Town-Crier Newspaper May 23, 2008

DON BROWN ON THE CULTURAL TRUST

Bittersweet Time As WHS Says Farewell To Seniors

By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report

Wellington High School celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2008 Tuesday, bidding farewell to more than 500 seniors at the Palm Beach County Convention Center.

Student Government Association President Christi Porro opened the graduation addresses with a few inspiring words.

“Steve Jobs, the CEO of Apple, once said an unfilled life is not living,” Porro said. “Don’t let the noise of other opinions drown out your inner voice. Follow your heart and intuition. Everything else is secondary. I wish you happiness and success in the future. Remember, don’t give up and don’t hold back. Congratulations, Class of 2008.” It was a bittersweet moment for WHS Principal Cheryl Alligood, who noted that it would be the last time that she would be leading Wellington seniors in graduation ceremonies. Alligood bade them farewell with love and affection as she heads off to her new post at Jupiter High School. When school resumes in August, Mario Crocetti will be the new principal.

Salutatorian Adam Wilensky reminded his fellow graduating seniors that they were all one time at the bottom of the ladder.

“As we are thrust into life after graduation, it is difficult not to think of the many things to look forward to,” he said. “While we look into the future, it’s impor-

tant to reflect for a moment or two on where we came from. Do you guys remember freshman year? We’ve laughed at the underclassmen, but we were them, once. Ready to take the most important test of our lives: the written test to get our restricted licenses. It’s hard to imagine we were that excited to drive with a parent next to us.”

Wilensky noted that harsh hurricanes made an indelible impression on those first two years of high school.

“As soon as we arrived at Wellington High School, we were greeted by two new friends, Frances and Jeanne,” he recalled. “A few days into our year, we were already celebrating a ten-day vacation. Unfortunately, our new friends confiscated our air conditioning, hot water and electricity. When we came back as sophomores, school was empty. Some of our friends were transferred to Seminole Ridge High School. While Wellington continued to plant and rebuild, Hurricane Katrina drowned the City of New Orleans and devastated the Gulf Coast.”

Wilensky noted that his fellow classmates put their backs into both Katrina relief efforts and the FCAT challenge. “As a school, we raised money, and donated food and clothing to help our fellow man,” he said. “Our class also conquered the dreaded FCAT and brought our school back to A status. We are

See WHS GRAD, page 12

P.B. Central Class Of 2008: 570 Reasons To Celebrate

By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report

Palm Beach Central High School’s graduation ceremony took place at noon Wednesday at the Palm Beach County Convention Center in West Palm Beach.

School Superintendent Dr. Art Johnson addressed the 570 soon-to-be graduates and asked all of those attending to envision that commencements such as these are going on at tens of thousands of high schools across the nation.

“You can then begin to see how powerful this vision of public education really is,” Johnson said. “We adults would encourage you be students all your life, to continue reading and studying and learning.”

He urged them to become contributors to society. “In the end, contribute to something larger than yourself and to the betterment of mankind,” he said. “How will you know your measurement of happiness and success? It will not come with money or fame, but the simple concept of good health, family and

friends, and a respect for time, because time is finite. Cultivate your mind, keep inner peace and take time to smell the roses.”

Valedictorian Christopher Mancuso reminded his classmates that this is the big day they had been looking to forward to.

“It is a day we will remember for a long time,” he said. “This is the closing of our high school career as teenagers, and we will start out into adulthood. Look at the changes in the next few months. Some of us will go on to college and universities. Some of us will go on to careers. Whatever path we will take, we will always remember we are Broncos, part of the community, united as well.”

Mancuso recalled all the Class of 2008 had done together. “Our class has participated in so many activities: the Race for the Cure, Pennies for Patients and others. These events have led us to consider Palm Beach Central High School as a second home… We have accomplished a lot in our past four years. Many of us volunteered See PBCHS GRAD, page 13

in scholarships and performed 27,176 hours of community service, according to Principal Jose Garcia. Of the 421 graduates, 329 are collegebound and 11 are going into the

“It is comforting to know you will be tomorrow’s leaders, setting the tone for society,” Garcia said at Monday’s graduation ceremony held at the Palm Beach County Convention Center in West Palm Beach. “It is with great honor and joy for all of us to have been a part of your high school education.”

Salutatorian Racine Kameka, who finished second in her class with a 4.6 GPA and plans to attend the University of Miami, recalled their first year of high school. “We were just little freshmen in what we thought was a big school, then Seminole Ridge High School showed up and showed us what a really big high school was with its milewide courtyard.”

Kameka said the 2005 opening of Seminole Ridge tore her class apart. “We lost half the class, including some of our best friends, to Seminole Ridge,” she

said. “Then they fell into the same category as our rivals, the Wellington Wolverines, but go Wildcats, and so we did... and in our junior year the Wildcats varsity football team came so close to winning a state championship.” Their freshman year seems like a long time ago, Kameka said, because they have all come a long way in many ways. “We have all learned and matured, some more than others,” she said. “Through high school I have learned some things about life and success. Success is found on the other side of ‘good enough.’ To me this means doing the best we possibly can, always trying to go above and beyond ‘enough,’ and challenging oneself, which ultimately does lead to success. Life goes on with or without us, so take chances, realize the opportunities and never let life pass you by.”

Valedictorian Jacqueline Pasharikov was first in her class with a 4.64 GPA and plans to attend the University of

da. Pasharikov compared life to a jigsaw puzzle, saying

New Graduate — Royal Palm Beach High School graduate Kairish Lopez with parents German and Laura DuBois in front of the Palm Beach County Convention Center on Monday. PHOTO BY RON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

To

Palm Beach Central

School graduates Michael Keane and Colton Tapoler with friends Rebecca Carter and Bailey McCowan at Wednesday’s graduation ceremony in downtown West Palm Beach.

PHOTO BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

PHOTO BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

A Wolverine Farewell — Wellington High School graduates Kelly Eissa and Jillian Noonan.

Wellington Council Debates Attorney Costs At Workshop

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

The Wellington Village Council directed village staff Tuesday to confirm figures in a report prepared by Village Attorney Jeff Kurtz on the feasibility of having an in-house legal staff as opposed to contracting with an outside firm.

The question arose recently because Kurtz announced that he had left his previous firm contracted by the village — Brinkley, Morgan, Solomon, Tatum, Stanley, Lunny & Crosby — to take a partnership with Glen J. Torcivia & Associates.

At a workshop session Tuesday, Kurtz provided historical background on the village’s legal expenditures since 1997.

In the last three years, Wellington has budgeted $750,000 per year for legal services, which Kurtz said he budgeted again for the coming year for an in-house legal staff.

But in light of tightening budgets, some council members did not take the figure well. “We need to find a way to lower legal,” Councilman Matt Willhite said. “It was $750,000 last year, and it’s $750,000 this year. We’re tightening our belt; legal is not tightening.”

Kurtz’s report for an inhouse staff recommended two attorneys and two support staff. The number of lawyers was based on the number of hours the village currently pays outside counsel. The $750,000 equates to about 4,000 hours at the rates charged to the village.

The compensation packages are based on the village manager’s compensation package and salary requirements, according to Kurtz’s report. The draft budget reflects $175,000 for the primary attorney and $150,000 for outside legal services, as it would be unusual for two people to have the full range of skills, experience and time to handle all issues that arise in the representation of the village, according to the report.

The package provides $125,000 for an assistant attorney who should have litigation skills, given the village’s profile, Kurtz said. “In my mind and experience, the amount that you spend for legal services depends on the issues that confront you and the cases that come before you,” he said.

Kurtz said the $195 hourly rate charged in the last few years is competitive in the current market range of $175 to $225 an hour. “We’re in a unique position that when some of our citizens decide to litigate, they have more money than the village,” he said.

“Our legal expenditures are higher because of that. They are people with the wherewithal to litigate very aggressively.”

Although most of Palm Beach County’s 38 municipalities contract outside legal firms, Councilman Bob Margolis noted that most are also smaller municipalities and that those roughly the size of Wellington usually have in-house legal representation.

Vice Mayor Dr. Carmine Priore likened an in-house attorney to the quarterback for a team of attorneys, adding that the council has previously approved extra money when unanticipated legal situations arose.

Margolis agreed to the inhouse concept. “We’re not the sweet bedroom community we used to be,” he said.

Mayor Darell Bowen said the report seems to indicate that in-house legal representation would cost less. He said he felt a combination of inhouse and outside legal representation might be the best fit.

“We’ve reached a size where that makes sense,” he said. “I think we’ll be less prone to lawsuits in the future.”

Willhite said other municipalities have their own police and fire services, while Wellington does not, which should reflect a lower legal cost for Wellington.

Lake Worth, he pointed out, has an attorney who deals sole-

ly with police and fire issues. “Jeff is already here a lot, but to say Jeff is ours is not true,” Willhite said. “We kept Jeff’s new firm because we wanted Jeff. This is what Jeff recommended, but is it what we really need? What we actually need to do is determine what we need and cost that out.”

Kurtz said the vast majority of his time is spent in his work with the village. He also noted that the village would face the issue of office space with an in-house staff.

Kurtz said that when he is in the village, he operates out of a small office in a trailer without a secretary, filing space or conference room. “If you go in-house, you will need to have that,” he said. The village also does not have to pay a health and benefits package for an outside firm, Kurtz said. “It is the fixed costs that make an outside council competitive with inhouse council,” he said. Going outside also offers greater flexibility to handle a variety of lawsuits, he added. If the village does decide to go in-house, Kurtz said he could probably find ways to cut costs.

He noted that former village manager Charlie Lynn had him and another attorney attend all meetings, which he said is probably not necessary. Willhite objected. “You are saying you can lower our legal expenses, yet budgeting the same,” he said.

Kurtz said he would not necessarily spend that much, but wanted to have enough in reserve to cover unexpected costs.

Priore said he favored giving the current situation a year to prove itself under a new village manager. “We have a new manager that came on in March,” he said. “Let’s go through one year and see the consequences. If it’s not better, I will say let’s find something better.”

“I support that,” Councilwoman Lizbeth Benacquisto said.

Other council members did not agree. “How can we say we’ll charge less and we’re budgeting the same?” asked Willhite, who also objected to being put into the position of approving the new firm in order to keep Kurtz.

Priore said if there are unanticipated expenses they will have to tap reserve funds and added that Kurtz had been encouraged to go with the new firm because it has more experience with municipal legal services.

Bowen said he was troubled that they only had figures put out by Kurtz for review. He and Willhite wanted outside confirmation. “I just want verification that these numbers are accurate,” Bowen said.

Bowen asked for a motion to have the numbers “massaged” by staff, and council members agreed.

In other business, council members set priorities for the coming year, which include working on economic development, simplifying the budget process, maintaining existing infrastructure, encouraging “green” initiatives, reviewing fire-rescue and public safety costs, and researching a village municipal complex while construction costs are down.

In a continuation of the May 13 regular meeting, the council approved the establishment of a charter review committee composed of ten members, two appointed by each council member.

The committee will be appointed by June 1 to review the village charter for possible changes. The changes would then require approval by a public referendum. Among the possible recommendations is a change in the village’s levels of service for parks and recreation, among the most generous in the county. The committee is scheduled to complete its review and recommendation process by July 8 in order for the village to prepare ordinances to get the proposals placed on the November ballot.

‘We kept Jeff’s new firm because we wanted Jeff. This is what Jeff recommended, but is it what we really need? What we need to do is determine what we need and cost that out.’

— Wellington Councilman Matt Willhite

Class Of Student Pioneers Leaves Seminole Ridge High School

By Leonard Wechsler Town-Crier Staff Report

Seminole Ridge High

School

Principal Dr. Lynne McGee opened the school’s commencement ceremonies Wednesday morning at the Palm Beach County Convention Center with the words of one her students’ earliest educators, Dr. Seuss. “Oh, the places you’ll go,” she said.

McGee and several other speakers noted that the graduating class — some 470 strong — is the last composed of students who opened the school in 2005. In her speech, she saluted the words of Randy Pausch, a professor at Carnegie-Mellon University who is dying of pancreatic cancer and gave an inspiring lecture. “It is better to fail spectacularly than settle for the mediocre,” McGee quoted. “Dream big and ask for what you want. Look for the best in everyone. Don’t make excuses. Give time to everyone. Experience is what you get when you don’t get what you want. You can’t change the cards you get, but you can change the way you play your hand. Tell the truth; apologize when you are wrong. Be prepared: luck is where preparation meets opportunity.”

Palm Beach County Schools

Superintendent Dr. Art Johnson told the students that the genius of the American democracy is the public education system.

“And the crown jewel is commencement,” he said.

“What will you do in this

challenging and changing world?” Johnson asked. “The adults you know will tell you to continue and learn. If you go into business, become rich and then be a philanthropist and give back. If you go into medicine, bring healing. If you go into environmental science, bring a green world. If you go into the judiciary, bring justice. If you go into law enforcement, bring security. A few of you will become soldiers and defend us.

“If you become a politician, keep your promises. If you become an athlete or celebrity, be a good role model. And a few of you,” Johnson said with a

WECHSLER/TOWN-CRIER

smile, “a few fortunate ones, will become teachers and change young men and women who will change the world.”

Class of 2008 President Brianna Lauer noted that her classmates had transferred from Wellington or Royal Palm Beach high schools to a new school. “We all came here as Wildcats and Wolverines, and all of us became Hawks,” she said. “Just remember that the sky is not the limit and this is our time to soar.”

Salutatorian Crystal Wilsnack told the graduates they have many people to thank, particularly their families who gave

love and support and their teachers who taught so well.

Valedictorian Rachel Thome recalled how her fellow graduates had completed four years of high school through determination. “We’re here because we want to be here,” she said. “We wouldn’t be here without our desire to succeed. There is no way that this is the end of life.

In the wise words of Ronald Reagan, ‘it’s time now to graduate.’”

At the end of the speeches, McGee turned to Johnson and made a statement the graduating body will long remember: “Dr. Johnson, I present the Class

of 2008. These students have all met or exceeded all requirements for graduation.”

Many of the teachers on hand described the students as exceptional. “We get great kids at Seminole Ridge,” English teacher Mike Doyle told the Town-Crier. “We love to work with them. This is the first group of kids who were with me when they first started here. They always demonstrated how much they wanted to learn, and their parents taught them good manners.”

Technology teacher Jeff Heitman agreed. “This is the best group of students I’ve worked

with in my 32 years in the classroom,” he said.

SRHS Assistant Principal Dwight Graydon said the students who were graduating were unbelievable. “This has been a really good group of kids and I’ll miss them,” he said. “I hope they’ll all come back for homecoming and drop by to say hi.”

Sgt. B.K. Davis of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office was part of the security contingent for the SRHS graduation and others. But even though he will be at over 20 ceremonies, he said this one is special. “My son Derek is graduating at this one,” he said with pride.

Seminole Ridge Grads — (Above) Derek Davis with brothers Zachary and Luke, and dad Sgt. B.K. Davis of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. (Right) Sammy Heslin, Jenna Gregovich and Jessica Vautin at Wednesday’s ceremony in West Palm Beach. PHOTOS BY LEONARD

Memorial Day: Honor Our Troops And The Ideals They Defend

In better times, Memorial Day is a reflection on the past, honoring those who offered their very lives to serve our country in wars and conflicts that have long since ended. Unfortunately, that is not the case during times of war, such as the one in which we are currently involved. Monday marks the sixth consecutive Memorial Day since U.S. troops were deployed to Iraq, where we continue to maintain a presence. That is what makes Memorial Day a particularly sensitive time — voicing criticism of U.S. foreign policy is sometimes confused with not supporting our troops.

Despite the current unpopularity of the war in Iraq, there are still many Americans who believe overthrowing Saddam Hussein was the right thing to do, and that calls to withdraw our troops now will only embolden the enemy. On a day when honoring those troops (and those who came before them) is paramount, debate about the war often causes flared tempers on both sides. When this happens, not only is meaningful discourse unlikely to happen, but the point of observing Memorial Day is lost in the argument. Informed debate is a healthy part of democracy, and putting a muzzle on dissent only serves to undermine the concept of free speech — one of the very freedoms our troops are supposedly defending. Just as it is wrong for anti-war groups to gloat over U.S. failure in Iraq, those

Karch Praying For Don Brown

Editor’s note: The following letter, addressed to Town-Crier columnist Don Brown, is in response to a column last week in which Mr. Brown impersonated an investigator for the news show 60 Minutes

Dear Mr. 60 Minutes:

I have read your article whereby you once again have either all the facts wrong, or have conveniently manipulated them to your advantage. The question is: who are you representing here? Certainly not the people! While you have borrowed the newsworthy reputation of 60 Minutes to somehow justify your ill-gotten career (we all know how you came to have this job), your use of even that reputation falls far from the mark of journalism. You see, Mr. Brown, there are two groups of people in The Acreage — a large majority of people who are well contented to be left alone and who despise corrupt activity, and then there are a few “bad guys” out there who have deep personal aspirations that lead to absolute corruption.

Let me explain to you the motives of those whom have solicited your (lack of) journalistic editorials. The three ingredients of an elected official are as follows: a) greed for power, b) greed for recognition and c) greed for monetary reward. Your best friend, now in federal prison, has a strong desire for all three. Your second best friend, and we all know who she is, has a frightful problem… she also has a thirst for all three. The main problem is that with this impetuous thirst for power comes corruption like we have seen over the world, and who would think that our sleepy little bedroom community could be similar?

What is it when the elected officials silence or stifle their constituents as the Indian Trail Improvement District did when they put their public notice out on Christmas Eve for this legislative bill that conveniently provides development authority to those whom have given cam-

paign contributions? This is an old trick among ITID leaders of the past. Does the average person review the legal notices for unscrupulous governmental activity geared toward ruining their lifestyle while trimming the tree? Also, this new ITID government has cut by 50 percent the time an individual has to voice concerns about their elected officials’ improprieties. What is it when propagandist information (such as yours) is distributed en masse to degrade the patriotic and truthful movements toward freedom and constitutional righteousness? What is it when an elective body can be purchased for money or for favors so that small financially driven individuals can achieve uncommon and unlawful favor in the eyes of justice (such as the developers and legislators you speak of)? What is it when the constitutional voting rights of the public are removed by trickery or by a hired languet, such as the ITID attorneys? What is it when an elective body enacts some fearful policy or rule, or engages in an appalling contract, and then uses flowery titles to hide the intent of their maligned activities? A federal example of this would be the “Patriot Act” or perhaps the “Military Commissions Act.” What is it when an elective body suppresses those whom oppose them, such as ITID’s new legal fight regarding their unfounded claim that I owe them money when they owe me more and refuse to pay?

Although I could go on with additional examples here, can you guess what these maligned activities mirror? Read your history books, Mr. Brown, because you are a very big part of it! This is a movement toward fascism. Wow, you may say! Don’t denounce the thought until you have properly evaluated the issues and the differing and various forms of the degradation of our constitutional rights; call it what you want, fascism, dictatorship, totalitarianism or whatever. There are stages, Mr. Brown, of this shift, and you and the ITID government are engaged.

In closing, Mr. Brown, I’m

who would silence their dissent or paint them as “unpatriotic” do nothing to improve the situation for the troops. As long as we resort to name calling — “warmongers” versus “cut-and-run defeatists” — the conversation will benefit no one.

In the weeks following the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, Americans rose above their cultural and ideological differences and stood together as a nation. As we observe Memorial Day this Monday, we should do so with that same spirit of unity in mind.

Take the time this Memorial Day to honor those who have died, in this war and in previous wars, by visiting one of the two observances planned in the western communities on Monday:

• The Village of Wellington’s annual Memorial Day ceremony will begin with a parade at 8:45 a.m. starting at the Wellington Community Center (12165 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) and ending at the Wellington Veterans’ Memorial located at the corner of Forest Hill and South Shore boulevards. The Memorial Day ceremony will begin at 9 a.m.

• The Village of Royal Palm Beach will hold its Memorial Day Observance at 9:30 a.m. at Veterans Park, located at the corner of Sparrow Drive and Royal Palm Beach Blvd.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

happy to see that my prayers for your continued health are working. But remember, while we are biblically not to judge a person’s ability to gain entrance to heaven, we can judge them for behavior and actions while here on earth. One last thing, and since I was an elected official, you may ask which of the three motives I have? I suppose it would be a form of the greed for recognition, but in a much different way. My personal motive is to “recognize” our local government as “non-corrupt” to my four children and to ensure that they have a true “community” in which to be raised.

Christopher Karch

The Acreage

AAL President: Thanks For A Great Season

As our spring season of sports comes to an end, the Acreage Athletic League would like to take the time to thank Baseball Commissioner Keith Lojewski and his assistants, Girls Flag Football Commissioner Cindi Walker and her assistants, as well as AYSO Commissioner Lisa Seltzer and her assistants for a great season. These volunteers have put in countless hours running the programs for all of our children, and without them our programs would not be possible. We would also like to thank Tom Burton and Gary Thomas for stepping above and beyond their duties of baseball and always lending a helping hand wherever and whenever needed. We look forward to many great seasons.

John Meredith, President Acreage Athletic League

This Founder Supports A PBCC Campus

Speaking against a university at the K-Park site, [Wellington Councilman] Bob Margolis stated, “I’m totally against it” ... “our founding fathers had a vision, and that vision is why most

residents moved to Wellington.” Hey, Bob, we are not dead and buried. We (the founding fathers) are all around you, even on the council. [Vice Mayor Dr.] Carmine Priore; [Mayor] Darell Bowen, best friend of Bink Glisson, a pioneer here; Kathy Foster, our first mayor and now presenter of the needed university; Joe Picconcelli, who initiated sports teams when there were none; Mike McDonough; Al Paglia; the Palenschats... and the list goes on and on — those who initiated and/or wrote our village charter!

If a university is against the founding fathers’ will, why are a majority, if not all of them, for a university here? Perhaps, just perhaps, they have insight and recognize that we have sufficient recreation, and that we cannot afford to build more at this time and sustain it. Perhaps they recognize that we are almost built out and sports enrollment has leveled off.

I would be remiss if I did not include the Town-Crier (founded by Bob Markey Sr.) and the Observer as important founding father institutions, as they continually assisted incorporation and recreation in our village, and without their input, editorials and letters to the editor, we wouldn’t be the thriving community we are today. Just as Benjamin Franklin (through his newspapers and writings) and Tom Paine ( Common Sense ) provoked thought, they, not unlike our current papers and forefathers, helped birth something — one a nation the other a village.

Bob, we are still here, alive and kicking, so please don’t speak for us and our vision.

Certainly there is room for both recreation and education, and given one choice only, alas, I would pick education. Fortunately, that is not the case; we can have both, Mr. Margolis.

To Kathy Foster, I say, “thanks again.” To Darell Bowen, I say, “steer this ship of Wellington.” To Carmine Priore, I say, “give forth your advice from years aboard our good ship.” To [Councilwoman] Lizbeth Benacquisto, I say, “keep

up the good fight for our children.” To [Councilwoman] Matt Willhite, I say, “welcome aboard, we need you!” George Unger Wellington

Concerns About PBCC Proposal

It all starts with K-Park. Because we do not have the money to build and maintain the nine ball fields we are mandated to build in order to be in compliance with our comprehensive plan, the Wellington Village Council is looking into changing our charter and/or our comprehensive plan.

The unintended consequence may be more than the residents ever bargained for.

Donating the land to Palm Beach Community College may be a very worthwhile endeavor, but we will never get college buildings, nine ball fields and an amphitheater on that property. We will get six-story buildings, not only there, but in other parts of Wellington because Mayor [Darell] Bowen has already said that our land is too expensive to limit the height of commercial buildings to three stories.

The discussions on the charter are currently being tabled due to time constraints, but they will be back. Our current propertytax rate is capped at $5 for every $1,000 of taxable value. And since most municipalities are at $10 of taxable value, there will be a lot of reasons to look longingly at that. (Our current tax rate is $2.34.)

The good news is the council cannot change the charter without a vote of the residents of Wellington. In order to get a PBCC campus built on K-Park, the comprehensive plan must be changed to reduce the number of ball fields per 1,000 residents. There is a question of whether the council can do that with a vote of three members, or if they

need a supermajority of four out of five. Remember, it took a supermajority to change 15 acres on the Binks [Forest] property, it seems reasonable to demand a supermajority to change a 63acre parcel valued between $25 and $40 million. There is little chance we can find additional park property in Wellington, so once we give this up, we will have to live with what we have regardless of increases in our population. It also looks like we will lose the Cultural Trust and destroy the dream of a cultural center in the western communities. Perhaps we can add these ten acres to the Palm Beach Community College plan with the understanding that they would build an amphitheater and a black box theater on the property, combining that with a building dedicated to an arts program for their students, which could also be used by the Cultural Trust. Morley Alperstein Wellington

County Facing Tough Budget Decisions

Folks, I’m sure I don’t have to tell you that things are really tough. Our national and local economies are sputtering, fuel and food costs keep soaring, houses aren’t selling, and property values continue to drop. Combined with state-mandated property revenue cuts and passage in January of a second $25,000 homestead exemption, county government is facing its most difficult budget process in years. We were already anticipating about $80 million less in general fund revenue when we received more bad news from the state: funding from state revenue sharing and sales and telecommunications taxes are about

The Dream Is Back Where It Started... With The Palenschats

Everything new is old again.

One of my first memories after landing in Wellington over a decade ago when the village was in its infancy was seeing Dick Palenschat and his wife Valerie McKinley nearly everywhere I went. I didn’t actually know them — in fact, I didn’t even learn their names right away — but they seemed to be everywhere.

I soon learned that in addition to having a keen interest in the political goings on in the young community, they also had an equally driving desire to bring cultural arts to Wellington. Their message to anyone who would listen was to elicit interest and support for what was then called the Friends of the Western Communities Center for the Arts or FWCCA.

The Palenschats had (make that still have) a dream of building an amphitheater in the village and creating a regular schedule of cultural events. That dream later morphed into the Cultural Trust of the Palm Beaches. Over the years, the Palenschats drew prominent residents to the FWCCA’s board.

Eventually the group — thanks in large part to the Palenschats’ own personal connections with elected officials in Wellington and Palm Beach County — received what most members and observers believed would make the dream come true. First they got a dollar-per-year lease on a beauti-

Don Brown

ful ten-acre parcel overlooking a pond at the Mall at Wellington Green. It was, everyone agreed, a perfect spot for an amphitheater.

Then they picked up a $1 million grant from the county to help build the structure. The newly re-named Cultural Trust was off to the races, or so it seemed. Then came Manuel Bornia. He was hired about three years ago as artistic director by the newly reconstituted board despite his youth and lack of real experience. However, he did have a silver tongue, several trust insiders tell me. By all appearances, the Cultural Trust was energized and a few highly publicized events were arranged. But appearances were deceiving.

Mr. Bornia’s arrival coincided with the Palenschats’ reduced involvement in the organization. Mr. Palenschat told me that he had reduced his management involvement to paying the annual

TOWN-CRIER

non-profit corporation fees each year out of his own pocket.

Unbeknownst to the Palenschats and a lot of other people, the trust’s financials were in complete disarray. As late as Tuesday, Mr. Palenschat told me he is still attempting to sort out the mess Mr. Bornia left behind. He and others who have been involved on the board told me that Mr. Bornia was more interested in a good party than in raising money. And there was little evidence that he possessed any management or organization skills, a critical requirement for the head of a non-profit organization.

Has the dream died? Not on your life. “I haven’t given up yet,” Mr. Palenschat told me this week. “I haven’t been close enough [to the board] to know what is going on. I’m trying to sort through everything.”

Both Wellington and Palm Beach County officials also want to get a handle on the finances. At stake are the lease of village property and nearly all of the $1 million county grant.

“Right now I’d say we’re pretty much where we were ten years ago,” Mr. Palenschat said with more than a hint of sadness in his voice. “We’re still not off the ground yet.”

Does a proposal by Palm Beach Community College to build a campus on 62 acres of village property give him hope? “I don’t know. I haven’t

seen a plan yet,” he told me.

PBCC wants Wellington to fork over the property for a western communities campus. Among various proposals associated with the project: build an amphitheater and a cultural arts center as part of the campus. “I think they’re trying to put too much on the property,” Mr. Palenschat said. “I don’t know how they are going to have space for the ball fields.”

The latest development — some are wondering if it might be the death knell — was the recent resignation of the Cultural Trust de facto chairman Tom Dongilla (who got the post when he was one of the few people left after everything exploded last month). Mr. Dongilla’s exit leaves only the Palenschats to clean up the mess. But if anyone can clean it up, it would be the Palenschats, in my view. I hope prominent residents will step up and lend them a hand. I would like to believe that instead of pronouncing the dream dead, perhaps sanity has arrived to stay the execution. While it will most certainly be a long time before the Cultural Trust stages another event, the dream of a cultural arts facility lives on in the hearts and minds of many.

Everything new is old again, to twist the adage, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. I’m comforted by the knowledge that the Palenschats are

their dream.

Recreation Committee Sends New Sports Guidelines To Council

By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report

Wellington’s Parks & Recreation Advisory Board voted last week to forward revised guidelines for youth sports providers to the Wellington Village Council. The guidelines include the merging of recreational and travel baseball programs and the imposition of a minimum residency requirement.

The village is considering a requirement that sports providers ensure that each travel or recreational team be composed of at least 51 percent village residents.

According to village staff, recreational teams currently average 80 percent residents, but some travel teams have as high as 80 to 90 percent non-resident players.

Some parents and board members have complained that tryouts for some travel teams are rigged, particularly baseball, with coaches from other communities reserving spots for non-resident talent.

Village staff previously not-

ed that several county municipalities impose residency requirements for travel teams, and some require travel players to also play on recreational league teams, a requirement some Wellington residents have also requested.

But parents and coaches at the board’s May 15 meeting were stridently opposed to requiring travel players to participate in both programs.

Leisure Services Director Jim Barnes told the committee last week that after many months of discussion and public feedback, the subcommittee formed to suggest policy changes recommended residency requirements for sports providers and to sunset the boards that run the Wellington Youth Baseball and Wellington Travel Baseball programs. Barnes also said the subcommittee recommended a boundary program to determine residency.

“You have boundaries now that do not coincide with jurisdictions,” he said. “The residency will be based on the ultimate

sanctioning body. The 51-percent residency requirement also would apply that way, and not to recreational or travel.”

Another recommendation is the initiation of a must play-rule, Barnes said.

Members of the public questioned the amount of time their children would have to devote to sports if travel players are forced to participate in recreational team play as well.

Parent Kelly Giordano said she could not imagine her two children wanting to play both recreation and travel baseball. She said she would be at the field seven days a week.

“If you factor in the fact that the child is in the National Honor Society and also church, how do you fit it all in?” she asked. “I’m a nurse. I don’t think it’s good for them to be throwing the ball seven days a week.”

Parent Angel Rosado voiced similar concerns. “My youngest son has been playing baseball since he was five,” he said.

“He’s ten now. I did not make a decision to put him into travel

until about a year ago. He did not make the team a couple of times. Once he did, I had him stop playing rec and focus on travel. If he did play travel and rec, it’s like playing two sports at the same time.”

Wellington Travel Baseball President Kathy Tosner said she opposes the merger, noting that players in her program have been proudly representing the village around the country for eight years.

“First of all, I want to know what the primary reason is for the merger,” she said. “We are very willing to work with the village. I would like to see the data to support this merger. I am also assuming this will be for all sports providers. I don’t understand why we are being singled out.”

Several parents also raised the possibility that the proposed changes would lead to more injuries on the field due to overexertion or the mixing of experienced travel players with lessexperienced recreational players. Recreational coach Gerry

Gallicchio said the travel and recreational players should play in separate programs. “You are bringing kids to play against these travel kids, and they don’t have the ability to compete with these travel kids,” he said. “I am concerned about the well-being of these kids. I am surprised that in six years, kids have not gotten hurt very, very bad. One time a kid got hit in the mouth, and an ambulance took him away. Let’s think about the safety of these kids.”

Some board members were concerned about the players being forced to participate in both programs and asked that staff take that into account. Board Member Al Bennett made a recommendation to pass the staff recommendation on to the council, which would have the final say.

“I’d like to thank the people who have come out tonight to speak,” Bennett said. “It’s an issue that needs to be looked at and addressed. We have met six different times. I have feelings for both sides. Unfortunately, we are an advisory board only. We

do not have the final decision. We need to pass this on to the council. The council will make the final decision. If they don’t agree with our recommendation, they will pass it back to us. I make a recommendation to move it forward.” Board Member Liz Stockton seconded the motion. Before casting their votes, board members Anthony Forgione and John Isola both asked that the issue of children playing in both programs be resolved. They said they did not think it a good idea.

“You are talking about children who spend hours away from home,” Forgione said. “I have kids involved in Wellington schools and programs. My nine-year-old wants to play travel. I had to say no. He was definitely qualified to play travel. I can’t allow him to be involved with sports 24-7.” Barnes said the issue would be addressed so that the children would not have to play both. The motion to pass on the proposal to the council then carried unanimously.

Mahoney Touts Farm Bill Benefits During Royal Palm Beach Visit

By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report

Congressman Tim Mahoney spoke Monday at Farm Credit of South Florida in Royal Palm Beach. He focused his remarks on his support of the recently passed HR 2419, the 2008 Farm Bill, which Mahoney said would increase the sale of fruits and vegetables, invest in conservation and put Florida in the biofuel business.

Attending Mahoney’s talk were nursery owners, business leaders and others active in the area agriculture industry. The congressman was introduced by Farm Credit CEO Don Rice, and following the presentation, Mahoney took questions from the audience.

The historic bill breaks the Midwest’s 70-year monopoly on farm and conservation programs, Mahoney said, and Florida growers and farmers will directly benefit from the $10.4 billion in new programs. “Florida’s agriculture is finally get-

Mahoney Visits RPB — (Above left) Farm Credit’s Don Rice. (Above right) Congressman Tim Mahoney. (Right) Mahoney with a group of Loxahatchee nursery owners. PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER nally be able to participate in programs critical for Everglades restoration. This legislation also makes critical investments in biofuels beyond corn, putting Florida at the forefront of the

ting its fair share of tax dollars, which will help strengthen and grow our economy,” he said. “Our growers and farmers will see an increase in demand for their products, and we will fi-

emerging biofuels industry.”

In addition to agricultural support, the bill increases funding for nutrition programs for children and seniors, creates new markets for specialty crops,

fights pests and diseases, and reforms commodity programs, he said. “All mothers living in our rural communities want to raise their kids, give them a good education and help them have

the opportunity to get good-paying jobs in the communities where they grew up,” Mahoney said. “The Farm Bill is a significant step towards achieving that dream.”

Home Burglaries, Cars Vandalized In Wellington

By Mark Lioi Town-Crier Staff Report

MAY 15 — A burglary report in Wellington last week resulted in two arrests. According to a Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office report, the victim said she left her Periwinkle Place home at 6:20 a.m. on May 15 after securing all doors and returned at about 5 p.m. to find her home had been burglarized. PBSO investigators determined that the lock of a sliding glass door had been broken to gain entry. DNA evidence was obtained at the scene. Later that evening, PBSO investigators apprehended two suspects, 28-year-old Greg Clancy and 33-year-old Rita Stone, both of Wellington. The two were arrested and charged with multiple counts of burglary, larceny and criminal mischief.

MAY 16 — A home in Wellington’s Emerald Forest neighborhood was reported burglarized sometime last Friday. According to a PBSO report, the victim said she left her home at 7 a.m. and returned at 7 p.m. to find the front door open and several items missing from within, including a dresser drawer containing a large amount of jewelry and a digital camera. PBSO investigators determined that the burglar gained entry through the front door and had searched several rooms in the home.

MAY 16 — A home on Wellington’s 12th Fairway was reported burglarized sometime last Friday. According to a PBSO report, the victim said he left his home at 10 a.m. and returned at 3:45 p.m. to find several items stolen, including a plasma television, an Xbox game console and games, a DVD player, a Louis Vuitton suitcase, an iPod and a Seiko watch. PBSO investigators, who collected DNA evidence at the scene, determined that entry was gained to the home by cutting a screen and then using a crowbar to open a sliding glass door.

MAY 17 — A Wellington resident reported that her car had been vandalized sometime last Saturday morning. According to a PBSO report, the victim said she had parked her car in her driveway on Lantern Tree Lane at about 2 a.m. and received a phone call at 9 a.m. from her mother, telling her to go outside. There she found the car had been scratched on all sides and a broken window from another, unknown car on the roof.

MAY 17 — A Wellington resident reported that his car had been vandalized last Saturday night. According to a PBSO report, the Shakerwood Lane resident told PBSO investigators an unknown suspect had thrown an undetermined blunt object at his white Cadillac between 9:25 and 9:45 p.m., damaging the left front fender.

MAY 17 — A van was reported to have been burglarized in central Wellington sometime last Saturday night or Sunday morning. According to a PBSO

report, the victim told PBSO investigators that someone entered her 1996 Chevrolet Astro, parked outside her Staghorn Street residence, and stole a stereo worth $200. Investigators were able to lift fingerprint evidence from the scene. MAY 19 — A South Bay woman was arrested for shoplifting at the Wal-Mart Superstore in Royal Palm Beach on Monday morning. According to a PBSO report, store security observed 28-year-old Jacquelin Frost select various items, including clothing, food and disposable diapers, bag them and then pass all points of sale without attempting to pay for them. The total value of the stolen items was $99.83. Frost was issued a notice to appear in court. MAY 19 — A recent Royal Palm Beach High School graduate was arrested on drug charges at a Project Graduation party at the South Florida Fairgrounds on Monday night. According to a PBSO report, a deputy working the entrance line at the event spotted 19-year-old Russell Delaney conceal something in his shoe and then attempt to walk through the entrance line. The deputy approached Delaney to ask him what was in his shoe, in order to make sure he was not taking a weapon into the event. The deputy discovered that Delaney had concealed a black lighter case containing Xanax in his shoe, according to the report. Delaney was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and resisting arrest without violence.

MAY 20 — Burglars reportedly made off with 16 empty beer kegs from a Royal Palm Beach restaurant Tuesday night or Wednesday morning. According to a PBSO report, an employee of the T.G.I. Friday’s restaurant on State Road 7 said he left the business at 6 p.m. Tuesday, noting the aluminum kegs, worth a total of $760, in the rear lot of the restaurant. He returned at 9 a.m. the following morning to find the kegs missing. PBSO investigators determined the lot was entered after a lock chain was broken and the wooden gate forced open. The chain and lock were also missing from the scene. The restaurant itself was apparently not entered.

MAY 21 — An Acreage resident reported that her car had been burglarized while she visited a cemetery in Royal Palm Beach on Tuesday afternoon. According to a PBSO report, the victim said someone entered her unlocked car while she visited her brother’s grave at the Queen of Peace Cemetery on Southern Blvd. between 12:25 and 12:35 p.m. PBSO investigators suspect the culprit may have been a member of a funeral party there at the time. Someone unsuccessfully tried to use the victim’s stolen debit card to buy gasoline at two area gas stations, according to the report.

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

• Heidi Gould is a white female, 5’6” tall and weighing 120 lbs., with brown hair and blue eyes. Her date of birth is 04/21/82. She has tattoos on her neck and right thigh, and a scar on her right forearm. Gould is wanted for failure to appear in court on a felony charge of possession of marijuana and a traffic charge of driving while license suspended, cancelled or revoked. Her occupation is unknown. Her last known address was Rambling Drive Circle in Wellington. Gould is wanted as of 05/22/08.

• Terrance Reid, a.k.a. Marlon Johnson or Terrance Johnson, is a black male, 5’7” tall and weighing 210 lbs., with black hair and brown eyes. His date of birth is 07/21/75. He has multiple tattoos and a scar on his right knee. Reid is wanted for attempted robbery with a firearm, felon in possession of a firearm and/or ammunition, aggravated assault with a firearm and grand theft of a motor vehicle, as well as failure to appear in court on a traffic charge of no driver’s license. His occupation is landscaping. His last known addresses were Bimini Circle in West Palm Beach and Lake Victoria Drive in Royal Palm Beach. Reid is wanted as of 05/22/08. Remain anonymous and you may be eligible for up to a $1,000 reward. Call Crime Stoppers at (800) 458-TIPS (8477) or visit www.crimestopperspbc. com.

Heidi Gould

Terrance Reid

LAW ENFORCEMENT FOUNDATION HANDS OUT AWARDS TO LOCAL OFFICERS

At a ceremony held Monday, May 19 at Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office headquarters in West Palm Beach, the Palm Beach County Law Enforcement Foundation presented Scholarship and Life Saving Awards to local law enforcement officers. Forty-two officers received Scholarship Awards and three will received Life Saving Awards. For the first time, the Law Enforcement Foundation awarded two civilians with Life Saving Awards. The awards were presented by Sheriff Ric Bradshaw, who was joined by Neil Hirsch and Dr. Richard Winter of the Palm Beach County Law Enforcement Foundation.

Sean Payne of Riviera Beach receives a Life Saving Award.

Scholarship Award winner Aaron Silver of Royal Palm Beach.Scholarship Award winner Vasile Ciuperger of RPB.

Scholarship Award winner Eric Bethel of Wellington.

Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw presents Laurence Poston of Wellington a Scholarship Award while Neil Hirsch and Dr. Richard Winter look on.

Scholarship Award winner Carol Sessions of Wellington.Troy Lowery of Palm City receives a Life Saving Award

Scholarship Award winner William Devito of RPB.

Scholarship Award winner Levern O’Neal of Royal Palm Beach.

Scholarship Award winner Braxton Davis of Loxahatchee.

Community Of Hope Church Gets Lox Town Council Approval

By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report

The Loxahatchee Groves Town Council certified a development order Tuesday for the Community of Hope Church on the northwest corner of Okeechobee Blvd. and E Road.

The church is seeking conditional use approval for a house of worship in a multipurpose, phased project on its 15.29-acre property. Because the church started the development application process before Loxahatchee Groves incorporated, it is exempt from

the town’s yearlong moratorium on new development. Although the church is continuing to undergo the county application process, the town must also sign off on the plans.

Chris Barry of Jon Schmidt & Associates, representing the church, said the project would consist of several buildings including a main hall, an administration building, a youth building, a covered building and a 1.5-acre lake. Barry also said the house of worship would have adequate buffering and landscaping to screen it from the

neighbors and other churches along Okeechobee Blvd. Its architectural design and landscaping would also fit into the town’s Rural Vistas guidelines, he said. Vice Mayor Marge Herzog asked if the church would consider expanding onto a neighboring parcel to the south, and Ray Liggins, also representing the church, said that parcel is owned by the Methodist Church, and as far as he knew there were no plans for expansion. Herzog also wanted to know what the maximum attendance at services would be. Bar-

ry said the maximum expected would be 428, and services would run sporadically from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sundays. Herzog and Councilman Dr. Bill Louda suggested the applicant consider staggering service times because with several other houses of worship on Okeechobee Blvd., if they all let out at the same time, the road could be very crowded.

Councilman Dave Autrey asked the applicant to elaborate on special events expected on the site. Barry said they were looking for four to six per year

if they could get approval. One popular event every year is Back to Bethlehem, which draws a crowd. Autrey said that the town might have to consider noise issues and make sure the events do not cause problems for people living nearby. Mayor David Browning said the Back to Bethlehem event is very popular, but the church handles it well. “They have handled the traffic very well, and have never had a problem,” he said. “They do have a good track record of doing that very well.”

Autrey wanted to know about

the lighting planned for the proposed worship center, and Barry said the applicant would comply with whatever lighting design the town wants. Herzog also wanted to know if the applicant would consider allowing an equestrian trail on the site. Barry said the applicant would be amenable to considering that. During public comment, Ken Johnson asked about events held late into the evening. Barry said the church might host a sleepover, but the noise would be kept to a minimum and there

See CHURCH, page 11

Many Area Observances Planned To Mark Memorial Day Holiday

Town-Crier

By Ron Bukley

Staff Report

Memorial Day observances are scheduled in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, as well as local cemeteries and parks.

The Village of Wellington’s Memorial Day ceremony on Monday will begin with a parade at 8:45 a.m. starting at the Wellington Community Center (12165 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) and ending at the Wellington Veterans’ Memorial located at the corner of Forest Hill and South Shore boulevards.

Observances at the memorial will begin at 9 a.m. a feature dignitaries such as Mayor Darell Bowen, State Sen. Dave Aronberg, County Commissioner Jess Santamaria, village council members and former mayor Tom Wenham, who will lead the

Pledge of Allegiance following the national anthem sung by Wellington Elementary School student Cara Young.

Comments by dignitaries will be followed by a laying of wreaths on the memorial stones for respective branches of the military.

Missing from the traditional agenda will be a live roll call reading of veterans’ names.

“We’re probably not going to do the roll call because of hot temperatures predicted,” Bowen said. “We will have the names on a recording, which will play continuously for 24 hours after the ceremony.”

The names will also be posted on Channel 18. For more info., call (561) 791-4773.

The Memorial Day observance in Village of Royal Palm

Beach on Monday begins at 9:30 a.m. at Veterans Park, located at the corner of Sparrow Drive and Royal Palm Beach Blvd. The observance will be led by members of the American Legion Post 367 Honor Guard and feature the American Legion Auxiliary Post 367, Boy Scout Troop 111, Brownie Troop 515, the Royal Palm Beach Community Band and local dignitaries. Refreshments will be prepared by Wild Orchids Café and served by Young at Heart Club volunteers following a rifle salute. For more information, call the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center at (561) 790-5149.

Indian Trail Improvement District does not plan any activities of its own, nor does the Town of Loxahatchee Groves.

However, Loxahatchee Groves

Vice Mayor Marge Herzog said she plans to help with poppy distribution in Royal Palm Beach through her work with the American Legion Auxiliary.

“We encourage our residents to participate in the Wellington or Royal Palm Beach activities,” she said.

Her unit and the Royal Palm Beach Post 367 color guard will also participate with many other area veterans’ organizations in a wreath-laying ceremony on Sunday at 9 a.m. at Royal Palm Memorial Gardens Funeral Home and Cemetery (5601 Greenwood Ave., West Palm Beach).

Forgotten Soldiers Outreach and Palm Beach Memorial Park will hold their third annual Memorial Day service “A Day to

Remember,” honoring veterans past and present on Monday.

The service will take place from 11:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. Palm Beach Memorial Park is located at 3691 Seacrest Blvd. in Lantana.

This year, the organizers will have keynote speaker Lt. JG Harold Shugar (USN Retired), a veteran of World War II and Israel’s war of independence. The master of ceremonies will be Bob Nichols, a 33-year veteran broadcaster and chairman of the board of Forgotten Soldiers Outreach. The program will have other guest speakers, including an FSO recipient who recently returned to the states, as well as the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard, West Palm Beach Fire Department Honor Guard, Boy Scout Troop

160 from Wellington and Cub Scout Pack 241 from Lantana. For more information about Forgotten Soldiers Outreach, visit www.forgottensoldiers.org or call (561) 369-2933. Some area attractions are offering specials over the weekend. Lion Country Safari will offer complimentary admission to members of the U.S. military on Memorial Day. Valid identification must be presented. Accompanying guests in the vehicles will receive 20 percent off. For info., call (561) 793-1084. The Palm Beach Zoo (1301 Summit Blvd., WPB) will give free admission to visitors showing a military, military reserve, Coast Guard, police, fire, or EMT ID card through Memorial Day weekend. For more info., call (561) 547-WILD.

Future Of LGWCD Among Key Topics At Town Council Retreat

By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report

The future of the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District generated plenty of discussion during a Loxahatchee Groves Town Council retreat last weekend.

The council gathered May 16 and 17 to sum up the results of a month of visioning sessions intended to shape the town’s goals and priorities as it prepares to draft its comprehensive plan.

The purpose of the retreat was to give direction to consultant Dr. Herb Marlowe, who coordinated the visioning process, on a series of topics discussed during the sessions, including community development standards and the role of the town in providing services.

Marlowe told council members that they should carefully consider the role of the LGWCD and the situation involving two governments, with an eye to avoiding duplication of services and unnecessary spending. The district provides drainage services, maintaining the canals and the water level in Loxahatchee Groves, as well as much of the roadway system.

Council members voiced support for a study of the costs and

benefits of the current arrangement of an independent water control district. The study would examine the practices of other jurisdictions in similar circumstances and weigh the merits of three options: maintaining the LGWCD as an independent district, making it a dependent entity or dissolving it. There was strong support for joint meetings of the two agencies to discuss such options.

Marlowe said the LGWCD could play a part in the comprehensive planning process, and if council members were in support, could sign off on the document when drafted. Town Attorney David Tolces said an intergovernmental coordination element would likely be part of the comprehensive plan, and it would apply to relations with the LGWCD as well as other governmental agencies.

Both noted that the town and the district have demonstrated a good relationship and the ability to work together.

The public was allowed to attend the retreat sessions, and LGWCD Administrator Clete Saunier was present May 16. He said he and other district officials would very interested in sitting down with the council to discuss

the situation. “I don’t think this proposal would be rejected,” he said. “I think the board members would be interested in saving money.”

Councilman Dennis Lipp said he could support such a study only if there is a strong indication it would yield financial benefit to both entities. “I don’t want us to go out and take another big slug of cash to come up with a study that we have no idea what the financial benefits are,” Lipp said.

Councilman Dave Autrey said the study could be valuable if done the right way. The town’s comprehensive plan should outline a chain of command, and the town must make decisions for the benefit of residents and avoid situations that could create conflicts. “Everywhere I look you have a clear line of authority so you can make decisions,” he said. “We have tough decisions sometimes, and there will be consequences. The residents expect us to make decisions and not butt heads with each other.”

Mayor David Browning, a former LGWCD supervisor, concurred but noted that the Lake Worth Drainage District, for example, is not subject to the

Lake Worth municipality, and its jurisdiction extends beyond municipal borders, as does that of the LGWCD to a degree.

The council members also discussed the district’s possible input into the comprehensive planning process, as well as input into matters like review of site plans and joint formulation of policies such as emergencies, in joint planning sessions.

Browning said he would support an arrangement of coequals, with the two agencies working side by side and working together. You would not expect the Army to do the Air Force’s job or vice versa, he said. “I agree with the concept of cooperation,” Browning said. “There is not one service that has priority over the other. Each one does their job. I look at the water control district, and I look at the town. We have to work together. I’m not at the point where I will say put one under the other.”

Councilman Dr. Bill Louda suggested looking into making the LGWCD a dependent district, with council members serving as supervisors and determining priorities. “The Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District should become a depen-

dent district to the town just to smooth the communication out,” he said, “to make sure things are on the same page. Same people, same place, same everything.”

Autrey said governments should be run as businesses, and as far as he knew, businesses do not have two presidents. “In all organizations, there is a clear line of accountability,” he said.

“I don’t think this will be a painful process. We have to sort out the responsibilities. The residents want to see a flow chart that makes sense and who’s responsible for what, and who’s accountable for what. Things can stay the way they are as long as we have a clear understanding of who is responsible for what. It will work as long as the two entities cooperate. When they don’t cooperate, the residents suffer.”

Town Clerk Matt Lippman said it’s not a question of dissolving one agency but rather merging the two. The biggest issue that had risen recently was not drainage, but roads. He noted that the town already bears some responsibility for roads, and perhaps it could assume responsibility for the roads, and contract with the

LGWCD. “Over the years, the district strengthened its ability to handle the roads,” Lippman said. “They needed to. Now that we are a municipality, it all comes down to roads. If the roads were the responsibility of the town, a service could be contracted back. The town could have the roads, and the district could have the drainage. They have taken care of the roads for a long time. The strength that we would have is a lot of this divisiveness would stop.”

LGWCD Supervisor Ron Jarriel said he did not think it a good idea for the town to take responsibility for roads.

“The district is doing an outstanding job with roads and drainage,” Jarriel said. “You as a town council have enough problems. That’s my personal opinion. There could come a time where the district would want that combination. First of all, as a town council, you would have to satisfy the folks on the LGWCD board. I have no problem with one entity here, but you still have a long way to go.”

Marlowe will present the final strategic planning documents from the sessions to the council on June 3.

Indian Trail Finishes Map Of ‘Neighborhood Network Roads’

By Leonard Wechsler Town-Crier Staff Report

The Indian Trail Improvement District moved a step closer to a district-wide transportation plan Monday when Operations Director Terry Narrow presented ITID’s Planning Advisory Committee with draft maps of main Acreage thoroughfares, which the district terms “neighborhood network roads.”

“We finally have complete maps of our neighborhood network roads as well as the perimeter roads,” Narrow said, “and we can use these to plan future traffic patterns. Which roads should traffic flow on? Which roads should be paved or left unpaved?”

ITID President Mike Erickson, the ITID Board of Supervisors’ liaison to the committee, defined “neighborhood network roads” as those that have a large number of dirt roads connecting to them. “These are the roads

that get most of the traffic,” he said. “And they are where we have most of our problems.” Committee Member Amy Hackney suggested moving as much traffic as possible to county-owned roads such as Seminole Pratt Whitney Road and Orange, Coconut, Northlake and Royal Palm Beach boulevards.

Narrow said he was pleased that the maps of main Acreage roads indicate that most of these roads are already paved. “Most is completed already, and the board of supervisors can start deciding on our next projects,” he said.

Narrow said he would focus on 120th Ave. North and on short unpaved sections of roads such as Banyan Blvd. and Indian Trail Drive for next year’s budget. “We have several options on 130th Trail North,” he said. “It’s a beautiful street right now.”

Erickson said he wanted to make certain that the district’s dirt roads stay unpaved. “Most of our residents live on dirt and want it like that,” he said. “But we can make certain that the roads that carry the most traffic are smooth.”

Discussing traffic-calming measures in the district, Committee Member David Snowden said traffic really races down Hall and Mandarin boulevards where there are no calming devices. Narrow added that there are no calming devices on any of the district’s main east-west roads from Orange Blvd. to Persimmon Blvd.

Erickson said he would like to see four-way stop signs at some of the intersections, but that the district has met stiff resistance from Palm Beach County.

“County Engineer George Webb says he will decide where those stops are, and he almost

always says no,” Erickson said. Narrow said there have been no major accidents at the intersection of Avocado and Tangerine boulevards since the district put in a stop sign. “But we were told by Mr. Webb to never do that again,” Narrow said, “or he would stop us getting all the money the county gives us for signs.”

Erickson said Webb cited traffic engineers as saying that stop signs do not calm traffic since people speed up as soon as they get past them. “But the scale out here is different than in urban settings,” Erickson countered. “We have very long, deserted roads. What happens when signs are a half mile apart?”

Hackney suggested that it might be a good idea to forgo the $75,000 to $100,000 the district gets in signs from the county. “I’d rather pay more money to the district and put up stop signs where they’ll save our

children’s lives,” she said. “Let them not pay for it.”

Narrow suggested waiting until the district has new engineers in place before working on any plans. “We will have a traffic engineer,” he said. “Even more important, we will have comprehensive maps, something we’ve never had before. We can come up with a plan for a lot of traffic-calming devices, a comprehensive plan. The county has never seen something like that from us.”

Erickson agreed. “If we come in asking for 60 four-way stops, we can also bring in our traffic counts,” he said, adding that the district’s new engineers should be in place by the committee’s next meeting.

Narrow brought out engineering drawings of a traffic circle planned for the intersection of 140th Ave. North and Temple Blvd.

“With these, we’re ready to go

Terry Narrow as soon as the board gives its OK,” he said. “It won’t stop emergency vehicles, and we don’t think it will stop dump trucks. Also, we got the cost down to $25,000.” The planning committee’s next meeting is scheduled for Monday, June 16 at 7 p.m.

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Erickson: Look To County To Extend State Road 7

By Leonard Wechsler Town-Crier Staff Report

Indian Trail Improvement

District President Mike Erick-

son told members of the Acreage Landowners’ Association

Tuesday that hopes for a statefunded extension of State Road 7 to Northlake Blvd. have faded, but that he is holding out on the possibility of a more modest county-funded extension from its currently planned terminus at 60th Street North to Northlake.

“The state slashed the road budget by over $600 million and that pushed any chances of state funding back from 2013 to 2018, and probably even further,” he said. “We don’t really need to have a huge road there. Even the road that the county is building that goes north from Okeechobee Blvd. is only two lanes.”

After the state declined to fund a northward extension of SR 7, Palm Beach County agreed to build the two-lane extension, which in its first stage is intended to connect with Madrid Street in Royal Palm Beach and Orange Grove and Persimmon boulevards in The Acreage. Another phase already under development would continue the road to 60th Street North.

Taking a swipe at the county, Erickson noted that the extension plan was pushed through by former county commissioner Tony Masilotti, now in prison on a federal corruption conviction.

“The current road may be called the Acreage reliever road,” Erickson said, “although it is actually the Royal Palm Beach reliever road — a nice present to his old town from Tony Masilotti that the whole county had to pay for.”

Erickson said the cost of extending the county extension to Northlake Blvd. would be $14 million, far cheaper than many other projected road projects.

“Not only is it cheaper,” he said, “but it will have a far smaller footprint on the environment and it is far less likely to mess up traffic even worse on Northlake.”

The county wants to extend Roebuck Road west to Royal Palm Beach, a plan the City of West Palm Beach opposes.

Erickson said the county had provided approximately $35 million for that project. “This is just another plan for Royal Palm Beach,” he said. “It will cost about $12 million per mile for a three-mile stretch of road that would only really help Royal Palm Beach.”

Instead, Erickson proposed joining forces with West Palm Beach city officials and seeing that the Roebuck Road money is spent on other roads that would do more to improve traffic in the west.

“We could spend the $14 million it costs and build the road to Northlake,” he said. “Then we could build another two-lane road that connects Northlake to the Beeline Highway. There’s a major job center up there. Right now, someone who lives in The Acreage and works up north has to drive 15 miles through rotten traffic to go all the way east instead of driving the five miles it would take if a road were built. It would save a lot of gas, and it would do a lot to build up the west.”

Erickson also reiterated his position that Royal Palm Beach allow the Madrid Street connection to the SR 7 extension, which RPB opposes, before ITID signs off on its connections.

“We won’t sign unless Royal Palm Beach signs,” he said. “We are currently working out our requirements for a permit, and they include having the Madrid Street connection and the building of the road to Northlake.”

In other business, ALA President Winston Crosbie said that the association’s next meeting, scheduled for June 17 at Seminole Ridge High School, would be an important one.

“We have received a request to hear a land-use amendment,” he said. “I don’t have the details yet but it involves property on the southeast corner of Seminole Pratt Whitney Road and Okeechobee Blvd… We will let our members know more details when we get them, but this could be a meeting that will interest a lot of people.”

Crosbie also said Eric McClellan of the Palm Beach County Library System would be on hand to discuss county plans to build a library in The Acreage.

PBSO Seeks Suspect In Loxahatchee Hit And Run

MAY 15 — An Ohio man died following a traffic accident early last Thursday following on Southern Blvd. in Loxahatchee.

According to a Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office report, 26-year-old Isaac Klosterman was traveling on his motorcycle westbound on Southern Blvd., east of Lion Country Safari Road. A 1999 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck was traveling behind Klosterman in the same direction when it struck the back of his motorcycle, causing Klosterman to fall over and slide to the center grass median. According to the report, the driver of the pickup truck stopped on the inside westbound lane but failed to remain at the scene. Klosterman was taken to St. Mary’s Medical Center, where he died last Sunday. Anyone with information about the driver of the pickup truck is asked to contact Investigator Karly Gallart of the PBSO’s Vehicle Homicide Division at (561) 688-3687.

Church Town Council

continued from page 8 would be no late night noise coming from the property.

After some further questions, Louda made a motion for approval, which was seconded by Herzog. It passed unanimously.

In other business:

• The council approved a development order amendment for the Everglades Farm Equipment property on Southern Blvd., removing 18.87 acres of vacant land from the approved site plan of the 21.86-acre parcel.

Susan Taylor of Perry & Taylor explained that the vacant part of the property was not included in the area of incorporation for the Town of Loxahatchee Groves in 2006. In essence, the revision of the site plan would allow the parcels of land “to go their separate ways,” one remaining within the town and the other in unincorporated Palm Beach County.

The 2.99 acres within the town supports a 7,785-squarefoot building with 2,145 square feet of accessory outdoor displays and 2,500 square feet of outdoor storage. Taylor said the applicant was requesting that the site plan be reconfigured to add a 1,400-square-foot addition to the building.

Councilman Dave Autrey asked if the nearby Palms West Hospital had been contacted regarding the revisions to the site plan, and whether it would affect that institution in any way.

Taylor said she spoke to hospital representatives, and they had been OK with the revisions.

After some further questions, Herzog made a motion for approval, which was seconded by Autrey. It passed unanimously.

• Councilman Dennis Lipp noted that the town’s lobbyist Donna Brosemer had related that Callery-Judge Grove Managing Partner Nat Roberts is considering a challenge to Palm Beach County’s decision to remove the designation of E Road and 140th Avenue North as a future major thoroughfare. Lipp suggested that someone from the town needs to meet with Roberts on the topic.

• Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District Administrator Clete Saunier said the town’s current solid waste contractor Waste Pro has been using equipment that is tearing up the open graded emulsified mix (OGEM) surface that stabilizes some roads in Loxahatchee Groves. He asked if someone from the town staff or council could get in touch with the contractor to relay his concerns. Town Clerk Matt Lippman said LGWCD Vice Chair Don Widing had told him he was “beyond frustrated” with the situation. Lippman said he would get in touch with Waste Pro and tell them what was going on. Town Attorney David Tolces noted that a provision in the firm’s contract makes it liable to reimburse the town if its equipment damages the roads. Lippman said that he and Tolces would write a letter to Waste Pro and get the situation resolved.

WHS Grad

The Class Of 2008

continued from page 1 still waiting for our promised celebration party.”

Their junior year was marked by more standardized tests, and nearby roadwork made senior year memorable, Wilensky said. “They decided to tear up Greenview Shores Blvd.,” he said. “This project gave new meaning to the phrase, ‘the road to hell is paved with good intentions.’ I guess at some point it will be worth it. The only benefit we found was a new excuse to be 20 minutes late to class.”

But while the class indulged in selfish diversions, Wilensky said, they also found time for useful activities such as a St. Baldrick’s fundraiser for childhood cancer research. “There were many shaved heads, a few tears and thousands of dollars very well spent,” he said. “We managed to find time to enjoy our last year together. We rooted for all our sports teams, the good, the bad, the ugly. All too soon, high school is ended and it’s time to say goodbye. We would not be here without the

support of our families, teachers and staff. On behalf of the Class of 2008, thanks to all.”

Valedictorian Jose Garcia looked to the future and the challenges the Class of 2008 will face. “Dan Rather noted America can cope with anything, provided it involves traffic,” he said. “I hope it is true. I thought about our future as much as anyone here. Life is like a long car ride. Our enjoyment is not in reaching our final destination but enjoying the journey of getting there. We as freshmen drove down the roads unable to anticipate our futures.”

Garcia said his classmates had been fueled for their journey by their loved ones, friends, coaches and teachers. “Everyone we know has given us the gas we need for our drive through life, and we stand here 500 strong to continue our journey,” he said. “Now we embark on our futures. We will drive different vehicles to different locations. We must always remember the one universal goal is to enjoy life. We must try to live in the present.” Garcia said the best use of the past is in learning from its mistakes. “What is in our rearview mirrors is behind us. It’s past,

and we can’t change it. The only thing we can do is revisit what we’ve been through, and learn from our mistakes,” he said. “If we try to see too far, we become unprepared for some changes. We will deal with the possible when we get there, and cross that bridge when we find it.”

Senior Class President James Marshall told his classmates that while they could celebrate the end of a long chapter in their education, the future is calling with even greater challenges.

“The nation we live in is divided,” Marshall said. “The nation faces the most severe economic recession in decades. Everyone in the United States is looking to those individuals who will make a difference and make a change. That change will not come if we wait for some other person and some other time. Change will not come for someone else to lead. We are the ones we have been waiting for.”

Inspirational music during the ceremony was sung courtesy of the Impressions chorus under the direction of Harold Bradley. The graduation exercises concluded with the ceremony of the tassel, followed by the recessional featuring the Wolverine band.

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

Graduates take part in the ceremony of the tassel.

Sarah Rowlinson and Laura Kannberg.

Kristian Maldonado and his family following the ceremony.

Laura Finney gets her diploma.

Graduate Sammy Tosner with her family members.

Valedictorian Jose Garcia.

The Wellington High School Impressions chorus performs.

Salutatorian Adam Wilensky.

Katie Riley with her dad Jim.

Palm Beach County School Board Chair Bill Graham with WHS Principal Cheryl Alligood.

PBCHS Grad Farewell Seniors

continued from page 1 to help struggling students. We made it. We worked so hard. These memories will stay with us for the rest of our lives. I hope we can continue to contribute to society, and society will be the richer for it. Congratulations, Class of 2008.”

Salutatorian Tyler Hamrin had composed a poem about graduation.

“We started out as freshmen without a clue. How the time flew. We spent many hours at school, and learning is cool. Reading, writing and math was a lot of fun, and going to the beach to soak up the sun. Barnes & Noble was the best to cram for a test,” Hamrin said. “High school was fun. So many mistakes along the way; tomorrow is a brand new day. Our families and friends must get a standing ovation for all of their love and dedication. Our days spent together have

come to an end. Get ready, Class of 2008, it’s time to graduate.”

Senior Class President Kelli-Anne Scharschmidt congratulated the class on what they had achieved.

“Today I am congratulating you for your graduation from the fine institution of Palm Beach Central High School,” she said. “I congratulate you on making it here today. Our accomplishments of high school have placed us close together. The compassion of our class has been a key element of our success. We raised thousands of dollars. We have gained friendships. Class of 2008, our journey begins. The best of our lives is yet to come. Although we have differences, we share something in common, our success. We may have different rankings and GPAs, but we share friends. I hope you continue to make choices that will help you along the path of your choice. Thank you for allowing me to serve you, Class of 2008. Good luck and farewell.”

GRADUATION 2008

Scharschmidt then led the ceremony of the tassel, concluding the graduation exercises. The students then filed out in the recessional as the Bronco band played on.

Senior Class President KelliAnne Scharschmidt performs the ceremony of the tassel.

Salutatorian Tyler Hamrin gives his address.

Valedictorian Christopher Mancuso delivers his address.

The graduates turn their tassels.

Valedictorian Christopher Mancuso with his family.

Samantha Murray and Heather Kobus recite the Pledge of Allegiance.

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

Graduate Joseph Cid and his family gather for a photo.

PBCHS Principal Butch Mondy and teacher Anita Foster with Palm Beach County School District Chief Academic Officer Ann Killets.

Principal Butch Mondy on stage.

Superintendent Dr. Art Johnson offers words of wisdom to the graduates.

RPBHS Grad

421 Head To

‘Real World’

continued from page 1 “not to be something, but someone.”

Pasharikov reminded her classmates that they were offered a variety of paths from which to choose when they entered high school, and their choices defined them as individuals.

“It is not about how many awards or recognitions we have accumulated over the years,” she said. “It is about what those accomplishments mean and how they define each of us as someone in society. Society forces us to be something. It is up to us to define ourselves as someone. In the words of George Bernard Shaw, ‘what lies behind us and what lies before us are little tiny matters, compared to what lies within us.’

“As we move on to the next leg of our lives, we must not forget the witty, but wise words of Dr. Seuss: ‘you have the brains in your head, you have the feet

in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. You’re on your own and you know what you know. You’re the guy who’ll decide where to go,’” Pasharikov quoted.

Pasharikov said high school became a familiar and comfortable environment over four years, which can make the next step a bit intimidating for some. “Our families, teachers and friends have guided us and helped us make the right choices,” she said. “Having been accustomed to our surroundings at Royal Palm Beach High School, some us might feel apprehensive knowing this is the end, as we have been assured by our parents, ‘you don’t know what it’s like out there in the real world.’

This is only the beginning.”

As they go on to the next stage of their lives, Pasharikov said, they are likely to find missing pieces of the puzzle, but that should not stop them from seeing the overall picture.

“We may find that missing piece when we least expect it... however, never be afraid to take a big step when you think it’s indicated,” she said.

Graduate Delroy Thorpe with his family.

Graduate Shanice Sicard with cousin Alisa Darby.

RPBHS Salutatorian Racine Kameka with Student Government President Melissa Debaby.

Valedictorian Jacqueline Pasharikov with teacher Randy Moore. Jacqueline Pasharikov with family members.

Graduate Nerlande Verdieu with Josette Succes and Marie Germain.

Graduate Victor Dominguez with his family.

PHOTOS BY RON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER

Valedictorian Jacqueline Pasharikov, Salutatorian

Racine Kameka, Student Government President Melissa Debaby and Senior Class President Shawana Carter.Graduates

listen to one of the commencement speakers.

Jacqueline Pasharikov speaks to fellow graduates.

Racine Kameka says a few words.

PANTHER RUN STUDENTS

The neighborhoods around Panther Run Elementary School were a lot “greener” on Thursday, May 15 as 511 students — more than half the student population — walked or rode their bikes to school. The school-wide effort was planned by a group of teachers to promote exercise, saving gas and working toward a cleaner, healthier environment. A total of 234 children biked to school, while 177 walked in large and small groups. Parents and teachers joined in walking and riding along with their kids, and the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office provided some extra support for the students. At the end of the day, teachers reported happier children and better behavior all around. Teachers Susan Bryant and Juliette Buzek helped organize the event. Pictured above are Bryant and Buzek with students Ethan, Jordan and Josh Levi.

LIMAURO REACHES 500 READING COUNTS POINTS

Eight-year-old Anthony Limauro is a second grader at Elbridge Gale Elementary School, and the first at his school to reach 500 Reading Counts points. Anthony’s reward was a trophy given to him during the morning news and having his name on the school’s rolling marquee, which read, “Anthony Limauro reached 500 Reading Counts points — Congratulations Anthony.” Pictured above is Limauro with his trophy.

Career Day At Binks Forest Elementary

Students at Binks Forest Elementary School have been preparing for the future. They recently participated in a schoolwide Career Week program, which included 40 guest speakers, an assembly for careers in fitness, and a career-related vehicle day. The event is organized each year by guidance counselor Randi Schietz, who also prepares the students prior to the event with career lessons in guidance class and career exploration activities in the computer lab.

Fourth and fifth graders even took job personality tests and learned more about themselves and jobs that would match their personalities. Career Week speakers were chosen to represent each personality trait: doer, thinker, creator, persuader, organizer and helper.

The week began with a proclamation from the Village of Wellington read by Vice Mayor Dr. Carmine Priore, and the Pledge of Allegiance by Councilwoman Lizbeth Benacquisto on the morning announcements. Second graders attended an assembly to learn more about sports-related careers with guest presenters from

Gomez Sports Academy, Gym Ratz, Rising Stars Athletics and Royal Gemz Cheerleading. Employees from the Publix in the Courtyard Shops came and decorated a cake for kindergarten to teach them about jobs at Publix.

Other guest speakers included firefighters, police, a rocket scientist, doctors, a Marine, veterinarians, dentists, pilots, a polo player and dozens more.

On the final day of Career Week, students were able to explore vehicles which included fire-rescue vehicles, several special police vehicles, a tractor, a mobile equine veterinarian vehicle, construction vehicles from the Village of Wellington and military vehicles.

Each year the students are able to hear five speakers and will never hear the same speaker more than once. Fifth graders follow a conference format and are given schedules with 14 careers divided into two shifts. They are able to choose six sessions to attend.

Anyone interested in participating next year’s Career Week should send an e-mail to Schietz at schietz@palmbeach.k12. fl.us.

RPBHS Project Graduation 2009

Royal Palm Beach High School’s Project Graduation 2009 is in motion and needs the community’s help. To continue this important and successful tradition, event organizers need many more involved parents, educators and community members. A meeting will be held

Tuesday, May 27 at 7 p.m. in the school’s cafeteria. The meeting will include upcoming fundraising events for the summer and an introduction of board members. If you have any questions, call Cheryl at (561) 723-8298 or Karen at (561) 371-8377.

NEW HORIZONS HOSTS ANNUAL CAREER DAY

Students at New Horizons Elementary School recently enjoyed Career Day. Guest speakers talked to students about why they chose to pursue their respective careers, what they like about their jobs and what training is involved. New Horizons would like to thank the following local agencies and businesses that participated: Groundworks, Dunworth Construction, Publix, Wal-Mart, Starbucks, Aussie Pet Mobile, the Palm Beach County Emergency Operations Center, chef Frank Dalla Riva, pharmacist Karen Mangini, Palm Tran, Kookaburra’s, sculptor Norm Gitzen, photographer Marcela Mirande, nutritionist Beth DiLuglio, attorney Merry Lindberg, chemist Tom Ihle, martial arts instructor Gustavo Pope-Guerriero, musician Jody Marlow (pictured above), quilter Joy Chiet, Palm Beach Post writer Leslie Gray Streeter, nurse Sheryl Policastro, Mary Kay cosmetologist Martie Veverka, BB&T Bank, Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and the Village of Wellington.

Career Day — Binks Forest students examine horse bones brought by Dr. Robert Brusie of the Palm Beach Equine Clinic.

For a second time, Jeremiah Roundtree has succeeded in out-spelling other fourth and fifth grade students to be the winner of the Wellington Elementary School Spelling Bee. Stacy Koppel came in a close second. Pictured here is Principal Mike Borowski congratulating Roundtree and Koppel.

Summer Basketball Camps At SRHS

Seminole Ridge High School

head basketball coach Jason Pitman will host a series of summer basketball camps June 9-12 and July 21-24. The June camp will feature a three-hour afternoon session for ages six to 14, while the July camp will feature a three-hour morning session for ages six to ten, and a corresponding afternoon session for ages 11 to 14.

“Our basketball camp is designed to teach campers the offensive and defensive skills necessary to reach their full potential,” Pitman said. “We’ll develop the abilities of the more experienced players, as well as introduce basic techniques to the beginners.”

For complete information, log on to the SRHS Edline page. To register for the camp, print and mail the online registration, or call Pitman at (561) 422-2603.

Summer Cheer Camp Set for June — The Seminole Ridge football cheerleaders will host a summer cheer camp June 9-12

from 9 a.m. to noon each day. The camp is open to kids entering kindergarten through fifth grade in the coming school year.

For more information, or to register, e-mail Kelly Dickmann at dickmannk@palmbeach.k12.fl.us for a camp registration form.

NSTA Journal Features Hawk Science Teacher — The article “Warming to Global Warming: Sunspots and SeaSurface Temperature” by SRHS science teacher Erich Landstrom was published in the May 2008 issue of The Science Teacher, the journal of the National Science Teacher Association. The article describes how SRHS students are assigned a problem-based lab activity to evaluate the causes of changes on the solar surface with climate change and a warming in the Earth’s environment. Students use graphing calculators and real-time data from the Internet to research the possible effects of sunspot activity on temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean.

Dr. Robert Kramphf of Florida Power & Light fascinated fourthgrade students at Wellington Elementary School recently with his “Electrifying Experience” science program. Funded by FPL, this program introduces students to the many forms of electricity. Kramphf hopes to get the students excited about electricity, and that some might seek a career in energy sources for the future. Shown above, Julia Mendez and Nissa Cadet assist Kramphf with a demonstration.

LGES STUDENTS SHINE AT ANNUAL TALENT SHOW

Loxahatchee Groves Elementary School held its annual talent show on Wednesday, May 14. Many students participated, showing off their various talents on the cafeteria stage. (Clockwise from below right) third grader Jeremy Clark Saidon sings and plays the tambourine; third grader Nicole Schriefer takes a bow after performing a piano solo; kindergartener Eden Martin does her cheerleading routine; third grader Samantha Iglesias displays her vocal talents with a song; and second grader Ixchell Collazo rings the musical bells.

Crestwood Students Excel At WordMasters

A team of students representing Crestwood Middle School recently won highest honors in the WordMasters Challenge — a national language arts competition entered by over 230,000 students annually. The competition consists of three separate meets held at intervals during the school year.

Competing in the very difficult Gold Division of the challenge, the school’s eighth graders — coached by Nona Kramer — placed tenth in the nation in the year-end cumulative standings among 171 school teams participating at that level and in that division.

Two of the school’s students won highest honors for yearlong individual achievement as well: sixth grader Jhanelle Bisasor, who earned perfect scores in all three of the year’s meets for this grade level, was one of the nine highest-ranked sixth graders in the entire country in the year-end standings. At the same time, eighth grader Meek Mo, who made only two mistakes all year, placed among the

14 highest-ranked eighth graders nationwide.

In addition, five students won highest honors for individual achievement in the year’s final meet, held in April: sixth graders Jhanelle Bisasor and Hyun Mo and eighth graders Jonathan Binns, Meeka Mo and Tayler Zaskey all earned perfect scores in this meet, where nationwide only 80 sixth graders and 65 eighth graders did so.

Others who achieved outstanding results in the final meet included sixth graders Everett Junco, Nick Lang, Angelo Peuguero, Jordan Post, Juliana Chin, Eli-Gorgevski-Sharpe, Alex Holmstock, Melissa Keogh, Jarrod Klumb, Ivy Lanier, Melanie Median, Bryan Minear, Markei Paull, Ben Superman, David Teitel and Tanner Zaskey; seventh graders Branden Johnson, Shams ElNil, Rachael Grubstein and Ellie Manzano; and eighth graders Jervis Bisasor, Corey Puckett, Ashley Estaris, Ashley Iarcarino, Ericka Moore and Michael Tanner.

WordMasters — Members of Crestwood Middle School’s eighth grade WordMasters team: Tayler Zaskey, Jonathan Binns, Meeka Mo, Jervis Bisasor, Corey Puckett, Ashley Estaris, Ashley Iaccarino, Erika Moore, Michael Tanner, Alex Blake, Katie Ellis, Justin Deithorn, Darin Singh, Kayla Samuels, Joseph Sleek, Nouredine el-Nil and Cassidy Cann.

Work By Wellington Artist Featured In Michigan Gallery

Several works by Wellington visual artist Jeannette Pomeroy Parssi are now on display at Art & Soul Gallery in Traverse City, Michigan.

Parssi is a product of the Midwest, where her love of art was nurtured by a family whose passion for art, music and theater was instilled at a young age. She was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, and earned her bachelor’s degree from Kalamazoo College in central Michigan.

Parssi discovered her talent for painting after the birth of her first child in 1994, and it wasn’t long before her natural gift surfaced and she became a prolific artist. Her work can be found in 35 private collections in the U.S. and abroad.

Parssi donates her time and talent to charity organizations such as the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, American Lung Association, Boys & Girls Clubs, Armory Art Center and Hospice of Palm Beach Coun-

ty. In November 2004 she founded ArtStart, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide educational opportunities in the arts to at-risk youth in underserved areas of Palm Beach County. “I consider art to be more than simply a medium for expression,” Parssi said. “Art is the revelation of my soul, the outward manifestation of that which lives deep within my inner being. Unspoken yet ever present, the power of art lies in its ability to bridge the divide between what we know and what we have yet to learn — and may never learn — about life, love and all that truly matters in this world. Art does more than express feelings; art creates feelings and allows us to touch others.”

To view Parssi’s work, go to www.jpparssi.com. For more information about Art & Soul Gallery, visit www.artandsoultc. com.

WRMC EMPLOYEE AWARDED

Wellington Regional Medical Center Chief Operating Officer

Erik Olson presents April’s Employee of the Month Deicy Fernandez with special gifts. Deicy, a certified nursing assistant, has received many expressions of gratitude from patients and their family members, and offers great support to her co-workers.

SRHS Grad Completes Navy Basic

Navy Seaman Recruit Jeffrey Kingree, son and stepson of Jeff and Carey Kingree of West Palm Beach, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Ill. During the eight-week program, Kingree completed a variety of training, which includ-

ed classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness. Kingree is a 2007 graduate of Seminole Ridge High School in The Acreage.

WHO’S NEW !

Lion Marcos Mandelbaum

— son of Olexa Celine and Leonardo Andres Mandelbaum of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on April 17.

Dereon Dynasty Desir daughter of Roseline Pierre of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on April 20.

Joviana Kristin Bralts daughter of Jaime and Joshua Bralts of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on April 21.

Christian Emedio Bisignano — son of Desiree and Greg Bisignano of Royal Palm Beach was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on April 21.

Adrian Steven Castro son of Sameli Rivera and Harold Castro of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on April 22.

Gabriel Soto — son of Sorangy Guerrero Marte and Hector Raul Soto Colon of Welling-

ton was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on April 23.

Breyanna Da’Niela Civil daughter of Myriam Elan and Daniel Civil of Royal Palm Beach was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on April 23.

Allie Jordyn Haas — daughter of Jennifer and Adam Haas of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on April 24.

Tyler Matthew Dyben son of Terri and Matt Dyben of Royal Palm Beach was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on April 29. Christopher Morgan Ledbetter — son of Christine and Luis Ledbetter of Royal Palm Beach was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on April 29.

Jadalie Giada Cabrera daughter of Jessy and Amaru Cabrera of Royal Palm Beach was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on April 30.

On Display — Among the works by Wellington artist Jeannette Pomeroy Parssi now on display at Art & Soul Gallery in Traverse City is Yellow Roses in Green Vase, priced at $750.

Wycliffe Charities Foundation Presents Gift To Quantum House Family Care

Quantum House has announced a new grant in the amount of $5,000 from the Wycliffe Charities Foundation to fund the Family Care Program.

The gift is part of Wycliffe Charities’ ongoing support for Palm Beach County organizations that deliver programs related to community healthcare issues.

Quantum House, a nonprofit hospital hospitality house, is the only facility of its kind between Fort Lauderdale and Orlando established to provide temporary lodging and emotional support to families with children who are hospitalized at St. Mary’s Medical Center or other local hospitals. Since its inception, Quantum House has received families from more than 35 states and 12 countries, in ad-

dition to the pediatric population from almost every county in Florida. Through grants from organizations like Wycliffe, Quantum House is able to support the Family Care program that covers many aspects that go into making the house an effective environment for families.

The Quantum House staff gratefully acknowledged the gift from Wycliffe Charities.

“We are honored to receive support from such a fine organization and its members,” said Quantum House Director of Programs and Services Bryn Little. “Palm Beach County is fortunate to have such a philanthropic organization who gives back locally to those in need.”

For more about Quantum House, call (561) 494-0515.

Donation To Quantum House — (L-R) Wycliffe Charities Board

Member Bob Nass, Quantum House Programs and Services Director Bryn Little and Wycliffe Charities President Marian Rubin.

Wellington Majorettes Shine In State Competition

The Wellington High School band’s Majorette Squad, coached by Adrienne Brady, had a busy but successful spring competition season that ended in two state championships and qualifying for two national tournaments.

In February the squad competed in the annual Disney World Twirlmania competition featuring majorette squads

from around the world. At that competition, the squad placed first in the Friday Parade, first in the High School Classic competition and third in Dance Twirl, Halftime Show, Show Corps, Twirling Corps and Flag Corps.

After qualifying at the regional competition in March, the team attended the Drum Majorettes of America State

Competition on May 16 and 17. The team placed first in five of eight categories at the state competition. Winning at this competition also qualified them for the Drum Majorettes of America National Competition for the second consecutive year. The Drum Majorettes of America Nationals will be held in North Carolina July 25 and 26.

In addition, the team attended the United States Twirling Association State (USTA) Contest on May 3, after qualifying through regional competition on April 12. The team won state championships in seven out of eight categories and have now qualified for the USTA National Competition to be held in Daytona Beach July 17.

MID-COUNTY DEMS GET PEP TALK, VOTING MACHINE DEMO

talks about the county’s new

The Mid-County Democratic Club held its monthly meeting on Monday, May 19 at Tree’s Wings in Royal Palm Beach. B.J. Chiscar, director of southeast relations for Florida’s Democratic Party and member of the Democratic Executive Committee, spoke about getting out the vote and other issues. Also speaking were Allan Hendricks of Equality Florida and Adina Sorell, who spoke about the new voting machines.

Marissa

Ullman

Recognized By National Society

Marissa Ullman, daughter of Keith and Debbie Ullman of Wellington, has been selected for membership in the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS).

Ullman is a sophomore at Suncoast High School and a dual major in the Math, Science, Engineering (MSE) program and the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Ullman has a cumulative GPA of 3.7 and an HPA of 4.9. Ullman takes all honors, Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate courses in school. She will take her first dual-enrollment class this summer while participating in the Engineering Scholars Program at Florida Atlantic University.

Ullman is a member of the National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta (math honor society), Art Club and Project Earth. She recently returned from the Mu Alpha Theta state math competition in Orlando. Last summer, Ullman was a student ambassador to Australia with People to People, an organization started by President Dwight Eisenhower. Ullman volunteers her time regularly at St. Michael Lutheran Church, Poinciana Day School and the Armory Art Center. She also tutors middle

Family Fun Day Set For June 7

Several people from the western communities have joined together to coordinate a Family Fun Day on Saturday, June 7 to raise money to help support the family of Carson Ruffa. Carson is an 11-year-old boy recently diagnosed with a rare form of malignant primary mediastinal yolk sac germ cell carcinoma. The event will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church (12200 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington). It will include a bounce house, food, live music, silent auction, games and bake sale. For more info., call Jennifer Klinkowitz at (561) 795-8908.

school math students. The National Society of High School Scholars recognizes top scholars and invites only students who have achieved superior academic excellence. NSHSS Founder and Chairman Claes Nobel, a senior

Kelly On Florida Tech Dean’s List

Michael Kelly of Royal Palm Beach has been named to the Dean’s List at the Florida Institute of Technology. A sophomore, Kelly is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science. To be included on the Dean’s List, a student must complete 12 or more graded credits in a semester with a grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.4.

The Florida Institute of Technology was founded in 1958 to train professionals working in the space program at what is now the Kennedy Space Center. It is the only independent technological university in the Southeast.

Adina Sorell

voting machines.

Marissa Ullman

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

Allan HendricksB.J. Chiscar

AHA, PBSO Mounted COP Hold Trail Ride Through The Acreage

NEWS BRIEFS

Theatre of Wellington will hold audition workshops from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

and

Proceeds raised, including

will be donated to the Earl Hebert Fund. Contributions will be taken any time at Backstreet’s, located at 12771 W. Forest Hill Blvd. in Wellington. For more information about the fundraiser, call (561) 795-0100.

Audition Workshops At Studio Theatre

Are you a fourth or seventh grader? Are you hoping to get into the School of the Arts for theater or communications? It’s not too soon to get started! On Sunday, June 15, the Studio

Mark Andrew Fetterly will assist youngsters as they select and are staged in a winning monologue, write and perform a speech, learn improv or practice a song/cold reading, begin designing an ad for an original product, practice short story/ film writing, begin drawing a set/costume design, and participate in a mock interview. The cost is $89. An “informance” for parents and friends will follow the seminar. Space is limited, so sign up now. The Studio Theatre of Wellington is located in Wellington Commerce Park at 11320 Fortune Circle, G-7. For more information, call Paula Sackett at (561) 204-4100.

Seat Open On RPB Education Advisory Board

The Village of Royal Palm Beach currently has one vacancy on the Education Advisory Board, which meets on the second Monday of the month. All meetings are held in the Village Meeting Hall. If you are a resident of Royal Palm Beach and would like to

volunteer your service and expertise on this local government board, pick up an application at the village clerk’s office or download it from the village’s web site at www.royalpalm beach.com. Click on the “Departments and Divisions” button on the left and go to the “Clerk’s Office” page. Once there, click on the “Downloadable Forms” link and then on the Committee Board Application Form. Return the completed application to the Village Clerk’s office no later than June 11 for council consideration at the June 19 meeting. For more information about applying for the board, call Village Clerk Diane DiSanto at (561) 790-5102.

RPB Completes

Exotic Removal

The Village of Royal Palm Beach, with financial assistance from the Palm Beach County Department of Environmental Resources’ Public Lands Grant Program, has completed the removal of exotic, non-native vegetation in the Okeechobee Trail Head located on the north side of Okeechobee Blvd. west and east of the power lines. The project site is an area designated as open space and is lo-

cated in close proximity to the Pond Cypress Natural Area. While undeveloped, the site will eventually become a passive recreational facility with amenities such as trails and picnic facilities. This area was infested with melaleuca, Brazilian pepper, climbing ferns and Australian pines. The project site had never been treated for exotic vegetation. However, the village is committed to the project and has set aside funds for necessary actions to ensure regrowth does not occur.

Division Of Driver Licenses

Mobile Unit

The Florida Division of Driver Licenses will have a mobile bus unit on hand at the Wellington Community Center on the first and third Monday of each month, excluding holidays.

From 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the mobile unit will offer license renewals, address changes, lost license replacement, identification cards, out-of-state license transfers and limited tag services such as decal renewals and handicap placards.

Original identification cards cost $3 for ages five and up; the

The Acreage Horseman’s Association joined members of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Mounted COP Unit, along with friends and new riders, for a trail ride last Saturday through The Acreage.

The riders left Hamlin Equestrian Park at about 4:15 p.m. and traveled north on Grapeview Blvd., crossing Northlake Blvd. and continuing up 100th Lane North west to Seminole Pratt Whitney Road, where the group headed back south, turning east on Tangelo Blvd. and ending back at the park.

Approximately 18 people rode in support of improving the current trail system, which

fee is $10 for renewals, duplicates and address changes. Licenses cost $15 for renewals, $20 to transfer from out of state, $10 for lost licenses and address changes, and $50 for commercial driver’s license renewal; there is a $1 late fee for expired licenses.

Be sure to bring your original birth certificate, permanent resident card or immigration documents and Social Security card. All payments must be made by cash or check.

For more information, call (800) 303-7288 or visit www. flhsmv.gov. The Wellington Community Center is located at 12165 W. Forest Hill Blvd.

Summer Camp In Wellington

The Wellington Parks & Recreation Department is offering registration for summer camp, offered for ten sessions throughout the summer beginning on Monday, June 9 and ending on Friday, Aug. 15. The fee for one week of camp is $200 for residents and $250 for non-residents. Campers are grouped by age, ranging from age five to 15. Camp hours are from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. For info., call Bruce DeLaney at (561) 791-4005.

the AHA is working to accomplish. The AHA aims to address the following issues: more access points to Indian Trail Improvement District easements and greenways; more signage to make people aware of the dangers of high speeds around horses; more enforcement of equestrian laws; support for the Nicole Hornstein Act, which would require helmet use for young riders; upgrades for trails designed with the “multi-modal” aspect in mind; more cleanups of the trails; and construction of proper trailheads (such as “you are here” maps). For more information, visit the AHA’s web site at www. acreagehorseman.com.

Church @ The Grove Offers Free Flags For Memorial Day

In honor of Memorial Day, more than 1,000 free handheld American flags will be given out the morning of Sunday, May 25 in front of numerous grocery stores in the western communities. The project, organized by the Church @ the Grove in Loxahatchee, is a means of remembering veterans who have served and those currently serving in the armed forces. Along with handing out free flags, Church @ the Grove members will hand out prayers that can be used in thanksgiving of our veterans and our armed services, along with a prayer for peace in the world. Anyone who wants to help hand out flags can contact Church @ the Grove Pastor Holly Ostlund by calling (561) 333-2020 or e-mailing churchat thegrove@bellsouth.net.

Send news items to: The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414. Fax: (561) 7936090. E-mail: news@goTown Crier.com.

Equestrians continue on the trail ride through The Acreage

The riders gather at Hamlin Equestrian Park.

Folke Peterson Wildlife Center Opens Findlay Educational Trail

More than 100 donors and volunteers gathered at Folke Peterson Wildlife Center to celebrate the grand opening of the Findlay Educational Trail on Friday, May 16.

Winding among a native palm hammock, the trail features 10 habitats housing owls, hawks, osprey, water birds, squirrels and skunks in their native surroundings. These “wildlife ambassadors” are animals whose injuries prevent them from being returned to the wild that are now used in educational programs at Folke Peterson Wildlife Center. The Findlay Educational Trail serves as an outdoor classroom for school field trips, scouting troops and other children’s groups.

“The Findlay Trail is a wonderful opportunity for school children to learn about native Florida wildlife and the important role each animal plays in our ecosystem,” Folke Peterson Wildlife Center Executive Director Heather Landstrom said.

The Findlay Trail was made possible by a grant from the Episcopal Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea and is sponsored by Comerica Wealth Man-

agement, Florida Power & Light, Publix, and Searcy, Denney, Scarola, Barnhart & Shipley, P.A.

Folke Peterson Wildlife Center board

members Randy Fine, Cris Boehler, Carolyn Brombacher and Barbara Hiaasen welcomed guests including State Rep. Shelley Vana, Wellington Councilman Matt Willhite, Don and Heidi Kiselewski of FPL, Frank Young of Comerica, Dietmar and Pat Reichenbacher, Claudine Laabs, and Rita, Adam and Jacqueline Zimmerman.

The Findlay Educational Trail is named in memory of Bonnie Findlay, an ardent wildlife rehabilitator who donated her property to the center.

A nonprofit hospital and 30-acre sanctuary, Folke Peterson Wildlife Center is committed to rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing native Florida wildlife. The center, located in the Acme Ranches community near the intersection of State Road 7 and Southern Blvd., treats more than 4,000 injured and orphaned animals each year.

To schedule a children’s event on the Findlay Educational Trail, call (561) 793-BIRD.

Letters continued from page 4 $7 million below projections for this year and next year. This additional shortfall, not to mention lower-than-projected revenues from franchise fees and utility and gasoline taxes, will be very difficult to make up. We may have no choice but to dip into reserves or cut or reduce some programs and services. Job cuts are also a possibility. The county currently has more than 500 vacant positions. While this is twice the historic number, only half of these are paid for out of the general fund. Many of these openings are the result of a selective hiring freeze, but some are due to inability to hire. If all of the general fund vacancies were eliminated — and some can’t be — we would only save about $10 million.

We have asked each county department to submit a budget for next year that is at least five

percent lower than this year’s. Employees have already given up their regularly scheduled merit increases in the current year’s budget. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office is seeking a $36-million budget increase, which we are trying to absorb within state-specified revenue limitations. But it will be impossible to fund future increases in the sheriff’s budget without additional tax revenue. To the extent that we use one-time sources, such as reserves, to balance next year’s (2008-09) budget, it will leave us that much short the following year.

As my fellow commissioners and I wrestle with all these financial issues, I assure you it will not be done in a vacuum. The board remains committed to involving the public as much as possible in our budget process. In January, we held a series of public budget forums around the county, and hundreds of citizens offered

comments in person and via an online budget survey. There are several more opportunities for you to comment on the budget before we make a final decision. I hope you will plan on attending one or more of the following:

• Budget workshop, June 18 at 9:30 a.m.: County Administrator Robert Weisman will present his tentative budget.

• Budget workshop, July 14 at 9:30 a.m.: The commissioners will hold a discussion on the tentative budget.

• Public hearing, Sept. 8, 6 p.m.: The commissioners will vote on a preliminary budget adoption.

• Public hearing, Sept. 22, 6 p.m.: The commissioners will vote on a final budget adoption.

As always, I welcome your comments and suggestions. Please feel free to contact me or my staff at (561) 355-2202.

Jeff Koons, County Commissioner, District 2

By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report

Among the items of discussion at last week’s meeting of Wellington’s Equestrian Committee was a clarification of the right to extended hours recently won by the Equestrian Club by Tavern on the Green, a favorite watering hole of local and visiting equestrians.

In April, the Wellington Village Council gave the Equestrian Club by Tavern on the Green permission to remain open until midnight beginning June 15. The club, which is housed in the former Equestrian Club Estates clubhouse, is situated within the village’s Equestrian Overlay Zoning District. Commercial activities there are required to close completely at 10 p.m., including after-hours maintenance and cleanup. The conditional use permit will allow the club

to extend its cleanup time until 1 a.m.

At the Equestrian Committee’s May 14 meeting, committee member and Equestrian Club Estates resident Carole Coleman asked village staff whether Tavern on the Green’s conditional use permit is tied to the land or the property owner.

Coleman, a onetime critic of the restaurant, said she liked owner Jennifer Oz Leroy and was impressed with the restaurant, but was concerned about the rights of another establishment that might someday occupy the premises.

“My question is, what if there were a different restaurant in that location?” Coleman said. “Are we or are we not extending the hours for the Tavern on the Green or are we extending it to that location? I have been told two different things. We all

thought this was for Tavern on the Green.”

Community Development

Director Marty Hodgkins said that unless there is a specific limitation or condition, a fairly rare situation, such requests usually go with the land and not the applicant. Otherwise it might be considered contract zoning, he said. “Typically, unless there is a specific limitation of condition which is pretty rare, the use and use approval runs with the land,” Hodgkins said. “It doesn’t run with the owner. If you buy a single-family home, it is sold to the buyer who owns the house and has the right to sell that use and that structure to another buyer. As long as the use is consistent with the approved uses, those uses carry forward with the land. It is not limited to or extinguished by a change in ownership.”

Wellington Councilman Matt Willhite with State Rep. Shelley Vana.

Eagle Scouts Logan Tessler and Lee Fabian flank

Michael Tessler of the Boy Scouts’ Tradewinds District.

The water bird habitat is home to ibis, herons, egrets, cormorants and anhingas.

Heidi and Don Kiselewski, Jerry Sotelo and Mimi McAndrews representing FPL in front of the squirrel habitat FPL sponsors.

Kim Aumen, Folke Peterson Wildlife Center Board Member Barbara Hiaasen, Advisory Board Member Nick Aumen and Board Member Carolyn Brombacher.

Frank Young of Comerica, Folke Peterson Wildlife Center’s Terry Timberlake holding “Stinky,” Claudia Flores and Denise McMenamy of Comerica, and FPWC Board Member Cris Boehler at the skunk habitat.

Rita, Jacqueline and Adam Zimmerman.

PHOTOS BY GARY KANE

Wellington Art Society Installs Officers, Awards Scholarships

The evening of Tuesday, May 13 was one of reflection and new direction for the Wellington Art Society, which held its annual meeting and dinner that night at the Links at Madison Green clubhouse in Royal Palm Beach.

The meeting featured a full program, including the installation of new officers for the group’s board and the presentation of its annual scholarships for local art students.

Chairing the meeting and serving as master of ceremonies was outgoing president Susan Rose, who has served on the society’s board for eight years, including five as president. Rose was honored by the organization for her distinguished service and dedication. She thanked the membership and all those who either served on the board or

volunteered on various committees, attributing the organization’s growth in recent years to their collective effort. Rose also noted with pride the expansion of both the sponsorship program and exhibition opportunities for Wellington Art Society members, including the Fall Fling event, which Rose will be chairing in November. Also singled out was Leonarda Mangiola, who had been the group’s treasurer for 15 years. Proceeds from society events throughout the year support the scholarship fund. This year, the program was able to provide three talented high school seniors with a $1,000 scholarship each to help realize their dreams of attending college to pursue a degree and a career in the field of art. The 2008 scholarship recipients include Wellington res-

idents Jayne Branstrom and Kyle Krakow, and Akeem Pierre Glaze of Royal Palm Beach, all graduates of the Dreyfoos School of the Arts. Each recipient was given a framed certificate and an invitation to exhibit their work at this year’s Fall Fling.

The main event of the evening was the installation of the new board officers, including President Adrianne Hetherington, First Vice President Karen Knight, Second Vice President Jean Talbott, Treasurer Geoff Wilson, Recording Secretary Linda Rovolis and Corresponding Secretary Jo-Ann Wolf.

Hetherington outlined her plans for the group in the year ahead, including efforts to increase general membership, the establishment of a youth membership program and the ulti-

mate goal of obtaining a permanent facility for workshops and exhibits.

Knight announced another new initiative — the society’s community “Artreach” program, which she is chairing. Artreach will feature Wellington Art Society artists conducting a variety of art-related activities at facilities such as hospitals and nursing homes, bringing a smile to those in need.

To realize these goals, Knight said the organization will be looking for support from the private sector in the form of corporate partnerships and other sponsorship opportunities. Anyone wanting to participate or make a contribution can call Karen Knight at (561) 798-3240 or e-mail her at artforum9@ aol.com.

PHOTOS

The Wellington Art Society 2008-09 officers include: Geoff Wilson, Linda Rovolis, Karen Knight, Adrianne Hetherington, Jean Talbott and Jo-Ann Wolf.

Maryanne and Ron Davidson, Dolores and Murray Rosen, and Penny and Keinhart Thorsen.

Adrianne and Vern Hetherington with Karen and Steve Knight.

Adrianne Hetherington and Susan Rose with scholarship recipients Akeem Pierre Glaze, Jayne Branstrom and Kyle Krakow.

Norma Winter and Margarate Berry.

Geoff Wilson and Jean Talbott. Mag and David Frye.

Sheila Spelce-Kime and Raymonde Talleyrand.

Leonarda and Tito Mangiola. Randy and Leslie Pfeiffer.

Jayne Branstom with her parents J.B. and Nancy, and Kyle Krakow with his parents Morgan and Elliot.

Akeem Glaze (second from left) with his parents Lee and Maryse, and sister Nathalie.

FDOT’s ‘Click It Or Ticket’ Enforcement Campaign Now Underway

By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report

State and local officials gathered at Okeeheelee Park in West Palm Beach last week to remind people to buckle up while traveling Florida’s roads. The May 15 press conference was one of ten the Florida Department of Transportation hosted across the state during in advance of Memorial Day weekend, one of the deadliest weekends of the year on American roads.

FDOT’s “Click It or Ticket” enforcement campaign for 2008 started Monday and runs through June 1. During those two weeks, law enforcement are increasing normal patrols and practicing a zero-tolerance policy on seatbelt usage, ticketing any drivers or passengers not wearing safety belts.

Almost 62 percent of motorists and passengers killed in traffic accidents were not wearing safety belts in 2006, the most recent year for which crash data is available.

But FDOT’s District 4 Secretary Jim Wolfe said the Click It or Ticket campaign has been successful in getting the message out that someone who is unbelted is six times more likely to die in a collision.

“That should be enough for anybody to put a safety belt on,” Wolfe said. “We’re up to 80 percent of people buckling up in Florida. In passenger vehicles, that’s 21 percent better than 2001, when we began the Click It or Ticket campaign. Many lives have been saved through this.”

Wolfe said the campaign is as much about education as it is about enforcement. “People need to understand why they should wear safety belts,” he said. “They need to understand the importance of this. When we get down to the last 20 percent, we are having difficulty with the education message. They believe they are immortal.”

Capt. William Patrick Kenny, commander of the Palm Beach

County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Division, said 42,600 people died last year as a result of not wearing seat belts, about 1,300 of them in Florida. “You hear the airline analogy,” he said. “If that many people were dying in airplane crashes, people would do something about it. These are the people going to the airport. These are the people going to grandma’s house. These are the people going to work and to school. A simple task of clicking a seatbelt will increase your chances in an accident dramatically.”

Kenny said seatbelt scofflaws will face stiff fines if caught.

“Our commitment from the PBSO and the rest of law enforcement in Palm Beach County is to have a zero-tolerance policy during this Click It or Ticket campaign, and to have a zero-tolerance policy when people don’t wear seatbelts,” he said. “Enough warnings. There are too many people being buried. The cost of a citation is $76.50. If you see us and you don’t have the seatbelt on, expect that $76.50.”

Former state representative Irv Slosberg fought for years for stiffer penalties and tougher laws on safety belt use. As someone who lost a daughter to a traffic accident, he offered himself as an example of a person who must cope with the loss of a loved one due to a crash.

“I’m the home office of what can happen if you don’t wear your seat belts,” Slosberg said.

“The guys in the front seat were fine. My daughter, and her friends, devastation. If this had been the law 12 years ago, my daughter might be living today because the guy driving might have said, ‘there are seven kids in the back seat, and it would cost me $700 or $1,000 for all those tickets.’ We need tougher laws and tougher legislation.” For more information about the Click It or Ticket campaign, visit www.clickitfla.com.

‘We’re up to 80 percent of people buckling up in Florida. In passenger vehicles, that’s 21 percent better than 2001, when we began the Click It or Ticket campaign.’ — FDOT’s District 4 Secretary Jim Wolfe

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

PBSO Capt. William Kenny.

Irv Slosberg talks about losing his daughter in a traffic accident.

Law enforcement officers stand by their vehicles.

Florida Highway Patrol Lt. Tim Frith.

FDOT District 4 Secretary Jim Wolfe, State Rep. Mary Brandenburg and former representative Irv Slosberg.

FDOT District 4 Secretary Jim Wolfe addresses the audience.

My Breakfast Treat: The Epic Battle Of Good Vs. Chocolate

Hey! Through years of careful testing (not), I’ve finally discovered the secret weapon of healthful cooking — a recipe that unclogs your cholesterol and boosts your antioxidants and (if you can even believe it) tastes so good you’ll exactly want to eat it! Yes!

It all started when I got a box of dark chocolates for Mother’s Day. There are two especially good things about dark chocolate: 1) I love it and 2) my husband Mark, not so much. This means there is actually a chance that the majority of the chocolate will be devoured by me, the happy recipient. (The tables are turned with milk chocolate.) So anyway, the other morning I had this box of chocolates sitting around which I couldn’t really eat yet because it was barely breakfast time. Like fine wine, fabulous chocolate

Deborah Welky is The Sonic BOOMER

shouldn’t be consumed before noon. If you start any earlier, you’re drunk with joy by the time the kids get home from school and they get suspicious. So it has to be portioned out through the day. Sometimes you have to take a full-time job and leave the box at home just to put some distance between you and it.

To take my mind off the chocolate, I made

myself a bowl of hot, steamy oatmeal (a certified acceptable breakfast dish also touted as a cholesterol-lowering agent) and was in the middle of plopping some chunks of brown sugar into it (for texture, you understand), when my eye fell upon the box of chocolates.

You can see where I’m heading with this. By merely substituting a beautiful dark chocolate for the sugar, I would be satisfying my craving for a sweet addition to the oats while adding healthful antioxidants to the mix. It seemed like a win-win!

“But then you’ll be ingesting chocolate before noon,” the Good Debbie side of my conscience reminded me. (She is really annoying at times.)

“But I’d only be doing it for health reasons,” Bad Debbie cajoled.

“I think you may be fibbing about that,” Good Debbie chastised mildly.

“Well, screw you!” Bad Debbie screamed. (Bad Debbie has a temper, but I like her.)

Suddenly, the chocolates themselves interceded with, “I think I may be drying out in this box, unloved and uncared-for.”

“The chocolate is dying!” Bad Debbie screeched, shoving Good Debbie out of the way and, in fact, down the stairs. The rest is history. So I’m telling you, faithful reader, that if you want a soulful, fabulous, putting-the-good-in-Good-Morning treat, take a dark chocolate and stir it slowly into your oatmeal. Then eat. Never mind those voices in your head. And if you want to go straight to hell, dump in a couple of chocolates. See you there.

Remembering ‘Old Blue Eyes’ A Decade After His Passing

The greatest of popular singers, Frank Sinatra, died ten years ago this past week. Of course, his rank among singers is simply my opinion, but it is one shared by many of those who listen to and love music.

Sinatra had hits as a young man in the 1930s when young girls crowded his concerts, screaming for him, helping to create a new kind of American idol. And at the time he sang well, but not very differently from a lot of young performers.

But Sinatra changed. In his early years he used that incredible voice to simply present a song, not very different from his contemporaries. Watch old movies and all you hear are the singers presenting what was written on the song sheet by composers and lyricists, completely interchangeable. No extra meaning or shadings at all.

As he grew older, Sinatra grew out of all that. He added shadings and extra meanings. He be-

‘I’

On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler

came the ultimate jazz singer, so smooth and so big that he simply transcended the genre.

Compare his version of many songs to those of the original singers. In my car, I listened to his version of “The Way You Look Tonight” and marveled at how he took the simple version Fred Astaire sang in Swing Time and turned it into his own. Jerome Kern would recognize the melody, but I wonder if he could have imagined Sinatra’s version, one that works so well. I imagine he would have loved it.

We can hear all the heartache, perhaps we could even say the wisdom gained over an event-filled life, in his songs as he aged. The 1950s were a great time for him as he recorded a long succession of hits including “Love and Marriage,” “Come Fly With Me” and “I’ve Got You Under My Skin

My own favorite is “Strangers in the Night.”

Not only is the music great but that last “doobie doobie do” just demonstrates the old joke about how someone like Sinatra could sing the phonebook and make it fun.

He was also lucky in his choices. He had sung one tune called “New York, New York” (The Bronx is up and the Battery’s down) in the 1947 movie On The Town. Doing a concert in New York, he wanted other New York songs and used the other “New York, New York” as an opener. The audience went crazy, he recorded it in 1979, and just about every party ever since has an extra line dance.

Many of us remember a few of his more reflective songs. “It Was a Very Good Year” was a recollection of past good times. That it was not written for him (originally it was a Kingston Trio song that fizzled) does not matter. He brings it to life.

And, of course, there is “My Way.” Again, it was not really written for him. Does it really matter? Listening to him sing it, even ten years after his death, it seems to sum him up; it seems to be written for him.

Other music greats rushed to work with him. He used the best arrangers, worked with Duke Ellington and Count Basie. His album of duets, done when he was in his 70s, gave younger artists a chance to work with him, and he made all of them better.

Sinatra understood living. He was a star with hits in the 1930s and had hits 60 years later at the time of his death. He knew how to live. And ring-a-ding-ding.

Sometimes I Don’t Give My Better Half The Credit

I was hoping Mother’s Day would slip through my house without anyone noticing. I wanted this to happen because this would be the first Mother’s Day my wife Sharon would not be spending with her mother. My wife and her mother Bea were as close as a mother and daughter could be. Since my mother-in-law died last October, my wife has been doing a very good job with the situation. To her credit she has done much better than I thought she would (I know she is doing a better job than I could in her situation). But I thought the house of cards would come tumbling down on Mother’s Day.

In the weeks before Mother’s Day, I told my kids and grandkids to try their best not to discuss Mother’s Day in front of my wife. Much to my surprise, they were able to do this.

Wondering & Wandering

By Ernie Zimmerman

On the morning of Mother’s Day, I went for my usual 6 a.m. bike ride. I felt secure in doing this because my wife doesn’t open her eyes till at least 9:30 a.m. on Sundays. When I got back to my house at about 8:30 a.m., my wife was still sound asleep. That lasted only for another five minutes.

doorbell rang. It was my son Brian with his daughters Eliana and Leora. They were both wearing very large white chef’s hats. In their tiny hands were eggs, bagels, juice and a few more breakfast goodies.

When my wife greeted them at the door, they appeared to be disappointed. When I asked them if there was a problem, they both said yes, they went on to say, “Grandma is supposed to be in bed. We came here to make her breakfast in bed”

As Mother’s Day approached, I was getting very tense. My wife, on the other hand, was very calm and acting normal. It was starting to appear that I was more upset over my motherin-law’s death than my wife was. I was starting to wonder how this could be. I then recalled how calm she was when her father died. He died about four years ago on Father’s Day.

I tried my best to keep Mother’s Day low key. I told my mother I would not be taking her out this Mother’s Day. I told her I would give her a rain check she could cash in anytime she wants. After I explained why I was doing this, she told me it was a great idea. Much to my relief, she wasn’t at all offended.

The phone rang and my son Ronnie was on the other end. He was in Atlanta for the weekend and was calling to wish my wife a happy Mother’s Day. At this point I was very surprised to learn I had a son in Atlanta. When my wife got on the phone, I figured this is where she would lose it. But to my surprise she was all smiles and very happy.

This call was followed by calls from my daughter-in-law Ashley and her five kids. My wife was all smiles… that is, until she hung up the phone.

She demanded to know why her other son had not called her with Mother’s Day wishes. Before I could give her a logical answer, the

Upon hearing this my wife retreated to her bed, pulled the covers over her head and tried to go back to sleep. The girls headed off to the kitchen, where they proceeded to make their grandmother the best breakfast she ever had. They also left the biggest mess in the kitchen grandma ever had. I guess with all of the phone calls and the girls making breakfast, I really didn’t have to worry about my wife on Mother’s Day. My wife came through like the real champ she is.

The Silver Screen Cinema Café and Comedy Club in Wellington presented the “Elvis Experience” on Saturday, May 17. Elvis (a.k.a. Scott Ringersen of Delray Beach) performed two shows, including a patriotic tribute in honor of Armed Forces Day. He was joined by Neil Zirconia, “the ultimate faux Diamond” (a.k.a. Chuck Lapaglia). Ringersen will return Saturday, May 31. The Silver Screen Cinema Café and Comedy Club is located at 12795 W. Forest Hill Blvd. in the Wellington Plaza. For more info., call (561) 795-3001 or visit www.silverscreen cinemaandcomedyclub.com.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Royal Palm Beach resident and owner of A-1 Qualified Appliance Repairs Dion Ambrogio organized a benefit for Forgotten Soldiers Outreach (FSO) on Saturday, May 18 at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach. Ambrogio, a.k.a. Dion II, performed along with the Fabulons, Midnight Rodeo, Joey George and the Boathouse Blues Band. Through donations to FSO, care packages are sent to U.S. troops serving overseas. The items include toothpaste and other personal items, baby wipes, food, socks, cookies and letters of encouragement. For more info., call (561) 369-2933 or email info@forgottensoldiers.org.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Celebrating their seventh anniversary, Iris and Howie Zimmerman dance while “Elvis” croons.

June Coenen enjoys an ice cream sundae.

Rachel Smith with Scott Ringersen as “Elvis.”“Elvis” with Silver Screen owners Steve Bell and Liz Vanino.

Carol Ann Ward, June Michael and Elizabeth Gesacion receive teddy bears from the King.

Diane Kokinda, Pat Smith and Rachel Smith with “Elvis”

Army Sgt. James Roberts recalls receiving his FSO care package while emcee Tim Byrd of 105.5 FM looks on.

Tim Byrd, Dion Ambrogio, FSO Executive Director Lynelle Chauncey-Zelnar and Sgt. James Roberts.

The Boathouse Blues Band: Gary Carman, Wally Rogers, Bernie Rose, Willy Guardiola and Eddie Beard.

The Fabulons rock the oldies. Joey George performs an acoustic number.Midnight Rodeo sings one of their country tunes.

are

Junior camp for ages 2 to 5 years and Super camp for ages 5 to 12 years. Planet Kids is open daily from 6:15 a.m. to 6:15 p.m., Monday through Friday at five convenient locations. See our ad for locations and phone numbers.

• CASPEREY STABLES HORSE CAMP — Casperey Stables is a small, fun-filled day camp for children ages seven to 14. With four riding opportunities each day, arts & crafts and outdoor games, our campers find little time to be bored. Our low counselor/child ratio ensures your child will receive individual attention. There are camp sessions for spring and winter school breaks, and during the summer, each two-week session has a theme, such as Indian Days, Circus Days and Medieval Days. We have a weekly swim party and end each session with a horse show and family barbecue. Call soon — this small, quality program fills quickly! To learn more about our camp, located at 2330 D Road in Loxahatchee Groves, call us at (561) 792-4990 or visit www.caspereystables.com.

• RAVENWOOD RIDING ACADEMY — Ravenwood Riding Academy has been located in Wellington for 20 years. Proprietor and instructor Judie Jenner has been professionally involved with horses for over 30 years. Learn to ride at Camp Giddy-Up! Meet new friends and have fun all summer long learning about horses. The summer program consists of weekly sessions from June through August for children six years and up, with a focus on fun, and an emphasis on safety. Lessons daily, groups are limited to 10 to 12 campers per week and grouped by skill level. All riding equipment and safety stirrups are provided. The program features demonstrations with veterinarians, blacksmiths and equine dentists. Call (561) 793-4109 to register today. Hurry, sessions fill up quickly.

• VILLARI’S SUMMER CAMP — For the first time in 25 years, Villari’s of Wellington is pleased to announce a full-day, nine-week summer camp. After years of research and preparation, we have decided it is time to offer a camp tailored to developing the mental as well as physical skills of your child. Through stretching, strengthening and balancing the bodies and minds of our children, we open a world less intimidating, more interesting and less confusing to them. Let your child experience a summer full of fun, fitness and friends. Call (561) 792-1100 for more info.

• XTREME TAE KWON DO SUMMER CAMP — Join us again for a funfilled summer camp for children ages four to 14. We offer physical and mental fitness and ways to improve your child’s balance and coordination while learning self defense. We also enjoy arts and crafts, and field trips to movies and gymnastics. Come and experience the best summer camp in the west. Two sessions will be offered: Session I from June 9 to June 20 and Session II from July 7 to July 18. Register before the end of April and receive an Xtreme T-shirt. Space is limited; register today. In-

structor is child CPR and heartsaver AED certified. Located at 12799 W.Forest Hill Blvd. inside Ultima Fitness. Call (561) 795-2823 for more information.

• FUTURE STARS BASKETBALL CAMP Held in the Palm Beach Central High School gymnasium, Future Stars is a fun and instructional basketball camp for boys and girls ages six to 17 of all ability levels featuring basketball drills, competitions and games. Campers are grouped by age and ability. All campers will receive a camp T-shirt. Awards will be presented the last afternoon of camp for team winners, competition winners and special recognition. The instructional staff is comprised of high school coaches who are teachers. Lunch may be bought or brought. There will be three weekly session available running from June 16 through July 3. Hours are 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.Call (561) 4003397 for camp information and registration.

• ARMORY ART CENTER GET CREATIVE SUMMER ART CAMP — Jump Start for ages five to seven; Adventures in Art for ages eight to 11; and Studio Art Shops for teens (middle and high school students). An adventure in the visual arts for your young artist! Six sessions starting June 9. The center is located at 1700 Parker Ave., West Palm Beach. For more info., call (561) 832-1776 or visit www.armoryart.org.

• TUTORING CLUB OF WELLINGTON Tutoring Club of Wellington can make a difference! Tutoring Club helps students become more knowledgeable and successful in school. Our educational programs help students raise test scores, grades and attitudes toward education. We offer a well-rounded process that is proven to work well not only with students, but also with parents, teachers and the community. Helping students take a triumphant step in their educational future is our numberone goal. Summer camp registration is June 2 and June 12. For more information, call directors Gale Nelson and Jeff Santoloci at Tutoring Club of Wellington at (561) 784-4434.

• IBIS FARM — Now located in Little Ranches, Wellington Summer Camp at Ibis Farm starts July 7 for ages six and up. Instructors and owners Lauren Briggs, Monique Loehrer and Melody Shapiro have over 30 years in the industry and are on the “A” Circuit. It’s a great way for kids to get involved with animals and meet new friends! Daily riding, horsemanship, arts & crafts, games and a horse show every Friday afternoon. Camps run from Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bring lunch and plenty of drinks. Call (561) 616-7246 for more information.

• LA HACIENDA SHOW STABLES — Make this summer one to remember and join LaHacienda Show Stables for lots of fun riding, playing with horses, swimming and other activities that are part in its riding camp. The program is open to children ages six to 15 and runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Extended care is available. For more information, call (561) 422-8863 or visit www.lahacienda showstables.com.

• C SHARP’S SCHOOL OF ROCK — C Sharp will be jamin’ Monday through Thursday during the summer. Our two-week camp includes introduction to guitar, drums, piano and singing. Students will be exposed to the fundamentals and will collaborate, write and perform with other students. Camp runs June 9 through Aug. 15 for ages seven to 15, from 10 a.m. to 12 a.m. or 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Come and visit us for all your music needs at 13860 Wellington Trace, Suite 20 in the Courtyard Shops. For more info., call (561) 795-2585.

• KEVIN PERKINS GOLF ACADEMY — Kevin Perkins, PGA Master Professional, was the director of golf at the world-renowned Champions Gate Golf Resort in Orlando, international headquarters for the David Leadbetter Golf Academy. Perkins was the 92nd PGA Professional to achieve the elite “Master” PGA professional ranking among 22,000 PGA members. For more information, call Kevin at (561) 301-3783.

TOWN-CRIER SPORTS & RECREATION

Scrimmage Match Prepares Hawks For Game Against Park Vista

By Lisa Keeney Town-Crier Staff Report

The Seminole Ridge High School varsity and junior varsity football teams scrimmaged last Friday night in preparation for the Hawks’ spring football game at Park Vista. Instead of matching varsity against junior varsity, the coaches intermingled

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both squads into two relatively balanced teams and pitted Red against Silver, the school’s colors. Silver won 3413. The game gave players more time on the field and coaches an opportunity to watch from the backfield to better critique the players in action. The Hawks travel to Park Vista on Friday, May 23 at 7 p.m.

Panther Run Kickball Fifth Graders Defeat Discovery Key 4-0

By Lisa Keeney

Town-Crier Staff Report

Panther Run Elementary School intramural kickball team shut out visiting Discovery Key 4-0 last Wednesday afternoon. Panther Run and Discovery Key are the only two teams in the newly formed intramural kickball league, according to program founder Amie Souder, the kickball coach at Panther Run.

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Last Wednesday’s match-up was the third in the series of four games for the fifth-grade students. Panther Run hosted the first game, winning 5-1. Discovery Key hosted the second game, winning 1-0. If Discovery Key wins the fourth game, there will be a tie-breaking fifth game, hosted by the team scoring the most runs in the season. The fourth game will take place Wednesday, May 28 at 3 p.m. at Discovery Key.

Souder said she hopes to expand the program next year to include more elementary schools in the western communities.

Freshman Tyler Butler tackles freshman ball carrier Rickey Brown.

Sophomore Hayden Collier waits for the snap from Michael Schwartsberg.

Linemen listen to feedback from the coaches. SRHS Head Coach Matt Dickmann talks to junior William Jones.Freshman Thomas Fragle is tackled by a trio of defensive men.

Sophomore running back Aaron Arndt carries the ball.

Junior quarterback Taylor Wilhelm looks to pass.

Freshman kicker Max Nielson tries to score the extra point as freshman Ryan Bialczak holds.

Panther Run Kickball Coach Amie Souder pitches the ball. Panther Run’s Leah Heysler was forced to the fence to handle this long kick by Farrah Zamor.

Panther Run’s Jonathan Rosado makes the catch at second base for the out.

Rebecca Greenspan scores for Panther Run.Discovery Key’s Corey Hernandez kicks the ball.

Panther Run’s Jack Lohr falls backward over Discovery Key’s Ryan Creech, who was safe at third.

The Acreage Athletic League 7-8 Coach Pitch Astros defeated the Pirates XXXX XXXX to win the 2008 Acreage Bash Championship last Saturday at Acreage Community Park. (Above) The Pirates and the Astros display their trophies. (Left) Max Zimmerman makes a catch for the Astros.

Wellington Cougars Finish Season On Top

The Wellington Cougars All Star Cheer teams have ended their 2008 competition schedule as champions — national champions that is.

“We are so proud of all three teams,” said Christina Reickel, who coaches the Wellington Cougars along with Patti Greear. “Competition has been so close this year and a national championship is a huge accomplishment.”

The senior co-ed Level 3

team won the NCA competition held April 12 in Daytona Beach, while the Junior and Youth teams each took first place at the recent competition at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville.

“We couldn’t have imagined a better ending to a fabulous season,” Reickel said. “We are very excited to see the teams do even better in the upcoming season.”

All the teams practice two

times per week, all year round. Tryouts are held each year in the late spring. Teams are offered for boys and girls ages four to 18.

For additional information about the Wellington Cougar All Stars, or to learn about tryouts, visit the web site www. wellingtoncheeranddance. com.

If you missed your tryout, call Reickel at (561) 202-4856 for a private evaluation.

The Wellington Cougars All Star Cheer teams perform.

Send sports 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.

Plenty Planned At Binks Forest Golf Club

Binks Forest Golf Club in Wellington has announced that it will hold the following activities:

• Memorial Day Flag Tournament — Binks Forest Golf Club will hold its Memorial Day Flag Tournament on Monday, May 26. Each player will be given a flag to plant on his/her final shot. The final shot will be determined by the player’s score plus full handicap. For instance, a 10-handicap golfer will plant his flag on the 82nd shot. The flag that travels the farthest determines the winner. The entree fee is $10. Set tee times in the pro shop.

• Par 3 Kids Golf Jamboree — Celebrate the end of the school year with your children Sunday, June 1 from 3 to 6 p.m. at Binks Forest Golf Club. A special four-hole, par-3 golf course has been constructed for golfers of any ability. Clubs will be provided to participants who do not have their own. After the tournament, enjoy a barbecue dinner with hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken, salads, dessert and soft drinks. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Binks Forest Elementary School PTA. Sign up in the pro shop or call for reservations. The cost is $19.95 per adult and $10.95 per

child, including sales tax. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

• Free Wedge on Mondays in June — Beginning on Monday, June 2 and running through the end of the month, golfers who book a round of golf on Mondays at the regular rate of $45 will receive a free sand wedge. Brands and lofts will vary. This program is not available for afternoon or twilight rounds, discounted or league play. Coupons must be presented in the pro shop in order to receive a wedge.

• Summer Golf Camp

Sign up your children for summer golf camp at Binks Forest Golf Club. The camp is staffed by Class A PGA golf professionals. Clubs are provided for campers who do not have their own. There are five separate camps this summer. Each session is independent of the other sessions and takes place from 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday each day. The cost for each session is $150 per child. Register with the Wellington Parks & Recreation Department at (561) 791-4005. Session 1 is June 16-20, Session 2 is June 23-27, Session 3 is July 7-11, Session 4 is July 14-18 and Session 5 is July 21-25.

• Binks Forest Summer Player’s Card — This summer, Binks Forest Golf Club will be selling a limited number of Summer Player’s

Fred Lippner Memorial Tournament May 22-25

The American Legion Baseball 17 & Under Post 258 team will host the Second Annual Fred Lippner Memorial Tournament May 22-25. All games will be played at one of two locations in the Village of Wellington: Wellington High School (2101 Greenview Shores Blvd.) or Village Park (11700 Pierson Road). This is a six-team tournament; each team is guaranteed four games, three seed games and a single-elimination tournament to follow. Trophies will be

awarded to the first-place team, the second-place team and the MVP of the championship game. The following teams are entered: Wellington Post 258, Boynton Beach Post 164, Davie Post 308, Delray Post 188, Seminole Ridge Post 367 and Fort Pierce Post 358. Opening ceremonies will be held Saturday, May 24 at 3 p.m. at Wellington High School. All baseball players and coaches will be included during the ceremonies. Four distinguished war veterans will

be honored: former Wellington mayor Tom Wenham, Jack Eassa, Robert Clemonts and James Johnson. The ceremony will include the American Legion Motorcycle Riders Post 162, Adjutant Jim Johnson playing “Taps” on the bugle and Kaitlyn Riebe singing the National Anthem. American Legion is the oldest organized youth baseball program in the United States. For more information, call Tournament Director Lorrie Miller at (561) 795-6744.

Wellington U-16 Boys Win Soccer Championship

The Wellington Wave U-16 boys soccer team won the Florida Youth Soccer Association State Cup Championship last weekend in Pensacola. Last year the team entered the competition as underdogs and were pleased with every new success. This year, as defending champions, every team was gunning for the Wave, and they had to fight for every win. The Wave won a hard-fought double overtime game against Florida Soccer Alliance last Saturday, winning 1-0. In the championship game the following day, the U-16 boys defeated the Jacksonville Soccer

5-2 to take home the championship. Coached by Patrick Zoete, the team accomplished their primary goal of repeating as state champs and look forward to proudly representing Florida in the Southern Regionals scheduled for June 19-25 in Raleigh, N.C.

COMMUNIT Y CALENDAR

Saturday, May 24

• Palms West Alliance Church will present a Rock Fest featuring the Christian rock group Fireflight on Saturday, May 24. Free food and fun begins at 5 p.m. with the concert at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $5. The church is located at 16401 Southern Blvd. in Loxahatchee Groves. For info., call (561) 333-5352 or visit www. palmswest.org.

• A Gun Show will be held at the South Florida Fairgrounds (9067 Southern Blvd.) on Saturday and Sunday, May 24 and 25 featuring a wide collection of guns, ammo, knives, hunting supplies and accessories. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. For more info., call (561) 793-0333.

Monday, May 26

• The Village of Wellington will hold its annual Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday, May 26. The day will begin with a parade at 8:45 a.m. starting at the Wellington Community Center (12165 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) and ending at the Wellington Veterans’ Memorial located at the corner of Forest Hill and South Shore boulevards. The Memorial Day ceremony will begin at 9 a.m. If you would like to have a veteran’s name and service branch listed in the program and announced directly following the ceremony and listed on Channel 18, call (561) 791-4773 during normal business hours or e-mail dhetherington@ ci.wellington.fl.us.

• The Village of Royal Palm Beach invites the public to join its Memorial Day Observance on Monday, May 26. The event begins at 9:30 a.m. at Veterans Park, located at the corner of Sparrow Drive and Royal Palm Beach Blvd. The observance will be led by members of the American Legion Post #367 Honor Guard, ladies of the American Legion Auxiliary #367, Boy Scout Troop 111, Brownie Troop 515, and local dignitaries. Refreshments will be prepared by Wild Orchids Café and served by Young at Heart Club volunteers following the rifle salute. For more info., call (561) 790-5149.

• Forgotten Soldiers Outreach and Palm Beach Memorial Park invite the public to attend the third annual Memorial Day service “A Day to Remember,” honoring veterans past and present on Monday, May 26. The service will take place from 11:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. Palm Beach Memorial Park is located at 3691 Seacrest Blvd. in Lantana. For more info., visit www.forgotten soldiers.org or call (561) 3692933.

Tuesday, May 27

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host a Bookmaking Program on Tuesday, May 27 at 3:30 p.m. Children ages nine to 12 will learn how to make a few simple books for themselves or to give to friends and family. To pre-register, call (561) 7906070.

Wednesday, May 28

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host a Poetry Discussion Group on Wednesday, May 28 at 6:30 p.m. Engage in a provocative discussion of several published poems written by various poets. Pick up copies at the information desk. To preregister, call (561) 790-6070. Thursday, May 29

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will present “Everything You Should Know About Hospice But Were Afraid to Ask” on Thursday, May 29 at 3 p.m. Discover how Hospice can help with patient care for loved ones. To pre-register, call (561) 790-6030.

Friday, May 30

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “It’s Raining, It’s Pouring” on Friday, May 30 at 2:45 p.m. Children ages five through eight can learn more about rain and hear about a spectacular Rainy Day by Patricia Laskin. To pre-register, call (561) 790-6070.

• The “Distinguished Citizens of the Year” dinner will take place on Friday, May 30 at the Players Club restaurant in Wellington. The honorary dinner will be held in recognition of the community service of former Wellington mayor Tom Wenham and his wife Regis. The two were named 2008 Distinguished Citizens of the Year by the Gulf Stream Council of the Boy Scouts of America. The evening will begin with cocktails at 7 p.m. and dinner at 8 p.m. Individual tickets cost $100 with a limited number of sponsorship tables for 10 available for $1,300 and tables of 12 available for

$1,500. For more info., call the BSA office at (561) 694-8585, ext. 221.

Saturday, May 31

• The Village of Wellington invites the community to join in the dedication of its newest Wetlands Park on Saturday, May 31 at 9 a.m. at the wetlands park entrance located at the southwest corner of Village Park (11700 Pierson Road). As part of the ribbon-cutting ceremony, there are plans for a bird release and a boardwalk tour highlighting the park’s design and habitat. For more info., call Dwayne Hetherington at (561) 791-4773.

Sunday, June 1

• The Royal Palm Beach High School Wildcat football team is holding its Inaugural Golf Tournament on Sunday, June 1 at the Links at Madison Green (2001 Crestwood Blvd. North in Royal Palm Beach). The tournament will have a 1 p.m. shotgun start with registration and auction bids beginning at noon. The mission of the Wildcat football program is to educate, graduate and develop a lifelong commitment to an atmosphere of cordiality and purpose on and off the field. For more info., contact Cheryl Seitler (561) 723-8298 or cseitler15@bellsouth.net.

Monday, June 2

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will hold VolunTeen Orientation on Monday, June 2 at 6:30 p.m. This is the last chance for interested teens ages 12 through 18 to attend in preparation for summer volunteer hours. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

Wednesday, June 4

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Health Information on the Internet” on Wednesday, June 4 at 2 p.m. Rachel Mick from the Community Health Information Service will guide adult attendees through online resources so they can find quality medical information that can be trusted. To pre-register, call (561) 790-6070.

• The Palms West Chamber of Commerce will host the 12th Annual Taste of the West & Chocolate Lovers Festival at the South Florida Fairgrounds (9067 Southern Blvd.) in expo buildings 6 and 10 from 4:30 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, June 4. Enjoy food from great restaurants, musical entertainment, refreshments and a business expo. Call (561) 790-6200 for info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will hold its Book Discussion Series for adults on Wednesday, June 4 at 6:30 p.m. Sara Harris will lead a discussion of Family Pictures by Sue Miller. Sign up and check out a copy of the book. Call (561) 7906070 for more info.

Thursday, June 5

• Do you enjoy writing poems, short stories or memoirs? The Royal Palm Beach Writing Club meets at 10 a.m. on first and third Thursdays at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way). For more info., call Margie Bonner at (561) 712-4905.

• The Women’s Chamber Foundation will hold its annual scholarship award luncheon on Thursday, June 5 at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach. Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. The guest speaker will be Kay Carnes, head of St. Mark’s Episcopal School. Register online at www.womenschamber foundation.org or call (561) 684-4523.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host a Teen Advisory Group meeting for ages 12 through 17 on Thursday, June 5 at 6:30 p.m. Enjoy snacks, conversation and good ideas. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. Friday, June 6

• The West Palm Beach Antique & Collectibles Show will return to the South Florida Fairgrounds (9067 Southern Blvd.) Friday through Sunday, June 68. Admission is $11 for a multiday ticket; single-day tickets cost $6.50 for adults and $4.50 for seniors. Children under 12 will be admitted free. For info., call (561) 793-0333.

• The “Down the Street” Bead Show will be held Friday through Sunday, June 6-8 at the South Florida Fairgrounds in Building 1. Hours are noon to 6 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $5 and free for children 12 and under. For more info., call (561) 793-0333. Send calendar items to: The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414. FAX: (561) 7936090. E-mail: news@gotown crier.com.

Authentic Italian Cuisine At Buon Appetito In Royal Palm Beach

By Leonard Wechsler Town-Crier Staff Report

Buon Appetito New York Style Pizza has been serving Italian food in Royal Palm Beach’s Crossroads Shopping Center for four months.

“We’re becoming Royal Palm Beach’s hometown pizza joint,” manager Glenn Serrano said. “We’re getting a lot of business from recommendations. People come in, try our pizza and our other meals, and come back. Even better, they tell their friends.”

Serrano said Buon Appetito is operated by the same owners as New York Style Pizza, in business for 28 years at Lake Worth and Jog roads.

“People who used to go there but lived in Royal Palm Beach come up to us now and tell us they are so glad they can get the same kind of food close by,” he said. “Now they have that kind of quality in their neighborhood.”

Buon Appetito has pizza and other Italian specialties for dining in, delivery and takeout, offering a special of two slices and a soda for $4.95. Serrano said the restaurant’s New York roots contribute to the quality of its food.

“This is authentic New York,” he said. “Our pizza maker is from New York and learned the trade there.”

Serrano said his premium ingredients also deserve much credit. “Everything is made fresh here,” he said. “We make our own dough, our garlic rolls. We only use the best. For example, we only use Grande mozzarella cheese. That’s the highest quality. It’s more expensive,

but the quality shows us in the taste.”

Anything a customer is likely to put on a pizza is available, Serrano said. “We have all the regular toppings, but we also have gourmet toppings like artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, eggplant, gorgonzola, ricotta, feta and prosciutto,” he said.

But Serrano urged restraint in the topping selection, so that the flavor of each comes out. “We recommend using no more than four or five of them,” he said. “At a certain point, too many different tastes blend together and what you taste is definitely muted.”

Buon Appetito also serves fried calamari, mozzarella sticks, chicken wings, curly fries, chicken fingers and a homemade soup. “We usually also have pasta fagiole around as well,” Serrano said.

The restaurant has a variety of regular dishes such as pasta favorites including linguini, penne or spaghetti with a choice of sauces such as marinara or garlic and oil. The restaurant also serves ravioli, manicotti, lasagna, baked ziti and stuffed shells as well as major entrées like chicken, veal or eggplant parmigiana.

“We’re adding more items from the Lake Worth restaurant menu all the time,” Serrano said. “But we’ve been using our time here to really find out what the people in Royal Palm Beach want.”

Serrano said he has created a database by surveying customers on their Buon Appetito experience. “We want to learn

more about our customers,” he said. “That way we can serve them better.”

Serrano said the owners are pleased with their new location’s progress and are planning a Jupiter location. “We get great compliments from our customers,” he said. “A lot of them come back, and even more also ask us to deliver right to their homes. We’re growing quickly. Even though there are other places that make pizza around, they know this is where you go if you want really good pizza.”

Buon Appetito New York Style Pizza is located at 1156 Royal Palm Beach Blvd. in the Crossroads Shopping Center and is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. For more info., or to place an order, call (561) 7934904 or (561) 793-4905.

Women’s Chamber Foundation Annual Scholarship Luncheon

The annual scholarship award luncheon hosted by the Women’s Chamber Foundation will take place June 5 at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach. Registration for the luncheon will begin at 11:30 a.m.

The guest speaker for the event is Kay Carnes, who is currently the head of St. Mark’s Episcopal School. Carnes, a recipient of the Florida Department of Education’s Outstanding High School Principal Award in 1998, has a remarkable background in leading the development of college preparatory academic programs.

Terri Parker, an award-winning investigative reporter from WPBF Channel 25, will serve as master of ceremonies.

The foundation is grateful those who, through their generous contributions, have supported its mission to promote opportunities for professional growth and development to deserving women who want to optimize their lives through higher education.

A total of 11 scholarships will be awarded this year. Two $1,500 scholarship awards will be given through matching donations from the Palm Beach Community College Foundation, one $1,000 award through

matching donations from Florida Atlantic University and one award will be given through a $1,000 designated back-toschool donation from the Women’s Chamber Foundation. The additional seven awards will be given in the amount of $1,000 from the WCF Scholarship Fund.

A drawing will also take place during the luncheon from names entered by those who made a special donation to the scholarship fund in exchange for an opportunity to win a pastel portrait created by local artist Barbara Udelson. Valued at $2,100, the portrait is entitled A Study of Olga

Sponsorships and registration for this event can be made online at www.womenschamber foundation.org or by calling (561) 684-4523.

depicting the artist’s interpretation of the 19th-century grand duchess and daughter of Czar Nicholas I and Princess Charlotte of Prussia. The planning committee for the event include chair Helena Edie-Dobbs, Margaret Bagley, Barbara Fretwell, Judy Jacobs, Sandra Kaplan, Julie Kelly, Margo Kohlhoff, Linda Long, Huntley Miller, Victoria Reese, Jennifer Rodriguez, Wendy Vaniglia and Barbara Benson Wymer.

New York Style Pizza — Buon Appetito’s Jennifer Sangprasert and Candido Herrera at the Royal Palm Beach location.

Costco Wholesale Club in Royal Palm Beach has been raising money for the Children’s Miracle Network as part of the company’s campaign to benefit the organization. All month long, Costco customers can donate through their purchase of bottled water, yogurt toppings and name tags (all for $1), as well as by depositing cash into a donation container. An event will be held Saturday, May 24 featuring face painting, a bounce house and other children’s activities. Discounted coupon books for neighboring businesses will be on sale. Costco is located at 11001 Southern Blvd. For more info., call (561) 803-8830.

WRMC Auxiliary/Medical Staff Awards Scholarships To High School Graduates

The Friends of Wellington Regional Medical Center Auxiliary, along with the medical staff of the hospital, recently presented $24,000 in college scholarships to 12 local high school seniors pursuing careers in the healthcare field.

Each of the students received a $2,000 Camilla Combs Memorial Scholarship Award to be used toward their college education.

This year, the Auxiliary Scholarship Committee interviewed dozens of deserving high school students, with understanding of the special talents and qualifications required of

individuals entering the medical field. Criteria for scholarship selection included academic achievement, extracurricular activities, community service, financial need, character, maturity, motivation and goals.

“It has been a meaningful experience for the scholarship committee, auxiliary and medical staff to recognize these outstanding young scholars who will go on to make significant contributions to the healthcare field in the future,” Scholarship Chairwoman Bea Fries said.

The 2008 winners are as follows: Shelly Atine, Lake Worth

High School; Jose Garcia, Wellington High School; Gizem Kahveci, Forest Hill High School; Ariel Le, Palm Beach Central High School; Liceth Munoz, Lake Worth High School; Thomas Pack, Wellington High School; Brianna Pancione, Park Vista High School; Mariah Prince, Lake Worth High School; Sarah Rowlinson, Wellington High School; Deanna Shade, Trinity Christian Academy; James Thomas, Palm Beach Central High School; and Vanessa Valdivia, Lake Worth High School. The scholarships were presented at an ice cream social on

May 15 at the Wellington Regional Medical Center café. Family members of the students, auxiliary members and hospital administrators were on hand to congratulate the students.

“I am proud of the work of the hospital’s auxiliary for their fundraising efforts throughout the year that made these scholarships possible,” CEO Kevin DiLallo said. “I also want to express my appreciation to Dr. Jeffrey Bishop, chief medical director, and our medical staff for their support and generosity which allowed several additional students to receive scholarships.”

The Michelin Man with Costco Tire Department workers Maranciano Suriel, Luis Perez and Robert Staff.

Sisters Karie and Katie Abel of Loxahatchee enjoy some frozen yogurt with Oreo sprinkles.

Sharon Looke of Royal Palm Beach donates a dollar.

Rick Burton of Wellington buys water at $1 per bottle from Edgar Gomez at Costco’s gas station.

The Michelin Man gives Connor Simmons of Royal Palm Beach a high-five while mom Kathy looks on.

Awarding Scholars — (L-R) Scholarship Committee Chairwoman Bea Fries, WRMC CEO Kevin DiLallo, Vanessa Valdivia, Deanna Shade, Mariah Prince, Sarah Rowlinson, James Thomas, Shelly Atine, Thomas Pack, Brianna Pancione, Dr. Jeffrey Bishop, and scholarship committee members Dolly Friedman, Marlene Berk and Chris Fries.

Fresh Air Salon & Spa Keeps The Chemicals At A Minimum

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

There’s no way around the chemicals used in beauty salons, but the Fresh Air Salon & Spa in Greenacres minimizes customers’ exposure to them.

“This industry is centered around chemicals,” said Paul Hill, who owns Fresh Air Salon along with his wife Jie. “There’s no getting away from it. I just don’t see why a customer should come to be pampered and be accosted by all the toxins in the air.”

The salon, which opened seven months ago, utilizes nine industrial-size air cleaners that use zeolite and activated charcoal filters, HEPA filters and ultraviolet light to cleanse the air of pollutants such as dust, pollen and microbes, Hill said.

“My wife used to work in nail salons. Her face and hands would be swollen and she’d say, ‘what’s going on?’” Hill recalled. “She used to tell me about women having miscarriages. I used to go and visit her in her previous salon, and within a hundred feet I could smell the acetone... The customers come in and they smell that for an hour. And we read on the Internet that it’s harmful. If you are trying to conceive or you’re with child or have allergies, you’re elderly, it’s not a good environment.”

Hill said he researched ways to filter the toxins and bacteria associated with salons, and decided the clean air approach would set his establishment apart from the rest. “That was the idea for the name and how to set ourselves apart from other salons,” he said.

Hill pledges the air will be clean even during the use of noxious acrylic polymers used for bonding nails and the Brazilian keratin hair-straightening treatment formula, which contains formaldehyde. “The Brazilian straightening uses formaldehyde; there’s no way around it,” he said. Although the solution used by the spa contains formaldehyde at a level approved by the FDA, filters at the Fresh Air Salon remove any airborne formaldehyde, he said. The spa goes farther than the air to minimize the chances of contamination. It has two pedi-

cure chairs, one with the conventional motor to keep warm water swirling, which is sanitized in accordance with state regulations. The other chair is equipped with a tub with no recirculating motor, in which liners are placed to assure clients concerned about bacteria or fungus a footbath guaranteed not to have been shared with anyone else.

“This is an ultra-safe way to get a pedicure,” Hill said, noting that all manicure and pedicure tools come in sterile packages.

The salon’s line of services includes wrinkle correction, deepcleansing facials, age-smart facials, microdermabrasion, hair coloring, corrective color, hair design, ethnic hair treatments, perms, men’s cuts, hair extensions, braiding, hair straightening and eyelash extensions.

The full-service salon is equipped with an aesthetician room where clients can get facials and other skin treatment that includes galvanic high-frequency skin cleansing, Hill said.

Qualified physicians and technicians are also on hand for services including spider vein and age spot removal. For services requiring a physician, Dr. Ira Fine of Boynton Beach is available to provide treatment including Botox and other der-

mal fillers. Fine’s nurse, Diane Shephard, is licensed to offer a variety of services including laser hair removal, Hill noted.

Massages are also available by a licensed massage therapist, and complimentary water, coffee, iced coffee, wine and beer are available. The salon uses and sells products by Paul Mitchell, Dermalogica, Atache, Nairobi, Design Essential, Rejuvenol, OPI and Essie.

“We are full service,” Hill said. “We offer a huge array of services.”

Located at 6340 Forest Hill Blvd. in the Trafalgar Square shopping center in Greenacres, Hill said the salon is a convenient drive from Wellington, West Palm Beach or Lake Worth and well worth the trip.

“We’re trying to offer a onestop shop for all beauty services,” he said. “We give Palm Beach services at Greenacres prices. That way, we’re recession-proof. Clients are just a short drive from cost-efficient services.”

The salon is open seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday; and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, call (561) 721-0333 or visit www.freshair salonandspa.com.

Paul Hill with customer Alli LaRose.

A Healthy Enviroment — Fresh Air Salon & Spa co-owner Paul Hill shows off the aesthetician room (above) and the pedicure tub (below), which utilizes a sanitary liner. PHOTOS BY RON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER

KELLER WILLIAMS EVENT BENEFITS THE HUTTONS

Calder Joins Alan Gerwig & Associates

Dawn Calder recently joined Alan Gerwig & Associates in Wellington as the company’s business manager/controller. Calder handles the engineering firm’s financial management and daily operations, including human resources.

and supervised staff of more than 50. After leaving the bank in 2006, she has consulted for business clients in matters of financial forecasting, budget formulation and human resource management.

time and expertise to a Latin American ministry that provides food, education and medical care to more than 500 needy children.

SRHS Students Awarded National City Scholarships

National City recently an-

nounced the winners of the 2008 Banking on Your Future scholarship, which was designed to recognize the well-rounded students who achieve good grades, participate in competitive sports and volunteer in the community. The program was offered to more than 100 deserving high school seniors in more than 52 schools throughout Florida, with a total of $52,000 in scholarships available. Two seniors from each of the participating schools who exemplified the criteria received the $500 scholarship.

The 2008 Banking on Your Future scholarship recipients in Palm Beach County are Christopher Viau and Brianna Lauer of Seminole Ridge High School, Jordon Johnson and Courtney Williams of Atlantic High School, and Jamar Riley and Connie Mantano of Santaluces High School.

“With almost 100 retail branches throughout Florida, we’re invested in the area and believe our efforts can make a difference,” said Kevin Sloan, retail market executive of National City’s Southeast Florida region. “This program provided National City an opportunity

to connect with our community and, more importantly, a chance to invest in our collective future.”

For the 2007-08 academic year, eligible students must have completed 100 hours of nonpaid community volunteer work during the past two years, maintained a 3.0 GPA and participated in a competitive team sport for two consecutive years. The applications were reviewed and determined by the assistant principal, athletic director and guidance counselor from each school.

As part of the scholarship program, National City donated the Classroom Edition of the Wall Street Journal to each participating school. The edition is accompanied by a quiz and teaching plan, and is intended to advance financial literacy within the school curriculum.

National City Corporation, headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, is one of the nation’s largest financial holding companies. Its core businesses include commercial and retail banking, mortgage financing and servicing, consumer finance and asset management. For more information about National City, visit the company’s web site at www.nationalcity.com.

Calder is a veteran of the banking industry having worked in various banking positions in Virginia and Florida for more than 20 years. In 1998, she assisted with the organization of a new bank, known today as Grand Bank & Trust of Florida, as part of the executive management team. She performed much of the bank’s start-up work, including raising capital, assisted with construction supervision, wrote bank policies and procedures, hired and trained staff, and prepared strategies and budgets for loan department and branch operations.

Calder served as the bank’s human resources director for its first five years of operation, while performing duties as the senior lending officer and supervisor of branch operations. As the bank grew from $8 million to $250 million in assets over that time, Calder settled into the role of senior lending advisor

Chaga International, a Las Vegas-based direct sales company, recently announced its launch to the global anti-aging and wellness marketplace after seeing the powerful receptivity to its remarkable flagship product — Wildcrafted Siberian Chaga extract. Chaga’s local independent representative is Christy Davis of Royal Palm Beach.

For the past year, the company has been in test operations as founders Steve Gould and Michael Tidd worked to set up the company’s infrastructure including fulfillment, software support and management team to facilitate its global marketing campaign.

“I’m honored to be in a position to take this special product that is changing lives to the global community,” said Tidd, who also is Chaga’s chief operating officer and chairman. “The market has awakened to

Calder attended Virginia Tech on a softball scholarship and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business finance and a minor in accounting. She is an honors graduate of the Stonier Graduate School of Banking and is pursuing an MBA from Palm Beach Atlantic University. Calder has been a state certified general appraiser since 1993. She served on the board of directors of the Florida Bankers Association. Currently, Calder serves as a volunteer with several non-profit agencies researching and preparing grant proposals. A resident of Tequesta, she has coached volleyball, softball and soccer teams for the Jupiter-Tequesta Athletic Association for many years.

Priolo, the company’s senior project manager, serves as the South Florida representative for Engineering Ministries International (EMI), a not-for-profit Christian organization in Colorado Springs, Colo., which provides volunteer design services that benefit needy people in developing countries.

“My passion over the past several years has been to rally business professionals to use their expertise in developing nations through short-term missions,” said Priolo, who has been on EMI trips to Haiti, Honduras, Ghana, Indonesia and Costa Rica.

Calder Keller Williams Realty Wellington hosted a garage sale on Saturday, May 17 to benefit the Hutton family in The Acreage. The sale included furniture, shoes, belts, purses, costume jewelry and more, and raised almost $1,100. Also helping with the benefit were Culligan, Two Men and a Truck, and Security Self Storage. Keller Williams Realty Wellington is located at 12008 South Shore Blvd. For more info., call (561) 753-2348. Pictured above are Keller Williams employees with Amy Hutton.

In other company news, civil engineer Bob Priolo recently embarked on a trip to Guatemala… but not on vacation. He and five other engineering design professionals left West Palm Beach May 10 to volunteer their

The group traveled to San Lucas Toliman, Guatemala, which is next to scenic Lake Atitlan, west of Guatemala City.

They will work with Promised Land Ministries on developing a master design plan for the ministries’ newly acquired six-acre site in addition to completing a school design. Promised Land Ministries sponsors more than 500 children who are fed, go to school and receive medical care at the complex. The expansion will double the school’s capacity to serve local children. Additional information on Engineering Ministries International is available at www.emiusa.org. Alan Gerwig & Associates is an engineering firm with an established reputation working with industrial, municipal, higher education and commercial clients. Located in Wellington, the firm is celebrating its tenth anniversary in 2008. For more information, call (561) 792-9000 or visit www. aga-engineering.com.

Launches World Business Operations

understand the need and demand for disease prevention through superior anti-aging and wellness products, and we have the best there is. I know that our mission will touch hundreds of thousands of people in the years to come.”

The company has been receiving many stories from its growing customer base about their truly remarkable results. The company does not make any direct health claims, but rather relies on a well-documented history of use of the raw ingredient of its new proprietary extract, going back well over 5,000 years.

Chaga has a unique ability to balance the body’s life energy, and in the company’s special formulation there are 215 lifegiving phytonutrients.

There are also many scientific studies and support from the world scientific community that uphold many of the amazing

stories that the company is receiving, as well as validate the use of Chaga as a folk medicine dating back to the end of the Stone Age.

“Our mission is one of true passion, inspiration and conviction,” said Gould, the company’s president and CEO. “We have the premier supplement that enhances lives and restores optimal health — how can any compassionate human being not get excited about that? The potential of what we have here is truly amazing. Everyone wants a better quality of life — and that is our mission.”

The founders of Chaga International have both been very successful and are considered authorities in their respective areas of expertise. They also embrace the concept of giving back to the world around us and leading a life of compassion, balance and respect toward other people. In

that vein, the company is establishing a foundation called the Giving Tree to support social consciousness and charitable contribution.

“The Giving Tree is an idea I’ve had for many years,” Gould said. “So many people feel like they can’t change the world — so apathy sets in. Through the Giving Tree, all of our members — each and every one of them — can be part of something special, something bigger than ourselves, where together we can make a difference through compassion and contribution.”

Chaga International is a company put together with painstaking preparation, precision planning and patience, on a foundation of integrity and hope for a better quality of life. For more information about Chaga International, call Davis at (561) 685-4183 or visit her page on the company’s web site at www.mychaga.com/christy.

Dawn

Chaga International

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