Town-Crier Newspaper November 29, 2013

RPB KEEPS FOCUS ON NEW FEMA MAPS SEE STORY, PAGE 3

SALTALAMACCHIA TO LEAD DEC. 8 PARADE SEE STORY, PAGE 7

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TOWN-CRIER WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE

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INSIDE Historian Recalls County’s Early Agricultural Start

Volume 34, Number 48 November 29 - December 5, 2013

TURKEY DRIVE IN ROYAL PALM BEACH

Author, attorney, historian and fifth-generation Palm Beach County resident Harvey Oyer III spoke about the history of agriculture in Palm Beach County at the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce’s Farm City Luncheon held Nov. 20 at the South Florida Fairgrounds Expo Center. Page 3

Johnson’s Custom Cakes & Bacio Bacio Host Expansion Party

Johnson’s Custom Cakes & More and Bacio Bacio Bridal Salon hosted a grand expansion party at Kobosko’s Crossing on Monday, Nov. 18. Both shops showcased their new showrooms to the public. Page 5

Lox Groves Staff Talks Pitfalls Of ‘Government Lite’ At LGLA Meeting

Representatives from Underwood Management Services Group, the contracted management company for the Town of Loxahatchee Groves, gave a presentation last week to the Loxahatchee Groves Landowners’ Association on the town’s progress and evolution since its incorporation in 2006. Page 7

Royal Palm Beach Hosts Fall Fantasy Craft Show

The Village of Royal Palm Beach presented its 12th annual Fall Fantasy Craft Show on Saturday, Nov. 23 at Veterans Park. Talented, local crafters offered a wide array of handmade items.

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OPINION Take Time To Enjoy The Holiday Season

This week officially kicks off the holiday season, ushering in a time of festive cheer and joy.

While it’s easy to get swept up in the stress of the holidays, it’s important we remember to slow down and enjoy being with those we love. Page 4 DEPARTMENT INDEX NEWS ............................. 3 - 10 OPINION ................................. 4 CRIME NEWS ......................... 6 PEOPLE ............................... 11 SCHOOLS ..................... 12 - 13 COLUMNS ..................... 14, 21 NEWS BRIEFS ..................... 15 BUSINESS .................... 22 - 23 SPORTS ........................ 27 - 29 CALENDAR .......................... 30 CLASSIFIEDS ................ 30 - 34 Visit Us On The Web At WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

The 2013 Turkey Drive hosted by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, Publix, BlueBell ice cream and WRMF was held on Saturday, Nov. 23 outside the Publix store in Royal Palm Beach’s Crossroads Plaza. The event collected turkeys or monetary donations, collecting enough to give more than 525 turkeys to families in need. Shown here are Bobbi Acra of Publix, PBSO Deputy John DeLaura, WRMF DJ Deena Lang and Diane Smith of the PBSO. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 16 PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

New RPB Skate Park A Great Success, But Helmets An Issue

By Ron Bukley Town Crier Staff Report Royal Palm Beach Parks & Recreation Director Lou Recchio said Monday that he is glad the recently competed skateboard park on Sweet Bay Lane across from the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center is getting a lot of use, although it is an effort to make sure the skaters use helmets.

The $100,000 park, approved by the council last year and completed in October, was requested by local skateboarders, who petitioned the Royal Palm Beach Village Council for a place to skateboard freely, unharassed by shopping center owners or law enforcement.

“I’m very pleased as far as how the facility is being used,” Recchio said at a Royal Palm Beach Recreation Advisory Board meeting.

“When you talk to the kids out there, they love it. If you recall, we had a group of teenagers who actually designed the type of ramps and obstacles they wanted.”

The new skateboard park had been an underutilized 15,000square-foot roller hockey rink.

“We’re always looking at different avenues,” Recchio said. “Instead of having something just sit there, we’ll make use of it the best we can.”

The skateboard park has no formal supervision, but he stressed that helmets are required. “Shirts and shoes are required and registration is required,” Recchio said.

“We fight this battle every day. It’s not for us; it’s for the kids’ protection.”

Recchio said he would love to bring in a group of professional skateboarders for a demonstration.

“Professionals wear helmets, and we’ve had this discussion with the kids. Every night we see these kids out there and we say, ‘Guys, you have to wear helmets.’”

The village spent about $2,000 for signage informing skateboarders of the rules. “The rules and regulations are posted at the entrance,” Recchio said. “Six signs inside the facility tell you that helmets are required and skate at your own risk. I can’t say it enough — helmets are required.”

Skaters must register to use the park, and those under age 18 must have their parents sign for them.

“There is no fee,” he said. “We were going to charge a $25 fee just for the year,” he said. “We decided not to. Let the kids use it. The kids come out to play basketball, and we don’t charge them to use our basketball courts. We waive the fee and they get a sticker to put on their helmet.”

Skateboarders 18 and older are also required to register. “This is state statute,” Recchio said.

“Eighteen and over, you still need to wear a helmet. They will stand there and argue with you that they’re over 18, and we tell them that their head can crack open just like a 10-year-old.”

Recchio said that skateboarders will tell you they get a bad rap and everybody is picking on them.

“This is an example,” he said.

“They need to follow rules.”

The council approved $100,000 to put in a facility where they could skateboard in a safe environment, not in shopping centers where they could injure a pedestrian, and not in a park where they are destroying property.

“They are in a setting that was made for this type of activity,” Recchio said. “I’ve got to commend the council for moving forward with this, because I think there were a lot of doubters. I think there are still doubters out there that this will work, and I’m hoping we can prove them wrong.”

Committee Member John Riordan asked whether there is any type of enforcement other than random checks, and Recchio said it’s an honor system.

“That’s why we state out there, See SKATE PARK, page 16

Winterfest 2013 Will Bring Crowds To PBIEC Nov. 30

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Winterfest 2013, the free, family holiday event, returns Saturday, Nov. 30 to the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington, offering a wonderland of holiday fun for the community to enjoy.

In its fourth year, the event is expected to draw more than 5,000 people to enjoy snow, bounce houses, food and performances from both local talent and celebrity performers Vanilla Ice and The Voice’s Michaela Paige.

“This year is going to be great,” Event Chairman Dr. Randy Laurich said. “It’s exciting to be a part of something that has grown so much. I’m glad to be able to chair it. Last year, we were close to ca-

pacity, and I expect this year will be even bigger.”

The event kicks off at 6 p.m. at the show grounds off Pierson Road, and runs until 10 p.m., with plenty for families to enjoy. The event is free and open to the public.

Winterfest has been a hit in the community since it premiered four years ago as an extension of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce’s annual tree lighting ceremony. In its first year, more than 4,000 people flocked to the Wellington Amphitheater. Because of the overwhelming response from the community, the event moved to the larger venue last year.

“It’s such a neat community event,” Laurich said. “Even though it falls on the weekend af-

ter Thanksgiving, it’s really a great time for it. It gives it such a family atmosphere, and you can bring your whole family, including your out-of-town guests, for an exciting and fun night.”

Children can enjoy their own area with bounce houses, carriage rides, reindeer and more. There will also be a business expo, vendors, a show jumping competition and other activities.

“We’re going to have a salute to the troops, which we have done in the past, but this year will be bigger with more troops involved, and a skydiver as well,” Laurich said. “We’ll have triple the snow this year for our winter wonderland.”

There is also the popular Food See WINTERFEST, page 16

Serving Palms West Since 1980

Equestrian Village Pierson Access OK With PBSO’s Help

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Owners of the Equestrian Village site can open its Pierson Road access as early as this weekend, but must hire additional Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office deputies to help ease traffic and horse crossings, the Wellington Village Council decided Tuesday.

The vote to amend the specialuse permit for the site to allow access by trailers and competitors was unanimous.

Wellington Equestrian Partners, the entity that owns the dressage site on the corner of South Shore Blvd. and Pierson Road, will have to pay the deputies to be stationed at the site for two hours before and after each event, when the Pierson Road access is open. The stipulation will remain until show promoters install a flashing yellow

signaled beacon that will allow riders to cross the street safely.

“I want to do what’s right for this community, for the equestrian industry and, most importantly, for the safety of the people using Pierson Road,” said Councilman John Greene, who suggested the stipulation.

When council members agreed to a settlement offer last month to quell the lawsuits that have plagued Wellington, they agreed to let show promoters request the ability to use the Pierson Road site access so long as certain conditions were met in the land development regulations that were passed in July.

Representatives from Wellington Equestrian Partners filed a request to amend the special-use permit for the equestrian season See PIERSON, page 16

SALSAFEST RETURNS

The Central Palm Beach Chamber of Commerce and the South Florida Ford Dealers hosted the seventh annual SalsaFest on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 23 and 24 at Greenacres CommuSee GROVES, nity Park. Shown here, Scott Stephens, Abigail Cruz andpage Nya16 Ititch enjoy the festival. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 7 PHOTO BY DAMON WEBB/TOWN-CRIER

Split ITID Board Supports Dunkley’s Choice Of Riccio

By Ron Bukley Town Crier Staff Report The Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors moved ahead Nov. 20 on a request

by Supervisor Gary Dunkley for an assistant in his position as treasurer to help with a financial newsletter.

However, Dunkley’s selection of former ITID Supervisor Penny Riccio for that position drew sharp objections from Supervisor Michelle Damone.

Damone and Riccio are longtime political foes. Riccio unseated Damone in 2002 and served one four-year term on the ITID board.

Damone regained an ITID board seat in 2004 and clashed with Riccio for the next two years.

In 2006, Riccio chose not to seek re-election to the ITID board, opting instead to mount an independent run for the Palm Beach County Commission. She took 5.5 percent of the vote, coming in a distant third in a three-way race won

by Jess Santamaria.

In a 3-2 decision at its October meeting, the board had approved

the request for a Dunkley assistant. The position was designed to help Dunkley as he recovers from a recent hospital stay. “[Residents] used to get updates on our financial statements until the year 2006,” Dunkley said.

“As the treasurer, I’d like to enact where the residents of The Acreage will be able to get a quarterly statement; a treasurer’s report of what your money is being used for. The transparency needs to be there.”

He explained that Riccio published a quarterly report when she was a supervisor. “She volunteered to try and put together our first treasurer’s report,” Dunkley said.

He said there are some big-ticket items the board has discussed that he believes residents should be aware of. “I’m not here to run your money,” Dunkley said. “I’m here because you trust my decisions, but in my decisions, I would like to make it more open.”

ITID Vice President Carol Jacobs asked about a purchase orSee ITID, page 4

Church Food Pantry Keeps Families Fed For The Holiday

John Spillane of the Royal Palm Beach Rotary Club (left), Pastor Mike Rose (third from left), PBSO Deputy Doug Carranza and Rhonda Ferrin-Davis from MBSK (right) with volunteers from Florida Public Utilities.

PHOTO BY LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report More than 500 families enjoyed a Thanksgiving meal this week thanks to the efforts of the Royal Palm Covenant Church, My Brother’s/Sister’s Keeper Charitable Trust and the Royal Palm Beach Rotary Club, along with other organizations that donated to the church’s food pantry.

“We don’t like to see anyone go without,” said Pastor Michael Rose, who has helped those in need through the church for more than a decade. “I’m here almost 11 years now, and since I’ve been here, we’ve done this food drive every year at Thanksgiving.”

Volunteers gathered Tuesday, Nov. 26 at the church to pack boxes of food, including a turkey, and distribute them to members of the community.

“If there is something that people need, something to supplement their finances, this is one of the ways we feel we can help,” Rose said. “We try not to turn anyone away who needs help. After all, we call this ‘a place of hope.’”

The church partnered this year with My Brother’s/Sister’s Keeper Charitable Trust, the Royal Palm Beach Rotary Club, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, Palms West Hospital, Home Depot, Grace Fellowship Church, Flor-

ida Public Utilities, J&J Produce and other donors to ensure everyone on their list had enough for a Thanksgiving feast.

“They help us to make it happen every year,” Rose said.

“We’re very grateful for all their contributions.”

From cornbread to macaroni and cheese, and even fresh produce, the church ensured that needy community members would have enough for the holiday.

Rose noted that he wanted to provide not only substantial meals, but healthy meals, which included fresh produce. Recipients were given everything from cuSee FOOD PANTRY, page 16

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November 29 - December 5, 2013

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NEWS

RPB Continues Effort To Get FEMA More Accurate Flood Maps

By Ron Bukley Town Crier Staff Report Royal Palm Beach Vice Mayor Jeff Hmara told his fellow council members at their meeting Nov. 21 that he attended the annual Palm Beach County League of Cities Legislative Delegation Roundtable on Nov. 20, where a key item of discussion was the new Federal Emergency Management Agency flood maps and their impact on flood insurance.

“We suggested to a number of the members of the legislature that more letters is better,” Hmara said.

“The more people who weighin on the need to give us more time to ensure fair consideration and accurate maps, the better our chances are of being able to ensure that we have an accurate

representation of the flood risk in this area.”

Hmara said that FEMA’s initial map revisions are considered by many to be flawed.

“We’re working on coming up with our own specific municipal input, but there are 38 total municipalities in the county and there’s a dozen different water management districts, a lot of different organizations, all of whom have some responsibility to send an accurate picture to FEMA... so there’s a lot of work to be done.”

Hmara said Palm Beach County’s congressional delegation has signed and delivered a second letter to FEMA asking for more time to study the maps.

“You may remember the first letter resulted in an extension of

the time line, and so we’re hoping that this new letter will also help us in getting an extension on the deadline, which is currently Nov. 30,” he said. “However, we are not planning for that, so one of the things that I think our village manager is going to discuss is where we are in preparing our input to FEMA, and the results of a meeting with a FEMA contractor that took place yesterday.”

Village Manager Ray Liggins said progress is being made getting flood maps that show fewer homes in flood zones, explaining that his staff is prepared to submit a report showing far fewer homes in flood zones based on findings of a C-51 Basin study made public recently by the South Florida Water Management District.

“Chris Marsh, our village engineer, met with FEMA and went over that submittal,” Liggins said.

“From where we started, we have about 12,000 parcels in the Village of Royal Palm Beach. We started with about 80 percent of those parcels touching or some part of those parcels being in the flood plain.

With the current information that we’re using, we’re down to about 50 percent. There are several different elevation models that we have been using.”

Liggins said that more up-todate elevation models are still coming in, adding that village staff has been able to apply its own maps to new developments, such as PortoSol, where the FEMA maps still show the property as wooded areas.

“The submittal will still probably be about 50 percent of the parcels or some piece of those parcels being in the flood plain,” Liggins said. “As time goes on, we’re still hoping we’ll be given more time, and the data will get better and better.”

Mayor Matty Mattioli said he bought his property 30 years ago and was not in a high-risk flood zone and did not understand why it would be now.

“In the last 24 or 48 hours it became a flood zone? How did that happen?” Mattioli asked.

“Did my property sink or did the water rise?”

Liggins said the original maps that were established for the area did not have Royal Palm Beach in the flood zone. “It was based

on the original engineering that was done for this town back in the 1950s and ’60s,” he said.

“This is a new mapping effort, and conditions have changed on the C-51 [Canal]… The goal is to get the 1 percent risk as accurate as possible.”

Hmara added that there are a couple of initiatives underway on Capitol Hill, including a bill that would require an affordability study by FEMA to have a clear understanding of what the economic impact is.

“Apparently, that hasn’t been done yet, and unfortunately they are running into bit of a headwind,” Hmara said. “It looks questionable whether or not they are going to succeed, which makes our efforts even more important.”

Historian Recalls County’s Rudimentary Agricultural Start

By Ron Bukley Town Crier Staff Report Author, attorney, historian and fifth-generation Palm Beach County resident Harvey Oyer III spoke about the history of agriculture in Palm Beach County at the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce’s Farm City Luncheon held Nov. 20 at the South Florida Fairgrounds Expo Center.

Oyer said the county’s agricultural history is complex and difficult to cover in brief because it began long before the county existed.

“It continues today, and it is the greatest economic engine this county has ever known,” he said.

“It predated building construction, life sciences and tourism.”

Agriculture in Palm Beach County started with the Seminole Indians. While they were largely nomadic and lived predominantly off marine resources, they would move seasonally to the lake area.

“They did harvest some crops, primarily sweet potatoes, but they were not big agriculturalists,” Oyer said.

Pioneers arrived beginning in the 1870s, including his family, who lived on Hypoluxo Island in a home made from shipwrecked timbers with a thatched roof of palmetto fronds.

“They did practice agriculture because they had no choice,” he said. “There were no stores. The nearest store was 120 miles north

in a place called Sand Point. Today we call it Titusville.”

The next closest store was in Key West, which was three weeks round trip by boat. “We had to live off of whatever we could grow, hunt for or fish for,” Oyer said.

They farmed on the island, at first sweet potatoes and Indian pumpkins, a small, orange pumpkin the Seminoles taught them how to grow. Slowly, early pioneers began to diversify crops.

“One of the things we tried were pineapples, and that was very successful,” he said. “Pineapples grow nicely in that white sugar sand on the east side of the county.”

In the 1870s, Oyer’s greatgrand-uncle was hired to plant 6,000 pineapple slips acquired in Key West. “That’s a pretty arduous task, to plant 6,000 pineapple slips, but he did, and it was the commencement of one of the great ag industries that doesn’t exist any longer,” he said. “For a long time, Palm Beach County was the center of pineapple production in the universe, and it commenced with my family.”

Early pioneers also experimented with growing sugarcane.

“We planted the cane, and it was sort of a cooperative effort along with two other families,” Oyer recalled. “A family called Lainhart, which if you’re familiar with the oldest business in Palm Beach County, it’s a hardware store called Lainhart & Potter.”

The other participant was Elisha Newton Dimick, also known as Cap Dimick, who was not a captain but was the first mayor of the Town of Palm Beach.

“He was the original platter of the town, and a very bad speller, by the way. If you ever notice, Cocoanut Row is misspelled. A whole bunch of streets are misspelled,” Oyer said.

The three families decided they were going to grow and mill sugarcane all over the barrier island and Hypoluxo Island.

They couldn’t afford to buy a mill, but Lainhart had a large piece of mahogany and decided he was going to build a mill.

“We went to a great deal of effort, and just when we had that

done, we realized we didn’t have a kettle to boil the juice after we ground the cane. We cooperatively pooled our money and bought this large copper kettle.”

The grinder, which was powered by a mule, worked perfectly, but they got a rude surprise when they boiled down the juice.

“After a yearlong investment of time and money the cane juice tasted like salt because we had grown the sugarcane on the barrier island,” he said. “Unbeknownst to us, it was sucking the salt water.

The more we boiled this stuff, the more it tasted like salt. It was an utterly failed experiment. No one would try sugarcane again for another 50 years in this area.”

One outstanding agricultural

(Above) The South Florida Fair’s Rick Vymlatil enjoys food grown in South Florida, served by Kyrsten Willingham and Andrea Onley.

(Left) Harvey Oyer III with Mary Lou Bedford of the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce. PHOTOS BY RON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER success came about totally by whatever you grew to market, it accident. was spoiled,” Oyer said. “We had “We can grow a lot of crops a stroke of luck in January 1878, here,” Oyer said. “We have just when a Spanish ship called the about the best growing climate Providencia ran aground on a reef in America. We get three or four just off Palm Beach. My family growing cycles a year here. In the and two other families were the Midwest, all those other farmers first on the scene, and under U.S. get one growing cycle. We have salvage law at the time, you were perfect sunshine, precipitation, allowed to lay claim to a majority but we had a problem in the early of the cargo.” pioneer days. Whatever we grew The captain and crew were evenwould spoil before we could get it tually saved by another passing to market.” vessel, and the families stripped The nearest market was Jack- the ship down to the waterline. sonville, which was about a three- What they found in the hold was week trip.

20,000 coconuts being transported “Henry Flagler hadn’t put a from Trinidad to Spain. railroad in yet, there was no In“Everyone scratched their heads tracoastal Waterway, no inland and said, ‘What are we going to do See FARM CITY, page 16 road, so by the time you got

Page 4 November 29 - December 5, 2013

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OUR OPINION

Take Time To Visit Local Festivities And Enjoy The Holiday Season This week officially kicked off the holiday season, ushering in a time of festive cheer and joy.

With Thanksgiving behind us and Hanukkah in full swing, it’s less than a month until we roll through Christmas and on to New Year’s Eve. It’s easy to get swept up in the stress of the holidays. There are presents to be purchased and wrapped, birds to be stuffed, candles to be lit, lights to be strung and, of course, merriment to be had. While all the traditions of the holidays certainly get us in the right spirit, it’s important we remember to slow down and enjoy being with those we love.

The holidays are about bringing families together and showing our appreciation for one another, whether you’re separated by thousands of miles or simply minutes down the road. Sometimes, in the mad dash for the perfect present or the quest for the perfect latkes, we forget that it’s the people who matter, not the things we get and give.

Our local community has plenty of opportunities this holiday season to spend time with family, making memories with events that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re looking to get out for a night and let someone else do the cooking, or to celebrate with friends and neighbors, there is something for everyone on the calendar.

The events kick off this Saturday evening at 6 p.m. with Winterfest at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (3401 Equestrian Club Rd.). The event is free and open to the public, and offers plenty of fun for children and adults. There will be a winter wonderland with snow, carriage rides and reindeer, as well as a performance by celebrity Vanilla Ice and an

appearance by Santa Claus. For info., visit www.wellingtonchamber.com/winterfest-2013.

Then, on Sunday, Dec. 1, the Wellington Jewish Center will host a free Hanukkah party from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) The event will feature a free holiday concert and menorah lighting. There will also be kosher foods, games, face painting and more. For more info., call (561) 333-4663.

Royal Palm Beach will hold its annual Holiday Festival of Lights next weekend on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park (11600 Poinciana Blvd.).

It will be a day of free family fun with local talent performing, food trucks, a skating rink, snow, rides and more. Santa Claus will also stop by. For more info., visit www.royalpalmbeach.com.

The following day, the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce will present the Wellington Holiday Parade at 2:30 p.m. along Forest Hill Blvd. between Wellington Trace and South Shore Blvd. The event is a family favorite, featuring floats, local school bands, organizations and more. The free event is open to everyone, and will highlight all of the western communities in its floats. For more info., visit www.cpbchamber.com.

There are, of course, numerous other events put on during the season to give our communities some holiday cheer. Check out the Town-Crier’s weekly community calendar to keep up on all the events.

No matter what you choose to do this festive time of year, we wish you a bright and happy holiday season!

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Thanks To Staff And Council For Dog Park

In these times of conflict and confrontation in our nation’s capital and our village hall, it is nice to be able to say thanks for good deeds and good work.

I want to thank Wellington staff and council members for planning and implementing an outstanding plan for our village’s dog park and bringing it to a level that makes it if not the best, one of the best in all of South Florida. For many residents, whose children have left home, or those who have retired here, they are empty nesters either in retirement or working the last years of their careers. Dogs have become very important to them, and spending time with them has become an important part of their lives. The dog park is the secondmost-used village recreational facility behind Village Park. Whole social networks and friendships have grown up around frequent users of the dog park, as daily schedules and time spent talking to neighbors and other residents has become commonplace in the friendly confines of the pooch park.

On any given evening or morning, there are more than 100 residents and their pets utilizing the three size areas of the park.

The village has made major improvements over the last seven to eight months, with covered pavil-

ions, walking trails and additional trees and benches. Jim Barnes and all of his operational staff have done an outstanding job in maintaining the current level of cleanliness and function, plus have done a great job of adding renovations and amenities that have moved the park to a superior level of service. Just as many residents have met their neighbors at the soccer fields in earlier years, they have met their neighbors and friends at the dog park in the later years, finding friendship and social time in our great village.

Special thanks to Mayor Bob Margolis. For those not around in the late 1990s, Mayor Margolis was the driving force behind the start of the dog park as a Parks & Recreation Advisory Board member, and later as a councilman, saw the park to fruition and lobbied for continued improvements against sometimes heavy opposition. Mr. Mayor, thank you for your support.

As we move forward, maybe we can eliminate the conflict and confrontation, and start again with making this the best community in Florida, just like we did with the dog dark. Happy holidays to all in Wellington.

Steve Haughn Wellington

Support For Steven Abrams

My support for [Palm Beach

County] Mayor Steven Abrams is not based on partisan politics.

Rather, it is based on his history of public service and his high level of performance. Mayor Steven Abrams is perhaps the best thing that has happened to Palm Beach County and Florida since Henry Morrison Flagler created the Florida East Coast Railway.

Also, my support for Mayor Abrams is not because he is Harvard educated and, like myself, also a lawyer. My trust in Mayor Abrams stems from the many hours that I watched him lead the commission with humility. He has the ability to endure provocation without becoming annoyed or upset, and above all, he remains focused on the important issues and is not distracted by petty partisan politics. In a word, he is “unflappable.”

Moreover, we all know who Steven Abrams is and what he has accomplished. On his watch, the commission functions effectively and with decorum. On his watch, the county is now financially sound. If anything, he is stingy with taxpayer money but generous to those who are truly in need of assistance.

More than anyone in recent memory, he has suggested ways to make government more efficient and less expensive. He listens politely to diverse opinions and speaks without a hint of sarcasm.

Mayor Abrams is not only a leader, he is also a team player. He is an

eloquent speaker and, in the highly contentious area of politics, he dignifies his office by respecting the views of the other members of the commission, and has treated each of them with the respect that they deserve. Mayor Steven Abrams is a born leader, and we are blessed by his service to our community.

Frank Morelli Wellington

Speaking About Punctuation...

First of all, kudos to Glenn Waters for the witty and innovative letter in last week’s Town-Crier concerning punctuation and our president’s healthcare initiative.

The letter ends with “Mr. President, I really do not need your help, period.”

Sadly, that is not the case for millions of Americans. How quickly we have forgotten the injustices and greed of many of our healthcare insurance providers.

Dropping sick people, refusing those with pre-existing conditions, refusing payment contractually agreed upon and dramatic policy premium increases, far ahead of inflation.

Now where is the plan — any plan — by the dissenters? The Republicans had the time for over 40 votes to repeal the law, but no time to write their own; and years later, still nary a peep on the subject except “no.”

Oh, by the way, the majority of these healthcare law ideas were written years ago by a conservative (Republican) think tank, the Heritage Foundation. But now that President Obama, a Democrat, heaven forbid, proffered it, it became unpalatable.

Americans pay more for medical care than any other nation, yet we have a higher mortality rate for children and a lower life expectancy for adults among all developed nations.

Now, the letter writer makes a good point for periods, but what of the more demonstrative exclamation points and question marks?

Are they not deserving?

For example, President Bush during his reign presided over a financial collapse, a housing collapse, a second Iraq war based upon falsehoods, slowing a war

in Afghanistan to promote the war in Iraq only to lose ground and force us to have another “surge” in Afghanistan — both wars of which we are losing and will lose, leaving the Middle East more volatile. And I would be remiss if I didn’t mention hurricane Katrina, another failed response!

Now for the question mark: if one were to compare the actions of the two presidents, one who starts wars, a disastrous economic collapse and a slovenly hurricane assistance response to that of another president, who merely tried to help millions who are suffering because of a broken healthcare system, which is of more importance? Which is more demonstrative, periods or exclamation and question marks?

George Unger Wellington

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

OPINION

Think Black Friday Holds The Shopping Record? Think Again!

So you had a notion that the really big shopping day worldwide was America’s “Black Friday.”

Think again, my friends. Recently, Chinese shoppers spent at least $5.7 billion in an online shopping spree on “Singles Day,” loosely is akin to our Valentine’s Day.

Footloose and...

By Jules W. Rabin

Chinese “Singles Day” started in the 1990s as something of an anti-Valentine’s Day promotion. It highlighted dinner or drinks among unmarried friends.

A few years later, Chinese online shopping giant Alibaba turned the gig into an online shopping

windfall. In China, where males outnumber the opposite sex by about 34 million, there’s an endless line of lonely hearts who love to shop on line.

This year’s Alibaba sites struck gold with more than 400 million visitors, They bought anything

and everything from mobile phones to “boyfriend pillows.”

One gal paid a $820,000 deposit for a 13.3-carat diamond ring estimated to be worth $3.3 million.

The retailing giant was happy to announce it sold two million pairs of underwear and 1.6 million

bras — all before lunch! Alibaba, which is currently planning an IPO (initial public offering) is also said to be planning a couple of new “Singles Day” shopping events.

When and where can I get my hands on some of the new Alibaba stock?

ports the newsletter. What I don’t support is the person doing the newsletter. What I don’t support is the process we went through. It was less than transparent.”

Damone said there were issues with the distribution of the newsletter and its content when Riccio published it.

“It was less than transparent then, and it will be less than transparent now,” Damone said. “There will be abuse of the newsletters. I hope the board will have a chance to review it. This woman does not follow rules.”

Hager said she favored a newsletter because it is more “in your face” than the web site where residents have to seek out the information.

Dunkley said that Riccio was being unfairly attacked, pointing out that she had never been arrested and had no criminal record.

“She can do the job; she did the job before,” Dunkley said.

“That is my entire problem, that she is going to do what she did before,” Damone said. “I’ve been down this road before. There’s three of you up for election next year. She will abuse the position [and] the newsletter.”

Damone said the newsletter had been used in the past to support candidates Riccio favored. “Little things like that that might not land

you in jail, but are still unethical,” Damone said. “You guys weren’t here. You weren’t active then.”

In other business, ITID Engineer Jay Foy announced to a round of applause by residents that new flood maps produced by the South Florida Water Management showed significantly fewer homes in The Acreage to be in a flood zone than recently published Federal Emergency Management Agency flood maps.

Foy said all the homes in the M2 Basin are now out of the flood zone, whereas most of them were in it before, thanks to data recently released by the South Florida Water Management District.

“I talked to FEMA, and they say they will accept this,” Foy said, displaying maps generated by LIDAR (light detection and ranging) technology showing all but a few Acreage homes not to be flooded in a heavy storm. “These homes will no longer need flood insurance.”

Foy cautioned that mortgagers and insurers might say a homeowner needs flood insurance because there is flooding on the property, but that is not the case. “This is South Florida, and that’s what’s supposed to happen,” Foy said.

“Your house isn’t supposed to flood, but your lot is. That’s where the fight comes in.”

NEWS ITID

Riccio To Do Newsletter

continued from page 1 der that was placed for $1,000 for Riccio to publish the report, and Dunkley said the order had been canceled because they had decided she would publish the first report voluntarily, and then they would discuss compensation.

ITID Manager Jim Shallman explained that a purchase order is made if an expense is anticipated, but no check was issued. He clarified that the purchase order still exists.

Dunkley said he took full responsibility for hiring Riccio, pointing out that as treasurer, he is entitled by statutes to an office, stamps and a deputy.

“It doesn’t say that I have to go to anyone for this permission,” he said. “Once the board says I can have this, based on the statutes, I chose Penny Riccio.”

ITID President Jennifer Hager said some people were wondering why a current staff member could not publish the report. ITID Attorney Mary Viator said that option is available and that the district now has a finance director who could do it. “That is an option,” she said. “However, Mr. Dunkley

is the treasurer, and the board did authorize going forward with that.”

Dunkley said Riccio would not have direct access to financial activities. “Any fiduciary responsibilities fall on my shoulders,” he said.

Shallman added that after the first successful distribution of the newsletter, with board consensus, $20 per hour with no benefits might be discussed. “That was the figure I came up with, without benefits, without vacation, anything else. If it’s a success, we come back to the board for consideration,” he said.

Damone said despite Dunkley’s accepting responsibility, the decision would reflect on the entire board.

“This board selected and chose Mr. Dunkley as treasurer,” Damone said. “Three of you voted to support Mr. Dunkley getting an assistant. When asked to declare who that person was, and he knew last month, he chose not to. For a person who ran on transparency and refused in public to state who that person was, and three people on this board went ahead and gave their votes for him to be able to do that, so therefore it reflects three of your votes. It also still reflects all five of us, because at the end of the day, we are all responsible for

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the tax dollars of this district.”

Damone alleged that Riccio had acted irresponsibly in the past. “I have a very thick folder over here, and I have a thicker one at home, and that includes some false unemployment claims when she was a supervisor here at the district,” Damone said. “I have a problem with the person you chose. I have a problem spending $1,000. I think staff should do it. I’m not debating whether a financial newsletter should be printed or not, but I do not like the way that this board conducted it.”

Supervisor Ralph Bair said the district is prepared to spend $10,000 to $30,000 for web site improvements with a lot of additional information. “To put out a quarterly newsletter, that’s three months behind,” Bair said. “You put it on the web site, and it’s updated every month.”

Dunkley said he asked staff to do updates to the web site but said some people are not able to get on the Internet.

He added that Damone had made an assumption that he had already selected Riccio to do the newsletter.

“I had more than one person in mind, and I decided when I wanted to,” Dunkley said. “That’s a personal attack, but we are dealing with a newsletter that she has

previous knowledge of what we are about to do.”

Jacobs made a motion to make the discussion an agenda item because there were some residents who wanted to comment, which carried 5-0.

During public input, resident Anne Kuhl said she had no problem with a quarterly newsletter because the information being published is already public. “I really don’t understand why anyone would be that concerned, for just putting that information in a good format that everyone can understand,” Kuhl said.

Resident Patricia Curry also supported a quarterly newsletter and would like to see one with more general information. “We have a lot of residents who just have no idea of what Indian Trail Improvement District is and what it does,” Curry said. “Most of the people have no idea they pay taxes to Indian Trail.”

Jacobs said she would like to get more information on how many hours it would take to produce and how much the postage would be. “I think people would like something with not just finances,” she said.

Damone said the newsletter was to detract from a more covert intent. “I love the smoke and mirrors,” she said. “Everybody sup-

EDITORIAL STAFF/ Chris Felker • Denise Fleischman • Damon Webb

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Periodicals Postage Paid at West Palm Beach, FL. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The TownCrier, c/o Newspaper Publishers Inc., 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 334147458.

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news

Johnson’s Custom Cakes & Bacio Bacio Bridal Host Expansion Party

Johnson’s Custom Cakes & More and Bacio Bacio Bridal Salon hosted a grand expansion party at Kobosko’s Crossing on Monday, Nov. 18. Both shops showcased their new showrooms to the public. Guests enjoyed food, a photo booth, music, an Art Deco lounge and prizes. A gift gathering was also held for Little Smiles to benefit the Little Smiles Stars Ball.

Photos By Damon Webb/Town-Crier

Jennifer Johnson cuts the ribbon with members of the Central Palm Beach County Chamber and the International Polo Club.

Rob Jager, Colette Beland, William Brasmar and Shannon Burrows

Johnson’s Custom Cakes owner Jennifer Johnson with Bacio Bacio Bridal Salon owner Lenyce Boyd.

Carl and Chrissy DeMartino.

Stas Politis, Maritza Rivera and Barbara Chaiken of the Central Palm Beach County Chamber.

Edward T. Kelly, “the Mad Platter.”

Wellington Boys & Girls Club Celebrates The Thanksgiving Holiday

The Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club in Wellington held a Thanksgiving program and dinner Tuesday, Nov. 19 in the club’s gymnasium. Children performed songs and dances, and families and friends of the club enjoyed a Thanksgiving dinner. photos by Denise Fleischman/town-crier

Board members and friends get ready to serve dinner.

Visitors from the Boys & Girls Club of Belle Glade.

Cuatro performers Towana Cohen, Angelina Martinez, Maria Silva, Laurdhana Dorleans and Linda Desrosier.

Neil Hirsch with Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County CEO Jaene Miranda.

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November 29 - December 5, 2013

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CRIME NEWS

Vehicle Burglaries Reported At RPB Shopping Plaza

Keith Jordano, LUTCF President & CEO Independent Agency

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By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report NOV. 18 — A deputy from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office substation in Royal Palm Beach was called to the post office on Southern Blvd. last Monday afternoon following several reports of vehicle burglaries. According to separate PBSO reports, the victims came outside to discover their windows had been shattered. According to one PBSO report, the victim entered the post office at approximately 2:50 p.m. When she exited approximately 10 minutes later, the victim discovered her driver’s side front window was smashed and her purse containing her bank cards and checkbook was taken. DNA evidence was taken at the scene, but there were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. In a second PBSO report, the victim entered a fitness facility near the post office at approximately 2:40 p.m. Approximately 20 minutes later, the victim looked outside and saw a woman standing by her vehicle. According to the report, the victim from the first PBSO report also noticed the victim’s driver’s side front window was shattered.

According to the report, the second victim reported that her purse containing $175 and credit cards was taken. Before she could cancel the cards, the suspect(s) spent approximately $400 at a Walmart store. According to the report, the deputy went to Walmart and was able to retrieve surveillance video footage of the suspect using the cards. The suspect was described as a black male in his 20s between 5’6” and 5’10” with short black hair wearing a long gray top and gray pants. There was no further information available at the time of the report.

••• NOV. 8 — A Wellington woman was arrested Friday, Nov. 8 on drug charges following an incident in Sugar Pond Manor in Wellington. According to a PBSO report, a deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach was dispatched to arrest 29-yearold Sierra Potter on charges of false verification of ownership and theft following another incident. According to the report, the deputy stopped Potter while she was walking on Exotica Lane.

Potter was carrying a black bag at the time. According to the report, Potter was placed under arrest and the deputy searched the purse and found a plastic film container with eight carisoprodol pills, a spoon with white residue on it, a small plastic baggie with residue and six syringes inside. Potter was taken to the Palm Beach County Jail where she was charged with possession of narcotics with intent to sell and drug equipment possession.

NOV. 9 — A resident of the Saratoga Lakes community called the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach on Saturday, Nov. 9 to report a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between Saturday, Nov. 2 and the following week, someone stole the victim’s Smith & Wesson black semi-automatic pistol from his bedroom dresser drawer. The victim found his holster in the drawer empty and asked family members about it, but they had not seen it. According to the report, the victim noted that he had had a cable repairman in his room during that time. The stolen pistol was valued at approximately $500. There was no further

information available at the time of the report.

NOV. 14 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach was dispatched Thursday, Nov. 14 to a home on Gardenia Drive regarding a residential burglary. According to a PBSO report, the victim left home at approximately 5 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 14 and returned home approximately 24 hours later to find her front door ajar. According to the report, sometime during that time, someone pried open the front door lock and entered the victim’s home, stealing a 50-inch LCD television, a 32-inch television and several pieces of jewelry.

The stolen items were valued at approximately $2,650. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

NOV. 14 —A resident of Citrus Grove Blvd. called the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation Thursday, Nov. 14 to report a residential burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 8:30 a.m. and 12:20 p.m., someone smashed the glass on the rear bathroom door to gain entry to the home. Once inside, the suspect(s) ransacked the master bedroom and forced open the victim’s metal gun box, stealing a handgun. The suspect(s) also stole a men’s gold ring, a pair of gold diamond earrings, a men’s watch and a checkbook.

The stolen items were valued at approximately $5,500. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

NOV. 15 — A West Palm Beach man was arrested Friday, Nov. 15 on charges of shoplifting after he was caught stealing from the Walmart Supercenter on Belvedere Road. According to a PBSO report, a deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was on assignment at the store when he observed 45-year-old Arthur Williams pushing a shopping cart containing a can of squid, a jigsaw kit and a drill and driver kit past the checkout area without attempting to pay. The deputy stopped Williams and recovered the items, and also discovered a six-pack of boxer shorts tucked inside the front of his pants. The stolen items were valued at $194.49.

Williams was taken to the county jail where he was charged with retail theft.

NOV. 15 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation responded Friday, Nov. 15 to 190th Terrace North regarding a stolen vehicle. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 8:45 p.m., the deputy discovered a burgundy Ford F-150 pickup truck on the canal bank stuck in the sand. According to the report, the back window of the truck was shattered, as well as the rear driver’s side window. The truck was missing its radio and CD player.

According to the report, the truck was registered to a resident of Persimmon Blvd., who left his home at approximately 1:30 p.m. and had not given anyone permission to take his vehicle. The victim reported that someone had bent and dismantled his front gate arms to access the property. According to the report, several tools were also stolen from the truck. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

NOV. 17 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called Sunday, See BLOTTER, page 16

Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County is asking for the public’s help in finding these wanted fugitives: • Jessica Hartman, alias Jessica Zapolski, is a white female, 5’7” tall and weighing 130 lbs., with brown hair and blue eyes. She has multiple tattoos.

Her date of birth is 12/28/76. Hartman is wanted for violation of probation on charges of grand theft and forgery. Her last known addresses were Chesapeake Court in Wellington and East Avenue in West Palm Beach. She is wanted as of 11/21/13.

• Malcolm Alexandre is a black male, 5’10” tall and weighing 170 lbs., with black hair and brown eyes. His date of birth is 09/07/90. Alexandre is wanted on charges of grand theft, dealing in stolen property and false verification of ownership. His last known address was 44th Place North in The Acreage. He is wanted as of 11/21/13.

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.

Jessica Hartman

Malcolm Alexandre

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

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Page 7

NEWS

Groves Staff Talks Pitfalls Of ‘Government Lite’ At LGLA Meeting

By Ron Bukley Town Crier Staff Report Representatives from Underwood Management Services Group, the contracted management company for the Town of Loxahatchee Groves, gave a presentation last week to the Loxahatchee Groves Landowners’ Association on the town’s progress and evolution since its incorporation in 2006.

Guest speakers at the Nov. 21 meeting included Bill and Perla Underwood, co-owners of the company, Town Manager Mark Kutney and Town Clerk Sue Eichhorn.

Kutney said the focus of the evening would be on the town’s limited form government, known as “government lite,” and its effect on continuity; cost-effective minimal government, including code

enforcement, roadway networks, planning and development and the control of future development; and the town’s future.

“What does the town want to be when it grows up?” Kutney asked.

“For those of you who have been around a while, you can tell some of that came from the Strategic Vision Plan. I’m kind of using that as the basis for our presentation tonight.”

Bill Underwood gave an overview and perspective of his company’s experience with the town.

“This is the beginning of our third year here in Loxahatchee Groves, and it has been a wonderful experience,” Underwood said. “I understand that there was thought somewhere along the way that we had a learning curve, but I think what we’ve determined is that what you have and what the

town has hired has been an experienced group of professionals that really had no learning curve.”

He said the learning curve lies more with the town council and the people who associate with it.

“That is a perception that I had,” Underwood said. “I think that there are a lot of good people in Loxahatchee Groves. I’m not too sure that everybody is on the same page.”

Looking at the town’s original Strategic Plan, Underwood said he saw some things that don’t seem workable.

“Entities, things, organisms do one of two things — they either live or die,” he said. “Towns, cities, villages are living organisms.

They either live or they die, and that living or dying is entirely up to you, the council and the rest of the residents. Moving forward,

the town can make many strides of progress.”

Underwood said one thing the management company has tried to bring in the community is provide a level hand and fair shake for everyone.

“We don’t treat anyone differently than we treat anybody else,” Underwood said. “My perception is that had not been the case in the Town of Loxahatchee Groves.

Some people have preferential treatment over others. It’s not fair, not right and in my book, not the way I have treated people.”

In his 35 years in municipal government, Underwood said he has found it did not matter whether he treated people like kings or beggars as long as he treated them all the same. “We will do that until September 2014,” he said, referring to when the company’s

contract is up for renewal.

Underwood stressed that change happens and must be directed, not ignored.

“It’s not like you are going to be able to stay exactly like you are, because you’re either going to live, or you’re going to die, or you’re going to get run over,” he said. “I would love to tell you to stay as you are, but you cannot. I’ve been in a community that tried to stay as it was, and now it’s half the size that it was and it provides less than half the services.”

Kutney noted that continuity has been a significant problem in Loxahatchee Groves. “In the seven years that you have had an elected government, you have had three different management companies,” he said. “If you were talking about cities that were hiring a city manager and that city went

through three managers in seven years, the chances are that next recruitment probably wouldn’t have too many decent candidates.”

The second thing that has plagued the management companies is that the town has indicated that the management company is responsible for its own governmental accounting software.

“The town, I think, should have bitten the bullet and got its own software, because every time you’ve changed a management company, the management company had to go through the problem of trying to reconcile everything with the last management company’s software,” Kutney said. “It was a nightmare for us.

Those things add up to a problem in continuity. It doesn’t allow your town to move forward as fast as it See LGLA, page 16

ROYAL PALM’S FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH DONATES FOOD TO NEEDY FAMILIES

The First Baptist Church of Royal Palm Beach was the staging area for more than 9,000 food items that were donated in a month-long local food drive. On Monday, Nov. 25, families in need were given a bag with food to make a Thanksgiving dinner, including cranberry sauce, stuffing, fruit, gravy, potatoes and vegetables, as well as a frozen turkey. Remaining items will go to local food pantries.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Deanna and Teressa Lee filled the last two bags with Thanksgiving food items.

Rich Ivancic, Diane Smith, Jan Comodeca and Linda Smith restock the table with vegetables.

First Baptist Church Food Drive Coordinator Ralinda Riley and the PBSO’s Diane Smith with food ready for distribution.

Jarrod Saltalamacchia To Lead Holiday Parade In Wellington

The Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce and the Village of Wellington are excited to announce that Jarrod “Salty” Saltalamacchia, catcher for the World Champion Boston Red Sox, will be the grand marshal of this year’s holiday parade in Wellington.

Saltalamacchia is an alumnus of

Royal Palm Beach High School.

Accompanied by his wife, Ashley, and their three daughters, he will help welcome in the holiday season at the parade, set for Sunday, Dec. 8.

“His participation in the parade is typical of Jarrod’s dedication to making contributions to his community,” said Tom Wenham of the

Wellington Preservation Coalition, parade presenting co-sponsor along with the Schumacher Family of Dealerships.

This year’s Parade — “An Old Fashioned Holiday: Celebrating 30 Years” — will feature an array of creative floats, local high school marching bands, talented dance troupes, costumed charac-

ters, equestrian entries and all that makes the parade attract more than 10,000 spectators along the Forest Hill Blvd. parade route.

The chamber is proud to have Dennis Witkowski chairing the parade once again in its 30th year.

The new kickoff time for the parade is 2:30 p.m., with the

Holiday Mile Run/Walk preceding the parade at 2:15 p.m. Forest Hill Blvd. will be closed to traffic from 1:30 to 5:30 p.m.

The Holiday Fun Park, located at the Wellington Amphitheater, will be open from 1 to 6 p.m. and will feature local school concerts, bounce houses, exhibit booths, food and much more. Santa will

be receiving Christmas lists, and the annual tree lighting ceremony will take place at the amphitheater following the parade.

Parade and Holiday Mile entries are still being accepted. Applications are available at www.cpbchamber.com.

For more information, call (561) 790-6200.

SEVENTH ANNUAL SALSAFEST BRINGS LATIN FUN, FLAVOR TO GREENACRES

The Central Palm Beach Chamber of Commerce and the South Florida Ford Dealers hosted the seventh annual SalsaFest on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 23 and 24 at Greenacres Community Park. The event featured top Latin entertainment acts, along with carnival PHOTOS BY DAMON WEBB/TOWN-CRIER rides, Chihuahua races, dance and domino competitions, salsa cook-offs and more.

The Strano family enjoys the afternooon.

Marta Cardelle grills up some tasty food.

Mercedes Hill, Dakota Barber, Goldie Lamarca and Kimia Bayat.

Michelle Grippo and Julie Felipe serve wine.

Claribel Gonzalez, Rey Cordero, Erika Castro, Alyssa Sodlipe and Howard Melendez man the Publix booth.

Michael, Charlotte and Star Garcia enjoy the carnival rides.

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Page 9

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November 29 - December 5, 2013

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news

Royal Palm Beach Hosts Fall Fantasy Craft Show At Veterans Park

The Village of Royal Palm Beach presented its 12th annual Fall Fantasy Craft Show on Saturday, Nov. 23 at Veterans Park. Talented, local crafters offered a wide array of handmade items including jewelry, baby items, clothing, ladies accessories and more. Guests also enjoyed musical entertainment and food.

Photos By Denise Fleischman/Town-Crier

Hannah Fyfe made and sold bracelets.

Jeanetta Bair displays American Girl doll clothes she made.

Keri and Chris Boudreau with their dog, Lexie, and Don and Carol Boudreau with some holiday trees.

Mary Kay Day and Debbie Willis of Barkleys with dogs Morgan and Isabella sporting their new bandanas.

Margaret Sandifer and Authorine Poonee show off hand-made cards.

Jackqueline Barbaresi adds sparkle to a wreath.

Wellington Elementary School Yard Sale Benefits Eileen Sweeney

Wellington Elementary School staff, parents and students came together Saturday, Nov. 23 to support teacher Eileen Sweeney as she battles cancer. The school hosted a yard sale to raise money for her medical bills. Close friends and family organized the event, and the school community sold a variety of items to raise funds.

Photos By Jayme Salerno/Town-Crier

Celine Chasten, Victoria Flora and Ana Cusell.

Kelly Jo Mills, Melissa Perry and Anna McClannahan.

Dina Lewis and Mari Skelston sell a variety of items.

Principal Dr. Eugina Feaman with Cathy Flora and Marisa Falci.

SNOW, SHRED & SALUTE SATURDAY TO BENEFIT COMMUNITY

12794 Forest Hill Blvd., Ste 19F, Wellington, FL 33414 561-333-9843/contact@preservewellington.org www.preservewellington.org Like us on facebook.com/preservewellington Twitter.com/PrsrvWellington The Coalition is a group of Wellington residents committed to preserve and maintain the character; nature and quality of life to a wonderful place we call “home”.

We aim to be a voice of all residents to protect our communities’ assets. Those assets include park land, open space, equestrian areas and Wellington’s history of strong planning, zoning and building codes that keep the community involved.

We are supportive of different causes and interest, such as parks and recreation, sports affiliated groups, the arts, environmental groups, schools and our children and local business groups. We want to keep on top of all that is important to maintain our way of life.

The Wellington Preservation Coalition is an active member of the Wellington and Central Palm Beach Chambers of Commerce, the Puerto Rican/Hispanic Chamber; Wellington Art Society; Wellington Garden Club; Arthur R. Marshall Foundation; Sierra Club and 1000 Friends of Florida.

We love the opportunity of being involved in our community

PRESERVE OUR WELLINGTON!

7 4

TH

DECEMBER NOON - PM

12

PLAY IN 5 TONS OF SNOW

by donating an unwrapped toy or a canned good to make the holidays brighter for those in need

TURN YOUR “TRASH TO CASH”

with free document shedding; a donation per container will be made to your choice of area school

VIDEOTAPE personal family “Wishes from Wellington” to loved ones in the military at special Courtyard Shops “Holiday Salute Stop” (Call 561-392-5166 in advance to reserve your session) • Merchants Holiday Specials • Snow-Filled Photo Stop • Holiday Sidewalk Art Fun • Chances to Win • Games & Prizes

CourtyardShopsAtWellington.com

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Page 11

Palms West People

Gift Gathering Supports TKA’s Mane Event Cypress Trails Kids The King’s Academy held its Fall Gift Gathering Party on Nov. 7 at the home of TKA parents Chuck and Ellen Hobbs to support the school’s annual dinner and auction.

More than 30 guests gathered to support the auction by bringing either an item to be used for the silent auction’s gourmet cooking category or a cash donation.

Guests were treated to a wonderful luncheon and time of fellowship.

TKA’s 13th annual Mane Event auction will be held March 1 and

will be an indoor and outdoor event at the National Croquet Center. Proceeds benefit TKA’s Annual Fund Campaign, which plays a vital part in the success of carrying out the school’s mission.

This annual event has raised more than $2.6 million over its 12-year history.

The King’s Academy is a nationally recognized private Christian school serving approximately 1,200 students from preschool through 12th grade. For more information visit www.tka.net.

Organize Book Drive

Auction chairs Michelle Collier, Lisa Gerardi and Dana Wilkerson.

Amanda Ng, a fifth grader at Cypress Trails Elementary School in Royal Palm Beach, enlisted her school’s help to complete a book drive for Pleasant City Elementary School in West Palm Beach. Amanda and other students collected 868 books so each student can have a book they can take home and read any time they want. Shown here are Assistant Principal Stephanie Cook, Principal Tameka Moore-Robinson, teacher Tasha Burke-Peart, Jenna Brooker, Kendall Jackson, Amanda Ng, Drew Dresson and Courtney Halperin.

TKA parents Angela Ball, Ellen Hobbs and Jazz Jules.

TKA parent Ashley Maguire with TKA grandparent Kathryn Maguire and TKA parent Connie Tuller.

Extraordinary Charities Introduces New Directory Edition At Luncheon

Extraordinary Charities Inc., a nonprofit organization based in Palm Beach, welcomed more than 115 representatives from dozens of local nonprofit organizations at a recent luncheon held at Café Sapori in West Palm Beach.

The event launched the second edition of A Directory for Charitable Giving that spotlights 76 outstanding and underfunded charities

in Palm Beach County. Thousands of copies of the directory are being circulated in the local philanthropic community.

“Throughout Palm Beach County, smaller charities are making a big difference in our community, but despite their outstanding efforts in fields like education, culture, human services and the environment, as well as international

outreach, many of these extraordinary charities operate ‘under the radar’ and receive little recognition for their efforts,” said Beverlee Miller Raymond, co-founder of Extraordinary Charities with her husband John J. Raymond, Jr. “Our annual Directory for Charitable Giving is designed to connect donors with these well deserving local nonprofit organizations.

Six attending organizations received a surprise check for $2,000 each: Holy Ground Shelter for the Homeless, Resource Depot, Sandoway House Nature Center, Urban Youth Impact, Women’s Circle Inc. and the Youth Activity Center.

To obtain a copy of the directory, call (561) 791-0403 or view it online at www.extraordinary charities.org.

Donechie Graduates Air Force Basic Training

Airman Dillon G. Donechie has graduated from Air Force basic training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland in San Antonio, Texas.

He completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness and basic warfare principles. Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate’s degree in applied science through the Community College of the Air Force.

Donechie, a 2012 graduate of Wellington High School, is the son of Rhealene Donechie of Wellington.

Dillon G. Donechie

Cheng On National 4-H Board

Father Frank O’Laughlin of the Guatemalan-Maya Center with Beverlee and John Raymond.

Tim Frohling and Robyn Frohling from the Amanda J. Buckley Give a Smile to a Child Foundation with Jack Lighton of the Loggerhead Marine Life Center.

Caleb Cheng, a member of the Palm Beach County 4-H program, has been selected to serve on the National 4-H Board of Trustees.

Cheng, 18, has been a 4-H member in the county for 14 years.

The national council supports national and state programs with a focus on fundraising, brand management, communications and fiduciary services. Cheng’s duties on the board will bring him from Riviera Beach to Washington, D.C.

for his three-year appointment.

Cheng has already demonstrated his skill for fundraising by securing two corporate sponsorships that helped raise approximately $7,000 for Florida 4-H. “I have a vision for 4-H on a much larger scale than it is today, and I believe it is quite attainable with a few simple solutions involving the promotion of 4-H in schools,” he said.

Call (561) 233-1791 for more information about the program.

Page 12

November 29 - December 5, 2013

Golden Grove Marks Farm To School Week

The students at Golden Grove Elementary School celebrated Farm to School Week. Each day, the cafeteria offered local, farm-fresh fruits and vegetables. As a culmination, on Thursday, Nov. 21, the celebration happened for the whole day. The day started with a groundbreaking by the new K-2 student gardeners with the help of parents. Materials were donated by the PTO and Dr. Richard Raid of the University of Florida’s SOAR program. After building two new gardens, the children dressed as pilgrims and Native Americans and performed a musical show for the school. Additionally, the students learned to make shapes and colors from vegetables and butter from cream, which they enjoyed along with corn-on-the-cob and oranges from local farms. The celebration was made possible thanks to the help of cafeteria manager Kim Dufort. Shown here, students dressed up for the occasion.

New Horizons SECME Club Builds Rockets

The SECME (Science Engineering Communication Math Enrichment) Club at New Horizons Elementary School, under the direction of coordinator Jennifer Schuler, meets weekly to design and build science- and math-related projects. This year’s SECME students built individual water bottle rockets of their own design.

The top six students with the best “hang time” will represent New Horizons on two different teams when the SECME Club competes at the annual district competition in February. Shown here is Schuler and parent Miguel Torregrosa with SECME members.

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School News

Students Learn To Give Back At Frontier

Frontier Elementary School’s Student Council is working on several community service projects.

With the guidance of the student council sponsor, first-grade teacher Marisa Hopkins, the Frontier Elementary School Student Council delivered more than 300 holiday cards from students to the Red Cross to be mailed to men and women of the armed forces serving overseas.

They also collected 11 large boxes filled with nonperishable food items that were donated to the Rotary Club to help provide

holiday meals to families in the community.

In December, Frontier Elementary School will begin collecting unwrapped toys to be donated to local charities in time for Christmas.

“It’s incredible seeing the enthusiasm of the students when they realize they are able to make a difference in their community by helping others,” Hopkins said.

“It should inspire all residents, young and old, to remember to help others, especially at this time of year.”

Members of Frontier Elementary School’s Student Council.

WES Students Learn About Embryology

Becky Kobussen from the Embryology Agriculture Department of the South Florida Fair partnered with Kristine Frey’s third-, fourthand fifth-grade science classes for the month of October to teach students the embryology process.

The students cared for the chicken eggs and watched the baby chicks hatch. Learning about the life cycle was exciting for them.

The students asked many questions and have broadened their vocabulary in the world of science.

The students enjoyed the program, and they look forward to doing it again next year.

Next year, Wellington Elementary School will hatch the chicks in the science lab for all to see. The school thanks the South Florida Fair for this worthwhile educational experience.

(Right) Becky Kobussen and Wellington Elementary School students examine a chicken egg.

SRHS Drama Students Shine At Districts

The Seminole Ridge High School drama students took their one-act ensemble “Five Women Wearing the Same Dress” to district competition Nov. 16. “Everyone performed great, from the cast on the stage to the crew behind the curtains. Their hard work and skills paid off well,” Seminole Ridge drama director Ryan Lee said. “Each actress created a different strong Southern woman, and their interactions were so real and truthful. I couldn’t be prouder of their hard work.”

Seminole Ridge thespians took home several awards including Best Actress (Jaqueline Campos), All-Star Cast Member (Devyn Higgs), Best Crew, Superior Rating and Critics Choice for best play. As a result, the SRHS troupe has been selected to represent District 15 at the state competition in Tampa this coming March.

• Choral Students Earn High Ratings — On Nov. 16 in Altamonte Springs, the SRHS choral department took honors at the Florida Vocal Association district solo and ensemble performance

assessments, in which soloists perform and students run ensembles. Directors are not allowed to conduct.

Congratulations to the soloist and ensembles who received an overall Superior rating, which qualifies them for state assessments in April: Soloist Mairead O’Rourke; Chamber Madrigal Ensemble (Silver); Concert Women’s Ensemble (Thamyris); Fly Boyz Barbershop Quartet (Malique Gowie, Alex Grafton, Sean Lewis and Joel Zayas); Men’s Ensemble (Philammonus); Varsity Men’s Show Choir (Musagetes); and Varsity Show Choir (Musagetes).

Congratulations to the soloists and ensembles who received an overall Excellent rating: Soloists Victora Beuthien, Mateo Garcia, Sean Lewis and Joel Zayas; Chamber Madrigal Ensemble (Red); JV Men’s Show Choir (Philammonus); and Varsity Women’s Show Choir (Musagetes).

• Performing Arts Programs to Offer ‘A Christmas Carol’ — The SRHS performing arts

offers a night of holiday entertainment — Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, bringing to life the Ebenezer Scrooge classic in a production featuring the SRHS band, chorus, dance and theatre students.

A Christmas Carol premieres at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 12 in the SRHS auditorium and continues Dec. 13, 14, 18 and 19 at the same time. In addition, a 2 p.m. matinee performance is scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 15.

Reserve seats on www.showtix4u.com. Discounted pre-sale tickets are available. For more info., call (561) 422-2655 or e-mail ryan.lee@palmbeachschools.org.

• Coffee Talk with Freshman Parents — The SRHS guidance department invites the parents of freshman students to join counselors for an open discussion about their children’s education. Coffee Talk convenes Wednesday, Dec. 11 from 7:45 to 8:30 a.m. in the SRHS media center. The featured presenter is Mary Fisher, director and owner of the Huntington

Learning Center in Wellington.

Topics of discussion include study skills, tutoring services and learning styles. Refreshments will be served. RSVP to lizzie.singletary@palmbeachschools.org or call (561) 422-2610.

• Hawk Teachers Renew National Certification — SRHS guidance counselor Theresa Hartl and English teacher Marie Pelfrey have renewed their National Board certification. The certification is the highest mark of accomplishment in teaching, accomplished through a rigorous, performance-based, peer-review process similar to that in professions such as medicine and architecture.

“Renewing the board certification is fundamental to ensuring that our most accomplished teachers stay accomplished,” said Ronald Thorpe, president and CEO of the National Board.

Certification often opens many doors to teachers. Renewed certified teachers work in leadership roles, including as mentors and coaches to their peers or in administration.

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The Town-Crier

WHS Band Concert Honors Veterans

The Wellington High School band held a Salute to Veterans concert Monday, Nov. 11 in the Wellington High School Theater. The program featured the WHS wind ensemble and guest saxophone soloist Paul Magersuppe, with performances of patriotic favorites and traditional marches. Refreshments were served by the Wolverine Band Booster Association. Shown here is Band Director Mary Oser (center) with members of the American Legion Chris Reyka Memorial Wellington Post 390.

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School News

November 29 - December 5, 2013

Page 13

Fun Night At Publix For WES Families

Rosarian Students Help Break Record

Wellington Elementary School partnered with the Wellington Courtyard Shops’ Publix for Math Night on Tuesday, Nov. 12. Students in third through fifth grades, along with their families, were invited to attend this fun, educational event. The students were given a math worksheet with real-world math application problems. The families went on a scavenger hunt through Publix to complete the task. For their hard work, Publix provided a goody bag to each child who participated. Shown here, math teacher Marianella Soriano with students and parents.

With the help of Rosarian Academy Lower School students, the World Record for “Most People Sport Stacking at Multiple Locations in One Day” was broken. The entire Rosarian kindergarten through grade four classes participated in 2013 Stack Up to set a new Guinness Book of World Records on Nov. 14. More than 2,800 schools and organizations representing 36 countries from around the world worked together on that specific day to beat last year’s record. The event was organized by physical education teacher Lindsey Beylo. Rosarian Academy will receive documentation stating the school’s participation in this year’s world record.

Shown here, students participate in the big event.

Page 14

November 29 - December 5, 2013

The Town-Crier

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Features

Spending Time With Orion Is Great, But Keep The Germs Away Mark and I really enjoy our time with our grandson, Orion. He has such an unbridled, untempered joy for life. Every bug is new discovery; every outing is a new adventure. We fawn all over him, buy him a new toy each day, make sure his favorite foods are in the pantry. We are hopelessly smitten.

My daughter says she appreciates us, but still, in an effort to get the baby communicating with people other than its babbling, cooing grandparents, she signed up Orion for Gymboree.

Gymboree is like a fitness center for babies. Everything is soft, cushioned, bright-

Deborah Welky is

The Sonic BOOMER ly colored and, in my estimation, crawling with germs. I had my reservations.

But I could also see it was something Orion would like — big, colorful parachutes, all kinds of slide and toys. I

guess we’d give it a try.

Last Friday was Orion’s first class. I was happy to see a lot of other grandparents there. In fact, the whole class consisted of one instructor, four toddlers, three parents and four grandparents. Needless to say, the kids were well-supervised. No one was going to trip over a foam block on our watch!

The theme of the day was “over” and “under” — with heavy adult participation.

Orion and I were soon crawling under the slide, over the wedges, under the parachute, over the mats… well, you get the idea.

And then it happened. The mother of his little play buddy ran over with a tissue to wipe his little play buddy’s nose.

I knew it!

We stoically finished out the hour, but, for me, the handwriting was on the wall.

In exactly three days, Orion was going to have a runny nose. And here’s what happened — in exactly three days, Orion had a runny nose.

In exactly six days, I had a runny nose, fever, weepy eyes, headache, nausea, nagging cough and a dizzy feeling. Turns out baby germs are much more potent when unleashed upon an adult.

Because of me, Orion missed his next Gymboree class.

Babies always amaze me. With my cold, I was totally struck down. I spent 36 hours in bed, never raising my head except to pour some water into my mouth. With Orion’s cold, he slowed down a little bit, only running full speed half the time. And he took three naps instead of one. I think I woke up three times in the 36 hours.

Orion also never lost his sense of humor.

He was still playing peek-a-boo with the dogs. Not me. In fact, when Mark reached over to pat my head, commenting that I See WELKY, page 16

‘Catching Fire’ More Sophisticated Than First ‘Hunger Games’

The second installment of the Hunger Games series, The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, has many of the same elements as the first, but is far more politically sophisticated and more adult-oriented. Yes, there is still a gladiator-style match. And Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) and Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson) are back fighting for their lives along with a few interesting allies. But the economic dominance of the capital of Panem (Latin for bread as in “bread and circuses”) over the rest of a very angry, resentful population is now shown to be close to the boiling point.

The movie begins with Katniss and childhood love Gale (Liam Hemsworth) hunting in her beloved District 12 forest just before she has to be featured on a nationwide propaganda run. We see how broken up she is because of guilt over the other tributes she killed in the last contest.

But she goes through the sham. President Snow (Donald Sutherland), seeing the favorable response to her as a symbol of

‘I’ On Culture

By Leonard Wechsler defiance, decides to put on a special version of the Hunger Games, one in which the winners of previous games all must compete. At the end, there would only be one left, and he insists to game organizer Plutarch Heavensbee (Philip Seymour Hoffman) that Katniss not be that survivor.

The new contestants, all of whom were previous winners, know they’re being used, and we get to see a few of their attempts to get the games stopped, most subtle, although Johanna (Jena Malone), an ax-wielding virago, is the most amusing. Katniss, however, combines elements.

She wears a wedding dress on television, presumably the one she would have worn in her announced upcoming marriage to Peeta, and after receiving a lot of admiration for it, whirls around while it (as designed) catches fire and turns into a stunning mockingjay costume. The bird is the symbol of Katniss that the people have been rallying around.

The battle begins, and Katniss and Peeta join up with Finnick (Sam Claflin), his elderly mentor Mags (Lynn Cohen), and a few others in a game that is far more difficult than the previous one. Plutarch has designed environmental elements, including force fields, poison fog and wild baboons to destroy the participants. And then come unexpected (unless you’ve read the books) twists and turns. The movie leaves off at a particularly interesting spot, leaving the audience almost pleading for the next installment, due out next year.

The cast is generally good. The problem with both Hutcherson and Hemsworth is

that they are both a bit charismatically challenged. While girls in the audience obviously chose sides in terms of which hero they preferred for Katniss, Claflin came across as far more interesting. I liked Malone in her few scenes; she certainly held her own along with the stars. Woody Harrelson, reprising his role of Haymitch, was great as Katniss’ mentor, while Elizabeth Banks, almost ridiculous as Effie Trinket in the first movie, managed to become a more nuanced person in this film. Those playing the media (Stanley Tucci, Toby Jones) were wildly over the top, hilarious although quite recognizable as types.

But the two most important characters, Snow and Everdeen, were played superbly. Sutherland was terrific as the evil President Snow, always urbane, occasionally actually nice, but as casually cruel as any tyrant. He was always willing to sacrifice people for what he considered necessary for his own political survival. But, as be-

fore, it is Lawrence who carries the movie.

She is stoic and purposed while never forgetting, or letting us forget, that strife leads to casualties, and that losing people, even opponents, still hurts. She is quickly entering the top tier of American actresses.

This is a very political movie, one that should not be judged on a left-wing/rightwing bias. Perhaps George Orwell might provide a perfect description of a society ruled by a small number of rich people who live to excess in a rich capital city, while pushing the rest of the citizenry down into poverty and using a corrupt media to manipulate them. After all, is there a country really like that?

This is a very good, although not great, film. It transcends the typical B-movie genre through good acting, as well as the overriding back story of rebellion against tyranny. This is a fun film in many ways that manages to always stress its humanity.

There is plenty of violence, but death is not treated casually. It is very worth seeing.

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November 29 - December 5, 2013

Page 15

NEWS BRIEFS Support Wildlife Recovery Center At Dec. 5 Event

The Wildlife Recovery Center will hold a fundraiser Thursday night, Dec. 5 at Renegades Country Western Bar (600 Village Blvd., West Palm Beach) from 6 to 8 p.m.

Renegades will offer $3.99 appetizers, three-for-one happy hour drinks, $10 buckets of beer and $3 well drinks. Volunteers from the wildlife center will be on hand, talking about the work they do in rescuing and rehabilitating wild birds and animals. “We’re happy to do whatever we can to help out,” owner/manger Donna Dunn said.

Stop by and support the small, local facility. For more information, call (561) 683-9555.

Norton Holiday Festival Dec. 8

The Norton Museum of Art’s annual, entertainment-filled Holiday Family Festival offers families a joyous way to kick off the winter season.

Set for Sunday, Dec. 8, the festival features music and dance performances, a magic troupe, art activities and tours, treasure hunts, storytelling and more. Regular museum admission applies. The merriment is set for 1 to 5 p.m., but the museum café, Fratelli Lyon, will be serving a holiday brunch beginning at 11 a.m.

“Each year, the Holiday Family Festival presents terrific performers from our area,” said Glenn Tomlinson, the Norton’s William Randolph Hearst Curator of Education. “Visitors are thrilled by the quality of the musicians and dancers, and they love the activities and family tours that take place throughout the museum.”

For more info., call (561) 8325196 or visit www.norton.org.

Holiday Event At Courtyard Shops

The Courtyard Shops at Wellington invites the community to celebrate the holiday season at the shopping center’s “Snow, Shred & Salute Saturday” family shopand-dine event on Saturday, Dec. 7 from noon to 4 p.m.

The day will benefit area nonprofits and schools while providing a special opportunity for families to tape “Wishes from Wellington” holiday video greetings produced and donated by Michael Miller of Sell-Ware for loved ones to send to active-duty troops stationed away from home.

An open-to-the-public program of fun for all generations awaits event-goers, as the Courtyard Shops becomes a family-packed afternoon winter wonderland destination. There will be both a snow-filled play area and a spirited holiday-themed photo stop, with free admission with a canned good or unwrapped, new toy.

In addition to holiday sidewalk chalk art along designated walkways of the center, games and prizes, “chances to win” and merchant holiday specials, sales and discounts, a special “salute video spot” will also be set up on-site where families of those serving in active military service can tape a holiday greeting video. To assure a time slot, military families are asked to reserve a session in advance by contacting Kaye Communications at (561) 756-3099 or videosalute@kcompr.com.

The popular Courtyard Shops “Shred-4-Ed” program also returns to give area residents and businesses yet one more year-end opportunity to “turn their trash into cash” to benefit local schools of their choice.

“With tons of snow, family fun, memory-making, shopping, dining, charitable giving and salutes to our troops, the Courtyard Shops at Wellington merrily rolls out the holiday welcome mat,” Property Manager Jeff Purisch said.

Conveniently located at 13860 Wellington Trace, at the corner of Greenview Shores Blvd., the Courtyard Shops is a retail destination with more than 30 shops and restaurants. For more information, visit www.courtyardshopsatwellington.com or call (561) 347-6521.

Holiday Party At Okeeheelee

The public is invited to attend the annual Okeeheelee Nature Center holiday party sponsored by the Friends of Okeeheelee Nature Center on Friday, Dec. 6 from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

Guests will meet and learn about the nature center’s live education animals and enjoy the art reception announcing the winners for the “Wild Florida: Native Flora and Fauna” art exhibit. Light refreshments will be served.

The Okeeheelee Nature Center is operated by the Palm Beach County Parks & Recreation Department and is located in Okeeheelee Park at 7715 Forest Hill Blvd. Call (561) 233-1400 for more info.

Mayflower Colony Luncheon Dec. 7

The Isaac Allerton Colony of the Society of Mayflower Descendants in Florida will host a celebration lunch at Benvenuto Restaurant in Boynton Beach on Saturday, Dec. 7.

Since the event takes place on Pearl Harbor Day, organizers have arranged for keynote speaker Cpl. Burt Richards of the Veterans Speakers Forum. The luncheon will start at 11:30 a.m. with the speaker set for 12:30 p.m.

To RSVP, call David Kuschel at (561) 747-0852.

RPB Holiday Festival Of Lights Dec. 7

Royal Palm Beach will count down to the illumination of the holiday tree on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park.

Get in the holiday spirit and enjoy the sounds from local choirs, bands, dance teams and the Samantha Russell band performing at 7:30 p.m. A variety of holiday craft vendors and decorations will be abundant throughout the park, which will also feature great food provided by the popular Food Truck Invasion. Games and rides will be present throughout the park.

The festival will be an unforgettable holiday event with winter activities from a skating rink, snow for kids to play in, a kids run zone and photo opportunities in a giant snow globe. Santa Claus is also scheduled to stop by.

Holiday craft vendors may visit www.pottcevents.com to register.

For more information, call the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center at (561) 790-5149.

Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming Wellington 2205 S. State Road 7, Suite 300 Wellington, FL 33414 Ph. 561.790.2232 Wellington@woofgangbakery.com www.WoofGangBakery.com

A treat of a franchise opportunity!

Page 16

November 29 - December 5, 2013

The Town-Crier

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NEWS

BIG TURKEY DRIVE WILL GIVE AWAY 525 BIRDS THIS THANKSGIVING SEASON

The 2013 Turkey Drive hosted by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, Publix, BlueBell ice cream and WRMF was held on Saturday, Nov. 23 outside the Publix store in Royal Palm Beach’s Crossroads Plaza. The event collected turkeys or monetary donations, collecting enough to give away more than 525 turkeys to families in need.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

H.L. Johnson Elementary School students raised $530, which bought 82 turkeys. Shown here are students with the donation.

Winterfest

At PBIEC Saturday

continued from page 1 & Wine Festival, offering some of the area’s best bites. Tickets, available at the door, cost $15 for a single person and $25 per couple.

“Myself and [fellow Event

Chairman] Johnny Meier sponsored the Food & Wine Festival this year,” Laurich said. “It’s really popular, and it’s a great social event. If you’re single, or maybe you don’t have kids and want a night out, it’s a part of the event you can enjoy. Winterfest is a family oriented event, but you don’t have to have kids to come out and enjoy it.”

The PBSO’s Diane Smith with volunteer Rich Ivancic.

One of the highlights each year is the arrival of Santa Claus and the reading of ’Twas the Night Before Christmas to local children. And the night is topped off by a performance from celebrity Vanilla Ice, who lives in Wellington.

“I think the event got popular because of the celebrity component,” Laurich said. “He [Vanilla

Musician and TV star Vanilla Ice performs at last year’s Winterfest.

Ice] is a local guy. When it comes down to it, he does a lot for the community, especially with Toys for Tots. It’s good to have a celebrity support the event, but it’s great to have someone who is an integral part of our community.”

Local singer Michaela Paige, who rose to fame when she joined country singer Blake Shelton’s team on the hit television show The Voice, will also perform.

“I think that will be great,” Laurich said. “It’s something new and different from our performers in the past.”

Laurich thanked everyone involved, especially Wellington Chamber Executive Director Michela Perillo-Green.

“She is amazing when it comes to producing an event,” Laurich said. “She is amazing at keeping everyone together.”

For more information, visit www.wellingtonchamber.com/ winterfest-2013.

Pierson

PBSO Help Required

Food Pantry

Feeding The Hungry

continued from page 1 cumbers and green beans to squash and sweet potatoes.

“In trying to help folks with food, we want to make sure people get the best,” he said. “Health and wellness is very important to us.”

Though the church is especially busy during the holidays, they don’t stop giving even when the season is over. Royal Palm Covenant Church offers food from its pantry to the needy in the community every week.

Skate Park

Helmet Concerns

continued from page 1 ‘Skate at your own risk,’” Recchio said, explaining that the skateboarders who helped design the park police it themselves. “That’s basically what more and more municipalities are doing. The state is encouraging municipalities to build these facilities.”

LGLA

Town’s Future?

continued from page 7 should. It probably takes you backward.”

Another big issue, and probably the biggest issue, has been limited government, or “government lite.”

“I can tell you there is no such thing,” Kutney said. “You can’t go halfway, you’re either in, or you’re out of it. For those of you who are regular attendees, you’ve probably heard me advise the council at least a dozen times that this town can’t be a limited government. It has got to do the same things that the City of Fort Lauderdale or the City of Tampa has to do, with very minor exceptions. You just can’t go halfway with it. You’ve got to go all the way, and that’s going to require some things that I know the council is very uncomfortable with.”

Many of the town’s vendors, such as code enforcement, are there on a part-time basis, he noted. “We’re on a very tight budget with code enforcement, and

Farm City

Agricultural Roots

continued from page 3 with all these coconuts?’” Oyer said. “They decided to plant them all over the barrier island. Their intention being this might be a good cash crop, and that turned out to be true. When these things grew to maturity, we had coconuts

“Our food pantry is open every Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon,” Rose said. “We feed more than 100 families who need our help every week.”

Though Thanksgiving has passed, Rose noted that the church accepts donations for its food pantry — both food and monetary — all year.

“Anyone who wants to help can donate to us any time throughout the year,” he said.

“The food pantry operates all year long. We keep this going even after the holidays are over.

We don’t close our doors; they’re always open.”

Donors can contribute by visit-

ing www.rpcchurch.com or calling (561) 793-1077.

Rose said any donation can help, but noted that the church can purchase food at a discounted rate, meaning monetary donations can stretch further. “We can do a lot more with money,” he said. “But we welcome any donation.”

He thanked volunteers and members of the community who helped make the food drive possible.

“I want to wish everyone a happy Thanksgiving,” Rose said.

“We love our community, and we want to make sure members of this community have everything they need.”

Recchio said the village does not have enough staff to police it.

He noted that a decade ago, the village had a skate park with staff supervision, and safety equipment was given to skaters to use, but the park was not successful.

The registration includes a waiver, along with a copy of the rules, so they can know what to expect.

“What do you think the reason is for not wearing a helmet, other than just not being cool?” Riordan said.

Recchio said it’s a proven fact that skateboarders will not tell you of their injuries.

Riordan asked whether there are cameras at the facility, and Recchio said there are not.

“I think that would open us up to a liability,” Recchio said. “We keep telling the kids, ‘You’ve got to get in and sign a waiver and wear a helmet.’ That’s as much as we can do short of closing it down, and we don’t want to do that.”

they’re limited by virtue of time and cost, and it’s very hard to do code enforcement on a part-time basis,” Kutney said.

He also pointed out that the town office is officially open 35 hours a week, which is rare for municipalities. Most are usually open at least 40 hours. “I will tell you that we have never lived by that example,” Kutney said, pointing out that the office is open 50 or 60 hours a week with staff trying to attend to their responsibilities to keep the town’s government functioning.

He also pointed out that the town has no permanent facility, with a thin-walled office located in Loxahatchee Groves Plaza between a U-Haul rental establishment and a hydroponic supply company. The town rents the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District’s meeting room for its public meetings.

He also pointed out that the management company services four advisory boards, the intergovernmental coordinating committee and a special magistrate through code enforcement.

“It requires a heavy commit-

ment of staff time, my time, the town clerk’s time, because every week we’re working to bust our butts and get two agendas out, and sometimes that dominates the workload instead of getting to some of the projects that you might hear me say at a meeting we haven’t been able to get to,” he said.

Kutney said a comparable government with a similar budget would have 15 people and more than a $1 million operating budget.

“That’s three times what we have,” he said.

Attempting to do work in a limited way can actually make more work, Kutney said, adding that next year, the clerk will be moving to “action minutes” rather than more detailed transcripts.

Meanwhile, not having a permanent facility has limited the town’s ability to initiate such things as streaming video because they are not able to permanently mount cameras. “That way you could see meetings in real time,” Kutney said. “You can’t do it because the district wouldn’t allow us to put a permanent camera up because it’s not our building.”

everywhere, and they don’t spoil in three weeks on their way to Jacksonville. So, all of a sudden, we had a profitable ag industry for the first time.”

South Florida’s agriculture industry evolved from its somewhat hit-or-miss beginnings. Through massive drainage programs, developers converted millions of acres of what was once swampland into some of the richest farmland in the country. It was also brought

forward by Flagler, whose railroad gave farmers the transportation they needed to get crops to market quickly.

Oyer is the author of the children’s book series “The Adventures of Charlie Pierce,” which includes The American Jungle, The Last Egret and The Last Calusa.

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continued from page 1 to be able to use the access. Under the previous permit, the access point could be used only by emergency vehicles.

“The council indicated to the applicant that if they were to come forward with a request to amend the special-use permit, they would eliminate that condition,” Planning & Development Services Director Tim Stillings said.

As one of the conditions of approval for the special-use permit, “striping, flashing amber lights and signage [are] required to identify the horse crossing on Pierson Road,” according to a Wellington staff report.

But the flashing lights have not been installed, Stillings said. “The discussion [at Monday’s agenda review meeting was] that this permit would not be effective until that’s complete,” he said.

The issue is pressing, Stillings said, because an event is scheduled for this weekend at the site.

Councilman Matt Willhite said he thought the requirements should be met before the site could be used for shows.

“I would be OK with allowing this special-use permit to take effect upon completion and installation of the flashing light,” he said.

“It allows them to use [the Pierson Road access] for shows, but with the caveat that they have to install this before they can use it.”

Councilwoman Anne Gerwig asked whether any other conditions remained. “Is this the only one?” she asked.

Village Engineer Bill Riebe said it was the only item not completed.

He noted that there are signs and striping set up, but not the lights required by the village.

“The [required] lights are different than the amber flashing lights that are there now,” Riebe explained. “They are significantly larger and operate on a push button.”

Riebe said it is important to

Blotter

continued from page 6 Nov. 17 to a home on Hall Blvd. following a suspicious incident.

According to a PBSO report, at approximately 11:30 a.m. the complainant observed a black Mercedes near the intersection of Hall Blvd. and 92nd Road North. The complainant checked the vehicle and no one was inside. According to the report, the victim’s wife later observed an unknown black male run out from behind the home and jump a fence to the northeast of the property. The subject then entered the vehicle and fled in a southbound direction. According to the report, the subject was described as approximately 5’10”, wearing a dark hat. The victim said there was nothing disturbed near his home.

There was no further information available at the time of the report.

NOV. 18 — A resident of the Victoria Grove community called the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach last Monday to report a theft. According to a PBSO re-

Selena Smith and daughter, Marya, donated a turkey.

St. Baldrick’s Returns To Palm Beach Central Dec. 5

The St. Baldrick’s Foundation, a volunteer-driven charity dedicated to raising money for childhood cancer research, will host one of its signature head-shaving events at Palm Beach Central High School on Thursday, Dec. 5. More than 60 high-school students and teachers, including 10 female students, will shave their heads in solidarity with kids with cancer and raise money to conquer childhood cancers.

Why all the shaved heads?

Worldwide, a child is diagnosed with cancer every three minutes, and one in five children diagnosed in the U.S. will not survive.

With only 4 percent of all federal cancer research funding dedicated to pediatric cancer research, St. Baldrick’s Foundation volunteers, supporters and donors are needed to continue the battle

against this devastating disease.

Students at Palm Beach Central High School will be performing to cheer on those who are shaving their heads. The performances will vary from singing, to dramatic skits, to break dancing.

Sean Bomford, a senior at Palm Beach Central recently diagnosed with Stage 4b Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, will be a guest speaker. Girls will also be cutting their ponytails to donate to Locks of Love.

This is Palm Beach Central’s sixth St. Baldrick’s event.

Throughout the years, there have been over 500 heads shaved and over $300,000 has been donated to the foundation.

For more information about the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, call (888) 899-BALD or visit www. stbaldricks.org.

have lights that correspond to a button, rather than lights that flash all the time.

“It diminishes the importance of the lights if they are flashing all the time,” Riebe said. “When someone comes up to the crossing and pushes the button, you want motorists to know that the lights mean someone will be crossing.”

Because the location of the horse crossing could be moved if a turning lane is approved on Pierson Road in the future, Riebe said the lights are an “interim solution.”

Dan Rosenbaum, attorney for Wellington Equestrian Partners, said the conditions specified amber flashing lights, not signalized lights. Further, he said the master plan amendment also required only amber flashing lights and stipulated that the horse crossing be complete by Dec. 31, 2014.

“When we install this in your right of way, it becomes a fixture,” he said. “When you’re talking about the signalization of this, you’re talking about a computer that has to hook up to the left-turn lane; it has to have a trigger. It’s very complicated. That product is in the range of $30,000 to $40,000.”

But Riebe refuted those claims.

“This was discussed at length,” he said, showing council members e-mails in which he instructed company representatives about the specific lights. “This is a really simple thing. We intentionally specified amber beacon lights that were solar-powered. The applicant’s agent was aware of that.”

Riebe said he also shared the list of materials the developers needed to buy.

“This is just a normal amber flashing beacon assembly that you find everywhere in the U.S.,” Riebe said. “Instead of there being a child on the sign, there’s a horse.

It has an additional push button that is higher up so a person riding a horse can push it. We have them all over the Village of Wellington.”

He noted that because the beacons are solar, they could be reused when the horse crossing is moved.

“I don’t know why this is a $30,000 to $40,000 deal,” Riebe

said. “We’re not yet at that stage with this crossing.”

He said it shouldn’t be an issue to purchase and install them.

“We’ll take them out there and show them exactly what to buy and hold their hand,” Riebe said.

Council members asked whether a safe and acceptable solution would be to have monitors assist riders in crossing the street until the proper amber beacons were installed. Riebe said it is an option, but not a permanent solution.

“As long as they give documentation and note that this will be installed by the end of this December, I’m comfortable putting a monitor out there to warn people of that crossing,” he said.

Greene said he was frustrated that old issues seemed to be reemerging, noting that the current special-use permit was technically not valid if the conditions had not been met.

“There’s an event scheduled for this weekend without a valid special-use permit in place,” he said. “Once again, this council is being put in the position where we have to make decisions that, no matter what we do, will make us the bad guys.”

He was concerned that a monitor at the crossing might not do the job properly. “I don’t want our staff to have to monitor the monitor,” Greene said. “What I would like to see happen, because I think it’s important for safety, is to have PBSO deputies out there.”

He made a motion to require two PBSO deputies at Pierson Road two hours before and after events to monitor traffic and help horses cross. Greene also included a provision where Wellington could pull the bond posted on the site if the beacons were not installed to Riebe’s satisfaction by a certain date.

Gerwig asked whether Greene was suggesting two deputies in addition to the two already required on South Shore Blvd. He said he was.

Because of the holidays, village staff suggested giving the applicant until Jan. 10 to comply. The council is set to meet Tuesday, Jan. 14, when council members could vote to pull the bond if necessary.

Willhite, however, added to the motion that the bond should be pulled automatically if the applicant fails to install the beacons on time. The motion passed unanimously.

port, sometime between 7:30 and 8 a.m., someone stole a large stone lantern from the victim’s lawn.

The victim said the lantern is a large Japanese lantern that stands approximately three feet tall and weighs approximately 150 lbs.

The stolen lantern was valued at approximately $700. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

NOV. 19 — A resident of 121st Terrace North contacted the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation last Tuesday to report a case of fraud. According to a PBSO report, the victim’s wife logged into their bank account and discovered someone had made a fraudulent charge for $50. According to the report, the charge was made by a corrections facility in Tennessee for a phone call. The victim called the facility and was told they would only give information to law enforcement officials.

There was no further information at the time of the report.

Welky

Attack Of The Germs!

continued from page 14 hadn’t spent that much time in bed since our honeymoon, I snarled and almost bit his hand off.

But I’m better today. Everything still hurts, but at least I’m vertical.

And, just in case I ever thought I was some kind of linchpin in this family organization, I’m not. The dishes are done, the laundry is done, the baby is healthy again and people keep offering me soup.

Since the world can go on without me, I’m heading back to bed.

Gymboree can wait.

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Page 17

news

Wellington’s Woof Gang Bakery Hosts Grand Opening Celebration

Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming of Wellington is open for business. The store marked the event with a celebration Saturday, Nov. 23.

There were raffles, treat tasting for the dogs and more. Local rescue organizations were also on hand with adoptable dogs. For more info., visit www.woofgangbakery.com/woofgangbakerywellington or call (561) 790-2232.

Photos By Lauren Miró/Town-Crier

Woof Gang Bakery franchise owner Colleen Valle shows off some of the products available at the shop.

Bonnie Dickerson and Stephanie Johnstone man the raffle table.

Michael Barashick with his newly adopted friend, Bentley.

Helen and Bryan Engi brought Sadie to check out the store.

A Second Chance Rescue volunteers brought pets looking for forever homes. Shown here is Michael Barashick with Rocket, Victoria Hayes with Slim and Isaac Portnoy with Marvel.

Woof Gang’s Tayler Johnstone, Courtney Gray and Kathy Shea.

Wellington Brings Some Thanksgiving Cheer To Needy Local Families The Village of Wellington distributed bags of food to more than 100 needy families Saturday, Nov. 23 at Wellington Christian School as part of its Hometown Holiday Food Drive. Each family was given all the necessities for a Thanksgiving meal, as well as a pie donated by Whole Foods Market.

Photos By Lauren Miró/Town-Crier

Representatives from Wellington and the PBSO, along with volunteers, helped distribute food to needy families.

Wellington’s Scott Campbell and John Jarvis show off pies donated by Whole Foods Market.

Volunteers and local children make craft decorations.

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Page 18

November 29 - December 5, 2013

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Audrey Maschue’s German Riding Ponies

If you’ve ever thought about owning a Warmblood but preferred something a little smaller and easier to handle, Audrey Maschue might have just what you’re looking for. She breeds German Riding Ponies at her farm in The Acreage.

Ellen Rosenberg’s Column, Page 21

November 29 - December 5, 2013

Page 19

Sem Ridge Basketball Boys Fall To John I. Leonard

The Seminole Ridge High School boys varsity basketball team was defeated 77-38 on Friday, Nov. 22 when they hosted John I. Leonard High School. Although the Hawks commanded a lead for much of the first period, the Lancers fought back, and the Hawks ultimately ran out of steam. Page 27

Shopping Spree A Town-Crier Publication

inside

Business

Korte & Wortman Law Firm Donates Thanksgiving Baskets To PSA Healthcare

The law firm Korte & Wortman P.A. recently delivered baskets filled with Thanksgiving bounty to PSA Healthcare for the families of the center’s medically fragile children. The baskets were filled with stuffing, potatoes, corn, green beans and baby supplies.

With the addition of a turkey from Little Smiles, the donations provide a full Thanksgiving meal. Page 23

Sports

Palm Beach Central Football Team Suffers 45-28 Loss To Gardens

The Palm Beach Central High School varsity football squad hosted Palm Beach Gardens in a Class 8A regional semifinal game Friday, Nov. 22, falling to the Gators 45-28.

Palm Beach Central looked to make its way into the regional finals, but were cut short by a relentless Gator offensive attack that had the Bronco defense on the ropes all night. Page 27

THIS WEEK’S index Tails from the Trails............................. 21 BUSINESS NEWS................................... 22-23 SPORTS & RECREATION.........................27-29 COMMUNITY CALENDAR............................. 30 CLASSIFIEDS......................................... 30-34

(Limited Quantities. Sales ends 12/15/13)

Page 20

November 29 - December 5, 2013

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PALM BEACH INTERNATIONAL EQUESTRIAN CENTER

Winterfest Saturday, November 30, 2013 GateS opeN at 6:00 pm

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Holiday Themed Gift Vendors Equestrian Show Jumping Competition Santa Claus Live Musical Performances including Vanilla Ice Kid’s Activities Food Vendors & More Featuring the 2014 FTI Consulting Great Charity Challenge presented by Fidelity Investments® Charity Drawing For more inFormation WeLLinGton CHamBer oF CommerCe 561-792-6525 Palm Beach international equestrian Center 3400 equestrian Club Drive • Wellington, Florida

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features

November 29 - December 5, 2013

Page 21

Audrey Maschue Specializes In German Riding Ponies

If you’ve ever thought about owning a Warmblood but preferred something a little smaller and easier to handle, Audrey Maschue might have just what you’re looking for. She breeds German Riding Ponies at her farm in The Acreage.

Originally from Michigan, Audrey started riding early: jumping, eventing, western, before starting formal dressage lessons with FEI trainers at the ripe old age of 7. Over the years, she has worked with some of the top U.S. trainers, including Charles De Kunffy, Paul Belasik, Steffen Peters, Juan Matute, Katrin Bettenworth, Andrea Woodard and Volker Brommann.

She started out as a snowbird, coming down to Florida for the show season, before finally moving here permanently in 2000 and opening Xanadu Dressage.

“I got tired of the Michigan winters,” she said. “Plus, Wellington is the place to be if you’re seriously into training and showing dressage.”

Audrey has many classes with scores into the 70 percentiles and has trained several horses up to the Grand Prix level. She enjoys teaching students who have a passion for dressage. One of her fortes is matching riders with appropriate horses, especially quality German Riding Ponies in all price ranges.

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

Tales From The Trails

By Ellen Rosenberg “I fell in love with German Riding Ponies,” Audrey said. “They’re a smaller version of a Warmblood with the same look, athleticism and competitiveness, only in a smaller package. They typically stand 13 to 15 hands tall.

Most people think of the regular pony designation of being 14.2 hands or smaller, but these are categorized differently in Europe due to FEI rules. They’re like large ponies, most typically 14.1 to 14.3 hands.”

In addition to importing some German Riding Ponies and buying them from all over the United States, for the past year or so Audrey has been standing two stallions. Hilkins Go For Gold she imported from Germany. She bought Bullgari in Orlando. He’s a very brave eventing pony who’ll jump the moon. Audrey pointed out that the smaller size makes the breed particularly desirable for children, as well as adults.

“They’re a lot more manageable, with all the same qualities as the bigger horses,” she said.

“They’re quite hardy. They stay sound and healthy forever, like many pony breeds. It’s not unusual for a 20-year-old German Riding

Audrey Maschue of Xanadu Dressage with her stallions.

Pony to still be competing. They have super personalities, and are more fun to be around than horses.”

They’re also a little easier on the pocketbook. You don’t need an oversized stall or trailer, or bigger tack, and they eat less.

“These ponies are very fancy, fun and super competitive. They love to show, both in dressage and over fences,” Audrey said. “There’s no disadvantage to owning one of these.

They’re not the fat, chubby Thelwell ponies some people imagine. German Riding Ponies

are huge in Europe and can go for more than some horses. I think people are very pleasantly surprised when they come out and try them.”

Which is exactly what Ann Boehning did.

She lives in Lafayette, Ind., and had been searching for a German Riding Pony stallion to breed to her mare. She talked with a U.S. breeder who happened to mention Audrey, and so she called.

“Audrey was very professional,” Ann said.

“She answered all of my questions honestly See ROSENBERG, page 28

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Page 22

November 29 - December 5, 2013

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Business News

Local Company Invited Realtor’s Guidance Yielding Wider To The CE Pro Summit Margins On Real Estate Listings

Anthony Petrone, owner of Petrone Technology Group in Wellington, recently received the honor of being invited to the prestigious CE Pro Summit. The summit is an invite-only conference that hosts owners and other senior executives from the custom electronics industry’s largest and most progressive integration companies. Petrone Technology Group has established quite the acclaim for the design and quality of their electronics installations. Petrone was awarded the “Rising Stars” award in August of this year by CE Pro Magazine. Petrone Technology Group is a home automation company that specializes in audio, video and security. Petrone’s new showroom is located at 13873 Wellington Trace, Suite B3, in the Wellington Marketplace.

Over the past few months, real estate inventory has been flirting with five-year lows for single family housing, townhomes and condos, giving Realtors a call to action to convince their clients to put their property up for sale.

“With a healthy housing market in place and low supply of inventory, our Realtors have been informing clients that this is the best time to put their house on the market,” said Tim Harris, president of the Realtors Association of the Palm Beaches. “Their clients are listening, too. Palm Beach County just hit a five-year high for new listings in the single-family housing market” Property owners continue to be actively engaged in the market.

Median sale prices are at five-year highs for townhouses and condos at $118,500. Last October, the median sale price was only $91,100. That’s a difference of $27,400, or a 30.1 percent increase. Single family median sale prices are just shy of their five-year highs at $253,000. Year over year, that’s a 14.4 percent jump.

With owners able to ask more for their property, they are also seeing the highest percent of original listing price in the past five years.

Compared to last year, that’s a 3.6 percent increase for single-family homes and a 1.9 percent increase for townhouses and condos.

Even better, property owners typically don’t have to wait long to see these types of returns once they put their house on the market.

The median days on the market for single-family homes, townhouses and condos are just over a month and a half.

With growing consumer confidence and Realtor’s guidance, the market is slowly finding its equilibrium. Inventory is slowly climbing higher, with closed sales near fiveyear highs, property appreciating and houses staying on the market for a shorter amount of time. Many Realtors anticipate that a balanced market will bring conditions more favorable for the average buyer.

“Investors are a big reason why the inventory is so low, and they are now starting to buy fewer properties because of rising prices. 2014 will continue to provide reasonable prices for housing, low interest rates and higher inventory, which should lead to a stronger economy,” said Myles Minns, owner of Continental Properties.

“It is still a market that both sellers and buyers can be successful,” added Bill Richardson of Keyes Realty.

“Buyers need to understand that the deep discounts aren’t there anymore.

Sellers need to know that they’re not back at 2005 numbers.”

According to industry experts, one of the biggest factors that could hurt the real estate market in 2014 is interest rate hikes. Keep a close eye on the Federal Reserve in the years to come to anticipate when those increases could occur.

For more information about the Realtors Association of the Palm Beaches and the real estate market, visit www.rapb.com.

Central Chamber Luncheon Dec. 2

The Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce will hold its monthly luncheon Monday, Dec. 2 at 11:30 a.m. at the Breakers West Country Club featuring a 2013 year in review. Tickets are $20 for members and $30 for non-members.

Contact Mary Lou Bedford at (561) 578-4807 or marylou@cpbchamber. com for more info.

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Business News

November 29 - December 5, 2013

Page 23

Law Firm Donates Thanksgiving Baskets To PSA Healthcare

The law firm Korte & Wortman P.A. recently delivered baskets filled with Thanksgiving bounty to PSA Healthcare in the Vista Center for the families of the center’s medically fragile children.

The baskets were filled with stuffing, potatoes, corn, green beans and baby supplies.

With the addition of a turkey from Little Smiles, the donations provide a full Thanksgiving meal for the families.

“This is truly a blessing for our families,” Director Alex Delgado said. “Every day, their first priority is making sure their children have the medical care that they need. For them to have a Thanksgiving meal donated is really a special gift.”

PSA Healthcare provides daycare for medically fragile or technology-dependent children from birth to four years old. The center is staffed by skilled nurses and healthcare workers trained to care for special needs children.

“We see families every day who are struggling because of various circumstances,”

Senior Partner Brian Korte said. “We’re happy to help these families have a happy Thanksgiving.”

Korte & Wortman is a law firm specializing in defending those injured through foreclosure.

Based in West Palm Beach, Korte & Wortman represents clients throughout Florida and across the eastern seaboard. With expertise in all aspects of real estate law, the attorneys at Korte & Wortman also represent clients in real estate closings, property tax appeals, condominium and HOA disputes, and landlord-tenant disputes. To learn more, visit www. foreclosurefactor.com or call (561) 228-6200.

PSA Healthcare offers unique day treatment centers managed by pediatric registered nurses and staffed with skilled nursing and healthcare professionals who are trained to care for special kids in a safe, caring and developmentally stimulating environment. PSA Healthcare has been a leading provider of adult and pediatric private duty nursing services throughout the nation for more than 20 years.

Staff members with the Thanksgiving baskets donated by Korte & Wortman.

ABWA To Honor Veterans At Dec. 11 Meeting In P.B. Gardens

The Northern Palm Beach Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association will meet Wednesday, Dec. 11 at the PGA Embassy Suites Hotel. Networking will take place 6 to 6:30 p.m., with the dinner and program at 6:30 p.m. The cost is $20.

There will be no formal speaker,

but the December meeting will be dedicated to honoring veterans for their service.

There will be a holiday celebration and gift bag assembly for donation to the VA Hospital Nursing Center. All are welcome to help prepare gift tags and fill bags with assorted toiletries, clothing, trinkets

and activities. The donation will be made to the VA Hospital at a later date. ABWA member Tina Ravel, an independent Stampin’ Up demonstrator, has donated the items necessary to prepare the personalized gift tags and will coordinate assembly.

To RSVP, call Dottie Smith at (772) 545-7145 or Sharon Maupin

at (561) 329-4485. The Embassy Suites Hotel is located at 4350 PGA Blvd. in Palm Beach Gardens. For directions, call (561) 622-1000.

The mission of the American Business Women’s Association is to bring together businesswomen of diverse occupations and to provide opportunities for them to help them-

selves and others grow personally and professionally through leadership, education, networking, support and national recognition.

For more information on the American Business Women’s Association, call Maupin at (561) 329-4485 or visit www.abwanpb florida.org.

November 29 - December 5, 2013

Page 24

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November 29 - December 5, 2013

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CELEBRATING 20 YEARS

GUTIERREZ & URIBE

WHAT IS MODERN EQUESTRIAN ARCHITECTURE? First of all it is beauty! Horse owners, experienced riders, trainers, or aspiring equestrians are always concerned for buildings connected to nature with elegance. G&U creates exceptional spaces and structures in which to celebrate our horses and equestrian sports. Modern architectural designs makes your p property more valuable and classy!

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Sports & Recreation

November 29 - December 5, 2013

Page 27

Palm Beach Central Suffers 45-28 Loss To Gardens

By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report The Palm Beach Central High School varsity football squad hosted Palm Beach Gardens in a Class 8A regional semifinal game Friday, Nov. 22, falling to the Gators 45-28.

The Broncos (8-4) had defeated the Gators 20-13 just two weeks prior in the team’s regular season finale.

Palm Beach Central looked to make its way into the regional finals game against the winner of Deerfield Beach High School versus Miramar High School game, but were cut

short by a relentless Gator offensive attack that had the Bronco defense on the ropes all night.

Offense, however, was not a problem. Both teams racked up impressive stats.

The Broncos struck first when running back Tommy McDonald ran 27 yards for the game’s first score. Jordan Acham’s kick gave the Broncos an early 7-0 lead.

Then the offensive frenzy started.

With the game going into the second quarter tied 21-21, it was the Gators that squeezed out a field goal before

Palm Beach Central defensive lineman James Scroggins tries to bring Photos by Gene Nardi/Town-Crier down Gator quarterback J.P. Caruso.

the end of the first half to hold a 2421 lead at halftime. The Broncos did attempt a field goal to tie it up, but the kick went wide.

In the second half, Palm Beach Gardens did not let up, holding Palm Beach Central on its first possession, and then capping a 97-yard drive when Tommy Monday ran in for the score from one yard out. The score gave the Gators a 10-point lead.

Palm Beach Central responded quickly with a big 54-yard return by Jhnard Dorsett to give the Broncos good field position. McDonald ran in from three yards out for his third score. Acham’s kick brought the score to 31-28 with the Gators ahead.

The Broncos battled back offensively, but could not find the end zone. Their defense struggled to stop the Gator offense. Palm Beach Gardens would close out the game with a 45-28 victory.

Palm Beach Central racked up 257 yards rushing and 172 yards in the air. McDonald was the workhorse with 24 carries for 188 yards and three touchdowns.

Quarterback Kevin Bramhall recorded a 2-yard touchdown run.

Both teams combined for over 900 yards of offense.

The loss ended the Broncos’ season at 8-4. The Gators (8-4) will host Broward County’s Miramar High School (12-0) in the Class 8A regional championship game.

Bronco Rudolph St. Jermain and Gator J’Quan Napier go up for the ball.

Sem Ridge Basketball Falls To John I. Leonard 77-38

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report The Seminole Ridge High School boys varsity basketball team hosted John I. Leonard High School on Friday, Nov. 22, falling 77-38 to the Lancers.

Although the Hawks commanded a lead for much of the first period,

the Lancers fought back, and the Hawks ultimately ran out of steam.

The Hawks scored first a few second into the game with two points by Corey Sands. For much of the first period, the two teams traded baskets, with John I. Leonard matching Seminole Ridge basket for basket.

Though Seminole Ridge had the

Jalen Young races down the court unmatched.

Photos by Lauren Miro/Town-Crier

chance to extend the lead, missed foul shots made for missed opportunities. Nick Ryan and Sands added baskets to end the first quarter with a 10-9 lead.

In the second quarter, John I. Leonard kicked things off with back-to-back baskets, including a three-pointer to retake the lead 1410. Sands responded with a basket to cut into the lead, but the Lancers kept up the heat, nailing two more baskets and some foul shots to begin to pull away from the Hawks.

Seminole Ridge got back into gear when Ryan nailed another two-point basket to make the score 21-16. Jalen Young added back-toback baskets to bring the Hawks within one point of the lead, making the score 21-20.

Both teams battled for the remaining 3 minutes of the first half in a fast-paced game. First, John I. Leonard took the ball down the court and tried to dunk it, but missed.

Young picked up the rebound and raced down the court to score a layup and take the lead 22-21 with 2:05 on the clock.

Though the Lancers attempted to score multiple times, they kept missing baskets. Eventually, they tied the

Miguel Dominguez jumps up for a shot. score 22-22 with a successful foul shot. With 1:23 on the clock, John I. Leonard nailed a two-pointer to break the tie 24-22. They kept up the momentum with another basket, making the score 26-22. A few seconds later, Ryan brought the ball up the center for a two-point basket to send the Hawks into halftime trailing 26-24.

But the second half saw the Lancers steamroll Seminole Ridge, put-

ting up 51 points to the Hawks’ 14.

Though Seminole Ridge tried to fight back, they were unable to keep the ball and put points on the board.

Ultimately, the Hawks suffered a 77-38 loss.

The Hawks traveled to Inlet Grove High School on Tuesday, Nov. 26, but results were not available at press time. They host the Benjamin School on Monday, Dec. 2 for a 7:30 p.m. game.

Page 28

November 29 - December 5, 2013

The Town-Crier

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sports & recreation

Gymnasts From Cats Compete At Celebrate America Meet The Cats of Wellington competitive gymnastics team recently competed in the Celebrate America 2013 meet.

In Level 1, Guilbhrea Pacheco was awarded first on beam (9.5), and received scores of 9.175 on vault, 9.225 on bars and 9.1 on floor. Rylee Bleakley earned scores of 9.475 on vault, 9.2 on bars, 9.025 on beam and 9.2 on floor. Gabriella Bennett was awarded first on bars (9.525), and scores of 9.226 on vault, 9 on beam and 9.025 on floor. Kate Kaminski earned first all-around (36.375), including first on beam (9.075) and scores of 9.475 on vault, 9.175 on floor and 8.65 on bars. Juliana Stebbins received scores of 9.3 on vault, 9.175 on bars and 9.05 on floor. Ava Delafe was awarded first on vault (9.6) and 8.9 on floor. Kaiya

Parent earned 9.1 on vault and 9.275 on floor. Sadie Remington scored 8.95 on vault and 8.975 on bars.

Juliana Lettera was awarded 9.025 on vault and 8.875 on floor. Reagan Ross earned 8.925 on vault and 8.975 on floor. Hannah Farrill scored 8.85 on vault and 9.075 on floor.

Gracie Fortune was awarded 9.125 on vault and 8.7 on floor. Kyleigh Beckowitz received scores of 8.825 on vault and 9.1 on floor. Kimberly Berg earned 9.225 on vault and 9 on floor. Mia Chang was awarded 9 on vault and 8.725 on floor. Agostina Fontana scored 8.775 on vault and 9 on floor. The Level 1 girls finished third in the team standings.

In Level 2, Sophia Roberts received first on vault (9.4) and first on bars (9.125). Nicole Campos was awarded first on vault (9.55)

and a score of 8.95 on floor. Natalie Batista earned scores of 8.925 on vault and beam. Allison Franck received 9 on vault and 8.675 on floor. Mia Hernandez was awarded 8 on beam and 8.675 on floor. The Level 2 girls finished seventh in the team standings.

In Level 3, Ruth Anne Lively earned scores of 9.65 on vault, 9 on bars, 9.25 on beam and 9.025 on floor. Kayla Nevins received 9.575 on vault, 9.1 on bars, 9.1 on beam and 9.15 on floor. Allison Bunchuk was awarded 9.4 on vault, 9 on bars, 9.225 on beam and 9.125 on floor.

Alexa Alvarez scored 9.55 on vault, 8.575 on bars, 9 on beam and 9.075 on floor. Arianna Nettles earned 9.45 on vault and 8.7 on both bars and floor. Keelin Coleman received 8.9 on vault, 9.15 on bars and

8.575 on floor. Gracey Miller was awarded 9.175 on vault and 8.55 on beam. Sophia LaCosta earned scores of 8.65 on vault, 9.175 on bars and 8.575 on floor. Lily Remillard received 9.25 on vault and 8.575 on bars. Sophia Rodriguez was awarded 9.225 on vault, 8.95 on bars and 8.575 on floor. Karlie

Xanadu Dressage

our mare. She sent us a great video with raw footage, not at all edited, no slow motion, just a film showing three good-quality gaits in real time of one of her ponies.”

Ann never thought she would buy a 4-year-old pony for Kennedy, but that’s what she ended up doing.

“In January 2012, we drove all the way from Indiana to pick him up. It was a long drive, but a lot less hassle than having to go to

Germany or import something,” she said. “Since then, Kennedy and Charlie, as we call him, competed in the Lendon Gray Youth Dressage Festival in New York. Charlie is just fabulous. He’s exceeded all of my expectations. I never owned a German Riding Pony before, but now it’s our favorite breed. They’re great for adults as well as kids.”

Ann still calls Audrey for advice.

“I really appreciate Audrey’s integrity. I can call and ask her anything, and she always has useful advice,” Ann said. “She follows up and wants to know how Charlie is doing. She really cares about placing each pony in just the right situation so it’s a perfect fit for both equine and human. If you’re looking for a high-quality, competitive horse, I’d highly recommend Audrey and her German Riding Ponies.”

Rosenberg

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Navor received 8.975 on vault and 8.4 on floor. Samantha Hogan scored 8.8 on vault and 8.425 on floor. The Level 3 girls finished sixth in the team standings.

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

The competitive gymnastics team from Cats of Wellington.

For Audrey, it’s all about creating successful pairings.

“I love creating training programs to fit each individual’s needs,” Audrey said. “This results in great partnerships. The process of developing these successful and positive partnerships is what I enjoy the most.”

For more information, visit www. xanadudressage.com, or call Audrey at (561) 541-2646.

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November 29 - December 5, 2013

Page 29

Kelsey Coates Inducted Into College Athletics Hall Of Fame

Kelsey Coates, daughter of Howard and Cheri Coates of Wellington, was inducted Nov. 15 into the inaugural class of the Young Harris Col-

lege Athletics Hall of Fame.

The Young Harris College Athletics Hall of Fame was established this year to recognize individuals for their

Bayley Cook Signs To Play In College

Bayley Cook, a four-year starter at Royal Palm Beach High School, has signed a National Letter of Intent to play volleyball for Southeastern Oklahoma State University in Durant, Okla. Bayley, a setter, helped lead the Wildcats to back-to-back district championships in 2011-12, and an appearance in the regional finals in 2012, earning a second team all county nod in 2011 and a first team all county in 2012. Shown here is Bayley Cook (front) with Scott Cook, Tamara Cook, Ellen Richards, Brianne Cook and Sal Ciano.

outstanding athletic achievements and distinguished service to the school and the greater community. The inaugural class featured men and women nominated by alumni and friends for being an integral part of a celebrated history of athletics at the college. Coates, together with the

2006 women’s soccer team, was inducted as the college’s only national championship team to date.

Coates was awarded a soccer scholarship to Young Harris College in 2006 and played there as goalkeeper for two years while earning her associate’s degree. She

Great Season For WHS Wrestling

The Wellington High School junior varsity wrestling team improved to 4-0 this season with a 72-0 win over Royal Palm Beach. The varsity wrestling team improved to 5-1 this season with a 64-7 win over Royal Palm Beach. Noah Coulter and Josiah Cleghorn led the way for the varsity team with a 6-0 record so far this season.

continued her education, as well as her soccer career, at Webber International University.

Prior to becoming a fouryear school, Young Harris College competed in the Division I class of the National Junior College Athletic Association. Her freshman year, Coates split duties with the sophomore keeper and was ranked ninth nationally with a .429 average. In her sophomore year, she attained a national ranking of No. 2.

This was all from a girl who thought her days of playing soccer, or any sport, were over when she was diagnosed with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy just prior to her 15th birthday. Given the fact that the majority of her seizures occurred on or around the soccer field gave many pause for concern. However, Coates was determined not to allow epilepsy to hold her back.

With the request that she be treated no differently than any other player, she persevered to play all four years of high school soccer, while experiencing seizures during and after practices, and yes, even

Kelsey Coates with Young Harris College President Cathy Cox and Athletic Director Randy Dunn. during half time of a game.

During college recruitment, coaches were made aware of her condition, and she became a symbol of strength to her fellow athletes on and off the field.

November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month, which gives the award an even greater meaning. It has made her more determined to educate others and encourage fellow athletes to keep pushing forward.

Coates invites readers to visit her blog at www.eps4u. net to learn more.

Page 30

November 29 - December 5, 2013

Saturday, Nov. 30 • The Wellington Green Market will take place Saturday, Nov. 30 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wellington Municipal Complex. Call (561) 2835856 for more info.

• The Okeeheelee Nature Center (7715 Forest Hill Blvd.) will present Alligators for all ages Saturday, Nov. 30 at 1 p.m. Meet the nature center’s live baby alligator. Call (561) 233-1400 to RSVP. • Winterfest 2013, produced by the Wellington Chamber of Commerce and featuring Vanilla Ice, will take place Saturday, Nov. 30 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington. For more info., call (561) 792-6525 or visit www.wellingtonchamber.com.

Sunday, Dec. 1 • The Royal Palm Beach Green Market & Bazaar will take place Sunday, Dec. 1 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park (11600 Poinciana Blvd.). For more info., visit www.rpbgreenmarket.com.

• Big Dog Ranch Rescue will host an adoption and fundraiser at Park Avenue BBQ & Grille (13897 Wellington Trace, Wellington) on Sunday, Dec. 1 from noon to 4 p.m. with dog adoptions, a dog wash and dog paw prints. Park Avenue will donate 15 percent of patrons’ bills between 11 a.m. and 10 p.m. to Big Dog with a flier advertising the event. Call (561) 791-6465 or visit www. bigdogranchrescue.org for more info.

• The Wellington Jewish Center will host a free Chanukah Party on Sunday, Dec. 1 from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). The party will feature a Chanukah concert and menorah lighting, along with latkes, doughnuts, face painting, games, activities and kosher food available. For more info, contact Rabbi Mendy Muskal at (561) 3334663 or rabbim@bellsouth.net.

• EVI International will present Oliver Samuels’ hit play Embassy Saga on Sunday, Dec. 1 at 6 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach High School auditorium (10600 Okeechobee Blvd., Royal Palm

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community calendar

Beach). The play highlights a family’s dilemma on whether or not they should move to America.

For more info., visit www.eviinternational.com.

Monday, Dec. 2 • The Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce will hold its monthly luncheon Monday, Dec. 2 at 11:30 a.m. at the Breakers West Country Club featuring a 2013 year in review. Tickets are $20 for members and $30 for non-members. Contact Mary Lou Bedford at (561) 578-4807 or marylou@cpbchamber.com for more info.

• Morselife will offer a book review for adults age 55 and older on Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford on Monday, Dec. 2 at noon at the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) A light lunch will be provided. Pre-register in person, online at www. wellingtonfl.gov or by calling (561) 753-2489.

Tuesday, Dec. 3 • The Palm Beach County Drug Abuse Summit, hosted by the Hanley Center and the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, will take place Tuesday, Dec. 3 from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Hanley Center Resource Center (933 45th St., West Palm Beach). To RSVP, call (561) 842-1102 or e-mail bwilliams@hanleycenter.org.

• The Palm Beach County Commission will meet Tuesday, Dec. 3 at 9:30 a.m. in the government center’s Jane M. Thompson Memorial Chambers (301 N. Olive Ave., Sixth Floor, West Palm Beach). For info., visit www.pbcgov.com.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will feature Animals on the Loose for ages 4 to 8 on Tuesday, Dec. 3 at 3:30 p.m. Listen to tales of runaway animals. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Oh, When the Penguins Come Marching In for age 2 and up Tuesday, Dec. 3 at 3:30 p.m. Drop in to listen to penguin stories.

Call (561) 790-6030 for more info.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will

PALMS WESTTHIS WEEK’S

feature Scherenschnitte for adults Tuesday, Dec. 3 at 6 p.m. Explore this Pennsylvania Dutch folk art by using scissors to make decorative paper creations for the holidays. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host By-Hook-or-By-Crook Crochet Club for ages 9 and up Tuesdays, Dec. 3, 10 and 17 at 6:30 p.m. Learn basic stitches and socialize. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

Wednesday, Dec. 4 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Navigating the New Insurance Marketplace on Wednesday, Dec. 4 at 3 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 14 at noon. Speak to a certified navigator about programs and get help with enrollment. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will feature American Girl: Julie for ages 6 to 12 on Wednesday, Dec. 4 at 4 p.m. Learn about equality, the environment and change through the stories of a girl growing up in the 1970s. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will feature Take ‘n’ Bake for adults Wednesday, Dec. 4 at 6 p.m. Pick up one, pre-selected holiday baking book, try a recipe and discuss your results.

Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will feature Japanese Anime and Culture Club for ages 12 to 17 on Wednesday, Dec. 4 at 6:30 p.m. Watch a variety of anime, and eat snacks and chat with friends about cool stuff from Japan.

Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

Thursday, Dec. 5 • The Palm Beach County Commission will hold a zoning meeting Thursday, Dec. 5 at 9:30 a.m. in the government center’s Jane M. Thompson Memorial Chambers (301 N. Olive Ave., Sixth Floor, WPB). For info., visit www.pbcgov.com.

• The Okeeheelee Nature Center (7715 Forest Hill Blvd.) will host Story Time for ages 2 to 5 on Thursday, Dec. 5 at 10 a.m. Activities are specifi-

The Town-Crier cally designed for toddlers and preschoolers. The cost is $2 per child. Call (561) 233-1400 to RSVP. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will feature Catch That Gingerbread Man! for all ages Thursday, Dec. 5 at 11:15 a.m. Enjoy a slightly silly version of the Gingerbread Man story featuring delicious cookies to decorate. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will feature Holiday Card Creation with Microsoft Publisher for adults Thursday, Dec. 5 at 2:30 p.m.

Design unique holiday cards using computer software. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• Wellington’s Food Truck Invasion will take place Thursday, Dec. 5 from 5 to 9:30 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Call (561) 753-2484 or visit www. wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host a Writers’ Critique Workshop for adults Thursday, Dec. 5 at 6:30 p.m. Share, offer and accept constructive criticism to improve your writing. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Royal Palm Beach Village Council will meet Thursday, Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. at Village Hall (1050 Royal Palm Beach Blvd.). Call (561) 7905100 or visit www.royalpalmbeach.com for info.

Friday, Dec. 6 • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host 3-D Snowflake Creations for ages 6 to 10 Friday, Dec. 6 at 4 p.m. Make “chilly” with 3-D snowflakes. Supplies will be provided.

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

Saturday, Dec. 7 • The Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club of Wellington will host its 26th annual Wellington Dinner Dance on Saturday, Dec. 7 at 7 p.m. at the Wycliffe Golf & Country Club. For more info., call Kevin Murray at (561) 683-3287.

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

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TRIPLE QUALITY PAINTING, INC. — The finest materials, service & price. Painting Exterior & Interior, Pressure Cleaning, Roof, & Patios, Roof Cleaning, Wood Repair & Faux Finishes Lic. # U21140 7 5 4 - 2 4 5 - 0 8 5 9 o r 5 6 1 - 5 5 7 - 3 11 3

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BILLY’S HOME REPAIRS INC. REMODEL & REPAIRS — Interior Trim, crown molding, rottenwood repair, door installation, minor drywall,kitchens/cabinets/countertops, wood flooring. Bonded and Insured U#19699. Call 791-9900 or 628-9215

HOME IMPROVEMENTS ANMAR CO.—James’ All Around Handyman Service. Excellent craftman Old time values. Once you’ve had me! You’ll have me back! Lic. Ins. Certified Residential Contractor CRC1327426 561-248-8528

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

PAINTING J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential. Interior & Exterior painting. Certified pressure cleaning & painting contractor. Lic. #U21552 Call Butch 309-6975 or visit ourwebsite at www. jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com JOHN PERGOLIZZI PAINTING INC. — Interior/Exterior - Repaint specialist, pressure cleaning, popcorn ceiling, drywall repair & roof painting. Family owned/owner operator. Free Est. 798-4964 Lic. #U18473

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SITUATION WANTED SECRETARY/C.N.A. — Excellent references trilingual. Over 20 years experienced. Please call 561-358-0791

CRAFT FAIR Boca Raton Chapter of the Southern Handcraft Society Presents “A SOUTHERN CHRISTMAS 2013” 28th Annual Juried Craft Show. Thursday, Dec. 5, 1:00pm - 9pm Friday, Dec. 6, 9:00am-9pm, Saturday, Dec. 7 9am -1pm. Patch Reef Park, 2000 West Yamato Road (1/4 mile west of Military Trail, Boca Raton, FL 33431. All items are made in the USA by the artist in the show FREE ADMISSION.

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SHUTTERS/PANELS ACCORDION SHUTTERS — Gutters, screen enclosures, siding, soffits, aluminum roofs, Serving the Western Communities. Since 1985. U-17189 561-791-9777

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November 29 - December 5, 2013 Page 31

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Page 32 November 29 - December 5, 2013

PALMS WESTTHIS WEEK’S

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November 29 - December 5, 2013

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HERE’S MY CARD

www.eclipsesalonwellington.com Lawn Maintenance • Landscape Design • Stump Removal FREE ESTIMATES

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

November 29 - December 5, 2013

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November 29 - December 5, 2013

www.gotowncrier.com

The Town-Crier

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

November 29 - December 5, 2013

Page 37

Page 38

November 29 - December 5, 2013

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

ACREAGE

Green Market Family Fun Each Sunday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Local Farmers

• Food Finds • Organics Vegan • Gluten Free • Flowers • Orchids • BBQ Pit • Prepared Foods Onsite Arts and Crafts • Kids Activities & MORE FUN

VENDORS FROM ALL OVER WESTERN COMMUNITIES!

Come For Breakfast! Stay For Lunch Bring your Lawn Chairs!

Support Local Visit With Neighbors Enjoy The Community

Acreage Community Park (Off 140th) 6701140th Ave. • Loxahatchee

www.Shopgreenmarkets.com • For Info 561-929-0237 Sponsored by the ALA