Town-Crier Newspaper October 10, 2014

DOG STEALS THE SHOW AT LOX COUNCIL SEE STORY, PAGE 3

ITID QUESTION 3: ROAD PAVING & MORE SEE STORY, PAGE 7

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

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RPB Council OKs Conceptual Plan For Homes At Plant Site

Volume 35, Number 41 October 10 - October 16, 2014

Serving Palms West Since 1980

HORSES HELPING PEOPLE

Royal Palm Beach’s old wastewater treatment plant property is one step closer to seeing new life as a single-family home community. In a 4-1 decision, the Royal Palm Beach Village Council approved a conceptual rezoning plan last week for the 151-acre property. Page 3

Crestwood Principal Updates RPB Ed Board

The Royal Palm Beach Education Advisory Board listened to a presentation about Crestwood Middle School from Principal Stephanie Nance on Monday.

Page 4

Murder Mystery Fun At Cultural Center For Young At Heart Club

The Young at Heart Club held its monthly luncheon Friday, Oct. 3 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. This month’s theme was a masquerade murder mystery. Page 9

PBSO’s Run For The Animals At Okeeheelee

The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office’s seventh annual Run for the Animals and Family Fun Day took place on Saturday, Oct. 4 at the Micanopy Pavilion in Okeeheelee Park. The day started with a 5k run, 5k walk and one mile family/dog walk.

Page 17

OPINION

Make Halloween Safety A Priority

Halloween is all about the candy, and stomachaches are practically guaranteed. Of course, stomachaches are really the least of the holiday’s worries.

The real problem is safety. From costume safety to being visible at night, the holiday presents a host of potential dangers — most of which can be mitigated with proper planning. The safest alternative is to celebrate in true community fashion at one of the many local celebrations.

That way, youngsters can get their candy and costume fix in a protected atmosphere. Page 4 DEPARTMENT INDEX NEWS................................. 3 - 9 OPINION.................................. 4 CRIME NEWS.......................... 6 NEWS BRIEFS......................... 8 PEOPLE................................. 13 SCHOOLS.............................. 14 COLUMNS...................... 16, 25 BUSINESS..................... 26 - 29 SPORTS......................... 33 - 35 CALENDAR............................ 38 CLASSIFIEDS................ 39 - 43 Visit Us On The Web At WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

The American Association of Caregiving Youth and the Equus Foundation hosted the inaugural Horses Helping People Family Resource Day on Sunday, Oct. 5 at the Van Kampen Arena in Wellington. Attendees learned about the benefits of equine therapy and took part in a variety of activities. Shown here is polo player Lindsay Dolan on Fiona with Susan Shelly and Rick Steed of Steed Training. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 20 PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

County’s Zoning Commission Approves Minto West Project

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Palm Beach County Zoning Commission approved Minto West’s rezoning application last week by a 6-2 vote.

The Oct. 2 decision came after four hours of testimony by the applicant, staff and members of the public largely opposed to the controversial project.

The 3,789-acre, 5.92-squaremile project, formerly known as Callery-Judge Grove, is located along the east and west sides of Seminole Pratt Whitney Road between Okeechobee and Northlake boulevards.

Minto is seeking approval to build 4,549 homes and up to 2.1 million square feet of non-residential uses. The land is currently approved for 2,996 residential units and 235,000 square feet of non-residential use.

The Palm Beach County Com-

mission is scheduled to consider the project again on Wednesday, Oct. 29.

“This is a very large project, larger than what we typically see,” Project Manager Bryan Davis said.

“We haven’t seen anything of this size in Palm Beach County in quite some time.”

For comparison, he said the project is larger than the cities of Lake Worth and Greenacres and, if incorporated, would be the 11thlargest municipality in the county.

Davis pointed out that the site was established as a grove in 1968, before most other development took place around it. The surrounding area was primarily in agricultural use.

“The Acreage has largely built up around it,” Davis said. “Residential development started in that area in the early 1970s. This was always something that was known as a potential issue out there.”

The site was the last commercial citrus growing operation in Palm Beach County. It had to close its operations in the past few years due to citrus blight. Davis added that growth around the site was largely unplanned and development encroached on the agricultural operations.

Studies about the land’s future use have gone on for nearly 25 years in some capacity or another.

“The one that really sets the tone is the Midlands Study,” he said, referring to a long-term planning effort done in the late 1980s to set up the county’s comprehensive plan.

“It was to look at infrastructure, and it recognized not just this area, but virtually everything west of the turnpike that we now think of as a developed area,” Davis said, explaining that the study examined the infrastructure needs of the See MINTO WEST, page 19

Soccer Players Ask RPB For Help Finding A Field

By Briana D’Andrea Town-Crier Staff Report Soccer players and their parents showed up by the dozens at the Royal Palm Beach Village Council meeting Thursday, Oct. 2, seeking the village’s help in finding a new field.

Chris Popoff, president of the Elite Soccer Academy and Palm Beach Premier Football Club, said he wanted an equal chance at using the local fields for coaching his soccer students.

“We had a field last year, and the rec department has decided that flag football and a recreational program that you have for soccer are more important than the elite program we have here,” said Popoff, who was joined by about 100 supporters.

According to Popoff, the Elite Soccer Academy has the most competitive league in the region.

The academy’s staff pride itself on building up players and training them for the major leagues.

“We have nowhere to play and

nowhere to practice,” he added.

The Royal Palm Beach Strikers recreational soccer program was granted the use of the fields at Seminole Palms Park, where the Elite Soccer Academy used to practice.

“The Seminole Palms Park fields are empty most of the time.

All we are requesting is one field for now, three times a week,” Popoff said. “As our program grows, it’s going to be a great benefit to Royal Palm Beach, because you are not only going to have kids from here maybe make it up to the majors or college… but people are going to want to stay local.”

One concerned parent, Muhammad Yakut, is afraid his son will lose a good opportunity to continue playing without a place to practice.

“I am asking for your help in giving our kids field space and giving them the ability to continue practicing in a sport that they love,” he said. “This academy has brought a system, where they are

educating our kids at a level that is yet to be seen.”

Mayor Matty Mattioli suggested the organization go to Palm Beach County officials with their concerns. “We can’t chase somebody else off and let you on, and we can’t make a field,” he said. “So, I don’t know why you are here today, asking us for a field. Where are we going to get it?”

Village Manager Ray Liggins suggested that Parks & Recreation Director Lou Recchio continue discussions with Popoff to see where on the schedule they may be able to fit practice time in.

“Apparently, we’re at a position now that the use of the fields has gotten to the point where this league is at the bottom of the protocol,” Liggins said.

Recchio said Palm Beach Premier was previously on a seasonal contract for field use.

“We leased the fields to them, because we had some time available with the understanding that if See SOCCER, page 7

District 6 County Candidates Spar In The Acreage

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report The Acreage Landowners’ Association conducted a candidate forum at the Acreage branch library Monday, and among the attendees were the three candidates seeking the District 6 seat on the Palm Beach County Commission.

The forum let each candidate — Democratic nominee Melissa McKinlay, Republican nominee Andrew Schaller and independent candidate Michelle Santamaria — have a chance to make an introduction and answer questions.

The winner of the Nov. 4 election will replace term-limited County Commissioner Jess Santamaria, Michelle Santamaria’s father.

Moderator Sandra Love Semande began the forum by asking the candidates about their qualifications and visions for the future of the western communities.

“I have more than 20 years of experience in all three levels of government — federal, state and

local,” McKinlay said, noting her grassroots work for women, children and families, and stressing that she is the only candidate in the race raising a family in the district.

“My vision for the western communities is to improve the economic atmosphere, especially in the far western reaches of our community, and in terms of The Acreage, just to make sure you all receive the attention and resources I feel you have not received over the last eight years,” she said, adding that her goal is “to make sure that every single part of this district has equal presentation.”

Santamaria provided her background as a criminal prosecutor and trial attorney with a master’s degree in business and an undergraduate degree in finance. She developed a program to help witnesses communicate in court, and within two years, it was picked up by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

“My main priorities as being See DISTRICT 6, page 19

PUMPKIN PATCH TIME

Community of Hope Church in Loxahatchee Groves completed its pumpkin patch Sunday, Oct. 5. Filled with gourds and pumpkins of all sizes, the patch is open now through Oct. 31. Shown here, five-month-old Josiah David Waller enjoys his first time seeing pumpkins. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 5

PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

ITID Candidates Face Off At Forum

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report A candidates forum hosted by the Acreage Landowners’ Association on Monday featured the six candidates seeking three available seats on the Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors.

The six candidates facing off at the Acreage branch library were Seat 1 incumbent Jennifer Hager and challenger Michael Erickson, Seat 3 incumbent Ralph Bair and challenger Alan Ballweg, and Seat 5 incumbent Carol Jacobs and challenger Betty Argue.

The forum was moderated by Sandra Love Semande, who invited the candidates to introduce themselves.

Erickson said that he has been a resident of The Acreage since 1989. With a military and prepschool background, he moved to Florida in 1980 and started his own company, which now has 55 employees; 24 of them from The Acreage.

“What my vision is for The Acreage is the same place I moved out here to,” Erickson said. “I like my privacy, I like my two acres,

I want to protect that lifestyle.

We’ve raised three boys here — 22, 18 and 15 — and they’ve had a really good quality of life. We don’t really want to change that lifestyle. I’m here to try to protect that lifestyle, but we have to be smart about things… I believe I can bring my business acumen to apply it to government.”

Hager has lived in The Acreage since 2006. Her youngest child is 16 and oldest is 19. A teacher, Hager moved to The Acreage from Broward County. “I moved here for the purpose of having my horses in my back yard and a place to raise my kids,” she said. “I love the dirt roads, country feel, open space, starry skies and the peace and quiet.”

Completing her first term on the ITID board, Hager said she strives to protect the area’s lifestyle. “I will continue serving residents in our area with my whole heart. I’m very matter-of-fact, and there’s no guessing where I stand on issues.

I will stand up and fight; I have that attitude. I don’t roll over, and I plan on addressing necessities before luxuries,” she said. “Why See ALA FORUM, page 19

Wellington Breaks Ground On New Tennis Center

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report Wellington officials joined members of the project’s design and build team to break ground Tuesday on the new Wellington Tennis Center.

Vice Mayor John Greene stood in for Mayor Bob Margolis, who was unable to attend.

“To be able to provide a dedicated tennis center to our residents, I think, makes us the envy of any municipality,” Greene said. “I am happy to stand here before you and thank you all for being here and thank the residents for supporting us and for making sure that we

can continue to provide the types of assets and venues that continue to just make this one of the best places in Palm Beach County.”

Greene also thanked village staff members, Pirtle Construction and architectural firm Song + Associates for their hard work and dedication. “It has taken us a long time to get here,” he said. “We’re very happy that this is a day we can all celebrate together.”

Council members Matt Willhite, Howard Coates and Anne Gerwig were also in attendance.

Willhite said the new facility, located on Lyons Road in eastern Wellington, should be open for

tennis play sometime next spring.

The decision to move the tennis center, currently located at the Wellington Community Center, was a controversial vote that divided the council and the Wellington tennis community.

Coates, who did not support the move, said the new facility would nevertheless be a benefit to the community.

“This site represents the collective desire of the council, that whatever we do, we build a worldclass facility that continues to keep Wellington on the map as one of the best communities to live, not See TENNIS, page 19

Tom Wenham, Bruce Delaney, Anthony Forgione, Young Song, Councilwoman Anne Gerwig, Vice Mayor John Greene, Councilman Matt Willhite, Councilman Howard Coates, Gary Pirtle, Jeff Miles and Jim Barnes take part in the groundbreaking ceremony.

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October 10 - October 16, 2014

Page 3

NEWS

RPB Council OKs Conceptual Plan For Homes At Crestwood Site

By Briana D’Andrea Town-Crier Staff Report Royal Palm Beach’s old wastewater treatment plant property is one step closer to seeing new life as a single-family home community.

In a 4-1 decision, the Royal Palm Beach Village Council approved a conceptual rezoning plan last week for the 151-acre property. Mayor Matty Mattioli cast the dissenting vote.

Village Manager Ray Liggins presented an extensive description of the different options, in terms of numbers of homes and square footage, for the proposed single-

family residential community.

The site is at the north end of Crestwood Blvd., next to H.L. Johnson Elementary School. It neighbors the Saratoga Pines and Madison Green communities.

At the council’s previous meeting, Liggins and representatives of Urban Kilday Design Studios suggested that council members approve a plan with three different sizes of homes.

The initial plan was for 10 percent of the property to be made up of 75-foot by 120-foot lots for estate homes, 15 percent for 65foot frontage single-family homes and 75 percent for 55-foot frontage

patio homes, for a total of 400 lots.

However, council members found that proposal to be a little too dense, directing staff to lower the number of 55-foot lots, which in turn would increase the average lot size.

“After listening to the comments at the last meeting and subsequent conversation with the council, I realize that I did not do a good job representing the market plan as it relates to the compatibility to the area and Royal Palm Beach,” Liggins said.

Liggins noted that there will be a public park at the property for the use of neighboring residents.

Loxahatchee Groves Council Honors Award-Winning Dog

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report The Loxahatchee Groves Town Council went to the dogs on Tuesday. Well, actually, to just one dog — Quasi Modo, who placed second place in the “World’s Ugliest Dog” contest held in California over the summer.

Quasi Modo’s human companions, Dr. Ginnie Sayre and Michael Carroll, proudly accepted the “key” to the town as well as other special items on behalf of the canine, presented by Mayor Dave Browning.

“Quasi is an ambassador for our town,” Browning said before introducing Sayre and Carroll.

“They are really an example of unique people with great character who populate Loxahatchee Groves.”

While in California for the contest, Sayre and Carroll headed over to Las Vegas and got married.

“What do people do in Las Vegas?

They gamble and get married, so we got married in Las Vegas,” Sayre said.

Browning, speaking to a jovial crowd, said that there isn’t really a key to the town, but presented Quasi Modo with a dog biscuit shaped like a key. “A very unique key for a very unique dog,” he said, before also presenting Quasi with a new turtle-patterned leash and a certificate.

“I am used to being upstaged by an animal,” Browning said.

“This dog is more famous than any of us.”

Additionally, the single-family residential community is designed to be developed in relation to the area, meaning that the sizes and prices of the homes would be compatible with those in surrounding communities.

Liggins said larger lots are not ideal for the market, and that they would be too expensive in view of average residents’ incomes.

“We do not know what the final number of lots will be. That will be based on detailed survey, planning, engineering and permitting, with each potential purchaser applying their product and expertise, resulting in a plethora of configurations, each with a different number of homes,” Liggins said. “We want to encourage that creativity from the experts in the business, not restructure it with concrete parameters like the number of lots.”

Village staff recommended that the council decide between two options, one with 30 percent for 65-foot lots and 60 percent 55-foot lots, and the other having 45 percent each for 65-foot lots and 55-foot lots. In each case, the remaining 10 percent of lots would have 75-foot frontages.

Liggins added that it was im-

portant for the council to give potential purchasers a fair assessment of what their vision is for the property.

Huntington Woods resident Laurel Bennett, who ran unsuccessfully for mayor earlier this year, brought up her concerns about traffic.

“We already have issues with the traffic. To me, 400 homes means 800 additional cars, because at 400 homes, that’s two per house,” she said.

Councilman Fred Pinto was pleased that the property would be consistent with the area.

“The density is less than what is surrounding them now; that was my goal,” he said. “We’ve had concerns about traffic in the 12 years I’ve been here, and we will have concerns with traffic 12 years from now. We are far, far ahead of the game.”

Vice Mayor David Swift was happy with the two revised options suggested by Liggins.

“I’m supportive of what the village manager has shown you,” he said. “The density that I’m looking for is the 10/30/60 or the 10/45/45.

That is less than the surrounding communities, and you need to

understand that. We worked hard to come up with something compatible with surrounding communities. We’ve listened to you and tried to come up with something that will provide a fair return for all the taxpayers of the village.”

Mattioli, however, objected to the entire concept.

“We are going to pay a half a million dollars to sell this land,” he said. “I suggested that we have an R-2 or an R-3 zoning; we choose one of them, [and then] the developers know exactly how many homes they’re going to put in there. It’s far less than what we are talking about today. Why we’re going through all this is beyond me.”

Councilman Richard Valuntas made a suggestion to meet somewhere in the middle of the two proposed ideas, suggesting a 10/40/50 ratio. “It gives a little more flexibility to help market the property more,” he said.

The council approved the recommendation with that change.

Liggins noted that there will be multiple opportunities at future meetings to review the project as a whole with a more specific level of detail.

Western Business Alliance To Host First Social Oct. 16 Mayor Dave Browning presents Quasi Modo with his key-shaped dog biscuit as owners Dr. Ginnie Sayre and Michael Carroll look on.

PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

In other business: • The council reviewed a letter of appreciation for Seminole Ridge High School’s National Honor Society for continuing to help with road cleanups. The letter is being sent to sponsor Andrea Caceres-Santamaria. The formal recognition was proposed by Loxahatchee Groves Landowners’ Association President Marge Herzog at the last meeting, and action was taken Tuesday night.

• The council, in a unanimous vote, adopted a resolution to confirm Bill Underwood as the new town manager.

Underwood, who owns the

town’s contracted management company, has taken over day to day operations from former Town Manager Mark Kutney.

According to Underwood, public agendas will be changing.

In his administrative update, he thanked the council for the vote of confidence.

“My administrative update, generally, will be in writing to you in advance, so you’ll have bullet points,” Underwood said.

Browning requested those bullet points be on the agenda, so residents would be aware of items prior to the meetings, and Underwood agreed.

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report The Western Business Alliance, a new community business group, will hold its first social event Thursday, Oct. 16, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at the White Elephant restaurant in the original Wellington Mall.

The event will serve to introduce the group to the community, showcasing the uniqueness of the Western Business Alliance.

“We’re different in more of going back to that old school of people do business with people they know, like, trust, and really building the relationships among others,” said Selena Smith, spokeswoman for the group.

Formed earlier this year, the group is designed to serve the western communities and the Glades. Future events include luncheons, mixers and workshops, where the alliance will provide educational programs and tools.

Smith said the group was formed because the founding members saw a need for such an organization in the community.

Currently, there are more than 40 member businesses.

“We found that there really wasn’t an organization in the area that was really serving our needs or helping us to generate revenue or create new relationships,” Smith said.

Founding officers include Chairman Ron Tomchin, Vice Chairman Eric Gordon, Secretary Claudia Camacho and Treasurer Hope Barron. They are assisted by board members Ken Bell, Marcia Berwick, Mario Camacho, Don and Maureen Gross, Lynne Keane, Selena Smith, Martha Webster, Peter Wein and legal counsel John Marinelli.

Business relationships drew Don Gross to the alliance. “I am part of the Western Business Alliance due to the fact that we’re

looking for a way for small business owners to be able to get together to make better friendships so we can work together to grow each other’s businesses,” he said.

The underlying theme of the group will be to build a network where members feel comfortable making referrals.

“Rather than it being a cold call, looking for new business, if somebody has met somebody at one of our networking events, it now becomes a warm call where they’re able to go out and meet that person because they’ve already started that relationship,” Gross said.

To register for the Thursday, Oct. 16 social at the White Elephant (12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 20A), visit www. thewesternbusinessalliance.com/ free-registration.

For more information about the organization, visit www.the westernbusinessalliance.com or www.facebook.com/twballiance.

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OUR OPINION

Make Safety A Priority When Enjoying Halloween Festivities In Florida, with our mild fall season, Halloween takes on a unique feel. Reservations are thrown to the wind as young and those young at heart enjoy the masquerading potential of the holiday.

Teens and adults enjoy the freedom to dress in ways that might be unthinkable in daily life, while babies and toddlers are dressed to be as cute as can be. However, for most kids, Halloween is all about the candy, and stomachaches are practically guaranteed.

Of course, stomachaches are really the least of the holiday’s worries. The real problem is safety. From costume safety to being visible at night, the holiday presents a host of potential dangers — most of which can be mitigated with proper planning.

For those without adult chaperones, preteens and teens are encouraged to travel in groups — there is safety in numbers.

Cell phones have greatly revolutionized safety, and the idea that anything can be captured in a photo or a video is a deterrent for

Limit Homes At Crestwood Site

Regarding the proposed use for water treatment plant property on Crestwood Blvd., the Village of Royal Palm Beach presently owns this property and the council members have agreed to sell it to another developer, despite the fact that we have thousands of new homes that have been approved to be built in this area already. The developer has requested permission to build 400 new homes on this site. However, in the interest of the local residents, the council should limit building to 300 homes.

This proposed development backs up to H.L. Johnson Elementary School. The parents of the students are already experiencing tremendous traffic/parking problems during the times they drop students off in the morning and pick them up after school.

With the impact of hundreds of additional students entering the school, which is already filled to capacity, accommodations need to be made to provide a safe parking area where this can be done. I can’t imagine the traffic jam and unsafe conditions that will be incurred unless this is done.

With the addition of 400 new homes, Mr. [Ray] Liggins, the village manager, indicated that only 300 new cars will be impacting the area. From what I have noticed, most homes have at least two cars, and some have more. That would mean that 800 new cars would be accessing Crestwood Blvd. near the school to proceed to the shopping centers in the area and commute to work.

Presently, there is a “no turn” restriction during the times when parents drop off and pick up students, which prohibits residents of Huntington Woods from entering the development from Crestwood Blvd. Will there also be a “no turn” restriction at the entrance to this proposed development during those hours?

Several years ago, Palm Beach County built an entrance from State Road 7 into the La Mancha development. Council members disapproved of this because it would negatively impact that community, and the entrance was blocked. Well, what about our community?

The residents of Royal Palm Beach, especially the ones in Huntington Woods and those

potential troublemakers. Also, be sure not to eat the candy along the way. All treats should be thoroughly checked for safety at home before being enjoyed.

The safest alternative of all is to celebrate the holiday in true community fashion at one of the many local celebrations. That way, youngsters can get their candy and costume fix in a protected atmosphere. Be sure to put these events on your calendar: • The South Florida Fairgrounds will offer two levels of Halloween fun this season. For older and braver folks, Fright Nights (www.myfrightnights.com) is back for four weekends: Oct. 10-11, Oct. 16-18, Oct. 23-25 and Oct. 30-Nov. 1. Looking for something more laid back? Try Spookyville at Yesteryear Village over two weekends and on Halloween, Oct. 17-19, Oct. 24-26 and Oct. 31.

• The Palm Beach Zoo (1301 Summit Blvd., West Palm Beach) will host “Boo at the Zoo” from Friday through Sunday, Oct. 17-19, Oct. 24-26 and Friday, Oct. 31 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Guests can enjoy trick-or-treating, costume contests, the decorate-your-own pumpkin patch and much more.

• Wellington’s Fall Festival will return to Village Park on Pierson Road on Saturday, Oct. 18 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. with haunted hallways, a petting zoo, a hay ride, trick or treating, face painting, bounce houses, live performances and more.

• Royal Palm Beach will host Fall Fest at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park on Saturday, Oct. 25 from 1 to 9 p.m. with a dog costume contest at 3 p.m., trick-or-treating at the park and costume contests starting at 5 p.m. There will also be craft vendors, great food and live entertainment.

• Wellington High School and the Village of Wellington will host the popular Trunk or Treat on Saturday, Oct. 25 from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Wellington High School parking lot, for children 10 and under. Aside from candy, there will be food trucks, face painting, vehicle visits and more.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR living along Crestwood Blvd., should get involved with their council and keep a close eye on how they vote. Are they looking out for us, or are they looking out for the developers? The impact on our roads and quality of life should be their first consideration. Get involved before it is too late! Let your voice be heard! Attend the council meetings.

Phil Steinberg Royal Palm Beach

Minto West Will Hurt Environment

As a school teacher, I believe in teaching the truth. Minto West is not fair to any of us in Florida. The traffic is going to be a problem, but the environmental changes will have long-term impact in our area and lives. To take the wastewater from farm land and send it to our water supply, i.e., the water catchment area, and through the already suffering St. Lucie River is utterly cruel to the environment, the people and animals. Figure these problems out before the additional houses and commercial areas are added on.

Deborah Smith The Acreage

Looking For A Chamber?

Try Wellington

I read with some sadness Keith Jordano’s letter last week bemoaning his feeling of loss over the many changes that have taken place at the chamber formerly known as Palms West, and I want to reach out to him and the many others who feel as he does.

As chairman of the board of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce, I would like to put down our welcome mat and offer those who feel as Keith does an alternative. The Wellington Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to the general welfare and prosperity of the Village of Wellington so that its residents and all areas of its business community can prosper.

The Wellington Chamber of Commerce was formed with the intent that a local chamber best serves its members when it remains focused on local business and all facets of the local community. Over 400 members strong, the Wellington Chamber of Commerce remains laser focused on

Wellington and Wellington-related issues. Our board members and officers are all local business men and women who are not required to “pay to play.” Our dues remains low and our services continue to grow.

The many annual programs of the chamber reflect a rich tradition of achievement of the goals set forth in the mission statement.

For many, the season starts in December with our biggest event of the year, WinterFest! More than 5,000 area residents and visitors attend each year to see local talent, as well as our own celebrity musical sensation, philanthropist and DIY Network star Vanilla Ice perform. In March of each year, in conjunction with our board installation luncheon, the chamber recognizes the business leaders in our community with the annual businesses of the year awards.

Flavors of Wellington attracts more than 1,100 area residents each spring. Flavors brings together the best of the best of Wellington-area chamber restaurant members, catering venues, wholesale and gourmet markets, as well as local country club and wine merchants, all showcasing their businesses, products, menus and exceptional service. Each year, the attendees enjoy an evening of dining and dancing, and our members get to introduce the community to their businesses.

Our committees, including the Equestrian Committee, Business and Economic Development Committee, Medical and Wellness Committee and Governmental Affairs Committee, have been on the cutting edge of new and innovative ideas in generating economic growth and change in our community. We have fought for changes in the hours businesses can operate in Wellington, helped to bring about change to the local sign ordinances, supported the concept of the medical arts district, and have voiced opposition to those things that would hinder the continued use of the Global Dressage arena. We have sponsored health and wellness expos, and continue the search to find the highest and best use for the K-Park property on State Road 7.

We have also sponsored numerous candidate forums and debates as part of our continuing obligation to keep our members better informed on the issues of the day.

Recently, our chamber created

two new exciting committees, including the Women of Wellington, designed specifically for our local business women to provide opportunities for “women to women” networking, and the Future Business Leaders of Wellington, which provides a forum for young and upcoming business professionals to network with each other.

So, if you are missing the hometown feel of your chamber, come to one of our luncheons or mixers, and take advantage of the opportunity to meet some new local business and community leaders who are still focused on what’s important about being a chamber member. You might find the Wellington Chamber of Commerce a perfect fit.

Alexander Domb Wellington Chamber of Commerce

Commissioners Should ‘Do The Right Thing’

On Oct. 29, the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) convenes to decide whether to approve the Minto West proposed expansion and the future of the communities directly impacted. It is the BCC’s last opportunity to do the right thing by voting “no” for all the right reasons: • Though Minto reduced the number of homes to 4,546, it has increased non-residential use to a staggering 2.1 million square feet.

The newest proposal represents a 52 percent increase in residential and nearly a 1,000 percent increase in non-residential.

• Minto West, as proposed, is “leapfrog” development because it requires the extension of public facilities, services and roads on existing peripheral areas, extensions neither present nor provided for in existing plans of local, county and state governing bodies. Therefore, it is neither New Urbanism nor Smart Growth; it is urban sprawl in a rural area.

• Minto West will flood the area with traffic on roads never designed to handle such a dramatic increase. Even Minto’s land planner, Don Hearing, has publicly admitted their traffic is “the elephant in the room.”

• In roads alone, currently $30 to $40 million is needed to repair existing county roads, but the BCC has allocated only $3 million

next year for road repairs. The estimated tax dollars necessary for improvements related to Minto West for county and state roads exceed $177 million; money the county does not have. Who will shoulder the fiscal deficits? Property owners, of course, who will pay in the form of property tax and gas tax hikes.

• In addition to increased county taxes, residents served by ITID will be faced with higher property taxes to pay for Minto’s traffic on our privately owned and maintained roads.

• Schools will be negatively impacted by increased student population, especially Golden Grove Elementary School, Western Pines Middle School and Seminole Ridge High School, as it is projected they will exceed 100 percent utilization by 2017.

The Palm Beach County School District has no funds to address this impact, and Minto continues to refuse to provide financial assistance.

• Minto West, via major, multilane thoroughfares and rural parkways, will divide The Acreage, compromising the unity and neighborhood feel and endangering the health, safety and well-being of all.

• Minto West is located on the site of a former orange grove.

Minto will be disturbing soil that, for decades, has been subjected to hazardous chemicals. Certainly environmental studies are justified and warranted before that soil is disturbed to build residential, non-residential and a system of lakes.

• The Minto West project will likely worsen flooding due to the construction of impervious roads, structures and parking areas resulting in less surface area where water can percolate. Areas within the property are in (FEMA proposed) flood zones. Therefore, any of their lakes, kept high for aesthetic purposes, and canals will fill up faster, increasing their need for drainage capacity for their floodwaters. If the Acreage floods again, it is likely Minto will be also flooded and unable to relieve Acreage floodwaters.

• Minto West is noncompliant and inconsistent with Florida Statutes, the Palm Beach County Comprehensive Land Use Plan, and regional and state needs, and is incompatible with surrounding areas and communities, equestrian activities, livestock, and bona fide and hobby agricultural operations.

Minto West will forever alter the rural ambiance and quality of life in The Acreage, Loxahatchee and Loxahatchee Groves.

• The county’s planning staff has confirmed there are sufficient un-built, approved residential units and non-residential square footage to meet anticipated population growth beyond the year 2035.

These reasons are not fanatical diatribes of a vocal minority. The plethora of documentation collected thus far speaks for itself and clearly indicates Minto’s proposed expansion will result in far more significant negative impacts than any public benefit. West Palm Beach City Commission President Sylvia Moffett, at a recent work session meeting, succinctly stated to Minto, “It’s a beautiful plan you have. I just think it’s too big.”

May the BCC view the proposed expansion similarly, take into consideration the negative impacts and vote accordingly on Oct. 29.

In the interim, residents should not give up. Instead, rise up and speak out! Visit www.alertsofpbc. com to see how you can help fight overdevelopment.

Jean Edwards The Acreage

For The Record The article “Wellington Green Market Opens New Season Oct. 18,” published last week, incorrectly listed the phone number for the market’s organizer. The correct number is (561) 283-5856.

The Town-Crier regrets whatever confusion this might have caused.

The Town-Crier welcomes letters to the editor. Please keep letters brief (300 words suggested). 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.

NEWS

Principal Updates RPB Ed Board On Crestwood Middle School

By Briana D’Andrea Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Education Advisory Board listened to a presentation about Crestwood Middle School from Principal Stephanie Nance on Monday, Oct. 6.

Nance, who has been Crestwood’s principal for eight years and has spent 19 years working in Royal Palm Beach, started her presentation by discussing what she called the school’s four important tenets — attitude, dedication, respect and character.

“Our role as educators goes beyond what we do on a day-to-day basis,” she said. “It is our goal to continue to do what’s in the best interest of all students.”

Unfortunately, Crestwood was just eight points shy of gaining an “A” rating for the 2013-14 school year. “The last two years, Crestwood has been rated as a ‘B’ school… but we continue to strive ahead,” Nance said.

Although the school maintained an “A” rating from 2001 through

2012, she stressed that she and her staff are up to the challenge. She insisted that the school is making great progress and was just a few points shy of being an A-rated school.

“Out of the nine school accountability cells that we are measured on as a district, as a school,” Nance said, “Crestwood increased in six of those nine cells.”

Nance said that literacy is the foundation of all learning and that the school’s staff is committed to building a community of readers at Crestwood. “Reading and writing are not subjects,” she said. “They are skills that students will need in whatever facet of life, whatever content area that they are studying. They must have those two important skill sets in order to be successful.”

Things like the “Just Read” program and community literacy outreach programs at Barnes & Noble in Wellington help to foster that idea. Additionally, Crestwood is very active in the Sunshine State Readers program.

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“Last year, we had 1,052 students on our campus and 60 percent of our students participate,” she said. “That means 60 percent of our students read a minimum of three of the 12 books that were recommended by the state.”

Crestwood is also committed to the arts in education, Nance added.

“At the end of the day, it is about providing a well-rounded education for all of our children,” she said.

In terms of the arts, Crestwood runs a successful art program, where the public is invited to browse student artwork galleries at www.artsonia.com.

Royal Palm Beach High School served as the host site for one of Crestwood’s theater art showcases. In music, 32 band and chorus members recently gained superior ratings and 16 took excellent ratings.

“When it comes to the education of our children, this is not something we take lightly,” Nance said.

“We take it very seriously. It is a BARRY S. MANNING Publisher JODY GORRAN Associate Publisher

charge that we continue to keep.

If we remember that it’s about putting our kids first, in my opinion, everything else is a matter of formality.”

Board Chair Lynn Balch asked about the number of students who are signed up for free and reduced-price lunch.

“Our free and reduced-price lunch, last school year, was at 60 percent,” Nance said, adding that Crestwood is also a part of the 100 percent free breakfast program, with the number of students increasing annually. “We are, on average, feeding 300 kids every morning.”

Vice Chair David Kendle said that he is personally glad to see that children are being fed before school.

“Probably due to the economy, people losing their jobs, downsizing, making less money, it doesn’t change the fact that we’ve still got to take care of our kids,” he said.

“I’m glad that they’re stepping up and feeding our kids in the morning, because I think that has JOSHUA I. MANNING Executive Editor

DAWN RIVERA General Manager

RON BUKLEY Managing Editor

EDITORIAL STAFF/ Chris Felker • Denise Fleischman • Julie Unger

been a lot of the problem with kids being able to pay attention to the teacher.”

He stressed the importance of using taxpayer money to finance the program.

“I’ve seen kids sitting in the dining room when other kids are eating and they didn’t eat, and I think that’s sad,” Kendle said. “If they’re hungry, then they can’t learn. I came from a poor family, so I know what it is to be at that point.”

Florida schools are dealing with new standards this year, and according to Nance, the teachers at Crestwood are working toward making all of the necessary changes.

Last year, 1,052 kids were enrolled at Crestwood, but this year that number is down to 944.

Board members Renatta Espinoza, Chris-Anne Ayers and Klemie Christie were concerned with what the school is doing to get the students back.

“We provide campus tours for parents to come in and meet with

administration and counselors,” Nance said.

She added that the school uses its web site, area marquees, flyers, the parent-teacher organization and school advisory council for community outreach.

“Any medium we can use, we use to get the word out,” Nance said.

Additionally, the school hosts different events such as its barbecue night and bazaar, literacy night and career day to retain and enroll new students.

Nance mentioned the importance of forging relationships with parents, which she called vital to the school’s success. With the help of a school’s active parent-teacher organization and school advisory council, combined with the belief that they’re part of something greater than themselves, that formula lends itself to the school’s success.

“Education has to be a partnership,” Nance said. “And ultimately, at the end of the day, these are all our children.”

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Page 5

NEWS

PIZZAZZ HAIR DESIGN’S 40TH ANNIVERSARY EVENT SUPPORTS BRAILLE CLUB

Pizzazz Hair Design & Spa held its 40th anniversary fundraising event last weekend in support of the Braille Club of Palm Beach County at several salon locations across the county. Shown here are photos from the Kobosko’s Crossing location on Sunday, Oct. 5. For more info., visit www.pizzazzhair.com. Learn more about the Braille Club at www.brailleclub.webs.com.

PHOTOS BY ANDREA UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

Pizzazz employees with Braille Club volunteers and member Madalyn Mims (center).

Ann Hunter has her hair styled by Nikki Bailey as Pizzazz Manager Sarah Barnette checks in.

Ashley Umgelder provides Pat Taylor with a hand massage.

Braille Club President Larry McDowell, Pizzazz Manager Sarah Barnette and Braille Club volunteer Chelsea Hibbert.

Ann Hunter has her hair washed by Nikki Bailey.

Pat Paredes works on a pedicure for Braille Club volunteer Jo Petrocelli.

PUMPKIN PATCH OPEN THROUGH OCT. 31 AT COMMUNITY OF HOPE CHURCH

Community of Hope Church in Loxahatchee Groves completed its pumpkin patch Sunday, Oct. 5. Filled with gourds and pumpkins of all sizes, the patch is open now through Oct. 31. Hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER Sunday. For more info., visit www.gocoh.com.

Nathan Guelli, Jarod Krajewski and T.J. Willson with some pumpkins.

Josiah, Christina and Josiah David Waller.

Michelle Santamaria, A Fresh Voice Of Reason For A Challenging Future

Church volunteers convene near the pumpkin patch.

Sometimes, when the future is most challenging, a fresh voice of reason steps forward, diminishing the challenge and brightening our future. I still remember, as a young air force officer stationed in England after the war, hearing a voice for reason, hope, trust, courage , and progress on the British radio. It was a young school teacher named Margaret Thatcher. Her message of hope and commitment changed history and helped restore a continent.

O.k., maybe Michelle Santamaria isn’t the next Margaret Thatcher, but she is the most qualified, by far, to represent the western communities at this crucial time. I have lived in Central Palm Beach County for over 40 years, seen many challenges, but never of the magnitude we are facing in the years ahead. The planned population increases can dramatically degrade our quality of life unless we have a county commissioner who can help us develop a “United Vision” for our future and build support on the county commission to ensure that a busier district does not erode the quality of lifestyle that we all love. Michelle will invite the other commissioners and county staff to visit our area, meet with concerned residents and developers to better understand the challenge and the opportunity before us! Michelle has spent her entire adult life developing the qualities and skills to represent us during the critical years ahead! She will hold monthly meetings and facilitate “power in partners” committees for the Central Palm Beach County area representing over 50,000 voters. Born in Philadelphia until, at nine months of age, she decided to move to Royal Palm Beach, She attended Kings Academy, Wellington Elementary, HL Johnson Elementary, University OF Florida (degree in Finance), Rawlings College youngest student to achieve in a Master Degree in Business Administration). She studied Spanish in Spain, received her Doctorate in Law from Stetson College. While classmates used their law degree to command extravagant salaries, Michelle’s dedication to public services led her to representing Florida Victims of crimes who couldn’t afford a high priced attorney. During her educational years, she somehow found time to be a cheerleader, a class vice president, member of the junior honors society, studied piano, karate, served as class president, joined the national forensic league, was secretary of student government, professional business fraternity member, and founder and 1st president of the Catholic Student Union. Michelle’s entire adult life reflects her ability to influence others for the public good, even including a current contract with the F.B.I to train their agents to successfully testify in court as “expert witness.” As a 40 year resident of wellington and former chairman of the Palm Beach County Commission, I urge every voter in district 6 to secure our quality of life by voting for Michelle Santamaria for commissioner, Palm Beach County District 6.

— Ken Adams

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CRIME NEWS

PBSO Investigating Vehicle Burglaries In Lakefield Area

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report OCT. 6 — Several vehicles in Wellington’s Lakefield area were burglarized last weekend.

Deputies from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office substation in Wellington are investigating the incidents, which appear to be related. According to one PBSO report, there was a vehicle burglary on South Club Drive sometime between midnight and 7 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 5. The victim noticed that someone had entered his 2003 Mercedes 350ML, scattering papers. Later, he noticed that a backpack with Stanton reading glasses, a Dell laptop computer and important papers were missing from the vehicle. Approximately a quarter of a mile away, another vehicle was burglarized on Lakefield North Court. According to that PBSO report, sometime between 3 and 4 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 5, two unlocked vehicles on the victim’s driveway were entered.

According to the report, the victim’s daughter’s purse was stolen, which contained her license, birth certificate and more. Latent prints were gathered from the scene. Also last weekend, a garaged vehicle was burglarized on Country Golf Drive. According to that PBSO report, sometime between 7:30 p.m. last Saturday evening and 6:30 p.m. Sunday, the victim’s wallet was stolen from the passenger seat. The victim noted that it was possible that the garage door was left open. When she went to run an errand, she noticed that the glove box was open and her wallet was missing. DNA evidence was taken from the vehicle.

••• SEPT. 30 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Royal Palm Beach substation was called to a home in La Mancha last Tuesday regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between Monday, Sept.

29 at 6:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. the next day, someone removed 25 four-foot metal hurricane shutters from the victim’s back yard. According to the report, the victim’s neighbor noticed a blue truck in front of the home.

OCT. 1 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Royal Palm Beach substation was called to a home in Madison Green last Thursday regarding an instance of vandalism. According to a PBSO report, the victim’s Honda Civic was damaged sometime between 11 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 30 and 9 a.m. the following morning. Two long scratches were left on the driver’s side of the vehicle. According to the report, a neighbor had video surveillance available, which captured a suspicious vehicle making three passes past the victim’s car, turning off the headlights before arriving at the car and turning them back on when leaving.

OCT. 1 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called to Florida Power & Light’s West County Energy Center last Wednesday afternoon regarding a case of vandalism. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 6 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. last Wednesday, someone keyed the rear driver’s side of the victim’s 2014 Infinity while it was in the parking lot where the victim works. The damage is estimated at approximately $500.

OCT. 2 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Royal Palm Beach substation was called to Greenway Village last Thursday afternoon

regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 11:30 a.m. and noon last Thursday, the victim was working at the community’s gated trash area and left several tools there. Ten minutes later, the bag and tools, valued at approximately $250, were gone.

It is unknown whether someone intentionally stole the tools, or if someone thought the tools were being thrown away took them, since they were near the trash area.

OCT. 2 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called to a home on 120th Avenue North in The Acreage last Thursday afternoon regarding the theft of auto parts.

According to a PBSO report, sometime between 7:30 p.m. last Wednesday and 6 p.m. last Thursday, someone removed a gear box from a buggy parked on the victim’s front lawn. The gear box, valued at $3,000, was unbolted, and the bolts were taken.

OCT. 3 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called to a home on 93rd Road North in The Acreage last Friday regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 5 p.m. last Thursday and 2 a.m. last Friday, someone lowered the tailgate of the victim’s 2006 Dodge pickup truck and removed a pressure cleaner, valued at $2,500, from the vehicle.

OCT. 4 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Royal Palm Beach substation was called to a business on Business Parkway last Saturday afternoon regarding a theft.

According to a PBSO report, an unknown man entered the victim’s office seeking employment.

According to the report, the victim and the job seeker spoke before the victim exited the building, unintentionally leaving the unknown individual alone in the office.

Upon return, the victim noticed that his iPhone 5 was missing from the counter. The unknown man proceeded to flee the scene. The victim gave chase, but was unable to catch him.

OCT. 5 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Royal Palm Beach substation was called to a home in the Bella Terra community last Sunday morning regarding a case of vandalism. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 10 p.m. last Saturday and 7 a.m. Sunday, someone smashed the right rear window of the victim’s 2011 Mazda 3, parked in her driveway.

According to the report, it does not appear as though the perpetrator entered the vehicle, and no one in the house heard or saw anything suspicious.

OCT. 5 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Royal Palm Beach substation was called to the Grandview at Crestwood community last Sunday morning regarding the vandalism of a vehicle. According to a PBSO report, someone threw a white liquid on the victim’s four-door black 2012 Toyota Corolla. According to the report, the liquid was on the front bumper, hood, roof, left driver’s side door and the left side of the trunk. The right side of the vehicle remained unharmed. After experimenting, it was determined that the white substance came off with soap and water.

OCT. 6 — A resident of Key Lime Blvd. called the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation Monday regarding a case of fraud.

See BLOTTER, page 19

Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County is asking for the public’s help in finding these wanted fugitives: • Willie Felton is a black male, 5’11” tall and weighing 160 lbs., with black hair, brown eyes and multiple tattoos. His date of birth is 09/05/92. Felton is wanted on felony charges for violating terms of probation for the sale or possession of cocaine with the intent to sell and on traffic charges for failure to appear in court for operating a vehicle with a suspended, cancelled or revoked license. His last known addresses were Shoma Drive in Royal Palm Beach and South West 8th Street in Belle Glade.

He is wanted as of 10/02/14.

• Chelsea Garber, is a white female, 5’0” tall and weighing 120 lbs., with black hair, brown eyes and multiple tattoos. Her date of birth is 11/25/85. Garber is wanted for failure to appear on felony charges of grand theft fraudulent use of a credit card.

Her last known address was Wellington Trace in Wellington. She is wanted as of 10/02/14.

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.

Willie Felton

Chelsea Garber

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

Wellington Zoning Board Approves Bridle Trail Map Ordinance

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Wellington’s Planning, Zoning & Adjustment Board unanimously recommended approval last week of an ordinance to adopt a bridle trail map into the equestrian element of the village’s comprehensive plan.

At the Oct. 1 meeting, Wellington Projects Manager Mike O’Dell presented an update to the equestrian trail circulation map currently in the comp plan. “This is the map that is within the comp plan that we’re utilizing right now,” he said.

O’Dell explained that he was asking the board to adopt a bridle trail map that has been in existence for some time but has never been formally adopted.

“It provides definitions to the ac-

tual trail itself and the connectivity within the systems. It also provides clarity to circulation, accessibility and it defines each of the trails,” O’Dell said, noting that rights of way for bridle paths continue to be a major topic of discussion.

“Work continues to secure rights of way and easements within the community.”

It also comes up in negotiations with developers, who could question the validity of a map that has not been formally adopted by the Wellington Village Council.

“We show different things that have been going on, but this map has been made a little more specific, and it details more of the things that we want to accomplish and why we want to accomplish them,” O’Dell said. “So, when

a specific landowner says, ‘You want X number of feet in front of my property, where does it go and what does it do?’ — this map provides a little more detail to that.”

O’Dell said trail development will continue while the equestrian master plan is reviewed.

The Equestrian Preserve Committee recommended approval 4-1 to adopt the plan and will be looking at the plan in greater detail during its upcoming review of the equestrian master plan. That process will take 18 to 24 months.

“While we’re doing that, we can continue to see development activities going on, so we continue to work with landowners to obtain easements and/or rights of way that will support this plan,” O’Dell said. “Because we are

limited within our road rights of way, canal rights of way and general easement areas, we are pretty much limited as to where this can go. There may be some improvements that they may make, but we expect that to be somewhat minor in nature compared to what we have right now.”

Board Member Kenneth Kopp asked whether the trail map presupposes that the negotiations with the owners for easements and rights of way are successful.

“This is truly not reflective of the current trail structure because you haven’t totally worked it out with the landowners?” he asked.

O’Dell said the plan was developed in 2004 by consultant CH2M Hill and has been in existence in the master plan since 2009.

“There is an overall master plan that was developed in 2004,” he said. “CH2M Hill was commissioned by the village to do that.

Out of CH2M Hill came the map that you’re looking at now. This plan has been in effect, and we have been utilizing it and referring to it, and we have been actually building off of it through our capital improvement program since that time. We have been budgeting dollars on a yearly basis for maintenance and capital improvement based on this particular plan.”

O’Dell explained that there are pieces of the trail plan that are owned and maintained by individual landowners.

“An example to that would be the Pierson Road bridle path,” O’Dell said. “You’ll see that it’s

the yellow trail and in front of Grand Prix Village, which we have been working with now for a couple of years. They have a bridle path in front of their property. We have been working with the five landowners there to either obtain right of way and/or easements, and we continue to work with other landowners along that section as well.”

He added that the village has worked out an agreement with Dr. Scott Swerdlin of the Palm Beach Equine Clinic and are working on an agreement with Deeridge Farm.

“Pieces of this are coming together, and that’s why we’re asking you to move forward with this,” O’Dell said.

The trails on the map are blocked See TRAIL MAP, page 19

ITID Question 3: Paved Versus Unpaved Roads In The Acreage From now until the election, the Town-Crier will ask questions each week to the six people seeking three seats on the Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors. This week’s question: What are your thoughts regarding paved versus unpaved roads in The Acreage? What criteria would you use in deciding which roads need to be improved? How should such projects be funded?

ITID SEAT 5 Betty Argue — When the Indian Trail Improvement District’s neighborhoods were first subdivided in 1973, the developer had to provide roadway access to the lots. The roads were built with sand excavated from the canals currently existing throughout ITID. Roads that lead to residents’ homes should stay as dirt roads with an increase in maintenance, where needed, scheduled by Indian Trail. The main dirt roads that were paved to allow easier traffic flow should stay two-lane paved roads. None of our interior roads should be four-laned because of outside pressures, the county or developers. These roads service the residents within Indian Trail, and the residents pay for their maintenance.

All roads need to be improved, but only as they are designed today. The dirt roads need to have their crowns restored. It is my understanding that shell rock and fill can be taken from the two Indian Trail impoundment areas. This approach would save residents additional costs by using our own materials. If it is not possible to use the shell rock and fill from the impoundment areas, then FDOT-approved shell rock should be used — not what has recently been purchased to save money, which is not FDOT approved.

With ITID maintaining the roads, the residents maintain control over their own roadway system. Who do you trust with oversight of your roadway system? I trust somebody who is my neighbor, shares the same values

Soccer

Seeking A Field

continued from page 1 any of our primary providers grew to a point that they needed more fields, that they would have to relinquish their time,” he said.

Recchio said that while Palm Beach Premier runs a great program, Royal Palm Beach has to give priority to its own recreational program.

He said staff members attempted to get Palm Beach Elite and the Royal Palm Beach Strikers to hammer out some sort of an

as I do and has a vested interest in the community.

Carol Jacobs — The quartermile, dead-end roads should stay dirt roads for now, but with good quality FDOT-certified road rock, which holds the road together and last years longer. ITID should have a policy and make sure it is followed that all the dirt roads throughout the district have a sixinch-thick base of certified FDOT road rock. The longer, mile-plus main artery roads should be paved and have a sidewalk installed on one side of the road.

The big savings here, which I have been saying for years, is to bring all road paving projects in house. The district should and could buy its own paving equipment. This equipment would pay for itself in no time. The companies that sell such equipment will train our employees on how to operate it, leading to big savings.

The district needs to hire or train employees we already have on board to have a road construction project crew, and each unit within the district have a crew to do the mowing, small road maintenance, grading and sign repairs.

We need to get all our employees to make a checklist in their area of pot holes, roads that need rock, damaged pipes, overgrown grass, missing drainage culverts and paved roads that need work, such as doing an overlay of a road before it becomes too late and ends up costing the district more money. Roads should continue to be funded through the annual budget, by units.

grading, and frequently have complaints about speeding, quality and dust. These network dirt roads cost less and provide a higher level of service by being paved and traffic calmed. On the other hand, deadend dirt roads should remain dirt, but, they should be improved using proper FDOT road rock.

A common sense approach to road building and maintenance, and a proactive, comprehensive approach to transportation planning, is what ITID needs. Roads, sidewalks, equestrian trails, greenways, traffic distribution, traffic control and traffic calming should all play a part in this plan. We also have the potential to connect our parks and nature areas with linear greenways to create an environment that is beautified, safe and can accommodate a real equestrian trail system.

We can build this network over time with our current budget allocations and by working with Palm Beach County and the MPO on funding opportunities. I further believe we can save tax money and get more bang for the buck by doing it in-house versus providing subcontractors additional profits.

I was instrumental in getting the sidewalks on Coconut and Seminole Pratt built with county MPO money in the past. In fact, a sidewalk to the county park on Hamlin that I have sought for years recently got MPO construction funding. By working together with a real plan, we can stretch our tax dollars and do a better job of proactive transportation planning.

Mike Erickson — I believe you have to take a look at the life cycle costs and level of service in determining which roads should be paved. A paved road has more construction costs, but has very little maintenance costs over its complete life cycle.

The dirt roads that are traveled heavily, like our network roads, can be very costly to maintain

Jennifer Hager — Unpaved roads are part of our area’s rural character; a defining part of who we are as a community. Many residents have pleaded with ITID to balance both the concept of standing our ground and protecting what we have, and the concept of being more accepting of the “inevitable changes” that we, as a community, are likely going to face.

Many roads are in disrepair.

Improvements should occur on a rotating basis with extra care al-

agreement, but that never came to fruition. Recchio noted that the village has had to pull the soccer team from using the fields before, in order to give priority to the recreational football teams.

Vice Mayor David Swift said the use of the fields are out of the council’s hands. “I would suggest you go to parks and rec and identify what the need is. The five of us are no experts on who should use the fields and when they’re available.”

Councilman Fred Pinto said he understands the situation but that the village has to be fair to the taxpayers.

“I sympathize with you, because

I have a young son who plays and who is an athlete. He grew up playing in the local programs we have in the village, and when he got to a certain level, we had to leave town to find a place for him to play. So, I certainly understand the cycle you are in. However, our facilities were put in place with taxpayer dollars for the benefit of our taxpayers.”

As it stands, Palm Beach Premier will have to continue working with the Royal Palm Beach Parks & Recreation Department to find an acceptable schedule, or contact the county to find another place to play.

In other business: • Nine parcels of land will be

ITID SEAT 1

Betty Argue

Carol Jacobs

lotted in areas with higher traffic volumes. Proper maintenance of our roads is paramount, and this includes the selection of materials used on them. Other roads are slated for widening (some via eminent domain) due to impending area development. I believe that the quarter-mile dirt roads should remain unpaved unless a super majority (75 percent, plus 1) of the property owners who reside on the street collectively decide that they want pavement, as well as the assessment that accompanies it.

Pavement begets pavement.

Some problems with additional paving include: higher volumes of traffic, an increased number of accidents, increased surface runoff (which leads to the crumbling/ erosion of the shoulders) and less groundwater absorption.

Ultimately, all residents will bear the burden of pavement. It will come at the cost of increased taxes and at the cost of lifestyle changes. I don’t feel that is a fair tradeoff in regard to convenience versus lifestyle. As an elected official, my goal is to carefully consider any future paving impacts while protecting the lifestyle choices so many residents willingly made when they chose dirt roads as the backdrop for their lives.

ITID SEAT 3 Ralph Bair — As a longtime resident of The Acreage, I have witnessed the changes that paving roads have made. In many instances it has been beneficial; raising property values, saving on vehicle repairs, easing the flow of traffic and saving costly repairs to the under the jurisdiction of Royal Palm Beach after the council approved a voluntary annexation by a 5-0 vote.

Land Design South went through all of the necessary precautions with Palm Beach County for the annexation of the 88-acre site located behind Lowe’s along Southern Blvd., west of State Road 7.

“There was no objection by Palm Beach County,” Planning & Zoning Administrator Bradford O’Brien said. “The annexation of these parcels will reduce the size of an existing enclave.”

The properties, home to singlefamily residences and an animal

Mike Erickson Jennifer Hager

Ralph Bair

Alan Ballweg

Alan Ballweg — Dirt roads

are an integral part of the history and character of The Acreage.

Okeechobee used to be a dirt road all the way to the turnpike. If properly constructed and maintained, dirt roads provide good service, and are safe and economical.

Dirt roads perform best if daily traffic is about 150 vehicles or less. Paved roads are many times more expensive to construct than dirt roads, but last longer and can handle more traffic.

In the 1990s, ITID decided that every home should be within a half mile of a paved road. Paving the high-traffic sections was a good financial decision. However, many sections with low traffic were also paved. In my opinion, this needlessly increased taxes for residents.

The roads are mostly funded by issuing long-term debt, and we are still paying back about $19 million. The ITID road system has been estimated to have a replacement value of about $160 million, and along with our drainage infrastructure, is by far the most important asset of ITID. Any significant decisions about roads should be subject to a rigorous, long-term cost/benefit analysis.

The Minto West project plans to use our roadways and dump about 70,000 trips per day into our area, using many of the roads that we have been paying for for decades, bringing congestion, pollution, more large trucks, speeding and noise into our area.

If elected, I will act aggressively to protect our area from what I call “Traffic Storm Minto,” using every means available, including litigation.

rescue facility, are contiguous, compact and lend themselves to future development, which was one of the requirements to move forward with the annexation.

The Royal Palm Beach Planning & Zoning Commission considered the application on Sept. 23 and also recommended approval.

Mattioli explained to both the council and the public that the owners of the land will still have to go through the same planning and zoning processes to develop it.

“A voluntary annexation doesn’t give the owner any more privileges,” he said. “He still has to go through the same hoops as everybody else. All he can do is

put his address as Royal Palm Beach now.”

• Councilman Richard Valuntas was chosen to serve as the village’s representative on the Metropolitan Planning Organization. Pinto nominated Valuntas to take his place.

“I was previously representing this council, but because of my day job, the attorneys here and at the county said it would be a conflict of interest,” Pinto said.

“We hope this year we will get an agreement that will keep this seat for us every year and not alternate,” Liggins said.

Councilman Jeff Hmara was chosen to serve as the MPO alternate.

road network. On the other hand, it has increased speeding, people not paying attention to signs and prompting the district to install traffic calming. No question, paving is a double-edged sword.

Road paving in The Acreage was done in a grid pattern to bring residents as close to a paved road as possible. As an Indian Trail Improvement District board member, I supported paving heavily used roads to bring everyone within one mile of a paved road during the R-1 project, and later within a half-mile during the R-2 project. This was paid for by bonding these projects over the entire district, since it benefited all residents. This way, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue, mail trucks and garbage service could reach nearly everywhere in the district without getting stuck on sandy roads. In those days, even tow trucks got stuck trying to pull out vehicles.

The system used by the district to determine which roads need paving is the number of complaints, as well as the condition of the road itself. After the district examines the road to determine what needs to be done, safety, condition and costs are factored in.

The district has many methods to pay for these improvements: directly taxing the entire district, sub-district M-1 and M-2 or the individual unit itself. Also, through the Municipal Services Taxing Unit a 50/50 split between the residents and Palm Beach County, as well as federal, state or local grants.

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October 10 - October 16, 2014

Columbus Day Gala In RPB

NEWS BRIEFS

State Sen. Maria Sachs (DDistrict 34) will be the guest of honor at a gala Columbus Day dinner dance celebration hosted by the Sons of Italy Loggia Michelangelo #2864 from 6 to 10:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 11 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center.

The evening will feature an Italian buffet catered by Mamma Mia with wine, beer and soda. There will be live music and dancing with a performance by Andrew Doll singing Italian classics.

A ticket donation of $40 per person is requested. For more info., call Pat Devivo at (561) 249-1298, Jan Schneider at (561) 681-1435 or Sam Pittaro at (561) 412-8684.

There will be many kid-friendly activities, including spin art, a bounce house, face painting, dancing, games and more. There will also be raffles, a silent auction and music.

Guests are encouraged to dress up in ’50s attire. Admission is $20 per family of four, with $5 per additional child and $10 per additional adult. The first preschool class to have 100 percent participation will win an ice cream party.

Bring a non-preschool family to Family Fun Day and receive 10 raffle tickets.

Make checks payable to Temple Beth Torah. All payments are due

by Friday, Oct. 24. For more info., call (561) 793-2649. Temple Beth Torah is located at 900 Big Blue Trace in Wellington.

Family Fun Day At Temple Beth Torah Oct. 26

Corvette Show To Benefit Quantum House

Temple Beth Torah will host a Family Fun Day with a ’50s Rockin’ Sock Hop theme on Sunday, Oct. 26 from 4 to 6 p.m. Special guests include Bubble Mania and DJ Billman.

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The Corvette Club of the Palm Beaches will host a car show Saturday, Oct. 25 from 2 to 4 p.m. at AutoNation Chevrolet on Lake Worth Road.

The show will highlight Palm

Beach County’s finest corvettes.

The club will announce awards for Best in Show, Best Costume, Best Decorated Car and AutoNation Chevrolet’s Choice.

Registration for each car is $25 the day of the show. The Corvette Club of the Palm Beaches will donate all proceeds to Quantum House, a local hospitality house for the families of children undergoing medical procedures.

“Our families are so excited for this special event,” said Robi Jurney, Quantum House’s executive director. “We’re thankful for the partnership we have with the Corvette Club of the Palm Beaches.”

For more info., e-mail Mark Skelton at corvetteclubpb@gmail. com.

Hadassah Movie Night Oct. 22

Shulamit Hadassah will host a movie night Wednesday, Oct. 22 at 7 p.m. at PBCFR Station #30 (9910 Stribling Way, Wellington). The featured movie will be Loving Leah. Admission is $5 for Hadassah members and $10 for nonmembers. Popcorn and soda will be served. RSVP to Lorna

at ldubinsky2@aol.com or (561) 689-4137.

South Florida Fair Plans Las Vegas Theme

The 103rd annual South Florida Fair will turn to the lights, entertainment and action of Las Vegas from Jan. 16 through Feb. 1.

The 2015 South Florida Fair’s official theme will be “Las Vegas Exposition: A Jackpot of Memories.” Details about the entertainment and other show features will be announced soon.

Advance discount tickets go on sale in November and continue through Jan. 15. Adult admission is $10 in advance and $15 at the gate.

Admission for children under 12 is $5 in advance and $8 at the gate.

Seniors 60 and older pay $7 in advance and $9 at the gate. Children 5 and younger are admitted free.

Now is the time to get involved with the fair. Opportunities are available for sponsors, vendors, volunteers, creative crafts and skills competitors, local bands, dog show contestants, livestock participants, marching band participants,

security positions and scholarship contenders. For more information, call (561) 793-0333 or visit www. southfloridafair.com.

Dog Benefit At Iron Lion Nov. 8

The Little Blue Dog will present its Ride for Rescue Ride-A-Thon on Saturday, Nov. 8 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Iron Lion Fitness Studio (10660 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington). Small breed adoptable dogs will be available to meet, and there will be light refreshments from Taylor Made Café and fresh juice from Universal Living Sprouts. Spin as long as you like with a $20 donation to benefit Get A Life Pet Rescue. For more info., call (561) 204-LION.

Art Society Reception Set For Oct. 14

The Wellington Art Society will host a “Meet the Artists” reception at the Wellington Municipal Complex Gallery on Tuesday, Oct. 14 from 5 to 7 p.m.

The new exhibit features 12 art-

ists and 27 beautiful paintings in a lovely, light-filled gallery. There will be a raffle drawing for visiting guests along with delicious snacks.

The Wellington Art Society is a nonprofit charitable organization open to artists of all mediums and patrons of the arts. For more info., visit www.wellingtonartsociety. org or www.wellingtonartsociety. blogspot.com.

Singers Ready To Rehearse

Dr. Edward Palmer has enlisted many interested singers to take part in the new Palmer Singers of Wellington.

The group is eager to get started, but there is still a need for two more tenors and two sopranos.

Palmer said he is looking for quality, not quantity, creating highcaliber performances in a variety of musical styles.

Rehearsals will begin Monday, Oct. 20 at St. David’s-in-the-Pines Episcopal Church in Wellington.

Rehearsals will take place Monday evenings at 7 p.m. There is no fee to join. For more information, call Palmer at (561) 659-3641 or e-mail cep12@bellsouth.net.

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Page 9

NEWS

MURDER MYSTERY FUN AT CULTURAL CENTER FOR YOUNG AT HEART CLUB

The Young at Heart Club of Royal Palm Beach held its monthly luncheon Friday, Oct. 3 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. This month’s theme was a fall masquerade murder mystery. The fun and entertaining luncheon was catered by Boca Joe’s.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

The decorating committee: Berit Hogan, Mary Ann Robinson, Lee Messina and Roberta Hennessy.

Cast members Mort Peacock, Rita Book, Det. Peter Ness, Maid Mona and A.R. Pitt.

Sylvia Moore and Iris Levin join the masquerade..

Dottie Santo, Linda Isaacs and Phyllis Katz.

Mildred Zaino’s family paid her a surprise visit for her birthday.

Sandy Rubin and Muriel Guttenplan picked the murderer.

RPB’S OUR LADY QUEEN OF THE APOSTLES HOLDS BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS

Our Lady Queen of the Apostles Catholic Church in Royal Palm Beach held its Blessing of the Animals on Saturday, Oct. 4 in connection with the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi. Parishioners brought their pets to receive a blessing from Father Andy Rudnicki.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Father Andy Rudnicki blesses Bella, owned by Joe and Becky Imperiale.

Louise Connolly sits outside near a statue of St. Francis with her Scotty, Angus.

Brianna Lebron and her rabbit.

Gary and Carol Paledoda with cats Sugar, Chico and Binks.

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October 10 - October 16, 2014

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October 10 - October 16, 2014

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T H E A R T O F L U X U RY R E A L E S TAT E A U C T I O N S SELLING WITHOUT RESERVE

AUCTION OCTOBER 21ST 600± ACRE HUNTING & SPORTING RANCH, NEAR ASPEN, CO ORIGINALLY OFFERED FOR $49.5M

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RANCHO SANTA FE, CA // 11.08

NORTH DALLAS, TX // 11.18

2,400+AC Vineyard & Ranch Selling Without Reserve.

170+AC Compound with River Frontage Originally $3.9M. Without Reserve.

Rancho Pacifica Mediterranean Estate Originally $6.695M. Without Reserve.

29,000SF Amenity-Rich Estate on 9.4AC Previously $12.9M. Without Reserve.

WATCH INSIDER VIDEOS: CONCIERGEAUCTIONS.COM // 212.257.5175 These properties are listed by Thomas A. Latousek (40045273) and Mary Anne Meyer (40003785) of Joshua & Co. of Aspen, Inc. (EC73850), 300 S. Hunter, Aspen CO 81611, (970) 925-8810; Laura Barry (01154111) of Barry Estates, Inc.(1076961), 6033 Paseo Delicias, Ste. K, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067; Maxine Schulte (10301208695) of Keller Williams Realty, Chris Scibelli, Broker (10491200206), 522 Route 32, Highland Mills, NY 10930 - (845) 928-8000; Donald Alexander McKay Van de Mark (01357054) of Sotheby’s International Realty Inc., Inc. (00899496), 69665 Wilshire Blvd., Ste. 100, Beverly Hills CA 90212, (310) 724-7000; and Jonathan Gray Rosen (0550139) of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty (0287843) - 5600 W. Lovers Ln, Ste 224, Dallas, Texas 75209 (214) 350-0400. Concierge Auctions, LLC is a licensed VT (VT # 057.0088758), possesses California Auctioneer’s Bond #511475 and is a Colorado Real Estate broker (EL100032451), Broker Mike Russo (FA100027979), and is a NY Real Estate Firm (10991209483) Chad Roffers, Broker (10491202564) - 777 Flagler Drive, W Palm Beach, FL 33401 (888) 966-4759. Auctioneer Frank Trunzo (CA Bond #511522, #AU-C002842). Concierge is not a brokerage, and is not directly involved in selling real property in VT, The services referred to herein are not available to residents of any state where prohibited by applicable state law. Concierge Auctions LLC, its agents and affiliates, broker partners, Auctioneer, and the Sellers do not warrant or guaranty the accuracy or completeness of any information and shall have no liability for errors or omissions or inaccuracies under any circumstances in this or any other property listings or advertising, promotional or publicity statements and materials. This is not meant as a solicitation for listings. Brokers are fully protected and encouraged to participate. See Auction Terms and Conditions for more details. © 2013 Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission. Each Sotheby’s International Realty office is independently owned and operated. Neither Sotheby’s, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC nor any of their affiliated companies is providing any product or service in connection with this auction event.

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Page 13

PALMS WEST PEOPLE

Palm Beach Atlantic University’s Hispanic Heritage Festival A Success The sixth edition of Palm Beach Atlantic University’s Hispanic Heritage Festival took place last weekend.

Organized by Wellington residents Estibaliz Gastesi and Márcio Bezerra, this year’s main attraction was the renowned mother-and-son duo, cellist Leonardo and pianist Ana Altino, who presented a program with works by Marlos Nobre and Heitor Villa-Lobos.

On Sunday, Gastesi and Bezerra presented a program of piano duets

by Ricardo Tacuchian and Dimitri Cervo, as well as several Spanish classical songs with Palm Beach Atlantic voice students.

“It was a unique opportunity to collaborate with the talented singers of PBA,” Bezerra said.

“The school has some of the top singing professors in the country,

so we were not surprised that the program was a resounding success.”

This year’s festival marked the 75th birthdays of two major Brazilian composers, Marlos Nobre and Ricardo Tacuchian.

“The festival is a great way to showcase classical music from Latin America, a region that is so well known by its popular music,” Gastesi said.

“That emphasis on classical music, and the inclusion of poetry readings by El Alma Hispana, makes our festival unique in the U.S.,” Bezerra added.

The duo also stressed the support they have received from School of Music and Fine Arts Dean Dr. Lloyd Mims.

“Thanks to him, a single event conceived to commemorate our

(L-R) Jasmine Williams, Patricia Sonntag, Naiara Bezerra, Parker Treftz and Carlos Plaza.

10 years in Palm Beach County an important presence in the unihas become a yearly festival with versity’s calendar,” Gastesi said.

Cook To Present Award At Dressage Challenge

Wellington area Realtor and dressage rider Ann-Louise Cook will sponsor the inaugural Dressage People’s Choice Award during the 2014 Wellington Classic Dressage Autumn Challenge to be held in conjunction with the upcoming Great American Insurance Group USDF Region 3 Championships.

The Dressage People’s Choice Award is based on sportsmanship, horsemanship and performance, and will give dressage enthusiasts at the show the chance to have a say as to which rider deserves to

be recognized as a winner. Anyone at the show, including show staff, vendors and competitors, will be asked to vote for which dressage nominee most deserves the Dressage People’s Choice Award.

Cook will present the winner with a ribbon sash and an engraved silver bowl.

The 2014 Great American Insurance Group USDF Region 3 Championships and Wellington Classic Dressage Autumn Challenge will take place Oct. 16-19 at the Global Dressage Stadium at the Palm Beach International

Equestrian Center in Wellington.

Cook rides and competes with her own dressage horse and has certified her corgi, Teddy, as a visiting therapy dog.

Relocating to Wellington from Martha’s Vineyard in 2000, Cook is well versed in equestrian and seasonal lifestyles.

For more information, visit www.annlouisecook.com.

Wellington Boy Writes About Trips To India

(Right) Ann-Louise Cook will sponsor the People’s Choice Award at the Wellington Classic Dressage Autumn Challenge.

Amyleigh Atwater Joins Staff At Place of Hope

Amyleigh Atwater

Place Of Hope recently added Amyleigh Atwater to its staff in the role of advancement associate.

Atwater will provide administrative support and execute plans for fundraising campaigns that further the advancement of Place of Hope. Some of her responsibilities include managing the advancement calendar, representing the organization at community and business-oriented events, copywriting marketing materials, communicating with donors and sponsors, and working with committee members to plan and coordinate Place of Hope events.

Place of Hope holds a number of functions to build awareness and support of its mission as the

largest child welfare organization in Palm Beach County. Atwater will assist with the planning for the third annual Sporting Clays Invitational Fun Shoot on Jan. 16, the ninth annual Hope Bash on Feb. 20 and the 11th annual Golf Invitational & Charity Dinner on March 22.

Prior to Place of Hope, Atwater was event coordinator for the Borland Center for the Performing Arts in Palm Beach Gardens, administrative assistant and crew agent for Palm Beach Yachts International in West Palm Beach and grassroots coordinator for Public Concepts in West Palm Beach.

She is also the owner of Atwater Events LLC.

Ramprasad at the famous Chamundi Hill Temple in Mysore, India.

A graduate of Florida Atlantic University, she has a bachelor’s degree in public communication and sociology and earned a certificate in wedding and events planning from the New York Institute of Art + Design. Atwater is involved in her community through her membership and affiliations with the Alpha Xi Delta Alumnae Association, Autism Speaks, the FAU Alumni Association and the Junior League of the Palm Beaches.

With locations in Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach and Boca Raton, Place of Hope is a faith-based, state-licensed child welfare organization. For more info., visit www.placeofhope.com or call (561) 775-7195.

Six-year-old Wellington Preparatory School student and Mensa member Nikhil Ramprasad recently wrote about his recent trip to India.

“One way to make the world better is to recycle,” he wrote.

“For example, in India you have to pay for grocery bags or you bring your own bag for free. Bottles are given back to the government to be washed and refilled at the stores. I

think America should bring their cardboard boxes from snacks and cereal back to the store to refill it.

The snacks come in plastic protectors anyway.”

Ramprasad made two trips to India this year and spent about five months in total.

While there, he attended a local Montessori school that he had previously attended, and adapted seamlessly.

Allyson Miller Selected For Delta Epsilon Iota At FAU

The Delta Epsilon Iota Academic Honor Society has selected Allyson Nicole Miller of Wellington for membership in the local chapter at Florida Atlantic University.

Miller graduated from Palm Beach Central High School and is expected to graduate FAU in May 2016 with a degree in neuroscience and attend medical school to become a neurosurgeon.

Delta Epsilon Iota was established to encourage academic excellence in all fields of study.

It rewards outstanding students through financial scholarships,

provides leadership opportunities to its members, and promotes dedication, enthusiasm and initiative among students participating in higher education.

Students qualify on the basis of academic achievement. Prospective members must have completed a minimum of 30 semester hours at an accredited college or university, while maintaining a 3.30 cumulative grade point average or a scholastic ranking within the top 15 percent of their class.

Miller is the daughter of Dean and Dori Miller.

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October 10 - October 16, 2014

NEW HORIZONS STUDENTS HONORED FOR SUMMER READING

New Horizons Elementary School advocates reading. This summer, students were invited to participate in the “New Horizons Sunsational Summer Reading” initiative. Students were required to read, keep a reading log, and complete three reading projects for books they read. Top readers were honored by receiving certificates, books, bracelets and trophies provided by the New Horizons Literacy Leadership Team. Shown here are prize recipients with Assistant Principal Mickey Simmel and Principal Betsy Cardozo.

Palm Beach Central High School debate students.

Palm Beach Central Debate Students Shine

Fifty-six members of the Palm Beach Central High School Debate Team recently competed against 22 schools and 500 other students at Suncoast High School.

The following students won awards in their respective competition rooms: Aaron Wolfson, second place; KaSandra Elder, fourth place; Sam Fitzsimmons, Cameron Silverman and Johan Re-

strepo, fifith place; and Kallayah Henderson, sixth place.

Also competing well were: Matt Corrigan, Lauren Griffith, Kaely Krayeski, Omar Atalla, Angele Rivera, Nicole Crosdale, Kimberly Areas, Bryce Herrera, Nate Snyder, Brooke Johnson, Jamie Panariello and Nicholas Seguin.

Kudos to coach Daryl Hall for his guidance and expertise.

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SCHOOL NEWS

TKA Earns National Blue Ribbon Honor

The King’s Academy’s elementary school was designated as a National Blue Ribbon School recently by U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. The school was recognized as an “Exemplary High Performing School” as measured by performance on assessments referenced against national norms.

TKA is one of only 50 private schools nominated for the honor by the Council for American Private Education, and one of 239 elementary schools honored.

Elementary school students gathered in the cafeteria to celebrate the announcement with Principal Heath Nivens and the

Principal Heath Nivens addresses students.

entire elementary faculty and staff.

“Being named a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence is an incredible honor. It validates and confirms our dedication to excellence here at the King’s Academy,” Nivens said. “Our continuous exemplary performance as an elementary

school would not be possible without the dedication of such a professional group of faculty members, a committed contingency of parents and diligent students.

We are honored to be considered one of the top 239 elementary schools and top 50 private schools nationwide.”

TKA students with Principal Heath Nivens.

Seminole Ridge To Host Multicultural Night Oct. 17 The Seminole Ridge High School World Languages Department will host its annual Multicultural Night Dinner & Show on Friday, Oct. 17, with dinner at 5 p.m. in the cafeteria and the show at 6:30 p.m. in the auditorium.

Dinner will be catered by Pollo Tropical and includes a variety of choices. The show spotlights talented students performing acts that promote cultural awareness.

Tickets for dinner and the show are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. The show only is $5 at the door. For more info., e-mail patricia.mckillican@palmebach schools.org or enny.cannestro@ palmbeachschool.org.

• Homecoming 2015: Hawks on Broadway — This year’s

Seminole Ridge Homecoming Week will take place Oct. 21 to 25, with “Hawks on Broadway” as the theme. “We’re looking forward to participation from all the organizations on campus,” student government sponsor Melissa Long said.

The week will include a halftime parade at the homecoming football game Friday night, with floats from many SRHS classes, clubs and campus organizations.

• Honor Choir Slots — Congratulations to the following students, whose successful audition has earned them a place in Florida’s 2014 American Choral Directors’ Association (ACDA) Honor Choirs this fall: Male Choir: tenor Freddy Ca-

PBSC Theatre To Perform ‘Brighton Beach Memoirs’ Palm Beach State College’s theatre department will be presenting Neil Simon’s Brighton Beach Memoirs on Wednesday, Oct. 15 through Saturday, Oct. 18. There are matinee performances at 2 p.m. on Oct. 15 and Oct. 18, and also performances every night at 8 p.m. in the Duncan Theater, which is on Palm Beach State College’s Lake Worth Campus at 4200 Congress Ave. Tickets are $12 for the general public and $5 for students (with

high school or college/university student ID), as well as for PBSC faculty and staff (with employee ID). Cash and credit/debit cards are accepted.

Call (561) 868-3309 to purchase tickets, or visit the Stage West box office the evening of the performance, one hour prior to curtain. Students and faculty/staff can purchase $5 discounted tickets in person at the box office. Those tickets cannot be ordered over the phone or online.

ceres and baritone Gary Salfelder.

Mixed Honor Choir: tenor Cristian Soto and bass Daniel Wood.

Congratulations also to choral students who passed the first round of the 2015 Florida AllState Musicianship and Sight Reading Testing: Angel Gaynor, Mairead O’Rourke and Daniel Wood. They advance to the second round, to be tested further on their knowledge of the all-state musical selections, as well as their vocal quality.

• Winged Regiment Earns Golds, Silver — The Seminole Ridge Winged Regiment competed at the end of September in the season’s first contest. “They faced last year’s defending state champions and gave them one

heck of a battle,” Band Director Daniel Harvey said.

The Winged Regiment took Best in Class 2A Music, Best in Class 2A Percussion, and second place overall in the class.

• Shrinking the Digital Divide — The “Shrinking the Digital Divide” program is up and running under the auspices of the SRHS information technology academy.

IT academy students refurbish and re-image old district computers to be donated to the community — needy students, families, organizations, day care centers and more. Every computer comes with a monitor, a new keyboard and mouse, and cables. For more info., e-mail rebecca.vadakara@ palmbeachschools.org.

Donation Supports Royal Palm Beach High School’s AVID Program

Royal Palm Beach High School’s AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) students will soon benefit from a generous donation.

The Horace Mann Companies funded the entire project posted to www.donorschoose.org by teacher Gwynne Eldridge. Eldridge’s project sought funding for individual student thesauri as well as 10 hardbound thesauri for the classroom.

The possession of these materials will add another layer of depth to students’ vocabulary acquisition.

The donation, made by the company on behalf of their local representative, Donna Peterich, is much appreciated. The AVID program supports students who have college potential but need extra assistance through college readiness skills, strategies and activities.

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October 10 - October 16, 2014

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FEATURES

Columbus: Here’s All I Remember About The Intrepid Explorer Monday is Columbus Day. Christopher Columbus is credited with “discovering America,” even though there is ample evidence that he did not — Indians, for example.

The Indians who were keeping an eye on Columbus’ landing party are now referred to as Native Americans, unless you are trying to play Cowboys and Native Americans. No one plays that.

But Columbus had to discover a New World for political reasons — the Queen of Spain had financed the trip, and it was imperative that Christopher discover something, claim it for Spain and return home victorious. Or, well, off with his head.

Deborah Welky is

The Sonic BOOMER It’s sort of like America claiming the moon. I simply do not understand how anyone can “own” the moon. I suppose one nation or another was going to claim it eventually and whoever got there first had dibs but, really, who can own a natural satellite?

And that’s pretty much what they said to Columbus.

“Nice job, Chris! Now we own something that no one can see, feel, hear, smell or taste but we are responsible for. How do we even know it exists? I suppose you’re going to try to colonize that ‘New World’ of yours — tell people you’re going to take them over there, charge them an arm and a leg, then dump them over the edge of the earth. What a racket!”

And yet here we are, sitting here in America without even a clue as to what Spain is up to these days. We don’t even care.

And poor Amerigo Vespucci, for whom the continent was actually named, he’s

sitting in Italy wondering what the heck happened. We don’t care about him either.

We highly suspect he’s dead.

But Columbus was determined to colonize his New World. He built a fort from one of his wrecked ships (the Santa Maria, in fact) and left 40 men on the island of Hispaniola. When he came back with 1,200 more, the fort had been destroyed and there were no survivors. The 1,200 didn’t fare much better. Columbus had lured these men with tales of gold and riches waiting to be plucked by anyone brave enough to cross the ocean. Most of them died, too, and those who didn’t complained constantly about lack of food, medicine and a severe shortage of instant

gold. There were several attempts at mutiny, and Columbus skedaddled out of there with a couple gold nuggets stashed in his bloomers for the Queen.

At least that’s how I understand it.

I did hear that Columbus’ kinfolk tried for several hundred years to get their mitts on the extensive amount of American land the Queen had promised Columbus, but by then we had a government, so you know that wasn’t going anywhere.

Nonetheless, Monday is Columbus Day, a day dedicated to an intrepid explorer and his foolhardy plans, and a day when even Americans who get off work squint at their bosses and say, “Tell me why again?”

‘Gone Girl’ A Great Movie With Some Amazing Performances

David Fincher’s new film Gone Girl raised a lot of expectations. The screenplay was by Gillian Flynn, who wrote the incredibly popular book. And happily, the film keeps to its ambivalent examination of marriage and personal relations. There are many victims in the movie, and the institution of marriage may be the chief casualty. The performances are superb, however, and Fincher keeps things moving so smoothly that the film works well.

Nick (Ben Affleck) is the central character at the start of the film. On his fifth anniversary, he starts the day commiserating with his twin sister Margo (Carrie Coon) about his life at the bar they jointly run. He comes home and finds broken furniture in his living room and his wife Amy (Rosamund Pike) missing. He calls the police and quickly finds himself the main target of suspicion. The story is told from his point of view interspersed with

‘I’ On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler flashbacks of his marriage from Amy’s diary. They had a romantic meeting. He was a successful writer; she wrote personality quizzes and was the model for a series of very popular children’s books written by her parents. “They didn’t adopt my life,” Amy wisecracks, “they improved it.”

Unfortunately, the recession cost both their jobs, and then Nick had to go to Missouri to take care of his sick mother.

They moved into a new state where they knew almost no one and had few remain-

ing financial resources. All of this led up to Amy’s disappearance. Without going into spoilers about the twists and turns (and there are many of them), it seems clear that both members of the marriage were totally self-centered and both were quite willing to sacrifice the other for their own happiness. In far too many ways, marriage is portrayed as a battlefield, and in this case, each of the partners has goals.

Nick has cheated on Amy, and Amy has her own plans for Nick — and they are particularly unpleasant.

About an hour into the movie, there is an abrupt shift in tone. The focus is more on Amy, and the film begins to flit into a savage satire on justice in an era of television news. Nick moves from a sympathetic victim to “the most hated man in America.” He is condemned by almost everyone. And, well, you will have to read the book or see the film to learn more.

The performances are all very strong.

Affleck gives his best performance in years; he is the central character, but his flaws are very visible. Fincher strips away all of his pretensions; Nick is shallow and, as he puts it, a “con man.” We (at least the men) can feel empathy for him even while feeling a measure of disgust for elements of his behavior. Pike is also remarkably strong; her role is a remarkably unsympathetic one, and she creates a tour de force as a woman who will not be denied.

Coon is a standout as Nick’s twin.

She is clearly torn as she discovers time after time that he has lied while trying to maintain her loyalty to him. When he asks near the end of the film whether she’s with him, she replies, “I’ve been with you even before we were born.” Coon should receive an Oscar nomination for her work.

Neil Patrick Harris as one of Amy’s former lovers does a really creepy turn,

never quite saying anything threatening while somehow projecting menace. Tyler Perry almost steals the movie as a highpriced defense lawyer spending more time worrying about image than evidence. And everyone else is really good and gets a chance, even if a small one, to shine.

This is not an easy picture to like. The hero cheats on his wife, lies and makes the marriage dismal. The wife is a sociopath.

The police look at Nick pretty much from the start as an obvious villain and never seem to chase down anything that might absolve him. The ending is far from a happy one. There is no nice resolution.

But this is a tight drama about adult topics. Yes, marriage is seen as a battle, a war. But it also provides enough ambiguity to create effective scenes, ones that often are funny. It is the best drama I have seen this year. I admire it, although it was not always a pleasant experience.

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Page 17

NEWS

FUN TIME AS PBSO RUN FOR THE ANIMALS RETURNS TO OKEEHEELEE PARK

The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office’s seventh annual Run for the Animals and Family Fun Day took place on Saturday, Oct. 4 at the Micanopy Pavilion in Okeeheelee Park. The day started with a 5k run, 5k walk and one mile family/dog walk. There were also pet-related vendors and pets were available for adoption and fostering. A DJ provided music while a barbecue lunch was available.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

The Walkettes: Carson Jackson, Michele Larkin, Nicole Muhammad, Linda Machenyhe, Karen Smarkola, Suzanne McIntyre and trainer Frank Smarkola.

Phyllis Gaugher, Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw, Liz Bloeser and Dorothy Bradshaw.

Jamie Marshall spends some time with Clyde.

Justin Bartlett Animal Rescue volunteers Debby Winters and Don Wulff at the event.

Rachel Ibarra with pony Snowflake and Betsy Foley with mini horse Pokey.

Richard Adler holds Fluffy as David Vincente tries to feed him grapes while Joyce Vincente looks on.

‘Paws For A Blessing’ At St. Michael Church

PUMPKIN SALE UNDERWAY AT ST. PETER’S CHURCH St Peter’s United Methodist Church has opened its pumpkin patch, located at 12200 W. Forest Hill Blvd. in Wellington.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Cousins Bliss and Weston Chapman in the pumpkin patch.

Emily Shively finds the perfect pumpkin.

Gianna, Gabriella and Emma McGann.

St. Michael Lutheran Church in Wellington invites the entire community to bring their beloved pets to the church to be blessed on Sunday, Oct. 19 at the 10:45 a.m. service.

Loyal companions with fur, feathers, scales or shells are welcome to come. Pets must be leashed or confined in a carrier.

There will be a 10:30 a.m. ceremony outdoors for those bringing horses for a blessing.

During the service, there will be an opportunity to recognize a pet that has left us. Come, bring a picture and remember the pet you loved.

At the event, the church will also be honoring service animals who go above and beyond

their duty. Paws4Liberty, a local nonprofit that helps returning soldiers with disabilities regain their independence through a loving relationship with a service dog, will be represented at the special service.

St. Michael Lutheran Church is located at 1925 Birkdale Drive in Wellington. The church is situated at the corner of Birkdale Drive and Forest Hill Blvd. If you have questions, or intend on bringing a horse or a large animal for the outdoor blessing, call Ryan Arnold at (561) 236-4180.

St. Michael Lutheran Church has other events coming up, and everyone is invited to attend. For more information, visit www. stmichaelelc.com.

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October 10 - October 16, 2014

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Tennis

Breaking Ground

continued from page 1 only in Palm Beach County, or the State of Florida, but I happen to believe in the entire country,” Coates said. “I believe at the end of the day, when this site is completed and the tennis facilities are erected, people are going to drive by this and it’s going to be another jewel that we can point to.”

Gary Pirtle, of Pirtle Construction, provided insight into the project. “We’re providing something for the community to enjoy.

You’re going to be getting a stateof-the-art tennis facility,” he said, explaining that Frank Froehling, a professional tennis player, has

Minto West

Zoning Board OK

continued from page 1 largely agricultural area because it was starting to come under development pressure.

Initially, the area was subject to concurrency regulations adopted by the county in 1990, and individual home builders were required to get concurrency approval, which slowed residential development, Davis said.

“The county commission ultimately grandfathered in The Acreage and effectively exempted it from having to go through that process,” Davis said. “So, effectively, there was a bypass through the normal steps of having to go through the growth management process.”

The Acreage Neighborhood Plan recognized the need for commercial services but wanted to put them outside the area, he said, pointing out that the Minto West project is not within The Acreage but was identified as an area appropriate for some of those uses.

That study, the Loxahatchee Groves Neighborhood Plan and other plans focused on character of neighborhood development and what residents wanted their communities to look like, he said.

ALA Forum

Six Seeking ITID Seats

continued from page 1 me? Heart and soul. Nothing else.

No hidden agenda, no ulterior motives, no other plan except to stand up here and fight for you.”

In his current stint, Bair has served on the ITID board for the past eight years, but his previous time in office brings it to a total of 14 years serving the community.

He has lived in The Acreage since 1979.

“I believe I have a really good handle on what goes on in this district, the protection of the people’s

District 6

Three Candidates

continued from page 1 your county commissioner are to focus on two umbrella goals, which really cover everything.

One is protecting our quality of life. Growth and development is going to happen, but it needs to be responsible, intelligent and compatible growth,” she said, adding that transparency in government and getting proper input from the community are also key priorities.

Schaller noted that his lifestyle is more in tune with The Acreage community. “I own a horse farm. I live in an ag-exempt property. My daily driver is an F-350 Dually. I get the lifestyle,” he said. “I live here because I want to. I did not come back here to run for a job.

I am not going to take a 300 percent increase in pay. It is a cut in pay for me to do this job, which I welcome.”

Schaller created an electronic banking company 20 years ago and also discussed his business philosophies.

The three candidates were asked about the county’s comprehensive plan focused on current development plans and their future impacts. All three stressed the need to have a plan for how to deal with development.

They all supported the completion of State Road 7 to Northlake Blvd., with Santamaria concerned about the health, safety and welfare of residents, and Schaller focused on the timing. McKinlay brought up an unspoken issue.

“I know there has been some question, especially from this community, about the support I have received from Mayor [Jeri] Muoio and some of the city commissioners in West Palm Beach, so I’m just going to address that head-on,” she said. “This district represents part of West Palm Beach. Just like Acreage [residents have] felt that they haven’t been represented over the last eight years, I’m not going

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Page 19

NEWS worked on the design of the courts.

Jeff Miles, director of operations for Pirtle Construction, will be managing the project, Pirtle said.

Young Song of Song + Associates stressed how much hard work and thought goes into a project like this, congratulating everyone on the groundbreaking.

Greene then invited all the officials to take part in the ceremony.

“The next time we’ll have an opportunity to gather and celebrate will hopefully be the ribbon-cutting when we open up the facility,” he said. “There’s so much that goes into making this happen, not just today but every day. It’s a long process to get here, but it does take vision and it does take courage. At the end of the day, we will have something that will be great for the Village of Wellington.”

Architect Young Song speaks as Gary Pirtle of Pirtle Construction looks on.

An artistic rendering of the new tennis facility.

As the citrus operations began to wind down, Callery-Judge prepared a major development plan.

The owner at the time applied for 10,000 homes and 2.5 million square feet of non-residential use.

“It had some public benefits, but it also had, more importantly, significant road impacts,” Davis said.

“I want to point out that [county] staff recommended denial of that development due to those impacts, but we saw that there was some good in it.”

While the county commission voted down that proposal in 2006, there has been a long-identified need to help balance the land uses in the area, he said.

“It was a retrofit, if you will.

Staff did recognize that there was a benefit to the non-residential of 2.5 million square feet,” Davis said.

“However, we did recommend a density of 1.2, rather than 2.5 units per acre, and that number is important.”

Callery-Judge Grove was successful in getting the Agricultural Enclave Act passed in the state legislature, which was tailored for the site and entitled it to similar development as the land surrounding it. The site was determined to be an ag enclave in 2008, and was given its current approvals.

County Engineer George Webb said the project has met infrastructure concurrency requirements

through the recently established proportionate share process mandated by the state.

“In essence, it just requires the developer to make a dollar share contribution,” Webb said.

The development at build-out would generate 63,562 daily trips, with 4,662 morning peak hour trips and 4,032 evening trips, which is about a 20 percent reduction from the original Minto West proposal last year.

On Seminole Pratt Whitney Road, about 27 percent of traffic from the project would use the northern portion and 38 percent would use the southern portion, according to county traffic studies.

On the east side of the project, an estimated 18 percent of traffic would use 60th Street and 16.5 percent would use Persimmon Blvd. to get in and out of the area.

“Those two roads are identified on the county’s thoroughfare identification map as part of our comprehensive plan,” Webb said.

“They have been on our plan since the late 1980s and have been identified as being able to move traffic through this area.”

He said the concern is that those roadway improvements will put more traffic through neighborhoods, but the traffic plan has identified those roads as where the traffic should be, and they would remain two-lane roads.

Minto West representative Donaldson Hearing said the purpose of the meeting was to request approval for the required traditional town development and preliminary master plan approval, both of which will come back before the zoning commission again, and he pointed out that county staff is recommending approval.

Hearing added that 55 percent of the development will remain open space, and the development will be able to offer significant drainage and water supply capability to the surrounding areas, as well as donating several hundred acres for public recreation and other public uses, including a sheriff’s substation and a fire station.

He added that the project will provide $50 million in proportionate share payments, $29 million in thoroughfare roadway construction for Seminole Pratt Whitney Road and Persimmon Blvd., and $7.8 million for mitigation and payments for 60th Street North and Persimmon Blvd.

Attorney Marty Perry, representing the Indian Trail Improvement District, noted that the Minto West project is nearly surrounded

by The Acreage. He added that ITID built all the roads in the area except Northlake, Okeechobee, Southern and Seminole Pratt.

Residents pay an annual non-ad valorem assessment for the dis-

trict’s maintenance and improvement, and ITID receives no outside funding such as gas tax revenue.

Perry pointed out that the Palm Beach County Planning Commission, which voted to deny approval, cited traffic as the main concern.

“What we are doing is shoving an urban development right in the middle of a bunch of one-anda-quarter-acre lots,” Perry said.

“The density all around that plot is 0.8 units per acre. The density and intensity should be consistent with the surrounding area.”

Perry said his clients have no problem with the currently approved density, but were concerned with the requested increase.

Commissioner Sam Caliendo was concerned about the $50 million fee for infrastructure improvements, pointing out that it would not nearly cover the total cost. He also pointed out that developers take huge tax write-offs for donations of land.

“I think the plan looks great, but we need to put a lot more thought into the community around it,” he said.

Commissioner Robert Currie said the development as presented would internalize much of the traffic. He added that he thought widening 60th Street to four lanes might preclude the necessity to

include Persimmon as a thoroughfare, but Webb said that there may be issues with enough right of way.

“You might have to buy more property, you might have to buy a house or two,” Webb said. “It’s not something we normally like to do. As long as this project is, there will be lots of things to think about over the next five, 10 or 20 years.”

Commission Vice Chair William Anderson said he thought the project as proposed, as compared to what is currently approved, is better as far as impact to the surrounding neighborhood because of the anticipated internal capture of traffic.

Commissioner Mark Beatty said he liked the idea of having a town center there, as opposed to having commercial sprawl such as what has occurred on Okeechobee and Northlake boulevards.

“It’s a chance where New Urbanism makes some sense to me when you’re building a new project,” Beatty said. “I would like to see this money go to 60th to get the traffic out of there, and I think that it needs to be at a minimum three lanes so that you’re not backing up traffic when you stop.”

Beatty made a motion to approve the application, which carried 6-2 with commissioners Sheri Scarborough and Amir Kanel opposed. Commissioner Joanne Davis abstained from voting.

money spent by the district, a balance of what’s needed and what’s wanted,” he said. “I do a balancing routine on the board, trying to put history in with what’s going on.

That way, we have some perspective beyond just the hot-button issue at the time and try to make sure everything is taken care of.”

With his tenure on the board, Bair has been through the transition from seven board members to five, and he has learned how things work from the inside out.

Ballweg believes his best qualifications to be his dedication and education, pointing out that he has attended every regular ITID meeting for the past two years, as well as dozens of special meetings.

A graduate of Stanford University, Ballweg studied engineering management and economics and has a background in finance and accounting.

“I believe we live in a unique area at a challenging, critical moment,” he said. “It is a unique area because Indian Trail could not be built the way it has been built again. The laws would not permit it. We are very lucky to have what we have, and we need to preserve it.”

Argue has been a resident of The Acreage since 2011. “I moved here because I absolutely love everything that The Acreage has to offer.

The agriculture, the livestock, the ability for equestrian,” she said.

to run as a county commissioner and ignore part of the people who I’ve been elected to represent, so I’m proud to have their support.”

Though McKinlay has Muoio’s support, she pointed out that she has Indian Trail Improvement District Supervisor Michelle Damone’s support as well, representing viewpoints on both sides of the issue.

Regarding land and zoning changes requested by developers, Schaller is staunchly against increases in density. McKinlay prefers local control over growth management, while Santamaria believes communication is key.

“Together, we can work on this on the front end of development and on the back end of development,” Santamaria said. “If we can get your input on the front end, we can avoid problems on the back end.”

Santamaria’s suggestions included getting people involved by having monthly forums, doing video recaps, asking people how they feel, posting meetings online and providing educational materials to get people involved.

The candidates agreed that additional services are necessary for The Acreage and the surrounding area.

“I believe there needs to be more of an equality out here,” Schaller said. “The same protection of lifestyle needs to go on out here that goes on at the metropolitan areas.”

Schaller focused on services and lifestyle, whereas McKinlay listed needs including a permanent fire station, not one in a strip mall, as well as more law enforcement, a community center and other infrastructure supports such as water and road improvements, flood protection and drainage.

Santamaria agreed with the need for better law enforcement protection. “When your home is burglarized and you’re waiting and you don’t know if the perpetrator is still in there, that’s concerning,” she said, referring to stories she has heard about in which it took more than an hour for a response.

Another question dealt with accepting campaign contributions from individuals or groups seeking land and zoning changes for increased density.

“I think it’s really important that we don’t have those conflicts,” Santamaria said. “It’s a lot easier just to not accept those things, and there’s not a conflict of interest and nobody’s going to question whether or not there is. It’s better to have peace of mind than have any possible hint or speculation or have people say things.”

Schaller said it is easy and to just look at his campaign finances, which he said do not show special-interest contributions, contributions from various other states or from Washington, D.C. “I am what I am, on my own, with all of you,” he said. “I am not controlled or beholden to any special interests, and there isn’t a dime from any developer in my quote ‘war chest.’”

McKinlay noted that she needed to take many contributions to run her campaign, but will not be beholden to special interests.

“I have taken campaign contributions because I am not in a financial position to self-fund my campaign, nor is my family in a position to fund my campaign.

I’ve taken contributions from everybody across the spectrum.

That does not mean I am beholden to anybody,” McKinlay said.

“People who have an interest in this district for a long time have not felt that they’ve even had the door open to allow them to come in and have discussions with their county commissioner. The only thing I’ve told anybody is that I will be fair, I will be honest and I will give everybody a chance to tell me what their opinion is…

Unfortunately, in this day and age, it does take a financial account to run a campaign. That’s just the way it is.”

To learn more about the candidates, visit www.votemckinlay 2014.com, www.andrewschaller. com and www.michellesanta maria.com.

With a 19-year-old and two young children, 4 and 6, Argue had to find a way to balance the needs of her children. “The Acreage offered everything we wanted for our family,” she said. “What we need to preserve are our dirt roads.

We need to keep developers from urbanizing our rural and exurban areas.”

Jacobs has been on the ITID board for eight years and said she has a passion for The Acreage. She has cows, chickens and horses, has raised eight children, has 13 grandchildren and owns a small land development firm.

“I am the best candidate because of all of the volunteer work I’ve done for years out here, all the money out of my own pocket — and I’m not a wealthy person — I help everybody I can out here.

I volunteer, my husband volunteers… Everybody thinks it’s just water and drainage out here. The Indian Trail Improvement District handles water, parks and drainage, so we have to divide that up. That’s what we’re in charge of.”

The candidates for each seat were asked similar but slightly

different questions to allow a broad range of topics to be explored.

Hager and Erickson were asked about the increasing demands on the maintenance of roads and canals, and how to meet those demands within the current budget.

Erickson advocates starting with a zero-based budget. Hager is pleased with the progress that has been accomplished, and added that a zero-based budget hasn’t been initiated, but budgeting should be a year-round process rather than a crunch-time situation.

Ballweg and Bair were asked about how they would handle a disaster in the area, and Bair updated the group on road clearing, drainage work and new equipment that will help in the aftermath of a future disaster. Ballweg agreed with the advantages of having the equipment Bair discussed, and suggested a policy to encourage people to maintain adequate supplies and training.

Argue and Jacobs were asked about the need for more police protection, and how to keep that within budget. Crime, speeding and safety are all hot topics, Ja-

cobs said, providing clarification regarding officer assignments in the area and suggested adding the topic to a future agenda. Officers familiar with the area, she said, are important, because they know the kids at the parks and can tell if they are just playing or are causing a problem. Argue noted that police protection is a county responsibility, not an ITID responsibility.

However, she was very concerned about the problem of speeding on Acreage roads, especially when children are present.

Candidates were asked additional questions, and several themes stood out: more law enforcement and fire-rescue protection for residents; better planning for flooding, fire, hurricanes and other disasters; opposition to additional street paving and other things that would “urbanize” the area; and that representation and services within the county seems less than equal for The Acreage as compared with other communities. Minto West and other planned developments were also a hot topic, and the candidates conceded that some development is inevitable.

continued from page 7 out in different colors, and Board Member Michael Drahos asked about the significance of the colors. O’Dell said that at one point, the colors were used to identify the sections.

“When you went out on the trails you would actually see stanchions in the ground that say, red trail, green trail, yellow trail, so it gives them marking to the trail itself,” O’Dell said.

Board Chair Carol Coleman said it could be for safety reasons, because many riders use cell phones, and if they fall or have some other type of emergency,

they could identify where they were.

O’Dell said his staff would be working with the Equestrian Preserve Committee in the coming months to resolve problems such as road crossings, including Forest Hill Blvd. and Big Blue Trace.

“Those cross major arteries, and we have to look at how we will physically be able to do that if we’re going to continue those pathways within those corridors,” O’Dell said. “That’s something that the Equestrian Preserve Committee will be evaluating, and we’ll be working with residents, landowners and homeowners’ associations that are affected by those trails as well.”

Coleman asked whether there is a connection to Palm Beach Little Ranches, and O’Dell said there

are connections via the green trail and purple trail, and he has been working with them to develop an overall program. “Right now, in concept, we have put together a program,” O’Dell said. “We need to put some price tags together, and we will work out some details.”

Coleman asked whether a rider in Little Ranches could actually ride into Wellington proper, and O’Dell said he has heard from Little Ranches residents that they do actually ride the green trail across Forest Hill Blvd., as well as the purple trail into southern Wellington.

“I have had conversations with people who are looking forward to continuing those connections,” O’Dell said.

Kopp made a motion to accept the ordinance, which carried 6-0.

continued from page 6 According to a PBSO report, last Friday, the victim received an e-mail from Chase Bank notifying her of a password change. The victim then discovered that $2,000 was moved from her savings account to her checking account and someone had attempted to send the money to someone in small increments through a “quick pay” feature. According to the report, the payments were unsuccessful and the account was closed. The victim was encouraged to place a fraud alert on her identity.

OCT. 6 — A resident of 75th Place North called the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation Monday morning regarding a suspicious incident. According to a PBSO report, sometime between

2 and 7:30 a.m. on Monday, someone vandalized two of the victim’s vehicles by pouring a foreign substance on them. One vehicle was parked on the driveway in front of the home, and the other was parked behind the home. The fluid was chocolate brown in color, and the victim was going to try to wash it off. There was no other damage to the vehicles, or burglarizing of the vehicles, noted at the time of the report.

OCT. 6 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called to a home on 77th Lane North on Monday morning regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 7:30 p.m. last Saturday and 10:15 a.m.

Sunday, a skateboard and a pair

of Oakley sunglasses, together valued at approximately $310, were removed from the victim’s unlocked vehicle.

OCT. 6 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Royal Palm Beach substation was called to the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center on Sweet Bay Lane on Monday evening regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 5:55 and 7 p.m., someone broke the passenger-side rear window of the victim’s 2006 Subaru Forrester and removed the victim’s brown Louis Vuitton handbag, a Kindle and a canvas bag containing clothing. The items, valued at $1,780, were left in plain view on the rear passenger side of the locked vehicle. DNA evidence was taken from the window.

Trail Map

Zoning Board OK

Blotter

Page 20

October 10 - October 16, 2014

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The Town-Crier

NEWS

HORSES HELPING PEOPLE FAMILY RESOURCE DAY AT VAN KAMPEN ARENA

The American Association of Caregiving Youth and the Equus Foundation hosted the inaugural Horses Helping People Family Resource Day on Sunday, Oct. 5 at the Van Kampen Arena in Wellington. Attendees learned about the benefits of equine therapy and PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER took part in a variety of activities.

Evan Bentz and Morgan Buccilli announce raffle winners.

Susan Shelly, Rick and Trevor Steed with Smart Chicken Dun It and Remo Pep, of Steed Training.

Dressage trainer Kelly Layne with rider Irina Muro and Neptuno.

Anthony Bishop with Rick Steed and Smart Chicken Dun It from Steed Training.

Zuri and Kyla Kent show off their arts and crafts projects.

Kristin Cosentino with Smart Master Plan from Steed Training.

YWCA OFFICIAL ADDRESSES WOMEN OF WESTERN COMMUNITIES DINNER

Women of the Western Communities held its monthly dinner meeting Thursday, Oct. 2 at the Wanderers Club in Wellington. YWCA Outreach Counselor Felicia del Valle spoke about domestic violence and YWCA resources available to help women leave an abusive home life and start anew. For more info., e-mail Mair Armand at mair@wwc-fl.com or call (561) 635-0011.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

YWCA Outreach Counselor Felicia del Valle with Women of the Western Communities President Mair Armand.

Cheryl Dunn-Bychek, Carole Anderson and Marge Hartig-Specht.

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Immediate openings for 2 and 3 year-olds

Carol Pettine and Keri Chicano.

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October 10 - October 16, 2014

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These organizations offer the following programs and services for children, parents and caregivers in the funding year beginning October 1, 2014: The Arc of Palm Beach County, Inc.

First Step to Success

Healthy Steps for Young Children The Center for Family Services of PBC, Inc.

Prenatal Plus Mental Health Service

Triple P (Positive Parenting Program) Children's Forum, Inc.

Quality Program Assessment

Children's Home Society of Florida BRIDGES

Wyman's Teen Outreach Program (TOP) Early Learning Coalition of Palm Beach County

CSC Scholarship Initiative

GOLD Assessment Management Easter Seals Florida, Inc.

Early Steps Families First of Palm Beach County

Healthy Families Florida Family Central, Inc.

Family Child Care Home Technical Assistance Specialists Father Flanagan's Boys Town Florida, Inc.

Primary Project Florida Department of Health/Palm Beach County

Data Entry Team

Dental Services for Pregnant Women

Healthy Beginnings Nurses

Nurse-Family Partnership

WHIN Nurses

Health Council of Southeast Florida, Inc.

Fetal and Infant Mortality Review Healthy Mothers/Healthy Babies Coalition of PBC, Inc.

Centering Pregnancy

Centering Pregnancy Expansion

Healthy Beginnings Entry Agency (Prenatal)

MomCare HomeSafe, Inc.

Growing Smart

Healthy Beginnings Entry Agency (Birth to 5)

Pathways to Prosperity, Inc.

Circle Campaign at BRIDGES

Triple P (Positive Parenting Program)

Prime Time Palm Beach County, Inc.

Afterschool Program Development

Enhanced Learning Opportunities Redlands Christian Migrant Association, Inc.

Match Funding School Board of Palm Beach County, Florida

Technical Assistance Specialists

Sickle Cell Foundation of Palm Beach County and Treasure Coast, Inc.

Community Voice

Housing Partnership, Inc. BRIDGES

Wyman's Teen Outreach Program(TOP)

The Jerome Golden Center for Behavioral Health, Inc.

Healthy Beginnings Mental Health Services Tomas Boiton

Healthy Beginnings Transportation Consultant Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County, Inc.

Budding Readers Urban League of Palm Beach County, Inc.

Glades Family Education Program

Wyman's Teen Outreach Program (TOP)

Parent-Child Home Program Oversight Other programs & services provided by Children's

Reach Out and Read Program Services Council

Incredible Years Lutheran Services Florida, Inc.

Head Start Program Matching Funds

Triple P (Positive Parenting Program)

Training & Materials

PEPPI Head Start Program Matching Funds Nutritious Lifestyles, Inc.

Prenatal Plus Nutrition Service Palm Beach State College

Professional Development System

SEEK Scholarships Parent-Child Center, Inc.

Healthy Beginnings Mental Health Services

New programs & services in 2014-2015

Capacity Building Initiative

Child First Program, Training and Materials

GOLD Assessment

Help Me Grow

Developmental Services

Prenatal Services

Mental Health Services

Teen Triple P (Positive Parenting Program)

Children’s Services Council also partners with the following organizations to serve our children: Florida Rural Legal Services, Inc.

Access for Success (Glades)

Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County, Inc.

Juvenile and Foster Children’s Projects

Relative Caregivers Project

Friends of Community Services, Inc.

Summer Camp Scholarship Program

Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County, Inc. Early Literacy Book Distribution

Health Council of Southeast Florida, Inc.

PBC Counts Portal Collaborative

Nonprofits First, Inc. Agency Certification and Management Services

Palm Beach Board of County Commissioners

Housing Partnership, Inc.

Safe Kids Coalition of Palm Beach County

Drowning Prevention

Palm Beach County Education Commission, Inc. Initiative

Palm Beach County Food Bank, Inc.

PBC Food Bank, Inc. Resource Depot, Inc.

Initiative United Way of Palm Beach County, Inc.

211 of Palm Beach/Treasure Coast

Common Eligibility

Continuous Improvement Initiative

Mentoring Initiative

Non Profit Legal Assistance Program

Special Needs Initiative

• About 17,000 children receive Children’s Services Council scholarships for child care and afterschool care.

• More than 200 child care providers, such as Opportunity Inc. and Delray Achievement Center, participate in our quality improvement system.

For a list, visit: www.cscpbc.org/childcare • More than 120 afterschool programs, such as Boys & Girls Clubs, Adopt-A-Family and FAU-Pine Jog, receive educational enhancements, such as science, technology, engineering, arts and culture, and math. For a list, visit: www.cscpbc.org/afterschool

Children’s Services Council is a countywide special district established by Palm Beach County voters. For almost 30 years, we have provided leadership, services, funding and research on behalf of the county’s children so they grow up healthy, safe and strong.

For more information about Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County, please visit our website: www.cscpbc.org or call the Parent InfoLine: 888-634-7900

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Busy Fall Season At The Caloosa Horse Park

The Caloosa Equestrian Committee has planned some fun events for October and November. If you’re free, it’s worth bringing along some friends, both human and equine, and head up the Beeline Highway. The first one is a tack/yard sale on Saturday, Oct. 18. Ellen Rosenberg’s Column, Page 25

Business

Grand Opening At Pure Barre Wellington

Pure Barre Wellington held its grand opening Friday, Sept. 26, and owner Melissa Hirsch called the event a huge success. The store conducted raffles and promotions, and gave away prizes. A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place before the grand opening party, with Wellington Chamber of Commerce ambassadors and board members welcoming Hirsch and her business to the chamber. Page 26

Sports Wildcats Suffer First Loss, Falling 47-24 To Dwyer

The Royal Palm Beach High School football team traveled to meet William T. Dwyer High School in a key District 13-7A match-up on Oct. 2, and fell 47-24 to the defending Class 7A state champs. The Wildcats brought their unbeaten record into the arena to defend. Page 33

THIS WEEK’S INDEX TAILS FROM THE TRAILS............................. 25 BUSINESS NEWS................................... 26-29 SPORTS & RECREATION........................ 33-35 COMMUNITY CALENDAR............................. 38 CLASSIFIEDS......................................... 39-43

Page 23

P.B. Gardens Tops SRHS Football Squad 28-24

The Seminole Ridge High School football squad traveled to Palm Beach Gardens High School to take on the Gators in a district match-up Oct. 2, falling short, 28-24. The Hawks appeared to have early control, but it was a second-half rally by the Gators that deflated Seminole Ridge’s chances. Page 33

A TOWN-CRIER PUBLICATION

INSIDE

October 10 - October 16, 2014

Shopping Spree

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October 10 - October 16, 2014

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FEATURES

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Page 25

Busy Fall Season Planned At The Caloosa Horse Park

The Caloosa Equestrian Committee has planned some fun events for October and November. If you’re free, it’s worth bringing along some friends, both human and equine, and head up the Beeline Highway.

The first one is a humongous tack and yard sale on Saturday, Oct. 18, which will run from 9 a.m. until noon. There will be tables and booths set up at the Caloosa Horse Park, but it’s much more than that. Many people in the community will be selling stuff in their yards — and there are about 300 people living in Caloosa!

This is one event I’ve already noted on my calendar. I’ll be one of those people driving madly from farm to farm, trying to see it all.

I love a good equestrian yard sale, and this is one of the best.

“It costs $15 to set up a table, and anyone is welcome to do so,” explained Lisa Loewenberg, a member of the Caloosa Equestrian Committee. “All the proceeds go toward maintaining the horse park. We’ve held this event a few times in the past, and it’s always a huge hit with everyone.”

People clean out their tack rooms, and you never know what you’ll find.

“Tack, grooming supplies, a lot of the usual horse equipment, stall gates, jump standards, flowerpots, lawn mowers, even horses and

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

Tales From The Trails

By Ellen Rosenberg trailers,” Loewenberg said. “There are always great deals to be had, and so much stuff to look at that it gets crowded with everyone driving around and trying to see it all.”

There are fantastic finds around every corner. “One of the best treasures I found one year was a hand-carved rocking horse. I have no idea what I’ll find this year,” Loewenberg said. “It’s not like I particularly need anything.

But who can resist looking? This is a moving feast of a yard sale, and I’m sure everyone will be able to find something they didn’t know they needed but can’t live without.”

The second event is the Caloosa Halloween Fun Show, which will take place from 1 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 1. This annual show includes entertaining classes for children of all ages, including adults who are still young at heart.

“There are the usual mounted equestrian games, like egg and spoon races, plus costume classes,” Loewenberg said. “It’s a lot of fun seeing how creative everyone can get. I always marvel at how patient the horses and ponies are, dressed up in their outfits. In the past, I

Participants take part in one of the mounted equestrian games. recall one pair where the horse was dressed on Saturday, Nov. 15, which will run from 10 like a deer, and the rider like a hunter. Another a.m. until noon. You definitely need a horse for pair came as a Viking on an Icelandic horse. this one. You ride the marked trail, making five designated stops, where you randomly pick a You never know what you’ll see.”

The fees are low, and everyone always has playing card. At the end of the ride, whoever a great time, whether they’re participating or has the best poker hand wins a share of the pot.

The top winners win different percentages, as just watching.

“There’s apple bobbing for horses, which is in a jackpot class. The cost is $20 for the first a riot. The whole day is very family-friendly; a hand, and $10 for each additional hand. There great place to hang around and visit with other will be lunch for sale after the ride.

“Everyone loves the Poker Ride,” Loewenhorse enthusiasts,” Loewenberg said.

The last event is the Caloosa Poker Ride See ROSENBERG, page 35

PLEASE PRESENT THIS AD AT TIME OF REGISTRATION

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October 10 - October 16, 2014

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BUSINESS NEWS

Pure Barre Wellington Holds Grand Opening Pure Barre Wellington held its grand opening Friday, Sept. 26, and owner Melissa Hirsch called the event a huge success.

Pure Barre Wellington is located at 11924 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 22, in the Town Square shopping center. The store conducted raffles and promotions, and gave away prizes. Those visiting had lots of fun.

The event also gave clients a chance to socialize even more with teachers and other clients. A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place before the grand opening party, with Wellington Chamber of Commerce ambassadors and board members welcoming Hirsch and her business to the chamber.

According to Hirsch, Pure Barre is the fastest and most effective way to change the body, with some participants seeing results in as little

as 10 classes. Pure Barre consists of a full body workout, combining the elements of Pilates and ballet.

The method, part of which was developed in the early 20th century

by Joseph Pilates, utilizes small isometric movements at the ballet barre, working the muscles to fatigue and immediately stretching them back out.

Pure Barre is great for strengthening and lengthening. The technique is also low impact; there is no jumping or bouncing, so it is safe and easy on the joints.

Hirsch has additional studios in West Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens and Jupiter. When someone joins, as a member of one studio, he or she is a member of all four studios.

For more information, visit www. purebarre.com/fl-wellington.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony at Pure Barre’s grand opening party.

Kid Cancer Foundation Gets Online Award

The Kids Cancer Foundation has been honored with a prestigious 2014 Top-Rated Award by Great Nonprofits, the leading provider of user reviews about nonprofit organizations.

“We are excited to be named a top-rated 2014 nonprofit,” said Michelle O’Boyle, executive director of the Kids Cancer Foundation. “We are proud of our accomplishments this year, including the fact that we served more than 300 patients and families and 90 percent of all donations we received went directly to programs and services to benefit our young patients and families.”

The award was based on the large number of positive reviews that the foundation received. Visit www. greatnonprofits.org for more info.

Famed Drummer To Give ‘CRASH’ Course For Success

On Saturday, Oct. 18, Seagull Services will host CRASH Course for Success, a high-energy motivational speaking event presented by Grammy-nominated drummer, producer and songwriter Rich Redmond.

Those who are musicians or who simply march to a different drumbeat are invited to join the students

at the Seagull Academy for Independent Living for the event.

Redmond’s CRASH (Commitment-Relationships-Attitude-Skill-Hunger) Course for Success is a well-crafted program to help anyone achieve success. Redmond used the concepts over several decades to navigate the competitive

and challenging music industry.

Throughout the event, he will discuss how maintaining a commitment to one’s self and customers, honoring and developing relationships, cultivating a positive attitude, honing crucial skill sets and fanning the flames of success are concepts that all work together for achieving

goals. He will also emphasize basic business theories while sharing humorous asides and passionate drumming examples to drive home key points.

Known as one of the top drummers in Nashville, Redmond is the powerhouse drummer behind Jason Aldean and has performed with

numerous other musicians.

The class will be given at the Seagull Academy for Independent Living, 6250 N. Military Trail, just south of Rapids Water Park. The cost is $20 cash or $25 by credit card. For more info., visit www.seagull.org or call Elizabeth McDermott at (561) 842-5814, ext. 111.

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October 10 - October 16, 2014

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A Guide to Some of The Best Fine and Casual Dining Spots in the Western Communities!

If you want the best Corned Beef sandwich in the western communities look no further than Hilary’s Restaurant & Royal Deli in Royal Palm Beach. Hilary’s has been a staple for many years in Royal Palm Beach serving families from generation to generation.

With the best breakfast and lunch combo’s you might imagine. From Nova Lox and bagels to omelets filled with your choice of ingredients, you cannot make a bad choice.

Best known for their Mile High Corned Beef Sandwich or their popular Pastrami Sandwich they have so many menu items to tickle your taste buds as well. The Deli Salad Platter is amazing. If you need catering for any occasion do yourself a favor and call Hilary’s friendly staff to make your selections make the occasion spectacular. For more information or to get the daily special stop into at Hilary’s 650 Royal Palm Beach Blvd on the Corner of Southern Blvd., or call for more information 561-790-7301

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BUSINESS NEWS

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Page 29

Hi-Tech Plumbing Supports Fight Against Breast Cancer During October, local residents will see many visible signs of Hi-Tech Plumbing & Air’s fight against breast cancer within the Palm Beach County community.

Join representatives of the business at Making Strides Against Breast Cancer on Saturday, Oct. 18, where they will participate in the 5k walk alongside co-owner Jathynia Garcia, who is a recent survivor and first-time team leader of the event.

Garcia is encouraging patrons and residents to get involved.

Hi-Tech Plumbing will be raising money, donating and inviting others to join this cause in honor of breast cancer awareness.

Hi-Tech Plumbing is known for providing septic, air conditioning, water heaters and drain cleaning services to homeowners and businesses throughout the county. The company’s team is determined to raise funds to fight breast cancer

and is committed to community service with the desire to help combat this devastating disease.

Garcia is happy for the opportunity to support the cause on a personal level.

“I’m pleased to announce that now through the end of October, we will be accepting nominations for our ‘Win a Facelift Contest,’ where we will be choosing one lucky person in need who will receive an all-expenses-paid face

lift, but not the kind you’re thinking. It will be a bathroom face lift, which will include a brand-new, water-saving commode and faucet, installed by one of Hi-Tech Plumbing’s certified technicians,” Garcia said.

She noted that the total value of the prize package is more than $1,300.

Anyone who knows someone going through breast cancer or a survivor can nominate the person

by e-mailing their name, address, phone number and email address to support@hi-techplumbingandair. com. On Nov. 15, the company will announce the lucky winner.

Watch for pink ribbons on HiTech’s fleet of trucks, and real plumbers in pink, and follow the company’s efforts on Facebook and Twitter (@plumberinaskirt).

For more information, contact Garcia at (561) 790-6966 or visit www.hi-techplumbing.com.

Grandview Gardens B&B Fundraiser Marks Anniversary

Grandview Gardens Bed & Breakfast, nestled in a tropical garden at Howard Park in West Palm Beach, is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a fundraiser cocktail party.

Proceeds will benefit the Palm Beach Bike Jockeys, a local group of cyclists raising funds for Smart Ride 11, a two-day, 165-mile bicycle ride that raises awareness and funds for FoundCare’s Comprehensive AIDS Program of Palm Beach County and other HIV/AIDS organizations in Florida.

The anniversary celebration will be from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 22. A suggested minimum $25 donation is required for admission, with all donations going to the Palm

Beach Bicycle Jockeys. Grandview Gardens is sponsoring an open bar, hors d’oeuvres and music.

A silent auction will also take place, set amidst the luxurious Spanish Mediterranean resort, pool and gardens.

Grandview Gardens is located at 1608 Lake Ave., West Palm Beach.

Visit www.grandview-gardens.com, or call (561) 833-9023 for more information.

“In celebration of 10 exciting years, we are very happy to continue our support for the local community, in particular for the Palm Beach Bike Jockeys and the Smart Ride, which benefits our very own community health center, FoundCare,” said Rick Rose, one of

Grandview Gardens’ innkeepers.

In its 10-year history, Smart Ride has raised and returned over $5.3 million, with 100 percent going directly to HIV/AIDS organizations.

Last year, FoundCare was awarded $133,000 from the event.

The fully supported, non-competitive, annual bicycle ride from Miami to Key West attracts participants from across the nation and internationally. Its participants range in age from 18 to 81 and represent all skill levels, all with one mission — to change lives.

The Smart Ride will take place the weekend of Nov. 14-15. For more information on how to get involved, visit www.thesmartride.org, or call (866) 696-7701.

Peter Emmerich, Jan Weimar and Rick Rose of Grandview Gardens.

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October 10 - October 16, 2014

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October 10 - October 16, 2014

Page 33

RPB Wildcats Suffer First Loss, Falling 47-24 To Dwyer

By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach High School football team traveled to meet William T. Dwyer High School in a key District 13-7A match-up on Thursday, Oct. 2, and fell 4724 to the defending Class 7A state champions.

Royal Palm Beach entered the contest as the county’s No. 3 team, while Dwyer held the No. 4 position.

The Wildcats had also brought their unbeaten (4-0, 1-0) record into the arena to defend, but there was more than that at stake. Bragging rights

as the district’s top dog hung in the balance.

Four of the county’s top 10 positions are occupied by teams from this district, with West Boca at No. 7 and Atlantic at No. 10.

The game was a definite tale of two halves. Royal Palm Beach’s rushing attack could not be stopped, as they piled up an impressive 188 yards. Wildcat quarterback Toddy Centeio also contributed by throwing two first-half touchdowns to give Royal Palm Beach the edge 17-13 at the half.

It appeared the Wildcats were in

Royal Palm Beach linebacker Marlon Eugene sacks Dwyer quarterback Daniel Parr.

control and would maintain their unblemished record for another week, but the Panthers had different plans.

In the second half, Royal Palm Beach could not contain the powerful Dwyer offense, led by quarterback Daniel Parr, as he threw for 335 yards and four touchdowns to throttle the Panthers past the Wildcats. Three second-half fumbles also didn’t help the cause for Royal Palm Beach.

Dwyer managed back-to-back scores to take a 26-17 lead in the third quarter. Royal Palm Beach running back Shamar Jackson then

gave the Wildcats a breath of life when he scampered 48 yards for a score. Devin Wallace’s kick closed the gap on the Dwyer lead 26-24.

But that was it for the Wildcats for the rest of the night. They could not summon the power from earlier in the contest. Dwyer was able to capitalize on Wildcat turnovers and extend the lead, putting it out of reach for the Wildcat squad.

Dwyer’s offense would tally an additional 21 points to walk away with the 47-24 win and hand Royal Palm Beach its first loss of the season. Jackson is credited with 130

Running back Shamar Jackson uses a stiff arm to gain extra yards.

yards on 13 carries and a score. Running back Charles Perry tallied 113 yards. Centeio was seven of 15 for 69 yards and two touchdowns. Receivers Marlon Eugene and Derick Python both recorded scores, while Wallace had a 42-yard field goal.

Royal Palm Beach will host district rival Atlantic High School in another crucial game Friday, Oct. 10 at 7 p.m.

Royal Palm Beach running back Charles Perry keeps his balance to gain a few additional yards.

PHOTOS BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER

Palm Beach Gardens Tops SRHS Football Squad 28-24

By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report The Seminole Ridge High School football squad traveled to Palm Beach Gardens High School to take on the Gators in a pivotal district

match-up on Thursday, Oct. 2, falling short, 28-24.

The Hawks (2-3, 0-1 in District 9-8A) appeared to have early control of the Gators with a 17-7 lead, but it was a second-half rally by the coun-

Hawk running back Kerrith Whyte turns at the outside for his first-quarter touchdown.

ty’s No. 5 team that deflated any chances of a victory for Seminole Ridge. Palm Beach Gardens (4-1, 1-0) outscored the Hawks 21-7 in the second half.

Seminole Ridge shut down the Gator offense early in the game, and Kerrith Whyte got on the scoreboard first for the Hawks with a 32-yard touchdown run. Jacob Curran’s kick put the Hawks up 7-0.

Seminole Ridge quarterback James Parson capped a 13-play, 70-yard second-quarter drive with a 1-yard touchdown run over center to extend the lead. Curran’s kick made it 14-0.

On the Gators’ next play from scrimmage after the ensuing kickoff, Seminole Ridge defensive lineman Patrick Brooks recovered a fumble to set up Curran’s 35-yard field goal that extended the Hawks’ lead to 170. Palm Beach Gardens did manage to score near the end of the first half to close the gap to 17-7.

Although Seminole Ridge racked up more than 300 yards of total offense, plus 18 first downs, it was the Gators’ three second-half touchdowns and Seminole Ridge See SRHS HAWKS, page 35

Hawk cornerback Shaquille Bussey breaks up a Gator pass play.

PHOTOS BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER

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October 10 - October 16, 2014

Palm Beach Bulls Fundraiser Oct. 23

The Palm Beach Bulls travel basketball organization will host a happy hour fundraiser on Thursday, Oct. 23 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Bucca di Beppo (2025 Wellington Green Drive, Wellington).

The cost for children to attend is $10. The cost for adults to attend is $20. The event will include a raffle for NBA sports memorabilia.

All proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit the Palm Beach Bulls,

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SPORTS & RECREATION

a local nonprofit youth sports organization.

The Bull will also be partnering with the Kids Cancer Foundation and selling bracelets. All proceeds from the sale of the bracelets will be donated to the foundation.

For more information, call Coach Brown at (561) 460-2613 or Coach Sutton at (561) 313-3522, visit www.palmbeachbulls.com or e-mail palmbeachbulls@gmail.com.

AAL FOOTBALL SPOTLIGHT

The Acreage Athletic League’s JV tackle teams played Saturday, Oct. 4 at Acreage Community Park. Shown here, Josh Ames carries the ball in the game between the JV Dolphins and the JV Cowboys.

Wrestlers Attend Fall Tourney

The Wellington Wrestling Club traveled to Olympic Heights High School on Saturday to compete in the fall wrestling tournament.

Wellington had a successful day, taking home seven gold medals and four silver medals.

Champions for Wellington were: Jared Abramson, Bailey Laster, Chakiris Townsend, A.J. Lopez, Chris Connor, Josue Arce and Roland Kupoluyi. Second place finishers were: Cristian Salazar, Jacob Treanor, Mykala Carter and Jareth Buccilli.

The Wellington Wrestling Club will begin the winter wrestling session on Oct. 27. The club is open to all kids in kindergarten through eighth grade.

For more information, contact Travis Gray at travis.gray@palmbeachschools.org or (561) 8278595.

(Right) Front row: Tyler Davis, Crisitian Salazar, Mathias Badillo, Robert Saldarriaga, Jared Abramson, Bailey Laster, Chakiris Townsend, Cameryn Townsend and Matthew Feliciano; back row: Nicholas Gardner, A.J. Lopez, Christian Goss, Chris Connor, Josue Arce, Hunter Goff, Eric Reid, Michael James, Jacob Treanor and Roland Kupoluyi.

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SRHS Hawks

Gardens Comes From Behind

continued from page 33 turnovers that haunted the Hawks late in the game.

Palm Beach Gardens running back Tommy Monday drove in a score to bring the Gators within three at 17-14, but the Hawks immediate-

Rosenberg

Events At Caloosa This Fall

continued from page 25 berg said. “Not only do you have the chance to win some money, but it’s a great opportunity for people to enjoy our gorgeous bridle paths, which loop around the canals.”

This annual event is a great hit with everyone.

“There are usually between 25 and 40 riders. You can go in a group or by yourself, and ride at your own speed. Some people gallop along, while others walk or jog. You meet some really nice people, and it’s a lot of fun,” Loewenberg said. “There’s

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SPORTS & RECREATION ly responded with a Sean Edwards 25-yard touchdown run. Curran’s kick gave the Hawks a 10-point lead at 24-14.

Gator rushing duo Monday and Donnell Perry combined for two more scores to capture their team’s first lead of the game 28-24. Perry’s score came from 4 yards out after the Palm Beach Gardens defense blocked a Seminole Ridge punt.

With minutes left, Parson got the Hawks to the Palm Beach Gardens 25-yard line, but a fourth-down pass no card-playing skill involved. I know nothing about poker, and three years ago I ended up winning $100.

I thought my hand was worthless. It was pretty exciting.”

The event is open to riders of any age, kids and adults. The ride usually takes an hour to an hour and a half, depending on your speed.

“I’ve lived here in Caloosa for ten years, and I love it. You’ve got the best of both worlds: a horse community filled with wonderful, friendly people,” Loewenberg said. “You can step out your door and ride the trails all day long without repeating any paths. I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.”

For additional information, call Loewenberg at (561) 775-9220 or e-mail lisa@ridingicelandtours. com.

October 10 - October 16, 2014

Page 35

fell incomplete, and the contest ended. Turnovers haunted the Hawks.

Whyte had 20 carries for 121 yards, 39 receiving yards and a touchdown. Jordan Tanner had 16 rushes for 60 yards. Edwards had 18 yards on five carries and a score.

Receiver Steeve Dante recorded three receptions for 38 yards. Parson is credited with a score. Curran is credited with a 35-yard field goal.

Seminole Ridge will host Santaluces High School on Friday, Oct. 10 at 7:30 p.m.

Halloween fun at Caloosa.

Seminole Ridge quarterback James Parson rolls out to find a receiver down field.

PHOTO BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER

Page 36

October 10 - October 16, 2014

The Town-Crier

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Equestrian Sport Productions

2014 Fall Series Fall I - Oct. 10-12 USEF Rated “A” National - Jumper 3

Fall II - Oct. 17-19 USEF Rated “A” National - Jumper 3

Fall III - Oct. 24-26 USEF Rated “A” National - Jumper 3

Fall Finale - Oct 31-Nov. 2 USEF Rated “A” National - Jumper 3

ESP November/PBCHA Joint Show - November 8-9 USEF Rated “C” Regional - Jumper 2

Pre-Charity - November 15-16 USEF Rated “C” Regional - Jumper 2 The Equestrian Sport Productions Series shows are all USEF, North American League, and Marshall & Sterling League approved.

ices and r p ll a t s d Reduce ailable! v a s t n u o isc arly stall d

e

Main Grounds at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center 14440 Pierson Road, Wellington, FL 33414 www.equestriansport.com | 561.793.JUMP (5867) EquestrianSportProdFall_PWTW10_3_14.indd 1

9/21/14 2:01 PM

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October 10 - October 16, 2014

Page 37

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October 10 - October 16, 2014

Saturday, Oct. 11 • The exhibit “Afterlife: Tombs & Treasures of Ancient Egypt” will open Saturday, Oct. 11 at the South Florida Science Center & Aquarium (4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach). For more info., call (561) 832-1988 or visit www. sfsciencecenter.org.

• The Audubon Society of the Everglades will hold a bird walk at the Seacrest Scrub and Delray Oaks on Saturday, Oct. 11 at 8 a.m. Meet at 3400 S. Seacrest Blvd. in Boynton Beach. Visit www. auduboneverglades.org, e-mail asetripinfo@ gmail.com or call Linda at (561) 742-7791 for more info.

• Body Dynamics of the Palm Beaches will host its “Fitness Fun and Friends” open house, an aerobics morning offering different styles of workouts, on Saturday, Oct. 11 from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center. For more info., call (561) 790-5124.

• The Palm Beach Bulls travel basketball organization will be holding tryouts for the 201415 travel basketball season on Saturday, Oct. 11 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. for students in grades 6 through 8. Tryouts will be at Camellia Park (6845 Seminole Palms Drive, Royal Palm Beach). For more info., visit www.palmbeachbulls.com or e-mail palmbeachbulls@gmail.com.

• The Okeeheelee Nature Center (7715 Forest Hill Blvd.) will host Animal Homes for all ages Saturday, Oct. 11 at 10:30 a.m. Where do the animals live in the forest? Learn about animal homes before going for a walk to see if anyone is home. The cost is $3 per person. Call (561) 233-1400 for more info.

• Palms West Hospital (13001 Southern Blvd.) will host its Fall Ball on Saturday, Oct. 11 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with fun for the whole family. Walk down the orange carpet wearing a Halloween costume, or just come as you are. Take pictures with your favorite superhero or princess. Also included are face painting, balloon artists, giveaways, refreshments, live music, arts and crafts, hay rides, a pumpkin patch, a petting zoo, fire truck tours, health and wellness stops, trick-or-treating and more. RSVP to (561) 345-7009. Visit www. palmswesthospital.com for info.

• Barnes & Noble (10500 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington) will host a Family Fun Day with Star Wars on Saturday, Oct. 11 at noon. The 501st Legion Stormtroopers and Darth Vader return to Barnes & Noble with live performances, photo ops, storytime and more. Call (561) 792-1292 for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Deconstructing Wine Myths and Pricing for adults Saturday, Oct. 11 at 2 p.m. Certified wine specialist Athena Yannitsas will discuss the most common myths about wine and reveal the enigma behind the price of wine. A book signing of her book will follow. The lecture will be in Spanish. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• Your Bosom Buddies II Breast Cancer Support Group will host its “A Taste of Italy in the Park” fundraiser at Royal Palm Beach Commons

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Park on Saturday, Oct. 11 at 5 p.m. in the main pavilion. Music will be by Skip Kelly of Kool 105.5FM. Tickets will be sold in advance and are $25 for adults and $10 for children age 6 to 10. Call (561) 422-6034 for more info.

• The Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) will host Tribute Concerts & Food Trucks on Saturday, Oct. 11 from 5 to 10:30 p.m. A tribute to Chicago by the Brass Evolution is at 6:30 p.m. Food trucks will be on site. Call (561) 753-2484 or visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

• Wellington’s Temple B’nai Jacob will host a Sukkot Under the Stars adult celebration at the home of temple members Steven and Fawn Diagi on Saturday, Oct. 11 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $18 per person. Call (561) 793-4347 for more info.

Sunday, Oct. 12 • The Acreage Green Market will take place Sunday, Oct. 12 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Acreage Community Park (6701 140th Ave. North). For more info., visit www.acreagegreenmarket.org or call (561) 723-3898.

• The Mounts Botanical Garden (531 N. Military Trail, West Palm Beach) will host “Bats & Vultures, Oh My!” on Sunday, Oct. 12 at 9:30 a.m. Participants will learn basic bat biology, behaviors, local species and address the most common myths. The presentation will culminate with a discussion on vultures. For more info., call (561) 233-1757 or visit www.mounts.org.

• Fire Station 7 on Okeechobee Blvd. between Jog Road and SR 7 will host a First Responders Recognition Day event Sunday, Oct. 12 at 11 a.m. Meet domestic defenders including firefighters, police, paramedics and forest rangers. E-mail mgnyfire@aol.com for more info.

• Barnes & Noble (10500 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington) will host “What is Columbus Day?” on Sunday, Oct. 12 at noon with a storytime, activities and snacks. Call (561) 792-1292 for more info.

• The Audubon Society of the Everglades will hold a bird walk at the Snook Island Natural Area in Lake Worth on Sunday, Oct. 12 at 5 p.m. Meet at the boardwalk on the north side of the Lake Worth Bridge. Visit www.auduboneverglades.org or call Linda at (561) 742-7791 for more info.

Monday, Oct. 13 • The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Foundation will host its third annual golf classic on Monday, Oct. 13 at the Wanderers Club in Wellington to raise money for the foundation’s youth scholarship program. For more info., call (561) 351-5762 or visit www.pbcsf.org.

• The Central Palm Beach Chamber of Commerce will hold an Economic Forum Luncheon, “A Focus on Agriculture,” Monday, Oct. 13 at 11:30 a.m. at the Binks Forest Golf Club (400 Binks Forest Drive, Wellington) featuring agricultural economist Michael Swenson. To register, visit www.cpbchamber.com or call Sonya Moste at (561) 571-4813.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Art Club for ages 6 and up Monday, Oct.

13 at 4 p.m. Dress to get messy. Call (561) 7906070 for more info.

Tuesday, Oct. 14 • Barnes & Noble (10500 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington) will host a Paddington Bear Storytime on Tuesday, Oct. 14 at 11 a.m. with a storytime, activities and snacks. Call (561) 7921292 for more info.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Game Time for ages 6 to 12 on Tuesday, Oct. 14 at 3:30 p.m. Play Wii games, board games or card games with snacks and friends. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Teen Wii Gaming for ages 12 to 17 on Tuesday, Oct. 14 at 4:30 p.m. Meet friends at the library for an afternoon of Wii gaming fun.

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

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Sit ’n’ Stitch for ages 9 and up Tuesdays, Oct. 14 and 21 at 5 p.m. Learn the fundamentals of crochet, bring your knitting, work on current projects and share ideas with the group. Some materials will be provided. Call (561) 681-4100 for more info.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Meditation for Healthy Living for adults Tuesday, Oct. 14 at 6 p.m. John Bednarik discusses how meditation can improve physical, mental and spiritual health. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

Wednesday, Oct. 15 • The Audubon Society of the Everglades will hold a bird walk at Mangrove Park behind St. Mark’s Church (700 NE 4th Ave, Boynton Beach) on Wednesday, Oct. 15 at 8 a.m. Visit www.auduboneverglades.org or call Linda at (561) 742-7791 for more info.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “Bring the Museum to You: The National World War I Museum” for adults Wednesday, Oct. 15 at 2:15 p.m. Members of the museum will present an engaging and interactive video conference. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Musical Tykes for ages 2 to 5 on Wednesday, Oct. 15 at 2:30 p.m. Do you have a favorite story time song or just love music? Come for a special all-musical jam session. Rock out with lots of instruments and keep the music going.

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

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “The Great War Book Discussion Series” for adults Wednesday, Oct. 15 at 3:30 p.m. Commemorating the centenary of the First World War, learn about life in the trenches during a lively lecture and discussion of war poet Siegfried Sassoon’s biographical novel, Memoirs of an Infantry Officer. Sign up at the information desk and check out a copy of the book. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Not Your Grandma’s Bingo for ages 5 and up Wednesday, Oct. 15 at 3:30 p.m. Create

The Town-Crier your own card and see if luck is on your side. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Japanese Anime & Culture Club for ages 12 to 17 on Wednesday, Oct. 15 at 6 p.m. Celebrate the ancestor festival of Obon with anime and snacks. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

Thursday, Oct. 16 • The Okeeheelee Nature Center (7715 Forest Hill Blvd.) will host Story Time for ages 2 to 5 on Thursday, Oct. 16 at 10 a.m. Introduce little ones to Mother Nature through stories. Class activities may include live animals, games, nature walks and/or crafts specifically designed for toddlers and preschoolers. The cost is $2 per child. Call (561) 233-1400 for more info.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Your Pizza Place for ages 6 to 10 on Thursday, Oct. 16 at 3:30 p.m. Want to know what it’s like to own and run a pizza parlor? Games and challenges let you be the waiter, chef and cashier in a pretend pizza palace, then celebrate with a real pizza party. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• Barnes & Noble (10500 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington) will host a Bookfair Fundraiser for Crestwood Middle School on Thursday, Oct. 16 at 5 p.m. with activities for the whole family. Call (561) 792-1292 for more info.

• The Western Business Alliance will hold a free social on Thursday, Oct. 16 at White Elephant Restaurant in Wellington from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Pre-register at www.thewesternbusiness alliance.com.

Friday, Oct. 17 • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Stop, Drop & Roll for ages 6 and under Friday, Oct. 17 at 10:30 a.m. October is Fire Safety Month. Sparky the Fire Safety Dog and his friends from the Red Cross of Palm Beach County will visit to teach kids about the importance of fire safety with a fun and educational puppet show.

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

• The Palm Beach Zoo (1301 Summit Blvd., West Palm Beach) will hold “Boo at the Zoo” from Friday through Sunday, Oct. 17-19, Oct. 24-26 and Friday, Oct. 31 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Guests can enjoy trick-or-treating, costume contests, the decorate-your-own pumpkin patch, live music from a DJ in the fountain area, giveaways, a haystack hunt, face painting or airbrush tattoos, roving animal encounters, not-so-scary wildlife presentations and much more. For more info., visit www.palmbeachzoo.org.

Saturday, Oct. 18 • Get ready for an evening of family-friendly “spooktacular” fun at Wellington’s Fall Festival, set for Saturday, Oct. 18 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Village Park (11700 Pierson Road). Unlimited all-access bracelets are on sale at Village Park and the Wellington Community Center. For more info., call (561) 791-4005.

Send calendar items to: The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414 or e-mail news@gotowncrier.com.

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PROFESSIONAL SERVICES A/C AND REFRIGERATION

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES |

PLUMBING

EMPLOYMENT

OFFICE SPACE

REAL ESTATE

BOOKKEEPER NEEDED — part-time, experienced in QuickBooks, flexible hours.

Please fax resume to 561-791-0952

EXECUTIVE AND VIRTUAL OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE – WELLINGTON FLORIDA Furnished or unfurnished office space available. Unlimited use of conference rooms, reception, kitchen with no extra fees.

Utilities included. The best LAKE VIEW in Wellington! Please contact Steve at 561227-1500 or at info@lakewellington.com

FOR RENT - GREENACRES

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

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

CLEANING - HOME/OFFICE

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 & painti n g c o n t r a c t o r. L i c . # U 2 1 5 5 2 C a l l Butch at 309-6975 or visit us at www. jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com

DRIVERS: $5,000 Sign-On Bonus!

— Great pay! Consistent Freight, Great Miles on this Regional Account.

Werner Enterprises: 1-855-517-2488

PRESSURE PROS OF PALM BEACH— Driveway starting at $59. Chemical wash roofs starting at $99 www.wellingtonpressurewasher.com. Free Estimates.

Licensed & Insured.561-718-9851

LOOKING FOR AN EXPERIENCED COOK AND WAITRESS — to work for a breakfast and lunch restaurant. Must be very motivated and able to work independently with general supervision. Please apply in person@251 Royal Palm Beach Blvd.

Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411. Located on the Corner of Royal Palm & Southern Blvd.

WE CLEAN OFFICES & PRIVATE HOMES — Licensed & Insured. Call for an estimate and to schedule your apartment. Discount for Central Palm Beach County Chamber members and to all new clients for first cleaning. 561-385-8243 Lic. #2012-252779

COMPUTER REPAIR D.J. COMPUTER — Home & office, Spyware removal, websites, networks, repairs, upgrades, virus removal, tutoring. Call Jeff 561-333-1923 Cell 561-252-1186 Lic’d Well. & Palm Beach. We accept major credit cards.

DRIVEWAY REPAIR D R I V E W AY S — F r e e e s t i m a t e s A & M ASPHALT SEAL COATING commercial and residential. Patching potholes, striping, repair existing asphalt & save money all work guaranteed.

L i c.& Ins. 1 0 0 0 4 5 0 6 2 5 61-667-7716

ERRANDS PICKUP GROCERIES HOME AND PET SUPPLIES — Kitchen organizing wait for appointments in your home, etc.

References available. 561-707-2834

FLOORING C O M P L E T E F L O O R I N G R E M O VA L ! B E S T R AT E S ! A L L T Y P E S O F FLOORS! — Your local flooring store and more. www.buyithereflooring.com 561-333-2306 buyithere7@gmail.com

PRESSURE CLEANING

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

ROOFING REPAIRS REROOFING ALL TYPES — Pinewood Construction, Inc. Honest and reliable. Serving Palm Beach County for over 20 years. Call Mike 561-309-0134 Lic. Ins. Bonded. CGC-023773 RC-0067207

SECURITY SECURITY — American owned local security company in business 30 plus years.

Protection by officers drug tested. 40 hour course. Licensed & Insured. 561-848-2600

SCREENING JOHN’S SCREEN REPAIR SERVICE — Pool & patio rescreening. Stay tight,wrinkle-free,guaranteed! CRC1329708 call us 798-3132. www.poolscreenrepair.com

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

SPRINKLER SYSTEMS

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

AQUATIC SPRINKLER, LLC — Complete repair of all types of systems. Owner Operated. Michael 561-964-6004Lic.#U17871 Bonded & Ins. Serving the Western Communities Since 1990

HOUSECLEANING EXPERIENCED — reliable local references. Pet sitting available. Call Charlene 561-572-1782

LANDSCAPING PALM BEACH LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE SERVICES — Commercial and Residential. If you are looking for an honest and reliable company, give us a call today. We take pride in our work! Free Estimates 561-818-1925

LAWN SERVICE YELLOWHAMMER LAWN SERVICE — High Quality, affordable yard maintenance serving the Loxahatchee area. NO CONTRACTS!.

Locally Owned & Operated. 561-320-1118 TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS 793-7606

HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER IN WELLINGTON — Now hiring certified teachers.$10-$15/hour. Call 561-594-1920 E-mail: MarleneGiraud@hlcwellington.com

CABINET SALES PERSON — with “Designer 20-20” program experience, good communication skills, flexible. Please call 561-333-2306. Buy It Here Flooring & More.

FULL-TIME MONDAY-FRIDAY, 8:30 TO 5:00 — Property Management Office in South Bay. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, strong prioritizing, multi-tasking and organizational skills, ability to give and receive detailed information, punctual attendance and appreciation in following company policies, three to five years’ experience in a similar environment or position required. Email to tina.wilson@theroyalcompanies.com TRUCK DRIVER FOR PLANT NURSERY — Local and instate deliveries with box truck, CDL not required Excelsa Gardens 561-790-3789.

HIRING FIRE EXTINGUISHER TECHINICIANS — Full-Time will train. Benefits include paid vacation, holidays & sick days.

Employee Health Insurance is available. Must be 18 or older with Clean Drivers License.

Monday-Friday 8 am - 4:30 pm 561-683-1333

TIRES/AUTO REPAIRS TIRES/AUTO REPAIRS— Located behind Al Packer West off Southern Blvd. Tires for autos, trucks and commercial vehicles. 561-790-7228.

587 105 Ave. N. Unit 28, Royal Palm Beach.

TREE SERVICE TREES TRIMMED AND REMOVED — 561-798-0412 D.M. YOUNG TREE SERVICE. Family Owned & Operated Lic. & Insured 1992-12121 Visit our website at dmyoungtreeservice.com

WALLPAPERING PAPERHANGING BY DEBI — Professional Installation,Removal. Repair of Paper.

Neat, Clean & Reliable. Quality work with a woman’s touch. 30 years experience.

No Job too big or too small. Lic. & Ins. References available. 561-795-5263

PAINTING

WATER TREATMENT

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

NEED A NEW WATER SYSTEM! — Let us come out and give you an estimate. Call Mike 561-792-5400

October 10 - October 16, 2014 Page 39

TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS

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

GET RESULTS

COLORS BY CORO, INC. — Int./Ext. residential painting, over 20 yrs exp. Small Jobs welcome. Free est. Ins. 561-383-8666. Owner/Operated. Lic.# U20627 Ins. Wellington Resident

CALL 561-793-7606

TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS CALL 561-793-7606

ROOMMATE TO SHARE — 2 bedroom 2 bath apartment - Purdy & Jog Road. $550 per month.

Looking for under 35 years old. 954-296-3748

FOR SALE - ROYAL PALM BEACH HOUSE FOR SALE ROYAL PALM BEACH — 2/2 lots of upgrades, great home in desirable Non-HOA community. Must see to appreciate $155K Call 561-685-6635

Wanted Part-Time Writer Local newspaper covering central Palm Beach County has a part-time position available for a news writer.

Must have some writing experience and an interest in covering governmental meetings.

Fax resume and clips to (561) 793-6090 or e-mail palmswestnews@gmail.com.

Page 40 October 10 - October 16, 2014

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HERE’S MY CARD

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October 10 - October 16, 2014

HERE’S MY CARD

Lic & Insured CFC057392, CAC1817688

SEPTIC & DRAINFIELD SPECIALISTS

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE CALL 793-7606

Page 41

Page 42 October 10 - October 16, 2014

PALMS WESTTHIS WEEK’S

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WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE

New Location!

New Showroom!

CALL FOR FREE ESTIMATE!

561-333-2306 TOLL FREE: 855-808-8555

WE DO NOT SELL CHEAP FLOORING CHEAPER

WE SELL THE BEST FOR LESS! 766 Pike Road • West Palm Beach, FL 33411 (Between Southern Blvd. & Belvedere)

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October 10 - October 16, 2014 Page 43

The BullFrog is a great introduction to the sport of obstacle racing. The 5K course will take you through the highlights of the BattleFrog course and includes at least 15 of the same demanding obstacles of the signature race.

We will test your strength and stamina will full size SEAL-inspired evolutions that use air, land and water. Navy SEALs are on the course to coach you through the obstacles and keep you motivated.

The BullFrog 5K is a motivating experience that requires you to work with other racers, whether you run it as a team or as an individual.

Need Help Training For The BullFrog? Join the BCX Boot Camp Challenge!

Sign Up for Our 10-Week BCx Challenge!

Burn fat, build strength and train for the race!

Fitness...Camaraderie...Confidence...Fun...Prizes...MUD! Please see Membership Services for more information.

Challenge going on now!

Not Interested in doing the Challenge BUT want to do the race?

We’d love for you to join us. All Ultima Fitness participants will travel to Key Biscayne together.

Please see Membership Services for more information.

12799 W. Forest Hill Blvd. • Wellington, FL 33414 561-795-2823 www.wellingtonbootcamp.com • info@ultimafitness.com

PALMS WESTTHIS WEEK’S

WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS FOR AS LOW AS $21 A WEEK*

Page 44

October 10 - October 16, 2014

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SIX great schools educating students in Palm Beach!

Why Choose Charter Schools USA? • Tuition-free public charter schools • Personal Learning Plans • Before and after care • Character education and leadership • Meaningful parental involvement • Certified, dedicated teachers

APPLY ONLINE TODAY! ★ NEW in 2014!

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Renaissance Charter School at Wellington Renaissance Charter School at Cypress Renaissance Charter School at Central Palm Renaissance Charter School at West Palm Renaissance Charter School at Palms West Renaissance Charter School at Summit

K-6 K-6 K-6 K-8 K-7 K-7

www.CharterSchoolsUSA.com

WellingtonCharter.org CypressCharter.org CentralPalmCharter.org WestPalmCharter.org PalmsWestCharter.org RECSummit.org

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October 10 - October 16, 2014

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October 10 - October 16, 2014

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