Town-Crier Newspaper November 27, 2009

A CRAFTY TIME IN ROYAL PALM

Village Officials Not Impressed With RPBHS Task Force Progress

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

A task force made up of Royal Palm Beach and Palm Beach County School District officials has made little headway toward the village’s goal of improving conditions at Royal Palm Beach High School, Councilman David Swift said last week. Swift has led the village’s efforts to address problems at the school, including its D grade from the state, high rate of illegal incidents and reputation for violence.

The village wants to stem the tide of Royal Palm Beach teens

choosing other schools over the community high school.

The council created the task force Oct. 15. It first met Nov. 6. In addition to Swift, task force members include Village Manager David Farber, School Board Member Dr. Sandra Richmond, Royal Palm Beach High School Principal Guarn Sims, School District West Area Director Camille Coleman and School District Chief of Staff Ann Killets.

“We’re making progress in some areas, and in other areas we’re not,” Swift said at the Nov. 19 meeting of the Royal Palm Beach Village Council.

While some new academy programs might be put in faster, and the committee agreed to help get positive publicity for the school, the school district representatives have refused to look at boundary changes, which village officials believe are key to the problems.

“The decision has been made that they’re not going to consider, in my opinion, looking at the boundary issue, and to me that’s the key issue,” Swift said. “I still think we can attend the task force meetings, but I think it’s time for an elected official to sit down with their elected officials and the su-

See RPBHS, page 20

Wellington Volunteers Help Make Holidays Better For Those In Need

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report

several Wellington families received a free Thanksgiving dinner courtesy of a food drive organized by the village’s Safe Neighborhoods office — one of several projects Wellington is coordinating to aid residents in need.

It was a community effort to collect the food, package it and then deliver it to the families, with local businesses and worship centers donating turkeys, residents bringing in canned goods to the Safe Neighborhoods office, and even a donation from the Western Communities Football League, which made canned goods the entry fee to its annual Turkey Bowl earlier this month.

“It was an outpouring of generosity from residents and employees. We have a really wonderful community,” Neighborhood Advocate Meridith Tuckwood said. “Originally, I wanted to feed 100 families, but they told me to set the goal at 50 so no one would be disappointed. I said, ‘No, I want

See HELPING, page 20

Wellington Gets $3.8 Million For Forest Hill Work

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

The Wellington Village Council approved a resolution Tuesday that will put $3.8 million in federal stimulus money to work on Forest Hill Blvd. improvements starting in January.

The resolution authorizes the mayor and village staff to enter into agreements with the Florida Department of Transportation, which is disbursing the stimulus money in Palm Beach County through the Palm Beach Metropolitan Planning Organization.

“The agreement spells out the terms and conditions by which the FDOT will disperse the money to the Village of Wellington,” Deputy Village Manager John Bonde told the Town-Crier on Tuesday. “Those agreements have been received, they’ve been discussed. We’re asking the council to bless it so the village manager and others can sign the agreement, and that qualifies us for the $3.8 million of money that’s available for Forest Hill Blvd.”

The village has identified almost $15 million in improvements for Forest Hill Blvd. from Florida’s Turnpike to the intersection of Wellington Trace nearest to Southern Blvd., Bonde said. The project will include street lighting

on portions of the thoroughfare, directional signage, new pavement, new curbing, sidewalks and landscaping.

“The project is ‘Forest Hill Boulevarding’ — which is what we’re calling the project — a redo of main street Wellington,” Bonde said. “Although the project cost much exceeds the stimulus money, we’re going to use that stimulus money to supplement what the village has set aside for the project. Because the cost of the entire vision will be over a number of years, we’ll be able to advance in the vicinity of $8 million worth of construction initially, with the rest to be determined later.”

The project is slated to begin in January, when village staff will come back to the council with a contract for the construction of phases 2, 3 and 4, Bonde said, explaining that Phase 1, from Wellington Trace to Southern Blvd., had been done in-house. Phase 5 will add lighting on both sides of Forest Hill Blvd. east of State Road 7, which Bonde said will be done by FPL.

“We’re trying to move this project,” Bonde said. “The FDOT is saying that by January, they want to have these projects in place and want to have bid awards.

See FOREST HILL, page 20

RPB Baseball Group Might Get A Chance For Redemption

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

Royal Palm Beach’s reorganized youth baseball provider might get a chance for redemption after receiving a boost from the village’s Recreation Advisory Board this week.

At a meeting Monday, the board voted 3-1 to suggest that members of Royal Palm Beach Youth Baseball in a reconstituted group should continue to run baseball programs in the village.

The Royal Palm Beach Village Council will take up the issue on Thursday, Dec. 3.

The council ended its relationship with RPBYB on Nov. 5 after the group’s former president came under investigation for embezzlement. At a meeting last week, the council enacted a series of strict new regulations governing village sports providers (see related story, page 18).

The Recreation Advisory Board recommended the newly constituted Youth Baseball Association of Royal Palm Beach as the village’s youth baseball provider over Palm Beach Little League, which now holds games at Seminole Palms Park.

Former RPBYB official Scott Houk, now president of the Youth Baseball Association of Royal Palm Beach, said his group formed a new corporation and consolidated the two boards of the former organization.

“We had two boards before. We had an executive board of five and a day-to-day operating board of seven,” Houk said. “We felt it was best to have one single body overseeing everything we’ve got going on, the financ-

es and the day-to-day operations.”

The new board has three new members and a fourth who has been on the board just six months, which makes a majority of the seven-member panel new volunteers. The league also increased program oversight. The new bylaws will provide more accountability with a semiannual audit, Houk said, noting that the group is in the process of hiring a CPA. “We have an attorney that we have hired on as well to help us,” he said. Any dispersals over $1,000 will require approval of the board. The treasurer will see that all deposits are made within 72 hours, and the president, vice president and treasurer will be authorized to sign checks. “Two signatures are required for any disbursement of league funds,” Houk said.

RPBYB ran into trouble when it discovered that its former president, longtime RPB recreation activist Mike Infante, had written two checks to himself, one for $15,000 and one for $35,000, out of a league account. An embezzlement investigation is ongoing, but Infante has not yet been charged with a crime. James Evans, president of Palm Beach Little League Inc., said his league formed because the organizers believed the affiliation with Little League Baseball would advance their children further.

Founded in 1939, the league was officially recognized by the U.S. Congress in 1964. There are currently 176,000 teams worldwide, Evans noted.

“Little League is considered the largest youth organization in the

See BASEBALL, page 18

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Event Committee members take a break from the action.

Ken Nandlal of the Trinidad & Tobago Citizens Association in a 1972 Cadillac Eldorado.

Event Chair Dr. Ron Peterson, Anthony “Tony the Tiger” Armour and Deputy Consul General of Trinidad and Tobago Kirk Francois.

PBSO Sgt. Mack Coleman, Sgt. Chenry Baughman, Deputy Ed Frado and Capt. Eric Coleman. Fun Generation dancers perform. Royal Palm Beach High School Interact Club members.

Jess Santamaria: Join The Fight For

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

Waste and corruption in Palm Beach County proves the need for an independent inspector general, County Commissioner Jess Santamaria said at his monthly community forum on Wednesday, Nov. 18. The inspector general’s position will be discussed by the Palm Beach County Commission on Tuesday, Dec. 1, and Santamaria urged people attending the forum to get involved.

At the forum, Santamaria recalled his first three years as a county official.

“This month, I will complete three years in office,” Santamaria said. “There’s a lot of things that I knew what to expect, but a lot of the things I expected, I had to multiply by 10.”

Two issues that have made significant impressions on him have been discovering how much money the county has wasted, and how effective public participation can be to hold officials accountable.

The recent decisions about a new waste-to-energy plant and landfill sites show examples of both, Santamaria said.

On Wednesday, Nov. 18, the commissioners, acting as the Solid Waste Authority Governing Board, heard a presentation about a waste-to-energy plant that could dramatically reduce waste volume and extend the life of the county’s current landfill to the year 2045, he said.

One month earlier the commissioners were ready to purchase one of two landfill sites whose asking prices were millions over their appraised value. The SWA already owns a 1,600-acre site immediately west of the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge, which was later rejected as a future landfill site after environmentalists raised objections.

Six commissioners were at the SWA meeting Oct. 7, and they were very close to a vote in which Santamaria anticipated he would be the only negative vote against an overpriced land purchase. “I said we don’t have to pick either of them,” he recalled. “Throw them in the trash can. Start over, or get eminent domain and let the courts decide what is the true value.” Commissioner Karen Marcus supported a motion to postpone

the decision until the county can negotiate a possible land swap with the South Florida Water Management District. In such a deal, the SFWMD would take the rejected SWA-owned site in exchange for some of the land it plans to purchase from U.S. Sugar.

“That gave us six months to get word out about this crazy price,” Santamaria said. “We were able to generate an outcry. Three weeks after that, 30 or so residents finally screamed bloody murder. A lot of you showed up and spoke. We were able to talk commissioners into discarding the properties and waiting for South Florida Water Management District to proceed.”

The postponement also enabled the presentation about the wasteto-energy plant, he noted. “It is a more efficient way of getting rid of garbage, using special equipment that burns garbage so it reduces mass by 95 percent,” Santamaria said.

Santamaria said that if the county does adopt a mass burn program, it will alleviate the urgency to create a new landfill.

Santamaria wondered aloud where the county would be if he had remained quiet. “We would have another Mecca Farms,” he said, referring to the county’s illfated purchase of land north of The Acreage for the Scripps Research Institute, which was later relocated to Palm Beach Gardens after the Mecca property fell to a lawsuit by environmentalists.

So far the county has spent over $100 million on Mecca Farms, he noted.

“We knew about the lawsuit by environmentalists, and we started building the water lines for the infrastructure,” Santamaria said.

“That’s the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard. We have a lawsuit, and you’re going to spend tens of millions of dollars to start putting in the improvements. When you have a lawsuit, you stop everything.”

Santamaria said people complain to their elected officials about taxes, but if there is dishonesty in government, complaining will not matter. He said getting honesty in government calls for the adoption of the grand jury’s recent recommendation for an independent inspector general to

By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report

Members of the Loxahatchee Groves Landowners’ Association heard from the people who keep them safe last week and got tips on how they can do a better job aiding the law enforcement officers and firefighters who serve them.

Sgt. Jeff Garten of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office District 15 and Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue District Chief James Schaffner of Battalion Two were the guest speakers at the Nov. 19 meeting. There are seven fire-rescue stations serving the western communities, Schaffner said. Most have advanced life support services, brush trucks and tenders that have the capability of carrying 3,000 gallons of water — an especially important point to Loxahatchee Groves, which doesn’t have fire hydrants throughout the town. There are between six and eight firefighters at each station who work shifts of 24 hours on duty, then 48 hours off, Schaffner said. “They live there for 24 hours,” he said. “They eat, sleep and relax there. People walk into the station and take a look at the recliner and the television, and say that must be nice. I say I wouldn’t know. In the last 28 years, I don’t think I have sat and watched television on duty for more than an hour.”

Response time in Loxahatchee Groves is not as low as what Schaffner would like to have, as it’s an average of six minutes, 26 seconds. But that’s the area where residents can help the fire-rescue crews help them. Even with a GPS, homes in Loxahatchee Groves can be hard to find, he said. Property owners should place their house numbers on their homes and have good lighting around their property. He also advised residents to clear

vate roads of

it easier for the trucks to get through.

Good For Business: Make An Effort To Shop Local For The Holidays

“Black Friday,” the Friday after Thanksgiving, is traditionally about one thing: shopping. Many retailers open their stores at dawn to loads of customers lined up outside for the best deals on the most coveted holiday gifts. The start of the holiday shopping season has officially begun, and all over the nation people are trying to find the perfect gifts for their friends and family.

This year, when wallets run tight, it’s tempting to seek out the convenience of shopping online or at big-box retailers, where many gifts are under one roof at low prices. But the truth is, no matter how good the prices are elsewhere, shopping outside of the community won’t help the local economy.

This holiday season, when you’re looking for the right gift, remember that where you shop is just as important as what you’re buying. As we do every year, the TownCrier urges everyone here in the western communities to make an effort to shop locally.

A report from the U.S. Labor Department released in February found that if half the employed population of the U.S. spend $50 a month in local and independent businesses, it would generate $42.6 billion in revenue. With this study in mind, the 3/50 project was created. It urges customers to spend $50 a month at three local independent businesses.

The project’s web site (www.the350project.net) cites a 2008 survey by Civic Economics, an independent research firm, which found local businesses in Michigan put

Independent Inspector General A Must

During the past ten years, our quality of life in Palm Beach County has slowly but surely deteriorated from bad to worse while our taxes have increased way above inflation, all while crime, poverty, homelessness and unemployment have increased and there are fewer public services. The main reason for this has been the collusion between dishonest government officials and dishonest businessmen. This has been confirmed during the past three years when five elected officials (including three Palm Beach County commissioners) and three members of the business community have been found guilty of corruption and given jail sentences.

Early this year, our state attorney decided it was necessary to convene a grand jury to investigate the extent of corruption in Palm Beach County. This grand jury questioned numerous individuals with extensive knowledge on how business has been conducted in the recent past between county government and the business community. In conclusion, the 57-page report by the grand jury found many actual examples where government officials had been excessively generous to some businessmen and some property owners to the detriment of the general public and us taxpayers. The main recommendation of the grand jury to help solve this very serious problem is the establishment of a “truly independent” Office of Inspector General to oversee all county operations. The inspector general must be selected and appointed solely by an ethics commission, the majority of whom must be respected members of the judiciary (retired judges), together with the state attorney and public defender. The selection of the inspector general by this independent group must be final. No member of the Palm Beach County Commission should be involved in any shape or form in the “hiring, manner of operation, funding or dismissing” of the Inspector General.

Even if all current Palm Beach County commissioners are 100percent honest, no one can guarantee that in four, five or ten years, another Tony Masilotti, Mary McCarty and/or Warren Newelltype candidate isn’t again elected as a Palm Beach County commissioner, or worse yet, another Bernie Madoff or Scott Rothstein-type person does business with Palm Beach County. This is why no commissioner should ever have

anything to do with the Office of Inspector General, for the benefit of all our children and grandchildren who will make Palm Beach County their future home. This is the most important issue today in our efforts to reduce corruption and waste, improve government efficiency and eventually reduce our taxes.

If you agree with the above, you owe it to yourself, your children and all law-abiding residents of Palm Beach County to express yourself by attending the Palm Beach County Commission meeting where the inspector general issue will be discussed on Tuesday, Dec. 1 at the government center (301 N. Olive Avenue, West Palm Beach). The commission chambers are on the sixth floor, and this topic will be discussed starting promptly at 10 a.m. Be there and tell all commissioners you want a 100-percent independent Office of Inspector General. Jess Santamaria County Commissioner

Don’t Ruin Tennis Program

As longtime residents of Wellington who have been involved with the Wellington Tennis Center since its inception, we take issue with some of the statements reported in the Town-Crier about the tennis center and Mr. Tommy Cheatham (“Wellington Seeks To Renegotiate Tennis Program Agreement,” Nov. 13).

The village absolutely does not incur all the operating expenses of the tennis center while allowing Mr. Cheatham to reap cost-free profits. In fact, Mr. Cheatham’s company has significant overhead. Mr. Cheatham bears the bulk of ongoing expenses, including the salary of every employee (all of the pros and office staff), as well as the cost of equipment, team expenses, league fees, etc.

Additionally, Mr. Cheatham has an enormously positive reputation within the tennis community. People are attracted to his programs and remain paying members of the tennis center year after year, even in the current economy, because of the quality of his facility and the level of personal service and comfort he provides to everyone. We understand and appreciate that the village needs to save money where it thinks it can, but there are many tennis facilities in our area. People choose to spend their money at this facility because of Mr. Cheatham.

We hope that in an effort to reduce expenses, the Wellington Village Council does not dismantle a program that is an enormous asset to Wellington. This is not

68 percent of their income back into the community compared to 43 percent returned by big-box chain stores.

Many local and independent businesses may not be able to offer an unlimited selection of items at bottom-of-the-barrel prices such as big-box chain stores do, but it’s important to remember that the few extra dollars you pay will be better spent in our community.

These business owners often live in the area and hire workers who live here, too. They sponsor our children’s youth programs, give to charity and donate their products and services to help people in need. When you spend your money locally, you help your community by extension.

Those who have lived in the area for a long time have seen a massive growth of shopping options in the western communities. No longer do customers have to travel to the coast to shop. Virtually everything someone could want can now be bought within our community.

There are many small businesses in the area, and you can find exactly what you want if you take some time to look. Our local chambers of commerce offer lists of many established home-grown businesses on their web sites (www.palmswest.com and www.wellingtonchamber.com). You can even find ads right here in your community newspaper. The important thing is that you make the effort, knowing that the money you spend here helps keep our community a wonderful place to live.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

only an issue of price, it is also an issue of value. The village is fortunate that Mr. Cheatham provides a well-run tennis facility with reasonable fees — many of which are set by the village itself! It is difficult to imagine another director running a more respected and successful community-wide program. We are sure the council does not want to harm a quality, affordable, award-winning, family-oriented facility enjoyed by more than 30,000 people each year.

Sara and Mitch Marcus Wellington

Stop Healthcare Fear-Mongering

Over the past few months, I’ve seen a plethora of letters to the editor in the Town-Crier and the daily press proclaiming the ills of government involvement in healthcare. Words such as socialist communist and fascist are the verbiage used to instill fear. Conveniently, the writers leave out the myriad government agencies that we rely on for our everyday existence. No cries of socialism here (usually).

To counteract less-than-admirable business practices by (heaven forbid) capitalists, we have childlabor laws, anti-monopoly laws and reams of text in volumes of books to protect us from wanton greed. Additionally, we have innumerable agencies to both protect us and serve us — socialist ideas, absolutely — for the common good. Would we like to expiate the FCC, ICC and a host of other agencies? Yes, we can make them more effective, but eradicate every vestige of socialism?

After the hurricanes, who did we call on? FEMA. It failed us not because it is a governmental agency, but because it had been stripped and its leader “great job Brownie” was but political detritus.

As we age (I am, that’s for sure), we look to Social Security and Medicare — which, to date, have done well — but money stolen on an annual basis for political consideration is lightening the purse. When disease is rampant or prescribed drugs hurt us, we go to the Centers for Disease Control for amelioration because the drug companies cannot be trusted to do the right thing. By the way, why do they spend more on advertising and their drug reps than research and development? And why, oh why, are our meds cheaper abroad than here? We have just witnessed greed run rampant as our financial institutions failed us as regulations were stripped away. So if they can’t self regulate, who can but our government?

Does anyone wonder that during times of oil crisis, the oil companies make record profits? How is it that medical care goes up so much faster than inflation? In a nutshell, these industrial giants control our Congress, through donations, via lobbyists. No one represents the common man! Today these pharmaceutical and healthcare providers are spending millions to defeat government intervention in healthcare. Why? I know!

Fear is their weapon — fear of change — using a motley host of historically bad trigger words (socialism and communism). So we may live upon fear, eat it, breathe it, imbibe it, until it becomes part of our composition. Is that to be our lot, or can we confront them as our forefathers did as they created this great nation, throwing off the shackles of tyranny and persecution? Today we stand upon the same battlefield, but the aristocracy is within. Yes, we have a privileged lot, immune from most prosecutions, making money off of our wars and lining their pockets even as we speak with our bailout money!

There is nothing wrong with capitalism when avarice is controlled, but each year the rich get richer, and more and more people are joining the ranks of the poor because the controls are ignored or insufficient. Healthcare is but a basic need for pain and suffering due to injury or disease. It’s universal. Today it is a plague that should be addressed by all Americans, for all Americans. It is a war with far more casualties than Iraq and Afghanistan; a war many choose to ignore. We stand upon a crossroads again; greatness or mediocrity — it’s our choice. We must love country over party and common good over uncommon greed. If we fail ourselves over common decency we should always remember that we were not defeated from without, but rather from within.

Has our nation lost its moral compass and heart? All nations are nations of people. What distinguishes us is that we are a nation of laws that pre-supposes certain government involvement. N’est pas?

George Unger Wellington

Paying For ‘Healthcare Reform’

The cat is out of the bag on the Democratic healthcare plan. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (which does not have

a doctor on the panel) just recommended there is no need for women to have mammograms before they are 50 years old, and should not even do a self-examination of their breasts. It is the same group that will be used to cut $500 billion a year out of Medicare. How will they do it?

Rationing!

Morley Alperstein Wellington

Poor Women Get Shortchanged

The healthcare reform bill is about expanding healthcare coverage to give access to millions more people. The bill seeks to close the gap in basic rights and healthcare between rich and poor, and anti-choice lobbyists are sticking a wedge in the door.

The “compromise” that got the bill passed in the U.S. House of Representatives stipulates that the government will not cover abortion procedures. This makes abortion services available only to those with private insurance. Poor women got thrown under the bus. Surprise, surprise.

Monica Neelands Wellington

Support For

Marco Rubio’s Senate Bid

Marco Rubio is seeking the Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate from Florida. Under Gov. [Charlie] Crist, Florida’s unemployment rate has run up to 12 percent, and unemployment in the western communities of Palm Beach County is pushing 50 percent. Florida needs to send a young and energetic new leader to change Washington, and Rubio is that man. Rubio is a charismatic leader who believes in

smaller government, lower taxes and fiscal responsibility. He will fight to end excessive and wasteful spending in Washington.

Rubio believes in eliminating the “Death Tax” that has been responsible for losing jobs by closing small businesses and robbing the inheritance rightfully due the families of deceased taxpayers. Rubio will vote to end taxes on stocks, dividends and interest income that many in Florida depend upon for their financial security. A strong advocate of the constitutional Second Amendment right to self defense and the right to bear arms, Rubio is strong on national defense and securing our borders. Rubio believes in the sanctity of life and would ban taxpayer support for abortions, and require doctors to perform ultrasounds before performing legalized abortions. As a state representative, Rubio fought government takeover of private property through eminent domain. He led the Florida Legislature that passed 57 of his new ideas, including some critical changes to crack down on gangs and sexual predators. He promoted energy-efficient buildings and appliances to make living more affordable, and he helped many small businesses obtain affordable health coverage for their employees long before it became a national issue.

Former U.S. House speaker Newt Gingrich referred to Rubio’s work in Tallahassee as the “work of genius.” Rubio graduated from the University of Florida Law School, graduating with high honors.

Isn’t it time for Florida to send an intelligent fiscal conservative to Washington? I’m voting for Marco Rubio. Frank Morelli Wellington

SEND IN YOUR LETTERS

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

College Athlete Being Treated Harshly For Heat-Of-The-Moment Mistake OPINION

Footloose and...

By Jules W. Rabin

Millions of American television viewers were aghast recently by a clip, shown on station after station for days, of a New Mexico University female soccer player punching an opponent in the back and then yanking the player to the ground by her pigtail. Usually staid TV anchors and usually exuberant sportscasters chastised Elizabeth Lambert for her brutal tactics. Lambert, an all-conference academic player, has been suspended indefinitely from the soccer squad by the university. Is Lambert sorry for the incident? “I still deeply regret it and will always regret it and will carry it through the rest of my life not to retaliate,” said Lambert, a 20year-old junior on a scholarship. “I look at [the video], and I’m like… that’s not me.” Actually, this type of cruel or dirty play is not the Elizabeth Lambert the team has known. In more than 2,500 minutes of school soccer play at New Mexico, she has received just two yellow-card warnings. She doesn’t really appear to be a nasty player. Perhaps part of the blame, and this in no way is an excuse for the hair pulling, might be placed on the doorstep of referee Joe Pimental, who from reports was officiating a truly laissez-fair match. A few earlier yellow-card calls, or a red card, could well have pro-

duced a different type of encounter between rivals New Mexico and Brigham Young. Regardless, the venom from the public directed at Lambert and her family from e-mails, phone calls and blogs was often off-the-wall. One genius suggested Lambert “should be taken to a state prison, raped and left dead in a ditch.” Lambert is currently seeing a clinical psychologist to try and understand what caused the hairpulling incident. “I’m working on my mental game to never let that happen again,” she said. Lambert also expects, as a better human being in far better control of her emotions, to seek reinstatement to the soccer team in the spring. Interesting decision for someone at New Mexico University, wouldn’t you say?

BUDJINSKI

Larry Cormie, John Grabbe and Augie Diaz of Siemens with Steve and Alan Shullman of DCA stand by the Siemens Verio 3T MRI machine.

Wellington Chamber of Commerce ambassadors join DCA staff members for the ribbon cutting.

Diana Melick grinds and polishes her geode.

Pamela De Fina looks at beads at the C&N Rocks and Gifts booth.

Mary Barrenechea gives Gail Santoro a black bead necklace she won.

Ingrid Webster works on the Love and Peace Project’s Neverending Necklace.

Paul and Aleta Shirley with children Hannah and Grant show the inside of their geodes.

Debby Hamm makes a netted stone necklace.

Knife-Wielding Woman Arrested At Publix On SR 7

By Jason Budjinski Town-Crier Staff Report

NOV. 22 — Deputies from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office substation in Royal Palm Beach were dispatched last Sunday to the Publix supermarket on State Road 7 in response to an aggravated assault. According to a PBSO report, 62-year-old Hattie Jenkins of West Palm Beach was in line at the deli counter when she asked the employee if there was any fried chicken available. The employee responded that it would be ready in 15 minutes. Jenkins turned and began to walk away without acknowledging the employee. At that point, the victim, who said she thought Jenkins did not hear the employee’s response, told Jenkins it would be ready in 15 minutes. According to the report, Jenkins told the victim to “shut the **** up.” The victim then apologized and told Jenkins she was just trying to inform her of the wait time. Jenkins clenched her teeth and warned the victim that she would “**** her up,” according to a witness. The victim told deputies that Jenkins threatened to cut her and pulled a knife from her right front pocket. According to a witness, Jenkins then walked away after telling the victim she would “finish this” when the victim left the store. Jenkins was stopped in the parking lot by a PBSO deputy. The knife was discovered in her purse. Jenkins was charged with aggravated assault and taken to the Palm Beach County Jail.

•

• • NOV. 16 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched to a home on Hollyhock Road last Monday in reference to a residential burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 9 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., someone tore the screen of the rear patio enclosure, entered the patio and attempted to pry open two sliding glass doors but was unsuccessful. The suspect also attempted to remove a window frame and break the window as well as unsuccessfully pry open the family room sliding glass door. According to the report, the burglar apparently opened an unlocked rear bathroom door, which activated the alarm. It is believed the suspect fled without entering the house. The deputy processed all points of attempted entry for latent prints, but none were lifted.

NOV. 18 — An Acreage man was arrested early last Wednesday morning following a traffic stop on Southern Blvd. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 2:57 a.m., a deputy from the Royal Palm Beach substation pulled over a Toyota Camry driven by 24-year-old Charles Shannon for traveling 90 miles per hour in a 50-mph zone. After placing Shannon under arrest for not possessing a valid driver’s license, the deputy found a plastic bag containing marijuana in Shannon’s right front pants pocket. A search of the vehicle revealed a pair of brass knuckles with a blade in an unsecured sheath located within reach of the driver’s seat. Shannon was taken to the county jail. NOV. 19 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched last Thursday to the Applebee’s restaurant near the Mall at Wellington Green regard-

ing a theft. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 10:25 p.m., the victim was at the bar, sitting next to a white male and white female. The victim said the couple had been pushing against her and that neither ordered anything while in the restaurant. After they left in a dark blue pickup truck, the victim noticed that her purse was missing and called the PBSO. According to the report, while the deputy was talking to the victim to fill out the report, her credit card was used at the Citgo gas station on South Shore Blvd. The victim said she would be able to identify the suspects, but there was no further information at the time of the report.

NOV. 19 — A man was arrested on weapons charges last Thursday night in Wellington. According to a PBSO report, a deputy from the Wellington substation was on patrol looking for truants near the intersection of Greenview Shores Blvd. and Morning Glory Drive when he observed 19-yearold Roderick Helms of Wellington with a suspicious bulge in his pocket. Because of this, and Helms’ prior record, the deputy conducted a pat-down of Helms and discovered a loaded .38 Special revolver with the serial number scratched out. Helms was placed under arrest and charged with carrying a concealed weapon and carrying a concealed firearm with no serial number.

NOV. 20 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched last Friday to a home in Palm Beach Polo in response to a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 7:30 and 10:15 p.m., someone gained entrance to the victim’s 2001 Dodge 3500 pickup and stole her purse, which had been stored on the passenger-side floor. There were no witnesses or suspects at the time of the report. The case is inactive pending further investigative leads.

NOV. 20 — An employee of the JC Penney store in the Mall at Wellington Green was arrested last Friday for stealing from the store. According to a PBSO report, 18-year-old Antonio Rivera Jr. of Lake Worth admitted to stealing $600 to $900 cash from a store register. He was charged with grand theft.

NOV. 22 — A resident of 43rd Road North called the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation last Sunday regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between noon last Friday and 8 a.m. last Sunday, someone stole the victim’s lawnmower, weedeater and two tires from his manure spreader, which had been in the yard. The approximate value of the stolen items was $2,500. There were no witnesses or suspects at the time of the report. NOV. 22 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was dispatched last Sunday to a home on Sunset Blvd. in reference to a stolen vehicle. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 11 a.m. last Saturday and 7 a.m. the following morning, someone entered the victim’s property and stole a 2005 Yamaha ATV. Tire tracks were found along a canal bank bordering the north side of the property. There were no witnesses or suspects at the time of the report.

Jybray Air-Barber

Hunter Schaeffer

Business Owners Look Forward To A Profitable Holiday Season

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report

Local businesses are looking forward to a successful holiday shopping season this year, and are offering customers holiday items and gifts at a great value.

Julie Campbell, owner of My Farmer’s Daughter in Loxahatchee Groves, said she is optimistic for the holiday season and excited to decorate for the occasion.

“We really go crazy,” she said. “It’s a completely different atmosphere.”

The store will be selling Christmas trees and offering “the best deal in town” on poinsettias, Campbell promised.

She predicts customers will be willing to spend more this year than in the past few years. “I think people are tired of waiting for it to get better,” she said. “Consumer confidence has increased a little.”

Wanda Lopez of My Quilt Shoppe in West Palm Beach said that although quilting can be an expensive hobby, many customers frequent her shop looking to make holiday gifts.

“We offer a lot of holiday fabrics,” she said, adding that for the entire holiday season, customers can buy a discounted top-of-theline Bernina sewing machine to help make those holiday quilts.

Christina Waters of Christy’s N.Y. Cheesecake in Wellington is committed to helping provide fresh desserts to her customers during the holidays. She received hundreds of orders for Thanksgiving, which bodes well for the rest of the season, she said.

“This holiday actually looks better than last year,” she said. “I think people are spending their money, but more carefully. They’re checking things like the price per pound and the quality of the items that they buy.” Waters, who hasn’t raised her prices in five years, is open Thanksgiving and Christmas days

to ensure her customers get fresh treats for their holiday celebrations.

Low prices and the right items are important for customers, said Rachelle Crain, marketing director for the Mall at Wellington Green.

“Our retailers understand that people are looking for a good value on the perfect gift,” she said, adding that customers should be able to find what they need at one of the 160 stores in the mall.

“I’m optimistic it will be a good season,” she added. “There’s no doubt that the economy hasn’t completely recovered, but we’re expecting a high number of shoppers this year.”

Shoppers come not only for the variety of stores, but also for the holiday atmosphere, Crain said. In addition to festive decorations and music, the holiday snow globes featuring the Polar Express have returned to the mall this season. Shoppers can walk through the exhibit, which includes a 20foot snow globe, before having their photo taken with Santa Claus.

Crain said the mall had plans to pamper its customers and employees on Nov. 27, Black Friday, the busiest shopping day of the holiday season.

The first 500 customers to enter the mall when it opened received a free breakfast-to-go bag, including a muffin and piece of fruit. Throughout the day, customers could sign up for several raffles to win an iPod Touch or mall gift certificates of $100, $250 and $500 each hour. The raffles took place every hour from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., but customers had to reregister each time.

“Hopefully it will help to take a little bit of the edge off on what customers are spending,” Crain said. “Winners can spend it on their holiday shopping or treat themselves to a really great holiday gift.”

STAR LIQUORS PICKS RAFFLE WINNERS

tickets.

Steeplechase Fun For

continued from page 1 shopping, and a children’s carnival with a petting zoo, pony rides, bounce houses and face painting.

The hat contest also returns this year with sponsor Wells Fargo. Women will compete for the titles of Most Creative, Most Elegant,

Most Equestrian and the Best of Palm Beach. The contest will take place on the Trophy Stage between the second and third races. Additionally, Whole Foods Market will sponsor a tailgate competition, judging participants on the most creative, most equestrian, most culinary and most Palm Beach.

Tailgaters will line up along the outside and inside rails of the track in cars or tents, bring their own food and drink, and set up camp where they can leave belongings while checking out all the activi-

To help alleviate some of the stress of the day, store employees were treated to breakfast in the morning, as well as neck, shoulder or hand massages in their break rooms.

Treating employees well is important to Campbell, who urges people to shop locally and support vendors who employ their own.

“Local businesses employ each other,” she said. “They employ members of our community; they don’t hire people from out of state.”

When she moved here in 1975, Campbell said shopping choices were meager, but with increased development, Campbell said she never has to leave the area to get what she needs.

“There are so many more local stores and vendors,” she said. The way to ensure that the local vendors stick around is to spend money there.”

Waters agrees. “Customers are starting to come back home,” she said. “They’re shopping local. They’d rather have something fresh from the oven instead of out of a plastic container.”

Waters said she thinks it’s important for customers to shop local this holiday season and support the community. “It’s important to support local vendors so we keep money in the community,” she said.

In addition to supporting local vendors, Campbell said she thinks it’s beneficial to customers. “If you have a problem with something, you can take it right in town and get it fixed,” she said.

Lopez agreed, noting that her shop offers repairs and maintenance on the sewing machines they sell.

Ultimately, Campbell said, it is a matter of customers helping their own and vendors reciprocating with good prices and services.

“We must stick together if we’re going to survive,” she said.

ROONEY TALKS POLITICS WITH SRHS STUDENTS

ties. There will be four tailgating areas delineated with different colored flags so they can easily be found.

In its inaugural year last year, the Palm Beach Steeplechase drew a crowd of over 8,000 spectators who were treated to a number of exciting races over a day filled with gourmet food, drinks and entertainment.

“It’s going to be a record crowd this year,” Bellissimo said. “This year has already out-sold last year’s event.” General admission tickets are

$20 in advance or $25 the day of the race, but free for children under 12. Additionally, tailgating tickets, terrace table tickets, VIP tickets and home stretch rail chalets are still available. Advanced tickets may be purchased online until Friday night.

To order tickets, or for more information, visit www.palm beachsteeplechase.com or call (561) 793-5867. To learn more about the sport of steeplechase, visit the National Steeplechase Association web site at www.national steeplechase.com.

PHOTO

PHOTO BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

U.S. Congressman Tom Rooney (R-District 16) visited an Advanced Placement and honors government class at Seminole Ridge High School on Monday to talk to students about his job in Congress as well as constitutional law, healthcare reform and other issues. Pictured above, Rooney reads from an American government textbook.

Kevin Lockwood, Ann Laureano and Debbie Sanacore were winners of a raffle drawn Tuesday at Star Liquors in Wellington. The raffle entries were collected during a wine tasting earlier this month that raised almost $1,000 for charitable causes of the Wellington Rotary Club. Each winner received a three-liter bottle of wine. Shown here, Priti Patel and her son Akash hold one of the winning

(Above) The holiday snow globes have returned to the Mall at Wellington Green. (Below left) A pumpkin turkey on display at the Farmer’s Daughter in Loxahatchee Groves. (Below right) Christina Waters displays some of the treats available at Christy’s N.Y. Cheesecake. PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER

The Palm Beach Hounds help open last year’s Palm Beach Steeplechase. PHOTO

DRI Wellington Golf Classic Dec. 14

Lucky winners of a raffle held at the Diabetes Research Institute (DRI) Wellington Golf Classic will have the opportunity to play a few holes with LPGA professional golfer and Palm Beach County native Michelle McGann on Monday, Dec. 14 at the Wanderers Club.

Presented by the Rosen Group, the event is one of several efforts Terri and Carmine Priore III and their committee are making to raise money for the DRI prior to their Vintages Gala, set for Feb. 20 at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington.

One of the most recognizable faces in women’s professional golf, McGann has nine professional wins on the LPGA tour and in international competition. But her most difficult challenge has been battling Type 1 diabetes, which she was diagnosed with at age 13. “I grew up in West Palm, but this event could have been in Miami and I would have said yes,” McGann said. “I can’t do enough to help keep funding research in order to try to repay the DRI doctors and scientists for the endless hours they put in.” Registration will begin at 11 a.m. and participants will then have the opportunity to buy raffle tickets, vying to win some time with McGann on the course that day. A brief clinic with McGann follows lunch. At 12:30 p.m., players will begin golfing with a shotgun start and continue through 18

Michelle McGann putts while her father Bucky looks on.

holes, utilizing the expert tips offered by McGann. An awards reception featuring cocktails, hors d’oeurves and more raffles will take place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Guests will also hear firsthand the reasons McGann is such a staunch supporter of the DRI. The cost of the tournament is $250 per person or $800 per foursome. Sponsorships are available. The deadline to register is Dec. 10. To register, or for more information, call the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation at (800) 3213437, visit www.vintagesdri.org or e-mail vintagesdri@gmail.com.

Makeover Contest At Pizzazz

In the true spirit of giving, Pizzazz Hair Design is holding a makeover contest to help a deserving local resident look and feel better this holiday season. From now until Dec. 15, Pizzazz will be accepting nominations for makeover candidates.

Pizzazz encourages people to nominate those in need of a lift in spirit, someone who has come across hard financial times or simply someone who always gives to others but never takes time for themselves.

Nominations for makeover candidates can be made through the Pizzazz web site at www.pizzazz hair.com or by calling (561) 6891177 for a nomination form.

Nominations are due no later than 5 p.m. on Dec. 15, and the winner will be announced on Dec. 18.

The winner will be given a full day of pampering, which includes a manicure, pedicure, facial, hair cut, hair color, style and a retail product basket (valued at approximately $250).

“This time of year, we realize how blessed we are with wonderful family, friends and our business,” Pizzazz Hair Design owners Dennis and Kristina Marquez said. “It is important for us to give back and help others in any and every way we can.”

Pizzazz Hair Design now has five salons serving Palm Beach County. For more information and locations, visit the Pizzazz web site at www.pizzazzhair.com.

Wellington Offering Playball Program

Registration is now available for “Playball” at Wellington Village Park for the winter session beginning on Dec. 2 and running through Feb. 3. Playball is a unique and original sport offering life skills for both boys and girls. Classes are age specific, limited in size and non-competitive in nature. Children enjoy Playball because it is fun, and every activity incorporates age-appropriate developmental skills. Playball also covers a wide variety of sports including soccer, basketball, hockey, tennis and baseball. Wellington is pleased to be a part of the mass appeal of Playball, which is taught to more than 100,000 children in 20 countries around the world every week.

Village Park is located at 11700 Pierson Road. For registration information, call (561) 791-4005.

Wellington Hosts Census Job Testing

The Village of Wellington is offering testing for 2010 census employment in November and December.

If you are seeking either a fulltime or part-time job with flexible hours, make sure to reserve a space by calling the resident hotline at (561) 791-HRWN (4796).

To qualify, you must be either a United States citizen or a permanent legal resident with an appro-

priate work visa and possess a bilingual skill for which there are no available qualified United States citizens. All applicants must be at least 18 years of age and possess a valid driver’s license and Social Security number. A background check will also be performed by the agency.

The testing will be offered at the following two convenient locations: the Safe Neighborhoods Initiative office (1100 Wellington Trace) on Dec. 2 at 5:30 p.m., Dec. 9 at 5:30 p.m. and Dec. 16 at 5:30 p.m., and at the Wellington Community Center (12165 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) on Dec. 12 from 8 a.m. to noon For more information, call Neighborhood Advocate Meridith Tuckwood at (561) 753-2476.

Cars4Charities Looking For Donations

The holiday season is a time when people give thanks and look for ways to help their community and neighbors in need. If you have a car you no longer need, here’s your chance to help the environment, the community and your wallet by donating it to charity.

Cars4Charities will gladly handle the entire car donation process for you, have your car picked up fast and free, and send the proceeds to the charity you select from the organization’s extensive list. The list includes national charities such as the American Foundation for the Blind, Prevent Cancer Foundation, Autism Speaks and the Diabetes Research Institute, state charities such as the

Florida Association of the Deaf, and local charities such as the Covenant House and the Lord’s Place.

In addition to helping a needy charity, you will get a tax deduction of at least $500 on your itemized federal return. Cars4Charities even allows you the ability to complete the entire car donation process online at your convenience. The online option is better for the environment because it reduces the use of paper and other consumables. If your car is in poor condition, Cars4Charities will make sure it is properly recycled. For more information, visit www.cars4charities.org or call (866) 448-3487 (GIVE-4-US).

Jim Brandon Center To Host USET Fundraiser

A fundraising event for the United States Equestrian Team will be held Friday and Saturday, Dec 11 and 12 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center on Forest Hill Blvd. Some of the biggest names in the equestrian world will participate in the event, including Steffen Peters, David and Karen O’Connor, Gina Miles, Courtney King Dye, Chester Weber, Monty Roberts and many more. The program for the fundraiser will feature a combination of clinics, fun demonstrations, team competitions and many other surprises. For a full program of events, tickets and list of auction items, visit the event’s web site at www. succeedevent.com.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Palms West Chamber of Commerce CEO Jaene Miranda with Chihuahua race winners Gary Dalton (third place), Brygida Trzaska (second) and Suzuki Stewart (first).

Singer Rey Ruiz performs.

Salsa-making competition winner RPB Councilwoman Martha Webster. Palms West Hospital CEO Bland Eng with his daughter Ava.

Greenacres Mayor Sam Ferreri and Loxahatchee Groves Mayor David Browning during the salsa-making competition.

Elisa and her daughter Megan Mendez with Cookie.

Wellington Vice Mayor Dr. Carmine Priore.

Salsa judges Dave Unversaw, Jan Norris and Carlos Ortiz.

The Palms West Chamber of Commerce hosted its third annual SalsaFest last Saturday at Greenacres Community Park. The event featured plenty of live entertainment along with a salsa-making competition, Chihuahua races, bounce houses, a dominoes competition, a battle of the bands, safety fair and business expo. For more info., visit

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

The Village of Royal Palm Beach held its Fall Fantasy Craft Show last Saturday at Veterans Park. The event featured holiday-themed items for sale by local vendors as well as live music performed by Rick Nelson.

Jean Powers picks out a t-shirt for her daughter Grace made by Agnes Adamus.Dolly Hughes sells a yarn dog to Lillian Bixson.

Rachel McIntyre purchases a fabric wreath made by Mickie Lane of Mickie’s Crafts in The Acreage.

ST. PETER’S METHODIST CHURCH HOSTS INTERFAITH THANKSGIVING SERVICE

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER AND STU ULRICH/TOWN-CRIER

An interfaith community Thanksgiving service was held last Sunday at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church in Wellington. Among the speakers were Deacon Al Payne of St. Therese de Lisieux Catholic Church, Rabbi Bertram Kieffer of Temple Beth Zion, Pastor Marjorie Weiss of St. Michael Lutheran Church and Rev. Dr. Rainer Richter of St. Peter’s.

Rabbi Bertram Kieffer, Deacon Al Payne, Rev. Rainer Richter and Pastor Marjorie Weiss.

Wellington Mayor Darell Bowen (center) with Elder Anderson and Elder Dyer from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

St. Peter’s vocalists provide entertainment.

The Area Agency on Aging Palm Beach-Treasure Coast held its 25th Annual West Palm Beach Senior Expo & Health Pavilion Nov. 18 and 19 at the Americraft Expo Center at the South Florida Fairgrounds. Vendors and exhibitors gave out information regarding travel, finances, health, state and county senior services, retirement living choices and more.

Area Agency on Aging representatives.

ArtStart Inc. President Jeannette Parssi paints Christmas cards with a sprig of rosemary.

Professional Hearing Aid Center’s Wade Lookenott examines Elaine Goodman’s hearing aid.

Ada Medina of the University of Florida Cooperative Extension gives information to Renee Hager.

Members of the Royal Palm Beach Seniors Club.

Stan and Karen Hall entertain while Marilyn Henry dances.

NEW HORIZONS STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN FOOD FOR FAMILIES

Students at New Horizons Elementary School in Wellington have been learning an important lesson about caring. Last week, they learned that “it’s not enough to think it; you have to show it by what you say and what you do.” Students demonstrated this by participating in the Food for Families food drive. During this student council-sponsored event, students donated 883 pounds of food. Pictured above are Student Council Vice President Megan Ihle, Historian Katie Tolman, Vice President Angelo Giudicy and President Andrew Hansen.

TKA Holds Annual Shopping Day In Wellington

More than 120 family and friends of the King’s Academy enjoyed TKA’s Third Annual Shopping Day at the Mall at Wellington Green.

The day started with breakfast at Williams-Sonoma, shopping at the more than 43 participating retailers, followed by lunch/dinner at California Pizza Kitchen, generously underwritten by TD Bank.

The event was a creative way for shoppers to take advantage of huge discounts at their favorite stores and get a jump on their Christmas shopping, while benefiting the students at the King’s Academy.

A special thanks to TKA parents Denise Meers and Celia Mon-

choli for organizing the event and TD Bank for generously underwriting the event and lunch. All proceeds benefit TKA’s Annual Fund and the 2010 Annual Dinner & Auction.

The King’s Academy is a nationally recognized private Christian school serving approximately 1,200 students from preschool through 12th grade. It serves students and their families across Palm Beach County at its main campus at Belvedere Road and Sansbury’s Way in West Palm Beach and its satellite preschool campuses in Greenacres, Palm Beach Gardens and Royal Palm Beach. For more information, visit www.tka.net.

WHS Debate Team Wins Big At PBCFL Tourney

Wellington High School’s debate program took home awards at the Nov. 14 Palm Beach Catholic Forensic League tournament at Lake Worth High School.

Senior Evan Baumel scored a first-place finish in Student Congress, including two first-place judge ballots in the Flagler Beach chamber. Senior Victoria Davy took fourth in her legislative assembly, while junior Jack Townsend and senior Lee-Ann Jahore each placed fifth in their respective chambers. Senior Charlie Burke was seventh in his senate. In Novice Oral Interpretation, Wellington saw eight freshmen compete — the largest number of

competitors in that category Wellington has fielded at a single tournament in at least seven years. Valentina Ferreira took third place, while Kasey Goins finished sixth and Donna Sothen seventh.

In Original Oratory, sophomore Sara Fabben finished eighth overall; in Declamation, freshman Ryan Kennedy placed third. Senior Alex Hernicz placed fourth in Varsity Lincoln-Douglas Debate with a 3-1 record. Freshman Jake Teitelbaum was 2-2 in Novice Lincoln-Douglas.

Four first-year Wellington debate students earned their National Forensic League “Degree of Merit” honors, surpassing the 25-

point plateau: Valentina Ferreira, Darby Guyn, Ryan Kennedy and Kevin Liang. Additionally, Sara Fabben earned her NFL “Degree of Honor” in passing the 75-point mark, earning her the Wellington debate varsity letter. The Lake Worth tournament followed a successful weekend at the Florida Blue Key Invitational in Gainesville. There, senior Michael Stechschulte advanced to the finals in Student Congress for the second consecutive year, while junior Lee Parker broke to the semifinal round. Alex Hernicz broke to the double-octofinal round in Lincoln-Douglas. Jack Townsend surpassed the 500-

point mark, earning him the NFL Degree of Special Distinction. Stechschulte now has 1,136 NFL points on record, the fifth-most in Wellington history. Wellington’s next tournament is the George Mason University “Patriot Games” Invitational in Fairfax, Va., Dec. 4-7. On Dec. 12, Wellington will travel to Spanish River High School for the fourth PBCFL tournament of the year. All “regular” events will be offered as novice-specific only, with mixed varsity/novice options for five “funvitational” events — Duo Extemporaneous, Impromptu, Radio Announcing, Storytelling and Spontaneous Argumentation.

TKA Shopping Day — Auction co-chairs Connie Tuller, Ann Marie Batten and Tara Schaefer with TKA parent and Shopping Day Organizer Denise Meers (second from right).

Seminole Ridge Construction Academy Earns National Certification

The Seminole Ridge High School Construction Academy was recently reviewed and rated nationally certified by the National Standards of Practice for career academies. A team from the National Career Academy Coalition assessed the academies using the Career Academy National Standards of Practice — standards that define what components a career academy should have for success.

Seminole Ridge spent several months preparing for the visit, compiling information on how it has implemented the career academy model. The school then hosted the NCAC evaluation team for a half-day review of the information and interviews of administration, staff, students and community members.

“We are excited to add Seminole Ridge’s construction academy to our growing number of nationally recognized academies by the National Career Academy Coalition and the Association of Career and Technical Education,” Career Education District Manager Constance Scotchel-Gross said.

“Career academies open the door to vast opportunities for the students of Palm Beach County as they join the workforce or pursue

post-secondary education.”

• Guidance Offers Dual Enrollment Orientation — SRHS students interested in spring 2010 early admission or dual enrollment at Palm Beach Community College should attend the guidance department’s informational session Thursday, Dec. 3 at 10 a.m. in the school auditorium. Dual enrollment programs offer students the opportunity to take challenging courses, accelerate their education and save time and money, earning credits that count toward both a high school and post-secondary diploma. Early admission, a form of dual enrollment, allows high school seniors to attend PBCC full time, earning credits toward a high school diploma and an associate’s degree.

Dual enrollment students must be sophomores, juniors or seniors with a 3.0 GPA or HPA (seniors with a 2.5 GPA may take “Strategies for College Success”). Those students must also have passed the required sections of the College Placement Test, the SAT or the ACT.

PBCC dual enrollment registration continues through Jan. 5. Currently enrolled dual enrollment/early admission students

should schedule an appointment with their SRHS counselors to obtain enrollment permission and book voucher forms. To attend this informational session, students must sign up in the guidance office. For more information, contact the guidance office.

• SECME Spearheads Seniors’ Sigs in Space — As SECME students launched hydro rockets into suborbital flight on Nov. 17, their names orbited high overhead, part of NASA’s latest shuttle mission. Last spring, SECME co-captain Aleen Touma led the collection of the Class of 2010 names. Seminole Ridge joined with more than 500 other schools worldwide to sign posters for Student Signatures in Space, sponsored by NASA and Lockheed Martin. Participating schools received “Embrace Space” posters for student signing, and Lockheed Martin scanned their signatures onto a disk flown aboard space shuttle Atlantis.

The signed “Embrace Space” poster will be returned for permanent display at SRHS, along with a flight certificate and a photo of the mission crew. “We use spacerelated activities to inspire students to continue the work of to-

day’s space explorers,” SECME sponsor Erich Landstrom said.

• ‘A Holocaust Memoir’ Comes to Seminole Ridge — Now through Dec. 4, the SRHS media center has on display a series of 25 black-and-white sketches by speaker, artist, author and Holocaust survivor George Salton. The sketches supplement his book The 23rd Psalm: A Holocaust Memoir, which chronicles his life in vivid and graphic detail.

Salton describes his wonderfully normal life in Tyczyn, Poland before World War II then moves through his horrific wartime journey, surviving ten concentration and slave labor camps until his liberation by the U.S. Army on May 2, 1945. He is the only survivor of his entire family, but he has since lived the American Dream, immigrating to the United States at age 17, fighting in Korea as an American, achieving degrees in physics and engineering and working at the Department of Defense. Now retired, Salton lives with his wife in Palm Beach Gardens. He speaks at the school each semester, and his sketches are a traveling exhibit that will be on display in the media centers of most county high schools.

Osceola Creek Scholar-Athletes Of The Month WESTERN PINES SCIENCE FAIR WINNERS

Osceola Creek Middle School has announced its recipients of the 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.

Boys baseball honored 13-yearold Kevin Levine.

“Kevin has been part of the baseball team for all three years at Osceola Creek,” Coach Ryan Hotaling said. “He has started at almost every position during those three years. He is a quiet leader on and off the field. Kevin is in advanced classes and had been successful in those classes, and is also a member of the National Junior Honor Society. He leads by example both on the field and in the classroom.”

Kevin has a 5.0 grade point average due to taking those honors and Advanced Placement courses, and is already earning high school credits. He wants to attend the University of Florida as a

broadcast journalism major, followed by a career in broadcast journalism. Kevin is a student council representative and is also a member Osceola Creek’s boys basketball team.

Girls softball honored seventh grader Courtney Erwin.

Scholar-Athletes

“Courtney has been contributing to the team for the past two years,” girls softball Coach Deb Galavan said. “She is also one of the team’s captains. Courtney is extremely versatile, not just in her ability to play many different positions, but her willingness to do so. Her athletic abilities allow her to pitch or play nearly any other position in the field. She is a true team player; she does what the team needs her to do, which is not always the same as what she wants to do. She is always very supportive of her teammates. She plays hard and always gives 100 percent. Courtney had an awesome year on the mound. Her consistency and ability to throw the right pitches had umpires commenting on how good she pitches. She came through for the team many times this season. Courtney is a wonderful athlete, lovely young lady and a pleasure to have on the team. Her dedication, determination and sportsmanship make her the perfect candidate for this award. We look forward to having her play for the team another year.”

However, she has decided on a teaching career. Courtney is also a member of Osceola Creek’s girls basketball team.

Courtney, 13, has a 3.33 GPA. She is undecided on a college.

Supporting the Scholar-Athlete Award program are Subway 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.

Western Pines Middle School in The Acreage held its annual science fair on Thursday, Nov. 5 with a standing-room-only crowd in the media center. The projects this year were fantastic, and the school will be sending 14 of them to the regional science fair in December. Western Pines wishes its students the very best as they compete in the regional science fair. Pictured above are: (front row, L-R) Gabrielle Marvez, Victoria Dukharan, Johnny Forde, Danny Cano, Science Fair Coordinator Katie McKee and Angela Wilbur; (back row) Taylor Waddell, Tonishee Smith, Chris Mancuso, Alec Colosi, Wayne Selogy and Monique

Not pictured: Brandon Romero, Billy Ruback and Chad

Costner.

Hamann.

— (L-R) Principal Dave Alfonso, Kevin Levine, School Police Officer Sandy Molenda and Courtney Erwin.

SECME members Aleen Touma and Vanessa Welsh.

A VARIETY OF GAMES AND ACTIVITIES AT CUB SCOUT PACK

Royal Palm Beach Cub Scout Pack 120 held its November pack meeting on Nov. 16 at the

4-H PARENTS LEARN CYBER MONITORING

The Palm Beach County 4-H Club’s November leader and parent meeting featured Detective Pete McGovern from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (shown here), who provided an informative presentation on Internet safety. The discussion went from the usual to the practical when he brought out the “Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Computer Cop.” This Internet-monitoring software is made available through the PBSO and was provided to 4-H volunteers with step-bystep instructions on its application.

Fincher Graduates Air Force Training

Air Force Airman Anna Fincher graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.

Fincher 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 through the Community College of the Air Force.

Fincher is the daughter of Mary Castillo of Wellington and a 2009 graduate of Palm Beach Central High School.

Anna Fincher

Scouts play a game called “the Turkey Race.”

Scouts raffle off prizes at the end of the meeting.

Dave Elder recognizes the scouts who participated in the Scouting for Food program.

Boughner Attends Rotary UN Day In New York

Wellington Rotarian Dr. Wesley Boughner recently returned as a delegate to the annual Rotary United Nations Day. On Nov. 7, a total of 1,600 Rotarians from 46 countries converged on UN headquarters in New York City for a full day of lectures and seminars.

The program featured panel discussions on issues such as water, literacy, health and youth, as well as speakers from the UN, Rotary International, UNICEF, Engineers Without Borders and World Peace Conflict Resolution Scholars.

The day culminated with Boughner attending the 2009

World Peace Dinner at the Millennium United Nations Plaza Hotel as one of the 80 invited guests. The evening’s theme was “Peace is Possible.”

Speakers stressed the importance of the seven worldwide Rotary Centers for International Studies in peace and conflict resolution. Numerous World Peace fellows were honored and spoke of their individual peace activities throughout the world.

For more information about the Wellington Rotary Club, visit its web site at www.wellingtonrotary. org.

Rotarian Dr. Wesley Boughner at the U.N.

Eva May Named Rising Star Scholarship Finalist

The

Vocal Scholarship Competition finalists have been chosen, and Palm Beach Central High School senior Eva May is among the six talented singers from local high schools who will compete this December for audience votes and scholarship money sponsored by the Women of Note Chorus. The finalists will be featured at the Women of Note’s annual show “In the Spotlight: Rising Stars” on

Saturday, Dec. 12 at 8 p.m. at the Palm Beach Community College Eissey Campus Theatre in Palm Beach Gardens.

Other finalists include Kings Academy junior Mikah Adams, Boca Raton High School sophomore Erin Boyle, Spanish River High School sophomore Nicole Granet, Forest Hill High School senior Clydia Jeudy and Kings Academy senior Kelley McGillicuddy.

GIRL SCOUTS COLLECT GIFTS FOR LITTLE SMILES

Fourteen scouts from Wellington Girl Scout Troop 20948 met with Little Smiles Executive Director Raina Ruelle on Nov. 16 in the original Wellington Mall to deliver items they collected for the organization. These included games, coloring books, crayons and puzzles, which Little Smiles will provide to children who are confined in hospitals and hospices. For more info., visit www.littlesmiles.org. Pictured above are Ruelle with the scouts and troop leaders Nadean Anderson, Lora Lane and Kathy Bourque.

South Florida’s award-winning Women of Note Chorus will be bringing outstanding four-part a cappella harmony, innovative choreography and dazzling costumes to the stage.

The program will feature the six vocal finalists and the barbershop favorites that the Women of Note are known for.

Tickets cost $18 in advance and $20 at the door general admission, and $10 for students. Groups of

20 or more can take advantage of the special group rate of $15 per ticket.

To purchase tickets by phone, call the Eissey Campus Theatre box office at (561) 207-5900. Box office hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

For additional information about the Women of Note, visit www.womenofnote.com or call toll-free (877) WON-SING (9667464).

KASEY GOINS WINS ‘GOD AND LIVE’ MEDAL

On Sunday, Nov 15, Kasey Goins was Wellington’s first Venturing Scout to be awarded the “God and Live” medal at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church. During the ceremony, members of Venturing Crew 2125 gave their sponsor St. Peter’s the state championship trophy the crew won in competition. Pictured above are (front row, L-R) Susan, Kasey and Tori Goins;

WHO’S NEW!

Zaylee Janae Tatyana Fernandez — daughter of Rosa Lopez and Edward Fernandez of West Palm Beach was born at Palms West Hospital on Oct 30.

Kylee Ashley-Karmella Jimenez — daughter of Emily Brainard and Kelvin Jimenez of Lake Worth was born at Palms West Hospital on Oct. 30.

Rachel Jennifer Engelberg — daughter of Melissa and Adam Engelberg of Lake Worth was born at Palms West Hospital on Nov. 2.

Lauren Mackenzie Calloway — daughter of Sheryl and John Paul Calloway of Loxahatchee was born at Palms West Hospital on Nov. 3.

Kiera Leigh Suarez — daughter of Wendi and Michael Suarez of Loxahatchee was born at Palms West Hospital on Nov. 5.

C.B. J’Kwon Erik Mincey — son of Jennifer and C.B. Mincey of Royal Palm Beach was born at Palms West Hospital on Nov. 5.

Bryan Paul Schofield — son of Jennifer and Franklin Schofield III of Royal Palm Beach was born at Palms West Hospital on Nov. 6. Vanessa Danielle Dewitt and Kiara Leni Dewitt — daughters of Jessica and Mark Dewitt of Loxahatchee were born at Palms West Hospital on Nov. 6. Madison Alyse Roundtree — daughter of Tiana

(back) Dusty McGee, Rev. Rainer Richter and Rocky Goins.

PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

RPB Council Adopts Strict Oversight Rules For Sports Providers

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

The Royal Palm Beach Village Council adopted a revised sports provider policy on Thursday, Nov. 19 that will require much stricter financial accounting in the wake of an embezzlement investigation into a former RPB youth recreation volunteer.

The revised policy, passed unanimously by the council, will apply to all the village’s sports providers.

“This is an issue that probably has been a long time coming,” Village Manager David Farber said.

Former Royal Palm Beach Youth Baseball President Michael Infante is under investigation after RPBYB board members in-

Baseball

A Second Chance?

continued from page 1 world,” he said. “Why would you choose Little League? Number one, you have the opportunity to go to the Little League World Series.”

He added that the program also saves money and provides extensive training for coaches, umpires and players. Evans added that the most important aspect is safety for the children. “If a field is unplayable, Little League won’t let you play,” he said. “If we don’t do our background checks, Little League won’t let you play. There is struc-

formed village officials recently that they suspected Infante had written at least two checks to himself totaling $50,000. “We’ve had the opportunity to work with some fine people for many years as primary providers,” Farber said. “We did have a regulatory process in place that placed a large burden on them, and we assumed that all went well, and in almost all cases it did.”

Farber said the Infante incident has led the village to “take constructive measures to insure or at least minimize the opportunity for that to occur again.”

Farber added that the new policy changes the existing framework into a much more specific set of rules that village staff wants addressed by providers.

ture. There are guidelines that you have to follow.”

Evans said the background check of volunteer applications is through a check of federal criminal records, which goes beyond the village’s requirement of a Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) check.

“FDLE only looks at participating counties that report to the state,” Evans said, explaining that more than half of the sex offenders in Florida are from out of state.

“Little League has contracted with LexisNexis to provide the local leagues a special Internet site where it actually goes and retrieves the database from the Department of Justice national sex offender registry.”

“We are giving them the benefit of free use of public assets,” Farber said. “They use them under our auspices, and with that our reputation is at stake.”

The new policy creates a time frame for providers to be re-evaluated after five years, which Farber said will give the provider time to improve its programs and allow the opportunity for the village to review it. The revised policy also creates a series of quarterly, semiannual and annual financial reporting requirements.

“The longer the time period, the more precise and more reviewed they need to be,” Farber said. “Although we don’t require a full audit, we do require a CPA-reviewed statement annually and an appearance before the Recreation Advi-

Little League also carries insurance for the players, he said.

Little League leadership includes lawyers, educators and accountants who hold the group to a high standard, Evans said. “The important thing is that I have structured this league based on my accounting background,” he said.

The league is separated into an operations and an administration side, he said, adding that he also gets an outside person to conduct an annual audit.

“There’s a reason that Little League has been around for 70 years,” Evans said. “It’s basically all oversight.”

Palm Beach Little League reports to District 7 in West Palm Beach. District 7 reports to the

sory Board at least once a year to go over the full methodology of how they operate and a financial picture.”

Farber said the past reports of the sports providers have been much more informal. “What you have had in the past is you would get a report once or twice a year from your providers to the rec board,” he said. “It was basically, ‘How did your enrollment go? How many kids did you have?’ That was your typical update. Now you’re going to see financial statements. You’ll get much more detailed information about what’s really going on.”

The new policy will turn the village’s Recreation Advisory Board into more of an oversight body while still letting the provid-

Southeast Region in Georgia, and the Southeast region reports to the national office in Williamsport, Penn.

But part of that structure troubled Mayor David Lodwick, who is the council’s liaison to the Recreation Advisory Board.

The league boundary encompasses most of Royal Palm Beach from State Road 7 west to Seminole Pratt Whitney Road and Southern Blvd., north to Northlake Blvd. With the area comprising so much territory outside Royal Palm Beach, the league might have trouble meeting the village’s requirement that at least 60 percent of the membership be residents, Lodwick said.

Board members and staff also

ers run their programs, he said.

Farber said the providers now will be required to have $50,000 in fidelity bonds to assure that their money is protected. Liability insurance always has been required, and that will continue, Farber said.

The new policy also attempts to relieve the taxpayers of some of the burden for the sports programs by requiring non-residents to pay a field maintenance fee of 20 percent of the registration fee, he said.

“It costs about $100 for each household in Royal Palm Beach just to maintain our athletic fields.

That’s not all our parks, just our athletic fields,” Farber said. “We didn’t think it would be inappropriate to charge a non-resident $20 for those same fields that our taxpayers are paying for.”

raised concerns about keeping youth baseball recreational, rather than more competitive through travel teams. “The perception is that with a lot of the leagues, baseball has grown into travel season at the expense of recreational ball,” Vice Chair John Ruffa said. RPB Parks & Recreation Director Lou Recchio said the village experiences a lot of frustration with travel teams, arising from their emphasis on competition.

“Travel teams destroy recreational leagues,” he said.

Board Member Phyllis Katz said she was very impressed with Palm Beach Little League’s presentation. “While I am very aware and very sympathetic of the preexisting entity, the professionalism

Farber pointed out that the Village of Wellington charges all participants, residents and non-residents, a $25 field maintenance fee. “We didn’t feel it was fair to double-bill our own taxpayers, but those who are not contributing we think should come to the table,” Farber said. The new policy also outlines how records should be kept, using generally accepted accounting principles and requires that they use a commercially available computer-based format. The new policy also stipulates that residents comprise 60 percent of the roster of recreational teams and 75 percent of travel teams. “I believe all our groups meet that currently, so I don’t think it’s a burden to them,” Farber said.

and emphasis on training and the safety factor, there were so many issues that I felt were overwhelmingly presented, I would have difficulty retaining the previous provider,” Katz said.

However, Katz cast the lone vote against recommending the new Youth Baseball Association of Royal Palm Beach for council approval.

Chairman Richard Valuntas made a motion to recommend the Youth Baseball Association of Royal Palm Beach as the primary provider for youth baseball, which was seconded by Alternate Jay Boodheshwar and carried 3-1 with Katz opposed. Members Lynn Balch, Brian Newsholme, Tony Smith and Joe Zexter were absent.

RPBHS

Boundary Changes?

continued from page 1 perintendent and have a talk about what can be done to address some of these boundary issues that we have at Royal Palm Beach High School.” Swift said one area that the village can help with is the marketing of the high school’s special programs.

“We already have a medical sciences academy that has pre-med, nursing and they’re going to add a first responder training for the Royal Palm Beach students,” Swift said. “They are also introducing an international business academy. It’s a very good program for anybody who would like to go into business, and it’s quite advanced.”

Other curriculums the district is looking at for RPBHS include early childhood education, geographical information systems training and alternative energy, he said.

“One of the things we have not been successful at is looking at a strong math and engineering program to come out here,” Swift said, adding that he has not been able to get an answer to the number of students from Royal Palm Beach actually in the district’s math and engineering magnet programs.

Forest Hill

Stimulus Money

continued from page 1

Evidently, the State of Florida is lagging behind as far as construction with stimulus money. The governor on down have stated they want to move the projects as quickly as possible, so we’re trying to meet their requirements and schedules.”

Bonde said the village has done well with receiving the stimulus money. The original agreement was for $3 million, but $800,000 in unused money from other projects was transferred to Wellington, increasing its allotment to $3.8 million, Bonde said.

“That was very good news,” he said. “We’re trying to get our project designed, approved and constructed on the timeline. That will put people to work. The whole concept is to put people to work.”

The stimulus money came from the federal government through the Palm Beach MPO, which se-

LGLA Clearly Mark Your Homes

continued from page 3

“The GPS helps some, but it’s really important if the houses are well marked.”

Garten is one of five sergeants and 17 deputies who work in the newly created District 15, which serves Loxahatchee Groves and The Acreage. He has been with the PBSO almost 23 years, and many of those years had been spent in the Groves, he said.

“You are going to see the same faces day in and day out,” Garten said. “For us working out here all the time, we will get to know everyone. We get to know the people.” Garten added that he had been instructed to start a part-time street team, and that some of the employees had voluntarily become a

Helping

The Holiday Spirit In Wellington

continued from page 1 to set it at 75,’ and we still ended up with enough to feed 100 families.” The baskets included all the traditional staples of a holiday meal, including a turkey, corn bread, mashed potatoes, canned vegetables, sauces and pie. “We wanted people to have a nice holiday,” Tuckwood said. “We made sure the extra food went to food banks that will be serving food on

“The positive thing that has come out of this process is the folks on our task force and at the school board really are starting to understand that they need to market their programs,” Swift said. “They have an excellent medical sciences program that they need to sell to our residents.”

Swift said the village can help the school district by offering to put announcements on the village’s cable channel to make village residents aware of the programs. “I have to say the folks we are dealing with are very enthusiastic about their programs, but they are limited by what they can legally and not legally do. I will tell you though that Sandi Richmond is asking to take a serious look at the boundary issue, and we can’t do that with staff. We need to do that with the superintendent.”

Councilwoman Martha Webster said she has been hearing that members of the school district are really not bending at all.

“Their strategies of marketing and pulling in better students is their solution for getting their grade up, yet with their statistics that they gave us, almost half of the students countywide are below grade on reading,” Webster said. “If you can’t read, you can’t learn. I still believe that they should be looking at everything and teaching our children, not selecting a crop of what they believe are good students to make us look good.”

lected Wellington’s Forest Hill Blvd. project, Bonde said.

The village had the designs done but had to revise them a bit in order to meet state requirements. “We have to work with FDOT because the money is coming through FDOT, and we have to meet the FDOT requirements for that money.”

Mayor Darell Bowen said having the projects designed and ready to go was critical to the approval for stimulus money.

“We already had plans drawn up on this, and when the stimulus money came out, we presented them to the MPO and ended up with the money,” Bowen told the Town-Crier on Tuesday. “That means we’re moving ahead with the phase from Wellington Trace to Montauk [Drive]. We will be able to do most of that on government stimulus money.”

In other business, the council gave final approval Tuesday to a revised sign code with assurances to representatives of Wellington Regional Medical Center and the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center that their desires would be discussed in the

part of that team, working on it their days off.

“All of them are doing this on their own time,” Garten said.

“Some of the things we are looking at tackling are burglaries, truancy and drug problems. We’re using analysts from different districts. We are looking at cluster crimes. If there is a cluster of house burglaries, we can bring it up on the map. The analysts will tell me where there is a cluster of crimes, and what time of the day they take place and what day of the week.”

Because Loxahatchee Groves is served by the PBSO, residents get the added benefits of the marine unit, canine officers, special investigations, computer crimes and other units to serve them.

But the residents themselves can be one of the biggest assets to help law enforcement, he said. If you see anything suspicious, no matter what it is, get in touch with

Thanksgiving for people who need it.”

The food baskets were put together Monday. Neighborhood advocates delivered them to residents with help from Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office deputies assigned to the Safe Neighborhoods program, the Wellington Radio Club, a men’s group from a local worship center and members of the Citizens Volunteer Organization.

“We are taking care of our own,” Tuckwood said. The Safe Neighborhoods initiative officially began in May with the establishment of the Safe Neighborhoods office. Since its inception, the village has made

packaged.

Swift agreed. The new programs the district mentioned are all programs that they were going to add anyway, he said. “All we’re doing is making them happen faster than they would have,” Swift said.

Mayor David Lodwick said he had read the minutes of the task force meeting and felt the issue was with a lack of leadership by the school board, Dr. Richmond in particular.

“I’ve witnessed this on a halfdozen occasions — staff takes over and tells you how it’s going to be done,” Lodwick said. “The role of a leader is to lead, and if we have a senior school board member — she has been there, I think, longer than anyone else on that board — and if you’re not leading, then you shouldn’t be there anymore.”

On Monday, Lodwick reiterated his desire to see Richmond be more of an advocate or to step down.

“With the issues that Councilman Swift has identified, along with our citizens group, I’m disappointed that our school board representative has not been an advocate in trying to find solutions,” Lodwick told the Town-Crier “We need her to step forward and start advocating solutions for our high school and for schools in general in the western communities. It’s not enough to just be present. You need to get involved.”

future, although they were not addressed in the new sign code.

WRMC CEO Kevin DiLallo said he would like to keep the large banner signs that are streamed across the top of the hospital. DiLallo pointed out that the banners are used to advertise community events and not the hospital. The hospital also plans to introduce LCD (liquid crystal diode) signs during the development of its medical campus that are not addressed in the sign code, he said.

Equestrian Sport Productions

CEO Mark Bellissimo defended his sign at the corner of Pierson Road and South Shore Blvd. advertising the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center that received criticism at the first reading of the ordinance.

“These signage efforts I think are great, but the sign at the corner of Pierson and South Shore is critical to our success,” Bellissimo said.

Vice Mayor Dr. Carmine Priore made a motion to approve the ordinance, which was seconded by Councilwoman Lizbeth Benacquisto and carried 4-0 with Councilman Matt Willhite absent.

the PBSO, Garten urged.

One example is the illegal dumping of animal carcasses that has made recent headlines, he said.

“The guys who do this are really sneaky,” Garten said. “And you guys are the ones who are responsible to have it cleaned up.”

Another way residents can help law enforcement is by marking their property — either by keeping a log of items or taking pictures or even labeling items, so that anything stolen can be identified.

What every resident should realize, Garten said, is that pawnshops can’t charge you to get your property back.

“The pawn shop, by law, cannot sell it for 30 days,” he said. “That gives us time to do the investigation to make sure the stuff is not stolen. Once the detective has determined the property belongs to you, the pawnshop takes a loss.”

strides in improving transitional neighborhoods in Wellington and helping residents in need.

In the same spirit as the food drive, Wellington’s senior management has begun monthly “help days.” One Friday each month, several senior Wellington staff members volunteer their day off to help make improvements to the community. Currently, the projects are focused on making home improvements for residents who are unable to do so themselves.

The first project was held Nov. 13 and aided a woman and her mother who live off Social Security disability and received multiple code violations but were unable to repair their home, Tuckwood said.

“They had no way to get it resolved,” she said. “We went out there to help bring them up to code. We did landscaping and even pressure washed the roof.”

The next project is set for Dec. 18 and will benefit a 77-year-old woman who cares for her 98-yearold mother. Tuckwood said the woman has been unable to afford to make improvements on their home after she took out a second mortgage to pay for her son’s medical bills. He died of cancer earlier this year.

ELBRIDGE GALE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRESENTS ‘ALICE IN WONDERLAND’

Gale Elementary School activity groups collaborated on a musical stage presentation of Alice in Wonderland to packed audiences on Nov. 18 and 19. Directed by music teacher Bonnie Rossa and choreographed by first-grade teacher Kristen Rulison, the show featured a combined fourth- and fifth-grade chorus along with help from the acting, dancing and set design clubs. Art teacher Dr. Nicole Crane led the set design club. Rossa applauded the students’ commitment as well as both teacher and parent volunteers’ time. Rossa was also grateful for Principal Gail Pasterczyk’s keen interest in the arts and its importance to a complete education. “Mrs. Pasterczyk really supports us,” Rossa said. “That’s why we get to do this kind of thing.”

Santamaria Meeting Dec. 1

continued from page 3

monitor government entities and the vendors that do business with them.

The current economic crisis was brought about by a combination of corruption, greed and waste, he charged. “It was a combination of the bankers, the mortgage companies, the appraisers and the Realtors, the flippers and the builders who kept raising the prices until the roof collapsed,” Santamaria said. “Now, we’re all suffering.”

Santamaria cited several other examples of what he views as waste, including a county-owned golf course in Delray Beach, the renovation of the historic downtown courthouse and moving county offices to the Vista Center.

“Why are we competing with private golf courses?” he asked.

“Why did we have to spend some $14 million of your taxpayers’ money on a golf course when we

have golf courses going bankrupt?”

Spending $49 million to move employees to the Vista Center on Jog Road off Okeechobee in 2006 was wasteful when the workforce is now so much smaller, he said.

“We’ve laid off a third of the employees because there’s not much work for them,” Santamaria said. “Why are taxes so high? Because we have a debt of $1.3 billion. Why are taxes so high? Because we’re giving away lots of money.”

The grand jury recommendation to establish an independent inspector general is a necessary step to keep people honest, Santamaria said.

The county commission is in the process of formulating an ordinance to create such an office, and Santamaria stressed that the position must be independent. However, under the current proposal, the position would not be, he said. Ultimate control still lies with the commissioners — and with three commissioners being sent to jail since 2006, that type of arrange-

ment is not appropriate, he said.

“They are going to hire, fire and fund the inspector general,” Santamaria said.

“My question, of course, is that independent?” Several groups have been gathering petitions, speaking out, sending e-mails and writing letters to the newspaper, saying that the inspector general’s position must be completely independent, Santamaria said. “I’m asking those of you here to do the same thing,” he said, adding that he has petition forms for people to pick up and have signed. The petitions must be filled out by Dec. 1 when a public workshop will be held for the draft ordinance to be discussed and the public will be able to speak. Final approval is scheduled for Dec. 15.

“It’s most important to show up at the Dec. 1 meeting to say we have to have an independent inspector general,” Santamaria stressed. “I don’t think you’re going to have honesty in government until you put some pressure on some people and force them to be honest.”

“They have been living without air conditioning,” Tuckwood said, adding that the home’s exterior needed renovation. “Neighbors have been helping, but it needs work.”

After the village helps renovate the home, local scouts will paint it on Dec. 19 with paint donated by a local company.

The Safe Neighborhoods office will also be looking to complete several other projects to help beau-

The donated Thanksgiving food before it was was

The Wellington senior staff members who volunteered at the Nov. 13 “help day.”

Elbridge

Lindsay Kohlhorst as Alice.

Anita McClane as March Hare, Ryan Hawa as the Mad Hatter and Stefanie Pondiscio as Dormouse.

Rachel Cohen as Dodo Bird.

Kayla Carver as Rosebud.

Sydney Pincus plays Alice’s sister.

Marika Dumancas and Elyssa Louis as Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum.

Chance Meeting Leads To Unique Rider-Trainer Pair

When Tonya Raffaeli met Gustavo Martinez one evening at Boonies in Loxahatchee Groves, she found herself a new trainer. “I noticed this guy sitting at the bar wearing breeches, so I went over and asked him if he rode horses,” Raffaeli recalled. Turns out, he did. Ellen Rosenberg’s Column, Page 25

Acreage Horse Group Honors Winners

The Acreage Horseman’s Association held a banquet Sunday, Nov. 15 to honor the winners of its 2009 Barrel Saddle Series. Members have been competing monthly all year to earn points that determined the winners. Page 41

BUSINESS

Wellington Chamber

Honors Alec Domb

During the Wednesday, Nov. 18 luncheon at the Wanderers Club at Wellington, the Wellington Chamber of Commerce honored attorney Alec Domb as its Ambassador of the Month. Page 33

Spor ts

Basketball Season Gets Underway At RPBHS

The Royal Palm Beach High School boys varsity basketball team is looking to turn up the heat this season with a faster game and more aggressive tactics. Page 37

Football Season Ends For Area Schools

All three area high school football teams with playoff berths lost their games last week, ending the seasons for Wellington, Seminole Ridge and Royal Palm Beach high schools. Page 37

A Chance Encounter Leads To A Unique Rider-Trainer Pair

It was one of those nights, nothing special going on, no place in particular to go. Tonya Raffaeli of Loxahatchee Groves, was playing poker at Boonies on a Sunday night in May last year.

“I noticed this guy sitting at the bar wearing breeches, so I went over and asked him if he rode horses,” Raffaeli recalled. Turns out, he did.

Gustavo Martinez is the property manager for the Madison Green development, but some years back, he was a member of the Columbian Equestrian Team. Born in Columbia, he became an officer in the cavalry. He competed in Three Day Eventing with the team in 1959-1960 and won a bronze medal in 1980 in the Columbian National Games. Now 74, he last competed in 1987, and about two years ago thought about teaching riding, but he didn’t have students.

Then 47-year-old Raffaeli met him at the bar.

“I’ve been riding all my life,” Raffaeli said. “I have two horses. One’s a Thoroughbred, and I thought maybe I could do something with him. But I don’t really know enough about showing, and although I’m a good rider, I mostly did barrel racing. I wanted to learn about English and jumping.”

Martinez visited Raffaeli’s house and watched her ride. He went with her to a local show, where she placed fifth in a walk-trot class. He liked what he saw. He had found his one and only student.

“He agreed to work with me,” Raffaeli said, still shaking her head in amazement at her

Tales From The Trails

By Ellen Rosenberg

good fortune. “That led to lessons six days a week. And at my next show, which was only a month later, I got reserve champion in a walk-trot-canter class, which also had four 18-inch jumps! That’s when I knew for sure that this guy could take me places.”

“I really liked this horse,” Martinez said, nodding at Shaq, Raffaeli’s eight-year-old dark bay Thoroughbred gelding.

“Thanks a lot,” Raffaeli smiled.

“I also noticed her interest in learning how to improve her riding,” Martinez continued.

“I really liked that. I have no use for people who just want to trail ride and basically kill time with their horses. I saw how much she really wanted to learn, so I said I would help her. I told her there would be some very good days, some very bad days, some very ugly days, and there have been. It’s not a smooth process.”

“Dressage is so hard,” Raffaeli agreed. “Those are the very ugly days, learning how to implement the dressage.”

“Knowledge of basic dressage is what all good riders must have,” Martinez said. “Without it, you can’t control and train the horse

properly. It’s a slow process. It takes a long time. It requires a great deal of discipline.”

Raffaeli nodded in agreement. She knew from hard work and discipline.

“Many people buy a horse and want to start jumping it immediately,” Martinez continued. “That’s not good for either the rider or the horse. It takes time to learn the horse’s gaits and temperament, to know how the horse moves during the trot or canter, how much distance he covers in different gaits. The rider must be able to use his legs and aids to create the proper impulsion and to channel that energy correctly. This is all very classical, which is how I learned and how I teach.”

“You can’t believe how hard this is,” Raffaeli said. “It’s exhausting. By the end of an hour, I’m dying up there on the horse. I’m totally spent. Shaq’s a green horse, and I’m new to this, too. By the end of the lesson, I can see Gustavo’s mouth moving, but I can’t even hear him anymore.”

“This horse learns a lot very quickly,” Martinez said, patting Shaq’s shoulder. “He’s very good. He already knows how to do a turn on the forehand, a turn on the haunches, and shoulder in. Soon we’ll start work on flying changes and the counter-canter. Once you really know all the basic exercises, you can compete successfully in any discipline.”

Martinez goes with Raffaeli to the shows, all small and local. He watches and critiques her riding, which they both consider more important than how Raffaeli places in any one class.

“Her last show, in the jumping, her hands

were out too wide on the turns, and she didn’t approach the fence perpendicular,” Martinez said. “We should have that corrected by the next show.”

They both have goals they’re working toward.

“My goal is for her to be able to enter classes jumping 3-foot-6-inch courses and ride well,” Martinez said. “It’s not about the ribbons, it’s about doing things correctly.”

“And I have the same goal,” Raffaeli agreed. “I know I’ll get there.”

Gustavo Martinez and Tonya Raffaeli with Shaq.

Don’t Laugh: Organizing The ‘Guy Corner’ Almost Killed Me!

Remember last week when I was talking about my antiques store and how the “guy corner” was starting to get so messy that it looked like an abandoned shed? I solved the problem, but I almost died.

I knew you’d want to hear about that.

To begin with, I must say that if you want to be a furniture mover for the rest of your life, buy an antiques store. I didn’t realize this going in, of course. I envisioned lots of furniture in there. I just didn’t make the connection between that and myself. In fact, I think I can say with some conviction that any antique store stocked mostly with teacups is an antique store where the owner has incurred back problems caused by moving heavy furniture. I expect to have them myself, and after my experience cleaning up the guy corner, it’ll be sooner rather than later.

‘New Moon’

Deborah Welky is The Sonic BOOMER

My idea was to take some dilapidated wooden shelving from our garage at home and use it to organize the tools, crates and sports gear that was growing across the floor of my store.

This shelving “unit” (really a bunch of planks that had been nailed together every which way then painted) was 10 feet long, eight feet tall and three feet deep. My hus-

band Mark helped me get it into the back door, but then he had to leave. He told me that “under no circumstances” was I to try to move those shelves without his help.

So, of course, the moment the door clicked shut, I was shoving this behemoth down the hallway. Don’t worry. I was “working smart” — I used a dolly. The trouble came when I had to stoop down really low to get under a doorway.

It was there, while I was hunched over like a dwarf in a mine, that I heard the crack.

Oh, this was not good.

One of the unique things about this wall of shelving was that it had a desk cutout in the middle. That made for a very usable unit, but it also made for a weak spot. And from there was where the “crack” sound had emanated.

I knew what was on my left — an outside

May Be A Blockbuster, But I’m

I never really got the point of last year’s movie Twilight. Vampire movies are supposed to be scary with a sensual sense of dread. Instead, the film (based on a popular series of books) showed teen angst with not very sharp fangs — an ideal film for young kids who want company in suffering through the pangs of unrequited passion. Now the sequel has arrived... Twilight: New Moon. The crowds are pouring in; the theater was jammed when we went.

This new version, if not going to the dogs, seems to be going to the wolves, well, the werewolves. While the first movie was mainly about the passion between mortal Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart) and teen vampire Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson), nothing much ever actually happened between them. In the new movie, Edward takes off so as not to endanger Bella, and a rival emerges, Jacob Black (Taylor Lautner), a young Native American werewolf. (“Where wolf? There wolf! Mel Brooks knew how to deal with these things.) Frankly, old Bram Stoker (who wrote the original Dracula) and Bela Lugosi would be turning in their graves at the total lack of any real sense of evil or foreboding in the film.

‘I’ On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler

Dracula himself, if he existed, would cry in his coffin all night instead of flying around. The basic underlying theme of the original book and almost all previous movies was Victorian gothic. We have the evil of transmission of body fluids, the sexual magnetism of the virgin girl and the sophisticated male mesmerizing the unwary young girl. The girl symbolized all that was good and pure and officially worshipped in Victorian England. Count Dracula symbolized the evil non-dead, tormented as he roamed the world forever. I still fondly remember Frank Langella in one vampirish incarnation, intoning to a young woman, “I don’t drink… wine.” Dracula might be witty, but he was always dangerous.

dealer had rented a few shelves from me upon which to display her Fenton glassware. Of the 30 samples, there wasn’t a single piece priced less than $25. And I knew what was on my right — another dealer’s display of Italian ceramics.

Urged to move quickly by the sound of splitting wood, I hunched lower and lower until, miraculously, I was able to get the now two pieces of the shelf unit safely onto the floor. I flopped onto my side and kissed the rug. A few minutes later, I sat up. Then I stood. Then I dragged the pieces into the guy corner and spent a few blissful hours arranging everything. (Who said obsessive-compulsiveness is a bad thing?)

When Mark showed up later, he admitted the guy corner looked great. So I don’t know what all the yelling was for.

Not Impressed

The vampires in this movie, instead of being evil, are just sort of adorable and cuddly, at least the good ones. They are attractive and have no trouble going out in the daytime. Maybe they wear shades, but always fashionable ones. Yes, there are some bad vampires and they are very bad, but frankly, you could have got the same kind of thing in the GI Joe movie. Just enhance people through technology and they can toss other people around. The bad guy vampires are simply bad guys. No fuss, no bother.

Most of the story is preposterous, even while accepting the notion of vampires and werewolves. The Cullen family of vampires (and they are adorable enough to be a singing group) all run off to Italy because a couple of them go a bit crazy when Bella cuts her finger and bleeds. Later, Edward freaks out because he thinks Bella has died, and she has to fly over to Italy. It would have been simpler to have a product placement for a new iPhone. The werewolves are only around to protect humans (Lon Chaney can now whirl around in his grave from that one!) and Jacob is worried that going too far with Bella means more than taking her virtue.

So we have a few set pieces of motor bike chases, some nice scenery in the Pacific Northwest and Italy, a young woman deciding whether she prefers not fooling around with either a vampire or a werewolf. So, instead she simply spends a lot of time staring, while doing pretty much nothing (and perhaps longing for something, anything to happen).

Since the film is raking in the money, the next book in the series will be coming along sometime in the near future. “Hooray for Hollywood! That screwy ballyhooey Hollywood.” By the way, just a quick reminder that it’s the 100th anniversary of Johnny Mercer’s birth (who wrote the above lyric) along with my commentary on film decision-making. The movie, just like Stephenie Meyer’s books, is just another way to suffer through young love with the added twist that for some, puberty goes on forever. At times, I felt like the movie did as well. It may be the perfect popcorn movie for a teenage date night. And, as mentioned above, technically, it is better than the first. But as one of the first of the really big movies we expect at the end of each year, it is a bit of a dud.

I Really Enjoyed This Year’s Wellington Vets Day Observance

A few weeks ago, the Village of Wellington held a beautiful Veterans Day parade. The parade was followed by a wonderful ceremony at the Wellington Veterans Memorial. This year, the parade and ceremony had special meaning to me. I had out-of-town company staying at my home. My old NYPD partner was my houseguest. Ronnie, who also is a veteran, joined me and many others marching in the parade. He told me it was the first Veterans Day parade that he had ever marched in. I was able to tell by the look on his face that he loved every step of the brief parade route.

The Village of Wellington asked me if I would want to lay a wreath during the ceremony. They didn’t have to ask twice. I told them it would be an honor. I thought because my branch of the service was the Army, I would be the one to lay the wreath at the base of the Army flag.

Wondering & Wandering

By Ernie Zimmerman

That was not to be the case. I was asked to lay the wreath for the prisoners of war at the POW flag. Once again, they didn’t have to ask me twice. I was honored.

I don’t know how to explain to you how I felt when Village Manager Paul Schofield and I (we did the wreath together) were called upon to lay the wreath at the base of the beautiful POW flagpole. Chills were running up and down my entire body. I did everything I could do to keep the tears from flowing from

my eyes. (I did a good job, not one visible tear escaped).

I was very happy I didn’t have to give a speech at the event, because believe it or not (I know a lot of you will find this hard to believe), no words could have come out of my mouth. Yes, I was speechless.

The ceremony itself was short and sweet — about an hour. Mayor Darell Bowen welcomed everyone for coming; the colors were presented by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard, the Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Honor Guard and the Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Pipes and Drums. Lou Galterio did a great job singing the National Anthem. Many local politicians were in attendance, and they were all smart enough to keep their speeches short and to the point.

After the wreath ceremony, the PBSO rifle team gave a very loud gun salute (for a minute,

I thought I was back in Vietnam). Then the Sheriff’s Office bugler played a very touching “Taps.” At this point, I don’t think there was a dry eye at the ceremony.

As I looked at the present Wellington Village Council, I realized most of them are veterans. If I were a betting man, I would bet that Wellington’s council has more sitting veterans than any other in Palm Beach County.

This year, the parade and the ceremony was the best one that I have ever attended. If you weren’t there, you missed a great event, but as we used to say in Brooklyn, “wait until next year,” because I hear through the grapevine that the parade and the ceremony next year will be bigger and better. I can hardly wait.

PS: If you want to see an interview I did for Veterans Day, visit Damon Weaver’s web page on YouTube.

Once again, the Kravis Center has a star-studded season lineup, with something great for everyone!

The Phantoms Preview The Kravis Center’s New Season Lori Shankman To Offer Demo At Art Society Meeting

Jerry Seinfeld kicked off the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts’ 2009-10 season, and Taylor Hicks kicked off the Broadway Series, both to sellout audiences.

There are a host of upcoming headliners, including (in order of appearance): the Smothers Brothers with Norm Crosby, Billy Crystal, Barbara Cook, Tommy Tune, Woody Allen and His New Orleans Jazz Band, Bob Newhart, Tony Bennett, Debby Boone, Paul Anka, Chris Botti, Burt Bacharach, Steve Lawrence, Gladys Knight, Joan Rivers, the Jersey Boys, Bill Cosby, the Beach Boys, Chita Rivera, Johnny Mathis, Neil Sedaka and much, much more for you and your family to enjoy.

Here are two of the performances happening this weekend:

• The Smothers Brothers with Norm Crosby — The show will take place on Saturday, Nov. 28 at 8 p.m. in Dreyoos Hall. With their singular blend of comedic and musical talents, the irrepressible Smothers Brothers have made a sweeping impact on diverse generations of fans for nearly 50 years. Such lasting power is a testimonial to their intuitive humor, natural warmth, superlative showmanship and the pure unadulterated joy they bring to audiences of all ages. Tickets cost $20 to $90.

Smothers Brothers perform on Saturday, Nov. 28

• Dave Koz and Friends —

Along with special guests Rick Braun, David Benoit, Brenda Russell and Peter White, Koz will present “A Smooth Jazz Christmas 2009” on Sunday, Nov. 29 at 8 p.m. in Dreyfoos Hall. Koz, a platinumselling saxophonist, will be joined by keyboardist Benoit (a smooth jazz icon in his own right) and fellow genre all-stars including guitar-

ist White, trumpeter Braun and souljazz vocalist Russell for an acoustic evening of timeless holiday standards mixed with the artists’ original compositions. Tickets cost $20 to $100.

For more information, or to purchase tickets, contact the Kravis Center by phone at (561) 832-7469 or (800) 572-8471, or online at www.kravis.org.

Joe & Kathryn, the Phantoms, are featured writers for the Town-Crier newspaper, This Week Shopping Spree and www.yournews.com. Comments and recommendations are welcome at thephantomdiners@aol.com.

At the Dec. 9 Wellington Art Society general meeting, local artist Lori Shankman will demonstrate the technique of one-stroke painting, a newer method of painting for both experienced artists as well as novice painters.

Shankman is a certified onestroke painting instructor whose works on various surfaces are noted for their unique style, elegance and technique. Her use of vibrant colors and strong lines makes her pieces an excellent choice for a wide range of projects and purposes.

“One-stroke painting has brought so much joy to so many people who never thought they could paint,” said Shankman, whose motto is, “I know I can teach you to paint, too!”

Come and see this new way to create wonderful hand-painted designs on Wednesday, Dec. 9 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way, near the southwest corner of Okeechobee and Royal Palm Beach boulevards). Light refreshments will be served at 6:30 p.m., followed by a brief business meeting at 7 p.m., with the demo starting at approximately 7:15 p.m. While the meeting is free and open to the public, there is a $5 fee for the demo for non-society members.

The Wellington Art Society is open to artists of all mediums and patrons of the arts, providing both

local and regional artists the platform to share their work, learn more about their craft and serve the community through their art.

A charitable organization, its mission is to educate and encourage originality and productivity among its members and area youth through programs designed to further the advancement of cultural endeavors in the western communities. For more information about the Wellington Art Society, visit www. wellingtonartsociety.org or call President Adrianne Hetherington at (561) 784-7561.

Palm Beach Pops, Michael Andrew Pay Tribute To Johnny Mercer

Bob Lappin and the Palm Beach Pops will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the birthday of lyricist and composer Johnny Mercer with their “Memories of Johnny Mercer” concerts Nov. 30 through Dec. 6 at 8 p.m. each night.

Joining Lappin and the orchestra will be singer, composer, actor and entertainer Michael Andrew, known for his big band performance style and headlining the world-famous Rainbow Room in New York City. Together they will perform treasured compositions from the vast Mercer songbook. Highlights include “Satin Doll,” “Hooray for Hollywood,” “Dream” and “Moon River.”

Artists such as Bing Crosby, Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra and Rosemary Clooney earned their fame with the lyrics of Mercer. Other stars

like Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland, Louis Prima, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr. and Peggy Lee sang from his songbook. Henry Mancini composed while Mercer puts lyrics to the music.

“By far, one of the most prolific lyricists in the world, we are thrilled to celebrate the incredible talent of Johnny Mercer,” Executive Director David Quilleon said. “And with Michael Andrew performing songs arranged specifically for our concerts, this will be a knock-out performance that the audience will never forget.”

With more than 1,000 songs to his credit, Mercer was responsible for many of the beloved American songs during the 20th century, including compositions for 90 motion pictures and six Broadway shows. With his collaborators, who includ-

ed Henry Mancini, Harry Warren, Hoagy Carmichael, Jerome Kern and Harold Arlen, he wrote the lyrics to some of the most famous standards, among them, “Too Marvelous for Words,” “Jeepers Creepers,” “Moon River,” “I’m Old-Fashioned,” and “That Old Black Magic.” Also well regarded as a singer, Mercer was a natural for his own songs such as “Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate The Positive” and “One for My Baby.” Highlights of his songbook include “You Must Have Been A Beautiful Baby,” “Laura,” “Dream,” “Hooray for Hollywood,” “Come Rain or Come Shine” and “Satin Doll,” as well as the timeless standards “Glow Worm” and “Days of Wine and Roses.”

During a career spanning over four decades, Mercer was nominated 18 times for the Academy Award

for Best Song (winning four). Mercer was the founder of both Capitol Records and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, where he discovered and nurtured talented artists like Peggy Lee, Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole.

Andrew makes his third appearance with the Palm Beach Pops on Nov. 30. For two years, he was the headline singer and bandleader at the world-famous Rainbow Room atop Rockefeller Center in New York City, where he entertained audiences nightly and hosted a live radio broadcast Live from the Rainbow Room

Andrew’s self-written musicals Mickey Swingerhead & the Earthgirls and The Johnny Mercer Radio Hour were both hits with audiences and with the press. The hit show Mickey Swingerhead led to

the formation of his band, Swingerhead, which has toured extensively throughout the country performing. His 18-piece big band, the Atomic Big Band, is modeled after the Count Basie Orchestra and has performed in Hollywood for movie premieres.

The performance schedule is as follows: Nov. 30 through Dec. 1 at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach; Dec. 2-4 at Florida Atlantic University’s Carole and Barry Kaye Performing Arts Auditorium in Boca Raton; and Dec. 6 at Palm Beach Community College’s Eissey Campus Theatre in Palm Beach Gardens.

Tickets cost $29 to $89 and are available by calling the Palm Beach Pops box office at (561) 832-7677 or online at www.palmbeachpops. org/mercer.

Lori Shankman

The

at 8 p.m.

NPBC Chamber Of Commerce Toy Drive, After-Hours Event

The Young Professionals of the Northern Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce are helping collect toys for the U.S. Marines Toys for Tots Drive.

The purpose of the program is to collect and distribute toys during the holidays as gifts to needy children in the community, delivering a message of hope to underprivileged youngsters that will motivate them to grow into responsible, productive and patriotic citizens and leaders of the future.

“During this season of giving, the chamber is proud to be a partner of Toys for Tots’ long-standing tradition of generosity,” said Nicole Christian, president and CEO of the Northern Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce. “We are pleased to help give back to the community that supports the chamber throughout the year.”

The chamber member businesses listed below are drop-off spots. Bring a new, unwrapped toy and drop it off at any of these locations until mid-December.

Drop-off locations: Comfort Inn & Suites Jupiter (6752 W. Indiantown Road, Jupiter), Cotleur &

Hearing (1934 Commerce Lane, Suite 1, Jupiter), Hilton Singer Island Oceanfront (3700 N. Ocean Drive, Singer Island), Homewood Suites by Hilton PBG (4700 Donald Ross Road, Palm Beach Gardens), Hope Health & Wellness (4290 Professional Center Drive, Suite 101, Palm Beach Gardens), Island House Interiors (1001 Jupiter Park Drive, Suite 124, Jupiter), Kekki Chiropractic (6761 W. Indiantown Road, Suite 25, Jupiter), Mangrove Bay (110 E. Mangrove Bay Way, Jupiter), NAI Merin Hunter Codman Inc. (1601 Forum Place, Suite 200, West Palm Beach), NPBC Chamber of Commerce (800 N. U.S. Highway 1, Jupiter), Roger Dean Stadium (4751 Main Street, Jupiter), Rooney’s Public House (1153 Town Center Drive, Abacoa, Jupiter), Sun American Bank (2000 PGA Blvd., Suite E5506, Palm Beach Gardens) and Schumacher Automotive (3031 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach).

Toys will also be collected at the chamber’s business after-hours event on Thursday, Dec. 3 center court at the Gardens Mall. Enjoy an evening of networking, drinks and

food at the Gardens Mall at 3101 PGA Blvd. in Palm Beach Gardens. The cost to attend is $10 for members and $20 for non-members. Networking begins at 5 p.m., with the program concluding at 7 p.m. Drinks and hors d’oeuvres will be served.

The Northern Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization whose more than 1,000 members represent all aspects of business and industry. Its continuing mission is to be the unified voice of business driving sustainable growth and prosperity.

The Northern Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce focuses on the development and retention of businesses, taking an active role in business, providing meaningful member services and improving the quality of life for all residents in their community.

For more information about how to sign up for the the Northern Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce’s business after-hours event, visit the chamber’s web site at www. npbchamber.com or call (561) 7467111.

WELLINGTON CHAMBER RECOGNIZES ALEC DOMB

During the Wednesday, Nov. 18 luncheon at the Wanderers Club at Wellington, the Wellington Chamber of Commerce honored attorney Alec Domb as its Ambassador of the Month. He was presented the award by Chamber President Diana Tashman and Executive Director Michela Perillo-Green. “I have enjoyed my time working with the chamber,” Domb said. “I plan on doing a lot more of it in the future. I enjoyed meeting all of you.” PHOTO BY CAROL

PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

Nurse Brittney Whelihan Joins Staff At WRMC

Registered nurse Brittney Whelihan of Jupiter, who graduated last spring from Indian River State College, has joined Wellington Regional Medical Center. She recently was awarded her certification in intermediate fetal monitoring from the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses after attending a course that the group held in Jacksonville.

Whelihan, 22, is the daughter of Andrea Kirkham of Stuart and Dave Whelihan of Jupiter.

“She’s certainly following in the footsteps of her aunt Maureen Whelihan, an ob/gyn who is president of both the Palm Beach County Medical Society and the Florida Obstetric & Gynecologic Society,”

Dave Whelihan said. “Brittney has been a nurturer from a very young age, and her family has no doubt that she’ll excel in the medical profession.”

Wellington Regional Medical Center is located at 10101 W. Forest Hill Blvd. For more info., call (561) 798-8500.

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

Wycliffe Golf & Country Club

Hosts First-Ever Volunteer Expo

As the holiday season fast approaches, local charities, organizations and schools are in need of volunteers more than ever. Wycliffe Golf & Country Club is home to approximately 1,800 members, and many are looking to volunteer their time to those in need.

On Thursday, Nov. 5, Wycliffe hosted its first-ever volunteer expo in the community’s newly renovated clubhouse. More than 25 not-forprofit organizations sent representatives with information showcasing their volunteer opportunities to the membership. The American Red Cross, Forgotten Soldiers Outreach, Junior Achievement of the Palm Beaches, Palm Beach County schools, the American Cancer Society, New Horizons Service Dogs and Hospice of Palm Beach County were just a few of the organizations that attended.

Over the course of the event, hundreds of Wycliffe members made their way to the clubhouse to explore opportunities to volunteer their time and to help those in need.

The volunteer expo was a huge success for the local community and for the Wycliffe membership.

Brittney Whelihan

An attendee at the volunteer expo visits the Red Cross booth.

RPBHS Boys Basketball Coach: Team Will Excite This Season

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report

The Royal Palm Beach High School boys varsity basketball team is looking to turn up the heat this season with a faster game and more aggressive tactics.

“We’re going to be a lot more uptempo this year,” Head Coach Drew Quinn told the Town-Crier. “Last year, we were more big-man oriented. This year we’re more guard oriented. We’re trying to play a lot faster than we have in the past.”

Quinn, who coached the Wildcats to a 14-12 season last year, said that the team is going to have to really compete this year and work to improve on what was built last year. He is focusing on getting the boys to play a more aggressive game.

“We played our first tip-off game [last Thursday], and we were not

aggressive enough,” he said. “You have to be the aggressor if you’re going to succeed.”

The team has seven returning players, including seniors Jon Octeus, Troy Stafford and Derek Wood, who each averaged between five and six points per game last season. The Wildcats lost several starters to graduation, among them Brad Zambito, who was a key player on the team, Albert Pallante and Justin Lord, who each averaged 10 points per game.

Despite the losses, Quinn said he is very excited about the skill and dedication of the remaining players this season. “We’re going to be very quick and athletic this year,” he said. “We have a really good group of seniors who have worked very hard in the off-season. That’s usually something to be excited about.”

Over the summer, the Wildcats attended the University of Florida’s Team Camp, which is run by UF Head Basketball Coach Billy Donovan. High school teams from around the nation attended the camp to receive instruction from current and former Gator players.

Quinn said that the extra work in the off-season will be helpful to the team because they have a challenging season ahead of them.

“We have a very difficult schedule this season,” he said. “We’ve got two state runners-up to compete against.”

However, Quinn is confident that the Wildcats will rise to the occasion. “These guys want to be challenged,” he said. “You’ve got to play the best if you want to be the best.”

Quinn hopes to draw more fans

in to cheer on the Wildcats this year. The school is even offering $1 tickets to students to try to make it more affordable for them.

No matter the price, he promised that fans will enjoy watching the Wildcats. “We’re going to be exciting to watch this season,” Quinn said. “People are really going to want to come out and see. We play a full-court game.”

Quinn said he hopes that this season will help bring notoriety to the Wildcats team, which hasn’t had a large following in the past. “We’re just going to have to play hard and continue to try to make our mark in Palm Beach County,” he said.

The Wildcats played Wellington High School on Tuesday, but the results were not available at press time. They will host Summit Christian on Dec. 1 at 7:30 p.m.

New Coach Has Big Plans For RPBHS Girls Basketball Squad

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report

The Royal Palm Beach High School girls varsity basketball team strives for a championship season under new Head Coach Marvelous Washington.

Washington was a basketball star at Palm Beach Lakes High School who went on to play for the University of Central Florida. She graduated UCF in 2003. As coach of the Lady Wildcats this season, Washington said she wants to instill in them a drive to win.

“I want to change the mentality of the team,” Washington said, explaining that over the years, the team has been complacent, sometimes making it to the district championships and sometimes not.

Instead, she wants the team to focus on making it all the way. “My plan is to get us to the championship game and through the championship game,” Washington said.

To do this, Washington hopes to

build team camaraderie along with the players’ faith in themselves and the program. “The attitude needs to change,” she said. “The work ethic needs to change. Once the kids have faith in the program, they’ll do whatever you want them to do.”

Washington said she’s confident in the team’s skill and dedication this season. “I have a good group of kids this year,” she said. “They’re really giving their all to the game.”

The team has four returning starters, including senior Patrice Collie, a key player for the Lady Wildcats who led the team in scoring last season and is a Division I prospect this year.

Also returning is senior guard D’Aundrianique “Dixie” Greenland, senior forward Latoya Harvin and sophomore guard Ashante Doby. Breonna Beck, Shanelia Buckle and Patricka Moreland also return to the team as reserves.

The Lady Wildcats lost Amber Ford, Ikeria Corbett, Marcel Medi-

na and Marlecia Fuller to graduation last year.

The Lady Wildcats went 14-9 last season, but currently sit at 0-2 after losing to Dwyer High School last Thursday.

“We started out kind of slow because we didn’t get the preseason games that everyone else did,” Washington said. “But we’re turning it around, and we’re going to do just fine.”

The losses aren’t a concern for Washington. “Like I tell the girls, you’re a completely different team from the first game to the second game,” she said. “And we’re playing teams that have already played at least two to three games in the preseason while these were our first two games.”

Washington said she’s teaching the girls to really understand the game, not just play. “We improve each game,” she said. “They’re learning the game. They can play the game, but they’re really learn-

ing to understand the game right now.”

But overall, Washington expects a great year and hopes to make her first season with the Lady Wildcats

a championship season. “I expect a lot from them,” she said.

The Lady Wildcats host Palm Beach Central at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 30.

Football Season Ends For Three Area High School Teams

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

All three area high school football teams with playoff berths lost their games last week, ending the seasons for Wellington, Seminole Ridge and Royal Palm Beach high schools.

But it could have been a different year, said Royal Palm Beach football coach Frank Kunf, whose team lost to Palm Bay-Bayside High School 17-13 on Nov. 20. Seminole Ridge fell to Treasure Coast High School 28-10 on Nov. 19, while Wellington lost to Pompano

Beach’s Blanche Ely High School 49-3 on Nov. 20.

“I was disappointed we didn’t win,” Kunf told the Town-Crier on Monday. “We thought that we matched up with Bayside, and things didn’t work out for us.”

Yet Kunf gave credit to his players. “This team was one of the hardest working groups of young men I have been around,” said Kunf, who finished his first season with the team 3-7. “We suffered a lot of close, difficult setbacks where one or two plays would make a difference in us being with probably three

or four more wins this season... But regardless of how the ball bounced, literally, the kids always bounced back week after week and were willing to work hard and practice hard and go after it again.”

Kunf joined the team in August just days before practice began after former coach Darren Studstill was fired after disagreements with the RPBHS administration. Studstill had taken the team to an 11-2 record the year before.

With a young defense and 23 seniors leaving this year, Kunf will be rebuilding the Wildcats next year.

“A majority of our varsity defense is going to return, except they are very young,” Kunf said. “In the playoffs, we ended up starting two freshmen, and two other freshmen played in the game, so they’ll be very young next year, but they’ll have some experience.”

Among the graduating seniors will be much of the offensive line and backfield — quarterback Malcolm Pendergrass, running back Javonti Greene, wide receiver Jared Dangerfield and running back Steve Brinson. Running back Tyrone Paige will return. Freshman place

kicker Kyle Miller, who was backup quarterback this year, also will return, but he’ll face challenges for his spot, Kunf said. Several other young players will return to compete for the remaining backfield positions. “It should be exciting next year to see how this plays out,” Kunf said. “It’s a wideopen field for a lot of kids to go out and really make an impact by working hard in the off-season and keeping their grades up and stuff like that. The future is very bright for the youth coming up into this varsity program.”

Coach Drew Quinn demonstrates a drill for the team.

The Royal Palm Beach High School varsity girls basketball team.

PHOTO BY LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER

Wildcat Dance Team Salutes Veterans WHS WRESTLERS

The Royal Palm Beach High School Wildcat Dancers dance team honored veterans on Friday, Nov. 13 with performances of “You’re a Grand Ol’ Flag” and “American Soldier” at the Temple Beth Torah preschool.

The routines were choreographed by Director Michele Blecher, who explained to the audience before the performance the meaning and importance of Veterans Day.

Earlier that week, the Wildcat Dancers were honored at the Kravis Center for the Per-

forming Arts when several team members attended a showing of Grease and were given a shout-out by the cast.

The RPBHS dance department will present its midterm show “Dance With Me” on Thursday, Dec. 10 at 7 p.m. in the RPBHS auditorium.

Tickets cost $5 and can be purchased only through the dance department. No tickets will be sold at the door.

For more information, or to purchase tickets, call the dance department at (561) 792-8694.

Wolverine JV Wrestlers Off To A Great Start

The Wellington High School junior varsity wrestlers started off their season by winning their five-team tournament with a perfect 30 record.

The Wolverines defeated St. Andrews 60-12, Dwyer 42-22 and Olympic Heights 48-12.

Undefeated junior varsity wrestlers included Hector Sa-

ballos, Austin Schnaderbeck, Ryan Nilsson, Kelijah McClorin, Matt Philmus, Jay Paisley, Devin Hemchand and Brandon Read.

The Wellington High School junior varsity wrestling team will be back in action at the Seminole Ridge High School tournament on Wednesday, Dec. 2 at 5 p.m.

AYFL Super Bowl Victory

Last Saturday at Seminole Ridge High School, the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets used a pounding rushing attack and a punishing defense to defeat the Florida Gators 3319 to win the Acreage Youth Football League Collegiate Division Super Bowl.

Kyle Grieser had three runs of more than 50 yards each, scoring twice, while Josh Swiger added two 40yard scoring runs in the sec-

ond half to seal the victory. Quarterback Clayton Williams, who also scored a touchdown, did a great job directing the offense, while making two key interceptions from his linebacker position on defense.

The Yellow Jacket defense held the Gators to less than 30 yards rushing for the entire game. For the season, Georgia Tech outscored their opponents 291-54.

PLACE SECOND AT DUALS TOURNEY

The Wellington High School wrestling team placed second at the recent Wellington Duals II tournament, losing only to seventh-place state-ranked Barron Collier in the finals. The Wolverines started off the day by defeating Cocoa Beach (rated 16th in state) by a score of 5426 and rolled from there by defeating Chaminade Madonna 72-6, Lyman 59-17 and Palm Beach Central (rated 22nd in state) 43-25. The Wolverines were led by their two undefeated wrestlers Jake Ferrara (145) and Brandon Lustgarten (215) pictured above.

The RPBHS Wildcat Dancers pay tribute to veterans.

AHA Honors Barrel Saddle Winners

The Acreage Horseman’s Association held an award banquet on Sunday, Nov. 15 to honor the winners of its 2009 Barrel Saddle Series.

Members of the AHA, most of whom are local, have been competing at monthly shows held at the newly rededicated Nicole Hornstein Equestrian Park in The Acreage since early January 2009. Members of all ages competed in a total of four timed events at each show to accumulate points throughout the year.

The winners are as follows:

• Pony Division — First place, McKenna Hickson; second place, Ashley Smythe; third place, Georgia Mott; fourth place, Dave Rimes; and fifth place, Madison Jones.

• 1D — First place, Patty Waters; second place, Monica Lallama; third place, Monica McGoey; fourth place, Ashleigh Knecht; and fifth place, Amber Hall.

• 2D — First place, Katie Smith; second place, Samantha Klosterman; third place,

Marina Jones; fourth place, Kim Hall; and fifth place, Paul Woods.

• 3D — First place, Jeannie Philbin; second place, Tyler Waters; third place, Michelle Zelones; fourth place, Krystal Felt; and fifth place, Tierney Gonzalez.

• 4D — First place, Gina Gallo; second place, Morgan Klosterman; third place, Emily Davis; fourth place, Beverly Wallace; and fifth place, Katie Ward.

The Most Improved Rider award went to: Emma Flowers in the Pony Division, Jeanie Philbin in the 12 and Under Division, Emily Davis in the Junior Division, and Michelle Zelones in the Adult Division. The Rising Star Award went to Madeline Riol.

The Acreage Horseman’s Association is looking forward to hosting its 2010 Barrel Saddle Series and to another successful barrel racing season. For more information, visit the organization’s web site at www.acreage horseman.com.

FALL CHAMPIONS

The Royal Palm Beach Piranaz 10-U travel baseball team won the Nations League Fall Championship on Nov. 14 by defeating Coral Springs Sandlot 5-2 at Florida Atlantic University’s softball stadium. Sean Houck pitched a complete game with eight strikeouts, and Nick “Mailbox” Adams bombed a two-run homer in the bottom of the third inning. The league handed out three individual awards: Sean Houck (MVP of the game), Nick Adams (Big Stick) and Xavier Edwards (MVP of the league). The team was 9-0 in the regular season. With the championship win, the Piranaz won a ticket to play in Cooperstown, N.Y. next summer. Pictured above are: (front row, L-R) Nick Adams, Xavier Edwards, T.J. McKenzie, Brock Chase, Jason Fox and Daniel Hernandez; (middle row) Xavier Smith, Sean Houck, Charlie Von Werne, Andrew Johnson and Ethan Levi; (back row) Leroy Houck, Gary Chase, Warren Von Werne, Jovon Edwards and Jeff Fox.

2009 Saddle Series winners gather for a group photo.

First place saddle winners: (L-R) McKenna Hickson (Pony), Patty Waters (1D), Katie Smith (2D), Jeannie Philbin (3D) and Gina Gallo (4D).

ALI LOWE SIGNS WITH VILLANOVA

On Thursday, Nov. 19, Ali Lowe of Wellington High School signed her official letter of intent to play Division I softball for Villanova University. She has performed brilliantly both at WHS and with her summer travel team, the Lady Gators Gold. She plans to major in computer science when she begins classes next fall. Pictured above is Ali with her mother Michele, father David and sister Jaime.

PHOTO BY LAUREN MIRO/TOWN-CRIER

WILDCATS PLACE SECOND IN CHEER COMPETITION

The Royal Palm Beach Wildcats Junior Midget cheer squad recently competed at Martin County High School in the Pop Warner Local Cheerleading Competition. With all of the girls’ hard work and dedication, they brought home the second-place trophy. The girls are excited because it advanced them to the regional competition at the University of Central Florida in Orlando over Thanksgiving weekend. The squad of 34 works very hard together and have a lot of fun. They would like to thank coaches Jessi Sleek and Tiffany Curtis. Pictured above, the squad members gather for a group photo.

WOLVERINES JV FOOTBALL FINISH SEASON 5-2

The Wellington High School junior varsity football team just completed an outstanding winning season with five wins and only two losses. Wellington junior varsity’s defense gave up less than 100 yards per game. The defense was led by sophomore linebackers Jake Romano, Santiago Burssens, Andy LeMay and Dominic Ostien, who combined for over 90 tackles. During the sevengame season, the defense forced 16 turnovers. The offense was led by freshman running back/tailback Danick Duffus, who earned 600 yards rushing and seven touchdowns, and sophomore fullback Andy LeMay, who earned 400 yards rushing and four touchdowns this season.

COMMUNIT Y CALENDAR

Saturday, Nov. 28

• The Second Annual Palm Beach Steeplechase will take place Saturday, Nov. 28 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center Stadium at the corner of Pierson Road and South Shore Blvd. Stadium gates open at 9 a.m. for tailgaters, with the entertainment kicking off at 11 a.m. and the first race at 1 p.m. For tickets or more info., visit www.palmbeachsteeplechase.com or call (561) 793-5867.

• The 10th Annual Downtown Delray Beach Thanksgiving Weekend Art Fest will be held on Saturday, Nov. 28 and Sunday Nov. 29 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Pineapple Grove Arts District. Peruse some of the country’s finest arts, crafts, sculptures, paintings, jewelry, pottery and unique treasures. Admission is free. Visit www. artfestival.com or call (954) 472-3755 for more info.

• Moksha Yoga Studio will hold a Beginner Yoga Series from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. starting Saturday, Nov. 28. Learn commonly practiced poses in detail, relieve tension in the shoulders and alleviate back pain. Each class builds upon the previous, therefore plan to attend the entire series. For more info., visit www.mokshayogastudio. com or call Cora Rosen at (561) 427-1767.

• The Citrus Nationals will continue at Palm Beach International Raceway (17047 Beeline Highway, Jupiter) Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 28 and 29. This is an NHRA National Open, featuring alcohol dragsters along with a full array of NHRA sportsman race classes. Exhibition vehicles such as jet dragsters, pro mods and wheel standers are included. Visit www.racepbir.com or call (561) 622-1400 for more info. Monday, Nov. 30

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will present “Take a Sentimental Journey” for adults on Monday, Nov. 30 at 6:30 p.m. Kim Daughtry of Hospice of Palm Beach County will teach simple ways to record your legacy for future generations. Bring a favorite photo. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• Bob Lappin and the Palm Beach Pops will perform “Memories of Johnny Mercer” at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts (701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach) Monday, Nov. 30 and Tuesday, Dec. 1 at 8 p.m. both evenings. Visit www.kravis.org or call (561) 832-7469 for more info.

Tuesday, Dec. 1

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern

Drive) will host “Stories in Sign” for ages six and up on Tuesdays, Dec. 1 and 15 at 3:30 p.m. Staff will share stories and songs in sign language. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Audubon Society of the Everglades will hold its monthly meeting, annual potluck and lecture on Tuesday, Dec. 1 at 6:30 p.m. at the Pine Jog Environmental Education Center (6301 Summit Blvd., West Palm Beach). The event is free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to bring a dish. Call (561) 742-7791 or visit www. auduboneverglades.org for more info.

• Maltz Jupiter Theatre (1001 East Indiantown Road, Jupiter) will present Lost In Yorkers Dec. 1-13. Set in 1942 in a small apartment over a candy store in New York, the play tells the tale of two young brothers spending time with their formidable grandmother, kooky aunt and gangster uncle. Call (561) 972-6132 for more info.

Wednesday, Dec. 2

• The Jewish Community Center of the Greater Palm Beaches will present the 20th Annual Palm Beach Jewish Film Festival Dec. 2-13 at the Regal Delray 18, Cobb Downtown 16 in Palm Beach Gardens and Reel World Cinema 8 in Wellington. The festival features award-winning Israeli, international and independent films with Jewish themes that are seldom seen in multiplex theaters. Call (561) 712-5258 or visit www. palmbeachjewishfilm.org for more info.

• The parenting program “December Dilemma: What is the Best Holiday Gift You Can Give Your Child?” will be presented on Wednesday, Dec. 2 at 9:15 a.m. at Temple Beth Torah (900 Big Blue Trace, Wellington). This free program is the second of a fourpart series. RSVP to (561) 793.2649 or email psdirector@templebethtorah.net.

• Community of Hope Church (14101 Okeechobee Blvd., Loxahatchee Groves) invites all women to join in a three-session Advent series to take place Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to noon beginning Dec. 2. at the church office. The series is titled “The Purpose of Christmas.” Free child-care will be provided. For more information, or to register, call (561) 753-8883 or e-mail info@ gocoh.com.

• Local authors Linda Coates and Leslie Kelly will be available to sign copies of their book The Twelve Days of Christmas: A Guide to an Old Tradition with a New Purpose on Wednesday, Dec. 2 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the

Benefits Boutique…

Dental PPO/Indemnity plans

For groups as small as 2 employees enrolling, these plans offer access to a regional primary network and a national secondary network. Available as voluntary or employer-contributory, with no waiting periods for employercontributory groups with 10 or more enrolling.

Vision PPO/Indemnity plans

For groups as small as 5 employees enrolling. Both vision plans offered as employer- contributory or voluntary. PPO network and discounts through EyeMed. Available as a bundled plan for employer-contributory groups as small as 2 enrolling.

Group Term Life plans

Voluntary, Employer-contributory or for small groups with less than 10 enrolling. AD&D, supplemental, dependent life insurance, and other benefit options available.

COMMUNIT Y CALENDAR

CALENDAR, continued from page 44 Barnes & Noble store at 333 N. Congress Ave. in Boynton Beach. Call (561) 374-5570 for more info.

• Hearing the Ovarian Cancer Whisper (HOW), a program of the Palm Healthcare Foundation, will host a cocktail reception for women at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington on Wednesday, Dec. 2 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The reception will feature an informative lecture by Dr. Robert Knapp. Tickets cost $25 per person. For more info., contact Jennifer McGrath at (561) 837-2285 or jmcgrath@phfpbc.org.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Express Yourself: Book Discussion Series” for adults on Wednesday, Dec. 2 at 6:30 p.m. Sara Harris will lead a discussion of Away by Amy Bloom. Sign up and check out the book. Call (561) 7906070 for more info.

Thursday, Dec. 3

• The Wellington Women’s Club will host a holiday dinner meeting on Thursday, Dec. 3 at 6:30 p.m. at the Binks Forest Golf Club (400 Binks Forest Drive, Wellington). Guests are welcome for a fee of $30. To RSVP, call Allyson at (561) 798-6741.

• The Lifelong Learning Society will present “Oscar Goes to Hollywood: Wilde in the Gaze of Contemporary Cinema” on Thursday, Dec. 3 at 7 p.m. at the Florida Atlantic University John D. MacArthur Campus (5353 Parkside Drive, Jupiter). Dr. Oliver Buckton will present a critique and analysis of the recent films based on Oscar Wilde’s life and work. Call (561) 799-8667 or visit www.fau.edu for more info.

the Helen K. Persson Recital Hall (326 Acacia Road, West Palm Beach). The performance is free. Call (561) 803-2970 or visit www.pba.edu for more info.

Saturday, Dec. 5

• Mounts Botanical Garden (531 N. Military Trail, West Palm Beach) will host a Water Gardening Workshop on Saturday, Dec. 5 from 9 a.m. to noon. Participants will observe the installation of an in-ground water feature. Call (561) 233-1757 or visit www.mounts.org for more info.

• The Society of the Four Arts (2 Four Arts Plaza, Palm Beach) will present “Delicious Flavors by Victoria Amory” on Saturday, Dec. 5 at 11 a.m. Jump-start your holiday mood by enjoying a demonstration and tasting from the recipes of Amory’s new book Delicious Flavors. Known for her elegant and fun entertaining style, Amory will share the sources and information that will make your parties a pleasure for you and your guests. Call (561) 805-8562 or visit www. fourarts.org for more info.

• The Lifelong Learning Society will present “How to Be a Music Critic” on Saturday, Dec. 5 at 1 p.m. at Florida Atlantic University’s John D. MacArthur Campus (5353 Parkside Drive, Jupiter). Sharon McDaniel will explain the criteria that make up a classical music review. Call (561) 7998667 or visit www.fau.edu for more info.

• The 22nd Annual Wellington Boys & Girls Club Dinner, Dance & Auction will be held on Saturday, Dec. 5 at the Wycliffe Golf & Country Club starting at 6:30 p.m. For more info., call (561) 683-3287. Sunday, Dec. 6

• Billy Crystal will star in the Tony Awardwinning 700 Sundays Dec. 3-6 at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts (701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach). Call (561) 651-4257 or visit kravis.org for more info. Friday, Dec. 4

• The Armory Art Center (1700 Parker Avenue, West Palm Beach) will hold its Holiday Sale in the Armory Studios on Friday, Dec. 4 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 5 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. The sale will feature student and faculty works including jewelry, ceramics and sculpture. An opening reception will be held on Friday, Dec. 4 from 6 to 8 p.m. The event is free for members and $5 for non-members. Call (561) 832-1776 or visit www.armoryart.org for more info.

• Palm Beach Atlantic University will present “An Evening of Diverse Chamber Music” on Friday, Dec. 4 at 7:30 p.m. in

• The Sisterhood of Temple Beth Zion will present lecturer, author and humorist Judith Levy on Sunday, Dec. 6 at 1:30 p.m. at the temple (129 Sparrow Drive, Royal Palm Beach). Levy is the author of well-known books such as Grandmother Remembers, Grandfather Remembers and Our Chosen Child. Refreshments will be served. Tickets cost $10. RSVP by calling Liz at (561) 7988888.

• Bob Lappin and the Palm Beach Pops will present “Memories of Mercer” on Sunday, Dec. 6 at 8 p.m. at the Palm Beach Community College Eissey Campus Theatre (11051 Campus Drive, Palm Beach Gardens). Call (561) 832-7677 or visit www. palmbeachpops.org 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.

SCHWINN 231 RECUMBENT

BIKE — Hardly used already assembled $250 call (561) 432-8797

HOME FURNISHINGS FOR SALE

- Everything needed for 2 bedroom apt. or groom's quarters; white leather couch, loveseat & rocker, entertainment center, dining table, china cabinet, kingsize & queensize mattresses/box springs & frames, all kitchenware & small appliances, all linens, iron, ironing board and more $1.950 all (not sold separately) 561-795-5916

MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS — 2

TV’s , prof. massage table, 2 block glass tables, 2 prof. speakers, Ping Pong Table all items in excellent condition and reasonably priced & other misc. items available. 561729-0277

AIRHANDLER — CARRIER 1 ½ Tons, 14 months old $400 includes compressor (5 years old) 561-6308055

HOUSE FOR RENT — Three-bedroom, two-bath villa-style home in desirable River Bridge gated community. Newly renovated, modern kitchen with granite and stainless appliances. Tile floor throughout. Two-car garage. Move-in ready. Steps from community pool. Access to private rec facilities. Cable TV, lawn maintenance and nighttime security included. Available for rent, $1,650/month. Call Mr. Manning at (561) 315-6727 for more info.

CONDO/TOWNHOME FOR RENT - 3 BD 3 ½ BA in Shoma (A gated community) W/D, pool, fitness center, & more. Walking Distance to shopping. Pets O.K. 561-845-1099

1 BEDROOM / 1 BATH APARTMENT — includes direct TV $650 month. 561-985-1349

ACREAGE LOTS:

1.25 ACRES $50K. 1.15 ACRES $70K. 1.3 ACRES $75K.

1.83 ACRES $85K. PALMS WEST REALTY (561) 791-8998 OR WWW.PALMSWESTREALTY.COM THE TOWN-CRIER AD CLASSIFIEDS 793-3576

VOLUNTEER AT AN ANIMAL

SANCTUARY HORSE FARM - 14 and up, community Service. (561) 792-2666

MEDICAL ASSISTANT - part time evenings 4 p.m .- 8 p.m. Good pay and good benefits. Fax resume to 561-798-4351 Wellington

PART-TIME MEDICAL ASSISTANT NEEDED — for busy medical office. Pediatric experience a must. Fax resume 561-793-0490

TOWN-CRIER CLASSFIEDS CALL 793-3576 TODAY~

TEACUP CHIHUAHUAS FOR SALE — Call for info 561-5062247. Ask for Priscilla. Shots included.

MEDICAL AND PROFESSIONAL BUILDING CLEANINGS SPECIALISTS — • Pressure Cleaning • Office Cleaning • Residential Cleaning • Parking Lot Maintenance • Concrete Coatings. Call for Free Evaluation. 561-714-3608

HOUSECLEANING - Reliable with long term clients. Over 12 years experience. References available. Karen 561-632-2271

WIFE FOR HIRE - Housecleaning, honest, dependable, references, experience. 561-598-0311

BRENDA'S CLEANING SERVICE

- Over 20 years experience. Reliable, honest and take pride in my work. 561-460-8380

HOUSECLEANING - 20 years experience. Excellent local references. Shopping available. 561572-1782

COMPUTER REPAIR — We come to you! After hours and weekends services available. Spyware/ Adware/Virus Removal, Networking, Wireless, Backup Data, Upgrades. Call Anytime. 561-7135276

MOBILE-TEC ON-SITE COMPUTER SERVICE — The computer experts that come to you! Hardware/Software setup, support & troubleshooting www.mobiletec.net. 561-248-2611

D.J. COMPUTER - Home & office, Spyware removal, websites, networks, repairs, upgrades, virus removal, tutoring. Call Jeff 561-3339433 or Cell 561-252-1186 Lic’d Well. & Palm Beach

ADDITIONS, ROOFING, PATIOS & REMODELING - Cell 561-202-7036 561-798-6448 Licensed & Insured. CBC 1250306 CCC1326386

DADS DOORS & WINDOWS, INC. IMPACT WINDOWS & HURRICANE SHUTTERS — Sliding Glass Doors, Mirrors & Shower Doors. 561-355-8331 U 19958 U20177

FOUND — In Vicinity of Orange Boulevard jand 130th Avenue found brown and white kitten. 6 -8 months old. Call to identify 561790-4537

1995 TOYOTA COROLLA DX92K, cold A/C, power windows, power door locks, great on gas, cruise, $2,500 OBO. (561) 2018805

MOBILE HOME FOR SALE -3 bedroom, 2 baths, single wide 3 car parking. $8,500 OBO. (561) 2018805

HONDA CIVIC 95’ — Hatchback, 5 speed, A/C, clean, good condition, up kit rims, $3,100 or best offer. Call 315-8642

1997 GREY SEBRING JXI CONVERTIBLE — new a/c, clean & well maintained. Engine & transmission in excellent condition and new top. Feel free to take it to a mechanic & check it out. Mint condition. $3800 (561) 793-5569 (917) 494-3422

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

ARE YOUR TREES READY FOR A HURRICANE? — Florida Arborists has highly trained professionals to provide superior and quality services. 561-568-7500

STAFF PLUS — Looking to fill full and part-time positions in customer service. For more info. Call 1-888333-9903

GUARDSMAN FURNITURE PRO

— For all your furniture repair needs including finish repairs, structural repairs, Leather repairs, chair regluing, antique repairs, kitchen cabinet refurbishing. 753-8689

GUITAR LESSONS GIVEN — by a professional jazz, classical & blues guitarist. Classically trained. 561753-7328

PLACE YOUR AD HERE CALL THE TOWN-CRIER AD CLASSIFIEDS 793-3576

BILLY’S HOME REPAIRS, INC. — REMODEL & REPAIRS Interior Trim, crown molding, rottenwood repair, door installation, minor drywall, kitchens/cabinets/countertops, wood flooring. Bonded/Insured U#19699. 791-9900 Cell: 370-5293

CAN FIX IT - build it, move it, plant it, and more. Call Bruce, 793-2494

MASTER HANDYMAN - Over 40 years quality service. Carpentry, plumbing, electrical, drywall. All types. Repairs & improvements. Call Tom 954-444-3178. Satisfaction Guaranteed!

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 561-2488528

KGS LLC — Water damaged, drywall, remodels, Kitchens & baths, woodwork, flooring, paint & textures, stucco, windows & doors, all concrete work, design, additions, enclosures,solar installation & sales, excavating and more prompt, honest & reliable. cbc056820 CVC56757

HOME INSPECTIONS — Mold inpections, air quality testing, US Building Inspectors mention this ad $20.00 Off. 561-784-8811

LOOKING TO SAVE MONEY ON YOUR CAR INSURANCE - Your local Geico office has been saving people money for over 70 years. Contact (561) 616-5944 for a free rate quote.

PALM BEACH PET SERVICES

LLC - Pet Sitting, dogwalking, www.PalmbeachServices.com 1866-648-1150 Lic. Bonded, Insured

PIANO LESSONS - Special rates

2009 - 2010. My piano or yours. Experience in music (Piano-Vocal) Over 38 years. References available. 561-313-7662.

LICENSED PLUMBER - Beat any legitimate estimate. A/C service lowest price. Complete service, new construction, replacement. CFC1426242 CAC058610 Bonded & Insured. 561-601-6458

POOL PLASTERING AND RESURFACING — Lic. U19996. 561722-7690.

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

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

RESUMÉ’S R US — Resumé writing, cover letters, advice/counseling. Mention this ad for special rates. www.Ineedaresumenow.com 561-228-1378

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

HORIZON ROOFING QUALITY

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

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

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

SPRINKLER, LLC — Complete repair of all types of systems. Owner Operated. Michael 561-964-6004 Lic. #U17871 Bonded & Ins.

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

RJA PAINTING AND DECORATING, INC. - Interior , Exterior, Faux Finish, Residential,Commercial. License #U17536 Rocky Armento, Jr. 561-793-5455 561-6627102

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. — Interior/Exterior, residential painting, over 20 years exp. Small Jobs welcome. Free est. - Insured. 561-3838666. Owner/Operated. Lic.# U20627 Ins. Wellington Resident. CREATIVE PAINTING SYSTEMS, INC. — Interior • Exterior • Residential Specialists. WE DELIVER WHAT WE PROMISE. All work guaranteed. FREE EST.Family owned & Operated. Over 23 years exp. Lic. #U-18337 • Bonded • Ins. Owner/Operator George Born. 561-686-6701

ROBERT G. HARTMANN ROOFING — Specializing in repairs. Free estimates, Bonded,insured. Lic. #CCC 058317 Ph: 561-790-0763.

ROOFING REPAIRS REROOFING ALL TYPES — Pinewood Construction, Inc. Honest and reliable. Serving Palm Beach County for over 20 years. Call Mike 561-309-0134 Lic. Ins. Bonded. CGC-023773 RC0067207

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