Town-Crier Newspaper November 28, 2008

RPB ROTARY’S ‘PARTY IN THE PARK’

to do backflips in the end zone Friday night. The Royal Palm Beach High School varsity team shut out visiting Palm Beach Lakes 27-0, advancing to the regional semifinals at Vero Beach on Friday, Nov. 28. Page 27

Business

Pizzano’s Pizza Is Open Late Hours In Royal Palm Beach

Pizzano’s Pizza opened in September in Royal Palm Beach to offer fresh Italian food with a personal and friendly flair in a family atmosphere. The restaurant is open late, until 1 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 2 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Page 32

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

Organizers of the inaugural Palm Beach Steeplechase anticipate a crowd of 5,000 to 7,000 to spend a day at the races on Saturday, Nov. 29 in Wellington. Steeplechase is a form of horseracing around a track studded with fences or other obstacles to simulate a cross-country race. The sport originated in Ireland, where foxhunters, according to legend, wagered on who among them would first reach a distant church steeple in the countryside.

Saturday’s event, at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center Stadium at the corner of South Shore Blvd. and Pierson Road in Wellington, is recognized by the National Steeplechase Association, the sport’s official governing body in the United States, and offers a total of $200,000 in prize money among five races.

Equestrian Sport Productions is producing the Palm Beach Steeplechase, and spokesman Ken Braddick said the event will feature some of the sport’s finest riders near the close of the American steeplechase season.

“Essentially, the very best in the sport will be here,” he said.

Equestrian Sport Productions produces other high-profile equestrian competitions in Wellington, particularly the longrunning Winter Equestrian Festival. The company’s managing partner Mark Bellissimo said he has been working to bring steeplechase to Wellington with the notion of providing a fun community event for the whole family that would introduce equestrian sports to a wider local audience.

“This is a great opportunity within the community to expose people to equestrian sports,” he said. “It’s a little more understandable than polo, hunter/ jumper and dressage. People are familiar with horseracing.”

Bellissimo said he became

interested in steeplechase events about two years ago when Wellington equestrian Roger Smith invited him to attend an event in North Carolina.

“We were just captivated by it,” Bellissimo recalled. “There were about 10,000 people at the event. The popularity is amazing.”

Bellissimo said he wants steeplechase to have a permanent and perhaps expanded presence in Wellington. “We explored with the NSA doing a spring event as well,” he said. “We’re going to see how this works out, and hopefully we’ll have some great feedback.”

Ticket sales for the steeplechase have been impressive, Bellissimo said. “We’ve been amazed at the sales on the Internet site,” he said. “What’s really interesting is people who have purchased tickets with a northeast or northeast coastal address. There are quite a few people from Jupiter to Boca. It’s amazing to see how many people have gone online from Wellington proper, the equestrian part of Wellington.”

In time, Bellissimo said, steeplechase could become a bigger draw than any other equestrian sports event in the village. “I think this event will be by far the largest, two or three times bigger than any polo match, two or three times bigger than any jumping event over time, and I think it will take two or three years for it to mature,” he said.

Retired steeplechase jockey

Tom Skiffington, a Palm Beach County resident, said he has seen more than 60,000 spectators attend some steeplechases, such as a springtime event in Camden, S.C., and agrees with Bellissimo that the sport will catch on locally.

“I would expect that it will grow in popularity as the word gets out,” he said. “It’s a family thing. I think one of the things I’ve pointed out is that the outside community really has a dis-

tant relationship with the horse people, that they are just a bunch of rich people flying around in jet airplanes. I think that the more that we can invite people and invite the family — every kid loves a horse. You bring the family in with the kids and the kids will bring their parents back. That’s how it happened with me.”

Skiffington said conventional horseracing and steeplechase have much in common. “There is great similarity in the flat jockey and the jump jockey,” he said. “The only difference is we are a little bit bigger and we have obstacles in the way between the start and the finish line.”

A jump jockey generally rides high for safety and communicates to the horse through his hands, Skiffington said. “It’s the same as the show riders do,” he said. “We don’t use our legs because we’re propped upon short stirrups.”

Riding with short stirrups positions the rider to be catapulted away if the horse trips or hits a fence, he explained.

The English-born Skiffington said steeplechase jockeying is an unusual occupation with great rewards for a few, but great opportunities overall. “It’s a very lucrative job if you do well,” he said. “But like in all sports, you have to do well in order for it to pay you well. But it’s a fantastic lifestyle. It took me all over the world.”

The popularity of steeplechase surpasses that of conventional horseracing in some parts of Europe, Skiffington said. “In England, Ireland and France, it’s one of the major sports,” he said. “In those countries, it’s actually larger than flat racing. They have it on TV every day.”

Skiffingon said that due to the risks involved in steeplechase riding, most jockeys don’t ride past age 35, while conventional jockeys can often ride into their 50s. “Injuries are prevalent,” he

Webster, Pinto Will Seek Re-Election To RPB Council

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

Two Royal Palm Beach Village Council seats will be up for election in March 2009, and both incumbents — Martha Webster in Seat 2 and Fred Pinto in Seat 4 — say they intend to run for re-election.

Councilman Fred Pinto, now in his third term, has served as vice mayor twice and will have been on the council six years in March. He said he is proud of the council’s accomplishments in that time.

“The decisions that we made several years ago have positioned us to weather the current fiscal climate,” Pinto said.

Those decisions include the sale of the village’s water utility to Palm Beach County and transfer of law enforcement duties from a village force to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office.

“We achieved what we wanted to achieve,” Pinto said of the PBSO takeover. “We enhanced law enforcement and got capabilities we otherwise could not afford.”

Sale of the water utility provides a steady revenue stream, Pinto said.

“We are now still getting revenue from the annuities from the sale of the water plant,” he said.

“We also get ten percent of the revenue from the [service] area that we sold to Palm Beach County for water that they’re providing, but we get our income from that as well. So those decisions, along with trying to be consistent, and trying to be very prudent and diligent in terms of how we allocate our budget, have now proven to have been a good course of action.”

The council decided to purchase the former Tradition Golf Course when the real estate market was at its height and received criticism for what some said was a high price, which amounted to

less than $30,000 an acre. But Pinto said the council has reserved a large piece of open space for the village despite widespread market pressure to develop.

“This was something that we wanted to avoid,” Pinto said.

“We have a lovely parcel of land right in the center of our town that we will continue to maintain for the community in terms of a park as well as restoring a golf facility there as we move forward.”

Pinto said he wants the council to continue to move forward intelligently with development of the park, dubbed Village Commons.

“With a continued forecast of economic challenges ahead of us, we need to be even more intelligent about where we put capital expenditures and make determinations on how we spend our taxpayers’ dollars,” he said. “It may take longer to do, but we’re already moving forward on putting in a basic infrastructure and being able to use the park as a park.” Pinto said he wants to retain the village’s designation by Family Circle magazine as one of the “ten best towns for families.”

“I want to continue to keep Royal Palm Beach as one of the best places to live,” he said. “We’re very proud of that. I want to maintain the notion that people can live here and feel safe and the children will have good schools.”

Pinto, born and raised in Harlem, N.Y., received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Fordham University, attended the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College and is a retired lieutenant colonel. He is currently a senior information technology management consultant for a firm in Broward County. Webster, who filed a letter of

Willhite: Council Needs Hands-On Review Of Comp Plan

By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report

The Wellington Village Council held off on sending a revised version of the village’s comprehensive plan for state review Tuesday, as two of four members present raised concerns about changes that were made to the document.

The state requires each municipality to evaluate and update its comprehensive plan, a master document containing standards for development, services and planning, at least every seven years. Wellington produced its review, called the Evaluation and Appraisal Report or EAR, in 2007. Tuesday’s hearing would have approved transmission of the updated compre-

hensive plan, including changes drawn up in the EAR, to the state’s Department of Community Affairs, which must review all comprehensive plan amendments.

Community Development

Director Marty Hodgkins said significant changes to the comprehensive plan include addition of the ten-year water supply plan and the village’s Economic Development Initiative, which includes several redevelopment strategies, as well as mixed-use land use categories.

“The revised plan also includes the recreational land use minimum standard of 10 acres per 1,000 residents,” Hodgkins said. “We also mentioned the State Road 7 corridor study. We

mentioned that in the comprehensive plan only because we mentioned it in the process. The State Road 7 corridor study has been put on long-term hold due to lack of action by the county. We also included some changes to the equestrian element.”

During the council comments, Councilman Matt Willhite said he felt some additional issues needed to be addressed before the council approves the amended comprehensive plan.

“When you first got elected and when I first got elected, we talked about a charter change,” Willhite told Mayor Darell Bowen. “We talked about making a committee. We decided not to do it… I have a little concern. As we talked about doing a com-

prehensive plan evaluation and input changes. We were going to do that. Staff did it for us.”

Willhite said he also has concerns about inclusion of the Economic Development Initiative.

“We did not have any input into some of the comprehensive plan changes,” he said. “It’s something we talked about and did not do. I have a concern about some of the things put in there and us accepting it.”

Vice Mayor Dr. Carmine Priore said the public had been offered a chance to provide input.

“Some residents came,” he said.

“Many did not. Every one of the items, to best of my understanding, were taken up at that time. They were a part of it.” Bowen said he was in favor

of reviewing the plan further, but that the council should approve it as is first in order to get the process moving along.

“I am in favor of reviewing it further,” he said, “but we need to adopt the things that have already been done. We can adopt it, it can come back and we can review the new issues. There are a lot of new issues to discuss.” Priore concurred with Bowen that the document needed to be approved, and the questions could be addressed when it came back before its final approval.

“We are under a time constraint,” he said. “The DCA indicated that this must be done

The Royal Palm Beach Rotary Club and the Village of Royal Palm Beach hosted the fundraiser “Party in the Park” last Sunday at Veterans Park to assist hurricane victims in Texas and Haiti. The event featured music and dance performances. Shown above are Lou Recchio, John Spillane, Royal Palm Beach Councilwoman Martha Webster, Scott Armand, Councilman Matty Mattioli, Tony Armour and Keith Jordano.

MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 22

PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Florida League Honors RPB’s Trela White As Top Attorney

By Don Brown Town-Crier Staff Report

“It’s nice to be appreciated,” Royal Palm Beach Village Attorney Trela White said after being named the 2008 City Attorney of the Year by the Florida League of Cities last Friday in Orlando.

The Royal Palm Beach Village Council voted to nominate White at a summer council meeting while she was away on vacation, and she was unaware of the action until she received a letter from the League of Cities informing her that she was on the list of the top five finalists for the honor.

The entire council and top staff members attended the meeting at which she was honored.

“I was honored just to be among the five finalists and very surprised that I won,” she said.

“I appreciate the confidence Royal Palm Beach has had in me for the past 15 years.”

White’s Lantana law firm, Corbett & White, is the municipal attorney for nine communities including Palm Beach Gardens (interim attorney), Palm Beach Shores, Golf, Mangonia Park, Atlantis, Tequesta, Lantana, South Palm Beach and

RPB Council Webster And Pinto Will Run

continued from page 1 intent on Monday to run for reelection, has been on the council since her election last January to serve out the unfinished term of former councilwoman Barbara Isenberg. In 2006, she made an unsuccessful first bid for a council seat against Councilman David Swift.

Since then, Webster said she has put past differences behind her to work in cooperation with other council members to move forward on issues of common interest such as the westward extension of Roebuck Road.

Webster said she is troubled that the City of West Palm Beach is continuing to oppose the Roebuck Road construction and is budgeting for a fight. “I will work to make sure it goes through,” she said.

Webster pointed out that West Palm Beach agreed to the extension in 1994.

“We have the right to that road,” she said. “It takes dollars, but we will pursue it. It is to the benefit of our residents.”

Webster worked in support of the successful county charter amendment that passed in November, which gives voters in municipalities the power to override future county charter amendments that would affect them.

Webster said she feels the village has been running very well and the council has been work-

ing together to keep the village’s tax rate down. She credits Village Manager David Farber with maintaining the village on an even keel. “Some municipalities are struggling to renovate and make repairs that the Village of Royal Palm Beach has maintained all along,” she said. “We will work to continue to see that it still happens.” Webster said she looks forward to the start of work next year on Village Commons. “We have the money for it, unlike other municipalities,” she said. Webster also looks forward to the opening of the State Road 7 extension. “That will give relief to people along Okeechobee Blvd.,” she said.

Webster said she feels honored that residents elected her.

“It’s been a privilege,” she said. “I’ve enjoyed it. I’ve tried to do a good job for the residents. The important thing is we will stay informed and fellow council members will work together to represent the citizens. I feel I’ve been effective in that. I look at this as public service, which involves more than sitting in two meetings a month. I work for the community and the residents.” Webster holds an associate’s degree from Virginia Intermont College and bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education from Brenau University in Gainesville, Ga. She is employed as University of Florida faculty director of the 4-H youth development program in Palm Beach County. Filing for the March 9 election opens at noon on Jan. 27 and closes

Trela White

Manalapan. White also serves as general counsel to the Palm Beach County League of Cities. The Florida League of Cities, led by Wellington Vice Mayor Dr. Carmine Priore as this year’s president, represents all of the state’s municipalities. The other four City Attorney of the Year finalists were Pamela Akin of Clearwater, John Hubbard of Dunedin, William Grodnick of Hialeah and George Trovato of Deltona.

Ready To Run — Royal Palm Beach Councilwoman Martha Webster announces her re-election bid at last week’s community forum sponsored by County Commissioner Jess Santamaria.

PHOTO BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

Temple Beth Zion’s Rabbi Bertram Kieffer speaks.

County Commissioner Jess Santamaria take to the podium.Wellington Mayor Darell Bowen with his wife Sherry.

Temple Beth Zion in Royal Palm Beach hosted the 2008 Western Communities Interfaith Thanksgiving Service on Sunday, Nov. 23. The non-denominational service was co-officiated by Pastor Marjorie Weiss of St. Michael Lutheran Church, Pastor Calvin Lyerla of Acts 2 Worship Center, Rabbi Stephen Pinsky of Temple Beth Torah, Rev. Gary Cecil of Palms West Presbyterian Church, Pastor Michael Rose of Royal Palm Covenant Church, Pastor Bryan Rosenbarger of Trinity West and Temple Beth Zion’s Rabbi Bertram Kieffer. Wellington Mayor Darell Bowen, Royal Palm Beach Mayor David Lodwick and County Commissioner Jess Santamaria also made remarks.

Pastor Gary Cecil of Palms West Presbyterian Church entertains the crowd with a song.

Royal Palm Beach Mayor David Lodwick, Pastor Gary Cecil and Loxahatchee Groves Vice Mayor Marge Herzog.

Rabbi Stephen Pinsky , Pastor Gary Cecil, Rabbi Bertram Kieffer, Pastor Marjorie Weiss, Pastor Michael Rose, Pastor Bryan Rosenbarger and Pastor Calvin Lyerla.

OUR OPINION

Make An Effort To Support Our Businesses This Holiday Season

The Friday after Thanksgiving is traditionally recognized as “Black Friday,” the first day of the holiday shopping season. The mad dash to purchase gifts for family and friends has officially begun — in theory, at least. With no end in sight to the current economic slump, it’s doubtful this year’s “mad dash” will break any records. More likely, Americans will cut back on the amount they spend this holiday season, choosing between expensive name-brand gifts and those without the hefty price tag.

In more prosperous times, most of the stress endured on Black Friday was the result of crowded shopping malls and long lines at the register. This year, however, Americans aren’t fretting over crowds or whether the latest video game system will be in stock at the local toy store. They’re more worried about being able to afford such pricey items in the first place. However, when considering the economic impact of holiday shopping, where you shop is just as important as what you buy. For that reason, we ask everyone in the western communities to make an effort to shop locally.

For those who have lived in the area for only a few years, it might be hard to imagine the “old days,” when western communities residents had to travel many miles east “into town” to do their holiday shopping. But since the opening of the Mall at Wellington Green in 2001 and the subsequent commercial development along the State Road 7 corridor, all our retail shopping needs are met. There’s even a Whole Foods Market now in

Dog Park Rules

Being Ignored

Editor’s note: The following letter is addressed to the Wellington Village Council. A copy was submitted to the Town-Crier for publication.

Dear Council Members:

We are pet owners who regularly visit our wonderful dog park. We wish to address the council about conditions at the park, where posted usage rules are being ignored.

One situation in particular greatly affects the safety of others, especially our senior citizens and those with disabilities. Posted rule number one: dogs must be leashed in common areas before entering/leaving enclosed areas. We have determined that about 50 percent of small dog owners patronizing the park are seniors over the age of 65. Some are in their 80s, and they come every day, usually late in the afternoon.

Many owners of large-breed dogs do not leash their pets when exiting their vehicles in the parking lot. On their way to the fenced play areas, the dogs rush ahead and often run wildly about. Usually, their masters are unsuccessful in attempts to call them back. A large number of them don’t even try.

This is a matter of great concern, because sometimes they rush and jump at the small dogs, and even collide with their owners when they share the common areas.

Seniors have been knocked down by these animals, one as she was leaving her car only days after knee surgery. One patron uses a cane and fears for her physical safety every time

she takes her dog to the park. Posted rule number two: owners must clean up after their pets. The feces of large animals, whose owners do not clean up after their pets, make it unpleasant and sometimes disgusting to navigate the common and fenced areas alike. We have no idea how this rule can be enforced, but it is a concern.

In addition to the above violations of posted rules, our group is asking the council to address and consider the following recommendations:

1. The “medium” size dog park should be added to the area of the “small” dog park. We fought to have one area designated for medium-sized dogs. It was a noble experiment, but owners of large dogs do not think this excludes their Rottweilers, retrievers and even one wolf, who run free in the area posted for medium dogs. There are already two huge areas designated for large dogs. There is a dividing fence with a gate always open, and separate entrance gates for each area. Neither area is ever crowded. More than one time some of us have had our dogs in the medium area only to be joined by large, aggressive animals who attack our smaller ones. I have sometimes left our dog park and driven to Okeeheelee Park, where these problems don’t seem to exist. Inside the small dog area, there are pets by the dozens — tiny Yorkshire terriers, fuzzy companion dogs and lots of loud, rambunctious Jack Russells. The numbers are amazing, the overcrowding is apparent and can be dangerous for the smallest dogs. There is insufficient seating for the seniors and physically challenged citizens.

Wellington! And all these new neighbors joins dozens of longtime favorites still ready to be of service.

Although it may be easier to do all your shopping at a few big-box chain stores, it’s the locally owned businesses that need your patronage. It’s not easy to avoid the large retailers, and there’s a definite cost-benefit analysis local consumers must make. Small businesses may not always have the wide selection and low prices of stores like Wal-Mart. And if you’ve crunched the numbers and realize it would make a significant difference to shop at the retail goliath, then that’s your choice. But if you’re simply shopping at these giant retail stores because of laziness or disinterest in the local economy, then it’s time to re-examine your consumer habits.

The western communities are home to many small businesses, and it might take time to find what you’re looking for. Browsing the local chambers of commerce web sites is a reliable way to find many established home-grown businesses. Visit www.palmswest.com and www.wellingtonchamber.com to begin your search. Of course, a quick drive up and down SR 7 or Southern Blvd. is an easy way to locate many of the newest stores and restaurants in the western communities. Take some time to peruse the ads right here in your community newspaper — you might be surprised what you find! The important thing is that you make the effort. Your local business owners will thank you for it.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Benches are always crowded, and elderly owners either stand, or sit on the wooden platform that holds the watering bowls. Meanwhile, in the medium dog park, two or three giants are walking around while their owners sit on a bench and visit. We have asked that they take their pets to the “large” dog area, so that we can relieve congestion in the small area, but we’re ignored or taunted. If the medium park were reassigned to small dogs, there would then be no possible excuse for large dogs to enter. In addition, there should be sufficient seating added to accommodate our seniors and disabled citizens in this area also.

2. A standard could be agreed on and posted that stipulates what a small dog is, possibly a height limit in inches. We would like input to any discussion of that type.

3. A system of enforcement needs to be in place that does not involve conflict between patrons of the facility. Frankly, we need an ombudsman. Barbara Phillippi Wellington

Reasons For Not Supporting Barack Obama

I feel I must respond to Mr. Andrew Rosen’s scathing letter to Mr. Phil Sexton and all decent people who did not vote for Barack Obama (“Many Reasons To Support Barack Obama,” Nov. 7).

Mr. Rosen, I read your letter and it’s nice to know I’m talking to the highest authority on global warming, the Iraq war, the economy, evolution, Sarah

Palin, the Republican Party and, let’s see, did we leave anything out? Oh yeah — gay marriage and religion.

Let’s start with I’m older than you and also lived through the Vietnam War (whatever that means). And there’s a rumor out there that McCain also lived through the Vietnam War. I would also like to see your degree in science and in the English language defining evolution and the meaning of “theory.” It’s obvious the sun rises and sets on Obama where you’re concerned, but I am one of the 55 million who voted against him, and I resent your “theory” on my reasons. You say the rich are part of the problem, but you pay cash for everything (houses, etc.). I can’t do that. Anti-oil — this country is sitting on tons of oil. Let’s drill and use it until we find an alternative source of energy at reasonable prices.

Now let’s talk about your memory on the economy being the worst in your lifetime. In God’s name, where were you for the Carter years? Double-digit interest rates, runaway inflation, gas lines and let us not forget the taking of our embassy in Iran and holding those Americans for more than 400 days. They saw Jimmy Carter as a weak president. Are you following all this?

Now the Bill Clinton years. Our embassy in Africa blown up. The attack on the USS Cole and let us not forget the first attack on the twin towers in 1993. Another president viewed as weak. As for Iraq, President George W. Bush received all his intelligence from the Clinton administration. Clinton himself said Iraq was the most danger-

ous country in the Middle East. Look it up. Now for Obama. Let’s see, a community organizer in a depressed area of Chicago ran for senator against someone going through a messy divorce. He won, was there a year and a half, period. That’s his claim to run the most powerful country in the world.

Next, you call us bullies because Bush governs through strength, not weakness as you would have us do. You talk about your civil rights, re: wiretaps on international calls coming to highly suspect individuals in this country (which, by the way, was how they found out about that bomb attempt in London). You say we’re no safer yet we’ve been enjoying all our freedoms with no worry of attacks since 9/11. And one last thing, Mr. Rosen. Our economy didn’t collapse until this housing scam caught up to us. Obama received $6 million from Fanny Mae. Look it up. And then check out [Sen.] Chris Dodd and [Rep.] Barney Frank while you’re at it. Let’s remember the Democrats have been in control of Congress and the Senate for more than two years now. And if Obama is so

good, why is everyone running out and buying guns? It’s too bad you hate your country, Mr. Rosen. I love it here and will fight anyone who tries to socialize it. I could go on and on, but I’m sure you get the point. Tom Euell Wellington

Don’t Like It? Then Run Your Own Airline!

Editor’s note: The following letter is in response to Jules Rabin’s column “Airline Executives Just Don’t Get It” published last week. I think Mr. Rabin doesn’t get it. In 1959, round trip MIALAX was $350. In ’69, the ticket cost $350. Guess what? In 1979, 1989, 1999 and probably 2009 the tickets cost the same — $350! A little research reveals what cost $350 in 1959 would cost $2,463.93 in 2007. Flying used to be a luxury; now it’s an outright bargain! You can now fly for less than driving. In addition, flying a scheduled airline is statistically the safest way to move

See LETTERS, page 18

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

My Orange Cone Fixation Returns Just In Time For The Holidays

If you feel the same as I do, chances are that orange is not one of your favorite colors. Orange as in orange cones, as in road construction. Don’t blame me if this is wrong, but the Florida Department of Transportation told me that you’ll soon be seeing fewer of the pesky cones — at least on Southern and State Road 7. The work there is all but wrapped up. Not all wrapped up like it was several months ago when FDOT hosted an end-of-construction celebration when it wasn’t actually completed, but for real this time. All I can say is that it’s about time. I won’t say I’ll miss running over orange cones — or worse, orange barrels — after four years of nonstop road construction rage that has hung over the Royal Palm Beach and Wellington communities like a virus. Royal Palm Beach residents won’t see the last of the dreaded cones for more than another year while the county works to widen Okeechobee Blvd. all the way to Florida’s Turnpike.

I made an inspection tour the other day, thinking I might swipe some out-of-the-way cones to decorate my Christmas tree. That prompted me to call FDOT and get the official word on realtime completion so I could report this news to you. I actually called two people. Now I know that I sometimes make stuff up in this column to poke some fun. But what I’m about to tell you is true — I swear.

My first call, to the regional FDOT office in Fort Lauderdale, reached someone I assumed was an engineer since I’d asked to speak with one. After tripping over some of the facts, he put me on hold a few times so he could find out who I needed to talk to. He gave me the name and phone number of a woman he identified as a public information spokesperson.

By Don Brown

I called and spoke with Trish Dunn, whose name and number the FDOT engineer had given me. She had no idea why I was calling her, but she invited me over for a cocktail. It was a titillating invitation, I told her, but I was really looking for road construction information. It turns out Ms. Dunn runs Connolly’s Sports Bar & Grill at SR 7 and Belvedere Road in Royal Palm Beach and she could offer no explanation about why my FDOT contact gave me her name and number.

I’ll leave it to his boss to sort it all out.

My next call was the real deal, and spokesperson Tish Burgher swears those cones will disappear faster than a speeding commuter during rush hour. I hope she’s right. I know you do, too. Brett Johnson, a Royal Palm Beach engineer, told me the orange cones on SR 7 between Southern Blvd. and Hammock Way are there because of landscaping in the median. That work, he said, should be completed by mid-March.

Just last week The Acreage was told yet again that much-needed road improvements would be delayed because the county decided to redirect the funding to Palm Tran for reasons I’m still trying to figure out. They would have loved to gather up those orange cones and take them to their community.

‘I made an inspection tour the other day, thinking I might swipe some out-of-the-way cones to decorate my Christmas tree. That prompted me to call FDOT and get the official word on real-time completion so I could report this news to you.’

TOWN-CRIER

I raised two other questions with Ms. Burgher that I’ve heard others bring up:

• Will the signals at the intersection of Southern Blvd. and SR 7 be replaced so motorists can actually see the color of the light while making left-hand turns? Nope, she said. Those are the permanent lights. So when you’re going through the intersection just consider the thrill of cheating death.

• Will a no U-turn sign go up for westbound traffic on Southern Blvd. at the Forest Hill Blvd. intersection? Wellington residents know full well

how dangerous that intersection is when someone makes a U-turn on Southern while Forest Hill motorists are turning right. There have already been several accidents there. Wellington council members should demand that the practice be stopped before someone gets killed. That concludes my periodic orange cone report. However, if you have a complaint of your own, send me an e-mail and I’ll check it out. Meanwhile, I’ll think about taking up Ms. Dunn’s cocktail offer. Meet me there and we’ll all have a laugh on FDOT.

A Sweet Payday For College Presidents

Reaching a hale and hearty 77 years of age, when retirement is generally the name of the employment game, Suffolk University President David Sargent was America’s highest-paid university president in 2007-08. The gray-bearded educator, who has been at Suffolk for 52 years and talked about retirement in 2006, took home a cool $2.8 million pay package! Not too far behind at a paltry $2.4 million was David Roselle at the University of Delaware. In third place was Gordon Gee, who forfeited half of his $2 million compensation when he resigned from Vanderbilt to accept a similar job leading Ohio State for just $1.3 million.

Wondering what these astronomical numbers are all about? So is Sen. Charles Grassley (RIowa). Grassley, who has been bugging universities for more accountability and greater commitment to affordability, turns a

Footloose and...

By Jules W. Rabin

nice phrase. In these hard economic times, belt-tightening is apparently for families and students, not university presidents. Median pay and benefits for presidents of public universities was a lavish $427,400 in 200708. Among these educational “generals,” 59 received more than $500,000, compared with 43 just one year earlier. At private institutions, 89 received at least $500,000. According to the Chronicle of Higher Education, the highestearning president at a private research university in 2007-08 was Henry Biener of Northwestern. He made do with $1,742,560. Lee C. Bollinger of

Columbia bought the groceries with $1,411,894. Shirley Ann Jackson of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute was paid $1,326,774, and John Sexton of New York University settled for $1,324,874. You can also add the University of Pennsylvania, Johns Hopkins, Emory and Drexel to the university spendthrifts peeling off over $1 million to their presidents. Gee seems rather restless. In addition to his Vanderbilt gig, he has served as president of Brown University, the University of Colorado and West Virginia University. He surely must be a special “whiz kid.” After all, in his first year leading the Buckeyes, Gee’s base pay was raised 3.5 percent while he also received a 40percent performance bonus! The scuttlebutt around town is that he will most likely be in the $2 million category at this time next year.

NEW AMERICAN LEGION POST 390 NOW MEETING MONTHLY IN

Members of the new Wellington American Legion Post 390 met Thursday, Nov. 20 at Fire Station 30 in Wellington (9610 Pierson Road). The meeting was run by Commander Dave Knapp with help from Vice Commander Tom Wenham. The post will meet at 7 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month. For more info., call Adjutant Mary Castillo at (918) 810-2520.

ABRUZZO, PAFFORD SWORN

IN VOLUNTEERS HELP AT FOOD PANTRY

State representatives Joseph Abruzzo (D-District 85) and Mark Pafford (D-District 88) were officially sworn in on Tuesday, Nov. 18 during an organizational session in Tallahassee. In early November, they headed to Tallahassee to attend new member orientation. There they and fellow freshman members met for a week of workshops, seminars and training sessions designed to get new members ready for the upcoming legislative session in March and possibly for a special session in December. This was followed up with another trip to Tallahassee to attend the organizational session. Pictured here, Judge John Stargel swears in new House members Abruzzo, Hazelle Rogers, Adam Fetterman, Pafford and Gwindolyn Clarke-Reed.

It’s

You

Representatives of My Brother’s/ Sister’s Keeper Charitable Trust, the Royal Palm Beach Rotary Club, Temple Beth Zion and the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office visited the Royal Palm Covenant Church on Tuesday, Nov. 25 to give out food and good tidings to residents of the western communities who needed a little extra help this holiday season. The food pantry is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursdays. Royal Palm Covenant Church is located at 660 Royal Palm Beach Blvd. For more information about the food pantry, call the church at (561) 793-1077. (Right) Junnius Madourie helps pack food. (Below) Volunteers gather for a group photo at the church.

Vice Commander Tom Wenham displays the post’s temporary charter.

Post 390 members gather for a group photo.

Commander Dave Knapp conducts the meeting.

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

Teen Arrested Trying To Steal Snake In RPB

By Mark Lioi Town-Crier Staff Report

NOV. 23 — A West Palm Beach teen was arrested early Sunday morning after attempting to steal a 50-pound snake from a Royal Palm Beach home. According to a Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office report, the 17-year-old suspect entered a home on Ponce de Leon Street sometime after midnight and stole the snake, an albino python worth $600, but dropped the animal while it was wrapped in his coat. Responding deputies arrested him on burglary, theft and drug charges.

• • •

NOV. 22 — A Royal Palm Beach man was arrested on drug charges Saturday evening in Royal Palm Beach. According to a PBSO report, a deputy responding to a complaint about juveniles on Sparrow Drive at about 7:50 p.m. found a group on the street gathered around a white Honda sedan. The driver, 20-year-old Ryan Steets, told the deputy he was just hanging out with his friends. The deputy spotted a pack of cigarette papers on the console of the car and a plastic bag that appeared to contain marijuana in plain view in the passenger-side door handle. After Steets admitted the marijuana was his, the deputy searched him and retrieved more

marijuana, and a search of the vehicle recovered a pipe disguised as a highlighter and a small blue pill identified as oxycodone. The amount of marijuana recovered totaled 8.5 grams. Sheets was arrested on the charges of marijuana possession, possession of a controlled substance and possession of paraphernalia, and taken to the Palm Beach County Jail. NOV. 24 — A Royal Palm Beach man was robbed in Willows Park near Royal Palm Beach High School Monday afternoon. According to a PBSO report, the victim said he was passing through the park at about 4 p.m. when two black males approached him and asked him about his MP3 player. One suspect grabbed the player and both fled westward on foot. The victim dropped his backpack and chased after the suspects, the report said, but was unable to keep up with them. Returning to his backpack he noticed a zipper compartment was open and his digital camera missing. A broken deodorant container from the backpack was taken in as evidence. NOV. 25 — A West Palm Beach woman was arrested on shoplifting charges at the Bealls department store in Royal Palm Beach late Tuesday morning.

See BLOTTER, page 18

Suspect Sought In Robbery Near Mall At Wellington Green

NOV. 25 — The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a suspect in connection with the Tuesday robbery of a shopper outside the Mall at Wellington Green.

According to a PBSO report, at 1:07 p.m. the victim exited the mall and was walking to her vehicle in the parking lot when she was confronted by a suspect described as a black male approximately 5’8” tall and weighing approximately 150 lbs. wearing a gray baseball cap, black shirt and blue jeans.

After the suspect demanded the victim’s purse, she entered her vehicle and honked the horn several times to alert other people in the area that she was be-

ing robbed. According to the report, the suspect then produced a handgun and fled the scene with the victim’s purse, which contained approximately $100 and several credit cards. The victim survived the incident with no injuries. The suspect was last seen leaving the parking lot in a white mid-’90s four-door sedan, possibly a Ford Crown Victoria or Mercury Marquis. Deputies searched the area for the vehicle but were unable to locate it.

Anyone who can identify this individual is urged to contact the PBSO at (561) 251-0446 or (561) 688-4000, Crime Stoppers at (800) 458-TIPS or e-mail tips@cspbc.net.

elude a marked police car while armed, carrying a concealed firearm and reckless driving. His occupation is construction. His last known address was Olive Tree Circle in Greenacres. Thomas is wanted as of 11/26/08. Remain anonymous and you may be eligible for up to a $1,000 reward. Call Crime Stoppers at (800) 458-TIPS (8477) or visit www.crimestopperspbc.com.

Tavonda Hanford

Curtis Thomas

Wanted — This car was used in connection with Tuesday’s robbery outside of the Mall at Wellington Green.

Gary Kane To Host Calendar Signing At Nicole’s Village Tavern

Nicole’s Village Tavern in Wellington will host a unique calendar signing party on Thursday, Dec. 4 from 6 to 9 p.m. featuring Gary and Carrie Kane, the photographer and stylist behind the 2009 equestrian women calendar Les Femmes Équestres

The calendar, the first of its kind in the equestrian world, features riders that compete in hunters, jumpers and dressage, all of whom contributed both time and resources to the project. It was photographed on location in Wellington between April and June of this year at Hampton Green, Gotham North, Ashland Farm, Salamander Farm and Mosquito Mound Farms.

Holiday Canned Food Drive In Wellington

The economic downturn affects us all, but particularly people who were just getting by before. The demands of local food banks have doubled. More families than ever are turning to food pantries as a way to get by.

Wellington Cares Clearinghouse has launched a massive holiday canned food drive to collect 500 cans by Christmas. Especially needed are beans, vegetables, soups, fruit, tomato sauce and juice.

For ten years, Wellington Cares has been collecting gently used clothing and household items to distribute to those in need in the Glades and Lake Worth areas.

Wellington Cares is an allvolunteer organization, and all donations go directly to those in

The calendar contains fashionable images of local riders Georgina Bloomberg, Paige Johnson, Amy Swerdlin, Monica Burssens, Ainsley Vince and several other notables. The women are dressed in colorful and glamorous dresses, and not the usual “uniform” that they are often seen wearing at the show grounds. The Kanes, whose work appears regularly in Wellington The Magazine, Sidelines and other publications, are excited to cast some of equestrian sport’s fresh faces in a calendar with a charitable cause. Proceeds will benefit two local charities, Pure Thoughts Horse & Foal Rescue and Mak-

need. To donate, call Ellie Caldwell at (561) 790-5499.

Relay For Life Kickoff Dec. 3

In Royal Palm

It’s time to jump start the 2009 Western Communities Relay for Life with a kickoff party

Wednesday, Dec. 3 at the Royal Palm Beach Ale House. This is the community’s chance to learn about the American Cancer Society event, register a team and get excited about the 2009 relay, which will take place in Royal Palm Beach. The kickoff is a celebration of the upcoming event and all the hard work that will go into its planning and success. Register a team and earn a chance to win a prize.

Relay for Life is an overnight celebration of life in honor of those touched by cancer. The event raises funds for the Amer-

ing Strides Against Breast Cancer.

Pure Thoughts is dedicated to saving the lives of horses, yearlings and foals destined for slaughter.

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer supports the American Cancer Society’s lifesaving research, prevention, early detection and support programs for thousands of patients and their families.

Mix and mingle with several calendar participants who will be available to autograph calendars purchased that evening. Dec. 4 is also ladies’ night at Nicole’s.

Les Femmes Équestres is now available at various dis-

tribution outlets in Wellington, including the Tackeria, Phelps Media Group, Polo Gear, Kane Photography, the two named charitable organizations and several other equine establishments throughout the community.

Nicole’s Village Tavern is located in Mizner Place at 12300 South Shore Blvd., Suite 103.

For more information about the Dec. 4 calendar signing, contact Nicole’s at (561) 793-3456 or Kane Photography at (561) 333-2198 or info@garykane. com.

To view samples of Gary Kane’s photographs, visit www.kanephotography.net.

NEWS BRIEFS

ican Cancer Society’s programs of research, education, advocacy and service — programs that can reduce cancer deaths and cancer incidence, and improve the quality of life for those touched by cancer. The event’s theme will be “Royal Palm Luau,” and the chair will be Pam Araujo. For more information, visit www.relayforlife.org/royalpalmbeachfl or call Michelle Cavanaugh at (561) 650-0138.

RPBHS Project Graduation Meeting

The Royal Palm Beach High School Class of 2009 Project Graduation Committee will meet Monday, Dec. 1 at 7 p.m. at the school. The committee has several fundraising events coming up in the months ahead and needs more volunteers to help

make graduation night a time for seniors to remember. The aim of the non-profit, all volunteer group is to provide an alcoholfree/drug-free, all-night party for graduates. For more information, call Cheryl at (561) 7238298 or Karen at (561) 3718377.

Benefit For Police And Fire Rescue Dec. 13

It might be unusual to hear of an opportunity to steal while supporting both Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue and the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. But on Saturday, Dec. 13 you will find not only a most amazing night of entertainment but a great opportunity to get a “steal” on an original artwork when renowned action artist Michael Israel will perform live at the Cruzan Amphitheatre.

The event will benefit the PBCFR’s and PBSO’s benevolent funds. In addition to Israel’s show, the evening will showcase the PBSO and PBCFR Honor Guards and members of the Young Singers of the Palm Beaches, a local children’s choir which performs nationwide. Immediately following Israel’s performance, guests will have the opportunity to purchase the original artworks he created onstage.

Collectors have traveled from as far away as Australia to witness Israel create his masterpieces. A live performance is the only place Israel will allow his art to be sold below studio prices. At black-tie charity galas, auction prices often exceed his $45,000 studio price.

Israel’s artworks recently sold for more than half a million dollars during three charity events in Florida and California. His Warren Buffett portrait sold on eBay for $100,000. One charity netted more for abused children from Israel’s art than they would have on the sale of the new Rolls Royce displayed at their event. That’s spectacular during normal times and phenomenal considering the current economy. Tickets cost $25 for general admission; $15 for firefighters, paramedics and law enforcement officers; and $150 for a VIP ticket, which includes goodies, great seats and a reception before the show. Israel wants to give back to the men and women who protect the community and keep the public safe. The Cruzan Amphitheatre is located at 601-7 Sansbury’s Way, just off Southern Blvd. near Florida’s Turnpike. Sponsorship opportunities are available. General admission tickets are on sale through Ticketmaster. For VIP tickets and sponsor options, call (561) 969-0729.

PHOTO COURTESY GARY KANE

Calendar Girl — Top show jumper Georgina Bloomberg is one of the equestrians featured in Gary Kane’s Les Femmes Équestres calendar.

COMEDIAN GALLAGHER MEETS WITH FANS AT NICOLE’S IN WELLINGTON

Gallagher stops by the Your Bosom Buddies II table.

with Nicole’s owners Jaene and Ron Miranda.

Gallagher with Fran Cassi after signing her show

Chris Fernandez, Gallagher and Gallagher’s manager Ruthann Propper of Sold Out Show.

Alvin Schragis and Carl Rosen with some of the club’s youngsters in the library room.

Carl Rosen and Alvin Schragis sit with

Alvin Schragis, Julia Mendez, Boys & Girls Club Director Sabrena Ingraham, Taylor Branch and Carl Rosen.

The Wellington Art Society presented its fine art and fine craft outdoor festival Fall Fling 2008 on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 22-23 at the east field of the Wellington Community Center. More than 30 artists from around the area showcased their work, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, photography, jewelry and other fine crafts. The event also featured a special youth exhibit, with works created by student artists from throughout the county, from kindergarten through high school. PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

Brittany Tyminski checks out jewelry at one of the tables.

Sculpture artist Norm Gitzen with some of his work.

Some of the works in the sculpture garden.

Maria Amatulli at the Wellington Art Society table.

Brian Wolfson gets creative.

Chelsea Renn with some of her fish-themed artwork.

Sheldon Morgan with some of his many paintings.

Artists Geoff and Jean Wilson at their table.

Artist Marty Seyler at her booth.

Ilse Travarca sells jewelry.

Roman Hart rides the carousel with his mother Evonne.

The Golds enjoy a snack.

The De Andrea family at the festival. Brooke and Hunter Llano with parents Suzanne and Mark.

Hannah Klein, Kate Driscoll and Nicole Sussman-Rohr go for a ride on the Super Shot.

Santa is joined by eight Cavalier King Charles spaniels, owned by Jack and Lori Bennett.Yorkies Mia and Bella, owned by Glenn Jergensen.Aobe the dachshund, owned by Suzy Knauf.

Students Battle Environmental Problems In Lego Competition

By Candace Marchsteiner Town-Crier Staff Report

Team Robocops took second place overall in the Florida Lego League competition in Stuart on Nov. 22. Derek Bruggeman, in his first year of public school as a freshman in Palm Beach Central High School’s engineering program, joined home-schooled teammates Adam Bruggeman, Tilon Pervenecki, J.A. Cardaman, Nathaniel Cohen and Christopher Wright for the team’s fourth year of competition. Each year the Florida Lego League selects a theme and assigns a project mission. Teams are judged on robotics, the overall project, team work and technical computer programming.

This year’s focus was on environmental problems. After brainstorming several ideas, the team pursued the black buck parasite problem at Lion Country Safari and presented their research and suggested solutions to Wildlife Director Terry Wolf, veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth Hammond and nearly 20 other park employees. In Stuart, the team gave the same presentation and completed a Lego robotics mission that included a sequence of assignments such as delivering skiers to an ice float research center, raising a house to avoid flooding and testing a levee’s

robot.

resistance to pressure. In addition to achieving second place, the team won for best robot design and most creative project presentation. They move on to compete at the regional/ state level in Orlando in January. Last year Team Robocops won best project for the state with their alternative energy source project, an electro-kinetic road ramp that generated electricity as cars drove over it. Several team members plan to pursue careers in civil, aerospace, mechanical or electrical engineering.

Poinciana Fourth Graders Learn About Ecosystems

Fourth grade Poinciana Day School students have been learning about habitats and ecosystems in science class with teacher Judi Hildebrandt. Students learned about what makes up an ecosystem and its various components, including living and non-living things.

To reinforce their knowledge of ecosystems, students created terrariums, which had to include both the living and non-living components. Students brought in all the necessary materials, including rocks, soil, plants and leaves. One of the students made a trip to Lake Ida in Delray Beach to collect lake water and small fish, including mosquito fish and freshwater shrimp.

The students were intensely involved while constructing their terrariums. First, they had to determine what type of habi-

tat they wanted to create — tropical rainforest, tropical hardwood hammock, pond, beach or polluted coastal. Then students had to place the correct types of living and non-living items in each habitat. Finally, students had to make sure that there was water in their system before they closed it to insure that their ecosystem would survive. Upon completion of this activity, each student had to explain what type of habitat they created and identify the components included inside each terrarium. The students so enjoyed this activity that several of them made additional terrariums outside of class and brought them into school.

“At Poinciana Day School, we feel that it is very important for our students to not only learn from books, but also to experi-

ence their education,” Head of School Nixie Swift said. “We have extremely creative teachers who do an outstanding job of making learning fun and exciting for all grade levels.”

Located at 1340 Kenwood Road in West Palm Beach, Poinciana Day School is a small, independent private school for students in kindergarten through eighth grade where “every student is an honored student.” All students pursue a strong academic curriculum as well as a well-rounded specialty program consisting of visual arts, performing arts, technology, sports and Spanish.

For more information about Poinciana Day School, call the main office at (561) 655-7323 or visit the school’s web site at www.poincianadayschool. org.

Many of the area’s marching bands attended the Florida Marching Band Coalition State Marching Band Championships in St. Petersburg on Saturday, Nov. 22. More than 85 high schools from around the State of Florida descended on the area in hopes of being declared a 2008 state finalist. The top five bands from each class advanced to state finals. Classes are determined by the number of woodwinds and brass in each band. Palm Beach Central High School placed fifth and was state finalist in Class AAA, Seminole Ridge High School was state champion in Class AA, and the King’s Academy was state finalist and runnerup in Class A. Local Marching

Tilon Pervenecki holds the team’s

The team presents its parasite solution to Lion Country Safari Wildlife Director Terry Wolf and veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth Hammond.

Tilon Pervenecki details the solution to the black buck’s parasite problem. Team Robocops members display their mission board.

Lion Country Safari employees listen

Ethan Ridgway and Eric Mammano show off Mammano’s completed terrarium of a tropical hardwood hammock.

Kids In Need Honors Yvette McDaniel As Teacher Of The Year

Yvette McDaniel, a seventh grade science teacher at Crestwood Middle School in Royal Palm Beach, recently traveled to Dayton, Ohio, where she was recognized as Teacher of the Year by the Kids in Need Foundation. McDaniel and her husband attended a black-tie gala on Sept. 11 at which she was recognized and awarded a grant for teaching supplies. The purpose of the grant is to provide funds for classroom teachers who have innovative, meritorious ideas. Though McDaniel will share these supplies with all teams, she will use many of the Fibre Craft

products with her SECME club. In this science, engineering and math-based club, students are challenged to design and build models of bridges, mousetrap cars and water rockets. For McDaniel, one of the most rewarding things about leading this club is watching the students use their problem-solving skills to improve their designs.

McDaniel believes the skills students build while participating in the club will empower them to become future rocket scientists, architects and engineers. Receiving the grant will give the students the materials for these projects.

Sylvan Dell Awards Grant To Elbridge Gale

Thanks to early adolescence science teacher Linda Petuch, Elbridge Gale Elementary School in Wellington has been awarded a Sylvan Dell Publishing Resource Grant. This oneyear site license provides unlimited access to all 35 Sylvan Dell eBooks, featuring flipviewer technology with selectable English and Spanish text and audio. The license can be used on all school computers and may be placed on secure school web sites (if available), enabling students and their families to log in and have access from their homes.

Teachers throughout the school are able to project the books in the classroom for easy reading to supplement or to introduce science and math through literature in the classroom. Sylvan Dell picture books with science, math and nature themes excite children’s imaginations through fun stories, vibrant artwork, and a three- to five-page educational section “For Creative Minds” in the back of each book. For more information about the books or the grant, visit www.sylvandellpublishing.com or call (877) 958-2600.

Seminole Ridge Students Learn About Prejudice Through Traveling Exhibit

The traveling exhibit “Facing Prejudice” recently came to Seminole Ridge High School. The exhibit’s series of panels guided the students to think about what prejudice is and how it affects them as individuals. “Facing Prejudice” has been described as a journey — of questions, of personal insight and of factual statements designed to challenge the observer. Designed by students from the University of Cincinnati, “Facing Prejudice” is meant to provide a creative way for students and teachers observe and reflect on how prejudice affects daily life in ordinary ways.

The exhibition was founded by the League for the Educational Awareness of the Holocaust (LEAH) and travels from school to school throughout the year.

• Academy Open House Dec. 4 — SRHS will hold its annual Academy Open House the evening of Thursday, Dec. 4.

The event begins at 6:30 p.m. with an open session in the gym, followed by the Army Junior ROTC’s posting of the colors, the Marching Hawks band performance, the thespians’ High School Musical medley and an academy presentation in the auditorium at 7 p.m.

• ‘Making It Count’ Making It Count, a program designed to help students understand the importance of high school and how to maximize their opportunities upon graduation, is coming to SRHS. Making It Count provides students with important information on recognizing their potential for future success, making the most of their high school experience, and addressing time management and study skills. Hawk freshmen will see Making It Count on Tuesday, Dec. 2.

• PBCC to Visit — Admissions representatives from Palm Beach Community College will visit SRHS Monday, Dec. 1

New Horizons Students Honor Veterans

Students at New Horizons Elementary School celebrated Veterans Day with a schoolwide assembly.

Wellington Director of Operations John Bonde welcomed the students by saying, “on this the 11th day of the 11th month at the 11th hour we stop to remember and honor those who have served and are now serving in the armed forces of the United States of America.” Music teacher Veronica Dillingham led a chorus made up of 100 New Horizons students performing several musical numbers.

A flag corps made up of fifthgrade students performed with each musical number. Teachers Sherry Case and Johnetta Scott gave a narration between each song explaining “Who is a Veteran” and what is “Armistice Day.” Second-grade student Robert Reyers and his father Bob read a proclamation from Robert’s uncle, Deputy Undersecretary of Defense William Reyers. Guidance counselor Lynne Bray honored the veterans in attendance by calling each

and their family to the podium.

The veterans attending included Roger Hansen (Air Force), father of teacher Deb Hansen and grandfather of students Haleigh and Andrew; Ivy Henderson (Army), mother of students Monica and Andrew;

Michael O’Leary (Army), father of students Kevin and Jillian; Bruce Blauvelt (Coast Guard), father of student Todd; David Johnson (Air Force), father of student Kristen; Ivan Johnson (Navy), father of student Anica; Rich Feliciano (Marine Corps), father of student Gabby; and

Gerry Resmondo (Army), father of student Isabella. Bray then honored the families of those currently deployed as student Zhanaysia Martin sang a solo of “Thinking of You.” The program concluded with the chorus singing “Oh, I Love America.”

PHOTO COURTESY GOVINDA CHAJULAL

Teacher Of The Year — Crestwood Middle School teacher Yvette McDaniel (center) with assistant principals Terri Livingston and Marty Pasquerillo.

Army veteran Michael O’Leary with children Kevin and Jillian.

Student Robert Reyers and his dad Bob reading a proclamation from the Deputy Undersecretary of Defense. one

Students Have Lots Of Halloween Fun At Ideal’s Fiction Frolic Party

Ideal Preschool and Elementary School in Royal Palm Beach hosted Fiction Frolic, an enormous Halloween costume party for the school’s students, parents and staff Oct. 31.

The Halloween party featured more than 250 preschool students, parents and teachers in costumes celebrating the concept of fiction and reality. Witches, princesses, superheroes and other fictional characters danced in a rockin’ costume parade, enjoyed an interactive comedy

show called “Winnie the Witch,” created Halloween crafts and sang “spooktacular” Halloween songs.

“It is fun to watch my teachers dance in witch costumes and sing songs!” preschool student Lauren Beer exclaimed.

After the morning fun, witch’s brew, cookies and ice cream were enjoyed by all. The party then ended with a performance by Grammy Award-winning Page Turner Adventures. While the preschool partied, the elementary school students dressed

High School Interact Clubs Join AdoptA-Street Program

Wellington Interact clubs are off to a tremendous start this year helping the community.

A group of students from the Interact clubs at Palm Beach Central High School and Wellington High School rolled out of bed early the morning of Sunday, Nov. 16, joining forces to participate in a street cleanup as part of the Village of Wellington’s Adopt-a-Street program. The students combed the streets of Wellington collecting debris that littering the roadways. In a matter of a few hours, the students were able to remove a significant amount of refuse that

had collected along the side of the roads. “These exceptional students always rise to the occasion to support people in need and our community,” PBCHS Interact Club Faculty Advisor Carl Rosenberg said. The students, through their various fundraising efforts raised over $7,000 last year that was donated to various organizations serving the under-privileged. For more information on the difference these student groups are making in the community, visit their web sites at www. pbcinteract.com and www. wellingtoninteract.com.

in costume, made Halloween crafts and visited the literary pumpkin patch, where each pumpkin was decorated like a character from a story book. Pumpkins were decorated like Cinderella’s castle, the snake Kaa from The Jungle Book Captain Underpants, Scooby Doo and Frankenstein.

The second-grade class took a special field trip to the Southern Palms Crossing shopping center where the students trickor-treated at Steinmart, Tropical Popcorn Company, Rack Room

Shoes, Van Dell Jewelers, Justice, Dress Barn, Galleria Home, Marshalls and Styles for Less. After school, the students handdelivered all the treats collected to the pediatric wing at Palms West Hospital. Delivering Halloween treats to the hospital is a second grade tradition.

Ideal Preschool and Elementary School are privately owned. The curriculum is based on Dr. Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligence. For more information, visit www.idealelementary.com.

Panther Run Students Have ‘Commit 2B Fit’

Miami Dolphins mascot T.D. paid a visit to Panther Run Elementary School on Wednesday, Nov. 20 as a part of the school’s participation in the Commit 2B Fit Program.

All third graders at Panther Run are participating in the award-winning Commit 2B Fit program which provides a fully integrated physical activity and nutrition program to the students. The program provides students with incentives to be physically active both inside and outside of school, and also emphasizes making healthy eating choices.

Commit 2B Fit offers a solution in the prevention of childhood obesity and promotion of overall wellness of chil-

dren and families. The program has been embraced by schools, families and the community. During the first three years of the program, Commit 2B Fit has introduced its program of physical activity and healthy eating to more than 100,000 students and their families in South Florida.

At a time when childhood obesity and its adverse health effects are recognized as a serious public health concern, it’s great to be involved with a quality program like Commit 2B Fit, which has truly made a positive impact on the students at Panther Run Elementary School.

For more information, visit www.icommit2bfit.com.

PANTHER RUN STUDENT ARTWORK AT ARTIGRAS

Devon Brundage, a fourth grade student at Panther Run Elementary School, was selected to showcase her artwork at the ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival Youth Arts Competition last weekend at the Borland Center in Palm Beach Gardens. This event featured more than 300 artwork entries from 82 schools, with students ranging from kindergarten through the 12th grade. Panther Run art teacher Lyda Barerra selected Brundage’s graphic design of a clown from among other worthy submissions because she believed the skill level required to produce the asymmetrical illustration far exceeds that of a fourth grader. Shown above is Brundage with her artwork.

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

Mrs. Toth’s second-grade class with candy they collected to donate to the pediatric unit at Palms West Hospital.

Cleaning Up — Palm Beach Central High School Interact Club

Faculty Advisor Carl Rosenberg and Wellington Rotary Club Assistant Vocational Chair Tom Neumann with students.

Get Fit — Panther Run students listen to Miami Dolphins mascot T.D. discuss physical fitness.

GABRIELLA POWELL DONATES HER HAIR

Gabriella Powell, a 17-year-old senior at Palm Beach Central High School, recently donated her hair to Locks of Love. It was her second time donating hair. Locks of Love is a nonprofit organization that provides hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children in the United States and Canada under age 18 who suffer from long-term medical hair loss from any type of disease. For more information about Locks of Love, visit www.locksoflove.org. Powell (shown above) had her hair cut at Capricious Salon in Wellington.

WHO’S NEW

Aiden Michael Ovett — son of Alice Blair and Michael Ovett of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Nov. 5. Kira Ellyn Piasecki daughter of Marissa and Adam Piasecki of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Nov. 5. Landon Tyler Stack — son of Ashley Nicole and Stephen Andrew Stack of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Nov. 8. Layla Grace and Audrey Lane Ralston — daughters of Stephanie and Mark Ralston of Wellington were born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Nov. 15.

Dylan Charles Hutchinson — son of Jennifer Ann Hutchinson and Dustin Brian Kruger of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Nov. 16. Kaitlyn Isabelle Richmond — daughter of Jennifer and Rocco Richmond of Royal Palm Beach was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Nov. 17. Joseph Anthony and Ella Mae Godwin — son and daughter of Stephanie and Chad Godwin of Royal Palm Beach were born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Nov. 17. Nicolas Villafane — son of Nancy and Marco Villafane of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Nov. 21.

Epilepsy Foundation Raises Money At Run-Walk

The Epilepsy Foundation of Florida’s Palm Beach chapter is $62,000 richer following the organization’s Second Annual Walk Tall Run Free Run-Walk for Epilepsy.

Held on Nov. 8, the event drew more than 350 participants to Okeeheelee Park for a scenic run-walk, a variety of recreational activities for children and adults, guest appearances by Ronald McDonald and Lion Country’s Rory the lion, raffles, a silent auction and children’s injury prevention activities, including bicycle helmet distribution.

The all-day affair was part of the organization’s Epilepsy Awareness Month campaign, held annually in November to generate support for those with epilepsy and their families, as well as create greater understanding about the condition.

The foundation’s Palm Beach Chapter provides teen, parent and adult support groups, summer camp, medical and case management services, prevention and education programs and information and referral services in Palm Beach, Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee and St. Lucie counties.

“Although the event is only in its second year, it was amazing how many local citizens and businesses stepped up to the plate to ensure this was a success on every level,” said Novette Green, advanced registered nurse practitioner and Epilepsy Foundation board member. “From sponsors to donors to walkers and runners who collected pledges, we’re thankful to all involved and are inspired by their commitment to enhanced services for those with this condition.”

Event sponsors included Pediatric Neurologists of the Palm Beaches (platinum level); Rock Legal Services & Investigations (gold level); St. Mary’s Medical Center, Cyberonics and Office Depot Foundation (silver level); and American Awning, Coates Law Firm, Western Palm Beach County, Starbucks, the DiPersico Family and Valeant Pharmaceuticals.

Among the event’s in-kind donors were Crown Trophies, Ice Cream Club, Runners Depot, Strathmore Bagels, Starbucks, McDonald’s, Dunkin’ Donuts,

Samix Enterprises, Sandals Resort, Sunny 104.3 FM, Whole Foods Market, Publix, Nike, the Palm Beach Gardens Mall and G&C Hobbies.

The John Hanes family was named Top Family Team in pledges, while Jesse Moss secured the Most Individual Pledges award. Wynnebrook Elementary’s showing of 40 parents and kids secured the school the Most Walkers on a Team award.

Run-walk male winners were Robert Dabrowski and runners-up Jasper Bell and Alex Fedorov. The top three female racers were Melissa Griffen, Donna Jenks and Sheri Dumont.

Held annually in November, the mission of Epilepsy Awareness Month is to create heightened awareness about the disorder, dispel myths and the stigma often associated with those who suffer from epilepsy and to generate funds to benefit those who are afflicted.

According to the National Epilepsy Foundation, 50 million people worldwide and more than 3 million people of all ages in the U.S. have some form of the disorder. About 200,000 new cases of seizure disorders and epilepsy are diagnosed each year, of which 45,000 are under the age of 15. It generates an estimated $12.5 billion in direct and indirect costs annually.

The Epilepsy Foundation of Florida works to ensure that people with seizures are able to participate in all life experiences; improves how people with epilepsy are perceived, accepted and valued in society; and provides medical care, prevention and education, case management, support groups, children’s camps and advocacy for persons with epilepsy. It is the lead agency for epilepsy service programs sponsored by the State of Florida and is also the sole licensee of the National Epilepsy Foundation in the state.

The agency serves 31 counties throughout Florida and has offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Gainesville, Jacksonville and Palm Beach. For more information, visit www.epilepsy fla.org.

Denise Rock and Shawn Woods of Loxahatchee with board member and walk co-chair Novette Green of Wellington.

Epilepsy Foundation board members Vivian Hanes and Novette Green, walk co-chair Mary DiPersico and Sunny 104.3 personality Mary Jo Shockley at the start of the walk.

Dale DiPersico and walk co-chair Mary DiPersico, both of Wellington, with Heather and Eric Evrley of Loxahatchee.

Hospital Employees Volunteer To Build Jupiter Home

A group of 27 employees from the three Hospital Corporation of America (HCA) facilities in Palm Beach County volunteered their time and homebuilding talents on Friday, Nov. 7 at a Habitat for Humanity home in Jupiter.

The volunteers from Columbia Hospital, JFK Medical Center and Palms West Hospital donned construction leather gloves and goggles instead of scrubs and latex exam gloves to work at a home under construction in the Kennedy Estates in Jupiter.

Some of the jobs the volunteers tackled included installation of hurricane shutters and window panels, putting up fences in the back yard, layout of interior walls, roofing,

landscaping and planting two trees.

“This volunteer effort is part of our hospitals’ celebrations honoring HCA’s 40 Years of Caring theme,” said Michael Joseph, CEO of HCA East Florida Division. “The 40th anniversary of the HCA family is about the contributions we have made to our patients, colleagues and communities.”

Columbia Hospital, JFK Medical Center and Palms West Hospital are a part of 170 hospitals and 115 outpatient centers in the HCA system. Combined, HCA facilities have about 40,000 licensed beds and treat more than five million patients a year. One out of every 20 hospital procedures is done at an HCA location.

LOTS OF FUN AT WELLINGTON SENIORS CLUB LUAU

The Wellington Seniors Club held a luau on Sunday, Oct. 19 at the Wellington Community Center. Food was catered by Park

Avenue Bar & Grill. Chuck Vaccaro provided music for listening and dancing, along with barbecue. Members and guests were entertained by the professional dance team the Aloha Dancers, who performed a revue of authentic songs and dances of the South Pacific. The Wellington Seniors Club is a social club for Wellington residents age 55 and over. For more information, visit wellingtonseniorsclub.org.

On Monday, Nov. 10, the My

CUB SCOUTS MAKE SEASONAL CRAFTS

Volunteer Builders — Employees from Columbia Hospital, JFK Medical Center and Palms West Hospital volunteer at a Habitat for Humanity home in Jupiter.

Sunny and John Meyer

Joan Kahler, Tony Alfalla, Dottie Emig and Barbara Powell

Estelle Rubin and Howard Trager

Bill and Joan Marilitto

PROCER Christmas

Fiesta Dec. 14

The Puerto Rican Organization for Cultural Enhancement and Reaffirmation (PROCER) will hold its third annual fundraising event “Trullas de Puerto Rico” on Sunday, Dec. 14. The dinner and dance Christmas fiesta will take place from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way).

This year the event will feature cuatrista Harold Hernández, who brings the music and typical flavor of a genuine Puerto Rican Christmas fiesta to the event. A second band, Raíces Latinas, will perform LatinAmerican music and songs from the past five decades, sure to bring nostalgic feelings to a crowd mostly composed of baby boomers.

The event costs $40 per person, which includes not only dinner and dessert but also an open bar. Proceeds will be used to sustain artistic and cultural programs for the community, such as Puerto Rican cuatro lessons, acrylic painting classes and folkloric dance. For more information, directions or tickets, call (561) 439-5631.

County Exhibit

To Feature Local Artists

Palm Beach County’s Art in Public Places program invites the public to attend an artist reception at the Palm Beach International Airport on Wednesday, Dec. 3 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the airport’s concession mall, Level 2 Main Terminal, across from Travelers Lounge. Parking is available in Short Term levels 4-7. With refreshments at hand, guests can mingle with Palm Beach County artists whose photography, paintings and mixed-media works are inspired by historic landmarks and modern icons of Palm Beach County’s built landscape. For a virtual tour of the art, visit www. pbcgov.com/fdo/art/artworks.

htm. Artworks are for sale.

Ar(t)chitectural Attitude features works by local artists including Gary Kane and Gladys

Steeple Thousands Expected

continued from page 1 said. “I would figure out of every 10 rides, I would have a fall.”

Most steeplechase riders wear protective vests and helmets now, Skiffington said. “The safety factor for the horse and rider, that’s very important,” he said.

Skiffington said the danger of the sport is outweighed by the thrill of victory.

“I can’t tell you the thrill of winning a race,” he said. “They put you on a horse traveling 35 miles an hour. You’ve got competition all around you. You’re jumping a fence, and then to know that you’ve won — you’ve competed and you’ve beat the other guys, there’s no feeling like it.”

Bellissimo said the steeplechase offers a pleasant diversion in stressful times. “In what are

Beltran Posada of Wellington, Gary Carpentier of Royal Palm Beach, and Tony Baker of Loxahatchee.

The exhibition runs through Feb. 4, 2009. Selected works were chosen by Palm Beach County’s Public Art Committee. HMS Host helps support Palm Beach County’s Art in Public Places exhibition at the Palm Beach International Airport. Artists interested in receiving “call to artists” for upcoming airport exhibitions and other Art in Public Places projects can submit their contact information through the Artists’ Registry page of Palm Beach County’s Art in Public Places web site at www.pbcgov.com/art/ fdoregistry.aspx.

Contest Offers

VIP Passes To Buzz Bake Sale

Buzz Bake Sale tickets and VIP passes have been “stolen” from the Buzz studios. Two lucky listeners who find out “who dunnit” will win a pair of pavilion seats and VIP passes to this year’s Buzz Bake Sale on Dec. 6. Visit www.picktheband.com to find out when and where the tickets will be for your chance to claim them. Be sure to check out the picktheband.com local stage at the Buzz Bake Sale to see the hottest local bands including the picktheband.com winner, Ghost of Gloria. Ghost of Gloria will also be playing a special acoustic set on Sunday, Nov. 30 at 3 p.m. at the FYE store in the Westward Plaza (2505 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach) to celebrate the release of their new EP Voices From the Red Room. Don’t miss this rare acoustic appearance and the chance to win two VIP passes and pavilion seats to the Buzz Bake Sale.

Eco-Themed

Holiday Event

At Pine Jog

Florida Atlantic University’s Pine Jog Environmental Education Center will host “Go Green for the Holidays and Music in the Forest” on Saturdays, Dec. 6 and 13 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

uncertain times at best, we thought this would be a great party for the community,” he said.

The site of the Palm Beach Steeplechase was originally built as the Palm Beach Polo Stadium, which suffered years of dilapidation before Bellissimo’s company purchased and refurbished it.

“This is also the inaugural event for this facility,” Bellissimo said. “It will be the first of many different events of different disciplines at this site. This will be the gateway to the equestrian community. We’re going to have another event during the season — during week six of the Winter Equestrian Festival we’re going to have a jumper derby. I think that’s something that over time will increase. This is the first of many events to breathe life into what was a deteriorating facility.”

The inaugural Palm Beach Steeplechase will be dedicated to Bill Ylvisaker, who pioneered

Village Attorney Jeff Kurtz suggested the council make a motion to continue the item until their next meeting.

at the center, located at 6301 Summit Blvd. in West Palm Beach. The event will take place in Pine Jog’s new, LEED-certified green facility gallery, where guests will discover how to make the holiday season more green.

Attendees will learn about exciting alternative gift options from Heifer International and the Nature Conservancy, try some eco-friendly beauty products from Aveda and the Body Shop, and do some shopping in the Pine Jog gift shop with recycled, organic, fair trade and educational products.

Guests also can stroll through the center’s pine forest while enjoying the sounds of local musicians and school music groups. There also will be crafts and outdoor activities for the kids. For more information, contact Tracey Ritchie at (561) 6866600, ext. 419 or tritchi1@ fau.edu.

Annual Shelter Pet Toy Project Underway

You can help a shelter dog or cat find a new home for the holidays. Donate a new pet toy for a shelter animal during the Santa Paws and Claws Pet Toy Project at Palm Beach County Animal Care & Control.

People are more likely to adopt a dog or cat that appears happy, active and playful. The best type of pet toy for dogs is the hard indestructible toy, which is safer and sturdier for the larger dogs. Cats and kittens love all types of cat toys, which are available at any pet supply or department store. Deliver pet toys to the main shelter at 7100 Belvedere Road, just west of the Florida’s Turnpike overpass. Donations can be placed in the large toy box in the front lobby. Lobby hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.

Toys can also be mailed to Palm Beach County Animal Care & Control, attention Pet Toy Project, 7100 Belvedere Road, West Palm Beach, FL 33411. For more information, contact Elizabeth at (561) 2331222 or e-mail pbcacc@pbcgov. org.

the sport of polo in Wellington, Bellissimo said. Ylvisaker is expected to attend the event and will be honored at the opening ceremony. Events at the Palm Beach Steeplechase run from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. with the first of five steeplechase races beginning at 1:30 p.m., and the series ending with a sixth celebrity race around a conventional track.

Other events and attractions include a wine festival and beer tent, gourmet food, Jack Russell terrier races and a children’s fair, with opening ceremonies at 12:45 p.m. to feature the running of the Palm Beach Hounds, a performance by the Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Pipe & Drum Corps and the Blackwater skydiving team. Tickets begin at $20 in advance or $25 at the gate. Children under 12 accompanied by an adult are admitted free. For more information, and to purchase tickets, visit www.palmbeachsteeplechase. com.

is to talk about it more, and have that item as our topic of discussion.”

Kurtz and Village Manager

DEMS CELEBRATE IN WELLINGTON

A celebratory wrap-up party congratulating Democrats in Wellington and the western communities for a victorious 2008 election was held last Saturday night in the home of Eric and Lori Baumel. In attendance were western communities Democrats and also Josh Kinch of the Florida Democratic Party. PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

continued from page 1 and sent forward for the DCA to evaluate. If there were any questions about it, that’s fine.”

Hodkgins said the village is facing a final adoption date of March 2009, but will have further opportunities to revise the plan. “We have been here before,” he said. “It is a living document, and it has the ability to be changed.”

Councilman Bob Margolis had issues about language for the dedication of land to Palm Beach Community College and related to schools and overcrowding.

“I understand there is a time constraint,” he said. “I commend staff for bringing this up. I am feeling uncomfortable with sending it forward.”

Bowen said he agreed with Willhite on the need for more council input, but the village is obligated to pass the plan along to the state. “I don’t think we have any choice but to approve it and send it up,” he said. “A previous council made these changes. We had public hearings, and these items were addressed. We had plenty of time to work on it.” Priore made a motion to approve, but it died for lack of a second.

“The goal is to get it approved by the deadline,” Kurtz said. “If there are issues you want to discuss, you have opened and closed the public hearings. What I would suggest is to continue this to a date certain to our next meeting or to a workshop, and further explore this and get it done.”

Priore said he wanted the concerns of fellow council members provided in writing, so staff could see if the items could be removed or modified. He then made a motion to continue the hearing to the council’s next meeting.

“I want to see what issues Bob has identified that he has a problem with. If a third member does not support it, my goal is to find consensus among council,” he said. “As Marty has said, these items have been a part of these discussions for almost two years… The material is not new. I will make a motion we bring this back on Dec. 9.”

Willhite said the first time the council had a major opportunity to address the plan was during their agenda review the previous evening, and he wanted to be able to address it in more detail. “I don’t know if we were able to hash everything out last night,” Willhite said. “The idea

Paul Schofield noted that actual, final adoption of the plan would follow the DCA’s review and comments. Schofield added that opportunities to send comp plan changes to the DCA come twice a year.

“If you are OK to transmit it, you can make changes on adoption, but there is a risk that the DCA, when they review it, won’t find the revisions in compliance,” Schofield said. “You do have options to make amendments… You have a round you can do in the first part of the next year.”

Priore’s motion to continue was seconded by Willhite. It passed 4-0 with Councilwoman Lizbeth Benacquisto absent. In other business, the council approved a zoning text amendment adding a fourth type of

Letters continued from page 4 your body from point A to B, including walking. When my airline was losing $3 million a day last summer we asked, “why can’t

congregate living facility to the village’s development regulations. Priore asked Schofield to explain why the council was considering it when Sunrise Senior Living, the development company that had requested the amendment, had dropped its plans for a senior facility in the village.

Schofield said that even though Sunrise had withdrawn, the village has already amended its comprehensive plan.

“There is a requirement in the state’s growth management plan that our zoning code be consistent with the comprehensive plan,” he said. “As staff we believe you should do the zoning text amendment. Congregate living facilities are a demonstrated need in the village. We believe that we will be looking at additional ones on State Road 7. We would not want to remove the regulations to allow them to develop.”

or three on an Internet search and won’t get selected. Now you know why airlines charge for small items like checked luggage, pillows, blankets, etc. In capitalism, if a customer doesn’t like the price or product, go to the competition. Maybe Mr. Rabin needs to head up an airline and drop the prices. E. Cameron Hitchcock Royal Palm Beach

Margolis made a motion to approve, which was seconded by Priore. It passed 4-0 with Benacquisto absent.

Also Tuesday: • Wellington seniors advocate Tony Fransetta asked the council to adopt a resolution for cleaner air in protest of the smoke created by the annual burning of sugar cane fields west of the village.

“We get inundated with the stuff,” he said. “What I would ask the council on behalf of the citizens is to endorse a clean air concept and draft a representative of the League of Cities and try to get some cooperation for those affected.”

Blotter

continued from page 6

• Residents Barbara Phillippi and Joanne Tyrrell asked the council and village staff to look into possible misuse of the Wellington Dog Park and explore expanding the size of the area for smaller dogs. They said some dog owners are not cleaning up after their pets, bringing large breeds into the area reserved for smaller dogs and posing a danger to older residents using the park.

“Fifty percent of the people using the dog park are 65 years of age or older,” Phillippi said. “Size matters. You have people who have been knocked down. One woman recently had knee surgery. It’s a safety issue.”

According to a PBSO report, 29year-old Eakut Jahan entered the store at about 11:30 a.m. and purchased several items, after which she returned to the store interior carrying her purchases and the shopping bag. The suspect then selected two sets of pants and matching tops valued at about $94, concealed them in the bag and left the store without attempting to pay for them, according to the report. Store security employees stopped Jahan in the parking lot and escorted her back to the store, and PBSO deputies arrested

and

Nancy Pena-Brink says a few words.

Eric and Lori Baumel (left) with some of their guests.

Josh Kinch thanks those who worked for the party.

Steeplechase Preview — Equestrian Sport Productions Managing Partner Mark Bellissimo (right) talks about this Saturday’s Palm Beach Steeplechase event in Wellington as equestrian Roger Smith looks on.

PHOTO BY RON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER

The Baumels join all their guests for a group photo.

895 1,183 1,471 1,760 2,048 2,337 2,625 2,913 3,202 3,490 3,778 4,067 4,355 4,643 4,932 5,220 5,508

SPICY LATIN FUN AS PALMS WEST CHAMBER’S SALSAFEST RETURNS

The Palms West Chamber of Commerce presented SalsaFest on Saturday, Nov. 22 at Greenacres Community Park. The event featured nationally recognized performers, dance, food, a children’s play area, competitions and a business expo. For more info., visit www.palmswest.com.

BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

The Sizzling Salsa Showdown Mayors’ Contest: Loxahatchee Groves Mayor David Browning, Indian Trail Improvement District President Mike Erickson, Greenacres Mayor Sam Ferreri (winner) and Palms West Chamber of Commerce President John Spillane.

Natalie Vitek of Royal Palm Beach.

Chihuaha contest winners Brygiva Trzaska with Nike (second place) and Liz Caplano with Pico (first place).

Woody White, Laureen Freire and Phillip Baker at the Wellington Regional Medical Center booth.

Sharyn Browning and her son Matt enjoy the afternoon.

Vanessa Reyes and Obed Morales do some salsa dancing.

Ismael Alvarez of Royal Palm Toyota gets a cigar from George Rodriguez of Mya Handmade Cigars.

Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Capt. Nigel Baker competes in the firefighters cooking contest.

Eddie Santiago was one of the evening’s musical highlights

PharMerica representative Lee Feldman with Royal Manor Administrator Grace Archille.

Oasis Home Care’s Sacia Forbes gives cookies to Julette Browne and Trish Bryant.

mances by Rumor Hazit, Whisky Creek, Desoto Road, the

Daddies and Chardonnay,

Beach County Youth Football League cheerleaders and dancers from Donna Tucci’s School of Dance.

Eric Gordon and Eric Coleman work the grill.

Dancers from Donna Tucci’s School of Dance.

(Front row) Tony Armour, Dana Lodwick with Reggie, Mair Armand and Ron Peterson; (back row) Don Gross, Royal Palm Beach Mayor David Lodwick and Scott Armand.

Kids enjoy the monkey bars at the play area.

Cheerleaders from the Palm Beach County Youth Football League’s Dolphins team.

Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw gets food from Joan Scherer while Col. Mike Gauger looks on.

Men And Toys: While Times May Change, Size Still Matters

It’s the biggest shopping weekend of the year! All across the land people will be hopping into their cars and heading out to the stores to buy holiday gifts for those nearest and dearest. Of course, some of us have already been out there — pounding the pavement in the hopes of getting a jump on the “good stuff.”

This was much more difficult when the kids were little. There was always that one toy (heavily promoted in television ads) that the kids had become convinced they needed. That toy had to be found and then augmented with toys that actually had some play value. Motorized, battery-operated plush is fun but children also need paints and crayons, Lincoln Logs and Legos, cars and dolls. Underwear is not an option.

I learned a lot about gift-giving from my mom. To this day, she believes every adult deserves a

Deborah Welky is The Sonic BOOMER

toy. I adopted that policy this year, after last year’s gift cards and sweaters failed to cause a stir — especially among the men.

I don’t know how I ended up with so many men on my list! There’s my husband and father and brothers, of course, but 80 percent of my neighbors and nephews and cousins and coworkers are male. (Well, OK — 100 percent of

the nephews are male.)

The only solution was to take my husband Mark along with me to the toy store.

“Just tell me what the guys would like,” I pleaded. “I can handle the girls. And if it can be easily mailed, that’s a plus.”

Oh, this was fun. Not only had Mark not set foot inside a toy store in 20 years, he is approaching Santa-hood. Whenever I can get him to let his beard grow, he takes on a downright jolly look. Inside Toys ‘R’ Us, he was getting double-takes from children. I went back for a cart. On my return he innocently asked, “how about a game?”

“No one likes getting games,” I said. “I mean, they’re perfect for when you’re having a gang over but that’s a group gift — like for a family. I want to get individual gifts.”

I looked over at him but Mark had wandered

off into the pink aisle — where he was completely out of his element.

“Is this a Barbie?” he asked, holding up a box.

“Dora the Explorer,” I answered. “No, not that one, either. That’s Hannah Montana. No, no, no. Bratz are so ‘last year.’”

Now he was in among the tiaras and tutus and floundering as if he’d fallen into a vat of cotton candy. I had to get him out of there.

“Head for the trucks,” I coached. “Go straight toward the yellow. Don’t look back.”

An hour later, our cart was stacked with gifts even a 30-year-old would enjoy — rockets, train sets, cars, trucks and building sets. We’d spent $15 just on the accompanying batteries.

And I hate to think what postage is going to cost us because it turns out that, to a guy, size matters.

I’m Looking Forward To Resumption Of Regular ‘24’ Episodes

I have missed 24 on the Fox Network, the series that each season presents one day, hour by hour, in the life of federal antiterrorist agent Jack Bauer.

It has been off the air since 2007, caught up in the problems of last year’s television writers strike. Jack Bauer can face down terrorists, but in a clear demonstration that the pen (or at least the word processor) is stronger than the sword, he cannot overcome a lack of writers.

Last Sunday’s 24: Redemption was a two-hour prelude to the upcoming season. It differed from the norm in that it did not simply show one single day in the life of a terrorism threat. And that is a great advantage. The show’s popularity is in some measure due to its focus on action. We used to have a lot of shows like that on television. Now our crime series seem to focus on scientific derring-do and good police procedure. This series is different.

‘I’

On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler

But 24 hours of television means that any terrorist action cannot be a simple one. The plots have to be convoluted. Sending one person to an under-guarded facility to do something awful would only take a few minutes to show. That might be OK for a single episode. So the plots are complicated. Kiefer Sutherland’s Jack Bauer is a modern-day version of the old cowboy hero. Imagine Gary Cooper’s Will Kane in High Noon (which incidentally, like 24, takes place in “real time”) As marshal, he is deserted by the citizens, left to face the bad guys alone. He wins despite all odds. Bauer is similar. The main difference, of course, is that after Kane wins, he is feted by the citizens

who betrayed his trust. Jack Bauer is generally stabbed in the back by his own government. Interestingly, the western was considered an allegory about the McCarthy era, with “good men” in government unwilling to take on the bully. Bauer does not believe in compromise, which is why we honor him.

As part of just about every plot line each year, the American government tries hard to compete with terrorists for the role of bad guy. At one point, a U.S. president actually ordered him killed. And members of every administration have been shown to be willing to sell him out and even cooperate with the country’s enemies. In the new show, the son of the new president finds out some information that could create problems for the villain. We know that is bad news for Bauer. Bauer’s own organization, the Counter Terrorist Unit or CTU, is problematical. To keep things moving for the 24 episodes, that group has become to counterintelligence what Grey’s Anatomy is to healing. The members of the group, who

seem to become part of our prime anti-terrorism forces, spend more time in each other’s personal space than actually dealing with something like the destruction of America’s major cities. At times, it looks like the only requirement to become part of this super-secret group is the ability to look good in skivvies and a driver’s license. In last Sunday’s two-hour prequel show, Bauer still had to deal with the requirement of spending half his time fighting his own people. Although on the run from a Senate subpoena about his possible use of torture to save Los Angeles (and I am reasonably certain, based on assorted legal rules based on Watergate, that it would be his bosses in trouble, not him), Bauer is with orphans in Africa, working to save them from evil locals who want to turn the kids into terrorists. He saves them, although he must surrender to American authorities who will only rescue the kids he is saving if he allows himself to be arrested. This, of course, will be a centerpiece of the new season. He is really alone, and that is why we root for him.

Recent Local Funeral A Fine Example Of Military Precision

Last week my friend Ellen’s father died. Ellen’s father Mr. Zucker was a World War II veteran. When Ellen’s husband Larry called me to tell me the news, he said the funeral would be taking place at the South Florida National Cemetery on State Road 7. He went on to say the services would start at 10:30 a.m. sharp, and would be over at 11 a.m. sharp. He explained that the cemetery maintains the strict time enforcement.

I am sorry to say it is a very busy place. Funerals take place one right after the other. The World War II vets are dying at an alarming rate.

I have never been to a funeral at this veterans’ cemetery. I was actually looking forward to attending, not only to show my respect for my friends but also to see how this cemetery handles a funeral for a World War II hero. I wanted to see it up close and personal. And I did.

When my wife Sharon and I arrived for the funeral, we were greeted at the entranceway by what appeared to be a security guard. He asked us which

Wondering & Wandering

By Ernie Zimmerman

funeral we were there for. Then he directed us to a holding area. There must have been at least 50 cars waiting there. As the clock struck 10:30 a.m. we were led in convoy style to the site where the services were going to be held. It was a nice outdoor chapel, right in the middle of the cemetery.

As we entered the chapel area, we could see the coffin covered with a beautiful American flag. There were at least four Army folks in attendance for the service.

The service started with a live in-person Army sergeant playing “Taps” on the bugle. I was pleasantly surprised, because we are losing so many World War II vets, sometimes a recording is used because of a shortage of bugle players.

Afterward, two Army sergeants started to fold the American flag resting atop the coffin. They were very gentle and careful as they handed the flag to a young Army lieutenant standing at the head of the coffin. This young lieutenant inspected the flag to make sure it was folded exactly the right way.

When he was done, he walked to the first row where the family of this World War II hero was sitting, did a very sharp right face and presented them with the flag, addressing them for at least two minutes with one of the best speeches I have heard in a long time. The speech and the look on this young lieutenant’s face were very inspiring.

After the speech, the Army guys and gal

marched off. It was beautiful. It was also everything I had expected. My friend Larry liked it so much he told me he is going to rebury his father at the cemetery.

I now know where I want to be buried. I informed my wife that she can join me if she wants to — the VA allows husbands and wives to be buried in the same grave. If the wife dies first, her name goes on the stone. When the husband dies the stone is turned around and the veteran’s name is now on the front of the stone. The only problem I have with my decision to be buried in the cemetery is that I would be missing the playing of “Taps” and the folding of the flag and the presentation of the flag to the family. But who knows? Maybe on the way up to heaven (yeah, I am going there) I will be able to hear and see the sights and the sounds of my final farewell. I have already put in a request to hold off on the harp playing ’til I am really high in the sky… Hopefully that request will be honored.

TOWN-CRIER SPORTS & RECREATION

Wildcats Defeat Lakes 27-0 To Advance To Regional Semifinals

By Lisa Keeney Town-Crier Staff Report

Wildcat football player Eric Peterson had good reason to do backflips in the end zone Friday night. The Royal Palm Beach High School varsity team shut out visiting Palm Beach Lakes 27-0, earning their 10th straight victory and advancing to the regional semifinals at Vero Beach on Friday, Nov. 28. The Wildcats’ first touchdown came three plays after Royal Palm Beach recovered a fumble at the four yard line. John Giles powered his way across the goal line for a touchdown and a six-point lead halfway through the first quarter. In the second quarter, a 56-yard punt return by Royal Palm’s Chris

Dunkley was nullified by a flag. However, the Wildcats were able to make up for the setback. Royal Palm Beach’s Darryl Smith scored with 3:21 remaining in the half, and Dunkley caught the two-point conversion pass. Before halftime, Dunkley was again racing for the end zone. This time he returned an interception more than 50 yards for a touchdown to give Royal Palm Beach a 20-0 lead. Steven Brinson added the Wildcats’ third and final touchdown in the third quarter. The Royal Palm Beach defense posted a solid showing, never allowing the Rams defense inside the 10 yard line. The closest Palm Beach Lakes came was at the 13 yard line, but the Rams fumbled and Allen Estimable recovered the ball.

Perhaps the next best thing to having that perfect horse is having that perfect saddle. Tucked away in Lake Worth is a jewel of an establishment that has been quietly turning out what has been described as “the Gucci of western saddles” for over a hundred years.

McLelland’s Saddlery is the oldest familyowned saddlery in the United States. Ted McLelland, who currently runs it, grew up in this business started by his great-grandfather.

The firm was founded in 1892 by Thomas C. McLelland as a carriage and custom saddle shop in Danville, Va. All went well until the 1920s, when the horseless carriage replaced horses as the main mode of transportation. During the Great Depression, Thomas’ son Clarence morphed the business into more of a saddlery, boot and shoe repair shop. When his son Jim took over in the 1940s, he tweaked the business again, and began his career as a saddle maker.

Jim moved his family and the business to Lake Worth in 1958, where his children Ted, Debbie and Perry carry on the family tradition of offering beautiful custom saddles to customers far and wide. Jim is still active in the business, helping out in the store and building saddles. Ted Jr. is set to carry the business on into this new century as the a fifth generation.

“I grew up in this business, and I’ve always enjoyed it,” Ted Sr. said. “Right now, like everyone else, we’re going through a bit of a rough economic time. The companies who supply us with leather, fittings and other materials have laid off workers, so items which used to arrive in two weeks now may arrive in two months. Costs are

Tales From The Trails

By Ellen Rosenberg

up as well, unfortunately, which means we have to charge our customers more.”

As anachronistic as saddle making may be in this time of computers and cell phones, people all over the world are still willing to spend money and wait for a McLelland saddle. The family travels the country to some of the largest shows, including the Quarter Horse Congress, Paint, Appaloosa and World shows. They’ve built saddles for Burt Reynolds, Charlton Heston and Garth Brooks. Basic saddles begin at about $2,000 for a barrel-racer, and $3,000 for a basic pleasure saddle. It goes up from there, depending on how much tooling and silver you want. Customers can custom-order saddles to fit themselves and/or their horses. The saddletree comes with a lifetime warrantee, and all the leather is produced by special tanneries in the U.S.

“Many saddleries use Argentinian or English leather,” Ted noted. “And their designs are machine-embossed. All of our work is hand-tooled, and we need special leather, which will take and hold the design. Our brass and silver fittings also need to be the best quality.”

A high-end custom saddle can go for $45,000 to $50,000. Customers can help design their saddle and choose their own style saddletree, horn, tooling pattern, silver trim and stirrups. Jim recalls one customer with a lot of extra cash lying around who ordered a saddle with engraved marijuana leaves. Another wealthy guy from Miami ordered a deep-seated rocking chair-type saddle with a solid nickel horn like the kind he remembered riding in as a child in Cuba.

Ted also gets a kick out of how many saddles get passed down through generations to children and grandchildren. These are saddles built to last beyond a single lifetime.

McLelland also makes show halters and bridles, and has been affiliated with the Palm Beach County Mounted Posse shows since its inception in the early 1960s. Ted recalls his father attending the first Posse meetings, which were held at their old store on Dixie Highway.

“Back then it was a real mounted sheriff’s posse,” Ted recalled. “They used to saddle up and ride out into the swamps to find the bad guys. We used to donate the trophy saddles given as yearend awards to the high-point horse show riders. We still support the organization. Now we offer gift certificates, so the winners can pick out what they want.”

Ted sighs, thinking back over the old days. He’s seen a decline in the number of local shows, and wishes more were offered. But dedicated and committed volunteers, the backbone of a local show, can be hard to come by, and insurance costs have skyrocketed. “I remember working on building the show ring at the old Posse Grounds on Saturdays,” Ted said. “It was built into the underlying coral. That was incredibly hard work, pounding fence posts into coral.”

The old Posse Grounds is gone now, sold for development like a lot of old places.

McLelland’s also sponsors the Masters Class for young horses at the Quarter Horse Congress, the world’s largest single-breed show.

“It’s a real honor to donate a saddle to a show,” Ted said. “It makes you feel good to think your life’s work is that highly esteemed. We’ve been turning out saddles longer than General Motors has been turning out cars, making each saddle by hand, one by one. My family’s been lucky to be able to survive doing something as special as this.”

If you’d like more information about McLelland’s, mosey on down to the store at 317 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth, call (800) 662-3226 or visit www.mclellands.com.

PHOTOS BY LISA KEENEY/TOWN-CRIER

Wildcat John Giles scores a touchdown in the first quarter.

Steven Brinson, who scored a second-half touchdown, carries the ball for the Wildcats.

A trio of defenders tackle RPB’s Eric Peterson.

RPB’s Rutherford Jean celebrates his fumble recovery.

RPB’s Marvin Miller and William Munker raise their arms as Darryl Smith looks to the referee for the touchdown call.

RPB’s Marvin Payne scrambles before passing the ball.

The Wildcats, led by Jared Dangerfield, break through the banner to take the field.

Pursued from behind, Wildcat Marvin Miller tries to ward off a tackle.

Chris Dunkley, who scored a touchdown for RPB, picks up a first down.

Two of the saddles available at McLelland’s Saddlery.

Eric Peterson celebrates RPB’s win by doing flips in the end zone.Three Wildcats tackle a Palm Beach Lakes ball carrier.

DiFiore Brothers Represent Florida In Wrestling Competition

Two local brothers were among 20 chosen to represent the State of Florida at the North Carolina National Elementary Duals Nov. 21-22. As members of Team Florida, Tyler and Christopher DiFiore competed in the Crown Arena in Fayetteville, N.C. against wrestling teams from across the country. Team Florida’s Elementary Team placed first at the competition.

Making his second National Team appearance, Christopher competed in the 40-pound weight class position. Christopher is a three-time All-American wrestler and a first grader at Pierce Hammock Elementary School. Christopher was undefeated at the duals and earned an individual gold medal for his accomplishment.

Tyler DiFiore made his first National Team appearance in the 70-pound weight class. Tyler is a two-time All-American wrestler and is in the fourth grade at Pierce Hammock Elementary School. Tyler also went undefeated at the event and earned an individual gold medal.

Locally the boys are all members of Palm Beach County PAL Gator Wrestling coached by Barry Staats of Royal Palm Beach. “We are very proud of the way the boys represented our club and state at the national level,” Staats said of the boys’ performance. For more information on PAL Gator Wrestling, call Staats at (561) 629-6379.

Wellington Roller Hockey Player Of The Week: Hunter Markey

Wellington Roller Hockey League’s Player of the Week is eight-year-old Hunter Markey, a member of the Training Division Panthers.

In his position as the Panthers’ forward, Markey shoots left. His favorite professional hockey team is the Florida Panthers. Markey’s favorite video game is Call of Duty IV, and his favorite food is the hot dog. Markey said he eats Cap’n Crunch cereal at every meal. Hunter Markey

Lady Wildcats Volleyball Team Takes Second Place At State Tournament

The Royal Palm Beach High School girls varsity volleyball team has ended its most successful season in the school’s 11-year history, finishing second in the 6A State Volleyball Tournament last week. Their overall record was an amazing 26-5. The Wildcats were undefeated in district play, earning first seed in the district tournament. They went on to claim the district title in a big win over rival Jupiter.

The next step to overcome was regional rival Spanish River, which had stopped the Wildcats in three of the previous four seasons. RPBHS pulled out a 3-1 win over the Sharks, for the first time ever. The next regional game was a semifinal match against Jupiter, which had defeated Boca Raton to advance. The Wildcats pulled off a magnificent win once again to advance to the regional finals. While Royal Palm Beach had hosted the first two regional match-ups,

the girls had to travel south to Cypress Bay for the finals. The drive didn’t stop the Wildcats; they defeated the Lightening to win the regionals.

The trail doesn’t stop there. The Wildcats packed up for their first trip to the Final Four at the state tournament in Lakeland. One team stood in the way of the Wildcats realizing their dream of competing in the state finals — Miami Palmetto. It was a slow start for the RPBHS girls, having lost the first game. But they came back strong and won the next three. Thursday night brought the Timber Creek Wolves (30-2) to the arena to take on the Wildcats for the 6A championship. RPBHS put up a fight but fell to the Wolves, ending their season with a second place finish at states. The Wildcats would like to thank everyone who sponsored, volunteered and believed in making their dream season happen.

The

Bills Win WCFL Prep Division Piconcelli Bowl

The Patriots were determined to defeat the undefeated Bills in the Western Communities Football League’s Piconcelli Bowl game. The Bills were ahead 197 at the half and the Patriots tied the game at 19-19 in regulation play. The Bills’ Bradley Begnoche and Jordan Jackson scored three touchdowns and ran for a total of 257 yards. The offensive line of Brandon Schloss, Antonio Karadakis, Yasser Halum, Ian Marshall, Brandon Haberman, Tyler Posada and Dyllan Epstein did an outstanding job. The

backs Ian Posada, Vito Monaco and Cole Martin did a great job blocking for Begnoche and Jackson. The defense was led by Chris Simermeyer, Brandon Cardozo, Camaron Hennessey, Nick Moncholi, Alex Benjamin, Ian Posada, Vito Monaco, Cole Martin, Bradley Begnoche, Jordan Jackson and C.J. Fratini. In double overtime, with the score 26-25 and the Patriots going for the extra point, Zachary Mogbo was stopped on the one yard line by Simermeyer, Epstein and Monaco to win the game.

The Wellington Wild girls travel softball organization hosted its first annual “Wild Gives Back” family night on Friday, Nov 14. The event took place at the Wild’s home field at Tiger Shark Cove Park in Wellington. In addition to celebrating the completion of another successful fall travel season, the Wellington Wild wanted to give back to the community during these tough economic times. Each player donated an unwrapped toy, which was given to the Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots program. The Wellington Wild travel softball program will be entering its tenth season next spring and will have tryouts for girls ages seven and up in early February. For more information about the Wellington Wild girls travel softball organization, visit www.wellingtonwild.net.

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

Tyler and Christopher DiFiore

Wildcats Volleyball — (Front) Geraldine Fleurimond; (second row) Jessica Morrison, Chelsea Leiva, Lauren Garceau, Morgan Hill and Taylor Johnson; (back row) Head Coach Sal Ciano, Cassady Cook, Shaina Abdell, Marlecia Fuller, Latoya Harvin and assistant coach Tamara Cook. Not pictured: assistant coach Kelley Holowecky, Manager Ryan Moody, Tarin Knott and Karli Torrieri.

Football Champs — The Prep Division Bills with their trophies.

Lady Broncos Basketball Squad Aims To Up Its Offensive Attack

By Paul Gaba Town-Crier Staff Report

With a program that has improved every year since its inception in 2003, third-year Palm Beach Central High School girls basketball coach Bruce Gaffney hopes this is the season his Lady Broncos finally make a statement in the post season. But to improve on the program’s 14-6 record in 2007-08, Gaffney knows it will take a ton of hard work.

“I think, realistically, we’ll be in the hunt if we do what we’re supposed to do, develop that way and execute that way,” Gaffney said. “But we are in probably the toughest district [with Palm Beach] Gardens, [Palm Beach] Lakes and Jupiter, Royal Palm [Beach]. We have some very strong teams in our district, and it’s always a dogfight. I think we have a bit more teeth than past years, though.”

Along with challenging for a strong run to and through the post season, Gaffney is hoping more recognition is provided to

senior Sharnele Brown, who he claims may be one of the top players in the county.

“Because of our lack of success in the playoffs and being a relatively new school, she has been under the radar; many people don’t know about her, even though she’s been in the papers,” Gaffney said. “But she’s a true all-around player, a great penetrator and a strong guard. She’s physically strong and a great outside threat from threepoint range.”

Brown is one of seven Lady Broncos who are interchangeable as starters. She is also interchangeable at positions, rotating between the guard and forward spots. Joining her in the flexible rotation are fellow seniors Courtney Miller and D.D. King, juniors Amanda Collins and Porsche Shakes, sophomore Diamond Jones and freshman Lexus Love. Most of the starters also swing between two positions when running the floor.

All seven, plus six from the bench, are crucial to Palm Beach Central running its multiple

zone defenses and half-court offense.

“We have always been a defensive team,” Gaffney said. “We press hard, play strong and run multiple defenses. Our offense has traditionally been designed as a transition offense, but what we’re working on this year is being a better half-court offensive team.”

Gaffney said this transition to a “motion” offense involves players passing the ball around more often and “playing more team ball; we’ve got to get better at that.”

But at Palm Beach Central, success still begins on the defensive end. Senior guard Mitchell has experience in this department, as does fellow senior guard/forward King. Gaffney described Mitchell as “one of our best defenders,” and noted that King “is an all-around player who gives 110 percent in practice and 110 percent in the game. D.D. is an excellent rebounder, and her defense has definitely improved the past few years.”

While defense can dictate the ebb and flow of a game, it alone does not guarantee victory. Running the show when pushing the ball up the court is Collins. At five feet, four inches, she might be taken for granted by opponents because of her size, but Gaffney said anyone who does so is in for a big surprise.

“Amanda has been our top defensive player and one of the top three-point shooters in the county the past two years,” Gaffney said. “She is a buzzsaw on defense and is excellent from the outside. She controls the tempo of the game, and she is solid when it comes to scanning the floor.”

Gaffney said Shakes, a junior guard/forward, has the ability to take over a game with solid jump shots and excels in the passing lane.

Freshman Love stands a solid six feet tall. Despite being in high school hoops for the first time, she uses her size to her advantage, Gaffney said.

“She’s very aggressive and gets up and down the court;

she’s one of the fastest on the court,” Gaffney said. “And she’s one heck of a rebounder.”

Gaffney said that while Love played summer ball in Fort Lauderdale, she achieved a trio of “double doubles,” meaning she hit double figures both in points and rebounds three times during contests.

Then there’s Jones. At five feet, four inches, she “is potentially one of the best in the county,” Gaffney said. “She’s one

WHS Cross-Country Phenom Brasovan Commits To Duke University

When thinking of the Duke University athletic program, one is likely to recall Christian Laettner’s Final Four heroics and the man simply known as “Coach K.” But on Thursday, Nov. 13, Wellington High School senior Ashley Brasovan took a big sprint toward becoming the next Blue Devil legend when she verbally committed to the renowned ACC school.

The announcement only augmented to her already memorable week. On Saturday, Nov. 2, she won the girls cross-country state championship for the fourth straight year. As the outright favorite to win the meet, Brasovan did not disappoint. With the nearest runner in a distant second place, she ran as if it were an individual time trial.

The WHS senior surprised no one when she crossed the finish line with a time of 17:03. Her first-place finish secured a fouryear streak of never losing a race in the State of Florida. “It’s pretty phenomenal of what she’s accomplished,” said Coach Kara Weber-Fleming. “She’s one of the greatest high school runners of this century… it’s unheard of, some of the things she’s done.”

“I was happier to wrap up my high school career and just be able to have fun… it was more of a relief than anything,” Brasovan said. “I feel really amazed because I definitely didn’t think this would happen back in freshman year.”

As a state champion runner and an avid student, Brasovan received many scholarship offers from top-notch universities. Arizona State, Stanford and Duke all heavily recruited her, but the atmosphere of Duke’s Raleigh, N.C. campus lured Brasovan in the end.

“[When I visited,] I ran in the legendary Duke Forest. It has hundreds of miles of trails right on campus, and it is so much nicer than anything we have in Florida,” Brasovan said of her future stomping ground. “North Carolina is just an amazing place, and it is way closer to home. I’ll be able to visit home

Wolverine Watch

By Josh Hyber

more easily and my family can come see me more often.”

As her family is within fairly easy traveling distance, they’ll have plenty of opportunities to visit. Running for Coach Kevin Jermyn’s cross-country and track teams, as well as running indoors, the upcoming Blue Devil will have a year-round schedule. Already talking with her new teammates and coach once a week, she’s ready to get her college career underway.

WHS juniors Meagan O’Boyle and Nicole Murphy are respectable runners, but Brasovan couldn’t obtain the practice she needed by running with her classmates. Many times, Brasovan could be seen doing her normal practice sessions on Wellington Trace and Big Blue Trace by herself. At Duke, she’ll actually have girls running with her, if not in front of her. That’ll be something she’ll enjoy.

“It’ll be nice to finally have people to run and practice with that are at my own pace,” Brasovan said.

She’ll get the first dose of this long-awaited competition coming next August, when she’ll start the team’s cross-country camp. Her educational studies will follow shortly afterward in the fall semester.

As for outlook of the WHS program, Weber-Fleming thinks Brasovan’s accomplishments will gain positive recognition to the program. To ease the transition, she has even been keeping her star runner out of races to get a good look at next year’s potential. “We’re still going to be OK,” Weber-Fleming said. “I think we’ll have more people trying out now knowing what Ashley has done.”

It’s not quite over yet though. She’ll run her final race on Dec. 13 in San Diego at the Foot

The Town-Crier is looking for student columnists to cover sports news at Palm Beach Central, Royal Palm Beach and Seminole Ridge high schools. Interested? Call (561) 793-7606 or e-mail news@gotowncrier.com for info.

Locker National Championships. If she does win the event, it will be the second time Brasovan has won the storied contest.

An argument for a few Major League Baseball players can be made, but when it’s all said and done, Ashley Brasovan will likely go down in the record books as the most accomplished athlete in Wellington history. And when she’s making history in North Carolina or maybe even on Abbey Road in London, it’ll seem like yesterday that Brasovan was running down Greenview Shores Blvd. winning championships for Wellington High School.

“It has been a long four years, but I’m glad it’s over,” Brasovan said. “I’ve had fun but I am ready for college to finally start.”

Varsity Basketball Update

After a promising open to their season, the WHS girls varsity basketball team lost three consecutive games. Lake Worth, Palm Beach Gardens and Jupiter High School all had the up-

per hand against a still-searching Wolverine team.

On Monday, Nov. 24 against Palm Beach Gardens, a slim four points was the margin of loss for the Wolverines. Freshman Katelyn Rawls yet again stood out on the court as she scored a team-best 11 points. The Wolverines are currently 13. Like the girls, the boys varsity basketball team is going though changes. They opened their season with a game they’d like to put behind them.

A 75-39 loss to Palm Beach Lakes wasn’t exactly what Coach Matt Colin had in mind for his first game leading the Wolverines.

Senior forward Rachiem Smalls had a team-high nine points, as sophomore guard Scott Witkowski and junior Ricardo Gutierrez added five each. Rex Kirby energized the team with a nice game off the bench finishing with six points. Their first game back from the break will be against St. Andrews on Dec. 3.

heck of a ball handler. She can shoot left- or right-handed. She’s quick on defense and has a high basketball IQ.” Three games into the new year, Palm Beach Central has a flawless 3-0 mark, including 10 in district play thanks to a 6247 victory over Palm Beach Gardens on Monday, Nov. 24. Gaffney’s squad returns to the hardwood on Monday, Dec. 1 for a home contest against Inlet Grove.

The Palm Beach Central girls basketball team. PHOTO BY PAUL GABA/TOWN-CRIER

College Bound — WHS running star Ashley Brasovan is headed to Duke University. TOWN-CRIER FILE PHOTO BY LISA KEENEY

FITNESS HOSTS KICK-ATHON TO BENEFIT CHARITABLE TRUST

BUGLIO/TOWN-CRIER

Tae kwon do instructor Master Pope, County Commissioner Jess Santamaria, and Ultima Fitness co-owners Jill and John Merrell.

Master Pope gives instructions to a young student.William Boynton practices with a bag.

Catherine Boynton practices her footwork.

County Commissioner Jess Santamaria discusses the charitable trust’s mission while Ultima co-owner John Merrell looks on.

Kick-athon attendees gather for a group photo.

Some of the donations brought in by kick-athon participants.

COMMUNIT Y CALENDAR

Saturday, Nov. 29

• The inaugural Palm Beach Steeplechase will offer a mix of exciting horseracing over fences, gourmet food, wine tasting, boutique shopping and tailgating along the rail of the newly created course at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center Stadium at the corner of South Shore Blvd. and Pierson Road on Saturday, Nov. 29 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. General admission is $20 in advance purchased online; $25 on the day of the event. Children under 12 are admitted free with an adult. For more info., visit www.palmbeach steeplechase.com.

Monday, Dec. 1

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Baby Story Time on Mondays, Dec. 1, 8, 15 and 22. Your baby will love the rhymes, finger plays, songs, books and toys. Times are 9:30 a.m. for babies under nine months and 11:15 a.m. for 10 to 18 months. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host an English Exchange on Mondays, Dec. 1, 8 and 15 at 1 p.m. for adults. Practice English conversation skills with Paula Alexander. Basic English speaking skills are required. Call (561) 649-5495 for info.

• The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts (701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach) will present the Palm Beach Pops performing “On Broadway!” in Dreyfoos hall on Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 1-2 at 8 p.m. for both performances. Call (561) 832-SHOW or visit www.kravis.org for tickets.

Tuesday, Dec. 2

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will hold a Candle-Making Class for ages nine and up on Tuesday, Dec. 2 at 4:15 p.m. Make different styles of candles for the holidays. Call (561) 7906070 to pre-register.

Wednesday, Dec. 3

• The Rolex/USEF National Jumping Championship presented by Equine Motor Coach is the featured event of Holiday & Horses at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (14440 Pierson Road, Wellington) Dec. 3-7. For more info., call (561) 793-5867 or visit www.equestriansport.com.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Flick Lit: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” Wednesday, Dec. 3 at 4:15 p.m. for ages eight and up. Copies will be available at the children’s desk. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Discover the World Book Discussion Series on Wednesday, Dec. 3 at 6:30 p.m. for adults. Sara Harris will lead a discussion of The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri. Sign up and check out the book by calling (561) 790-6070.

• Palm Beach Community College will present the PBCC concert band and chorus on Wednesday, Dec. 3 and Monday, Dec. 8 at 8 p.m. in the Eissey Campus Theatre (3160 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens). The concert band will perform selections by John Williams, Percy Grainger and others, including “First Concerto in F Minor” and “The Tuba Tiger Rag.” The concert chorus will perform choral music from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. All seats are $5. For more info., call (561) 2075900.

• On Wednesday, Dec. 3, the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts (701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach) will present Dave Koz and friends in A Smooth Jazz Christmas at 8 p.m. Call (561) 832-SHOW or visit www. kravis.org for tickets. Thursday, Dec. 4

• Clematis by Night will feature South Florida R&B diva Valerie Tyson on Thursday, Dec. 4 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at the Centennial Square stage in downtown West Palm Beach. For more info., call (561) 8221515 or visit www.clematisby night.net.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will hold a Teen Writing Workshop on Thursday, Dec. 4 at 6:30 p.m. for ages 12 through 17. Bring a sample of work to share, eat snacks, give and get constructive comments, and do a few writing exercises to hone your skills. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Duncan Theatre at Palm Beach Community College (4200 Congress Avenue, Lake Worth) will welcome the Preservation Hall Jazz Band performing “A Creole Christmas” on Thursday, Dec. 4 at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $27. For more info., call (561) 868-3309.

Friday, Dec. 5

• The Miami Ballet will perform at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts (701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach) Friday through Sunday, Dec. 5-7 in Dreyfoos hall. Call (561) 832-SHOW or visit www. kravis.org for more info.

• The Palm Beach Community College Eissey campus gallery (3160 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens) will present the Fifth Annual Ceramic Art Show & Sale on Friday, Dec. 5 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 6 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. This sale offers work by both student artists and professionals. Artists stay through the show and interact with customers. A portion of the proceeds goes to the Art Alliance of Palm Beach Community College. The event is free. For more info., call (561) 2075015.

• The Studio Theatre of Wellington (11320 Fortune Circle) will present An Implausible Claus by Nikki Harmon Fridays and Saturdays, Dec. 5, 6 and 12 at 8 p.m. and Dec. 13 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 for evening performances, which include an outdoor music concert, tree lighting, activities and refreshments. The matinee is $10 for adults and $5 for children and will include the performance and refreshments only. RSVP to (561) 204-4100. Saturday, Dec. 6 • St. Rita Catholic Church (13645 Paddock Drive, Wellington) will hold Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 9 a.m. to noon. Bagels, donuts, juice and coffee will be served. Donations will be accepted. Photos of your child with Santa will be available for $3. Bring an unwrapped toy for a needy child. For more info., call Caroline at (561) 7982853 or Mary at (561) 7538633.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will hold “Drop-In Story Times” on Saturday, Dec. 6, 13 and 20 for ages two and up. Show times are 10:15 and 11:15 a.m. For more info., call (561) 790-6070.

• The Cuillo Centre for the Arts (201 Clematis Street, West Palm Beach) and Actor’s Workshop & Repertory Company will present The Velveteen Rabbit on Saturdays, Dec. 6 and 13 at 11 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 20 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., and Monday, Dec. 22 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. For more info., call (561) 835-9226 or e-mail rduffy@cuillocentre.com.

• The Wellington Chamber of Commerce’s Business Showcase 2008 will be held on Saturday, Dec. 6 from noon to 5 p.m. at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Club on Pierson Road in Wellington. The event is hosted by the Equestrian Committee of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce and Equestrian Sport Productions. This showcase will allow local businesses to promote themselves to the equestrian community. For more info., call (561) 7926525 or visit www.wellington chamber.com.

• Vietnam veteran Mike Carroll invites new veterans and families on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 1 to 5 p.m. to his G&M Ranch (13522 North Road, Loxahatchee Groves), where they can relax with friends and enjoy music, good food and see their children frolic with others in an enjoyable afternoon of good clean fun. For info., call (561) 586-3592.

• Enjoy an evening “Under the Tuscan Moon” at the Boys & Girls Club of Wellington’s 21st Annual Wellington Dinner, Dance & Auction on Saturday, Dec. 6 at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington. The black-tie event will begin with a cocktail reception and silent auction, followed by dinner, dancing and a spectacular live auction. Tickets are $225 per person. For more info., call (561) 6833287 or visit www.bgcpbc.org.

• Palm Beach Community College will present the A.I.T. Improv Comedy Show Friday and Saturday, Dec. 5 and 6 at Stage West in the Duncan Theatre (4200 Congress Avenue, Lake Worth). Shows begin at 8 p.m. each night. Tickets are $12 general admission, $10 for seniors and $5 for students, faculty and staff. For info., call (561) 868-3309. Sunday, Dec. 7

• St. David’s-in-the-Pines Episcopal Church (465 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington) will hold its annual picnic on Sunday, Dec. 7 at 2 p.m. For info., call (561) 763-1976. Send calendar items to: The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414. FAX: (561) 7936090. E-mail: news@gotown crier.com.

Pizzano’s Pizza Restaurant Open Late In Royal Palm Beach

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

Pizzano’s Pizza opened in September in Royal Palm Beach to offer fresh Italian food with a personal and friendly flair in a family atmosphere.

Moe Chowdhury, 23, who is co-owner with his cousin Kaiser Chowdhury, grew up in Pahokee where he is co-owner of Pizzano’s Pizza & Wings with his father Delwar Chowdhury.

Unlike the Pahokee restaurant, which closes every night at 10 p.m. except on Friday — high school football night — Pizzano’s in Royal Palm Beach is open until 1 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 2 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

“We decided we wanted to try something different,” Chowdhury said. “Denny’s is open 24 hours. I think Steak & Shake is open 24 hours, so we’re just giving the community out here another selection to choose from. It’s not just pickup and delivery. You can come in and sit down and dine in. You’ve got a lot of people coming from bars who want to get something to eat on their way home, something quick.”

Chowdhury said he’ll extend the hours of his restaurant to as late as 4 or 5 a.m. if he sees more wee-hours demand for slices or pies.

“I just started a month and a half ago,” he said. “It is getting there, but the other day I actually had a dine-in until 2:30 in the morning and they were happy that we were open. They live right here in town.”

Chowdhury said he was happy to accommodate them. “Now they are going to go tell their friends,” he said. “For people to come in at that time and sit down, to me it means there is a chance there are more people out there who will come in. We’re just trying to get the word out.”

Pizzano’s Pizza makes its dough fresh every day, Chowdhury said. “We let it rise 18 hours, 24 hours and whatever we make today, we use tomorrow,” he said. “Privately owned family places do that, not the franchises. It’s fresher; it’s not frozen. And then we have our own seasoning. That’s what most people like, that’s the number-one thing they realize when

they eat our pizza, is the seasoning. I had a lady come in here for lunch and I had her come back here four hours later for dinner. She said it was the seasoning she was craving.”

Chowdhury said he gained experience working for a pizzeria chain in central Florida where he became a manager, and he has taken his cues on seasoning from his former employer.

“The seasoning they had came from a company called Spice World, and they make that seasoning for you,” he said.

“They have food shows where you go and try out different seasoning with sauces and you pick the one you like, and the one they used is the one I’m using.”

Most of the sauces are mixed every day, Chowdhury said.

“Some restaurants mix it up so the batch will last them halfway through the week,” he said. “I try to make it up little by little so it stays fresher, because when you keep it in the cooler for so long, the texture roughens up.”

Chowdhury said he tries to balance quality with affordability. His offerings include a large cheese pizza for $5.99 available every day. “I try to keep prices low so people come back,” he said. The menu offers much more than pizza, including pasta alfredo and grinder sandwiches, Chowdhury said.

“You can only eat pizza for so long, and when you’re tired of pizza, you can choose from pasta, salads, calzone and one thing that’s very rare around here is grinders,” he said.

“That’s something that once people try it, that’s all they’ll order.”

Chowdhury described a grinder as similar to a stromboli in a rectangle. “It’s fresh pizza dough laid out,” he said. “You stuff it with mushrooms, chicken Parmesan, meatballs, vegetarian, put cheese on top, wrap it over and run it through the oven. To me, to have a perfect grinder, you have to have the right amount of dough. You have to size it out in the pan. You can’t just take any size dough and put it in there. You have to have the right amount so that when you fold it over you don’t have too much or too little dough.”

And thick, thin or in between, Chowdhury said the Pizzano’s is happy to make a pizza crust any way the customer likes.

“We have thick crust, but when we have a customer who doesn’t want a thick crust or doesn’t want a thin crust, he wants a medium crust, we’ll make it the way they want it.”

Pizzano’s offers salads and lunch specials for less than $5, all served promptly. “You order and it’s ready within ten minutes,” Chowdhury said. “You don’t want to be waiting for lunch.”

Advance orders by phone are always welcome, Chowdhury said. Something he would like to try is for offices to call orders in a day ahead for delivery.

“Our deliveries are free,” Chowdhury said. “They can let us know what they want and what time they want it, so we’ll get it there at exactly that time. If I have two or three deliveries calling me at the same time, it’s hard for me to get it there on time. I’m just trying to keep it more organized. For example, people who work in government offices, it’s hard for them to leave. It they call us a day in advance, we’ll get it straight out to you, because when they get half an hour break, it’s half an hour. You want them to enjoy their food.”

Chowdhury said if his Royal Palm Beach restaurant is successful, he would like to open another one possibly in The Acreage.

“We’re interested in The Acreage because there’s population but there’s very little out there,” Chowdhury said. “We want to slowly expand, but keep the concept of the fresh dough and seasoning. When you compare us to all the others, the franchise companies, we’re more of a family. It’s family owned, and we actually talk to the customer. We talk to them while they’re waiting and make them feel comfortable.”

Chowdhury said the pizzeria chain where got his start in the restaurant business is also named Pizzano’s.

“The corporation we own is Pizzano’s Pizza,” he said. “The corporation I worked for there was Pizzano’s Pizza & Wings. When they decided to open in Sebring, I went up and was of-

fered the management position.

That’s where I started my training, and I worked there for about two years. In the two years I was there, I learned everything. I did the banking. I did ordering of food. I knew what to order. That’s where I got my experience. In the third year, I decided to open my own store with my father in Pahokee.”

Chowdhury father has a long history in Pahokee. “He used to have a convenience store and a laundromat and a gas station, then he sold it all because he’s getting ready to retire, but he helped me out opening the restaurant there,” he said.

Chowdhury said the success of the Pahokee Pizzano’s has made the second location possible.

“It’s thanks to that restaurant in Pahokee that we were able to open this one,” he said. “That restaurant we opened a year and a half ago. Because we’re the only pizza restaurant out there, we have churches, schools, we’re out there for the community. Also we do catering all the way out to South Bay. That’s about 20 miles away.”

Pizzano’s Pizza is located in the Royal Plaza at 601 Royal Palm Beach Blvd., just off Southern Blvd., and is open Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 a.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. To place an order, or for more information, call (561) 7902345.

New Pizza Guys — (Above) Pizzano’s Pizza owner Moe Chowdhury (right) with associates Jerome Moffitt (left) and Patrick Kahn. (Below) Chowdhury shows off one of his creations. PHOTOS BY RON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER

Dr. Grayhills Completes Mastership In Dentistry Class

The University of Florida College of Dentistry recently graduated its 24th continuing education mastership class in comprehensive dentistry. Among those graduated is Dr. Laurence Grayhills of Wellington and Jupiter.

The two-year mastership program engages graduate dentists in intense instruction designed to further their continuing education in the latest advanced topics in dentistry and assists them in meeting the stringent requirements of the Academy of General Dentistry fellowship and mastership certifications. Instruction includes advanced instruction in topics such as cosmetic dentistry, oral surgery and

implantology, and many others.

The mastership program at the University of Florida College of Dentistry is one of the only programs of its nature in the country, designed to assist graduate dentists to attain mastership in the Academy of General Dentistry.

Achieving mastership is a professional designation which reflects a general dentist’s ongoing commitment to provide quality care through continuing education.

The mastership designation requires passing a rigorous written examination, 1,100 hours of approved continuing education, 400 of which must be in participation courses that involve ac-

tual application of a technique or skill under close supervision by highly qualified experts in that field of dentistry.

Grayhills, a longtime resident of Jupiter, has practiced in Wellington for 20 years. When asked if this is the end of his educational pursuit, Grayhills replied, “there’s no such thing as finishing your education when practicing dentistry. At the pace technology is advancing, it takes a continuing education to stay ahead of the learning curve in providing our patients with the best and latest care. It’s a lifelong pursuit that never ends and provides the excitement that makes going to work every day invigorating.”

Wash Joins Wellington Chamber’s President’s Circle

The Wellington Chamber of Commerce recently welcomed John Wash to its exclusive President’s Circle Membership.

John Wash is president of operations at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington. In addition, Wash serves as president of operations for the Wanderers Club of Wellington, formerly known as Wellington Golf & Country Club), a private 18-hole golf course that reopened in February 2008 after a renovation conducted by Jacobsen Hardy Golf Designs and owned by IPC owner John Goodman.

Prior to moving to Florida,

Wash was vice president of operations at Bentwater Yacht & Country Club and Lochinvar Golf Club; a private men-only golf club in Houston, Texas.

Prior to living in Houston, Wash helped develop and open the Golf Club of Purchase located in Westchester, N.Y. and the Country Club of the South in Atlanta, Ga., which was developed as a residential resort club by Bob Sierra and Jack Nicklaus.

Wash grew up in New York and is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America. He is married to his wife Joy. They have four boys and a daughter who

all live in Florida. Wash is currently working on making the sport of polo more mainstream to residents of Wellington and to the Palm Beaches via additional events and a fully integrated public relations program. In addition, Wash is working on expanding the club for both public use with a new public pavilion and additional seating for the 2009 polo season as well as expansions and additions for club members which include a new clubhouse for tennis and croquet viewing, additional tennis courts, social events, and dining and spa expansions.

CCCS Offers Tips For Avoiding Holiday Debt

Retail spending this holiday season is expected to rise just 1.9 percent from last year, according to research conducted by the National Retail Federation. The average consumer plans to spend $832.36 on holiday-related shopping — just a few dollars more than the $816.69 they spent last year. The Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast offers tips to help consumers get back to basics this holiday season:

• Make a budget — Decide what you can spend before you shop. Don’t forget to include decorations, wrapping and cards, and entertainment when developing your holiday budget.

• Cut back on traditional giftgiving — Consider agreeing to forego gifts for adults this season and buy gifts just for children. If you don’t want to give up the adult gift exchange altogether, put the names of adult family members in a hat and have everyone pick a name and purchase just for that person. Agree on a spending limit and stick to it. If you traditionally buy gifts for coworkers and other friends, consider ways to reduce or eliminate spending.

• Be a smart shopper — Retailers are already beginning to offer great discounts on items. Knowing exactly what you want can help you get the best deal. If you prefer to shop in the store, closely watch the sale ads for

items on your list.

• Shop online — Online shopping can be especially useful for consumers looking for a specific item or for shoppers who can’t resist the impulse to buy. Retailers sometimes offer Internet-only specials, and many offer free shipping. And for consumers looking for layaway options for online purchases, www.elayaway.com has partnered with more than 1,000 online retailers to give consumers the option to pay over time.

• Compare prices, use coupons and look for rebates When you already know what you want, you can find the best prices by using web sites such as www.pricegrabber.com, www.bizrate.com or www.my

simon.com. For information on available rebates on consumer electronics, computer software and hardware, and other items, visit www.rebateplace.com. However, before you buy anything, look for coupons to save on in-store and online purchases.

• Don’t rule out non-traditional retailers — Thrift stores and consignment shops may offer the perfect gift at a much lower price. Also consider sites such as www.ebay.com or www. craigslist.com when you are looking for something in particular.

For more information about the Consumer Credit Counseling Service, call (800) 330CCCS or visit www.cccsinc.org.

WRMC Cancer Program Granted Three-Year Approval

The Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons has granted three-year approval with commendations to the cancer program at Wellington Regional Medical Center.

Established in 1922 by the American College of Surgeons, the Commission on Cancer is a consortium of professional organizations dedicated to improving survival rates and quality of life for cancer patients through standard-setting, prevention, research, education and the monitoring of comprehensive quality care. In order to earn approval, the cancer program at WRMC voluntarily committed to undergoing a rigorous evaluation process and review of its performance and must undergo an on-site review every three years.

In addition to the three-year approval for compliance on 36 standards, the cancer program also received three commendations for: prevention and early detection, cancer registry staff education and cancer-related improvements (technology).

“Earning this honor demonstrates our continuing commitment to high-quality cancer care,” Regional Cancer Center Medical Director Dr. Kishore K. Dass said. “Only 40 percent of the cancer programs nationwide have earned Commission on

Cancer approval, and of these, a little more than a third of them have received approval with commendations.”

Receiving care at a facility with a Commission on Cancerapproved cancer program, such as WRMC, ensures that a patient has access to:

• Quality of care, close to home

• Comprehensive care, including a range state-of-the-art services and equipment

• A multispecialty team approach to coordinate the best available treatment options

• Access to cancer-related information, education and support

• A cancer registry that collects data on type and stage of cancers and treatment results and offers lifelong patient follow-up

• Ongoing monitoring and improvements in cancer care

“We are really proud to, once again, receive the highest level award from the Commission on Cancer,” Wellington Regional Medical Center CEO Kevin DiLallo said. “It is an assurance to patients and loved ones that you don’t need to travel far from home to receive cancer treatment; quality care is available right in your community.”

For more information about the Regional Cancer Center at WRMC, call (561) 793-6500.

The Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners recently approved a processing fee for small businesses that apply for certification, modification of certification or recertification granted for three years. Up to 10 percent additional consideration is awarded to county-certified small businesses that participate in contracting opportunities. Effective Jan. 2, 2009, the Palm Beach County Office of Small Business Assistance will impose a non-refundable

fee in the amount of $150 for processing each application. Payment can be made in the form of a money order or cashier’s check and should be made payable to the PBC Board of County Commissioners. Only applications submitted with the payment will be processed. For more information on the nonrefundable application fee, call Tonya Davis Johnson at (561) 616-6840. Applications and renewal forms are available online at www.pbcgov.com/osba.

John Wash

Dr. Laurence Grayhills

JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT’S ‘WATCH A RISING STAR’

“Watch a Rising Star,” the annual fundraiser for Junior Achievement of the Palm Beaches, was held on Friday, Nov. 14 at the Borland Center in Palm Beach Gardens. The event will benefit Junior Achievement programs. One of the highlights of the evening was a performance by five talented youngsters: Matthew Bischoff, Meghan Clancy, Joseph Maldonado, Amy Patterson Rigell and Jessica Taylor, all of whom are enrolled as seniors in Palm Beach County high schools. The evening’s other highlight was the recognition of philanthropist, Rotarian and attorney Joseph Farish Jr. and his wife Loreen. Celebrity judges included Anna Keith, Debra Ball, Natalie Khan Toewe and Zach Schwartz. Master of ceremonies was J.D. of WIRK 107.9 FM and Junior Achievement President James Gavrilos served as auctioneer.

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

Furniture Donation — A patient at the Alzheimer’s Community Care Association daycare facility relaxes in one of the eight chairs donated by Palm Beach Contract Furniture.

Palm Beach Contract Furniture Supports Alzheimer’s Patients

Palm Beach Contract Furniture of Wellington has provided a daycare facility in Riviera Beach a special recliner that improves the lives of Alzheimer’s patients.

The furniture store’s founder Al Paglia said the eight chairs are the first installations for Alzheimer’s Community Care Association facilities in Palm Beach, St. Lucie and Martin counties.

Alzheimer’s Community Care Specialized Day Services Vice President Ron Radcliffe said the state-of-the-art Primacare recliner “allows our patients to be comfortable while still being actively engaged in a group setting.”

The nonprofit group provides daycare centers and services for Alzheimer patient caregivers.

Palm Beach Contract Furniture is the first dealer to sell, service and install the special recliner in the State of Florida, according to George Hafner, territory manager for Global Group of Canada, which recently launched the Primacare line.

The sleek recliners are designed with controls that are easy to reach and operate. The chair provides built-in lower lumbar support and raises the patient’s legs to relieve swelling. The recliner plays an important part in slowing the progress of Alzheimer’s disease by allevi-

ating pain so that the patients stay social and engaged. “Patients have a spirited discussion of who can sit in the recliner,” Radcliffe said.

Alzheimer’s Community Care Executive Director Mary Barnes chose the Primacare recliner because it is specifically made for seniors and handicapped individuals. “We have ordered them for the daycare facilities because of their durability and quality,” she said. “The State of Florida requires that patients have a place to rest. This recliner offers an excellent option for meeting that requirement. Much of the piping and stitch detail found in traditional furniture has been eliminated so that they are easily cleaned and wiped down.”

For more information about Alzheimer’s Community Care, visit www.alzcare.org or contact Barnes at (561) 683-2700. Palm Beach Contract Furniture is a customer-driven furniture provider that serves businesses, healthcare facilities, churches, schools and the hospitality industry. Its mission is to serve customers’ needs and budgets with quality ergonomic products that will last as the organizations grow and applications change. For more information, visit www.pbcfi.com or contact Paglia at (561) 7936789.

Loreen and Joe Farish.

David and Kay Dunn of Wellington.Ken and Deb Cunningham with their daughter Kyleigh.

Junior Achievement of New York President Doug Schallau with Junior Achivement of the Greater Palm Beaches President Jim Gavrilos.

The five young performers on stage.

TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS