Town-Crier Newspaper March 25, 2011

AUDITORS GIVE INDIAN TRAIL THUMBS UP SEE STORY, PAGE 3

SWA: WASTE-TO-ENERGY IS THE FUTURE SEE STORY, PAGE 7

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TOWN - CR IER WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE

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INSIDE Royal Palm Zoners Approve Dollar Store With Sign Color Change

Volume 32, Number 12 March 25 - March 31, 2011

GABRIEL SHOW A FAMILY AFFAIR

The Royal Palm Beach Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval Tuesday for a Dollar Tree store in the Crossroads Shopping Center, but required that its trademark luminescent green sign to be more consistent with the awnings on the nearby Publix supermarket.

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Black Daggers Perform This Saturday At WEF

The famed U.S. Army Black Daggers parachute demonstration team will per form Saturday, March 26 at the FTI Winter Equestrian Festival prior to the $500,000 FTI Consulting Finale Grand Prix. There will also be exotic animals, a huge family carnival, a band, shopping and more. Page 7

The Doug Gabriel Music and Comedy Show took place Sunday, March 20 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. The show featured the whole Gabriel family playing musical instruments, singing and dancing, with a v ariety of music styles. Shown here are Anne Marie Matozzo, Doug Gabriel and Dolly Hughes. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 5 PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Residents Support Wellington Plan To Shut Goldenrod Road Spring Break Camp At The Fairgrounds

Spring Break Day Camp was held March 14-18 at the South Florida Fairgrounds. The young campers enjoyed a full week of seeing poultry, rabbits, goats and pigs, and took field trips to farms in Okeechobee and Belle Glade to see sugar cane and crops in the fields. Shown here is Manager of Agricultural Operations Bettye Thompson with Caity and Tommy Wallsmith.

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OPINION Enjoy Today, But Plan For The Future

It’s an exciting time of year as the Wellington equestrian season builds toward its crescendo. But as you enjoy it, remember that keeping Wellington’s unique identity requires constant work to make sure the equestrian industry remains strong. That’s why we’re enthusiastic about the creation of yet another world-class facility in the area. Page 4 DEPARTMENT INDEX NEWS ............................. 3 - 13 OPINION ................................ 4 CRIME NEWS ........................ 6 NEWS BRIEFS ....................... 8 POLO & EQUESTRIAN .........17 SCHOOLS .....................18 - 19 PEOPLE........................ 20 - 21 COLUMNS .................... 29 - 30 SUMMER CAMPS ........ 33 - 36 BUSINESS ................... 37 - 39 SPORTS ....................... 43 - 46 CALENDAR...................48 - 49 CLASSIFIEDS ...............52 - 59 Visit Us On The Web At WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Residents were overwhelmingly in favor this week of a Wellington proposal to close a portion of Goldenrod Road east of Greenview Shores Blvd. and build a new park for the community.

Dozens of residents came out Wednesday to a community input meeting held at the Wellington Community Center meant to gather residents’ comments about the proposed closure. A second meeting will be held Wednesday, March 30 at the Wellington Municipal Complex.

More than 1,000 residents recently received a letter calling for their opinions on the measure, which would close off Goldenrod Road at the C-5 Canal, as the road turns into Azure Avenue. Welling-

ton hopes to close the road as a defensive measure.

Utilities Director Bill Riebe noted that the closure would involve removing the road completely at the canal, adding a turnaround on the west side of the canal, and extending the driveway of a home on the east side of the closure to replace the existing road.

“We’d take that roadway between Exotica Lane and the C-5 Canal and tear out the asphalt,” he said.

Because the road would be eliminated, a park would be added on the west side of the canal.

“There is a vacant lot on Goldenrod Road that we would look at for a potential site,” he said. “We envision a small neighborhood park.”

He noted that no decision had been made but said that the village plans to work with residents any way it can.

Of the 14 residents who spoke on the issue, the majority were in favor of the closure, noting that speeding on the road puts pedestrians and especially young children in danger.

Kimberly Miller, who lives on Azure and has a 2-year-old son, recalled a friend who was hit and killed as a teenager walking to school on the road.

“Our street that is supposed to be 25 miles per hour is actually 50,” she said. “I’m terrified to even let my son out of the house.”

Those who use Goldenrod Road as a way to get through Sugar Pond Manor quickly and avoid See GOLDENROD, page 7

March 26 Meeting To Discuss Future Of Okeechobee Blvd.

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report A workshop on the future of Okeechobee Blvd. through Loxahatchee Groves is planned for Saturday, March 26 from 9 a.m. to noon at Palms West Presbyterian Church.

The workshop was arranged after several town property owners along Okeechobee indicated they want commercial development along the road, which now has a mixture of commercial, residential and church uses, with driveways opening directly onto its two lanes.

Councilman Ron Jarriel said he looks forward to getting input from residents, both who own property on Okeechobee and those who do not.

“I’ve had a few people call me on the workshop,” Jarriel told the Town-Crier. “Some of them are residents who do not live on Okeechobee, and I told them they need to make the meeting,

because whatever happens on Okeechobee is going to affect the whole town.”

Jarriel said most of the people who called him told him they thought the property owners should have the right to do what they want with their property as long as it does not affect others in the town negatively.

Jarriel noted that the owner of land at the southwest corner of Okeechobee Blvd. and Folsom Road is interested in commercial development.

“The meeting is going to be interesting because we’ve had a couple of residents write in stating that they would not be able to make it, but indicated they either supported it or didn’t support it,” he said.

“I’m hoping we’ll have a good turnout.”

Jarriel said he is looking to see what people want. “I realize that years ago, they came up with a plan, and Okeechobee did not want to be commercial, but we’ve

had a lot of changes,” he said. “I think we have a lot more people getting involved now that are concerned about what we’re going to have on Okeechobee and Southern, so the input may have changed from years ago.”

Jarriel said future development will need to be balanced with what is there already. “We’ve got driveways that are coming out on Okeechobee right now. Those driveways, I think, will remain no matter what happens,” he said. “We know the county is going to fourlane it; we just don’t know when.”

However, Jarriel is glad that the county seems willing to listen to the town’s input when it comes to Okeechobee Blvd.

“As a town, our main concern is not whether it’s two or four lanes, but whether it’s safer for our residents, and there is no doubt in my mind that a four-lane highway can be safer than the two-lane that we have right now, if the county See OKEECHOBEE, page 22

Serving Palms West Since 1980

Elbridge Gale Teacher Awarded Top District Honor

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Kristen Rulison, a teacher at Elbridge Gale Elementary School, was chosen from among thousands of teachers in the Palm Beach County School District this week to be the 2011 Teacher of the Year due in part to her passion for and dedication to teaching children to read.

Superintendent Bill Malone delivered the good news, along with flowers and balloons, Tuesday to Rulison, 28, in her thirdgrade class. Rulison said she was surprised to hear that she had been chosen among all other teachers in the county to receive the award.

“I was completely surprised,” Rulison told the Town-Crier. “I was just shocked. It was like I was living in a dream.”

Rulison, a Royal Palm Beach resident, has taught at Elbridge Gale in Wellington for her entire six-year career. Though she taught kindergarten and first grade in the past, this year she moved to third grade.

“I really have a passion for teaching kids how to read,” she said. “It’s so neat to teach third grade. I was teaching kids how to learn to read, but now I’m teaching them how to read to learn.”

Rulison recalled the joy she had after seeing her students, some who would put down a book after

Kris ten Rulison only a few chapters, develop a voracious appetite for reading.

“I tried to teach them how to look for books that they are interested in,” she said. “And now sometimes I have to tell them to put their books away so we can focus on other subjects.”

And as part of her dedication to teaching kids to read, Rulison acts as the supplemental academic instruction (SAI) teacher for about 20 third-grade students before school each morning. She tutors them and helps them learn remediation strategies, as well as providing extra reading support.

Rulison also works with the LitSee RULISON, page 22

Royal Palm Ponders Drainage Changes

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Royal Palm Beach is seeking help from an expert consultant on ways to update its stormwater drainage system. The consultant is needed to recommend both improvements to the system and changes to how the village funds the operation of its remaining utility.

The Royal Palm Beach Village Council authorized a request for qualifications last week for engi-

neering design work to prepare a stormwater utility development plan.

According to Village Manager Ray Liggins, Royal Palm Beach probably has one of the bettermaintained stormwater drainage systems in the county, but the purpose of the research is to develop a more equitable assessment plan while keeping the system working up to its potential.

“The stormwater drainage is See DRAINAGE, page 22

ST. PAT’S DAY IN RPB

The Royal P alm Beach Senior Group celebrated St. Patrick’s Day on Thursday, March 17 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. The event included a light lunch, and Bill Fulford played piano while guests sang along to Irish standards and oldies music. Pictured here are Jan Rive, Joan Corum and Fran Davidson. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 13 PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Wellington To Mark 15 Years With Saturday Festivities

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report As part of the continued celebration of its 15th anniversary, the Village of Wellington will host a day of family fun Saturday, March 26 at the Wellington Amphitheater.

The day will begin with the second annual Ironhorse Motorcycle Ride and conclude at the amphitheater with live performances, food and fun for all ages.

The day will celebrate the village’s first day of operations, 15 years ago this week, Deputy Village Manager John Bonde said.

“It’s one of the important dates that we are trying to recognize and

celebrate,” Bonde said. “And it’s also a way to recognize our residents — many of whom have been here since the very beginning.

Wellington is a great community and a great place to live.”

At 9 a.m., motorcycle enthusiasts are invited to meet at the Wellington Community Center for a free group ride around Lake Okeechobee.

The group will depart at 10 a.m., head out on Forest Hill Blvd. to Southern Blvd. and west to Canal Point. Riders will enjoy a beautiful day — hopefully — riding around the lake.

The group will stop for lunch at the Roland Martin Marina, and

riders are responsible for their own food and beverages. The group will return to Wellington at approximately 4 p.m.

Riders may pre-register for the event at Village Park or at the Wellington Community Center.

However, registrations will be accepted that morning. All participants must sign a waiver.

At 5 p.m., the fun starts at the amphitheater, with live musical entertainment by classic rock band Viva and country duo Chad Murphy and Heather Burkett.

The free event also features a classic car show as well as vendors with food, drinks and other goodies.

For the kids, there will be bounce houses, special visits from Winnie the Pooh, Dora the Explorer, and Minnie and Mickey Mouse, as well as train rides, face painting and balloon animals.

“I think it’s important for people to understand that we’re a relatively new city,” Bonde said.

“Each anniversary we have is important. And everything we’ve accomplished in 15 years is rather significant. In other cities, like Boston, 15 years is a heartbeat.

But this is a chance for us to look at what we’ve done and come together and celebrate it.”

At a time when many families don’t have extra money to spend

on outings together, Bonde said that the event would give residents a chance to get out and have some fun for free.

“There’s nothing like a great party,” he said. “And the best thing is that it’s free. We try to put on these events so people can spend time with their families and not spend a great deal of money to do it.”

Bonde said he was looking forward to the day’s festivities.

“It’s always a good thing when people come out and enjoy the day,” he said. “We want to see a big crowd come out and enjoy it.

There’s only one 15th anniversary.”

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NEWS

Indian Trail Improvement District Gets A Thumbs Up From Auditors

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Indian Trail Improvement District supervisors heard a glowing report on their financial state last week when the board received its independent audit report for the year ending Sept. 30, 2010.

Deborah Diaz, a principal with the accounting firm of Rampell & Rampell, told supervisors on Wednesday, March 16 that the only discrepancies in the budget had carried over from previous management. The audit showed no current disparities, she said.

“We issued an unqualified opinion on your financial statements,” Diaz said. “It’s the highest opinion that you can be given on your financial statement. That’s where you want to be.”

A second report on internal control of financial reporting had some weaknesses.

“We do have three findings this year related to the financial statement audit, and all three were deemed to be material weaknesses in relation to cash disbursements and purchasing, payroll and journal entries,” she said. “I will say that we are still in a spillover year from your prior issues, and all of the instances of noncompliance that we discovered were prior to the change in management.”

District Administrator Tanya Quickel, who was ITID finance director several years ago before taking a job as deputy director at

the Northern Palm Beach County Improvement District, was hired as ITID administrator in December 2009.

Diaz also reported on a separate audit for FEMA compliance because the district received more than $500,000 from the Federal Emergency ManagementAgency.

“Everything was in order, and again, a much different situation from when I stood before you about two years ago,” she said.

“Things have improved significantly.”

Diaz said the accounting procedures from the past year were consistent with the previous year and that there were no significant transactions in the reporting period that lacked authoritative guidance. There were no difficulties in dealing with management in performing the audit and no disagreements with management regarding accounting or reporting, she said.

Total assets for the year were about $11.9 million. Fund balances, which reveal the financial health of the district, showed it to be in a good position.

“The district is in a very good position at the end of the year with a total fund balance of $10.8 million,” Diaz said.

Of that, the district has reserved $1.4 million for road improvements and designated $2.3 million for its 2010-11 budget. “That leaves you with $7.1 million of

undesignated fund balance, which represents 70 percent of your expenditures for the year that we just audited,” Diaz said. “That is a comfortable position. It exceeds the thresholds that you have established as a district for reserves, and we are comfortable and confident with respect to your financial position at the end of the year.”

Total revenues for the year were $10.8 million, of which $9.3 million were non-ad valorem assessments, which comprise 87 percent of the total revenue for the year.

The next largest source of revenue was FEMA proceeds of about $1.1 million. “Your total expenditures were $10.2 million, which means that you had excess of revenues over expenses — a surplus of approximately $539,000,” Diaz said.

Diaz also gave a report on the district’s debt position.

“When we take a look at your total expenditures, I would point out that your total debt service expenditures for all funds were $2.7 million,” she said.

The debt service was for about $21 million worth of outstanding bonds and $665,000 worth of notes. She added that one bond was fully paid off in the past year and another note will be paid off in the coming year, so the debt will decline.

ITID President Michelle Damone said the report was a big difference from the previous year.

‘We issued an unqualified opinion on your financial statements. It’s the highest opinion that you can be given... That’s where you want to be.’

Auditor Deborah Diaz

“That goes to the entire board wanting fiscal responsibility, and hiring the right person to make sure that it happens,” Damone said.

Diaz said she has rarely seen an

elected body react as quickly to a situation that needed to be remedied immediately.

“You stepped up to the plate, and you did it,” Diaz said. “The process has gotten much smooth-

er than it ever was.”

Diaz credited Quickel, the district’s certified public accountant Emily Poundstone and other staff members for their help in seeing that the audit went smoothly.

ITID Recognizes Hero — Indian Trail Improvement District Pump Operations Assistant Greg Schafer was honored at the ITID board meeting on March 17 for rescuing a man from a truck in a canal on Feb. 24. Schafer witnessed a truck sinking in a district canal, pulled over and dove into the canal in order to rescue the driver. He pulled the truck driver out of the cab of the truck before it became completely submerged, called 911 and waited by the side of the injured man for paramedics to arrive. Schafer has been with ITID since 2003 working in pump operations, telemetry and stormwater management. He is shown here with ITID President Michelle Damone receiving a commendation.

PHOTO BY R ON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER

RPB’s Webster, Pinto Take The Oath; Valuntas Named Vice Mayor

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Village Council swore in two incumbent candidates for new terms last week.

Both Martha Webster (Seat 2) and Fred Pinto (Seat 4) were unopposed in their bids for new two-year terms. They took the oath at a meeting Thursday, March 17.

During the council’s annual reorganizational meeting, Councilman Richard Valuntas was named vice mayor.

Mayor Matty Mattioli was reappointed as liaison to the Plan-

ning & Zoning Commission; Pinto was reappointed liaison to the Education Advisory Board; Valuntas was reappointed liaison to the Recreation Advisory Board; and Mattioli was reappointed as liaison to the Palms West Chamber of Commerce.

Webster was named the village’s voting delegate to the Palm Beach League of Cities, while Councilman David Swift was appointed as delegate to the Western Communities Council.

The council also reappointed Diane DiSanto as village clerk and Stanley Hochman as village treasurer.

Royal Palm Beach Village Clerk Diane DiSanto swears in Martha Webst er (left) and Fred Pinto (right) for new two-year terms.

PHOTOS BY R ON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER

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March 25 - March 31, 2011

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OUR OPINION

Enjoy Today, But Wellington Must Plan For Its Equestrian Future Polo’s U.S. Open got underway this week and will culminate April 17. We’re also entering the final weeks of the 2011 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival, which culminates April 3.

It’s an exciting time of year as the Wellington equestrian season builds toward its crescendo. But as you enjoy it, remember that keeping Wellington’s unique identity requires constant work to make sure the equestrian industry remains strong.

Aside from preparing each year for the return of the horse season, Wellington must continue to develop its equestrian industry and its infrastructure. A lead role in the local economy, equestrian sport is also a large part of the community’s identity. It’s important for Wellington to continue developing infrastructure that will maintain the equestrian community for future generations.

That’s why we’re enthusiastic about the prospect for a strong, new equestrian development at the corner of South Shore Blvd. and Pierson Road. Last week, Equestrian Sport Productions CEO Mark Bellissimo laid out a vision for the development of the old Palm Beach Polo stadium property into an equestrian-themed “town center” dominated by a world-class dressage facility.

Given the historical significance of that corner, the development marks an important step forward. The site is literally the birthplace of Wellington’s equestrian community. It is where the original polo stadium opened in 1979; it’s where Prince Charles played polo

in the 1980s; and it’s where Wellington developed its reputation as the winter capital of equestrian sport in the country, if not the world.

In recent years, the corner had fallen on hard times. And until it was taken over by Bellissimo’s Wellington Equestrian Partners, there was even talk of removing it from its protective designation in the Equestrian Preserve Area. The land was previously owned by several different entities until Wellington Equestrian Partners brought it under common ownership — an important step in ensuring that it remains equestrian. While sporadic horse events are held on the property, the fact that such a crucial piece of land is underutilized is a terrible loss for the community.

Of all the ideas that have been floated for how to develop that corner — from a shopping center to an assisted-living facility — this latest plan is by far the most relevant to the site’s historical significance and the fact that it’s the most prime piece of equestrian real estate in this community.

When Bellissimo first became involved in the local equestrian industry, he was not without critics who questioned his motives. However, in the years since, Bellissimo has remained steadfast in his commitment to Wellington’s equestrian community. If he is successful with this, it is not just a win for the equestrian community, but for all of Wellington.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Don’t Curtail Inspector General’s Independence Regarding the recently published letter in the Town-Crier from State Attorney Michael McAuliffe regarding Palm Beach County’s inspector general ordinance, I am writing in support of the inspector general.

I was surprised to learn that there are various proposed changes and amendments to the inspector general ordinance and appalled to learn that if two of these proposed changes are approved, they would significantly hinder the work of the inspector general and are not appropriate. To me that sounds like taking one step forward and two steps backward, and begs the question, whose interest would this serve? I am in full support of the inspector general for a number of reasons.

The role of the inspector general is to examine fraud, inefficiency, waste and abuse in county and local government. Seventy-two percent of the voters in Palm Beach County approved having an “independent” inspector general. Why would any government official and certain special interests not only resent having an inspector general, but are determined to be obstructive?

How dare they?

They seem to want business as usual. Their bellies are full, but they are hungry. We must not lose sight of the fact that it is because of corruption, waste, inefficiency and abuse that our taxes are so high, not to mention the incarcer-

ation of some government officials and others.

Corruption is a disease, and having an independent inspector general is the cure. It is gratifying to learn that distinguished public servants like the state attorney, our county commissioner [Jess Santamaria] and others such as the president of the Voters Coalition are supportive of the inspector general. With that in mind, I call upon the residents of the western communities and all of Palm Beach County to stand up and be counted. Show your support for the inspector general. There is still much work to be done. We should all help, not hinder, the inspector general.

Karl Witter The Acreage

Special Interests Strike Again Seven members of the Inspector General Ordinance Committee think that their seven votes are greater then the 72 percent of the residents of Palm Beach County.

Not only is their math suspect, so is their understanding of English.

They have trouble defining what “fraud,” “mismanagement,” “waste,” “abuse” and “misconduct,” mean; but they are really confused as to the meaning of the word “independent.”

You see, they want a “special inspector general” to watch over the inspector general; but then who will watch over the special inspector general? It is all very confusing.

What is obvious is that they don’t want “Corruption County” changed.

What this committee should be called is the Special Interest Committee. Then it will all make sense.

Morley Alperstein Wellington

Patriot Memorial Worth The Cost Editor’s note: The following letter is in response to last week’s letter by Millie McCoy regarding Wellington’s planned Patriot Memorial.

I would like to respond to your reader, and others who may feel the way she does, about the 9/11 Patriot Memorial in Wellington. In her letter, she said that the memorial is, in her words, a “waste of money” and “misguided” and of “little relevance to the community.” I would like to address these comments made by this reader.

What she fails to see, and something that she should be ashamed of, is that every person who died that day in September 2001 died in her place and in the place of her family, her husband and children.

They were killed because they were Americans. The killers targeted the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and through the heroism of Americans that fought back, the third target was never reached. Maybe the third target would have been where her family was that day.

My son, Lt. John P. Napolitano of FDNY Rescue 2, gave his life on 9/11 trying to save horribly suffering people. If this person and her family were in the north tower that day, my son would have died giving all his strength and courage, leaving his wife and two

little girls trying to save them. I think that someone giving up their life trying to save another person is something that we all should remember and honor.

Myself and my best friend Lenny were at the World Trade Center on Sept. 12, 2001 to search for my son, and three of my son’s childhood friends and schoolmates — police officer Glen Pettit, firefighters Peter Brennan and William Mahoney, and Lenny’s brother Lt. John Crisci — all killed trying to save others. During our search, we found a young girl under a steel beam covered in ash.

We made a cross out of debris, stood it by her, and prayed for her.

Two childhood friends from Brooklyn searching for a son, searching for a brother. We found someone’s daughter who died in the place of someone else’s daughter.

Lenny and I saw the profound courage of our loved ones, and the horrible way that they and all the other sons and daughters died. We stood at attention as firefighters, police officers, and search and rescue volunteers removed the bodies of those who were recovered, resting beneath an American flag, and carried with broken hearts past those of us who saluted. One day in September, Lenny and I stood as they carried down the bodies of two fallen firefighters, their bodies covered beneath our nation’s flag. Later that night we found out that one of those firefighters was my lifelong friend and Lenny’s brother.

This memorial is not only a reminder about the horror of that day, and the evil that exists in the hearts of some, but it is also a trib-

ute to the profound courage and compassion of our first responders who gave their lives, so that others may live — a tribute to those who have fallen before them, and those who have fallen after them, a symbol and a way to say thanks to all our firefighters and police officers here in Wellington, and throughout this country, heroes who are prepared, if necessary, to do for all of us today what my son did for his country and the people of the City of New York yesterday.

What is misguided is not realizing that an attack on America is an attack on all of us, no matter where that attack takes place. On Sept. 12, 2001, at a triage area at Ground Zero, I wrote a message to my son with my finger in the ash. I wanted him to know that I was there, that I loved him. I never found my son, but I found somebody’s daughter, and for almost ten years now I still ask, “why me?” And when I think about my son, I think of her. Perhaps my son guided me to her, if one chooses to believe in these things. Maybe it was his way to answer my message to him, saying to me, “Don’t cry, dad, she is with me; she is all right now, and so am I.” Wellington is to be commended in its efforts to having a significant and proper memorial, a place

where we as a community can go to pay our respect to those who died in our place, to say thank you to our firefighters and police officers, and all the first responders who made the supreme sacrifice in their efforts to save lives that day in September, and other days, and to say thank you to our firefighters and police officers who are here with us today.

John Napolitano Wellington

Memorial Should Be Simple And Poignant I think the Village of Wellington is missing the point. The Patriot Memorial doesn’t have to be grand; it has to be a memorial.

At the fairgrounds, the steel beam was displayed on the bed of a truck, and it was heart-touching and thought-provoking. People were touching it, weeping and taking pictures. A simple, tasteful slab of decorative concrete or pavers on the ground under it, benches around it for sitting, and lights for nighttime illumination would suffice.

We will never forget what that steel signifies. Let’s not take the focus away from that.

Mandy Burkart Wellington

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

OPINION

With Concert Promoters Losing Money, Recession Hurts Touring Stars Politicians and economists throw around words like “recession” with abandon these days.

But who would have thought that the dollar blues would also wound some of America’s most popular and famous touring performers? It certainly can, if you

Footloose and...

By Jules W. Rabin

look at the loss of $228.4 million for the giant of the touring ticket agents — Live Nation/ Ticketmaster.

Listening to Live Nation/Ticketmaster’s woes is not pleasant.

Ticket sales for concerts were down a whopping 10 percent,

leading to an operating loss of $63.7 million.

Compounding the bad news further, the company lost $1.39 per share versus 73 cents per share a year earlier.

Why did fans stay away from concerts in such increasing num-

bers? High ticket prices! Since the bulk of money from ticket sales goes to the artists regardless, fewer patrons mean fewer dollars from parking, merchandise sales, etc. where the ticket agents pick up their profits.

What is the forecast for 2011?

Michael Rapone, the CEO of Live Nation, assures analysts business will continue to pick up. If it doesn’t, troubadours like Neil Diamond, Christina Aguilera, the Eagles and Jimmy Buffett will all be singing similar tunes — the blues!

NEWS

Royal Palm Zoners Approve Dollar Store With Slight Color Change

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval Tuesday for a Dollar Tree store in the Crossroads Shopping Center at the northeast corner of Okeechobee and Royal Palm Beach boulevards.

Commissioners added the condition that Dollar Tree tone down its trademark luminescent green sign to be more consistent with the awnings on the nearby Publix supermarket in the same plaza.

Dollar Tree was asking approval for two wall signs at a new store it has planned for the space that was formerly the Royal Palm Ale House restaurant. One of the signs will face Royal Palm Beach Blvd., and the other, Okeechobee Blvd.

Development Review Coordinator Kevin Erwin said the sign color does not comply with existing sign criteria. “The established color for wall signs in this plaza is

Pippin Rust, although no formal sign criteria has been approved, as the plaza was developed prior to the adoption of the Architectural Review Ordinance in 1991,” Erwin said, pointing out that the Publix and Walgreens stores in the same plaza have been allowed to deviate from the criteria.

Erwin said that Dollar Tree is a national tenant and its sign is a registered trademark, as is the case of the Publix and Walgreens stores. Although Walgreens has a red sign, it is not the Pippin Rust called for in the sign criteria, Erwin said, adding that the Publix green is in the color palette of the center, although it is darker than the Dollar Tree color.

Joe Funderburk of Anchor Signs, representing Dollar Tree, asked for approval of the trademark color on the signs. “We feel that it is a reasonable request because it is a national trademark logo and this is a national store,” Funderburk said, asserting that

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green is in the palette for the center. “Publix has green channel letters with green awnings,” he noted.

Commission Alternate Janet Ellis pointed out that the Dollar Tree green is not the same as the Publix green. “It seems to be quite bright compared to what’s on Publix,” Ellis said. “I’m trying to visualize how it would look with Publix green and this bright green.”

Commissioner Darrell Lange said some of the newer tenants in the plaza had been required to adhere to the Pippin Rust color criteria for the center, including the UPS store, GNC, Tire Kingdom and State Farm.

“The fact that it is not even the Publix green worries me a little bit more,” Lange said. “It’s still up to our discretion, and I don’t see any reason for this not to be rust, especially when we have at least six other tenants that we have required recently to match that rust.”

Erwin said the other tenants had matched the color so that they would not have to come before the commission. “It’s not that the board imposed that on them,” Erwin said, adding that there is a tendency for the commission to grant variances to tenants of larger spaces such as Walgreens and Publix.

Commissioner Jackie Larson said a nationally registered trademark does not carry a lot of weight with her. “Everybody comes in here with a nationally registered trademark,” Larson said. “What we evaluate is if it’s a national company.”

Larson added that she felt that the signs seem large, although Erwin said they are within the size allowable by code.

Larson added that she thinks the Dollar Tree green does not go with the Publix green. “I’m having a problem in looking at this bright green with those existing awnings,” she said. “It’s a really bright green; it’s not a Publix

BARRY S. MANNING Publisher

JOSHUA I. MANNING Executive Editor

JODY GORRAN Associate Publisher

DAWN RIVERA General Manager

JASON BUD JINSKI Community Editor

RON BUKLEY Managing Editor

WRITERS/ Denise Fleischman • Lauren Miró • Carol Por ter CONTRIBUTORS/ Josh Hyber • Jules Rabin • Ellen Rosenberg Leonard Wechsler • Deborah Welky ART & PRODUCTION MANAGER/ Stephanie Rodriguez ADVERTISING MANAGER/ Scott Hyber ADVERTISING/ Betty Buglio • Evie Edwards • Wanda Glockson STAFF/ Shanta Daibee • Linda Dyer • Carol Lieberman • Geri O’Neil

green. It’s not quite the ’60s neon, but it’s really bright, and it’s a big, bright sign, and I’m having a little bit of a problem.”

Larson said she is concerned about the aesthetics at that corner, which is the busiest in the village and is regarded as the center of the village.

“It’s a very visual corner there,” she said. “It’s a good size bay, and we’re certainly glad to have your business here, because other tenants opening up have shown an interest for this type of retailer, but I’m just having a problem with the size of the sign, the brightness of the green and the clashing issue with the awnings.”

Funderburk said the trademark green is vital to Dollar Tree. “You can recognize them,” he said.

“They went to the extent to trademark it.”

Lange said other national companies could make the same argument but that he has often seen variations, even for retailers such

as Publix. “It’s odd to me that so many people, instead of focusing on service, they dwell on color,” Lange said. “Tire Kingdom changed to be consistent with its neighbors. It’s one of those things where we’ve been trying to be consistent.”

Funderburk asked whether the board would consider the same color as Publix. Larson and several other commissioners said they could support the Publix green.

“I agree with the other commissioners,” said Chairwoman Genevieve Lambiase, who asked if Dollar Tree would consider that.

Funderburk said the company would probably agree.

Erwin suggested that the commission’s motion make that a condition of approval.

Commissioner Barbara Powell made a motion to recommend approval with the condition that the green match that of Publix. The motion carried 4-1, with Lange opposed.

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Page 5

NEWS

RPB CULTURAL CENTER HOSTS THE DOUG GABRIEL MUSIC & COMEDY SHOW The Doug Gabriel Music and Comedy Show took place Sunday, March 20 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. The show featured the whole Gabriel family playing musical instruments, singing and dancing, with a variety of music styles. The event also featured a 50/50 raffle and door prizes.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/T OWN-CRIER

(Sitting) Jewel Large, Pauline Feeney and Ceil Turk; (standing) Mary Lou Magner and Chris Pooler.

Cheryl, Jasmine and Doug Gabriel per form a number.

Doug Gabriel plays guitar the hard way as wif e Cheryl looks on.

Anne Marie Matozza, Joy Maale and Joe Leonetti enjoy the show.

Andy and Joan Lehr with Pat Ollila and Al Ridall.

Carlos Morales and grand prize winner Betty Brestel.

P.B. NETWORK EXCHANGE HOSTS EVENT AT GOOD EARTH FARM IN LOXAHATCHEE The Palm Beach Network Exchange for Women presented a vendor event Sunday, March 20 at Good Earth Farm in Loxahatchee Groves. There were a hay ride and pony rides around the farm for the kids. For more information about Good Ear th Farm, call Nancy PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER at (561) 792-2666.

Connie Siniscalchi of the Pampered Chef, Elizabeth Bragg of Arbonne and Deanna Hoover of Scentsy.

Michelle Dowling with Oreo.

Kaylor Osbourne and Bugsy.

Page 6

March 25 - March 31, 2011

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CRIME NEWS

Golf Carts Stolen From Wellington Equestrian Center

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report MARCH 15 — Several golf carts were stolen from the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center earlier this month. According to two separate Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office reports, deputies from the Wellington substation were dispatched to the show grounds after the victims reported their golf carts missing. According to one PBSO report, sometime between 8 and 10 p.m. on Friday, March 4, someone stole the victim’s black 2008 EZ Go two-seater golf cart that was left unlocked on the south side of a horse ring and fled in an unknown direction. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. A similar incident occurred in the same location days later. According to a second PBSO report, sometime between 4 p.m. on Sunday, March 13 and 8:30 a.m.

Wednesday, March 16, someone stole the victim’s black 2005 EZ Go golf cart and fled in an unknown direction. The victim had parked the golf cart in the VIP parking lot on the east side of the property and left the key with the golf cart. A canvass of the area was conducted, but there were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

MARCH 16 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched to Village Park on Pierson Road last Wednesday afternoon regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, the victim parked and locked her car near the children’s playground at approximately 4:04 p.m., leaving her purse on the front seat. When she returned to her car at approximately 4:40 p.m., she discovered that her right front window has been smashed in and her purse had been taken. The stolen items were valued at approximately $162. DNA evidence was taken at the scene, but there were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

MARCH 17 — A Greenacres man was arrested early last Thursday morning on drug charges following a traffic stop near the intersection of Okeechobee and Royal Palm Beach boulevards.

According to a PBSO report, a deputy from the Royal Palm Beach substation observed 32year-old Luis Ayala Aviles run a red light while headed eastbound on Okeechobee Blvd. The deputy initiated a traffic stop and made contact with Aviles. A computer check revealed that he was driving with a suspended license. According to the report, as Aviles was taken into custody, the deputy observed him drop a clear plastic bag of brown powder near his left foot.

The deputy also observed a silver spoon with brown residue in the center console. According to the report, the brown powder fieldtested positive for heroin. Aviles was arrested and taken to the Palm Beach County Jail where he was charged with possession of a controlled substance and driving with a suspended license.

MARCH 17 — A woman called the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach last Thursday to report a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, the victim was made aware that her car had been burglarized when she took it in to be serviced and one of the employees noticed that her door handle had been separated and the car’s locking mechanism was punched out. The victim said that the burglary might have occurred sometime between 4:45 p.m. on Friday, March 11 and 3:30 p.m. the following afternoon. According to the report, the victim said she had parked her car outside of Regal Cinemas on State Road 7 and in the parking lot of the Mall at Wellington Green during those times. The perpetrator(s) stole her Garmin GPS and a zebra-striped designer wallet. The stolen items were valued at approximately $330. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

MARCH 17 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach was dispatched to the Wal-Mart Supercenter on Belvedere Road last Thursday evening regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 6:17 p.m., the victim was in her car when two unknown black males stole $500 cash from her.

MARCH 19 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington responded to a home on Folkestone Circle following reports of a residential burglary. According to a PBSO report, the victim’s daughter called the substation after discovering that her mother’s home had been burglarized.

Sometime between 6 p.m. last Friday and 1:05 p.m. the following afternoon, someone entered the victim’s home while she was out of town and stole three televisions.

DNA evidence was taken at the scene, but there were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

MARCH 19 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched to Scott’s Place Playground last Saturday afternoon regarding a vehicle burglary.

According to a PBSO report, sometime between 12:45 and 1:20 p.m., someone smashed the victim’s driver’s-side window and stole her black leather purse from See BLOTTER, page 22

Acreage Man Dies After Traffic Collision In RPB MARCH 20 — An Acreage man was killed early last Sunday morning following a head-on collision on Royal Palm Beach Blvd. south of Okeechobee Blvd.

According to a Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office report, 26year-old Andrew Frank was traveling in the wrong lane on Royal Palm Beach Blvd. at approximate-

ly 2:36 a.m. when he collided with a truck traveling southbound on the road. Frank was taken to St. Mary’s Medical Center where he was pronounced dead at 3:43 a.m.

According to the report, alcohol and/or drugs may have contributed to the accident. Neither the driver of the truck nor a passenger were injured.

Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County is asking for the public’s help in finding these wanted fugitives: • Renford Earle is a black male, 6’0” tall and weighing 200 lbs., with black hair and brown eyes. He has a scar on his lip.

His date of birth is 12/01/55. Earle is wanted for failure to appear on charges of fleeing or attempting to elude a marked police car, possession of marijuana, and tampering with or fabricating physical evidence. His occupation is unknown. His last known address was Lily Road in Wellington. Earle is wanted as of 03/24/ 11.

• Stephanie Marques is a white female, 5’5” tall and weighing 130 lbs., with brown hair and brown eyes. She has tattoos on her back, abdomen and right hip.

Her date of bir th is 05/23/90. Marques is wanted for felony burglar y and grand theft, and burglar y and petit theft (two counts), and misdemeanor failure to appear on a charge of battery. Her occupation is unknown. Her last kno wn addresses were Myrtle Drive in Fort Pierce and Gladiator Circle in Greenacres.

Marques is wanted as of 03/24/11.

Remain anonymous and you may be eligible f or up to a $1,000 reward. Call Crime Stoppers at (800) 458-TIPS (8477) or visit www.crimestopperspbc.com.

Renford Earle

Stephanie Marques

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

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March 25 - March 31, 2011

Page 7

NEWS

SWA Director: Burning Waste Could Save Landfill, Create Energy

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Choosing to burn garbage rather than dump it in a landfill could reduce garbage volume and create energy if Palm Beach County invests in a mass burn facility to solve its landfill woes.

The facility, its costs and the benefits it could have for Palm Beach County were among the topics discussed at last Wednesday’s community forum meeting hosted by County Commissioner Jess Santamaria at the original Wellington Mall.

Though the county had plans to open a new landfill site in western Palm Beach County, each site was met with strong opposition from residents, environmentalists and other stakeholders, Santamaria said at the March 16 meeting.

“Two years ago, we were looking for a landfill site in the western communities,” Santamaria said. “The county owned a site that we had purchased some years back. But it became a controversial issue because there were environmental problems.”

Santamaria noted that the county then put out a request for proposals for other sites, but all three potential sites were eliminated due to distance, cost, environmental concerns and, ultimately, strong opposition from residents.

“The county needed a site,” he said. “But it had problems with opposition. Fortunately, another

concept was presented by our consultants.”

That concept was the mass burn facility, also referred to as a “waste-to-energy facility.”

Solid Waste Authority Executive Director Mark Hammond noted that within the past 10 years, the county’s population boom caused concerns about adequate space for waste removal.

“Presently, we bury more garbage than our waste-to-energy facility can handle,” he said. “At the pace that we were taking in garbage and filling in our landfill, we were going to run out of space.”

Hammond said that county estimates put the landfill at capacity sometime between 2020 and 2030. He noted, however, that finding a location for a new landfill is always hard because no community wants one nearby.

So, to help reduce the volume of garbage going into the existing landfill, the county considered an incinerator.

Hammond noted that there already is an incinerator on Jog Road between the Beeline Highway and 45th Street. That facility opened in 1989. He said that if the county were to expand its wasteto-energy program, it would eliminate the need for a new landfill until about 2031, and extend the life of the current landfill until about 2050.

“When garbage is taken to one of these facilities, it’s reduced by

over 90 percent in volume,” Hammond said. “One of the byproducts that comes out of incineration is energy. It’s not quite as good as coal or oil, but it does create valuable energy. It produces enough electricity to power 30,000 homes in Palm Beach County.”

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a waste-toenergy facility has the least environmental impact compared with other power plants, Hammond said.

“In Florida alone, there are 10 other facilities in operation,” he said. “They convert four million tons of waste to over 530 megawatts of power each day.”

Palm Beach County’s facility has saved more than 20 years of landfill space already and helps to reduce the production of greenhouse gases such as methane.

“Landfills, as they decompose, produce a lot of methane gas,” he said, noting that burning the garbage eliminates that gas.

Hammond said that SWA staff is reviewing proposals for the expansion of the waste-to-energy facility by 2015 in an effort to reduce the waste put in the landfill as well as transportation costs.

He noted that a landfill is cheaper than waste-to-energy, but the cost of transporting garbage out west — where the county would likely build a new landfill — would be just as much as a mass burn facility, without

the economic benefits.

Cutting down transportation costs would also cut down on the amount of carbon dioxide emitted into the air and take stress off the roads, Hammond added.

“You have to take into consideration the transportation costs,” he said. “If you have to travel 25 miles farther to a landfill than to our existing facility, a new landfill will cost the same amount as a new waste energy facility.”

In other business, Palm Beach County Clerk & Comptroller Sharon Bock shared information on two new scams that could affect residents.

Bock noted that several residents have called her office with complaints about receiving phone calls asking them to pay a fine for shirking jury duty. Though failing to show for jury duty can result in a fine and an arrest warrant, Bock noted that her office does not make calls asking for residents to pay on the spot.

The clerk’s office does, however, keep a record of those listed for jury, and those names are a matter of public record and can be requested by anyone. “We must, by law, produce those names,” she said. “People have started to take these names, and… they’ve been calling random people, and they say, ‘We’re going to put out a warrant for your arrest unless you, right now, give us $100 to pay the fine at the clerk’s office.”

Mark Hammond of the Solid Waste Authority discusses waste to energy.

Clerk & Comptroller Sharon Bock talks about scams.

PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ/T OWN-CRIER

Bock said that the scammers have a good chance of finding someone who didn’t show up for jury duty, and residents have reported paying the fine to avoid a warrant. But, she noted, the clerk’s office won’t call and ask for payment.

Another scam that recently came to light occurred when a county resident returned to her seasonal home to find that the key didn’t work anymore, Bock said.

When she rang the doorbell, a man answered and said he was renting the home from someone who claimed he owned the home.

Bock said that, as it turns out, someone filed a fraudulent quitclaim deed and forged the woman’s signature. The scammer then

transferred the deed to himself and leased the home to someone else.

“When something hits the public records, you can’t just change it,” she said. “If it comes through to us and we record it, it’s fact.

[The victim] now has to go through a lawsuit and prove her right to the ownership of the house.”

Bock said that her office has found 129 fraudulent quitclaim deeds in the county records. “It’s a ring,” she said. “I’ve never seen anything like this. They drive down the street, they find vacant homes and target that property.”

Bock encouraged all residents to visit www.mypalmbeach clerk.com and keep a watchful eye on their records to avoid fraud.

RPB Looks To Reorganize The Way Its Charitable Fund Operates

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Efforts to protect the anonymity of families in need may complicate attempts by the Village of Royal Palm Beach to provide financial aid to youth desiring to participate in village recreation programs.

At a meeting Thursday, March 17, Councilwoman Martha Webster requested that village staff come up with recommendations about how to administer the Tommy Starace Good Samaritan Fund established years ago to help youth participate in recreational activities they otherwise cannot afford.

“Some time ago, we were talking about some of the special revenue funds and how the Tommy Starace Fund is really not working as well as it should,” Webster

Goldenrod

Residents Support Closure

continued from page 1 major roads cause the speeding problem, several residents said.

“The roadway has become a very popular cut-through for drivers who want to avoid traffic signals,” said Amy McVay, who lives on Azure. “Our kids cannot play out front. We have 18 young children [on the street] who at any point could be hit by these cars. I don’t feel safe letting our kids out front, and it really ruins the sense of community that I moved to Wellington for.”

Vivian May, who also lives on Azure, said that cars speeding down the road are a problem each morning as she takes eight local children to school by bike.

She also noted that there have been a number of accidents, including one in her front yard that caused a light pole to fall dangerously close to her home.

“That could have been my kids,” she said. “That could have been anyone’s kids.”

said. “So before we go into the budget year, I would ask staff to look at the process that we have for that and perhaps to give some suggestions on how it could be improved if we were to decide to use it again.”

The Tommy Starace Fund was among several suggestions raised at the council’s Dec. 16 meeting as to where money could go from paver bricks being sold to the public for installation at the 160-acre Royal Palm Beach Commons Park.

At the time, Village Engineer Chris Marsh gave a presentation on the brick paver program, saying that it would increase public support for the new park, allow residents to create permanent remembrances and create an additional source of financing. The

pavers would be located in the central plaza of the park adjacent to the sporting center, interactive fountain and band pavilion.

Marsh said the program is similar to fundraising projects in other cities. He suggested that the council either modify the definition of an existing fund to accept the money or create a new fund.

Suggestions for uses of the paver fund money were recreational projects and community beautification.

Councilman David Swift said that when the Tommy Starace Fund was created, it was more of a council effort than a staff project.

The fund was started in memory of former Councilwoman Carmela Starace’s son. “The council sponsored some golf tournaments, the Mayor’s Golf Tournament, in

particular,” he said. “In general, we were funding it ourselves.”

Swift said former Mayor David Lodwick took on the project as a fundraiser.

Mayor Matty Mattioli said the fund had shifted from privately donated money over the years.

“It changed from private donations from various people, but we did have a golf tournament, and the proceeds from that did go into the Tommy Starace Fund,” he said.

The Mayor’s Golf Tournament, which had been scheduled as part of the village’s Fourth of July activities, has been canceled for lack of participants. “I don’t know if the Fourth of July is the time to have it, or try again during the fall season,” Mattioli said.

Webster said she was more con-

cerned about the process than the fundraising activities. “We had talked about bricks, and that was a different form of income, but we steered away from it because the process wasn’t a good one, using that fund,” Webster said. “I was hoping that perhaps staff might give us some recommendations for a better process for that, because I see that we do have $1,200 remaining in that fund, and I thought that before budget time, we should make a decision.”

Parks & Recreation Director Lou Recchio said the fund has been utilized primarily to help children who could not afford to participate in athletic and recreational programs such as summer camp, but the fund had been abused in the past.

“We didn’t want to get into res-

idents’ personal financial issues, so it was first come, first served,” Recchio said. “Folks would hear about the scholarship, and they’d go down and fill out an application. We limited each household to $200 a year, and the money didn’t last long. They were driving up in an Escalade and filling out an application, $200 to go to a summer camp or participate in a program or go on a school trip.”

Recchio confirmed that the main source of money has been the Mayor’s Golf Tournament.

Mattioli asked Recchio, Village Manager Ray Liggins and other staff members to come up with guidelines for the program and how it could be financed and administered so there would not be questions in the future on how the money is being disbursed.

And accidents like that are common occurrences, said Geri Brass, who lives at the corner of Exotica Lane and Azure Avenue.

“In probably the last ten years, there have been at least three or four accidents on that corner to the point where the cars have almost come into our driveway,” she said.

“We had two cars come into our swale. Our family room butts up against Azure, and we can hear the traffic in the evenings. It has definitely increased over the years. For someone who lives on Azure, it really is terrible.”

Although the village installed speed bumps to calm traffic several years ago, residents called them inefficient.

Shannon Klotz, another Azure resident, said that the community began the task of getting bumps put in more than eight years ago, but they’ve done little to help the problem.

“Speeds are only reduced around the area of the speed bumps,” she said. “They have not caused a reduction in traffic or speed.”

But because the area has many kids who use Goldenrod to get to school each morning by bike or on foot, some residents worried

that cutting off the road completely would cause problems for students trying to get to school.

Mike Nelson, who lives on Azure, said he is in favor of the idea, but thought that the village could leave sidewalks or pedestrian paths for the community to use. “I see a number of kids riding bikes from the Goldenrod area each morning trying to get to Wellington Elementary School,” he said. “I’d hate to cut those kids off from the ability to ride their bikes to school.”

Amanda Hughes, who lives on Goldenrod Road, noted that a majority of the traffic in the morning comes from students headed to Wellington High School. She was in favor of the measure with a walk-through.

“You’re cutting off the ability for your children to come through my neighborhood to get to school,” she said. “I guess I ought to be glad about that because it cuts down on my traffic.”

She worried that the traffic, which would be routed to Big Blue Trace and Wellington Trace, would cause additional hazards in the morning.

But leaving a sidewalk would not solve the issue of crime,

which some residents say has increased over the years in the community.

“I don’t want to worry about someone being able to walk into our back yard and steal stuff,” said Jason Crawford, who lives on Cosmos Court. “The day I was robbed, four neighbors in a row got hit.”

Hughes noted that it isn’t necessarily children in the area west of the canal causing the problems.

“Those children can’t afford to be knocking down mailboxes with their cars,” she said. “They can’t afford to fix them. I know it’s considered the trashy side of town, but it’s not. We have great tenants who move in there, even for a short amount of time.”

Crawford said the issue is not one of Goldenrod residents versus those in Sugar Pond Manor but, rather, that the road allows criminals easier access to the area.

Goldenrod resident Angelina Garcia proposed that the village close the road on a trial basis with temporary barriers to see if it solves the problem of speeding and/or crime. She noted that in the past 10 years, she has seen a spike in crime there.

“My house was broken into four

years ago,” she said. “And two weeks ago, both of my cars were broken into. I don’t know of a way to solve this problem, but it’s really bad. It’s not a safe place anymore.”

Residents who are unable to at-

tend the March 30 meeting at 6:30 p.m. at the Wellington Municipal Complex may weigh in on the road closure online at www. wellingtonfl.gov or contact the Safe Neighborhoods Office at (561) 791-4796.

Black Daggers To Perform At WEF On the evening of Saturday, March 26, the famed U.S. Army Black Daggers parachute demonstration team will perform at the FTI Winter Equestrian Festival prior to the $500,000 FTI Consulting Finale Grand Prix.

In addition to watching this amazing live parachuting demonstration — held at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington — guests will enjoy an exhibition of exotic animals from the Palm Beach Zoo, a huge family carnival, a live band, shopping and more.

Onlookers will get to witness a group of soldiers jump from 12,500 feet and travel approximately 120 miles per hour before landing right in front of the spec-

tators in the International Arena.

The Black Daggers are the official U.S. Army Special Operations Command parachute demonstration team, which is made up of volunteers from the Army special operations.

After this special demonstration, the top 40 riders from the entire Winter Equestrian Festival will compete over the biggest track of the circuit to try to win the top prize in the $500,000 FTI Consulting Finale Grand Prix.

Doors open at 6 p.m., and general admission is free. Several VIP tickets and other ticketing options available.

For more information, visit www.equestriansport.com or call (561) 793-5867.

Page 8

March 25 - March 31, 2011

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NEWS BRIEFS Wellington Rotary Launches Peace Initiative

(L-R) Amanda and Dennis Ramella, Yanil Espinal, Danielle Boutin, Matthew Halperin, Betsy Owen and Judy Ramella.

Realtors Association Supports Quantum House Families On Sunday, March 13, the Realtors Association of the Palm Beaches (RAPB) Community Outreach Committee participated in Quantum House’s “Chef for a Day” program.

Quantum House is a facility that provides a “caring place to call home” for families while their children are being treated for a critical illness or injury in Palm Beach County.

“We are so pleased and honored to be able to give to the surrounding communities that we serve,” 2011 RAPB Community Outreach Chair Betsy Owen said. “It was great fun, and the families

were thrilled with our pancakes, bagels and egg strata... yum yum.”

If you are looking for a volunteer experience like no other, call Quantum House at (561) 4940515. Your special talent, whether it is preparing a meal, gardening, arts and crafts, helping with homework or playing board games, will make a big difference.

The Realtors Association of the Palm Beaches represents more than 7,500 real estate professionals. It is dedicated to preserving Palm Beach County’s real estate market, quality of life and private property rights. For more information, visit www.rapb.com.

Each year at this time, the Wellington Rotary Club kicks off its annual Peace Initiative.

The initiative will culminate with a Peace Day ceremony on Sept. 21 to be held at the Wellington Rotary Peace Park on Royal Fern Drive.

During the initial phase of the project, all of the local schools plus Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops are encouraged to participate in a series of competitions aimed at promoting the goals of world peace consciousness, multicultural understanding and conflict resolution.

The elementary school children have a poster competition, the middle school students participate in a poetry competition and the high schools enter an essay competition. Cash prizes are awarded to all winning students. In the case of the elementary schools, the teacher of the winners is also giving a cash award.

The high school photography club students submit their photographs, and the winners not only receive cash prizes, but have their work shown throughout the community. The Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts work throughout the year on tasks established with the troop leaders and are presented with Rotary merit badges. Prizes and badges will all be presented at the Peace Day celebration Sept. 21.

Throughout the year, the Rotary Club also offers for sale the Flags of Nations. Purchasers will

be recognized and their chosen country flag will be flown at Rotary events.

Local businesses, institutions and citizens are also encouraged to erect their own peace poles.

These are 6- to 8-foot-high poles with the words “May Peace Prevail on Earth” inscribed on them.

There are currently over 250,000 peace poles around the world.

The peace poles are available through the Rotary Club. For flag and peace pole purchases, visit the Wellington Rotary Club’s web site at www.wellingtonrotary.org.

Everyone is invited to support the Wellington Rotary Club in its efforts to inform the area residents of the continuing goal of world peace, multicultural understanding and conflict resolution.

Musical Dollar Donation Drive At RPBHS From now until the end of the school year, the Royal Palm Beach High School band and chorus departments are holding their inaugural Musical Dollar Days Donation Drive.

With more than 31,000 residents in Royal Palm Beach, the music department asks every resident of the village to donate $1 to help support the growth of musical performance. With the support of the entire community, both programs can grow and help purchase new instruments, sound equipment, secure storage facilities, music and uniforms. Donation will help offset the costs of performance trips and teaching

staff as well. Tax-deductible donations can be made to the Royal Palm Beach High School band and given to the front office at Royal Palm Beach High School (10600 Okeechobee Blvd.) from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Each dollar will be split evenly between the chorus and the band program. If you include your name and an e-mail address with your donation, you will receive a complimentary ticket to scheduled concerts at Royal Palm Beach High School, a tax-deductible donation thank-you letter, and recognition in both departments’ programs.

For more information, call (561) 753-4068 or e-mail william. mcclendon@palmbeach.k12.fl.us.

Area Dancers To Hold Benefit Car Wash March 27 Legacy dancers from Donna Tucci’s School of Dance in Royal Palm Beach will sponsor a car wash Sunday, March 27 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Blockbuster Video in Wellington Plaza (corner of Forest Hill Blvd. and Wellington Trace).

All proceeds from the car wash will be used for the purchase of costumes, dance shoes, travel and other expenses. These dancers travel throughout the area and statewide, entertaining at nursing homes, hospitals, children’s holiday parties, charity events and recently at the Komen Race for the Cure in West Palm Beach.

Donna Tucci’s School of Dance is located at 10245 Southern Blvd.

For more information, call (561) 795-0053.

Wellington To Observe National Volunteer Week During National Volunteer Week, Wellington will recognize all of its active volunteers with a series of recognition events from April 10-16 to thank them for their continued service, hard work and dedication.

Recognition cards, along with an invitation to a continental breakfast, will be mailed to all active volunteers. Throughout the week, acknowledgment signs will be posted along Forest Hill Blvd., in the municipal center lobby, on Channel 18 and on Wellington’s web site. The continental breakfast will be held on Tuesday, April 12 from 8:30 to 10 a.m. in the employee lower-level break room at the municipal center.

Volunteer Wellington T-shirts will be distributed at the breakfast and throughout the week. Recognition items will also be delivered to Village Park for the current volunteer athletic coaches.

To learn more about Volunteer Wellington, visit www.wellington fl.gov or call Volunteer Coordinator Kim Henghold at (561) 7914137 or e-mail khenghold@ wellingtonfl.gov.

Established in 1974, National Volunteer Week has drawn the support and endorsement of all subsequent U.S. presidents, governors, mayors and other respected elected officials. For more info., visit www.handsonnetwork.org.

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NEWS

SPRING BREAK DAY CAMPERS HAVE A FUN-FILLED WEEK AT THE FAIRGROUNDS

Spring Break Day Camp was held March 14-18 at the South Florida Fairgrounds. The y oung campers enjoyed a full week of seeing poultry, rabbits, goats and pigs, and took field trips to farms in Okeechobee and Belle Glade to see sugar cane and crops in the fields. On Thursday, the children learned about horses and got to take a ride.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/T OWN-CRIER

Hayley Rust rides Sophie with assistance from Cathy Middleton.

Ruth Phillips shows kids horse bits and halters.

Taylor Lamerson on Darn It and Stephon Dhannie on LBJ.

Chocolatte, a Shetland pony, gets a brushing.

Stevanie LeConte with Charizma.

Wellington 15th Anniversary Celebration In March 1996, Wellington officially began operations as a municipality. Fifteen years later, the community is invited to celebrate Wellington’s anniversary with a family-friendly celebration at the Wellington Amphitheater on Forest Hill Blvd. The free event will take place on Saturday, March 26 from 5 to 9:30 p.m.

“We wanted to not only celebrate Wellington’s anniversary but also to thank our residents for their commitment and involvement in making Wellington such a great hometown,” Village Clerk Awilda Rodriguez said.

Wellington’s 15th anniversary celebration will feature musical

entertainment by Viva and the country duo Chad Murphy and Heather Burkett as well as a Classic Cruiser Car Show and food vendors. Children can enjoy bounce houses, train rides, face painting, balloon animals and visits from Winnie the Pooh, Dora the Explorer, Minnie Mouse and Mickey Mouse.

For more information, call (561) 791-4000 or visit www. wellingtonfl.gov.

Wellington Joins Schools For St. Baldrick’s Event For the first time, students from Wellington’s rival high schools are coming together to buzz off their locks in an effort to fight childhood cancer.

On Friday, March 25, the Village of Wellington will host Palm Beach Central High School and Wellington High School’s Wellington Kids Care event, where male and female students, faculty and alumni will shave their heads to raise money for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, a non-profit that supports cancer research. The event will take place from 4 to 7 p.m. at Village Park located at 11700 Pierson Road.

Last year, both schools raised a combined total of more than $100,000, and Palm Beach Central High School hosted the highest-raising event of any school nationwide.

“With involvement from various sponsors around the community and participation from middle and elementary schools, this year’s event is sure to be ‘bigger,

better and balder,’” Palm Beach Central faculty sponsor Don Meyers said.

For more information about the Wellington Kids Care St. Baldrick’s event, call Don Meyers at (561) 309-8659 or visit http:// stbaldricks.org/events/wellington kidscare.

Area Student Musicians To Perform April 2 Local schools will bring a mix of action and music to Wellington’s Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) for “A Touch of Broadway: A Musical Revue” on Saturday, April 2.

Beginning at 7:30 p.m., drama students from Elbridge Gale Elementary School, Wellington

Manager of Agricultural Operations Bettye Thompson aboard Sophie.

Christian School, the King’s Academy and Palm Beach Central High School will perform two acts each from popular musicals.

“A Touch of Broadway: A Musical Revue” is ideal for children and adults alike who enjoy the arts or theatrical performances.

For more info., call Joseph Piconcelli at (561) 791-4756 or visit www.wellingtonfl.gov.

Upcoming Programs At Temple Beth Zion Temple Beth Zion in Royal Palm Beach invites the community to sing the night away with karaoke DJ Jett Larsin on Sunday, April 3 at 5 p.m. The cost is a donation of $10.

Temple Beth Zion will host a

special Friday night service for Blessing of the Pets on Friday, April 15 at 6:30 p.m. All “peoplefriendly” pets are welcome; if your furry friend is too shy to attend, bring a picture. Rabbi Bertram Kieffer will bless your special family member(s) and a special pet “Oneg” will follow featuring Shabbat and pet favorites “gefilte friskies,” “Purina pastries,” and “biscuit” kosher delights. The traditional Shabbat service will follow at 7:30 p.m.

Temple Beth Zion is an innovative synagogue serving the Jewish community since 1980. It is located at 129 Sparrow Drive in Royal Palm Beach, just north of Veterans Park. For more information about these programs, call Muriel at (561) 798-8888. For more about Temple Beth Zion, visit www.templebethzion.net.

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NEWS

Equestrians Raise Over $80,000 For Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

Mary Ann Grant with winners Ariel Matisse and Nancy Later.

(Front row, L-R) Francesca Nicolletti, Nick Dello Joio and Sandy Gillespie; (back row) Nancy Later, Ariel Matisse, Jessica Baum and Sarah Gillespie.

On Feb. 10, Honorary Chair Dr. Melissa Singer, Event Chair Mary Ann Grant and an outstanding event committee welcomed guests to Grant Farms for cocktails, dinner, a silent auction and the announcement of the 2011 Equestrian of the Year, a program which benefits the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS).

This year’s event was held in memory of Susan Sexton, who lost her battle with leukemia on Nov. 11, 2009. Attending the event were Sexton’s daughters and friends. Guests heard the daughters’ emotional story of losing their mother, who was greatly respected among her peers and was still growing in her artistic abilities when leukemia took her life.

After hearing Sexton’s story, guests were introduced to the

Honored Hero, Blake Naumann, an 11-year-old boy in remission from acute lymphocytic leukemia.

Blake’s father David Naumann spoke of the challenges faced when a child has cancer, both for the child and the family. Since fishing is one of Blake’s favorite hobbies, he was presented with a new fishing rod and other fishing accessories by Timmy Dutta.

Contestants for the 2011 Equestrian of the Year honor were Jessica Baum and Caroline Roffman, Nick Dello Joio, Francesca Nicolletti, Sandra and Sarah Gillespie, Nancy Later and Ariel Matisse. All candidates did an excellent job raising funds to support the LLS mission.

The winning team was Later and Matisse, who earned the 2011 Equestrian of the Year title by

Anita Fialkow and Danielle Vadlandingham.

David and Blake Naumann.

working tirelessly to raise more than $22,000. Later and Matisse were presented with Catena watches for their outstanding efforts and achievement. Later is a top dressage professional who runs her own stable, trains, teaches and competes in Grand Prix dressage.

Matisse, Later ’s student, is an up-and-coming talented young dressage rider. This year’s runnerup, Nick Dello Joio, was presented an illustration by Rollin McGrail for his outstanding firsttime effort raising more than $5,300. Dello Joio competes in Grand Prix jumping.

Sponsors for this year’s event included Anita Fialkow in honor of Eileen Smith and Catena. A special thank-you is extended to Dave and Tuny Page in honor of Edie

Jane Eaton, Karin Flint, Lauren Walfish, Janet Richardson Pearson, the Walfish family, Nan Sexton, Christie’s Bakery, Ken Rose Catering, Susie Dutta, Susan Rubin and Drew Golding.

All proceeds from the 2011 Equestrian of the Year will benefit the LLS’s mission to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. LLS is the world’s largest voluntary health organization dedicated to funding blood cancer research, education and patient services.

For more information, visit www.lls.org. For more about the society’s Equestrian of the Year program, call the Palm Beach area chapter at (888) 478-8550 or Mary Ann Grant at (561) 301-5817.

David Gussack, Pierce Jovine and Dr. Melissa Singer.

PHO TOS COURTESY BOB DOBENS PHOTOGRAPHY

P.W. COMMUNITY FOUNDATION HOSTS WOMEN IN BUSINESS LUNCH AT MAYACOO

The Palms West Community Foundation hosted a Women in Business luncheon Thursday, March 17 at Mayacoo Lakes Country Club. The special guest speaker was Palm Beach Post columnist Leslie Gray Streeter. For more information about the Women in Business series, visit www.palmswest.com.

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

Anne Rodgers, Leslie Gray Streeter and Maureen Gross.

Susan D’Andrea is honored for her birthday.

Leslie Gray Streeter addresses the luncheon crowd.

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Come Play with Us USPA 107 U.S. Open Polo Championship™ th

March 27th - April 17th Purchase Tickets Online or at Gate Game Day internationalpoloclub.com Club Line: 561.204.5687 Brunch Reservations: 561.282. 5296

internationalpoloclub.com American Polo Player: Will Johnston & Fiance Kristen Fugere

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NEWS

SENIORS CELEBRATE ST. PATRICK’S DAY AT ROYAL PALM BEACH CULTURAL CENTER The Royal Palm Beach Senior Group celebrated St. Patrick’s Day on Thursday, March 17 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center.

The event included a light lunch, and Bill Fulford played piano while guests sang along to Irish standards and oldies music.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/T OWN-CRIER

Bill Fulford sings an old Irish standard.

Carl Wingo and Eva Siev enjoy the event.

Eva Churchill and Gene Bochensky.

Jerry Eisinger and Lucille Tucker.

Sharon Lincoln, Evalina Pernas and Attis Solomon.

Volunteers Vinette Tracey, Elaine Mathis and Cheryl Lower prepare plates for seniors.

LOCAL SONS OF ITALY LODGE HOSTS DINNER MEETING IN ROYAL PALM BEACH The Order Sons of Italy in America (OSIA) Loggia Michelangelo Lodge #2864 held its monthly meeting Wednesday, March 16 at the Royal P alm Beach Cultural Center. Office of the Attorney General Region 1 Director Wayne Picone spoke about keeping seniors safe from scams. In addition to the meeting, there was a home-cooked Italian potluck dinner and dessert. For more info., call Pasq uale DeVivo at (561) 249-1298.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/T OWN-CRIER

Lodge #2864 President Pat DeVivo with Barbara Carmen D’Amico and Joe D’Amico.

New members Allen Belluccio, Rober t Lenna and Hank Zanella recruit ed by Vincent Porpora (right).

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Wayne Picone addresses lodge members.

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Page 15

NEWS

MANY SHOPPERS TURN OUT FOR BEAD & JEWELRY SHOW AT THE FAIRGROUNDS

Frank Cox Productions presented its Bead and Jewelry Show & Sale on Saturday and Sunday, March 19 and 20 at the Americraft Expo Center at the South Florida Fairgrounds. Vendors were on hand to sell beads, pearls, semi-precious stones, jewelry and other collectibles.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/T OWN-CRIER

Amy Pearl tries on a carnelian st one necklace with help from her mother Lois.

Blue Evans of Loxahatchee looks at the intricate stone detail on these birds.

Alexandra and Victoria Maxwell admire semi-precious stones.

Samantha Lazzaro and Jeff Ursillo at the Gem and Mineral Society table.

Sue Monson of Wellington looks over Mike Venghaus’ jewelry.

Janice Solock talks about Chinese scholar stones with Juying Janowsky.

Challenge Of The Americas Raises $275,000 For Breast Cancer Research The tenth annual Challenge of the Americas competition and gala were held Saturday, March 12 at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington.

A benefit for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and Play for P.I.N.K., the event raised approximately $275,000 in support of research to help find a cure for a disease that has affected so many lives.

The Challenge Gala got underway following an exciting evening of equestrian competition that included the first-ever four-on-four polo match, where Team Vanderbilt-Ingram proved victorious.

Following polo, the musical quadrille team challenge commenced with Team Purina USA earning the winning score.

This year’s gala, a sold-out affair with almost 600 in attendance, featured an evening of dinner and dancing. It was held in the new Nespresso Lodge just off Piaget

Field at IPC. The sit-down dinner, silent auction and dancing was enjoyed by top riders, trainers and judges from the equestrian world of dressage and polo, along with generous sponsors and supporters.

Held as a benefit for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, the Challenge of the Americas has raised over $1.5 million since its inception in 2002. Play for P.I.N.K. President Laura Lassman spoke at the gala and acknowledged all that the Challenge of the Americas has done for breast cancer research.

Play For P.I.N.K. (Prevention, Immediate diagnosis, New technology, Knowledge) is a grassroots organization dedicated to raising money to fight breast cancer by creating and promoting awareness of breast cancer through sporting and lifestyle events. It contributes 100 percent of all funds raised to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

“Thank you so much to all of you for your generous support, which goes to fund an army of the most incredible researchers in the world,” Lassman said. “We support 172 researchers in 12 countries and have worked to make great strides to fight this disease.

Sixteen years ago we were working to see if we could cure cancer, now we are working to figure out when. I hope that one day soon we will have this fabulous event to celebrate the breakthrough that we have beaten this disease.”

Mary Ross, who lost her mother to breast cancer, created the event in memory of her mother ten years ago. She put together the event, along with a talented committee.

New to this year’s event was a four-on-four polo match organized by Georgette Escobar. Escobar, wife of 7-goal polo player Luis Escobar, is a breast cancer survivor and spoke during the

event about her battle with the disease.

Escobar stood in front of the evening’s crowd with seven of her closest friends to speak about her fight.

“I stand here in front of you with seven of my closest friends to show you that one in eight woman is diagnosed with breast cancer,” she said. “I was the one of eight, and with the help of research, my cancer was detected early. Because of such advances in technology and research, I was able to fight the disease.”

Escobar’s 91-year-old grandmother, also a breast cancer survivor, was in attendance as well.

Event sponsors included the International Polo Club Palm Beach, SSG Gloves - Team Can/America, Purina Mills - Team USA, the Seley Parker Group of Merrill Lynch - Team International, Polo Sponsor Arenus, Event Sponsor USDF, Cunningham & Cunning-

Mason Phelps, Mar y Ross and Brian O’Connor.

PHOTO BY SUSAN J. STICKLE

ham Livestock Insurance, Matchn Ride.com, Back on Track, Wellington Classic Dressage, the Palm Beach Equine Clinic, Red Barn Feed & Supply, the Tackeria, Ecogold, the Bethesda Women’s

Health Center, Dover Saddlery, King Ferry Winery, Jamaica Tent, Boca West Country Club, EQLS and Sunbelt Rentals.

For more information, visit www.challengeoftheamericas.com.

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Page 17

POLO & EQUESTRIAN

Audi Wins Gold Cup Title With 10-9 Overtime Win Over Lechuza Audi defeated Lechuza in overtime 10-9 in an exciting finish to the 2011 USPA Piaget Gold Cup tournament at the International Polo Club Palm Beach. And if that wasn’t exciting enough, special appearances by actress Mena Suvari and multiple Grammy Awardwinning artist Jon Secada made Sunday, March 20 a polo afternoon to remember.

Secada wowed the sold-out crowd with his incredible vocal talents as he sang the national anthem. Suvari graced Piaget Field to take part in the official coin toss, setting the stage for the exhilarating featured match.

The game began evenly enough with Sapo Caset and Martin Espain scoring for Lechuza, only to have Audi respond with goals from Gonzalito Pieres and his

younger brother Nico Pieres.

Juan Martin Nero scored the opening goal of the second chukker, followed by goals from Audi’s Nico Pieres and Gonzalito Pieres. Lechuza’s Caset closed out the scoring with a goal to tie it up again at 4-4.

Espain’s second goal of the game came in the third chukker and gave Lechuza a brief 5-4 lead before Audi pulled ahead. Two goals from Nico Pieres and another from Gonzalito Pieres ended the first half with Audi sitting on a 75 lead. Lechuza then cut the lead down to a single goal, 7-6, in the fourth.

An early penalty call in the fifth gave Caset another opportunity to score from the penalty line, and the talented 9-goaler made good on it. The game was tied once

again at 7-7. Nero’s third goal of the game put Lechuza on top, 87, but another goal from Nico Pieres leveled it at 8-8, the sixth tie of the game.

It was halfway through the sixth chukker when Caset put Lechuza ahead, 9-8. Later, Nico Pieres converted a 60-yard penalty shot for a goal, tying the game and forcing sudden-death overtime.

Thirty-two seconds into overtime, Nico Pieres took control of the ball, wove his way through a number of Lechuza defenders and delivered a 40-yard scoring shot through the goal posts for the win.

The 2011 winter polo season at the International Polo Club Palm Beach continues through April 17.

For tickets, or more information, visit www.internationalpolo club.com.

(Above) The winning Audi players celebrate their victory.

(Right) Actress Mena Suvari with musician Jon Secada.

PHOTOS COURTESY LILA PHOTO

Nick Skelton And Big Star Were Big Winners During WEF’s Week 10 Week 10 of the 2011 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival concluded with two great events at the Stadium, the grass field venue at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center.

Nick Skelton and Big Star, owned by Beverly and Gary Widdowson, notched another big win by taking the top prize in the $78,000 Pennfield Feeds Grand Prix, CSI 2*.

Michel Vaillancourt of Aiken, S.C., was the designer for the classes at the Stadium. There were 43 Grand Prix entries, and seven went clear to advance to the jumpoff. The first entry in the class and the first to return was Hector Florentino on Stransky’s Mission

Farm’s Ultimo. They finished in seventh place with four faults in 46.50 seconds.

The early lead went to Mario Deslauriers and Urico, owned by Jane Clark. They sped around the shortened course with no faults in 42.60 seconds, which would hold up for second place. Spanish rider Sergio Alvarez Moya rode next on Uno, owned by Mileworld Limited. They finished just off the winning pace in 42.85 seconds and placed third. Keean White and Celena Z had a rail at the last jump for four faults in 44.69 seconds for fifth place.

Skelton and Big Star were next in, and they made easy work of the course, powering out of the

Nick Skelton and Big Star ride t o victory at WEF. PHOTO BY SPORTFOT

double combination and galloping steadily down to the final oxer.

They stopped the timers in a faultfree 41.39 seconds to take the lead.

Quentin Judge and HH Radco, owned by Double H Farm, had four faults in 46.01 seconds for sixth place. With the fastest time of the class in 40.35 seconds, Scott Brash and Intertoy Z gave it a great go in the jump-off, but had four faults. They placed fourth.

The tenth week of WEF competition began last Wednesday morning with a victory for Kent Farrington and Uceko, owned by R.C.G. Farm, in the $8,000 G&C Farm 1.45m Jumpers held in the International Arena at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center.

Scarface, owned by Tony Weight and ridden by Nick Dello Joio, followed in second with a jump-off time of 34.479 seconds.

The first competitors of the morning, Nicole Shahinian-Simpson and Candlelight Van De Warande owned by BG Retanage Rewide R. Kunce, jumped double clear in 35.865 seconds to eventually finish in third.

Mario Deslauriers had three horses in the class and advanced to the jump-off with all three to finish fourth through sixth. Deslauriers rode Cella, owned by Jane Clark to a clear round in 38.124 seconds to place fourth, finished clear with Clark’s Urico in 39.045 seconds to place fifth,

and rode his own Diablo to a fourfault jump-off round in 37.182 seconds to place sixth.

After missing the beginning of the 2011 circuit due to a shattered collarbone, Todd Minikus made his return to the winner’s circle, riding Pavarotti to a victory in the $31,000 WEF Challenge Cup Round 10. This was the pair’s second time back in the ring this season, and they made it look easy with two fast and faultless rounds.

Canada’s Ian Millar and Star Power, owned by Team Works, were the first pair to jump double clear and stopped the clock in 46.80 seconds to finish in second place. Samuel Parot and Al Calypso followed with a time of 47.35 seconds to finish in third place.

Minikus and Pavarotti were the final pair to jump double clear and bested Millar’s leading time by over four seconds in 42.48 seconds to take first place.

McLain Ward took the win in the $31,000 G&C Farm 1.45m Classic with Rothchild, owned by Sagamore Farms. Ward and Rothchild were extremely quick throughout the course and took the win in 70.83 seconds. The early leader was Pablo Barrios on G&C LaGran, who stopped the timers in 74.22 seconds. Sergio Alvarez Moya and Uno were third in 74.49 seconds. Barrios and his second mount, G&C Flash, were fourth in 75.12 seconds.

Thirty-five competitors showed

up last Saturday afternoon with the hope of taking home the top prize in the $25,000 Suncast 1.50m Championship Jumper Series Classic, but it was 21-year-old amateur rider Ali Wolff and her 18-year-old veteran horse Lanoo that were able to best the field for the win. Six were able to jump the first round course without fault, and then all returned to jump double clear over the short course, making it a race against the clock.

Wolff and Lanoo, a Dutch Warmblood gelding, had the fastest time of 38.703 seconds for the win.

Following behind Wolff, Scott Brash rode Liz McTaggart’s Bon Ami into second place with a time of 38.826 seconds. Sergio Alvarez Moya rode What’s Next through the timers in 38.968 seconds to finish third.

Earlier in the day, the International Arena hosted the junior and amateur-owner riders in their classics for week ten. Kalvin Dobbs rode Ultimate VDL, owned by Treesdale Farms, to victory in the $10,000 EquiFit High Junior Jumper Classic to begin the morning. Charlie Jacobs then earned his fourth victory of the circuit in the $15,000 ECB Equine Spa High Amateur-Owner Jumper Classic riding Leap of Joy, owned by Deeridge Farm.

It was a fun night of competition with a highlight event, the $50,000 Vita Flex Match Races.

Advancing through five rounds of

races, it was Richard Spooner and Lady Like, owned by the C&S Partnership LLC who finished as the winners. In the final round, they topped Daniela Cordero of the Dominican Republic and T Cavalier.

The 2011 Artisan Farms Young Riders Grand Prix Series came to a conclusion last Sunday afternoon with its fourth and final event, the $15,000 Artisan Farms Young Riders Grand Prix, held on the grass field at the Stadium of the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. Thirty-seven riders came out to try their hand at the course and 11 made it to the jump-off. Catherine Pasmore, of Charlottesville, Va., rode Pasmore Stables’ Vandavid to the fastest clear round over the short course to earn top prize.

The class was the final of four qualifiers for the EY Cup Finals, which will be held at the FEI World Cup Finals in Leipzig, Germany. The top three riders in the series will have the opportunity to travel to Germany to compete and the class. Through their sponsorship, the Dutta Corporation & International Horse Transport will be shipping the winning horse to the finals and covering travel expenses for the highest scoring rider in this series. At the completion of the day’s class, 16-year-old Reed Kessler of N.Y., 16-year-old Charlotte Jacobs of N.Y., and 21See WEF WEEK 10, page 22

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SCHOOL NEWS

The King’s Academy’s Annual Dinner & Auction Event A Huge Success The King’s Academy held its tenth annual dinner and auction “The Mane Event” on Saturday, March 5 at PGA National Resort & Spa in Palm Beach Gardens.

More than 280 guests enjoyed a fun-filled evening themed “That’s Italian!” featuring a silent and live auction, dinner and entertainment by TKA’s choir and advanced dance students. Attendees enjoyed the festive Italian atmosphere created through song, dance and decorations.

Guests were entertained by the student’s rendition of the famous Neapolitan song “Funiculì, Funicula” and joined the excitement by singing along and throwing their napkins in the air. A men’s trio comprising Connor Saccal, Cameron Sharrock and Christian Salmonson serenaded the attendees with performances of “Viva Tutti” and “’O Sole Mio.” The live auction was energized by the spirit of friendly competition as auctioneers TKA parent Ray Titus and alumni parent Jim Tatem worked as a team to keep guests interested and bidding.

King’s supporters bid on more

than 500 unique silent and 17 live auction items including luxury travel packages, memorabilia, a 2011 Honda Civic lease (generously donated by Braman Honda of Palm Beach) and one-of-a-kind experiences.

First-grader Reese Collier captivated guests as she sung “For Good,” accompanied by Mikah Adams and His People Choir to introduce the Call from the Heart, a special fundraising project focused on improving the school’s sports and fine arts center.

Funds raised will provide new acoustical drapery and large dual projection screens. More than $20,000 was raised toward project enhancements, which will provide students with cutting-edge technology and professional performance opportunities. These improvements will benefit many programs at the King’s Academy, including elementary and secondary chapels and assemblies, homecoming events, athletic events, elementary graduations, as well as secondary awards and all fine arts programs.

The King’s Academy would

NEW HORIZONS NEWS REPORTERS

Students in Laurie Dunham’s second-grade class at New Horizons Elementar y School developed their own news program recently. They wrote news reports including interviews, sports and weather, and they also created commercials. The students presented their ne ws show in the school’s WNHE news studio. They enjoyed the process from writing to reporting the news and were congratulated for a job well done. Pictured above are Dunham’s second-graders in the WNHE news studio.

Ray Titus, auction co-chairs Andrea Titus and Connie Tuller, and Ed Tuller. like to thank event chairs Andrea Titus and Connie Tuller and Silent Auction Chair Irelys Pattee for their leadership and dedication to the school. The chairs had more than 50 committee members who helped to create the special evening. Three lead-up events contributed to the success of “The Mane Event,” including an underwriting party hosted by Joe and

Ashley Maguire, a gift-gathering party hosted by Kristy Desich and Denise Meers, and a boutique and trunk show chaired by Teddy Walker, Susan Gableman, Denise Meers and Julie Fiedor.

TKA especially thanks all who sponsored the event, including presenting sponsors Insurance Office of America, Regal Paint Centers, Mr. and Mrs. Ed Aiello, and

TKA senior Mikah Adams with f irst-grader Reese Collier perform with His People Choir.

Mr. and Mrs. John Raese. Platinum sponsors included Mr. and Mrs. Van Collier, Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Desich, and Wachovia, A Wells Fargo Company.

All proceeds from “The Mane Event” support the King’s Academy annual fund programs including need-based financial assistance, academic programs and faculty development. The annual

event has raised more than $2.4 million over its 10-year history.

The King’s Academy is a nationally recognized private Christian school serving approximately 1,200 students from preschool through 12th grade. It serves students and their families across Palm Beach and Hendry counties.

For more information, visit the school’s web site at www.tka.net.

Lynn U, PBPF To Present Poet Mary Oliver Miles Coon, founder and director of the Palm Beach Poetry Festival, has announced that in honor of National Poetry Month, the nonprofit cultural organization is partnering with Lynn University to present internationally acclaimed environmental poet Mary Oliver.

In her article about “the famously private” Oliver in the March 2011 issue of O magazine, Maria Shriver wrote, “Her work is uplifting and full of courage — it’s about the natural world, but also about larger themes like love, survival, gratitude, joy — and it spoke to me. I started quoting her in speeches, and even put one poem, ‘The Journey,’on my desk, where I still read it often.”

Oliver will read selected poems, engage in a question-and-answer session with the audience, and sign books at Lynn University’s beautiful new Keith C. and Elaine Johnson Wold Performing Arts Center, located at 3601 N. Military Trail in Boca Raton. The event will be held on Saturday, April 9 at 7:30 p.m.

The winner of both the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry and the prestigious National Book Award, Ohio-born Oliver has been described as an “indefatigable guide to the natural world” (Women’s Review of Books), as “visionary as Emerson” (Nation) and “among the few American poets who can describe and transmit ecstasy, while retaining a practical awareness of the world as one of predators and prey” (Los Angeles Times Book Review). The New York Times has hailed Oliver as “far and away, this country’s best-selling poet.”

Her first collection of works (No Voyage and Other Poems) was published in 1963, and Oliver won a Pulitzer Prize for her fifth collection of poetry (American Primitive) in 1984.

As a poet, she has been compared to Emily Dickinson and Edna St. Vincent Millay, and has published nearly 30 books including last year’s Swans: Poems and Prose Poems .

Tickets to the April 9 event cost $15 each and are available by

Mary Oliver will make an appearance April 9 at Lynn University.

PHOTO BY RACHEL GIESE BROWN

phone at (561) 237-9000 (9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday) and online anytime at www.lynn. edu/tickets.

Lynn University is a private, coeducational institution located

in Boca Raton. For more information, visit www.lynn.edu.

For more information about the Palm Beach Poetry Festival, visit www.palmbeachpoetry festival.org.

Send school news items to: The Town-Crier via fax at (561) 793-6090 or e-mail news@goTownCrier.com.

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PALMS WEST PEOPLE

RPB’s Sandy Popp Wins Mulch At Plant Sale At the recent Wellington Garden Club plant sale, Sandy Popp of Royal Palm Beach took a chance and won two pallets of installed garden mulch.

The mulch was provided by Chris Schwartzwalder of Gardenscapes Inc. of the Palm Beaches.

Coincidentally, the garden club had awarded a $1,000 scholarship to Popp last year toward the continuation of her studies in horticulture and landscape design at Palm Beach State College.

“Two pallets of much (approximately 160 bags) goes a long way,” Popp said. “After mulching my home garden, there was so

much mulch remaining that I decided to donate the remainder to my church, Our Lady Queen of the Apostles.”

Popp had helped design and plant the original gardens at the new church. As the mulch arrived, she oversaw its installation around the church’s landscaping. “I am pleased to be able to add to the beauty and protection of these recently installed foundation plantings,” Popp said.

A gardener since childhood, Popp continues her formal education and recently opened her own landscape business, Tranquil Garden Design.

Locals Graduate Coast Guard Recruit Training Coast Guard seamen Bryan Pereira and Robbie Kubusheski recently graduated from the U.S. Coast Guard Recruit Training Center in Cape May, N.J. During the eight-week training program, they completed a vigorous training curriculum consisting of academics and practical instruction on water safety and survival, military customs and courtesies, seamanship skills, physical fitness, health and wellness, first aid, fire fighting and marksmanship.

Men and women train together from the first day in the Coast Guard just as they will work together aboard ships and shore units throughout the world. To reinforce the team concept, all re-

cruits are trained in preventing sexual harassment, drug and alcohol awareness, civil rights training, and the basics of the worklife balance.

Recruits also received instruction on the Coast Guard’s core values — honor, respect and devotion to duty — and how to apply them in their military performance and personal conduct.

They will join 36,000 other men and women who comprise the Coast Guard’s workforce.

Pereira is the son of Sonia and Fausto Pereira of West Palm Beach. Kubusheski is the son of Tracie Anderer of West Palm Beach and Robert Kubusheski of Loxahatchee.

March 25 - March 31, 2011

Page 19

LOCAL GIRLS WIN AWARDS AT STATE CAR CONFERENCE

Chris Schwartzwalder of Gardenscapes with Sandy Popp.

Susan Fradkin Wins Poster Contests Wellington resident Susan Fradkin won first and second place in Florida, and first place in the Southeast Region for her original poster in the Constitution Poster Contest sponsored by the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Fradkin is a member of the Spirit of Liberty Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution where she holds the office of historian. Fradkin has volunteered many hours at local schools and with her daughter Talia’s Children of the American Revolution Society, Chief Tiger Tail, where she serves as senior society president.

Talia is also actively involved in

Talia and Susan Fradkin. art and recently was featured in Wellington’s Art in Public Places Program.

Members of the Chief Tiger Tail Society Children of the American Revolution attended the Florida State Conference March 11 and 12 in Tampa. Twenty-five groups were represented. The event was hosted by National President Benjamin Hinckley and State President Christine Herreid. The Chief Tiger Tail Society received four first-place awards, nine second-place awards, six third-place awards, one honorable mention, a blue ribbon for state merit award and a gold ribbon for the state standard of excellence award. Wellington resident and Chief Tiger Tail President Talia Fradkin addressed the group and acted as a page, along with Ariana Mouring. Kaitlyn Mouring was elected as the next state president. Shown above are (front row, L-R) Samantha Mouring, Ariana Mouring and Talia Fradkin; (back row) National President Ben Hinckley, Kaitlyn Mouring and State President Christine Herreid.

Page 20

March 25 - March 31, 2011

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PALMS WEST PEOPLE

Annual Fete Cheval At PBIEC Benefits The EQUUS Foundation This year’s Fete Cheval was a huge hit, featuring fantastic riders performing games on rescue horses. Held Friday, March 11 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center and presented by Foundation Farm, the event benefited the EQUUS Foundation, which helps equestrian and horserelated charities across the United States.

There was a beautiful dinner for guests, catered by White Horse Tavern Catering on the grounds of the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in the special events tent.

The evening’s events got underway at 6 p.m. with cocktails and a silent auction, which were followed by a dinner buffet. The main event, the Gymkana Games, got underway at 8 p.m., with horses provided by Pure Thoughts Horse Rescue and a group of world-class riders.

This year’s riders included Max Amaya, Derek Braun, Nick Dello Joio, Sandy Ferrell, Patricia Griffith, Charlie Jayne, Darragh Kenny, Kate Oliver, Kim Prince, Havens Schatt, Louise Serio, Shane Sweetnam, Jimmy Torano and McLain Ward. As part of the silent auction, guests could bid to become a guest rider, which went to junior rider Alex Crown. The judges for the night were Ralph Caristo and Leo Conroy, along with special guest judge Kim Jacobs, with master of ceremonies David Distler.

The riders and horses were great sports as the first event, musical

stalls, began the night’s games.

After a few rounds of circling horses, the last stall came down to Havens Schatt and Derek Braun, and it was Braun who took home the blue ribbon for the first event.

The second event was a sit a buck where riders had to canter, sit the trot, post the trot and jump a small fence, all while keeping a dollar bill tied to a feather under one of the their legs. When Kate Oliver and Alex Crown were unable to make their horses trot the fence during the final competition, the winning prize went to Ireland’s Darragh Kenny.

Next in the lineup was a team competition that tested the rider’s strengths to compete on a relay team against the clock. The winning three-member team was Havens Schatt, Derek Braun and Kim Prince. The audience then selected a fifth rider, Kate Oliver, to compete in the final ride-off along with the other riders who had each won an event throughout the evening.

For the final hack-off, riders had to trot and canter their mounts, then swap horses with another rider and complete the same skills.

At the end of the night, the judges determined that Kenny had the top performance and was presented with the championship prize by co-chairs Elizabeth Press, Clea Newman Soderlund and Visse Wedell, and EQUUS Foundation Chair Jenny Belknap Kees.

“It was a lot of fun, and it’s for an awesome cause,” Kenny said

after his victory. “It’s a wonderful event and a great idea. All the riders had fun, and I think the audience really enjoyed it as well.”

Event organizers agreed. “It was really fun to see the professionals out here having a good time,” Press said.

The event was made possible by its sponsors, including Title Sponsor Foundation Farm; Official Vehicle Sponsor Buick and GMC; Gold Medal sponsors Artisan Farms and the Ziegler family, Flavia Callari, Equestrian Sport Productions, Stephanie and John Ingram, Elizabeth and Clifford Press, Juliet and Sam Reid, and Clea and Kurt Soderlund; Silver Medal sponsors Beth Congel and Doug Ulrich and Sheila and Eric Goetzmann, Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Dammerman, Equifit Inc., and Jenny Belknap Kees and Timmy Kees; and Bronze Medal sponsors Patricia Adikes-Hill and Rosalind Schaefer, Bobbie and Derek Braun and Split Rock Farm, Jane Forbes Clark, Gregory W. Gingery, the Gochman family, Hi Hopes Farm and the Oken family, Louisburg Farm, the Maounis family, Elizabeth Monaco and Neil M. McCarthy, Katie and Jim Robinson, Beth and Michael Strauss, and the Toffolon, Keenan and Caccamise families.

More than $200,000 in donations raised at the Fete Cheval and the Equestrian Idol event held on Feb. 4 in Wellington will be used to fund programs that secure homes and useful lives for horses, improve the lives of

people who benefit from horses therapeutically, and advance the equestrian sport, thanks in part to the many auction and gift sponsors.

The mission of the EQUUS Foundation is to raise public awareness of the value of the horse in society through education and the award of grants to charitable organizations that promote the positive use of the horse for the benefit of the general public, improve the quality of life of horses, contribute to the welfare of the participants in the equestrian sport, and elevate the equestrian sport and profession as a whole.

For additional information on the EQUUS Foundation Inc., visit the foundation’s web site at www.equusfoundation.org, call (203) 259-1550 or e-mail equus @equusfoundation.org.

Gwen and Derek Braun.

Duncan Miller Earns His Eagle Scout Rank Duncan Miller attained the rank of Eagle Scout on Monday, Jan. 31. He has been with Troop 105 since 2004. He joined Cub Scouts in the first grade with Pack 133, then crossing over to Troop 101 in the fifth grade, joining Troop 105 the next year. He has earned 38 merit badges.

Miller entered into the Order of the Arrow in 2007. He has attended numerous camp-outs with the scouts over the years at Tanah Keeta, Daniel Boone, Camp Thunder and Raven’s Knob.

Miller’s Eagle Scout project was to paint a house in West Palm Beach under the program Rebuilding Together Palm Beach County. The nonprofit organization is

set up to help the elderly, disabled, single mothers, etc. who need help to paint their homes. The company supplied the paint and supplies, while Miller organized and provided the manpower to get the project accomplished.

Miller is currently in the top two percent of students in the 12th grade at Seminole Ridge High School. He is taking AP courses, and is a member of the National Honor Society, the Spanish Honor Society and Science Honor Society. He is also on the varsity basketball team at Seminole Ridge. After graduating, Miller is looking to furthering his education at one of the top engineering schools in the country.

Darragh Kenny on Leia with Visse Wedell, Clea Newman Soderlund, Jenny Belknap Kees and Elizabeth Press.

Georgina Bloomberg and John Talley.

PHOTOS COURTESY PHELPS MEDIA GROUP

Nathan Horn Graduates Marine Aviation Course Marine Corps PFC Nathan T. Horn, son of Traci Houghton Yewell and stepson of Brian Yewell of Lake Worth, recently graduated from the Marine Aviation Operations Specialist Course.

During the course with Marine Aviation Training Support Squadron One, Marine Aviation Support Training Support Group 21, Me-

Eagle Scout Duncan Miller

ridian, Miss., Horn and other students were taught military correspondence, airfield operations, tactical squadron flight records and reports preparation, and Marine aviation wing and group headquarters command tasks.

Horn is a 2010 graduate of Palm Beach Central High School in Wellington.

Send Palms West People items to: The Town-Crier Newspaper, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414.

Fax: (561) 793-6090. E-mail: news@goTownCrier.com.

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March 25 - March 31, 2011

Page 21

PALMS WEST PEOPLE

Rendina Family Foundation Hosts Annual Golf Tourney At The Breakers The Rendina Family Foundation hosted the fifth annual “Raising the B.A.R.” Bruce A. Rendina Memorial Golf Tournament on Friday, March 4 and Saturday, March 5 at the Breakers.

Friday evening’s Welcome Reception, sponsored by Saydina LLC, kicked off the event. From 7 to 9 p.m. guests enjoyed cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, live entertainment, a raffle and live auction.

During the reception, Dr. Derek Duckett of Scripps Florida spoke about the research that has taken place due to the Rendina foundation’s donation, and Edward Jonas revealed a sculpture he created of the late Bruce A. Rendina.

Golfers teed off on the Breakers’ Ocean Course on Saturday morning at 8 a.m., with an awards luncheon immediately following. The first-place team included Frank Coniglio, Nick Coniglio, Chris Cook and Carl Wilander.

The event raised more than $140,000. The “Raising the B.A.R.” sponsor was Saydina.

The Birdie Sponsor was KeyBank Real Estate Capital. Par sponsors included Anderson Moore Construction; Comiter, Singer, Baseman & Braun LLP; Fred Klipsch; G4S Secure Solutions; Lloyds Commodities; Mills Gilbane; and Safier Enterprises LLC. Proceeds from the fifth annual Rendina Family Foundation golf tournament will help the foundation support its mission. The Rendina Family Foundation strives to enhance the quality of life for families and individuals who have

Trish, Richard, Marji and Michael Rendina, Lainie Cavalaris, David Rendina and Amanda Clark. been affected by cancer. The foundation endeavors to accomplish this through the funding of organizations, hospitals and biotechnology companies that excel in researching and developing cures for cancer. In addition, the foundation supports efforts to increase the general welfare of the communities in which it is actively involved. Since its inception, the Rendina Family Foundation has donated more than $5 million to organizations nationwide.

For more about the Rendina Family Foundation, visit www. rendinafamilyfoundation.com or call (561) 628-3058.

Michael Rendina with Joseph and Joey Sayegh.

Pat DiSalvo, Dennis Witkowski and John Merrell.

Beth Beattie, Lainie Cavalaris, Kristin Barry, Trish Rendina, Danielle Norcross and Veronica Merrell.

Page 22

March 25 - March 31, 2011

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NEWS

Allen West The Guest Speaker As Forum Club Honors Clay Shaw

By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report The speaker at the Forum Club of the Palm Beaches luncheon March 18 was Congressman Allen West (R-District 22).

West rode last year’s Republican electoral wave into office, unseating two-term Congressman Ron Klein. Also appearing at last Friday’s luncheon was the man Klein had unseated four years earlier.

Former Republican Congressman E. Clay Shaw, who represented District 22 in Washington, D.C. from 1981 until 2007, was honored with the Forum Club’s Exemplary Elected Officials Award.

In recognizing Shaw, Forum Club President Wendy Sartory Link noted that Shaw had worked across party lines to get legislation passed for his district.

“For a quarter of a century, Congressman Shaw served portions of Palm Beach and Broward,” Sartory Link said. “He’s a Republican, but some of his highest praises come from Democrats. He began his career in the 1970s holding a number of municipal roles, and in 1981 he launched a 26-year career as a member of the United States House of Representatives.

While clearly a successful and influential legislator, he is known for a statesman-like approach.”

Shaw thanked members of the Forum Club for the award and noted that coming to the meeting was a homecoming for him. He recognized former Congressman Harry Johnston, a Democrat, and

Drainage

Utility Fund?

continued from page 1 better because we maintain it and we spend capital money on it,” Liggins said.

In 1998, Royal Palm Beach hired consultant Camp Dresser McKee (CDM) to do a stormwater drainage study. “We did create a stormwater utility at that time,” Liggins said. “We chose to pay for maintenance through the ad valorem tax base, and we chose to pay for any capital improvements as a result of that study with a bond issue.”

At that time, the drainage component was set up as a stormwater division within the village’s

Okeechobee

Meeting Saturday

continued from page 1 puts in the median and the turn lanes we’re asking for. We’re hoping for a roundabout or possibly a red light, but we’ll see whether it happens down the road.”

If there is general agreement to allow more commercial on Okeechobee Blvd., larger tracts that develop commercially would need to have limited access to Okeechobee using access roads.

“We’ve got to have a reliever road on the south side and the north side of Okeechobee, because we can’t have any more access to the road,” Jarriel said. “If we do anything, we can reduce it, but we cannot allow more roads coming out on Okeechobee.”

Councilman Jim Rockett said

Blotter continued from page 6 the front seat. The deputy then received a call from a coffee shop on Forest Hill Blvd. that a black male was seen dumping purses into the garbage. The deputy recovered the victim’s purse, but the suspect(s) stole four credit cards, $47 cash and her driver’s license.

Two other witnesses at Scott’s Place said they had seen a young black male, between 16 and 20 years old, get out of a silver fourdoor vehicle and commit the burglary. The witnesses at the coffee shop said the vehicle was a silver Oldsmobile.

MARCH 20 — An employee of the Super Target store on Okeechobee Blvd. called the

WEF Week 11

Hunter Results

continued from page 17 year-old David Arcand of Montreal were the top qualifiers. Although she finished first last week, Pasmore was ninth in the overall standings.

The Second Year Green Working Hunters hosted nine entries last week, but Havens Schatt came out the victor with her mount Humor Me. Schatt and Humor Me won four out of five classes to take the division’s championship in the E.R. Mische Grand Hunter Ring.

The winning pair was third in one over fences class, and took the blue ribbon in the under saddle, and also in the remaining over fences classes.

A close second to Humor Me’s

said he thought he should be sharing the recognition with him.

Shaw noted that he has been asked whether he misses holding public office.

“I said I did,” Shaw said. “I’m Irish. I love a good fight. I know I am sharing this with another former member of Congress, Harry Johnston, one of my friends who comes from a gentler time in politics when people did get along across the aisle. I feel that the district is in good hands with my good friend Congressman Allen West. He is a rising star in Congress.”

Sartory Link introduced West as “the man who rode the Tea Party Express” into office.

“He’s a retired U.S. Army lieutenant colonel, and he served as a field artillery officer in Operation Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom, as well as serving in Afghanistan, where he trained Afghan officers to take responsibility of their country. He serves on the Armed Services and Small Business committees in Congress,” she said.

West thanked members of the Forum Club for inviting him to speak. He began his remarks by noting how in the past three years, deficit spending has seen a sharp increase.

“These are record-setting increases,” he said. “Forty-two cents of every dollar is borrowed. This is a very serious situation. If we go back and study what caused the collapse of the Soviet Union, we see that it was not a military vic-

tory. We defeated the Soviet Union economically. Then think about the fact that China is the largest holder of our debt.”

West said Washington has a spending problem. The revenues coming in for fiscal year 2012 are around $2.3 trillion, but the 2012 budget sent to Congress recommends $3.8 trillion in spending.

“We have to turn this thing around,” West said. “If we don’t turn this thing around, the economic situation in the United States is a fiscal Armageddon. We will be the first generation that will not leave something better for our future generations, to our children and to our grandchildren.”

West noted that he voted against the most recent continuing budget resolution.

“Six billion dollars of savings over a three-week period is peanuts. We are spending four to five billion dollars a day in the United States,” he said. “What built this country and this economy does not emanate out of Washington, D.C. Ingenuity, innovation and investment are the lexicons of the private sector.”

Another part of the 21st-century battlefield, West explained, is related to resources and raw materials, including oil. Everyone is being affected by the rise of gasoline prices, he said, adding that prices will keep rising.

As for the recent disaster in Japan, West said, leaders in this country must make sure that our nuclear systems are operating safely. He called for an “arsenal

of energies,” which would include solar power, national gas and biofuels, especially in the Glades.

“Energy independence is a part of our natural security,” West said.

“It’s part of turning our state around and getting Americans back to work.”

West answered questions from several Palm Beach Atlantic University students. One was about the impact of the Tea Party movement on American politics. West praised the Tea Party as a grassroots movement in which party affiliation does not matter.

“I think it will have an impact on the entire political spectrum of the United States of America,” West said. “It’s not just the Republican movement. The American people need to be engaged in the political process. I think the Tea Party movement is a great thing.”

Regarding a question about job creation, West said that what needs to happen is that the corporate business tax rate should be halved.

West noted the recent announcement in Riviera Beach where a large mega-yacht repair firm is going to bring hundreds of jobs to the community.

“This will have a direct economic impact of $600 to $700 million,” he said. “Those are the types of things we need to continue doing.”

For more information about the Forum Club, call (561) 304-0570, e-mail forumclubofpb@aol.com or visit www.theforumclub.net.

water and wastewater utility.

When the village sold the water/wastewater utility to the county in 2006, it retired the stormwater capital improvements bond with proceeds from the sale and did away with the stormwater utility account because it was a division of the broader utility.

The village currently spends about $650,000 a year maintaining its stormwater drainage system, and Liggins wants to give council members other options on how to pay for that maintenance.

“Right now, we’re paying for it out of the ad valorem tax base,” he said. “I want to give the council the option to pay for it through a stormwater utility in lieu of using that ad valorem tax

base to pay for maintenance.”

The way stormwater management is addressed can have a significant financial impact in the future, especially since there are new requirements coming from the Environmental Protection Agency, along with promised legal wrangling on exactly how those requirements are implemented.

“Being able to respond when you’re using the ad valorem tax base is a lot more difficult than when you just set up a utility and use the utility to do it,” he said.

Liggins suggested a stormwater utility division led by the Public Works Department. “This way, anyone who pays a utility bill, not just property owners, would be

assessed part of the cost of maintaining the system,” he said. “It would be a fee in lieu of paying for it through your taxes.”

The other advantage is that residents of Royal Palm Beach who receive drainage services not from the village but from another entity would not be charged through property taxes.

“We have neighborhoods like Madison Green that pay the Indian Trail Improvement District and receive benefit from Indian Trail, and my Public Works Department does no work in the area where Indian Trail provides that service,” Liggins said. “Bella Terra and the Wal-Mart area are in the Lake Worth Drainage District. The people in Bella Terra pay $38 a month

to the Lake Worth Drainage District, which takes responsibility for their outfall, takes responsibility for the permits required for Bella Terra and maintains the ditches that outfall Bella Terra. We do not do anything, but they are paying for drainage maintenance in their taxes.”

Liggins said the decision to create a stormwater utility was the result of researching a recent issue involving residents of the Cypress Head community paying ITID for stormwater maintenance services received from the village.

“My goal is to not levy someone who is already paying someone else and already receiving the benefit from somebody else,” he

said, explaining that he felt it important to look into the issue.

Liggins said that although he has done a great deal of research with Village Engineer Chris Marsh on the topic, input from an expert is crucial.

“We’ll pick a firm, and we’ll figure out the work that needs to be accomplished,” he said. “If the council chooses to continue down this path, we’ll make a budget adjustment and then award the contract.”

Once the contract is executed and the work performed, Liggins said that next year’s budget will include the option of using a separate stormwater utility to finance maintenance and future capital improvements.

he plans to attend the meeting with an open mind.

“This is our first opportunity to really talk about this specific subject in a workshop,” Rockett said.

“I’m there to listen and hear what’s said so that we can take the next step, whether we have another workshop or start to formalize some things as a result of it. I’m going there with ears wide open without any predetermined notions.”

Councilman Ryan Liang also plans to be in listening mode. “I’m going there wanting to hear what the property owners on Okeechobee would like to see along the road,” he said.

The town’s comprehensive plan calls for commercial development to take place along Southern Blvd., not Okeechobee Blvd.

That plan is being challenged by Callery-Judge Grove and the Sem-

inole Improvement District on roadway issues, including Okeechobee Blvd. Overall growth and increased trips on the roads in the future are of concern to CalleryJudge because it will affect its plans to develop, according to Callery-Judge Grove General Manager Nat Roberts.

Roberts said he would not be attending the workshop in order to allow Groves residents to come up with their own suggestions and solutions.

“Callery-Judge and the Seminole Improvement District both recognize that the town desires to grow, and it’s proposing to add 1,008 new units over time,” Roberts told the Town-Crier. “We think that’s great. Our question to the town is how they plan to mitigate the impacts of that new development on the roadways…

We’re really looking for the town to propose solutions that make the

most sense for people within the town.”

Roberts said he felt that it is not for Callery-Judge to dictate one solution or another but to look at what the town chooses and see if both parties can agree on ways to

address the impacts.

“We look forward to having the residents work with the [council members] to come up with perhaps better alternatives” than what the consultants, town staff and developers produced over 18

months of working on it, Roberts said. “If good ideas come out of that, that will be terrific.”

The workshop will be this Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon. Palms West Presbyterian Church is located at 13689 Okeechobee Blvd.

to plan and implement a parent literacy program. Other areas of involvement include the CHAMPS/ Positive Behavior Support Team, the Professional Development Team and the District Report Card Committee.

After school, Rulison offers a dance club for students. She choreographs the dances and provides costumes for the students.

This is not the first time Rulison has been recognized for her hard work and dedication at school. She had been previously declared a “model teacher”

with a “model classroom.”

“I love to be involved with the students and with the school,” Rulison said. “I hope to teach my students the love of learning and to be lifelong learners.”

Rulison’s selection as the Palm Beach County 2011 Teacher of the Year makes her the district’s nominee for the Florida Department of Education/Macy’s Teacher of the Year. She will now advance in the selection process. The winner of the award will be announced at the Macy’s Gala Awards Ceremony in July.

PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach to report a theft. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 9:46 p.m. an unknown black male entered the store and approached the guest services counter. He returned an Apple iPad and received $499.99. According to the report, the suspect then distracted the clerk and left the store with the iPad and the cash in a white sedan. Surveillance footage of the incident was taken as evidence.

MARCH 21 — A resident of Citrus Grove Blvd. called the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation Monday to report a case of fraud. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 8 a.m., someone used the vic-

tim’s debit card to make purchases at several stores in Owings Mills, Md. The perpetrator(s) attempted to make two purchases at Toys R’ Us for $63.59 and $223.99, and a third charge at Macy’s for $257.70. According to the report, the charges were denied and nothing was charged to the victim’s debit card. The victim did not know how his card information was obtained, but he had the card in his possession at the time the charge was made. According to the report, the victim said that the only time the card had been out of his possession was at a restaurant when a waitress took the card to run the check. There were no suspects at the time of the report.

tricolor win was the reserve champion winner. Casallo, a sevenyear-old Oldenburg gelding, was ridden to the reserve championship by owner Robert Crandall.

Crandall owns Casallo in partnership with John Jedakis. The pair secured their prize by being awarded two seconds, a third, and a fourth over fences, and a fourth under saddle.

There was not a cloud in the sky last Friday as the 3’3” Adult Amateur Hunters took center stage in the Rost Arena. Chiara Parlagreco and Paris North took the championship among a starting field of 16 horse and rider combinations.

Only four points behind Paris North and Parlagreco were Samurai and Alexa Weisman.

The fourth annual George Morris Excellence in Equitation Championships, presented by Artisan Farms, were held last

Friday evening in the International Arena. A feature event for WEF’s junior riders, the class saw an exciting win for 16-yearold Elizabeth Benson of Whitehouse Station, N.J., trained by Stacia Madden of Beacon Hill Show Stables.

After two rounds of competition, the top four returned for the final round and switched horses.

Chase Boggio of Canton, Ga. rode his horse Massimo to scores of 83.50 and 93 for a total of 186 returning for round three, and then jumped the final course aboard Allison Fithian’s Lucky D’Etenclin. Fithian of California scored an 86 and a 92.5 for a total of 178.5 aboard Lucky D’Etenclin, and then returned for round three aboard Boggio’s Massimo.

Molly Braswell of Ocala and Lizzie Taylor’s El Campeon’s Danish scored a 95.5 and an 88.5

Rulison

Teacher Of The Year

continued from page 1 eracy in Action Center and has given lessons for more than 150 west-area elementary school teachers and administrators to teach children how to read and write. She also serves as a mentor to student teachers and new teachers. Additionally, she is treasurer of the school’s Parent Teacher Organization, where she has helped

(Above) Former Congressman E. Clay Shaw with current Congressman Allen West. (Below) Shaw is recognized

by Forum Club President Wendy Sar tory Link.

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

(Left) Superintendent Bill Malone surprised Kristen Rulison, a teacher at Elbridge Gale Elementary School, with balloons on Tuesday for the big announcement. (Above) Rulison with some of her students. for a 184 going into round three.

Braswell then jumped Elizabeth Benson’s San Remo VDL over the final course. Benson rode her horse San Remo VDL to scores of 90.5 and 96 in the first two rounds of competition for a two round total of 186.5, and then returned for the third round aboard Braswell’s mount El Campeon’s Danish to complete the class.

After a final deliberation from the judges, Benson was deemed the class winner, her horse San Remo VDL also earning an award as Best Equitation Horse. Chase Boggio finished in second, Molly Braswell in third and Allison Fithian in fourth. Fithian’s horse Lucky D’Etenclin was awarded Best Turned Out Horse of the night.

With a whopping 42 entries in the THIS National Children’s Medal 14 and Under, Ring 8 was

packed full of competitive young riders.

However, Katherine Strauss and her mount Debonaire, owned

by Gustavo Mirabal, managed to win the blue ribbon and take home the top honor. While there were so many entries in the class, the top four riders all gave their best, making the final pinning a close one. Liana Cohen came in second with her mount Allura, owned by Robert Russel. In third place was Cyara New riding her own horse, Julianna. The fourth-place rider was Ashton Clancy on the Deeridge Farm entry Jouet.

The Coldwell Banker Children’s Hunters 15-17 were among the many divisions that awarded a championship to close the competition for the week. Victoria Leiweke was the champion in the older section of Children’s Hunters presented by Coldwell Bank-

er. Leiweke was aboard her own horse, Van Gogh, a nine-year-old Royal Dutch Warmblood. While the competition was close, Leiweke and Van Gogh secured the championship with one win, a second, two thirds and a fourth in the division’s five classes.

The reserve champion was awarded to Emily Dupont aboard her own mount, Coeur De Lis, a seven-year-old Bavarian Warmblood. The duo secured the reserve championship by winning an over fences class and the under saddle. They also received a fourth-place ribbon in one of the division’s remaining over fences classes.

The 2011 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival features 12 weeks of competition running through April 3. Visit www.equestriansport.com or call (561) 793-5867 for more information and complete results.

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NEWS

TEMPLE BETH TORAH IN WELLINGTON HOSTS ITS ‘PURIM SPIEL’ HOLIDAY PARTY Temple Beth Torah’s annual Purim Spiel, the retelling of Esther’s rescue of the Jewish people of Shushan, the capital of ancient Persia, took place Sunday, March 20 at the temple in Wellington. The cast included Rabbi Stephen Pinsky, Cantor Carrie Barry and various adults and youngsters.

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

Rabbi Stephen Pinsky and Cantor Carrie Barry lead the spiel.

Alan Herzlin, as the evil Haman, leads the temple’s congregation in a song.

Temple members join in the singing.

Rabbi Stephen Pinsky invites the audience to join in.

The event was colorful in both sight and sound.

Congregants use noise makers to drown out the reciting of Haman’s name.

SOUTH FLORIDA 912 GROUP HOLDS ANNIVERSARY PICNIC AT JOHN PRINCE PARK South Florida 912 held its second anniversary picnic and meeting Sunday, March 20 at John Prince Park in Lake Worth. The keynote speaker was U.S. Congressman Allen West (R-District 22). Other speakers included former Florida House Majority Leader Adam Hasner, ClashRadio.com raconteur Doug Giles and others. For more info., visit www.southflorida912.org.

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

South Florida 912 members and guests listen to one of the many speakers at the event.

Former Florida House Majority Leader Adam Hasner, talk show host Joyce Kaufman and U.S. Rep. Allen West (R-22).

Adam Hasner addresses South Florida 912 members.

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© Anne Gittens Photography

SATURDAY MARCH 26, 6:00 PM © Anne Gittens Photography

Page 26

Featuring the world’s top riders, a demonstration from the famed Black Daggers Parachute Team, a special visit from the exotic animals at the Palm Beach Zoo, huge family carnival, a live band, street performers, casual and fine dining, shopping & more!

FREE General Admission

Reserved VIP seating available

For tickets, information, and a complete schedule:

WWW.EQUESTRIANSPORT.COM 561.793.5867 Palm Beach International Equestrian Center 3401 Equestrian Club Road, Wellington, Florida

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Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy With Lisa Baugh

Columnist Ellen Rosenberg recently attended an equine-assisted psychotherapy session with therapist Lisa Baugh. The half-day meeting was actually a training/orientation session for healthcare prof essionals interested in learning more about the technique. Ellen Rosenberg’s Column, Page 29

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Top Pros Join In As Gay Polo Returns To Wellington

Polo professionals Lolo Castagnola, Nachi Heguy, Juan Bollini and Joey Casey will be acting as captains for the four Gay Polo League teams competing in the second International Gay Polo Tournament, scheduled to take place Saturday, April 2 at the Grand Champions Polo Club in Wellington. Page 43

Shopping Spree A TOWN-CRIER PUBLICATION

INSIDE

Features A Busy Month Is Planned At The Kravis Center For The Performing Arts In WPB

The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts has a full slate of entertainment taking place now through the end of April. Events planned include: March 25-26, Peppino D’Agostino; March 29, African-American Film Festival and Kathy Griffin; April 14, Smokey Robinson; April 17, The Beach Boys; April 20-24, Cirque Dreams Illumination; and more. Page 32

Sports SRHS Boys Volleyball Team Sets High Goals For The New Season

The Seminole Ridge High School boys v arsity volleyball team is hoping this season will see them advance even further in the state competition than ever before. Coming off of last season, where the Hawks (4-0) advanced to the state semifinals, head coach Austin Clubb said he has high hopes. Page 43

THIS WEEK’S INDEX COLUMNS & FEATURES ...................... 29-30 DINING & ENTERTAINMENT ..................... 32 BUSINESS NEWS .................................37-39 SPORTS & RECREATION ..................... 43-45 COMMUNITY CALENDAR .................... 48-49 CLASSIFIEDS ....................................... 52-59

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FEATURES

Learning Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy From Lisa Baugh On Monday, March 7, I was privileged to attend an equine-assisted psychotherapy session with Lisa Baugh. Not that I needed help, mind you. This half-day meeting was actually a training/orientation session for healthcare professionals who were interested in learning more about this technique and possibly incorporating it into their programs. I was just along for the ride, so to speak.

Baugh is a licensed marriage and family therapist certified by the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association. Though she works with all sorts of people, she has a special empathy for horse people because of her equestrian background. She has ridden since age 6 but was also always an analytical thinker.

“The field of psychotherapy is daunting.

It’s hard to decide where to go,” she said.

“Equine psychotherapy is a nice niche, a perfect fit.”

Baugh explains that equine-assisted psychotherapy, or EAP, is very different from hippotherapy.

“Hippotherapy and therapeutic riding are basically physical therapy using horses,” she said. “The horse’s movements mimic those of a person walking, and so help a variety of physical issues. It has mental benefits as well, of course. But EAP focuses on the prevention and resolution of psychological, emotional and behavioral issues. It incorporates horses in the counseling process. Clients participate in unmounted activities designed to help them learn about themselves, to uncover negative

Tales From The Trails

By Ellen Rosenberg thought and behavior patterns, and to help define healthy relationships.”

Baugh has been offering EAP for eight years. Almost 90 percent of her clients are adults. Sessions are given at various facilities in the area. Ours was at a private barn in Little Ranches, on the outskirts of Wellington.

Linda McLendon, executive director of Full Circle Therapeutic Riding, was co-facilitator.

The other four participants were Randi, a clinical social worker; Zena, a school guidance counselor; Bonnie, a geriatric social worker; and Cindy, a marriage therapist. Their horse backgrounds ranged from none to extensive.

Everyone was very positive and really looking forward to the three-hour class.

The first hour and a half was spent on background information: what EAP is and how it works. Baugh explained that working with horses can be healing on many levels. Even just touching or watching horses, as opposed to riding them, can lead to breakthroughs and insights along a broad continuum of levels.

All of her work is done through unmounted activities.

Therapist Lisa Baugh with Linda McLendon of Full Circle Therapeutic Riding.

“Horses are very empowering,” she said.

“Yet they can also be disempowering. It’s not all warm and fuzzy. Horses are big. They don’t have to do what you want them to do. When a horse isn’t being compliant, you have to try to understand its motivation. Why aren’t you getting the results you want?”

That is all part of the therapy, of course.

“This sort of thing carries over very well into personal and family dynamics,” Baugh explained. “If a horse is nippy, how are you gonna stop that? If you’re being bullied by someone or bothered by an obnoxious coSee ROSENBERG, page 30

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FEATURES

Looking Back On My (Very) Brief Career As A Dressage Judge Last week, I was asked to be a celebrity judge for “Dressage Under the Stars” at the Players Club in Wellington. It happened by default because all the real celebrity judges had previous engagements. I protested, saying that everything I knew about dressage could fit into a feed bucket, but they replied that that was exactly what they were looking for — an untrained eye who would judge the four displays of “equine ballet” solely on artistic merit. Plus, there would be free food.

Free food? OK, I’m in.

I’ve lived in Wellington long enough to know that things like dressage, jumping, polo and horses in general are taken very, very seriously around here — whether you’re a humor columnist or not. People sink thousands upon thousands of dollars into these animals, often for very little payback. To them, a horse is much more than an investment. So I needed to put my best foot forward, just like the horses were going to do.

Deciding what to wear was easy. I’d wear

Deborah Welky is

The Sonic BOOMER my riding habit. Oh, it’s not a real riding habit. It’s a coat and slacks that have a similar cut. My husband Mark got them for me when we were first married and he was still delusional enough to think that if he fixed me up, I’d fit in better. Ha. Ha. Ha. Instead, we’re both slogging around in blue jeans and sweatshirts now.

But I always look sharp when I wear this outfit, and I always feel good that I can still zip myself into it. And I needed to feel good because my confidence level was low.

When I got to the Players Club, I felt better.

Just seeing all those little key lime pies and tiramisus lined up on their white paper doilies did it. I had just loaded up my plate and was sitting down to enjoy them when Steve came over.

Steve was the event’s host. He used to live in California and was part of the Hollywood scene, but now he’s here, injecting movie-star style into our horsey lives. I hoped he hadn’t seen me at Publix in my sweatshirt.

“Time to go,” he said, and I reluctantly left my untasted desserts to Mark, who not only looked quite natty and confident, but was having a great time.

I was led to the judges’ table, where I met the other two judges — people I had read about in equestrian publications and who had horse sense oozing from every pore. They were very nice to me, probably having been fooled by my outfit into thinking I knew what I was doing. That was about to change.

Some brief comments from Steve, and now the first horse came out. How these riders get

these gigantic animals to prance around in mincing little steps, trot on the diagonal and pause in mid-step with their hooves in the air is beyond me. I was duly impressed. How they get them to keep time to the music, make graceful loops around the ring and not dash off into the field is another mystery. I was gawking like a schoolgirl. Not only were these horses tremendously talented, but their ponytails were in better condition than mine!

By the end of the evening, I had learned a lot. I had learned that “Lusitano” has nothing to do with a sinking ship, that “Snaffle” is not a bottled fruit drink and that a “half-pass” has nothing to do with a guy coming over to you in a bar and then veering off when he sees your face.

I even learned a certified equestrian riddle: Q: How do you make a small fortune with dressage horses?

A: Start with a large fortune.

Ask that riddle anywhere in Wellington, and you’ll fit right in.

The Smell Of The Greasepaint... The Roar Of The Crowd...

This weekend, I will be playing “Big Jule” in a production of Guys and Dolls at my home in Baywinds. More critics should provide the chance for others to criticize them. But those who know me well recognize the ham just beneath the mild-mannered exterior. And right next to me is a large group of other performers.

The Theater Arts Group at the community has been around for years and has achieved a level of popularity based on the excellence of performances. Don’t bother to try for tickets.

It was sold out for its two shows shortly after the tickets went on sale (there was actually a long line early on a Monday morning to get the tickets). No, it probably did not sell out as fast as Kenny Chesney’s concert a few blocks away, but then again, he has a large advertising budget to push tickets. We just have people who remember past great performances.

Taking part in community theater is one of life’s great pleasures. I already had friends and acquaintances from my performance last year in an original musical comedy, Cinderella Adjusted, but I got to meet a whole group of people who are now important to me. People in the community have gotten used to some

Rosenberg

Therapist Lisa Baugh

continued from page 29 worker, how are you gonna stop that?”

“Horses and their behavior really lend themselves to metaphors about many aspects of our lives,” she continued. “Horses are disarming. They’re a great psychotherapeutic tool. Watching herd behavior translates to a lot of human social interactions.”

Then, it was time for a pretend session. We were given a brief safety lecture — horses can kick, bite, stomp on your foot — and we were told that each person was in charge of her own safety.

“You can meet and greet the horses however you like,” Lisa told us. “You can touch

of us greeting each other in song as we meet, walking dogs or just walking ourselves. My buddy Sheldon is greeted in song, “Why it’s good old reliable Nathan, Nathan, Nathan, Nathan Detroit” as he walks his dog. He probably enjoyed it the first time. But we all persevere. Why else would we spend hours night after night and occasionally afternoon after afternoon?

Guys and Dolls is, of course, one of the greatest American musicals. Most people know it from the reasonably decent 1955 movie made from it (with Marlon Brando and Frank Sinatra starring, but it kept Vivian Blaine, Stubby Kaye and others from the show). There have been thousands of productions on just about every level. The show is a difficult one.

Composer Frank Loesser managed to incorporate fugues, hymns (including one to the “Oldest Established Permanent Floating Crap Game in New York”), prayers to Lady Luck and old-fashioned gospel, along with more traditional musical comedy songs. And our group does the whole show, nothing left out, no matter how difficult.

Watching a group of men, mostly retired, trying to somehow look as coordinated as the Temptations while singing backup on “Luck Be a Lady Tonight” is something to behold.

The backup has some very tricky musical bits, and trying to coordinate both music and movement would try the patience of a saint. Our director, Maureen Wise, somehow manages to keep her cool and temper. Once, when she asked me if I had any important questions, I asked her to explain the meaning of life. Instead of killing me, she just grinned and warned, “Mama is getting angry.”

She also does a brilliant Miss Adelaide, leading her “debutantes” in a couple of the catchiest songs around while sniffling and sneezing through her psychological problems brought on by her 14-year engagement. And we have the lovers, all starry-eyed and in good

voice. And a crop of gamblers, gangsters, cops, showgirls and missionary folk, all of whom break into some of the classic songs of the show.

The group, just about all volunteers, manages a really professional production each year. Maureen’s hubby Murray, after reorchestrating the show and changing the keys in the music innumerable times, leads a fivepiece orchestra that does overtures and musical interludes as well as the backing for songs.

And we have set creators, stagehands, costume makers and a whole raft of people who do just about anything we need and do it well.

So on Saturday and Sunday nights, the lights will go down and the good folks of a mythical New York City will sing for their supper to entertain family, friends and lovers of musical theater. We worked for months, giving up all sorts of TV reruns and lousy movies. And each of us is taking a chance on being made a fool in front of said family, friends and lovers of musical theater. We might thrill them; a lot of the numbers are superb. But, then again, this is live theater.

Why do we all do it? Hey, we’re in show business!

them, but you don’t have to.”

It was a cool morning, and the four horses were feeling frisky when they were turned out in the riding ring. They had no equipment on them. They ran around, nipping at each other, kicking up their heels, basically enjoying the day. We stood in a group in the center, watching. Eventually we were invited to choose a horse at random, put a halter on it and then lead it over a low ground rail.

Doing the tasks wasn’t too difficult. But the insights that arose from observing the horses and doing the tasks were amazing. One member didn’t feel comfortable handling or touching a horse, but she stayed in the ring with us and still learned about herself.

One person had trouble making her horse go over the ground rail the second time — when we had to make the horse go over it but couldn’t step over it ourselves. She talked to

the horse the whole time, encouraging it. She kept doing the same thing over and over, until she finally stopped, regrouped and thought of a different way to proceed.

Learning how we problem-solve — what works and what doesn’t — that’s something useful. We saw different things in our horses.

Were those traits really there, or were we projecting our own opinions and beliefs? And yes, one person got her foot stomped on. Afterward, we left the horses and went back to our chairs to be debriefed.

Baugh told us that, many times, the “aha!” moment of insight comes hours or even days later. We filled out a sheet in which we detailed one thing we had learned and how we might focus on following through with it in our everyday lives.

“Spending five minutes with a horse gave me a ton of insights,” Zena said. “I really want

to learn more about this. I loved it.”

“I liked that you had to be fully present with what was happening,” Bonnie said.

“You’re much more aware and make great connections. This is a great way to do therapy.”

“I like how experiential it is,” said Cindy, nursing her sore foot. “It’s not all about talking. You gain interesting insights. It’s very helpful.”

And as for me, I saw myself from a completely different perspective. Days later, I’m still dwelling on what I learned and using that insight to change how I interact with others.

Plus, I had a blast.

If you’d like to experience a similar encounter, Baugh is offering a one-day workshop called “The Horse Within” on Saturday, April 9 in Wellington. No horse experience needed!

For more information, visit www.sagrising. com, or call Lisa Baugh at (561) 791-8939.

‘I’ On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler

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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

A Busy Month At The Kravis Center For The Performing Arts The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts has a full slate of entertainment taking place now through the end of April. The following are some of the events planned: • March 25-26, Peppino D’Agostino — This Italian-born virtuoso acoustic guitarist has been praised by the San Francisco Chronicle as “a poet… among the best talents around,” voted “Best Acoustic Guitarist” in Guitar Player magazine’ s 2007 Readers’ Choice Awards, applauded by the San Diego Times as “potentially a giant of the acoustic guitar,” and touted by Jazziz as a “phenomenon

Smokey Robinson will perform April 14 in Dreyfoos Hall.

in the same league with John Fahey, Leo Kottke, Doc Watson and John Renbourn.” The show starts at 8 p.m. in Persson Hall. Tickets cost $30.

• March 29, African-American Film Festival — The sixth season of the African-American Film Festival kicks off with selected episodes of Amos ’n’ Andy (1951-1953). Producer James Drayton teams up with the Kravis Center to bring another series of films to audiences this spring. The series continues April 5 and 12. The show starts at 7 p.m. in Persson Hall. Tickets cost $10 per night or $25 for the entire festival.

• March 29, Kathy Griffin — Griffin is perhaps best known for her stint on the sitcom Suddenly Susan and her popular reality show, My Life On The D-List . Despite her multiple specials on HBO and Bravo, Griffin is more likely to be found on Hollywood Squares rather than the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The show starts at 8 p.m. in Dreyfoos Hall. Tickets start at $20.

• April 7, Dan Hicks and the Hot Licks — Although firmly rooted in the American folk music tradition, Dan Hicks and the Hot Licks deftly blend elements of swing, jazz, country and rock to create a sound they call “folk jazz.” Performances take place at 6:30 and 9 p.m. in the Rinker Playhouse. Tickets cost $38.

• April 8-10, You Say Tomato, I Say Shut Up — Adapted from their hilarious and often-moving memoir of the same title, comedians and

real-life married couple Annabelle Gurwitch (Dinner and a Movie) and Jeff Kahn (The 40-Year-Old Virgin) take a humorous look back at their 13 years together as a couple. Performances take place in the Rinker Playhouse. Tickets cost $34.

• April 13, Boz Scaggs — Scaggs, owner of one of the most distinctive voices in popular music, is probably best known for his landmark 1976 album Silk Degrees, which spawned several hit singles including “Lowdown,” “Lido Shuffle,” “Georgia,” “We’re All Alone” and “It’s Over.” The show starts at 8 p.m. in Dreyfoos Hall. Tickets start at $20.

• April 14-16, Koresh Dance Company — Under the dynamic wing of Israeli-born choreographer and artistic director Ronen Koresh, Philadelphia’s Koresh Dance Company is critically acclaimed for its exuberant, athletic and eclectic repertoire. Performances will take place in the Rinker Playhouse. Tickets cost $35.

• April 14, Smokey Robinson — His roster of hits with the Miracles and as a solo performer include “I Second That Emotion,” “The Tears Of A Clown,” “Cruisin’” and “Being With You.” The show starts at 8 p.m. in Dreyfoos Hall. Tickets start at $25.

• April 17, The Beach Boys — Known for rich vocal harmonies and songs about cars, dating and surfing in the California sun, the Beach Boys sound helped define a

The Beach Boys will perform April 17 in the Dreyfoos Concert Hall. style known as surf music. Come hear all your favorite Beach Boys songs including “Good Vibrations,” “California Girls” and “Kokomo.”

The show starts at 8 p.m. in Dreyfoos Hall. Tickets start at $20.

• April 20-24, Cirque Dreams Illumination — Urban acrobatics, dazzling choreography and brilliant illusions are ignited by 27 worldclass artists and special effects performed to a stylish original score of jazz, salsa, ballroom, pop and trendy beats from the streets. Performances take place in Dreyfoos Hall. Tickets start at $25.

• April 22-23, Seth Rudetsky’s Big Fat Broadway Show — Pre-

pare for the most hysterical and fascinating “backstage pass” to Broadway’s biggest hits, flops and everything in between with Sirius/XM Radio’s Seth Rudetsky. Rudetsky will bring his own private video and audio collection to show you how to differentiate between what’s vocally amazing (Patti LuPone in Evita) and what’s a vocal travesty (Madonna singing the same material).

The show starts at 7:30 p.m. in the Rinker Playhouse. Tickets cost $32.

The Kravis Center is located at 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. For more information, call (561) 832-7469 or visit www. kravis.org.

Norton Museum Features Top Photographs From Its Collection When the Norton Museum’s curator of photography, Charles Stainback, began organizing the museum’s next exhibition “From A to Z: 26 Great Photographs from the Norton Collection,” he had a couple of problems, namely “X” and “Z.” Without a photographer for every letter in the alphabet, the premise of the exhibition, to alphabetically arrange a selection of photographs based on the first letter of the photographer’s last name, wouldn’t work. But the problem was solved, and the exhibition, on view now through June 19, includes photographs by such seminal figures as Ansel Adams and Edward Weston.

“We really wanted show off the depth and breadth of the museum’s collection, and thought alphabetizing the artists would be an interesting way to create an exhibition that would accomplish that,” said Stainback, the museum’s William & Sarah Ross Soter curator of photography. “It gave us a clear direction on how to select 25 to 30 photos from a collection of 3,000.”

According to Stainback, an in-

tern’s meticulous research helped to identify outstanding candidates for photographer “X” and photographer “Z.” The Norton purchased a work by Xiaoze Xie, a Chineseborn photographer living in California, and one by 82-year-old documentary photographer George S. Zimbel. The pieces had to be purchased rather than borrowed, since the exhibition was only featuring works from the museum’s own collection.

The addition of the two photographs not only rounded out the alphabet, but also added contrasting textural elements to the exhibition — and some exciting cinematic history.

Zimbel’s photograph is of a dazzling Marilyn Monroe standing over a New York City subway grate with the iconic white dress swirling around her thighs. “Having such a well-known person who has been so widely photographed portrayed in the exhibition added a layer of flash to it,” said Stainback, who contacted Zimbel himself to inquire about purchasing the photograph.

Not only was the Montreal-based

Zimbel delighted about being included in the exhibition, he joined Stainback for a talk about the exhibition on March 17.

The photograph of Marilyn Monroe, taken in 1954 while she was shooting The Seven Year Itch, brings up an important question about photography’s evolution as an art form.

“Sixty years ago, what’s considered photojournalism, or pictures that appeared in fashion magazines, wouldn’t have been shown in most museums,” Stainback said. “But in hindsight, we have a better appreciation of the artistic talent that was required to take that particular photograph. In general, I would say it has taken a while to accept photography as worthy of being exhibited in museums, and even longer to accept all photos.”

In addition to America’s growing obsession with Hollywood and the cult of celebrity as depicted in the photograph of Marilyn Monroe, the exhibition also includes several photographs that document significant events and defining movements in 20th-century American history. Born in Fort Scott, Kan. in

A print by Valérie Belin from the series “Black Women I.”

A photograph by Graciela Iturbide.

1912, African-American photographer Gordon Parks realized he could fight the small-mindedness and hate he encountered by becoming a photographer. Parks’ portrait of Farm Security Administration Chairwoman Ella Watson included in the exhibition “American Gothic (1942)” is widely considered to be an icon of American culture, representative

of its centuries-old struggle with racism and bigotry.

The Norton Museum is located at 1451 S. Olive Avenue in West Palm Beach. General admission is $12 for adults, $5 for visitors ages 13-21, and free for members and children under 13. For additional information, call (561) 832-5196 or visit www.norton.org.

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Academy for Child Enrichment — In the heart of Royal Palm Beach, the Academy for Child Enrichment offers free all-day VPK. Infants through after-school day and night care, 6:30 a.m. to midnight (Monday through Friday), meals included. Qualified staff. Se habla Espanol. Special rates for all registration. The Academy for Child Enrichment is located at 700 Camellia Drive in Royal P alm Beach. Call (561) 798-3452 or visit www.smallworldpbc.com for info.

Breakers West Summer Camp — For the summer of a lifetime, children ages 5-14 are invited to join the 2011 summer camp at Breakers West. Enjoy wildlif e demonstrations, science experiments, magic shows, arts & crafts, cooking classes, golf, t ennis, basketball, soccer, daily swimming instruction and much more! Camp runs June 6 - Aug. 19 (excluding July 4-8), Monday –through Friday from 8:45 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sessions are $300 per camper, per week, plus a one-time registration fee of $50, which includes a camp essentials bag. Discounts are of fered to families registering multiple children and/or for multiple sessions. After-care is available. Space is limited. To register for Breakers West Summer Camp, call (561) 653-6333.

Calling All Kids Indoor Playground — Calling All Kids summer camp fun includes rock climbing, water slides, gymnastics, video arcade, movie theater, kid-size village, ar ts & crafts, science & cooking, Wii stations and more for children six months to 1 0 years. The best place in town t o have your kid’s private birthda y party! For more info., visit www.CallingAllKidsFun Center.com or call (561) 868-7007 or (561) 802-9090. Calling All Kids is located at 854 Conniston Rd., West Palm Beach.

Casperey Stables Hor se Camp — Casperey Stables is a small, fun-filled day camp for children ages seven to 14. With four riding opportunities each day, arts & crafts and outdoor games, campers f ind little time to be bored. The low counselor-child ratio ensures y our child will receive individual attention. There are camp sessions for spring and winter school breaks, and during the summer, each two-week session has a theme, such as Indian Days, Circus Days and Medieval Days. Casperey Stables has a w eekly swim party and ends each session with a horse show and family BBQ. Call soon — this small, q uality program f ills quickly! To learn more about the camp, located at 2330 D Road in Loxahatchee Groves, call (561) 7924990 or visit www.caspereystables.com.

Get Creative! Armory Art Center Summer Art Camp — The Armor y Art Cent er is excited to bring a series of theme-based sessions to your elementary school through high school aged children for this year’s summer camp. Experienced instructors have developed projects relating to the themes of each week. Activities are age appropriate and focus on your child’s artistic and creative development. Students age 5-7 years old will rotat e among several studio areas daily in ceramic sculpture, drawing, painting and other creative mediums. Teens work with guest artists during intensive studio workshops in a variety of areas in the visual arts. All art materials are included in the cost of tuition. The Armory Ar t Center is located at 1700 Parker Ave., West Palm Beach. For more inf o., visit www.armoryart.org or call (561) 832-1776.

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High Touch High Tech — High Touch High Tech has been providing hands-on science experiments to children in South Florida for over 15 years. The pr ogram brings science to life for children in preschool through middle school. They are happy to introduce “The Lab,” a handson science facility no w open in Wellingt on. They of fer summer cam p programs, after-school enrichments and birthda y parties at a new location of f Pierson Road. The camp of fers af fordable pricing, hands-on science experiments with lots of cool science take-homes, nature experiences, as well as art projects that relate to the scientific investigations. High Touch High Tech knows that children are naturally curious. They tap into that natural curiosity and provide safe, exciting and fun experiments to help them understand the world around them. The ultimate goal is to give children the tools to be able to think scientifically in order to solve problems. Kids will erupt volcanoes, pan f or gems, launch rockets, make ice cream, gr ow plants, make fossils, observe live animals, dissect owl pellets and much, much more! Come visit and explore the all-new High Touch High Tech science laboratory! High Touch High Tech is at 3080 Fairlane Farms Rd., Suite 2. For more info., visit www.ScienceMadeFunSFL.ne t, call (561) 792-3785 or e-mail inf o@ScienceMadeFunSFL.net. Call now to book a free tour.

Home Away From Home Summer Camp — If your kids want a great summer camp experience, come to any of Home Away From Home’s four P alm Beach locations. Now enrolling summer camp pr ograms for children ages 4-10 (limited space is available). The program offers daily indoor and outdoor f ield trips. Free meals and webcam services are included. Rated the “Best Summer Camp Ever!” For more information, visit www.HomeAwayF romHomeChildcare.com or call Wellington (561) 791-8558, Palm Beach Gardens (561) 627-6170, Jupiter (561) 7476916 or W est Palm Beach (561) 802-9090.

Jewish Summer Camp — Enjoy a Jewish summer camp on a f arm for girls ages 7-11 at the Good Earth Farm. Featuring a six-week certificate of horse care competency. Candy making, soap making, painting, drawing, 3D design, sewing and crafts. Kayak instruction; European spa comes to the camp for beauty day. Je wish music singing, art and a Shabbat program with a local rabbi. Director Nancy Fried Tobin (BFA, MAT, MFA, RM, Equine Cer tified Specialist/ Instructor) has been w orking with kids for y ears. Registering now; call (561) 792-2666. Located at 2141 B Road in Loxahatchee Groves, the farm is 25 minutes fr om anywhere in the Palm Beach area.

The King’s Academy “Camping Ar ound the World” — TKA’s summer cam p welcomes ages 5 through 8th grade. Experience different cultures thr ough craft projects, science experiments, field trips, music and more. Counselors are qualified teachers, fir st aid certified and offer a loving environment. Day camp/sports camp with daily lunches run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m with many options and before/af ter care. Field trips to Calypso Bay, the South Florida Science Museum, the Palm Beach Zoo, Lion Countr y Safari and more, all for one inclusive price. R egister now at www.tka.net and save $25 when y ou mention this offer. Call Helga Van Wart (561) 686-4244 for more info.

TREAT YOUR KIDS TO A

2011

Summer OF fun

Breakers West Summer Camp Calling all campers for a summer of a lifetime. Sports-minded, adventure-seeking, nature-loving kids, ages 5 – 14, will find something for everyone at Breakers West, where there is fun for all and all for fun.

Daily Golf, Tennis, Basketball, Soccer Play & Swimming Instruction Arts & Crafts | Magic Shows Cooking Classes | Wildlife Demonstrations Science Projects Friday’s Famous Family Cookout And Much More...

After Care Available

WEEKLY SESSIONS: June 6 – August 19, 2011 {Excl. July 4 – 8} Monday – Friday | 8:45 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

For more information or to register, please call 561-653-6333.

Weekly sessions are Monday – Friday. No camp July 4 – 8, 2011. Discounts will be offered to families registering multiple children and/or for multiple sessions. Additional fees apply for After Care. Restrictions apply.

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Noah’s Ark — Noah’s Ark is located on Okeechobee Blvd. in Loxahatchee Groves. They offer free all-day VPK. Lower rates and special registration for fall. Meals are included. Noah’s Ar k of fers care for infants and preschool children as well as after-school care. Se habla Espanol.

Conveniently located at 14563 Okeechobee Blvd. between Royal Palm Beach and Loxahatchee Groves elementar y schools. Call (561) 753-6624 for more info.

South Florida Science Museum — Join the South Florida Science Museum for Summer Camp 2011! Each exciting week will of fer hands-on exploration for young scientists ages 4 to 12 on specific topics in science. The da ys are packed with fun science lessons, laboratories, craf ts and outside activities led by exper t science educators. Camp star ts at 9 a.m. and ends at 4 p.m. with extended hours of structured activities av ailable from 7:30 a.m. t o 5:30 p.m. Camps are grouped into ages 4-6, 7-9 and 10-12. Before and af tercare available. Early registration accepted prior to May 1. R egister online at www.sfsm.org or call (561) 832-2026.

Villari’s of Wellington — Villari’s is pleased to invite your child for summer camp this year. Due to the rising demand for summer camps in the western communities, Villari’s is allowing students to book spots early. Villari’s is offering four sessions of camp this year, as well as three Mar tial Arts Boot Camp sessions. Each camp session will consist of five days of games, activities and martial arts, star ting as low as $29 per day. The Mar tial Arts Boot Camp sessions will be limited to 10 students, three days per week, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Summer camp dates are June 6-10, June 20-24, July 11-15 and July 25-July 29. The program is for ages six and up. Camp will be limited to 20 campers on a first-come, first-ser ved basis. Call (561) 792-1100 toda y to reser ve your space. F or more info., visit www.

VillarisOfWellingt on.com or www.WellingtonMar tialArts.com.

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BUSINESS NEWS

WELLINGTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HOSTS RIBBON CUTTINGS

Zest — Zest in W ellington offers clo thing and accessories with its own unique style. The boutique and online store has belts, boots, dresses, sweaters, jeans, jewelr y, handbags and much more. It is located at 13860 Wellington Trace, suites 8 and 9.

For more info., call (561) 333-3000 or visit www.shopzest online.com. Sho wn above are Zest staf f members with Wellington Chamber ambassadors.

Yano’s Italian Deli and Catering — Located at 13833 Wellington Trace, Suite E8, Yano’s offers Italian traditional deli fare, as well as catering, special events and more. For more info., call (561) 795-7333. Shown above are Yano’s staff members with W ellington Chamber ambassadors.

EQUUS Foundation — The mission of the EQUUS Foundation is to raise awareness of the horse in society through education and awarding grants to charitable organizations that promote the positive use of the horse, improve the quality of life of horses, contribute to eq uestrian sport and elevate the equestrian pr ofession. For more info., visit www.equus foundation.org. Shown above are EQUUS Foundation representatives with Wellington Chamber ambassadors.

Thomasville — Thomasville offers home furnishings, accessories and cabinetry that allow you to express yourself through your home. The store is located at 10100 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 100 in Wellington. For more inf o., call (561) 793-2401 or visit www.thomasville.com. Sho wn above are Thomasville staff members with W ellington Chamber ambassadors.

Innerchoice Publishing — Innerchoice Publishing is your site for social and emotional learning, bringing emotional int elligence to life. For more info., call (561) 790-5350 or visit www. innerchoicepublishing.com. Shown above are Innerchoice staff members with W ellington Chamber ambassadors.

Gracie Street Interiors — Gracie Street Int eriors brings an endless array of furnishings, ar t and accessories to your home, so all things timeless and tropical can be yours in true Caribbean-Colonial style. For more info., call (561) 373-6313 or visit www.graciestreet.com. Shown above are Gracie Street staff members with W ellington Chamber ambassadors.

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New Medical Executive Committee Leadership At Palms West Hospital Palms West Hospital recently announced that the several physicians have joined its Medical Executive Committee.

They are as follows: Dr. Louis Goldblum, chief of pediatrics; Dr. Michael Lakow, chief of medicine; Brian Miller, chief of anesthesiology; Robert Rochman, chief of surgery; and Tony Tullot, chief of pathology. They will serve on the committee for the next two years, with their term ending Dec. 31, 2012.

Additionally, Dr. John Halpern assumed the role of chief of emergency medicine in October 2010 and will serve in this role until Dec. 31, 2012.

The committee meets monthly to discuss a variety of patient-care initiatives and to make recommendations to the hospital’s board of directors. Topics range from patient safety and medication practices to new physicians and hospital policies.

“We are looking forward to working closely with the new medical executive committee members,” Palms West Hospital CEO Bland

Dr. Michael Lakow Eng said. “They all bring a great deal of clinical experience and leadership to the team.”

Palms West Hospital and the Children’s Hospital at Palms West are thriving, comprehensive, acute care community hospitals offering a wide range of adult and pediatric services.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Sharon & Steve Wardle Join Expedia CruiseShipCenters

Acreage residents Sharon and Steve Wardle recently were appointed as cruise consultants with Expedia CruiseShipCenters, a leading seller of cruise vacations nationwide.

The Wardles are looking for people interested in enrolling in Expedia CruiseShipCenters’ 7Seas Club.

Membership is free, and participants will be the first to know about exclusive deals based on personal travel preferences. To join, visit www. cruiseshipcenters.com/sharonand stevewardle. You’ll also be automatically entered to win a free Caribbean cruise for two.

As cruise specialists, the Wardles take the time to understand what clients want most in a dream vacation and identify which cruise lines, ships and itineraries best suit those needs. They also manage all the booking arrangements and travel details. With more than 25 years in the hospitality industry, Sharon has a proven track record of event planning, sales and operations. Most recently, Sharon was manager/owner of Ship & Shore Meeting & Event Planning.

The Wardles are excited about the

opportunities and challenges that will come their way with Expedia CruiseShipCenters. Finding the perfect cruise for their clients is of utmost importance. Making a meeting at sea or a vacation to be one that will be remembered is their number-one priority. Expedia CruiseShipCenters is able to provide expert advice on itineraries, ports of call, cruise lines, ships, accommodations and other important cruise-planning details.

Expedia CruiseShipCenters is currently offering the first big promotion of the year, Seas Today, in which they partner with their top contemporary and premium cruise lines to offer some amazing savings and amenities for you when you book during the month of March.

“Cruising is exceptional value,” Steve Wardle said, noting that a cruise typically includes accommodations, all meals, room service, entertainment and meeting space, and airfare can also be included as well as travel insurance. “We want to fulfill our clients’ meeting or vacation needs. We want to provide a meeting or vacation that is truly memorable. A cruise is the best option

Sharon and Steve Wardle available today.”

Expedia CruiseShipCenters clients can choose to sail the world aboard an intimate yacht-like vessel, a high-tech mega-ship or virtually anything in between. With more than 500 ports-of-call and over 175 cruise ships to choose from, the possibilities are endless.

For more information, call (561) 204-2128 or visit www.cruiseship centers.com/sharonandstevewardle. com.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Abrakadoodle Partnering With Leaping Lizards For Art Classes Abrakadoodle-West Palm Beach is partnering with Leapin Lizards, the new indoor playground and family education center, to deliver its “Paint, Rattle & Roll” art class for children ages 2 to 3 years old. The six-week class will be held on Mondays from 10 to 10:50 a.m. starting April 4 through May 9 for a cost of $100 (siblings receive a 50-percent discount) or a drop-in fee of $20 per class.

“Paint, Rattle & Roll” is a series of classes that teach young children about color, texture and more while experimenting with new and innovative materials.

Abrakadoodle’s Twoosy (age 2) and Mini Doodlers (ages 3 to 5) gleefully create their own masterpieces using a wide range of highquality art materials.

Children develop important school-readiness skills such as fine motor skills, listening and following directions, cognitive skills, language and more in an enchanting environment that fosters individual creativity.

“I think parents and kids alike are going to love this location for our hands-on creative art program,” said

Gillian Gordon, AbrakadoodleWest Palm Beach director and a Wellington resident. “Art is a fabulous first classroom experience for children because they get to explore art and creativity in a safe and nurturing environment that is fun and helps them build fine motor skills and so much more.”

“I have worked with Abrakadoodle at another location and was impressed by the program,” Leapin Lizards General Manager Paul J. “P.J.” Abbott said. “Our Leaps and Bounds education center is designed to challenge children with fun and educational enrichment classes in such areas as art, music, tumbling and story time in an inspiring setting.”

On Jan. 15, Leapin Lizards celebrated the grand opening of its 9,000-plus-square-foot premier indoor playground and family education center located in the heart of downtown West Palm Beach.

Leapin Lizards is located at 416 Clematis Street in West Palm Beach.

Parents can register at pj@leapin lizardspb.com or by calling Abbott at (561) 832-8140. To learn more about Leapin Lizards, visit www.

leapinlizardspb.com or www. facebook.com/leapinlizardspb.

Established in 2002, Abrakadoodle is the most comprehensive art education company of its kind, offering extensive visual arts classes and programs for children ages 20 months to 12 years old. Abrakadoodle has been adding tens of thousands of new students every year by expanding across the U.S. and internationally.

For more information about Abrakadoodle-West Palm Beach, visit www.abrakadoodle.com/fl10 or log on to www.facebook.com/ abrakadoodle.palmbeach.

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PBSC To Host Open House For Dental Health Professionals Palm Beach State College’s Dental Health Services Department will showcase its programs and offer continuing education units (CEUs) at its 13th annual open house.

Designed to attract local dental health professionals, the event will be held on Saturday, April 9 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Dental Health Services Building on the college’s Lake Worth campus at 4200 Congress Ave. The cost of the event, which includes a continental breakfast and all CEUs, is $30.

The open house gives dental health professionals the opportunity to network with colleagues and earn CEUs by attending presentations.

Palm Beach State graduates from the dental assisting, dental hygiene and dental laboratory technology programs will participate, as well as dental health professionals from the Atlantic Coast Dental Research Clinic, including the event’s keynote speaker Dr. Paul Klein. Klein, an adjunct professor of pharmacol-

ogy in the college’s Department of Dental Hygiene and an expert in cosmetic and adhesive dentistry, will speak about “The Coolest Technology in Dentistry.”

In addition, current students in Palm Beach State College’s dental assisting and dental hygiene programs will give their annual table clinics, in which they present research on oral health topics. The table clinics will be judged and winners will be chosen.

“The open house offers a great way to earn required CEUs at a low cost and enjoy time with colleagues. It’s no surprise to us that this popular event is now in its 13th year,” said Colleen Bradshaw, Dental Assisting chair and associate professor at Palm Beach State College.

For more information about the April 9 open house, or to register for the event, call (561) 868-3196.

For additional information about the Palm Beach State College’s dental health programs, visit www.palm beachstate.edu/dentalhealth.xml.

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SPORTS & RECREATION

SRHS Boys Volleyball Team Sets High Goals This Season

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report The Seminole Ridge High School boys varsity volleyball team is looking forward to another successful season, and hoping to advance even further in the state competition than ever before.

Coming off of last season, where the Hawks (4-0) advanced to the state semifinals, head coach Austin Clubb said he has high hopes.

“Our goal is to get right back where we were last year,” he said.

“We have veterans on the team, so we have the experience to do that.”

The Hawks have experience on their side, with several team mem-

bers returning or moving up from the junior varsity team, Clubb said.

Returning this year are top players David Specian, David Frazee and Raymond Collet. The Hawks lost seniors Austin Williams and Joey DeCamillo to graduation.

“We have a bunch of seniors with a lot of experience,” Clubb said.

“We had to fill some spots, but we had some players coming up who already knew how to fall into the program.”

On Monday , March 21, the Hawks defeated Palm Beach Gardens High School at home in five matches 25-16, 25-21, 26-24, 2518 and 15-6, taking games one,

three and five.

“I really give [Gardens] a lot of credit. They brought a lot of energy and intensity,” Clubb said. “They made us earn it.”

Specian had 46 assists, 11 aces and nine kills, and Frazee added 21 kills and four aces.

Clubb noted that where the Hawks’ momentum faltered, Gardens carried its own momentum to take games two and three.

“Fortunately, we grabbed it in game four and ran with it,” Clubb said. “We have certain game plans we run. And they buy into it, and they trust it. It has worked for us so far.”

PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER

Hawks David Specian and David Frazee successfully block a Gardens’ spike att empt.

Seminole Ridge’s David Specian jump-serves the ball.

SRHS libero John Moore receiv es the ball.

Hawk Raymond Collet jumps up for a spike.

Top Pros Join In As Gay Polo Tourney Returns To Wellington Melissa and Marc Ganzi, owners of Grand Champions Polo Club and honorary chairs of the second International Gay Polo Tournament, have announced that the following professional polo players will be acting as captains for the four Gay Polo League teams competing in the tournament: Bartolomé “Lolo” Castagnola (9 goals), Nachi Heguy (9 goals), Juan Bollini (6 goals) and Joey Casey (4 goals).

GPL President Chip McKenney expressed profound gratitude on behalf of the league to the Ganzis, Grand Champions and the four professional team captains for helping make the tournament an experience of a lifetime.

The tournament is scheduled for Saturday, April 2 at the Grand Champions Polo Club in Wellington. It will feature top polo players from the GPL. Guests can now purchase tickets online to attend the tournament, along with tickets to the asado after party and VIP tent by visiting http://gaypolotournament. blog.com/tickets. After buying tickets online, they will be mailed directly to the purchaser, or can be

picked up at will call on the day of the event.

Leading the weekend’s charge is Castagnola. The Argentine polo player, formerly with a 10-goal handicap, has been ranked among the top 20 players. Castagnola started playing polo seriously when he was 14 and his father took him to the La Martina Polo School, where he got to know Adolfo Cambiaso.

He has won the Sotogrande Gold Cup, the U.S. Open, the USPA Gold Cup (which he has won four times), the Queen’s Cup and the Hurlingham Open, among others. Castagnola has participated 14 times in the Argentine Open, winning the event seven times. He founded the La Dolfina Polo Team with Cambiaso, where he usually plays position 4.

Bollini will also lead a team for the Gay Polo Tournament and is a former 8-goal player, now rated at 6 goals. Bollini has won many of the top tournaments across the United States including the Gold Cup, the Monty Waterbury and the East Coast Open, along with many others.

Heguy, another team captain, was

born in Argentina. He is a former 10-goal player, now rated at 9 goals.

Heguy is a four-time Argentine Open champion and was the winner of the U.S. Open in 2008. A member of the legendary Heguy polo family in Argentina, he plays polo with his family, as three of the four sons are all high-goal players.

Casey, a former 7-goaler, brings more than 28 years of professional polo experience to the Gay Polo Tournament. In addition to his time as a professional player, Casey’s family has been breeding polo ponies for 40-plus years. He is recognized as one of the most experienced American players in the game. He is now rated a 4-goaler.

Casey’s career highlights include: six-time winner of Sunshine League Championships, four-time winner of International Gold Cup Championships, USPA Gold Cup Championship, along with playing in numerous U.S. Opens and many others.

Polo Gear USA and Palm Beach Rox, Wellington Equestrian Realty, Pure Thoughts Horse Rescue, and Phelps Media Group have

Juan Bollini

Lolo Castagnola PHOTOS COURTESY DAVID LOMINSKA/POLOGRAPHICS

sponsored each of the four teams that will be competing this year.

The GPL is a United States Polo Association (USPA) official club and consists of all levels of polo players, from beginners to professionals. The only skill required to

be member of the GPL is to have a passion for the sport of polo, so the riders’ goal level varies throughout the club.

For more information, visit www.gaypolo.com or call (561) 753-3389.

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SPORTS & RECREATION

MARTIAL ARTS STUDENTS Seagull Industries Golf Tourney May 6 Seagull Industries for the DisGRADUATE TO NEXT LEVEL abled will hold its tenth annual Golf Classic on May 6 at Bear Lakes Club, with a Cinco De AT XTREME TAE KWON DO Country Mayo tournament kickoff party for

Tae kwon do students at Xtreme Tae Kwon Do in Wellington achieved their next belt level at a graduation ceremony Saturday, Feb. 26.

Ultima Fitness/Xtreme Tae Kwon Do is located at 12799 W. Forest Hill Blvd. at the corner of Forest Hill Blvd. and Wellington Trace. For more info., call (561) 795-2823 or visit www.ultimafitness.com. Pictured above are Grandmaster Gustavo Pope, instructors Jessica Galo, Sandy Fugate and Andres Arango, and assistant instructor Gina Burnette with the students.

golfers and non-golfers on May 5 at Iberia Bank in West Palm Beach.

The morning golf tournament includes breakfast, lunch, giveaways, and auction and raffle items. The tournament features mixed and women’s foursomes with prizes for both divisions. The cost to register as a foursome is $800; individual registration costs $200.

A kickoff party “It’s Not Just for Golf Cinco de Mayo” will take place Thursday, May 5 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Iberia Bank (605 N. Olive Ave., West Palm Beach). Tickets cost $10 with advance reservations and $15 at the door, and include complimentary valet parking, drinks and food.

Proceeds from both events benefit Seagull Industries for the Disabled, a local nonprofit that serves teenagers and adults with intellectual disabilities in Palm Beach and Martin counties.

Committee members include Golf Chair Robert Pitcher, Searcy Denney Scarola Barnhart & Shipley; Kickoff Party Chair Angela Milco, Express Employment Pro-

Committee Members — Kirk Beerthuis, Dixie Sucre, Amy Sanger, Lynn Finn, Jennifer Jones, Fred Eisinger, Angela Milco, Claudia Camacho, Morris Allnatt and Anne Dichele. fessionals; Anne Messer, Wilmington Trust; Dixie Sucre, Nozzle Nolen; Morris Allnatt, Eagle Shipping Center; Louis Pfeffer, Pfeffer & Associates; Kirk Beerthuis, Iberia Bank; David Gwinnup, West Side Reprographics; Jennifer Jones, Junior League of the Palm Beaches and Seagull Board Secretary; Mary Helen Johnson, PNC Bank; Derrick Hoskins, K&M Electric Supply Inc.; Lynn Finn and John Garcia, the Palm Beach Post; Amy Sanger,

Music Focus Four; Claudia Camacho, Florida Community Bank; Marie Colegnesi; Henry Glass, Morse Zehnter Associates; and Fred Eisinger and Chris Price, Seagull Industries.

To register for the golf tournament, purchase tickets or become a sponsor, visit the Seagull Industries web site at www.seagull.org or contact Anne Dichele at (561) 8425814, ext. 111 or adichele@seagull. org.

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SPORTS & RECREATION

Rooney’s 5K Run/Walk Set For April 9 WELLINGTON WAVE WINS END-OF-SEASON TOURNEY

The fourth annual Rooney’s 5K Run/Walk will be held Saturday, April 9 at Rooney’s Pub in Abacoa Town Center (1153 Town Center Dr., Jupiter).

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Autism Project of Palm Beach County, the Florida Atlantic University Honors College, the Place of Hope and Potentia Academy. Last year, more than 800 participated and $11,500 was raised for the charities.

The Rooney’s 5K Run/Walk is a fun family event for the serious and not-so-serious runner. The event will be held on the roads of Abacoa Town Center and Central Blvd.

Registration and the finish line will be right at Rooney’s Pub in Abacoa.

After the run, everyone can enjoy fun activities and Rooney’s signature Irish breakfast. This year’s headliner sponsor is Wachovia, A Wells Fargo Company and presenting sponsors are Joseph C. Kempe and X1 Law. Other activities include a kids one-mile run, “I Beat the Bunny” T-shirts for anyone who tops Roon-

Participants at the starting line of last year’s run/walk. ey’s runner dressed as a rabbit, an awards ceremony and more.

This event is presented by the Rooney’s Golf Foundation Inc., an or ganization dedicated to raising funds for worthy charities. The foundation is run by Rooney family businesses, including the Palm Beach Kennel Club, Rooney’s Public House and Rooney’s All-In Sports Bar & Grille.

The 10th annual Rooney’s Golf Foundation tournament is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 27 at PGA

National. The foundation has donated over $250,000 to local organizations from the proceeds of the RGF tournament and 5K. The entry fee is $25 general registration ($30 on April 8 and $35 the day of the event), $20 for Abacoa residents, $15 for students and $7 for the Kids Mile ($10 the day of the event).

For registration information, call Alexis Barbish at (561) 683-2222, ext. 146 or visit www.rooneysgolf foundation.org.

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

The Wellington Wave U-10 boys travel soccer white team won the Palm Beach Soccer League end-of-season tournament held March 19-20 at the Delray Beach Soccer Complex. The Wellington Wave tied their first game against the Palm Beach Soccer A cademy 2-2.

They then defeated the CTC Bandits 4-0 and the Elite Soccer Academy Black 3-1. The team went on to play the championship match against the Elite Soccer Academy Black, winning the tournament 61. Team members are L uis Cano, Kevin Casco, Logan Fenimore, T.J. Hewitt, Fabian Kagnus, Chris Pappas, Lucas Roldan, Chris Rumsey, Dominic Sirucek and Blake Weger. The team is coached by Gus Be tzer and Alex Kagnus.

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Saturday, March 26 • On Saturday and Sunday, March 26 and 27, crowds will gather at the Royal Palm Art & Music Festival to watch as fine works of art emerge and transform the southern tip of Royal Palm Beach Blvd. into the largest artist canvas in the area. For more info., visit www.royalpalmbeachfestival.com or call (561) 790-6200.

• The Town of Loxahatchee Groves will host a public workshop on the future of Okeechobee Blvd. on Saturday, March 26 from 9 a.m. to noon at Palms West Presbyterian Church (13689 Okeechobee Blvd.).

Residents and property owners are invited to give their views on the future development of Okeechobee Blvd. For more information, call (561) 793-2418 or visit www. loxahatcheegroves.org.

• The CityPlace Ar t Fair Part II (700 S. Rosemary Ave., West Palm Beach) will take place Saturday and Sunday, March 26 and 27 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Leading artists from around the country will return with their finest work including paintings, sculptures, photography, glass, wood, jewelry, collage and ceramics. Admission is free and open to the public. Visit www.artfestival.com or call (954) 472-3755 for more info.

• The South Florida Science Museum (4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach) and the Palm Beach County Archaeological Society will host an Archaeology Festival on Saturday, March 26 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Join the museum and local archaeologists for an exciting day of learning. For more info., call (561) 832-1988 or visit www.sfsm.org.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature “A Glimpse of Chinese Culture through Dance and Music” for adults on Saturday, March 26 at 2:30 p.m.

Celebrate the Year of the Rabbit with the Joy Dance Group of the Chinese Association of Science, Education and Culture of South Florida as they perform traditional folk dances and musical numbers. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “Tween Creative Writing” for ages 10 to 15 on Saturday, March 26 at 3 p.m. Do you write poetr y, stories or fan fiction? Learn about the craft of writing and do exercises to improve your skills. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The $500,000 FTI Finale Grand Prix FEI CSI 5* will take place Saturday, March 26 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Palm Beach Inter-

national Equestrian Center (14440 Pierson Road, Wellington). Call (561) 793-5867 or visit www.equestriansport.com for more info.

• Party on the Plaza will be held on Saturday, March 26 from 7 to 11 p.m. at CityPlace in downtown West Palm Beach. The event will feature On the Roxx performing ’80s covers. For more info., call (561) 3661000.

• The Village of Wellington will host a Community Concert on Saturday, March 26 at 7:30 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater featuring the band Viva. Call (561) 7914000 for more info.

• The Realtors Association of the Palm Beaches (RAPB) will participate in Florida’s Open House Weekend on Saturday and Sunday, March 26 and 27. The Florida Open House Weekend coincides with the state’s spring home-selling season and marks the end of Welcome Home Week, a weeklong celebration of the benefits of homeownership. Blue balloons featuring the Realtor “R” in white will mark homes that are part of the event. For more info., visit www.rapb. com.

Sunday, March 27 • H.L. Johnson Elementary School will host a Garage Sale on Sunday, March 27 from 8 to 11 a.m. The event will be held in the front lot along Crestwood Blvd. Proceeds will go to fund the school’s safety patrol trip to Washington, D.C. For more info., call Anne at (561) 204-2662.

• CityPlace in downtown West Palm Beach presents weekly Yoga Classes for all ages and fitness levels on Sundays. Build core strength, reduce stress and improve posture every Sunday from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

No experience is necessary. The cost is $15; parking is free. For more info., call (561) 650-1200.

• The First Baptist Church of Royal P alm Beach (10701 Okeechobee Blvd.) will hold its annual Super Sunday event on Sunday, March 27 from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The community is invited to attend the outdoor service, free barbecue and family activities.

For more info., visit the church’s web site at www.fbcrpb.com, e-mail information@ fbcrpb.com or call (561) 793-2475.

• The Wellington Seniors Club will host an evening of dinner and entertainment with “The Rod Stewart Show” on Sunday, March 27 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Binks Forest Golf Club (400 Binks Forest Drive, See CALENDAR, page 49

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR CALENDAR, continued from page 48 Wellington). Rod Stewart will be impersonated by George Orr, who bears an incredible resemblance to Stewart. There also will be dancing with music provided by DJ Al Boston. Admission is $25 for members and $35 for non-members. For reservations, call Mary Alfalla at (561) 784-0119. For more info., call Sally Schwar tz at (561) 793-8735.

Monday, March 28 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature “Legos” for age 8 and up on Monday, March 28 at 4 p.m. Create your own vehicles or buildings out of Lego pieces. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

Tuesday, March 29 • Palms West Hospital and the Village of Wellington’s Senior Wellness Program will feature a free Lunch and Learn Seminar each month through June and is restricted to residents ages 55 and older. The first seminar will be held Tuesday, March 29 and will address exercise and nutrition and their effects on the normal aging process. All seminars will be held from noon to 2 p.m. at the Wellington Community Cent er (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Register at the Wellington Community Center or online at http://rec.wellingtonfl.gov. New par ticipants must register in person. For more info., call Howard Trager at (561) 791-4785.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will feature an Introduction to Irish Dancing on Tuesday, March 29 at 6:30 p.m. Marie Marzi will teach beginner steps based on traditional dance forms.

Wear comfortable clothing and sneakers.

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

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature Open Mic Night for adults Tuesday, March 29 at 6:30 p.m. Perform poetry, short prose, an essay or a dance.

Play an instrument or sing a song for an audience of all ages. Pick up the rules when you pre-register. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature a Book Discussion of Clockwork Angel for ages 12 to 17 on Tuesday, March 29 at 6:30 p.m. Call (561) 7906070 to pre-register.

• The Wellington Village Council will meet on Tuesday, March 29 at 7 p.m. at the Wellington Municipal Complex. Call (561) 791-4000 for more info.

Thursday, March 31 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature an Introduction to Irish

Dancing for adults Thursday, March 31 at 6:30 p.m. Marie Marzi will teach beginner steps based on traditional dance forms.

Wear comfortable clothing and sneakers.

Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

Friday, April 1 • The Knights of Columbus will serve fish dinners every Friday during Lent at Our Lady Queen of the Apostles Church (100 Crestwood Blvd. South, Royal Palm Beach) from 5 to 7 p.m. Baked or fried fish will be available at $8 for adults and $4 for children; New England clam chowder costs $4. For more info., call (561) 798-5661 or visit www.olqa.cc.

• My Pilat es (13873 Wellington Trace, in the Wellington Marketplace) will hold its grand opening celebration Friday, April 1 at 6:30 p.m. For info., visit www.mypilates wellington.com or call (561) 827-1481.

• A Vegas-Style Fundraiser benefiting three of the area’s top animal-rescue organizations will take place Friday, April 1 at the Wellington Club at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (14440 Pierson Road, Wellington). The event, benefiting Save A Pet Florida, Paws 2 Help and Adopt A Cat Foundation, will take place from 7 to 10 p.m. Tickets are available in advance online for $30 and $50 at the door. Seating is limited. Visit www.saveapet.com to reserve a place at the tables. For more info., call Debra at (561) 389-1862 or Beth at (561) 346-8766.

Saturday, April 2 • The Acreage/Loxahatchee Relay for Life will be held Saturday and Sunday, April 2 and 3 at Acreage Community Park (6701 140th Ave. North). Opening ceremonies will be held at 2 p.m. on April 2. For more info, call (561) 650-0134 or visit www.relay forlife.org/acreagefl.

• The Wellington Rotary Club will hold its 2011 major fundraising event at an asado after party starting at 5 p.m. after the second annual International Gay Polo Tournament on Saturday, April 2 at the Grand Champions Polo Club off Lake Worth Road in Wellington. The polo matches start at 1 p.m. Tickets are available separately for both events. To purchase tickets, visit www.wellingtonrotary.org, call Phelps Media Group at (561) 753-3389 or visit www.phelpsmediagroup.com.

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

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JOHN C. HUNTON AIR CONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION, INC.—Service & new installation FPL independent participating contractor. Lic. CAC 057272 Ins. "We are proud supporters of the Seminole Ridge Hawks" 561-798-3225.

Family Owned & Operated since 1996. Credit Cards Accepted

CARING & COMPASSIONAT E CNA — with 20 plus years hospital & private experience. FL licensed & Insured. Wellington resident; excellent references. Online at eldercarenotebook. 561-531-4179

JJJ AUTOMOTIVE,INC. — we’re looking out for you! John Lawson.

561-204-2855 600 Royal Palm Commerce Rd. Suite E, RPB. Lic. #MV52657

HOUSECLEANING — 20 yrs experience. Excellent local references.

Shopping available. 561-572-1782

MOBILE-TEC ON-SITE COMPUTER SER VICE — The computer experts that come to you! Hardware/ Sof tware setup, support &troubleshooting w w w.mobiletec.net.

561-248-2611 D.J. COMPUTER — Home & office, Spyware removal, websites, networks, repairs, upgrades, virus removal, tutoring. Call Jeff 561-3339433 or Cell 561-252-1186 Lic’d Well. & Palm Beach We accept major credit cards.

DRIVEWAYS — Free estimates.

A & M ASPHALT SEAL COATING commercial and residential. Patching potholes, striping, repair existing asphalt & save money all work guaranteed. Lic.& Ins. 100045062 561-667-7716

BACHE DEVELOPMENT INC. — General Contractor Christopher G. Bache 561-662-8353 CGC 1510884. New construction, barns, kitchens, baths, complete remodeling, flooring, painting. Residential and commercial visit us at www.bachedevelopment.com

HOME INSPECTIONS — Mold inpections, air quality testing, US Building Inspectors mention this ad $20.00 Off. 561-784-8811

HURRICANE SHUTTERS P&M CONTRACTORS — ACCORDION SHUTTERS Gutters, screen enclosures, siding, soffit s, aluminum roofs, Serving the Western Communities. Since 1985. U-17189 561791-9777

WELLINGTON WINDOWS, LLC — Protect your family from break-ins and hurricanes. Quality, Maintenance-free, Energy-efficient. Impact Windows and Doors Lic& Ins Call 561-670-2637 You’ve seen the REST...now compare the BEST Greenwise Builders, Inc. #CBC051244

BOB CAVANAGH ALLSTATE INSURANCE Auto • Home • Life • Renters • Motorcycle • RV • Golfcart • Boat Serving the Western Communities for 24 years Call for a quote 798-3056, or visit our website. www.allstateagencies.com/ rCavanagh

GREENTEAM LANDSCAPING — We make your grass look greener than the other side Call now 561337-0658. www.greenteamllc.com

MOLD & MILDEW INSPECTIONS Air Quality Testing, leak detection.

US building inspectors, mention this ad for discount. 561-784-8811.

RJA PAINTING & DECORATING, INC. — Interior, Exterior, Faux Finish, Residential,Commercial.Lic. #U17536 Rocky Armento, Jr. 561793-5455 561-662-7102 J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established in 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential.

Interior & Exterior painting. Certified pressure cleaning & painting contractor. Lic. #U21552 Call Butch 309-6975 visit our website at www.jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com

THE MASTER HANDYMAN — All Types of Home Repairs & Improvements. No job too big or small done right the first time every time 40 yrs of satisfied customers. See me on Angies List. Tom (561) 801-2010 or (954) 444-3178 Serving Palm Beach and Broward Counties.

BILLY’S HOME REPAIRS INC. REMODEL & REPAIRS — Interior Trim, crown molding, rottenwood rep air, door installation, minor drywall,kitchens/cabinets / countertop s, wood flooring. Bonded and Insured U#19699. Call 7919900 or 628-9215

JOHN PERGOLIZZI PAINTING INC. — Interior/Exterior - Rep aint specialist, pressure cleaning, popcorn ceiling, drywall repair & roof painting. Family owned/owner operator. Free Est. 798-4964 Lic. #U18473 COLORS BY CORO, INC. — Interior/Exterior, residential painting, over 20 yrs exp. Small Jobs welcome. Free est. Ins. 561-383-8666.

Owner/Operated. Lic.# U20627 Ins. Wellington Resident

TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS 793-3576

JEREMY JAMES PLUMBING — Licensed plumber, legitimate estimate. Water heaters, new construction. CFC1426242. Bonded and Insured. CFC1426242. 561-601-6458

ANMAR CO .—James’ All Around Handyman Service. Excellent craftman Old time values. Once you’ve had me! You’ll have me back!

Lic. Ins. Certified Residential Contractor CRC 1327426 561-248-8528

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE CALL 793-3576

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J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential.

Interior & Exterior p ainting.

Certified pressure cleaning & painting contractor. Lic. #U21552 Call Butch at 309-6975 or visit us at

ClubZ TUTORING All Subjects: PreK-Adult

FCAT SPECIALS 561•333•1980 CLUBZ.COM America’s Largest In-HomeTutoring Co.

www.jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com

MR. CLEAN PRESSURE CLEANING — 27 years. Roofs $100+up • Wall $75+up • Driveways $50+up and Patios $20+up (Chlorine PreSoak). Licensed & Insured 561541-4339

MINOR ROOF REPAIRS DON HARTMANN ROOFING — Roof painting, Carpentry. Lic. #U13677 967-5580 HORIZON ROOFING QUALITY WORK & SERVICE — Free estimates, No Deposits. Pay upon completion, res/comm.reroofing, repairs, credit cards accepted.

561- 842-6120 or 561-784-8072 Lic.#CCC1328598 ROBERT G. HARTMANN ROOFING — Specializing in repairs. Free estimates, Bonded,insured. Lic. #CCC 058317 Ph: 561-790-0763.

ROOFING REPAIRS REROOFING ALL TYPES — Pinewood Construction, Inc. Honest and reliable.

Serving Palm Beach County for over 20 years. Call Mike 561-3090134 Lic. Ins. Bonded. CGC023773 RC-0067207 ROBERT CHERRY ROOFING INC Reroofing - Repair - Waterproofing 561-791-2612 or 954-741-4580 State Lic.& Ins. #CCC-1326048

SECURITY — American owned local security comp any in business 30 plus years. Protection by officers drug tested. 40 hour course. Licensed & Insured. 561-848-2600

PAPERHANGING BY DEBI — Professional Installation,Removal. Repair of Paper. Neat, Clean & Reliable. Quality work with a woman's touch. 30 years experience. No Job too big or too small. Lic. & Ins. References available. 561-795-5263

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

SATURDAY MARCH 26th, 8:00 a.m - 3:00 p.m. — Variety of items.

385 La Mancha Ave. (Off of RPB SATURDAY MARCH 26th, 7:00a.m. - 3:00p.m. — huge garage sale, lawn mower, generator, power washer, wet vac, christmas decor, pots & pans & more. 145 Monterey Way (Off Crestwood/ Saratoga) RPB B vd )l.

NEXT SATURDAY APRIL 2nd, 8:00a.m. - 1:00p.m. — YARD SALE Lake Pointe, White Coral Way. Clothing, housewares, furniture, misc. NO EARLY BIRDS PLEASE.

JOHN’S SCREEN REPAIR SERVICE — Pool & patio rescreening.

Stay tight,wrinkle-free,guaranteed!

CRC1329708 call us 798-3132. www.poolscreenrepair.com

ACCORDION SHUTTERS — Gutters, screen enclosures, siding, sof fits, aluminum roofs, Serving the Western Communities. Since 1985.

U-17189 561-791-9777

AQUATIC SPRINKLER, LLC — Complete repair of all types of systems. Owner Operated. Michael 561-964-6004Lic.#U17871 Bonded & Ins. Serving the Western Communities Since 1990 TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS 793-3576

SPECIALIZING IN BATHROOM REMODELING — Free estimates serving South Florida since 1980.

Quality you expect, service you deserve. License, bonded and insured. U21006 561-662-9258

AMERICAN TREE SER VICE Tree T rimming, landscaping,removal, hauling & stumps Most Palms $20.

Lic.Ins. Free Estimates Call Roy 373-6117 or Jimmy at 329-0213

2000 HONDA ACCORD — 209,000 miles, red w/cream leather interior good running condition, good A/C $5,000 OBO 561-7137794 2001 PONTIAC MONTANA VAN — Loaded 76,022 miles. $5,000 OBO 561-784-7763 HAVE AN AUTOMOBILE TO SELL PLACE YOUR AD HERE CALL 793-3576

HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER opening in Wellington needs CERTIFIED PART TIME TEACHERS new and experienced elementary & secondary teachers wanted to instruct K-12 in Reading, Math, SAT/ACT Exam Prep. No lesson plans or homework, paid training and flexible hours.

Please e-mail resume to marlenegiraud@hlcwellington.com or call 561-594-1920 and leave a message TEACHERS/TUTORS P/T SAT/ACT/FCAT- MATH Flexible Hrs. Great Pay. PB County Area Experience required Fax: 828-8128 E-mail tutorking@wpb3331980.com BUSY ACCOUNTING OFFICE — needs Secretary/computer literate permanent position. Please fax resume to 561-333-2680 VOLUNTEER NEEDED — 14 years and over for community service. Have fun with animals & kids 792-2666 WINDOW INSTALLERS WANTED Lic. & ins. subcontractors only. Top Pay. No Brokers. Call Matt 561714-8490 PART TIME MEDICAL ASSISTANT— needed for busy medical office. Must have pediatric experience. Fax resume to (561) 7930490 or call (561) 793-3232

PT DRIVER NEEDED FOR DISABLED PERSON — Perfect for a homemaker or retired person. Disabled adult (no lifting) needs rides to Dr.'s appt s., errands and shopping. Must have valid driver's license, good driving record and flexible daytime M-F hours. Please call 561-366-7967 and leave detailed message.

EVENING MANAGER — wanted for take-out pizza restaurant in Belle Glade. Fax resume to 561-993-2111 PART-TIME SECRETARY WANTED — Work with local religious organization 15 hours per week. 3 or 4 Days W eek.

Please E-Mail resume RABBIM@BELLSOUTH.NET OFFICE ASSIST ANT PA R TTIME — Must be analytical with above average Excel skills. Must be familiar with databases, report generating. 3-4 hours a day, 3-4 days per week. Hours flexible.

Wellington area. E-mail resume to felicem2@bellsouth.net or 561-3336770 DRIVERS WANTED — Full-Time/ Part-Time W ellington Town-Car NIGHT DISPATCHER — for Wellington Town-Car. Call for details 561-333-0181

TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS 793-3576

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APARTMENT FOR RENT — 1 bedroom, 1 bath, kitchen, living room, private entrance, electric & cable included. $700 mo. 561-252-2622

EFFICIENCY FOR RENT — fully furnished/full kitchen,TV,washer/ dryer. Private entrance. No smoking.No Pets. Single adult $700 per month includes all! 561-6320464 561-790-0857 T OWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS 793-3576

CONDO FOR RENT — ROYAL PALM BEACH, must be 55 or over.

Clean 1 bedroom, 1.5 baths, transportation, pool, movies etc. $600 per month. Call 561-602-9584 2/2 NEW APPLIANCES — good condition “The T rails” good area. pool and amenities. 561-714-8376 561-793-1718 $900 monthly. Cable included.

TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS CALL 793-3576

TOWNHOME FOR RENT — 2 / 2 2 car garage. Lakefront seasonal or annual lease. No Pets 561-6442019

1.55 ACRE LOT — 2 story barn, with loft horse stall, garage, water, electric, phone, $50,000. Call 561572-1782 WELLINGTON 2/2 VILLA FOR SALE — Move-in Ready! New paint, new carpet, new kitchen flooring, outside patio entryway. Light & bright. Call Lorna (561) 319-1292 Keller Williams Realty. $78,500.

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COACH HOME FOR SALE IN WELLINGTON — 1869 Sq. Ft. Coach home on Lake Wellington. 3 BR,2BA, Loft screened porch.

Mayfair at Wellington, a 55+ gated community. End unit in pristine condition with many upgrades. Must see the only spectacular view of Lake Wellington. $325,000 Call 561-236-0420

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT — in Wellington Commerce Park off Pierson Road. Furnished or Unfurnished 575 Sq. Ft. with beautiful view of water. 2 upscale private offices, reception area, bathroom and storage loft. AvailableImmediately $600 per month (561) 722-7195

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