A big 'Thank you!' to the Village of Tequesta for hosting our February meetings.  They partnered with the Tequesta Country Club to welcome our membership in style.  Both staffs did a wonderful job accommodating a larger than usual group, and we are eager to return.

Board of Directors  Pahokee Commissioner Allie Biggs and Stephen Waldman were reappointed to the School District's Advisory Boundary Committee (later ratified by the General Membership).  Your service to the League and the students of Palm Beach County is greatly appreciated.

County Attorney Lenny Berger explained a proposed County Ordinance pertaining to the posting of underage drinking signs; the Board voted 'no objections.'

The Board approved the Associate Membership application of Prime Time Palm Beach County. Prime Time provides afterschool programs.  Welcome to the League!

Committee reports were heard from Finance; Fundraising; Lake Worth Lagoon Initiative; and the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council.  President Tropepe announced the 2012 Nominating Committee: Boca Raton Deputy Mayor Susan Haynie; Wellington Mayor Pro Tem Carmine Priore; Lantana Mayor David Stewart; and Tequesta Councilmember Calvin Turnquest.  The committee will meet after the municipal elections to determine the 2012 - 2013 proposed slate of officers.  The committee was announced again at the General Membership meeting.

This was the final meeting for two Board members:  Tequesta Councilmember Turnquest is not seeking re-election in order to run for the Florida State House, and Wellington Mayor Pro Tem Priore is leaving office due to term limits.  The Palm Beach County League of Cities thanks them both for their dedicated service.

General Membership  We were honored with several special guests.  Along with featured speaker Congressman Allen West, we were joined by Florida League of Cities President Pat Bates, and Board Relations Director Linda Bridges.

Village Chaplain Pastor Paul Beresford gave the invocation, followed by the presentation of colors by Tequesta's Honor Guard.  Young Nicole Giddens beautifully sang the National Anthem.  Mayor Tom Paterno welcomed everyone to the Village and introduced Vice Mayor Vincent Arena and Councilmembers Abby Brennan, Jim Humpage and Calvin Turnquest.  He also introduced Frank D'Ambra, who will replace Mr. Turnquest.

Those running for municipal office, and those continuing in office without opposition, were asked to stand and introduce themselves.

Then, President Tropepe and President Bates made a special presentation to Village of Wellington Mayor Pro Tem Carmine Priore, who is leaving office in March.  He received recognition for serving on the League's Board of Directors for 13 years, including as President from 2002 - 2003.  His wife Marie also attended to share the moment.

Mary Swinford, representing new Associate Member Prime Time Palm Beach County told the group about her organization.

Then, the main event.  Congressman Allen West spoke to the group about the economy from a national perspective.  After, he stayed to speak one-on-one with our members, and pose for photos.  We appreciate him including us in his busy schedule.