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A/C in South Florida

Jathy Garcia
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A/C in South Florida

Living Green

A/C in South Florida

By Jathy Garcia

Owning an air conditioning unit in Florida is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. With only one month left of spring, now is the time for Florida home and business owners to properly ready their cooling systems for the scorching months ahead. You may have already found yourself itching to head towards the thermostat to crank up the A/C to cool down your home or business. However, if your A/C unit isn’t ready for the sudden increase in workload, it could stop running altogether in the middle of the hottest season of the year. To prevent a system breakdown, inspect your air conditioning unit thoroughly and take the following steps to prevent future issues:

1. Clean More Than the A/C Filters

Changing the air conditioning filters is one of first tasks people do when preparing their air conditioning unit for a blistering summer. It’s also one of the easiest. Still, cleaning your A/C requires more than just switching out dirty filters for new ones. Routinely clearing any dirt and dust from the condenser coils and evaporator, in addition to the filters, will ensure a higher cooling capacity and steady supply of cool air. If you come across any problems with your A/C as a result of excess filtrate accumulation, call a Hi-Tech Plumbing & Air technician to help maintain the “health” of your unit.

2. Look for A/C Leaks

Refrigerant leakage is a common problem and one of the biggest threats to an air conditioner’s efficiency. The refrigerant is arguably the most important component of any air conditioner since it’s the liquid used in an A/C unit’s heat pump and refrigeration cycle to keep air cool as it circulates. So, whenever there is a refrigerant leak, your system’s ability to cool your home or business suffers. This is why it’s important to make sure that there are no leaks coming from your A/C unit. If you find any, or feel you may have one, call Hi-Tech Plumbing & Air at 561-790-6966 right away.

3. Check the A/C Drain Line

The drain line is another important and often overlooked component of any air conditioning unit. While your A/C is running, any excess moisture accumulated during the refrigeration cycle is collected and drained for maximum unit efficiency. However, if the drain line gets clogged, the excess moisture cannot be released and could cause complications. When checking the drain line, look for water. If there is water running out of the outside drain, it means the A/C is functioning properly. If there is no sign of water, it could mean that the A/C line is clogged, in which case you should enlist the help of a professional for any necessary repairs.

4. Trim Around the Outside A/C Unit

Most air conditioners have two major parts: an inside unit (usually stored in a closet) and an outdoor unit. Outdoor A/C units may require a little more maintenance than the ones kept indoors because plant and shrub growth can hinder its functionality. The purpose of the outside unit is to allow the circulating refrigerant to release collected heat before returning to the inside unit to repeat the process and keep air cool. When plants grow around the outdoor unit, it makes it difficult for the A/C’s refrigerant to release heat, making it less likely to get cool air from the inside unit. It also reduces the outdoor unit’s lifespan and can cause damage if left untreated. By leaving at least one foot of space between the unit and any surrounding shrubbery, you can prevent any complications and preserve your A/C’s refrigeration cycle.

5. Have a New A/C Unit Installed

If your beaten-down air conditioner is costing you more in energy bills and maintenance costs than it’s worth, it may be time to replace it. After all, if your A/C will be running all day and night for the duration of the summer, investing in a better unit may be the best way to keep cool and save money in the long run. If you’re considering replacing one or both of your air conditioning units, the best time to do so is before summer starts. This way, you don’t have to go even an hour without air conditioning.

These are the five most productive steps you can take to keep your air conditioning unit functioning at its best throughout a hot Florida summer. Is your A/C prepared for next month? Hi-Tech Plumbing & Air is here to guarantee that the answer is a resounding “Yes!” If you have any questions, or need an A/C unit installed, repaired, or replaced, give us a call at 561-790-6966.

March

Anne Gerwig
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March

Mayor’s Column

March

By Mayor Anne Gerwig

March means Spring is just around the corner. Days are getting longer which means we will have more time outdoors. This month, please take full advantage of all our Great Hometown has to offer.

This month, Wellington kicks off the fifth annual “Let’s Move: Commit to Change Physical Activity Challenge” with a celebration at the Wellington Amphitheater on Saturday, March 4, 2017. Starting at 9:00 am, instructors from Ultima Fitness will lead active demonstrations including Zumba, Taekwondo, and more. The Diabetes Coalition of Palm Beach County will also be on site providing free diabetes screenings. In addition, there will be information on how to stay active and healthy throughout the year, including materials on Wellington’s vast selection of recreational programming.

Daylight Savings Time begins on Sunday, March 12th; don’t forget to “spring forward” and set your clocks one hour ahead. This is also a good time to change the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. It is a simple safety practice that may save a life.

We are in high gear for the fiscal year 2017-2018 Budget. Wellington’s long-term financial plan is in progress and includes financial condition analyses and forecasts for the next five years. The budget kicks off this month, with all departments preparing their budget requests, and the capital plan will be put together in April. The budget staff looks forward to presenting a balanced and fiscally sound FY 2017-2018 budget that continues to make Wellington a Great Hometown.

Several of our major capital projects included in the current budget are wrapping up: the round-about at Stribling and Fairlane Farms has the final lighting, and landscaping being installed and the Forest Hill Boulevard culvert replacement project is in the closeout process with the contractor. We are gearing up for other major capital projects with construction anticipated to start mid-year. These are the two turn lane projects at the Big Blue/Birkdale and the Big Blue/Wiltshire intersections. We will keep everyone advised as the project work schedule gets finalized. Stay up-to-date with our social media and website updates for these major projects.

This month, Wellington is ready to help create a world with more birthdays. The Village will join the American Cancer Society Saturday, March 11, for this year’s Relay For Life to support the fight against cancer. Relay begins at the South Florida Fairgrounds with a Survivor Lap at 3:30 PM, an inspiring time where survivors are honored by participants in support of their incredible fight. One of the most memorable events during the night is the Luminaria Ceremony at 10:00 PM, where everyone has the opportunity to light candles and take a moment to honor those who have beat the disease, those who are still fighting, and those remembered for their courageous fight against cancer. Funds raised at Relay For Life support programs and services for patients and families in our community.

St. Patrick’s Day is on Friday, March 17th. Have fun while being responsible. And don’t forget to wear green!

Speaking of green, Wellington’s Green Market continues each Saturday this month. Food Truck Invasion happens every Thursday evening at the Amphitheater. We also have free ongoing entertainment at the Amphitheater, with great food, movies, and outstanding music. Find the complete schedule of events taking place this month by clicking here: CLICK HERE

Spring Break for our local schools runs from March 20st through the 24th and we all know how much our kids look forward to that. Fortunately, Wellington has a wide variety of outdoor activities this month for everyone to enjoy. The Village offers several camps during Spring Break including basketball, soccer, sand volleyball, and TumbleKids.

Summer Camp registrations also are now open. With summer rapidly approaching, now is the time to start thinking about activities for when the kids get out of school. Last year, camps filled up fast and we are expecting the same this year. Don’t hesitate and register online today! Wellington’s Summer Recreation Program Guide comes out this month, so make sure to head to our website www.wellingtonfl.gov to learn more.

Lastly, get your baskets ready for Wellington’s annual Egg Hunt! The Egg Hunt returns to the Village Park softball fields, located at 11700 Pierson Road, on Saturday, April 15. The event begins promptly at 10:00 a.m., and will be divided into four age groups: ages 2 and under; ages 3 to 4; ages 5 to 7; and ages 8 to 10. At each egg hunt, two eggs will have a pink bunny ticket inside, indicating a special prize. Families are encouraged to arrive early as traffic congestion may occur.

As the saying goes “spring is a time of new beginnings.” This year, that saying holds true for us here at Village Council. We are looking toward the future and are excited to work with you to ensure that Wellington remains a Great Hometown.

The Swedish Lapland: A Special Little Piece of the Planet

Terri Marshall
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The Swedish Lapland: A Special Little Piece of the Planet

Travel with Terri

Story and Photos by Terri Marshall

 

It’s difficult to define what makes the Swedish Lapland so special. The mountains, the swiftly flowing rivers, the dense forests and the archipelago are a part of it, but it’s more than that. The Swedish Lapland is a place of traditions, a place where people live in harmony with nature—a place you’ll want to return to time and time again.

Swedish Lapland

Located above the Arctic Circle, the Swedish Lapland is home to reindeer, moose, an abundance of fish and some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet. In the winter, it transforms into a wonderland as the rivers freeze and the Northern Lights dance in the sky overhead. When the snow melts and summer arrives, the Midnight Sun shines on this special little piece of the planet into the wee hours of the morning.

I was first introduced to this magical world and the people who call it home last summer as I road-tripped through the region with three other writers. It gained a special place in my heart and I plan to return every chance I get. Here are a few of my favorite experiences.

Swedish Lapland

Experiencing the Fishing Tradition of Kukkolaforsen

Using a technique that dates back to the middle ages, fishing in Kukkolaforsen is done with a long-handled net—and by long handled, I mean longer than I am tall. With the help of an instructor, I tried my hand at fishing for whitefish in the raging Torne River. While he made it look easy, I can assure you it wasn’t. And although I had no luck, thankfully there were freshly caught whitefish on hand for us to grill.

The fish are grilled over an open flame in smoke huts. Sitting around the crackling fire in a 500 year old timber hut watching the fish cook and listening to the tall tales of the fisherman is an experience I won’t soon forget.

The Torne River serves as a natural boundary between Finland and Sweden. As I was working that long-handled net, I looked across the river and watched as the Finnish fisherman caught the fish that were eluding me. And as the light changed (as it constantly does in this region) a rainbow appeared to frame Finland right before my eyes.

When the river freezes in winter, ice fishing takes over. Of course, if you decide you want to visit Finland in the winter months you can just walk right across the river and say hello.
For five generations, the Spolander family has been offering tourism opportunities in the Swedish Lapland at Kukkolaforsen Tourism and Conference Center providing dining, accommodations, sauna experiences and fishing in the Torne River Valley.

Swedish Lapland

Going Off-Road at Guesthouse Kangos in Kangosfors

When I say the people who call the Swedish Lapland home are warm and inviting, I am most certainly talking about Johann and Eve, the owner/operators of Guesthouse Kangos who were an absolute delight. From the moment we arrived, I felt like I’d known them for years. Located on the banks of the Lainio River, the guesthouse is comprised of a collection of 100-year-old wooden cottages which have been impeccably maintained and decorated with an unmistakable Scandinavian touch. If you’re seeking a place to get away from it all, this is that place.

Amid tranquil natural beauty you can relax in the riverside sauna, soak in the hot tub under the midnight sun or you can learn something new. Johan and Eve offer courses to learn photography, painting, jewelry making, knife making and a leather workshop.

Swedish Lapland

For our summer visit, Johan and his business partner, Peter, introduced us to the adventures of off-roading on a Land Rover designed course. The setting was perfect with deep blue lakes reflecting towering evergreen pines and reindeer grazing just out of sight. Our adventure began with a ride along before we each took a turn at the wheel to tackle the course. We charged up steep embankments, crawled over massive boulders and flipped off the end of a wooden platform. There were screams—lots of them—but in the end, we conquered the course, managed to stay alive and toasted our good time with wine.

In the winter, the focus turns to ice, snow and the Northern Lights. Supplying all the winter gear you’ll need, Johan leads guests on snowmobile safaris in search of the Northern Lights. You can expect reindeer encounters as you cross the frozen rivers into the wilderness.

Swedish Lapland

Just Being There is Enough

Sometimes it’s not what you do in a place that makes the experience so memorable…it’s just being there. That is how I felt about my time in the Swedish Lapland. To be honest, I knew nothing about this part of the world before my visit. But as I peeked out the window of my cottage around 3:00am to see light still in the sky and bunny rabbits playing on the lawn, I knew it would be part of my soul forever. After all, there aren’t many places in the world where traffic jams are caused by wandering reindeer.

Being There

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Being There

Mommy Moments

Being There      

By Krista Martinelli

I recently watched a Ted Talk video featuring a high-powered TV executive Shonda Rhimes, who decided to “Say yes” every time her three children asked her to play.  Stopping everything you’re doing and playing puts you into another mindset – and isn’t always easy to do.  It was an inspiring talk and while I cannot say I’ll do it “always,” I’ve been aiming for more often.  (Check out the video).

Just this week, I was lucky to get to see one of my kids’ “firsts.”  It was a Tuesday night and I was contemplating staying home and taking a relaxing bath.  But it was my son’s first baseball game of the season and I decided to go.  He hit his first home run, and I was so happy to get to see it.  He was so happy, he was yelling to all of his friends, sharing his good news. I’m glad that I made the choice to go watch his game, putting off my bath for another night.  

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about being “fully present” and engaging in things.  It’s something you cannot really do while looking at your cell phone.  I recently heard from a friend’s teenage daughter.  She was venting about the way her mother was texting the whole time, when attending her games.  So yes, kids do notice if you have your nose in your cell phone throughout a whole game.  Sadly, the girl said that this “didn’t count” when it comes to watching her games. 

A great little book about being fully present is Tuesdays with Morrie.  “’I believe in being fully present,’ Morrie said. ‘That means you should be with the person you’re with. When I’m talking to you now, Mitch, I try to keep focused only on what is going on between us…”  In many cases, you have to put something down (most often your cell phone) to be able to take in the moment and really live in the moment. 

I’m not great at doing this, but I’m working on it.  And the next time my kids ask me to join in whatever they’re playing, whether it’s basketball or making slime* or playing Monopoly, I’m going to say yes.  Play time is something we all need, especially as adults.

*Yes, sometimes play is messy!   

Let’s Move Challenge

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Let’s Move Challenge

Wellington Residents Get Active

 

This March, Wellington is participating in the fifth annual “Let’s Move: Commit to Change Physical Activity Challenge.” The challenge is a county-wide initiative focused on physical activity, nutrition, and health. It will take place from March 1 to March 31, 2017 and asks participants to log at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day.
 
Wellington has created its own team, “Well Wellington,” and urges residents, Village employees, local after school programs, and sports teams to join and log their minutes. Residents may register by visiting LetsMovePBC.org. Participation is FREE and open to all.
 
On Saturday, March 4, 2017 Wellington, in partnership with Ultima Fitness and the Palm Healthcare Foundation, will kickoff the campaign at the Wellington Amphitheater during the Wellington Green Market. Starting at 9am, instructors from Ultima Fitness will be leading active demonstrations including Zumba, Taekwondo, and more. The Diabetes Coalition of Palm Beach County will also be on site providing free diabetes screeings. In addition, there will be information on how to stay active and healthy throughout the year including materials on Wellington’s vast selection of recreational programming.
 
To continue the momentum and assist in keeping residents active, Ultima Fitness will be offering complimentary activities at their facility throughout the month of March. You can visit their website http://ultimafitness.com/letsmoveschedule2017 for more information.

As another way to stay informed on the latest news and updates from the Village, residents are invited to sign up for Wellington information and updates at www.wellingtonfl.gov/enews.
 
For information about other Wellington programs, events, activities, and updates, please visit www.wellingtonfl.gov or watch WellingtonTV for the latest happenings.

 

Sixth Annual Brain Bee

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Sixth Annual Brain Bee

SUCCESSFUL SIXTH ANNUAL BRAIN BEE CREATED A HUGE BUZZ ACROSS TWO COUNTIES

Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience’s first place prize awarded to “Team Yo GABA GABA”

1st place_Patrick Bosco (Palm Beach Gardens HS), Barry Cheung (Palm Beach Gardens HS), Jax Sprague (Suncoast Community HS)

Jupiter, Fla. – From Belle Glade to Boynton Beach to Jupiter, students came from all corners of Palm Beach and Martin Counties to compete in Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience’s (MPFI) Sixth Annual Brain Bee on Saturday, February 4, 2017. Other highly motivated competitors traveled from areas as far south as Boca Raton and as far north as Jensen Beach for a special behind-the-scenes tour and a chance at coveted prize money. In the end, “Team Yo GABA GABA” made up of students Patrick Bosco, Barry Cheung and Jax Sprague from Palm Beach Gardens High School and Suncoast Community High School was victorious.

 

“We are very pleased with the ongoing success of our annual Brain Bee,” said Dr. David Fitzpatrick, MPFI CEO and Scientific Director. “In its sixth year, the event continues to allow MPFI an opportunity to ignite our youths’ interest in neuroscience and their commitment to solve the scientific challenges of our future. While we were quite impressed with the students’ talent this year, we were especially excited about the reach within our community-at-large. The participation of fifteen different schools across two counties illustrates that South Florida’s strong interest in science continues to expand and grow.”

 

Participants competed in teams of three to answer questions on neuroscience topics, which included learning and memory, emotion, sensation, movement, aging, neurobiology, brain anatomy, and neural disorders. Prior to the competitive portion of the event, Brain Bee participants had the opportunity to tour MPFI’s labs and facilities and participate in interactive neuroscience research demonstrations.

 

This year’s second place Brain Bee team included Winston Cheung, Raghu Radhakrishnan and David Young from Atlantic High School in Delray Beach. Viviana Brooks, Erin Marlow and Christina Marlow from Oxbridge Academy of the Palm Beaches in West Palm Beach made up the third place team.

 

Other schools represented at the all-day neuroscience competition included:

  • Boca Preparatory International School
  • Boynton Beach Community High School
  • FAU High School
  • Glades Central Community High School
  • Jensen Beach High School
  • Jupiter Community High School
  • Lake Worth Community High School
  • Palm Beach Central High School
  • Santaluces Community High School
  • The Benjamin School

 

The Mary and Robert Pew Public Education Fund sponsored MPFI’s Brain Bee. The Florida-based public education foundation has supported the event with its generosity since its inception in 2012. 

 

For more information about the annual Brain Bee, visit http://www.maxplanckflorida.org/brain-bee.

 

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About the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience

The Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience (MPFI), a not-for-profit research organization, is part of the world-renowned Max Planck Society, Germany’s most successful research organization with over 80 institutes worldwide. Since its establishment in 1948, 18 Nobel laureates have emerged from the ranks of its scientists. It has produced over 15,000 publications, more than 3,000 inventions and over 90 spin-off companies, putting it on par with the best and most prestigious research institutions in the world. As its first U.S. institution, MPFI brings together exceptional neuroscientists from around the world to answer fundamental questions about brain development and function and to develop new technologies that make groundbreaking scientific discoveries possible. Their research is shared publicly with scholars, universities and other organizations around the globe, providing the necessary foundation of knowledge to develop treatments and cures for brain disorders such as autism, schizophrenia, Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. For more information, visit www.maxplanckflorida.org.

Photo credit: Photo courtesy of Max Planck Florida Institute of Neuroscience

Wellington Garden Club – “Orchid Design”

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Wellington Garden Club – “Orchid Design”

The Wellington Garden Club will meet Monday, March 6 in the Lakeview Room at the new Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). A light breakfast begins at 9:30 a.m., followed by a business meeting at 10:30 a.m. and a program at 11:30 a.m. on “Orchid Design,” presented by Pamela Graf Bohm.


Bohm, who worked at the Floral Emporium for 13 years, established Pamela’s Petals in 2009 to propagate her love of orchid and plant design. Three years ago Bohm revived the dormant Flamingo Park Garden Tour which has blossomed into a cultural and horticultural event. Bohm’ s green thumb is evident in her creative and stunning designs.
Guests are welcome, but seating is limited. RSVP to Doreen Baxter at doreenspot@ comcast.net or call (561) 793-6013.

Wellington Library Storytime at the Wellington Green Mall

Meghan Buser
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Wellington Library Storytime at the Wellington Green Mall

The Wellington Library is hosting a Storytime at the Wellington Green Mall on Tuesday, March 14th at 9:30am. Bring your little ones to enjoy a story, craft, and music time and they can even sign up for their own library card at the end. This event will take place in front of Nordstroms at the Nordstroms Café.
Please call 561-227-6918 for more information

Lil’ Expressive Dance classes at the Wellington Green Mall

Meghan Buser
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Lil’ Expressive Dance classes at the Wellington Green Mall

NRG Dance Studios dance studios is now holding dance classes for ages 2-5 at 9:30am on Thursdays in the Wellington Green Mall. Join this group and get ready for some upcoming performances and a summer recital!
Call Nicole Sampas to register 305-896-2957.

Kids Eat Free – March, 2017

Shawn Thompson
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Kids Eat Free – March, 2017

Kids Eat FREEShawnThompson-2013

Compiled by Shawn Thompson

Kids Eat FREE! This is your one-stop source for your favorite restaurants around town where your kids can eat free!  All restaurants listed offer one free child meal (10 and under – some are 12 and under) per adult entrée purchased unless specified (drink offers vary).  Since most places change their kids eat free promotions from time to time, please call ahead to make sure the offer is still good.

Shawn Thompson

If you have a favorite restaurant that offers a freebie meal not listed, please feel free to share!

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MONDAY

Brass Ring Pub   10998 Okeechobee Blvd., RPB  (561)296-4563

After 5 p.m. – drink included

Shane’s Rib Shack  11051 Southern Blvd., RPB (561) 333-7427

All Day – drink included

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TUESDAY

Alabama Joe’s 6316 Lantana Rd. #45 Pinewood Square, Lantana (561)963-3393

All day – drink included

BurgerFi Wellington, 12836 Forest Hill Blvd, Wellington, FL 33414.  (561) 612-7853. Free Kid’s Custard with the purchase of a Kid’s Meal (one per child under 10 years old).

Bonefish Mac’s Sports Grille  10880 Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington (561) 798-6227     All day – drink included (2 kids per adult w/ $8 meal)

CJS Island Grill, 606 Lake Ave, Lake Worth FL 33460
561-249-6131 Kids Eat free with an Adult purchase.

Denny’s  300 Civic Way, RPB  (561)793-7050

From 4-10 p.m.  – no drink included (2 kids per one adult meal)

Bru’s Room  11111 Southern Blvd., RPB  (561)790-2771

From 5-9 p.m. – drink included, (Thursdays 1/2 off)

Hurricane Grill & Wings  4075 State Rd. 7 (441), Lake Worth  (561) 318-6107

All Day – drink included

Rosalita’s Tex Mex Grill  5949 S. Congress Ave., Atlantis – corner of Lantana & Congress (561) 964-5747

After 5 p.m. – drink included. Captain Cartoon, aka Dick Culpa, does FREE kids’ caricatures at Rosalita’s on Tuesday nights! Check out his website too.

Texas Roadhouse 8865 Southern Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33411

561-651-0400, $2 off meal plus kids can play games to earn a free meal

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 WEDNESDAY

Moe’s Southwest Grill  2605 St. Rd. 7, Bay 410   (561)792-5712

After 5 p.m. – drink, cookie + chips included

Duffy’s  11935 Southern Blvd., RPB   (561)792-4045

All day – drink included

TooJay’s (moved from Wellington Green Mall to Wellington Green Commons)
2605 S. State Road 7, Wellington (561) 784-9055
Every Wednesday through August 31st: one free kid’s meal with one paid adult entree

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THURSDAY

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FRIDAY

See Everyday section

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SATURDAY

Steak ’n Shake   133 S. State Rd. 7, RPB  (561)333-6474

All day – drink included

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SUNDAY

Steak ’n Shake  133 S. State Rd. 7, RPB (561) 333-6474

All day – drink included

_____________________________________________________________________

EVERYDAY (and Almost Everyday)

Butterfields Southern Café  1145 Royal Palm Beach Blvd., RPB  (561)792-8723.  (Monday thru Saturday.  Restaurant closes on Sundays at 3pm).

4-8 p.m. every day – no drink included

The Original Pancake House    105 South State Rd. 7, RPB  (561)296-0878

Until 2 p.m. Mon. – Friday – drink included

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