Just a few featured photos Around Wellington. Visit “Photo Galleries” for more pictures.





Just a few featured photos Around Wellington. Visit “Photo Galleries” for more pictures.
By Sabeen Faquir
US Building Inspectors (USBI) has been in business since 2000. It was founded by Mike Carson, who owned, operated, and grew the company in Wellington, FL. In 2005, Patti Neri purchased the company and continued to grow it to the wonderful company it is today. Mike’s mission statement was: once the customer (buyer in most cases) has found the home, in the neighborhood and community in which they wish to reside, our goal is to present the facts of the functionality and findings of the home in order to enable them to make an informed decision on moving forward with the purchase of the home. Their realtor or real estate attorney can advise them from that point on.
I got the chance to ask Patti about changes that came to the business and she told me she took a homegrown company operated in Wellington, FL and expanded it to 4 counties (Broward, Palm Beach, Martin, and St. Lucie). “As the needs of the company expanded, so did the staff, enabling us to meet the needs of our clientele (buyers, sellers, realtors, and real estate attorneys), who depend on our professionalism and attention to detail,” she told me.
The inspections have also grown to include ancillary services, such as mold and allergen inspections, and testing capabilities for both, as well as protocol writing for homeowners, public adjusters, insurance companies, and prospective homeowners. Other services are water testing for bacteria and other elements, Chinese Drywall inspections, and a separate team of a licensed general contractor, structural engineer, well water treatment service, termite company, septic company, gas inspection and installation company, and pool company to meet the needs of all types of property inspections.
I asked Patti, “What do customers need help with the most?” She answered that customers need help understanding that a home inspection is a functional inspection, not a new home construction inspection, implying that the property is a resale most of the time, and systems in the home are not expected to be as they were when they were new. Many need help understanding the windstorm mitigation and how it may benefit them, as well as disclosing all different types of services that USBI does, and those services they don’t. Some want lead, asbestos, and/or radon testing, and USBI refers them to another company. “Our most popular services are the comprehensive home inspection, windstorm mitigation, and wood-destroying organism inspection, which is the latter of these 3 services and performed by a licensed and insured pest control company,” said Patti.
The benefits of getting a building inspection are never-ending. Having a building inspection on a residential, equestrian, or commercial property and not skipping this very important process, as some do, is critical. “The buyer is aware of the faults and deficiencies, and also the need for maintenance of all parts of the home,” Patti told me. Whether the real estate pre-purchase contract is an “As Is”, or not, does not change the outcome of the inspection report. Having an inspection performed by a licensed professional enables the buyer to be informed about all facets of the property prior to moving forward with the purchase. It also enables the buyer to discuss with their advocate, i.e. realtor and/or real estate attorney, if further negotiations are an option, or if rescinding their offer due to unexpected issues is another option. The buyer could also move forward with the purchase, or get an extension to their due diligence period to request other trade professionals’ opinions about an item in the home, having something repaired, replaced, or treated for something.
“Peace of mind knowing they have had someone check all parts of the building, and to have full disclosure of what to expect once the closing has taken place is paramount to most people,” said Patti. A punch list of items is created with a building inspection report. Whether the buyer chooses to use this punch list to negotiate with the seller, or to go through the list of items in the inspection report to prioritize the most important, is up to the buyer.
Another great thing about USBI is that it gives back to the community. It is a resource to many homeowners and business owners. Due to their involvement in many areas of the community, they are able to provide homeowners and prospective homeowners with reputable companies they may need to hire. The Western Business Alliance has become an integral part of the Western Communities for business owners to network, and for USBI, it has taken the place of Chambers of Commerce, and networking referral groups. “I have spent many years as a member of several chambers and networking referral groups; however, every business owner has to do what is best for their business. Because of my involvement in the community for over 20 years now, I am able to point people in the direction of those who are ethical, professional, licensed, and insured, and help them avoid doing business with companies that may not have a good reputation,” Patti told me.
US Building Inspectors offers coupons all year long. They also offer discounts for any prospective buyer, seller, realtor, or real estate attorney. Yelp has been a wonderful resource because many of USBI’s customers see the rave reviews about the team. It’s also a thrill for Patti when customers come in from word of mouth.
USBI is perfect for the Village of Wellington because it was conceived in Wellington in 2000. USBI is familiar with most of the properties there, already. And they have inspected so many residential, equestrian, and commercial properties in Wellington, that they are familiar with the construction of most homes, including the issues and positive traits. Patti told me, “Many times, we have already inspected properties that come in and I can look up any deficiencies or issues that happened in the past. This way, we have an advantage knowing all facets of a property before even arriving at it.” Then USBI determines if previous issues were resolved or not when they show up at the property to inspect it again.
Patti left me by telling me that she is expecting her fourth grandchild in August, and looks forward to balancing her life between family and business. She loves AroundWellington.com and Krista Martinelli’s work for the incredible resource the magazine is to the community. “The articles and featured columns are both immensely important to me because it enables me to keep up with my fellow business owners, as well as local celebrities,” said Patti. She loves being part of such an amazing family of “Wellingtonites” and is very appreciative of the reciprocated love of all who live and work here!
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August 2016 Special Events Announced for Palm Beach Zoo
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Palm Beach Zoo is announcing the following special events and promotions for the month of August 2016:
We Love Our Locals: #WildWeekdays Special
Mon-Fri until August 31, 2016 we are offering a #WildWeekdays $5 OFF ‘Love our Locals’ Discount. You can find a coupon on our website and Facebook page beginning August 1st! Applies to ALL regular, full-price daytime admissions from 9:00a-4:15p weekdays throughout August.
Safari Nights: When the Zoo Comes Alive!
Join us every Friday evening (5:00p to 9:00p) in August for Safari Nights.
Each night will feature a different family friendly theme and will include children’s entertainment such as face painting and kids’ DJ in the Fountain Plaza and MUCH more! We will also be dropping Pokemon lures, so come on out and #CatchEmAll! Visit palmbeachzoo.org/safari-nights for more information!
Roar & Pour: The Petty Hearts: Saturday, August 6: 4:30p – 9:00p
Roar & Pour… An evening in the Zoo with drinks, food and live music featuring The Petty Hearts… America’s Definitive Tom Petty Tribute Show… and a tap takeover with Due South Brewing. See palmbeachzoo.org/roar-and-pour-2016 for all the info. We’ll be droppin’ #Pokemon lures too, so you can #CatchEmAll!
“Pokemon Party: Go Wild & Catch Em All” – Saturday, August 13 & August 27 – 4:15p-9:00pm
The whole Zoo is open with special up-close animal encounters. Enjoy live music while cooling off in the Interactive Fountain and we’ll have a cash bar on tap for the adults. We’ll be dropping lures around the Zoo and providing a charging station in the Fountain Plaza – to make sure you’re recharged to #CatchEmAll
Food Truck Safari: Saturday, August 20: 4:30p – 9:00p (Tequesta Brewing Company tap takeover)
It’s the last Food Truck Safari of the summer! Explore the Zoo, enjoy up-close animal encounters and gnosh on some of Palm Beach County’s best gourmet food trucks. Features a Tequesta Brewing Co. tap takeover PLUS live music by The TJ Cronin Duo and more TBA. Scheduled trucks: Old School Food Service, Melted Madness, Hurricane Alley Chowder Truck n Snack Shack, World Fusion Cuisine, Woody’s Burgers and Sweet Cravings NY! We LOVE our members who now get FREE carousel rides! http://goo.gl/S6BByG
Teddy Bear Affair: Saturday, August 27th (11:00a-3:00p)
Stuffed with LOVE! It’s time for our annual teddy bear check-up at the Palm Beach Zoo! Bring your favorite stuffed animal to ‘Teddy Bear Affair’ which features:
* Check-ups on your furry friends!
*Veterinarian Dress-up Station – Try on scrubs, gloves, stethoscopes and snap a pic!
*Bear Cub Coloring Contest – Enter your masterpiece for a chance to win a special surprise!
Education Events
Zoo Camp 2016
“My daughter loved it! She had such a blast!” – Kids and parents are raving about THE BEST SUMMER CAMP in Palm Beach County!
Openings are available for our last week of camp – the week of August 8th. The theme is Animal Olympics. Your child will have a WILD time exploring the amazing world of exciting animal athletes. Register today! palmbeachzoo.org/zoo-camp
Story Time at the Zoo: A Real Page Turner: 10:30a on Saturday’s in Conservation Station
August 6: How I Became a Pirate by Melinda Long
August 13: Chunky Safari Zebra by Emily Bolam
August 20: The Big Brag by Dr. Seuss
August 27: The Paper Bag Princess by Robert Munsch
This popular event will take place at on Saturday’s at 10:30 a.m. at the Zoo’s Conservation Station by the Safari Train and the Wildlife Carousel. Story Time at the Zoo is geared towards encouraging children to connect with wildlife through reading, and it is included in the cost of Zoo admission. For more information visit: http://www.palmbeachzoo.org/special-events
About the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society
The Zoological Society of the Palm Beaches exists to inspire people to act on behalf of wildlife and the natural world. We advance our conservation mission through endangered species propagation, education and support of conservation initiatives in the field. Our commitment to sustainable business practices elevates our capacity to inspire others. The Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society is located at 1301 Summit Boulevard in West Palm Beach, Florida. The Zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day, except Thanksgiving and Christmas. visit www.palmbeachzoo.org for more information.
“Fit for Hope Day” in Wellington Raises $6,000
for Place of Hope
Wellington, FL – July 28, 2016 – A group of hard-core fitness fans raised $6,000 for Place of Hope’s foster kids by squatting, lifting and jumping at the July 23 “Fit for Hope Day” with Hard Exercise Works and Chick-Fil-A in Wellington.
Half of the funds raised were through an impromptu burpee challenge HEW Wellington Owner John Szarszewski and his coaches created just two days before the event.
“’Small acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can transform the world.’ I’m blown away by our #hewwelly community pulling together to raise over $1,500 for Place of Hope foster organization in one day. We still have one more day to donate #fitforhope,“ said Szarszewski before the Saturday event.
The event was held at Seminole Palms Park, 151 Lamstein Lane, Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411. Participants were encouraged to give a $10 donation for Place of Hope’s efforts to raise $10,000, which pays for the care of one child in their care for one year.
For more event details, visit https://www.placeofhope.com/fit-for-hope/
About Place of Hope:
Place of Hope was ranked the #1 Nonprofit for Youth Development, Shelter, and Crisis Services in the Nation by Charity Navigator and one of the “11 Top-Rated Charities That Changed The World In 2014” by The Huffington Post. It is a faith-based, state-licensed children’s organization that provides family-style foster care (emergency and long-term); family outreach and intervention; maternity care; safety for domestic minor sexually trafficked victims; transitional housing and support services; foster care recruitment and support; hope and healing opportunities for children and families who have been traumatized by abuse and neglect. For more information, visit www.placeofhope.com.
CHRIS EVERT/RAYMOND JAMES PRO-CELEBRITY TENNIS CLASSIC SCHEDULED FOR NOVEMBER 18-20, 2016
2016 Will Mark the 27th Annual Event
BOCA RATON, FL: When Chris Evert retired from professional tennis in 1989, she quickly found a way to give back to the community through the sport of tennis – and she hasn’t stopped since.
Evert, the 18-time Grand Slam champion and International Tennis Hall of Famer, will host the 27th annual Chris Evert/Raymond James Pro-Celebrity Tennis Classic this fall during the weekend of November 18-20. Evert will be joined by a lineup of sports and entertainment celebrities, many who return annually to help the cause of drug abuse and child neglect in South Florida.
The three-day event has raised more than $22 million over the years, funding Chris Evert Charities, one of South Florida’s longest-running charities hosted by a former professional athlete.
“We have clearly seen the impact of what we’ve raised, and how it has create hope and change within our children – our community’s most vunerable population,” said Evert.
The monies that are annually raised are distributed to programs funded through the Ounce of Prevention Fund of Florida and the Drug Abuse Foundation of Palm Beach County.
The event continues to be held at the Boca Resort & Club and the Delray Beach Stadium & Tennis Center, and includes a pro-am, a charity gala and two days of Pro-Celebrity tennis.
For information on tickets and sponsorships, go to chrisevert.org.
CASEY POWELL READY FOR CAREER FINALE
The Florida Launch will play the Rochester Rattlers this Saturday, July 30 in the teams home season finale. When the Launch take the field at FAU Stadium it will mark the end of an era as lacrosse living legend Casey Powell will be playing in his final home game before his retirement. Powell and the Launch look for the teams second straight win as they hope to play spoiler to the Rattlers playoff aspirations.
Florida is currently led by All-Stars Kieran McArdles 48 points and Connor Buczeks five two-point goals is tied for first in the league. The Launch attack has featured several weapons this season with Lyle Thompson posting 18 assists, newcomer Owen Blye recording 25 goals, and rookie sensation Steve Pontrello tallying 14 points in just five appearances. On defense, the Launch have All-Star Tucker Durkin and fourth overall draft pick Matt Landis leading a defensive unit that has forced 66 turnovers this season. Goalie Austin Kaut has stood firm between the pipes for Florida as he has posted the leagues third best save percentage (.538).
As for the opposition, the Rattlers are locked in a multi-team race for a playoff berth. With the postseason on the line, Florida looks to put the visitors out of contention. Rochesters Jordan Wolf leads the team with 48 points as his team heads into the weekends action with a 6-5 record. Durkin and co. will be tasked with stopping an offense that prefers to shoot near the crease as they have scored only once from two-point range.
In celebration of Powells final home game, the Launch will be honoring the legend with a commemorative cup giveaway for the first 1,000 fans at FAU Stadium. Also, a is being held from now until Thursday featuring jerseys of Casey Powell, Lyle Thompson, Kieran McArdle and more. All proceeds of the auction will go to the American Cancer Society.
Faceoff for the game is set for 7:30p.m. and gates will open at 5:30p.m. Follow the Launch on Twitter @Florida_Launch for live updates of the action. For ticketing information, call 561-923-9067.
SUPERINTENDENT TO RETURN AS KEYNOTE AT CHAMBER’S ANNUAL ACADEMIC FORUM LUNCHEON
CENTRAL PALM BEACH (July 26, 2015)—The Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce will host the second annual economic forum luncheon regarding education. This year, the focus is on the importance of Early Childhood Education.
The forum includes a return of last year’s keynote, Dr. Robert Avossa, Superintendent of Palm Beach County School District, who will give a yearly update. Dr. Avossa will then join a panel of early learning experts to discuss ways in which the business community can help ensure that all of our students are prepared to learn.
The panel will feature:
The luncheon will also serve as the launch of the Chamber’s second annual Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!), an after-school program that transforms local middle and high school students into CEO’s of real companies, with the chance to compete for funding for their business, college scholarships, and the title of America’s Top Young Entrepreneur. Applications are now available at www.cpbchamberyea.org.
In support of education, the Central Palm Beach County Chamber is requesting attendees to bring a school supply item to donate in support of Red Apple Supplies, a resource center serving the highest needs Title I schools in Palm Beach County by supplying teachers with free resources for their students and classroom. Donation bins will be available to collect items at the Red Apple Supplies designated booth.
The event will be held on Thursday, August 18, 2016. Networking will take place from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. and the program will run from 12 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. at the West Palm Beach Marriott located at 1001 Okeechobee Boulevard, West Palm Beach, Florida 33401. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are now available. Register online at www.cpbchamber.com, or call the Chamber office (561) 790-6200 for more information.
This event would not be possible without the support of our sponsors:
Corporate Sponsor: Florida Crystals Corporation
Chamber Partners: Board of Commissioners, Palm Beach County; Florida Power & Light; Keiser University; Palm Beach Post; School District, Palm Beach County; and Youth Services Department, Palm Beach County
About the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce
The Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce is a private, not-for-profit 501(c)(6) organization dedicated to business advocacy, economic development, and education. From Cane-to-Coral the communities located within the Chamber’s footprint are: Acreage, Atlantis, Belle Glade, Greenacres, Lake Clarke Shores, Lake Worth, Lantana, Loxahatchee, Loxahatchee Groves, Manalapan, Palm Springs, Royal Palm Beach, South Palm Beach, Wellington and West Palm Beach. For more information, please visit www.cpbchamber.com.
FIT FOR LIFE:
The Gardens Mall Walking Club Presents
“Walking to Ease Knee Pain”
Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. – On Tuesday, August 9, enjoy an invigorating power walk at The Gardens Mall with Judy Dellosa, RN, BSN, Orthopedic & Spine Patient Navigator at Jupiter Medical Center.
“When I feel pain in my knees, I have been told by experts that exercise will actually make them feel better,” says Michele Jacobs, Director of Marketing for The Gardens Mall. “It’s important to know what options are available so you can customize a healthy exercise regimen to fit your needs and overall lifestyle.”
The Orthopedic & Spine Patient Navigator will:
Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. in the Nordstrom Court. Breakfast will be served. The Orthopedic & Spine Patient Navigator’s discussion starts at 9 a.m., followed by mall walking. New members will receive a complimentary Mall Walker Fit Kit from Jupiter Medical Center, which includes a tote bag, water bottle, pedometer, and T-shirt.
To reserve your spot, please contact Teresa Dabrowski at [email protected] or call 561.622.2115. To learn more about the Orthopedic & Spine Patient Navigator at Jupiter Medical Center, visit jupitermedorthospine.com or call 561.263.3633.
Mall walking hours are Monday-Saturday, 7:30 a.m.-9 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
About The Gardens Mall
The Gardens Mall is located one mile east of I-95 on PGA Blvd. in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. The luxurious, 1.4-million-square-foot, super-regional shopping center features more than 150 world-class retail specialty shops and restaurants. It is anchored by Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, and Macy’s. The Gardens Mall is owned and managed by The Forbes Company. For more information about The Gardens Mall, call 561.775.7750 or visit the mall online at thegardensmall.com or floridaluxuryshopping.com.
About Jupiter Medical Center
A not-for-profit, 327-bed, regional medical center consisting of 207 private, acute-care hospital beds and 120 long-term care, sub-acute rehabilitation and Hospice beds, Jupiter Medical Center is reimagining how to restore the community’s health and wellness. Award-winning physicians, world-class partnerships, and innovative techniques and technology enable Jupiter Medical Center to provide a broad range of services and specialty concentrations. For more information on Jupiter Medical Center, please call 561.263.2234 or visit jupitermed.com.
Experience an awesome month of August on the summertime Taste History Culinary Tours Summertime tours highlight Floribbean cuisines and the Bakery Trail
Who: Experience the awesome month of August on a summertime Taste History Culinary Tour. The non-profit Taste History was established in 2011 and is the first culinary tour in Palm Beach County featuring more cities and districts than any tour in the State of Florida. Offered year-round, Taste History features the unique flavors in more than 5 cities with food tastings, art viewing and history learning. Summertime tours highlight Floribbean cuisines and the Bakery Trail.
What: The Taste History Culinary Tours of Historic Palm Beach County features at least 3 to 4 family-owned eateries, juice bars, teahouses and pastry shops along with showcasing local art shops, historic buildings and emerging districts. Tour is part bus riding and part walking. Sponsors include Macy’s. Fee is $45 to $60 per adult; free for children under age 14. Private and team building tours are also available. Advance reservations required. Purchase tickets online at tastehistoryculinarytours.org Call 561-638-8277
When: Saturday, August 6, 2016 – West Palm Beach & Lake Worth
Saturday, August 13, 2016 – Lake Worth & Lantana
Saturday, August 20, 2016 – Delray Beach & Boynton Beach
Where: Saturday, August 6, 2016 – West Palm Beach & Lake Worth
Saturday, August 13, 2016 – Lake Worth & Lantana
Saturday, August 20, 2016 – Delray Beach & Boynton
Contact:
Lori J. Durante
561-638-8277
[email protected]
Upcoming Taste History Culinary Tour 2016 dates (tours offered year-round):
Saturday, August 6, 2015 – West Palm Beach/Lake Worth
Saturday, August 13, 2016 – Lake Worth/Lantana
Saturday, August 20, 2016 – Delray Beach/Boynton Beach
Saturday, September 24, 2016 – Delray Beach/Boynton Beach
Saturday, October 1, 2016 – West Palm Beach/Lake Worth
Saturday, October 8, 2016 – Lake Worth/Lantana
Saturday, October 15, 2016 – Delray Beach/Boynton Beach
Saturday, October 22, 2016 – Delray Beach/Boynton Beach
Saturday, November 5, 2016 – West Palm Beach/Lake Worth
Saturday, November 12, 2016 – Lake Worth/Lantana
Saturday, November 19, 2016 – Delray Beach/Boynton Beach
Saturday, November 26, 2016 – Special Thanksgiving Weekend Culinary Tour to Lake Worth& Lantana
Saturday, December 3, 2016 – West Palm Beach/Lake Worth
Saturday, December 10, 2016 – Lake Worth/Lantana
Saturday, December 17, 2016 – Delray Beach/Boynton Beach
Tuesday, December 27, 2016 – Special Holiday Season Tour to Lake Worth/Lantana
Photo attached (more photos available upon request)
Olivia McCarthy of namesake Olivia’s Special Teas. The teahouse is one of the fun tasting experiences on the Taste History Culinary Tours of Historic Palm Beach County. The cultural food tours feature at least 3 to 4 family-owned eateries, juice bars, teahouses and pastry shops along with showcasing local art shops, historic buildings and emerging districts. Tour is part bus riding and part walking. Sponsors include Macy’s. Fee is $45 to $60 per adult; free for children under age 14. Advance reservations required. Purchase tickets online at tastehistoryculinarytours.org Call 561-638-8277
http://tastehistoryculinarytours.org/
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561-243-2662 or 561-638-8277
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