Town-Crier Newspaper March 18, 2011

GOLTZENÉ TAKES SEAT ON LOX COUNCIL SEE STORY, PAGE 3

GANNON, COUNTY SPAR OVER WAIT TIMES SEE STORY, PAGE 7

THE

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

Your Community Newspaper

Volume 32, Number 11 March 18 - March 24, 2011

ITID Sends Park Expansion Plan To County For OK

INSIDE

New Senior-Care Facility Near Mall Is Now Hiring

The NuVista Care Community at Wellington Green, the first new senior-care facility to be built in the western communities in a quar ter-centur y, is nearing completion, and manager Palm Health Partners is actively looking for 150 people to round out its staff. Page 3

New Group Aims To Bring Neighborhoods Together

In an effort to bring local neighborhoods together, Royal Palm Beach resident Joseph Boyle has founded the Florida League of Neighborhood Associations. The organization hopes to bring neighborhood associations together to promote education, cooperation and innovation. Page 7

Potter’s House Family Winterfest In RPB

The Pott er’s House Youth and Children’s Ministry held its annual fundraiser Family Winterfest on Friday, March 11 in Royal Palm Beach. Page 10

Master Plan — An artist’s rendering of the redeveloped stadium proper ty at the corner of South Shore Blvd. and Pierson Road.

Equestrian Partners Unveil Plan For Stadium Property

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Mark Bellissimo, CEO of Equestrian Sport Productions, shared his vision last week for continued development of the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center.

Current plans center around a complete renovation of the old Palm Beach Polo stadium grounds at the corner of South Shore Blvd. and Pierson Road to become the future home of dressage competition, with a derby arena, covered arena, permanent barns and an “equestrian town center” featuring a hotel.

Bellissimo spoke to a gathering of several hundred at the Winter Equestrian Festival show grounds on Thursday, March 10.

“Something we are very excit-

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The second annual Royal Palm Art & Music Festival slated for Friday through Sunday, March 25-27, will be bigger and better than last year’s festival, which was hailed as a tremendous success, according to Palms West Chamber of Commerce CEO Jaene Miranda.

The chamber puts on the festival in partnership with Royal Palm Beach, utilizing parts of the Lake-

Several local volunteers were honored last month as part of the Hospice of Palm Beach County’s awards luncheon. The organization honored Wellington residents Carol Derer and Diane Harrypersaud during its “Black and White Masquerade Ball.” Page 22

Something For Everyone At Royal Palm Festival

Oftentimes, events promise “something for everyone,” but don’t always deliver. That’s not the case with the Royal Palm Art & Music Festival, returning for a second year March 25-27.

Live music, dozens of artists, rides, food and much more. Be sure not to miss it! Page 4 DEPARTMENT INDEX NEWS ............................. 2 - 14 OPINION ................................ 4 CRIME NEWS ........................ 6 NEWS BRIEFS ....................... 8 POLO & EQUESTRIAN .........17 SCHOOLS .....................18 - 19 PEOPLE........................ 20 - 21 COLUMNS .................... 29 - 30 SUMMER CAMPS ........ 33 - 35 BUSINESS ................... 37 - 39 SPORTS ....................... 43 - 46 CALENDAR...................48 - 49 CLASSIFIEDS ...............52 - 59 Visit Us On The Web At WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

ed about is the conversion of the old polo stadium, and this is the centerpiece of our presentation this evening,” he said.

Phase 1 of Bellissimo’s plan focused on the renovations to the existing show grounds.

“We’ve come a long way — we’re not there yet, in terms of Phase 1 being complete — but I think it’s a good time to look at Phase 2,” he said. “There’s an asset here that is an amazing property, which is the gateway to the equestrian community.”

Once owned by several different entities, the property has been brought under common ownership through Bellissimo’s Wellington Equestrian Partners.

“We didn’t want it to turn into a commercial development that didn’t have an equestrian interest,”

Bellissimo said. “We do believe that it will be the gateway and the focal point of this environment.

We want that to be spectacular in defining who we are and the events that we do here. We think that that stadium will allow us to expand the disciplines that are done here and the seasonal footprint.”

Bellissimo also wants to make the property a connection point between equestrian and nonequestrians. “We want to build it in a way that makes people want to come and enjoy themselves through various common interests,” he said.

This season, the Winter Equestrian Festival did not feature dressage competition, but there are plans to reintroduce it. “It’s not See STADIUM, page 22

Art & Music Festival Returns To Royal Palm Beach March 25-27

Hospice Honors Local Volunteers

OPINION

Serving Palms West Since 1980

side Challenger Park, Royal Plaza and Royal Inn properties at Royal Palm Beach and Southern boulevards. This year’s festival will run from 5 to 11 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday.

“Friday night is going to be primarily the carnival rides,” Miranda said. “We’re just opening them up early because they’re there.

Last year, we had a lot of people show up for the carnival rides on See FESTIVAL, page 22

Wellington Considers Closing A Portion Of Goldenrod Road

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Wellington is seeking residents’ input on a decision to close a portion of Goldenrod Road east of Greenview Shores Blvd. and build a new park for the community.

This week, more than 1,000 residents 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.

“If you look at the transitional neighborhoods, there are a series of things that we’ve looked at to help,” Village Manager Paul Schofield said. “One thing that came about during conversations is neighborhood defensive measures.”

Those measures, he said, can be anything from increased street lighting to extra police patrols. The road closure is considered a de-

fensive measure. “There are some neighborhoods in which we are trying to limit the number of access points,” Schofield said, “so that when we have an issue in that neighborhood, we know where the entry and exit points are.”

One of those neighborhoods is Goldenrod. “It makes it easier to supply security to a neighborhood if you have known accesses,” he said.

Regarding possible traffic problems, Schofield noted that most residents typically exit from that section of Goldenrod onto nearby Greenview Shores Blvd. or onto Wellington Trace.

“Otherwise you’re really driving a long way through a residential neighborhood,” he said. “It’s just not used that much.”

Schofield said the road closure would force people onto main roads instead of residential streets,

but that he wouldn’t expect any significant traffic increases on main roads.

In the letter, Wellington also proposes a neighborhood park between Hyacinth Place and Exotica Lane.

“Part of the issues with doing those road closures,” Schofield said, “especially in Goldenrod, is that the community park that the residents have access to is south of the canal.”

If the village decides to close the road, residents would be unable to reach the park. To solve that, the village is hoping to purchase a vacant lot and build a park.

“Before we [close the road], we would make sure that those neighborhood recreational facilities are available,” Schofield said.

The total estimated cost for the plan is approximately $375,000, See GOLDENROD, page 7

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors approved a revised development application for the Acreage Community Park expansion on Wednesday to send to Palm Beach County for approval, with the understanding that some modifications will likely be made.

Collene Walter of Urban Design Kilday Studios presented a refined plan based on input from workshops and board discussion. “All the program elements desired can easily be accommodated within the project site,” Walter said, pointing out that the plans still can be changed, including making the community center one story or two.

“We’re showing a total of 45,000 square feet,” she said.

“Overall, there are 465 parking spaces. They are distributed across the park from north to south, so there is adequate parking provided all around.”

Walter reviewed the amenities planned, starting with the community center on the north end of the 25-acre park. To the east of the community center would be parking for 245 vehicles. “That is a good amount of parking to serve that community center, as well as serve some of the amenities that are in close proximity to it,” she said.

Those include an amphitheater to the south, as well as a playground, splash park and walking trail.

An agreement with the county provides for connections of walking, hiking and equestrian trails to the county’s trails being constructed in a natural area to the west. “It complies with the interlocal agreement between the district and the county,” Walter said.

In the middle of the park would be a quarter-mile running and walking track that would encircle a multipurpose soccer and football field. To the west of that will be four tennis courts, as well as a restroom and storage pavilion, and a picnic area.

“We had the advantage of a tree survey and were able to work the picnic area in amongst the existing vegetation that would remain, so essentially that works out very nicely in that area,” Walter said.

“Farther south, we staggered the [basketball] courts to try to preserve other existing trees in those areas.”

Still farther to the south would be another multipurpose field.

“It’s really assumed that this will become an open green area for unstructured activities,” she said.

“But in the event that you need a field for any type of team play, it is sized adequately to accommodate that.”

At the south end, plans call for a skate park and equestrian parking area that connects to the local trail system. “That makes a great location for someone to park, leave their trailer, get on their horse and get into the whole system,” Walter said, explaining that she and her staff worked closely with county staff to see that the design fit well with the county’s planned trails.

“The plan really came together very nicely. Input from residents and your input over the last couple of months really helped refine and define a program,” Walter said. “We think it is a logical design that will serve your needs and hopefully build in a lot of flexibility down the road.”

Walter said her company would like to move forward with the county approval process to get the development order amendment application started. “For that purpose, what we do need is termed a preliminary site plan,” she said.

“That means that you do have flexibility down the road for making some general changes to the site, refining the location of the various sports facilities and the sidewalks.”

At this point, the county would be interested primarily in seeing that the trail entrances are compatible with its own plans, she said.

ITID President Michelle Damone said she liked the plan exSee ITID PARK, page 22

OPEN HOUSE AT CASPEREY STABLES

Casperey Stables in Loxahatchee Groves held an open house Sunday, March 13. There was a tour of the barns and riding rings, free pony rides, and children learned how to correctly brush a horse and go t to pet a few noses. Shown here are Kimberly Smith and Chelsea Robbins with Scooter.

MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 5 PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Wellington Chamber Installs Officers At Awards Luncheon

Awards Luncheon — Business Excellence Award winner Mason Phelps with 2011 Chamber President Michael Stone, Best Emerging Business Award winner Dr. Randy Laurich and 2010 Chamber President Bill Tavernise.

PHOTO BY LAUREN MIRÓ/T OWN-CRIER

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington Chamber of Commerce inducted its 2011 board of directors and honored two local businesses and a civic leader at a luncheon Wednesday, March 16 at the Wanderers Club at Wellington.

2010 President Bill Tavernise handed the position over to Equestrian Sport Productions President Michael Stone, who will serve as the chamber’s 2011 president.

Stone said that he is excited to take over the reins of the chamber and give something back to a community that has been so wonderful to him.

“I’ve lived in Wellington now for just over four years,” he said, “but it seems as if I’ve lived here

forever. The town is so welcoming, the people are so kind, and I’ve made true friends here.”

Stone thanked Tavernise for his leadership and dedication. “He worked tirelessly for the chamber and set a great example,” Stone said.

In the coming year, Stone hopes to focus on business within the community as well as to promote Wellington and the surrounding area to residents east of the community.

“We have to reach out to our eastern neighbors and show that Wellington is a great place to live, work and play,” he said.

But his main focus, Stone said, will be on promoting business in the community by working with local leaders and government of-

ficials on issues affecting business.

“We have to see how we can make it easier for people to be in business and stay in business,” he said. “I understand the difficulties of small businesses. And rest assured, my focus will be on helping all members, both big and small. We have a concentration of small, family-owned businesses that need help. Working together as a community, we can help them.

Everybody can help.”

Tavernise looked back fondly on his year as president, noting that it was one of the most successful years for the chamber yet.

“We had a lot of fun,” he said.

“I can’t believe it has been a year already. In 12 months, I made a lot of new friends. Wellington is a See CHAMBER, page 22

Page 2

March 18 - March 24, 2011

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NEWS

P.W. COMMUNITY FOUNDATION HOSTS INAUGURAL BIG A$$ AUCTION & BINGO The Palms West Community Foundation presented its inaugural “Big A$$ Auction” on Sunday, March 1 3 at the Wanderers Club at Wellington. The event included a “Big A$$ Bingo” game featuring a liv e donkey, a poolside barbecue, a large silent auction and live auction. For more info., visit www.palmswest.com.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/T OWN-CRIER

Saul Paru and Andrea Kalina look over silent auction items.

Selena Smith, Maureen Gross and Eric Gordon.

Maggie Zeller, Victoria McCullough with her rescued donkey Jesus and Maureen Gross.

Suzanne Cannon of the band Illumination per forms.

Faye Ford, Linda Lobianco and Debi Leed.

Henrik Nordstrom, Sheriff Ric Bradshaw and David Unversaw.

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

March 18 - March 24, 2011

Page 3

NEWS

New Senior-Care Facility Near Wellington Green Is Now Hiring

By Rod Proctor Town-Crier Staff Report The NuVista Care Community at Wellington Green, the first new senior-care facility to be built in the western communities in a quarter-century, is nearing completion, and manager Palm Health Partners is actively looking for 150 people to round out its staff.

Construction is on schedule, said Palm Health representative Ginny Valosin, with the 120-bed skilled nursing facility expected to open the first week of May. The 52 assisted-living apartments are set to be complete by August.

The complex, located adjacent to the Mall at Wellington Green, will bring senior care into the 21st century, according to Valosin, through the use of “smart room” technology that brings all facets of care together into a single, realtime system.

To make this a reality, Palm Health Partners will need people in all positions, ranging from entry level to management, said Michael Holzum, vice president of human resources at Palm Health.

“We are actively recruiting and interviewing and hope to have 150 people employed by the end of September,” he said.

What will make NuVista a unique employment opportunity, according to Valosin, is the company’s commitment to providing employees a safe and comfortable working environment, all the while emphasizing employee training and career development.

“We work to devote at least five percent of each employee’s day to learning,” she said.

Valosin also emphasized the record Palm Health enjoys of long-term employee retention.

“We want our employees to develop a relationship with our patients,” she said.

She emphasized, however, that all these efforts are directed at one goal: to benefit the patients.

NuVista is incorporating what is known as “evidence-based design,” a concept relying on studies demonstrating that patients fare better when cared for in settings that feel more residential than institutional.

The concept emphasizes settings and technology that reduce stress, contribute to a sense of well-being among both patients and staff, and minimize safety risks. The overall design also is expected to boost the responsiveness and efficiency of the staff.

A tour of the nearly completed project with Valosin and Palm Health representative Denise Fraile revealed a structure more akin to a resort hotel than a care facility.

Adjacent to the spacious main lobby is a fitness and rehabilitation center that will feature liftingtrack technology to allow patients to move more freely on their own about the room, and such exotic advances as a NASA-developed “zero-gravity” treadmill. The treadmill will allow patients to exercise in a pressure-regulated

environment that removes as much as 80 percent of physical stress from the body.

The hallways are spacious by industry standards and are suffused with natural light. Many decorative design and architectural touches are included to separate NuVista from more traditional institutional settings. A chef certified by the Culinary Institute of America will supervise all meals.

NuVista officials are proud of their state-of-the-art, spacious private rooms.

The “smart room” technology will allow, among other things, better monitoring of patients, more ease and comfort for patients as they move about, and real-time sharing of information among physicians, nurses, pharmacists and staffers.

Central to this is a sensor and monitoring system that will record, in real time, everything ranging from patient blood pressure to medication use, and collect that information into a data system immediately accessible to all involved. This system is designed to prevent the types of errors that can be encountered in healthcare settings. A digital touchpad will be installed next to every bed, allowing health providers instant access to all records.

The system is virtually paper-free.

One unique feature, aimed at the safety of both patients and staffers, is a track-lift system to aid in patient movement and mobility. In most such facilities today, when a

Opening Soon — Workers are now putting the finishing touches on the NuVista Care Community at Wellington Green, set to open in May. Palm Health Partners is actively looking to hire 150 people.

PHOTO BY R OD PROCTOR/T OWN-CRIER

patient needs to move about, staffers must either physically assist or wheel in a mobile lift system. Such methods increase the safety risk for both patients and staffers. At NuVista, each room is equipped with an individual, ceiling-mounted track-lift system designed to

significantly reduce those risks.

The location of NuVista, just off State Road 7 north of Stribling Way, will allow health providers to work in tandem with the nearby Wellington Regional Medical Center, officials noted.

While the adjacent 52-apart-

ment assisting living complex is not expected to be open fully before August, some residents will be moving in earlier, Fraile said.

Those interested in applying for a position with NuVista can learn more at www.palmhealthpartners. com.

Goltzené Takes His Seat On The Loxahatchee Groves Town Council

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Newly elected Loxahatchee Groves Town Councilman Tom Goltzené took his seat at the dais Tuesday, replacing former Vice Mayor Dennis Lipp.

In the March 8 election, Goltzené received 241 votes to Lipp’s 173 in the contest for Seat 5.

Lipp was given a plaque of appreciation for his service to the town, including his past four years on the council, his work as a leader in the town’s incorporation effort and many previous years of civic involvement.

Lipp thanked the council for the plaque. “It has been a long, hard

job,” he said. “We have a lot to get done. I wish this new town council the best of luck.”

Goltzené thanked the approximately 30 people there for attending the meeting, where the swearing-in was the only significant item on the agenda. “I want to thank everyone who supported me,” he said. “As to those who didn’t, I hope to change your mind. My door is always open.

You can call me any time you want.”

Goltzené, who has a farming services business, received the support of numerous residents with agricultural interests. He has said that plans for commercial See GROVES, page 22

Tom Goltzené takes the oath from Town Cler k Ann Harper.

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Dennis Lipp gets a plaque from from Mayor Dave Browning.

PHOTOS BY RON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER

Page 4

March 18 - March 24, 2011

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OUR OPINION

Something For Everyone At The Royal Palm Art & Music Festival Often, events promise “something for everyone,” but don’t always deliver. That’s not the case with the Royal Palm Art & Music Festival, returning for a second year March 25-27. Live music, dozens of artists, rides, food and much more. Be sure not to miss it!

A year ago, the Royal Palm Art & Music Festival made its debut, adding a unique cultural activity to the western communities. Co-produced by the Village of Royal Palm Beach and the Palms West Chamber of Commerce, it was the first event of its kind in the area, offering the usual assortment of festival features such as live entertainment, cooking competitions and kids activities, and adding a street art element to it, in addition to carnival rides, kayaking competitions and other all-ages activities.

Festival organizers invested a lot of time and resources into it, and they were rewarded with a successful turnout. Because last year’s event went so well, they’ve decided to add a third day. The festival will take place Friday through Sunday, March 25-27, and we encourage everyone to check it out.

If you can’t find something to enjoy at the Royal Palm Art & Music Festival, well, you’re not looking hard enough! The event kicks off with carnival rides on Friday night, which last through the weekend. On Saturday, March 26, the day starts at 11 a.m. and has a full slate of activities, from street painting and other art-related endeavors — including a juried art show and kids “scribbling” — to cooking and eating

contests (chicken wings and burgers!), as well as a business expo, tiki garden, beer garden and more. Meanwhile, there’s nonstop entertainment on two stages, featuring a diverse lineup of musicians and dancers. It might not have the big-name acts of SunFest, but that’s not entirely the point; the headlining acts are only half of the equation.

As a community-based event, the festival is about showing off the home-grown talent in our own backyard, and there’s a second stage just for them.

There are plenty of young local performers who work hard to continue developing their skills, including featured bands from Royal Palm Beach and Wellington high schools, Wellington Landings Middle School and Panther Run Elementary School.

For them, an event like this is the perfect opportunity to not only get exposure to the scores of people in attendance, but they will get the experience that comes with performing in front of such a large audience.

For those looking for a physical challenge, there will be kayak racing (and kayak rentals, for those not looking to compete). For a more relaxing time, Saturday night will feature a laser light show over Lake Challenger. And in case you’re still not sold on it, there’s yet another thing the Royal Palm Art & Music Festival has over bigger, more national-based events — admission is free. If you are interested and want more details, a full schedule of performances, activities and other festival information is online at www.royalpalmbeachfestival.com.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Seek Out Programs For Special-Needs Children I would like to take a minute of your time to share what I feel is valuable information. I am a preschool director, as well as the proud parent of a special needs child. I believe that my experiences may help other families in similar situations.

My son has a rare genetic disorder (congenital central hypoventilation syndrome) that affects his autonomic nervous system. Due to an imperfect nervous system, he has had issues with a lack of oxygenation that has led to a tracheostomy and mild brain damage. In many ways he is a “normal” 12-year-old boy. However, upon interaction with him, you become aware of his immaturity and cognitive deficits. In spite of his exceptionalities, I believe that my son will grow to be a responsible adult who contributes to society. Education is the first step to attaining success.

The importance of early intervention and inclusion cannot be emphasized enough. By way of my experience working with preschool children, I know that early exposure to cognitive and behavioral therapies will aid in future academic achievement.

There are many resources avail-

able to parents. Child Find and the voluntary pre-kindergarten (VPK) program are the programs that I have experience with and recommend. Child Find is a program for children three to five years of age who have speech, cognitive or behavioral deficits. This program is offered at many of our elementary schools within the community. During a typical preschool day, the children work on their individual goals. These individual goals are geared toward proper social interactions, problem solving, peer-to-peer communication, as well as touching upon ABCs, shapes and colors. These lessons are taught in a highly structured classroom with special education teachers and therapists.

The VPK program is a program for children four to five years of age that focuses on speech, language and literacy. The VPK program fosters emergent literacy skills and encourages children to articulate their thoughts and ideas.

A routine day includes alphabet recognition and phoenetical awareness, reading and story comprehension, as well as socialization with peers. Again, the classroom is very structured.

I credit these two programs for my son’s successful transition into a mainstream elementary classroom. I believe that these early experiences have helped build the skills that my son has acquired to compensate for his disabilities.

In closing, I encourage parents of special needs children to actively seek the resources available to their child. The Department of Children & Families and the Childcare Resource & Referral Service are two of the many organizations that can help in assisting parents with this search.

Lisa Kellar The Acreage

Patriot Memorial Is A Waste From the outset, I thought the Wellington Patriot Memorial was not only a waste of money but also misguided. Why a 9/11 memorial in Wellington? The event has little relevance for our community.

A memorial to the indigenous people who once inhabited these lands would be more appropriate and have more education value to future generations. To me, playing on the 9/11 event is political grandstanding.

Millie McCoy Wellington

Protect AntiCorruption Rules As a taxpayer, resident and voter in Palm Beach County, I really resent the groups that are trying to negate my vote and those of

nearly three-quarters of my fellow voters. Last November, we voted overwhelmingly to support an ethics commission and inspector general. Now there are those who are trying to dilute the powers that we, the voters, gave to this commission. The foundation of democracy is majority rule, and now there are those who would ignore my vote and that of the vast majority.

Do they like democracy only when it favors them?

It seems to me that only those with something to hide (or buy in to the idea of “Corruption County”) would fear the oversight of an ethics commission. The ethics commission and inspector general will not cost us taxpayers a cent.

In fact, we will gain through the elimination of waste, fraud and secretive deals. As an example, look at the millions saved by Miami-Dade County following the creation of the inspector general position. Open government is what we should all support and, in fact, demand.

County Commissioner Jess Santamaria has it right; he records all of his meetings and anyone who meets with him knows it. In fact, he was the force behind the creation of the oversight entities.

I urge my fellow voters to demand honest government and that our votes be upheld!

Arlene Olinsky Royal Palm Beach

Healthcare Law Overreaches Constitution This is reference to last week’s letter “Healthcare Reform Legislation Needed” [by Shirley Bass].

Reading her letter proves how uninformed people are about this healthcare bill. People in our country should know what our elected officials are doing as they pass bills that affect our lives everyday. A bill that has over 2,000 pages, that in itself is the biggest problem with this bill. A 10-page bill would have accomplished the concerns of the writer.

Does the writer know that the Obama administration has granted waivers from this bill to over 1,040 organizations? Does she know that Maine became the first state to obtain a waiver exempting it from a key provision to the

2010 bill? There is much to be said about this bill, too much to even try to mention all that is wrong with it, many favors were given for a vote. And that’s just plain unfair.

[U.S. District Judge Robert] Vinson’s ruling is not radical judicial activism. If you read his ruling, you will know that he stated that Congress must operate within the bounds established by the Constitution. It’s all to do with the constitutional role of our federal government.

The Congress that passed this act exceeded the bounds of its authority with this individual mandate.

True, we are in desperate need of healthcare reform, and there are many ways to go about that without cramming this monster bill down our throats.

Marianne Sylvestri Wellington

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

OPINION

The Infamous Alaskan ‘Bridge To Nowhere’ Is Alive... And Funded When Alaska’s late Sen. Ted Stevens was still with us, he was an unbelievably staunch supporter of that state’s infamous “bridge to nowhere.”

So staunch that he once threatened to use his well-crafted parliamentary slight-of-hand to prevent the Senate from conducting

Footloose and...

By Jules W. Rabin any meaningful business unless

his pet project was fully funded.

What actually is the bridge to nowhere? In essence, it is a bridge project costing $304 million to reach Gravina Island, a bustling, Alaskan hamlet of 50 people!

Stevens rammed the project through Congress and then defended it as long as he remained

in office.

Many level-headed legislators from both sides of the aisle have called it pork-barrel politics at its worst. Who but Stevens and certain influential “bridge beneficiaries” could disagree?

Recently in the newly elected Congress supposedly dedicated to

eliminating waste and “business as usual spending,” an amendment was proposed to strip the remaining funding for the bridge. Guess what: the amendment was defeated in the House of Representatives. Thus, the bridge to nowhere continues its costly, virtually useless march toward completion.

Want to have some fun? Let’s all write to our representatives and ask how and why they voted on the amendment. In many cases, I predict your letter will “get lost.”

Any of those who do answer and voted to defeat the amendment should have an interesting argument to back their vote.

NEWS

BDB: Plant Site Could Be An Economic Benefit For Royal Palm Beach

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Gary Hines of the Business Development Board of Palm Beach County told members of the Royal Palm Beach Wastewater Treatment Plant Task Force on Monday what his organization can do to attract businesses to the 160acre site if corporate/industrial interests are part of the proposal recommended to the Royal Palm Beach Village Council.

The task force is considering a number of options for the site, including recreation or park space, residential development, a mixture of uses, or doing nothing.

“We do not develop properties,” Hines said. “We do two things for all of Palm Beach County. We attract high-paying, clean jobs for the county. We also work with businesses already here. I’m not here to throw companies at you.”

Hines said he had been taken on a tour of the property and was impressed by the size of it, especially the sense of isolation from surrounding developments at the center of the site. “Looking around

360 degrees, you could not see other properties,” he said. “You have quite an asset. You are the envy of probably 36 of the 38 cities in the county. Very few cities have so much contiguous land at their disposal.”

Hines said that attracting businesses and industry from out of state would be good for local employment because only a small percentage of employees move with the firm. “Companies moving from New York or California or Canada or Latin America, typically only 10 percent will move with the company,” he said.

“Eighty-five to 90 percent of the jobs will be open to local residents.”

The BDB focuses on attracting corporate centers and does not deal with retail centers or residential developers. Hines said there is a lot of competition. “There’s probably 6,000 organizations like the BDB chasing those companies,” he said. “We do not charge.

We don’t even get a fee or commission.”

The county pays for 40 percent

THE

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of the operating costs, and the other 60 percent comes from memberships. The advantages of attracting corporate centers are great for municipalities because those businesses pay disproportionately higher taxes than residential developments, he said. They also present lower demand for utility services.

When the BDB has a prospect interested in available property, Hines said, it will invite the interested party on a tour of all the appropriate properties in the BDB’s computer listing. “We’ll bring the prospect to village hall and introduce them to you,” he said. “We go on a driving tour of all the properties they want to see.”

Hines stressed the importance of “shovel readiness.” The BDB maintains a database of available properties, along with the allowable land use and zoning, as well as their state of development.

“Any commercial property owner is allowed to list in that database,” he said.

Hines warned that local projects must be able to compete with land

in other states. In Tennessee, for example, a business can usually commence construction less than a year from the time that it closes on a contract. “We call that shovel-ready,” Hines said. “The site has the development order, it has the infrastructure, it has everything needed to go to the village and pull the building permit. There are sites west of here that are vacant property, but they don’t have proper zoning. It might take three, four or five years before you can go from the current zoning to light industrial commercial.”

Popular industries now include alternative vehicles, such as streetlegal golf carts, marine technology, life sciences, business consultation services, and medical research and development.

“We don’t just reach outside the county,” he said. “We also spend time helping local businesses grow and expand. It is important to reach out, but it is equally important to focus right here.”

Hines pointed out that the Office Depot headquarters in Delray Beach came very close to moving

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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

to Atlanta recently until the BDB was able to organize a counteroffer.

Hines said that a strong disincentive to businesses is resistance from the community, which has been evident in neighborhoods near the water plant site.

“If [prospective business developers] get the sense the community doesn’t want them, there are 2,300 other communities that do,” he said.

Vice Mayor Martha Webster asked about the incentives the BDB can offer, and Hines said the state can offer $3,000 to $5,000 refunds per job in state tax. The governor, under a quick-action closing plan, can offer $100,000

to make the offer more enticing.

The county has a job growth incentive program that offers $500 to $2,000 annually per household for jobs created, sometimes for as long as three years. The jobs must offer 15 percent higher than the average salary in Palm Beach County, he said.

Hines said another advantage of the treatment plant site is that local roads are nowhere near capacity. Because of the size of the site, industrial uses could easily be buffered from surrounding communities.

For more information about the BDB, visit www.smartstartpalm beach.com. The task force’s next meeting is March 28.

‘We attract high-paying, clean jobs for the county.

We also work with businesses already here...

You have quite an asset. You are the envy of probably 36 of the 38 cities in the county. Few have so much contiguous land at their disposal’ Gary Hines of the BDB POSTAL STATEMENT The Town-Crier (USPS #021547) is published weekly by Newspaper Publisher s Inc., 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414-7458.

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March 18 - March 24, 2011

Page 5

NEWS

YOUNGSTERS ENJOY A DAY WITH HORSES AT CASPEREY STABLES OPEN HOUSE

Casperey Stables in Loxahatchee Groves held an open house Sunday, March 13. There w as a tour of the barns and riding rings, free pony rides, and children learned how to correctly brush a horse and got to pet a few noses. For more info., visit www.caspere ystables. com.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/T OWN-CRIER

Casperey Stables owner Lori Cooper with her horse Izzy.

Audrey Thompson feeds Psylverado a mint while Donna Pengue looks on.

Everett Cooper gives a barn tour while Izzy sticks his head out to say hello.

Jake Berstein gets a pony ride with help from Gina Pengue.

Sarah Lefkowitz brushes Beau with help from Gina Pengue.

Breana, Sofia and Isabella Valderrama with Christa Persaud.

First Baptist Church Of Royal Palm Beach Super Sunday March 27

By Candace Marchsteiner Town-Crier Staff Report On Sunday, March 27, First Baptist Church of Royal Palm Beach will hold its third annual Super Sunday. The community and family day begins with a 10:30 a.m. church service under a large tent on the lawn, followed by a free barbecue lunch and family activities.

Senior Pastor Dale Faircloth said the event is a chance for the church to connect with its community and for the community to connect with a neighborhood

church family. It also gives church members, who may attend one of four weekly services, a chance to gather together.

“Many people don’t have extended family here, which makes the church family that much more important,” Faircloth explained.

Activities abound for all age levels, including a bounce house, rock-climbing wall, horseshoes and a small fishing tournament, to name a few. In the church’s outdoor sports area, organizers plan a 3-on-3 basketball tournament and will play pick-up games of

volleyball on the sand court.

“Come casual and dressed for outdoor fun,” Faircloth said.

Associate Pastor Dan Lang, along with the church worship team, will entertain the crowd with a concert, officially introducing Lang’s new CD By My Side. The Super Sunday event also marks the grand opening of the church’s Christian Resource Center where bibles and Christian books may be purchased. Information booths will aid newcomers in learning about organized child, youth and adult classes and activities.

Faircloth expects the same success as previous years. “Last year’s attendance was fantastic.

We had a great community atmosphere,” he said.

Typically held on Easter Sunday, this year’s plans were made with weather in mind since Easter falls in late April.

First Baptist Church of Royal Palm Beach is located at 10701 Okeechobee Blvd. For more information, visit the church’s web site at www.fbcrpb.com, e-mail information@fbcrpb.com or call (561) 793-2475.

An view of the fun at last year’s Super Sunday.

Page 6

March 18 - March 24, 2011

The Town-Crier

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CRIME NEWS

Woman Robbed In RPB Parking Lot

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report MARCH 12 — A Wellington woman was robbed last Saturday afternoon at the Groves at Royal Palm shopping plaza on State Road 7. According to a Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office report, a deputy from the Royal Palm Beach substation was dispatched to the shopping center after an unknown black male approached the victim as she was opening the door to her vehicle.

According to the report, the suspect pushed the victim and stole her handbag from the shopping cart she had been using. The suspect then ran southbound toward Shoma Drive. According to the report, the suspect is described as between 18 and 25 years old, approximately 5’7” to 5’10” with mid-length dreadlocks and wearing a red shirt.

••• MARCH 9 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched to a home on Wood Dale Drive last Wednesday afternoon in response to a residential burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 7:15 a.m. and 4:45 p.m., someone entered the victim’s home and stole $1,500 in jewelry from her bedroom. The victim said she locked her home before leaving for work, and arrived home to find both the front door and rear sliding glass door unlocked. According to the report, nothing else was taken from the home; however, the victim found a white button on her bedroom floor. DNA evidence was taken at the scene, but there were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

MARCH 10 — A resident of Olympia called the PBSO substation in Wellington last Thursday evening to report a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 7 p.m., the victim walked outside her home and observed that the passengerside door to her 2000 Toyota Solara was open and an unknown Hispanic male was in the vehicle.

According to the report, the victim yelled and ran back into the house. The suspect fled in an unknown direction. The victim discovered that $80 cash had been removed from her wallet. A canvas of the neighborhood yielded negative results.

MARCH 12 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach responded to a home in the Estates last Saturday morning regarding a vehicle burglary.

According to a PBSO report, the victim parked his truck outside his home on Cypress Trace at approximately 6 p.m. last Friday. When he went to use his truck at approximately 9 a.m. the following morning, he discovered his SunPass and two pair of sunglasses were

missing. The victim reported that he accidentally left the vehicle unlocked overnight. The stolen items were valued at approximately $300. DNA evidence was taken at the scene, but there were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

MARCH 12 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington responded to a home on Staghorn Street early last Saturday morning regarding a residential burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 10:30 a.m. last Friday and 2:30 a.m. the following morning, someone entered the victim’s home through the side bedroom window and stole the victim’s laptop computer and external hard drive as well as a necklace. The perpetrator(s) exited through the rear sliding glass door. The stolen items were valued at approximately $1,700.

There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

MARCH 13 — A Loxahatchee resident called the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation last Sunday to report an act of vandalism. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 11:30 p.m. last Saturday, the victim and her family were driving on Sycamore Drive when a group of juveniles threw eggs at their car. The victim went looking for the suspects but was unable to find them and went home. According to the report, the victim’s husband washed the car off, but the next morning noticed that the eggs had caused paint damage and dented the side of the vehicle, causing approximately $1,000 in damages. There were no suspects at the time of the report.

MARCH 13 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach was dispatched to a home in Counterpoint Estates last Sunday morning in response to a stolen vehicle. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 8 p.m. last Saturday and 10 a.m. the following morning, someone stole the victim’s blue 1998 Yamaha 50cc motorcycle. The victim said his son had been riding the motorcycle last Saturday and secured it in the shed with a padlock. The next morning, he noticed that the chain-link gate on the west side of the home was left open.

The deputy discovered a screwdriver lying near the shed, and the ground nearby was disturbed as if someone had jumped down on it.

There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

MARCH 13 — A resident of 63rd Place North called the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation last Sunday morning to report an act of vandalism. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 7:30 p.m. last Saturday and 10:30 a.m. the following morning, someone placed a See BLOTTER, page 22

Wellington Man Dies In Early-Morning Accident MARCH 15 — A Wellington man was killed early Tuesday morning in a traffic accident on Greenview Shores Blvd. east of Paddock Drive.

According to a Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office report, at approximately 3 a.m., 23year-old Ivan Navarro was traveling westbound on Greenview Shores Blvd., approaching Pad-

dock Drive. For unknown reasons, Navarro lost control of his 2005 Honda and traveled through the oncoming lane and onto the south shoulder of the road. The vehicle struck a palm tree and overturned. Navarro died at the scene.

According to the report, alcohol is not suspected to have played a role in the crash.

Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County is asking for the public’s help in finding these wanted fugitives: • Shane Pahl is a white male, 5’8” tall and weighing 155 lbs., with brown hair and blue eyes. He has tattoos on his lef t arm and neck. His date of birth is 07/ 11/91. Pahl is wanted for failure to appear on a charge of possession of cocaine. His occupation is unknown. His last kno wn address was Lake Wor th Road in Greenacres. Pahl is wanted as of 03/17/11.

• Lauren Wissman is a white female, 5’4” tall and weighing 145 lbs., with blond hair and blue eyes. She has a tattoo on her back and scar on her nose.

Her date of birth is 04/05/80. Wissman is wanted for felony violation of probation on charges of grand thef t (two counts) and fraudulent use of personal identification information, and fraudulent use of a credit car d, and misdemeanor violation of probation on a charge of offer to commit prostitution. Her occupation is unknown. Her last known address w as Dockside Circle in Greenacres.

Wissman is w anted as of 03/17/11.

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.

Shane Pahl

Lauren Wissman

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 18 - March 24, 2011

Page 7

NEWS

New Group Aims To Bring Together Neighborhood Associations

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report In an effort to bring local neighborhoods together, Royal Palm Beach resident Joseph Boyle has founded the Florida League of Neighborhood Associations. The organization hopes to bring neighborhood associations together to promote education, cooperation and innovation.

By bringing neighborhood and condo associations together, Boyle hopes to build beneficial relationships among local communities and share information, best practices and ideas about aspects of running a community association.

“Working together, I think we can make things better in our communities,” Boyle said, noting that his goal is to start locally, and then grow into other areas of the county and, ultimately, across the state.

At a luncheon Sunday, March 13 at the Links at Madison Green, Boyle gathered the heads of neighborhood associations from throughout Royal Palm Beach, Wellington and the western reaches of West Palm Beach for a leadership luncheon to present the FLNA concept.

Boyle said that the organization’s mission focuses on “trying to promote education and communication to bring condo and homeowners’ associations together so that we can develop a synergy between us.”

He noted that it’s often hard for neighborhood associations to recruit volunteers, and said that by joining FLNA, an organization could take advantage of learning

from the group and other associations how to tackle obstacles it may face.

“The burden falls on you, unfortunately,” he said. “We’re stuck as homeowners running a company, a company that could have hundreds of thousands of dollars in revenue and expenses per year.

And there are tax laws that apply.

We’re doing it because someone knocked on our door and we said, ‘Oh yeah, I want to help.’”

But by banding together, the associations could navigate the pitfalls together, Boyle said. “The league is a way for us to find help from the inside and from the outside. We consider education and training to be very important,” he said.

Members of the league and homeowners in those communities would be privy to the free FLNA magazine, which will include useful information as well as profiles of local neighborhood associations, best practices and other topics.

Advertising revenue would finance the league until it expands, and then the organization could move to membership and subscription fees.

“We have to prove that we have worth,” Boyle said. “Otherwise people aren’t going to pay to join.”

Another advantage to joining the league would be to keep up to date with policies made by local or state governments that affect neighborhood associations.

One such policy would require the volunteer heads of associations to be certified, which Boyle said

Jerry Berger and Jack Charles with Joseph Boyle. would be a disincentive for people to take a volunteer job.

“We hope we get enough critical mass to where we can discuss with the legislators what is fair,” he said. “If you have to be certified to get on the board, people will be running away.”

Boyle noted that the league hopes to offer training and education to help association members address issues such as the foreclosure crisis and abandoned homes.

“Everyone is suffering through the foreclosure question,” he said.

“These are topics people want to know more about. We want to address them with seminars or training courses, and provide resources so that when homeowners come to you, you’ll have a presentation ready for them. These are the things that the league can do.”

A major benefit to joining the league is communication between

associations in the area and, hopefully, Boyle said, eventually across the state.

“Our goal is to have an open forum to share ideas and experiences,” he said, “so maybe together, we can develop a consensus on what works best.”

Attorney Randall Roger noted that some of the issues facing associations are routine and common among organizations across the state. Although most associations consult their own attorneys, money could be saved by pooling information.

“You don’t have to reinvent the wheel with your attorney each time a problem arises,” he said, noting that the same goes for accountants, contractors and other hired consultants. “There are systems and efforts that have previously been successful that you can pool for knowledge.”

For example, he noted that there

(Front row) Randall Roger, Brigitte Boyle, and Tito, Leonarda and Nina Mangiola; (back) Joseph Boyle and Steve Buxbaum.

Maggie Zeller (center) with Caroline and Jeff Hmara.

PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ/T OWN-CRIER

are ways to move foreclosures through the pipeline faster.

“By sharing your collective information through this organization, you will see cost savings,” he said. “You could approach your

attorney and say, ‘I heard about this, how could we implement it?’”

For more information about the league, visit www.flna.org or call Boyle at (561) 758-1618.

Problems At Tax Collector’s Office Concern County Commissioners

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Palm Beach County Tax Collector Anne Gannon on Tuesday discussed the ongoing problem of wait times at her offices at a meeting of the Palm Beach County Commission.

Wait times have soared since Florida re-assigned the task of issuing driver ’s licenses to county tax collectors, rather than state-run offices.

Although the tax collector is an independent office, the county has received numerous calls from residents complaining about long waits and confusion over the documents needed to renew a driver’s license, according to commissioners.

The confusion over driver’s license renewal has been exacerbated by the new “Real ID” federal requirements, which mandate additional paperwork before licenses can be issued.

Gannon asked for county cooperation in smoothing some of the wrinkles in the operation of her offices.

Gannon’s offices now oversee the renewing and issuing of driver’s licenses, along with the renewing and issuing of vehicle registration, tags and titles. The tax collector’s office is also responsible for collecting and distributing county tax revenues, as well as issuing hunting licenses and other services.

“During this whole transition, we have trained 156 staff people,” she said. “It takes two weeks, and this is just driver’s license training. All of our staff members have had to go through it, as well as the new hires. We fingerprinted and background-checked all of our staff members, which is required by law for anyone who deals with driver’s licenses.”

Gannon has added staff at her Delray Beach, Palm Beach Gardens and Lantana offices, and staff

will be added in Royal Palm Beach and Belle Glade when they become full-service offices. “Our ability to add additional staff people in any of our other offices is limited due to space limitations,” she said.

Several offices are being renovated with help from the county.

Work includes adding canopies at some of the offices so people can get out of the sun while waiting in line. Fences are being put up around the driving courses. “Unfortunately, we have some people who actually have come for a driver’s test and taken out a tree or two,” Gannon said.

The tax collector’s office has participated in community meetings and distributed Real ID tool kits wherever possible, she said.

It has also published numerous public service announcements, put up banner ads for educational links and made multicultural efforts to inform the public what to expect and what they will need for driver’s license renewal. “We’ve actually made a major impact through a number of business organizations that have allowed us to put the link on their web site,” Gannon said.

Ongoing challenges include an unfunded mandate from the state, as well as older and unreliable computer systems inherited from the state, Gannon said.

In addition, the Homeland Security Real ID Act is causing confusion for people trying to renew their driver’s licenses because they don’t know what documents they need. Some of the documents can be difficult and time-consuming to obtain. All drivers are required to come to the tax collector’s office personally before 2017 to renew their licenses.

“The Homeland Security Real ID Act is very confusing to our customers,” she said, adding that after 2017, when everyone is compliant, the demand on the office

should go down significantly.

The office also must be diligent in preventing fraud in driver’s license transactions. “We’ve already experienced a number of those issues,” Gannon said.

“We’ve worked very closely with Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the sheriff’s office to identify some of the people actually attempting to bribe people in line or our staff.”

Since April 2010, when the tax collector’s office assumed driver’s license responsibility, the waiting time for services has increased from five minutes to about 50 minutes.

“There are actually three kinds of wait times,” Gannon explained.

“One is the time from when the client gets there until they get into our system. We have no control over that, and we don’t track it.

We do have people who triage the lines to make sure the client has the right kind of documents and inform them at that time so they can leave and go get the right documents. From the time the queue ticket is issued until they get in front of a clerk is an additional wait time.”

The actual transactions, depending on the type, usually take about 18 minutes if everything goes correctly.

Future plans to improve service include the posting of web-based real-time wait times for each center, activating a DMV appointment system, text alerts for realtime wait times and a client advocate to help solve customer issues.

“There are some things that we’d like to collaborate with the county on during this process, and one of them is to add a banner link on the county’s home page so that people will have one more additional way to understand what documents they need to furnish when they come into our office to be Real ID compliant,” Gannon said.

She also asked that county staff distribute driver’s license tool kits whenever they speak in public places so that more people will know what documents they need.

Commissioner Burt Aaronson said his office has had increasing calls complaining about the tax collector’s office. “Most people in the county do not know that you are an independently elected constitutional tax collector,” Aaronson said. “As a result, we get the blame for everybody that waits in line… We’re getting the brunt of everything that is going wrong in your office.”

Aaronson said the county has offered the tax collector’s office various services such as telephones, software and printing, but Gannon chose to contract her own firms. “When you talk about cooperation, it’s a two-way street,” Aaronson said. “This is costing the county money.”

Goldenrod

Road Closure

continued from page 1 according to Wellington staff member Nicole Evangelista. The road closure work would cost about $175,000, while the cost to purchase and develop the park would be about $200,000.

Schofield stressed that no decision has been made yet on whether to close the road or build the park. Instead, Wellington hopes to bounce the idea off residents in the Goldenrod neighborhood at two community meetings, scheduled for Wednesday, March 23, and Tuesday, March 30, at 6:30 p.m. in the Wellington Municipal Complex (12300 W. Forest Hill Blvd.).

Additionally, Safe Neighborhoods advocates will be in the community early next week to speak with residents.

‘Real ID’ Requirements

There are three components to the documents needed to be compliant with the new federal “Real ID” rules.

Number 1: The per son must have an original or cer tified copy of ONE of the following: a U.S. birth certificate issued by a government agency in a state, U.S. territory or the District of Columbia; a valid U.S. passport or passport card; a consular report of birth abroad; a certificate of naturalization, Form N-550 or N-570; or a certificate of citizenship, Form N-560 or N-561.

Number 2: ONE form of proof of Social Security number: an original Social Security card bearing the person’s current full name; a W-2 form (not handwritt en); a paycheck or pay stub from a current employer; an SSA-1099 form; or any 1099 form (not handwritten).

Number 3: TWO proofs of residential address. The list of accepted documents to fulfill this requirement is quite long.

For more info., visit www.gathergoget.com/checklist.

Commission Chair Karen Marcus said she thinks the waiting lines will be reduced when Gannon implements an appointment system such as the one that was in

place when the DMV did license renewals. “I really think when you implement the appointment system, it would probably be to your benefit,” Marcus said.

Residents unable to attend the meetings or meet with the advocates can weigh in online at www. wellingtonfl.gov/community/ neighborhood-services, under “Goldenrod Survey.”

Schofield noted that the idea was actually presented by residents during a meeting last year.

“The idea came from the neighborhoods,” he said. “We really want to see what residents have to say, so that’s why we

sent [the letter] out.”

Ultimately, Schofield said, it would be a Wellington Village Council decision.

“We don’t do anything without the consent of council,” he said.

“Right now, we’re out talking to the neighborhood. If there’s no support for it in the neighborhood, we won’t do it.”

For more information, call the Safe Neighborhoods Office at (561) 791-4796.

The portion of Goldenrod under consideration for closure.

Page 8

March 18 - March 24, 2011

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NEWS BRIEFS LGLA To Host Musical Event March 24

Sandy Erb of Royal Palm Beach, Clarence Clemons and Kids Cancer Foundation President Michelle O’Boyle of Wellington at the Rock Out Kids Cancer Music Festival.

Music Festival Benefits Kids Cancer Foundation The second annual Rock Out Kids Cancer Music Festival was a huge success as more than 2,000 spectators attended and were treated to special performances by world-renowned saxophonist Clarence Clemons, a longtime member of Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band, and 10-year-old guitar prodigy Alex Shaw of Royal Palm Beach.

The Wellington-based Kids Cancer Foundation of South Florida was the beneficiary of the festival, which was hosted by headliners Big Vince and the Phat Cats and Elite Lending on Saturday, March 12 at the Riverwalk Events Plaza, underneath the east span of the Indiantown Road Bridge in Jupiter.

“This was a great event on so many levels,” said Michelle O’Boyle, president of the Kids Cancer Foundation. “We raised awareness, we raised money for the foundation, and it was a great night of fun for everyone.”

The Kids Cancer Foundation, which helps many local families with children battling cancer and blood disorders, is planning to open its new facility, the Kids Cancer Center, near Palms West Hospital this summer. The Kids Cancer Center will provide supportive care services that are sorely needed in Palm Beach and the surrounding counties.

For more information about the Kids Cancer Foundation, visit www.kidscancersf.org.

The Loxahatchee Groves Landowners’ Association will host a social event at its monthly meeting on Thursday, March 24 at 7 p.m. at Palms West Presbyterian Church (13689 Okeechobee Blvd.).

The event will include entertainment by the Old Time Jammers. This group of musicians has played at the South Florida Fair in Yesteryear Village for the past few years. The group likes to get together and play the type of oldtime music that is played in the Appalachian Mountain area. The songs are played on instruments such as auto harp, banjo, guitar, mandolin or fiddle.

Bring your lawn chair, sit back and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

Everyone is asked to bring a finger-food dessert item they can share with others. Soda and water will be provided.

For more information, call LGLA President Marge Herzog at (561) 791-9875.

WHDT Channels To Broadcast High-Goal Polo Wellington’s high-goal polo is returning to television in prime time. Again this year, WHDT will carry the Sunday games for the Gold Cup and U.S. Open 26-goal tournaments at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington.

UPCOMING Events

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Attend our informative upcoming events and meet our experienced surgeons and speakers.

March 22 Tuesday, 1pm

Are you at Risk for Diabetes?

March 23 Wednesday, 3pm

Living with Knee Pain?

Marci Sloane, MS, RD, LD/N, CDE

MAKOplasty Robotic Knee Resurfacing Gary Wexler, MD, Orthopedic Surgeon ®

March 25 Friday, 1pm

Discover Healthy Flavors Culinary Demonstration

March 28 Monday, 2pm

How Much is Too Much? Controlling portion sizes in today’s “Bigger is Better” society.

Chef Dennis Snee & Darla Martin, RD/LD, CDE

Christina Pike, RD/LD March 31 Thursday, 2pm

Osteoporosis Lecture & Screening

April 1

Diagnosis and Management of Facial Pain

Friday, 11am

April 6

Wednesday, 3pm

Harvey Montijo, MD, Orthopedic Surgeon

Jordan Grabel, MD, Neurosurgery & Jeffrey Rubin, MD, Neurology

Living with Knee Pain?

MAKOplasty® Robotic Knee Resurfacing Gary Wexler, MD, Orthopedic Surgeon

RSVP to 561.650.6023. Seating is limited, call now.

All lectures will be held in the Teleconference Room at Good Samaritan Medical Center unless otherwise noted. Refreshments will be served.

RSVP by phone now, scan with your smart phone QR Code reader!

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Improved coverage this season includes three cameras to bring viewers closer to the action and the addition of instant replay as an added feature.

Executive Producer Ron Allen promises outstanding coverage.

“Polo on television is as close to the X-Games as you can get,” he said. “Polo offers high-speed thrills and plenty of action. IPC has many of the most talented players in the world here, so it’s a show not to be missed.”

Allen brings an extensive background to the coverage as the announcer for the 40-goal Argentine Open on ESPN for four years running and announcing polo for Fox Sports TV as well.

“We are glad to be part of this project,” IPC President of Club Operations John Wash said. “The response to last year’s coverage convinced us to commit to this effort. Both our fans and our players will appreciate the television coverage.”

Prime Time Polo television starts with the Piaget Gold Cup and will conclude with the nation’s premier polo event, the U.S. Open.

Games will be broadcast from Miami to Palm Beach on WHDT channels 17 and 44 on Saturday nights at 9 p.m.

County PTA/PTSA To Attend Rally In Tallahassee The Palm Beach County Council of PTA/PTSA will head to Tallahassee on March 24 for the third annual Rally in Tally hosted by the Florida PTA. It will take place

starting at 11:30 a.m. outside the state capitol building (400 S. Monroe St., at Waller Park).

The Palm Beach County Council of PTA/PTSA will be represented by President Kay M. Stagray and President-Elect Jennifer Martinez. Many PTA members and stakeholders from throughout Palm Beach County are expected to participate in the rally, which will be held in support of funding for public schools in the coming legislative session.

The Florida PTA will conduct an orientation and advocacy training on March 23 at 7 p.m. As space is limited, reservations will be confirmed on a first-come, first-reserved basis. E-mail the county council at palmbeachcountypta@ yahoo.com or Florida PTA at info@floridapta.org to reserve your spot.

While in Tallahassee, attendees are encouraged to visit their legislators, attend hearings, and/or tour the capitol. If you are not able to attend the rally, your voice can still be heard by calling, e-mailing or writing your legislator regarding the issue.

Additionally, the Florida PTA has a prepared postcard available for downloading with a message for Gov. Rick Scott.

Blank postcards are available online at www.palmbeachcounty pta.com/floridaptanews.html.

South Florida 912 Anniversary Picnic March 20 South Florida 912 will hold a meeting and second anniversary

picnic Sunday, March 20 from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Mound Circle pavilion at John Prince Park (2700 Sixth Ave., Lake Worth).

The keynote speaker will be U.S. Congressman Allen West (RDistrict 22).

Other speakers include former Florida House Majority Leader Adam Hasner, State Rep. Pat Rooney (R-District 83) and Clash Radio.com raconteur Doug Giles, with remarks by Mike Lameyer, South Florida 912 co-founders Shannon and Doug Armstrong, Danita Kilcullen of the Fort Lauderdale Tea Party, Karin Hoffman of D.C. Works for Us, Dr. Richard Raborn of Delray 912, Lowell Levine of Boynton 912, Barbara Samuels of 912 Super Seniors and Century Village 912, and other guests.

Music for the event will be provided by Ivory Jim and Company.

Food will be provided by 912 sponsor Big Al’s Steaks (subs , chips, drinks and dessert) for a cost of $10 per adult and $7 per child. There will be a bounce house and face painting for the kids.

Other groups and clubs are encouraged to come out and set up informational tables for a fee of $25. You will need to bring a table and a chair. RSVP to info@ southflorida912.org.

The first 100 to RSVP for the event will get a free raffle ticket for a “patriot pack” to be given out on arrival. The prize package (a $100 value) includes an American flag, 912 shirts, a copy of the U.S. Constitution, a hat and gift card.

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NEWS

PANEL DISCUSSION AT P.B. COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER FOCUSES ON ISRAEL A panel discussion titled “Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions: Responding to the Campaign to De-Legitimize Israel” was held Thursday, March 10 at the Palm Beach County Convention Center. Panelists included Jonathan Tobin, Rabbi David Saperstein and Martin Raffel. It was moderated by William Daroff. For more info., visit www.jewishpalmbeach.org.

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

Dianne Kieffer and Rabbi Bertram Kieffer of Temple Beth Zion with Rabbi Alan Sherman.

Rabbi David Saperstein.

Panel participants gather with Jewish Federation staff.

ST. PETER’S HOSTS AWARDS CELEBRATION FOR UPWARD BASKETBALL LEAGUE St. Peter’s United Methodist Church in Wellington celebrated its Upward Basketball League season on Saturday, Mar ch 12. The “Most Christlike” awards were given out to children who displayed moral and ethical behavior. There was also a performance by Robyn Slain, a former collegiate basketball player who now travels the country entertaining with her basketball skills and sharing her faith.

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

One of the basketball teams is recognized.

Cheer Coordinator Christine Pierson says a few words.

Robyn Slain entertains with assistance from a young player.

Wellington Rotary To Host Party After April 2 Gay Polo Tourney The Wellington Rotary Club will hold its 2011 major fundraising event at an asado after party at the second annual International Gay Polo Tournament to be held Saturday, April 2 at the Grand Champions Polo Club off Lake Worth Road in Wellington.

The Gay Polo League and Phelps Media Group are organizing and sponsoring this major polo event for the second year in a row.

Polo teams from all over the country, including several international players, will take part.

The Wellington Rotary Club will provide a hospitality tent with food and drinks for the general public throughout the afternoon’s

matches. Starting at 5 p.m., after the trophy presentations, the club will host an asado after party. An asado is an Argentinean and Brazilian traditional barbecue. A wonderful array of grilled meats and dishes will be presented by Aaron’s International Polo Club Catering.

Also, a bar offering special drink features will be available throughout the evening. Entertainment including nonstop music and dancing, and mechanical bull riding will help make it a memorable evening.

The Wellington Rotary Club will also sponsor a Chinese auction tent during the afternoon and

evening, and will also hold a live action during a break in the music. Auction items will include polo lessons from a professional player, as well as other unusual surprises.

Last year’s event drew over 2,000 people, and this year’s event is expected to exceed that number. The polo matches are set to start at 1 p.m., immediately followed by the asado from 5 to 9 p.m.

Tickets are available separately for both events. Polo-only general admission is $20 each, and tickets cost $50 each. There are also VIP single and group tickets and some tailgate spaces available.

To purchase tickets for the event, visit www.wellington rotary.org or Phelps Media Group at (561) 753-3389 or www.phelps mediagroup.com. Credit Cards and PayPal are accepted.

The Wellington Rotary Club and Phelps Media Group invite the community to help support this major fundraiser for the club’s local charities, which include the Lord’s Place, Back to Basics and Junior Achievement of the Palm Beaches.

Rotary Asado Committee — Larry Kemp, Carol O’Neil, Maggie Zeller and Don Gross.

PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/T OWN-CRIER

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NEWS

POTTER’S HOUSE FAMILY WINTERFEST FUNDRAISER AT RPB CULTURAL CENTER The Potter’s House Youth and Children’s Ministry held its annual fundraiser Family Winterfest Frida y, March 11 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. The money raised will allow chaperones to accompany kids to camp and the buses to take them all to Florida’s west coast. For more info., visit www.palmbeachmiracle.org.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/T OWN-CRIER

Joanne Downey buys bake sale goodies from Renae Blight.

Pastor JoAnn Graves, Victor Norfus and Pastor Glenn Graves.

Event volunteers gather at the RPB Cultural Center.

Jim Milton buys raf fle tickets from Carleen Rovira.

Local worship band Cadence entertains the audience.

Amy Moffatt and Martin Santiago give Julia Pieris her raffle prize.

DOG FANCIERS ASSOCIATION HOSTS ALL-BREED DOG SHOWS AT FAIRGROUNDS

The Palm Beach County Dog Fancier s Association presented the 80th and 81st All-Breed Dog Shows in the Americraft Expo Centers March 12 and 13 at the South Florida Fairgrounds. Sponsored by Pedigree, the American Kennel Club-sanctioned event featured PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/T OWN-CRIER 1,053 dogs in 131 breeds or varieties. For more info., visit www.pbcdfa.org.

Judge Marion Lyons and junior handler Lucinda Napoli with Passion, who won Best Golden Retriever Puppy.

Cindy Rochow of Brighton Kennels in Wellington with Ryan Mightymoto and Rugby.

Katherine Bryant with Sullie.

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Experience the tradition

USPA Piaget Gold Cup Finals Sunday, March 20th Purchase Tickets Online | internationalpoloclub.com Club Line | 561.204.5687 Piaget Ambassador and American Polo Player, Nic Roldan

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NEWS

STEP BY STEP FOUNDATION HOSTS ‘ALL IN FOR CHARITY’ POKER TOURNAMENT The Step by Step Foundation hosted All In for Charity 2011 on Sunday, March 13 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center.

Guests enjoyed a Texas Hold ’Em poker t ournament, a casino, and silent and live auctions, with all proceeds going to benefit the Step by Step Foundation, a charity that works with underprivileged children in Haiti. For info., visit www.stepbystepfoundation.com.

PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ/T OWN-CRIER

Hillary Dobbs, Daniela Stransky, Olympic rider Margie Engle, Step by Step founder Liliane Stransky and Iliana Levi.

The Stransky family enjoys the evening.

Step by Step founder Liliane Stransky with foundation board member, Olympic rider and e vent auctioneer Jimmy Torano.

Artist Josée Nadeau shows off some of her work that was auctioned of f.

Clayton Brittan tries to win some play money at the roule tte table.

Nora Kizer, Iliana Levi, and Isabella and Samuel Kizer support the foundation.

ANNUAL FESTIVAL BRINGS ALL THINGS IRISH TO DOWNTOWN WEST PALM BEACH

The Irish Cultural Institute sponsored the 25th annual Irish Fest on Sunday, March 13 at the Meyer Amphitheatre in downtown West Palm Beach. Guests enjoyed vendors with Irish goods, traditional Irish food, beer, inflatable rides and lots of Irish music. For more info., visit www.irishflorida.org.

PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ/T OWN-CRIER

West Palm Beach Mayor Lois Frankel is thanked for her dedication to the event.

Derek Warfield of the Wolfe Tones leads children in the “Celtic Symphony.”

The Progidals Celtic R ockers perform.

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Page 15

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POLO & EQUESTRIAN

Audi Defeats The Hawks 13-8 In Gold Cup Action At The Polo Club It was a star-studded Sunday at International Polo Club Palm Beach as E!’s Giuliana and Bill Rancic joined fashion designer Betsey Johnson for Sunday brunch and polo as the 2011 USPA Piaget Gold Cup continued.

The featured match of the day had the Audi team take on the Hawks in a fight for the final spot in the tournament’s semifinals.

The teams finished the first chukker in a 1-1 tie before Audi started driving off with the game with second-chukker goals from Marc Ganzi, Rodrigo Andrade and Gonzalito Pieres. The Hawks responded with a single goal from Mariano Gonzalez and trailed 4-2.

The teams exchanged goals in the third, with Freddie Mannix and Gonzalez scoring single goals for the Hawks.

Andrade and Nico Pieres responded for Audi, which led 6-4 at halftime.

The Audi defense smothered the

Hawks’ attack in the fourth, leading 74 as the chukker ended. Nico Pieres added two more goals to the Audi total, and teammate Andrade scored his third goal of the day in the fifth. The Hawks scored on a penalty goal from Freddie Mannix, but trailed 10-5 with one chukker left to play.

The Hawks had their most productive chukker of the match in the sixth with three goals, but Audi still had a few rounds of ammunition left as well. Ganzi, Nico Pieres and Gonzalito Pieres each scored to close out the game with a 13-8 Audi win.

On Sunday, March 20, catch multiple Grammy-winning artist Jon Secada, who just recently released his latest album Otra Vez, perform the national anthem to kick off the finals of the 2011 USPA Piaget Gold Cup. Purchase your tickets at www . internationalpoloclub.com.

(Left) Giuliana and Bill Rancic. (Right) Bill Ranic with Betsey Johnson.

PHOTOS COURTESY LILA PHOTO

Rodrigo Pessoa Takes The Top Honors Before Large Crowd At WEF Saturday Night Lights at the Winter Equestrian Festival brought a crowd of over 4,200 spectators out to the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center last weekend to watch Brazil’s Rodrigo Pessoa and Let’s Fly jump to victory in the $231,000 FEI World Cup Grand Prix CSI 4*-W presented by the Bainbridge Companies. Pessoa earned the winning cut of prize money after an exciting jump-off.

Leopoldo Palacios of Venezuela designed the course for a field of 42 starters. Eight jumped clear in the first round to advance to the jump-off. Six of those eight were the top women riding for the United States, followed by two of the world’s best men from Great Britain and Brazil. The men were able to best the ladies, taking the top two places with the only clear rounds over the short course.

Rodrigo Pessoa and Double H Farm’s Let’s Fly went last in the jump-off and were double clear in 51.57 seconds to take home the top prize. Nick Skelton and Beverly Widdowson’s Carlo 273 finished double clear in 55.23 seconds to place second.

Lauren Hough and Laura Mateo’s Quick Study had the fastest four-fault round in 49.50 seconds to finish in third.

Candice King and Skara Glen’s Davos had four faults in a time of 50.36 seconds to place fourth.

Jumpers competed in the International Ring last Wednesday, and the first class was the $8,000 G&C Farm 1.45m Jumpers. Olympian Eric Lamaze rode Take Off for Artisan Farms LLC to victory. The opening class of the week had 31 entries, and four were clear to advance to the jump-off. Three of those were double

clear, and it was Lamaze and Take Off with the fastest second round time in 34.339 seconds. McLain Ward and Oh’ D Eole were second in 34.758 seconds, while Kent Farrington and Haity McNerney’s Valhalla were third in 35.089 seconds.

Eleven teams made up of top young riders showed last Thursday evening in the $20,000 Artisan Farms Young Riders Team Competition. Coached by Tiffany Foster, Team 4 jumped to victory with just four faults as their two-round total. Riders Christina Kelly, Caitlin Ziegler, David Arcand and Quentin Judge had five clear rounds among them, and Arcand was one of just three riders to jump double clear through both rounds of competition.

The teams were close after the first round of competition, but it was Team 4 that led the way through both rounds to come out in first place. With four faults from Kelly and Diamond Edge Farm’s Creata Van Ten Biesen, and clear rounds from Ziegler and Artisan Farms’ VDL Groep Camara and Arcand riding Santo’s Utopia, the team finished with just four faults in round one. Three clear rounds from Kelly, Arcand and Judge riding Double H Farm’s HH Manrique Z left the team with zero faults in round two and kept them in the lead.

In second place, Team 6 made up of Meg O’Mara, Katherine Dinan, Charlotte Jacobs and Reed Kessler finished with eight and nine faults for a two-round total of 17. Team 7 members Catherine Pasmore, Katherine Newman, Alise Oken and Kaitlin Campbell finished in third place with a total of 20 faults.

Three horse and rider combinations were able to jump double clear through the two rounds of team competition to make a big move up in the individual series standings. Sarah Tredennick rode Wood Run Farm’s Vigaro to two clear rounds for Team 3. Luis Larrazabal and Anabel Simon’s Sacramento jumped clear in both rounds for Team 9, and Arcand rode his own Santo’s Utopia to two clear rounds for Team 4.

Following the class, Kessler holds a steady lead at the top of the series standings. Jacobs sits in second, and Arcand moved up into third place.

Kent Farrington and Valhalla were the fastest last Friday in the $31,000 G&C Farm 1.45m Classic, part of an initiative to increase FEI Rolex ranking classes at WEF. Thanks to the support of G&C Farm, there are now 27 ranking classes during the WEF. In the 1.45m FEI class, there were 60 entries. Thirteen were clear over the speed track designed by Leopoldo Palacios of Venezuela. Farrington and Valhalla, a nine-year-old Dutch mare, took up a speedy gallop and finished the course in 62.92 seconds. Second place went to McLain Ward and Vocas, owned by Louisburg Farm, who were just off the pace in 62.98 seconds. Third place went to early leaders Pablo Barrios and G&C Sinatra, who finished in 65.00 seconds.

Last Saturday, Charlie Jacobs and Leap of Joy won the $15,000 ECB Equine Spa High Amateur-Owner Jumper Classic.

On Sunday afternoon, Richard Spooner and Molly Ohrstrom’s Billy Bianca jumped to victory in the $25,000 Suncast 1.50m Championship Jumper Series

Classic. Forty-seven entries jumped in the first round, and seven were clear to return for the jump-off. Billy Bianca and Spooner had the fastest of four doubleclear rounds in 36.663 seconds to earn top honors.

Nick Skelton finished second and third with his two jump-off mounts. Skelton and Big Star, owned by Beverly and Gary Widdowson, jumped clear in 37.190 seconds to take the reserve prize. With Caetano, owned by Monarch International, Skelton was clear in 37.641 seconds to finish in third. The final clear round belonged to Mario Deslauriers and Jane Clark’s Cella, who stopped the clock in 37.854 seconds to finish fourth.

Photo Shoot, an eight-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding, was awarded the championship ribbon in the First Year Green Working Hunters. Photo Shoot is owned by Bill Schaub and shown by Molly Sewell. Photo Shoot was able to secure the championship by winning one class over fences and placing third in two other classes.

Reserve championship was awarded to Waterford. No stranger to the winner’s circle, Waterford secured the reserve championship by winning one class, placing third in another class, and receiving two sixth-place ribbons in two more classes. Waterford, a nine-year-old Hanoverian gelding by Don Frederico, is owned

by Becky Gochman of New York and was shown by Scott Stewart.

Among the exciting classes last week was the Platinum Performance USEF Show Jumping Talent Search equitation class. Elizabeth Benson took home the blue ribbon and top prize in the event.

Benson was aboard her own mount, San Remo VDL, an 11-year-old Latvian Warmblood gelding.

With 42 entries and only 12 called back to flat, the class could have been pinned in numerous ways. Sydney Shulman was aboard the Millcreek Stables entry Eli to take the second-place ribbon. Christina Kelly was awarded the third-place ribbon aboard the Wudina Group entry Kennzo De Conte.

The Amateur-Owner 18-35 3’3” Hunters opened up the morning competition last Saturday in the E.R. Mische Grand Hunter Ring. Tracy ScheriffMuser of Wellington and her horse Macallan were awarded the championship in a division sponsored by Martha Jolicoeur of Illustrated Properties.

Scheriff-Muser purchased Macallan, an eight-year-old Holsteiner stallion, six weeks ago.

The Adult Amateur 36-50 Hunters saw a large group of 21 entries last week. The winning pair of Robert Prant’s Corsair and Nancy Hooker secured the championship over all the other entries with two wins, a second and two sixth-place ribbons in the division. The reserve championship was awarded to French Kiss, a seven-year-old Westphalian gelding owned and shown

by Tina Furey. The duo was fifth in the under saddle, won one over fences class, and placed third in two more of the division’s classes.

The 2011 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival features 12 weeks of competition running through April 3. Visit www. equestriansport.com or call (561) 7935867 for more information and complete results.

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NEW HORIZONS AMBASSADORS LEARN TO BE ROLE MODELS

New Horizons Elementary School ambassadors are fif th-grade students who act as positive role models. They exercise leadership by welcoming new students to New Horizons and taking new students on a tour of the school. Ambassadors par ticipate in many community service activities. Pictured above are New Horizons ambassadors with fifth-grade teacher and club sponsor Rober ta Thompson. The students are creating posters for an upcoming Save A Pet food and supplies drive.

Send school 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.

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SCHOOL NEWS

Great First Year At Everglades Elementary Everglades Elementary School students have participated in many exciting clubs throughout the school’s first year.

The school’s Safety Patrol kicked off with two very successful fundraisers. In addition to raising money for the trip to Washington, D.C., patrols have been diligently working their posts and making sure the school and students are safe. Sebastien Bravo and Skyler VanNess were elected as the two officers for the 201011 school year. The patrols leave for their trip to Washington, D.C. in May and are excited to see Mt. Vernon, the American History Museum and more.

The Everglades Elementary School Student Council sponsored its first-ever Food for Families drive in November. The council thanks all the families who graciously gave a vanful of canned and boxed items to a local food pantry. The food was distributed to families in the community for Thanksgiving.

In December, the students turned their efforts to Toys for Tots, collecting new, unwrapped toys for families in the Glades communities. In January, school spirit bracelets and car magnets were sold to raise money for the school’s planned butterfly garden.

The Extreme Green Garden Team meets every Tuesday to plant and harvest crops. The club sells organic vegetables it grows such as lettuce, broccoli, peppers, tomatoes and herbs picked fresh daily. The vertical garden teaches

students a different and more efficient way to garden using recycled water from cisterns as well as cocoa fiber and nutrients to grow the veggies.

Environmental Club members research the school’s interactive “green” wall by placing questions, interesting facts and suggestions for keeping the environment green. The students also collect used glue bottles, glue sticks, pens, crayons, markers, ink cartridges and highlighters from the various classrooms around the school. Not only are these items kept out of the landfill, but they earn money for the school as a bonus.

The Drama Club presented its holiday production of December Gifts in December. The Panther Percussion Ensemble performed some of their music for the holiday concert and entertained the audience at the school’s first honor roll assembly. They also performed at the district principals meeting. The school’s chorus and percussion ensemble music clubs began in January and will be performing for the March honor roll assembly and the school’s dedication in April.

Chess Club students meet weekly to increase their knowledge of the game, skills and strategies. Chess is an excellent activity for developing problem solving and critical thinking skills.

Twice a year students pick teams and compete in their own chess tournament.

SECME Club students recently competed in the SECME Olym-

Everglades Elementary Student Council members with some of the car magnets and bracelets they are selling. piad with other schools from around the county. The hands-on learning brings an exciting view of science, technology, engineering and math.

Students in the 3D Art Club focus on three-dimensional art and have made plaster animal masks.

They have also made artwork using different types of clay. They hope to use wood and other 3D materials for future projects. Two students also had their work displayed at the South Florida Fair.

The school congratulates fifthgrader Jasmine Handy and thirdgrader Tiffany Nguyen.

After completing a conditioning program in the first half of the year, students began working on both speed and distance in order

to qualify for the school’s track club in January. The students will participate in the Hershey Track Meet later in the year.

The Everglades Elementary School FCAT Science Club meets to help fifth-graders polish science skills they have already learned and build upon the foundation by using FCAT strategies. They even participate in labs with the harder concepts.

The Math Club sponsor is working hard teaching the students in the Math Club various strategies that they will need in order to be successful on the FCAT. The students participate in hands-on activities, work in small groups and utilize the computer for extra practice.

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SCHOOL NEWS

Seminole Ridge Career Education Students Advance To Nationals Seminole Ridge High School was well represented by its career education program at the state conference of Career Education Clubs of Florida/Business Professionals of America. Junior Robert Botkin was elected state president for the 2011-12 school year and will lead the Florida delegation to the national convention in Washington, D.C. this May. Several Seminole Ridge students placed in contests at the state level, qualifying for national competition. Hawk winners are Botkin (Extemporaneous Speaking, Food and Nutrition, and Parliamentary Procedure), Ariel Davis (Customer Service), Lorraine Deloreans (Business Law), Jikiya Moore (Child Care and Prepared Speech), and Audrey Rimel (Financial Math, Government and Prepared Speech). “We can all be very proud of these students,” career education teacher Jeff Heitman said. “I congratulate them not only for their success in competitive events, but also for their professional behavior throughout the conference.”

• Vote On ‘Teens Read’ — Following spring break, SRHS students who have read three of the 15 Florida Teens Read 2011 books will be able to vote their choice for book of the year. “This is an

annual statewide student vote, and we should be well represented in the Teens Read voting process,” media specialist Carole Koester said.

Students must have read three “Teens Read” books and passed the BookIt! quizzes on them to be eligible to vote. What’s in it for them? “I will give students a ‘quiz pass’ allowing them to take a BookIt! quiz at any time in the media center during the fourth quarter,” Koester said. “Plus, students who vote decide the 2011 book of the year for the State of Florida.”

Drill Squad Qualifies for State — The Seminole Ridge High School Army JROTC Hawk Battalion drill team recently competed against 16 schools from Central and South Florida, and the armed regulation drill squad, led by Cadet Staff Sergeant Jake Winthrop, qualified to attend the state drill next month in Lakeland, where over 100 schools throughout the state will participate.

In the Knockout Drill Competition, with over 200 cadets competing, Cadet Second Lieutenant Jonathan Fernandez received a 10th-place medal. “Our cadets did an outstanding job,” JROTC instructor Lieutenant Col. Hans Hunt said. “This will be the second year we’ve qualified

to compete at the state drill meet. Our cadets continue to have the ‘can-do’ attitude, and we’re expecting great things at state.”

• SECME Engineering Week at FAU — The Seminole Ridge SECME group attended Florida Atlantic University’s Engineering Week pre-college presentation Feb. 22 to hear speakers Karl Stevens, dean of FAU’s college of engineering and computer science, and Larry Port, cofounder and chief software architect of Rocket Matter, which provides online legal practice management software.

During lunch, SRHS competed against other high schools from Broward and Palm Beach counties in various design challenges. Seminole Ridge students won first place for their banner artwork, third place for their foot-powered mini-catapult launcher, and first place again for their lander, which cushioned their ping-pong payload during a five-foot freefall. The Hawks also showcased their VEX robot playing “Round Up” during a robotic demonstration and explored the Science Explorium in Boca Raton.

• Hawk Battalion Presents Colors — The Hawk Battalion color guard had the honor to present the colors March 8 for

Career Education program students Ariel Davis, Lorraine Dorleans, Jikiya Moore, R obert Botkin and Audrey Rimel. the St. Louis Cardinals/Boston Red Sox pre-season game at Roger Dean Stadium.

The guard — Cadet Second Lieutenant Michael Brown, Cadet Sergeant Major Ian McIntee, Cadet Tyler Freece, Cadet

Berean Students Excel At Academic Competition

Berean students who participated in the ACSI Math Olympics, Creative Writing Festival and Speech Meet.

Berean Christian School’s mathematicians, writers and dramatists showcased their abilities recently as they participated in the ACSI Math Olympics, Creative Writing Festival and Speech Meet.

The Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), the accreditation board for many Christian schools, sponsored the competitions at Jupiter Christian School.

The Math Olympics allowed students to compete in the areas of computation and reasoning.

Three members of the Berean team placed in the area of computation. Fifth-grader Gabriella Mercurio placed fourth, and seventhgraders Gabrielle Cooney and Tif-

fany Elbers placed second and fifth respectively.

The Creative Writing Festival allowed students to display their talents in a different area. Berean submitted eight works: seven received Good or Excellent scores, and sophomore Kristy St. Louis’ essay on Hamlet’s famous soliloquy (“To be or not to be”) earned her a Superior rating, the highest honor.

The ACSI Speech Meet proved to be a final moment of accomplishment this month for the Bulldogs, as they came home with more than 20 Good and Excellent ratings, and two Superior ratings earned by freshman Faustina Sciandra and senior Anthony McRae.

Robert Whippy and Cadet Sergeant First Class Joshua Lindahl — presented the national, state and Army colors to a soldout crowd and met Cardinals coach Joe Pettini.

CRESTWOOD HONORS CHARACTER COUNTS WINNERS FOR MARCH

Students At Ideal Skype With U.S. Soldier In Iraq Ideal School first-grade teacher Beatriz Payot is encouraging her students to brag to their classmates this term. Each week in February and March, four students are invited to bring their favorite person to class and show them off.

Student Will Willson wanted to bring his uncle Keith McGuire, a United States soldier serving in Iraq. But because he is still de-

ployed overseas, he couldn’t come. That gave Payot an idea.

They used Skype to connect Will and his classmates with McGuire through the Internet. Skype is a service that allows people to see each other and talk over the Internet. “Some students are fortunate to have their favorite person living in our community,” Payot said.

“But that’s not the case for every-

one, so we decided to find a creative way to bring these special people into the classroom.”

During the Internet call with McGuire, the students learned some interesting things about Iraq, like the fact that it was 130 degrees there and that some people eat raw squid for breakfast. They also laughed when they discovered that McGuire had trouble sleeping be-

cause of all the soldiers who snore at night.

“The children were amazed at what they learned about life as a soldier in Iraq, because it’s not something they hear about very often. Their favorite part, though, was when McGuire told them that the soldiers loved getting letters from the children thanking them for serving their country.”

Crestwood Middle School has announced its Character Counts winners for the month of March. The students were nominated by their teachers f or exemplifying outstanding character at school.

Pictured above are: (front row, L-R) Daija Adams, Nathalee Medrano and Breanna Darlington; (second row) Assistant Principal Terri Livingston, Jacob Minias, John Tardiff, Christopher Sothen and Manisha Delva; and (third row) Zachary Viola, Aakash Patel, Asia Lee-Fatt, Emondo Deroche, Tyler Graham, Spenser Longley and counselor Joseph Suhrbur.

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PALMS WEST PEOPLE

Area Women Nominated For EWPB’s Women In Leadership Award Verdenia C. Baker of Royal Palm Beach and Shannon Ramsey-Chessman of Loxahatchee are among 34 women nominated for the Executive Women of the Palm Beaches Women In Leadership Awards. Both were nominated in the Public Sector category. The winner in each of three community sectors — Volunteer, Private and Public — will be announced at the EWPB’s Women In Leadership Awards luncheon at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts on May 5.

As deputy county administrator of Palm Beach County, Baker is second in command of county government. Despite her busy work schedule, she finds time to sit on the board at St. Mary’s Medical Center, serve as a deaconess and youth minister at her church, mentor in the Women of Tomorrow program at Palm Beach Lakes High School and is a band parent at Suncoast High School.

Ramsey-Chessman, chief operating officer of finance in the Palm Beach Coun-

ty Clerk & Comptroller’s Office, organized her department’s Race for the Cure team, volunteers with Habitat for Humanity, donated bone marrow to a leukemia patient, and, with no previous coaching experience, guided her daughter’s previously winless youth soccer team to the league semifinals.

The Women In Leadership Awards recognize women whose talents and qualities have an impact in their business and charitable activities. They may be unsung heroes who give extraordinary effort to worthy causes, entrepreneurs who translate their enthusiasm and concepts into successful businesses, or public servants who understand the meaning of service and deliver it with pride and excellence.

Executive Women’s mission is to promote the professional and personal advancement of women through networking and resource sharing and by helping them develop and realize their potential as leaders.

Other Public Sector nominees are Lois Gackenheimer, Carey Haughwout, Debi Gavras, Dr. Jean A. Wihbey, Susan Lemieux, Dr. Nancy Mettee, Jocelyn Skolnik, Beth Walton and Carol Ann Wehle. Private Sector nominees include Dr. Melanie Bone, Sharon Quercioli, Trixy Walker and Carol Wright. Nominated in the Volunteer Sector are Sarah A. Alsofrom, Dorothy A. Bradshaw, Dr. Dione Christy, Kelly Fason, Theresa LePore, Nancy Marshall, Jean Meisenzahl, Deirdre Sykes Shapiro, Mary Carhart, Aimee Cernicharo, Sharon Gill, Danielle Hickox Moore, Joyce L. Elden, Henrietta McBee, Ann McNeill, Dr. Ann Moliver Ruben, Dr. Kristen Murtaugh, Rocky Rockingham and Keely Taylor.

For information regarding sponsorship opportunities to benefit WILA’s scholarship programs of Executive Women Outreach, or for tickets to the luncheon, call (561) 684-9117, e-mail info@ewpb.org or visit www.ewpb.org.

Verdenia Baker

Shannon Ramsey-Chessman

Royal Palm’s Cub Scout Pack 120 Hosts Blue & Gold Celebration Royal Palm Beach Cub Scout Pack 120 held its annual Blue and Gold celebration Sunday, Feb. 20 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center.

The event marked the founding of the Boy Scouts of America in 1910. Each den was assigned a different country of the world, and each family brought homemade entrees and desserts representing their assigned country. The dinner consisted of German, Mexican, Irish, Italian and American food.

Members of Caribbean-Americans for Community Involvement

(CAFCI), Pack 120’s charter organization, were the honored guests.

Several scouts received belt loops and patches for their accomplishments, recognizing their efforts toward making rank.

The pack also held a silent auction during the event, which helped raise money for the pack.

(Right) Webelos I member s receive the Webelos rank . (Far right) Scouts and invited guests enjoy the buffet.

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PALMS WEST PEOPLE

Donations Sought For RPB Native In Need Of A Kidney Transplant Michael Chandler was the kid next door. He grew up in Royal Palm Beach, where he attended Crestwood Middle School and played baseball on the village’s recreational league. He then attended Wellington High School, graduating in 1996.

In 2010, at age 32, Chandler was working 60 hours a week in the construction industry, sometimes in extreme heat. So when he began having health issues, he assumed his aches, pains and overall fatigue stemmed from that rigorous schedule.

But after a year of muscle spasms, back pain and weakness, his wife Jeannie insisted he see a doctor and have tests done. When the test results came back, Michael’s doctor called him at the job site, urging him to go to the emergency room immediately. There,

he was diagnosed with end-stage renal failure, just one month after his first wedding anniversary.

Today, Michael is on hiatus from his construction job, to put it mildly. His illness has become his job. Four-hour kidney dialysis treatments are needed three times a week, and doctors say a kidney transplant is his only hope for a second chance at life. Michael was added to the transplant waiting list in December, and his brother has been found to be a viable transplant match.

Before he became ill, Michael was the main provider for his family. Now, Jeannie works two jobs to support them.

Although he has faced many trials, Michael has a wonderful support system to help him overcome these challenges. He knows family and faith are most impor-

tant in life and considers himself lucky to have both. Michael dreams of being free of dialysis, spending more time with Jeannie and starting a family.

A true outdoorsman, Michael looks forward to the day when his condition no longer limits his ability to participate in his favorite activities — fishing, camping and playing sports. Most of all, he wants to feel normal again.

Now the facts: a kidney transplant costs approximately $250,000 — and that’s only the beginning. Even with health coverage, Michael faces considerable medical expenses related to his transplant. For the rest of his life, he will need follow-up care and daily anti-rejection medications.

The cost of post-transplant medications can range from $2,000 to $5,000 per month and they are as

critical to his survival as the transplant itself.

Because Michael lives three hours away from his transplant center, he’ll need to relocate for the transplant and stay there for at least one month afterward, incurring expenses for food and lodging. His condition does not allow him to work, adding to the young family’s financial strain.

So the Chandlers are reaching out. If you can make a donation, no matter how small, send it to the National Foundation for Transplants (NFT) Florida Transplant Fund at 5350 Poplar Ave., Suite 430, Memphis, TN 38119 and be sure to write “Michael Chandler” on the memo line.

For more information, call (901) 684-1697 or (800) 4893863, or visit the Team Mike Chandler page on Facebook.

Jeannie and Michael Chandler

‘Women In Power’ Luncheon Benefits YWCA Fashion designer and part-time Palm Beach resident Josie Natori was the honored guest and speaker at the “Women in Power” luncheon held March 4 at the Palm Beach Photographic Centre.

Natori, a native of the Philippines and founder and CEO of the Natori Company, addressed the audience about her start designing nightgowns based on the traditional Philippine embroidered shirts. Three decades later, her company has grown into a global lifestyle brand including lingerie and ready-to-wear collections as well as home, fragrance and eyewear.

Courtney Ann Taplin and Jared Lee Southworth

Taplin, Southworth Celebrate Wedding Courtney Ann Taplin and Jared Lee Southworth were united in marriage on Jan. 22 at the Breakers West Country Club.

Taplin is the daughter of Roy and Pam Taplin of Royal Palm Beach, and Southworth is the son of Marc and Chrissie Southworth of The Acreage. Given in marriage by her father, Courtney wore an ivory Alfred Angelo dress. Her uncle, Rev. Mark Dooley, performed the ceremony. The maid of honor was Amanda Taplin,

Courtney’s sister, and Derek Freeborn served as the best man.

Bridesmaids included Shannon Blow, Stephanie Handler, Allison Holmes, Krystal Freeborn, Kaitlan Whelan, Kacy Richardson, Kady Southworth and Kristin Brown. Serving as groomsmen were Matt Brown, Mark McCoy, Chase Kolshak, Robert Richardson and Andy Allen.

The couple honeymooned in Costa Rica. They now reside in The Acreage.

Guests also enjoyed an informal fashion show featuring items from the Josie Natori Collection presented by Saks Fifth Avenue in Palm Beach.

This event was the fourth in a series of five luncheons sponsored

by PNC Financial Services Group benefiting the programs of the YWCA of Palm Beach County, including the Mary Rublof f YWCA Harmony House, a shelter for abused women and their children.

For more information, call the YWCA at (561) 640-0050, ext.

137 or visit the organization’s web site at www.ywcapbc.org.

Josie Natori (center) with Lori Berg of Saks Fifth Avenue and Susie Dwinell of PNC Financial Services Group.

Day Of Folk Music At Wellington Amphitheater

Rick Seguso and Suzanne Cannon perform at the March 6 “Songwriters Showcase” event in Wellington.

WEI Network and the Internet radio show Peter’s Living Room, in conjunction with the Village of Wellington, presented an afternoon of live folk music Sunday, March 6 at the Wellington Amphitheater.

The free event was held as part of the ongoing “Songwriters Showcase” series, which takes place on the first Sunday of each month. Wellington Dental, the Royal Inn and Park Avenue BBQ Grille were sponsors of the show.

Chappy’s Food Cart sold hot dogs and drinks.

The show included acoustic guitars, mandolin, violin, popular cover songs and plenty of origi-

nal music. Performers arrived from all over Florida and included Jordan Cherkinsky of Wellington Dental who was host, performer, and accompanist. Also performing was Carly Bak, Steve Minotti, Rick Seguso, Suzanne Cannon and Kath Bloom.

The next event in the “Songwriters Showcase” series will take place Sunday, April 3 from noon to 4 p.m. For additional information regarding future shows being presented by the WEI Network and the Village of Wellington, visit www.peterslivingroom.com, www.weinetwork.com or www. wellingtonfl.gov, or call Peter Wein at (561) 827-4223.

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NEWS

Hospice Of PBC Honors Local Volunteers

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Several local volunteers were honored last month as part of the Hospice of Palm Beach County’s awards luncheon at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts.

The organization honored Wellington residents Carol Derer and Diane Harrypersaud during its “Black and White Masquerade Ball” on Saturday, Feb. 19.

Harrypersaud has been working with Hospice for a year. She developed an interest in the organization and decided to volunteer.

“Everyone should volunteer,” she said. “If you have the time to offer to people who need it, they

Stadium

Focus On Dressage

continued from page 1 that we don’t like dressage, it’s that we didn’t do a good job at it,” Bellissimo said. “It was not well-attended, it was not well-received.

I’d rather not do something than do a poor job of it. Sticking dressage into a hunter-jumper show with 2,200 horses isn’t a good product.”

After conversations with influential people in the dressage community, Wellington Equestrian Partners came up with a plan for a facility designed with dressage in mind, Bellissimo said.

Bellissimo said the goal is to do for dressage what has been achieved for the hunter-jumpers, where prize money has been increased from $3 million to almost $6 million. “We’ve got an amaz-

appreciate it. [Volunteering there] makes you appreciate the life you have.”

Derer got involved with Hospice in 1993 after her father was put in the care of the organization.

“They were great,” she said.

“Anything you need, they’re just a phone call away.”

Derer said that her father ’s nurse kept her up to date every step of the way. As a way to give back and help families dealing with the death of a loved one, she decided to get involved. “The nurses taking care of my dad were awesome,” Derer said. “And I thought that if I could do that for someone else, I owe it to them.”

She said that she would encourage anyone looking to volunteer to consider Hospice.

“Hospice doesn’t charge those who can’t afford it,” she said.

“They don’t turn anyone away. If you are passionate and care about people, it’s a great way to help.”

At the luncheon, Derer and Harrypersaud were recognized among many other volunteers.

“This event honors the thousands of hours of work that dedicated volunteers have given to the organization… some for as many as 30 years,” said Sue Gallup, director of volunteer services for Hospice of Palm Beach County.

“It is our way to say thank you to

ing amount of participation,” he said. “We’ve got [people from] 36 states and 49 countries. We want to send a message to the dressage community that there is a place for them, within a world-class venue.”

Top dressage rider Robert Dover was on hand to support the proposal. He said he had been asked to collaborate with Wellington Equestrian Partners on the dressage venue. “There is no reason for the dressage world not to come to Wellington, other than there has not been an appropriate home for it,” he said.

Dover said that the key, in addition to building the facility, will be to spread out the series to 12 weeks as has been done for the jumpers. The series would assign point values for competition that would transfer back to European competition so that riders could get full credit in America to qualify for World Cup competition.

“We will then offer everyone

around the world not only the shows they need, but the prize money that they could not even think of getting where they live in Europe,” Dover said.

Dover said his goal is to raise $1 million for the dressage program by 2012, to include creation and running of the shows, as well as prize money. “That, coupled with a lifestyle like no other in the world, is why we’re all here,” he said. “Wellington for us is our summer camp in the winter. All of us love it because we have everything within Wellington that anyone who loves horses needs to have, except what we’re about to bring.”

Bellissimo said the plan for a dressage venue at the old polo grounds carries a certain amount of risk. “There is no presumption that we have the right answer here,” he said. “I think it’s a starting point. We foresee that there will be challenges and there will be issues, but at the end of the day, what you have to learn here is that our goal is a good one.”

Plans also call for a covered arena of about 130 x 260 feet with permanent barns nearby. There would also be a practice and exhibition arena that would be more intimate than the larger arena with general seating as well as an international club-like structure that would also overlook a world-class derby field.

There are also plans to reinstate a riding academy there. “Twentyfive years ago, one of the great features of Palm Beach Polo was a riding academy,” Bellissimo said. “I’ve had so many people tell

Dressage star Robert Dover speaks as Eq uestrian Sport Productions CEO Mark Bellissimo looks on.

PHOTO BY RON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER

Festival

Art, Music And More!

continued from page 1 Friday, but they weren’t open.”

Meanwhile, while the carnival is going, vendors will be setting up for the official opening on Saturday morning.

“We’re keeping it similar to last year,” Miranda said. “We’re enhancing it from a participation standpoint because now it’s the second year. Everybody who was on board last year came on board this year, but then we got some new people.”

Like last year, no admission will be charged.

Kayak races will be run again on Lake Challenger, including Saturday at noon when five Clear Channel radio station personalities will race for a cash prize to donate to charity. “We’ll continue the races over the weekend, and people can rent the kayaks if they don’t want to be in a race and just want to be on Lake Challenger,” Miranda said.

The street painting portion has more than 140 artists signed up to participate. “That has really grown. That number has doubled from last year,” she said.

Crowds will be able to watch

Artists Lisa Wood and Norm Gitzen work at last year’s festival.

Chamber

Annual Awards

continued from page 1 great community to live in, work in and do business with. As far as friendship goes, you have everything you could ever need here.”

Wellington Cultural Facilities Manager Joe Piconcelli was honored with the Civic Leader of the Year Award for his dedication to helping with community programs, including the chamber’s highly successful winter festival.

Piconcelli has lived in Wellington for more than 30 years and has dedicated himself to the community, creating the Western Communities Football League, among other programs. He now manages the Wellington Amphitheater, putting on free programming for the entire village to enjoy.

Piconcelli said he was grateful for the recognition.

“I’ve lived in Wellington for 34 years,” he said. “We thought this was Utopia 34 years ago. It was the place you wanted to raise your children. Today, some of the old salespeople say that ‘even our lies back then are coming true today

in Wellington.’”

The chamber also awarded its 2011 Business Excellence Award to Phelps Media Group and the 2011 Best Emerging Business Award to the Wellness Experience of Wellington.

Launched in 2002 by Olympian Mason Phelps Jr., Phelps Media Group has served and promoted the equestrian community both in and out of Wellington.

Phelps credited his team with the success of his business over the years. “I guess I’m pretty good at speaking to all of you and making lots of good friends,” Phelps said of his business. “I’m glad to be part of the chamber. It has been a great experience, and I look forward to another great year.”

Wellness Experience of Wellington owner Dr. Randy Laurich began practicing chiropractic more than 10 years ago. He opened his first practice in Boca Raton in 2001 and his second practice in Wellington in 2006, but recently made Wellington his permanent home.

As a chamber member, he helped organize the inaugural Wellington Winter Festival and the Wellington Health & Wellness Fair.

as works of art emerge. Artists will be creating artworks of no less than 4 by 6 feet and will be provided colorful pastel chalks and a section of the street for painting.

Tree’s Wings & Ribs will host a full tiki bar that will be fenced off to keep alcoholic beverages in that location. In that general area will also be cooking competitions, such as the popular “best burger” contests, a chicken wing eating contest and a kids food art activity. “We have our business booths and expo center down the middle of the street, and we have juried artists in the KFC parking lot,” Miranda said. “We have the kids play park in the TD Bank parking lot.”

The festival will also have stiltwalker/artist Salvadore Live, who will be drawing portraits and other creations. Randy Orwig, the “Living Statue,” will also be there.

Stage performances will be a major component of the event.

The chamber is working with local volunteers to recruit both amateur and professional bands.

Musicians will present jazz, blues, classic rock and country to set the mood for the festival. Bands from local schools will also perform.

“We have two stages again; a community stage and a main stage,” she said. “We have some nice featured artists.”

Miranda said they have con-

all those who give their talents and love, in whatever way they choose to participate.”

Ages 14 to 95, volunteers take time from their lives to give back to the community. The luncheon honored those who have dedicated themselves to the organization.

“The dedication of our volunteers is remarkable,” said Dave Fielding, president and CEO of Hospice of Palm Beach County.

“They give so much to our hospice family. We could not achieve all that we do without them.”

For more information about the volunteer program at Hospice of Palm Beach County, visit www. hpbc.com or call (561) 227-5146.

Carol Derer

Diane Harrypersaud

class sponsors,” Bellissimo said.

Even if the hotel is wildly successful, Bellissimo said it is unlikely to bring an appreciable return to the partners. But, he said, “profit is not what we’re focused on. We’re focused on adding a feature that is important to the growth of this community.”

Designs for the complex have been drawn up by SB Architects.

“They are one of the premier hospitality architectural firms in the country,” Bellissimo noted.

The commercial retail aspect of the plan will have more of a “town center” design, not a traditional shopping strip. “The strategy here

is to have a place where people can hang out,” he said.

The arena would offer equestrian demonstrations such as dressage, as well as activities that the public can participate in such as pony rides. “The strategy is to have different elements that could bring people to this environment,” Bellissimo said. “We wanted to do this in a way that it becomes an equestrian village.”

Bellissimo said he would like the complex to be something that defines Wellington. “We think this is a great opportunity to do that,” he said. “If you think CityPlace, think CountryPlace.”

A look at the overall layout of the stadium proposal, showing a strong focus on dressage.

me that the only reason that they are in this sport today is because they… decided to go to a polo match and saw there was a riding academy, and they transformed into hunter-jumper riders. That disappeared for economic reasons.

That’s not a money maker, but from our perspective, if you don’t have an entry point into the sport, you’re shortchanging your future.”

The complex would include a 100-unit condo hotel.

“Hotels are not big money winners per se, but if you want to have a world-class destination, you need to be able to entertain worldtracted a variety of bands, including the Derek Mack blues band, the JD Danner country band and the soul music of Tony Wilson.

They will be the closing acts on the main stage on Saturday.

“We also have the community stage with a lot of the schools participating,” she said, including the Royal Palm Beach High School band on Saturday, and the Wellington High School, John I. Leonard High School and Wellington Landings Middle School jazz bands, as well as the Panther Run Elementary School Calypso Cats steel drum band on Sunday.

“It’s very eclectic music,” she said. “We have everything from folksy to country to soft rock to doo-wop. We’ll have dancers from the nonprofits or dance studios performing between the bands.”

Public parking will be under the nearby FPL power lines. “We are going to have a lot more buses this year because last year we had an hour wait for the buses,” she said.

Travel Lynx will provide four 49-seat buses in addition to three that were provided by Royal Palm Beach last year. “They are much larger buses, so there shouldn’t be a wait,” Miranda said.

Laser light shows set to music will be presented at nightfall on Saturday night, March 26, over Lake Challenger. Guests are en-

Attendees will be able to enjoy the Derek Mack blues band. couraged to bring chairs or blankets to enjoy the sights and sounds. “We have three different shows, at 8, at 8:50 and 9:30,” she said.

There will also be a kids drawing area where children can draw their own street art after they have seen the artists’ creations, as well as face painting.

“It should be a really good event,” Miranda said. “We’re keeping our fingers crossed that it doesn’t rain.”

For more info., visit www.royal palmbeachfestival.com.

ITID Park

Plans Sent To County

continued from page 1 cept for the equestrian parking.

She said that only eight spaces total, and only four for trailers, is insufficient. “If the Acreage Pines Natural Area becomes what it’s supposed to, that’s going to be inadequate for equestrian parking,” Damone said, suggesting that a minimum of 10 truck spaces is needed.

Supervisor Ralph Bair made a motion to approve the development application, which passed unanimously.

Mayor Darell Bowen (left) with the 2011-12 Wellington Chamber of Commerce board.

“Teamwork is the most important aspect of my life,” Laurich said. “I feel that that’s the most important thing. Teamwork is what brings me here today, because if it wasn’t for my staff, I wouldn’t be here. The chamber, for me, is a team. It’s a team of businesses that work together and promote each other’s businesses.”

Laurich said he loves living in Wellington and hopes to one day be sitting in Piconcelli’s seat, getting an award for a life of service to the community.

“That’s my goal,” he said, “because that’s what being in a community really means.”

Joe Piconcelli was honored as Civic Leader of the Year.

PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ/T OWN-CRIER

Blotter continued from page 6 wooden block with numerous nails sticking upright under the victim’s rear driver’s-side tire.

When the victim attempted to leave for work, she ran over the nails, which punctured her front and rear tires causing approximately $250 in damages.

MARCH 15 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched to the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center on Tuesday in response to a stolen vehicle. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 6 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 26 and 7 a.m. the following morning, someone stole an unlocked white four-

Musician JD Danner will perform.

Groves

Swearing In

continued from page 3 development on almost 200 acres on either side of B Road along Southern Blvd. near his home spurred him to run. Rather than building single-family homes on the northern half of the sites as is planned, Goltzené said he would prefer to see a preservation element for water retention and a park.

One of Lipp’s goals if elected would have been to merge the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District with the town.

Goltzené has said he would be willing to listen to such a proposal if it should arise. seat EZGO golf cart from the south end of the property. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

MARCH 15 — A resident of Sugar Pond Manor called the PBSO substation in Wellington on Tuesday to report a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 1 and 2:38 p.m., someone entered the victim’s home through her unlocked back door and stole a red Gateway laptop computer, a black Kodak 12 megapixel digital camera and a black nylon computer bag. The stolen items were valued at approximately $709. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

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NEWS

Villari’s Self Defense Hosts Invitational Tourney At Binks Forest For over 27 years, Fred Villari’s Studios of Self Defense has been a part of the Wellington community. The Villari’s system has been part of the martial arts community for the past 43 years.

The self defense organization has been shaping minds and bodies so they may feel confident to stand up for themselves by teaching children the values necessary to carry them through life.

One way in which this is achieved is through healthy competition, like one held recently in Wellington.

The Villari’s Southeastern Invi-

tational was held earlier this month at the Binks Forest Golf Club. Events included kata, self defense and sparring, with competitors of all ages and skill levels competing in a safe, friendly environment with their peers.

Local Villari’s studio owners David Wilson and Ken Smith brought their schools, along with other Villari’s schools, to compete at the local golf club. Students traveled from as far as Chicago to compete, while closer to home, fellow Florida schools from Ormond Beach and Lake Park also competed. With 114 competitors,

the five-and-half-hour-long event was a joy for all who attended.

It was the first big event that Villari’s of Wellington and Villari’s of Royal Palm Beach have done together in a long time. Villari’s of Wellington Studio Director David Wilson is eager to do it again. “I’m looking forward to the next one,” he said.

With students ranging from white belt to black belt third degree, there was no shortage of action or entertainment. The events were overseen by varying degrees of black belt from first degrees to the veteran fifth, sixth, seventh,

eighth and ninth degrees, who kept the less experienced in check.

Fun was had by all, and a strong sense of unity was felt by everyone who attended. Preparation for next year has begun.

Villari’s of Wellington is located at 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 7, in the original Wellington Mall. For more information, call (561) 792-1100 or visit www. villarisofwellington.com. Villari’s of Royal Palm Beach is located at 11328 Okeechobee Blvd. For more information, call (561) 7934132 or visit www.villarisroyal palm.com.

Leon Kline, Merle Geiremar, Larry Burns, Joan Richert, Ben Beluchi and Stephen Mish.

Dr. Ectis Velazquez with Ectis Velazquez Jr. and Joec Velazquez.

6 to 9 year olds take par t in a sparring match.

Zack Whitehead, David Schneider and Ainsley Fuller.

Some of the trophies to be won at the tournament.

Donations Needed To Keep Cats Housed At Local Animal Sanctuary Cats at God’s Creatures Great & Small Sanctuary have found compassionate friends in Ron and Ulla Oest.

For the past seven years, the Oests have operated a sanctuary for abandoned and abused cats in Lake Worth. However, funding has been down over the past two years and it has been a financial struggle for them to keep up with the cost of food, vet bills and vaccinations for the cats.

Palm Beach County Animal Care & Control is requiring the Oests to reduce the 120 cats at the sanctuary by 60 cats by Sunday, March 27. Rental property is being looked into for housing approximately 30 of these cats, but a security deposit of $3,000 needs

to be raised as soon as possible.

Donations are also needed for current rabies vaccinations and county tags. If you are interested in adopting any of these cats, e-mail LCS071421@aol.com.

The Oests are also looking for volunteers to feed, clean up after and spend time socializing with the cats.

Donations should be sent to: God’s Creatures Great & Small, 10629 Anderson Lane, Lake Worth, FL 33449. All donations are tax deductible.

(Right) God’s Creatures Great & Small co-owner Ulla Oest.

(Far right) Some of the cats at the sanctuary.

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March 18 - Mar ch 24, 2011

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March 18 - March 24, 2011

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Elena Miller Eager To Share Her Passion For Pilates

Elena Miller is focused on sharing her knowledge of the Pilates method with the western communities. That is why she and her husband Glen decided to open their own studio in Wellington. My Pilates is a fully equipped studio that strictly performs the Pilates method. Page 37

March 18 - Mar ch 24, 2011

Page 27

Riders Compete At PBC Mounted Posse Barrel Show

The Palm Beach County Mounted Posse hosted its monthly barrel show Saturday, March 12 at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center.

Riders of all ages gathered to compete in the cloverleaf, hairpin, Texas barrel, cone and pole competitions, hoping to win points for the year-end awards. Page 44

Shopping Spree A TOWN-CRIER PUBLICATION

INSIDE

Features Dressage Legend Dottie Morkis Now Offering Riding Lessons In Wellington

Dottie Morkis was a member of the 1976 Olympic Dressage Team, which won the bronze medal. Now she is giving dressage lessons in Wellington, working with all levels of riders, beginner through advanced. Dressage can help riders in different disciplines improve their riding and their horse’s ability to compete, especially in jum ping and eventing.

Ellen Rosenberg’s Column, Page 29

Sports Four Area Schools Compete At Seminole Ridge Track Meet

Seminole Ridge High School played host to Wellington and Inlet Grove high schools, and Berean Christian School, for a track meet Thursday, March 10. A little rain did nothing to stop the meet, which included shot put, discus, high jump, long jump, pole vault and track runs including hur dles and relays. 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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Page 29

FEATURES

Dressage Legend Dottie Morkis Now Teaching In Wellington Dottie Morkis is passionate about dressage.

She splits her year between Dover, Mass., and Wellington, but wherever she is, her mind is focused on teaching horses and riders how to improve.

“I love working with people, helping them progress and develop,” she said. “When you see someone suddenly ‘get it’ or understand something — that’s really great. Everyone has the ability to do better, horses and people both.”

Morkis comes with impressive bona fides: She was a member of the 1976 Olympic Dressage Team, which won the bronze medal.

Dottie recalls how special that was, seeing all the top international riders “up close and personal.” It was also unique in that the U.S. Team had all female members. Morkis was the last to ride in the whole competition, and the team’s ranking depended on her score.

“Talk about stress,” she laughed. “But it was a great deal of fun.”

Morkis said the most difficult combination to bring along is an inexperienced rider paired with a green horse.

“You’d be surprised how many people who don’t know what they’re doing end up buying a young, untrained horse. That’s not an easy or a safe situation, but they can still learn.

It just becomes a slower process,” she said.

“Riding is very much a feel for how something should be done. When neither the horse nor the rider knows how a proper movement should feel when it’s done well, that just makes for a very long learning time.”

Tales From The Trails

By Ellen Rosenberg Morkis said that being with riders and watching horses is very interesting. She loves the challenges she faces each day when working with her students, helping them work through frustrations to achieve balance.

“A good trainer helps a rider understand how she can achieve her goals. Every horse is different, so there’s never any ‘one way’ to get something done,” Morkis said. “Good riders really get to know their horses and share that instant communication. Riding involves a constant back-and-forth dialogue.”

One of the more important elements of a successful team is matching the rider’s and the horse’s personalities. “If there’s a mismatch, and it’s not too severe, I can teach an able rider overcome the problems,” she said.

“But if the disconnect is too much, or if the horse just isn’t suited to the sport or doesn’t enjoy it, I help the rider see that the best outcome may be to sell the horse and find one more suitable. That’s a hard thing to come to terms with for a lot of people.”

Not every horse is right for dressage, she noted. “I believe that each horse should be

Dottie Morkis riding at the 1976 Olympic Games.

PHOTO COURTESY HUGO M. CZEMY

allowed to do what he loves best. Horses have their own talents and abilities, just like people. We aren’t happy when we’re forced to do work we dislike,” Morkis said. “Horses feel exactly the same way, and people should recognize that and be willing to say, OK, this horse is in the wrong sport.”

Morkis loves the way dressage lets you connect totally with a horse, and she adores that moment when a horse finally figures out what the rider has been asking for — that “aha” moment that is another step in their education. There are highs, and there are lows, See ROSENBERG, page 30

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FEATURES

I Was First Denied A Monkey At Age 7... But I Still Want One! I want a monkey.

This is nothing new. I’ve always wanted a monkey. Every kid does.

The longing starts shortly after visiting the zoo at age 7. You watch them frolic and play on Monkey Island and, on the way home in the car, you blurt out: “Mom, I want a monkey! Can I get a monkey, Dad?” Your parents chuckle and reply, “No, sweetheart. Monkeys don’t make good pets.”

“Why not?”

“Because monkeys are wild animals.”

And then the whining starts. “But I would train my monkey. My monkey would be good.”

And then your Dad says: “Did you get a whiff of Monkey Island? Monkeys can’t be potty-trained.”

And then you counter with: “But neither can dogs! Neither can cats! What if I put a diaper on my monkey?”

Deborah Welky is

The Sonic BOOMER And then your mother snaps, “No monkeys!” and that’s the end of it.

But you grow up with this secret longing.

Every time you see a photograph of a spider monkey or a capuchin, your desire is rekindled. A TV documentary about monkeys that aid the disabled results in a shameful jealousy of the handicapped.

Chimpanzees (technically not monkeys, but primates like us) are an endless source of fascination. You wonder what you’d have to do to get Jane Goodall’s job.

Amazingly, I had the opportunity to interview Goodall about 20 years ago when she was visiting Lion Country Safari. She had traveled all the way from Gombe, Tanzania, because she heard that Lion Country had a chimp that would actually wade through the water between their two islands. Chimps are deathly afraid of water, and she had to see it to believe it.

So we watched in disbelief as the chimp did it, slowly and with his arms held high, while all the other chimps screamed loudly at him from the bank.

“Do you think the other chimps consider him to be some sort of super chimp because he’s not afraid to do that?” I asked.

“No, I believe they think he’s rather stupid to do that,” she replied.

Then, my big question, the one that might someday affect me personally — “Which would you rather live with, Jane, humans or chimpanzees?”

“Oh, I enjoy watching the behaviors of all kinds of primates,” she answered.

Man, Jane Goodall was cool.

But I still didn’t have a monkey, having chosen — at least temporarily — to raise children instead. Years later, when the kids both had homes of their own, I came across a little orange postcard from Monkey Jungle. I found it in a box of vintage papers and postcards, and it evidently had been handed out at the nature park. It said, “Win a FREE monkey! Fill out this card, mail it to the address shown, and YOU will win either a FREE monkey or Pamphlet #1 in my series of pamphlets entitled ‘All About Monkeys.’” The card was signed by the author in a very official-looking way.

I framed this postcard and it is hanging over my desk. Every day I look at it and wonder how many of those lucky kids won monkeys.

And whether I would have been one of them.

‘The Chicago Code’ Is A Great New Show... Don’t Miss It! There is a really good new series on television, and, surprise, it’s not on premium cable or even regular cable. The Chicago Code, seen Monday evenings on Fox, has become must-see television for a lot of people, including me. It is different from most cop shows. Most of the cops on television are cool; they’re just doing their jobs, solving crimes done by “bad people.” And, of course, there are shows where the leads play the part of semi-clowns, allowing them to create comedy along with the bloodshed.

Things are different in this new show. The characters are not all either just good or bad. They’re complicated, which means the stories get deeper, more complex. Although some crimes are solved in one episode, the main element, the struggle against entrenched corruption, goes on. And the drama is all “in your face.”

The hero, a tough Chicago cop named Jarek Wysocki (Jason Clarke), is a tough, angry lone wolf, a legend on the police force, as much for his ability to wear out partners and violate protocols as his ability to solve crimes. He’s an angry man; his brother, a fellow cop, was murdered years earlier, and he still seethes over it. To complicate matters, a former partner, Teresa Colvin (Jennifer Beals) has become the new police su-

Rosenberg

Dottie Morkis

continued from page 29 but the next day, Morkis is back out there, ready for the next challenge.

She works with all levels of riders, beginner through advanced. She said that working with someone just starting out is actually easier than with someone who may have picked up bad habits or other baggage.

Dressage can help riders in different disciplines improve their riding and their horse’s ability to compete, especially in jumping and eventing.

“It’s all about balance,” Morkis said. “You want your horse carrying and using himself

perintendent, the first woman in the job. Her future was determined by watching her storekeeper father ruined years earlier by being forced to pay protection. The two have a close relationship; he is one of the few people she trusts, and she allows him to follow up any case that he either finds interesting or important.

Her major priority is to erase the corruption that fosters crime. Neither of these two characters is content to simply sit back and work out complexities, letting the courts handle the rest. They push and shove, and accept the consequences.

The “bad guy” of the series, Alderman Ronin Gibbons (Delroy Lindo) is another complicated person. An extraordinarily powerful politician, he often does good things.

He cares for his people; but he cares for himself even more. He was Colvin’s original

sponsor for her job, and her first decision is to bring him down. Gibbons, while clearly willing to arrange killings and to cover for gangs paying tribute, also goes out of his way to help many of his constituents and has enormous charm. Watching him win over a young kid who botched his own attempted assassination until the boy told him who had given him the job, was the kind of thing almost never seen on a regular crime series. Of course, in the end, the man ordering the killing was killed on Gibbons’ orders, but viewers got a chance to see why the man was as successful a politician as he was. He is the most interesting villain on television.

The series also shows other cops, particularly Caleb Evers (Matt Lauria), a young homicide cop who is clearly meant to be the “everyman” observer. He, unlike the others, is “cool,” but he is also a willing supporter of Wysocki.

The most intriguing of the characters is Liam Hennessey (Billy Lush), a low-level thug who is actually an undercover cop working inside the Irish mob. He is ambivalent about his work as he is forced to take part in more horrific crimes as part of his way of getting deeper into the mob. He agonizes over what he sees and participates

in, while his police bosses keep pushing him.

What the show does best is demonstrate the ambiguities of the whole criminal justice system. The heroes ignore the rules almost as casually as the bad guys. Cops, in one episode, deliberately leave Wysocki and Evers to fight out a gun battle without support, because the others feel Wysocki’s closeness to Colvin has made him a turncoat. The city, Chicago, is gritty and tough, as are the characterizations.

This is a different kind of cop show: There are many ambiguities, many twists and turns. Sometimes the bad guys seem nicer than the good guys. But throughout it all, there is a feeling of honesty, of finding truth.

The creator, Shawn Ryan, was the man behind The Shield, the tough show about a group of dirty cops. In this show, the leads are honest, but they will go just about as far to clean the city as they can, certainly far beyond the law’s allowances.

But it is the toughness, the ambiguities, that make this show seem true to life. It has been on only five weeks, and I now have my DVR set to automatically record it. I would hate to miss an episode. I recommend that you not miss any of it, either. This show is a tough, hardy winner.

properly. Horses have to be supple and moving off their hind ends. Learning dressage also helps riders remain balanced, so they’re not interfering with their horses. A horse can’t be balanced if the rider is crooked.”

Fifi Baldwin of Wellington is a student working with Morkis.

“She’s really a special person,” Baldwin said. “A real pioneer in the sport. She has done so much for dressage in the U.S. I feel fortunate to be able to train with her. She’s very demanding, but in a positive way. She’s always trying to get the best out of you. You have to be a dedicated rider to work with her.

She puts in 110 percent to help you be your best.”

Baldwin enjoys getting feedback from Morkis.

“Every minute that you’re riding, she’s giving you feedback, striving for perfection. It’s hard on both the horse and rider, but she has a heart of gold and really loves the horses,” Baldwin said. “Working with a top-quality professional is really rewarding. She’s classically trained and really knows how to teach and help me achieve balance through all the movements. As she says, without balance, a horse can’t properly demonstrate the movement. Dottie’s a really special person. I’m blessed to have her in my life. She’s a gem.”

For more information, call Dottie Morkis at (508) 612-8500 or visit www.dottiemorkis dressage.com.

‘A good trainer helps a rider understand how she can achieve her goals. Every horse is different, so there’s never any “one way” to get something done. Good riders really get to know their horses and share that instant communication.

Riding involves a constant backand-forth dialogue.’

— Dottie Morkis

‘I’ On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler

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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

‘Art In Bloom’ Opens Friday At CGMS Gallery In Lake Worth The Clay-Glass-Metal-Stone Cooperative Gallery in Lake Worth will open its two-week-long exhibit “Art in Bloom: Visions of Paradise” on Friday, March 18. The opening night reception will take place from 6 to 9 p.m., and the gallery will be filled with foliage, flowers, aromas and the accompanying artwork.

Pots, bowls, ikebanas and vases fill with spring flowers of vast ar-

One of Maria Hayden’s pieces featured in “Art in Bloom.”

ray and color. Awakening woodland and seaside treasures combine in both rustic and intricate works inducing the magic of the season.

New co-op artists introduce works evocative of the season, laced with the tendrils of emerging growth. The vanishing series reappears with the push of springtime’s desire to revitalize the earth. With spring comes new life and creativity. Plants emerge, fish spawn and artists create new works in celebration of the season.

Artists Rick Cohen and Kathleen Kirschner gather nature’s treasures, turning them into finely crafted works of art. From grandfather clocks, tables and mirrors to whimsical animal fantasies and paintings on silk their collaborative efforts bring a new dimension to the gallery.

Joining Cohen and Kirschner are artists Norman Gitzen, Betty Wilson and Maria Hayden, each with works that integrate the natural environment, celebrating the quirks as well as perfections of the real world.

Hayden’s works emerge from the ancient firing pit, flames spewing

chemicals that create patterns of their own across her beautifully formed vessels.

Wilson uses surface embellishment to weave leaves and floral patterns throughout her works. She fuses fish of glass that float through the gallery reflecting any light source they meet.

Gitzen’s animal carvings, wall sconces and bronze-hammered fish and dolphins speak for his intense desire to influence a change in negative attitudes toward the preservation of the planet. Portions of all of his sales go to support the Arthur R. Marshall Foundation.

A wine-and-cheese tasting takes place at every opening. Clay-GlassMetal-Stone Cooperative Gallery is sponsored by the Flamingo Clay Studio, a nonprofit arts organization whose mission is to provide affordable studio and gallery space for three-dimensional artists.

The gallery is located at 605 Lake Avenue in downtown Lake Worth.

Gallery openings take place from 6 to 9 p.m. on the first and third Fridays of each month. For additional information, call (215) 205-9441.

A dolphin sculpture by Wellington artist Norman Gitzen.

Loggerhead Marinelife Center’s TurtleFest Returns April 9 The eighth annual “TurtleFest: Exploring Cultural Conservation” will be held Saturday, April 9 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Loggerhead Marinelife Center and Loggerhead Park in Juno Beach.

Hit bands B-Liminal, the Resolvers, Hit$how and Moska Project will take the stage while guests of all ages enjoy up-close encounters with threatened and endangered sea turtles. Focused on education appropriate for the entire family, the free event will feature an all-new global village highlighting seven regions of the world, the sea turtles native to each, and the steps different coun-

tries are taking to promote ocean conservation.

In between TurtleFest’s collection of live reggae, roots, surf and Latin music, conservation education will be front and center throughout the event, with presentations by the Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, the Palm Beach Zoo and Loggerhead Marinelife Center ’s research and rehabilitation staf f. Loggerhead’s mascot “Fletch” will join with Rod Mast of Conservation International. Mast is the former president of the International Sea Turtle Society, serves as co-chair of the IUCN-SSC Marine Turtle Specialist Group, and

Children will enjoy an action-packed day of activities at TurtleFest 2011, including up-close interactions with endangered sea turtles.

was the host of the XXIV Sea Turtle Symposium in San Jose, Costa Rica. Like Fletch, Mast has been known to dress up as a sea turtle on special occasions, traveling the world as “Mr. Leatherback.” Children and adults alike will enjoy interactions between the two characters.

Also for kids, the festival’s preevent is a children’s fun run. Children up to 12 years old can participate in the race taking place at 5:15 p.m. on Friday, April 8 at Loggerhead Park and A1A. Upon entering the festival on April 9, families will receive a treasure map guiding them through the event. Kids will be entered into a contest to win a real treasure chest and can also participate in bounce houses, gymnastics and an array of games.

New this year, TurtleFest will feature a dedicated art area featuring highly acclaimed marine-themed artists. Jupiter native Brittany Brett has designed the TurtleFest 2011 poster, depicting a loggerhead sea turtle illuminated by the moon, casting a shadow of Florida’s coastline and symbolizing the importance of the worldwide Lights Out Campaign during sea turtle nesting season. The growing list of artists whose work will also be featured in the festival includes Lynne Barletta, Carey Chen, sea turtle portrait painter Pamela Hoke, Mark Johnson, Amber Moran, featured sculptor Geoffrey Smith, ArtiGras 2011 commemorative artist Beth

The Resolvers are among the bands playing at this year’s TurtleFest.

Williams, Mark Worden and Thomas Ziffer. The festival will also include various craft shopping.

TurtleFest is Loggerhead Marinelife Center’s largest annual “friend-raiser,” attracting 15,000 people each year. TurtleFest 2011 is made possible by presenting sponsors Florida Power & Light Company, McDonald’s, Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center, PGA National Resort & Spa and Waste Management. The hospitality tent is provided by Downtown at the Gardens, and the Beverage Station is compliments of Blue Point Brewing Company. Community partners include Bill Barbosa Photography, Loggerhead Club & Ma-

rina, Palm Beach County, the Palm Beach County Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Palm Beach County Cultural Council, the Benjamin School and the Town of Juno Beach.

The Loggerhead Marinelife Center, a nonprofit organization, is committed to the conservation of Florida’s coastal ecosystems through public education, research and rehabilitation with a focus on threatened and endangered sea turtles.

The center features an on-site campus hospital, learning exhibits and aquariums.

For more information about TurtleFest, or to volunteer at the event, visit www.marinelife.org/turtlefest or call (561) 627-8280.

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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 Palm Beach. Call (561) 798-3452 or visit www.smallworldpbc.com for more info.

Breakers West Summer Camp — For the summer of a lifetime, children ages 514 are invited to join the 2011 Summer Camp at Breakers West. Enjoy wildlife demonstrations, science experiments, magic shows, arts & crafts, cooking classes, golf, tennis, basketball, soccer, daily swimming instruction and so much more!

Camp runs June 6 through Aug. 12 (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 onetime registration fee of $35, which includes a camp essentials bag. Discounts are offered to families registering multiple children and/or for multiple sessions.

Aftercare 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, arts & crafts, science & cooking, Wii stations and more for children six months to 10 years. The best place in town to have your kid’s private birthday party! For more info., visit www.CallingAllKidsFunCenter.com or call (561) 8687007 or (561) 802-9090. Calling All Kids is located at 854 Conniston Rd., West Palm Beach.

Casperey Stables Horse 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 find little time to be bored. The low counselor-child ratio ensures your child will receive individual attention. There are camp sessions for spring and winter school breaks, and during the summer, each twoweek session has a theme, such as Indian Days, Circus Days and Medieval Days.

Casperey Stables has a weekly swim party and ends each session with a horse show and family BBQ. Call soon — this small, quality program fills quickly! To learn more about the camp, located at 2330 D Road in Loxahatchee Groves, call (561) 792-4990 or visit www.caspereystables.com.

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Get Creative! Armory Art Center Summer Art Camp — The Armory Art Center 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 rotate 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 Art Center is located at 1700 Parker Ave., West Palm Beach. For more info., visit www.armoryart.org or call (561) 832-1776.

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 program brings science to life for children in preschool through middle school. They are happy to introduce “The Lab,” a hands-on science facility now open in Wellington.

They offer summer camp programs, after-school enrichments and birthday parties at a new location off Pierson Road. The camp offers affordable 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 for gems, launch rockets, make ice cream, grow 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.net, call (561) 792-3785 or e-mail info@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 Palm Beach locations. Now enrolling summer camp programs for children ages 4-10 (limited space is available). The program offers daily indoor and outdoor field trips. Free meals and webcam services are included. Rated the “Best Summer Camp Ever!”

For more information, visit www.HomeAwayFromHomeChildcare.com or call Wellington (561) 791-8558, Palm Beach Gardens (561) 627-6170, Jupiter (561) 747-6916 or West Palm Beach (561) 802-9090.

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Jewish Summer Camp — Enjoy a Jewish summer camp on a farm for girls ages 711 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. Jewish music singing, art and a Shabbat program with a local rabbi. Director Nancy Fried Tobin (BFA, MAT, MFA, RM, Equine Certified Specialist/Instructor) has been working with kids for years. Registering now; call (561) 792-2666. Located at 2141 B Road in Loxahatchee Groves, the farm is 25 minutes from anywhere in the Palm Beach area.

The King’s Academy “Camping Around the World” — TKA’s summer camp welcomes ages 5 through 8th grade. Experience different cultures through craft projects, science experiments, field trips, music and more. Counselors are qualified teachers, first 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/after care. Field trips to Calypso Bay, the South Florida Science Museum, the Palm Beach Zoo, Lion Country Safari and more, all for one inclusive price. Register now at www.tka.net and save $25 when you mention this offer. Call Helga Van Wart (561) 686-4244 for more info.

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 Ark offers 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 elementary 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 offer hands-on exploration for young scientists ages 4 to 12 on specific topics in science. The days are packed with fun science lessons, laboratories, crafts and outside activities led by expert science educators. Camp starts at 9 a.m. and ends at 4 p.m. with extended hours of structured activities available from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Camps are grouped into ages 4-6, 7-9 and 10-12. Before and aftercare available. Early registration accepted prior to May 1. Register online at www.sfsm.org or by calling (561) 8322026.

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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BUSINESS NEWS

An inside view of the My Pilates studio located in the Wellington Marketplace.

Elena Miller Eager To Share Her Passion For Pilates With Wellington-Area Residents

By Damon Webb Town-Crier Staff Report Elena Miller is focused on sharing her knowledge of the Pilates method with the western communities. That is why she and her husband Glen decided to open their own studio in Wellington.

My Pilates is a fully equipped studio that strictly performs the Pilates method. The studio offers an array of classes, including private, semi-private and groups.

The main purpose of Pilates is a general improvement in health, flexibility and muscle tone. It also helps reduce stress. Pilates is designed to strengthen the whole body without undue strain or injury. “This is not a trend that will go in and out of fashion,” Elena said.

“The Pilates method has been around for almost 100 years. Joe Pilates was ahead of his time.”

Before opening My Pilates, Elena had worked for several years at other Pilates studios in the area. Upon the closing of the last studio she worked at, Elena decided to go out and set up shop for herself. “After the positive impact I received from Pilates, I wanted to continue to teach and help people,” she said.

“My husband Glen was very supportive, and we decided to open a Pilates studio in Wellington.”

Elena’s passion for Pilates comes from personal experience. Before she turned 40, she felt that something was not right within her body. After speaking with several doctors, she had a test done, and the results showed she was starting to lose bone mass — an early sign of osteoporosis.

“I couldn’t believe that I was losing bone mass at this age,” Elena said. “When people think of osteoporosis, they think of older, mature adults. I learned that is a misconception. The disease does not have any set particular age that it starts to set in.”

Along with the positive physical, mental and emotional attributes that Pilates creates,

My Pilates co-owner Elena Miller.

PHOTOS BY DAMON WEBB/T OWN-CRIER

Elena also takes the time to provide the history of the Pilates method.

“I think it’s important to educate people on how the method was created and why,” Elena said. “Usually when people first think of Pilates, I think they are intimidated by what they have heard or seen. I want to dispel the misconceptions some might have so they can try it and see how it effects them and their approach to living a quality life.”

In the near future, Elena would like to extend her services to organizations that help children and adults with disabilities. “I speak from personal experience when I say Pilates is life changing,” she said. “Right now I am in a wonderful place in my life, and I want to share my passion for Pilates with all who will listen. Once you start using Pilates, in a short amount of time, you will start to feel and see results. It has tremendous effects.”

My Pilates is located at 13873 Wellington Trace, Suite B-14, in the Wellington Marketplace. For more information, call (561) 8271481 or visit www.mypilateswellington.com.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Equestrian Committee Bridging Equestrian, Non-Equestrian Gap The Wellington Chamber of Commerce Equestrian Committee has announced the distribution of 85,000 brochures with detailed information about the equestrian community. The purpose of the brochure is to reach out and inform the community, visitors and local businesses about the major events of all the equestrian disciplines in Wellington.

Wellington serves as home to some of the top equestrian venues in the United States and is home to many world-class events that provide some of the best competition and entertainment in the horse world. The brochure is underwritten by the Wellington Chamber of

Commerce and will be distributed to the Palm Beach County Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Palm Beach County Convention Center, the Palm Beach County Sports Commission, Publix, students in Wellington area elementary schools, Wellington residents receiving utility bills, the Wellington Safe Neighborhoods Office, Wellington Chamber special events, the Hampton Inn, Clarion Inn, Southern Palm Bed & Breakfast, Palm Beach hotels, Palm Beach County Convention Center hotels, Wellington Regional Medical Center and Palms West Hospital.

In addition, every Friday the com-

ABWA To Meet April 13 In Palm Beach Gardens The Northern Palm Beach Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association will meet Wednesday, April 13 at the PGA Doubletree Hotel in Palm Beach Gardens.

Networking will take place from 6 to 6:30 p.m. with the dinner and program beginning at 6:30 p.m. The cost is $35, and guests are welcome.

The speaker will be Sandi Quigley, president and CEO of Quigley

Marketing. The program topic is “Is Your Marketing Plan Really Working?”

The Doubletree Hotel is located at 4431 PGA Blvd. in Palm Beach Gardens. To make reservations, or for more information, call Sharon Maupin at (561) 624-3816. For more about the chapter, call Carol O’Neil at (561) 389-1227 or visit www.abwapbflorida.org.

mittee sends out an e-mail blast with a schedule of the week’s equestrian events to Wellington Chamber of Commerce members and the Phelps Media Group distribution list of 20,000 contacts.

Recently, the Wellington Chamber Equestrian Committee hosted a reception at the International Polo Club Palm Beach for chamber members and members of the equestrian community.

“The committee’s motivation is to have ties to all the major disciplines with the focus on business and economic development,” said Victor Connor of Connor Financial Group, who serves as co-chair of the committee. “We are the catalyst to bring everyone together.”

The committee not only serves the equestrian disciplines at the world-class level, but also represents the grassroots equestrian community, making their efforts not just limited to the winter season. “We need our Wellington grassroots riders and enthusiasts of all disciplines to feed the future of the equestrian sports,” said Mason Phelps, president of Phelps Media Group and cochair of the committee.

Many of the Wellington Chamber Equestrian Committee members are longtime Wellington residents

The Wellington Chamber Equestrian Committee.

PHOTO BY ALYSON SANDERFORD/PHELPS MEDIA GROUP

and have experienced the growth of the equestrian community first hand. The committee is dedicated to connecting the equestrian community and the Wellington community overall to facilitate a positive and prosperous future.

In addition to Connor and Phelps, committee members include Marla Connor of Gulfstream Polo, Anna Frensemeyer of Fine Equine Acquisition, M. Douglas Mutch of Gra-

cie Street Interior Design, Michael Stone of Equestrian Sport Productions, Visse Wedell of the Elebash Group, Leroy Conroy of Leroy Conroy Stables, Susan Guinan of the Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center, Marcella Mirande-Ketcham of Wild Eyes Photography, Julie Tannehill of Phelps Media Group, Tom Newbury of Children, Hope & Horses, and John Flanagan of Wellington Classic Dressage.

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BUSINESS NEWS

WRMC Auxiliary Scholarship Winners The Friends of Wellington Regional Medical Center Auxiliary Inc. has announced the winners of the 2011 Camilla Combs Memorial Scholarships. Each year, the auxiliary and the medical staff at Wellington Regional present 10 student scholarships to graduating high school seniors pursuing careers in the healthcare field.

After reviewing dozens of applications from local high school seniors, the Scholarship Committee comprised of Nancy Tuccinardi, Morris Ball, Adrienne Bender, Dolly Friedman, Roberta Privalle, and Chris and Bea Fries interviewed the students. Following a thorough review of their academic profiles, personal recommendations and financial need-related information, ten deserving seniors were selected to receive a $2,000 scholarship award.

These 10 seniors represent one private and six public area high schools. They are as follows: Sophia S. Bou-Ghannam, Park Vista High School; Natalie Chavez, John I. Leonard High School; Danaysi Bernal Del Agua, Lake Worth High School; Corey A. Gonzalez, Park Vista High School; Stephanie N. Hommel, Park Vista High School; Shaun B. Plunkett, Lake Worth High School; David Posada, Palm

Auxiliary Scholarship Committee — (Clockwise, L-R) Dolly Friedman, Morris Ball, Adrienne Bender, Dr. Jeffrey Bishop, Bea Fries and Nancy Tuccinardi (seated). Not pictured: Roberta Privalle and Chris Fries.

Beach Central High School; Alexander J. Small, Wellington High School; Bria L. Robinson, the King’s Academy; and Katelyn M. Webster, Royal Palm Beach High School.

A special recognition ceremony and ice cream social will be held

Thursday, April 7 at Wellington Regional Medical Center.

The auxiliary and the WRMC medical staff are pleased to continue the tradition of honoring the achievements of student scholars in the community by awarding Camilla Combs Memorial Scholarships.

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Nation’s Largest Open House Weekend Hits The Area March 26-27 An exciting opportunity for Florida’s homebuyers and sellers is coming March 26 and 27. The Realtors Association of the Palm Beaches (RAPB), area Realtors and their clients will participate in Florida’s Open House Weekend, sponsored by Florida Realtors.

“It’s a home shopper ’s dream,” 2011 RAPB President Bill Richardson said. “The opportunity to tour dozens of homes in one weekend is a real-time saver for the serious buyer. Affordable prices and low interest rates draw different customer types into the market. It’s a winwin!”

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.

“This event offers people a convenient way to see many homes in one weekend and gives our members a chance to be part of this fantastic effort to match buyers to their sellers,” Richardson said, adding that the weekend we will be a fun way to attract buyers and show them what is available in the local housing market.

Blue balloons featuring the Realtor “R” in white will mark homes that are part of the event. Balloons will be on display at open houses from the Panhandle to Key West.

The Realtors Association of the Palm Beaches represents over 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.

Send business news 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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SPORTS & RECREATION

FOUR AREA SCHOOLS COMPETE AT SEMINOLE RIDGE TRACK MEET Seminole Ridge High School played host to Wellington and Inlet Grove high schools, and Berean Christian School, for a track meet Thursday, March 10. A little rain did nothing to stop the steady pace of track and field activity. The meet included shot put, discus, high jump, long jump, pole vault and track runs including hurdles and relays.

PHOTOS BY BRYAN GAYOSO/TOWN-CRIER

Girls prepare for the 100-meter dash.

Hawk Ed'treon Wilcox (right) takes first in the 100-meter dash.

An SRHS runner heads for the long jump platform.

Competitors take on the hurdles.

A WHS track t eam member focuses on the vault platform.

Coaches look on as an SRHS athlete competes in the long jump.

Wellington Baseball Team Posts 10-0 Victory Over Forest Hill The pitching performance of Andrew Istler was five outs away from being perfect, but the game’s result was perfect enough. Istler’s one-hit gem and home runs by Peter Rivera and Alex Tannone led the Wellington High School varsity baseball team to a 10-0 victory over Forest Hill on Friday, March 11 at WHS. Istler began his eight-strikeout performance with a “K” of the game’s first batter. “I just went after the batters the whole time and tried to mix up my pitches,” Istler said.

Doubles by centerfielder Tommy Kirchner, Rivera (who was inches away from a home run) and catcher Alex Tannone ignited the home team early. Kirchner’s double plated leadoff hitter Mitch Morales to open the scoring, and Rivera in return scored Kirchner. Tannone brought in Rivera to give the Wolverines two runs in the first inning.

Istler again recorded a one-two-three inning in the top of the second, striking out the second and third batters.

Wellington’s junior second baseman Jared Tosner led off the home half of the second inning with a triple, and then, with Tyler Corbin at the plate, scored on a wild pitch. The Wolverines gave Istler a 3-0 lead entering the third.

Istler added two more strikeouts to his stat line, one in the third inning and one in the

Wolverine Watch

By Josh Hyber fourth inning. His best frame came in the fifth, though, when he struck out the side. I wrote down the last strikeout in my notebook before the batter stepped into the batter’s box.

“It wasn’t until after the third inning when I started to think about the perfect game,” Istler said. “After that, every batter came to the plate, and I knew I was getting closer.”

“Istler is awesome to catch,” Tannone said.

“He hits every spot I call, and he is very, very hard to hit when he is effective with all of his pitches.”

All nine Wolverines saw a plate appearance in the bottom of the fifth. Morales led off with a single, followed by a Kirchner double, Istler and Rivera walks, and a Tannone double.

The Wolverines doubled their run total from three to six, giving only more room for Istler to work his magic.

Wellington substituted speedy outfielder Jordan Hernandez to play right field in the

wake of Istler’s special outing. Istler produced a groundball out to the first batter. Surprisingly, even with how superstitious baseball players and fans are, the home crowd openly talked about a potential perfect game. Well, a clean hit single up the middle put and end to all that, and Istler did not face another batter.

Junior David Koos came in relief and recorded two quick groundouts.

With Morales on third and Kirchner on first, Rivera got the inch he needed in the first inning and more, blasting a home run over the left-centerfield fence, giving him four RBI on the night. Tannone did the same as the next batter, ending the game with a solo home run.

(The game ended because of the ten runs in six innings rule.) “I really didn’t think it was going to be a home run,” Tannone said, who rounded first base running hard, and then, “the first base coach told me to slow down.”

The stellar offensive output and Istler ’s gem combined for a perfect (well, close to perfect) night for the Wellington baseball team. The victory brought their record to 8-1 before a weeklong tournament in Sarasota over Spring Break.

In other Wellington High School sports news, The Palm Beach Post announced its Winter Sports All-Conference teams. The Wellington basketball program received high honors, with boys team members Scott Wit-

kowski and Rex Kirby earning first-team selections. Sophomore Fred Millar made the second team, and head coach Matt Colin was named Coach of the Year in the West Division.

The girls basketball team also did well. Senior shooting guard Quinn Ruderman made first team, senior point guard Mercedes Queen made second team, and freshman forward Heather Brown was an honorable mention.

Local soccer dominated the first and second team All-Conference. Members of the Wellington High School and Palm Beach Central High School teams took up every roster spot.

First team members included Wellington’s Natalie Puñal, Chelsea McCaulley, Brittany Wallrath, Melisa Welch, Kaelin Ferreira and Anna Talbot, and Palm Beach Central’s Megan O’Donnell, Nina Prieto, Isabella Grajales, Natalia Hernandez and Hayley Brunner.

Second team members included Wellington’s Savannah Wrye, Diana Manjarres, Raylynn Malec, Ilana Kraushar and Katie Casey, and Palm Beach Central’s Alyse Hausman, Claudia Petrizzi, Cindy Molina, Alyssa May and Amanda Torres. The Coach of the Year in the West Division is Wellington’s Wilmer Diego. On the boys’ side, Wellington’s Gonzalo Gelso was named to the first team.

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WARRIORS PLACE HIGH IN WRESTLING CHAMPIONSHIP

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SPORTS & RECREATION

RIDERS COMPETE AT MONTHLY BARREL SHOW The Palm Beach County Mounted Posse hosted its monthly barrel show Saturday, March 12 at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center. Riders of all ages gathered to compete in the cloverleaf, hairpin, Texas barrel, cone and pole competitions, hoping to win points for the yearend awards. For more info., visit www.pbcposse.com.

PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ/T OWN-CRIER

Courtney Armstrong and Baylee turn the first barrel in the cloverleaf competition.

Maya Suchy turns Christie Gal around the barrel.

Six wrestlers from Wellington Warriors youth wrestling club traveled to Kissimmee to compete in the USA Folkstyle Youth Rookie State Championship. Sha wn O’Sullivan and Colton MacFarlane won f irst place o verall. James Aurilio placed second, Ben Oxfor d placed third, and Cutter Kingsburr y placed fifth. The Wellington Wrestling Club reopens its doors March 22 for the freestyle and greco season. For more information, call coach Travis Gray at (561) 827-8595 or coach Chris Forte at (585) 615-5534, e-mail wellingtonwrestling@gmail.com, or visit www.wellingtonwrestlingclub.moonfruit.com.

Shown above are MacFarlane (left) and O’Sullivan (right).

Ashlyn Hanna urges Miss Belle home.

Jessica Rheney turns some Texas barrels.

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SPORTS & RECREATION

Junior Varsity Softball Hawks Victorious In Martin County The Seminole Ridge High School junior varsity softball team came out as champions in the five-game Martin County School District JV softball tournament Feb. 26, defeating Okeechobee 9-2 in the final game of the incredibly long day.

The Hawks worked their way to the top, defeating Lincoln Park High School 17-0, Martin County High School (12-1), and Okeechobee (a win and a loss, 4-2 and 5-6) before the tournament final.

“The day began on Saturday at 8:30 a.m. and ended with the final pitch thrown at 11:10 p.m. When it was said and done, a celebration erupted. Seminole Ridge were champions,” coach Patrick Moons said. “More important than victory, throughout the day, people compli-

mented Seminole Ridge on their sportsmanship. The girls were both respectful and gracious. I’m proud of the way the team represented Seminole Ridge High School.”

Right-fielder Heather Shapiro was happy with the Hawks’ performance. “We all worked as a team,” she said. “It was a really fun tournament.”

In other Seminole Ridge news, varsity boys volleyball team picked up where they left off last year, with impressive victories in their first two games this season. The Hawks, who compiled a 24-2 record and finished district champions and state semifinalists in 2010, have brought back several veteran players as well as several younger ones to replace graduating seniors.

The Hawks swept Dwyer in three games March 8 (25-19, 25-17, 2521), then swept perennial state power Park Vista the following night (25-16, 25-22, 25-22). The team is led by seniors Ray Collet, David Frazee and David Specian, who was the Palm Beach Post Player of the Year in 2010, and who led the county in assists. Sam Becker, Jared Blount, Wesley Farber, Thomas Mitchell and Jonathan Moore are also top contributors for the Hawks.

“We have the deepest team we’ve ever had at Seminole Ridge,” coach Austin Clubb said. “If we continue to work hard, we have the potential to be better than we were in 2010.

Our defense is stronger than it was last year, which is a key component to a successful season.”

The Seminole Ridge High School junior varsity softball team.

Wellington’s Sebastian Dubocq Trains At Football University

Sebastian Dubocq

Wellington High School Wolverine Sebastian Dubocq was one of a select group who trained this month at Football University (FBU) in Kissimmee, one of the nation’s most prestigious prep camps for aspiring college athletes.

“Only five percent of the players in the nation are serious and

talented enough to be invited to the FBU experience. You’re one of them,” former Dallas Cowboys coach Glenn Smith told the incoming class for the March 4-6 workout.

Dubocq, a veteran Wolverine offensive lineman, has been crosstraining this past year as a fullback. The FBU invitation came af-

ter Dubocq trained for two summers at Gator Football Camp at the University of Florida. Several Midwestern universities already have expressed interest in the aspiring fullback.

Dubocq has excellent college potential, according to a written review from FBU coach Robert Ford, who sports three Super Bowl rings from

his career with the Cowboys.

“It was an honor to be on the field with all these coaches,” Dubocq said of his FBU experience. “They are all retired NFL players, and they shared not only their professional knowledge but personal experiences with us. I am not only a better player now, but a better person because I learned so much.”

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Saturday, March 19 • The Palm Beach County Thrift Store (2455 Vista Parkway, West Palm Beach) will hold an auction of surplus equipment on Saturday, March 19. Items include vehicles, golf carts, computer equipment lawn equipment, power tools and jewelry. Bidding hours are 8 to 11 a.m. with bid awards immediately after the close of bidding. Call (561) 233-2256 or visit www.pbcgov.com for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) Chess Club for age 8 and up will meet Saturday, March 19 at 2:30 p.m. Practice your strategy skills with others. Basic game knowledge is required. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host its Teen Advisor y Posse for ages 12 to 17 on Saturday, March 19 at 2:30 p.m. Find out what’s coming and share your ideas for future teen programs.

Snacks will be provided. Call (561) 7906030 to pre-register.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) Anime Club for ages 12 to 17 will meet Saturday, March 19 at 3 p.m.

Watch anime, eat Pocky and check out the library’s newest manga titles. Snacks will be provided. Call (561) 790-6030 to preregister.

• The Vita Flex Matc h Race will take place Saturday, March 19 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (14440 Pierson Road, Wellington).

Call (561) 793-5867 or visit www. equestriansport.com for more info.

Sunday, March 20 • The 26-goal U.S. Open will run from March 20 through April 17 at the International Polo Club Palm Beach (3667 120th Avenue South, Wellington). For more info., call (561) 204-5687 or visit www.inter nationalpoloclub.com.

• Palm Beach Network Exchange for Women will present a vendor event Sunday, March 20 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.at Good Earth Farm (2141 B Road, Loxahatchee Groves). There will be a hay ride and pony rides around the farm for the kids. Admission costs $10 for adults and $8 for children, and will benefit the animal sanctuary. E-mail MauraSmith17@gmail.com or call Nancy at (561) 792-2666 for more info.

• The Palms West Chamber of Commerce Men’s Club will host a Golf Outing on Sunday, March 20 at the Binks Forest Golf Club (400 Binks Forest Drive, Wellington) with

registration at 11:30 a.m. and a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. The cost is $75 per golfer ($280 per foursome). For more info., call (561) 790-6200.

• The Royal Palm Beach Parks & Recreation Department will present the Doug Gabriel Show direct from Branson, Mo. on Sunday, March 20 at 6 p.m. at the RPB Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way). For more info., call (561) 790-5149 or visit www.royalpalmbeach.com.

Monday, March 21 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “1,000 Blank White Cards” for ages 9 to 12 on Monday, March 21 at 4 p.m. How much fun can 1,000 blank white cards be? You won’t know until you try this awesome game. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

Tuesday, March 22 • The Palm Beach County Commission will hold a workshop session Tuesday, March 22 at 9:30 a.m. in the Government Center (301 N. Olive Ave., West P alm Beach). Visit www.pbcgov.com for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature “Teen Game Night” for ages 12 to 17 on Tuesday, March 22 at 6 p.m. Play Nintendo Wii and board games.

Snacks will be provided. Call (561) 7906070 to pre-register.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Ancestry.com: Genealogy Training” for adults on Tuesday, March 22 at 6:30 p.m. Linda Cubias will share tips and tricks on using this genealogy database. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Royal Palm Beach Community Band will perform Tuesday, March 22 at 7 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way). Refreshments will be served during the intermission. For more info., call (561) 790-5149.

Wednesday, March 23 • The Village of Royal Palm Beach will host a Tour of the Flagler Museum and then lunch at a local restaurant Wednesday, March 23. The trip includes round-trip transportation. For more info., call Dolly Hughes at (561) 790-5149.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “Yarncraft” for ages 6 to 12 on Wednesday, March 23 at 4:30 p.m. Make a simple project using provided materials. Check out new craft books. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 CivSee CALENDAR, page 49

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR CALENDAR, continued from page 48 ic Center Way) will present “How to Protect Yourself from Fraud & Identity Theft” on Wednesday, March 23 at 6:30 p.m. The Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension Service will offer tips and techniques to reduce your risk of being a victim. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

Thursday, March 24 • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “City Stories” for ages 4 to 6 on Thursday, March 24 at 3:30 p.m. Enjoy stories about life in the city, sing songs and make a simple craft. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• Children who turn 4 by or before Sept.

1 can participate in Florida’s free Voluntary Pre-Kindergar ten (VPK) program.

Learn more during a community outreach event on Thursday, March 24 at the Wellington Community Center (12150 Forest Hill Blvd.). Representatives from the nonprofit Family Central will be available to enroll families in the program from 4 to 7 p.m.

VPK is designed to help Florida’s children develop the skills they need to become good readers and successful students. For more info., visit www.familycentral.org.

• The Women’s Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County will host its 16th annual Giraffe Awards in honor of Women’s Histor y Month on Thursday, March 24 at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach. There will be an auction and expo at 5:30 p.m. with the dinner and ceremony to begin at 7 p.m. The keynote speaker will be Delia Passi, CEO of Medelia Inc. and founder of WomenCertified. For more info., call (561) 684-4523 or visit www.womenschamber.biz.

• The Safety Council of Palm Beach County will offer a Basic Driver Improvement Course on Thursday, March 24 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Wellington High School (2101 Greenview Shores Blvd.). A motorcycle course will be offered March 24, 26 and 27 at Wellington High School. This combined classroom and road course is now required for motorcycle endorsement.

Hours are 6 to 10 p.m. Thursday, March 24, and 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, March 26 and 27. For more info., visit www.safetycouncilpbc.org, or call (561) 845-8233 or (800) 640-2415.

• Swing into Spring with the College Music Department at the Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center (1977 College Drive, Belle Glade) on Thursday, March 24 at 7:30 p.m.

For tickets or more info., call (561) 9931160 or visit www.dollyhand.org.

Friday, March 25 • The Arthur R. Marshall Foundation will host its Back to Nature Luncheon featuring Richard Louv, author of Last Child in the Woods and co-founder of the Children & Nature Network on Friday, March 25 at noon at the Ritz-Carlton Palm Beach (100 S. Ocean Blvd, Lantana). To register online, visit www.artmarshall.org.

• Students at Palm Beach Central and Wellington high schools will host a St. Baldrick’s Foundation Fundraiser on Friday, March 25 at 3 p.m. at Wellington Village Par k (11700 Pierson Road). For more info,. visit www.stbaldricks.org/events/wellington kidscare or www.crowdtogether.com.

• The South Florida Science Museum (4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach) will feature “Spring Nights at the Museum” on Friday, March 25 from 6 to 10 p.m.

The evening will feature spring-themed activities. Free food will be provided by McDonald’s. The cost is $5 for adult museum members and free for their children, and $10 for non-members and $6 for their children. Children 3 and under will be admitted free. For more info., call (561) 832-1988 or visit www.sfsm.org.

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 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 25 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (14440 Pierson Road, Wellington). Call (561) 793-5867 or visit www.equestriansport.com for more info.

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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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 SATURDAY HELP WANTED — Saturday morning help needed 7:30 until 1:00 working with horses and children. Must be 15 y.o. and have horse experience. Call 561-7585860 DRIVERS WANTED FULL/PART TIME — for Wellington Town-Car/ Wellington Cab. Retirees Welcome call 561-333-0181 WINDOW INSTALLERS WANTED Lic. & ins. subcontractors only. Top Pay. No Brokers. Call Matt 561714-8490 CLEANING PERSON NEEDED FOR PRIV ATE HOME — in Loxahatchee. Part-Time 2 days per week. $9.50/hr. References required. 644-8683 PART TIME MEDICAL ASSISTANT— needed for busy medical office. Must have pediatric experience. Fax resume to (561) 7930490 SMALL MEDICAL OFFICE NEEDS MANAGER/MEDICAL BILLER — 4 days preferred experienced must have references & resume. Fax to 561-798-1121 PT DRIVER NEEDED FOR DISABLED PERSON — Perfect for a homemaker or retired person. Disabled adult (no lifting) needs rides to Dr.'s appts., 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 rest aurant in Belle Glade. Fax resume to 561993-2111 PART-TIME SECRETARY WANTED — Work with local religious organization 15 hours per week. 3 or 4 Days Week.

Please E-Mail resume RABBIM@BELLSOUTH.NET

NEXT SATURDAY MARCH 26th, 8:00 a.m - 3:00 p.m. — Variety of items. 385 La Mancha Ave. (Off of RPB Blvd.)

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 inst allation, minor drywall,kitchens/cabinets / countertop s, wood flooring.

Bonded and Insured U#19699. Call 791-9900 or 628-9215

ANMAR CO.—James’ All Around Handyman Service. Excellent craf tman Old time values. Once you’ve had me! You’ll have me back!

Lic. Ins. Certified Residential Contractor CRC 1327426 561-248-8528 JOHN C. HUNTON AIR CONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION, INC.—Service & new inst allation 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

HOME INSPECTIONS — Mold inpections, air quality testing, US Building Inspectors mention this ad $20.00 Off. 561-784-8811

HURRICANE SHUTTERS P&M CONTRACT ORS — ACCORDION SHUTTERS Gutters, screen enclosures, siding, soffit s, aluminum roofs, Serving the Western Communities. Since 1985. U-17189 561-791-9777 CLASSIFIEDS 793-3576

WELLINGTON WINDOWS, LLC — Protect your family from breakins and hurricanes. Quality, Maintenance-free, Energy-ef ficient. Impact Windows and Doors Lic& Ins Call 561-670-2637 You’ve seen the REST...now compare the BEST Greenwise Builders, Inc. #CBC051244

HOUSECLEANING — 20 yrs experience. Excellent local references.

Shopping available. 561-572-1782 HOUSE/OFFICE CLEANING — 30 yrs experience in the Western Communities. Honest-Reliable and plenty of references. Call Anytime Debbie. 204-4681 Ins. & Lic.

MOBILE-TEC ON-SITE COMPUTER SERVICE — The computer experts that come to you! Hardware/ Software setup, support &troubleshooting w w w.mobiletec.ne t.

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 W e 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

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BOB CAVANAGH ALLSTATE INSURANCE Auto • Home • Life • Renters • Motorcycle • R V • 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 & p ainting contractor. Lic. #U21552 Call Butch 309-6975 visit our website at www.jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com

JOHN PERGOLIZZI PAINTING INC. — Interior/Exterior - Repaint specialist, pressure cleaning, popcorn ceiling, drywall repair & roof painting. Family owned/owner operator. Free Est. 798-4964 Lic. #U18473 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

JEREMY JAMES PLUMBING — Licensed plumber, legitimate estimate. Water heaters, new construction. CFC1426242. Bonded and Insured. CFC1426242. 561-601-6458

J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential.

Interior & Exterior painting.

Certified pressure cleaning & painting contractor. Lic. #U21552 Call Butch at 309-6975 or visit us at 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 561-309-0134 Lic. Ins. Bonded. CGC-023773 RC0067207 ROBERT CHERRY ROOFING INC Reroofing - Repair - Waterproofing 561-791-2612 or 954-741-4580 State Lic.& Ins. #CCC-1326048

SECURITY — American owned local security company in business 30 plus years. Protection by officers drug tested. 40 hour course. Licensed & Insured. 561-848-2600

JOHN’S SCREEN REPAIR SERVICE — Pool & p atio rescreening.

Stay tight,wrinkle-free,guaranteed!

CRC1329708 call us 798-3132. www.poolscreenrepair.com

ACCORDION SHUTTERS — Gutters, screen enclosures, siding, soffits, aluminum roofs, Serving the Western Communities. Since 1985.

U-17189 561-791-9777

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE CALL 793-3576

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

ClubZ TUTORING All Subjects: PreK-Adult

FCAT SPECIALS 561•333•1980 CLUBZ.COM America’s Largest In-HomeTutoring Co.

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

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

AMERICAN TREE SERVICE Tree Trimming, landscaping,removal, hauling & stumps Most Palms $20.

Lic.Ins. Free Estimates Call Roy 373-6117 or Jimmy at 329-0213

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

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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

2000 HONDA ACCORD — 209,000 miles, red w/cream leather interior good running condition, good A/C $3,400 OBO 561-7137794

HAVE AN AUTOMOBILE TO SELL PLACE YOUR AD HERE CALL 793-3576 2001 PONTIAC MONTANA VAN — Loaded 76,022 miles. $6,000 561784-7763

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