As We Reflect, We Must Reclaim The Spirit Of Sept. 11
Each year, as the anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks is observed, we are reminded of the spirit that united the country following that disastrous day. And each year, unfortunately, we realize how much more that memory seems to fade. It shouldn’t require a tragedy to bring Americans together — but it shouldn’t take anything less to tear us apart. Page 4
they went 11-2 and made it all the way to the regional finals. Pictured above, the Wildcat offense gets things started early in the game. STORY & PHOTOS,
By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report
The future is uncertain for a 160-acre parcel at the north end of Royal Palm Beach, but it is a major asset that village leaders hope to put to good use — possibly attracting a major employer bringing high-paying jobs.
In February 2006, the village sold its water utility to Palm Beach County, but retained ownership of the land west of 121st Terrace and south of 40th Street North where the old wastewater treatment plant still stands.
The plant remained in operation for a while after the utility sale but has since been deactivated. The land is what some people have called a hidden asset in the village’s $70 million utility sale.
come a better neighbor to the folks who live around that site.”
The village is just now beginning the process of exploring an appropriate use for the land, Lodwick said.
“In our current economic cycle, there’s no pressing need or rush, but in my mind, if you can find a small but meaningful employer, or something along those lines that would bring jobs to our community, that would be a plus,” he said. “However, that will be a decision that a future council will make somewhere down the road.”
Lodwick stressed that he does not envision anything as intensive as an industrial park, but would consider any enterprise that would provide good paying jobs to residents.
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Wellington Rotary
Joins The Lord’s Place For Day Of Fun
“A Day of Under the Big Top” was held last Saturday at the Lord’s Place Family Campus in West Palm Beach. Presented by the Wellington Rotary Club and County Commissioner Jess Santamaria, the event offered a day of fun for Lord’s Place residents. Page 3
P.W. Chamber’s Wild West Poker Tourney
A Huge Success The Palms West Chamber of Commerce held its Second Annual Wild West Poker Tournament last Friday at the Binks Forest Golf Club. The event was a fundraiser for the Palms West Community Foundation, the chamber’s building fun. Page 5
Wellington Chamber Luncheon Features
State Sen. Aronberg
With his campaign for attorney general underway and his State Senate position still fresh on his mind, State Sen. Dave Aronberg spoke to members of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce last Wednesday about his accomplishments in Tallahassee, and what remains to be done. Page 7
By Jason Budjinski Town-Crier Staff Report
Wellington residents: make the most of your swim time this Labor Day weekend. Starting Tuesday, the Wellington Aquatic Complex will be closed for renovation until next May. Parks & Recreation Director Ivy Rosenberg said that when the complex reopens next year, it will be vastly improved.
“It will be a state-of-the-art facility with more up-to-date features,” Rosenberg said. “The pool will enable us to have more competitions at various levels. The restrooms will be more modernized, which makes for a safer, cleaner facility. Overall, it will maintain the quality of service that residents expect of Wellington.”
Due to a combination of the facility’s age and new standards enacted for swimming competitions, the vil-
lage is pushing through with a number of upgrades to the pool structure as well as a new building for the complex.
“It’s overdue to be refurbished because it’s really old,” Mayor Darell Bowen said of the aquatic complex, which is roughly 30 years old. “It has had a tremendous amount of use, and it’s time for it to be redone.”
While the village has made improvements to the facility over the past decade, the pool itself dates back to the old Wellington Club East. The club was purchased by the village in 1998 and became the Wellington Community Center. The club’s pool opened as the Wellington Aquatic Complex in 1999.
Bowen noted that the current renovation was originally scheduled to begin later on in the year, but because of problems with leaks, the schedule was pushed up.
However, this isn’t the first time the aquatic complex’s age has been an issue. “Four years ago, we had to replace the heaters,” Village Manager Paul Schofield said. “One problem now is that the filters are starting to shed fiberglass.”
Schofield noted that several improvements will be made to the pool. “We’ll be re-plumbing it, deepening it, putting in new filters and new pumps, and changing it so the deck drain system is better,” he said.
Schofield said the pool will be deepened enough to meet competitive standards for dive entries into the shallow end. The standards are determined by USA Swimming, the sport’s governing body in the United States.
“When it was built, it met the standards, but the standards have changed, so it needs to be in compliance, at
The village recently awarded a contract for $564,425 to BG Group LLC for the demolition of the old sewer plant and a $22,520 contract to Camp, Dresser & McKee to oversee the project.
The village gave the county 25 acres to build a potable water treatment plant, so the village has about 135 acres remaining, according to Mayor David Lodwick. The main building is fairly new and will remain standing, although no decisions have been made on its possible use.
“Right now we’re just cleaning the site up, treating the soil that needs to be treated, due to its use as a wastewater treatment plant,” Lodwick told the Town-Crier this week. “They’re cleaning up all the exterior areas where the ponds were. It will be-
“It would have to be something that is a plus for the community and a good neighbor to the people living nearby,” he said, noting that at least one potential employer has spoken to the village manager about the site. Village Manager David Farber said there is money budgeted next year to secure a consultant to do a land planning and economic analysis for the site, although the type of consultant has not been decided.
“There was a point that we saw that surplus land being used maybe residentially,” Farber told the Town-Crier, noting that the economic downturn scuttled that idea, making some sort of employment center more desirable.
“I think we have maybe a
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By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report
Tropical systems lurking in the Atlantic call past hurricanes to mind, and Royal Palm Beach community leaders who endured previous storms say they’ve gained knowledge from them as they plan for future disasters.
Village Manager David Farber has served his entire career in hurricane-prone areas. “I’ve learned that every storm is different,” Farber told the Town-Crier. “You can always attempt to prepare as much as you can, but there may end up being circumstances that will create challenges as they unfold, and you need to have resources available to respond.”
The public needs to help governing bodies prepare, Farber stressed. Before a storm arrives, residents need
to take steps to protect themselves and their property, and not make themselves one of the challenges.
“Mother Nature is the ultimate challenge, and you need to have good working relationships with other governments at various levels, because it will always be difficult to solve problems,” Farber said. “At the same time, you need to be able to solve your own problems.”
For example, while Royal Palm Beach relies on Palm Beach County for regional coordination, it’s up to the village to have fuel on hand to run its own emergency systems. The village tries to be in the position that it never has to be waiting for the county to solve RPB’s problems, Farber said.
“That’s not to say if we’re
By Candace Marchsteiner Town-Crier Staff Report
Sept. 11, 2001 is a date stamped forever in history books as a day cultures clashed with tragic results. But for Wellington teacher Becca Smythe — who begins a new teaching job in Saudi Arabia this coming Sept. 11 — the date will take on a whole new meaning of cultural exchange and understanding. “It’s hard not to make a connection with the date,” she said.
The difficult economy drove Smythe, 22, to pursue her “fascination with other cultures.” With the help of Educators Overseas, Smythe signed a two-year contract to teach first grade at Advanced Generations School, a Canadian international school in Jeddah, Saudia Arabia. “I’ve always wanted to eventually
teach overseas. I didn’t know it would happen this soon,” Smythe said.
Interviewed via Skype from her Wellington apartment, Smythe will communicate with family and friends the same way. Technology is at her fingertips. Every classroom has computers, a digital projector and Smart boards, which are interactive white boards.
The school provides a furnished apartment on a secure compound with Internet, utilities, satellite TV, medical insurance, visa costs, transportation and annual flights to and from Florida as benefits. Smythe’s co-workers hail mostly from Canada and the U.S., but also include teachers from England, South Africa and Saudi Arabia. Together, they will explore the area on monthly, scheduled sightseeing trips.
Smythe will help kick off the school’s second academic year after Ramadan, the Islamic holy month, which ends Sept. 20. The school week runs Saturday through Wednesday, and the year is broken into trimesters with a one- to two-week break in between.
Smythe expects her initial time off will be spent lesson planning, but also looks forward to being near the beach, the Red Sea, and “huge” shopping areas. She hopes to be fluent in Arabic by the end of her contract. Once school ends in mid-July next year, she will fly home for summer vacation. Outside the compound, Smythe may not travel alone and must wear an
By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report
State and county health officials have launched a Level II investigation into a possible “cancer cluster” in the northern portions of The Acreage after finding a potentially higher rate of cancer in the area.
The Level I study released Aug. 28 showed increased rates of total cancers from 2000 to 2007, according to Palm Beach County Health Department spokesman Tim O’Connor.
The study also found that children, girls in particular, had an increased number of brain cancers during a 10year period, with the highest rates being 2005 through 2007.
“They also found some cases in 2008, which will be included in the Level II study,” O’Connor said Wednesday.
The health department was alerted by residents in May to several reports of cancerous brain tumors in The Acreage, and an investigation was started involving county, state and federal agencies collecting data on cancer rates there.
Although a strong correlation of pediatric brain cancer was found, O’Connor said the confidence level was low on the finding for the total cancer rate in the Level I study because the available in-depth population data was from the 2000 census, and the population base in the study area might have grown more rapidly than the recorded incidences of cancer.
The census is broken out in five-year age increments, gender and other pieces of information that lend themselves to reliable statistical analysis, O’Connor ex-
plained. “Other estimates are available, but when you’re looking at something like this, especially in the first phase or first level, you want the most accurate information,” he said.
Michelle Dahnke, spokesperson for the Florida Department of Health, which is leading the investigation, said the results of the Level I study determine the characteristics of the Level II study.
“I think what’s important to look at right now is that we determined that we were going to do a Level II review,” Dahnke told the Town-Crier “We are looking into this further. We think this is a very serious issue and a very serious inquiry, so we have gone on to begin that process for a Level II review.”
Dahnke said the Level II protocol is being finalized and should be complete in the next several days.
“The Level I review looked at pre-existing data that was available,” Dahnke said. “Level II experts are looking at a protocol to determine our exact course of action. We are doing that in partnership with the Palm Beach County Health Department and other partners. Each study is really unique, and the exact protocols are defined based on the inquiry.”
The Level II analysis will recalculate the Level I cancer rates with more recent population estimates, verify if a particular type of brain cancer is more common than expected, describe the history of the residents of the Acreage and look at other risk factors of pediatric brain cancer cases through individual interviews, Dahnke said.
“We empathize with Acre-
See CANCER, page 16
By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report
Wellington’s Planning, Zoning & Adjustment Board agreed Thursday to implement electronic delivery of agenda packets in order to cut paper and courier use.
“This is part of our gogreen efforts in the village,” Planning & Zoning Manager David Flinchum said. “We currently have the information available on the village web site. This group sometimes deals with fairly large documents.”
Flinchum said he would work with the clerk’s office to make printouts available for items that might not be read easily on a computer screen or printed on a home printer.
PZA Board Alternate Morley Alperstein asked Flinchum if the goal is to cut down on paper use or courier use. He also questioned if the village expected its volunteer board members to print out their own agenda packets, which could get costly.
“We have cut down on couriers,” Flinchum said. “We had one gentleman retire, and I think delivery dates have been reduced to only Tuesday and Thursday.”
Regarding printouts, Flinchum said he typically prints out only the pages he wants to make notes on.
The change also reflects a shift in the way documents are received from applicants, Flinchum noted. “The Building Department is now starting to get plans and permit applications electronically, and reviewing the plans and sending comments electronically,” he said.
At least initially, blueprints and detailed information on large sheets of paper will still be printed and delivered, unless board members indicate they no longer need to receive them, Flinchum said.
“I personally like to have the 24-by-36-inch plans that I can look at, especially if it’s a complicated project,” he said, adding that the change will allow agenda packets to be available earlier electron-
ically, which will give board members additional time.
PZA Board Member Eugene DiFonte said he had no problem with a switch to electronic packets. “Yes, it may save some money, but this is reality,” he said. “It’s happening throughout the county, the state and the country. Everything is going electronic.”
DiFonte did have a concern with coordinating discussion among board members if they do not have the full packet in front of them.
Village Attorney Jeff Kurtz said other boards have discussed having portable computers available, adding that pages could be projected from the computer to a large screen for board members and the public to view.
DiFonte said he liked the idea of having portable computers available at the dais, and Kurtz replied that PZA Board meetings could be moved to the Wellington Village Council chambers, which already has that technology available.
DiFonte made a motion to approve electronic packet delivery, which passed unanimously. In other business, the board agreed to move its meeting date from the first Thursday of the month to the first Wednesday in light of the four-day workweek being implemented soon for the Planning & Zoning Department.
The change will allow village staff to process minutes from the meeting on Thursdays rather than Fridays.
“One of the items under discussion with the budget going to council is moving to a four-day week, with certain offices being closed on Fridays,” Flinchum said. “Planning & Zoning is one of those offices.” Flinchum recommended changing those dates for the rest of the current calendar year and for 2010. The first meeting on the new schedule will be Oct. 7.
PZA Board Member Craig Bachove made a motion to change the meeting date, which passed unanimously.
“A Day of Under the Big Top” was held last Saturday at the Lord’s Place Family Campus in West Palm Beach.
Presented by the Wellington Rotary Club and County Commissioner Jess Santamaria, the event offered a day of fun for Lord’s Place residents, who were treated to a barbecue lunch, music by DJ Tony “the Tiger” Armour, children’s entertainment by Dr. Sunshine and more. For more information about programs for the homeless offered by the Lord’s Place, call (561) 494-0125 or visit www.thelordsplace.org.
PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER
David
Each year, as the anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks is observed, we are reminded of the spirit that united the country following that disastrous day. And each year, unfortunately, we realize how much more that memory seems to fade. When the Twin Towers fell eight years ago, up from their ashes rose a sense of solidarity among Americans. Amid the smoldering rubble where so many had fallen came heroes who embodied and represented the strength that America had all along. While the nation grieved, political differences were set aside in the name of unity, and judgment for compassion. No longer were states divided between red and blue. They became united under the colors red, white and blue.
Eight years and two presidential elections later, the solidarity has diminished. Americans have spent more time dividing themselves into factions than reaching out to their fellow countrymen. Free speech has often been reduced to bumper-sticker sloganeering rather than actual debate. People with unpopular views have been branded as unpatriotic. Forgotten are the precious months following the attack when each American was a patriot and a friend. Instead of standing strong in the face of adversity, we’ve resorted to division into political parties and fighting each other.
Where two great towers once stood now lies a pit of construction. After
I thought your commentary “Healthcare Hysteria Is Not A Remedy For Needed Reform” (Aug. 21) militated against its own purpose. First, there is the dismissive attitude concerning the debate over the “death panels,” your article implying that certain ones on one side — “a very vocal segment of the population” — are obtuse, having somehow missed the “nuance” that such panels are not in the legislation. Actually, such a characterization shows a lack of knowledge of the true “nuances” of the issue and the legitimate counterpoints that you chose to ignore. Such one-sided and unfair characterizations are not helpful, but simply lead to more polarization. At first, I had a hard time figuring out who you were warning of when you said “some will take whatever shortcuts they can to get there (to political power), whether it’s the use of half-truths or outright intimidation.” It sounded like you were warning about Obama and the Democrats (for it fits them perfectly), but then I realized that your phrase “unquestioning patriotism” was meant to describe the citizen-protesters at the town halls who have been angrily denouncing the Democrats’ healthcare plans. Again, you unfairly dismissed a large group of the electorate — true grassroots types — instead, portraying them as witless dupes. Those “patriots” are average citizens who are deeply concerned, not simply about healthcare, but over the much larger danger to our liberties.
This weekend, Americans will flock to the beach, grill by the pool, inevitably burn a few hot dogs, and take some well-deserved rest as the nation celebrates Labor Day. After all, this is what the holiday has been about for as long as most of us can remember. It is a time to leave work behind for a while and enjoy the bliss that is having little to do. It is much like playing hooky from school, but better.
Pajamas are appropriate attire for the entire day, The
continued from page 1 one-time opportunity to do something of significant impact, in that the property is big enough to find a creative campus for multiple users who would be both good neighbors and also better employers,” Farber said.
At this point, the idea is still in a conceptual stage.
“The concept was brought up, and the consensus was that it’s certainly worth exploring, but there is no com-
The healthcare “debate” is only the tip of the iceberg in many honest peoples’ minds. They see our country being rapidly steered into Socialism without any check or balance. Many of these citizens are Democrats and independents who did not vote for this kind of “change.” When you dismiss them, it is you who are being unwilling to be constructive.
Then, your comment about the Republicans’ “disdain” for Obama preventing the two parties from working together sounds suspiciously like a thinly veiled racist slander. Disdain for him is not based on his dark skin color — but his dark Socialist plans.
Finally, you bemoan the lack of cooperation from the Congressional Republicans as if it is the Republicans’ fault. No so. It is because the Democrats won’t allow principled amendments, and the left-leaning media won’t report them. The Democrats have effectively hung out a shutter saying “Republicans not welcome — unless you agree to our plans.” No meaningful effort has been made to bring in Congressional Republicans. And that is the truth.
So if you are interested in “cool heads,” I suggest you take some of your own advice when you write commentary. John F. Schmidt Wellington
Historically, August is the busiest month for hurricanes and, now that it has passed, I am grateful not a single hurricane hit Florida. While
By Lauren Miro
eight years, little has been rebuilt, and not due to a lack of money or strength. The site sat while various groups with competing interests debated what should stand in the towers’ place. This is not unlike the issues we face as a nation. The resources and capacity we have to do great things are immense, but overshadowed by dissenting opinions that divide us. It shouldn’t require a tragedy to bring Americans together — but it shouldn’t take anything less to tear us apart. It will be hard to escape the coverage of Sept. 11 this upcoming week. The entire nation will take a moment to remember the lives of those lost that day. Many will recall and relive the experience. Others will come together to mourn. While we focus on what we lost, we must also realize what we gained that day. For the first time since many of us can remember, Americans laid down their differences and opened their arms to console each other. We came together to mourn the loss of thousands of lives — people we might never have known but mourned for anyway because they were people just like us.
It is important to remember these sentiments as we tackle the issues before our nation today. We must do so with respect and love for each other, not dissent and suspicion. Just as we learned that Americans have real enemies who wish to cause us harm, we also learned that we have true friends here at home. That is something we can never forget.
Tropical Storm Claudette soaked the Panhandle, there was minimal damage, and I think we are all grateful for that.
Despite the seemingly quiet year, we must remain vigilant. Hurricane season is still upon us, and recent years have shown that dangerous storms can come late in the season. Therefore, it is imperative that every Floridian take necessary precautions. Florida has received national recognition for our hurricane and emergency preparedness plans. However, no amount of planning by government can substitute for families having a disaster plan.
It is important to be prepared for a power outage by having batteries for flashlights and radios. Additionally, I strongly encourage everyone to stock up on nonperishable food and have up to two-weeks of water — remember, aid may not reach you right away, and it is important that your family have the necessities for survival.
If you live on the coast, know the evacuation routes and shelter locations and be prepared to evacuate. Visit www.floridadisaster.org to create a plan for your family or business.
In the wake of the 2005 and 2006 hurricane seasons that wreaked havoc on our state and property insurance market, the Florida Legislature passed legislation to provide relief from exorbitant premiums by instituting a two-year freeze on Citizens’ insurances rates, establish accountability in the insurance industry, and identify long-term solutions for all Floridians.
This spring, the legislature passed HB 1495 to establish a “glide path” for Citizens’ insurance rates, reduce Flor-
ida’s Hurricane Catastrophe Fund exposure, and allow My Safe Florida Homes to apply for federal grants to assist Floridians seeking to harden their homes.
I will continue working to identify solutions to increase competition and stabilize our property insurance market as we seek to balance the protection of policyholders and Florida’s financial future. Florida is a beautiful state that we are privileged to call home.
State Sen. Jeff Atwater Senate President
The Kennedy troika of John, Robert and Edward has been summoned by the Lord Almighty, but their memory lingers on in the hearts and minds of the American people. Their genius strewn in their poetic yet poignant words of wisdom will help chart the course of our nation to recovery.
The late president John F. Kennedy’s words, “ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country,” soundly resonate today as we face a daunting journey ahead. In these trying times, we shouldn’t be asking for dole outs and pity but, as testament to our indomitable spirit to succeed, must not bow our heads in despair and keep charging on as we pull our country along.
Presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy, in one of his sterling speeches as attorney general said, “few will have the greatness to bend history itself, but each of us can work to change a small portion of events, and in the
total of all those acts will be written the history of this generation.” He wanted us to work hard as individuals but with a firm resolve to unite for the greater good; in the process lifting our nation from the morass of economic turmoil.
The “Lion of the Senate,” Edward M. Kennedy, in his Democratic National Convention concession speech said, “the work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives, and the dream shall never die.” The senator reminded us that we’re a strong and determined people. Soaring high on our hopes, we toil to keep our American dream alive to get out of this horrible recession and preserve this country as a cradle of freedom, bastion of democracy and the greatest superpower on earth ever.
Mario H. Casuga Royal Palm Beach
While both the national AARP and Florida division claim that they do not support any particular healthcare bill that is now before Congress, it is a hollow claim. President Obama has thanked them many times for their support. Their publications and ads constantly and consistently call for the kinds of healthcare “reform” that the president claims he is supporting.
They also spend an inordinate amount of time and money “debunking myths” about the present proposals. In truth, the AARP does support the current congressional proposals and President Obama’s ideas.
Based on provisions in the current bills that will reduce Medicare benefits for a large segment of the seniors, and based on President Obama’s previous actions and stated plans, we seniors can only wonder why the AARP is touting the proposed reforms. The AARP seems to base its support on the Obama promise that (among other things) “... if you do have health insurance, we’ll help make sure that your insurance is more affordable and more secure. If you like your healthcare plan, you can keep your healthcare plan. This is not some government takeover. If you like your doctor, you can keep seeing your doctor.” These promises will not be met and, in fact, are not now being kept. Many seniors, especially in Florida, are now covered by Medicare Advantage insurance plans. President Obama has already, even without new legislation, reduced the payments that the government will give the insurers for these plans. That means that next year the benefits will be reduced. It also means that many of the Medicare Advantage plans will go out of business. Additional-
and telephone number (anonymous letters will not be published), to The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414; fax them to (561) 793-6090 ; or you can e-mail them to letters@goTownCrier.com
Price is Right is actually on and, best of all, no one can complain when you don’t show up. Yes, this is Labor Day as we know it. But much has changed since the holiday’s inception. More than a century ago, when Labor Day
mitment from the council as far as future use,” Lodwick said. “There would be significant concerns about buffering and making sure that it will be an upgrade for the people who bought homes around there. They’ll no longer have a wastewater plant as their neighbor. They’ll have a nice buffer zone, and hopefully something that’s quiet and unobtrusive.”
Another question to consider is how much traffic would be added to Royal Palm Beach Blvd. While traffic has been significantly reduced since the opening of
was first celebrated, Americans took to the streets to parade in support of trade and labor organizations. The holiday was not about poolside barbecues or a day at the beach, but about millions of workers coming together with one voice to support the rights of those who could or would not speak for themselves.
At the time, the only opportunities for work were often industrial jobs with poor working conditions in factories, mines or fields. The
the State Road 7 extension, Lodwick wants to make sure that it does not become overloaded again.
Whatever goes there needs to be clean and high paying, Farber said. “I think the idea of trying to enter the biotech business at this late date is difficult, but I wouldn’t exclude it,” he said.
Farber has had preliminary discussions with members of the Business Development Board about some kind of business enterprise there.
“We’ll create a process that will be very heavy on public input so the public will be apprized every step of the
fighting for reform was merely to insure the safety and livelihood of the laborers who often endured cruel and unlawful treatment by the companies they worked for.
Since the early 19th century, methods of labor and laborers rights have come a long way. Laborers work in cubicles, not mine shafts, more and more we farm information, not crops. New industries have been established and unions have followed suit. Technology has changed rapidly to make jobs
way,” Farber said. “I think the idea is to find something that is not easily replaceable, something unique that would bring value to the communities that surround it.”
The objective is to create opportunities for the residents of Royal Palm Beach. “Obviously, we see that as an investment both in terms of what it can bring to the community and also how the land will develop and ultimately be viewed as a public resource,” he said.
Farber said it would be a hard decision if, for instance, a world-class university wanted to locate a medical
easier and more attractive with better wages. It is much less common to see workers killed or maimed by their work. One thing that hasn’t changed is the potential for abuse by employers, especially in economic times when jobs are scarce. Desperate workers will lower their standards to stay employed, letting corporations demand more and pay less. When job security is like a legend of the past, it is more common to focus on keeping the job we have and think little of the rest
school there, whether the residents of the village would be willing to donate some portion of the land.
we deserve. We cannot allow an economic slump, or any other excuse, to justify poorer working conditions for anyone. This year, maybe more than the previous few, Labor Day is truly a reminder to take a break from the stress of work and enjoy a day off. But as we lay in bed, by the pool or on the beach for the day, it is important to remember the path that brought us here, the very same one that lays ahead, with challenges still to come.
things that would need to be resolved,” Farber said. “The idea is that it would be something of major significance to this community.”
“Those are the kinds of See LETTERS, page 16
By Lauren Miro Town-Crier Staff Report
AUG. 29 — Several vehicles in the Isles neighborhood were burglarized sometime between last Friday night and Saturday morning. Deputies from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office substation in Wellington responded to three separate burglaries in the Wellington community. According to a PBSO report, someone entered a Land Rover parked on Windward Cove Lane between 8 p.m. last Friday and 7:45 a.m. the following morning and stole two pairs of Oakley sunglasses, the victim’s wallet, an iPod Nano and a Garmin GPS. The stolen items were valued at approximately $240. DNA evidence was obtained at the scene, but there were no suspects at the time of the report. In a second incident, a deputy responded to another home on Windward Cove Lane after the victim was contacted by a business owner who found some of her property in his dumpster. The victim went outside to find that someone had entered her car between 5 p.m. last Friday and 10 a.m. Saturday, stealing her bag, laptop computer and cash. The stolen items were valued at $2,200. DNA evidence was obtained, but there were no suspects at the time of the report. According to a third report, deputies responded to a vehicle burglary on Island Reef Drive. Between 4 p.m. last Friday and 9 a.m. the following morning, someone entered the vehicle and stole an iPod Nano and a laptop computer. The stolen items were valued at $2,150. DNA evidence was also obtained, but again there were no suspects at the time of the report.
AUG. 30 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington responded to two homes on Meadow Wood
Drive last Sunday in response to vehicle burglaries. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 8:30 p.m. last Saturday and 11 a.m. the following morning, someone entered two vehicles parked in the first victim’s driveway and stole a blank check and a pair of Oakley sunglasses valued at $200. According to a separate report, at approximately 3:15 a.m. last Sunday two unidentified suspects entered a Nissan parked in a second victim’s driveway and stole an iPod Touch and a pair of gold earrings. The victim has two surveillance cameras facing the street and driveway, which recorded the crime. There were no suspects at the time of the report.
AUG. 30 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington responded to a home on Aviary Road in Emerald Forest last Sunday regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 4 p.m. last Saturday and 7:50 a.m. the following morning, someone entered an unlocked truck parked in the victim’s driveway and stole a radio, cell phone and phone charger. The stolen items were valued at approximately $475. DNA evidence was obtained at the scene, and the PBSO was investigating a possible suspect at the time of the report.
AUG. 30 — A vehicle parked outside Wellington Regional Medical Center was burglarized last Sunday. According to a PBSO report, the victim parked her SUV near the outpatient surgery entrance of WRMC at approximately 11 a.m. When she returned to the vehicle three hours later, she discovered that someone had shattered the right front window of the vehicle and stolen a cell phone from the center console. There were no suspects at the time of the report.
The PBSO is seeking the identity of the individual pictured above.
AUG. 16 — The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a suspect wanted for passing fraudulent checks. According to a PBSO report, the victim’s vehicle was broken into on Sunday, Aug. 16. One of the items taken from the vehicle was a check book. Over the next couple of days, the victim’s checks were used to purchase more than $2,000 worth of items at various Wal-Mart stores, Publix supermarkets and Toys “R” Us stores in Palm Beach County. Anyone who can identify this individual is urged to call Detective Connie Rogan at (561) 688-4061 or Crime Stoppers at (800) 458-TIPS.
is unknown. His last known address was 76th Road N. in Loxahatchee. Raymond is wanted as of 09/03/09. 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.
By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report
With his campaign for attorney general underway and his State Senate position still fresh on his mind, State Sen. Dave Aronberg spoke to members of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce last Wednesday about his accomplishments in Tallahassee, and what remains to be done.
At a luncheon held Aug. 26 at the Binks Forest Golf Club, Aronberg (D-District 27) marveled at the difference between his current and prospective positions. “I thought my district was huge,” Aronberg said. “Well, there are 67 counties in Florida with 18 million people.”
Aronberg said Wellington voters are independent-minded, basing their votes on the candidate and not the party.
“Everyone says they are for the person and not the party, but Wellington actually lives up to that,” he said.
Aronberg noted that Wellington does not currently have a legislator living within the community, although State Rep. Joe Abruzzo lived in Wellington, but now resides in Royal Palm Beach. Still, Wellington is served well in Tallahassee, Aronberg said, with three state sen-
ators looking out for the community: himself, State Sen. Ted Deutch (D-District 30) and Senate President Jeff Atwater (R-District 25).
While no one from Palm Beach County has ever been elected to statewide office, Aronberg noted that this year, there are two local candidates campaigning for that honor, himself and Atwater, who is running for chief financial officer.
“Sen. Atwater has been able to do well in his campaign so far,” Aronberg said. “He does not have a Democratic opponent. He will likely be the next CFO. I have a Democratic primary and two Republicans running against me. We have a long way to go.”
Discussing the upcoming legislative session, Aronberg raised serious concerns about an item that would give raises to state employees who were outsourced to a private contractor.
“There was a proposal to cut all state employees by an additional two percent across the board and at the same time give private contracted state employees an automatic pay raise,” Aronberg said. “If your job were outsourced to a private contractor, you got an automatic pay raise. I did a public records request,
and the policy got reversed by the Department of Transportation. We saved $10 million.”
With the downturn in the economy, Aronberg said it is a “tricky time,” and that nobody wants to discuss raising taxes to balance the budget, so there are people looking for other ways to raise money. One way to raise money, he said, is to rely more heavily on gambling revenues. This is something the legislature’s Republican majority had been opposed to before there was a $6 billion budget hole, Aronberg noted.
“Gov. Crist tried to explain that when he signed a contract with the Seminole tribe, it did not increase gaming,” Aronberg said. “The compact allowed for poker and blackjack, but there was no increase in gaming. The previous rules allowed for poker. ‘We’re just having card games,’ he said. ‘We are not increasing gaming.’ People did not buy it.”
Another issue Aronberg expects the legislature to tackle next year is off-shore oil drilling. Aronberg said there is a concern that drilling would cause a negative impact on tourism, the lifeblood of Florida’s economy, at a time when Florida needs every dime it can get.
“If you have increased oil drilling, that will bring down money to the state,” Aronberg said. “The proposal was that it would be three miles from the shore. Hopefully we will have some responsible compromise. However, you are going to see this in some form in this coming session.”
Another way to raise money without raising taxes, Aronberg said, is to sell roads to foreign-owned companies, a move Aronberg said is illconceived and unwise not just for taxpayers, but for national security.
“That’s a security risk,” he said. “It’s bad for taxpayers when you are beholden to shareholders. You will decrease maintenance and raise tolls, and put it on the back of future generations. Once that road is gone, it’s gone. If there is a hurricane, and the road needs to be shut down, or if there is a brush fire and the road needs to be shut down, they will be liable to the private company to reimburse the company for lost revenue.”
Aronberg said that regardless of the outcome of the attorney general race, he will remain active in the western communities. “Whatever happens in the race, I will continue to be your neighbor regardless of
Noting that
See CHAMBER, page 16
The Fresh Market in Wellington hosted a wine gala fundraiser Tuesday to benefit the Greater Palm Beach County Chapter of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Attendees enjoyed samples of prime rib, shrimp cocktail, crab cakes, distinctive cheeses and other delightful hors d’oeuvres as well as desserts. Wine was donated by Southern Wine & Spirits. For more information about the foundation, visit www.jdrf.org/greaterpalmbeach.
PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER
By Martha Morales
Special to the Town-Crier
Palms West Hospital wants you to know numbers are very important for the management of coronary heart disease. The most important number to remember is 9-11. It can be your lifesaver in the event you are experiencing a cardiac event. Other numbers can be lifesavers too, working to prevent cardiovascular disease.
• Blood Pressure — Hypertension is one of the risk factors of heart disease that can be modified. An elevated blood pressure puts more strain on your heart, making
it work harder. You can participate in keeping your blood pressure below 120 systolic and 80 diastolic. The systolic number refers to the cardiac cycle at work. The diastolic number refers to the cardiac cycle at rest. Early screening, exercise, diet, weight control and compliance with prescribed medications can help you gain control of your blood pressure.
• Cholesterol — High blood cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease that also increases your risk of stroke. Fortunately, this risk factor is also modifiable. The desired number is less
than 200, with high levels of HDL (good cholesterol) and low levels of LDL (bad cholesterol). You have the power to influence this number through diet and exercise. Smoking cessation can also help you improve these numbers. Prescribed medications can also be used, if necessary.
• Blood Glucose Levels
Diabetes refers to a group of diseases that affect how your body uses glucose, or blood sugar. A desired blood glucose level is 70 to 100, depending on the time the test is done. There are approximately 18 million Americans with physician-diagnosed di-
abetes. There are also about six million Americans with undiagnosed diabetes. Obesity contributes to the development of some forms of diabetes. Diabetes is a modifiable risk factor, which you can change through diet, exercise and compliance with prescribed medication, if necessary. Cardiovascular disease is a long-term complication of diabetes. These numbers are general guidelines. Talk to your healthcare provider. Find out what numbers are right for you and keep track of your numbers. While age is a number we can’t control, you are
as young as you feel. Keeping these vital numbers under control will keep you healthy, which always feels good!
For more information on coronary heart disease, visit www.americanheart.org. To learn more about diabetes, visit www.diabetes.org. Martha Morales has been a Palms West Hospital employee for 15 years and is currently the clinical educator for ICU and Telemetry. Morales has been a nurse since she graduated from the Catholic University of Puerto Rico in 1981. She has been critical care certified since 1987 and a nurse educator since 1988. Morales is currently enrolled in the master’s of nursing program at Nova Southeastern University.
St. David’s-in-the-Pines Episcopal Church in Wellington held a Ministry Fair/Barbecue last Sunday, featuring a day of fun with friends and family as well as plenty of hamburgers, hot dogs and drinks. All proceeds went to help the St. David’s Youth Group. The church is located at 465 W. Forest Hill Blvd. For more info., call (561) 7931976 or visit www.saintdavidsinthepines.org. (Above) Marcela and Carlos Belgrave. (Below) Attendees gather for a group photo. PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER
The Village of Wellington and the Wellington Art Society are once again asking high school student artists attending Wellington schools or living in Wellington to submit their work for selection as part of the Student Art Program.
The next high school art exhibition will begin Sept. 21 and run through Jan. 13, 2010.
Student artists interested in participating in the exhibition are asked to deliver their artwork to the Wellington Community Center (12165 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) on Wednesday, Sept. 16 between the hours of 4 and 6 p.m. The artwork will be judged and selected by the Wellington Art Society.
Information and entry forms with program dates and guidelines are available from the Wellington Art Society at (561) 784-7561, art teachers at Wellington-area schools and on the Village of Wellington’s web site at www.ci.wellington.fl.us.
Palm Beach Community College’s Green Institute will hold the second annual Green Expo on Saturday, Oct. 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
at the Education & Training Center on the Lake Worth campus.
The Green Expo brings together exhibitors promoting environmentally friendly products, services, technologies, education and practices. Attendees can go to workshops on a variety of sustainability and green living topics, increase awareness of greenhouse gas emissions and climate change, and learn how to help contribute to a healthy planet.
The event is co-sponsored by Florida Public Utilities and the City of Lake Worth. Exhibits will include presentations on water and energy conservation, demonstrations on buying and building green, and hands-on workshops.
Exhibition space is still available, and exhibitors can register online at www.pbcc. edu/greenexpo.xml.
The event is free and open to the public. Call (561) 8683702 for details.
The Wellington Citizens Volunteer Organization will host “Scraps for a Cause,” a scrapbooking fundraiser to benefit Making Strides Against Breast Cancer and the CVO on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 12 and 13 at the Wellington Community Cen-
ter (12165 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). The event lasts from 8 a.m. to midnight Saturday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday in the community center’s Grand Cypress Room. Participants can rent a six-foot table for $60 Saturday, $45 Sunday or $100 for the weekend and bring photos and friends to spend the day scrapbooking. The cost includes a table for work space, lunch and dinner on Saturday, lunch Sunday, and snacks and beverages provided all day. Additionally, there will be vendors selling scrapbook items, handbags, gift baskets, jewelry, cosmetics and more. All money raised will go to Making Strides and the CVO, which helps Wellington’s residents in need.
For more information or to sign up, contact Stacy Somers at (561) 792-4630 or cvo.somers@gmail.com.
Sept. 8 through Nov. 22, Lion Country Safari will honor local, state and federal government employees and hospitality (restaurant/hotel) employees with $9.99 admission per person. That is a savings of $14 off regular admission prices. Every year at this time, Lion Country Safari offers a significant discounted admis-
sion to all government and hospitality employees. Upon presentation of valid identification or a paycheck stub, any local, state or federal government employee or hotel employee may bring up to four guests in one vehicle to Lion Country Safari for only $9.99 per person (plus tax). Lion Country Safari features a drive-through safari and a walk-through amusement park. For more information, call (561) 793-1084 or visit www.lioncountrysafari. com.
The Palms West Republican Club will host a debate featuring Republican candidates for State Senate District 27 on Wednesday, Oct. 21 at the Players Club restaurant in Wellington.
The debate will include Wellington Councilwoman Lizbeth Benacquisto and former State Rep. Sharon Merchant, both vying for the Republican nomination. A reception will take place from 6 to 7 p.m. with a cash bar and snacks provided. The meeting begins at 7 p.m. The event is sponsored in part by a grant from Wellington Regional Medical Center. For more information, call (561) 753-0084 or e-mail cfetscher@bellsouth.net.
Savvy shoppers found bargains last Saturday at the 19th Annual Gigantic Garage Sale held at the South Florida Fairgrounds’ Americraft Expo Center. The sale, presented by the South Florida Fair and United Way of Palm Beach County, offered thousands of shoppers a chance to buy bargain goods from hundreds of vendors, all under one roof. Additionally, it gave nonprofit organizations an opportunity to raise money with a discount-priced booth and keeping 100 percent of money from their sales. Items sold varied from toys, electronics, books and home goods to costumes, furniture, homemade crafts and food.
of
The Palms West Chamber of Commerce recently participated in the grand opening and ribbon cutting for I’m Greek Today, a new restaurant located at 11051 Southern Blvd., Suite 210 in the Southern Palm Crossing shopping plaza in Royal Palm Beach. Owner Chris Papas created the menu with a strong emphasis on one of the world’s healthiest Mediterranean diets. The menu offers Greek specialties from the sea, grilled souvlaki platters, signature pita wrap sandwiches and daily lunch specials from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. I’m Greek Today offers catering services as well as a beautiful bar and a diverse selection of wine. For more info., call (561) 3334233. Pictured above are Papas and his staff with Palms West Chamber of Commerce ambassadors.
The Palms West Chamber of Commerce will host a mini business expo on Thursday, Sept. 10 from 4 to 7 p.m. center court at the original Wellington Mall. Presented by the Palms West Chamber Membership Committee, the expo will be a great way for chamber members to network with fellow business members and promote their services and products.
“It will be a business to business format,” Membership Coordinator Jessica Clasby said. “The purpose is for our members to showcase their businesses to their fellow and prospective chamber members.”
The response from local
businesses has been very favorable, and spaces are filling up quickly. There will be a maximum of 60 vendors/ businesses, so be sure to reserve your spot.
“This is an example of the great networking opportunities presented by your regional chamber,” Membership Director Debi Leed said. “During these challenging economic times, networking is crucial. Participants will benefit by making those important business contacts.”
Call Jessica Clasby at the Palms West Chamber at (561) 790-6200 to reserve a space. For more information about the chamber, visit its web site at www.palmswest.com.
The Wellington Chamber of Commerce recently named Patty Heyner a chamber ambassador.
Heyner relocated to the area from New Jersey more than 40 years ago. She has watched Palm Beach County grow from a small-town atmosphere to a hot spot for theater, shopping, art, music, and job and business opportunities. Heyner started out in the food and beverage industry and worked her way up from a waitress, bartender, and finally food and beverage manager at some of the finest private country clubs in South Florida such as St. Andrew’s, the Hamlet and Boca Greens in Boca, to opening up Wycliffe in 1989.
Heyner also owned restaurants in Lantana at Sherbrooke in Lantana and Royal Palm Beach (Patti’s 19th Hole) as well as Almost Heaven deli and catering company. In 1994, Heyner changed careers and started in the real estate business. She started in The Acreage with builder Rich McDonald, who taught her blueprints, land and design. Next Heyner moved on to work with Arthur Rutenburg to continue her training in sales, design, blueprints and total knowledge of building a dream home for the buyer. In 1996, Heyner went to work as a sales agent for Turn Key Home Builders in The Acreage and soon became the
top producer, winning numerous awards for millions of dollars of sales from the Prism Awards. She moved up to the position of executive manager, and soon the company opened a second division that Heyner also managed.
At this point, Heyner helped buyers buy homes already on the market or build their dream homes. She also helped investors buy land, condos, houses and commercial properties in Florida from local, national and international clients. Heyner has joined A World Realty Company as branch manager in the Wellington Plaza. This new office is small enough to provide personalized service
Patty Heyner
but big enough to provide the solutions customers demand. For more information on Heyner, the Wellington Chamber of Commerce or how to become an ambassador, call the chamber at (561) 792-6525 or visit www. wellingtonchamber.com.
The car is packed, financial aid and scholarship paperwork is completed, and students are headed back to college. And while most students will finish college with a degree and promising career opportunities, many will struggle for years to repay the credit card debt they incur while in school.
The challenge for many parents is to decide whether or not their college student should apply for a credit card before new regulations go into effect in February 2010. The recently passed CARD Act will require a person less than 21 years of age to either document their ability to repay the debt, or have a cosigner before being granted credit. It will also regulate aggressive credit card marketing to college students, including enticing students to apply for cards by making offers of free t-shirts, beach balls or even chances for an iPod.
In addition, the Credit Card Act of 2009 requires that banks mail bills at least 21 days before their due dates and provide at least 45 days’ notice before making a significant change to their rates or fees. The new rules also bar banks from increasing rates and fees without warning when a consumer misses
a payment or exceeds a credit limit.
A Consumer Credit Counseling Service survey this summer determined its clients 21 and under who have taken college courses or other higher education are carrying significant credit card debts. The survey found college students who came to the agency for bankruptcy counseling had an average of $21,637 in credit card debt, and students who came to the agency for budget counseling had an average of $7,056 in credit card debt.
“College is when many students start managing their finances for the first time,” said Jessica Cecere, president of Consumer Credit Counseling Service (CCCS) of Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast. “The implications of using credit wisely while in college are far reaching — and can impact your employment status, your ability to secure a loan for a car or home and even the rates you pay for insurance and future credit.”
When it comes to building a positive credit record, CCCS suggests that families consider the following when deciding what would be best for their situation:
• Authorize Use — Commonly known as piggyback-
ing, the student is attached to the parent’s card and has charging privileges, but no legal responsibility for payment since the card is not in his or her name. The activity on the account is reported to the credit bureau in both the parent’s name and the student’s name, thus the young adult builds a credit file of their own. This option allows the parents to monitor the student’s spending and remove them from the card if things get out of hand.
• Get a secured credit card — This type of credit card requires a cash collateral deposit which then becomes your line of credit, thus limiting any abuse. Consumers need to be very careful when applying for this type of card, for some charge high fees that can greatly diminish your spending power. You can also expect a secured card to have an annual fee and a higher interest rate than an unsecured card.
• Obtain a card in the student’s name — Since the clock is ticking on the availability of this option, it definitely merits a conversation between the student and the parent. If the young adult has some financial training and experience with credit, and has demonstrated that he or she can handle it responsibly,
then having a card in their own name could be a good way to launch their own credit file.
When you send your student off to college, help them avoid these common credit card pitfalls:
• Be wary of unsolicited offers — Low or zero introductory rates, no annual fees, rewards programs and free cash advances can be appealing, especially for students living on a fixed budget. Most offers are short-lived and will cost more in the long run.
• Know the costs — According to the Credit Card Monitor, the average interest rate for student credit cards is 15.33 percent. A student leaving college with a $5,000 balance who makes minimum payments of just four percent will pay more than $2,300 in interest and take 50 years to pay off the balance. Annual fees, cash advance and balance transfer fees, and late fees will only add to the problem.
Families can help prepare their college students by discussing their credit options, helping them make the right choices and guiding them in their financial decisions. For more information, call CCCS at (800) 330-CCCS or visit www.cccsinc.org.
MONDAY NIGHT MOVIES
Every Monday, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
West Palm Beach Public Library
View first-run blockbuster movies for free. Call 868-7701 for details.
PILATES MAT CLASSES
Every Wednesday, 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
The Harriet Himmel Theater, CityPlace Open to all ages and fitness levels. Call 835-1408 for details.
CLEMATIS BY NIGHT
Every Thursday, 6 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Centennial Square Call 822-1515 for details.
FREE LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Every Friday & Saturday, 7 p.m. – 11 p.m. CityPlace Plaza Call 366-1000 for details.
FREE YOGA CLASSES
Every Saturday, 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. West Palm Beach Public Library Call 868-7701 for details.
FLAVOR PALM BEACH KICK-OFF PARTY
Friday, August 28, 5 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Centennial Square
The second annual Palm Beach County restaurant month, kicks off with a party featuring tastings from participating restaurants, along with live entertainment and more. Tickets are $15 in advance; $20 at the door; and $10 for Downtown residents and City employees. Call 833-8873 for details.
SEMINAR: WHAT’S IN YOUR COSMETICS
Thursday, September 17, 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m.
MD Beauty Labs, 320 S. Quadrille Blvd. Learn about cosmetic and pharmaceutical grade skincare ingredients during this educational seminar lead by cosmedical company, iS CLINICAL Call 655-6325 for details.
A NIGHT IN RUSSIA
Friday, September 18 Pistache, 101 N. Clematis St.
Don’t miss this festive Russian-themed party featuring authentic Russian cuisine, live music and performances. Call 833-5090 for details.
SUNDAY AT THE MEYER
Sunday, September 27, 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Meyer Amphitheatre Free concert by The Tokens. Call 822-1515 for details.
For a complete list of upcoming events, visit www.wpb.org/citycalendar.
While Downtown, check out these DIVINE DEALS!
COLORIST HAIR STUDIO AND SPA
330 Clematis St., Suite 103
Receive a hair gloss treatment with blow dry, plus an Aveda protective plant facial peel for just $89.99! Call 651-4014 for details.
DESIGN WITHIN REACH
230 Clematis St.
Great home design is within your reach: Take 15% off dining tables and chairs during DWR’s Mix & Match event, Sept. 10 - Oct. 6. Call 833-1799 for details.
HOME WORLD BY AFROCENTER
107 N. Olive Ave.
Receive 20% off distinctive home décor from around the world. Mention this ad to receive discount. Call 650-1020 for details.
LEILA RESTAURANT
120 S. Dixie Hwy.
Get $10 off tabs of $50 or more, or $20 off $100 at this go-to spot for Mediterranean cuisine. Call 659-7373 for details.
THE SANCTUARY SALON AND SPA
120 S. Dixie Hwy., Suite 105
Receive a designer haircut and style at half price, plus discounted spa services with any hair-color service. Call 721-9648 for details.
SATURN SOUND STUDIOS
515 S. Olive Ave.
Become a rock star and learn the basics of touring while mastering in-studio techniques during Rock N’ Roll 101 classes. Call 832-2148 for details.
The King’s Academy’s 5k Lion Run held last Saturday at the school’s West Palm Beach campus was a success in every sense of the word.
The school’s newly certified cross-country course was enjoyed by nearly 200 registered participants ages four through 76. The morning began with a quarter-mile kid’s run around the track. After cheering the kids through the finish line, the 5k participants lined up at the start. Many of the runners commented that the course was challenging, well organized and clearly marked.
The King’s Academy is a
nationally recognized interdenominational, independent 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 Schools.
The King’s Academy serves students and their families from across Palm Beach County at its main campus at Belvedere Road and Sansbury’s Way in West Palm Beach, and its satellite preschool campuses.
Cub Scout Pack 125 of Wellington hosted National School Scout Night last Thursday in the Binks Forest Elementary School cafeteria. Students were welcomed and informed about all the exciting opportunities involved with scouting. The evening was filled with fun, games and lots of Scout stories, and more than 22 boys decided to join the pack. The pack is still accepting new applicants. For more information, e-mail Robin Corradino at rcorra814@ yahoo.com.
Wellington High School parents will have the opportunity to meet their student’s teachers during Back-toSchool Night on Tuesday, Sept. 15.
The event, which begins at 6:30 p.m., will allow teachers to explain course content, requirements and student expectations to parents. Additionally, parents will have the opportunity to ask questions of the teachers. Students will bring home
a copy of their schedule and a school map the day before, and additional copies will be available in the main office on the night of the event. Orientation begins at 7 p.m. in the student’s first class. Due to time constraints, individual conferences with teachers will not be permitted but may be arranged through the guidance office. For more information, call (561) 795-4900.
The Education Foundation of Palm Beach County has awarded a $1,000 grant to the Seminole Ridge High School SECME Club for “Planets, Proportions and Pottery,” an interdisciplinary exploration of art, science and math. Their scale model of the solar system will encompass public school campuses and community supporters across the county, starting with the “sun” at Seminole Ridge and expanding to sites at other schools and businesses to give students, parents and the community a visual understanding of the vast distanc-
es involved in space exploration.
For this project, students will use proportional mathematics and ceramics construction, working with NASA images to create in clay textures and patterns of continents and craters, then glazing their globes. The finished products, with captions and location graphics, will be viewable at the appropriate “scale” distance in display boxes at feeder schools and SRHS business supporters: “Earth” at Lion Country Safari; “Mars” at Loxahatchee Groves and Golden Groves
elementary schools and Western Pines Middle School; and “Asteroids” at Pierce Hammock, Acreage Pines, Royal Palm Beach and H.L. Johnson elementary schools. To model the sun, SECME proposes planting an 86-foot circle of sunflowers in the center of the courtyard.
• From the Media Center — SRHS media specialist Carole Koester welcomes Hawks to a new year and reminds them that 50 points is the BookIt! goal for the first quarter. “Students can earn ten of those points by reading our student handbook
then passing the Reading Counts quiz I’ve created for it,” Koester said. Students can take that quiz, or any of the Reading Counts quizzes, before or after school in the media center. BookIt! quiz points earned count for ten percent of students’ first period grade each quarter.
Koester also reminds Hawks that Florida has chosen a new set of 15 books as recommendations in its annual Teens Read program, and the media center has available for checkout 15 copies each of selected Teens Read titles.
• TV Production in the Running — The SRHS TV production program, under the direction of Earle Wright, may have statewide winners in the Jim Harbin Student Media Festival, part of the Florida Association for Media Excellence. Two SRHS submissions have been selected in the top three for their categories: Math Cab by Joseph Riviera and Sam Santiago, in the Instructional Video category and Florida KidCare by Justin Kelsey in the Public Service Announcement category. These students will learn their state-
wide standing Oct. 1 at the
in Orlando. Two other
received honorable mentions in the contest: The Uninvited by Justin Kelsey and Michael Schwartzberg in the Drama category; and SECME Interview by Hilary Mears and Michael Schwartzberg in the News category.
• Interact Is Underway The SRHS Interact is a great club to meet people, make friends and earn community service hours. For more information, see Interact sponsors Liz Jenkins, Barbara Nicho or Katie Wright.
The South Florida Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure has announced the 2010 Race Committee Leadership, a team of women personally inspired to lead the 19th Annual Susan G. Komen South Florida Race for the Cure in January. They are: Patricia Abramson, chairwoman; Stephanie Moak Siegel, honorary chairwoman; and Adrianne Weissman, consulting chairwoman. Karen List and Sandy Spender are co-chairs who will assist Abramson this year and gear up to chair the 2011 Komen South Florida Race for the Cure. All five women will dedicate countless hours, working together to make the 1010 race one of the best to date. Komen for the Cure is the world’s largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists. Komen South Florida Race for the Cure, set for Jan. 30, is the largest fundraiser for the South Florida Affiliate and has the distinction of being the first race of the year among all affiliates. The race is now accepting sponsorship
applications, and race registration for participants will begin Oct. 1. The affiliate serves Palm Beach, Martin and St. Lucie counties.
Abramson’s goal for this year’s event is to increase participation to at least 23,000 participants, up from 22,000, and boost fundraising. “I would like to see everybody raise just $10 more than their participation fee. Everyone can make this a success,” she said.
Abramson, diagnosed with breast cancer four years ago, has been involved with the race for a decade, starting as a volunteer cheering on race participants and stepping up her role after a close friend’s diagnosis. She credits involvement with Komen for saving her own life, and for instilling the importance of early detection and yearly mammograms. “My story was so much simpler because of early detection,” Abramson said.
Her mission is to spread the message to groups including women under 40 who are being touched more frequent-
ly by the disease. Abramson, a buyer for Evelyn & Arthur, and husband Larry have three children. In June, the entire family participated in the Susan G. Komen Global Race for the Cure in Washington, D.C.
Siegel is a member of the Komen Advocacy Alliance Board in Washington, D.C. The Komen Advocacy Alliance mission is to translate the promise to end breast cancer into action at all levels of government to discover and deliver the cures. Siegel represents the global expansion of the organization’s reach. “We are advocating for lasting change and giving a voice to cancer survivors around the world,” Siegel said.
It was the vision of Siegel and her husband Ned that brought Komen to the Bahamas. A businesswoman and philanthropist, Siegel lived in the Bahamas, working side by side with Ned during his tenure as U.S. ambassador.
She shared her own battle with breast cancer — ultimately undergoing a double mastectomy — in a country
Several Wellington students graduated this spring from the West Palm Beach campus of South University.
Anabel Salvador graduated cum laude with a bachelor’s of science degree in healthcare management.
Tarren Feinberg, Denise
Henry, Dionne Hylton, Ibrahim Morsy, Dihana Restrepo and Lillyam Restrepo received bachelor’s degrees in nursing.
Kelsey Snyder received an associate’s of science degree in physical therapist assistance, and Melanie Abrams
graduated with honors with a master’s of arts degree in professional counseling.
South University has campuses all over the U.S. including West Palm Beach and Tampa. For more information about the school, visit www. southuniversity.edu.
Blake E. Moorhead has entered Basic Cadet Training at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs in preparation to enter the first academic year at the academy. The six-week, two-phase orientation program must be successfully completed by the cadets prior to entering their freshman year. The training prepares them to meet the rigorous mental and physical challenges experienced by new cadets.
Phase I involves personal in-processing, orientation and training in the fundamentals of being a cadet. Cadet trainees are prepared to adjust from civilian to military life and disciplines, and learn proper wear of the uniform, saluting policies and procedures, drill and ceremony, marching and living quarters standards.
During Phase II, cadets train outdoors living in tents while learning to function in
field conditions. Cadets apply and practice team work, cohesion and learn to deal with physically and mentally demanding situations. They complete the obstacle, confidence, assault and leadershipreaction courses, and participate in a rescue mission termed Operation Warrior.
Moorhead is the son of Bruce and Sandra Moorhead of The Acreage. He is a 2009 graduate of Seminole Ridge High School.
where a very high percentage of women under 50 are diagnosed with the disease. Upon arrival in 2007, Siegel served as the inspiration for the Bahamas Breast Cancer Initiative and the BBCI Foundation, where she actively spoke out for education, early detection and care for all women of the Bahamas. Siegel, a former designer and couture buyer who later became involved in business and real estate investment ventures, lives in Boca Raton with her husband. They have three children.
Weissman, who led the 2009 Race in South Florida, is sponsorship chair as well as advisor. She became involved with Komen 12 years ago after a friend asked her to walk and has since served as a volunteer and sponsor, and chaired numerous committees. The president of Evelyn & Arthur clothing stores, Weissman believes she has a responsibility to get involved, because many of her customers have had breast cancer. Weissman and husband Fred have two daughters.
Aiden Warren Bass son of Jennifer and Gary Bass Jr. of The Acreage was born at Palms West Hospital on Aug. 3.
Giuseppe Paolo — son of Lisa and Giuseppe Paolo of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Aug. 5.
Siena Bindi Hejazi Gibney — daughter of Lauren Anne Gibney and Alex Hejazi of The Acreage was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Aug. 6.
Kieran Andrew Reddy — son of Serojni and Andrew Reddy of Royal Palm Beach was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Aug. 6.
Asha Solana Malloy
The race is a significant event for the affiliate as 75 percent of the money raised stays in South Florida and is used for free mammograms, education and grants for patient navigators among other things, Weissman said, adding, “We are a huge provider of funds.”
Twenty-five percent of funds raised goes to the national organization for breast cancer research. Nancy Brinker promised her dying sister, Susan G. Komen, she would do every-
daughter of Geraldine Watson and Andrew Malloy II of The Acreage was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Aug. 7.
Isabella Mirabella Carbonaro — daughter of Maureen Gonzalez and John Carbonaro Sr. of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Aug. 10.
Rayan M. Akif — son of Hanane and Adam Akif of Royal Palm Beach was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Aug. 13.
Evalina Scarlet Pomante — daughter of Janine Barcewicz and Richard Pomante of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Aug. 14. Aiden Douglas Calby
thing in her power to end breast cancer forever. In 1982, that promise became Susan G. Komen for the Cure and launched the global breast cancer movement. Today, Komen for the Cure is the world’s largest network of breast cancer survivors and activists fighting to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all and energize science to find the cures. For more information about Susan G. Komen for the Cure, visit www.komen.org or call (877) GO KOMEN.
son of Sheryl and Joseph Calby of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Aug. 14.
Meadow Lynn Reeder — daughter of Alicia and Ryan Reeder of Royal Palm Beach was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Aug. 17. Brody Elias Levin son of Jenny and Stephen Levin of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Aug. 21.
Lance LeRoy Rice son of Caitlin Ciuffetelli and Earl LeRoy Rice of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Aug. 23. • • • Send Palms West People items to: The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414. Fax: (561) 793-6090. E-mail: news@goTownCrier.com.
Saturday, Sept. 5
• John D. MacArthur Beach State Park in North Palm Beach will hold a Butterfly Walk on Saturday, Sept. 5 at 11 a.m. Join a park ranger on a walking tour through one of South Florida’s last remaining hardwood hammocks. There will be several species of butterflies to identify and observe. Learn which plants attract these winged wonders to your back yard. For more info., call (561) 6246952. The walk is free with park admission of $5 per carload of up to eight people.
• Whole Foods Market (2635 State Road 7) in Wellington will host a Labor Day Cookout on Saturday, Sept. 5 from noon to 3 p.m. For $5 participants can enjoy their choice of an all-natural hot dog, hamburger or veggie burger with a soda or water and chips. No registration is necessary. Call (561) 904-4000 for more info.
• The Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center (13330 Sixth Court North, Loxahatchee Groves) will hold new volunteer orientation on Saturday, Sept. 5 from 1 to 3 p.m. Anyone who would like to volunteer for any of the Vinceremos programs is encouraged to attend. The center is accepting volunteers age 13 and older. Call Vinceremos at (561) 792-9900 for more info. Sunday, Sept. 6
• Chabad of Wellington invites residents to an open house at the Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) on Sunday, Sept. 6 at 2 p.m. Learn where honey comes from with a beekeeper and his bees. Also learn about the chabad’s teen group, Hebrew school, Torah classes, Kabbalah classes, the mitzvah program and more. Call (561) 333-4663 for more info.
• Learn to Kayak at John D. MacArthur Beach State Park in North Palm Beach on Sunday, Sept. 6 at 2 p.m. Representatives from Adventure Times Kayaks will teach a land-based course that gives beginners the skills necessary for kayaking. Reservations are recommended. The program is free with park admission. For more info., call (561) 624-6952.
• Whole Foods Market (2635 State Road 7, Wellington) will hold a Free Demonstration of Dr. Haushka Products from 3 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 6 in the Whole Body Department. Learn about one of the top brands of natural skin care products and cosmetics. Samples will be given out while supplies last. Call (561) 904-4000 for more info.
Monday, Sept. 7
• The Palm Beach Kennel Club (1111 North Congress Ave., West Palm Beach) will host the $20,000 Labor Day Puppy Stakes on Monday, Sept. 7 at 11:30 a.m., featuring PBKC’s top youngsters, an afternoon of fun and excitement, as well as prize drawings and young greyhounds to pet. Admission is $1. Visit www.pb kennelclub.com or call (561) 683-2222 for more info.
Wednesday, Sept. 9
• The Wellington Art Society will kick off its 200910 season with its annual open house and membership drive Wednesday, Sept. 9 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way). There will also be information on membership and the group’s upcoming events and demonstrations, as well as a raffle and refreshments. Admission is free. For more info., call Wellington Art Society President Adrianne Hetherington at (561) 784-7561.
• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Magic School Bus Adventures” on Wednesdays, Sept. 9, 16, 23 and 30 at 6:30 p.m. for ages five and up. Explore concepts in nature and science with Ms. Frizzle and the Magic School Bus gang. Themes include “Explore the Senses,” “In the Time of Dinosaurs,” “Baked in a Cake” and “Inside the Human Body.” Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.
• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host a “Writers’ Critique Workshop” on Wednesday, Sept. 9 at 7 p.m. for adults. Offer and accept construc-
tive criticism and comments to improve your fiction, nonfiction and poetry in a supportive atmosphere led by Florida Writers’ Association member Mark Adduci. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.
Thursday, Sept. 10
• John D. MacArthur Beach State Park in North Palm Beach will host “Yoga on the Beach” on Thursdays, Sept. 10 and 24 at 8:30 a.m. Come and awaken your inner spirit, while gazing out at the clear blue waters. Join yoga instructor Anne Marie Phelan as she guides you through an hourlong session on the beach. Bring a towel and drinking water. To make reservations, call (561) 624-6952. The program is free with park admission.
• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature “The Magic Secrets Magic Show” on Thursday, Sept. 10 at 3:30 p.m. for ages five and up. See magician John Cesta with a story of magic, inspiration, music and audience participation. Call (561) 790-6070 to preregister.
• The Palms West Chamber of Commerce will hold a Mini Biz Expo center court in the original Wellington Mall (12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) on Thursday, Sept. 10 from 4 to 7 p.m. Four-foot display tables are available to members for $25. Call (561) 790-6200 or visit www.palmswest.com for more info.
• The Wellington Chamber of Commerce will host an After-Hours Networking Reception at the 7th Chukker Restaurant at the International Polo Club Palm Beach on Thursday, Sept. 10 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Admission is free for chamber members and $10 for guests. RVSP by Sept. 7 to (561) 792-6525.
• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will hold a Teen Advisory Group (TAG) meeting on Thursday, Sept. 10 at 6:30 p.m. for ages 12 to 17. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.
• Whole Foods Market (2635 State Road 7, Wellington) will feature “Integrated Dinner by Dan” on Thursday, Sept. 10 at 7 p.m. Join associate team leader Dan Handy from the Prepared Foods Department as he teaches how to make a delicious homemade meal with a twist. Admission is free. To register, call (561) 904-4000. Friday, Sept. 11 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will hold “Science Club” on Fridays, Sept. 11 and 18 at 3 p.m. for ages eight and up. Call (561) 790-6070 to preregister.
• The Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens (4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach) will host “Sushi & Stroll” on Friday, Sept 11 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Meander through the gardens at your own pace and take advantage of a self-guided audio tour. Admission is free to museum members and children under 3, $5 for non-members. For more info., visit www.morikami. org.
• The Armory Art Center (1700 Parker Ave., West Palm Beach) will open three exhibitions on Friday, Sept. 11: the Florida Artist’s Group 59th Exhibition (Montgomery Gallery), the Hispanic Heritage Exhibition (Greenfield Gallery) and a Faculty Exhibition (Colaciello Gallery). Opening receptions will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Admission is free for members and $5 for nonmembers. The exhibitions will run through Oct. 3. For more info., call the Armory at (561) 832-1776 or visit www.armoryart.org.
Saturday, Sept. 12
• Drop-in Story Times for ages two and up will resume at the Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) starting Saturday Sept. 12 at 10:15 and 11:15 a.m. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.
• Bill Poje, author of the Florida crime novel Painless, will hold a book signing on Saturday, Sept. 12 at noon at Waldenbooks in the Mall at Wellington Green. For more info., call Poje at (904) 525-3928 or visit www.painless-poje.com.
Send calendar items to: The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414. FAX: (561) 793-6090. E-mail: news@gotowncrier.com.
By Lauren Miro Town-Crier Staff Report
New leadership hasn’t seemed to faze the Royal Palm Beach High School varsity football team, which celebrated its first official win of the season Thursday night under new head coach Frank Kunf. By defeating the Palm Beach Central High School Broncos 21-14, the Wildcats proved to be just as competitive as last year’s season, in which they went 11-2 before ending at the regional finals. Both teams played hard, but neither team made the game easy on themselves. The Broncos gave up two interceptions and saw six injuries on the field. The Wildcats faced penalty after penalty, costing them more than 50 yards, an intercepted ball and a two first-downs given to the Broncos. Both teams let fumbled balls become turnovers and big mistakes become touchdowns.
Early in the game, the Wildcat defense intercepted a pass and ran for the first
touchdown of the game. A two-point conversion then brought the Wildcats to eight. Three minutes later, the Bronco defense retrieved a fumbled ball and ran 53 yards for their first touchdown. An extra-point kick brought the score to 8-7 at the end of the first quarter.
An error by the Broncos’ kicker at the opening of the second quarter set the Wildcats up on the four yard line.
Senior running back Javonti Greene took advantage to score another touchdown, and after a failed field goal attempt, the Wildcats began to pull away with 14 points to the Broncos’ seven going into halftime.
The third quarter saw the Broncos’ Richard Simmons run a 53-yard pass to bring PBCHS close to the goal line, but the Wildcats blocked their attempts at a first down.
With eight minutes left in the game, RPB’s Tremane McCullough caught a pass from quarterback Malcolm Pendergrass, giving the Wildcats their third touchdown. A
successful field goal brought the score to 21-7.
Three Royal Palm Beach penalties, including two for unnecessary roughness, set the Broncos up on the four yard line, where senior Thomas Viale made the touchdown. An extra-point kick brought the Broncos to 14 points with 4:39 left in the game.
For the remainder of game, the two teams battled to move the ball with neither coming
close to scoring again. Additional penalties for unsportsmanlike conduct cost the Wildcats more yards that they were unable to make up, and the Broncos found themselves unable to get past RPB’s defense in their attempts to tie the game.
Palm Beach Central’s next game is at Glades Central on Friday, Sept. 11 at 7:30 p.m.
Royal Palm Beach visits Palm Beach Gardens on Friday, Sept. 18 at 7 p.m.
Wellington High School recently held its baseball banquet at the Binks Forest Golf Club. Awards were given out to members
winners on the JV team were: Jared Tosner, Outstanding Defense; Mike Fields, Outstanding Offense;
Thomas Kirchner, Most Valuable Player. Varsity team winners included Sean Weinhouse, Outstanding
and
and Bryan Adametz, MVP and Outstanding Offense Award. (Above left) Tosner receives his award from assistant coach Bill Francis, head coach Lenny Adametz and assistant coach Scott Ryder. Mike Fields (above center) and T.J. Malone (above right) receive awards from their coaches.
The Wellington Wild 8-U fast-pitch travel softball team recently completed the summer season by capturing the USSSA Florida State 8-U Championship in the A Division in Vero Beach. The team went undefeated throughout the entire tournament up until the championship game of the double elimination tournament. Their first loss came 8-6 to the 8-U West Boca Diamonds. However, because it was their first loss, the team had to play the West Boca Diamonds again for the state title in which they came back and defeated the Diamonds 9-4 to win the state championship. This victory was a total team effort, with strong defense and timely hitting. The girls will move up to the 10-U Division this season.
The Wild girls and coaches put numerous hours of practice and hard work to win the state title. The team is managed by Jenny Schmidt, along with coaches Ric Hagen, Jeff Drew, Dave Froehlich, Tracey Lay and Marc Deleon. Players include Sydney Brooks, Bailey Cain, Kerstin Castro, Jessie Curley, Amia Davis, Ali Deleon, Tia Drew, Megan Froehlich, Skylar Hagen, Katie Schmidt, Nicole SussmandRohr and Sabrina Gonzalez.
The Prep Chargers defeated the Prep Giants 34-0 last Saturday to record their second victory of the season in the Western Communities Football League. The Chargers scored on their first five offensive plays of the game. Fullback John Smith ran for an 80-yard touchdown and finished with 87 yards for the game. Running back Cole Martin scored on his only carry of the game a 45-yard touchdown run, and quarterback Justin Kolnick scored on a 47-yard touchdown run and finished the game with 64 yards rushing.
Cornerback Tre Jackson scored on a 65-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, and he also scored on a 35-yard punt return for a touchdown. The Chargers finished the game with more than 200
yards of offense for the second straight game. The offensive line continued to open the holes for the running backs led by Josh Rayfield, Jackson Herrod, Hunter Wagner, Connor Worontsoff, Nick Shibley, Brandon Schloss and Jayson Martin. The defense was led by linebacker Sammy Eagen who recorded nine tackles and recovered his own forced fumble, linebacker Jahcobi Neath who recorded five tackles and a sack, and linebacker Gavin Hendricks who recorded five tackles. Also contributing on defense were Dylan Skinner, Jordan Williams, Bryan Zuver, Andrew Szrejter, Alex Lawson and Jonathan Mogbo. The Giants were led by quarterback Zack Bram and running back Christopher Sarmiento.
The Chargers’ John Smith scores on the extra point conversion.
Royal Palm Beach Wildcats Pop Warner Mitey Mites silver team competed in the Jamboree last Saturday. The boys won their first scrimmage 6-0 against the Jupiter black team and tied their second scrimmage 6-6 against the Port St. Lucie blue team. The Mitey Mites’ first game is on Saturday, Sept. 5 at Seminole Palms Park in Royal Palm Beach. The Wildcats silver team includes Tyler Bolleter, Brennen Brewster, John Carmichael, Dylan Connley, Jacob Connley, Matthew Coon, Harrison Dean, Ethan DiBerardino, A.J. Gray, Casey Fitzpatrick, Jack Higgins, Nick Hoffman, Austin Houck, Nick Kauper, Ethan Kramer, Vincent Lavigna, Dylan Lloyd, Johnathon Monteagudo, T.J. Moore, Tyler Retzler, Gio Richardson, Toby Seevers, Joshua Shackelford and Christopher Valle.
It used to be that you had a halter to lead a horse around and rode in a bridle. But these days, with a plethora of natural horsemen and their related products, the line between halters and bridles has blurred. Some people even ride their horses using only a halter for control. Basically, a halter fits snugly over a horse’s head. Part goes behind the ears, part goes around the nose, part goes behind the jaws, and part keeps all those other parts connected. Add on a lead rope, and you’re good to go. When riding with a halter, some people use only one lead rope, while others add a second lead rope, mimicking reins. In the simplest terms, a bridle is a halter with a bit added on. The reins connect to the bit, and the bit goes in the horse’s mouth.
To complicate things a tad more, there are also bitless bridles, known as hackamores or bosals, both English and Western. Some merely rely on nose or neck pressure, if neck reining, while others are more severe and can cut off a horse’s ability to breathe!
Most people use a halter when leading a horse or tying it for grooming or in a horse trailer. Halters are also routinely used when training a horse and teaching it ground manners. Oddly enough, a halter should break easily, so a horse won’t get hung up or stuck in a dangerous situation. A panicky horse is a danger to himself and anyone around him. Horses can flip over backward in an attempt to break free. You’d rather have a broken halter than an injured horse! Also, horses should not be turned out into
continued from page 1 hit with something of Hurricane Andrew or Katrina magnitude, clearly they’re way outside our capacities, but for storms that communities of our size can react to, we try to be as self-sufficient as we can,” Farber said. Self-sufficiency applies to the citizenry as well. In addition to taking care of their own property, boarding up or
continued from page 7
By Ellen Rosenberg
a field with a halter left on. Again, the opportunities for the halter to get stuck in something, trapping the horse, outweigh most other considerations. Many people swear by this halter or that one; halters with wide leather or thin yachting rope. It really depends upon the horse and the handler, and the way the halter is used. Many people use a fancy leather halter at a show. The horse’s name may even be engraved on a brass plate attached to the halter. And in Western Halter and Showmanship classes, horses are routinely shown in extremely fancy halters and matching lead ropes adorned with silver decorations.
Pat Parelli, Buck Brannaman and other well-known horse trainers all put out their own versions of “natural” halters. Many of these are fine training tools, and can heighten the trainer’s ability to communicate subtle cues to the horse. They are usually rope halters, with knots strategically placed to put pressure on a horse’s sensitive pressure points. Precisely because these halters can be painful to a horse if used roughly, handlers should be aware of the potential to
shuttering and clearing their yard so flying objects will not become a danger, they can go a step further after the storm. Such activities as clearing storm drains of leaves or other debris will make their roads drivable more quickly and enable municipal workers to focus on other areas, Farber said.
“One of the things that we need to do is go around and just make sure that debris, the pine needles and things that cover up the catch basins, are cleared,” Farber said. “A citizen with a rake can solve
tional cardiology as specializing mostly in invasive procedures of the heart. “Palms West Hospital and my interventional cardiology group have teamed together to provide services in the area that were not previously available,” he said. “Time is muscle” to every interventional cardiologist, Lovitz said, and the clock begins ticking the minute someone has a heart attack. He stressed how important it is to catch and enact treatment as early on as possible during the process to save the
that. Our residents have always been willing to do that when given the opportunity.”
Farber said the feeling of community and cooperation is one of the beauties of Royal Palm Beach. “We attempt to utilize our community resources in responding to communitywide events, not only to recreational things, but also in responding to challenges,” Farber said.
Mayor David Lodwick said the most significant thing he has learned is the value of electric generators.
“Probably first and fore-
patient’s life and to also minimize damage. “The quicker a person presents himself to the hospital, the quicker we can get to them help by opening up a blocked artery, and the better they are going to do in the long run,” Lovitz said. Lovitz said many of the patients he sees delay treatment for hours because they are not sure what is going on, and the doctors who can help
continued from page 1 ly to travel overseas, having gone to Southeast Asia on mission trips as a teenager. Matt Wilson, pastor of students and families at Wellington Presbyterian Church where Smythe is a member, told stories about overseas experiences that fanned the flame.
Family friends who taught English and now reside in China and Kazakhstan made the idea seem possible. But perhaps the root of her inspiration comes from her mother, Cathleen Smythe, a teacher at Wellington Christian School.
“Her passion rubbed off on me. We share an interest in other cultures and a commitment to teaching to make a difference,” Smythe said of her mother.
Mother and daughter earned teaching degrees from Western Governors University. Home-schooled for most of her early learning, Becca early-admitted to Palm Beach Atlantic University as a high school senior seeking a degree in music education. The honors coursework and major switch to elementary education extended her gradu-
ation date, so she completed her last year online with WGU. “I was ready to be done with college and get started on the rest of my life,” Smythe said.
During that time, she was a student teacher at Elbridge Gale Elementary School in Wellington. “I worked with amazing teachers there who have a passion for students and learning. I learned solid teaching methods, practices and how to be effective. And the technology spoiled me,” she laughed.
Smythe also worked in the after-school program teaching jazz club and drama, and has taught dance at Movement Arts Dance Academy in Royal Palm Beach since it opened two years ago. She enjoys Irish step dancing, tap, jazz and lyrical dance — not likely useful in Saudia Arabia, but she packed her dance shoes just in case. Last year, Smythe taught third grade across the hall from her mother at Wellington Christian School. “It seemed like a natural choice,” she said.
The eldest of five children, Smythe said it is her baby sister Annie, nine, who anticipates the departure by not letting her out of sight. “She keeps wanting me to sleep with her and play computer games with her,” Smythe said. So Smythe gave her baby
hurt a horse using relative little force, and need to be trained in how to use these halters. Generally speaking, the thinner the rope, the more severe the halter. Bridles are what most people choose to use when riding. English and Western bridles differ in looks and materials. English bridles almost always have throat latches (which go under the horse’s throat), brow bands (which go in front of the horse’s ears), and nosebands (which go around the nose), while Western bridles may have some, all or none of these features. English bridles always go behind the horse’s ears, while some Western bridles fit over one or both ears, with cutouts or slits in the leather for the ears to poke through. They can be made of anything from leather to nylon. The main function of a bridle is to hold the bit, or hackamore, in place.
most is the need for generators, the need for lift stations and the need to get as many major traffic lights functioning again,” Lodwick said.
Beyond that, Lodwick said village staff puts past experience to good use in preparing for future storms, including pre-screening contractors such as debris haulers to assure that they are qualified and properly equipped.
“What we’ve learned is that 90 percent of the issues of a hurricane are dependent on electricity,” Lodwick said. “If you solve the electric is-
them are losing precious time. Many of the men are embarrassed, he said, showing up a few hours later when more damage had been done.
“When you are having a heart attack, it’s your job to come in,” Lovitz said. “If you’re wrong, you go home. And if you are right, we save your life.”
Lovitz explained what takes place when a patient arrives at the hospital, and said it is a dynamic process that lasts about 12 hours, but it is during the first four hours that a patient should get the appropriate care. After four hours, the muscle of the heart begins to die, he explained, and there could be irreversible damage.
“Sometimes we get to the patients within 30 minutes,” Lovitz said. “They come to the hospital within 30 minutes, and they do perfect. The quicker we get to a person, the quicker we perform the procedure, the better they are going to be.”
For more information about Palms West Hospital’s cardiac services, call (561) 784-3203. For more information about Wellington Chamber of Commerce events, call (561) 792-6525.
sister something representative of her new home — a camel. Annie dutifully named the Webkinz camel Becca, of course.
After a weekend goingaway party, Smythe stands ready to face the world. “The
A correctly placed bit does not hurt the horse at all. Horses have teeth in the front of their mouths and molars in the back, and in between there’s a gap that’s just gums — this is where the bit rests. Bridles can be adjusted so that the bit sits on this gap and isn’t dangling down and bumping the front incisors or too far back and banging on the molars. Additionally, bits come in different widths, so the outside edges won’t pinch. What exactly does the bit do? That’s one of the main ways most riders communicate with their horses when riding. Rider-horse communication is a complete blend of the rider’s shifting weight, use of legs, use of artificial aids such as whips and spurs, and hands on the reins. And how exactly does the bit work? And how does a rider decide which bit to use? Well, that’s the subject of next week’s column.
sue for folks, they’re a lot happier.”
In 2006, Royal Palm Beach was the first municipality in the state to enact an ordinance that requires all new gas stations to have generator power. “The state sort of followed our lead,” Lodwick noted.
Under the RPB ordinance, any gas station built since 2006 must have a generator.
“Even if their power is out, they will at least have generator power to pump gas,” Lodwick said.
Many grocery stores, including the Publix in the Crestwood Square shopping center, have also installed generators, he said.
“What they realized was that people who don’t have electricity at home come to the store every day,” Lodwick said. “Every day you’re not
continued from page 2 age residents,” Dahnke said.
“We know this is a difficult time for them, and we want to help them find resolve, but at this time we are focused on the Level II review so we can provide the most accurate scientific information, and that takes a little bit of time.”
O’Connor said the reliability of the Level II study will be much higher.
“There were indicators that showed increased rates, so in Level II, they will be recalculating all of the cancer rates based on more recent population counts, trying to get a good physical count or a much more accurate estimate as to what the actual population is, and how that cross references against the number of cancers,” O’Connor said.
continued from page 1 least in the diving area,” he said.
Schofield noted that the pool was originally built to country club standards, which didn’t take into consideration the several lifeguards needed for a municipal pool. Lifeguards will now have locker rooms inside the new building, and there will be additional storage space for swimmers as well. “The new building will be a little bigger,” he said. “After Hurri-
neat thing about the Middle East is that there’s so much diversity in one city,” Smythe said. “People from all over the world work there, so as a teacher, I could potentially impact a large part of the world.”
continued from page 4 ly, if the current legislation passes, there will be far more drastic cuts to these programs, meaning far less benefits for those of us who have them. In short, we cannot and will not be able to keep the healthcare plan that we like. Furthermore, the current legislation will decrease payments to many Medicare doctors. Some doctors already refuse Medicare patients. If Medicare payments are insufficient, even more doctors will drop Medicare patients. So there is strong likelihood that some seniors will not be
open is a waste in revenue. I think more and more businesses figured out that whatever it costs for a generator, they’ll make back after one or two storms.”
Lodwick said village staff has learned to adapt employees’ schedules during emergency operations to keep them fresh, although they are on increased work schedules.
“The thing we learned was that everybody has their duty, their ability; they manage their area,” Lodwick said. “I won’t say clockwork, but we’ve got a good staff that’s been through it before. So, we’re as prepared as we can be, and hopefully, we won’t need it.”
The village has hurricane preparation information online at www.royalpalmbeach. com/pages/royalpalmbeach fl_hurricane.
The 2000 census showed a population of 29,036, O’Connor said. More recent population estimates put the current Acreage population at about 45,000.
“They showed a continual increased [cancer] rate in that period from 2000 to 2007, but what they don’t have is how much the population increased in that same time period,” O’Connor said. Other factors will be taken into account in the Level II study, such as how long the cancer patients have lived in The Acreage and whether they could have been exposed to a cancer-causing agent at another location, O’Connor said.
A possible elevated rate of cancer was detected in the Level I study by comparing the population in the study area to other areas similar in population size, age level and gender in other counties and other parts of the state, O’Connor said.
cane Wilma, we had to tear down the old concession stand outside. The new building will be sized to include a concession inside.” Work will start sometime around October, Schofield said.
Eight months may seem like a long time for the aquatic complex to be closed, but it’s a necessary step to ensure its future longevity. “After this, it should be good for another 20 years,” Bowen said. For more information about the temporary closure of the Wellington Aquatic Complex, call Barbara Crawford at (561) 791-4748 or Michelle Garvey at (561) 791-4082.
able to keep seeing their present doctor. The AARP believes that President Obama will keep his promises to seniors. This in the face of a direct abandonment of a clear promise that the president made after taking office. I quote from his original whitehouse.gov statement, “Obama and Biden will eliminate all income taxation of seniors making less than $50,000 per year.”
AARP, why do you believe the president? And why are you abandoning seniors? Phil Sexton Wellington
Every so often, Mark and I get a chance to go up to northern Florida and check on our retirement home. It’s located in a small town on a big highway, and our house is on the St. Johns River.
There are cool breezes and wonderful sunrises, plus free shrimp and blue crabs whenever we feel like trying to chase them down. On lazy evenings, we can get into our little boat and cruise over to a riverside restaurant that has good fish and great music on Friday and Saturday nights. We’ve spent about five years fixing up the house, and it’s finally to the point where we want to spend time there. We’ve taken down one of the three chimneys, remodeled the downstairs bathroom, enclosed the back porch to make a laundry room, insulated the entire place, given the exterior three coats of paint,
put pavers down the driveway, straightened out the front walk, removed a dead tree, laid sod, electrified the shed and built a garage so magnificent that it makes grown men weep. The kitchen is the only thing left on the list... and we’re just about ready to get started with that. So, of course, our next-door neighbor smashed out one of our windows.
I’m sure he didn’t mean to do it. It just happened — while he was hitting golf balls down his driveway. Our formerly historic wavyglass bay window just got in the way. You know how they tend to bulge out when they see a golf ball headed their way.
Sigh.
When we got up there last weekend, our curtains were on the floor in a heap of broken glass. To his credit, our neighbor had gotten the window replaced.
Maybe it’s something in the water. Maybe we’ve done all this work in a town where the water makes you stupid. Maybe they need to strain and treat that river water a bit more before they start pumping it into people’s homes.
And I wouldn’t blame the water except that there’s another weird problem going on with
the neighbor on the other side. This neighbor has been complaining to Mark that raccoons and possums keep coming into his back hallway to eat the dog’s food. Dumbfounded, all Mark could do was blink when he heard this. The solutions seem so obvious: a) close the back door, and/or b) move the dog food. Instead, this guy has set a trap. If that doesn’t work, I fully expect to find him sitting out in the backyard with a loaded gun aimed down his own hallway. If there’s a shotgun blast in the middle of the night, we’ll know that something got killed — a raccoon, a possum, his dog, one of his three kids or his wife. I’d suspect he’s been drinking the water except that he’s the son of the golfer on the other side. So there may be another explanation.
Defying Gravity is ABC’s big gamble on its game show-dominated summer schedule. It is a show with a large cast and a mission statement that describes it as “Grey’s Anatomy in Space.” One of its key producers also worked on Grey’s. As a sci-fi fan, I was interested. What the producers have come up with is a bit of a muddle. The basic idea is pretty good: in 2052 an international group of astronauts will soar through the solar system on a sixyear journey. Stock it with attractive performers as well as a good mystery and everything should work out well.
The emphasis is on should. The basic idea is good. But the devil is in the details. So far, one of the characters has gone more or less insane, although he did it before the ship left, allowing Dr. Maddux Donner (Ron Livingston) to join the crew. You would think there would be more psychological profiling before sending people off for six years. Donner
‘I’ On
By Leonard Wechsler
has a past, of course, including an affair with Zoe Barnes (Laura Harris), the crew’s geologist. But he’s McSpacy.
One problem with the series is that because there are only eight crewmembers (plus several people back on earth), a lot of the story is told in flashbacks. While they worked well with Lost, they tend to distract from the main story. And there are flashbacks involving several of the characters in each episode, helping to prevent coherent plotting.
The science is more or less a joke. The as-
tronauts in their spacesuits move around normally (probably so they can get in some really good clinches. Somewhere down the line, we will probably have “sex in space”). Everything else floats. People go flying out the airlocks into space and are brought back in without time to readjust body pressure (but cute actors just do not look good with the bends). Radio communication with earth is instantaneous despite the distance. In reality, there is a four-second lag between us and the moon. For the ship, it should be more than a minute after the first few episodes, but that has not shown up.
The idea of having a reporter/documentarian (Paula Garces) along is great. It allows the writers an opportunity to present their view of science about 40 years from now without too much esoteric jargon.
Somewhere along the way, however, they decided on the old plot device of some secret force that is manipulating all the characters.
That may explain why the biologist is doing unsanctioned medical experiments, the theoretical physicist fools around and causes a serious accident, the doctor has a dangerous medical condition, and the geologist, who had an abortion, hears a baby cry.
Effectively, the problem is that there is too much plot. Characters are moved around a bit too much. The audience does not get much of an opportunity to know any of them. After a half dozen episodes, most are still a mystery. There’s just too much happening on board the ship and back on earth.
Defying Gravity is not bad. I certainly don’t mind watching it. But I tend to watch most science fiction. The problem is that it just is not all that good. It needs coherent plots. Despite all the soap opera elements on Grey’s Anatomy, each episode also contains at least one main story with a beginning and an end. Gravity is not a bad effort and probably could be fixed with some better writing. I hope it is.
As I walk the western communities, I am almost always greeted with the question, “how are you enjoying your retirement?” I always answer that it feels like I am on vacation — after all, it has only been four weeks since I stopped working a real job.
However, I have noticed one slight flaw in my newfound freedom. It’s called a wife. A couple of weeks ago I wrote about the great summer vacation I had. To say the least, my wife Sharon didn’t care for that column. As each new calendar year rolls around, she gets up earlier and earlier to go to work. She now gets up at about 5:30 a.m. every day. She doesn’t have to report to work ’til 7:30. Oh — did I mention she only works about two miles from the house?
Now every morning when her very loud alarm clock goes off, I have noticed she is not in a rush to silence it. It seems to ring forever.
By Ernie Zimmerman
When she finally does shut the alarm off, she always looks in my direction and says sorry. Of course, the damage is already done. Once I am awake, I have a bad habit of not being able to go back to sleep. My wife is well aware of this. Seeing that I am not sleeping, my wife will ask me, “oh, being that you are up, do you mind if I put the radio on?” I have already figured out that it would be useless on my part to ask her to not do so.
So as you can see, retirement has created very long days for me, because I usually don’t sleep ’til after all the late-night TV shows are over. I don’t nap, so I am starting to get used to sleeping only three or four hours a night.
So far my lack of sleep is not bothering me, but I am sure somewhere down the line it will catch up to me.
My wife thinks there is nothing wrong with waking me up every morning. She keeps reminding me that she doesn’t want to be late for work.
There are some benefits to waking up with my wife every morning. She does make me a cup of coffee, and I am very well informed of the news of the day before most folks.
I have said to my wife that since we are empty-nesters and have spare bedrooms in the house, maybe she should sleep in one of them Monday through Friday. Once again she gave me the very famous “look” and said she would
not leave her bedroom and maybe I should go sleep in one of the others. Of course that isn’t going to happen (a doghouse, maybe, but not another bedroom). When the weekends roll around, I have noticed that I get up a lot earlier than my “working wife.” I am now in the process of planning how to accidentally wake her up on Saturdays and Sundays. I will, of course, offer to make her a cup of coffee. Last weekend, one of my friends had a temporary solution to my problem. He called me at 7:15 a.m. asking if I wanted to go to breakfast. Oh, and the phone in the bedroom is on my wife’s nightstand. So, of course, my wife had to answer it. I am now thinking of telling all of my friends to call me if they are going out for breakfast on weekends, the earlier the better, and tell me where I should meet them. If I go through with my plan, I wonder how long it will take my wife to catch on.
