAR, continued from page 38 Southern and Royal Palm Beach boulevards.

E-mail Steven Licari at stevemiddems@ gmail.com for more info.

Tuesday, May 21 • The Palm Beach County Commission will meet Tuesday, May 21 at 9:30 a.m. in the government center’s Jane M. Thompson Memorial Chambers (301 N. Olive Ave., Sixth Floor, West Palm Beach). For more info., visit www.pbcgov.com.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “National Mental Health Month: Life Beyond Your Eating Disorder” for adults Tuesday, May 21 at 2:30 p.m. Johanna Kandel, founder and CEO of the Alliance for Eating Disorders, will share her struggle with and recovery from an eating disorder and discuss treatment and prevention. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “Wii Gaming” for ages 7 to 12 on Tuesday, May 21 at 3:30 p.m.

Play video games and check out the new book display. Call (561) 790-6030 to preregister.

• Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will host a free Grilled to Perfection Block Party on Tuesday, May 21 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Taste your way around the store and vote for your favorite sample.

Call (561) 904-4000 for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Chess Club for adults Tuesday, May 21 at 6 p.m. Practice your strategy skills with other players. Basic game knowledge is required. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• Kretzer Piano Music Foundation will present a concert by the Youth Orchestra of Palm Beach County on Tuesday, May 21 at 7 p.m. at the Harriet Himmel Theater at CityPlace (700 S. Rosemary Ave., West Palm Beach). Proceeds will benefit the Youth Orchestra’s Musician Scholarship Fund. Tickets are $10 for adults and free for children under 18. Tickets may be purchased at the door or by calling (866) 449-2489.

Wednesday, May 22 • The Quarterly Public Meeting on the Long-Term Plan for Achieving Water Quality Goals for Everglades Protection Area Tributary Basins will be held Wednesday, May 22 at 9 a.m. in the Storch Room, Building B1 at the South Florida Water Management District headquarters in West Palm Beach.

For more info., e-mail Lawrence R. Gerry at

lgerry@sfwmd.gov or call (561) 682-2642.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Gyotaku: Japanese Fish Printing” for ages 7 to 13 on Wednesday, May 22 at 1 p.m. Learn about this traditional Japanese art form and take home your own keepsake fish print. Dress to get messy. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will feature a free Health Starts Here Pillar Power Class on Wednesday, May 22 at 6:30 p.m. Learn how to ditch processed foods and enhance some of your favorite foods. Call (561) 904-4000 to pre-register.

Thursday, May 23 • The Palm Beach County Commission will hold a zoning meeting Thursday, May 23 at 9:30 a.m. in the government center’s Jane M. Thompson Memorial Chambers (301 N. Olive Ave., Sixth Floor, West Palm Beach).

For more info., visit www.pbcgov.com.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “New Stories Time” for ages 3 to 6 on Thursday, May 23 at 3:30 p.m. Check out some new books that will be highlighted in this story time along with songs and a simple craft. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host “Drawing Basics” for ages 12 to adult Thursday, May 23 at 6 p.m. Render a two-dimensional still life using basic drawing techniques. Call (561) 681-4100 to preregister.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Pajama Tales” for ages 2 to 6 on Thursday, May 23 at 6 p.m. Wear your jammies, bring your teddy bear and wind down for the evening with bedtime stories.

Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will feature a Whole Deal Cooking Class on Thursday, May 23 at 6:30 p.m. Learn how to make an easy backyard dinner that’s sure to please everyone.

The cost is $5 per person. Call (561) 9044000 to pre-register.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host “Cosplay Workshop” for ages 12 to 17 on Thursday, May 23 at 6:30 p.m. Practice basic sewing skills and learn costuming tips and tricks. Call (561) 681-4100 to preregister.

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

May 17 - May 23, 2013 Page 39

Page 40 May 17 - May 23, 2013

THIS SATURDAY, MAY 18TH 7 A.M. till NOON — 15960 Barnstormer Ct. Located in the Aeroclub COME & HELP SUPPORT CATS GYMNASTIC TEAM!!! SATURDAY, JUNE 1st 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. CATS Gymnastics Multi Family Yard Sale 12779 Forest Hill Blvd. Wellington, FL 33414 (in The Wellington Plaza behind Dunkin Donuts)

SIDEWALK/YARD SALE - THIS SATURDAY MAY 18TH, 9 A.M. Bedding, Exercise, Weight Rest, Furniture, Motorcycle, Clothes, Bomardier Part s, Household & miscellaneous. 73rd St. N. & Hall Rain Date SUNDAY, MAY 19TH

LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS AGES 14 AND UP — to help out our non-profit animal sanctuary . 2 days a week for 4 hours a day. Get community hours and have fun. Call 561-792-2666

PART-TIME LEGAL SECRETARY — for legal/accounting office. Fax resume 333-2680.

WANTED DRIVERS — Full-Time or Part-Time. W ellington Cab/ Wellington Town-Car. Retirees Welcome 561-333-0181

WWW.GOTOWNCRIER. COM

ON FARM SINGLE STUDIO APT. — spanish tile & A/C $525/ mo.References required. 561-9668791 YOU ARE NOT DREAMING!— Beautifully furnished off season rental. 3/3 in exclusive gated Equestrian Club Est a t e s , Wellington 3,500 a month, not including utilities, pet friendly CALL NOW, MOVE IN T OMORROW! Cheri W ellman Cell 561-371-3871 Office 561-472-1236 Keller Williams Realty W ellington

LARGE BRIGHT ROOM FOR RENT — with private bath & private entrance $450/mo or $125/weekly.

Furnished 1 bedroom apartment for rent. Month to month rental large bright rooms with backyard, all utilities & cable included $700/mo.

Interested call 561-333-2224 Renshenwpb@gmail.com

The Town-Crier

The Town-Crier

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

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 ALL AMERICAN HOUSE CLEANERS — Residential , Commercial, Move-In/Move-Out, Organize. Call Elizabeth for all your cleaning need. 561-313-4086

WWW.GOTOWNCRIER. COM

THE MASTER HANDYMAN — All Types of Home Repairs & Improvements. No job too big or small done right the first time every time 40 yrs of satisfied customers. See me on Angies List. Tom (561) 801-2010 or (954) 444-3178 Serving Palm Beach and Broward Counties.

BILLY’S HOME REPAIRS INC. REMODEL & REPAIRS — Interior Trim, crown molding, rottenwood repair, door inst allation, minor d r y w a l l , k i t c h e n s / c a b i n e ts / countertops, wood flooring. Bonded and Insured U#19699. Call 7919900 or 628-9215

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

D.J. COMPUTER — Home & office, Spyware removal, websites, networks, repairs, upgrades, virus removal, tutoring. Call Jeff 561333-1923 Cell 561-252-1186 Lic’d Well. & Palm Beach. We accept major credit cards.

HURRICANE SHUTTERS P&M CONTRACTORS — ACCORDION SHUTTERS Gutters, screen enclosures, siding, sof fit s, aluminum roofs, Serving the Western Communities. Since 1985. U-17189 561791-9777

DRIVEWAYS — Free estimates A & M ASPHALT SEAL COATING commercial and residential. Patching potholes, striping, repair existing asphalt & save money all work guaranteed. Lic.& Ins. 100045062 561-667-7716

BOB CAVANAGH ALLSTATE INSURANCE — Auto • Home • Life• Renters • Motorcycle •RV • Golfcart • Boat Serving the Western Communities for 24 years Call for a quote 798-3056, or visit our website. www.allstateagencies.com/ rCavanagh

RJA PAINTING & DECORATING, INC. — Interior Exterior, Faux Finish, Residential,Commercial.Lic. #U17536 Rocky Armento, Jr. 561793-5455 561-662-7102 J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential.

Interior & Exterior painting. Certified pressure cleaning & painting contractor. Lic. #U21552 Call Butch 309-6975 or visit our website at www.jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com

JOHN PERGOLIZZI PAINTING INC. — Interior/Exterior - Repaint specialist, pressure cleaning, popcorn ceiling, drywall repair & roof painting. Family owned/owner operator. Free Est. 798-4964 Lic. #U18473 COLORS BY CORO, INC. — Int./ Ext. residential painting, over 20 yrs exp. Small Jobs welcome. Free est. Ins. 561-383-8666. Owner/Operated. Lic.# U20627 Ins. Wellington Resident

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

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

J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Est ablished 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 at 309-6975 or visit us at www.jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com

MINOR ROOF REPAIRS DON HARTMANN ROOFING — Roof painting, Carpentry. Lic. #U13677 967-5580 ROBERT G. HARTMANN ROOFING — Specializing in repairs. Free estimates, Bonded,insured. Lic. #CCC 058317 Ph: 561-790-0763.

ROOFING REPAIRS REROOFING ALL TYPES — Pinewood Construction, Inc. Honest and reliable. Serving Palm Beach County for over 20 years. Call Mike 561309-0134 Lic. Ins. Bonded. CGC023773 RC-0067207

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

JOHN’S SCREEN REPAIR SERVICE — Pool & patio rescreening.

Stay tight,wrinkle-free,guaranteed!

CRC1329708 call us 798-3132. www.poolscreenrepair.com

May 17 - May 23, 2013 Page 41

ACCORDION SHUTTERS — Gutters, screen enclosures, siding, soffits, aluminum roofs, Serving the Western Communities. Since 1985.

U-17189 561-791-9777

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

SPECIALIZING IN BATHROOM REMODELING — Free estimates serving South Florida since 1980.

Quality you expect, service you deserve. Lic. bonded & Ins. U21006 561-662-9258

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

TROPICAL WATER SYSTEMS — Whole House Reverse Osmosis, Sale & Repair of Water Systems, Well Drilling, pumps, and sprinkler installation repair. 561-795-6630 561-718-7260(Cell)

PLACE YOUR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES LISTING HERE

PAPERHANGING BY DEBI — Professional Inst allation,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

Page 42 May 17 - May 23, 2013

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

The Town-Crier

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

May 17 - May 23, 2013 Page 43

Page 44 May 17 - May 23, 2013

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

The Town-Crier

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

May 17 - May 23, 2013 Page 45

Page 46 May 17 - May 23, 2013

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

The Town-Crier

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

May 17 - May 23, 2013 Page 47

Page 48 May 17 - May 23, 2013

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

The Town-Crier