Town-Crier Newspaper October 22, 2010

Former St. Pete Beach Mayor Warns Against ‘Hometown Democracy’

If Florida voters approve the proposed “Hometown Democracy” measure, Amendment 4, on Nov. 2, it could create a nightmare in communities across the state, warned former St. Pete Beach Mayor Ward Friszolowski at a Palms West Chamber of Commerce forum about the amendment Oct. 14 at the Wellington Community Center. Page 3

Gift Gathering For Boys & Girls Club Annual Dinner Dance

The Boys & Girls Club of Wellington hosted a gift-gathering party Friday, Oct. 15 for its 23rd annual Wellington Dinner Dance set for Saturday, Dec. 4. The party was held at the home of Heidi and Marty Harland. Page 9

WHS Chorus Raising Money For Trip To NY’s Carnegie Hall Wellington High School’s concert chorus has earned something many musicians strive for but few achieve — an invitation to sing at New York’s Carnegie Hall. Fundraising efforts so far have included a successful garage sale and several car washes, but the biggest event planned is a community benefit concert on Nov. 17. Page 11

For County Commission

And Indian Trail Races

This week, we continue our endorsement series leading up to the Nov. 2 general election. In this issue, we offer opinions on the District 6 County Commission race and the two Indian Trail Improvement District races. Page 4

New Wellington Municipal Complex Nears

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report

Wellington’s new municipal complex is nearing completion, and plans are to move into the new building by the end of the year.

This week, the Town-Crier took an exclusive tour of the building, which is still under construction.

If all goes well, municipal complex project manager Rick Greene said the village has tentatively scheduled the building’s opening with tours on New Year’s Eve.

The 54,000-square-foot, $10.5 million building will be the new home of the village’s council chambers and administrative offices, and serve as the centerpiece for the new Town Center.

The complex will include a clock tower, employee courtyard, council chambers that will seat 150 people and a “quick stop” where residents can pick up permit applications or pay utility bills. By consolidating various village offices into one place, officials expect to save $500,000 a year.

“Everything is right on schedule,” Greene said. “We fully anticipate being able to move in by the end of the year.”

Earlier this month, the building received its electricity hookup and air conditioning, which allowed workers to put in tile and wooden accents throughout the building, Greene said. Landscaping is set to begin in the next week or two, and next month the building will be ready for furniture.

After that, Greene and other village officials, along with representatives from the construction company, will check for anything that needs to be finished or repaired before move-in day.

“Once most of the construction is finished, we’ll finish the parking lot,” he said. “It will be built up a bit and have all the lines painted on it.”

Guests enter the building to an expansive, open reception area. The airy feeling and plentiful windows continue throughout the See COMPLEX, page 4

Aero Club Wrangling Heads To Courtroom

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report

The argument over whether to pave the grass runway in Wellington’s Aero Club neighborhood has divided the community and dissolved into legal battles, board resignations and questions over just who are the rightful leaders of the community.

In the wake of controversy over the Aero Club’s board of directors’ decision to pave a 60-foot-wide runway over the community’s iconic grass strip, a group of residents has filed for an injunction to stop construction until questions about the board’s legitimacy can be heard.

The Aero Club is a western Wellington community of about 250 homes clustered around a 3,900-foot grass runway. It was built 30 years ago as a 75-footwide grass runway and now is 105 feet wide.

On Aug. 27, the board sent residents notice it would study paving a 55-foot-wide strip of the runway. When the two sides couldn’t agree on a compromise to pave half of the runway, the board decided to go ahead and pave it entirely, citing reasons of safety.

“Pilots prefer concrete surfaces,” former board president Larry Smith told the Town-Crier Wednesday. “There’s been a lot of accidents over the past few years where planes have spun out of control or crashed during takeoff or landing.”

But a group of Aero Club residents calling themselves the Wellington Fair Play Group say that the issue is not whether to pave; it’s about giving the community a voice in the matter. “The old board made a calculated decision that they wanted to get the runway paved,” said Gary Kozan, leader of the Wellington Fair Play Group. “They knew the community was not in favor of it, so they found a work-around to make it happen without a community vote.”

Kozan noted that past boards have put paving plans to a vote, and they had been rejected each time. “It was their arrogance that got us triggered,” he said. “But

Retired PBSO Capt. John Carroll Making Second Try For The Job

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

Four years ago, Republican John Carroll lost his first bid for a Palm Beach County Commission seat to Democrat Jess Santamaria. Not impressed by the incumbent’s record, Carroll is back to seek the District 6 commission seat again. Also in the race is independent Andy Schaller. Carroll spent 35 years with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, rising to the rank of captain on the executive staff. For the last 10 years, he was senior captain. “I did 10 years of executive budgets that totaled well over $100 million,” he said. “I have a very good background on government budgets… We need somebody who understands what’s going on in this county government and can recognize waste, and I feel that I’m the most qualified to do that.”

then when we heard there was not going to be a community vote, we got up in arms.”

The group, which consists of both “grassers” and “pavers,” started a petition to get several members of the current board removed, prompting the resignation of four of its five members last Saturday.

To remove the board, a petition must be signed by owners of more than half of the community’s 255 homes. Kozan said that his supporters gathered about 143 signatures, which is 56 percent.

The board must then certify the petition within five business days or accept the decision, Kozan said. However, the board members resigned before certifying it.

“We were trying to get the [paving] project completed,” Smith said. “But the opposition was gathering signatures to throw the board out. We resigned before that could happen.”

Instead, the old board appointed like-minded new members, including two spouses of old board members. Another member, Bill Thomas, was reappointed to his former position as treasurer but resigned as a board member.

Smith told the Town-Crier that the board chose members with similar viewpoints in an effort to block an ousting by opposing residents. “We swapped out our board members,” Smith said, “so they [the opposition] would have to start [collecting signatures] over again.”

Though Smith said the procedure was followed according to community bylaws, Fair Play members disagree.

“We contend that their resignations were improperly served,” Kozan said. “The resignations must be reviewed by the secretary of the corporation, but since she was not present at the meeting, she could not have accepted them.”

The group alleges that since secretary Brenda McAdam had resigned, she was unable to accept the resignations, meaning that the former board retains its position.

When it came time to certify the

See AERO CLUB, page 20

Carroll just recently received a master’s degree in public administration from Barry University. After retiring from the PBSO earlier this year, he was hired by Barry University as an adjunct professor teaching public administration.

Carroll lists several top accomplishments during his law enforcement career, not only as an executive but also in heading complicated commands, including Internal Affairs under both a Republican and a Democratic sheriff.

“Both those times, I was selected because of my reputation and my integrity,” he said. “I had an attitude [that] if I’m fair and honest every step of the road and no one gets railroaded for political things and everybody gets a fair shot, I’ll be successful.”

Later he was appointed commander of the Organized Crime

Bureau. “I

created a gang unit

Fighting Corruption Tops Jess Santamaria’s List Of Priorities

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report

Commissioner

County

Jess Santamaria is hoping voters will give him four more years to continue stamping out corruption and change the image of Palm Beach County.

Santamaria, a Democrat, is wrapping up his first term as the District 6 representative on the Palm Beach County Commission. Again he faces Republican challenger John Carroll, a retired Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office captain who Santamaria defeated to win the seat in 2006. Independent candidate Andy Schaller, a Wellington businessman, will also be on the Nov. 2 ballot.

Santamaria rose from humble beginnings in the Philippines to become a successful businessman and real-estate developer in Royal Palm Beach.

In 1962, Santamaria graduated from La Salle University in Pennsylvania with a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering. He went on to get a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Pennsylvania.

Santamaria spent 10 years working for Exxon and IBM before moving to Florida. From 1974 to 2002, he worked as a realestate developer; he now owns and manages shopping centers and a hotel. He has held and continues to hold several community leadership positions in business, charity and arts organizations throughout the western communities. Santamaria is well known for his philanthropic efforts on behalf of a number of causes.

“What motivated me to run the first time was the title ‘corruption county,’” he said. “It reaffirmed what I always knew.”

Wellington Businessman Running Independent Bid For County Office

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report

Independent candidate Andy Schaller believes the Palm Beach County Commission needs new ideas not tied to the two-party system. He is squaring off against District 6 Democratic incumbent Jess Santamaria and Republican challenger John Carroll in the Nov. 2 general election. Schaller, 45, was born and raised in Torrington, Conn., to parents who instilled a strong work ethic into him. At 18, he moved to Florida to attend Saint Leo University near Tampa, where he got a bachelor’s degree in marketing. After graduation in 1987, he moved to Palm Beach County and became a stockbroker in Boca Raton.

In 1992, Schaller went to work for a software company in the gym and healthcare business. He learned about recurring transac-

tions and spun off a separate company designed to handle them. In 1994, he founded Palm Beach Financial Exchange Inc., an electronic banking company that serves approximately 550 businesses throughout the United States and Puerto Rico.

In 1999, Schaller moved to Wellington and designed and built Fine Equine, a dressage facility that caters to riders and horses competing in Wellington. He still lives in Wellington. Schaller said that his top accomplishments include his business, which hasn’t raised its rates in 16 years, and his equestrian facility. He said he is the best-qualified candidate in the race because he has “the drive, the determination and the commitment that you don’t find in the other two candidates.”

Schaller said he would be a commissioner who would contin-

ue to learn and grow, and would follow through on ideas from conception to completion. “I’m still young and hungry to do the right thing,” he said. “I’ve had enough life accomplishments

20

had all the undercover agents, all the analysts,” Carroll said. “It was a huge command.” During his time there, the department

John Carroll

Jess Santamaria

Santamaria said his top personal accomplishments are his honesty and his giving nature. “Before I was elected, I’ve always given,” he said. “I did not wait to re-

An exterior view of the new municipal complex under construction on Forest Hill Blvd. PHOTO BY LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER

Andy Schaller

See SANTAMARIA, page 22

See SCHALLER, page

The fourth annual James Ryan Rivera Muscular Dystrophy Golf Tournament took place Saturday, Oct. 16 at the Binks Forest Golf Club. Rivera was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy in 2007. Money from the benefit will go toward his medical bills. Shown above is Rivera with a cake shaped like his favorite video game, Halo. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 22

PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

RIVERA GOLF TOURNEY

Former St. Pete Beach Mayor Warns Against ‘Hometown Democracy’

By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report

If Florida voters approve the proposed “Hometown Democracy” measure, Amendment 4, on Nov. 2, it could create a nightmare in communities across the state, warned former St. Pete Beach Mayor Ward Friszolowski.

He spoke at a Palms West Chamber of Commerce forum about the amendment Oct. 14 at the Wellington Community Center, and said he is spreading this message because of personal experience.

In 2006, voters in his community passed a comprehensive plan change very similar to Amendment 4 by 22 votes. They later voted to repeal part of the measure because it required referendums on every little change to the master plan, which hindered business expansion and held up community improvements, Friszolowski said.

“I want to walk you through what happened in St. Pete Beach… and give some warnings for the State of Florida if this passes,” he said. “We are the first and only municipality to have adopted a version of Amendment 4. We’ve been experiencing this legislation for the past four years.”

St. Pete Beach is a barrier island on the west coast whose seasonal visitors swell the 10,000 permanent population to about 25,000. Friszolowski described the comprehensive plan as a master vision for the community designed to change with the city. Over time, he said, there was reason to alter the comprehensive plan as the community grew. For St. Pete Beach, he said, the planning process seemed to favor condominiums.

“We were starting to lose [our] hotels,” Friszolowski said. “They were being devoured and changed from hotels into condos. Tourists come to St. Pete Beach, and they spend a little cash. They spend money in our restaurants and retail shops. They were supporting our community. We were losing that. We realized our comprehensive plan was antiquated and needed to be updated.”

From 2003 to 2005, the community pursued the state-mandated update process. “There was ample time for people to weigh in on the process. Everything was going well, or so we thought, until June of 2005,” he recalled. That month, Friszolowski said, a political action committee called Citizens for Responsible Growth was formed, and it started a petition drive to put a version of

Ward Friszolowski

Amendment 4 on the ballot. The proposal was that before a community could change its comprehensive plan, alterations had to go to a public referendum.

After the amendment passed, Friszolowski noted, headaches started for the community because every single change now had to be approved by referendum, including even little things such as whether the community needed to have a new fire truck. The capital improvements plan, which is part of the comprehensive plan, also had to be opened up to the public process, which tied things up for months.

“Every year, we had to have a referendum vote on our capital improvement plan,” Friszolowski recalled. “If we have to have a new fire truck, that becomes a referendum. It hampers and impedes our efforts to do our jobs.”

Residents who originally supported passage of the change decided enough was enough, and they got together to try to repeal it. The repeal passed, and the community’s version of Amendment 4 now applies only to land use and density, which Friszolowski said was how it should have been in the first place. The people behind the original ballot measure have sued to keep the repeal from taking effect, though, and that is still tied up in court.

“We don’t have the full version of Amendment 4,” Friszolowski said. “It’s ironic that just as St. Pete Beach is coming to terms with it, the State of Florida is thinking of adopting it. It’s very scary for us.”

Friszolowski said that the measure, if approved by Florida voters, would probably harm small businesses and others who do not have the money to muster a public relations campaign when they want to expand operations.

“If you have a small business, and you are doing well, and you want to expand, and you want to

See AMENDMENT 4, page 20

Ag Wording, Bird Noise Issues As Lox Groves

Tries To Finish ULDC

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

The Loxahatchee Groves Town Council on Tuesday postponed adopting its Unified Land Development Code until Nov. 16 in order to give staff time to incorporate final changes to the 234-page document, which has been more than a year in the making. Most of the changes were minor except noise regulations, which drew more than an hour of discussion and public input.

Council members also decided not to replace the expression “bona fide agriculture” simply with “agriculture.” Councilman Jim Rockett argued that “bona fide agriculture” was a carryover from the county code that could return the town to county control to some extent. The definition of “bona fide agriculture” is a business that receives a reduction in property tax because part or all of the property is used for agricultural production. The council had tentatively approved the removal of “bona fide agriculture” in a 3-2 vote at its Oct. 5 meeting, subject to review by Town Attorney Mike Cirullo, who was not present at that meeting. Cirullo was at the meeting Tuesday and said he thought the word change would create challenges to what residents with agricultural zoning could do with their property and how the town can apply enforcement.

“I don’t recommend a specific course of action, but I do recommend that you give us further direction on that and not leave it the way you did,” Cirullo said.

As a compromise, Rockett proposed adding to the definition of “bona fide agriculture,” including a requirement that landowners employ best management practices (BMPs) in order to delineate the town’s definition from the county’s. Vice Mayor Dennis Lipp said the town had incorporated in or-

der to gain independence from the county so that residents do not have land uses foisted upon them.

“Now, you’re giving the same independent status to bona fide ag, and the only thing that we have used bona fide ag for in all of Palm Beach County was for property tax relief,” Lipp said, explaining that his concern for leaving bona fide agriculture in the code is to regulate conditions for caretakers’ quarters, which is outlined in the code.

Cirullo said further refinement of the definition would not add or take away from ad valorem taxation. “We’re not changing who gets a property tax exception, merely that people that have bona fide ag can have caretaker quarters,” Cirullo said.

Councilman Ryan Liang asked about the applicability of BMPs to the definition, pointing out that different BMPs are developed and regulated by diverse agricultural groups.

“Every single BMP that I know of is on a voluntary basis,” Liang said. “I want to know if this will require bona fide ag to use BMPs.”

Cirullo said under the proposed definition, the ULDC would not establish BMPs, only have the use of BMPs as part of the definition. He added that the addition of conditions to the definition narrowed the applicability of the use.

Councilman Ron Jarriel said he had voted to remove bona fide agriculture at the last meeting but had changed his mind. “I disagree with it totally,” Jarriel said, adding that he had misunderstood. “We had a discussion, and the discussion was so lengthy that we wanted legal advice. I don’t want second or third conditions. When I came up with a definition to begin with, it kept it simplified and allowed the taxing authority in Palm Beach County to maintain just like it’s been all these years,

TOWN-CRIER ENDORSEMENTS

Keep

Jess Santamaria On The Palm

Beach

County Commission; Re-Elect Ralph Bair, Add Mike Nichols To The Indian Trail Board

With early voting now underway, polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 2 for the general election. This week, the Town-Crier continues offering opinions on some of the items voters will find on the ballot. This issue, we address the District 6 race for the Palm Beach County Commission and the races for Seat 1 and Seat 3 on the Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors.

PALM BEACH COUNTY COMMISSION, DISTRICT 6 — Because of everything the county has been through over the past decade, the commission needs an extremely independent, exceedingly ethical viewpoint, and if there’s one person who has proven to be just that, it’s Jess Santamaria. Even if you disagree with him on a particular matter — and we don’t always see eye to eye on every issue — you can guarantee he’ll arrive at his decision on his own. Challengers John Carroll, a Republican, and Andy Schaller, an independent, have some good ideas. Carroll’s law enforcement background and thoughts for saving money in that area (and other areas as well) are important given the growing budget challenges the county faces. Schaller’s role as an independent would certainly bring a unique viewpoint. However, in this district, the voters already have a commissioner they can trust. In this fragile time, when the county is just beginning to put into place the infrastructure necessary to fight corruption, getting rid of the strongest anti-corruption voice is a bad idea. The Town-Crier strongly endorses the re-election of Jess Santamaria for Palm Beach County Commission in District 6.

INDIAN TRAIL IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT BOARD OF SUPERVISORS, SEAT 1 — With four candidates vying for this seat in the primary election, it’s little

‘Florida Needs

Hometown Democracy’

Amendment 4 does not stop growth. It stops politicians from changing the plans “of the people” without votes “by the people” on their taxes, services and development in their communities. Hometown Democracy Amendment 4 on the November ballot gives the people of Florida a vote on changes to plans that impact their communities and cost them more than they had originally planned to spend.

An example: The people of Palm Beach County have surplus vacant shopping centers and empty houses, and thousands of acres approved for future development in county and municipal plans. But despite an award-winning comprehensive plan and opposition from environmentalists and residents, District 6 County Commissioner Jess Santamaria and five commissioners whom District 6 voters can’t elect voted to put 254 houses instead of 60 in Lion Country Safari, and put 280,875 square feet of commercial instead of 150,000 square feet as far west as they could on State Road 80 in the western communities — our communities, our taxes for extra police, schools, roads, fire-rescue, etc. to make land around the Everglades like Broward County. But not our votes. Let the people vote on changes.

Rita Miller

Loxahatchee Groves

Don’t

Change

Mayor’s Term

In Wellington

Please vote no on Wellington referendum question No. 1. It is the proposal to change the term of office for the mayor from two years to four years. There are very good reasons to not allow that change. Suppose the council has voted

Complex Opening

This Year

continued from page 1 building, giving it plenty of natural light.

“Remember that we will be silver LEED certified,” Greene said.

“So we are required to have a balance of energy efficiency and natural lighting.”

Just off the reception area is a counter with room for several employees to help residents with their bills or permits. Attached is a small conference room for residents who need extra consultation. Across the entrance way to the right is the council chambers, which will have about 150 seats and be used for not only council meetings, but also committee meetings, Greene said.

“We sat down and discussed this,” he said. “So all committee meetings will be held in the council chambers.”

The dais sits on a raised platform at the front of the room, and staff tables will be adjacent to it. There also will be two podiums

for some change that you strongly oppose. It might be taxes or rezoning or a raise for themselves, etc. You would, therefore, like to vote against those who passed the change. As it now stands you are guaranteed to be able to vote against at least one of those who passed the measure at the very next election. That is, the issue had to have been supported by a council member whose term ends at the next election. In fact, it is possible that you would be able to vote against three who passed the measure. Also, as it now stands, it is possible to change the majority of council members at any election. If the four-year term for mayor passes, however, neither of these possibilities is guaranteed. If three council members who have passed a measure that you oppose are at the beginning of their fouryear term, you cannot oppose them at the next election, but must wait for the subsequent one. It could be four years before you could vote against them. And it would not be possible to change the majority of the membership except every four years instead of the current two. Keeping the charter as it is, with the mayor having a two-year term, makes the council more accountable to voters. Vote no on question No. 1.

Phil Sexton Wellington

Support For Santamaria

Unfortunately nowadays, too often when voting I have to decide: 1) The lesser of two evils, 2) party affiliation, 3) someone who will not spend my money like it’s theirs, 4) someone who owes no debt to his more affluent contributors, 5) someone who knows what he is doing and someone I can trust.

That someone is Jess Santamaria — no evil whatsoever, no real party affiliation (as we know it). He represents all of us, he will not

for residents to address council members, Greene said.

The Wellington logo will be the backdrop for the council dais, along with two flat-screen, 60inch televisions that have the capability to broadcast presentations, newscasts, videos and anything else that is needed.

“Behind the dais, the council will have computers so they can follow along with the presentations or anything else on the TVs,” Greene said. There will be two more televisions in the reception hall where council meetings and other news can be broadcast.

And much like it does now, the council will have a private room behind the chambers, along with personal offices for meetings and other business.

Upstairs in the center of the building will be gallery space, Greene said, that could house artwork for the Art in Public Places program or other works.

The remainder of the building is a mix of offices and space for cubicles, with several conference rooms, restrooms and utility rooms mixed in.

surprise the race ended in a runoff, especially given the two who came out on top, water quality consultant Mike Nichols and elementary school teacher Jennifer Hager. As a parent with children in Acreage schools as well as an avid equestrian, Hager represents a good portion of the local population. She is concerned with keeping spending down and taxes low, and genuinely seems to have everyone’s best interests in mind. However, Nichols’ knowledge of water issues and experience working in government are exactly what the ITID board needs right now. Nichols has the ability to hit the ground running with a working knowledge of the issues, helping the community move forward. The Town-Crier endorses Mike Nichols for Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors, Seat 1.

INDIAN TRAIL IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT BOARD OF SUPERVISORS, SEAT 3 — In the race for Seat 3 on the Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors, the choice is between longtime incumbent Ralph Bair and challenger Greg Sitnek. With Seat 1 incumbent Mike Erickson not seeking re-election, the issue here is change. Should Sitnek be elected, that would make two new members on the five-member board. Bair is very knowledgeable about the district and The Acreage in general, having lived there for more than 30 years. He brings a useful perspective to the board. We found Sitnek to have some interesting ideas and were impressed by his experience. Were Sitnek running for an open seat, it’s likely we could have endorsed him. But as things stand, we see no reason to replace Bair at this time. The Town-Crier endorses Ralph Bair for Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors, Seat 3.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

waste my money, isn’t beholden to anyone, and he hasn’t said or done something stupid, like most others.

So for once in a long while, the decision is easy: Jess Santamaria.

To him, good luck and Godspeed.

George Unger Wellington

Responding To The Tea Party Letters

This is in response to the letters from the Tea Party movement who refuse to hear the facts and repeat and repeat the words (rhetoric) they hear. These are the people who are unthinking, closed-minded, uneducated, uninformed and cannot listen to reason.

The fact is that the Tea Party is a party, Mr. [John] Schmidt, since it calls itself a party and since the Republicans have adopted the party as their far-out Republican stepchild, by endorsing their candidates and financing their candidates, which makes them a party. Further, as to your claim that there has not nor is a Tea Party candidate running for office, you might look at your ballot for Palm Beach County, and you will see the truth; Ira Chester running under “Tea” for commissioner of agriculture. Or does the “Tea” stand for Lipton?

Your reference, Mr. Schmidt, to the American Revolution does not include all of the words. They fought for liberty because of taxation without representation, lack of freedom of religion and monarchy rule. This is hardly synonymous with our current government.

You can have big government who protects your liberties, and you have to define “big,” or big corporations controlling your life, with their greed. Big corporation control and the trickle-down theory never worked under Reagan, or any other Republican administration. Privatizing and not con-

In addition to conference rooms scattered throughout the building, there is one large room also with recording capabilities for any meetings that don’t require the use of the council chambers.

For employee use, there are several break rooms scattered throughout the building and an employee patio out back. Employees also will have access to a fitness center with stationary bicycles, treadmills and other equipment.

“If an employee has to be at a council meeting at 7 p.m.,” Greene said, “and we get off at 6 p.m. and they have an hour to kill, they could use the fitness center.”

There will also be a restricted parking lot to the rear to provide some employee parking, though the majority of employees will use the main parking lot.

Greene attributed the swift progress to a great working relationship with Weitz Construction and STH Architects in making the building a reality.

“It’s been great working with them,” he said. “We have a good partnership and a great working relationship.”

trolling the big corporations (deregulation) is what got us here. The government didn’t lose all the jobs we have lost; the corporations have lost our jobs because they are too greedy to share the wealth with employees, outsourcing the good jobs, where they can get cheaper labor and make more profit. If the privateers take the money for their CEOs instead of creating jobs, don’t blame the government for bailing them out. The government gave them the opportunity to create jobs. It has been their choice not to do that. The banks also have the choice to lend the money that helped save them, instead of taking big profits.

So when you blame the government, learn something about government. Ask anyone who receives Social Security, Medicare, has to wear a seat belt, and the many other government services mandated for our protection, if they think we have a “socialist government.”

You do really need to educate yourself before you start slinging words around that you don’t know the definition of.

It is more sad and scary to quote your letter to Ms. Chesher, that your party is engaged without knowledge. This is the scariest of all: “A little knowledge can be an evil force.” Educate yourselves and then participate.

Shirley Bass Wellington

Beware Marco Rubio’s Smile

Marco Rubio and his family are certainly appealing. His campaign ads sound genuinely patriotic. His actual platform, however, falls in line with the radical right Tea Party agenda. He would deny women control of their own bodies and lives. He would privatize Social Security and would work to turn our public institutions (parks, libraries, etc.) into for-profit businesses. Rubio apparently does not agree with the way our democra-

cy has been run for more than two centuries.

He would join the other Republican senators who have vowed to obstruct all legislation and investigate every Democrat in congress and President Obama. It doesn’t sound like the Tea Party Republicans plan to accomplish anything for Americans. In fact, it sounds like America falling backward.

Marco Rubio, Sarah Palin, Christine O’Donnell — all good looking. Not one of them is qualified to govern our country. Let’s hope that voters think before they vote for the prettiest smile.

Nancy Tanner Wellington

Supporting West And Benacquisto

Retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Col. Allen West is one of the new breed of tough-talking, hard-fighting, low-tax advocates that will bring sanity to Washington, D.C. by removing from office an overspending, welfare-state, debt-producing establishment candidate like Ron Klein.

Unabashedly loyal to his troops, West said that in battle he would be willing to walk through hell carrying cans of gasoline if it meant saving the life of one of his men. We need men of courage and good character running this nation. Men like Allen West.

What battles has attorney Ron Klein fought? I mean besides fighting for his political life. Klein’s weapon of choice is to sling dirt. Klein voted with Nancy Pelosi 98 percent of the time. When Klein started his vicious attacks against West, an AfricanAmerican war hero, Klein picked the wrong person to mess with. Col. West retaliated by referring to Klein as a “momma’s boy” for holding on to Speaker Pelosi’s apron strings. The comment was probably uncalled for, but if the shoe fits…

After standing up to terrorists in war, Ron Klein is no threat to

Col. West. I expect Allen West to be one of Florida’s newest and brightest congressmen. Regarding another local race, I have never met [District 27 State Senate hopeful] Mr. [Kevin] Rader and I expect that he is a patriotic American who just needs to study more history. I would refer him to the Austrian School of Economics. Perhaps then he would allow the market to create private sector jobs.

I support Lizbeth Benacquisto, a former Wellington Village Council office holder and a faithful conservative for the District 27 seat. Benacquisto won a hotly contested Republican primary. Benacquisto believes in getting government out of the way of private business so that it can provide jobs. She is a small government advocate Mr. Rader, please consider that we can do better for the poor, the unemployed and the unskilled than sending them subsistence checks. Consider that subsistence checks will be inadequate when the unsustainable national debt that will be monetized causes hyperinflation. Mr. Rader, as well intentioned as I am sure you are, those welfare checks you send out will soon not be enough to pay for the basic essentials of life. Then you can expect further social unrest. I would urge everyone to vote Republican this time around for change we can all live with. Frank J. Morelli Wellington

A view behind the dais with spaces for computers and one 60” television.

The largest of several employee break rooms will have a fridge and ample storage space.

The council chambers with room for 150 seats, staff tables and podiums.

Upstairs will have room for a gallery.

Benacquisto Focuses On Community Credentials, The Economy

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report

Former Wellington Councilwoman Lizbeth Benacquisto, a Republican, is vying against State Rep. Kevin Rader (D-District 78) for the District 27 State Senate seat being vacated by Dave Aronberg. District 27 stretches from West Palm Beach across the state to Fort Myers in Lee County. It includes the southern areas of Wellington and large parts of Loxahatchee.

Benacquisto, 42, was born in New York but moved to Pembroke Pines when she was 10. Once settling in Wellington to raise her family, she became active in the community.

Following a successful leadership role in building the playground at Tiger Shark Cove Park, Benacquisto was elected to the Wellington Village Council in 2002. She was re-elected in 2006 and left this year due to term limits.

Benacquisto is raising two school-age children and has a college-age stepson. She currently works as a Realtor. Returning to college as an adult, she graduated from Palm Beach Atlantic Univer-

sity last year with a bachelor’s degree in organizational management.

Benacquisto said that her top accomplishment has been protecting the quality of life in Wellington. She specifically pointed to the Neighborhood Stabilization Program and her role in keeping a landfill out of the area as accomplishments crucial for Wellington’s future.

She also highlighted the village’s economic development initiative and its role in creating a proposed medical arts district. She said she was proud that the village was fiscally able to weather the economic downturn due to smart financial decisions made while she was on the council.

“A lot of the things that we did that I was a part of here in Wellington were about bringing the community together to solve problems,” Benacquisto said.

She said that she is most qualified to represent the area in Tallahassee because of her longtime connection to the community and time spent on the council working with officials, community leaders and regular citizens.

“I’m very in tune with what the concerns are in each of the communities,” Benacquisto said. “I have the experience of serving on the local government level, where you learn the immediate impacts of the decisions you make. I have experience creating very sound financial plans for our city with both the investments that we made, the decisions we made with regard to the millage rate and keeping our community affordable for families.”

If elected, she said her top goals would be cutting the size of government, working to create a better business climate and creating a long-term vision for running the state more effectively.

Benacquisto said she would like to see the budget process transformed similarly to what she did in Wellington, but on a larger scale.

“We analyzed every dollar that we spent,” she said. “We made sure it fit with the core mission and priorities as an agency, and ranked the programming with effectiveness in mind. This is an incredible opportunity to do it on a state level.”

To help improve Florida’s economy, Benacquisto said she would push for a better regulatory environment for new and existing businesses to open or expand.

“We make the process incredibly burdensome from a regulatory perspective,” she said. “We should have the approval process shortened so that you can really encourage growth now. It would help people to have a framework to invest now.”

She said that doing this would make Florida more competitive in the national market to bring highwage businesses to the state. “You can go to North Carolina or Georgia and put a shovel in the ground in six months, but our process takes years,” Benacquisto said. “Folks can’t afford that now, and they’re going to bring their capital elsewhere.”

To help Palm Beach County and Lee County, Benacquisto said she would look to invest in biotechnology.

“Both [counties] are making an investment in the future of our economy,” she said, “the future of discovery and science, and the future of many spin-off business-

es. We need to do what we can to support those endeavors.”

Benacquisto said that she is against raising taxes to make up for state budget shortfalls. “My opponent hasn’t met a tax he didn’t like,” she said. “The answer is not to put further tax burdens on folks.” Instead, she would look to cut government duplication of services, inefficiency and overstaffing. She said she would like to see money spent more wisely and not have multiple programs doing the same jobs. “Every program is important to every person, but if they’re not effective and they’re not serving a significant portion of people, you really have to address how those dollars are being spent,” she said.

Regarding several ballot amendments, Benacquisto urged voters to reject the “Hometown Democracy” Amendment 4, noting that from her experience on the Wellington council, it will make the process more cumbersome. “Voting no on Amendment 4 is one of the most critical things voters can do for the future of our state,” she said.

Kevin Rader Touts His Tallahassee Experience, ‘Moderate’ Views

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

State Rep. Kevin Rader (D-District 78) believes his Tallahassee experience makes him the better choice to replace State Sen. Dave Aronberg. Rader, a Democrat from Delray Beach, faces former Wellington Councilwoman Lizbeth Benacquisto for the State Senate District 27 seat in the Nov. 2 election.

Rader, 41, is part owner of Advanced Insurance Underwriters, which has 11 offices around the state, including one on Okeechobee Blvd. in Royal Palm Beach. He is married to Rabbi Amy Rader. They have four children.

Rader currently represents District 78, a gerrymandered seat that spans 120 miles, running from Boca Raton to Fort Pierce, picking up large tracts of rural areas.

“This senate district is very similar, but it just goes east and west over the lake, rather than north and south,” he said. District 27 runs from Palm Beach County to Lee County on the west coast. It is one of the more

competitive districts in the state, and Rader said it is imperative that the Democratic Party holds the seat in order to deny Republicans a veto-proof supermajority. Currently the State Senate is split 26 Republicans and 14 Democrats.

“Whether it be a Democratic or Republican governor, having those 14 seats is vastly important,” he said. “We need to hold District 27 so the Democrats can have that balance so bad legislation can’t just be zoomed in by the legislature.”

Rader said he thinks Benacquisto’s views are much too right-wing for the district, such as her opposition to stem-cell research and her pro-life stance. “She is endorsed by groups like the Christian Coalition and Right to Life, where I have police and fire and teachers and nurses,” he said. “I think this district is the definition of moderation. That is probably one reason I have such great support in this election. I am a fairly moderate individual, fiscally.”

As a business owner and insurance agent, he said he favors low-

ering taxes and improving the economy and job market. “I’m all about job growth and how to move it forward with the least amount of government intrusion,” he said. “When you put the playing field level and let me be an insurance agent competing against another insurance agent, I will probably do a very good job. When you allow that to happen, whether it be in healthcare or in dry cleaners or manufacturing, I think it’s good to have the least amount of government interference.”

Rader has been criticized by his opponent and others for voting on some insurance-related issues while in the legislature. “That was a concern of mine as well,” Rader said, noting that he checked with the general counsel of the speaker’s office before casting such votes. “Since [Benacquisto] is a Realtor, she’s going to have to vote on a lot of issues that have to do with Realtors.” Legislators cannot vote on an issue that affects them directly, but can vote on broad industry-wide

measures. “You are allowed to vote on those as long as it deals with the complete industry and it doesn’t just affect your clients,”

Rader explained, pointing out that several other legislators have the same insurance license he does, including State Rep. Dean Cannon (R-District 35), the incoming speaker of the house. “The majority of people who have the same license as me happen to be Republican as well, so if you’re going to voice this complaint about me, remember that you’re saying that the next speaker has no ethics as well.”

Rader lists his top accomplishment over the past two years as an ethics bill enacting tougher penalties for elected officials and government employees who break the law. “I know that sounds like something that’s easy to get done, I mean, who wouldn’t vote for an ethics bill?” he said. “In reality, there are about a half-dozen ethics bills that did not get passed this legislative session.”

Rader said he also has fought for unemployed workers, pushing

through bills the past two years that replenished the unemployment trust fund, which went bankrupt in 2009. He also worked with Gov. Charlie Crist to get extended unemployment benefits from the federal government. “I wrote a letter to the governor, and he actually agreed with me and created an executive order to open up the extended benefits so we could accept them,” he said. Rader’s top goals if elected would include finding ways to stimulate the economy. “Specifically in Palm Beach County, I think there is no greater way than to create these little [biotech] ‘pups’ around Scripps and Max Planck… and to try and create businesses off the biotech money that we’ve put up so they’ve been able to start up,” he said. “I think we can create the same thing when it comes to solar and wind and renewable technologies.”

While foreclosure issues are federal in nature, the state can create incentives to see that people keep their homes, he said. “The goal is just trying to get through this bad period in time so we don’t have a run on the banks, so our unemployment rate doesn’t double from what it is currently,” Rader said. “That’s really the goal of the legislature, and to make sure people can stay in their homes and not lose them.” To help central Palm Beach County specifically, Rader said he would try to get the money for a

Lizbeth Benacquisto

Kevin Rader

Woman Arrested After Two-Hour Shoplifting Spree

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report

OCT. 15 — A Royal Palm Beach woman was arrested last Friday on charges of grand theft for stealing from the Wal-Mart Supercenter on Belvedere Road. According to a Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office report, a deputy from the Royal Palm Beach substation was dispatched to the store after 31-year-old Rosalinda Lopez was caught shoplifting. An employee discovered the theft after Lopez’s purse set off the store’s sensor. According to the report, the deputy discovered that Lopez had parked her vehicle in front of the store in the fire lane and had been entering and exiting the store for approximately two hours, placing stolen lighters, makeup and other items into her vehicle. The stolen items were valued at $1,536.39. Lopez’s vehicle was towed on scene and Lopez was arrested. According to the report, Lopez resisted the deputy when she was being turned over for transport. She was taken to the Palm Beach County Jail where it was discovered she had Xanax pills in her bra. Lopez was charged with grand theft and resisting an officer.

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OCT. 15 — An Acreage resident called the PBSO’s Acreage/ Loxahatchee substation last Friday to report a case of fraud. According to a PBSO report, the victim was checking his bank account and discovered five fraudulent charges made with his credit card information. The victim said he still had the card in his possession. According to the report, the charges began on Sept. 21, with four charges to Xbox Live totaling $249.96. A fifth charge for $10.60 was made to Gamefly. According to the report, the suspect(s) set up an account with Xbox Live and the victim was able to obtain the e-mail address and gamer tag attached to the account.

cording to a PBSO report, sometime between 1:30 p.m. last Thursday and midnight the following morning, someone entered the victim’s home and stole several pieces of jewelry, a laptop and a 13-inch flat-panel television. The victim contacted her daughter, who lives across the street, and she said she had not been in the house nor had she seen anyone else. According to the report, there were no signs of forced entry. The windows and doors were locked and all of the screens were in place. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

OCT. 16 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington responded to a home on Hickory Trail last Saturday regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 2 p.m. last Wednesday and 10 a.m. last Thursday, someone entered the victim’s unlocked car and stole a black iPod valued at $150. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

OCT. 18 — A resident of Temple Blvd. called the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation Monday to report a stolen vehicle. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 8:30 p.m. last Sunday and 6 a.m. the following morning, someone stole the victim’s black 2006 Chevy Cobalt from her driveway. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

OCT. 18 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched to a restaurant in the Pointe at Wellington Green on Monday regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 6 and 10 p.m., someone pried open the passenger-side window of the victim’s car and unlocked the door. The suspect(s) then stole a backpack containing clothes and makeup as well as an iPod. The stolen items were valued at approximately $320. DNA evidence was taken at the scene, but there were no suspects at the time of the report.

OCT. 15 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched to a home in Chatsworth Village last Friday morning in response to a residential burglary. According to a PBSO report, the victim left his garage door open overnight and sometime between 6 p.m. last Thursday and 6 a.m. the following morning, someone entered the garage and stole several pieces of fishing equipment. The suspect(s) stole 13 miscellaneous fishing rods and reels and two tackle boxes. The stolen items were valued at approximately $7,850. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

OCT. 15 — A resident of Solara at Wellington called the PBSO substation in Wellington last Friday to report a missing vehicle. According to a PBSO report, the victim parked his gray 2003 Dodge Ram and locked it outside his apartment at approximately 7 p.m. last Thursday. When he returned at approximately 6:30 a.m. the following morning, it was missing. The victim said that he called his finance company, which said it had not repossessed the truck. He still had the only key to it. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

OCT. 15 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was dispatched to a home on 126th Drive North last Friday in response to a theft. Ac-

OCT. 18 — A Wellington resident called the PBSO substation in Wellington on Monday to report a case of vandalism. According to a PBSO report, the victim parked his SUV in the parking lot of Wellington Green Square at approximately 9:30 p.m. When he returned to the vehicle around 11 p.m. he discovered some of his windows broken and little holes on the right side of the vehicle. According to the report, the holes appeared to be from a BB gun. There were holes in the front passenger window and alongside the car. The right taillight was also broken. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

OCT. 19 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation responded Tuesday to a home on Mandarin Blvd. after a resident called to report an act of vandalism. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 5 p.m. last Saturday and 9 p.m. Monday, someone smashed the victim’s front outdoor lights. The victim said he owns the home and is remodeling it, but does not live there. According to the report, his neighbors notified him that the lights had been vandalized. The victim said he has an alarm system and does not think anyone was in the home. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County is asking for the public’s help in finding these wanted fugitives: • Nicole Bell is a white female, 5’6” tall and weighing 115 lbs., with blond hair and hazel eyes. She has a tattoo of two hearts on her back. Her date of birth is 04/29/ 90. Bell is wanted for failure to appear on charges of possession of schedule II substance and possession/use of paraphernalia. Her occupation is unknown. Her last known address was White Pine Circle in Greenacres. Bell is wanted as of 10/21/ 10. • John Mason, a.k.a. John Cuda, John Bear and John Hayes, is a black male, 5’5” tall and weighing 150 lbs., with black hair and brown eyes. He has a scar on his right forearm. His date of birth is 04/ 29/64. Mason is wanted for failure to appear on a charge of driving while license revoked (habitual traffic offender). His occupation is unknown. His last known address was 73rd Street North in The Acreage. Mason is wanted as of 10/ 21/10. 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.

Nicole Bell

John Mason

Bogdanoff Keeps Focus On Leadership Record, Accomplishments

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

After years as a Republican leader in the State House, State Rep. Ellyn Bogdanoff (R-District 91) is seeking the State Senate seat being vacated this year by Senate President Jeff Atwater in his bid to become Florida’s next chief financial officer. Also running for the District 25 seat are Democratic State Rep. Kelly Skidmore of Boca Raton and independent candidate Miranda Rosenberg.

District 25 stretches from Fort Lauderdale in the south up to Juno Beach, sandwiched between Dixie Highway and the ocean. It then swings west into Palm Beach Gardens and parts of Royal Palm Beach and northern Wellington. Bogdanoff was born and raised in the district. Living now in Fort Lauderdale, she grew up in North Palm Beach and graduated from Palm Beach Gardens High School. She has a bachelor’s degree in insurance and risk management from the University of Florida and a law degree from Nova Southeastern University.

To advance to the general election, Bogdanoff defeated State Rep. Carl Domino of Jupiter in the August Republican primary.

While that was a contest of style between candidates with similar views on major issues, Bogdanoff is excited that this race has allowed her greater opportunities to debate substantive issues.

“It’s an opportunity to distinguish myself from my opponent,

and I think you have more of an opportunity to see a clear difference between the two of us philosophically,” she said.

Bogdanoff became an attorney in 2003, and the next year she won the District 91 seat. She served as majority whip for Speaker Marco Rubio from 2006 to 2008. She was then named chair of the Finance & Tax Council.

Bogdanoff characterizes herself as a small business owner who has created jobs. “I have represented Palm Beach County six years,” she said. “The vast majority of the district, other than Palm Beach Gardens and Wellington, is a coastal district. The issues are slightly different in terms of the character and makeup of the constituents. They are fiscal conservatives, and they are usually environmentally sensitive because they like the beaches... because it is a big part of our economy.”

Bogdanoff said she takes pride in a number of accomplishments.

“Every two years, I have taken a different focus,” she said. “The last two years, it was the jobs bill, being able to put $220 million into tax incentives and credits targeting the marine industry.”

The goal of that bill and other initiatives she has championed is to improve Florida’s standing among potential employers.

“We’re taking back our business that we lost to [other Southern states] because I looked at the tax policies of those states and why business was moving out,” she said.

If elected, Bogdanoff said she will try to achieve more tax credits and job incentives. One of her points of focus will be on port improvements in preparation for the Panama Canal upgrade that will open up more commerce on the coast. She said Florida has to make sure it does not lose its port business to other states. “We have 14 ports,” she said. “We have a number of them that are certainly equipped to handle it. The problem is we didn’t have the money for the infrastructure.”

She said the legislature received a public/private proposal for port development last year but was not prepared to accept it, but she would like to move forward on it next session. “There is a lot of private capital that is interested in coming into this state, building the infrastructure in the ports and then leasing it back to the state,” Bogdanoff said.

Her other goals include child advocacy, which is what she says brought her to the legislative process. “The anti-bullying bill… is the best anti-bullying legislation in the nation,” she said. “We’ve had several other states model and adopt our bill.”

The bill changed the focus from the victim to the bully, Bogdanoff said. “These are our future criminals,” she explained. “These are the people who obviously have issues, who are bullying simply because they can. The bill’s focus was to get them the help that they need.”

Bogdanoff has also worked on

getting help for kids aging out of foster care. “That’s a big gap that we have in our foster-care system,” she said, explaining that she had been a guardian for a young woman who aged out of foster care. To improve Florida’s economy, Bogdanoff said the legislature can continue to create business incentives. “We have to create a regulatory environment that allows business to flourish,” she said. “We have to do a better job at reducing regulation. You can open up a business in 30 to 60 days in Alabama. In Florida, it can take six months to a year.”

One aspect of her jobs bill was a matching small grant program for which she requested $1 million and received $3 million. “If you bring in a new business and the city gives them an incentive, some land or a building or waiving fees, the state will match whatever they provide up to $50,000,” she said, noting that an expedited permitting process is also required.

Bogdanoff said that the incentives are starting to work. “When we left Tallahassee in May, we were looking at a $6 billion budget shortfall,” she said. “It is now about $2 billion. $2 billion ain’t too pretty, either, but it’s a heck of a lot better than six.”

As chair of the Finance & Tax Council last year, she worked for a high-level review of all budgets and identified more than $3 billion in potential savings. “That is getting rid of duplication, waste,

a lot of programs that could be better served in the private sector,” she said.

As an example, Bogdanoff cites a bill she sponsored that would have reduced monitoring of facilities but that state agencies were able to get killed. A facility that houses juveniles, for example, might be monitored by five or six different agencies. “Ninety-eight percent of what they do is the same,” she said.

Bogdanoff compares Florida’s foreclosure crisis to a virus. “It touches every aspect of the state,” she said. “It touches local governments with respect to their not getting revenues; it affects our citizens because their home values are deflated from the surrounding foreclosures; it puts people on welfare rolls if they can’t afford their homes. The biggest challenge is getting the banks to actually sit down with the owners and negotiate, and they’re not doing it.”

Bogdanoff points out that she differs from Skidmore in that her opponent has voted for many additional taxes and she has not.

“She does not have a strong rating with business,” Bogdanoff said. “She is predominantly supported by the teachers’ union. Those are going to be the areas she focuses on.”

Bogdanoff also notes that she has been more effective as a state representative.

Regarding Rosenberg, the independent candidate, Bogdanoff said she regards it as a three-person race because her showing will make a difference, estimating that Rosenberg will garner more than 10 percent of the vote.

“She’s young, she’s adorable,” Bogdanoff said. “She’s gotten much better on the campaign trail… You’ve got a lot of people out there who are fed up with party politics.” Bogdanoff said people should vote for her because of her past performance. “My accomplishments are significant,” she said. “There is a lot more to do.”

“I think [Skidmore’s] main claim is her pain clinic legislation, which has been extremely ineffective because they’re still open and they’re still doing business,” she said. “I think we need to go back and fix it. There is a way to do it right.”

Independent Candidate Rosenberg Wants To Reform The System

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

Political newcomer and recent college graduate Miranda Rosenberg is running as an independent for the Florida State Senate in District 25. In that race, she faces two sitting state representatives seeking a promotion, Republican Ellyn Bogdanoff of Fort Lauderdale and Democrat Kelly Skidmore of Boca Raton.

Born and raised in Palm Beach, Rosenberg has lived in the district all her 23 years. “I’ve always been an activist,” she said, explaining her reason for running. “I don’t consider myself a politician because I’m not certain if I’m going to be a politician long-term.”

Rosenberg said there are things in Tallahassee that need to be fixed that are not going to be fixed by the people who have been entrenched there, so she is running to change the equation.

Rosenberg attended Palm Beach Day School, then the Middle School of the Arts, where she was a communications major. She graduated from Suncoast High School’s International Baccalaureate program, then attended Harvard University, where she received a bachelor’s degree in government in 2009.

“While I was there, I focused on how our laws affect our policy, specifically the Constitution and how that intersects with religion and our cultural values,” she said.

After graduation, Rosenberg worked with the Tony Blair Faith Foundation, traveling around the

world from July 2009 through May 2010.

As a Jew, Rosenberg said she doesn’t consider herself observant but keeps traditions such as not speaking poorly of someone else, which she has applied to her campaign.

“I’m not interested in telling people about why the other candidates are specifically wrong,” she said. “I am going to tell you about me and what I can bring to the table.”

She regards her top accomplishment as her ability to empower others. “I think that’s actually the best quality of good leaders,” Rosenberg said. “It’s somebody who can encourage others to become good leaders themselves.” Rosenberg said she is best qualified to serve in Tallahassee because she is able to build consensus.

“Something that I have seen in all of the forums is that the other two candidates can never agree, and both of them consistently praise my ideas… I think that’s a good example of how you can bring both sides together, to compromise and find new ways that we’ll be able to move our state forward,” she said.

Her top goal is to make Florida a better place overall for every Floridian, regardless of political affiliation or background. “The ways that we are going to do that are going to be to bring more jobs and better business to Florida and to reinvent the way that government works,” Rosenberg said.

She said she would like to see a reform to the way the legislature

operates. “We currently meet for 12 weeks, but what if those 12 weeks were spread out throughout the year?” she asked. “A big problem is that at the end of the session, you see good bills dying and bad bills being pushed through at the last minute.”

Spreading out the session would also empower various interests to participate more, Rosenberg said. “You’d be able to involve different types of people in the political process,” she said. “For example, teachers. They can’t take off 12 weeks in the spring. I think that if you were able to reform that in such a way that other types of people could be involved in the legislature, you wouldn’t only have retired businessmen and lawyers in Tallahassee.”

This leads to a big disconnect between legislators and the population in general, she said. That was reflected in Senate Bill 6 that dealt with merit pay policies for teachers; it was opposed by teachers unions and ultimately was vetoed. “Merit pay in theory is a good idea, and teachers will tell you good teachers should be rewarded, but the problem is Senate Bill 6 used ambiguous language, and it didn’t involve the teachers in deciding how that would work,” Rosenberg said.

The top issues in the campaign are the economy and jobs, she said. “That’s the big issue every Floridian is experiencing. The economy is hurting them,” Rosenberg said.

She believes that the new jobs are going to be in alternative en-

ergy, but people involved with those companies, particularly small companies, don’t want to invest in Florida projects because they can’t get the financing from venture capital groups and private equity firms because of the regulatory system.

The regulatory environment must be updated, Rosenberg said, explaining that permitting is expensive, especially for small vendors, who might otherwise be able to hire personnel with that money. Improving public schools will also improve the economy by increasing people’s desire to live here, she said. “To do that, we need to invest less in ineffective testing,” Rosenberg said. “We need some type of objective measure, but we can’t have this highstakes test that teachers feel that they have a need to teach to, because ultimately all it does is rob our students of a rich and diverse education.”

To help close Florida’s budget gaps, Rosenberg said she would look to focus on smarter spending. “It’s reinventing the way these programs work,” she said.

As an example, she said Medicaid must be examined carefully for waste and outright fraud. “I would wonder why we haven’t done that already,” Rosenberg said, adding that many doctors are not willing to treat Medicaid patients because it actually costs them money. “Because of that, you find that these Medicaid patients are looking to emergency rooms for first-line treatment...

Investing more in county health systems would provide quality of care for patients at a lower cost.”

Several pieces of legislation were vetoed by Gov. Charlie Crist and are expected to return next year. Among them was a controversial growth management bill. Rosenberg said that issue is closely related to Amendment 4, which would require referendums for comprehensive plan and land use changes.

“We’ve tried it in places like St. Pete Beach, and it did not work, but it’s symptomatic of a legislature that’s not listening to the people and not finding out how to accomplish those same goals in a way that is not going to have such negative impacts,” she said.

Regarding the controversial ultrasound bill, she said people want a world where abortions are not necessary but that the ultrasound bill was unfair because it did not provide financing for people who could not afford the procedure. The problem needs to be addressed in a way that all sides can agree on, such as better sex education, Rosenberg said, adding that she was frustrated that the legislature spent hours arguing the bill, time that could have been devoted to legislation for helping the economy.

Rosenberg said she would like to see redistricting amendments 5 and 6 pass. “When you look at District 25, it’s a good example of why we need it,” she said.

Running as an independent, Rosenberg said her chances are better than usual because of Crist’s

presence as an independent at the top of the ballot. She added that her campaign is enhanced by her adherence to positive campaigning, which she said is to the detriment of her opponents who have waged negative campaigns. She said the district also has a relatively large proportion of registered independents, 26 percent. She said people should vote for her because she is the only one willing to stand up for the voters.

“I’m the only one who will say something about the high cost of insurance,” she said. “You haven’t really seen them willing to stand up and say we need a little more transparency with these companies, because how is it possible that everyone else in this economy is hurting and they’re able to award record bonuses?”

Skidmore Aims To Better Represent Constituents, Bring New Jobs

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report

State Rep. Kelly Skidmore (DBoca Raton) believes she is the best candidate for a promotion to the State Senate in District 25. Skidmore faces Republican nominee State Rep. Ellyn Bogdanoff (R-Fort Lauderdale) and independent candidate Miranda Rosenberg on Nov. 2 for the seat being vacated by Senate President Jeff Atwater, who is running to become Florida’s next chief financial officer. District 25 stretches from Fort Lauderdale in the south up to Juno Beach, sandwiched between Dixie Highway and the ocean. It then swings west into Palm Beach Gardens and parts of Royal Palm Beach and northern Wellington. In 1972, Skidmore moved from Cleveland to Florida at age 9 and attended public schools in Deerfield Beach. After graduation, she attended Palm Beach State College and then the University of Florida, where she studied journalism. After college, she worked with the real-estate development company Arvida for 12 years and then served 10 years, starting in 1996, as a legislative aide to now-U.S. Rep. Ron Klein while he served in both the Florida State House and State Senate.

In 2006, Skidmore was elected to the State House serving District 90 and was re-elected in 2008. She is currently the vice president of advocacy and public policy for the

Arthritis Foundation’s Florida Chapter and a member of the Florida Biotech Caucus. She lives in Boca Raton with her husband Ray and their daughter Mary Alice, who is a junior at the Dreyfoos School of the Arts.

Skidmore said that her top accomplishment was passing legislation last year to create a prescription-drug monitoring program that required pain clinics to register with the Department of Health.

“Unfortunately, in the State of Florida, we had no regulation regarding the dispensing of narcotics,” she said. “What happened is that doctors who had no painmanagement experience were being hired at $100,000 a month to dispense narcotics to everyone across the eastern seaboard.”

It was legislation like hers that began to end Florida’s reputation as a prescription drug haven.

Skidmore said voters should choose her because, unlike her opponent Bogdanoff, she does not have to vote in line with the Republican leadership, leaving her free to represent voters.

“Democrats have more freedom to represent their district than do the Republicans, who are told how they have to vote and what they have to do,” she said. “That’s problematic because you’re not representing your constituents. I don’t have those constraints. I have always represented the people in District 90 the way that I understood them to want me to represent them, whether it was

with the Democrats or it was with the majority.”

Though Skidmore noted that it is harder to get things done in the minority party, she said that her winning the seat is crucial to avoid a two-thirds Republican majority in the Senate, making the legislature veto-proof.

“A two-thirds majority in either chamber is really catastrophic to the process,” she said. “It shuts down the minority; there is no healthy debate. It is really just bad for the future of Florida.”

If elected, Skidmore said she would focus on the budget process in Tallahassee, along with education and jobs.

“We have a $72 billion budget,” she said. “On the House side, we have 120 members, hardly any of whom have ever dealt with a budget at all, least of all one that’s $72 billion. And we’re not educated on how to fully participate in that budget.”

Because of this, she said, a handful of people determine the budget because they have the knowledge to do so. Instead, Skidmore would like to see member participation in drafting a new budget each year.

Skidmore said that she would like to see Florida become a leader in alternative energy and move away from its “three-legged stool” (agriculture, tourism and construction) approach to the economy.

“If one of those legs is agriculture,” she asked, “why aren’t we leading the nation in biofuels and

biomass? We have sunshine 300plus days a year. We could be growing that fuel. Why does New Jersey rank number one in the nation for solar manufacturing? We should have those manufacturing jobs.”

To help create jobs, Skidmore said she would help create a better regulatory environment to bring jobs to the area, noting that Florida is already attractive because it puts little tax burden on its citizens. “Businesses want to come,” she said. “They want the weather. They want the climate that we have, both weather-wise and tax-wise.”

Regarding education, Skidmore called the legislature’s passing of Senate Bill 6 “shameful,” and said that something different needs to be done.

“It was just an attack on public schools,” she said. “There is no industry that we regulate where we do not allow anyone from that industry to participate in how we’re going to go forward. Teachers and parents were not given the opportunity to testify. That is not how you go about creating legislation to improve our public education system.”

Instead, Skidmore said that she would like to see more power given to local school districts, along with better pay for teachers.

She noted that she also was against another bill vetoed by Gov. Charlie Crist requiring women seeking abortions to have and pay for an ultrasound test.

Skidmore also said she would like to see the legislature repeal a ban on adoption by gay people, supporting the decision by the courts earlier this year. “I think there needs to be a finality to it,” she said.

To help make up for budget shortfalls, Skidmore said she would like to look into agency budgets to see if cuts can be made. She also noted that Florida should be collecting taxes on sales made over the Internet.

“The law is that if you purchase something on the Internet, you are supposed to go to the Department of Revenue, find the form, calculate the tax you would have paid… fill out the check, fill out the form and send the check,” she said. “That is the law. You are supposed to pay tax on those purchases. It’s not a new tax, it’s taxes already due to the State of Florida.”

Skidmore noted that as of now, the program is unenforceable, but she’d like to see Florida join a multi-state compact to collect that sales tax.

Skidmore said that she would like to see the two redistricting amendments pass because she feels that outside influences often lead to seats being drawn for specific candidates.

“I would like the process to be taken away from the legislature,” she said. “Having witnessed the process, it is filled with conflicts of interest. A third party should actually be drawing the lines, and they should be based on commu-

nities of interest and compactness.” She also said that she would like to see the “Hometown Democracy” Amendment 4 fail. “I understand that frustration that members of our electorate have,” Skidmore said. “However, it would be very problematic.” She said that voters should choose her because she is a strong leader with a good work ethic, integrity and honesty.

“I’m the right choice,” Skidmore said. “I’m the right choice for them. I’m the right choice for Senate District 25. They will be proud to have me represent them. I will work harder than most to make sure that their views and values are represented in Tallahassee.”

Ellyn Bogdanoff

Kelly Skidmore Miranda Rosenberg

BUTTERFIELDS & PBCFR HOST BENEFIT CAR WASH

Butterfields Southern Cafe and Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Station 28 in Royal Palm Beach teamed up to host a car wash Saturday, Oct. 16 at the fire station. The proceeds will benefit Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. Butterfields Southern Café is located at 1145 Royal Palm Beach Blvd. For more info., visit www.butterfieldcafe.com. (Above) PBCFR Lt. Jim Levine, Butterfields waitress Kelsey Edwards, cook Brandon Kiel and firefighter John Lupoli are hard at work. (Below) Butterfield employees advertise the car wash.

Parkinson’s Benefit Golf Gala

This Sunday

The Swing for PD Golf Gala will take place Sunday, Oct. 24 at the Links at Madison Green in Royal Palm Beach.

The public is invited to enjoy a fun-filled event to benefit the National Parkinson Foundation and its mission to raise awareness of Parkinson’s disease. Registration will begin at 11:45 a.m. with the shotgun start at 1 p.m.

The event is organized by Eric Kaplan, who was five years old when his father was diagnosed with Parkinson’s.

The cost is $150 per player, which includes entry into all events, 18 holes of golf, practice balls at driving range, riding cart, hole in one contests, dinner and other various awards.

For more information, contact Kaplan at (954) 319-5282 or eric.f.kaplan@gmail.com.

Next LGLA Meeting Set

For Oct. 28

The Loxahatchee Groves Landowners’ Association will meet Thursday, Oct. 28 at 7 p.m. at Palms West Presbyterian Church (13689 Okeechobee Blvd.). There will be a few speakers throughout the evening.

Bill Hammond, a resident since the early 1970s and a longtime owner of Arthur Murray Real Estate, will present historical background information about why

Palm Beach County allowed small subdivisions to be created throughout the town and how roads in Loxahatchee Groves got their names.

Palm Beach County Legislative Affairs Director Todd Bonlarron will discuss the intent behind the amendment questions on the 2010 election ballot. He will cover the pros and cons related to what your vote will mean. It will then be up to you to decide how you want to cast your vote.

Palm Beach County Commission on Ethics Executive Director Alan Johnson will discuss the ballot question that asks residents to decide if they would like the county charter amended to address the Code of Ethics issues.

There will be a question-andanswer period after each speaker’s presentation.

For additional information about the Oct. 28 meeting, call LGLA President Marge Herzog at (561) 791-9875.

Wellington Garden Club To Meet Nov. 1

The Wellington Garden Club will meet Monday, Nov. 1 at the Wellington Community Center (12165 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). The luncheon and business meeting will start at 11:30 a.m., with the program following at 1 p.m.

The program will feature “French Spiral Bouquet,” a presentation by Hector Lopez, a journeyman design artist and instructor at the School of Flowers in Boca Raton. The School

of Flowers is unique in that not only is it a florist, but also a design school owned by Petal M. Harvill, an international master floral artist.

Lopez, who is one of the school’s designers and teachers, will be sharing some of his design secrets, color theory and floral care. He is well versed in the techniques and trends of European floral design as well as other artful arrangements running the gamut of fruits and flowers, using exotics, tablescapes, romantic French bouquets, spiral techniques, pavé designs and more.

Lopez will demonstrate the classic art of the French spiral bouquet. This is a sought-after bouquet style throughout Europe, the Middle East and Asia because of its simplicity of design and overall versatility. Floral design is a fascinating art form that attendees can pursue on their own after this inspirational presentation. For more information about the School of Flowers, visit www. schoolofflowers.com.

The public is invited to attend. A light lunch will be served. Seating is limited, so RSVP to (561) 793-6013 or (561) 798-9217. For more information about the Wellington Garden Club, visit www. wellingtongardenclub.org.

Agliolio Celebrates Anniversary

Agliolio Fresh Pasta & Wine Bar will celebrate its one-year anniversary with a week-long birthday party-themed celebration of

giving back to the local community. On Tuesday, Oct. 26, Agliolio Fresh Pasta & Wine Bar will donate 10 percent of the restaurant’s sales to the Mary Rubloff YWCA Harmony House. From Wednesday, Oct. 27 through Sunday, Oct. 31, guests who bring a “birthday present” of a new or gently used household item will receive 10 percent off their check (one offer per table, excluding alcohol). Collected items will be donated to the Harmony House to furnish transitional housing units. The Mary Rubloff YWCA Harmony House offers a secure, yearround, 24-hour facility for women and their children who are victims of domestic violence. Harmony House West is located in the western communities of Palm Beach County, which offers individual apartments for up to two years for women and their families seeking transitional housing assistance. Housing is available for qualified women with children.

Agliolio Fresh Pasta & Wine Bar is proudly celebrating one year as a gathering place for families and friends. The “CreateYour-Own Pasta-Bility” section of the menu ($10 including house salad and bread) highlights the restaurant’s 100-percent fresh, homemade pasta, made daily on premises. The restaurant has an extensive wine selection starting at $6/glass and $20/bottle, as well as a full liquor bar. A children’s menu is also available. For additional menu information, visit www.agliolio.com.

P.W. Community Foundation Links Local Businesses And Local Charities

You hear it every night on the news… in this economy, people are spending money — they are just being more cautious, and cutting back on unnecessary purchases. Well, that is the crux of the premise behind a new economic “stimulus” package — the Buy Local Coupon Booklet campaign launched by the Palms West Chamber of Commerce this month.

The chamber, through its Economic Development Committee and Economic Development Task Force, has launched its first in a series of coupon booklets that are designed to stimulate the local economy in the central western communities. This first booklet features a discount coupon at 13 different local restaurants. “People are still going to eat, so we thought that we would do our first ‘test market’ coupon booklet with just restaurants in it,” explained Susan Giddings, the chamber’s vice chair for economic development. “And, if people bought them, and used them at the local area restaurants, we would know that the campaign was off and running.”

Jaene Miranda, CEO of the chamber, agreed. “The way to the public’s heart is through their stomach… so to speak,” she quipped. “But we will be expanding the next booklets to include all types of businesses.”

The booklets are on sale at local businesses for $1 each, and 100 percent of that money will be donated through the Palms West Community Foundation to a local charity. Palms West Hospital has underwritten the cost of printing the first booklet. Palms West Hospital CEO Bland Eng has designated the Boys & Girls Club of Wellington as the first charity to benefit from the campaign. Subsequent booklets will benefit other local charities chosen by the printing sponsor.

What is the Palms West Community Foundation? It is the nonprofit arm of the Palms West Chamber of Commerce. The mission of the foundation is to be a conduit between the business community and the com-

munities in central western Palm Beach County and to institute programs that will enhance the quality of life in central western Palm Beach County.

“The concept of linking local businesses to the local community with a local charitable purpose is exactly the mission of the Palms West Community Foundation,” Director of Development Maureen Gross said. “It is truly a win-win-win — for the community, for the businesses and for the charities!”

The Buy Local campaign enables the residents of central western Palm Beach County to spend their money at local businesses in their hometown. This money will not only stimulate the local economy, but it will ultimately benefit the community as a whole through its charitable contribution.

Several members of the business community have already stepped forward to sponsor upcoming booklet printings and thus be able to earmark the money raised to benefit a local charity of their choice. If you are interested in sponsoring one of these printings, call Maureen Gross at the Palms West Community Foundation at (561) 790-6200 or Dawn Rivera at the Town-Crier at (561) 7937606.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Susan Giddings and Bland Eng with Palms West Community Foundation leaders Joanna Boynton and Maureen Gross. They are among the people working on the Buy Local initiative.

Restaurant lovers can pick up the Buy Local Coupon Book at 60 chamber member locations.

Event chairs Bland and Erika Eng, and Amy and Dr. Lawrence Bergman.

Omar Calderin and Erica Ferreri with host Marty Harland.

Joyce Bashein, hostess Heidi Harland, Jackie Hodge, Beth Bartz and Mona Barnes.Board

Denise Cameron and Al and Rosemary Paglia.Ranjita Sharma and Grace Edwards.

Megan and Dylan Fenton check out the pumpkins.Gabrielle and Ryan McGlynn with their pumpkins.Sherry Irwin with her daughter Summer.

Erika Eng, Trayl Taber and Amy Bergman display some of the donated items.

Wellington High Chorus Raising Money For Trip To Carnegie Hall

By Candace Marchsteiner Town-Crier Staff Report

Wellington High School’s concert chorus has earned something many musicians strive for but few achieve — an invitation to sing at Carnegie Hall in New York City.

“I’ve never been on the Carnegie Hall stage, and I played professionally for 10 years,” choral director Bradford Chase said. “I’m fairly young; I may be able to pull off being on stage. The teacher in me wants to be in the audience and watch, but the musician in me wants to be on the stage and participate.”

On May 1, 2011, the chorus will join several other groups from across the country to form one mass choir in a performance put together by Manhattan Concert Productions. For a group of more than 60 singers, the trip will cost about $70,000 or $1,250 per student. Fundraising efforts so far have included a successful garage sale and several car washes, but the biggest event planned is a community benefit concert on Wednesday, Nov. 17 at 7 p.m.

“We’re putting Wellington High School on the map,” said Sara Schuster, a senior and chorus president. “We’d like to immerse the community in music. I think it’d be a really great thing for the chorus to be able to share our love for music with the town.”

Rated Superior in all facets of last year’s state musical assess-

ment, the chorus is anxious to show off for the community that raised them. They have an 800seat auditorium to fill. “Hopefully, people who have never been to our concert before will come, really see what we’re doing here, how we got accepted into Carnegie Hall, and take an interest in what we’re doing,” Chase said. November’s show features a broad array of talent, including performances by the concert and chamber choruses, classical solos, student singer-songwriters on piano and guitar, and bands. Chase promises a spectacular grand finale, a special piece not typical for a high school performance — the first movement from John Rutter’s Gloria, with brass ensemble accompaniment.

In addition to ticket sales, the group is selling personal and business ads for the concert program and soliciting donated goods and services for a silent auction during the concert.

Chase is just beginning his second full year as the WHS choral director. His students attribute their success to Chase’s ability to connect with them. “Mr. Chase not only helps people grow musically, he also helps them grow as a person,” Schuster said. “He develops a level of connection that helps students in the chorus trust him, and he trusts us, so it’s a mutual relationship. That really makes us put our best effort into every re-

hearsal, to reach for our goals and not hold back.”

Students were drawn to chorus, and it doubled in size this year. “Last year the chorus was just such an incredible journey,” Chase said. “These kids blossomed into a more mature ensemble, a more mature sound. They have a fundamental musical sense. They understand and listen, enabling them to sing their parts better. The ensembles have a soul.”

A soul they intend to reveal at Carnegie Hall.

“I’ve been singing for seven or eight years now, been involved with musical shows, dozens of performances, and this is the top

of everything I’ve been working toward — a really great way to go out in my senior year,” Chorus President Brian Portman said.

For chorus member Patrick Sylvester, it’s a huge dream. “I listen to ‘Benny Goodman Live at Carnegie Hall’ every now and then, so to be performing at a place where he performed is really huge for me,” he said.

Sylvester plans to pursue musical theater in college after graduating next spring.

Chase explained that while getting invited to Carnegie Hall is an accomplishment, getting there is a commitment. They hope to wrap up the bulk of fundraising by the

winter break. The trip itself starts the day after FCAT testing, and the group returns the day before Advanced Placement (AP) exams begin.

“It’s an exciting opportunity for these kids,” Chase said. “It represents the community very well. It’s not something that everyone gets to do. We should be proud of these students. They’re great kids.”

For more information on November’s benefit concert, advertising opportunities, or to make donations to the silent auction, contact Chase at bradford.chase@ palmbeach.k12.fl.us or visit the WHS chorus web site at www. wellingtonhighchorus.com.

ROYAL PALM BEACH HOSTS FALL FASHION & ART SHOW AT CULTURAL CENTER

Choral director Bradford Chase explains musical timing in Gloria

Eden Tompkins, Amanda Marino and Debra Marcus.

(Front) Judy Levinson and Gloria Terminello; (back) Phyllis Wasserstein and Joan Berkowitz.

Moderator Sylvia Moore and Fashion Show Chair Dolly Hughes with the clothing models.

Oil painting instructor Grace Siegel (left) and her students display their artwork.

PHOTOS BY CANDACE MARCHSTEINER/TOWN-CRIER

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Pianist Jessie Fallen.

Gladys Beltran with her piece titled Sunflowers

Art of Life owner Dave Friedman shows how a wood frame was painted to be part of the artwork.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Visions owner Tom Monticello with makeover winner Alexis Sinram and Nick Arrojo.

Nick Arrojo with Visions Salon Marketing Manager Sherri Giles.

Nick Arrojo with raffle winner JoAnne Landi.

Nick Arrojo and Visions owner Tom Monticello with new client Kathy Rapp.

Grisel Hines, Aimee Guillen and Nick Arrojo.

Tom and Linda Monticello with Nick Arrojo in front of his new product line.

NEW HORIZONS TAKES PART IN ‘SAFE KIDS WALK THIS WAY’

Horizons Elementary School students recently participated in “Safe Kids Walk This Way,” an initiative of Safe Kids Palm Beach County in conjunction with International Walk to School Day, a day set aside to emphasize safety when walking and crossing streets. Fliers were sent home outlining safety tips for parents to teach their children and inviting students, along with their parents, to walk to school together on Friday, Oct. 8. Participating parents and students were greeted by Wellington Mayor Darell Bowen, Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office deputies Scott Portitz and Danny Delia, New Horizons Principal Betsy Cardozo and Guidance Counselor Lynne Bray. Students received “Safe Kids Walk This Way” bracelets, necklaces and stickers provided by Safe Kids of Palm Beach County. They were also encouraged to walk safely. Pictured above are PBSO deputies Scott Poritz and Danny Delia with students David Davis, Abby Hoover, Jade LaFlame and Kayla Brower-Glovsky.

King’s Academy Celebrates Homecoming

The King’s Academy’s 2010 homecoming took place during the week of September 27. The theme of homecoming was “On Broadway” and the week was packed with school spirit, fun and healthy competition. Each day of the week, students and staff dressed according to a theme, including: Mix-n-Match Day, Twin Day, Theme Day, Class Color Day and Spirit Day. The festivities also included powder puff football, a class skit competition and a homecoming football game in which TKA defeated Calvary Christian 42-7. The 2010 homecoming court was also introduced. Most importantly, the “Change for Change” drive raised more than $3,800 to support Haitian schools damaged in the 2010 earthquake. TKA has partnered with Haiti Partners to buy new

curriculum for these schools. “We are so pleased to be able to help these schools in need,” Director of Student Life Michelle Kolar said. “This fundraiser allowed our students to truly appreciate what they have at the King’s Academy. It was a real eye-opener to realize that other students were in need of textbooks. Then, it was such a joy to King’s students to be able to provide these books.”

TKA alumnus Kent Annan (1990) is a co-director of Haiti Partners, a non-profit organization founded by nationally known speaker and author Tony Campolo and dedicated to helping Haitians change and improve their country. Annan was scheduled to speak at TKA’s chapel services and accept the donated funds on behalf of Haiti Partners and the Haitian schools.

Crestwood Middle School in Royal Palm Beach recently announced its Character Counts winners for the month of September. These students were nominated by their teachers as having exemplified character. The quote of

Alvaro Delgado, Gilmary Alvarez, Julia Parrish, Dylan Gise, Elexis Coleman and Brett Peterson; (back row) Kaitlyn Donahue, Cheyenne Drew, Derrick Meeler, William Adili, Racquel Suraton, Carlos Martinez, Gage Mallek, Katia Cruz and Austin Doiron.

Sophomores students Rina Patel, Cathryn Urso and Christine Targett show off their costumes for Twin Day.

Seminole Ridge Grad Brian Masters A Finalist For Design Award

Seminole Ridge High School graduate and editor of last year’s Mirage literary magazine Brian Masters is one of four finalists for the National Scholastic Press Association’s (NSPA) Design of the Year Award, for his two-page “Editor’s Award” spread in last year’s Mirage. Masters’ was one of out of almost 500 entries.

“It feels pretty awesome,” Masters said. “I wasn’t expecting to even be considered, so I’m quite surprised. I think the judges liked that my design was simple. I was able to incorporate the theme of the magazine, but I wasn’t trying to overpower it or take anything away from the artwork.”

The award, co-sponsored by Adobe Systems, will earn Masters a copy of the Adobe Creative Suite if he wins. The 2010 Mirage also received a ranking of “First Class” from the NSPA, which ranked the 2009 issue “Second Class.” The magazine staff is happy they earned the higher ranking last year.

• Ridge JROTC Hosts Inaugural Drill Meet — Seminole Ridge’s Army JROTC academy hosted its first drill meet Oct. 9, competing against battalions from Atlantic, Jupiter, South Fork and Dwyer high schools. The Hawk Battalion did well overall, adding six trophies to the school’s display

Bernardo Hasbach, Trent Hannan and

Equestrian Trails Math Champions

A team of students from Equstrian Trails Elementary School competed against teams from more than 30 elementary schools in Palm Beach County at the recent Math Academic Games. Participants in the competition played the game Equations, which stresses creative mathematics. Students in grades four to six played in groups of three. Team points and individual scores were accumulated throughout the four competitions. Going into the final rounds of competition on Oct. 12, Equestrian Trails Elementary School held a small lead. A strong

finish allowed the ETES team to claim the Palm Beach County championship. Equestrian Trails team members also dominated the individual results: Gary Wu (first place and a perfect score), Zachary Gordon (second place), Joe Kohlbeck (third place), Dylan Tolley (fourth place), Bernardo Hasbach (fifth place) and Ariel Gordon (honorable mention). Other team members include Matthew Sepinuck, Trent Hannan, Janetta Lam, Hallie Bodner and Casey Sosnowski. The team is coached by fifth-grade teacher Michelle Regnerus.

case. The team trophies include: first place in mixed squad exhibition drill; second place in male armed squad regulation; third place in unarmed female squad; and third place in mixed unarmed squad regulation. In addition, cadets Jeremy Aponte and Julia Bunting took second place in mixed dual exhibition, and Bunting earned first place in female individual exhibition. All participants received the red and silver Hawk Battalion Drill Meet ribbon, which cadets will wear on their uniforms.

The Hawk Battalion thanks the Florida Army National Guard (which provided the judges for the

meet), the parents of the Hawk Battalion Support Group and the Hawk Battalion corps of cadets for making this event successful.

• FACE Club News — The Seminole Ridge FACE Club is off to a great start this year. Many of the club’s charter members graduated in May, but more than 50 students attended this year’s first meeting. Several of the students from last year’s club volunteered over the summer for a weekend camp in June and manned the child-care room for the Florida Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association’s 50th annual symposium in Naples. The club is sponsored by speech pathologist Peggy Larson.

RPB’s Cypress Trails Joins ‘Walk To School Day’

More than 300 students and parents from Cypress Trails Elementary School participated in “International Walk to School Day” on Wednesday, Oct. 6.

It is part of an international effort in more than 40 countries to celebrate the many benefits of safely walking and bicycling to school and to encourage more families to consider getting out of the car and onto their feet on the way to school in October.

Walking and biking to school also embodies two main goals of First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move campaign: to increase children’s physical activity and to empower parents to make these

kinds of healthy choices.

Students at Cypress Trails who participated received walk-toschool stickers, walk safely bracelets, reflectors for their backpacks, and a ticket for a free bottle of water. Prior to this day, students were instructed in their physical education classes on the safety involved in crossing the street. This was Cypress Trails’ sixth year participating in this international event.

Parent volunteers, crossing guards, Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office deputies, school safety patrols, middle school assistants and the physical education teachers worked together to make the day a huge success.

WHS Debate Team Competes In Ft. Lauderdale

On Saturday, Oct. 2, the Wellington High School debate team continued the trend set the previous month by earning honors and representing the school honorably at the Flying L Invitational Debate Tournament.

Wellington had 22 of the roughly 700 competitors at Fort Lauderdale High School, and had entries in eight different events. Junior Richard Odle placed third overall in Novice Lincoln Douglas Debate, going 3-1 in his first LD competition ever, while freshman Kevin Murphy advanced to the Novice Super Congress chamber — one of only 12 students to advance to the final round. Odle’s debate topic philosophically dealt with whether states should possess nuclear weapons. In Novice Public Forum De-

bate, Wellington was represented by two novice teams: Dominick DeFazio and Stephi Maravankin, who went 3-1 and placed ninth out of 38 teams, and Heather Brown and Alexa Fortuna, who went 22. Both squads debated whether NATO’s presence in Afghanistan has been beneficial to Afghani citizens.

Other first-year Wellington debaters who had success were the Novice Duo Interpretation team of Danielle Buxbaum and Madi McDole, who performed a 10-minute cutting of Fiddler on the Roof; Jazmon Morgan in the poetry/ prose event Novice Oral Interpretation; Scott Meskin, who served as Student Congress presiding officer twice, including one unanimous election; and six speeches by senior Dylan Giesler in Student

Congress, the most speeches given by a Wellington congressperson at one tournament in more than three years.

In addition, Wellington fielded its first policy debate team (John Cassel and Katerina Mangini) since May 2005. Seven members of the novice class were enrolled in the National Forensic League: DeFazio, Fortuna, Giesler, Maravankin, McDole, Meskin and Murphy. These students have now earned more than 25 NFL points each, earning the NFL’s Degree of Merit.

Wellington also competed Oct. 15-16 at the Titan Invitational at Nova High School. The WHS debate team is coached by Paul L. Gaba. For additional information, visit the team’s web site at www. wellingtondebate.com.

Richard Odle with his third-place trophy.

Math Academic Team Champs — (Front row, L-R) Janetta Lam, Hallie Bodner, Ariel Gordon, teacher Michelle Regnerus and Casey Sosnowski; (back) Dylan Tolley, Zachary Gordon, Matthew Sepinuck, Joe Kohlbeck,

Gary Wu.

Seminole Ridge JROTC cadets during a drill meet Oct. 9.

Crossing guard Wanda Bail crosses parents and students.

Nick Scozzaro Named To NEFC Defensive Honor Roll At Endicott

The Endicott College football team pulled off a dramatic fourthquarter comeback Sept. 25, defeating Salve Regina 29-28 thanks to dominating performances by junior linebacker Nick Scozzaro of Wellington and junior quarterback Phil Konopka of Shelton, Conn. For their efforts, the New England Football Conference (NEFC) named both players to the NEFC Honor Roll.

Scozzaro was named a NEFC defensive honor roll player after recording five solo tackles, including three for a loss of 14 yards in the win. Two of those tackles behind the line of scrimmage were quarterback sacks as he helped bring the Gulls offense back on the field in the fourth quarter through strong defensive stops. Scozzaro also recovered a fumble in the Seahawks backfield and hurried the quarterback twice.

Endicott College is located in Beverly, Mass. For more information, visit www.endicott.edu. Nick Scozzaro

Visually Impaired Teen Robbie Elkins Chosen For Band Outta Sight

The Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind recently selected 19year-old Robbie Elkins of Royal Palm Beach to be among 11 high school students who make up the pop band Outta Sight. He is the son of Diane and Ray Hockensmith and James Elkins.

Outta Sight includes drums, brass, piano and soloists, and its current specialty area is old favorites, featuring a mix of music from the ’60s to today. The students travel throughout the state giving free performances to community and civic groups, and at Florida schools.

Outta Sight is an elite group composed of students who are mainly blind/visually impaired. The show they present is complete with singers, popular music and a

Johnson Scholarship Foundation Inc. To qualify for the group, FSDB students must be highly motivated and meet stringent academic requirements. The students are all high school age, with a few selected outstanding middle school students.

Outta Sight is in high demand among corporate businesses for diversity week engagements, and they perform in community events throughout the state. The group performs live in concert at the Capitol Rotunda Courtyard in Tallahassee often during the second semester, prior to graduation. They also participate in a local holiday concert and a spring arts festival.

The FSDB also offers a postsecondary program. There is no

Amie Schneider Named PE Teacher Of The Year

Equestrian Trails Elementary School physical education teacher Amie Schneider recently was recognized in Orlando as the Florida Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation Dance and Sport (FAHPERDS) Elementary Educator of the Year for the State of Florida. Schneider has been teaching physical education for 18 years. She teaches with a simple philosophy in which every one of her students walks out of her class feeling good about himself or herself. She is recognized as a true educator who focuses on allowing students to develop and participate in health and fitness programs and activities that will help them lead a healthy lifestyle. As the wellness champion at Equestrian Trails, she also provides colleagues with opportunities to become active and live a healthier life. Schneider strives to educate and promote wellness through newsletters and school web sites to parents and the community.

“Schneider has accomplished so many tasks over the past several years, including being a nationally board certified teacher and mentor, one of only two National Association for Sport and Physical Education [NASPE] Stars recipients in Palm Beach County, Commit 2B Fit ambassador and a nominee for the Dwyer Award,” School District Physical Education Administrator Eric Stern said.

“She is an asset in so many ways. However, her real accomplishment is that she is a role model and helps to mold so many young students into fine and healthy citizens.”

Schneider has presented at Palm Beach County Professional Development trainings and at the state’s FAHPERDS conference.

“Schneider is passionate about physical fitness and helping every child achieve their full potential,” Equestrian Trails Principal Sandra Gero said. “She is truly a gift to the education profession.”

Schneider will represent FAH-

PERDS as the Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year and will compete against 12 other candidates from Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina,

Florida Trail Association Readies For ‘Big O’ Hike

The Florida Trail Association’s 19th annual hike around Lake Okeechobee will begin Saturday, Nov. 20 promptly at 8 a.m. from the Pahokee Marina. It will finish Sunday, Nov. 28 back in Pahokee.

Over the course of nine days, hikers will travel 110 miles. Daily hikes range from 9.5 to 15 miles and are done at the individual hiker’s pace. Each day’s segment starts at sunrise, except for day one, and finishes by noon at one of the eight trail-heads around the lake. A shorter introductory hike, affectionately named the “Wimp Walk,” of only 3.5 miles from Pahokee to Canal Point, is available on opening day. Everyone is invited to join in for a day, a weekend or more. There are no fees and you do not have to be a member of the Florida Trail Association to join in. This hike is not a backpacking ordeal. Only day packs are needed. Gear is left behind in campgrounds, motels or vehicles. Daily hikes are held in the early part of the day, and afternoons are for relaxing or sightseeing. Dinners are usually enjoyed at a variety of local restaurants. This yearly event is always held during Thanksgiving week, and hikers, friends and family tradi-

tionally celebrate Thanksgiving dinner at the Clewiston Inn. There have been as many as 90 people from the group there during dinner.

Days are spent hiking the Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail, which is a major segment of the 1,400mile Florida National Scenic Trail. How many people, even residents of the Glades, have seen the vistas all around the Big Lake?

Riding in a car is not the same as walking 35 feet, on average, above the surrounding terrain. In the Glades, that’s like mountain climbing. Farm, cattle and urban areas pass by slowly and hikers have a chance to take it all in at a leisurely pace.

The event began modestly with eight hikers in 1992. Each year has seen the number of participants increase to more than several hundred hikers and well-wishers on opening day.

For two men, this will be their 19th consecutive year of walking in circles. Paul Cummings and Gordon Johnson have done every hike. Adding this year’s “Big O” hike to their total, they will each have walked 2,090 miles from Pahokee to Pahokee.

Cummings, a retired air force officer, used to mark each event

with a dated hash mark on his sleeve. He stopped the practice when he ran out of room.

This hike is the longest-running scheduled activity in the history of the statewide Florida Trail Association, the volunteer organization that builds and maintains the National Scenic Trail in Florida, the Florida Trail.

The “Big O” hike was started by the Loxahatchee chapter of the Florida Trail Association. With headquarters in Gainesville, the Florida Trail Association has 18 chapters statewide and approximately 6,000 members in the United States and Canada. For information about the 19th annual “Big O” hike, e-mail Cummings at cummingsps@att.net or call him at (561) 963-9906.

Top Teacher — Amie Schneider with professional golfer Annika Sorenstam in Orlando after Schneider received her award.

Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia to become the Southern District Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year in February 2011.

One of the decorated trunks from last year’s Family Fun Fair.

St. Michael Lutheran Church To Host Family Fun Fair On Nov. 6

St. Michael Lutheran Church in Wellington will host its annual Family Fun Fair on Saturday, Nov. 6 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Event organizers noted that there will be something for everyone in the family: a classic car show, a Vietnam-era Huey helicopter, a vintage fire truck, Christmas and assorted handmade crafts, a huge plant sale, a silent auction, raffle baskets, a bake sale, crafts for kids plus a bounce house and slide, as well

as plenty of food and drinks. There will be a contest for the best decorated automobile, with Wellington Mayor Darell Bowen judging the first- and second-place entries.

St. Michael Lutheran Church is located at 1925 Birkdale Drive, at the corner of Forest Hill Blvd. and Birkdale Drive. For more information about the annual Family Fun Fair, call the church office at (561) 793-4999 or visit www.stmichael elc.com.

Oct. 27 Wine Gala Benefits Diabetes Research

As part of a national partnership with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), the Fresh Market in Wellington will host a fine wine gala Wednesday, Oct. 27 from 7 to 9 p.m. All money from ticket sales will benefit diabetes research and education. More than 50 wines will be available for sampling, and hors d’oeuvres, including prime rib, shrimp cocktail and distinctive cheeses, will be served throughout the evening. There will even be a raffle. One hundred percent of the proceeds collected in Wellington directly benefit JDRF’s Greater Palm Beach County chapter.

Juvenile (Type 1) diabetes is a chronic disease that strikes children suddenly, makes them insulin dependent for life, and carries the constant threat of complications. More than 24 million Americans have diabetes and it kills one person every three minutes. Since 1970, JDRF has given more than $1.4 billion to diabetes research and education, operating with an 82 percent efficiency ratio. Tickets to the wine gala are $30 and can be purchased by calling the JDRF chapter office at (561) 686-7701. More information can be obtained by calling the office, or visiting the chapter web site at www.jdrf.org/greaterpalmbeach.

Bones Completes Navy Basic Training

U.S. Navy Seaman Raymond Bones, son of Raymond and Sarah Bones and brother of Steven Bones of Royal Palm Beach, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Ill.

During the eight-week program, Bones completed a variety of training, which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. During training, an emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.

The capstone event of boot camp is “Battle Stations.” This exercise gives recruits the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the fleet.

Battle Stations is designed to galvanize the basic warrior attributes of sacrifice, dedication, teamwork and endurance in each recruit through the practical application of basic Navy skills and the core values of honor, courage and commitment.

The distinctly Navy flavor of Battle Stations was designed to take into account what it means to be a sailor.

Michael Burdo Named To NHS At Dreyfoos

and Rita

of Royal

have announced that their son Michael Burdo has been inducted into the National Honor Society. Burdo is a junior and a visual arts major at the Dreyfoos School of the Arts.

After graduating from Dreyfoos in 2012, Burdo hopes to continue his education at one of the following colleges: Columbia University, New York University or Boston University. He plans to major in architecture and design, with his sights set on becoming an Imagineer for Disney, working in resort development.

Fresh Market Front End Manager Kristie Cox, Store Manager Russell Shuck and floral specialist Linda Macdonald.

Vinny

Burdo

Palm Beach

Michael Burdo

Schaller Independent Candidate

continued from page 1

to know that when I set my mind to something, it will be done, and it will be done better than when I started out because I’m open and receptive to learning along the way.” If elected, Schaller said he would look to improve accountability.

“I’m running for the seat I originally turned to for help,” he said. “I know I can do a better job. I know I care more. I know I’ll go to the league of cities meetings. I know I’ll go to Palm Beach County Days. I’ll actually go and do the things that are required.”

Schaller noted that he has already looked into the accountability issue, being the first person to request an audit of the engineering department.

He said that his business experience in dealing with small businesses across the nation will be an asset to the district. “I know what the real world is like better than the other two,” Schaller said. To improve the county, Schaller said he would make things more accessible for the average working citizen. He noted that hearings on public matters often are at 2 p.m. on workdays.

“You get three minutes a month to have matters by the public, only 10 times a year. That’s 30 minutes,” he said. “I would like to see the county have an open forum at night. It’s only one night a month. I’d like to make sure that people who want to show up don’t have to worry about babysitters, jobs, school or whatever else, and be able to have their county commission accessible.”

Amendment 4 Supporters Disagree

continued from page 3 buy the property next to you, you will have to go through a comprehensive plan change,” he said.

“Are you going to have the dollars to be able to hire the special interests that will get the word out?”

Friszolowski said that Amendment 4 does not discriminate in the planning process, and that there are no exemptions for items such as hospitals or public schools. The

Schaller said he thinks there is an “ivory tower mentality” among elected officials that makes them unapproachable to citizens. “You need to be out amongst the people,” he said. “You need to be able to have a conversation. It’s not an office. It’s not a title. It’s a privilege and a responsibility to be elected.”

The top campaign issue for Schaller is boosting the economy, which he said includes bringing more high-level jobs. “We need the medical arts district,” he said. “We need to be able to bring in another school. We need to have the high-end jobs that will facilitate some of the other support roles.”

Schaller said he would look to provide equal services to all parts of the county. “I believe we should start with fairness no matter where you’re geographically located,” he said. “I think you ought to have the same levels of service. And if it’s not fitting for one area, it shouldn’t be fitting for the other.”

That is especially true for the Glades communities, Schaller said, noting that area has been neglected for far too long.

Regarding cutting the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office budget, Schaller said that the county commission has a responsibility to consider cuts because it’s the largest item affecting the county budget.

“I have questions,” he said. “The sheriff has quite a bit of equipment. Why are we buying jet fuel? What does the sheriff use jet fuel for? Why do we have the number of boats that we do, the multiple SWAT teams, bomb squads and things of that nature? Do we need all that?”

Schaller criticized the county commission for overspending its money in the past instead of sav-

law could delay a hospital from expanding for years. “Why would you want to delay a hospital or the economic impacts of the hospital? It doesn’t make any sense,” he said.

Also, businesses and other agencies are afraid to touch St. Pete Beach because the community remains tied up in lawsuits, he said, and that means that the community is experiencing a double whammy from the recession and from a measure that was supposed to help the community. St. Pete Beach used to be the poster child for Hometown Democracy, he said, but now the proponents

ing for tough times. “I believe in saving for a rainy day and using the good times to buffer the days that are bad,” he said.

On another important issue, Schaller said he does not have the expertise to determine whether or not there is a cancer cluster in The Acreage; however, he did say he would like to see the county set up a program for water testing and/or help make county water affordable if the community wants it.

He criticized Santamaria for failing to attend a meeting in Tallahassee on the subject. “When you have the opportunity to assemble some of the minds who know more than you do and you don’t show, that’s a problem,” Schaller said.

To help spur job growth and the economy, Schaller said he would look at what drove away highwage companies such as Motorola and fix those problems. He suggested a Disney-type system where large businesses get significant tax incentives.

“We need to get a better quality of jobs, the higher-level jobs,” he said. “And we need to understand why we were unsuccessful in retaining those types of jobs.”

Regarding the moniker “corruption county” and efforts to change that image, Schaller said he would like to see the ethics code rewritten so that an official is liable if he or she acts out of vengeance, meanness or neglect, not just if the act is for financial gain.

He also said he would like to see the code changed to better prevent conflict of interest. He specifically pointed to the example of Santamaria aide Dennis Lipp, who also serves as vice mayor of Loxahatchee Groves. “Issues of Loxahatchee Groves come up from time to time,” Schaller said. “How

of Amendment 4 are distancing themselves from the community because it was an experiment gone bad.

“Back in 2006, they were citing us on their web site,” Friszolowski said. “Now, we are their worst nightmare… I’m asking voters to learn about St. Pete Beach. I would hate to see the State of Florida go through what we’ve gone through.”

However, several people were on hand to note the benefits of Amendment 4. Area resident Michael Axelberd recounted several instances of local officials pushing through de-

do you prepare the information that you are going to give to your commissioner and not have a conflict?”

Schaller differentiates himself from Santamaria because he said he will go wherever he needs to be whenever it is necessary to get the job done.

“I will go to Tallahassee for Palm Beach County Days,” he said. “You can call it lobbyist time, party time, whatever you want, but when you have unfunded mandates coming down from the state level, it’s pretty important to know who is giving you your marching orders.”

Schaller addressed accusations that he is running a campaign to unseat Santamaria due to personal grievances stemming from the incumbent’s failure to get Fargo Ave. paved, a project Schaller strongly supported.

Schaller stressed that he has no personal animosity toward the incumbent but felt that he would be a more effective elected official who would work better with the other commissioners. “It’s important that the people are represented by the best choice,” he said.

Though he is running as an independent, Schaller said he can win because many district voters are not party affiliated. He also noted that this is a year of antiincumbent sentiment and asserted that a number of residents have expressed frustration with Santamaria to Schaller.

Schaller said voters should choose him because he will be a commissioner who’s accountable for his actions, will be open to the public and will follow through with projects.

“There’s not a more local race that will affect more of us than the county commission race,” he said. “I’m the best man for the job.”

velopments without community support.

“Amendment 4 can protect us against unscrupulous planning board members,” Axelberd said. “How else are we supposed to protect ourselves? They are supposed to represent the wishes of the constituents… I respect your opinion, and I will think twice about this, but there has to be some way to protect ourselves from this.”

Kay Gates, a member of the Sierra Club, said her organization supports Amendment 4 because it and other groups are frustrated with county and city commissioners going against citizens’ wishes

Aero Club Factions Dividing Community

continued from page 1 votes on the petition to remove the old board, members of the newly appointed board rejected several of the signatures, leaving the petition without a majority.

The two sides disagree on why the votes were rejected.

“They were rejected on technicalities,” Kozan said. “For example, a resident signed ‘Cindy’ instead of ‘Cynthia,’ prompting her vote to be rejected.”

But Smith said that the board rejected only duplicate signatures, those that came from deceased residents or from residents who were not property owners.

However, Kozan’s group believes that because the old board members’ resignations were done against community bylaws, and because the old board did not certify the petition in time, the community vote to remove them stands.

“Our position is that we [the Fair Play leaders] legally constitute the new board,” Kozan said, referring to the appointed board as a “faux board.”

But Smith said that because the board followed the community bylaws, the new board stands.

“We followed all of the documented procedures,” he said. “The new board will continue to go forward.”

The legality of the old board’s resignation, along with the petition for an injunction filed by several community members, was expected to be heard in court Thursday morning. A decision

in the planning process. Even after a litany of corruption prosecutions, there are still some people who are not doing what they were elected to do but were voting for their own interests, she said, adding that not every detail would be voted on in a public referendum.

“Amendment 4 will control development and protect the quality of life,” she said. “We are told that development will improve our way of life. We have to put in roads and schools. It costs the taxpayers money. You wind up with higher taxes to build them.”

Friszolowski said he understands people’s frustration but

was not available at press time.

“We’re going to stall this [construction] as long as we can,” Kozan said. “If we get an injunction, they won’t be able to move forward until we address the legality of their position.”

If the judge rules that the Wellington Fair Play Group are the rightful leaders of the Aero Club, Kozan said that the issue of whether to pave the runway would be put to a community vote. Smith said a community vote is not required and that the board chose to make the decision itself because of the complexities behind it.

“We felt that issues of this importance and significance should not be put to a community vote,” he said. “There’s a lot of misinformation out there, and the issue is very complex. There’s no way an individual voter would understand all of the issues involved. We didn’t want to take that chance.”

But Kozan said even though it’s not necessary, his board would bind itself to the community’s decision, be it paving or grass.

“Our board is going to give the community what it wanted all along,” he said, “a voice in the matter.”

One thing both sides can agree on is the ripple effect this has had on the community.

“I’m sad,” Smith said. “The community has such strong feelings on both sides of the issue that we couldn’t agree on a compromise.”

Kozan echoed Smith’s sentiment, noting that there is an obvious divide among the community, which used to be so close.

“It’s horrible,” he said. “They wanted to rip the runway apart, and what they did was rip the community apart.”

suggested that a better alternative would be for people to get more involved in the process and hold elected officials accountable.

“We realize we were trying to correct something, and we made it worse,” he said. “It was overwhelmingly revoked. You are going to run a campaign against big developers, and they will win. They bombard everyone with literature. I am going around the State of Florida telling people this will make things worse. This is the reason why we voted to repeal it. This will be worse than the current situation.”

BINKS FOREST HOSTS FOURTH ANNUAL JAMES RYAN RIVERA GOLF TOURNAMENT

The fourth annual James Ryan Rivera Muscular Dystrophy Golf Tournament took place Saturday, Oct. 16 at the Binks Forest Golf Club. Rivera was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy in 2007. Money from the benefit will go toward his medical bills. For more info., visit www.jamesriverabenefit.com.

Carroll Second Run For The Job

continued from page 1 whose job included the removal of gang signs. “When you see that out there, it’s telling people that gangs are alive and well,” Carroll said. “I haven’t been part of that for a while, but in the last couple of years they have reduced gang violence by 50 percent. I’m hoping I had some effect on that during my tenure.” Carroll believes he is the best candidate in the race because of his determination to stop spending money the county does not have. “We are at a point right now that every dollar we spend that we don’t have, we’re going to put your children and grandchildren in debt before they are born,” he said. To make up the county’s revenue shortfall, Carroll said he would look to the public safety budget. “If you look at the sheriff’s budget, which accounts for about 50 percent of the general budget, what’s being overlooked is fire-rescue,” he said, noting that

Santamaria Fighting Corruption

continued from page 1 ceive to give. I give because it’s the right thing to do. If I have $5, I’m willing to give $2 of what I have.”

Professionally, he said his top accomplishments have been pushing for an independent inspector general and stopping the Southern Blvd. landfill site.

“The inspector general is the best thing that’s happened to the county,” Santamaria said, noting that he fought against the initial plan to allow the county commission to hire and fire the inspector general. “How independent could that be?”

Santamaria also noted that he was able to save the county more than $60 million by fighting a new landfill. “We were going to pay four times the value for the land,” he said. “I got the activists in the community together and said, ‘You’ve got to help me fight this thing.’”

If elected, Santamaria said he would look to help the Glades communities by stimulating the economy and creating jobs. He noted that the inland port would

To Nov. 16

continued from page 3 and the people of Loxahatchee seem to work well with the county as far as getting bona fide ag.” Mayor Dave Browning agreed, adding that removal of bona fide agriculture might get them in trouble with right-to-farm laws. Jarriel made a motion to leave the bona fide agriculture definition in, Liang seconded, and the motion carried 4-1 with Rockett opposed.

Benacquisto Republican Candidate

continued from page 5 and 6, the two redistricting amendments. Saying, “it is in the hands of the people,” she noted that the District 27 seat will likely change dramatically in two years either way.

Benacquisto acknowledged that many voters on the west side of the district feel they lack representation because their senator lives across the state, but she vowed to change those feelings.

“Folks over there [in Lee County] feel very strongly about wanting a resident senator,” she said. “I’ve committed to help make that change. I’m going to fight for it.” Regarding several bills vetoed

the PBSO has announced it will not seek a cost-of-living raise for the third consecutive year, but Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue has taken a different position.

“Their budget was approved with a COLA raise. I am very pro-public safety, but when you break down the salaries of law enforcement compared to fire-rescue by rank-to-rank analysis, they make about 30 percent more.”

Carroll said that Sheriff Ric Bradshaw has stated that he did not intend to take deputies off the street but would find other ways to cut. He said one problem in the county is duplication of services.

“We have three motor pools,” he said. “Reducing duplication would mean millions and millions of dollars for our community.”

Some services could be privatized, he said. “You see it in the courthouse,” he said. “Those security people in the courthouse are a lot cheaper than having sheriff’s deputies.”

Carroll said he thinks the county commission did a good job working with the sheriff to find budget cuts. “The county needs to give him guidance and say, ‘This is what we’re going to cut; this is

be a great help. “I want to be able to get that inland port started,” he said. “People have said I was against the inland port, but that wasn’t the case. I was against the location… Now we’ve got the right location, the environmentalists are supporting it, and it probably will happen.”

It will be several years, however, before the project will open, he noted. A benefit for the community that would take less time would be creating a resort to draw more vacationers to the Glades.

“What I think can happen sooner is converting the beautiful Belle Glade marina into a resort,” Santamaria said. “We can have our own little resort for boating, fishing and golf right here in our backyard, 30 minutes away.”

He is also helping the Glades by providing free job training through Palm Beach State College. “You can’t get jobs for people who have no skills,” he said. “You’ve got to give them training.”

Another goal upon his re-election, would be to help local businesses by providing free consulting and financing for businesses providing needed services.

“Lend money for good projects,” he said. “Lend money to the small businessman. Provide guid-

The noise ordinance drew opposition largely from bird breeders who have come under fire from neighbors complaining about the noisier avian varieties. There was discussion of the time period that a noise would constitute a violation, and council members decided to change a 15minute time with noise of 55 decibels or greater to 10 minutes, during which time the noise must be occurring 10 percent of the time. Bird breeder Howard Voren said the county noise ordinance makes no reference to animals and has exceptions for fixed machines such as pump equipment. “Noth-

by Gov. Charlie Crist, Benacquisto said she felt the school reform Senate Bill 6 was flawed. She said she would like to see the stakeholders at the table if the bill returns next year.

Benacquisto admitted there are problems with the FCAT and suggested instead testing students at the beginning and end of the school year to accurately gauge their progress.

She also said she would have supported a bill requiring women seeking abortions to have an ultrasound as long as there was a provision for victims of rape, sexual assault and incest to opt out. But she said that the root of the problem lies in self-confidence among young girls, causing them to make bad decisions.

Though she’s running for a seat that has trended Democratic since the district was last redrawn, Ben-

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

what we need you to cut.’ He did it,” Carroll said. For future cuts, he said the sheriff will have to look at the support units. “The same thing for fire-rescue,” he said. “They’ve got to come on board even though we don’t talk about them that much because they’re their own taxing district. It’s still your taxes.”

Carroll questions how 700 county positions have been cut without a noticeable drop in services. “Why did we need those 700 positions to begin with?” he asked.

Carroll said he feels that County Administrator Bob Weisman can do a better job. “I think that he has to improve,” Carroll said. “He would have to improve drastically because my question to him is going to be, ‘You got rid of 700 employees; why did you have them to begin with?’”

Carroll’s top goals if elected are budgetary. “Knowing how budgets have built-in waste, and I can give you all kinds of examples, what other employees are fat and waste? I don’t know the answer, but when I’m there, I’ll find out that answer,” he said.

Carroll also wants to look into

ance to the business community. If you’re coming in and you want to open another pizza parlor… [government] should say, ‘We have too many pizza parlors already. What we lack are more tailors.’”

Santamaria said that a government-hired consultant could help existing and new businesses flourish. “The idea is to study the market and encourage people to provide services that are not yet available,” he said, “and to discourage the multiplication of the same thing over and over and over again.”

Santamaria criticized some parts of the local business community for promoting duplicate businesses to open in the area, along with encouraging building at a time when storefronts remain empty.

“The chambers of commerce are not doing their job,” he said. “Both chambers are just competing with each other. All they want is more new members to pay their fees. But they are not really giving good advice. They’re failing in that and are really making it worse.”

Specifically, Santamaria pointed to Wellington’s planned medical arts district as a move that promises high-wage jobs but

ing was written that had to do with birds or animals,” he complained. “You are going above and beyond the intent by Palm Beach County.”

Resident Larry Lefkowitz, whose property is adjacent to a bird breeder’s, said, “What Mr. Voren said is true because Palm Beach County did not do its job. As far as measuring, I personally believe that 15 minutes is useless. You could play a 100-decibel song for four minutes, and it would not violate the code.”

Lefkowitz also pointed out that decibel meters are available that will measure an average concen-

acquisto noted that she is the first Republican candidate to hail from Palm Beach County and also the first woman to be nominated.

“In addition,” she said, “the mood of the electorate is anti-incumbent and anti-increasing taxes and debt. And that’s everything [Rader] represents.”

Benacquisto said voters should choose her because she will be a hardworking, truthful legislator who makes a point to be educated on the issues so that she may make the best decision.

“I’m determined to make a difference on their behalf and put them first,” she said. “I want to make sure we always understand that these are their tax dollars we’re spending, and to be sure that they are spent wisely and purposefully. I want to create an environment where businesses and families can thrive.”

the county’s plans to spend $700 million for an incinerator, rather than spend $64 million for another landfill. “The incinerator itself is not a bad thing,” he said. “But in these economic times, we cannot spend $700-plus million.”

For the Glades communities, Carroll said he wants to see that the inland port comes to fruition. “It’s in the works now, but I’m going to see that it happens,” he said. “When you have an area that has a 40 percent unemployment rate, crime is sky-high and this county has never really done anything to help put healthy growth out there… that inland port will help, so I will take a leadership role on that. They need to have their fair share.”

Regarding the recent cancer scare in The Acreage, Carroll said he thinks Santamaria’s job performance on the issue was faulty. “He had a chance to be part of a group that the governor put together,” Carroll said, but he pointed out that Santamaria did not attend the meeting. “He gave a wrong message to people in The Acreage, and they’re not happy at all with that message.”

To stimulate the economy and

could possibly hurt the community.

“This medical arts district is a fraud,” he said. “It’s not going to bring the 6,000 high-paying jobs that they’re talking about. It’s only going to increase the value of the real estate.”

To help make up for budget shortfalls, Santamaria has proposed a small pay cut for highwage employees. He’d like to see a 1 percent cut from employees making $50,000 to $70,000, a 2 percent cut from those making $75,000 to $100,000 and a 3 percent cut from employees making over $100,000.

“I’ve been saying that for three years in a row, and no one has joined me,” he said. “I checked with employees in the county, and no one said not to do it. They all said they could handle the cuts.”

He praised a suggestion by Commissioner Priscilla Taylor to have a furlough but noted that she later backed off the idea. “Take off one day every other month and not get paid for it,” Santamaria explained. “Usually, people like to take long weekends.”

In short, Santamaria wants to focus on cost-saving measures that would do little harm to employees but still save money.

Santamaria believes he is the

tration of noise over a measured time period.

Rockett made a motion to take out the 15-minute clause, which passed 5-0. Rockett then made a motion to enforce against a sound level that exceeds the measurement by 10 percent for any level not less than 10 minutes, which also carried 5-0.

Jarriel said the code is just the beginning. “If it becomes a problem, we can change it, but we have to have something to start with,” he said.

Council members also discussed at what location on one’s property noise becomes a nui-

Rader Democratic Candidate

continued from page 5 local Palm Beach State College campus vetoed last session by Gov. Crist. That is a project he is working on with PBSC President Dr. Dennis Gallon. “Dr. Gallon is hoping that comes to fruition,” Rader said.

Projections show Florida faces another difficult budget year, and Rader said he wants to avoid cutting education by finding additional revenues such as closing unnecessary sales tax loopholes. He also favors an Internet poker tax being touted by State Rep. Joseph Abruzzo (DDistrict 85).

“There are fairer ways of raising revenue,” he said. “You don’t

spur job growth, Carroll said the county needs to attract more business. He noted that Santamaria voted against a medical arts district in Wellington. “The other commissioners approved it,” Carroll said. “It’s showing that it will create 4,000 to 6,000 jobs in the next 10 to 15 years. With the unemployment rate as high as it is, you need to be making decisions that are going to be positive in the future.”

Regarding the perception of the county as corrupt after the resignation of four county commissioners in recent years, Carroll said there has not been accountability and transparency in the past. “It’s occurring now because the media [are] taking a stronger look at what our county commissioners and other elected officials are doing, and they’re reporting it,” he said.

Carroll said the creation of the inspector general’s office is a good start, but more is needed.

He said he favors the county charter amendment for the commission on ethics, inspector general and code of ethics and added that the inspector general should have jurisdiction over other agencies. “We’re not the only ones that

best candidate in the race because he is honest and fair, and seeks to expose corruption.

“I am the only one who is really telling the truth,” he said. “I’m the one exposing the irregularities of government.” Regarding criticism that he does not support the business community enough, Santamaria noted that his voting record shows he votes in favor of business needs 91 percent of the time. He has gotten a bad reputation, however, from those who expect to get exactly what they want from the county all the time, he added.

Santamaria said that his Republican opponent Carroll continually asserts that he will cut taxes but has not expressed a plan on how to do so while also balancing the budget. “I have specifics,” Santamaria said. “And I have dollars and cents — where I’m going to cut it and how I’m going to cut it. I have cut taxes.”

He noted that too much attention is paid to the tax rate, rather than the actual amount collected in taxes, which Santamaria said has gone down year after year since he’s been in office.

He said that although Carroll opposes the county spending money on an incinerator to extend the life of the current landfill, he

sance. Rockett said he felt that it should start at the edge. “I cherish the entire five acres I have,” he said.

Lipp said he understood to a degree but questioned whether it should be a violation if he can hear his neighbor talking from his back deck. Liang said he did not want anyone to use the ordinance as a weapon. “I don’t want it too strict or too lax,” he said. “My concern is someone abusing it and using it as a tool.”

Consultant Michelle Melgren suggested using the 50-foot setback as a starting point.

have a corruption problem,” he said. “It’s the cities, it’s everybody.” Carroll asserted that Santamaria does not work well with the other commissioners. “In order to get things done in your district, you have to get along with those other commissioners,” he said. “You have to have a working relationship. He does not.”

Understanding that it is difficult to defeat an incumbent, Carroll hopes that Schaller, the third candidate in the race, will take votes away from Santamaria, not himself. “He will come in third in this race,” Carroll predicted. “I think he will get more than 10 percent. He is working very hard. There [are] people out there who are going to vote for someone other than Jess Santamaria, and I’m trying to make sure that those people know if they vote for the third party candidate, they might as well vote for Santamaria. I’m the only one who can beat him.” Carroll regards his top strengths as his management skills, personality and ethics. “I have a spotless record,” he said. “When you talk about corruption, it’s not going to happen to me.”

ignores the fact that the county stands to make enough money to break even.

Also on the ballot is independent candidate Schaller, who has had a heated disagreement with Santamaria stemming from the county’s failure to pave Fargo Ave., a project Schaller petitioned for and Santamaria once supported. “I spent over 100 hours of my time meeting with him, meeting with the engineers,” Santamaria said. “He came to me, and I said I would help him. I told him I would help him financially. I tried to help him, and I succeeded because we got him approved.”

However, Santamaria said, the county failed to send a notice to Schaller’s neighbors that they would have to contribute to the road. When the notice was sent, his neighbors came before the commission and refused to pay, so the vote was rescinded.

Santamaria said that people should choose him because he’s a true voice of the people.

“I truly represent them,” he said.

“I really vote for what the people want and to improve their quality of life. My main objective is to protect the quality of life in District 6… I truly represent the people; I don’t represent any special interests.”

Jarriel made a motion to go with the setbacks, which carried unanimously.

have to raise taxes on your driver’s licenses or auto fees, which is what every Republican voted for last session.”

Rader said he supports the redistricting amendments 5 and 6, which seek to end overly gerrymandered districts. “I do not want districts that look like my current districts,” he said.

The “Hometown Democracy” Amendment 4, however, needs to be defeated because it would stifle the construction industry, Rader said. “There is no reason to send these industries that are barely staying alive out of the state,” he said, adding that having the public vote on land-use changes would be too confusing.

Rader characterizes Benacquisto as a right-wing extremist. “For other districts, her views might be appropriate, mandating a woman

Rockett said he was uncomfortable with the number of changes that had been made that evening and asked that more time be allowed. “I’d like the opportunity to look through it,” he said. Cirullo said the council could adopt it that evening and make changes later or continue it to another specific meeting. Rockett made a motion to continue the final reading to Nov. 16, which carried unanimously. Council members also canceled their meeting for Nov. 2 due to Election Day.

be forced to view an ultrasound if she deems to end her pregnancy,” he said. “That is probably one of the most restrictive laws in the country when it comes to pro-life, pro-choice amendments or bills or statutes.”

Rader regards his top strength as fighting for what he believes is right. As an example, he refers to a bill he has fought for that would put a referendum on the ballot to abolish Florida’s alien land law approved by Florida voters in 1926. He said it discriminates against Asian-Americans. He said his bill probably will never pass, but that won’t prevent him from fighting for it. He said voters should vote for him because his values fit the district.

“I’m willing to work very hard,” Rader said. “I’m not extreme in any of my views.”

Winners Alec Ardito and Drew Evelin with their trophies.

Marlene Bruegman, Carole Browne and Iseult Broglio.

Event Chair Amy Kent, Daisy Nelson, event founder Dawn Dallin, and James, Guillermo, Peter and Milagros Rivera.

Nagel Heads South For New Equestrian Career

Columnist Ellen Rosenberg wrote about Dru Nagel when she ran Aesop Stables, and then about an establishment where she specialized in helping older riders with fears of falling. Now, Dru is reinventing her equestrian career once again. Ellen Rosenberg’s Column, Page 27

Wellington Football Team Tops Forest Hill 20-6

Despite more than 100 yards in penalties, the Wellington High School varsity football team defeated host Forest Hill Falcons 20-6 on Thursday, Oct. 14. In the fourth quarter, Wellington controlled the ball until taking a knee with 20 seconds left in the game, giving them a morale-boosting win. Page 41

A TOWN-CRIER PUBLICATION

New Faculty Announced At Movement Arts Dance Academy In Royal Palm

Several new instructors joined the faculty at Movement Arts Dance Academy for the 2010-11 school year. The company welcomes ballet, modern and conditioning instructor Whitney Earnhardt; tap and musical theater instructor Peggy Brown; and hip-hop instructor Kara Krupa. In addition, several students were accepted to perform with the Miami City Ballet in George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker Page 35

Spor ts

Wolverine Pitcher

Nick Lawrence Makes USSSA National Team

In August, Wellington High School pitcher Nick Lawrence was invited by the USSSA to tryout for its 16-U national team. After being evaluated by the team’s coaches and MLB veterans, Lawrence was chosen. The reward: to play in Italy next summer.

Page 41

Dru Nagel Heads South To Begin A New Equestrian Career

I love yard sales! Come Saturday morning, I’m raring to go. Sometimes I have particular items in mind; sometimes, I’m just in the mood to see what’s out there. Half the fun is spotting a treasure, and the other half is getting it for a great price. A few weekends ago, I saw an ad for a barn/yard sale — someone was moving, and all the barn stuff was available. Well, that was one I had to visit.

I drove out to Little Ranches, off Southern and Royal Palm Beach boulevards, and then followed the signs. It was a split sale, with both partners in charge of different venues. Les Saltzman was manning the household goods in the house’s driveway (I got a mirror and a framed cat print), and Dru Nagel was in charge of the horsey stuff down the next driveway at the barn.

Dru and Les had lived there for about a year and a half. Dru ran a stable called the Riding School. I smiled as we shook hands. I’d written about her when she ran Aesop Stables in Loxahatchee, and then about this establishment where she specialized in helping “chicken adults,” older riders with fears of falling. And now, Dru is, once again, reinventing her business but still staying within the horse field. “We’ll be moving down to Boca Raton,” she told me. “I’m going to be semi-retired. I’ll still be teaching, but not at my own facility, at another barn down there. Some of my students will be coming along. Two of my clients’ horses are moving with me. I sold my two schooling horses, and now the rest of the stuff can go.”

Tales From The Trails

By Ellen Rosenberg

There were all sorts of things for sale at good prices: saddles, one as low as $20, bridles, saddle pads, blankets, grooming implements, halters, lead ropes, a whole field full of jumps, rakes and barn utensils, buckets — all the usual stuff. I got a wooden saddle rack which I didn’t exactly need but was too good a buy to pass up. And besides, I’ll probably need it. One of these days.

Dru told me she’s also starting a new career, as an assistant race horse trainer. She’s gotten her license and will be working with Les, who is a successful and experienced trainer.

“I’ve always loved Thoroughbreds,” Dru said. “Even when I was riding and showing, I never joined the Warmblood phase, when everyone simply had to have a Warmblood. I just adore Thoroughbreds. They have more heart and courage than any other breed. And now, I’m really looking forward to working with them and training them to race. Les has a great lifetime win rate of 20 percent. In racing, a 3 percent to 10 percent win rate is considered successful.”

Dru believes that trainers will be thrilled to send their horses to them. She said they won’t be breaking youngsters but taking older race horses, aged two years and up, and running them at Gulf Stream.

“This is going to be a whole new career for me. I’m looking forward to learning a lot from Les,” Dru said. “I already know about the care and training of horses, but not of race horses. A big part of making any horse successful in

any endeavor is keeping him happy, and each horse is different. Race horses also have to be fit mentally and physically. That’s the right recipe for success.”

Kaitlin DesJardins, from Wellington, was a little sad that Dru was leaving. Kaitlin, 14, is a student who’s been riding with Dru for four years.

“I’ll be going down to Boca to continue See ROSENBERG, page 28

Trainer Dru Nagel is heading south to Boca Raton for a new business adventure.

Cageless Bird Sitting? I Think That’s A Bird-Brained Idea!

OK, now I’ve seen it all — a sign on a stake pounded into the ground that reads, “Pampered Cageless Pet Sitting for Birds.” For birds?

I was actually cool with the sign when I read the first part. “Pampered Cageless Pet Sitting” is certainly a better choice than leaving Rover cooped up all day in his crate while his master goes to work. Even if the pet sitter was just there for an hour or two, to give the dog a break, I could understand that.

But birds? Imagine the scenario:

“Tweety, I’m coming into the house. It’s just me, your pet sitter. Don’t be afraid, Tweety.”

Tweety reacts in typical bird fashion, with a cocked head and questioning look. The pet sitter approaches the cage. “I’m going to unlock your cage now, Tweety.”

Now Tweety goes ballistic. My cage! My cage! That walker-talker is coming over to my cage!

There is the cautionary sound of loud, hys-

Deborah Welky is The Sonic BOOMER

terical tweeting and a sudden flapping of wings as Tweety goes into escape mode. The bird bangs itself against the bars of the cage, trying to escape its stalker.

“I see you’re going to be glad to get out of there!” the misinformed pet sitter remarks. And when she touches the cage, Tweety goes completely berserk — screeching, flapping, trembling.

When the door is opened, he flattens himself against the far wall of the cage — at least as much as his homebound, birdseed-bloated form will permit — and goes into hyperwarp.

The squawking is deafening. There are feathers everywhere. “Now, now. Don’t worry. I’ll have you out of there in no time.”

The pet-sitter reaches into the cage. The bird is thinking, “Should I peck the pellets out of her, or will that just make things worse? Damn this wall-less room! I’m having a privacy screen installed first thing Monday morning!”

Yet the shocked and now-silent bird is grasped around the middle and pulled from its home by force. Once outside its comforting bars, the bird thinks, “Now I suppose she’s expecting me to fly or something. Oh, well, here goes.”

Completely out of practice, it flaps and flops and drags itself over to the top of a picture frame and sits there, confused, while the pet-sitter goes to the fridge and helps herself to some ice cream.

“I’m going out to the patio to eat this, Tweety,” she says. “Don’t get any bright ideas about following me out there, though!” (Selfcongratulatory laughter. A job well done.)

Meanwhile, inside the house, Tweety takes this opportunity to dart back into its cage, where the food and water and mirrors and jinglebells are. At last. “Home Tweet Home,” it thinks.

Upon her return, the bird-sitter is somewhat crestfallen to find Tweety back in his cage with the door slammed shut. She shrugs and writes a misleading note for the homeowner: “Tweety and I had a wonderful afternoon. He explored the living room and perched on a picture frame. He considered following me out to the patio but, don’t worry, I discouraged this (moronic little smiley face). No matter, I’ll be back again tomorrow for his ‘freedom run.’ Please just leave my $25 service charge on the counter. Ciao.”

The pet sitter goes away humming, congratulating herself on inventing such a lucrative, stress-free career while, inside, Tweety is saying to himself, “Now I understand why birds fly into windows. They’re just trying to get back inside.”

Geezers Kicking Butt Makes Movie ‘RED’ Such A Fun Time

The best thing about the new movie RED is that it’s just such fun. A movie about oldtimers? Sounds boring. But this is no On Golden Pond, in which we watched seniors go gently into that good, good night. These seniors kick serious butt! And it’s a blast, particularly for this senior, to watch them. RED, by the way is the designation given them by the CIA, which stands for “Retired, Extremely Dangerous.”

The plot is the usual silliness. Frank Moses (Bruce Willis) is a bored, retired assassin who is so lonely that he tears up his retirement checks so he can talk on the phone to the very bored civil servant Sarah (Mary-Louise Parker), who is about the only person he relates to. Suddenly, assassins — a lot of them — are after him, and, correctly assuming they’ll know about her, he goes off to rescue her. After destroying a whole lot of younger killer/spies, he goes to his friends, all old-timers who are generally bored. Between them, they take down a plot by an evil industrialist to put a flawed man into the White House.

What really makes the movie are the incredible performances. Willis, of course, is just about perfect as the world-weary hero who can manage to out-think and outfight men a generation or two younger. But watching as he somehow gets drawn into falling in love with the clerk is marvelous. And MaryLouis Parker is an absolute gem. She is a better funny romantic heroine with her mouth

Rosenberg Dru Nagel

continued from page 27 taking lessons with Dru,” she said. “I started out as a beginner, and now I can jump courses, and won Grand and Reserve at some of the local shows. I like that Dru doesn’t make me do anything I’m not ready to do. She has a lot of patience, and is motivating and supportive. I learn different things each week.”

Danette Nanez will also be sad to see her go. She lives in Boynton Beach and has been working for Dru for a few months, helping

‘I’ On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler

duct-taped shut than most of the actresses whose mouths are working full-time. Her timing is so good that she can get laughs, particularly the very hard-to-get gentle ones, with simply a word or two. It is easy to see why the old assassin fell for her.

And the rest of the cast is just as good. Morgan Freeman as an old lecher, coming to the end of his days with liver cancer and bewildered that he survived long enough to die of old age, is great fun, first as foxy grandpa and later as he play-acts a nasty dictator. John Malkovich, who usually has to play evil incarnate, plays crazy but friendly Marvin Boggs with a fabulous sense of fun. “He was convinced he was the subject of CIA mind control experiments for years,” Moses tells Sarah, “and then he found out they had been feeding him LSD every day for 11 years.”

She just nods and says, “That explains it.” Malkovich’s character gets many of the sight gags, including one “baseball” shot that will probably become a classic. Ernest Borgnine,

out in the barn and with the horses. “I’ve been around horses my whole life,” said Danette, who moved from Maryland five years ago. “It’s all I’ve ever done. When I was 16, I helped care for laid-up race horses. I found Dru through an ad. I worked here five days a week. I hope to find something else with horses… maybe when the season starts up again.”

Still, Dru was upbeat and excited about her new enterprise. “I’m looking forward to our move, and to this next phase of my life,” she said. “I’m always reinventing myself. I’m not getting any younger. But there will always be horses in my life.”

still going strong at 93, has a couple of very effective scenes. And young Karl Urban, who stole a lot of the recent Star Trek movie, is excellent in his pivotal role as a young CIA operative. He manages to be both the enemy and a decent person at the same time, no easy task in a movie like this.

And then there is Helen Mirren. Yes, Dame Helen Mirren, famous for all those intense drama roles. She plays Victoria, who is first found doing a flower arrangement. Of course, under the flowers, she has a very nice machine gun. When asked how she, once the world’s most feared assassins, handles enforced retirement, she casually confesses, “Well, I still do the occasional job on the side.”

Watching world-class performers, just about all of whom have won numerous awards, handling fun parts normally done by

almost any actor brings on a sense of joy. These people add so much to each part. Yes, I liked this movie. I doubt it will win any awards, but it’s a real lot of fun. There are few slow spots, and the cast simply moves the action along with a lot of fun twists and turns that keep the audience on the edge of their seats. It should be assigned in acting classes. Remember the old line about no small parts, only small actors? In this film, we can all see how the very best in today’s acting world can take a movie that is pretty much a comic-book good vs. evil flick and add extra bits, little quirks and foibles, to the mix. You should go out and see the film, particularly if you are beginning to get on in years. It is just such good fun to watch people eligible for Social Security kicking butt and taking names. And they do it with such style!

Ultima Fitness/Xtreme Tae Kwon Do Annual Kick-athon October 30

All of the students of Grand Master Gustavo Pope at Ultima Fitness/Xtreme Tae Kwon Do in Wellington are revving up for its much anticipated annual fundraising kick-athon scheduled to be held Saturday, Oct. 30 at 11 a.m.

The money raised will be donated to the 13th annual Wellington Community Fitness 5K Run & Walk. “Ultima Fitness has been integrally involved in the Wellington Community Fitness Run since the very beginning, and this is a wonderful way for the kids from the Xtreme Tae Kwon Do program to be involved,” Pope said. “They look forward to doing their kick-athon every year!”

The children get different people to sponsor them in the kick-athon, such as a parents, grandparents, friends or neighbors, and then on Oct. 30, they all get together at Ultima Fitness for the big event. “Each child has a pledge sheet, and they set a goal of how much money they are going to collect,” Pope said. “On the day of the kick-athon, they bring the money and they do as many kicks as equals

their money — one kick per dollar raised. It is a fun afternoon, and we end up with a good crowd. The kids raise quite a bit of money in the process.”

Pope feels that this is a great annual event that exemplifies the principles of tae kwon do. “My goal is for all of my students to participate in the kick-athon and do something good for someone else,” he said.

Ultima Fitness/Xtreme Tae Kwon Do is located at 12799 W. Forest Hill Blvd. in Wellington. For more info., call (561) 795-2823 or visit www.ultimafitness.com.

HOUBRICK FEATURED AT LIGHTHOUSE ARTCENTER

Loxahatchee artist J.R. Houbrick is among a handful of area artists whose work is on display in the Lighthouse ArtCenter’s exhibition “Painters of Scenery: An Exhibition of Landscapes.” Included in the exhibit are Houbrick’s oil paintings 4 ½ Feet and Radar Tower in the Morning. They will be on display through Nov. 2. The Lighthouse ArtCenter is located at 373 Tequesta Drive in Tequesta. For more info., visit www.lighthousearts.org or call (561) 746-3101.

A Healthful Halloween Alternative At South Florida Science Museum

As an alternative to a bag full of candy, future tooth decay and a tummy ache, the Florida Public Health Institute, in collaboration with the South Florida Science Museum, is inviting preschool children to trick or treat in costume at the museum on Wednesday, Oct. 27 at a special Halloween celebration, created just for them.

In observance of “Healthy Mouth, Healthy Body” — the new public campaign created by the Florida Public Health Institute and the Oral Health Coalition of Palm Beach County — preschoolers and their parents will have free admission to the museum from 9 to 10 a.m. and will be treated to a more healthful way to celebrate Halloween.

In addition, preschoolers and their parents will have access to all exhibition space at the museum, including the new exhibit “Animal Grossology,” which takes solid science information and incorporates it into

interactive entertainment that translates into big fun while learning.

“We are looking forward to this special day for preschool children and their parents at the South Florida Science Museum,” Florida Public Health Institute Assistant Director Debora Kerr said. “Dental disease such as cavities can lead to other medical complications as well as difficulty eating, costly dental visits and missed school hours. In fact, dental decay is the most common chronic disease of childhood and is five times more common than asthma. You can protect yourself from decay and other medical complications, as decay is almost entirely preventable.”

During this healthful Halloween celebration, preschoolers and parents will be offered trick-or-treat alternatives to candy, and will learn the importance of maintaining good oral health. Special entertainment and giveaways are included in the celebration.

“The South Florida Science Museum is delighted to participate and host this healthier version of Halloween,” museum CEO Lew Crampton said. “This program on maintaining good oral health is a perfect complement to the museum’s early childhood classes. If we can reach children about health issues at an early age, we are all better for it. And by creating this celebration just before Halloween, the South Florida Science Museum and the Florida Public Health Institute are providing Palm Beach County preschoolers with a safe and happy alternative to the Halloween tradition.”

Museum admission will be free until 10 a.m. and includes access to “Animal Grossology,” the blockbuster exhibition on display at the museum. For more information about the Oct. 27 event, call the South Florida Science Museum at (561) 832-1988 or visit its web site at www.sfsm.org.

Phantoms Recommend P.B. Pops 2010-11 Concert Season

Each year we look forward to the Palm Beach Pops, and this year’s performances may be the best ever!

Maestro Bob Lappin leads the Palm Beach Pops Orchestra into its 19th concert season with a six-concert subscription series.

Lappin and the Palm Beach Pops, known for their signature concerts themed around music from the Great American Songbook and special guest artists, have big plans for the 2010-11 season. Subscription tickets are now on sale at the Pops’ box office. Music director and conductor Lappin leads the orchestra into a thrilling season with six hotly anticipated concert series starting Nov. 1. Concert venues include the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach, the Carole and Barry Kaye Performing Arts Auditorium at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, and the Palm Beach State College Eissey Campus Theatre in Palm Beach Gardens.

• Let It Be… The Beatles — The opening concert features a tribute to the Beatles with guest artists the Nylons, a four-member a capella group best known for their hits “Kiss Him Goodbye,” “Chain Gang” and “Happy Together” from their seven gold and platinum recordings. Billboard magazine calls this group “one of the few groups to bring dominant vocal harmony to the American charts.” Along with original orchestrations from the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra,

Lappin takes the audience on a musical journey of all-time Beatles favorites such as “Yesterday,” “Eleanor Rigby,” “Hey Jude,” “All You Need Is Love” and more. The performance schedule is as follows: Nov. 1-3 at 8 p.m. at FAU; Nov. 56 at 8 p.m. at the Kravis Center; and Nov. 7 at 8 p.m. at the Eissey Theatre.

• The Best of Broadway — Lappin and the Palm Beach Pops’ annual Broadway concert has become one of the most popular traditions in South Florida, beloved by fans everywhere. The Pops will present a collection of magnificent music from a variety of popular musicals by the top composers, featuring Broadway’s brightest singing stars. The performance schedule is as follows: Nov. 29-30 at 8 p.m. at the Kravis Center; Dec. 1, 3 and 5 at 8 p.m. at FAU; and Dec. 6 at 8 p.m. at the Eissey Theatre.

• The Streisand Songbook This concert celebrates the music of Barbra Streisand, one of today’s greatest living legends, spanning her entire career. It will feature timeless songs like “Evergreen” and “The Way We Were” as well as the music from Hello, Dolly!, Funny Girl and Yentl, and introducing a special guest singer. The performance schedule is as follows: Jan. 4-6 at 8 p.m. at FAU; Jan. 9 at 8 p.m. at the Eissey Theatre; and Jan. 10-11 at 8 p.m. at the Kravis Center.

• An Evening of Rodgers and

Hart — An internationally acclaimed singer and guitarist for over 25 years, guest artist John Pizzarelli puts his own spin on the lighthearted songs written by the dynamic duo of Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart. Rodgers and Hart are remembered for their artistic collaborations on 28 stage musicals and over 500 songs, including “It’s Easy to Remember” from the 1935 film Mississippi, “The Lady is a Tramp” from Babes in Arms, as well as classics “With a Song in My Heart,” “Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered” and “My Funny Valentine.” Joining Pizzarelli for the sizzling evening of song will be his brother Martin Pizzarelli on bass, Larry Fuller on piano and Tony Tedesco on drums. The performance schedule is as follows: Feb. 8 at 8 p.m. at the Eissey Theatre; Feb. 9-10 at 8 p.m. at the Kravis Center; and Feb. 11, 12 and 14 at 8 p.m. at FAU.

• Celebrating the Great Sammy Davis Jr. — An overwhelming audience favorite, superstar Vegas entertainer Clint Holmes returns to honor one of the greatest entertainers of all time, Sammy Davis Jr., along with other nostalgic favorites. Holmes was the buzz around town last February when he made his debut with Lappin and the Pops in a concert that received rave reviews and critical acclaim. The performance schedule is as follows: March 9, 11 and 12 at 8 p.m. at FAU; March 13 at 8 p.m. at the Eissey

Theatre; and March 14-15 at 8 p.m. at the Kravis Center.

• The Music of Billy Joel and More — Handpicked by legend Billy Joel himself to star in the hit Broadway musical Movin’ Out as the original lead of the captivating “Piano Man,” Tony- and Grammynominated Michael Cavanaugh has been entertaining audiences worldwide to rave reviews ever since. Cavanaugh performs Joel’s hits such as “Just the Way You Are,” “Piano Man” and “New York State of Mind,” as well as other legends for an amazing concert, sure to close out the season on a high note. The

performance schedule is as follows: April 4-5 at 8 p.m. at the Kravis Center; April 7-9 at 8 p.m. at FAU; and April 10 at 8 p.m. at the Eissey Theatre.

Subscriptions to a series of six concerts for the 2010-11 season are on sale now, ranging from $125 to $495. Subscriptions may be purchased by visiting the Palm Beach Pops box office at 500 S. Australian Ave., Suite 100, West Palm Beach or by calling (561) 832-7677. Single tickets are also available to the general public priced from $29 to $89. For more information, visit www.palmbeachpops.org/season.

Bob Lappin leads the Palm Beach Pops in a performance.

Movement Arts Dance Academy’s Nutcracker ballet instructor Whitney Earnhardt with Preye Ford, Alex Whittington, Amanda Heermance and Marisa Langston.

New Faculty Announced At Movement Arts In RPB

Movement Arts Dance Academy recently had several students accepted to perform with the Miami City Ballet in George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker. Amanda Heermance and Marisa Langston will perform as angels, while Preye Ford and Alex Whittington will perform as soldiers in the holiday favorite this December at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts.

Additionally, several new instructors joined the faculty at Movement Arts Dance Academy for the 2010-11 school year.

Whitney Earnhardt joins Movement Arts as a ballet, modern and conditioning instructor. Earnhardt is a graduate of the Dreyfoos School of the Arts (dance major) and studied ballet, tap, jazz and modern dance with Ballet Florida throughout most of her life before heading off to college. She holds a bachelor’s degree in dance performance with a minor in conditioning from Florida State University.

Peggy Brown joins the faculty of Movement Arts as a tap and musical theater instructor. Brown owned and operated her own dance studio in Wellington for more than 24 years. Many of her students went on to have

careers in dance, dancing with the Radio City Rockettes, on cruise lines and in several theme parks including Disney World.

Kara Krupa joins Movement Arts as a hiphop instructor. She trained in ballet, tap, jazz and hip-hop for more than 15 years and was a varsity cheerleader at the King’s Academy. Krupa holds a degree in family health and science from the University of Florida, where she also was a member of Extreme Dance Company for four years. She is currently pursuing a nursing degree at Palm Beach Atlantic University.

Other faculty and staff members include: Kelly Todd Grandusky (owner/artistic director), Laura Buchbinder (hip-hop, jazz and acro), Lisa Cousineau (ballet and jazz), Jimmy Le (hip-hop), Brinti Nowling (baton and children’s dance), Stacey Todd (tap and children’s dance) and Ellie Todd (office manager).

Movement Arts Dance Academy is located at 1241 North State Road 7, Suite 11, in Royal Palm Beach. For more info., call (561) 792-9757 or visit the academy’s web site at www.movementartsdanceacademy.com.

Palms West Hospital Marks Milestones In Robotic Surgery

Palms West Hospital marked two milestones in robotic surgery in September. First, Dr. Seth Herbst recently became the first surgeon at Palms West to achieve 20 da Vinci Robotic Surgery System cases. This achievement was quickly followed by Dr. David Adler, also completing 20 da Vinci robotic surgeries by late September. Both surgeons were able to accomplish this in only three and a half months, which is faster than any other gynecological surgeons in Palm Beach County, according to Intuitive Surgical representative Andrew Orton.

Orton went on to say that Herbst is performing more robotic surgery than any other ob/gyn in Palm Beach County. This achievement is a result of Herbst’s longtime commitment to be at the forefront of minimally invasive surgery for gynecology as well as his commitment to now be a leader within the robotic surgical community.

The second milestone marked by Palms West is that the hospital has now upgraded to the top-of-the-line da Vinci Si HD robot, which arrived just a few weeks ago. With this new model, surgeons have better access to

the patient with the sidedocking mechanism, better visibility and the ability to perform more procedures because of the time it takes to set up and break down a case. To date, Palms West Hospital has eight gynecological physicians performing surgery and five more who have expressed interest in training. Additionally, Palms West Hospital will soon be moving beyond gynecological robotic procedures into urological procedures as well, once training of the surgeon is complete.

The da Vinci Surgical System combines computer and

robotic technologies with the skills of a surgeon to create a new category of surgical treatment. The da Vinci Surgical System is operated by a surgeon sitting a few feet away from the patient at a console. Using a high-powered camera, the surgeon guides the arms of the robot that hold surgical tools which are inserted into the patient through small, keyhole-sized incisions. The da Vinci’s highly accurate instruments allow surgeons to move their own hands (and the robots’) to conduct precise movements with extraordinary control and range of motion.

The da Vinci’s video monitoring system provides a three-dimensional view of the surgery with magnification ten times that of the naked eye.

For more information about da Vinci robotic assisted surgery at Palms West Hospital, call (888) 256-7723 or visit www.palmswest hospital.com.

LED Source Featured In TV Show ‘The Vanilla Ice Project’

Wellington-based LED Source, a national and international supplier of LED lighting that specializes in full-scale evaluations and retrofits, has lent a hand to the new national television series, The Vanilla Ice Project. Airing Thursdays at 9 p.m. on the DIY Network, the show is hosted by Robert Van Win-

kle, better known as Vanilla Ice.

In the first episode, Van Winkle remodeled a foreclosed home in Palm Beach, in which LED Source supplies LED EcoSense MiniFloods for all exterior lighting. The EcoSense product, like all other products carried by LED Source, delivers

many benefits, including energy savings of up to 90 percent and a superior quality and color of light. Additionally, since LEDs create nearly zero heat, they tend to last much longer than standard light fixtures. EcoSense MiniFloods, for example, can last between 10 to 12 years. Van Winkle was so impressed by

the LEDs provided by LED Source that he decided to install them in his own home.

“It’s great to receive recognition through a national television series,” President and CEO Marcel Fairbairn said. “Many people are unaware of the tremendous benefits of using LED lights, and this exposure will help spread

awareness.”

LED lighting is the most energy-efficient lighting solution currently available that is both fiscally smart and ecologically sound. LED lights are mercury and toxin-free, 300 percent more energy-efficient than compact fluorescent lighting (CFL) and about 1,000 percent more efficient

than incandescent bulbs while using up to 90 percent less energy to run. Other motivations include the federal tax incentives and local utility rebates, which can cover anywhere between 30 percent and 100 percent of the cost of LED lighting. For more info., visit www. ledsource.com.

Dr. Seth HerbstDr. David Adler

‘Legs For Life’ Screenings At WRMC TASTE OF INDIA OPENS A NEW LOCATION ON OKEECHOBEE BLVD.

In recognition of National Vascular Disease Awareness Month, Wellington Regional Medical Center will join hospitals across the country in offering free Legs for Life screenings for area residents on Tuesday, Oct. 26 and Thursday, Oct. 28 from 5 to 8 p.m.

Vascular diseases caused by arteriosclerosis (clogged blood vessels) — including most heart attacks and strokes — account for more deaths in the United States than any other cause. Leg pain that begins while walking or exercising and eases when at rest is a common symptom of peripheral arterial disease (PAD).

Other symptoms may include swelling, numbness in the leg, coldness in the lower legs and feet, and skin discoloration. Not everyone with the disease has symptoms.

Using manual Doppler technology, the hospital’s radiologists, vascular surgeons, sonographers and nurses will check the circulation of the lower legs and arms. They will measure the blood flow in the legs as well as check for blockages.

Risk factors for peripheral artery disease include: smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, family history of heart or vascular disease, being overweight and a lack of exercise or physical

activity. PAD is highly treatable. If diagnosed early, it often may be treated with lifestyle changes alone, such as diet and exercise. Medication and minimally invasive treatments such as angioplasty or surgery are available, depending on the severity of the disease.

The screenings take only about 10 to 15 minutes and will be offered at the Outpatient Diagnostic Center located at 1395 State Road 7, on the campus of Wellington Regional Medical Center.

While screenings are free, appointments are required. To schedule a free screening appointment, call (561) 798-8513.

Next ABWA Meeting Set For Nov. 10

The Northern Palm Beach Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association will host its monthly meeting Wednesday, Nov. 10 at the PGA Doubletree Hotel. Networking will take place from 6 to 6:30 p.m. with the dinner and program beginning at 6:30 p.m. The cost is $35, and guests are welcome.

The speaker will be certified elder law attorney Mark Shalloway of Shalloway and Shalloway PA,

who will speak on the topic

“Knowing the recent changes to the laws on Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans’ Benefits and Special Trusts.”

The mission of the American Business Women’s Association is to bring together businesswomen of diverse occupations and to provide opportunities for them to help themselves and others grow personally and professionally through leadership, education, networking, sup-

port and national recognition.

To make reservations, or for more information, call Sharon Maupin at (561) 624-3816. The Doubletree Hotel is located at 4431 PGA Blvd. in Palm Beach Gardens. For directions, call the hotel at (561) 6222260.

For more information about the ABWA’s Northern Palm Beach Chapter, call Chapter President Carol O’Neil at (561) 389-1227 or visit www.abwapbflorida.org.

The Palms West Chamber of Commerce recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Taste of India restaurant in West Palm Beach. Located at 7750 Okeechobee Blvd., it is the fourth location for Taste of India, which aims to provide genuine and authentic Indian cuisine. Taste of India features a large lunch buffet of fresh food offered seven days a week. The restaurant’s large menu includes salads, soups, vegetables, tandoori specialties, chicken, lamb, goat, seafood, desserts and more. A large catering menu is also available. Taste of India also has locations in Melbourne, Brandon and Port St. Lucie. For more info., visit the Taste of India web site at www.tasteofindiafl.us or call the restaurant at (561) 7218600. Pictured above are Taste of India staff members with Palms West Chamber of Commerce ambassadors.

SPORTS & RECREATION

Wellington Football Team Brushes Past Forest Hill 20-6

By Bryan Gayoso Town-Crier Staff Report

Despite more than 100 yards in penalties, the Wellington High School varsity football team defeated host Forest Hill Falcons 20-6 on Thursday, Oct. 14.

The Wolverines had first possession, but an off-sides penalty backed up the field-goal attempt, resulting in a miss. With 4:39 left in the first quarter, the Wolverines maintained control, rushing for two first downs. They wore down the clock and scored with an Andy LeMay run with just 12 seconds left in the first quarter.

The Falcons got the ball in the beginning of the second quarter but were unable to move it, resulting in a punt. The Wolverines took advan-

tage of a first down from the Falcon 40 yard line. With 7:53 left in the quarter, the Wolverines’ Tyler Vanacore ran in for a touchdown, bringing the score to 14-0. The Falcons were unable to make anything happen despite a Wolverine fumble with 2:56 left in the half.

The third quarter brought more of the same from the Falcons. Again they were unable to move the ball and had to punt with 10:45 left in the third quarter. But the Wolverines were unable to make progress, giving the ball back to Forest Hill.

The penalties continued for the Wolverines late in the third quarter with flags for holding; however, the Falcons would not take advantage. With 25 seconds left in the third quarter, the Falcons took over after

a Wolverine punt. Forest Hill’s inability to move the ball continued into the fourth quarter. Wellington took advantage of the Falcons’ trouble, bringing the ball down to the Forest Hill 15 yard line. Wellington scored on the ensuing play with a second LeMay run with 6:57 left in the fourth. A bobbled snap prevented an extra-point attempt. The penalties continued for the Wolverines with three in the last five minutes of the game, allowing the Falcons to move up and score. Forest Hill’s extra-point attempt failed, however, making the score 20-6 with 2:20 in the game. Wellington controlled the ball until taking a knee with 20 seconds left in the game, giving them a moraleboosting win.

Wolverine Pitcher Nick Lawrence Makes USSSA National Team

Around Wellington High School, there are certain hair styles that are a cause for question. Sophomore Nick Lawrence’s Mohawk is certainly an eye catcher. “It started as a dare from my friend’s mom to my friend,” he explained. “But then he backed out.”

Lawrence has made an impression with his haircut and has also turned heads in the baseball program. The sophomore pitcher/right fielder has a 0.00 ERA, six strikeouts, and has not allowed a runner to reach base in four innings of fall baseball.

“We expect Nick to be one of the better 10th-grade pitchers in the area this year,” Wolverines head coach Scott Riddle said. “He’s always had the ability to throw hard, but in the past he’s lacked command and threw too many pitches. This fall his velocity has picked up considerably, and he’s been in the strike zone with his off-speed pitches.”

In August, Lawrence was invited by the

Wolverine Watch

By Josh Hyber

United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA) to tryout for its 16-U national team. After being evaluated in practices and games by the team’s coaches and MLB veterans Brian McRae and Walt Weiss, the teams were selected. The reward: to play in Italy in the summer of 2011.

“I thought of [the tryout] as just another day at the field like I always do,” Lawrence said. “No matter who was watching and playing against me.”

Lawrence, who throws a fastball (four seam and two seam), curveball and changeup, impressed the staff and made the team. The sophomore said he is excited to represent his country on the national stage. Before Lawrence suits up for the red, white and blue, though, he’ll wear the blue and white for Wellington.

Lawrence has high aspirations for the coming spring season, saying he expects to make the varsity team at the beginning of the season. With his array of pitches ranging from 83 to 87 miles per hour, a transition to the tough Palm Beach County varsity baseball circuit could be easier for Lawrence. With the departure of four senior pitchers last year, he could find himself a role on the team.

“Nick’s a great worker who’s starting to figure out how to pitch,” Riddle said. “We’re sure he’ll be battling our upperclassmen for innings in the spring.”

Whatever part of the globe Lawrence takes

the mound on, one thing is certain: his baseball cap will have a Mohawk peaking out from underneath. “I plan on keeping the Mohawk until Italy,” he said. “I expect to keep it until it fails me, which hopefully will not be for years.”

Nick Lawrence on the mound.

Wolverine Terry Martin evades a Falcon defender.

Running back Andy LeMay pushes for extra yardage.

Linebacker David Arco goes for the tackle.

Linebacker Chris Thomas leaps at the Falcons’ quarterback.

Wellington defenders move to stop the Falcon offense.

PHOTOS BY BRYAN GAYOSO/TOWN-CRIER

TKA Football Team, Fans Support Breast Cancer Awareness

When the King’s Academy football team faced off against the Benjamin School on Friday, Oct. 8, the Lions family wore red and accessorized in pink. Fashion experts might wonder about the King’s Academy’s sense of style, but Breast Cancer Awareness Month has particular significance to the school this year.

The TKA Lions defeated the Benjamin Bucaneers 247, bringing the Lions to 6-0.

Liz Otto, wife of TKA Elementary Principal Jon Otto

joins other members of the King’s Academy family currently battling the disease. Since Otto’s diagnosis, the school family has been praying regularly, and the Oct. 8 game provided another opportunity to show support for those impacted by breast cancer.

During the game, the Lions football team wore pink towels, the Marching Lions wore pink ribbons and the TKA cheerleaders sported pink hair ribbons. Fans wore red with pink accents to become

part of the event.

“Believe it or not, even as a coach, I do recognize that pink and red do not match,” TKA Athletic Director Adam Winters said. “However, we are excited to reach outside our comfort zone by wearing pink accessories and red shirts in support of Liz and the Lions.”

The King’s Academy is a nationally recognized private Christian school serving approximately 1,200 students from preschool through 12th grade and is accredited by the

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, the Association of Christian Schools International, and the Florida Association of Christian Colleges and Schools. The King’s Academy serves students and their families across Palm Beach and Hendry counties at its main campus at Belvedere Road and Sansbury’s Way in West Palm Beach, its Clewiston campus on Caribbean Avenue, and its satellite preschool campuses. For more information, visit www.tka.net.

Lion Fans wear red and pink to show their support.

Lions football players wear pink towels in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The Marching Lions don pink ribbons.

TKA cheerleaders take time out to show their pink socks.

Lady Wolverine Girls Golf Team Once Again District Champions

The Wellington High School girls golf team made it two in a row on Monday, Oct. 18 when they took first place in the District 18 golf championship at the Wanderers Club at Wellington.

The returning champs were led by senior Melissa Welch, who shot an 82, followed closely by freshman Janelle Johnson, who carded an 83. Sophomore Mary Dixon finished with an 85, and juniors Kaci Bennett and Allison Parssi finished with scores of 91 and 113, respectively.

Finishing second was Santaluces High School, which also produced the tournament’s low scores of the day, with Samantha Smolen and Radi Saura both finishing at 74. Coming in third was Royal Palm Beach.

“Once again the Wanderers Club did an excellent job hosting the tournament,” Wellington coach Laurie Bawinkle said. “Everyone at the club worked very hard to make this a great event, and we appreciate their hospitality.”

The three teams now move on to the regional qualifier, scheduled for Monday, Oct. 25 at Vero Beach Country Club.

SRHS Freshman Football Defeats Jupiter, Gardens

The Seminole Ridge High School freshman football team took on undefeated Jupiter High School on Oct. 7, when the battle of the undefeated was won on a spectacular touchdown pass from Steve DeMeo to Tyler Kingree. The winning touchdown was scored with 1:30 left in the game, breaking a 13-13 tie.

The scoring got started when Ave Loza broke through the Jupiter line and blocked the punt. Nick Keller scooped the ball up and ran it in from 20 yards out. Ed Walker kicked the extra point to make the score 7-0. After a Jupiter touchdown to get the score to 7-6, the Hawks scored midway through the third quarter, when running back Ed’Treon Wilcox swept the left side of the Jupiter defense, pushing the lead to 13-6. Again, after a Jupiter touchdown to even the score at 13, the undefeated freshmen went on their final, game-winning drive, culminating in the DeMeo-to-Kingree aerial. Ed Walker kicked the extra point for the final 20-13 score.

Hawk defensive stars were linebacker Robert Snyder, with a sack and an interception, Ave Loza, with a blocked punt and six sacks, and

Nick Morera, who had an interception from his safety position.

The SRHS freshman football team went on to shut out Palm Beach Gardens 40-0 on Oct. 13.

Coach Marty Flynn’s superior defense again kept the opponents off the scoreboard. Gardens almost scored on a breakaway run, but defensive back Zach Haber ran the Gators back down from behind. The Hawk defense went on to cause another fumble, snuffing out Gardens’ scoring drive.

In other Seminole Ridge sports news, the SRHS boys and girls cross-country teams took the silver in an Oct. 7 home meet against Palm Beach Central, the Dreyfoos School of the Arts, Atlantic, Santaluces, Glades Central, Royal Palm Beach and Forest Hill high schools. Michelle Howell took first place for the girls with a time of 20:12, followed by Cassie Barrett, Kristen Medvetz, Justine DeCarlo, Catlin Korvela, Ashely Gralin, Elizabeth Dimpflmaier and Michelle Holsinger. Arnold Banner took second place for the boys with a time of 16:41, followed by William Young, Blake Kanarek, Victor Beguiristain and Herman Castro.

District 18 Golf Champions — Mary Dixon, assistant coach Janet Lisle, Melissa Welch, Kaci Bennett, head coach Laurie Bawinkle, Janelle Johnson and Allison Parssi.

COMMUNIT Y CALENDAR

Saturday, Oct. 23

• The Wellington Tennis Championships will take place Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 23 and 24 at the Wellington Tennis Center (12165 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). It will feature a mixed doubles and singles format. Call Joanne Smith at (561) 798-0474 or e-mail msbaseline@bellsouth.net for the schedule.

• The Wellington High School Boys Basketball Team will host its third annual golf tournament Saturday, Oct. 23 at Palm Beach Polo Golf & Country Club. Proceeds from the event will help the boys basketball program. Registration and a three-point putting contest is at 7:30 a.m. The tournament will begin at 9 a.m. with a shotgun start. For more info., contact Coach Matt Colin at (803) 439-5348 or e-mail at matthew.colin @palmbeach.k12.fl.us.

• The Okeeheelee Nature Center (7715 Forest Hill Blvd.) will host a Deer Walk on Saturday, Oct. 23 at 9 a.m. for ages 7and older. The cost is $3 per person. Call (561) 233-1400 to RSVP.

• Calvary United Methodist Church in Lake Worth will hold its annual Pumpkin Festival on Saturday, Oct. 23 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Enjoy the harvest along with kids’ activities, music, barbecue, gift and thrift shop, car wash and sale of baked goods, furniture and books. Pumpkins are for sale daily at the Pumpkin Patch on Federal Highway one block south of Lake Avenue. For more info., call (561) 585-1786.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will offer “Writing for Children & Teens” on Saturday, Oct. 23 at 10:30 a.m. This workshop and critique group series is for beginning to intermediate writers who want to improve their craft and learn a little about publication. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Wellington Fall Festival will be held Saturday, Oct. 23 from 5 to 10 p.m. at the Village Park gymnasium (11700 Pierson Road). All activities require the purchase of an all-access bracelet for $10. Advance bracelets are on sale now for $7 at Village Park or the Wellington Community Center. For more info., call (561) 791-4005, ext. 0.

• The police vs. firefighters charity hockey game Guns N Hoses will take place Saturday, Oct. 23 at 5 p.m. at Palm Beach Ice Works (1590 N. Florida Mango Road). Proceeds will go to the Mike Collister Cancer Fund. Tickets cost $10. Call (561) 689-3745 for more info.

• A “Haunted House & Party” will be held

at Villari’s Self-Defense of Royal Palm Beach (11328 Okeechobee Blvd.) on Saturday, Oct. 23 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. for age 11 and under, and 8 to 10 p.m. for age 12 and up. The cost of $10 per child will include a treat bag and a safe, friendly environment for the kids with games, music, costume contests, snacks and drinks, with additional snacks available for purchase. Call (561) 793-4132 for more info.

• Nanny McPhee will make its screen debut at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts’ Gosman Amphitheatre (701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach) on Saturday, Oct. 23 at 7 p.m. Admission is $5 per person and includes complimentary popcorn. For more info., call (561) 833-7952.

• The public is invited to the Olde Time Gospel Hour of music and inspiration at St. David’s in-the-Pines Episcopal Church in Wellington on Saturday, Oct. 23 at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free. Call (561) 793-1976 for details.

Sunday, Oct. 24

• The Loxahatchee Chapter of the Florida Trail Association will hike the Seacrest Scrub, a unique 54-acre natural area in Boynton Beach on Seacrest Blvd. between Woolbright Road and Atlantic Avenue, on Sunday, Oct. 24. The hike will begin at 7:30 a.m. and hikers will go to breakfast afterward. Call Alan at (561) 586-0486 for more info.

• Masquerade Showcase Recitals will take place Sunday, Oct. 24 at Pierce Hammock Elementary School. There will be three showcases, taking place from 1 to 3 p.m., 3 to 5 p.m. and 5 to 7 p.m. Students will perform musical instruments for their friends and family members, and there will be costume contests as well. For more info., call (561) 385-0338 or e-mail starthere guitaracademy@hotmail.com.

• TCIN.TV will feature live broadcasts of Night Shul with Matt Auerbach at 9 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 24, followed at 10 p.m. by Elsie Bell’s Secrets with Deb Welky Miles. Watch this new Wellington-based Internet TV station at www.tcin.tv.

Monday, Oct. 25

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Crocheting Club on Monday, Oct. 25 at 3:30 p.m. for ages 10 to14. Learn how to crochet using the provided hooks and yarn, or continue working on your own project. Call (561) 7906030 to pre-register.

COMMUNIT Y CALENDAR

CALENDAR, continued from page 46

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature “Legos” for age 8 and up on Monday, Oct. 25 at 4 p.m. Builders will create their own vehicle or building out of Lego pieces. Call (561) 790-6070 to preregister.

Tuesday, Oct. 26

• The Palm Beach Kennel Club (1111 N. Congress Ave., West Palm Beach) will host the Cole Bros. Circus of the Stars Tuesday through Sunday, Oct. 26-31. For more info., call (800) 796-5672 or visit www.goto thecircus.com.

• The Okeeheelee Nature Center (7715 Forest Hill Blvd.) will present a Fall Bird Walk as part of its “Science for Seniors” series on Tuesday, Oct. 26. Participants should meet at the nature center at 9 a.m. The fee will be $5. For more info., call Maria Rigsby at (561) 233-1400 or visit www.pbcparks.com/nature.

• The Wellington Village Council will meet Tuesday, Oct. 26 at 7 p.m. at the Wellington Community Center (12165 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Call (561) 791-4000 or visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

Wednesday, Oct. 27

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will feature “Spooky Stories” on Wednesday, Oct. 27 at 3:30 p.m. for ages 6 to 9. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will offer “Slightly Scary Tales” for ages 7 to 10 on Wednesday, Oct. 27 at 4 p.m. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will feature “All About Wine” on Wednesday, Oct. 27 at 6:30 p.m. Dive into a fast-moving discussion with “the Wine Guy” Bob Burchill and learn how to navigate your way through the world of wine. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. Thursday, Oct. 28

• Executive Women of the Palm Beaches will present “A Cause to Celebrate” to announce the organization that will receive the $20,000 Lois Kwasman Program for Community Impact and an opportunity to meet scholarship recipients awarded through Executive Women Outreach on Thursday, Oct. 28 at 11:30 a.m. at Café Boulud in the Brazilian Court Hotel (301 Australian Ave., Palm Beach). The cost is $38 and is open to the public. RSVP to Jody at (561) 684-9117 or register online at www.ewpb.org.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will feature “Endangered Animals Story Time” on Thursday, Oct. 28 at 3:30 p.m. for ages 4 to 6. Listen to stories about endangered animals, sing songs and make a craft. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Wellington Art Society will host an art exhibition Thursday, Oct. 28 from 5 to 9 p.m. at Amtrust Bank on State Road 7 near Whole Foods Market. For more info., e-mail Adrianne Hetherington at tilemaker@aol. com or visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature “Jack-O’-Lantern Cookies” for ages 11 to 17 on Thursday, Oct. 28 at 6 p.m. Turn ho-hum cookies into jack-o’lanterns. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Wellington Chamber of Commerce will host a Candidate Debate on Thursday, Oct. 28 at 7 p.m. at the Wellington Community Center. For more info., call (561) 7926525.

• TCIN.TV will feature a live broadcast of Eye On Your Money, a financial talk show, Thursday, Oct. 28 at 8 p.m., followed by the alternative health show Health Unplugged at 9 p.m. Watch this new Wellington-based Internet TV show at www.tcin.tv.

• The Village of Wellington will host performances of Paradise Lost performed by Immeasurable Theater Productions at the Wellington Amphitheater from Thursday, Oct. 28 through Saturday, Oct. 30. For more info., call (561) 791-4000.

Friday, Oct. 29

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will feature “Dress-Up Story Time” on Friday, Oct. 29 at 11 a.m. for ages 3 to 5.Wear a costume and listen to stories about favorite characters. Call (561) 7906030 to pre-register.

• The Wellington Chapter of Papanicolaou Corps for Cancer Research Golf Tournament will take place Friday, Oct. 29 at the Wanderers Club at Wellington. Registration will be at 11 a.m. with a shotgun start at 1 p.m. The fee of $135 per player or $540 per foursome includes lunch, hors d’oeuvres and dinner. For more info., and to register call Adrienne or Barry Pershan at (561) 333-7055, or Karen Paull (561) 333-8858.

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

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MRS. ADAMS PSYCHIC READER & ADVISOR — Cordially invites you for a private session and will help you select the best reading for you on a personal level. Readings consist of tarot cards, crystal, palm or psychic. Because life is so complex to solve a problem one must get to the source. Call for appointment. 561-255-9874. Located at 1225 N. Military Trail, West Palm Beach. Available parties and special occasions

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

HORIZON ROOFING QUALITY

WORK & SERVICE — Free estimates, No Deposits. Pay upon completion, res/comm.reroofing, repairs, credit cards accepted. 561-842-6120 or 561-784-8072 Lic.#CCC1328598

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

ROOFING REPAIRS REROOFING ALL TYPES — Pinewood Construction, Inc. Honest and reliable. Serving Palm Beach County for over 20 years. Call Mike 561-3090134 Lic. Ins. Bonded. CGC023773 RC-0067207

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

AQUATIC SPRINKLER, LLC —

Complete repair of all types of systems. Owner Operated. Michael 561-964-6004Lic.#U17871 Bonded & Ins. Serving the Western Communities Since 1990

SPECIALIZING IN BATHROOM

REMODELING — Free estimates serving South Florida since 1980. Quality you expect, service you deserve. License, bonded and insured. U21006 561-662-9258

ClubZ! In-Home TUTORING

All Subjects: PreK- Adult 561 •333 •1980 CLUBZ.COM America’s Largest In-HomeTutoring Co. TUTORING - Tutoring & Behavioral Services in your home or RPB & Wellington Libraries. Specialize in Elementary Education & Special Education. Over 10 years experience. References available. 561383-7373

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

WE DO WINDOWS — 20 years professional window cleaning. Residential/Commercial references available. Lic. & Ins. 561-313-7098

DENTAL ASSISTANT - Wellington upscale dental office, 2 Saturdays per month a requirement, must have experience and expanded duties certificate, excellent pay and benefits. Please call 561 204 4494 and fax resume to 561 204 2840.

DENTAL OFFICE ASSISTANT MANAGER — Minimum two years dental experience, two Saturdays per month required, must have knowledge of PPO dental insurance, breakdowns and verification. Excellent pay and benefits. Please call 561 204 4494 and fax resume to 561 204 2840.

NAIL TECH WITH EXPERIENCE — must do acrylic, to take over full clientele F/T and P/T. Hair Stylist with experience. Must be professional and creative F/T. 561-7905777

MATURE LOVING WOMAN COM-

PANION NEEDED — for handicapped adult girl, light housekeeping, errands. Own car and references. Mon. - Fri. 3:30 p.m. - 6 p.m. and ability to work flexible hours. 561-422-6042

LIVE IN NEEDED FOR SENIOR WOMEN — CNA/HHA required. Room & Board provided in Wellington home, plus excellent pay. Drivers License, non-smoker & references a must. 561-790-4941

EXPERIENCED CONCRETE FORM CARPENTER - Must be local, have ss card, drivers license and own vehicle. Call Earl 561-3295822 or 561-790-0178.

HOUSEKEEPER —- Private home in Wellington. 11:30am - 8pm, 5days/week. Oct.-May.Cleaning, formal table service, pets. Requires drivers license, excellent English, able to lift, carry. Energetic. Send Resume to WPBjob@gmail.com

HAIRSTYLIST & BARBER

WANTED — with or without clientele for friendly Royal Palm Salon. Rent a chair or get paid commission located in busy plaza with plenty of walk-ins. Contact us at 561-317-1579

CONSTRUCTION COMPANY

SEEKING — P/T Stone Paver Estimator. Experience required, computer knowledge including Microsoft Word. Fax resume 7913942

THE LITTLE PLACE — teacher need for 3 year old class. Full time CDA required 561-793-5860

SECURITY — American owned local security company in business 30 plus years. Protection by officers drug tested. 40 hour course. Licensed & Insured. 561-848-2600 JOHN’S SCREEN REPAIR SERVICE — Pool & patio rescreening. Stay tight,wrinkle-free,guaranteed! CRC1329708 798-3132.

LUNDY’S LOW COST SCREEN ROOMS — This month special $125 Off Rescreening with this ad 561-310-9466Lic. U-20539

1997

BUICK LESABRE CUSTOM

— Exterior: Bordeaux Red (Pearl) Interior: Medium Gray Drivetrain: 6 cylinder Automatic Stock: 11S1511B 67,547 mi. $4,966 Internet Price 888-7038284 www.wpbhyundai.com

2003 BUICK LESABRE LIMITED

Exterior: White Interior: Medium Gray Drivetrain: 6 cylinder Automatic Model Code: 4HR69 / Stock: 11S8883A 49,863 mi. $10,991 Internet Price 888-703-8284 www.wpbhyundai.com

2006 BUICK LUCERNE CXL —

Exterior: Blue Interior: Other Drivetrain: 6 cylinder Automatic Model Code: 4HD69 / Stock: 11S7685A 46,845 mi. $18,991 Internet Price 888-703-8284 www.wpbhyundai.com

2004 BUICK REGAL LS — Exte-

rior: Tan Interior: Other Drivetrain: 6 cylinder Automatic Model Code: 4WB69 / Stock: 11S9781A 53,292 mi. $7,991 Internet Price 888-7038284 www.wpbhyundai.com

2000 CHEVROLET BLAZER — Drivetrain: 6 cyl.Auto Model Code: CS10506 / Stock: 10SF9167A 87,508 mi. $7,436 Internet Price 888-703-8284 www.wpbhyundai.com

2005 CHEVROLET COBALT — 4 cyl. Auto. Model Code: 1AK69 / Stock: 10A7487A 39,987 mi. $7,987 Internet Price 888-7038284 www.wpbhyundai.com

2006 FORD SUPER DUTY F-250 — Exterior: Black Interior: Other Drivetrain: 8 cylinder Automatic Model Code: W21 / Stock: 10SF9447A 55,948 mi. $28,987 Internet Price 888-703-8284 www.wpbhyundai.com

2009 HONDA ACCORD SDN EX-L

— Exterior: Basque Red Pearl Interior: Ivory Drivetrain: 4 cylinder Automatic Stock: P2665A $27,991 Internet Price 888-7038284 www.wpbhyundai.com

2009 HYUNDAI GENESIS — 3.8 Exterior: Champagne Beige Metallic Interior: Other Drivetrain: 6 cylinder Automatic Model Code: B0422 / Stock: 11S0358A 15,136 mi. $29,991 Internet Price 888-7038284 www.wpbhyundai.com

2010 HYUNDAI GENESIS COUPE — 3.8 Exterior: Blue Interior: Other Drivetrain: 6 cylinder Manual Stock: 10G8527A 20,915 mi. $29,991 Internet Price 888-703-8284 www.wpbhyundai.com

2007 HYUNDAI SANTA FE GLS — Exterior: White Interior: Gray Drivetrain: 6 cylinder manual Stock: 11S1401A 44,932 mi. 888-7038284 www.wpbhyundai.com

2002 HYUNDAI SONATA —Exterior: Nordic White Interior: Other Drivetrain: 6 cylinder Manual Stock: 10E6727A 71,601 mi. $9,991 Internet Price 888-703-8284 www.wpbhyundai.com

2008 HYUNDAI SONATA — Exterior: Powder White Pearl Interior: Other Drivetrain: 6 cylinder Automatic Stock: 11S7217A 20,265 mi. $19,991 Internet Price 888-7038284 www.wpbhyundai.com

2010 HYUNDAI VERACRUZ

Exterior: Ultra Silver Interior: Other Drivetrain: 6 cylinder Automatic Stock: P2676 6,152 mi. $28,991 Internet Price 888-703-8284 www.wpbhyundai.com

2010 JEEP PATRIOT SPORT —

Exterior: Green Interior: Other Drivetrain: 4 cylinder Automatic Model Code: MKTE74 / Stock: 10GC0444A 2,733 mi. $20,987 Internet Price 888-703-8284 www.wpbhyundai.com

2008 LEXUS ES 350 —Exterior: Gray Interior: Other Drivetrain: 6 cylinder Automatic Model Code: 9000 / Stock: 11S8979A 30,600 mi. $29,991 Internet Price 888-7038284 www.wpbhyundai.com

2008 LEXUS RX 350 — Exterior: Black Interior: Other Drivetrain: 6 cylinder Automatic Model Code: 9420 / Stock: 10G6246A 23,506 mi. $30,991 Internet Price 888-7038284 www.wpbhyundai.com

2008 MINI COOPER CLUBMAN

Exterior: Blue Silver Interior: Other Drivetrain: 4 cylinder Automatic Model Code: 0816 / Stock: 10G2439A 20,802 mi. $24,991 Internet Price 888-703-8284 www.wpbhyundai.com

2008 NISSAN ALTIMA 3.5 SE —

Exterior: Silver Interior: Other Drivetrain: 6 cylinder Automatic Stock: P2674 59,963 mi. $22,469 Internet Price 888-703-8284 www.wpbhyundai.com

2002 TOYOTA CAMRY — Exterior: Phantom Gray Pearl 4 cyl Manual Stock: 11S9484A 69,377 mi. $10,991 Internet Price 888-7038284’www.wpbhyundai.com