Town-Crier Newspaper November 25, 2011

DRUG CZAR DAVE ARONBERG VISITS LGLA SEE STORY, PAGE 3

COUNTY SETS 2012 LEGISLATIVE GOALS SEE STORY, PAGE 7

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

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INSIDE Bigger Sign For New Toys ‘R’ Us/Babies ‘R’ Us Store In Royal Palm

Volume 32, Number 47 November 25 - December 1, 2011

ROYAL PALM BEACH TURKEY DRIVE

The Royal Palm Beach Village Council approved a variance last week allowing a larger sign than code allows for a combined Toys “R” Us/Babies “R” Us store to be built on the east side of State Road 7 about a mile south of Southern Blvd.

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Handmade Crafts And More At Royal Palm’s Fall Fantasy Craft Show

Royal Palm Beach hosted its 10th annual Fall Fantasy Craft Show on Saturday, Nov. 19 at Veterans Park. Vendors were on hand offering a variety of handmade items, including artwor k, je welry, accessories, clothes and more. Page 9

St. Therese Catholic Church Fall Festival

St. Therese de Lisieux Catholic Church held its Fall Festival & Carnival Nov. 17-20 at the church grounds in Wellington.

There were rides, music, food for sale and games, as well as a talent show and contests for pie eating, hot dog eating, cupcake eating and more. Page 11

Weekend Of Riding, Roping And Racing

The second annual West Palm Beach South Florida PCA Rodeo was held Nov. 18-20 at the South Florida Fairgrounds.

Guests enjoyed watching roping, barrel racing, bull riding and more. Page 13

OPINION Make An Effort To Shop Local For The Holidays

From the retail-heavy State Road 7 corridor in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach to the numerous plazas and shopping centers located throughout the area, the western communities have a lot to offer holiday shoppers. Don’t limit your shopping to just mall stores and large chains. Make an effort to patronize locally owned businesses this holiday season.

Page 4 DEPARTMENT INDEX NEWS ............................. 3 - 13 OPINION ................................ 4 CRIME NEWS ........................ 6 NEWS BRIEFS .......................8 SCHOOLS .....................14 - 15 PEOPLE........................ 16 - 17 COLUMNS .................... 23 - 25 BUSINESS ...................27 - 29 ENTERTAINMENT ................30 SPORTS .......................35 - 37 CALENDAR...................38 - 39 CLASSIFIEDS ...............40 - 44 Visit Us On The Web At WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

Serving Palms West Since 1980

Food Drive Brings Holiday Joy To 75 Wellington Families

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report More than 75 needy families had a bright and bountiful Thanksgiving because of the efforts of local residents and Wellington’s Hometown Holiday Food Drive.

Earlier this month, Wellington put out a call for residents to donate the makings of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner in order to help residents in need celebrate the holiday, and Wellington put together meals to distribute.

WRMF 97.9 FM teamed up with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office District 9 substation in Royal Palm Beach and Blue Bell Ice Cream for a local turkey drive Friday, Nov. 18 at Publix in the Crossroads shopping center. Shown here are PBSO Deputy Jeff Medine, school crossing guards Dana Price and Terry Haselbauer, Capt. Paul Miles, Diane Smith, Lt. Marcos Martinez and Sgt. Mack Coleman. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 5 PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/T OWN-CRIER

Kick Off Holiday Season At Wellington WinterFest Dec. 2

By Jessica Gregoire Town-Crier Staff Report Kick off the holiday season in style at the second annual Wellington WinterFest, taking place at the Wellington Amphitheater on Friday, Dec. 2 from 6 to 9 p.m.

The evening is being produced by the Wellington Chamber of Commerce with help from the International Polo Club Palm Beach and the Village of Wellington.

IPC President of Club Operations John Wash will serve as master of ceremonies for an evening highlighted by Wellington’s official tree lighting and an appearance from musician and reality TV star Vanilla Ice. Vanilla Ice, star of DIY Network’s Emmy-nominated show The Vanilla Ice Project, will perform as part of the live entertainment for the night, as he did last year.

“I’m looking forward to seeing all the smiles this year at WinterFest,” said Vanilla Ice, a Welling-

ton resident. “It’s going to be a magical event with kids, family and friends.”

Wash believes the event is a great way to bring together all members of the community for a family fun-filled evening.

“The event brings together family, and we consider Wellington as part of our family,” he said. “The International Polo Club Palm Beach is an integral part of the community, which we enjoy.”

Last year’s WinterFest was one of the chamber’s most successful events ever, with close to 5,000 people filling the amphitheater.

“We are hoping to see around 5,000 people because that’s what we had last year, and we would like to see that again this year,” Wellington Chamber Executive Director Michela Perillo-Green said.

WPTV NewsChannel 5 anchor Roxanne Stein and Wellington Mayor Darell Bowen will open this year’s event. As he did last

year, Bowen will also read ’Twas the Night before Christmas to children.

“I enjoy reading to the children, and I do it all the time,” Bowen said. “It’s one of the most enjoyable things mayors get to do. That tradition carries over from my own children, who are grown now.

I would read to them on Christmas.”

Santa Claus will also be present and available for pictures. “It gets the community involved in the holiday spirit and in the giving spirit,” Bowen said.

There will be a change to the tree-lighting ceremony this year, with the tree being placed in a more visible location. “It’s still going to be on Forest Hill, but it’s going to be more prominent, so that people can see it a little better when it’s lit,” Perillo-Green said.

Wellington Chamber President Michael Stone said the tree lighting will also include entertainSee WINTERFEST, page 18

Farm City Luncheon Tackles Topic Of Immigration Reform

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Immigration and how to supply enough legal workers to harvest crops was the burning topic at the fifth annual Farm City Luncheon held Nov. 16 at the South Florida Fairgrounds’ Sundy House.

The luncheon, attended by 140 people, was organized by the Palms West Chamber of Commerce and featured a panel discussion on “Immigration and the Florida Economy.”

The panel discussion was led by moderator David Goodlett, vice president of community relations for the Sugar Cane Growers Cooperative of Florida. Panelists included Republican Party of Palm Beach County Chairman Sid Dinerstein, Florida Farm Bureau National Affairs Coordinator Adam Basford and Rick Roth, president of Roth Farms.

“We are here today to talk about what is probably the most controversial issue facing not only agriculture but in some ways the entire nation,” Goodlett said, adding

that immigration is probably the most important issue to resolve for agriculture, even though it does not directly affect all aspects of the industry.

Goodlett noted that recent restrictions on immigration in Alabama and Georgia have had an estimated $400 million negative impact on the farming industry.

“We’ve got to figure out through the positive thoughts of people like these how we come together as a nation and how we can develop policy that will benefit all of our purposes,” Goodlett said.

Dinerstein said he felt like the “skunk at the picnic” because of his personal views and his party’s efforts to tighten up on illegal immigration. “I am one of those who thinks fruit is grown at Publix, because every time I go there, they have what I want,” he joked. “I thank you for feeding me before you hear what I have to say.”

Dinerstein said he is the husband and son of immigrants. “I am an outspoken advocate of the rule

of law, legal immigration, and usually respect the relationship of all employers and employees,” he said.

Dinerstein said he is opposed to human trafficking and businesses paying below-market wages while sticking the community with the subsequent costs of crime, insurance, welfare, education and healthcare.

“One report indicates that onehalf of Florida’s food stamp recipients are illegals,” Dinerstein said.

“We could and should look at immigration levels and consider raising them … [but] no illegal should ever be placed ahead of those people who have been standing in line to this day following the law waiting for empty spaces.”

Basford said that Congress is more focused on the national debt crisis than other issues.

“I’m afraid there is going to be a lot more talk about that than what is one of the most important issues facing Florida today,” Basford said, adding that he agreed See FARM CITY, page 18

In the spirit of bringing the community closer together, Volunteer Coordinator Kim Henghold said that Wellington held its inaugural Family Thanksgiving Festival on Saturday, Nov. 19, inviting families to come out for a day of fun while they picked up the meals, rather than delivering them house to house.

“It was held at Wellington Presbyterian Church,” she said. “Families could enjoy bounce houses, a face painter and craft tables. We wanted the kids to enjoy a fun day as well. It was a great way for kids to come out, have a fun, free event and do something they may not otherwise be able to take part in.”

About 150 residents came out to enjoy the day, Henghold said.

“It also gave us an opportunity to meet our residents,” she noted. “It allowed us to actually talk to them and get to know the folks in the community. When we delivered the food to Michelle O’Boyle of the Kids Cancer Foun- their door, we would dation and Wellington Mayor Darell Bo- knock on the door and wen deliver food to families at Palms West they’d say ‘thank you,’ Hospital.

PHOTO COURTESY MERIDITH TUCKWOOD See FOOD, page 18

SALSA SHOWDOWN

The Palms West Chamber of Commerce presented SalsaFest Nov. 19-20 at Greenacres Community Park. Shown here is Sizzling Salsa Showdown winner Greenacres Ma yor Sam Ferreri with the Palms West Chamber’s Mary Lou Bedford.

MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 5 PHOTO BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER

Brick Sales Lag As RPB Park Speeds Toward Completion

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Only 138 engraved paver bricks have been sold, out of about 20,000 bricks in total that are to be installed in the courtyard at the new Royal Palm Beach Commons Park, said Parks & Recreation Director Lou Recchio this week.

Recchio updated Royal Palm Beach Recreation Advisory Board members on the project at a meeting Monday.

While the overall 163-acre park is slated to open in time for the village’s Fourth of July celebration in 2012, Recchio is looking at February to install the bricks.

The village has been offering a

deal to all nonprofits and primary sports providers for 50 percent of the $50 cost to go back into their organization, with minimal results.

“It’s a way for each organization to raise money,” Recchio said.

“For each brick they sell, they get $25, but sales have gone pretty slow.”

Royal Palm Beach’s share of the proceeds currently goes into the recreation facilities fund, although the money had originally been earmarked for the now-defunct Tommy Starace Fund that helped young athletes who could not afford registration or equipment.

See PARK, page 18

Gauger Touts Benefits Of PBSO At Santamaria Forum

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Crime and safety were the topics at the monthly forum hosted Wednesday, Nov. 16 by County Commissioner Jess Santamaria at the original Wellington Mall.

The speakers were Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Michael Gauger and John Shwiner, president of Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County.

Gauger updated residents on the PBSO budget. “We have a $464 million budget, but we generate almost $70 million a year in revenue that is turned back in to the county operating budget,” he said.

“That does not include the traffic

citations and fines that are also added through the clerk’s office into the general fund of the county.”

The jail averages 2,600 to 2,800 inmates a day. “We don’t control the number of inmates that come in,” Gauger said. “Every municipality in the county, when they make an arrest, they deliver them to the jail. There were 64,000 bodies booked into the jail last year, with about 90,000 charges.”

Gauger said the PBSO is also the leading mental health provider in the county. “We treat 400 to 600 inmates a day for mental illness,” he said, explaining that federal, state and local governments

have cut financing for mental health services. “We have to provide those services, and we are very good at that. We are a best practice agency in the United States working with our mentally ill. Accreditation agencies have come in and looked at how we do business and have said other agencies around the United States should model themselves after the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and our corrections operation.”

The operation of the corrections facility is very expensive, Gauger said, explaining that in many counties, the sheriff does not operate the jail. “This county for

years has asked the sheriff to run it,” Gauger said.

The county once operated its own stockade for county-sentenced inmates, but in the late 1960s, the PBSO was asked to take it over. “We have two jails now, one at Gun Club Road and a new facility we just built in Belle Glade,” Gauger said. “We can house almost 3,000 inmates.”

Gauger said that in other parts of the country, public safety is more in the hands of the state police, rather than county agencies, as it is here. “We are the premier law-enforcement agency in the county,” he said. “We are the ones that everyone else turns to.”

The PBSO has merged operations with seven municipal agencies since Sheriff Ric Bradshaw was elected, including Royal Palm Beach, Gauger said. Wellington has had a contract for law enforcement with the PBSO since before the community incorporated.

Lake Worth has realized a 45 percent reduction in crime since the PBSO took over, Gauger said, while Pahokee has realized an 80 percent reduction.

All indications are that Royal Palm Beach has been happy with its decision to merge its police department with the PBSO. “The difference they saw in the level of See FORUM, page 4

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NEWS

Dave Aronberg Updates LGLA Members On ‘Pill Mill’ Crackdown

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Special Prosecutor for Prescription Drug Trafficking Dave Aronberg was the featured speaker at the Loxahatchee Groves Landowners’ Association meeting Thursday, Nov. 17.

Aronberg, a state senator for eight years, ran unsuccessfully for attorney general in 2010, and one of his campaign issues was to go after prescription drug peddlers.

“I said that allowing seven people a day to die of prescription drug abuse was unacceptable,” Aronberg told LGLA members. “I didn’t win the election, [but] after the election, I got a call from the person who won, Pam Bondi of Tampa, and she said, ‘Hey, you’ve been talking about this issue on the campaign trail. I’d like to make it my top issue, and I wonder if you wouldn’t mind being on my transition team and advise me on what should be done?’”

Aronberg said before he was elected a senator, he was an assistant attorney under former Attorney General Bob Butterworth and was based in West Palm Beach.

One of the things he did was go after Purdue Pharma, the manufacturer of Oxycontin.

“I was totally new to this 10

years ago, and this company was marketing a new drug called Oxycontin like it was Advil,” Aronberg said, explaining that Oxycontin is an opiate and a highly addictive, very powerful painkiller.

Oxycontin is now time-released and has developed a tamper-resistant pill, so abusers have now gone to the generic oxycodone, which doesn’t have a coating and is also plentiful and cheaper.

“Now that’s what we’re dealing with, but we investigated Purdue Pharma and found they were marketing the product a little too aggressively,” he said.

They were also marketing the pills in doses up to 160 milligrams.

“They sold a 160 milligram pill that looked like a horse pill,” he said. “We got that taken off the market.”

The attorney general’s office eventually got a $2 million settlement from Purdue Pharma to finance a prescription-monitoring database to help track doctor shoppers, Aronberg said. “It helps deter people coming from other states, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, who come here to Florida to use, abuse, buy and sell drugs for a profit,” he said.

Aronberg asked whether people had seen the billboards on the in-

terstate highways going south advertising pain clinics with the area code 561. “They’re not meant for you,” he said. “You will never see those billboards driving north.

When you see those billboards, you will be driving south because they are meant for the drug tourists.”

Aronberg said Florida became the pill mill paradise through a “perfect storm” of events. First, the “cocaine cowboys” of South Florida of the 1980s and 1990s moved over to the much cheaper and easier to obtain oxycodone and other pain pills. Meanwhile, Florida had some of the loosest laws in the country regarding prescription drugs, he said.

The State Legislature did not pass a law seriously regulating “pill mills” until 2010, then it passed a stronger one in 2011.

“For years, our local law enforcement was on its own,” Aronberg said. “The state did not help them. We had the loosest laws in the country, you had a ready supply of drug dealers, you had no prescription drug-monitoring database. Even though we got $2 million to fund it, the legislature rejected it. Our database did not go operational until Oct. 17 this year.”

Aronberg was disheartened at how Florida had fallen behind nearly all other states on this issue.

“Instead of Florida becoming the leader in the fight against pill mills, which was what our intent was when we investigated Purdue Pharma, we became the feeder of pills for the rest of the world,” he said.

The other ingredient in the perfect storm was a population of retired doctors, some of whom were looking to make some extra money, he said.

“You need a doctor to write [a prescription], and that’s how they opened up everywhere,” Aronberg said. “This is the story of a state that became the ground zero in this scourge, where more than seven people a day were dying and the state did nothing about it until recently.”

Aronberg said he got some pushback from some of his Democratic friends when he agreed to become drug czar for Bondi, a Republican, but it was something he felt compelled to do.

“This is about saving lives. This is a nonpartisan issue, and some of her Republican friends still to this day give her a hard time,” Aronberg said. “To her great cred-

it, she has steadfastly supported this effort. She has never let politics get in the way. It shows we can transcend petty partisan politics. It doesn’t happen that often.”

There were 2,710 prescription drug-related deaths in Florida in 2010, with 1,516 of those from oxycodone, compared with 48 deaths from heroin. “Oxycodone is pill heroin,” he said. “It has the same effect on your brain. Unfortunately, after we get a handle on the oxycodone problem, a lot of those people are going to turn toward heroin again.”

Aronberg said there are recognizable differences in legitimate pain clinics and pill mills: “Is the office located in an unanchored strip mall between a pawn shop and a tattoo parlor? Do they accept insurance? Are there a lot of out-of-state license plates? Are there long lines? Is there an angry dog behind the counter?”

He said that since new, tougher laws have been passed, the pill mills are getting more cautious.

Law enforcement has to go undercover to arrest them, and some now administer blood tests or drug tests to see if customers are users.

“If they come back clean, they won’t serve you,” he said.

“They’ll think you’re a cop.”

Dave Aronberg, special prosecut or for prescription drug trafficking, addresses LGLA members.

Highlights of the new prescription-drug law include a requirement that all community pharmacies, meaning pharmacies outside a hospital, must be re-permitted as of July 1, 2012. “That means the Department of Health is going to see if that pharmacy is in cahoots with a pain clinic, and if it is, they won’t get a license,” Aronberg said.

The prescription drug-monitoring database has also been strengthened. “It’s still not very strong, but it’s better than nothing,” he said.

RPB Council Grants Toys ‘R’ Us/Babies ‘R’ Us Store Sign Code Waiver

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Village Council approved a variance last week allowing a larger sign than code allows for a combined Toys “R” Us/Babies “R” Us store to be built on the east side of State Road 7 about a mile south of Southern Blvd.

The project recently received site plan and landscape approval, along with other variances to allow the development planned for the border of Royal Palm Beach and Wellington. The 12.65-acre site is just north of the Isla Verde shopping center in Wellington and south of Royal Office Park in Royal Palm Beach.

At the Nov. 17 council meeting, applicant Pebb Enterprises requested variances from the sign code to allow a total of 459 square feet, while village code allows only 260 square feet, Senior Planner Bradford O’Brien said.

“The sign code allows for one

square foot of signage for each linear foot of building front,” O’Brien said. “The proposed building is 260 feet in length.”

O’Brien said the village code allows for variances to be granted for the signs under certain conditions.

“The applicant contends that the variance is justified since the location of the building on which the sign will be attached will be almost 500 feet from the closest lane of traffic,” O’Brien said. “The applicant further contends that while the code addresses largescale commercial projects 20,000 square feet or more with various design standards, it does not provide consideration of the design standards of large buildings that are of greater distance from the rights of way.”

The village staff report, however, did not recommend approval of the variance, because other properties separated from State Road 7 by greater distances have

installed wall signs of smaller square footage, O’Brien said. He pointed out that the Lowe’s Home Improvement store is 860 feet from the nearest travel lane. That store has a linear footage of 476 feet with a wall sign of 402 square feet.

O’Brien said the square footage for the Toys “R” Us/Babies “R” Us signs, which contain much larger “R”s than the other letters, was calculated as if a box were drawn around each sign. He added that if the space were eliminated between the two signs, the area would be 294 square feet, which is only 34 square feet more than what code allows.

“If you ask me if this sign is out of scale with this building, I would answer, ‘No,’” O’Brien said. “I just have to make my evaluation based on the code criteria.”

Mayor Matty Mattioli said he believes that the project benefits the community and supported the variance.

“I have traveled State Road 7 many times. That east side of State Road 7 from the Royal Office Park building looks like a junkyard,” he said. “This would improve the building and architecture of those whole two blocks. I would support that variance and let that space look like it should look — a really upscale shopping center.”

Councilman Fred Pinto asked why the variance is needed, and agent Jan Polson of the planning firm Cotleur & Hearing, representing Pebb Enterprises, said the main reason is the distance from the street.

Polson added that the landscaping that is planned for the development will render the signs almost invisible from the road. “We have a lot of landscaping and a lot of requirements,” Polson said. “It is very, very thick.”

Polson said the larger sign is warranted to enable passers-by to see the location, and asserted

that distracted drivers looking for the signs and not being able to see them could pose a safety hazard.

Polson reiterated O’Brien’s comments that the variance could be seen as only 34 square feet more than code, and pointed out that the signs have no backdrop, which actually renders them smaller than calculated. “The real reason is the visibility factor,” Polson said.

Pinto said he has been concerned about the size of the signs along the corridor for several years.

“All of those signs are too small,” he said. “I travel up and down that corridor, and if I didn’t know a place I wanted to go was there, I wouldn’t know it, and I live here and I go up and down that street all the time.”

Pinto said he supported the variance because the council has talked about trying to support business and help the economy.

“This is a business/economy issue,” Pinto said. “People need to know where they are.”

Pinto asked O’Brien whether granting a variance would create a precedent that the council would have to abide by for other applicants, and O’Brien said each variance application is decided on its own standing.

Councilwoman Martha Webster was concerned that so many variances had been granted for the project already, including a reduction in landscaping requirements.

O’Brien said the variances were warranted in recognition of issues that arose because the overall project is in both Wellington and Royal Palm Beach.

Vice Mayor Richard Valuntas said he supported the variance because of the combined stores.

“Basically this is two stores in one,” he said.

Valuntas made a motion to approve the variance, which carried 4-0.

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OUR OPINION

Make An Effort To Shop Local Businesses This Holiday Season For many Americans, the rest and relaxation they enjoy on Thanksgiving quickly gives way to eagerness and anxiety as Black Friday arrives. Traditionally, Black Friday — the Friday after Thanksgiving that marks the start of the holiday shopping season — sees throngs of people pouring into retail stores across the country, often standing in long lines to take advantage of discounts. It’s an important day forAmerica as a country, but it’s also an important day for the countless small businesses that hope for an upswing in sales to compete with the bigbox retail giants.

For residents of the western communities, that likely means a visit to the Mall at Wellington Green. Needless to say, we encourage this, though we hope that local shoppers don’t limit their choices to only mall stores. From the retail-heavy State Road 7 corridor in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach to the numerous plazas and shopping centers located throughout the area, the western communities have a lot to offer holiday shoppers.

Though we often publish articles when new businesses hold grand openings or join the local chambers of commerce, an unfortunate number of local businesses just don’t make it. Plazas that once bustled with economic activity during better times now have far too many empty storefronts. Now more than ever, the local business community needs the support of the people

who live here. Though western communities residents no longer need to head east to get their holiday shopping done, the real competition for many area businesses is online shopping. Some items just can’t be found in local stores, and that’s OK. But if you’re looking for something that’s available locally, we ask that you choose that option.

Sometimes doing what’s most convenient isn’t always what’s best. It may be easier in the short term, but over time, it has an effect on the area’s overall economy. And when that suffers, no one is better off. This is something each of us should consider every time we open our wallets.

In a season that sees the colors red and green everywhere, we hope local businesses will see more green (cash) than red (ink). Because there are so many businesses in the western communities, it will take a little time to locate those that might have what you’re looking for. While Google is always helpful, another way to find local stores is by browsing the local chambers of commerce web sites (www.palmswest.com and www.wellingtonchamber.com) as well as perusing the ads right here in the pages of your community newspaper. What’s important is that people make a conscious effort. As long as Congress continues to argue, rather than working together to create jobs, it’s up to the American people to exercise the power of the purse.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Why Has The Sem Pratt Road Project Slowed?

When the widening project on Seminole Pratt Whitney Road began, it looked like a full-blown, getit-done job. What it could be compared to would be ants building an anthill.

Looking at it as of today (Nov. 20), I guess someone used a whole lot of insecticide. No progress since the first section, and that is not even complete. My question is: Why has all work stopped? A project like this should have been a leap frog system.

G.B. Saiet The Acreage

Stop Fighting Inspector General Citizens of Wellington: you may not know this, but Wellington has joined in litigation to sue the Office of the Inspector General.

The suit objects to the municipalities funding the Office of the Inspector General (OIG). The reality is that the cities do not have to pay for the OIG, it is the vendor contractors that do business with the county and the cities. These vendors will pay 0.25 percent of their contract. On a million-dollar project, that will amount to only $2,500.

Palm Beach County has agreed to this program, and it will be implemented in 2012. Wellington and the municipalities can get the same deal. Some cities are objecting to this manner of funding, so their taxpayers will be on the hook for the funds. It does not have to be that way. Why are they ignoring the obvious solution? There is only one logical reason, they want the OIG to go away!

Wellington Councilman Howard Coates agrees with this lawsuit. He said, “This lawsuit is ultimately

seeking to have the office funded by the county at large, rather than funded as it currently is by the county and the municipalities. That results in our residents having to pay twice, and that’s what we’re seeking to avoid.”

Mr. Coates is uninformed or confused. The county is not paying this expense, the vendor contractors are. Wellington or any other city does not have to pay for it either, they can and should opt to have their vendor contractors pay, just as Miami-Dade and Palm Beach County are doing. Not only would the residents not pay twice, they would not pay even once.

The residents of Palm Beach County have struggled long and hard to rid us of the moniker “Corruption County.” Let us not falter in the final hours of seeing this to completion.

Morley Alperstein Wellington

Amend OIG Ordinance There are simply two reasons to support the Palm Beach County Office of the Inspector General (OIG). First, county commissioners misused their office for illegal personal gain. Second, 72 percent of county voters approved a referendum to create the OIG. That’s about it.

On the flip side, 28 percent of the voters, of which I was one, disapproved of another layer of bureaucracy. It turns out that 100 percent of municipal voters had no idea what they would be asked to pay to support the office. The referendum read: “Shall the Palm Beach County Charter be amended to require the Board of County Commissioners to establish by ordinances applicable to Palm Beach County and all municipalities approving this amendment: a Code of Ethics, an independent Commission on Ethics funded by the county commission, and an independent Inspector General funded by the County

Commission and all other governmental entities subject to the authority of the Inspector General?”

During the discussions at the county level on the creation of the OIG, a very successful former developer, Commissioner Jess Santamaria, promised that out of a 20 percent profit, developers would be assessed a one-quarter-percent increase for building permits on public contracts let by the county and local municipalities. I believe Commissioner Santamaria would still support that funding criteria because he is a man of his word.

Call upon Commissioner Santamaria to support an amendment to the OIG ordinance.

It turns out that under the existing ordinance that the one-quarter percent is the minimum for funding, and the county commissioners have the unlimited authority to increase the funding and pass along the debt to homeowners.

We all know what happens when politicians have no limit on how they will spend taxpayer’s money.

Woodrow Wilson created the Federal Reserve Act, Federal Trade Commission Act, the Clayton Antitrust Act, the Federal Farm Loan Act and an income tax. The income tax was 1 percent. How’s that working out for us now?

The argument that the contractor will pay the fee is specious, and only the dimwitted believe that the fee will not be passed along to homeowners in the form of increased bid prices. I am quite sure that if the referendum stated that the OIG would cost homeowners millions of dollars each year, 72 percent of voters would not have supported the creation of the OIG. Since the only way to prevent the OIG from interfering in municipal affairs is a constitutional challenge, and there is no appetite for such a challenge, the next best thing is to push for an amendment to the county ordinance. I suggest that the ordinance be amended as follows.

The county should fund the OIG as it sees fit, after collecting the

one-quarter percent from municipal contracts. The county should not tax municipalities based upon their size to pay for the OIG. The way I see it, local officials should be thanked for refusing to pay for a service that was not rendered by the OIG. Instead they are vilified and attacked as people who do not want to pay their fair share, and who do not want oversight, which implies they are corrupt. The fact is that the county commissioners want to charge homeowners for services even if the OIG does nothing to earn the fee. I applaud the brave municipal officials who refuse to pay for a service that was not rendered to their constituents.

The solution is to repeal the ordinance, which is not going to happen, or elect me as county commissioner, and that is not going to happen either. The next-best solution is to amend the ordinance to reflect the promises made by the county commissioners to the voters.

It seems obvious to me that the reason municipalities are being taxed to support the OIG is that a few county commissioners want to pass off the bad news onto unwitting municipal officials who will take the heat for spending homeowners’ money.

This OIG was a creation of the county commission. If they still think it is such a great idea, then let them pay for it.

One more thing, the Palm Beach OIG plan is not, I repeat, not based upon the Miami-Dade plan. There is a vast difference. Miami-Dade pays the entire bill for its OIG, and the OIG in Miami-Dade has no oversight over municipal officials.

And one last fact that I think is instructive: according to the Miami-Dade web site, the last time I looked, their OIG cost them $10,000,000 and saved them $2,000,000. So it cost taxpayers $8 million and no one was arrested for fraud, mismanagement, or anything of the kind.

Frank Morelli Wellington

Letter To Rubio Editor’s note: The following letter is addressed to U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.). A copy was forwarded to the Town-Crier for publication.

Dear Senator Rubio: I’m not surprised that you support the Supreme Court’s ruling on Citizens United, as it gives Republicans a distinct financial advantage. The people, however, are beginning to wake up and realize that corporations are not people and money is not speech. Please don’t get too comfortable as my senator — it’s a very temporary position.

Gwynne Chesher Wellington

Wellington Employee A True Ambassador Editor’s note: The following letter is addressed to members of the Wellington Village Council. A copy was forwarded to the TownCrier for publication.

Dear Council Members: In these dismal economic times, something — even the smallest thing to make us smile — is most welcome.

For many months I have had my heart lightened and a large smile planted on my face by such a thing, thanks to a Mr. [Horace] Reeves, an employee of Wellington. Sometimes, many times a day, I benefit from this quick fix. When, on odd occasions this treat does not come my way, I miss it.

What is this amazing quick fix,

you ask? A wave, a simple wave and smile from a Wellington employee who, rain or shine, spends his working time running all over town in an electric cart, picking up debris with a grab stick, waving at nearly everyone he recognizes, going by in an automobile.

I took the time to chase him down one day to find out his name and introduce myself to him while he was having lunch, therefore, allowing me to write to you to inform you of the existence of Wellington’s “ambassador.” He truly is a very special man who fills a very special place in this area, with a huge smile, wave and grace that can only come to someone who has known hard times and overcome them.

I would like to see him recognized for what he is — one huge asset to our lives here in this lovely area. Let him know, ladies and gentlemen, please, that he is truly appreciated. How? I will leave that in your all-too-capable hands.

Jane Mades Wellington

For The Record A story in last week’s TownCrier titled “Long-Delayed Loxahatchee Groves Paving Projects Out For Bid” misidentified one of the road segments to be paved. The correct segments are NorthA Road, North and South C Road and North D Road. The Town-Crier regrets any confusion this might have caused.

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

OPINION

Here Are Some Home Health Remedies To Consider For Flu Season With cold and flu season now upon us, you may well be able to get better relief and save a ton of money by using some home remedies that are in your cupboard.

For example, I’ve found that a spoonful of honey will help quiet a nighttime cough better than over-the-counter cough syrups and suppressants. It will also re-

Footloose and...

By Jules W. Rabin duce coughs in adults suffering from a cold. Two teaspoons a day

per dose, according to Dr. Ian Paul, author of a recent study, but be sure your cough is due to a cold and not a more serious problem that may not respond.

Then there is the magic of ginger to help reduce nausea and relieve motion sickness. Even taking 1 gram of ginger an hour before surgery can reduce nau-

sea and vomiting during the initial 24 hours after surgery.

Also, an investigation funded by the National Cancer Institute found that people undergoing chemotherapy who take onequarter of a teaspoon of ginger for three days before chemo cut their suffering from nausea by 40 percent.

For motion sickness, eat one or two pieces of crystallized ginger before travel. But, say the experts, do not go above 2 grams.

According to a Japanese study, daily gargling with plain tap water can reduce the number of colds and respiratory infections. The Japanese discovered that gargling three times per day

made a difference of approximately 40 percent. As always, gargling with salt water, or water with lemon and honey, is a safe, effective way to help a sore throat.

One major caution: Sometimes a home remedy could interact with prescription medications, so check with your doctor before trying something new.

NEWS Forum

Crime And Safety

continued from page 1 service was amazing,” Gauger said. “You have out here between Royal Palm Beach and Wellington some of the safest communities with the highest [crime] clearance rates in the county.”

Gauger said in addition to law enforcement, the PBSO also tries to build partnerships with other organizations and citizens.

“Police cannot do it themselves,” he said, pointing out that it is incumbent upon citizens to help in maintaining the security of their neighborhoods. “We have one policeman for every 1,200 to 1,600, sometimes 1,800 residents.

Can one policeman control 1,800 residents? No, so what we need in police work is to count on you, and build those partnerships, and we’ve done that. We have 3,500plus volunteers at the sheriff’s office who work at all the different areas of the department. I don’t know how we could function without them.”

He said the Citizen Observer Patrol is the eyes and ears of the PBSO. “We have such a talent pool of retirees down here in South Florida who are sitting home and getting bored and want something to do,” Gauger said. “They have joined forces with us, and we use them to their utmost.”

Shwiner said Crime Stoppers is the answer to getting people to cooperate with crime investigations.

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“There are two things that keep people from getting involved with crime,” Shwiner said. “Number one, if I call the police department and say I saw something they’re going to take your name, your address, your phone number, so you have a fear about calling about any crimes that you know. You also wind up in court, and they want to know, ‘What were you doing in that bad neighborhood at that time.

Why were you there?’”

Crime Stoppers has turned that around by allowing people to retain their anonymity. Crime Stoppers has existed in Palm Beach County in various forms since 1981, Shwiner said.

The organization operates in cooperation with the PBSO, which takes the calls.

Crime Stoppers incorporated in

order to bypass public records law.

“Our records cannot be made public,” Shwiner said. “We have been subpoenaed, but all we have is a code number and the information.

We do not identify any person. We do not have *69 or caller ID or anything like that. Otherwise, the program might just dissolve instantly, and that’s why we’re still around.”

To overcome apathy, Crime Stoppers offers a reward of $1,000, Shwiner said. “Crime Stoppers is a volunteer organization,” he said, explaining that the organization does not receive local, state or federal financing, and covers the entire county. “Our purpose is to raise money for the rewards and administration of the program.

Shwiner credited donors such as Santamaria for their support. He

BARRY S. MANNING Publisher

JOSHUA I. MANNING Executive Editor

JODY GORRAN Associate Publisher

DAWN RIVERA General Manager

JASON BUD JINSKI Community Editor

RON BUKLEY Managing Editor

EDITORIAL STAFF/ Chris Felker • Denise Fleischman Jessica Gregoire • Lauren Miró

PBSO Chief Deputy Michael Gauger (left) and Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County President John Shwiner (right).

PHOTOS BY RON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER

added that Crime Stoppers is now on social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter, and has been

able to continue to protect informants’ anonymity through the work of volunteer webmasters.

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November 25 - December 1, 2011

Page 5

NEWS

LATIN-THEMED FUN AS SALSAFEST RETURNS TO GREENACRES COMMUNITY PARK The Palms West Chamber of Commerce presented SalsaFest Nov. 19-20 at Greenacres Community Park. The event included Chihuahua races, a salsa-dancing competition, carnival rides, the Sizzling Salsa Showdown, a salsa-making competition, and live entertainment by performers such as Jerry Rivera, Frankie Negron and Lefty Perez.

PHOTOS BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER SEE VIDEO FROM SALSAFEST AT WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

Juan Dominguez, John Kime, Palms West Chamber CEO Jaene Miranda, Julie Kime and Wayne Akers Ford General Manager Al Young.

Headliner Jerry Rivera per forms on stage.

Bobby Rodriguez, Frankie Negron and Jimmy Greco.

Mickey Bernardo, Angela Mattingly and Lefty Perez.

Dunia, Emily and Daylis Aleman look for carnival rides.

Liliani the Mia Mama and DJ Sama of Mia 92.1 FM.

HOLIDAY TURKEY DRIVE IN ROYAL PALM BEACH BENEFITS THE LESS FORTUNATE

WRMF 97.9 FM teamed up with the Palm Beach County Sherif f’s Office District 9 substation in Royal Palm Beach and Blue Bell Ice Cream for a local turkey drive on Friday, Nov. 18 at Publix in the Crossroads shopping center. People donated money and frozen turkeys to feed the less fortunate.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/T OWN-CRIER

WRMF’s Laura Gardiner, Jennifer Ross and Deena Lang.

The group celebrates with a fruit bar.

Gabe Rangel, Deputy Jeff Medine, and de tectives Gabe Carino and Mitch McCranels load turkeys being deliv ered.

Page 6

November 25 - December 1, 2011

The Town-Crier

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CRIME NEWS

Deer And Hog Meat Stolen From Garage

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report NOV. 14 — A deputy from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office substation in Wellington was dispatched to a home on the 12th Fairway last Monday afternoon regarding a residential burglary.

According to a PBSO report, on Friday, Nov. 11 the victim noticed that the disconnect for the outdoor air-conditioning unit had been removed. The victim later discovered two large gray toolboxes containing assorted tools missing from his garage, as well as 50 pounds of deer and hog meat missing from the garage refrigerator.

The victim also said that half a tank of gas had been taken out of his vehicle in the driveway. According to the report, the perpetrator(s) may have gained access to the garage from the main door, as the locking mechanism was worn and may have been pried open. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

••• NOV. 12 — A resident of Little Ranches called the PBSO substation in Wellington on Saturday, Nov. 12 to report an act of vandalism. According to the report, the complainant took photos of two juveniles that had driven an all-terrain vehicle through a fence and ran over a cable junction box, causing approximately $5,100 in damage. The juveniles fled the area. According to the report, the juveniles were described as white males, approximately 13 to 16 years old with brown hair, wearing black T-shirts and green shorts.

One was riding a green four-wheel ATV and the other was riding a red motorcycle.

NOV. 14 — A resident of Solara at Wellington called the PBSO substation last Monday evening to report a theft. According to a PBSO report, the victim’s son left his green and black BMX bicycle unlocked at the foot of the stairs that lead to the apartment. Sometime between 5:41 and 6:15 p.m., someone stole the bicycle, which was valued at approximately $150. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

NOV. 15 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched to the Lakefield North community last Tuesday regarding an act of vandalism.

According to a PBSO report, sometime between 8:30 and 9:30 p.m. last Monday, someone damaged the entry gate to the community. The gate was discovered to have a broken hinge and bar, but it was unknown if it was caused by an accident or an act of vandalism. The damage to the gate was approximately $500. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

NOV. 17 — A resident of 68th Street North called the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation last Thursday morning to report a vehicle theft. According to a PBSO report, the victim parked his white 2001 Toyota Tundra in his driveway at approximately 7:30 p.m. When he went to leave for work at 7:30 a.m. the following morning, it was gone. The victim said he did not know if it was

locked, but that the keys were in the truck and there was a hide-akey under the front bumper. The deputy was able to locate the truck in an empty field on 60th Street North, where it was discovered with the keys on the driver’s seat.

According to the report, missing from the truck was the victim’s Pioneer touch-screen navigation stereo system, a tool bag with miscellaneous tools and a man’s wallet. The stolen items were valued at approximately $1,520. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. The vehicle was returned to the victim.

NOV. 18 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was dispatched to a home on Banyan Blvd. last Friday morning regarding an act of vandalism. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 3 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 11 and 10 a.m. last Friday, someone damaged the inside and outside air conditioning units of the vacant home, and stole several parts including the coil and air compressor. According to the report, it appeared that the garage door had been left open for an extended period of time. The stolen items were valued at approximately $550. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

NOV. 19 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach was dispatched to the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center last Saturday evening regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, the victim said she arrived at the park at 5:25 p.m. and approximately five minutes later noticed a dark two-door vehicle with tinted windows park next to her car. Moments later, the victim said she heard a noise and believed the vehicle had crashed into her car. When the victim approached her vehicle, the suspicious car drove away. According to the report, the perpetrator(s) smashed the left rear window of the vehicle and stole the victim’s purse from the floorboard. The stolen items were valued at approximately $40. The victim said she was unable to record the tag number of the vehicle but believed there were two occupants. DNA evidence was taken at the scene.

NOV. 21 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach was dispatched Monday morning to a home on Morgate Circle regarding a burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 7:30 and 10 a.m., someone entered the victim’s locked bedroom and stole a Gibson guitar, a Yamaha amplifier and two Playstation game systems with about 15 games, along with a bottle of prescription pills.

Though there were no signs of forced entry to the house, the inside garage door was found open with several tools strewn across the floor, and the front door was ajar. According to the report, the victim said that there was work being done in the house and someone may have seen him leave a key. The stolen items were valued at approximately $760. DNA evidence was taken at the scene, but there were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

NEWS BRIEF

WWC Meeting Dec. 1 In RPB The Women of the Western Communities will meet Thursday, Dec. 1 at 6:30 p.m. at Madison Green Golf Club (2001 Crestwood Blvd. North, Royal Palm Beach).

Members and guests will enjoy a special holiday buffet dinner and an extensive Chinese auction.

Guest speaker will be Fred Meltzer, president of Hoffman’s Chocolates.

The guest fee is $30; $16 for children 10 and younger.

For more information, or to make a reservation, contact Mair Armand at mair@wwc-fl.com or (561) 635-0011.

Crime Stopper s of Palm Beach County is asking for the public’s help in finding this wanted fugitive: • Shaka James is a black male, 5’9” tall and weighing 160 lbs., with black hair and brown eyes. He has scars on both knees. His date of bir th is 04/12/80. James is wanted for possession of marijuana with intent to sell within 1,000 feet of a school, and possession of a schedule IV substance. His occupation is landscaper. His last known address was CorShaka James doba Cir cle in Royal Palm Beach.

James is wanted as of 11/21/11.

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

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

The Town-Crier

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November 25 - December 1, 2011

Page 7

NEWS

Crestwood Principal: Improvements Great For Students And Staff

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Education Advisory Board heard updates from Crestwood Middle School Principal Stephanie Nance and Palm Beach County School Board Member Marcia Andrews at a meeting Nov. 14.

Nance discussed Crestwood’s recent expansion as well as new academic initiatives, while Andrews spoke about her role as a board member and changes to school board district boundaries.

This year, Crestwood Middle School students moved out of portables and into a new, permanent building. Nance told board members that students and staff alike are excited about the new building, as well as new programs.

“We are extremely excited about our new addition,” Nance said. “The south end of our campus now houses a beautiful, 54,000-square foot, two-story building, which our sixth- and seventh-grade students call their academic home.”

Nance said that Crestwood has also partnered with the communi-

ty to establish several new initiatives. One is the literary initiative, which invites students, staff and parents to read together and share ideas.

“It’s known as Barnes & Noble Night,” she explained. “We have a very strong partnership with Barnes & Noble in Wellington. In October, we went out to Barnes & Noble and had a great evening reading books, building relationships with parents and students through literacy, and better understanding the importance of working together both in school and at home.”

Nance credited parents, staff and the community with helping to support students. “We know that education is truly a partnership,” she said. “It is incumbent upon all of us to work together to do what’s in the best interest of our young people.”

The evening allowed students to share ideas as well as showcase their literary talents.

“We’re striving not only to build a community of readers,” Nance said, “but to promote the love of reading among students and staff

as well as parents. It provided an opportunity to share ideas, come together and create a fellowship.”

Another Barnes & Noble Night will be held in the spring, she said.

Nance said that she is proud that Crestwood has retained an “A” rating for 11 consecutive years, something that she credited to parents, staff and students for working hard.

“Academically, our students continue to increase their proficiency in reading, math, science and writing each year,” she said.

“We do not rest on our laurels, because we know that our work is not done. Every year, students enter our school, and we know that their needs vary. We are committed to ensuring that we provide an academically rich, as well as diverse, learning environment.”

Beyond academics, Nance said that Crestwood is committed to encouraging a new generation of citizens who care for their community. One way the school promotes this is with its “Smiles from Home” program, which sends letters and care packages to U.S. troops overseas.

“Since the inception of the campaign,” Nance said, “we have written and mailed more than 2,000 letters and sent hundreds of care packages to our troops.”

Nance said that she is proud to be serving the Crestwood community for her 16th year, noting that she began as a substitute teacher.

“My heart will always belong with Crestwood Middle,” she said.

“Our goal is to always remember that attitude determines altitude.”

Andrews encouraged board members to call on her for whatever they might need.

“We are committed to the students in Royal Palm Beach,” she said. “I, too, live in Royal Palm Beach, so you have your board member right at your fingertips.

I’m happy to tell you that I am here for you at any time. If you have any issues as related to the district, call me and I will make sure I bring an array of people here with the expertise to solve your issues.”

Two of the major issues facing the school board currently are finding a permanent superintendent and redrawing boundary lines for school board members,

Andrews said. “We have our second interim superintendent holding down the fort until we get a permanent superintendent,” she said. “We hope to have that person selected by March 1 and on the job by June 1.”

Andrews encouraged residents, school district employees, officials and board members to give their input on the matter.

“We do want input from all the citizens of Royal Palm Beach to tell us what you would like to see in the next permanent superintendent,” she said.

Another major change is the district boundaries for school board members. Andrews, who represents District 6, explained that all seven school board members will soon have new district lines.

Palm Beach County School District Planning Director Kris Garrison said that the boundaries are being redrawn to reflect the 2010 Census.

“Our staff analysis showed that our districts had become disproportionate in population,” Garrison explained.

But, she said, the changes to Royal Palm Beach all are good news.

“The school board has been very concerned about keeping communities of interest together,” she said.

The major change for Royal Palm Beach is that all of its schools will now fall within the District 6 boundary, she said.

“Under the current configuration, parts of the community were in District 2,” Garrison said. “In addition, all Wellington has been pulled into District 6, and the entire Acreage has been pulled into one district.”

Another change is that Andrews will represent all of the Glades area, while dropping parts of South County and western Boynton Beach to District 3.

Andrews said that the change would help her to focus on each area’s needs, rather than several board members sharing a community.

For more information about the redistricting process, visit www. palmbeachschools.org or call (561) 434-8000.

County Commission Lays Out Goals For 2012 Legislative Session

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Palm Beach County Commission reviewed its legislative priorities with the Palm Beach County Legislative Delegation in a joint meeting Monday.

The discussion focused on re-

apportionment issues and a request that money raised from the recent 3 percent assessment on Florida Retirement System employees remain in the county.

Palm Beach County Legislative Affairs Director Todd Bonlarron reviewed the top legislative prior-

Madeline Nava Joins Palms West Hospital As COO Palms West Hospital has announced that Madeline Nava has joined the hospital as chief operating officer. Nava comes to Palms West Hospital from a local affiliate HCA facility, JFK Medical Center, where she has served as vice president of operations since 2008.

Nava has over 17 years of healthcare experience and started her healthcare career as a respiratory therapist. She has a proven track record of demonstrating operational improvements, management of construction projects, implementation and restructuring of key service lines, and strategic planning.

Nava received a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in health services administration from Iona College in New Rochelle, N.Y., and a respiratory therapy degree at Northwestern University Medical School in Chicago, Ill. “We are pleased to have Madeline join the executive team,” Palms West Hospital CEO Bland Eng said. “We welcome her extensive knowledge of hospital operations, experience with construction projects, and partnering with physicians. Her background

Madeline Nava is a great fit for Palms West Hospital and our current growth in the community.”

Palms West Hospital is a 175bed acute care medical and surgical, adult and pediatric facility committed to providing the western communities, with the highest-quality healthcare services.

For more information, visit www. palmswesthospital.com.

ities for the upcoming session, beginning with a reapportionment bill that asked that at least three State Senate seats be based in Palm Beach County.

“We realize that our sphere of influence in the reapportionment process is fairly minimal, so that is our one [request],” Bonlarron said. “We believe representation starts here in Palm Beach County with our legislative delegation, and that’s very helpful, as it has been for the last 10 years.”

The county is also asking that money from the recent 3 percent contribution required of FRS employees be kept in Palm Beach County. “One of the beneficiaries of that was the state and local governments in being able to realize some of the savings of that 3 percent capture,” Bonlarron said. “In Palm Beach County, that was about $16.5 million, and through the past couple of months, we have heard from the governor’s office and other areas about attempts to recapture some of that savings. It is our position to oppose any effort for the state to try to recapture that 3 percent savings that were realized last year during that contribution.”

State Rep. Bill Hager (R-District 87) asked what the county’s public policy was underlying that position, and Bonlarron said the past budget year had been very difficult for the county.

County Administrator Bob Weisman said the taxpayers paid for those expenses in prior years.

“This year, the legislature mandated that all employees contribute 3 percent to make up for that,” Weisman said. “It would seem that, both from the fact that our employees made the contribution locally, and the taxpayers thought they were saving the money locally, that the county should be the beneficiary in the budget to try to keep those dollars local.”

Commissioner Priscilla Taylor added that she was aware that there is a lawsuit underway where the money collected might have to be paid back to employees. She asked what the consequences would be if the employees win the lawsuit, and Weisman said there would be an approximately $16.5 million shortfall if the county has to return the money to law enforcement, fire and general county employees.

Bonlarron said the county also opposes any legislation that would place Palm Beach County parimutuel facilities at a competitive disadvantage as it relates to expansion of gambling in the state. The only active pari-mutuel in the county currently is the Palm Beach Kennel Club.

“What we’ve been trying to do is make sure that our pari-mutuels in Palm Beach County have a level playing field from a compet-

itive perspective as those in Broward and Dade counties, particularly to the economic development that we believe that particular industry lends itself to the area and where it’s located,” Bonlarron said.

State Rep. Joseph Abruzzo (DDistrict 85) said he is sponsoring a local bill that would indeed place Palm Beach County pari-mutuels on a level playing field with Miami-Dade and Broward.

Commissioner Burt Aaronson pointed out that the expansion of pari-mutuels in Palm Beach County would go to a referendum.

“The people of Palm Beach County are going to have their say,” Aaronson said. “Later on down the line, we can have another choice in another referendum in the years to come whether we want gaming tables in Palm Beach County. I believe we will have that option in future years. I don’t want to be shut out.”

Other priorities for the county include approval of a local nonmonetary pretrial release program.

“We believe we have a very effective program, and it has been working very well in giving our judges the flexibility of determining which defendants have the options for pretrial [release] and which do not,” Bonlarron said.

Commission Chair Shelley Vana noted that holding defendants that do not make bail is a

big expense for the jail system.

Other priorities for the county include Glades regional initiatives, passage of an Internet sales tax law, South Florida Regional TransportationAuthority/Tri-Rail issues and continued library financing.

Bonlarron also highlighted some of the issues that passed in the last legislative session that were important for Palm Beach County. Bonlarron credited State Sen. Ellyn Bogdanoff (R-District 25) and State Sen. Lizbeth Benacquisto (R-District 27) with helping to get $21 million in the last legislative session to help secure the library grants, as well as some of the transportation disadvantaged funding and traumatic brain injury legislation championed by Abruzzo.

Bonlarron said a lot of work had been done on legislation to control illegitimate pain management clinics, or so-called “pill mills.”

“There was extensive work done by the legislature this past session to help us implement some of the measures that are closing down some of the bad actors in this county in pain management,” Bonlarron said.

He also thanked Bogdanoff and State Rep. Jeff Clemens (D-District 89) for their work on some of the inspector general bills that granted additional abilities in conducting investigations.

SENIORS ADVOCACY GROUP MEETS IN WELLINGTON About 50 people attended a meeting of the Florida Alliance of Retired Americans on Wednesday, Nov. 16 at the original Wellington Mall to hear about Social Security and Medicare issues and to charter the new Mid-County Florida Alliance for Retired Americans PHOTOS BY R ON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER Community Club. County Commissioner Jess Santamaria also spoke about local issues.

Kevin Perkins Golf Academy After-School Program Starts Nov. 29 Starting Tuesday, Nov. 29, the Kevin Perkins Golf Academy will again be conducting its popular junior after-school winter program at Palm Beach Polo Golf & Country Club in Wellington.

The junior after-school program is open to boys and girls ages 7-

17 and will take place on Tuesday evenings from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

For more information about this program, and other programs provided by the Kevin Perkins Golf Academy, visit www.kevin perkinsgolfacademy.com or call (561) 301-3783.

Tem porary officers of the newly created Mid-County Florida Alliance for R etired Americans Club: Robert Fallon, Richard Hattwick, Judith Cohlei, Fred Cohlei, Maureen Glasheen and FLARA President Tony Fransetta.

Retired attorney Robert Fallon talks about state and local funding issues.

Retired attorney Maureen Glasheen addresses FLARA members.

Page 8

November 25 - December 1, 2011

Andie MacDowell To Speak At HOW Luncheon Jan. 30 Hearing the Ovarian Cancer Whisper (HOW) has announced that model and actress Andie MacDowell and Dr. Karen H. Lu, gynecologic oncologist with MD Anderson, will be guest speakers at its Time of the Essence luncheon Monday, Jan. 30 at the Flagler Museum pavilion in Palm Beach.

Lori Gendelman, Cobey Rapaport, Anita Michaels and Ann Candido will chair the luncheon.

Frances Fisher and Fern Fodiman will serve as honorary chairs.

MacDowell landed her film debut with a leading role in Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan, Lord of the Apes (1984), in which her Southern twang was dubbed over by the more erudite voice of actress Glenn Close. MacDowell managed to shake off the indignity with a more winning performance in St. Elmo’s Fire (1985) before landing her critically acclaimed breakthrough role in the indie classic Sex, Lies and Videotape (1989). In 1994, she earned the title of No. 1 female box office draw worldwide thanks to her performances in the romantic comedy smash hit Four Weddings and a Funeral and the western Bad Girls.

Lu, the other featured speaker, is a professor in the Department of Gynecologic Oncology at the University of Texas MD Ander-

Andie MacDowell son Cancer Center. Her main clinical interests include the surgical and medical treatment of women with ovarian and endometrial cancers, as well as the management of women at genetically high risk for these cancers. She is co-director for clinical cancer genetics and director of the High Risk Ovarian Cancer Screening Clinic. In addition, she serves as co-director of the Endometrial Cancer Research Program and co-principal investigator of the Uterine Cancer Specialized Program of Research Excellence.

Tickets to HOW’s Time is of the Essence luncheon cost $325 and $150 for a Young Friend ticket (for guests 40 and younger). The luncheon begins at 11:30 a.m. For more info., contact (561) 8372285 or jmcgrath@phfpbc.org.

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NEWS BRIEFS WHS Project Graduation Golf Tourney Dec. 4 The 2012 Wellington High School Project Graduation Committee invites interested businesses and individuals to come aboard as sponsors of its inaugural fundraising golf tournament, scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 4 at the Binks Forest Golf Club in Wellington.

The group is organizing a safe, drug-free and alcohol-free graduation night party that ensures a fun and safe time for all graduating seniors from WHS. Proceeds from the golf tournament will help offset the cost of the party.

WHS Principal Mario Crocetti will serve as honorary chair. The co-chairs are Susanne Bennett and Jeannette Parssi.

The host committee includes Donna Baxter, Missy Cheatham, Lili Jochem, Anne Kimmey, Sheri Hayward, Cindy Lutz, Milagros Rivera, Robbin Roscigno and Annette Sheehan.

The tournament will begin with a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m., following a ceremonial tee shot by Crocetti. Tournament-related events include a putting contest, hole-in-one contest, longest-drive contest for men and women, and men’s and women’s closest-tothe-pin contests.

Dinner will be served at 5 p.m., and there will be a silent auction.

Every golfer will receive a gift upon registering.

Sponsorship begins at $100.

The cost to play in the tournament is $100 per golfer, which includes

dinner and entry into all of the contests. Dinner-only tickets cost $25.

To learn more, visit the group’s Facebook page at “WHS Project Graduation 2012” or call Bennett at (561) 670-0840 or Parssi at (561) 635-2037.

Class Size, School Funding Meeting At WHS Wellington High School’s School Advisory Committee (SAC) will hold a forum on the funding of public high schools and changes to the Class Size Amendment on Thursday, Dec. 1 at 7 p.m. in the Wellington High School performing arts theater.

State legislators and Palm Beach County School Board members will speak and answer questions from the public.

Invitations to speak have been sent to local state senators, state representatives and school board members whose districts run through or near the high school’s boundaries.

The WHS SAC hopes concerned, interested people from all of Palm Beach County will join them to learn more about how funding issues may impact high schools and to let elected officials know that they care. Are there programs, courses, activities, clubs or teams that could be jeopardized by a funding crisis? How can schools pay for what is most important?

What is most important, and who decides?

The forum developed from questions about redefining core curriculum enacted through Flor-

ida Senate Bill 2120, particularly as it relates to AP and AICE courses students take to satisfy a graduation requirement but which may also be eligible for college credit.

The SAC’s focus quickly changed to funding issues as a whole when they considered some of the possible ramifications of reverting back to 2009-10 standards.

“I just thought it was crazy that required courses are now ‘extracurricular’ if they might also qualify for college credit,” said Sharon Mullen, co-chair of the Subcommittee on Core Curriculum. “Was redefining ‘core’ just a way to get around funding the Class Size Amendment?”

Mullen worries that the designation might lead to registration problems.

“Sixty kids can fill two sections.

If the course reverted to ‘core,’ only 50 kids could enroll in the two sections,” she said. “What happens to the other 10? We can’t afford to bring in another teacher or offer a section to only 10 students these days. I want these advanced courses available to more students, not fewer.”

The Class Size Amendment limits the number of students in a core high school course section to 25.

WHS SAC members do not believe that Florida’s voters intended the Class Size Amendment to dilute children’s educational experience, but rather to codify the concept that smaller classes are better for students than larger ones.

For more information about the forum, e-mail sac_meeting@sent. com.

Local Teen Holding Clean Water Drive Wellington teenager Sydney Kenney is making a move against the world’s water crisis, and she’s ready to get the whole community involved.

Kenney is creating a campaign to raise money for villages in Africa, southeast Asia and Latin America that lack easy access to clean water — something that nearly 1 billion people in the world don’t have. She has already begun spreading the word to family and friends, sending letters to local businesses, and talking to students and faculty members at Wellington High School.

“It’s hard to realize how little some people in the world really do have, and if I’m successful in expanding this project throughout the community, I know that we can make a difference,” Kenney said.

Every dollar Kenney raises goes straight to well-building projects, with her goal being $500 by February. She aims to raise small donations from as many people as she can; every $20 she raises roughly equals one person with clean drinking water. Kenney is also pushing to educate people about the issue.

For more information, or to make a donation, visit Kenney’s web site at www.mycharitywater. org/wellington. She is also looking for sponsors for events or fundraisers and can be contacted by e-mail at sydney_kenney@ yahoo.com.

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November 25 - December 1, 2011

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NEWS

HANDMADE CRAFTS AND OTHER ITEMS AT RPB’S FALL FANTASY CRAFT SHOW

Royal Palm Beach hosted its 1 0th annual Fall Fantasy Craft Show on Saturday, Nov. 19 at Veterans Park. Vendors were on hand offering a variety of handmade items, including artwork, jewelry, accessories, clothes and more.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/T OWN-CRIER

Tina Austin, Kelly Wernhardt, Maureen Wernhar dt and Meb Weaver model Rebel Royalty hats.

Jeanie Arbeit sells her jewelry with help from Becky Glevenyak.

Sharon Lincoln and Attis Solomon show Hattie Burke their items.

Rick Nelson performs music for the crowd.

Stacy Parsons at the Pet Mats table.

Jeff and Beverly Perham buy pillowcases from Joan Kelley and Louise Connolly.

A VARIETY OF GIFTS AT TEMPLE BETH TORAH PRESCHOOL’S HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE Temple Beth Torah’s Leonie Arguetty Preschool (900 Big Blue Trace, Wellington) held its Holiday Boutique & Book Fair on Sunday, Nov. 20. Vendors included jewelry, books, tie-dye clothing, handbags, and a variety of unique gifts. For more info, call (561) 793PHOTOS BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER 2649.

Mindy Sepinuck of FAB Finds by Mindy.

Bobbi Rini of Treasures by Bobbi.

Kimberly Alwine of Lia Sophia.

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November 25 - December 1, 2011

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NEWS

DANCING, RIDES & LOTS MORE AT ST. THERESE CATHOLIC CHURCH FALL FESTIVAL St. Therese de Lisieux Catholic Church held its Fall Festival & Carnival Nov. 17-20 at the church grounds in Wellington. There were rides, music, food for sale and games, as well as a talent show and contests for pie eating, hot dog eating and cupcake eating.

SEE VIDEO FROM THIS EVENT AT WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/T OWN-CRIER

Angela and Andy Garcia ride the carousel.

Mar ta Prado and Lourdes Nieves do a fandango dance.

Gabriela Pugliese and Gullio Gianella do the Argentine tango.

Akansha and Rhea Vennamaneni on one of the rides.

Tom Barber gets food from Arnold Morello.

Drew Spinelli sings in the talent contest.

TOKYO PEKING GRAND BUFFET IN ROYAL PALM BEACH HOLDS GRAND OPENING Tokyo Peking Hibachi Buffet held a grand opening Frida y, Nov. 18 for its new location in Royal Palm Beach. The buffet features an all-you-can-eat menu and a live hibachi show. Tokyo Peking’s RPB location is at 1172 Royal Palm Beach Blvd. To contact the PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/T OWN-CRIER restaurant, call (561) 383-8575.

Jason Wang readies the grill.

Palms West Chamber ambassadors and Tokyo Peking owners gather for the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Owners Lin Jin (left), Ken Wang (with baby Jet Wang) and Jennifer Yu (second from right) with employees.

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November 25 - December 1, 2011

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Page 13

NEWS

A WEEKEND OF RIDING, ROPING & RACING AT THE WEST PALM BEACH RODEO

The second annual West Palm Beach South Florida PCA Rodeo w as held Nov. 18-20 at the South Florida Fairgrounds. Guests enjoyed watching roping, barrel racing and bull riding, as well as riding demonstrations, live performances and more. For more info., visit www.westpalmbeachrodeo.com.

PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ/T OWN-CRIER

Indian Trail Improvement District President Michelle Damone, her daughter Marissa and Mikaela Bragg enjoy the show.

Alex Ramone prepares to lasso a cow.

Nichole Johnson of the Outsiders Drill Team.

Rodeo clown Sid MacFarland performs a magic trick.

Outsiders drill team member Theresa Furlan.

Lee Beckley flies out of the gate.

PLENTY OF GOOD CAUSES SUPPORTED AT CHARITY FEST AT THE FAIRGROUNDS

Charity Fest was held Nov. 18-20 at the South Florida Fairgrounds to benefit local charities. Guests enjoyed bounce houses, live music, food, games and more, with all proceeds benef iting charities such as Little Smiles, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the Quantum House. For more info., visit www.thecharityfest.com.

PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ/T OWN-CRIER

Little Smiles Executive Director Ashle y Gordon and founding President Scott Anderson.

Ryan, Kayla and Sydney Oswald get a balloon creation from Balloon Masterz’ Bobby Diamond.

Joe Schelorke smashes up a car to benefit charity.

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November 25 - December 1, 2011

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SCHOOL NEWS

Seminole Ridge Battalion Marches In West Palm For Veterans Day Seminole Ridge High School’s Army JROTC Hawk Battalion, with over 125 cadets, marched in the Veterans Day parade held on Clematis Street in downtown West Palm Beach. Tommy Cox, cadet major and battalion commander, led the cadet corps color guard at the front of the formation, with a horse-mounted troop, led by Cadet Capt. Kimberly Engle, at the rear. The Hawk Battalion was awarded the second-place trophy by the Veterans Day Committee for marching and motivation.

• Great Debaters — The Hawk forensics team “kicked it” with another successful competition Nov. 12 at Suncoast High School.

The following students racked

up the points and carried away the swag in the county tournament: Robert Botkin and Matthew Oates, with a 4-0 record, were first-place champions in the Public Forum event; Dominic Anaya and Devon Redmond took third place in Duo Interpretation; Cash Galko placed third in LincolnDouglas Debate; and Wayne Selogy placed fourth in Student Congress.

• The Ridge Fights Cancer — In the school’s recent three-week campaign “Pennies for Patients,” Hawk students and staff collected over $1,400 for donation to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

The winning class in the classroom competition was Patricia

GOLDEN GROVE HOSTS LITERACY DAY EVENT

In celebration of National Literacy Day, Golden Grove Elementary School held a Families Read Together event Tuesday, Nov. 1. Guest readers visited the school, including Jason Pugh of ESPN 760/WPT V, f irefighter Daniel Reeves and Nick Bergstrom of Pero Farms. Shown above, Pugh reads to the students.

McKillican’s first period Spanish 3 class, with $156.02 collected.

• Hawk JROTC Joins Fall Festival — The JROTC color guard presented the colors at the main stage area in the Nov. 12 opening ceremonies of the Acreage Fall Festival. Later in the afternoon, the guard repeated its presentation of the colors as the audience sang the national anthem to begin the Acreage Tackle Football League Super Bowl.

• “Look What I Found!” — Seminole Ridge students are among the artists featured in the current exhibit at Eg2 Gallery in CityPlace in downtown West Palm Beach (across from Cheeburger Cheeburger). “Look What

I Found!” features student art made from recycled or re-purposed materials. The exhibit runs through Sunday, Dec. 4.

• Drucker Nominated for Award — SRHS English and debate teacher Mierka Drucker has been nominated for a 2012 Distinguished Alumni Award in the category of education. The award was created to honor distinguished alumni of the Palm Beach County public school system who are noted in their field of endeavor, recognized for their expertise and good works, or have distinguished themselves through achievement, service or contributions to society, either locally or to the broader community.

Hawks David Evens, Joey Evens, Shannon LeDuc, Kim Engle and Brittney Hickle in the West Palm Beach Veterans Day parade.

Osceola Honors Scholar-Athletes Of The Month Osceola Creek Middle School has announced the recipients of its Scholar-Athlete Award for October. The award is sponsored by the school police and honors varsity athletes who also excel in academics, effort, behavior and school spirit, and serve as role models for others.

This month’s honorees carry high grade point averages as well as play varsity sports.

Boys baseball honored 11-yearold Logan Thomas, who earned straight A grades during his first quarter as a middle school student.

“Logan has shown tremendous promise on the baseball field as well, starting in most games,” coach Jay Mermelstein said. “He looks to be an asset on and off the field in his next couple of years at Osceola Creek.”

Thomas, who has perfect atten-

dance and a 5.14 GPA, wants to attend the University of Florida’s medical school as a prelude to a career in sports medicine.

Eighth-grader Katie Abel was honored by girls softball. “Katie is very dedicated to her academics and to any extra activities she is involved in,” coach Deb Foreman said. “She works hard to strive for her best. She has a great sense of humor and much respect for others. With such great support at home and her positive attitude, I’m sure she will go far with her goals in the future.”

Abel, who has a 5.00 grade point average, wants to attend college in Florida and become a psychologist or a writer. The 13-yearold is a member of the National Junior Honor Society and plays travel softball in the Acreage Athletic League.

Scholar-Athletes — Principal Dan Frank, Katie Abel, School Police Officer Sandy Molenda and Logan Thomas.

Supporting the program are Subway, Domino’s Pizza and Burger King (located at Seminole Pratt Whitney Road and Orange

Blvd.) and Dairy Queen (at Royal Palm Beach and Okeechobee boulevards), which donated free food coupons.

Panther Run Students Learn About The Flag From Local Veterans Fifth-grade students at Panther Run Elementary School were greeted by former Wellington Mayor Tom Wenham, who came to school to talk about the history of Veterans Day. Students learned how to fold the American flag. Bob Wigersma brought flags so students could get a hands-on lesson, and 10 students were picked to help demonstrate.

They learned that the flag should never touch the ground, and that it is folded so only the stars are seen on both sides. Students also learned that if a flag is torn or tattered, it should never be thrown

in the garbage or destroyed. He recommends that if anyone ever notices a flag that is not intact, they should contact the American Legion so they can dispose of it properly by burning it.

The Pledge of Allegiance was explained line by line, as was the flag. Each color and each star has a meaning.

Wigersma and Wenham are members of the American Legion Wellington Post 390 and both are veterans; Wigersma served in the Army in Vietnam, and Wenham was in the Air Force in the Korean War.

Bob Wigersma shows students how to fold the flag.

Assistant Principal Edilia De La Vega, Bob Wigersma, Tom Wenham and Principal P am Strachan.

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SCHOOL NEWS

Poinciana Participates In Scripps Pilot Program Daniel Schaffer’s Poinciana Day School sixth-, seventh- and eighth-grade science students recently participated in a pilot educational outreach program with the Scripps Research Institute.

Scripps Institute Educational Outreach Director Deborah Leach-Scampavia is developing a curriculum to present scientific programs for local middle schools and brought her pilot program to Poinciana Day School.

Five local high school students who interned at Scripps last summer talked to the middle school students about their summer experience, why they chose to participate in the program and what

it was like to work in a world-class scientific community. The high school students demonstrated some scientific experiments and then taught the middle school students a lesson about protein synthesis.

Leach-Scampavia will be using the feedback from this program to formalize an educational outreach program to encourage middle school students to pursue science as a career.

“We are always looking for ways to expand our students’ horizons and expose them to as many possible career choices as we can,” Poinciana Day School Head of School Ann Simone said.

November 25 - December 1, 2011

Page 15

BEREAN CELEBRATES VETERANS DAY WITH SPECIAL PROGRAM

Poinciana students ask the high school interns about Scripps.

WELLINGTON ELEMENTARY PTO HOLDS FUNDRAISER

The Wellington Elementary School PTO held a successful fundraising event No v. 9 at Tijuana Flats and Ice King of Wellington.

Principal Eugina Smith Feaman, along with several teachers, parents and students at WES, donated their time to help the fundraiser be the best “give-back night” of the year. The teachers ate dinner with their students and then stepped behind the counter at the Ice King of Wellington to scoop ice for the students. WES thanks Tijuana Flats and the Ice King of Wellington for their support.

Cathy Flora, Gloria Campbell and Principal Eugina Smith Feaman.

Teachers Lisa Elkind, Gladys Navarro and Rhonda Smith.

Berean Christian School hosted a special Veterans Day program on Friday, Nov. 11. Sponsored by the BCS music department, the program featured students from K5 t o fif th grade and the junior and senior high school choirs. Held to honor the men and women who serve the country — whether retired, active or on leave — the program’s goal was to provide encouragement and fellowship for the community and military families. Program highlights included musical performances, guest speakers from the military and a presentation of the flags by Berean’s own Sea Cadets. For more information, or more pictures of the event, visit www.bereanwpb.org. Shown above, Berean students and Sea Cadets raise their hands to salute during the ceremony.

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November 25 - December 1, 2011

TKA’s Sharrock A Finalist In ‘Rising Star’ Competition John Cameron Sharrock, a senior at the King’s Academy in West Palm Beach, was recently recognized by Junior Achievement of the Palm Beaches as one of five finalists in the 10th annual Watch a Rising Star competition.

Sharrock was chosen from among applicants of every high school in Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie and Hendry counties.

Sharrock will spend the next couple of months performing throughout the community as an ambassador for Junior Achievement and will compete for a $5,000 scholarship on Feb. 11, 2012, at Junior Achievement’s annual fundraiser.

Sharrock and the other four finalists will sing two songs for a distinguished panel of judges. The event will be held in the Cohen Pavilion at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts and is presented in partnership with Young Singers of the Palm Beaches.

This marks the fifth consecutive year that the King’s Academy has had a finalist in the Junior Achievement competition. Previous winners from the King’s Academy include Mikah Adams

PALMS WEST PEOPLE

Wildcat Dancers — Kim Benvenat e, Loida Jimenez, Tatyana Blackmon, Allison Hair, Kaylee Sporrer, Bri Gribble, Summer Rosencrantz, Chary Baez (captain), Samira Amiv ora, Paulena Wermuth (co-captain), Jazzy Flores, Loren Estbanez and Zenia Fermin.

John Cameron Sharr ock (2011), Kelley McGillicuddy (2010), Amy Rigell (2009), Angela Winsor (2008) and Alex Cornillie (2008).

TKA is proud of Sharrock’s selection as a finalist and for his willingness to share his talents with his community.

Send Palms West People items to: The Town-Crier Newspaper, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414.

Fax: (561) 793-6090. E-mail: news@goTownCrier.com.

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Vanilla Ice Helps Out Habitat For Humanity Wellington resident and host of his own DIY home restoration show, Rob Van Winkle — better known as Vanilla Ice — recently shot a public service announcement for Making Lives Brighter, a new, unique initiative created by Capitol Lighting and Habitat for Humanity of Palm Beach County.

During the run of the campaign, now through Feb. 28, 2012, customers who donate their old lighting to any Capitol Lighting showroom in the South Florida and New Jersey areas will receive a 10 percent discount toward any new lighting purchase. Donors will also receive a tax deduction from Habitat for Humanity. The lighting fixtures, lamps and fans contributed to the campaign will either be re-purposed in a Habitat

Vanilla Ice for Humanity home or sold at one of its ReStores resale outlets.

For more information, visit www.habitatpbc.org.

RPB Dancers Present Sierra Graduates Air Veterans Day Show Force Basic Training The Royal Palm Beach High School Wildcat Dancers presented a dance performance Wednesday, Nov. 9 at Temple Beth Torah in Wellington in honor of Veterans Day. Choreographed by Dance Director Michele Blecher, the show included four inspirational songs, all relating to the men and women who have served and still serve in the armed forces.

The dancers also presented a special dedication to Blecher ’s eldest son, Master Sgt. Matthew Lutz Blecher.

The show’s dance routines were “G-d Bless the USA,” “Grand Ole Flag,” “Already There” and “Skyscraper.”

The Wildcat Dancers and Blecher felt it was an honor to support all of the soldiers who serve in the United States military.

Air Force Airman 1st Class Sammy Sierra recently graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.

Sierra completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate’s degree in applied science through the Community College of the Air Force.

Sierra is the son of Maria Arroyo and Samuel Sierra of Wellington. He is a 2007 graduate of Palm Beach Central High School and earned a degree in 2010 from Palm Beach State College.

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PALMS WEST PEOPLE

This Year’s Buddy Walk Raises Most Money Ever The Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization, a nonprofit serving children and adults with Down syndrome and their families, raised a record-breaking $125,000 at the 17th annual Buddy Walk.

The event also drew the largest crowd in its history, with more than 2,500 attendees.

Funds raised from the event will be used to support the Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization’s education, support, social and advocacy programs, including the Learning Program, the Exceptional Educators Program, the Next

Chapter Book Club and Smart Start. The Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization is based in Boca Raton and serves Palm Beach County and northern Broward County.

Major sponsors for the Buddy Walk included Patriot Rail, Toshiba Business Solutions Florida, Florida Crystals, the Geo Group Foundation and Morgan Keegan.

The Buddy Walk was chaired by DeeAnne Feulner.

The Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization is a health, educational resource, support and advocacy organization, which has

been empowering individuals with Down syndrome and their families since 1980. The organization supports the inclusion of persons who have Down syndrome in all areas of life as contributing and valued members of society.

In 2010, the Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization received the National Down Syndrome Congress’ prestigious National Parent Group Award.

For additional information about the organization, visit its web site at www.goldcoastdown syndrome.org.

November 25 - December 1, 2011

Page 17

ACREAGE SCOUTS HONOR VETERANS

Adalie Scelfo of Wellington

Manning-Hudson Becomes Partner At Law Firm The law firm of Siegfried, Rivera, Lerner, De La Torre & Sobel, P.A. has named Laura ManningHudson as a partner and shareholder with the firm.

Manning-Hudson, an Acreage resident who works in the firm’s West Palm Beach office, has been with the firm for 13 years and focuses her practice on community association law and commercial litigation.

“Laura has been an integral part of our firm’s practice for condominium and homeowners’ associations for many years,” said Steven M. Siegfried, the firm’s

founding partner. “We are very proud to name her as a partner with the firm.”

Manning-Hudson is a member of the Palm Beach County Bar Association, Young Lawyers Division, and served on the board of directors of the Southeast Florida Chapter of the Community Association Institute.

She holds a law degree from the University of Miami and a bachelor’s degree from Florida S tate University.

Founded in 1977 and based in Coral Gabels, Siegfried, Rivera, Lerner, De La Torre & Sobel, PA

focuses on all aspects of community association matters, construction law, real estate and corporate law. It maintains offices in Coral Gables, Plantation and West Palm Beach.

The firm provides representation to a diverse client base throughout Florida and the nation, including more than 500 homeowners’ and condominium community associations.

Additional information on the law firm is available at www. siegfriedlaw.com or by calling (561) 296-5444 or toll-free at (800) 737-1390.

Scouts from Boy Scout Troop 122 in The Acreage participated in a Veterans Day ceremony at the Community Living Center at the West Palm Beach Veterans Administration Medical Center. The scouts performed the presentation of colors and led veterans, guests and staff in the Pledge of Allegiance. They also distributed ball caps with commemorative pins to each veteran. Boy Scout Troop 122 is sponsored by the Disabled American Veterans. For more information regarding Troop 122, contact Scoutmaster Tim Leonard at (561) 248-1479. Shown above are: (front row, L-R) Chandler Levesque, Allen Leonard and Trace Podder; (second row) Kyle Brader, Ty Richards, Michael F ontecchio and Alex Mullen; (back row) Dean Richards, Tim Leonard, William Shock and Dawn Shock .

Fischer Joins Board CAR Members Celebrate Magazine’s Centennial Of Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies PBC Laura Manning-Hudson

The Chief Tiger Tail Society Children of the American Revolution celebrated the 100th birthday of the Children of the American Revolution magazine at their November meeting. The Children of the American Revolution is a lineage society composed of members who can trace their ancestry to a Revolutionary War patriot. The group supports U.S. troops through fundraising for Paws for Patriots, which trains guide dogs for wounded soldiers, and donations to the Fisher House, a facility where soldiers and their families can stay while receiving treatment at a VA hospital.

(Right) Jon Sorrenson; Samantha Mouring, stat e registrar; Kaitlyn Mouring, state president; Talia Fradkin, CTTS president and Public R elations Committee state chair; Samantha Ciminera; Ava Spurlin; Chase Skorupa; and Chloe Skorupa.

Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies of Palm Beach County has announced that Lori Fischer has joined its board of directors.

A Wellington resident, Fischer has served as the administrator at Infants & Children, P.A. since 2006, managing two locations.

Fischer received an associate’s degree from Cazenovia College in Cazenovia, N.Y., and is currently finishing a bachelor’s degree in management at Palm Beach State College.

Fischer is a member of Executive Women of the Palm Beaches, Palm Beach Pediatric Society, National Society of Human Resource Management, Human Resource Society of Palm Beach County, Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and is vice chair for the Sunfest Guest Services Division.

Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies improves birth outcomes,

Lori Fischer promotes healthy families and builds healthy communities by providing access to prenatal care for underserved and uninsured pregnant women and communityoriented education programs to all residents of Palm Beach County.

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NEWS

CHOCOLATE LOVERS TURN OUT FOR FESTIVAL OF CHOCOLATE IN WEST PALM The Festival of Chocolate was held Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 19 and 20 at the Palm Beach County Convention Center. Chocolate vendors from throughout Palm Beach County from cupcakes to candies showcased their work. The attractions included the history of chocolate, games and live entertainment. For more info., visit www.festivalofchocolate.com.

PHOTOS BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER

Weston and Colton Thom make candy pizzas.

WinterFest

Dec. 2 In Wellington

continued from page 1 ment. “The tree-lighting ceremony will be featuring the beautiful sounds of local performing artists and dance troupes,” he said.

This year’s event chairs include Dr. Randy Laurich of the chamber’s Medical & Wellness Committee and Victor Connor of the chamber’s Equestrian Committee.

Bowen is looking forward to seeing the community at this year’s event. “I think everybody just likes the traditional holiday entertainment and holiday spirit,”

Farm City

Immigration A Big Issue

continued from page 1 with Dinerstein about abiding by the rule of law and eliminating human and drug trafficking, as well as increasing security along the U.S.-Mexico border. “The problem is we have a law in this country that is broken and is in dire need of being fixed.”

Florida depends on a strong agriculture industry, and agriculture depends on workers to harvest crops, he said. “The proper way for them to come into this country legally is a difficult process right now,” Basford said.

Rather than focus on the rhetoric, Basford said he would prefer to discuss practical solutions.

“That’s what we at the Florida Farm Bureau are doing,” he said.

Roth said he was on the panel on behalf of growers who utilize the H-2A temporary agricultural visa program, although he does not use the program.

“It is a very difficult task to get someone who is a user of the H2A program to speak publicly when they are in a program that’s regulated by the federal Department of Labor and indirectly by the Florida Farm Bureau,” Roth said. “Also, this is the time that harvesting in South Florida begins, not only for vegetables and sugar cane but also citrus, so, it’s very difficult to get somebody here. I’ve talked to a lot of them

Park

Completion For July 4th

continued from page 1 The fund was discontinued in June because revenue sources had dried up.

Board Chair John Ruffa said fundraising has been slow for all organizations. “I can speak from experience,” he said. “Over the last 18 to 24 months, fundraising across the board has been very difficult. However, I think it’s great that we’re doing the bricks.”

Ruffa asked whether any advertising has been done, and Recchio said the brick sale is posted on the village’s web site at www.royal palmbeach.com and an ad is on the village marquees constantly.

“It has been reiterated at meet-

Food

Helping The Needy

continued from page 1 and that was it. There was no dialogue. But this was a nice, neighboring type of event.”

The meals were brought home in reusable bags donated by Publix, and each family was able to take home a pie donated by Whole Foods Market. Additionally, each family received a Publix gift card to purchase their choice of meat for the holiday, Henghold said.

“We ended up giving away about 75 bags of food,” she said.

Residents were also able to take home some non-Thanksgiving items, such as baby food and other canned goods, thanks to extra donations.

Donovan Gose and Lisa Hamilton of Cupcake Cottage in Royal Palm Beach. better way to help it to continue to grow than to be a part of a holiday event like this.”

For Bowen, the event encompasses what Wellington stands for as a community. “It maintains our hometown image, and it’s a nice event to go to enjoy great entertainment,” he said.

Attendees are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys for the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots Program and Vanilla Ice’s Toys for Tots Sixth Annual Charity Block Party.

Vendor space and sponsorships are still available. For more information, visit www.wellington chamber.com or call (561) 7926525.

Jordan Turck, Brooke Dolan, Aliah Singh and Karina Hansen of Girl Scout Troop 20029.

he said. “And it’s kind of a kickoff for the holidays.”

WinterFest 2011 is a free event that is open to the general public, with more than 60 vendors offering food, drinks and gifts for Christmas. Sponsors include the International Polo Club Palm Beach, the Wellness Experience, Prescriptions Plus, My Community Pharmacy, Wellington Regional Medical Center and Security Self Storage.

“I would like to thank our sponsors, and give a special thank-you to Capt. Jay Hart and the Wellington PBSO,” Stone said.

The Wellington substation of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office will be providing extra se-

curity to ensure everyone’s safety. “Capt. Hart has provided us with six deputies,” Perillo-Green said. “And in addition to that, I have hired two security guards.”

By having Wash and IPC as presenting sponsors of WinterFest, it will bring together all members of the community for an opportunity to welcome the holidays together. “It’s a melding of both equestrian and polo,” Bowen said. “And it shows that they are not involved in just equestrian and polo.”

WinterFest is becoming a way to bring the community closer together in a festive atmosphere. “As each year goes by, it becomes more than just a town, it becomes a family,” Wash said. “And what

lately trying to get them here.”

Roth said that in his more than 30 years of going to Washington, D.C., and Tallahassee and being involved with industry organizations, he has learned that issues have to be kept simple when trying to pass legislation.

“If you get the talking heads in the middle of all this, you get absolutely nowhere,” Roth said, adding that he thought no national legislation would be forthcoming until the border is secured. “Until we do that, the talking heads won’t let us do anything to allow people who are here — workers working in agriculture and construction and other industries that have the ability and want to harvest our crops — [to become] legal because they’ll say that we’ll just bring in more. So the first thing we’ll have to do is secure the border.”

He added that he felt that EVerify, an online service being developed that allows employers to confirm whether a worker is a legal resident, highlights the fact that there are not enough domestic locals to harvest crops in the Southeast.

Basford said he felt that E-Verify is a great concept and that employers like it in general. “They desire to employ legal people,” Basford said.

He explained that E-Verify is still a pilot program and still has some problems, including that it is a post-hiring program and employers have to go through employment screening before they can use E-Verify to discover a per-

son’s legal standing. Legislation seasonal agricultural worker prointroduced recently, Basford said, gram, and we have been trying would allow an employer to con- now for over 20 years in Congress firm legal standing before offer- to get another program in place.” ing the person a job.

Roth said the H-2A program “What do we do to replace the does not work for the smaller workers who will necessarily have farmers who utilize workers only to leave because they are not au- during a short harvesting season. thorized to work in this country?” “That means I will have to do Basford asked. “That is what we things differently here in Florida at the Florida Farm Bureau are than my competitors in Califorconcerned about, is making sure nia,” he said, asserting that E-Verthe farmers in this state are able to ify will put many smaller farmers get their crops harvested, and out of business unless a process is making sure the people harvest- included to phase it in. ing them are legal.”

Palms West Chamber CEO Dinerstein described E-Verify Jaene Miranda thanked the panas a gift to the farming communi- elists and the people who attendty. “E-Verify makes every farmer ed. She added that the chamber legal,” Dinerstein said, adding that will host a tour of the farming and he felt that lobbying should focus equestrian community on Dec. 1 on fine-tuning the system, not try- and 2. The fee will be $20, including to circumvent the law. “You ing lunch. For more information, can have an H-2A program that call (561) 790-6200 or register brings in all the workers that you online at www.palmswest.com. need, and does it in a way that is usable, affordable, predictable and better for the whole country. Instead, we’re wasting our time trying to avoid conforming to the law.”

Roth said he is very much in favor of being able to hire a legal work force. “I had a totally legal work force back in the 1980s, and they had labor camps in South Bay, and we had plenty Jillian Hanley of 4H and her of legal workers,” he mother, 4H leader Lisa Hanley. said. “Then we had PHOTOS BY R ON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER Ronald Reagan pass the

Amy Teerman of PBC 4H, Audrey Norman of the PBC Extension Ser vice and Vinod Doddamani of Roy & Associates.

ings of softball and soccer groups to let them know that this is a great way of raising funds and promoting the new park,” Recchio said.

Ruffa said he has been watching the progress of the park from the street and asked whether the board could be given a tour.

“You’ll have to wear hardhats,” Recchio said. “Right now is not the best time to go out there.

You’ve got to have a four-wheel drive. They are just now laying out the roadways.”

Recchio said that construction is moving quickly and that the three-story sporting center, which is the focal point of the park, is coming together nicely.

“They have the third floor laid out,” he said. “When you get a chance to go out there, you are going to be amazed at how huge this facility is going to be.”

To the back of the sporting center are 20 picnic pavilions scattered through the park, Recchio said. Two large playground facilities are laid out separately for ages 2 to 5 and 5 to 12, as well as two sand volleyball courts. On the south end of the park, a combined entertainment stage and restrooms building is being built overlooking the great lawn that will accommodate thousands of people.

“All the buildings are in,” Recchio said, including a large park maintenance building toward the front. “Right now they’re putting in the walls and partitions for the offices.”

A building that houses equipment for the driving range is in its final phases, and all the picnic pavilions are up, Recchio added.

The sporting center will house a pro shop and sundries and snack

shop on the first floor. The main entrance on the second level will have a large lobby and restrooms.

On the third floor is a banquet hall.

“People who want to have graduations or some kind of awards banquet or wedding, that will be held upstairs,” Recchio said.

All the food that will be catered will be brought up via the elevator from the lower floor where preparation is done.

Recchio said he was most impressed with the amount of room available, explaining that the upper deck alone would hold over 300 people. “The room is all glass, so when you’re up there, you get a 360-degree view of the entire complex, and it is very impressive,” Recchio said. “It’s going to be a jewel. It’s going to be a place that everyone is going to want to go and spend time.”

In front of the sporting center will be a courtyard with the pavers, an interactive fountain similar to that at Veterans Park but much larger, and a platform for a band. In the back of the sporting center is a huge garden area for banquets or weddings that will be covered with bright, sail-like shade covers.

“You can have an event going on outside in the wedding garden, you can have another upstairs, and at the same time you can have all kinds of events going out on the great lawn, and one will not interfere with the other,” Recchio said.

“It’s going to be quite impressive.

Right now, the plan is for Fourth of July to be held at this facility.

Barring any unforeseen instances, we should have no problem opening and having that event there.”

Ruffa asked how much of the

“We received so much food that we had extra,” Henghold said.

“Some of it wasn’t traditional holiday items, so we allowed people who came to the event to use it as sort of a food pantry.”

The rest of the food was donated to Oasis Compassion Agency, a local nonprofit that runs a food pantry.

Children were able to participate in a variety of holiday crafts, but one of the most important was making cards and decorations for sick children spending the holidays at Palms West Hospital.

Mayor Darell Bowen, who attended the event last Saturday, said he was proud to see that Wellington is a community that will give back to others.

“I thought it was a nice thing to do,” he said. “They came out, participated and made cards for

the sick children. I think everyone felt a stronger feeling of pride to participate and give something back.”

Bowen, along with Kids Cancer Foundation founder Michelle O’Boyle, delivered the cards, along with some food, to several families with children at Palms West Hospital on Tuesday.

“We brought a big stack of getwell cards that were made on Saturday,” Bowen said. “We also had [several] families that needed assistance, but their children were too sick to make it to the event.

So instead of [having them] picking it up, we brought the meals to them.”

Bowen said the experience reminded him to be thankful for what he has this holiday season.

“It’s always amazing how many people out there are in need,” he

said. “It makes me realize how blessed I am and how wonderful my life is.”

Something else he’s grateful for: a community that rallies to help those less fortunate, even when times are tough for everyone.

“I’m just glad we can help others,” he said. “I’m proud our community can do that.”

Bowen said he is looking forward to continuing to give back with the Holiday Toy Drive, which kicks off next month.

“I always look forward to doing that,” he said. “It brings smiles to a lot of children’s faces who really need it.”

Residents who wish to help can drop off a new, unwrapped toy to any village office starting in December. For more information, call (561) 791-4000.

Wellington Mayor Darell Bowen and IPC President of Club Operations John Wash.

PHOTO BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER

Panelists Rick Roth, Sid Dinerstein and Adam Basford.

Palm Beach Gardens Mayor David Levy, Palm Beach Shores Vice Mayor Lisa Tropepe and Lake Clarke Shores Manager Dan Clark.

original lake system was kept, and Recchio said the lakes were largely retained and added to.

“They have been moved to accommodate what we wanted to do out there,” Recchio said, estimating there are 14 to 16 acres of water. “We will be renting out canoes, kayaks, paddleboats, bikes, and they will have direct access from the lower floor of the sporting center.”

In other business, the board chose Shenoy Raghuraj as vice chair to replace Joseph Zexter, who died a few months ago after many years on the board.

Board Member June Perrin said she would like to purchase a brick in memory of Zexter. “He was a dedicated citizen and a longtime resident of Royal Palm Beach who helped us all in various aspects,” Perrin said.

Wellington Mayor Darell Bowen with Palms West Hospital pediatric patient Jaiya Anderson.

PHOTO COUR TESY MERIDITH TUCKWOOD

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Volunteer Jan Legg Enjoys Her Time At Pure Thoughts

Following her retirement, Jan Legg found a new calling. For the past two years, she has been riding and working with some of the rescue horses at Pure Thoughts Horse Rescue in Loxahatchee. And she did it with almost no previous equestrian background.

Ellen Rosenberg’s Column, Page 23

November 25 - December 1, 2011

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RPBHS Basketball Boys Set Sights On District Title

The Royal Palm Beach High School boys varsity basketball team is coming out strong this year with more experience and athleticism, hoping to claim the district title. After a disappointing season last year, the young team has a year of experience and training playing as a team, head coach Andrew Quinn said. Page 35

Shopping Spree A TOWN-CRIER PUBLICATION

INSIDE

Business Johnson’s Custom Cakes Now Open In Kobosko’s Crossing Shopping Center

Sweet smells fill the air at Johnson’s Custom Cakes and More, a full-service bakery located in the Kobosko’s Crossing shopping center, offering the best in tasty pastries and baked desserts. Owners Jennifer and Jeffrey Johnson held a grand opening Nov. 16 to celebrate the arrival of the new upscale bakery in the western communities. Johnson’s Custom Cakes provides a walk-in bak ery-style atmosphere as well as catering options. Page 27

Sports SRHS Football Squad Defeats Palm Beach Central Broncos 17-7

The Seminole Ridge High School varsity football team advanced in its bid for the state championship title after a 177 win over Palm Beach Central Nov. 18 at Callery-Judge Grove Stadium. Fighting through torrential rain and on a slick field, Seminole Ridge was able to best the Broncos. Page 35

THIS WEEK’S INDEX COLUMNS & FEATURES ...................... 23-25 BUSINESS NEWS .................................27-29 DINING & ENTERTAINMENT ..................... 30 SPORTS & RECREATION ......................35-37 COMMUNITY CALENDAR .................... 38-39 CLASSIFIEDS ....................................... 40-44

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Page 23

FEATURES

Volunteer Jan Legg Enjoys Time Spent At Pure Thoughts Jan Legg rides horses. A lot of them. Twice a week. Her riding background?

“I don’t have much of one,” she laughed.

“I think I rode briefly, when I was 11 or 12.”

Now in her early 60s, this Palm Beach Gardens resident has found a new calling. She rides and works with some of the rescue horses at Pure Thoughts Horse Rescue in Loxahatchee.

“I’ve always been drawn to helping those in need,” Legg said. “I was a Palm Beach County victim services advocate. I did social work for 16 years. After I retired, I wanted to volunteer somewhere. A friend told me about Pure Thoughts. It sounded interesting.”

That was November 2009.

“I started going out on a regular basis, twice a week, Mondays and Thursdays, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. I wanted to find out about it. I went with an open mind,” Legg said. “At first, I just wanted to be around the horses and help the ones who’d been abused or neglected. I thought maybe I’d try riding at some point. I didn’t know what to expect.”

Brad Gaver, the owner and manager of Pure Thoughts, was thrilled to have Legg.

“We love our volunteers,” he said. “We always need people coming out to help us, especially people who can come on a regular basis, even if it’s just an hour or two a week.

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

Tales From The Trails

By Ellen Rosenberg It’s great if they have some horse experience already, but that’s not a requirement. Anyone can help, and everyone can learn.”

Legg was a rank beginner. That didn’t matter at all. Gaver worked with her and showed her what to do. She started out with bathing, grooming and helping feed.

“I got the easy ones, the ones without any problems or issues,” Legg said. “I learned by doing and watching others. It was a gradual process. Then I started doing more.”

Legg was impressed with Gaver ’s knowledge.

“I really liked his willingness to take time to teach me,” she said. “He’s very patient and always answers all my questions. He emphasizes safety. He respects everyone, both people and horses.”

So Legg started working with the horses — the “easy” ones, at first — and then the slightly harder ones.

“It’s a gradual process,” she said. “I like doing the groundwork and teaching them to lead, stand quietly in the cross ties, lunging them, getting them desensitized to potential-

Jan Legg gets ready to ride one of the hor ses at Pure Thoughts. ly scary situations. Getting them to pay attention. That’s a big part of what I do. And now I’m OK working with horses who are a little more challenging.”

In fact, she enjoys her work with difficult cases.

“I really love doing desensitizing exercises with skittish or nervous horses — getting them used to objects in their environment,” Legg said. “I’ve used all sorts of things — gently tossing ropes over the backs and See ROSENBERG, page 25

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FEATURES

Instead Of Writing, I’m Out Shopping On Black Friday...

I am writing this well in advance because, as decreed by the Constitution of the United States of America, every female over the age of 10 is required by law to be out shopping on Black Friday. So instead of writing a timely and relevant humor column for your reading enjoyment, I am at the mall being squashed and mauled and stepped on by scores of other rabid females.

I enjoy it.

The rest of the year, I avoid crowds to the point of turning left if most of the other cars are turning right (a practice that frequently lands me in fields far from home late at night with an empty gas tank). But on Black Friday (which good ol’ Target kicked off promptly at midnight), I want to run with the bulls. Or the cows. Whatever.

Get your Sonic Boomer humor every day!

Follow Deborah Welky on Twitter at twitter.com/TheSonicBoomer. On Facebook, stop by “The Sonic Boomer” page and click the “Like” button.

Deborah Welky is

The Sonic BOOMER This year, Black Friday will be extra fun because my daughter will be with me. We haven’t shopped together in a long, long time, but each of us is the other’s very favorite shopping partner. This is because our tastes are diametrically opposed, and it just cracks us up.

I will pick up a pair of brown slacks and squeal: “Look at these! And they’re on sale!”

Then Jen will reply: “Those are on sale because they are absolutely hideous, Mom! Name one person who wears brown slacks, male or female.” I will skrinch up my face into my rare “I’m thinking” look, but I won’t be

able to think of anyone and — catastrophe averted! — I’ll buy a pair of stylish black slacks at twice the price.

Then Jen will spend two hours at Crate & Barrel reading boxes that enumerate the mechanical features of various high-speed blenders while I collapse in the pillow section, sucking the cinnamon-candy coating off coffee spoons I had intended to give as gifts. Inevitably, a salesperson will approach to ask if I was planning to pay for those spoons, and Jen will rush over, beet red, and hurry me out of there.

At lunchtime, however, I will have my revenge. Jen will enthusiastically babble on about how I simply must try some oddball ethnic restaurant that serves dishes indigenous to some far-flung country that probably doesn’t even exist, and I’ll interrupt with, “I want steak!”

I’m her mother so she will have to humor me, even though when I’m not around she is a health-conscious vegetarian who lives on things that look, to me, as if they have been

regurgitated by my garbage disposal.

In the spirit of compromise, Jen will say, “I know a place that serves free-range beef,” and (even though I know better) I will cheer up and say, “Free! My favorite kind!” Jen will roll her eyes and mumble something about perhaps ordering the hummus, and I will say, “Hummus… isn’t that a car?” and she’ll say, “That’s enough, Mom,” and then I know my job as a humorist is done.

Of course, it’s not all fun and games. We can be serious, too. We often have deep discussions about things like history (Jen: “So why do we say we ‘dial’ a phone?”) and technology (Me: “But why are those birds so angry?”).

All of this is part of the excitement and charm of Black Friday. By dinnertime, we’re exhausted but happy. We’ve laughed a little, learned a little, shopped a little and done our civic duty. Because if there’s one thing even more important than mother/daughter bonding, it’s our civic duty.

Thank goodness it comes at 50 percent off.

Why I’m Not Going To The Movie Theater This Weekend The Hollywood Establishment is buzzing because the Breaking Dawn new movie is racking up huge bucks as teens pour in to see a very boring young woman getting married to the world’s most goody-goody boring vampire while being chased by a boring werewolf with incredible abs. Who really cares?

My older daughter is convinced the movies work because Bella, the heroine, is so boring. She is everyteen; any girl can imagine herself going through all the things she does.

And I still have trouble dealing with the fact that a big piece of the population is no longer interested in regular relationships between people. Why worry about gay relationships or multiple sex partners when you can agonize over sex with non-humans? Too many people seem to want some specialized super kind of not-quite-human. Most teenage boys will turn out to be disappointments, not able to measure up to computer-enhanced romance.

Adding insult to injury, the second big movie this week features anthropomorphized penguins sort of dancing to old disco songs.

Actually, a lot fewer people are going to the movies these days. The movie companies are taking in more money, but then again, if you

Rosenberg

Pure Thoughts Volunteer Jan Legg

continued from page 23 against their bellies, rubbing them with a noisy plastic bag on a stick, gently tapping them with those long Styrofoam pool noodles, even getting them used to being around a wheelchair — anything different or unusual.”

After about four months, Legg decided she might be ready to try riding.

“I asked Brad, and he had one of the other volunteers give me lessons,” she recalled. “I

raise ticket prices by 10 percent and your revenues are up 5 percent, you can ignore the fact that fewer people are actually buying tickets. And, of course, 3-D movies cost a lot more, further skewing the numbers.

Why are we not going out to the movies?

The most obvious reason, of course, is that so many movies are not really very good. The only really top-of-the-line films I saw this year were 50/50 and Super 8. There were a couple of decent comedies, and a few of the summer blockbusters were fun, but that was about it for real quality.

But there are other reasons. The first is simply that it costs a fortune to get into a movie.

For senior citizens, it costs over $14 a couple.

If you don’t qualify, it can be very close to $20. Go to the candy stand, the only place the

movie theater owner really makes money, and you learn how expensive a few cents’ worth of popcorn or soda can be. I watched a family at a candy stand last weekend spend well over $20 on refreshments that could have been purchased in a store and consumed at home for no more than $5.

Also, if you wait a month or so, you can order the film on television for about $5. Years ago, we generally had to wait six months to a year before movies showed up on cable, and the big movies might skip it altogether and show up two years later on broadcast television. No longer. We can see most of the summer blockbusters on television before Thanksgiving.

And, of course, the number of people watching can be as many as you can fit in your living room. Even better, you can stop the movie when you need to go to the bathroom so you miss nothing. You can tell someone who annoys you to keep quiet without worrying about an argument or even worse.

You can make your own popcorn and take a soda or even a beer from the fridge for far less money than at a candy stand. You can even watch it twice, since most of the on-demand payments reserve the movie for 24 hours.

Added to that, many of us have large-screen televisions, often with home theater sound.

Quite often, the quality of what we see at home is actually superior to what goes on in the theater. And we avoid the dozen or so coming attraction trailers for films we will never really want to see.

Add to that the rise of cable television stations with their new series, many of which are far better than some movies; as I have noted before, quite a few are better than the series on broadcast television.

In the past, the television networks kept the top shows away from the summer and Christmas seasons, the biggest times for movie viewing. Why go out on Saturday night to see a movie that you already figure is a dog when you can watch Rizzoli & Isles or The Closer or Eureka without charge?

Movie makers currently are doing well thanks to a lot of government subsidies (and many of the people receiving them are the ones demanding higher taxes for all of us), a real lot of shifty bookkeeping, and a handful of blockbusters. If they want us in the theaters, perhaps they should try a new notion: quality movies.

worked with her once a week for the next six months, just learning basic horsemanship.

Then she moved on, and I continued taking lessons from someone else. I enjoy learning new things.”

Legg’s first “special” horse was a bay mare named Stolen Command.

“She was really quiet, and had a smooth trot. I just liked something about her. She was great. I had mixed feelings when she went to her new home — happy for her, sad for me — but that’s how it is out there. It’s great when one of ‘my’ horses gets adopted, but I still miss them,” she said. “Riding a lot of different horses also teaches me a ton of different techniques, because you have to ride differently for each horse. I’ve developed a good skill set

now, and my riding’s really improved. I feel comfortable riding greener, less experienced horses. I’m a lot more comfortable around them.”

Legg truly enjoys her time at Pure Thoughts.

“Coming out here’s a lot of fun. I really like it. I’m learning more all the time. I wish I’d done something like this 40 years ago,” she said. “Still, I’m happy with what I can do now.

I hope to keep increasing my skills, and even though I enjoy riding, my heart is with the desensitizing work. I get more of a feel for the horse doing that, and I can see the improvement. I love it when a horse loses his fear of something and develops better manners. That makes everyone happier, both humans and horses.”

Legg says her most important contribution is just going out to Pure Thoughts consistently, week after week. “Brad can count on me,” she said.

“She’s one of our best volunteers,” Gaver said. “And she’s learned an amazing amount.

She’s really come a long way.”

Legg hopes others will consider becoming volunteers. If they start out knowing nothing, as she did, they’ll learn a lot. If they know more, they can help train the horses and get them adopted. “You’ll really enjoy it,” she said.

“It just makes you feel good.”

If you think you might like to try volunteering at Pure Thoughts, give them a call at (561) 254-0415 or (561) 951-2108, or visit www.pure thoughtshorserescue.com.

‘I’ On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler

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BUSINESS NEWS

Jennifer Johnson of Johnson’s Custom Cakes and More with her father, Bryan Hack.

PHOTO BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER

Johnson’s Custom Cakes Now Open In Wellington

By Jessica Gregoire “Since we opened two years ago, we have Town-Crier Staff Report been blessed to have 19 resorts, hotels and Sweet smells fill the air at Johnson’s Cus- country clubs behind us,” Johnson said. “We tom Cakes and More, a full-service bakery do cakes for their events and miniature deslocated in the Kobosko’s Crossing shopping serts for them as well.” center, offering the best in tasty pastries and With help from supporters such as Toy baked desserts.

Wash, wife of International Polo Club PresiOwners Jennifer and Jeffrey Johnson held dent of Club Operations John Wash, Johnson a grand opening Wednesday, Nov. 16 to cel- was able to expand and reach out to the pubebrate the arrival of the new upscale bakery lic. “She has supported me throughout, and in the western communities. has believed in me and my dream to touch Jennifer Johnson has been a chef for the people through my work,” Johnson said. past 10 years, having gained international Johnson works with a team of skilled proculinary experience from working with fessionals, without whom nothing would be world-renowned pastry chefs. “I’ve been possible, she said. They include executive blessed to travel and learn from some of the pastry chef Elizabeth Hall, sugar artist Katie best sugar artists from throughout the world,” Deware, baker Maria Firma and sales direcshe said. tor Susan Hack. Johnson and her team work Johnson started off baking with Judy Duke, together as a family, she said, to help create owner of the Cake Boutique in Loxahatchee. custom cake designs and pastries.

“She is an amazing sugar artist, and she is “The customer can draw and come up with my cake mom,” Johnson said. “I worked un- their own cake design,” Johnson said. “They der her for several years and learned a lot from tell us their theme, colors, cake flavors, what her.” they like and what they don’t like. They can Johnson has a background in art, and is come in with pictures of many different cakes, known for turning cake into pieces of art. She and we make it their own.” worked at Breakers West for two years beJohnson’s Custom Cakes carries Frenchfore deciding to branch out and start her own inspired pastries, such as its popular macacatering company three years ago. roons, cookies, breakfast desserts, cake pops, “I wanted to be able to use my art back- muffins and 10 different varieties of cupcakes. ground and my creativity,” Johnson said. “I For Johnson, baking is a part of who she did not want to just work in the kitchen; I is. It’s something she has been doing as long wanted to share my talent with the public.” as she can remember. “I’ve been in the kitchPrior to opening up a physical location, en since I was 2 with my grandmother, who Johnson’s Custom Cakes operated out of the has taught me a lot,” she said. “She’s a real International Polo Club Palm Beach, avail- Southern woman who has inspired me since able at catered events. “We shared a kitchen I was a baby, and baking is in my blood.” with the International Polo Club catering comJohnson’s Custom Cakes and More is lopany, Aaron’s Catering,” Johnson said. cated at 9148 Forest Hill Blvd. in WellingAt its new location, Johnson’s Custom ton. For more information, call (561) 358Cakes is able to provide a walk-in bakery- 5477, e-mail johnsonscakes@aol.com or visit style atmosphere as well as catering options. www.johnsonscustomcakes.com.

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BUSINESS NEWS

S.F. Science Museum Receives $25,000 From Wells Fargo Thanks to a $25,000 check from Wells Fargo Bank, the stars will be shining for elementary students in Palm Beach County. Wells Far go Bank recently presented the South Florida Science Museum with funds for its mobile planetarium.

The South Florida Science Museum’s planetarium outreach program is an education initiative for grades K-5 that introduces students in Title I schools to the wonders of the universe. Wells Fargo’s donation will assist in making the STARLAB possible for these schools to use at no cost.

“The STARLAB planetarium outreach program is aimed at educating families from underserved neighborhoods about space science, and it takes place in the schools and libraries where these folks live,” said Will Bourbeau, regional vice president of Wells Fargo Bank. “We are pleased and proud to support the STARLAB program, which brings families together to decipher the mysteries of our night sky. Wells Fargo Bank supports the South Florida Science Museum’s mission to open every mind to science. We look forward to contributing to a strong science literacy program in our region for many years to come.”

Wells Fargo employee and South

Florida Science Museum Board Member Heath Randolph is credited for initiating this grant for the museum’s mobile planetarium.

Randolph has followed in his mother Leslie Randolph’s philanthropic footsteps to get involved with the South Florida Science Museum. His mother was active with the Junior League of West Palm Beach and was instrumental in its role in getting the South Florida Science Museum off the ground 50 years ago. Randolph’s work in the community will allow area children an experience in space exploration they’ll never forget.

“Everyone lights up when they learn how to interpret for their friends what is really happening in the heavens,” said Lew Crampton, president and CEO of the South Florida Science Museum. “Space science is a critical field for our nation’s growth, and it’s important we do all we can to open the door to a sense of wonder about our universe even before career choices are being made. The museum’s mobile STARLAB program, which takes a fully operational dome experience everywhere in our region, is the perfect vehicle for this. We are grateful to Wells Fargo for serving as presenting sponsor for this pro-

gram, which will reach over 5,000 people in the coming year.”

The museum’s planetarium outreach program, Wonders of the Universe, is an educational initiative that introduces students in Title I schools to the wonders of the universe through STARLAB, a portable planetarium, and the museum’ own fully equipped planetarium.

The museum’s outreach program makes the experience possible by absorbing all expenses, making each school group’s visit as effortless as possible, and taking the classic field trip one step further.

In partnership with classroom teachers, the museum expands the typical academic field trip by providing the teacher with a curriculum to introduce the educational topic before the field trip. The STARLAB’s innovatively designed inflatable dome and 360-degree starlight projectors create an ideal environment for hands-on, mindson activities. The STARLAB outreach program is then followed by a field trip to the museum’s Marvin Dekelboum Planetarium.

The South Florida Science Museum features more than 50 handson exhibits, a digital planetarium, fresh and saltwater aquariums, as well as natural history exhibitions.

Lew Crampton, president and CEO of the South Florida Science Museum; Heath Randolph, trust and fiduciary specialist, vice president, Wells Fargo Private Bank; museum volunteer Leslie Randolph; and Will Bourbeau, regional vice president of Wells Fargo Bank.

PHOTO BY ESTEBAN PARCHUC

New happenings at the museum include the “Robotics” exhibit, open through Jan. 16, the Amateur Radio Center, open on weekends and holidays, as well as Nights at the Museum the last Friday of each month.

Each year the museum welcomes

more than 125,000 visitors and reaches more than 55,000 students through workshops at the museum and outreach programs to local schools. For more information about the South Florida Science Museum, call (561) 832-1988 or visit www.sfsm.org.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Lakeside Medical Center High In Patient Satisfaction Lakeside Medical Center has been recognized as a leader in patient satisfaction among the nation’s 110 public hospitals.

Based on the scores compiled in the National Association of Public Hospitals and Health Systems’ (NAPH) 2011 Quality Performance Report, the rural hospital, owned by the Health Care District of Palm Beach County, exceeded the U.S. and NAPH averages in nine out of 10 areas of measurement and had the highest score in five of 10 areas of measurement.

“Patient satisfaction is one of our most important measures, so we are proud that our patients are reaping the benefits of our staff’s dedicated efforts,” Hospital Administrator Brian P. Gibbons Jr. said. “We continually look for ways to improve upon our patients’ experience, and seeing these tangible results is very gratifying.”

NAPH staff produced the report using publicly reported data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ Hospital Compare web site, www.hospitalcompare. hhs.gov. The survey data covers patients hospitalized from October 2009 to September 2010 and is collected from the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Provid-

ers and Systems (HCAHPS), which is a national, standardized survey of hospital patients.

The survey contains patient ratings in eight key areas: communication with doctors, communication with nurses, responsiveness of hospital staff, pain management, communication about medicines, discharge information, cleanliness of the hospital environment and quietness of the hospital environment.

Lakeside Medical Center scored the highest in the following areas: percentage of patients who reported their doctors always communicated well (90 percent); percentage of patients who reported their rooms and bathrooms were always kept clean (86 percent); percentage of patients who reported their pain was always well controlled (85 percent); percentage of patients who reported that staff explained medicines before giving them (75 percent); and percentage of patients who reported the area around their rooms was always quiet at night (82 percent).

“The data reflects our hospital staf f’s commitment to delivering high-quality care in rural, western Palm Beach County,” Health Care District Board Chair Benjamin Frank said. “We thank our medical

Lakeside Medical Center e xceeded the U.S. and NAPH averages in nine out of 10 areas of measurement and had the highest score in five of 10 areas of measurement.

PHOTO COURTESY JOHN RICKSEN PHOTOGRAPHY

staff and all of our hospital employees for earning this recognition.”

Lakeside Medical Center, which opened its doors in 2009, is a 70bed, all-private-room hospital located in Belle Glade. It is Palm Beach County’s only public hospital.

“It’s rewarding to learn that our patients feel positive about their visits to our hospital,” said Dr. James

T. Howell, chair of the Glades Rural Area Support Board, which governs Lakeside Medical Center.

“These high patient satisfaction scores are just another example of how we are delivering on our mission to provide quality care for the people who visit and live in the Glades communities.”

Dr. Ronald J. Wiewora, the

Health Care District’s CEO and chief medical officer, said the hospital’s goal is to continue to work hard to maintain a high level of patient satisfaction. “It is important that our patients recognize as we do the valuable role Lakeside Medical Center plays in supporting the community’s healthcare delivery system,” he said.

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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Affordable Finds For All Ages At WPB Antiques Festival The West Palm Beach Antiques Festival will continue its three-day schedule Friday through Sunday, Dec. 2-4 at the South Florida Fairgrounds.

The return to the regular threeday schedule for the festival held Nov. 4-6 also marked the return of many northern dealers and customers who shared their stories of floods and heat waves over the summer.

The returnees and the regular visitors reveled in the first seasonally cool weekend of the season, with

A set of 12 Haviland oyster plates circa 1890.

no rain and temperatures in the 70s.

The nice weather brought record crowds of buyers who were treated to a sold-out antique show with more than 400 dealers in attendance.

Early buyers lined up Friday morning, hoping to find some treasures, and they were not disappointed. Among the choice finds was a steam engine display that sold right away Friday morning for $1,000 by Jack Knapp, a well-known toy dealer from New York and Venice, Fla. Another great find was a late 18thcentury tiger maple drop-leaf table with a single-board top 20 inches wide. It was Hepplewhite style with an eastern Pennsylvania provenance and an old finish. It was offered by Dot Lawrence, a Pennsylvania dealer wintering in Key Largo.

Lawrence had a super show, selling roughly a dozen oil paintings, furniture and tons of small items.

Another of the reasons to visit the West Palm Beach Antiques Festival, other than finding great deals on antiques and collectibles, is simply to have fun. And that’s what dealer Tammy Vingo in Booth 189 said she is there for — to help you and your family have a good time without breaking the bank. Vingo specializes in fashion and costume jewelry, but also has a large selection of inexpensive items such as Disney trading pins for kids, and interesting lapel pins for both men and women. She said the entire family can visit her booth, and every member walks out with a grin and

some little fun item for less than $20 — for the whole family.

Vingo and her husband, Anthony, operate through a business called T&A Liquidators. And how they got to the festival three years ago is an interesting story. When Anthony’s job as a carpenter ended in the late 1990s, the couple decided to strike out in a new direction. Tammy had always been interested in antiques and collectibles, and figured one way to get started was to attend storage auctions.

After buying their first storage locker, the Vingos realized they had something to sell, so they set up at the Thunderbird Flea Market in Fort Lauderdale. Tammy began to notice that in many storage lockers they acquired, there was always a jewelry box of some sort, and while not containing high-end gold and silver items, many of the less-expensive articles did well at the Thunderbird booth.

After moving to West Palm Beach in 2002, the Vingos started setting up at Lake Worth Flea Market and met West Palm Beach Antiques Festival dealers Louise and Ray Lank. After visiting the festival and talking to festival owners Kay and Bill Puchstein, the Vingos pulled up stakes and have set up there for more than three years exclusively.

While they do get the occasional Tiffany or Rolex piece, that is not their main focus. Tammy is partial to antique jewelry over 100 years

Tammy Vingo holds some of her “fun” jewelry. old and to modern fashion jewelry 9 a.m. Friday, Dec. 2 for $25; the of the second half of the 20th cen- ticket is good for all three days. tury. Her emphasis is on “fun jew- Hours are noon to 5 p.m. on Friday, elry,” as she calls it. More than 25 Dec. 2; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, percent of their sales are to regular Dec. 3; and 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. retail customers, and they actively Sunday, Dec. 4. The cost is for $7 buy unusual items from customers, general admission and $6 for sebut one of their mainstays is the niors. Anyone under 16 is admitted dealer trade. They have such a wide free. There is no charge for parking variety that many dealers buy from at the fairgrounds. them in early buying on Fridays to The West Palm Beach Antiques take to other parts of the country for Festival is held at the South Florida sale.

Fairgrounds, located off Southern The West Palm Beach Antiques Blvd. just west of Florida’s TurnFestival will open with more than pike. For additional information 400 dealers in place as northern about the festival, call (941) 697dealers begin to head south for the 7475, e-mail info@wpbaf.com or winter season. Early buyers start at visit www.wpbaf.com.

The Phantom Recommends ‘Joseph’ At Maltz Jupiter Theatre The award-winning Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice musical will delight theatergoers of all ages.

The blockbuster musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is just days away from its debut as the largest, most dazzling show ever at the Maltz Jupiter Theatre.

With performances Nov. 29 through Dec. 18, the show offers a colorful retelling of the biblical story of Joseph, his coat of many colors and his amazing ability to interpret dreams.

When Joseph’s brothers become jealous of their father’s favoritism, they send him away — and a magical story of forgiveness and redemption within a fractured family unfolds.

Written by Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by Tim Rice, this award-winning musical features a delightful pastiche of musical styles, from country-western and calypso to bubblegum pop and rock ’n’ roll.

“This show is accessible to everyone. The tunes are irresistible, the lyrics are fun and clever, and each song pulls the audience in,” said Andrew Kato, the theater’s artistic director. “Joseph is entirely a family show and cuts across generations. I think adults will delight in the music’s different styles, while young adults and children will love its pop sound.”

Nominated for multiple Tony Awards, the

musical will feature 18 multitalented professional performers, including Broadway veteran Jodie Langel, last seen on the Maltz Jupiter Theatre stage in the starring role of Evita in 2009. It will also feature a full orchestra, in addition to innovative design that showcases more than 100 dazzling costumes, colorful lighting and a versatile set.

“The show is an eye-popping, stunning presentation that is infectiously fun and joyful,” said Mark Martino, the show’s director.

“The ideal audience is one that is coming in and looking to have an entertaining, high-energy experience with their family.”

Martino, a director and choreographer who works at some of the nation’s best regional theaters, is well known locally for his work on the theater’s past productions of Crazy for You, Beehive and the Carbonell-nominated La Cage Aux Folles and The Boy Friend.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is particularly unique because the theater has included 240 local children in the show’s children’s ensemble, cast through a series of high-profile First Step to Stardom auditions during the spring and fall. Groups of 30 will perform during each performance.

To prepare the show’s young performers for the material, the Maltz set up a special

web site featuring dozens of learning videos and audio files for all dances and songs, in addition to costume requirements, sheet music, schedules and more.

“As far as we know, this scale of teaching children their roles through technology has never done before,” Kato said. “As the largest regional theater in South Florida, I feel we have a responsibility to engage local families by ensuring that they have a place to be entertained, as well as a place to come and learn the ‘art’ of theater.”

For a special behind-the-scenes peek at the Maltz Jupiter Theatre’s show, visit www. jupitertheatre.org/shows/joseph. Unique sites have been created for all of the theatre’s season shows; find links at www.jupitertheatre. org.

Join the theater’s leaders during the show’s intermission in Gallery Hall for an in-depth look at the making of the musical. Additionally, following the 2 p.m. performance on Wednesday, Dec. 7, audience members will be treated to a 20-minute “Talk Back,” or an interactive question-and-answer session with the show’s stars. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is sponsored by Kathy and Joe Savarese and Homecare America.

Matinee and evening performances are available, with group discounts for 20 or more. Gift certificates are available at the box office. For tickets, call (561) 575-2223 or visit www.jupitertheatre.org.

Joe Nasuti, the Phantom, is a featured writer for the Town-Crier, Forever Young and www.yournews.com. Comments & recommendations are welcome at thephantomdiners@aol.com.

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SPORTS & RECREATION

Seminole Ridge Football Squad Defeats P.B. Central 17-7

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report The Seminole Ridge High School varsity football team advanced in its bid for the state championship title after a 17-7 win over Palm Beach Central High School on Friday, Nov. 18 at Callery-Judge Grove Stadium.

Fighting through torrential rain on a slick field, Seminole Ridge (92) was able to best the Broncos (74), who made their first appearance in a state playoff game in school history this year.

The game started slow, with neither team scoring in the first quarter. But in the middle of the second quarter, the Hawks finally put points on the board. Quarterback Antwan Washington threw a 40-yard pass to Gary Holmes to move them up the field. Another pass to Alex Santacroce put Seminole Ridge on the 1 yard line, and on the next play, Holmes ran in for a touchdown. An extra-point kick by Derek Falk

brought the score to 7-0.

The remainder of the second quarter saw both teams fighting to gain ground on the field, as well as fumbles by both sides. Near halftime, the Hawks seized an opportunity to extend their lead with a 22yard field-goal kick by Falk to make the score 10-0 at halftime.

It wasn’t until the third quarter that the Broncos put points on the board. A 20-yard pass by quarterback Brock Buckowski found Angelo Jean-Louis in the end zone, followed by an extra-point kick by Cameron Golob to make the score 10-7.

But it would be the Broncos’ only score. The Hawks sealed their victory late in the third quarter when Holmes ran 10 yards to score. An extra-point kick finished the game at 17-7.

The Hawks will continue their run for the state title on Friday, Nov. 25 when they host Palm Beach Gardens for a 7 p.m. game.

Palm Beach Central’s Ray Wilson carries the ball.

Hawk Gary Holmes is tackled from behind.

The Hawks’ Derek Falk goes for an extra-point kick.

Hawk Omar Pierre-Louis and Bronco Tremain Tyson jump up for a pass in the end zone.

Bronco Brock Buckowski hangs on to the ball.

PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ/T OWN-CRIER

RPBHS Basketball Boys Set Their Sights On District Title

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach High School boys varsity basketball team is coming out strong this year with more experience and athleticism, hoping to claim the district title.

After a disappointing season last year, the young team has a year of experience and training playing as a team, head coach Andrew Quinn said.

“We played a lot of sophomores last year,” he said. “Those kids are coming back this year, and they’ve got a lot more experience. Then we have a few new players who have played junior varsity and have been through the program. They’re a great group of kids.”

What makes the Wildcats stand out this year is their athleticism, Quinn said.

“It’s a very athletic group,” he said. “They’re very quick, and that

will be a huge advantage for us.”

In addition to the athleticism, Quinn said he feels that the team has benefited from the experience of last year’s season.

“I think the year of experience, letting them get beat up a bit, helped them grow,” he said. “I think we’ll see the benefits of that this year.”

After graduating seniors Talonzo Edwards and Anthony Woods, who now plays for the College of Mount Saint Vincent in New York, the Wildcats have no seniors.

Returning this year are Ivenor Rosier, a second-year starting point guard, Stephon Gordon, Jojo Williams, a three-year starter, and Kervins Charles.

“He’s a good, strong inside player,” Quinn said of Charles. “He really gets the job done for us inside.”

The team has been hard at work year-round, playing travel basketball in the spring, and attending

camps at Florida Atlantic University and the University of Central Florida, which has helped team members build chemistry and play better, Quinn said.

“I think you’re going to see a team that plays really well together and really gets after it,” he said.

“These kids have really bought into the program, and they’re better student-athletes because of it.”

Quinn also commended his team for being good students in the classroom. The team’s first-quarter GPA was an impressive 2.7, something Quinn attributes to their desire to work hard and play hard.

“It’s phenomenal, in my opinion,” he said. “It shows that they are serious about their grades, serious about basketball, and it’s really something to be proud of.”

The Wildcats will host the Village Academy School on Tuesday, Nov. 29 for a 7:30 p.m. game.

Tivaughn Brown guards Rohan Mullings during a recent practice.

PHOTO BY LAUREN MIRÓ/T OWN-CRIER

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SPORTS & RECREATION

WELLINGTON COLTS TEAM WINS 12-U FALL CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

The Wellington Colts 12-U travel baseball team won the South Florida Baseball League’s 12-U Fall 2011 Championship on Saturday, Nov. 12. The Colts came back in the last inning af ter being down 6-1, defeating the number-one-seeded Lake Worth Titans 8-6. In the semifinals, the Colts defeated the South Florida Mad Dogs 4-2. Colts players are Jack Chaf fin, Trenten Faranda, Logan Fiore, Daniel Keating, Michael Meehan, Vito Monaco, Thomas (T.J.) Palazzo, Connor Rogers, Brandon Schloss, Jared Singer, Nick Vigilant e and Jacob Weiss. The team manager is Ray Palazzo, and the coaches are Jason Weiss, Steven Singer and Marc Vigilante.

Wellington’s Angela Gay Places Third At World Championships

Angela Gay of Wellington captured third place in Intermediate Amateur Trail at the 2011 American Quarter Horse Association Bank of America Amateur World Championship Show on Nov. 9 in Oklahoma City, Okla.

Gay showed the American Quarter Horse Smooth N Chocolatey, a 1997 chestnut gelding owned by Deborah Gay of Wellington. The horse is sired by Chips Hot Chocolate and out of Blue Ridge Lady, bred by Dennis and Carol Kennedy of Springport, Mich.

The AQHA Bank of America Amateur and FedEx Open World Championship Show is the world’s largest single-breed world championship horse show.

The show is the pinnacle event for American Quarter Horse owners and exhibitors around the world, who must qualify for the event by earning a predetermined number of points to compete in each of the 94 classes representing halter, English and western disciplines. The 3,572 entries at this year’s event represent competitors from 47 states, Austria, Brazil, Canada, Germany, Italy, Mexico and Venezuela. The show

was held Nov. 5-19 at the Oklahoma City State Fair Park.

Launched this year, the Intermediate Awards program is designed to recognize exhibitors who have never placed in the top 10 at an American Quarter Horse Association World Show in the particular class in which they are competing.

Intermediate classes run as classes within classes, not separate ones. Intermediate exhibitor status is based only on an exhibitor’s lifetime, combined world show record, not on the number of points he or she has accumulated. An exhibAngela Gay competes in the itor does not have to make Intermediate Amateur Trail. it to the finals of his/her PHOTO COUR TESY AMERICAN QUARTER HORSE JOURNAL class to be considered for an Intermediate award. Intermediate to a specially designed patch that accomplishments will appear on the can be placed on a qualifiers jackexhibitor’s and horse’s AQHA offi- et. cial record.

For more news from the Bank of As the third-place winner in In- America Amateur and FedEx Open termediate Amateur Trail, Gay re- World Championship Show, visit ceived a 6-inch globe in addition www.aqha.com/worldshow.

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SPORTS & RECREATION

New Soccer Program Takes Flight At Ideal School In RPB When physical education coach Max Krieger joined the Ideal School in Royal Palm Beach last year, he had a mission: to create a great physical education program for the students. Part of that mission was to develop an after-school sports program for both elementary and middle school students. No small feat for a small school with only one athletic staff member.

“Over the summer, I spent time putting together a soccer program for first through fifth grade and a basketball program for the middle school students,” Krieger said.

“Thanks to the parents’ involvement and the children’s enthusiastic participation, it has all come together really well.”

The school has two elementary soccer teams in addition to the Dream Middle School’s basketball team. More than 80 children are playing sports between the three teams this year, which is more than half of the school’s student population.

“Recently our soccer team played against Wellington Christian, and we had a basketball game against them, too. The players have really

Ideal Cardinals Blakely Willson and J.D. Mason chase the ball. shown a lot of teamwork, and they’re all excited to represent the school. It’s going to be a great season for everyone,” Krieger said.

The Ideal School and Dream Middle School are pioneers in the use of multiple intelligence theory

in the classroom. Their expertise in innovative education draws students countywide from preschool through eighth grade. To find out more about the school, visit www. dreamideal.com or call (561) 7912881.

RPB Football Player, Coach Nominated For County Awards

Finalists for the Palm Beach County High School Football Awards, given out annually as a part of the Lou Groza Collegiate PlaceKicker Award Banquet, have been announced by the Palm Beach County Sports Commission. Two are from Royal Palm Beach High School: player Tremane McCullough and coach Willie Bueno.

McCullough has been nominated for Palm Beach County High School Player of the Year. The other two nominees are Will Likely of Glades Central High School and Kelvin Taylor of Glades Day School.

Bueno is in the running for Palm Beach County High School Coach of the Year. The other nominees are Roosevelt Blackmon of Glades Central, Brian Dodds of Park Vista High School and Steve Walsh of Cardinal Newman High School.

In addition, Seminole Ridge High School is competing for ESPN 760 Team of the Year, along with Glades Central and Park Vista. Nominees for Palm Beach County High

School Place-Kicker of the Year are Jon Diznik of Jupiter Christian School,Alec Frear of Park Vista and Bobby Puyol of Dwyer High School. Finalists were selected by a panel of more than 70 local representatives of the Palm Beach County high school football community, including head coaches and local media representatives. Winners will be announced during the Lou Groza Award Banquet on Tuesday, Dec. 6 at the Kravis Center. Tickets are available online at www.lougroza award.com or by calling (561) 2333180.

The Lou Groza Place-Kicker Award is presented by the Orange Bowl and is also sponsored by the Breakers, Enterprise Holdings, ESPN 760, ESPN Regional Television, Global JBS, Mark Escoffrey PA, Dr. Stephen Bradford of Orthodontics by Bradford, Parallax Productions, Midnight Sun Tours, the Tux Shop and Bus One LLC. For more information on the Palm Beach County Sports Commission, visit www.palmbeachsports.com.

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Saturday, Nov. 26 • The Wellington Green Market will take place Saturday, Nov. 26 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Call (561) 753-2484 for more info.

• The Loxahatchee Chapter of the Florida Trail Association will host an 8-mile hike at Apoxee Park in West Palm Beach’s Water Catchment Area on Jog Road one mile north of Okeechobee Blvd. on Saturday, Nov. 26. Meet at 8 a.m. and bring plenty of water. Call (561) 616-8790 for more info.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host a Teen Advisory Posse meeting for ages 12 t o 17 on Saturday, Nov. 26 at 2:30 p.m. Find out what’s coming and share your ideas for future teen programs. Snacks will be provided. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host a meeting of its Anime Club on Saturday, Nov. 26 at 3 p.m. for ages 12 to 17. Snacks will be provided.

Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

Sunday, Nov. 27 • The Loxahatchee Chapter of the Florida Trail Association will walk Sweet Bay and Eagle Trail near the Palm Beach County Airport on Beeline Highway west of Northlake Blvd. on Sunday, Nov. 27 at 7:30 a.m.

Par ticipants will have breakfast after ward.

Call Alan at (561) 586-0486 for more info.

Monday, Nov. 28 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature “Legos” for age 8 and up Monday, Nov. 28 at 4 p.m. Builders, inspire yourselves to create vehicles or buildings out of Lego pieces. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “American Indian Beading” for ages 11 to 16 on Monday, Nov. 28 at 4:30 p.m. Learn how to make a project inspired by American Indian beading techniques. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

Tuesday, Nov. 29 • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “What’s Cooking Story Time” for ages 2 to 3 on Tuesday, Nov. 29 at 11 a.m. It’s the time of year for cooking and baking. Enjoy yummy stories, sing songs and make a simple craft. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• A kickoff party for the American Cancer Society’s Acreage/Loxahatchee Relay for Life will be held Tuesday, Nov. 29 from 6 to

8:30 p.m. at the Indian Trail Improvement District office (13476 61st St., The Acreage).

To join the Acreage/Loxahatchee Relay for Life as a volunteer or team participant, or to RSVP for the kickoff party, call Event Chair Becky Kobussen at (561) 389-7064 or (561) 753-8163.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Teen Game Night” for ages 12 to 17 on Tuesday, Nov. 29 at 6 p.m. Play Nintendo Wii and board games. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Wellington Village Council will meet Tuesday, Nov. 29 at 7 p.m. at the Wellington Municipal Complex (12300 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Call (561) 791-4000 or visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

• The Dreyfoos School of the Arts will present a Philharmonic Concert on Tuesday, Nov. 29 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in Meyer Hall (501 South Sapodilla Ave., West Palm Beach). Call the box office at (561) 8026052 or visit www.awdsoa.org for tickets and more info.

Wednesday, Nov. 30 • Palm Beach Photographic Centre (415 Clematis Street, West Palm Beach) will feature the exhibition “Images of Science” Nov. 30 through Dec. 30. Presented by the Max Planck Florida Foundation, the exhibit comprises 40 striking photos of scientific research from around the world. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. For info., call (561) 253-2600 or visit www.workshop.org or www.fotofusion.org.

• “The Bookworm With Suzy Hammer” will be featured at the Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) on Wednesday, Nov. 30 at 11 a.m. and the Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) on Wednesday, Nov. 30 at 3 p.m. The Bookworm has an incredible appetite for all kinds of stories as she celebrates Families Reading Together. Call (561) 790-6070 in Wellington or (561) 790-6030 in RPB to pre-register.

• Temple Beth Tikvah (4550 Jog Road, Greenacres) will offer free Beginners Hebrew Reading Classes on Wednesdays from 10 to 11 a.m. beginning Nov. 30. The teacher will be Tanya Thaw. No previous knowledge of Hebrew is necessary. This course is in conjunction with the National Jewish Outreach Program. Call (561) 9673600 to register or just come on that day.

For info., visit www.templebethtikvah.net.

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR CALENDAR, continued from page 38 Friday, Dec. 2 • Kick off the holiday season with Wellington WinterFest featuring headliner Vanilla Ice on Friday, Dec. 2 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater. Admission is free. For more info., call the Wellington Chamber of Commerce at (561) 792-6525 or visit www.wellingtonchamber.com.

Saturday, Dec. 3 • Whole Foods Market (2635 State Road 7, Wellington) will host “Marky’s Caviar Class and Tasting” featuring local Siberian Osetra on Saturday, Dec. 3 at 1 p.m. A $5 donation is requested, which will go to Mote Marine, a Florida-based non prof it aquafarm located in Sarasota, Marky’s Caviar was able to add farm-raised, local and sustainable Siberian Osetra to its long list of specialty caviars. Pre-register at customer service or call (561) 904-4000.

• The 24th annual Boys & Girls Club of Wellington Dinner Dance, themed “Le Cirque,” will take place the evening of Saturday, Dec. 3 at the Wycliffe Golf & Country Club. The black-tie event is known for kicking off the busy Wellington social season.

For more info., call Special Events Coordinator Alonna Paugh at (561) 683-3287 or visit www.bgcpbc.org.

Sunday, Dec. 4 • Hugs and Kisses Inc. and the Enforcers Foundation of Palm Beach County will host a Charity Softball Game, Concert & Barbecue on Sunday, Dec. 4 from noon to 6 p.m. at PGA National Park in Palm Beach Gardens. The Enforcers Foundation’s team will battle the Palm Beach State College Panthers girls softball team. Other festivities include live music concert and a barbecue, all raising money for families who struggle to afford basic necessities while also fighting cancer. For more info., (561) 819-9471 or visit www.hugsandkissesinc. org.

Tuesday, Dec. 6 • Whole Foods Market (2635 State Road 7, Wellington) will host a “Caymus Wine Dinner” on Tuesday, Dec. 6 from 6 to 8 p.m. featuring award-winning wines from Caymus Vineyards, with a reception at 6 p.m. in the wine department and dinner at 6:30 p.m. in the lifestyle center. Each wine will be paired with a delicious three-course dinner. Call customer service at (561) 9044000 to pre-register.

Wednesday, Dec. 7 • Standup comedian Mark Lundholm will

perform at South Florida Improv locations to benefit the Hanley Center from Dec. 7 through Dec. 9. Sober since 1988, Lundholm is a former criminal, mental patient, homeless wino and resident in a halfway house who started poking fun at the insanity his life had become. The show is a thought-provoking journey through a man’s decline and his subsequent ascension. All ticket sales benefit the Hanley Center. Performances will be Wednesday, Dec. 7 at 8 p.m. at the Miami Improv; Thursday, Dec. 8 at 8 p.m. at the Fort Lauderdale Improv; and Friday, Dec. 9 at 6 p.m. at the West Palm Beach Improv. General admission is $35 and VIP seating is $60. For more info., contact Theresa Kewley at (561) 841-1212.

Friday, Dec. 9 • Mounts Botanical Garden (531 N. Militar y Trail, West Palm Beach) will host “Stories in the Garden” on Friday, Dec. 9 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. This free program is targeted for children ages 2 to 5, and includes story time, garden exploration and crafts.

The event is free for members and nonmembers. Call (561) 233-1757 for reservations, or visit www.mounts.org for more info.

• The Wellington Seniors Club will hold its annual holiday dinner and installation of officers and director s Friday, Dec. 9 at 6 p.m. at the Binks Forest Golf Club. There will be dinner, as well as music and entertainment provided by John DiLorenzo of On Stage Productions. The cost is $25 for members and $35 for nonmembers. Reservations are required. RSVP to events coordinators Tony and Mary Alfalla at (561) 7840119.

• Community of Hope Church in Loxahatchee Groves will host its annual Back to Bethlehem Program on Dec. 9 and 10, and again Dec. 16 and 17. Enter the city of Bethlehem, walk through the marketplace and visit the holy family. The event is free and appropriate for all ages, and will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. each night at 14101 Okeechobee Blvd. For more info., call (561) 753-8883 or visit www.gocoh.com.

Saturday, Dec. 10 • Buckler’s Craft Fair will return Dec. 1011 to the South Florida Fairgrounds (9067 Southern Blvd.). Call (386) 860-0092 or visit www.bucklercraftfair.com for more info.

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

November 25 - December 1, 2011

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HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER — in Wellington needs EXAM PREP COORDINATOR Bachelors Degree- Demonstrate Solid Performance on SAT and ACT (either verbal or math sections) Available to work evenings and Saturdays.

Also needed: EXAM PREP TUTORS Now Hiring SAT/ACT Preparation Tutors. Must have a 4 year degree preferably in Mathmetics or English. Be available to tutor on Saturdays. Please e-mail resume to:marlenegiraud@hlcwellington.com VOLUNTEERS NEEDED — 14 years and over for community service. Have fun with animals & kids 792-2666 WELLINGTON CAB HIRING — part-time dispatcher. Dispatcher experience, computer literate, telephone etiquette. Pro-active self starter individual looking for career.

Some days - mostly nights & weekends. 561-333-0181 ENTRY LEVEL RECEPTIONIST — Computer literate. Heavy phones & filing. Fax resume 561333-2680 REGISTERED NURSE — ired of nights and weekends?

Busy medical practice is looking for a Registered Nurse for our Wellington Office. W orks one on one with a Physician in the office Setting. Mon-Fri. MUST be bilingual (Spanish/English),have a good attitude and be a team player. Job offers good pay and great benefits, apply by sending resumes to sdavis01@bgclinic.com WINDOW INSTALLERS WANTED Subcontractors only.

Top Pay. No Brokers. Call Matt 561-714-8490 Lic. & ins.

QUALIFIED PIZZA DRIVERS — Over 21 experienced delivery person apply in person 601 RPB Blvd.

Pizzano’s

CHRISTMAS BAZAAR — Saturday, Nov. 26th 8am - Noon at Palms

W est

Presbyterian

Church. 13689 Okeechobee Blvd. Loxahatchee, (west of F

FOR SALE — Dog House $5.00, (2) Cat/Dog Doors $100, Small Antique Dining Room Set $250 OBO, Large Red Antique Oriental Server $650 OBO, Large Gold Italian Mirror $175 OBO, Green Minton China Service for 12 $350, Pink Electric Car $80 OBO, Gold Swivel Natuzzi Chair $175 561-200-9322 Call for Email Pictures

\ BILLY’S HOME REPAIRS INC. REMODEL & REPAIRS — Interior Trim, crown molding, rottenwood repair, door installation, minor drywall,kitchens/cabinets / countertops, wood flooring. Bonded and Insured U#19699. Call 7919900 or 628-9215

Road) Decorations, Gifts, Baked ANMAR CO.—James’ All Around Handyman Service. Excellent craftman Old time values. Once you’ve had me! You’ll have me back!

Lic. Ins. Certified Residential Contractor CRC 1327426 561-248-8528

Goods, Etc. 561-629-2438

HOUSE FOR SALE — 3 bedroom/2 bath home, 10.5 plus acres, also approved to be sub-divided into 4 parcels. Horse Lover ’s Dream.

Wellington Little Ranches. 12033 Acme Road Just Reduced Please call Julie Poof, 561-222-0601or rent $3500/monthly

REAL ESTATE FOR RENT — Efficiency, fully furnished, full kitchen & bath,TV, cable, Washer/Dryer, all utilities included. One person, No P e ts, No Smokers. Short Term Lease $800 Per Month. 1st & Security call 561-790-0857 or 561-6320464 LAST CALL VACATION RENTAL at LITTLE GULL LONGBOAT KEY, FL — from Sat. 12-3-11 thru 12-10-11.

(1) 2br. $700 or (1) 1br. $600. See pictures of Little Gull Longboat Key, FL on internet. Call Owner 561-7984120

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JOHN C. HUNTON AIR CONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION, INC.—Service & new installation FPL independent particip ating contractor. Lic. CAC 057272 Ins. "We are proud supporters of the Seminole Ridge Hawks" 561-798-3225.

Family Owned & Operated since 1996. Credit Cards Accepted

ADULT SITTING — Experience with the elderly. Available by the day or the week. Will drive to appointments and run errands. Call 561261-0552

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

561-248-2611 D.J. COMPUTER — Home & office, Spyware removal, websites, networks, repairs, upgrades, virus removal, tutoring. Call Jeff 561-3331923 Cell 561-252-1186 Lic’d Well. & Palm Beach. We accept major credit cards.

STOP SCRATCHING AND GNAWING Promote healing & hair growth.

Stamp out ITCHAMCALLITTS! Shampoo with HAPPY JACK itch.

No More apply Skin balm add Tonekote to diet. Goldcoast Feed 793-4607 www.kennelvax.com

DRIVEWAYS — Free estimates.

A & M ASPHALT SEAL COATING commercial and residential. Patching potholes, striping, repair existing asphalt & save money all work guaranteed. Lic.& Ins. 100045062 561-667-7716

HOME INSPECTIONS — Windstorm Mitigation Inspections, Mold Inspections, Air Quality Testing.

State of Florida Lic. & Ins. #HI2147 US Building Inspectors 561-7848811

HOUSECLEANING — 20 yrs experience. Excellent local references.

Shopping available. 561-572-1782

HURRICANE SHUTTERS P&M CONTRACTORS — ACCORDION SHUTTERS Gutters, screen enclosures, siding, soffits, aluminum roofs, Serving the Western Communities. Since 1985. U-17189 561-791-9777

BOB CAVANAGH ALLSTATE INSURANCE Auto • Home • Life • Renters • Motorcycle • RV • Golfcart • Boat Serving the Western Communities for 24 years Call for a quote 798-3056, or visit our website. www.allstateagencies.com/ rCavanagh

MOLD & MILDEW INSPECTIONS Air Quality Testing, leak detection.

US building inspectors, mention this ad for discount. 561-784-8811.

State of Fl. Lic. & Ins. #MRSA1796

RJA PAINTING & DECORATING, INC. — Interior Exterior, Faux Finish, Residential,Commercial.Lic. #U17536 Rocky Armento, Jr. 561793-5455 561-662-7102 J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established in 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential.

Interior & Exterior painting. Certified pressure cleaning & painting contractor. Lic. #U21552 Call Butch 309-6975 visit our website at www.jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com

THE MASTER HANDYMAN — All Types of Home Repairs & Improvements. No job too big or small done right the first time every time 40 yrs of satisfied customers. See me on Angies List. Tom (561) 801-2010 or (954) 444-3178 Serving Palm Beach and Broward Counties.

JOHN PERGOLIZZI PAINTING INC. — Interior/Exterior - Repaint specialist, pressure cleaning, popcorn ceiling, drywall repair & roof painting. Family owned/owner operator. Free Est. 798-4964 Lic. #U18473 COLORS BY CORO, INC. — Int./ Ext. residential painting, over 20 yrs exp. Small Jobs welcome. Free est.

Ins. 561-383-8666. Owner/Operated. Lic.# U20627 Ins. Wellington Resident TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS CALL 793-3576 TODAY TO PLACE YOUR AD HERE!

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

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

J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential.

Interior & Exterior p ainting.

Certified pressure cleaning & painting contractor. Lic. #U21552 Call Butch at 309-6975 or visit us at

JOHN’S SCREEN REPAIR SERVICE — Pool & p atio rescreening.

Stay tight,wrinkle-free,guaranteed!

CRC1329708 call us 798-3132. www.poolscreenrepair.com

www.jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com

MINOR ROOF REPAIRS DON HARTMANN ROOFING — Roof painting, Carpentry. Lic. #U13677 967-5580 ROBERT G. HARTMANN ROOFING — Specializing in repairs. Free estimates, Bonded,insured. Lic. #CCC 058317 Ph: 561-790-0763.

ROOFING REPAIRS REROOFING ALL TYPES — Pinewood Construction, Inc. Honest and reliable.

Serving Palm Beach County for over 20 years. Call Mike 561-3090134 Lic. Ins. Bonded. CGC023773 RC-0067207 ROBERT CHERRY ROOFING INC Reroofing - Repair Waterproofing 561-791-2612 or 954-741-4580 State Lic.& Ins. #CCC-1326048 JOHN C. BEALE BUILDING & ROOFING — Additions, remodeling, roof rep airs & replacements, screened porches. Licensed & Insured. Call for Free Estimates. 561798-6448 ccc1326383 ccc1250306

ACCORDION SHUTTERS — Gutters, screen enclosures, siding, soffits, aluminum roofs, Serving the Western Communities. Since 1985.

U-17189 561-791-9777 TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS CALL 793-3576 FOR INFO.

AQUATIC SPRINKLER, LLC — Complete repair of all types of systems. Owner Operated. Michael 561-964-6004Lic.#U17871 Bonded & Ins. Serving the Western Communities Since 1990 SPECIALIZING IN BATHROOM REMODELING — Free estimates serving South Florida since 1980.

Quality you expect, service you deserve. Lic. bonded & Ins. U21006 561-662-9258

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

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