Boca Newspaper | February 2017 by Four Story Media Group

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FAU getting $10 million to lead Freight Mobility Research Project By: Dale King Special to the Boca Newspaper Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton will receive $1.4 million a year for five years to study and address critical issues affecting the planning, design, operation and safety of the nation’s intermodal freight transportation system. The funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation, combined with additional financing from the state and private sectors, will bring the award to more than $10 million. The cash is earmarked for FAU’s

Freight Mobility Research Institute, housed in the Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatics Engineering within the College of Engineering and Computer Science. “FAU is at the forefront of pioneering transportation research,” said university President John Kelly. “And we are honored that our Freight Mobility Research Institute was selected by USDOT as a university transportation center.” The Boca Raton-based university’s proposal was one

From left, U.S. Rep. Ted Deutch, Gary Perry, Ph.D., FAU provost and vice president for Academic Affairs; Evangelos Kaisar, Ph.D., U.S. Rep. Lois Frankel and Eric Dumbaugh, Ph.D.

of more than 200 submitted to USDOT, and only 20 institutions were chosen for funding as designation as Tier 1 University Transportation [CONT. PG 2]

Boca Rotary Club honors five with OPAL Awards; Names scholarships for two of its philanthropists By: Dale King Contributing Writer The Rotary Club of Boca Raton added five more names to its growing list of OPAL (Outstanding People And Leaders) honorees, and also named new scholarships for a pair of generous Ro-

tarians, during the club’s 19th annual awards gala held last month at Boca West Country Club.

ter and Carmel Baronoff for Healthcare

“This year, we are excited to honor Arthur Adler for Community Service, Yvonne Boice for Education & Arts, Pe-

Rotary President Rachel Huerta told the

From left, OPAL recipient Yvonne Boice, her husband, Al Zucaro, Arlene Herson and Carol Jacobs, Yvonne’s friend, at the 19th annual OPAL Awards. (Photo by Dale King)

FIND US ONLINE BocaNewspaper.com

& Wellness and Jordan Zimmerman for Corporate & Philanthropic Leadership,” 400 guests at the black-tie event on Jan. 14.

“These amazing leaders have used their time and talents to make our community and world a better place,” she added. “We thank them for their service to our community and for their partnership with our organization.” [CONT. PG 2]

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER | FEBRUARY 2017

FAU getting $10 million to lead Freight Mobility Research Project [FROM PG 1]

Centers.

University; University of Memphis and Texas A&M University (College Station).

The study is designed to improve freight mobility through information technology, freight network modeling and operations, intermodal logistics, as well as freight and supply chain sustainability.

In addition, FAU will receive $1.5 million in total for the next five years from USDOT to co-direct the Collaborative Sciences Center for Road Safety, a National University Transportation Center housed at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. This is one of five national centers that aims to reduce injuries and fatalities on the nation’s roads by providing a new model for understanding and addressing traffic safety issues.

Kelly thanked U.S. Representatives Lois Frankel and Ted Deutch “for their commitment to the future of transportation in Florida and our nation, and for their unwavering support and vision, which helped us to secure this funding.” FAU will lead a consortium of experts from universities across the nation with expertise in freight transportation, network modeling, sustainability and intelligent transportation systems. They’ll work to improve multimodal connections, system integration and security, data modeling and analytical tools to optimize freight movements

The Kaisar Lab, with Evangelos Kaisar, Ph.D., principal investigator and director of the Freight Mobility Research Institute (standing).

that improve efficiency. Members of the Freight Mobility Research Institute are FAU (lead); University of Florida; University of Minnesota (Minneapolis); Portland State University; Hampton

Researchers from FAU’s College for Design and Social Inquiry will work with the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill; Duke University; the University of California, Berkeley and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville on transportation research, planning, public health, data science and engineering programs related to the Collaborative Sciences Center for Road Safety.

Boca Rotary Club honors five with OPAL Awards; Names scholarships for two of its philanthropists OPAL 2017 Co-chairs Marilyn and Jay Weinberg, Neil Saffer and Spencer Siegel combined to explain that the OPAL Gala is designed “both to celebrate the honorees, and to provide scholarships to economically vulnerable students who might not otherwise have an opportunity to attend college.”

Event co-chairs said the Rotary Scholarship Program “has sent hundreds of students to college and has provided more than a million dollars to fund those scholars. Our program was among the first to provide not only economic assistance, but life skills training and counseling from dedicated Rotarian mentors.”

In addition to the club’s financial commitment, Rotarians have established a mentor program to assist scholarship recipients transition out of sometimes unstable personal home lives and into college. Several mentees were noted in the program book, but one of them, Rivka Averbukh – mentored by Marilyn Weinberg and Diane Shawcross – was present, and told the crowd how she has benefitted substantially from the help she received from her mentors.

Ava Parker, president of Palm Beach State College, was the honorary event co-chair.

[FROM PG 1]

“We believe the key to successful student leaders is mentorship,” said Huerta. “Each student is offered scholarship funding and a matching mentorship with a Rotarian. Our Rotarians are local leaders with a desire to provide wisdom and guidance to each scholar to help them navigate through life.”

Before the awards were handed out, the Rotary Club honored the late Irving Gutin and Rotarian Rosemary Krieger by naming specific scholarships in their honor. Krieger, who, with husband, Ben, have donated to many charities, received the Junior League of Boca Raton’s Lifetime Achievement Award late last year. The Krieger’s beneficence has helped dozens of nonprofits, including AVDA (Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse), the YMCA, March of Dimes, George Snow Scholarship Fund, Wayne Barton Center, St. Jude Church, Boca Helping Hands and Florence Fuller Child Development Center, to name a few.

Jordan Zimmerman prepares to receive his award Boca Rotarian Neil Saffer, left, with Arthur Adler, at the 19th annual OPAL Awards. (Photo by Dale an OPAL award recipient, at the 19th annual gala. (Photo by Dale King) King)

Rotarians remembered Gutin, who passed away in November, for his good humor and acts of generosity. He also won an OPAL award in 2014 in the Community Service Category. Gutin ardently supported Boca Raton Regional Hospital. He, along with wife, Barbara, made a significant donation in 2008 to fund the stroke program there. Today, it is a designated as a Comprehensive Stroke Center, one of only 20 of its kind in the state. The Gutins funded the purchase of two daVinci robotic surgical systems along with a simulator that allows surgeons to train on the robot. A third robot was re-

From left, Boca Rotary President Rachel Huerta with OPAL recipients Carmel Boca Rotarian Marilyn Weinberg, left, with her mentee, Rivka Averbukh, at the and Peter Baronoff at the 19th annual gala. (Photo by Dale King) 19th annual gala. (Photo by Dale King)

cently added to the center. Recipients of OPAL awards at this year’s ceremony were: • Peter Baronoff, chairman and CEO of Boca Raton-headquartered Promise Healthcare, and his wife, Carmel, an author and host of a PBS television program, “Living Well with Carmel.” • Jordan Zimmerman, founder and chairman of Zimmerman Advertising, now the 14th largest advertising agency in the world. • Yvonne Boice, a businesswoman and philanthropist who has championed arts, culture, education and women’s rights. She has operated two successful business ventures, Fugazy International Travel and the Shoppes at Village Pointe. She is chairman-emeritus of the Palm Beach International Film Festival. • Arthur Adler, who was in the sports industry for 40 years, including 12 years with the New York Yankees and 20 years with the New York Islanders. He has also run his own travel, advertising, media production and sports advertising sales companies.

FEBRUARY 2017 | YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

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Boca’s American Association of Caregiving Youth helps those who help others By: Marisa Gottesman Associate Editor

“We hope them in school and at home,” she said. “These children really sacrifice their health and well being and

Sometimes parents can’t be the caregivers in a family and

their childhood.”

Boca Raton-based American Association of Caregiving Youth recognizes that sometimes it is the children who

High school senior Isis Michalski knows what it is like

step up to the plate.

to care for someone else. Her mom is a three-time cancer survivor. Her mom’s first diagnosis with breast cancer

Founder of the nonprofit Connie Siskowski experienced

happened when Michalski was 6 years old. A few years

that role-reversal first hand growing up. As a middle-

later her mom was diagnosed with ovarian cancer and

schooler she was the youth care giver for her grandfather.

then two year after that stage three breast cancer.

“It impacted my life both positively and negatively,” she

Michalski is the fourth of five siblings and said she was

said.

the one who had to be strong for her mom and her sib-

As she grew up, she said there were other indicators that

lings.

she wasn’t the only one who was responsible for taking

She said when she was a seventh grader, a representative

care of a family member. While on a mission trip with

from AACY was hosting a lunch and learn on diabetes.

her church, she said other kids shared that they were

The next week, the topic was about taking care of some-

worried about their parent’s or grandparent’s health. She

one in a wheelchair.

knew the number of kids who were serving as caregivers was wide scale.

She said the talks sparked her interest and she signed up to participate.

She has taken her experiences and research to help provide resources to youth caregivers. The mission of the

“I remember my very first meeting,” she said. “The room

group is to help children who sacrifice their education,

was filled with all my friends and I had no idea my friends

health, well-being and childhood to provide care for fam-

Isis and her mother, a three-time cancer survivor. Submitted photo.

ily members who are ill, injured elderly or disabled. To

indicating there are at least 1.3 million child caregivers

do so, the organization combines healthcare, education

ages 8-18 years, plus the 2006 Silent Epidemic supported

and community to help students in and out of school so

the county research. The 2006 report 22 percent of stu-

they can complete their education successfully. The over-

dents who indicated they dropped out for personal rea-

all goal is for no child to have drop out of school because

sons said it was to care for a family member.

of family caregiving responsibilities.

By then, Siskowski said she went back to school at Lynn

The group began in 1998 as the Boca Raton Interfaith in

University for a P.h.D. and knew she had to make a differ-

Action to provide volunteer support services to home-

ence in children caregivers’ lives.

bound people and their caregiving families. Siskowski

With help from several local foundations, she began the

said it was created in response to what the community

took care of someone.” She said she continued her involvement with the group and wants to take her experiences with her to college and in her professional career. She said she wants to use her passion of theater to give youth caretakers a place to turn to. “I went from not being able to cry with my family to cry with my friends in a happy healthy way,” she said. Siskowski said the group is working on educating hospital staff, school staff and community members to better

saw as a need.

first national care giving youth program at Boca Middle

Then, she said the county began conducting surveys and

high schools.

She contributed to a recently published book “I am a

The group provides help with school work, mentoring

tional conference in April.

School. Now, the program is located in 22 middle and

research uncovered a hidden population of child caregivers and their academic challenges.

and allows the kids to be kids.

Findings from the 2005 Young Caregivers in the US report

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things to know this in Boca Raton this February 1 The Junior League of Boca Raton is holding its annual culinary event Flavors of Boca from 7 to 9:30 p.m. on Feb. 2 at The Addison. 2 Meet author Arielle Ford of Inkspira-

tions Love by Design: Coloring the Divine Path to Manifest Your Soulmate, when she visits the Boca Raton Downtown Library on Feb. 27. The book signing takes places from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Ford is a leading personality in the personal growth and contemporary spirituality movement, and is a celebrated love and relationship expert, speaker and blogger for The Huffington Post.

The 24th annual George Snow Scholarship Fund Annual Cowboy Ball

will take place from 6 to 11 p.m. on Feb. 25 at Mizner Park Amphitheater. There will be an open bar, food, live band, fiddle player, line dancing, bull riding and other activities. Tickets are $175 per person with Sponsorships starting at $2,250. For sponsorship and ticket information, contact Debi Feiler at the George Snow Scholarship Fund 561-347-6799.

the audience through Spanish Flamenco, Cuban Salsa, Brazilian Samba, Argentine Tango, Indian Bollywood, Parisian Waltz, and exotic African drumming.Tickets: http://www.ticketmaster.com/MiznerPark-Amphitheater-tickets-Boca-Raton/ venue/107103 or Ticketmaster by phone at (800) 745-3000.

4 The Boca Raton Museum of Art’s

annual outdoor juried Arts Festival will return for the 31st year on Feb. 4-5 at Mizner Park. The event features 200 artisans from around the country. This year’s Art Festival coincides with our Glasstress exhibition and features free admission with donation. Art Festival donations benefit educational outreach programs for under-served youth and scholarships for children K-12 enrolled in the Museum’s Art School.

5 Benise in Concert: Spanish Nights is heading to Mizner Park Amphitheater for a special matinee show under the tent at 2 p.m. on Feb. 26. Guitar virtuoso Benise, armed with his Spanish guitar, takes

6 The Allianz Tournament returns to The Old Course at Broken Sound from Feb. 6-12. 7 The Dolphins Cancer Challenge, a bicycling event, leaves from Mizner Park at 8:30 a.m. on Feb. 11 and ends at Hard Rock Stadium. You must raise $750 to cycle in the 52-mile event. 8 Catch the Florida Youth Orchestra

BOCA BRIEFS

Save the date for 2017 I am Hillel fundraiser returns

Great Charity Challenge

The 2017 I am Hillel annual fundraiser will honor Ilene and Dr. Wohlgemuth and FAU President Dr. John Kelly.

The Junior League of Boca Raton is one of 34 charities selected to participate in the 2017 Great Charity Challenge presented by Fidelity Investments.

The event will take place at 6 p.m. on Feb. 6 at B’nai Torah Congregation, 6261 SW 18th St. The night will feature a program that celebrates Hillel’s students, honorees and community leaders with a Jeopardy game show theme.

The GCC is a relay style equestrian jumping competition with teams consisting of two junior/amateur riders combined with one Olympic or world-class rider. Participating charities are guaranteed a minimum grant of $15,000 with a chance to win up to $150,000. Junior League will use its money to expand the community garden. The event takes place on Feb. 4 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center.

perform “Classics in the Park” a free concert at noon on Feb. 12 at Mizner Park Amphitheater.

The Wohlgemuths will be honored for bringing immeasurable expertise and passion to their extensive volunteer work in the community. Ilene is the immediate past chair of the board of Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach who during her tenure grew the fundraising campaign exponentially, provided extraordinary leadership and vision and served as a mentor to many students and young professionals. Peter, a local orthodontist, has received national recognition for his cutting-edge technological advances and in addition, has held numerous leadership positions in the Jewish community. Special recognition will be given to Dr. John Kelly who since his arrival at FAU from Clemson University has worked diligently and successfully to make FAU one of the fastest-improving universities in America in a very short time. As part of his dedication to enhancing the college experience for FAU students, Kelly has created close ties to the Jewish community and been a true friend to Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach.

The Boca Raton Public Library is offering three new book clubs for adults. The clubs are: (Not Too) Young Adult Book Club, A Novel Idea Book Club and Proust Club. The (Not Too) Young Adult Book Club will meet on March 16 to discuss A Court of Thorns and Roses, an action-packed fantasy novel by Sarah J. Maas.

10 Italian Fest heads to Sanborn Square from 4 to 10 p.m. on Feb. 25. The free festival features authentic Italian food, beer and wine and live entertainment.

Sitting (honorees): Honorees Dr. John Kelly, Ilene Wohlgemuth, Dr. Peter Wohlgemuth Standing (co-chairs and staff): Hillel Executive Director Adam Kolett; Event Co-Chairs Bryan Drowos, Dr. Joanna Drowos, Bonnie Kaye, Jon Kaye; Hillel Director of Development Jill Deutch. Not pictured Co-Chairs Deirdre Osofsky and Alan Osofsky. Photo credit: Carlos Aristizabal.

The minimum family gift to attend I Am Hillel is $318. Corporate sponsorship start at $1,000 and tribute journal ads range from $360 - $10,000. The couvert to attend the event is $100 per person. For more information please contact Jill Deutch at 561-866-7030 or jill@ hillelcenter.org.

Boca Raton Public Library introduces new book clubs Staff report

9 Taste the best barbecue there is during Downtown BBQ Throwdown featuring Bobby Flay from noon to 8 p.m. on Feb. 18 at Mizner Park Amphitheater. The competition is sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society and is an American Royal World Series of Barbecue Qualifying Event http://downtownbbqthrowdown.com/

A Novel Idea Book Club members will read and discuss Commonwealth by award-winning author Ann Patchett at the Downtown Library on February 16 from 7:00-8:00pm. The club will meet again on April 20 for a discussion of A Piece of the World, by Christina Baker Kline, author of the bestselling Orphan Train. The Proust Club is a 3-part guided reading and discussion of Swann’s Way with moderator Neil

Schulhoff. The study includes Roger Shattuck’s Proust’s Way: A Field Guide to In Search of Lost Time, which makes Proust’s works eminently readable. The club will meet on the last Friday of the month in February and March from 1:002:30pm at the Downtown Library. All book clubs are free and open to the public. Registration opens 30 days before each program on the library’s calendar at bocalibrary. org.

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER | FEBRUARY 2017

Boca Raton downtown library features art exhibit

Plans to upgrade Boca’s City Hall, government facilities in early stages Staff report

to complete the job.

Staff report

Boca Raton is known for its upscale buildings and innovative nature. But one look at City Hall and you may not consider the city a “world-class” city that boasts excellent schools, tech start-ups and affluent residents.

Not all council members were on board with selecting the firm to carry out the entire project, but they also agreed they didn’t want to delay the project.

The Boca Raton Public Library is featuring a new art exhibit through Feb. 11. The display “Four Years in Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge,” is by South

The outdated building and overall “government campus” is tired and in need of a make over.

Florida-based artist Christian Bauer. Visitors to the Downtown Library will be able to view selected works of this landscape artist, who draws inspiration from the beauty that surrounds us throughout Palm Beach County. Bauer’s recent body of work depicts the scenic landscape preserved within the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge, the only remnant of the northern Everglades in Palm Beach County. It includes oils on canvas, water-

colors on paper, and oil pastel drawings. “I began working in Loxahatchee Reserve as it is the closest ‘wilderness’ area to Palm Beach County,” said Christian Bauer. “The landscape is quite intriguing and challenging enough for oil or watercolor painting. I also found the area to be peaceful and the solitude rewarding.” This free exhibit is open to the public during regular library hours.

Redoing the city’s government campus, which houses City Hall, the Boca Raton Community Center, police station, tennis courts and other government facilities, has been a top priority for the city council. Now, plans to see just what could be done on the campus to convert it into an updated space. Two firms submitted proposals to help facilitate the changes the council would like to see happen. Council members delayed selecting a firm in October. Last month, the topic of which firm to choose was back before council members. City staff recommended Song and Associates

Several council members said they would like to see initial steps taken while residents are in town for season. As a compromise, they agreed to negotiate an agreement with the firm to perform an analysis of the space and reach out to the public to receive feedback from the residents on what they would want the campus to look like. “The sky is the limit here,” Mayor Susan Haynie said about ideas for the government campus. “We have a lot of acreage here and a lot to work with.” She pointed out city halls that have stood out to her as show stopping facilities like Pembroke Pines and Miramar. City staff one firm can conduct preliminary research for the city and the city can then solicit another firm to submit design ideas for the project.

Construction commences at Glades Road and Turnpike Staff report Signs of easing the bottlenecking at Glades Road and Florida’s Turnpike have arrived. But it could take a few years before construction is complete. Last month, construction to begin adding lanes to the congested area commenced. The $8.3 million project is scheduled to take about two years to add an additional right turn lane from westbound Glades Road to the entrance of the Turnpike, add an additional right turn lane from the Turnpike off ramp to westbound Glades Road and widen the exit ramp from the northbound Turnpike to Glades Road to two lanes.

Hyatt Place Now Open Please call 561-672-7819 to book your stay.

Daily Happy Hour Specials to include live entertainment on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.

New traffic signals will be installed, draining, lighting and painting the bridge over Glades Road will also be improved. But adding new lanes comes with closing current lanes while the work is going on. Drivers can expect to see periodic lane closures, ramp closures and detours through the summer of 2018. During peak times, construction crews will limit closures, according to officials. For updated traffic information, dial 5-1-1 or visit http://www.FL511.com to check on the status of the Glades Road and Turnpike interchange project. Or call 1-800-749-7453 or go to www.Floridasturnpike.com.

Paps Corps to host tennis event The Boca Pointe Chapter of Paps Corps is hosting Calcutta Tennis from March 1012 at Boca Pointe.

Saturday with a rain date scheduled for Sunday. The event costs $45 per player and $25 for guests.

On Friday the event begins at 6 p.m. with a Calcutta Auction and pizza party. The event includes a silent auction and cash bar. Tournament play will commence on

Reservations close on March 4. For more information, contact either Karen Felser 561-542-5587 or Rheva Thomason 561-368-6532.

FEBRUARY 2017 | YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Steven Spielberg’s sister shares views on philanthropy, family and growing up Jewish with Lions of Judah in Boca By: Dale King Contributing Writer The Spielbergs – as in film director Steven, his parents and sisters – are not your average Jewish family. “My mother, who is 97, still owns a kosher restaurant in Beverly Hills called the Milky Way,” the filmmaker’s sister, Nancy, told an audience of 400 last month at a luncheon for Lion of Judah members from the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County. “My mom’s inspiration for her hairdo came from a jar of Peter Pan peanut butter,” Nancy quipped. She also told of growing up in Phoenix, where there

ing and philanthropy, in recent years she has turned her talents to producing documentary films, many with powerful Jewish themes. A successful businesswoman, she was a consultant on the Oscar-winning documentary, “Chernobyl Heart,” and is executive producer of “Elusive Justice: The Search for Nazi War Criminals,” which aired nationally on PBS. Nancy Spielberg also produced a project for the Israeli government: “Celebrities Salute Israel’s 60th,” which was featured in Times Square on the NASDAQ screens for a month.

hoods to around the globe, wherever we are needed.” During the luncheon, speakers announced that 65 new Lions of Judah signed up during the past year. They also paid tribute to Ellen Sarnoff, a past board chair and women’s philanthropy chair who died last year. Israeli shoe designer Kobi Levy, who has chosen Boca Raton for his U.S. debut, set up a display of his products in the room adjacent to the dining hall prior to the luncheon.

Keynote speaker Nancy Spielberg. (Photo by Jeffrey Tholl)

Make 2017 your ﬁttest year yet!

Women’s philanthropy chair April Leavy with vice Lion of Judah Luncheon co-chairs Carole Sue Lebbin- chairs Dale Filhaber, Rebecca Appelbaum, Jill Rose Spector and Wendy Koolik. (Photo by Jeffrey Tholl) and Elaine Roberts. (Photo by Jeffrey Tholl)

were few people, let alone Jews. “Our dad took us out to the desert to watch meteor showers. I’m sure that’s where my brother got the impetus for ‘E.T.’ and ‘Close Encounters.’” But she added, grimly: “We grew up in an anti-Semitic community. We knew we were Jews because they called us ‘dirty Jews.’” But rather than anger them, it created a stronger bond. “We became overwhelmed with the desire to visit Israel.” And all the Spielberg kids have done well. Steven, age 70, is a highly regarded film director who heads the Shoah Foundation, which records the stories of Holocaust survivors for posterity and so the world will not forget its horrors. One of the Spielberg sisters wrote the script for the Tom Hanks film, “Big.” Nancy, the youngest at age 60, grew up immersed in filmmaking, working on her brother’s early films as cast and crew. Making her mark in business, fundrais-

Most recently, she produced “Above and Beyond,” winner of the audience award at more than 20 film festivals. Nancy is executive producer of “Who Will Write Our History,” which tells the story of Warsaw Ghetto Jews who wrote and buried their documents before being killed by the Nazis, and of “On the Map,” a documentary by filmmaker Dani Menkin, currently in post-production. Nancy Spielberg is also a founder and cofounder of several charities. She concluded her speech with the proclamation, “Boca, you guys rock.” The Lion of Judah luncheon, held at the Polo Club, honors the generosity of women in the community. “Our luncheon has become every season’s premier event in local women’s philanthropy,” said Carole Sue Lebbin-Spector, who co-chaired along with Wendy Koolik. “As always, we look forward to hearing our powerful roar resound through our neighbor-

Sponsors of the Lion of Judah luncheon include: Kristina Gregg and Alex Bruner, Boca Raton Regional Hospital Foundation; Stephanie Midler and Barry Goldberg, Wells Fargo Private Bank; keynote speaker Nancy Spielberg; Larry Katz, Wells Fargo and Jane Kurcsinka and Angela Osipov, Ivan & Co. Fine Jewelry. (Photo by Jeffrey Tholl)

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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER | FEBRUARY 2017

Mary Csar Executive Director of the Boca Raton Historical Society & Museum 1 Tell us a little about yourself and what led you to your profession of Executive Director of the Boca Historical Society? Since moving to Boca in 1978, I have been involved in the community. The first organization I joined was the Boca Raton Historical Society, and I volunteered as a docent giving tours of the Boca Raton Resort & Club. Later, I joined the Junior League of Boca Raton where I learned about all aspects of the community as well as non-profit governance. When the Cartoon Museum moved to Boca Raton, I began there as their first employee, helping to get the museum started. After leaving, I was hired by the Historical Society to coordinate its 25th anniversary, which was in 1997. A couple of years later, the position of Executive Director became

months later, the camel became an elk, in time for the Elk’s convention, also in Miami. Another example is when WWII broke out, Mayor J.C. Mitchell traveled to Washington, D.C., determined to secure some type of armed forces instal-

through a community wide effort in the 1960s.

4 What is the function of the historical society?

The annual Boca Bacchanal Wine Festival will take place March 24-25, 2017. We will welcome visiting vintners and chefs for the Vintner Dinners in private homes and historic locations on Friday, March 24. On Saturday, March 25, the exciting Bacchanalia will feature more than 140 different wines, and dinner by the bite from 30 local restaurants in the Mizner Park Amphitheatre. The weekend promises to be both fun, educational, and entertaining!

The Boca Raton Historical Society & Museum’s mission is to collect, preserve, and share Boca Raton’s history and to advocate for historic preservation in our community. We do this through exhibitions, tours, lectures, archival research opportunities, and advocacy for historic preservation.

5 What can we learn from Boca’s past to help with the city’s future? I believe that the efforts of our early residents to promote and seek opportunities for our town, are examples for today’s leaders and citizens to follow. Boca Raton has grown into the modern city that it is today from these efforts over the years and it is important that we continue to look forward for new opportunities. If we do this, our past bodes well for our future!

available – and the rest is history!

2 What is your favorite story about Boca’s past? As I look back over Boca’s history, what impresses me the most are the efforts of city leaders over the years who have believed in a positive future for Boca Raton, even in hard times. A good example of this is in the spring of 1928, the Shriners held their national convention in Miami. In a desperate attempt to gain publicity for Boca Raton after the bankruptcy of the Mizner Development Corporation, the town council agreed to pay $1,000 to erect a giant camel, symbol of the Shriners, across Dixie Highway. The camel was marked “Welcome Nobles,” and a sign urging travelers to visit the new Town Hall with public bathrooms. A few

lation for Boca Raton. As a leader and real estate professional, he believed in promoting the community and furthering its opportunities. By 1942, the Boca Raton Army Air Field was under construction, bringing thousands of new residents to a town with a population of 500.

3 Tell us about some of the initiatives

going on this year at the historical society?

We just opened a major exhibition at the Museum, Miracle on Meadows Road: Boca Raton Regional Hospital at 50. The exhibit is a look back at the history of one of Boca Raton’s most important institutions, celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2017. The exhibition features 26 photo murals and memorabilia reflecting the past and present of the hospital founded

LIFE

FEBRUARY 2017 | YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

INSIDE

Palm Beach County

Check out Delrayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Art Walk [10]

SPONSORED BY

Check out Trainerspace [36]

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER | FEBRUARY 2017

Boca’s economic development report By: Jessica Del Vecchio, Boca’s Economic Development Manager Special to the Boca and Delray newspapers

Tell us a little bit about some of KYBOE!’s recent accomplishments/recent happenings. Are there any upcoming

KYBOE! is an international watch com-

line has grown considerably and this

pany headquartered in Boca’s Park at

month they’re launching a new collection

Broken Sound. Although they’re some-

just in time for Valentine’s Day.

Newspaper’s readership?

The KYBOE! team takes part in some of

Building on a sexy and steamy South

what new to the domestic market, KYBOE! has sold over 200,000 timepieces throughout the Netherlands, St. Tropez and Ibiza. With a client list that includes many well known athletes and celebrities, this company is now hitting it out of the park in the United States. Their product

the most vibrant, lively events available, both on the national and international stage. These events allow them and their brand to receive some incredible, well deserved exposure. Over the past few months KYBOE! has been part of New York’s Fashion Week, Miami’s Swim Week, and the world renowned Art Basel. If there’s a sophisticated, well attended event taking place, both nationally and internationally, chances are KYBOE! will be there.

Delray Beach Industrial Property

local events we can share with the Boca

Florida reception at Miami Swim Week and making history at New York Fashion Week a few months later, KYBOE! then went on to be named among Oprah’s Favorite Things right in time for the holiday season. Other notable events include an exclusive Pop-Up shop poolside at HYDE in the boutique SLS hotel during Art Basel (featuring a Saturday night, VIP-only party with Romero Britto), and plans to reveal at least 8 all-new styles at Baselworld in Switzerland this coming March.

We recently caught up with the KYBOE! team to get some insight on what they’ve been up to and hear what they have planned for the future. Here’s what they had to say during our Q & A: Tell us a little about your company. (When did KYBOE! launch, what types of watches/accessories do you specialize in, what made Boca Raton an ideal location for you and your team?) KYBOE! was born in the Netherlands, grew in popularity in Ibiza and St. Tro-

Is there any additional information

120 Southridge Road, Delray Beach

pez, and has been taking the U.S. by

you’d like us to share?

FOR SALE OR LEASE

quarters in beautiful Boca Raton since

• Free Standing Manufacturing Building • Gated with 24/7 video monitoring • 24 Ft. Ceiling Clearance & 3 Phase Power • Great for Boating & Auto Industry – Close to I95

impossible array of color combinations

storm from Marc Bell Capital’s head2015. With an ever-expanding collection of over 350 styles that come in an almost (and all light up at the touch of a button), KYBOE! has caught the attention of celebrities, fashionistas and watch aficionados everywhere. I remember when Saks Fifth Avenue

For More Details or To Schedule a Private Visit Please Contact

Christina Morrison, PA, CPM

561-573-7083 christinadelray@gmail.com

picked up your watches – was the first Saks store to do this the Boca Town Center location? Saks Fifth Avenue was our first retail

KYBOE! is widely available online at KYBOE.com, on Amazon.com and in Saks Fifth Avenue, Lord & Taylor, Nordstrom, Hudson’s Bay, and other fine retailers across the United States and Canada. You can contact us at sales@kyboe.com or 561-988-1700 to learn more about our products and exciting local events. As you can see, this sophisticated brand is growing at a rapid pace. We’re lucky to have them headquartered in our city and look forward to seeing what’s in store as they continue to expand their collection to include more than watches.

partner and we are grateful for their con-

Have corporate news to share or looking

tinued support. Saks Boca Town Center

to relocate/expand your company to Boca

has been a second home to the KYBOE!

Raton? Contact the city’s economic devel-

family as we host many trunk shows and

opment office at economicdevelopment@

seasonal events there.

myboca.us or 561-393-7761.

FEBRUARY 2017 | YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER | FEBRUARY 2017

Biz Briefs

is currently attending the Carrick Institute for Graduate Studies to pursue a Diplomate in Neurology through the American Chiropractic Neurology Board. She is seeking to become one of the less than one thousand Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologists in the world.

New Clinic opens in Boca The Derun Clinic of Chinese Medicine has opened at 144 S. Federal Highway. The clinic is a Chinese Medicine clinic bringing that brings expertise all the way from China. Dr. Xin Tong has a background in Western medicine and neurology. Boca author pens new children’s books Boca Raton author Victoria M. Howard has released two new children’s books about horses and racing: “The Adventures of Max: Birth of a Racehorse,” and “Junior: The Horse That Won the Kentucky Derby.” In “The Adventures of Max,” Molly McDoodle, the Standardbred racehorse, gives birth to a filly named Baby It’s Cold Outside. Max the Bolognese Dog becomes the newborn filly’s best friend and companion. Through the story in this book, children learn all about harness racing. In “Junior,” Junior is a horse who was born to beat the odds. Junior, who eventually is named California Chrome, wins the most prestigious horse race called the Kentucky Derby. Howard is an internationally published author of 10 books. Her books vary from subjects on relationships, horses and children. Delray-based We Make People Happy Vacations acquires new site WMPH Vacations, Inc. (iCruise.com), a leading online retailer of cruise travel services, has acquired CruiseNow. com, a specialized distributor of last minute cruise vacations located in Charlotte, N.C. CruiseNow.com is known for using the latest technology to communicate discount cruise deals to consumers who can travel on short notice. The company’s SeaSaver email list, CruiseText, and Edutainment videos are a major part

On her off time, you may find Dr. Pugh surfing the waves at the beach or walking along the Ave with her husband. All County Paving recognized of their last minute traveler growth strategy. CruiseNow.com is WMPH Vacations’ fourth acquisition since 2004 and becomes the eighth company-owned brand.

All County Pavement Management Solutions was recognized as 2016 Company of the Year from the Underground Contractors Association. All County Paving has been a leading asphalt paving contractor for more than 30 years.

“This acquisition has strategic value to us because of CruiseNow.com’s success in marketing to those guests who can literally pack-and-go. Additionally, CruiseNow. com’s reputation for great customer service, its tremendous client base, website, content and its established brand name will all be instrumental as we continue to grow this segment of cruise vacationers through our mobile apps and desktop initiatives,” said Uf Tukel, Co-President of WMPH Vacations and iCruise.com.

“We have experienced unprecedented growth here at All County Paving, and are honored to have been awarded ‘Company of the Year’ from UCA,” President and CEO Ken Goldberg said. “We started as a small local company and will now be celebrating more than 400 team members… We take pride in our team and our work; it’s a true testament to our organization.”

The Conde Center hires new doctor

The United Way of Palm Beach County is looking for volunteers to support the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program during the 2017 tax season.

Delray’s The Conde Center has hired Dr. Alycia «Allye» Pugh. Dr. Pugh is a New Smyrna Beach native and Jacksonville University alumnus where she studied dance kinesiology and Spanish education. She graduated Cum Laude with honors from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Port Orange with a Doctorate of Chiropractic degree. She was awarded with Virgil V. Strang Philosophy Award for accomplishments in the philosophical principles of chiropractic. Dr. Pugh has a passion for neurological rehabilitation and

Volunteer during tax season

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) is a national program staffed by local volunteers to provide free preparation and electronic filing of tax returns to people with low-to-moderate incomes who are eligible for tax credits. Volunteers are needed to serve as greeters, tax preparers and site coordinators in locations throughout Palm Beach County. No experience is required but all VITA volunteers must be trained and certified. Once certified, volunteers are required to commit four hours per week during tax season, which ends on April 18. Flexible schedules are available including weekdays, weekends and evenings. Visit http://www.unitedwaypbc.org/vita-volunteer-recruitment to view the VITA volunteer training schedule (click on View the Volunteer Training Schedule under Training and Certification). To register as a VITA volunteer, complete the Volunteer Profile Form (click on View the Volunteer Profile Form under Volunteer Opportunities). For more information, contact Donna Pulda, United Way of Palm Beach County’s Director of Volunteer Services, at (561) 375-6621 or email donnapulda@unitedwaypbc.org. Technology Business Incubator hosts open house See what is going on at Boca’s Research Park at Florida Atlantic University. There will be an open house from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Feb. 16 showcasing emerging companies in the Technology Business Incubator (TBI) program. Community members will have a chance to learn firsthand about the products and services that are being developed by the companies at the TBI, and get to know its newest members in the business community. An award ceremony will be held to recognize individuals and organizations in our community who have made a significant impact on economic development through their efforts and initiatives during 2016.

FEBRUARY 2017 | YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER | FEBRUARY 2017

Game changing baby gadgets for new parents spent nine months in your womb experiencing all of the

By: Julius McGee Special to the Boca and Delray newspapers Parenting is not easy, especially when you are dealing with a brand-new baby for the fist or 50th time. Every parent wants to react to every whim and fancy of his or her baby as quickly as possible, but boy does that get exhausting. Luckily, technology can make life a little bit easier by offering new parents peace of mind, and touch of convenience. So let’s get to these new baby gadgets. VTech Safe & Sound Video Baby Monitor We Nerds believe that every parent with a small baby needs a monitor, so why not opt for an cool techy monitor? This handy unit allows you to check the nursery’s temperature, talk to your baby, and you can even zoom in to get a good look at your baby (day or night, thanks to the night viewing capabilities). Even better, if you have other children you can expand the system! It will accommodate four additional cameras, so you can keep your eyes on all of them using the split screen on the handheld unit. Gives those eyes in the back of your head a rest and turn on the eyes in the palm of your hand. Itzbeen Pocket Nanny

noises and sounds of the womb- the Baby Shusher is the

Everyone knows that new parents are sleep deprived. Those little humans can be demanding and a lack of sleep leads to forgetfulness. Unfortunately, babies need routine… luckily, the Pocket Nanny can keep track of all of those details so that your brain doesn’t have to. You can set reminders of the Pocket Nanny to let you know when the baby last ate, when they napped, or had a diaper change. It’s also a great tool for tracking medications. It has a built-in night-light, and a clip on the back so that you can literally keep it in your pocket. What could be better than a pocket nanny? Aside from an actual nanny, of course. Baby Shusher

ideal tool to recreate that. The Talkative Co-worker & Neighbour Susher is coming soon. Pacifier Thermometer No one wants to rely on the old-fashioned method of taking a baby’s temperature. Thankfully, the Pacifier Thermometer is coming to the rescue! There’s no need to undress and un-diaper your unwell baby, or deal with a wriggling, leg kicking, karate chopping baby- all you have to do is pop it in baby’s mouth and check baby’s temperature. Any device that can limit the disruption to your sleep is a total must. Even better, if your baby is unwell and you want to check on them in the night, there’s no need to wake them or disturb them to get a quick temp check. These are only a small number of devices out of the many that will help new parents thrive in this Nerdy world. If

No one enjoys listening to the sounds of a crying baby. Parents run through a million tips and tricks trying to console their little one, but they’re missing one big one… the Baby Shusher. The Baby Shusher might sound like a strange device, but it literally shushes your baby. It’s a noise machine that mimics the sounds of the womb, which triggers the baby’s natural calming reflex… which means, your baby stops crying! Remember, your baby

you or someone you know just had a recent visit from the stork and is looking for some cool baby tech, help make the world nerdy again by putting it to good use. These tech tips were provided by Nerd Alert. Nerd Alert provides people and businesses with an easy and trusted way to get on-demand, personalized tech help, device setup training and repair for all devices right to their doorstep from helpful Nerds in their own community.

Would you know what to do if you lost your job? Tips to help you prepare for an unexpected career crisis.

By: John M. Campanola, Agent New York Life Insurance Company

ply for COBRA coverage within 60 days of termination and extend your health

We all know how important it is to be

assistance with interviewing and résumé

care benefits for 18 months. Similarly,

prepared for a fire, flood, or other type of

building. Plus, as the economic situation

you may want to purchase an affordable

emergency. What about something that

continues to improve, who’s to say they

term life insurance policy to help replace

seems less dramatic, but can be equally

won’t hire you back?

your workplace coverage.

Account for every penny. Review your

Evaluate your retirement plans. While

terms of employment and claim any

some employers allow you to leave your

money owed to you from bonuses, com-

401(k) in place, it may not always be the

social media platforms like LinkedIn to

missions—even unused vacation. Also,

right move. Have a financial expert look

help connect with people online and let

Stay positive. It’s important to remember

find out if you are entitled to a severance

the plan over and see if you are better off

them know you’re looking.

that the decision was probably based on

package. If not, file for unemployment

rolling over the funds into a traditional

the economy or other external factors.

benefits right away since it may take

IRA or Roth IRA.

devastating, like unemployment? You can’t dial 911 or stop, drop, and roll, but you can take steps to help minimize some of the fallout from losing your job.

Be professional. If you handle yourself

weeks to process.

This educational third-party article is provided as a courtesy by John M Campanola,

Network-Network-Network. You nev-

Agent, New York Life Insurance Company.

with decorum, your employer may be

Replace lost benefits. If your spouse

er know where your next job will come

To learn more about the information or

willing to serve as a reference, recom-

works, see if you can add yourself to his

from, so take advantage of every net-

topics discussed, please contact John M

mend you to vendors, and even provide

or her health care plan. If not, you can ap-

working opportunity. Also, be sure to use

Campanola at 561-212-2903.

FEBRUARY 2017 | YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Meet the people behind ‘People of Delray’ She organizes the mess in my head, she’s my missing left brain”, Ben Ari explains. “I recruited Stephen to lead it, as his work in the city has been amazing, and as the “street mayor” he knows everyone. I’m the wild spirit. He is the managing leader.”

By: Stephen Chrisanthus Special to the Delray Newspaper stories there is also The Places. Here you can go to find where The People like to go. There is a monthly newsletter, Facebook page and Instagram that serve to connect the community. Isn’t it refreshing to hear an inspirational, uplifting story these days, even more so when it comes out of your own community? There is enough disconnect and negativity in the world and in our own lives, it’s time to come together as a community in a positive way and get to know each other as real people in the real world in which we live….welcome to the community site for the people, and about the people who live, work and play in Delray Beach: PeopleOfDelray.com. Upon opening the People of Delray (POD) site, you are launched exactly into just that… the faces and facts of people who make up the diverse and interesting community of Delray Beach. Each person has been dubbed a nickname that relates to their role within the community, and clicking on them reveals information and facts. There are in depth monthly features as well as weekly stories on The People. The Stories are constantly updated and added to, and the wall of faces is ever growing. In addition to people and

But the company and website’s concept is routed more deeply in real people and emotion than just another way to connect through technology. It is a new form of media that is focused on humanity, using modern technology to take us back to the old days, when people actually interacted and knew each other’s names. The goal is to get the community to become closer, for everyone to get to know each other a little better, to inspire each other. People love stories, and what better way to come together than inspirational story telling. It is a controlled content site, not a user generated interaction. The goal is to make it simple for everyone to get to know each other by seeing and “listening” to each other, without talking at each other. POD acts as an agenda free mediator. And like a cry for help answered, within weeks of the POD launch thousands of locals began reacting and interacting with positive messages and inspirational stories. So how did this community come about?

Natasha Lawson, Stephen Chrisanthus and Limor Ben Ari are the people behind People of Delray. Submitted photo.

Who are the people behind the people? As the beginning of every civilization does, it began with one. The first person for the people and by the people was Limor Ben Ari. Driven by a love for people and writing, and inspired by Humans of New York, Limor decided to start collecting people and stories without really any idea of what People of Delray was or what it could become. She then sought out two trusted persons to help grow and shape this evolving idea: Natasha Lawson and Stephen Chrisanthus. “I recruited Natasha as she worked in marketing with me for over a decade.

The People Of Delray, only six months old, continues to grow daily. The site’s stories are now a monthly feature in Delray Newspaper, and it has recently introduced “Experience the People of Delray”: A series of local events hosted by local influencers and contributors, exploring Delray Beach. Future plans are in place to gradually spread throughout the country; connecting cities, people and places together with a bond stronger than fiber optics and 4G cell service. One built on real relationships, real experiences and real people. “It’s great to see the community coming together to share and inspire each other. There are so many stories in this town, between old Delray – the people who built this town, and new Delray –start-ups, entrepreneurs. So much to explore.” For more information on the people behind the people, or how to be featured on People of Delray, go to PeopleOfDelray.com

Delray Beach resort wear company produces Garlic Fest T-shirts tend this year’s event can be purchased though the Garlic Fest website www.dbgarlicfest.com.

Staff report Delray Beach-based Caloosa Waterwear is the official T-shirt producers for Garlic Fest. Caloosa’s products typically focus on resort-wear. Founded in 2015 by Rebecca Fordham, the company’s mission is to provide performance fabric that athletes use at an affordable price with a versatile use. The clothing line is made of modern fabric technology that is comfortable and can be worn indoors and outdoors. The products are sold online at shopcaloosa.com and caloosawaterwear.com. Using the poster design “Big Garlic” created by tattoo artist Rebecca Loveless, who owns Tradition Tattoo of Delray Beach, Caloosa will produce the shirts for the event staff and those who want to remember the festival. Big Garlic was inspired by the classic Allman Brother’s album cover, “Eat a Peach.” Loveless was discovered as a fine art painter in the area when she joined the Greater Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce. She was introduced to Nancy Stewart-Franczak, executive director and co-owner of the South Florida Garlic Fest, who asked her to produce the official art for this year’s event. hen asked about how she feels to be participating in Garlic Fest 2017, Loveless said she is “Super Exited!” to be participating in Garlic Fest 2017 because it “rejuvenated the artist in me and allows me to be seen as a painter rather than just a tattoo artist.”

“Not only is Rebecca [Loveless] an extremely talented artist, but this opportunity comes at a perfect time for Caloosa as we launch a new division of our company, Caloosa Custom Apparel,” Fordham said. “We recently moved our production facility to Delray Beach, allowing us to improve our quality and lead times as well as offer custom apparel and personalization to our customers.” Shirts and other specially designed apparel and accessories are currently available for purchase online now at www. shopcaloosa.com . The 18th Annual Garlic Fest, affectionately nicknamed “The Best Stinkin’ Party in South Florida” takes place February 10-12, 2017 at John Price Park in Lake Worth, Florida. Featured entertainment is KONGOS on Friday evening and Michael Franti & Spearhead taking the stage on Saturday. Participating as vendors, both Caloosa Waterwear and Rebecca Loveless will be selling their designs including art and apparel made especially for garlic lovers. Tickets to at-

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER | FEBRUARY 2017

Boca woman launches kids magazine by kids for kids the demanding hours of news reporting. Staff report

Boca resident Shawn Sherlock is giving kids a chance to learn what it is like to produce a magazine. From writers and graphic designers to editors and photographers, Spotlight Kids is a publication created by kids for kids. The publication began as Spotlight Families with a section called Spotlight Kids. Now, the entire publication has morphed into Spotlight Kids. “Our focus for the entire magazine is going to be all kids,” Sherlock said. “We feel like this was the meaning for the magazine in the first place.” Sherlock has a background in news. She was a reporter for ABC, NBC and a sideline reporter who covered the Miami Heat. She took a break after she had her first sone, Aiden, but she said she had a hard time getting back into

“It was really hard,” she said. “I did some freelancing. I started a weekend show.” Then, she got pregnant again with her youngest, Shane. She said she delved into the mom life and noticed there was a lot of news outlets tailored towards moms, but not many for families. So, she started Spotlight Families magazine in 2014. It is dropped off at 75 places from Vero Beach to Deerfield and mailed to families. Its mission it to inform and inspire families. Included in the magazine was a section written by kids. “We would get a ton of feedback on social media and letters to our office,” she said of the support of the kids’ pieces. That’s when she said she knew there was something else

she could do with the magazine- focus it entirely on kids. So, she said they had a contest where kids could submit photos and articles. From there, they selected 24 kids to work as reporters, photographers, graphic designers and illustrators. “The kids that are with us I am deeply passionate about working with them,” she said. “They are amazing. We feel like such a family.” The kids have covered an event at Morikami, attended a day with the Dolphins and written food reviews. Becca Zerbo, 17, of Boca said she wrote an article on self-empowerment. “I love meeting new people,” she said. “I like connecting with others and being able to hear their stories.” “We have such a great, diverse group of kids,” Sherlock said. “They are all so uniquely talented. The kids bring out our mission of inspiring kids.”

Taste JOYA sangria at local bars, restaurants Staff report A new sangria called JOYA is popping up throughout South Florida. With both red and white blends, the sangria has half the amount of sugar as regular sangria and has the same alcohol content as a bottle of wine. “It’s not like any other sangria out there,” said Jay Gannon, partner and director for East Coast Sales of JOYA.“It’s sangria for grownups.” In fact, “Made for Grown Ups,” is Joya’s tagline. Imported from Spain, JOYA is the Spanish word for jewel. Its origins are in a small town of La Puebla de Almoradiel, nestled between the rolling hills and vast plains of Castilla La Mancha. It launched

out of California in 2015 and is growing in the South Florida market. Gannon said he didn’t believe JOYA was any better than other sangrias until he sampled it from his friend’s brother who owns the company. “Most sangria is just a sugar bomb,” he said. “I thought it was outstanding. I was really surprised at how good it was.” He recommends filled a glass at least two-thirds of the way with ice and then pouring the sangria in. He said the ice doesn’t dilute the sangria, but helps it open up when it melts. “It has a good finish,” he said. Gannon has some experience with the food industry. His family was the first to franchise Taco Bell on the East Coast. Then, he had a career on Wall Street for more than 20 years before moving to Boca Raton and wondering what his next step would be. That is when he tasted JOYA and began on ways to get it in to restaurants and liquor stores in South Florida. “Now it is really starting to get momentum,” he said.

Restaurants like Delray’s Buddha Sky Bar are serving JOYA as sangria and as a part of a cocktail. He said restaurateurs are buying JOYA because its consistent, doesn’t tie up the bartender who may be making the sangria per serving and doesn’t waste any sangria that restaurants often make in bulk.

face after they try the sangria.

But one of the best parts of being involved in JOYA is seeing the look on someone’s

“People are shocked every single time,” he said.

FEBRUARY 2017 | YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Q&A on Merrill Edge’s semi-annual report We asked Andrew Wilson, a regional sales executive for Bank of America/Merrill Edge, responsible for associates in Palm Beach, Broward and Miami Dade counties, to break down the report. 1. Tell us a little about the survey. How long has it been conducted? How often is it conducted? Who do you target to answer the questions? Our semi-annual, nationwide survey, takes an in-depth look at the financial concerns and priorities of mass affluent Americans. This fall was our 12th bi-annual report and found retirement as it’s defined today will likely become extinct as younger generations plan to work well into their later years and one in five Americans (20 percent) believe they need to take on a side job to reach their retirement goals. The latest Merrill Edge Report surveyed over 1,000 Americans, including an oversample of 300 South Florida residents between September 24 and October 5, 2016. 2. Why do you think one in five people surveyed believe they need to take on a side job to reach their retirement goals? Our survey suggests retirement leaves Americans feeling insecure and uncertain, as economic factors, rising debt, growing longevity and “Sandwich Generation” priorities make the milestone seem unattainable.

Many Americans are unsure of how much money they need to save for retirement. When asked their “magic number”—the amount of money they think they need to live their desired retirement. More than half (56 percent) of respondents don’t anticipate needing more than $1 million, and nearly one in five (19 percent) simply ‘don’t know’ their number. And even with these estimates, 40 percent of today’s non-retir-

ees say reaching their magic number by retirement will either be “difficult” or “virtually unattainable.” Also, the majority of Americans are saving to afford daily life (57 percent) and to take care of family (45 percent). 3. What is the cause of the change in retirement and the idea of what retirement is among millennials? While most of today’s retirees (83 percent) are not currently working or never have during their golden years, the majority (83 percent) of millennials plan to work in retirement whether for income, to keep busy or to pursue a passion. The rise of the “gig economy” – an environment where temporary positions and short-term projects are more prevalent – and longer-term careers may be why millennials (15 percent) are three times more likely than Gen Xers and baby boomers (5 percent) to rank an employer’s retirement plan as the most important factor when taking a new job.

cades away, it’s never too early to start investing, even just a small amount at a time.

4. What is the magic number people need to hit in order to retire?

4. Balance long - and short-term goals

There is no magic number for retirement, as it is based on a person’s individual needs and priorities. At Merrill Edge, we encourage our clients to plan for retirement and build their portfolios around their life priorities. Although retirement may be de-

If you want to learn more or need guidance throughout the saving process, you can find more information and resources at merrilledge.com or visit a Bank of America Financial Center.

5. Share with us some tips for saving for retirement. Here are some steps Americans can take to start saving and investing for their financial goals: 1. Build a budget and get a handle on debt 2. Be prepared for emergencies 3. Save and invest for retirement: Start now, even if you start small 5. Seek professional help

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Boca’s Trainerspace dedicates gym to personal training By: Marisa Gottesman Associate Editor Have you ever signed up for a personal trainer at a gym and then had to wait to use a machine? Or were assigned a personal trainer that just didn’t get what your fitness goals were? Those factors, and others, are what the owners of Boca Raton’s newest gym, Trainerspace aimed to solve when creating their state-of-the-art gym. Located in an industrial area off of Congress Avenue at 990 S. Rogers Circle, the gym is an upscale adult playground that combines equipment sourced from around the world and even custom pieces with the latest technology and different forms of fitness.

and equipment used in rehabilitation facilities.

the gym. The team said that is on purpose because they don’t want any distractions. And in case you have little ones, there is a daycare area for them to play while you get your work out in.

You are greeted by an open reception area that has lounge like couches and a juice bar where you can order your pre and post workout drinks.

An audio engineer created the sound system, which allows you get hyped up from music for your workout while being able to have a conversation with your trainer. An air filtration system pumps fresh oxygen and a carefully selected scent throughout the air and a cell phone charging station provides a service and keeps you focused on your session.

Once you step into the actual gym, everything is neatly lined and perfectly placed throughout the open floor plan. There is a ninja warrior-style obstacle course, machines you find in NFL locker rooms

The atmosphere is dark, but welcoming and combines a sexy factor to the gym. The locker rooms add to the upscale vibe with the lighting and finishes. You may notice there are no televisions located in

“It’s so different than anything you have ever seen,” said Trainerspace Director of Business Development Logan Skees.

But don’t expect to sign up and just work out. The gym only allows you to work out with a trainer. If you don’t have one, you can use one of the trainers employed by Trainerspace. There are no membership fees, just the fee paid to the trainer. The gym is open daily from 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Treating the trainers well is what Trainerspace is all about, according owner operator Cary Reichbach. “It’s Trainerspace, not client space,” he said. “If the trainer is in a positive environment that will pass on to the client.” That’s why the facility has a lounge, full kitchen and sleep pods for trainers to nap in when they aren’t in a session.

Open Mon - Fri 7:30am to 6pm Sat 8am to 3pm | Closed Sunday

In creating the concept Reichbach and co-owner Chris Brown and Skees, said they studied what they felt gyms were doing wrong. They combined that with their military background to create the space. Their white-glove approach to service

and cleanliness of equipment as well as their tactical operations center, their office, pays homage to their military experience. They said they wanted to create a gym that had the best equipment available, trainers that understood their clients and turned working out into something fun. “Fitness becomes like a chore,” Reichbach said. “It becomes like brushing your teeth. You know you have to do it.” So, they looked at a population who doesn’t have to be told to run around and burn off calories, kids. Their jungle gym resembles what you would find on a kids playground. And they said adults gravitate right toward the monkey bars. They also have special sound proof consultation rooms where clients can really open up to their trainers about their goals without having to worry about someone else hearing. The trainers use technology to track body measurements and goals, which is emailed right to you. And in case you want to relax right your muscles right after a work out, there is a massage room waiting. For more information, visit http://trainerspace.com.

FEBRUARY 2017 | YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Boca lawyer launches Downtown Business Alliance By: Marisa Gottesman Associate Editor Boca resident and lawyer Michael Liss hadn’t been working downtown too long before he noticed he spent a lot of time walking to his car and heading away from downtown. And that bothered him. “I have to leave downtown to go to networking events,” he said. “That struck me as odd.” He said he would walk around downtown and he wouldn’t recognize people. He would find his business lunches taking place at restaurants outside of downtown. “Usually people flock to downtowns during the day and back to suburbia at night,” he said. Looking out of his office window at 150 East Palmetto Road, he pointed to all the residential buildings that have popped up

downtown. Then, he pointed to the couple of office buildings and noted that many aren’t full. But he said he wants the downtown businesses that are open to join forces as a community. So, he decided to launch the Downtown Business Alliance with a few other downtown business owners with a goal of bringing downtown business owners together to discuss common interests. The kick-off will take place on at 5:45 p.m. on Feb. 2 at the Hyatt Place. The goal is start a conversation about downtown Boca that includes the private sector. Liss said it is often the business owners who are impacted the most by parking and construction because they have to worry about where their customers will park and how traffic may affect their clients reaching them for meetings. He also said it is the business owners who should change the downtown mantra of “Come Early, Stay Late” to “Downtown, Why Leave?” He said he wants to see business take place downtown.

Choosing your organizer By: Cheryl Adelman Special to the Boca and Delray newspapers Your home and office will inevitably become a reflection of you; your interests, priorities, work, beliefs, and daily habits. For any of many reasons, you may find that disorganization and clutter are interfering with personal goals and happiness. Usually organizers are contacted to swoop in and help get things in order. Sometimes we are needed to set up systems preventively for a new endeavor, like having a baby, or starting a business. To me, the goal of working with an organizer is to create functional and esthetically pleasing spaces to work, play, and rest, and to learn to keep them that way, thus, improving quality of life, long term. It’s worth the effort to find an organizer who resonates with you. Conduct a few interviews to find the right person. Be honest and clear about what you want: Do you

want them to work alone or with you? Can you coordinate schedules? Do they have experience similar to your project? Discuss the finances. Do you want ongoing maintenance? Inform them which of the following motivated you to call for help: you are stressed, busy, overwhelmed, confused, anxious, in conflict with a partner about organizing, in transition, physically unable, in need of the company of someone focused. Tell them if you have a pet. Check their references. Read their testimonials. You want someone who is reliable and trustworthy. You’re going to be spending time together. You’re more likely to have success with an organizer who listens to you, respects your vision, without judgement, with interest in finding solutions. Find an objective professional with whom you feel comfortable. Hire someone who is flexible and will creatively approach your particular situation, instead of relying on rules about how things “are supposed to” be done. Of course, you don’t want to end up right back where you started in a matter of months! Your organizer should be someone who can help you make some behavioral changes.

JOIN A FAST GROWING LOCAL MEDIA COMPANY. Four Story Media, publishers of Delray Newspaper and Boca Newspaper is looking for energetic advertising sales reps. Flexible hours, high commissions and draws. Work with a fun team. Sales experience helpful, but we will train the right candidates. Send emails of interest outlining your experience to: RYAN@fourstorymg.com

The first meeting will be a discussion on what downtown business owners want and for downtown business owners to get to know each other. The alliance is inviting any business located within the CRA boundary and extending that boundary to the beach and Boca Raton Community Church. Liss said his vision for the alliance is to create a downtown business community. He sees it as a conduit for the city to reach downtown businesses more efficiently and effectively. He sees the alliance as a way for downtown business owners to get involved in all of the charitable events that take place downtown. And he sees it as a social group where people can just have fun together. “With 1,000 downtown businesses I see nothing but possibility,” he said. Visit DBAforBoca on Facebook to keep up with more information.

Before you even think about purging, categorizing, donating and recycling, your organizer should understand your goal, know your strengths and weaknesses, then, devise a plan of action accordingly, which they discuss with you to make sure you are on the same page. You may benefit from an organizer who specializes, for example, with going paperless, people with ADD, children and schoolwork, cataloguing collections, family genealogy, interior design, shopaholics,

and more. Organizers are as different from each other as any other professionals. Do your research. Trust your feelings when you choose. And, if you are not happy, you can make a change. Cheryl Adelman, owner of Organize In A Day™, loves to help people get organized, write about it, and is an entertaining speaker about the subject. organizeinaday.com organizeinaday@gmail.com 609-2873119.

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER | FEBRUARY 2017

Delray Beach Drug Task Force a model for communities fighting substance abuse By: Suzanne Spencer, Former Executive Director of the Delray Beach Drug Task Force Founder/ Producer of SUD Talks Special to the Boca and Delray newspapers since 1999 • More than 28,000 people have died from opiates since 2014

Not a day goes by when we don’t hear of drug overdoses in locations ranging from rural Maine to New York City. At times it’s difficult to strike a balance between taking pro-active steps and avoiding the situation as a method of self-protection. One thing is certain. This is tragic on many levels and threatens many communities and families. The City of Delray Beach is at one of the epi-centers of this national healthcare crisis and has taken a stance that is dealing with the problem on several fronts. The Delray Beach Drug Task Force has created an environment that combines the efforts of city government, responders, educators, law enforcement, hospitals, and recovery centers. It is a long battle but we are finding solutions. The problem has cast a wide net of dysfunction requiring an approach that anticipates problems of tomorrow while finding solutions for today. Our hope is that our “City by the Sea” can be used as a model to other cities facing similar problems.

Problems are far reaching as we see systems that if not broken are at a minimum stressed. First responders are at high risk for “burnout.” Families are in financial and emotional ruin at the hands of a disease. We see an industry that has blurred the lines between healthcare and profit motive. There is a “perfect storm” throughout the country. The “not in my backyard” (NIMBY) posture cannot shield communities from a disease that does not discriminate. Communities are pleading for help, regulation and oversight. The statistics are daunting: • 580 people try heroin for the first time every day • There is an overdose death every six hours in South Florida • In 2015, there were 1,460 overdose deaths in South Florida • In Palm Beach County, fatal heroin overdoses jumped from 158 in 2015 to 107 thus far in 2016. Fentanyl deaths rose from 90 in 2015 to 173 in 2016 • The sale of legal painkillers has tripled

Our multi-dimensional approach is making an impact, and we’re pleased to sponsor the 2nd Annual 2017 SUD Talks (www.sudtalks.org), community and industry event designed to change the way communities, governments and providers think, feel, believe and treat Substance Use Disorder. It will be held March 4th at the Crest Theatre in Delray Beach and will be broadcast nationally through various social media platforms. The event features a collection of diverse speakers presented in a “Ted Talk” format and an engaging, and interactive panel discussion with industry experts. This event was well-received last year. It brought awareness nationally and locally to the problem and recommended steps cities must take if they are to build integrated communities, rebuild broken systems, and ensure consumer protection and public safety. The following are some of the initiatives we have taken: • Provided Narcan through a grant to the Delray Beach Police Department, making it the 2nd law enforcement agency in the state to use this antidote. These kits and policies and training protocols are shared with other police departments in South Florida when requested. • Founded the After-Narcan initiative, a strategy aimed at breaking the cycle of addiction, reduce chronic relapse and facilitate access to treatment • Living Skills in the Schools, a substance abuse prevention program un-

der the Crossroads Club authorized by safe schools for PBC schools. It has reached more than 125,000 students in 60 schools in grades kindergarten through college • Project Trailblazer, an initiative designed to contribute to the economic architecture of Delray Beach by providing employers with pre- and post-hiring support, reducing absenteeism, recidivism rates, and increasing long-term recovery outcomes The goals include: • Preserve the equilibrium and stability of communities • Lessen growing numbers of displaced residents • Augment public safety • Support consumer protection policies and initiatives • Contribute to the economic architecture of the city (reducing social services and helping a skilled workforce re-enter the workplace at their skill level) • Invest in prevention strategies which will lessen rehabilitation costs Recognized as a national model, the Delray Beach Drug Task Force is a valuable and unique resource for other cities striving to deal with consequences of substance use disorder. Suzanne Spencer is the former executive Director of the Delray Beach Drug Task Force and the founder/producer of SUD Talks, a community event that educates the public, government and providers on ways to treat substance abuse disorder. She is also the executive director of Living Skills in the Schools, a substance abuse program that is offered in Palm Beach County schools in grades K through college. To date, it has been given to more than 125,000 students in 60 schools.

Everybody calls Lee! 411 EAST ATLANTIC AVENUE, STE 2OOE, DELRAY BEACH | CallLee.COM

REAL

ESTATE

FEBRUARY 2017 | YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

INSIDE

Palm Beach County

Look inside Pinnacle [40] SPONSORED BY

See what Boca country club won a national award [48]

PASCAL_PINEAPPLE_AD_FEB.qxp:Layout 1 1/25/17 5:17 PM Page 1

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER | FEBRUARY 2017

FROM THE

COASTAL ESTATES PORTFOLIO

PRESENTED BY

PASCAL LIGUORI & SON BROKER ASSOCIATES

A SELECTION OF OUR NEW CONSTRUCTION LISTINGS M ARC H 2017 COMPLETION

Trendy office in town: Pinnacle By: Misha Abdoolah, President of Pinnacle Advertising and Marketing 1 Tell us about your company.

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New Driftwood Landing Estate | 10 Driftwood Landing $4.75 Million Info: www.rx10253516.com

New Bermuda-inspired Estate | 3424 N Ocean Blvd. $4.695 Million Info: www.rx10135418.com

Info: www.rx10112005.com

New Island-inspired Estate | 3410 N Ocean Blvd. $4.895 Million Info: www.rx10135422.com

Beach Area Townhomes | 215 MacFarlane Drive $2.495 Million Info: www.rx10259206.com

PASCAL LIGUORI

ANTONIO LIGUORI

561.278.0100

561.414.4849

B R O K E R A S S O C I AT E

Pascal@premierestateproperties.com

B R O K E R A S S O C I AT E

Antonio@premierestateproperties.com

R E P R E S E N T I N G DELRAY BEACH | GULF STREAM | OCEAN RIDGE POINT MANALAPAN | MANALAPAN | HYPOLUXO ISLAND

PascalLiguoriAndSon.com

Premier Estate Properties Presenting Properties Exclusively In Excess Of One Million Dollars TM

OUR UNRIVALED GLOBAL NETWORK

Luxury Portfolio International Mayfair International Realty FIABCI International Board of Regents Who’s Who In Luxury Real Estate Leading Real Estate Companies Of The World

The information provided herein including but not limited to measurements, square footages, lot sizes, calculations and statistics have been obtained and conveyed from third parties such as the applicable Multiple Listing Service, public records as well as other sources. All information including that produced by the Sellers or Premier Estate Properties Inc. are subject to errors, omissions or changes without notice and should be independently verified by any prospect for the purchase of a Property. The sellers and Premier Estate Properties Inc. expressly disclaim any warranty or representation regarding all enclosed information. Prospects use of any information herein is acknowledgement of this disclaimer and that prospect shall perform his or her own due diligence. Prospects shall not rely on this information when entering into a contract for sale and purchase. Some affiliations may not be applicable to certain geographic areas. If your property is currently listed, please do not consider this a solicitation. Copyright 2017 Premier Estate Properties Inc. All Rights Reserved. The name “Pascal Liguori & Son” is a registered fictitious name in Florida owned by Pascal Liguori, Inc., a Florida corporation.

If I could choose one word that best describes our agency, it would be “passion”. Our CEO, Peter Gary wanted to create an agency with integrity behind everything we do. He has a philosophy which he has ingrained into the culture of the agency, “spend every dollar as if it were our own”. Peter knew the only way to build an agency with this philosophy was going to be through the people that worked for him. They had to believe it. This had to be more than just a job, it had to be a passion. We don’t select people to adapt to our culture, we select people who aspire to our culture. Our agency is made up of people who want to be a part of something great and are truly dedicated. So what best describes our agency? It’s our people and our passion.

2 What is your favorite part/design of your office space and why? My favorite part of the agency is the open comfortable floor plan. It creates a lively environment and helps our team to collaborate. Between media strategy sessions and creative collaborations, the agency is constantly buzzing with energy which makes for not only a productive workplace but a fun one too. Another great thing about the décor of the agency is the design is geared towards comfort. As our team work together they can do so in comfortable spaces that facilitate ideas and creativity at its finest.

3 If you could use one word to describe the feel of the office space, what would it be? If I could use only one word, to describe the feel of our space, it would “FUN!” and it’s in caps for a reason. Our space and our people makes Pinnacle a fun place to work. Plus, it’s an inviting atmosphere that our clients really enjoy and they love having meetings here at our offices. We wanted our agency to be a place where people want to be. It’s comfortable and there’s always something creative going on.

FEBRUARY 2017 | YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

What’s up in the real estate market CRE Rauch, Robertson & Co. hires new

folio Manager and Financial Accounting

team member

Specialist in the telecommunications industry managing technical data cen-

CRE Rauch, Robertson & Co., a CRE

ter, office, and industrial property leases

Florida Partners Company, has hired S.

and construction contracts. She was a

Chйrie Todd to its South Florida team.

licensed Financial Advisor/Stockbroker

She has served as Realty Specialist for the

in her early career, and built upon that

Transportation Security Administration

extensive financial training during her

(TSA), U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security

years with the Federal government and

(DHS), where she managed a challenging

in private sector real estate sales, leasing

California and Utah office and industri-

and management.

al airport lease portfolio and served as a

Delray mortgage bankers arrange ac-

primary real estate advisor to TSA air-

quisition financing

port leadership, Government Services Administration (GSA), airport and port

Bob Dockerty and Joe Hepp of Dockerty

authorities.

Romer & Co. have arranged mortgage

Prior to representing TSA in lease acquisitions and property management, she worked in a financial position overseeing contracts and agreements with transit and port authorities and local law enforcement agencies in support of TSA trained canine team activities. She was recently selected to lead a multi-agency real estate efficiencies

task panel for DHS and the U.S. Congress which resulted in the finalization of House Bill H.R. 6430, known as the GSA Reform Bill. Her early Federal career included 10 years on Capitol Hill as a Congressional staff assistant, and she held several state and local political leadership positions.

financing and future funding facility for

Todd also worked as a Real Estate Port-

sition and to provide a funding facility

NEW CLASS A OFFICE FOR LEASE

ICM Realty Group’s newest office acquisition, a 112,000-square-foot office building known as One Corporate Center IV. Dockerty and Hepp arranged the financing on behalf of their client ICM Realty Group through MidWest One Bank. The loan proceeds were utilized for the acqui-

for future capital improvements. Boca’s Champagne & Parisi launches new sites Boca Raton-based Champagne & Parisi Real Estate has launched new websites that cater toward growing markets in Palm Beach and Broward counties. The websites include: BocaRatonRealEstate.com, DelrayBeachRealEstate.com, BoyntonBeachRealEstate.com, ParklandRealEstate.com, and HighlandBeachRealEstate.com. “Our sellers are impressed by the fact we have the ‘Park Avenue’ and ‘Broadway’ like properties (as in Monopoly’s famous blue properties) regarding websites,” Caesar Parisi said, Broker/Owner of Champagne & Parisi Real Estate. “These 5-star websites will continue to help our agency reach more potential buyers. Unlike most realtors that only promote a single website, we have an entire network of sites devoted to the cities we do business in.”

New state-of-art office development located at gateway entrance to Downtown Delray Beach between north and south bound Federal Highways, south of Atlantic Ave and north of Linton Blvd. • Available for lease 3,000 - 6,500 SF with unparalleled visibility, access and convenient on site parking (5 spaces per thousand SF). • Building and monument signage on both Federal Highways (US 1). • Each space has a private lobby with 12’ ceiling heights and impact glass. • Interiors custom finished to individual tenant’s requirements.

LUXURY COASTAL HOME BUILDERS / DEVELOPERS Recipient of 2016 AIA Award for Design Excellence 561.279.7998 | azurefl.com | 290 Southeast 6th Avenue, Suite #5 | Delray Beach, Florida 33483

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER | FEBRUARY 2017

Ask an expert: About your condo, HOA rules line. Secondly, the system implemented by the association must provide each owner with:

By: Steven R. Braten Esq. Special to the Boca and Delray newspapers Q. I am the president of my association. The board would like to increase voter participation at our annual election meeting. How do we implement electronic voting?

(a) A method to authenticate the owner’s identity to the online voting system. (b) For elections of the board, a method to transmit an electronic ballot to the online voting system that ensures the secrecy and integrity of each ballot.

R.C., Boca Raton A. Great and timely question! The first quarter of the year is typically when most community associations hold their annual meetings to elect new directors. Historically, voter participation has posed a challenge to varying degrees in communities throughout Florida. In response in 2015, the Legislature amended Florida’s Condominium Act and The Homeowners Association (HOA) Act to provide for electronic voting. For HOA’s, the statute is Florida Statute 720.317 and Florida Statute 718.128 is for condominium associations. These statutes permit a board of directors to authorize an internet-based online voting system (electronic voting) via a board resolution. The board resolution must (i) provide that unit owners receive notice of the opportunity to vote through an online voting system; (ii) establish reasonable procedures and deadlines for unit owners to consent, in writing, to online voting, and (iii) establish reasonable procedures and deadlines for unit owners to opt out of online voting after giving consent. The board must provide written notice of a meeting at which

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(c) A method to confirm, at least 14 days before the voting deadline, that the owner’s electronic device can successfully communicate with the online voting system.

the resolution will be considered and the notice must be mailed, delivered, or electronically transmitted to the unit owners and posted conspicuously on the condominium property or association property at least 14 days before the meeting. Evidence of compliance with the 14-day notice requirement must be made by an affidavit executed by the person providing the notice and filed with the official records of the association. Now that we have covered the procedural requirements of authorizing electronic voting at owner meetings, here is the substance of what the resolution must include. First, to vote electronically, each owner must consent in writing to casting votes on-

The online voting system that the association implements also must be able to: (a) Authenticate the owner’s identity. (b) Authenticate the validity of each electronic vote to ensure that the vote is not altered in transit. (c) Transmit a receipt from the online voting system to each owner who casts an electronic vote. (d) For elections of the board of administration, permanently separate any authentication or identifying information from the electronic election ballot, rendering it impossible to tie an election ballot to a specific unit owner. (e) Store and keep electronic votes accessible to election officials for recount,

1075 Kokomo Key Lane, Delray Beach $469k Intracoastal Waterfront Townhome

1,296 Sq Ft with additional 1,000 Sq Ft warehouse under air! Great visibility for Retail/Office just blocks away from the heart of Atlantic Avenue. Contact John Brewer for further information.

Steven R. Braten, Esq., is Managing Partner, Palm Beach of the Law Firm Goede, Adamczyk, DeBoest & Cross, PLLC, with offices located at the Sanctuary Centre in Boca Raton. Visit www.GADClaw.com or ask questions about your issues for future columns by sending your inquiry to: question@GADClaw.com. The information provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. The publication of this article does not create an attorney-client relationship between the reader and Goede, Adamczyk, DeBoest & Cross, or any of our attorneys. Readers should not act or refrain from acting based upon the information contained in this article without first contacting an attorney, if you have questions about any of the issues raised herein. The hiring of an attorney is a decision that should not be based solely on advertisements or this column.

John Brewer

FEATURED LISTING BEST PRICE ON THE OCEAN 302 NE 6th Avenue, Delray Beach

While these are the basics, you should consult your association counsel to be sure you fully understand how electronic voting will work. Also, there are a number of vendors that entered this new space in Florida, claiming they have a statutory compliant online voting system. Be sure to obtain adequate assurances and please consult your association attorney before entering into a contract with such a vendor – or any vendor!

777 E Atlantic Ave, Ste 100 Delray Beach, FL 33483 (561) 819-6958 parkviewproperties.com

Delray's lowest priced townhome directly on the Intracoastal! This home is 1,140 SF with 2 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms plus an office. Nicely renovated kitchen & baths with wood floors throughout. Contact Lynlee Fraser or Nicole Stewart for further information.

FOR SALE

inspection, and review purposes.

FOR SALE

3 Beach Way North, Ocean Ridge, FL $3.45 M - 35,386 Sq Ft Lot

An exceptional oceanfront offering in prestigious Ocean Ridge. Buildable single family lot on private cul-de-sac street. This property includes a beach parcel with 107 feet of direct ocean frontage. Contact Nicole Stewart or Lynlee Fraser for further information.

(561) 573-7333 JBrewer@ parkviewproperties.com Lynlee Fraser (561) 573-5883 LFraser@ parkviewproperties.com

Nicole Stewart (954) 993-5787 NStewart@ parkviewproperties.com

FEBRUARY 2017 | YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

NOW PENDING

CITRUS TRAIL $300,000 - 3/2 split bedroom ﬂoor plan in the gated community of Citrus Glen. Covered patio w/ lake view. Hurricane protection on windows & doors - electric blinds on the sliders in master bedroom & living room. Tile & wood ﬂoors throughout. ID#10213399

NEW LISTING

BARWICK ESTATES $499,999 - Completely renovated home in the highly desirable Barwick Estates. This gated community with only 28 homes is just minutes from downtown Delray Beach. Open ﬂoor plan with vaulted ceilings and great square footage. Screened and covered patio with room for a pool and/or jacuzzi. Newer AC and water heater put in 2012. Many updates including landscaping as well as the addition of white picket fences that were recently installed. Wide driveway with two car garage. VERY spacious closet in master bedroom. Recent appliances. Property has a separate automatic generator for the entire house in case of a power outage. ID#10295018

EAST BOCA DUPLEX $550,000 - Rarely available duplex in perfect "in town" location, close to everything. Approx 1 mile to beach. Each side had 3br/2ba, washer and dryer and fenced yard. Don't miss this opportunity to buy income property in East Boca. ID#10257913

DELRAY VILLAS $224,900 - Gorgeous 2/2 + den villa in active West Delray Beach community. Completely remodeled with new ﬂoors, kitchen w/ island, stainless steel & granite countertops, bathrooms & 2 yr old HVAC. Light and airy open ﬂoor plan includes a den which can easily be turned into a 3rd bedroom. Front & rear screened in porch, just steps away from the clubhouse, pool & tennis courts. ID#10288684

NEW LISTING

INDIAN SPRINGS CC $344,900- Welcome home! Move in ready with fabulous upgrades, improvements and appointments. Pride of ownership is clearly evident. Rich bamboo ﬂoors, crown moulding, chefs kitchen with marble and granite surfaces. Impact glass & accordion shutters. ID#0000000

ST ANDREWS AT BOYNTON BEACH CLUB $109,000 - Bright, beautiful & spacious corner unit in the gated St. Andrews community. Features separate dining area, washer/dryer & private balcony. Just steps from central lake. Private recreation center with gym/sports/ exercise center for residents. Close to Boynton/Hypoluxo/Lantana/Lake Worth shopping, restaurants, recreation, community centers, and schools. No age restrictions. ID#10267066

JUST SOLD

POMPANO BEACH $374,000 - Everything has been done in this completely remodeled 3 bedroom 2 bath pool home on a large corner lot and is just waiting for you to move right in. Plenty of space for entertaining indoors or move the party outside for a BBQ on your built in gas grill. The split ﬂoor plan is great for a family or for visiting house guests. ID#10291189

JUST SOLD

CANNERY ROW $799,000 - Superb NEW 3br Townhome in desirable Cannery Row. Fully upgraded appliances, Including Sub-Zero refrigerator, Wolf oven & cooktop, Upgraded touchless Kohler faucets and Shower, Jetted tub, Electrolux Washer and Dryer. Cordless cellular shades installed throughout. Stunning Hardwood ﬂoors also upgraded! Quartz counter tops throughout! Move in ready. ID#10281024

RIVER HOUSE TERRACE $290,000 - Enjoy this little piece of paradise! Unobstructed views of the Hillsboro River. This two bedroom, two bath located on the ground floor with spectacular views of the intracoastal waterway. Deerfield Beach is one of the most scenic beaches in South Florida with it's fishing pier & small town feel. Lively restaurants & nightlife. Includes a heated swimming pool & maintained grounds. ID#10289695

SAN MARCO AT WESTCHESTER CC $310,000 - Largest Elodea model in highly desirable San Marco. No Membership Required! Accordion Hurricane Shutters. Beautiful ceramic tiled lanai. Blonde wood laminate ﬂooring throughout (Master & 2nd bedroom brand new carpet) Home has ideal space for guests and entertaining! ID#10282117

BOCA WEST/PEPPERTREE $224,900 - Lots of light and vaulted ceilings make this 3br/2b Buttonwood model show very nicely! With a kitchen/liv rooms that opens to the patio, lake and golf views, this condo is a must see when looking in Peppertree! Mandatory Membership to Boca West. ID#10281858

PINETREE GOLF CLUB $709,000 - PINE TREE GOLFCLUB - no membership required Thinking of a larger lot - tired of homes that are too close? This 3/3 pool on on approx. 1/2 acre in a gated community is the answer. ID#10245798

SEASIDE ENCLAVE $1,299,000 - Coastal inspired 2 bedroom + den townhouse located in charming sea side enclave. Artisan elements throughout including idyllic garden courtyard with heated dipping pool and waterfall, all just a few steps from your private beach. ID#10274066

NEW LISTING

GLENEAGLES $54,500- Spectacular and unobstructed long golf course view from the $54,500 13th Tee looking north from the open air balcony. This 2nd Walter Hagen apartment is just waiting for you. Although original, it has been meticulously maintained by its current owner. Located in the Glendevon development, it is both within walking distance of the clubhouse as well as Oriole shopping area across from Gleneagles. The unit is being sold unfurnished, however, the seller would be willing to leave certain pieces of furniture. The purchaser must, in addition to purchasing the unit, also purchase the golf membership ($40,000) from Gleneagles. ID#10295551

BOCA VERDE EAST $76,500$76,500 East Boca condo living! Walk to shopping and restaurants. One bedroom, one and 1/2 bath, laminate wood ﬂoors, well maintained, overlooking beautifully landscaped grounds. Near buses, shopping and entertainment. Very close to 5th Avenue Shops, Mizner Park, Royal Palm Place, FAU & Town Center Mall. Residents enjoy a large active clubhouse, heated pool, exercise room.etc. Small storage area in laundry room. ID#10270576

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER | FEBRUARY 2017

Buddha Sky Bar Nightclub listed for nearly $25 million

Commercial real estate investment services firm Marcus & Millichap has been selected to exclusively market for sale Buddha Sky Bar.

downtown commands a premium due to limited supply,” said Marc E. Strauss, a Marcus & Millichap first vice president investments in the firm’s Fort Lauderdale office. “The seller will lease back the second and third floors for ten years and master lease the first floor for one year from the close of escrow. The property presents a great opportunity for an investor to place their restaurant business or tenant in the ground floor space while benefiting from a period of guaranteed income.”

“Buddha Sky Bar is the only three-story restaurant with views of Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach, where restaurant space

Strauss is representing the seller. For more information, contact Marc E. Strauss at (954) 245-3500.

Staff report Delray Beach’s Buddha Sky Bar is for sale. The 11,500-square-foot, three-story res taurant and night club is on the market for $24.5 million, which equates to a $2,130 price per square foot. It is located at 217 E. Atlantic Ave.

With over $200 Million in sales and the

TE LIS

IST

JU ST

ST L JU

RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL LEASE | BUY | SELL

100 NE 5th Ave | Delray Beach, FL 33483 O: 561-266-3119 F: 561-491-5178 TrueFloridianRealty.com TrueFloridianRealty@gmail.com

$425,000

$749,000

633 E. Conference Drive – Boca Raton Dennis Yarbrough 561.703.5880

6637 Grande Orchid Way – Delray Beach Noelle McIntyre 561.703.3759

LD SO

your business and trust.

we welcome the opportunity to earn

highest level of customer satisfaction

To hear what our clients are saying about us, please visit our website at www.TrueFloridianRealty.com

$429,000

$439,000

4990 Manchia Drive – Lake Worth Ryan Keough 352.359.0868

618 Avon Road – Flamingo Park WPB Lisa Pack 717.578.3253 Dennis Yarbrough

MEET YOUR LOCAL REAL ESTATE EXPERTS

Lisa Pack

FEBRUARY 2017 | YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Women’s Council of Realtors welcomes new president Staff report Members of the Women’s Council of Realtors (WCR) Greater Palm Beach County gathered together at the Delray Sands Resort on Dec. 12 to be part of the tradition of passing of the gavel from past President, Jessica Rosato, to incoming President, Cathy Lewis. The ceremony commemorates the year’s successes and accomplishments and celebrates the new leadership.

“This year was a phenomenal year for me with the Greater Palm Beach Women’s Council of Realtors,” Rosato said. “I feel truly blessed to have served as local chapter President with such an invaluable team and for such a loyal membership. It was my honor to highlight a few members with well-deserved awards at the event, and to hand over our network to Cathy Lewis who I know will lead us well in 2017. This organization is truly amazing- the leaders it produces are powerhouses in our industry and in life!”

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At a recent ceremony, Jessica Rosato, WCR Local Chapter President 2016 and Residential Broker Associate with Nestler Poletto Sotheby’s International

Realty, passed the gavel to Cathy Lewis, Incoming WCR Local Chapter President 2017 with the Keyes Company.

$539,000

803 SW 7th Ave – Leisureville Paul Lykins 561.267.4284

2046 Alta Meadows – Tierra Verde Noelle McIntyre 561.703.3759

431 Pine Tree – Atlantis Noelle McIntyre 561.703.3759

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1135 NW 18th Ave – Delray Beach – Rainberry Lakes Noelle McIntyre 561.703.3759

3625 S. Lake Drive – Boynton Beach Noelle McIntyre 561.703.3759

2042 Alta Meadows – Delray Beach – Tierra Verde Noelle McIntyre 561.703.3759

Elena Morales

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER | FEBRUARY 2017

FEBRUARY 2017 | YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER | FEBRUARY 2017

Boca Raton’s Polo Club to be recognized this month There are 15 judges that are not affiliated with the event co-sponsors, the McMahon Group and Club & Resort Business. Award recipients are selected based on their achievements at the club they currently manage.

Staff report Boca Raton’s Polo Club will be recognized this month as one of the leading clubs in the country. The club and its Chief Operating Officer and General Manager Brett Morris will be honored with the “2016 Excellence in Club Management” award on Feb. 9 during an awards dinner at the Interlachen Country Club in Winter Park.

The Polo Club is receiving the James H. Brewer Award for Country/Golf Clubs with 600 or more full-privilege members. It is the only club in Florida being recognized under the Excellence in Club Management category.

The annual awards are selected through nominations submitted on behalf of qualified candidates by other parties.

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“It is a huge honor to receive this award,” Morris said.

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Sophisticated modern home to be built on an estate sized Two stunning coastal contemporary townhomes to be built Gorgeous newer home in desirable north beach area with lot.. Approx. 6000 AC sq ft with a Guest House and 4 Bay in seaside community of Boca Riviera. Over 3,000 sq. ft. with 6 BED, and 6.1 BA. 6100 total sq ft. Resort pool, large covered loggia w fireplace. $3.695 M Garage. Noted architect Randall Stofft. 3 BED, 2.1 BA. Short stroll to the beach. D

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“The club had a pretty troubled reputation,” he said, explaining the club’s food and beverage service was inconsistent and the governing body had issues. To fix the issues, he said he undertook a $30 million renovation that redesigned and rebranded the club as a place that is the epitome of residential resort style living. With 45 clubs in Palm Beach County alone, he said it was a massive undertaking to become a standout club. He said the first two years were challenging. It took time to turn around a $50 million operation with 550 employees and 3,000 members, he said. “There is a lot of competition out there, especially in South Florida,” he said. “People have a lot of choices. We looked at what could separate us.” The result is what he says member liken to a cruise ship that doesn’t leave port because there is always something to do. They renovated the spa, branded the five restaurants at the club differently, created social programs and cultural arts events. The leadership at the club has been improved and the membership offerings have been modified. While Morris is being recognized for his work at the Polo Club, he has decades of experience in the club industry. He started out studying to be an executive chef and then worked his way up to general manager and COO over the past 30 years.

He started his career at the Polo Club in 2012. He said he instantly began to find ways to turn the club’s reputation around through rebranding and renovations.

He has worked at four clubs throughout his career. Polo Club is his first gated, residential community.

Kaye Bender Rembaum enters ninth season of free community association “Ask the Attorneys” seminar series Staff report

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To keep community association board members and property managers informed and answer questions about timely topics, leading Florida community association law firm Kaye Bender Rembaum will continue its series of free community association “Ask the Attorneys” seminars on Thursday, February 16 at 11 a.m. at South County Civic Center at 16700 Jog Road. Lunch will be served by TooJay’s. Interested attendees should and bring questions or topics for discussion with them. To RSVP, email KBRLegalSeminar@piersongrant. com or call 954-776-1999, ext. 242.

FEBRUARY 2017 | YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Park Partners Residential to redevelop Boca Villa apartments Staff report Boca Villa apartments will soon have more units, a clubhouse, resort style pool, dog park and additional amenities thanks to a redevelopment plan. Park Partners Residential recently announced it has received approval from the city of Boca Raton to redevelop the apartments at 100 W. Hidden Valley Boulevard. The redevelopment of the property will include the construction of an additional 55 units, clubhouse, resort style pool and dog park, as well as covered parking and individual parking garages. The apartment community was purchased in 2014 by the joint venture partnership of Giles Capital Group and Rosemurgy Properties, and is being managed by Park Partners Residential. “Park Partners Residential is very pleased to have successfully achieved approval for the additional units, and the overall improvement of the property will be beneficial to the north Boca corridor,” said

A rendering of the redeveloped Boca Villa apartments. Submitted photo.

Rick Giles, Managing Partner, Park Partners Residential, and CEO, Giles Capital Group. The Boca Villa Apartments expansion consists of a five-story and three-story building, as well as a two-story townhouse building. The community currently includes five existing buildings with 53

One 10 East Atlantic building undergoes renovation Staff report One 10 East Atlantic, formally known as the Sopra Center, has received building permits and construction has started. The Richard Jones designed adaptive re-use project will transform the 4-story, 1950’s era, steel frame building into a Modern Class-A office and mixed-use destination. The building upgrades include enhanced below grade parking, new elevators, windows and a complete façade redesign.

units comprised of one and two bedroom apartments which have all been newly renovated. Amenities include a community courtyard, swimming pool, highspeed internet, on-site management and maintenance, and the property is pet friendly. Construction will commence in the 4th

quarter of 2017. The project team includes: Development, Management and Leasing – Park Partners Residential; Architect - RLC Architects, Boca Raton, FL; Landscape and Hardscape – Design Studio Boca; and Civil Engineer – Diversified Construction & Engineering Services, Boca Raton.

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There will be new retail space facing Atlantic Avenue and the new Class-A offices on the upper floors will now enter from a new west facing lobby. The building, defined by a unique exterior level raised plinth, will have it extended south down SE 1st Avenue as well. Current tenant Rocco’s Taco’s will remain through the construction, as will a few of the upstairs financial services tenants. “I am very excited for the potential of SE 1st Avenue,” Richard Jones said. “It certainly will be an enhanced pedestrian experience. We envision this project as an entry point to the SoFa District.”

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A rendering of the renovation One 10 East Building. Submitted by Richard Jones Architecture

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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER | FEBRUARY 2017

Is a reverse mortgage a good solution for you? By: Christel Silver Special to the Boca and Delray newspapers A reverse mortgage is a type of home equity loan for a senior homeowner, who is at least 62 years old. It is also called a home equity conversion mortgage (HECM). The loan is repaid when the last surviving borrower moves out of the property, passes away, or the house is sold. First, you need to ask yourself some questions: Do you want to stay in the house? Can you afford to pay taxes, insurance, any HOA/Condo fees, and repairs? Do you want to use the equity in your home for supplementing your social security payments or pay off debts or health bills? Is this your primary residence? If your answers are yes, you can consider a reverse mortgage. There is no income or credit requirement – a big difference to a conventional equity loan. And there are no future mortgage payments. The money you receive can be used to supplement your income, pay for health care expenses, pay off debt, finance home improvement, or re-invest. Money from a reverse mortgage is not considered income and is not taxable. (Consult a tax advisor for more information.) You personally can never owe more than the value of your home with a reverse mortgage and if the balance is less, your heirs can sell the house and keep the difference. The bank cannot ask you to pay more than 95 percent of the value of the house, even if the mortgage balance is higher. Here is a scenario I personally experienced: My friend owned her house without a mortgage. She was 66 years old and had no heirs. This was a perfect basis for a reverse mortgage. She took out a lump sum and 10 years later she owed more than the house was worth. When she died the house was worth $190,000 and she owed $245,000

because every month the interest is added to the loan amount. The bank sued all her beneficiaries for the full $245,000. I told them not to do anything, and after we sold the house in a short sale, the bank released everyone from liability. Since the estate is not personally liable if the home sells for less than the balance of the reverse mortgage, there were no grounds for going after the beneficiaries. If the sale of the home is not enough to pay off the reverse mortgage, the lender must take a loss and request reimbursement from the FHA (Federal Housing Administration) insurance. No other assets are affected by a reverse mortgage. For example, investments, second homes, cars, and other valuable possessions cannot be taken from the estate to pay off the reverse mortgage. The amount you can borrow is determined by an FHA formula that considers age, the current interest rate, and the appraised value of the home. You must own the house outright or have substantial equity in your home. It is very simple: the older you are, the more valuable the house is, and the lower your current mortgage is, the more money you can get with the reverse mortgage. Here are some issues for you to consider: • The mortgage fees and closing costs, including the mortgage insurance can be high. You must maintain the house, pay property taxes, homeowner insurance and condo/HOA fees. • It can complicate your wish to keep the house in the family. Again the mortgage comes due when you move out (senior facility) or die. • A reverse mortgage wouldn’t be the best option if you can’t maintain the costs associated with the home, even without a monthly mortgage payment. • Spending the equity in your home, of

course, also diminishes the value of your estate -- leaving you less to pass along to your heirs down the road. • If you have a younger spouse who is not a co-borrower (maybe you removed the spouse to get a higher amount of the reverse mortgage), the surviving spouse may have to move out of the house. You might need to consult an attorney. • You should let your children know when you get a reverse mortgage. They need to be aware that if you have to move into a retirement home, the reverse mortgage becomes due and the house cannot be rented! Because the requirements are so complex, the government requires homeowners interested in taking out a reverse mortgage to receive mandatory (free) counseling by an independent third party. These organizations have to be approved by HUD (Housing and Urban Development) and can help homeowners review alternative options. My advice is to have your children or a good friend attend the counseling session. If you decide to proceed with the loan, you can expect to pay higher-than-average closing costs based on the value of your home, including origination fees, upfront mortgage insurance and appraisal fees. The interest rate you pay is also generally higher than that for a traditional mortgage. You are also required to pay an initial Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP), as well as an annual MIP of 1.25 percent. The origination fee is what the reverse mortgage lender earns on the loan, but it is determined by FHA what the lender can charge (for example: 2 % for the first $200,000 of the property value). These expenses can be rolled into the loan. You can also use this reverse mortgage program to purchase a property and never have a mortgage payment, but you need cash for the difference between the reverse

mortgage amount and the sales price of the property. It all depends on your situation whether a reverse mortgage is a good fit for you. About Christel Silver Christel Silver is a full time Broker/Owner of Silver International Realty servicing the East Coast of South Florida. In 1985 she was licensed in Maryland and Washington DC as a Realtor and later as a Certified Residential Appraiser and Associate Broker and has been in Florida since 2001. The National Association of Realtor’s (NAR) President appointed her (2010-2014) as the President’s Liaison to Germany, where she grew up and worked at the Justice Department for 17 years prior to coming to this country. The Germany Real Estate Organization (IVD) has an agreement with the NAR and she is an International member of this organization. Christel is a Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS), and a certified speaker teaching CIPS classes. Having been President for the Florida Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) Chapter, she is now serving as a Regional Vice President helping Chapters to grow, currently for Virginia, Central Virginia and Maryland. Fifty percent of her business is in the International arena. For more information visit www.silverhouses.com.

FEBRUARY 2017 | YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Real Estate. REDEFINED. In the heart of East Delray Beach from ocean front estates to downtown condominiums, Lang Realty is here for you.

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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER | FEBRUARY 2017

Party like a Real Housewife at home Staff report

Newly Renovated Apartment Homes The New Must Have Address

Ever want to throw a party like one of the real housewives of Bravo TV? We asked local event planners Brian Kelly and Sean Koski of Ticket2Events, for a few tips and ideas. Ticket2events has had their fair share in planning for The Real Housewives. From working with Jill Zarin, (planning her annual Luxury Luncheon in The Hamptons) to Kristen Taekman, (the guys put together a shopping event for her just last year) Ticket2Events knows how to party like the Real Housewives. When planning an event Sean & Brian say to make sure a cause to gathering. Raising funds for charity or awareness for a non-profit organization near to your heart are great causes to party.

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A Group of Housewives are a must at any event - Kristen Taekman (NYC) Vicki Gunvalson (OC) Cynthia Bailey (Atlanta) Kelly Bensimon (NYC) Jill Zarin (NYC) Cindy Barshop (NYC) Kathy Wakile (NJ) Ramona Singer (NYC). Photo courtesy of Ticket2Events.

your guests to a complimentary workout class at your home is just another reason to party like one of The Housewives. Remembering to have an onsite juicer will also set you above the rest. Complete your anti-sweat event with parting gifts for everyone like custom yoga mats with their names engraved and week long passes to train with your workout guru.

Kathy Wakile shopping in private Marchesa collection. Photo courtesy of Ticket2Events.

“We know Housewives love ‘shopping for a cause’” said Brian Kelly of Ticket2Events. Shopping for a cause Housewives’ style can be just as lavish as it sounds. “Typically we’ll call in the top stylists from brands like Neiman Marcus or Saks Fifth Avenue to bring over to the event the latest looks for the ladies to peruse,” Sean Koski said, adding in the factor that a certain percentage goes towards the charity of hostess choice also lessens the blow when spending thousands of dollars on designer looks.

JCB Winemaker’s display at housewives event Photo courtesy of Ticket2Events.

Wine tastings are great, but what about having the wine maker at your event. To party like one of the Real Housewives, you’ll need to have the finest wines to serve and what better way to do so than having the wine maker there to explain why it’s all so good! If you’re more into food, aim to hire a celeb chef to cook his famous deconstructed menu that’s sure to really wow your guests.

Vicki Gunvalson receiving eye brow service at event. Photo Courtesy of Ticket2Events.

You don’t need to be going to a party to get all dolled up either – just create an event in the name of it. Ditch the day at the spa and have your own in the comfort for your home with all your closest friends. The Real Housewives are always on the go so hiring the services of your personal glam squad or in case you don’t have one, there’s an on-demand beauty app for that, is key. These types of parties are easy to do, just call to hire a few of the apps technicians for hair, makeup, nails and massage and you’re all set. Invite some friendly competition to your next fete by having a who doesn’t sweat, but glistens competition. Bring in your personal trainer and show how you got your rockin’ bod! Treating

Chef David Burke showcasing luxurious fish prior to hitting the grill. Photo courtesy of Ticket2Events.

When if you do decide how you’re going to party like one of the Real Housewives know that the sky is the limit and impressing your friends should be an effortlessly fun feat. If you can think it, and afford it of course, it can be done. If you’re unable to plan your fiesta solo, visit ticket2events.com for assistance from your local experts. If you’re interested in attending an event with The Real Housewives from Bravo TV this summer in The Hamptons contact Ticket2events for more information.

FEBRUARY 2017 | YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER | FEBRUARY 2017

Bringing Better Boulder to Delray Beach Staff report The Delray Newspaper along with several residents and business owners have teamed up to bring some of the people behind the Better Boulder movement to Delray Beach. As you read this, the Better Boulder representatives’ stay will be taking place or has recently come to an end. We will recap their stay and the events in our next edition. First, we will set the scene for how the relationship between the folks behind Better Boulder and Delray began. It all started when our publisher Ryan Boylston was vacationing with his family in Boulder, Co. a few summers ago. He said he always heard how innovative and attractive the city was, but experiencing it he really understood how cool of a place it is. What stood out to him was an ordinance that ultimately keeps downtown Boulder smoke-free, how dog friendly the downtown is with designated places for furry friends and how the city mixes urbanism with nature. He said his wife turned to him and said, “Why can’t you do this in Delray?” Boylston said there is no way one person could be behind the job, which he said kind of is the case in Boulder. After researching the city, he said one person is behind their main downtown area, Pearl Street. He also stumbled across Better Boulder, the group behind a lot of Boulder’s success. So, over the years, he said he followed the group. They would post articles, tips and links that he would pay attention to. One event in particular stood out to him, a YIMBY conference. YIMBY stands for yes, in my backyard, which combats NIMBYs, not in my backyard.

The representatives spent several days in Delray and spoke at Old School Square. We will recap their thoughts in our next edition.

ficiency in six southwestern states. In this role he works to advance both smart growth transportation strategies and electric vehicles.

John Tayer

Prior to working at SWEEP, Will spent 15 years in local government, as mayor of Boulder, Colorado, as Boulder County Commissioner, and as chair of the Denver Regional Council of Governments. He serves on the Colorado Air Quality Control Commission.

President & CEO of the Boulder Chamber John Tayer is proud to lead Boulder’s flagship business advocacy and support organization. The Boulder Chamber’s 1,300 members represent the diversity of innovative companies and entrepreneurial enterprises that characterize Boulder’s business community. The Boulder Chamber serves as a unified advocacy voice for this broad-based membership while also providing valuable networking, professional development and support services that help its members thrive. Further, through the work of the Boulder Economic Council and other business development initiatives, the Boulder Chamber plays a critical role in advancing the community’s general economic interests. Prior to joining the Boulder Chamber, John served as Public Affairs and Communications Director for the pharmaceutical manufacturing company, Roche Colorado Corporation, and as Policy Development Director in the Boulder City Manager’s Office. John also spent six years as the elected representative for the Boulder area to the Regional Transportation District. A native of Brookline, Massachusetts, John earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan and a law degree from the University of Colorado. In his 27th year as a Boulder resident, John now resides in South Boulder with his wife, Molly.

He said the YIMBY event made him think about the growth that is going on in Delray and the struggle many are having with what the future looks like. So, he sent an email to Better Boulder, which led to a phone conversation. “They see Delray as this modern day mirror of what they went through,” he said. So, several representatives of Better Boulder said they wanted to come to Delray and be like a sister city.

Will Toor Energy/Environmental Policy Director for SWEEP & Boulder Mayor Will Toor is director of the transportation program at the Southwest Energy Efficiency Project (SWEEP), a Colorado based nonprofit that advocates for energy ef-

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He is co-author of the books Finding A New Way: Campus Transportation for the Twenty-First Century, and Transportation for Sustainable Campus Communities. He received his Ph.D. in physics from the University of Chicago in 1992. Ken Hotard VP, Boulder Area Board of Realtors Kenneth Hotard is a forty-three year resident of Boulder, Colorado. He has served as the Government Affairs Director and Senior Vice President for Public Affairs of the Boulder Area Realtor® Association since 1984. Regional Transportation District (RTD) Board of Directors from 1991 – 1994. RTD Board Chairman 1993 and 1994. Co-founder and board member of Boulder Tomorrow. Past Chairman and current Treasurer of 36 Commuting Solutions. Member of the Boulder Chamber’s Community Affairs Council for 15 years, now a third term Co-Chair. Named 2007 Business Person of the Year by the Boulder Chamber of Commerce and received the Chamber’s 2016 Community Leadership Award for co-founding and work with Better Boulder and leadership on the No on 300 and 301 Campaign in 2015. Hotard is widely considered an expert in public policy development and the politics of the City of Boulder and Boulder County. He has over 30 years of experience representing business and real estate interests on matters affecting land use, housing, transportation, planning, development, tax policy and environmental issues. Hotard earned a Master of Public Administration degree in management systems (1980) from the University of Colorado at Boulder and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science (1976).

FEBRUARY 2017 | YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

MLK Day poem By: Flose Boursiquot, author of Close Your Eyes, Now Breathe Special to the Boca and Delray newspapers We heard this poem read at a Martin Luther King Jr. breakfast and we asked if we could share it with our readers: Dear Dr. King, your legacy is the source of our revival The other night i watched our first black president address his nation for the last time like you, he spoke to millions of faces — white and black faces that just seemed to blend together through the glowing screen i watched your dream personified his optimism echoed your message, Dr. King, but in the wake of November 8th i found myself angry, scared, defeated and in that moment Barack was not enough in that moment your dream was not enough and so i began to sing my country tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee i sing; land where my fathers died; land of the pilgrim’s pride; from every mountain side let freedom ring! i am reminded that— we are not free un-

til all Americans can walk in equality though unshackled and legs moving we are anchored to a rock a rock of injustice, racism, fear, intolerance a rock colored red white and blue

but one that calls for unity and courage

Dr. King this is the time of year when your presence illuminates every news channel, choirs sing aloud, parents pull theirs kids up on eager laps and tell your story we tell a story of a heroic man who towered over injustice

today and everyday, Dr. King, you remind us that the arc of the moral universe is long but it bends toward justice everyday we need to act justly and move toward the light

a man who proclaimed words from a wellspring of love and wisdom

our journey has to start small, right here

a man who knew his legacy would inspire 365 days a year

i am reminded that before your as-

in our backyards sassination you moved to yet another

when guns melt black bodies to tarred streets

but lately, in the face of overt hatred and bigotry we have reverted to a hopelessness

grassroots effort — Dr. King, you found

I say let freedom ring! —-red white and blue

some might say it happened after your dream was realized through Obama

so, even in the face of major national

when the soil drains justice, peace, love and decency from the very fabric that stitches the American people together as one

others might say it was never realized because you still had much to do

within our neighborhoods — here — in

whatever it may be we’ve come to a place where the weight of struggle has become a heavy burden again

we have to choose between right and

but even as i write this i remember your very words

that’s how the fight for justice prevails Dr. King, you taught us that oppressed

“we must continue to struggle through legalism and legislation”

the urge for freedom will eventually come.

I say let freedom ring! —-red white and blue when the rock solidifies hatred from every nook and cranny of our government I say let freedom ring! —-red white and blue red white and blue i want to let freedom ring but i often see only, you — red white and blue but freedom we often forget freedom we often forget until about this time of year when we honor your words,

it was not an easy road that brought us here, and it is not an easy road that will take us to freedom

your way to Memphis and worked with sanitation workers losses, we have got to fight for justice Delray wrong right here in our community

people cannot remain oppressed forever. we, the American people will not idle in a castle awaiting another civil rights knight to save us. we will have to take

but freedom does not ring without fight

action. we will have to turn our anger,

not a fight that calls for retaliation or burning what is left of red white and blue

sadness, and defeat into freedom for every single American so that your legacy can truly live on each and every day

Derby event to raise scholarship money for students with Tourette syndrome efitting from the scholarships is Hannah Rusinko, a freshman attending Denison University in Granville, Ohio. Rusinko is studying biology with a concentration in Neuroscience.

By: David DiPino Contributing Writer Kelsey Diamantis dreams of one day going to the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs Racetrack but until that day comes she has a better idea, bring the excitement of the races here locally to raise money for Tourette syndrome, a nervous system disorder. Diamantis’ organization Dollars 4 Tic Scholars will host D4TS Derby, A Night at the Races, at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 25, at the South County Civic Center, 16700 Jog Road in Delray Beach. This Kentucky Derby-themed scholarship fundraiser helps raise money to fund college scholarships for students with Tourette syndrome. The event will include horse races on video, dinner, beer and wine, raffles, and a silent auction. “My mom and I bounced a lot of ideas back and forth with each other. I’ve always wanted to go to the Kentucky Derby so we said let’s bring the Kentucky Derby here and that’s how it came about,” Diamantis said. Diamantis, 25, is a fourth grade teacher at St. Joan of Arc Catholic School in Boca Raton. She and her mother, Diane Diamantis, started Dollars 4 Tic Scholars in 2014 to fund scholarships and create opportunities for students with To-

“My future goal is to become a pediatric neurologist. I want to help in the study of Tourette syndrome and one day find a cure,” Rusinko said.

(From left to right) Comedienne Chelsea White with Kelsey Diamantis and Diane Diamantis founders of Dollars 4 Tic Scholars, at a Delray Beach event which raised over $5,800 for college students with Tourette syndrome Photo submitted.

urette syndrome. As a nervous system disorder, Tourette syndrome causes tics, or involuntary, repetitive movements and vocalizations. At the age of 11, Diamantis was diagnosed with Tourette syndrome. At a similar event last year, Dollars 4 Tic Scholars raised over $5,800 to fund five scholarships for college students across the U.S with a fundraiser at the South County Civic Center featuring comedienne Chelsea White. One of the students ben-

When applying to college, Rusinko began looking up scholarships for students with Tourette syndrome. The only scholarship she came across for students with Tourette syndrome was Diamantis’ Dollars 4 Tic Scholars scholarship. The other Dollars 4 Tic Scholars recipients benefiting from $1,000 scholarships with money raised from last year’s event include Rachel Retchless, Central Washington University, Joshua Green, Trevecca Nazarene University, Jakob Rose, Cleveland Institute of Art and Malik Jackson, Longwood University. “I think it’s absolutely amazing what Kelsey and her mom are doing especially because there were not any other scholarships for people with Tourette’s syndrome,” Rusinko said. “It. It inspired me to want to do the same thing when I’m older. I want to give more students an opportunity like I had. It’s really amazing.” For more information visit Dollars4TicScholars.org, call 561-487-9526 or email info@dollars4ticscholars.org.

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER | FEBRUARY 2017

Restaurants we L O V E .

FEBRUARY 2017 | YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Caffe Luna Rosa to offer ‘Lucky Lovers Delight’ on Valentine’s Day iterranean Sea fresh and packed on ice, is stuffed with

Staff report Delray’s Caffe Luna Rosa has a romance-inducing menu selected and prepared by Chef Ernesto DeBlasi for Val-

rosemary and garlic and baked in high heat. It is served with whole-grain brown rice and seasonal vegetables.

entine’s Day.

The lobster ravioli is made onsite with an egg and squid-

“Valentine’s Day is always special for our guests, partic-

in a sauce of Mediterranean mussels and wilted escarole.

ularly couples, so this year we’re thrilled to offer a truly memorable dining experience, which we’re calling the Lucky Lovers Delight,” DeBlasi said.

ink pasta and stuffed with Maine lobster meat. It is served

To start, DeBlasi will be offering a special appetizer – an imported Burrata cheese ball, with a fresh mozzarella shell stuffed with a creamy mozzarella curd. It comes

In selecting the menu, DeBlasi chose two entrees, an

with locally harvested arugula and a beefsteak tomato

appetizer and a dessert that will complement the restau-

drizzled with a basil-infused olive oil and balsamic re-

rant’s beachside environment.

duction.

Guests will have the choice of main-course specials – a

And to end, there will be a sweet peanut-butter pie, made

whole-baked Orata fish fileted tableside, or homemade

with a creamy peanut butter mousse and topped with a

lobster ravioli dripping in sauce – in addition to all of the

delicious chocolate ganache.

delicious regular entrées on the menu.

For Valentine’s Day reservations or more information,

The Orata, a mild, flaky white fish shipped from the Med-

call 561-274-9404.

Chef Ernesto DeBlasi preparing fresh pasta at Caffe Luna Rosa in Delray Beach. (Photo Credit: Michiko Kurisu)

Burger & Beer Joint teams up with Frank Entertainment Staff report You can now grab a burger, or other Burger & Beer Joint menu items, before or after you catch a movie at Frank Theatres at Delray Beach Marketplace.

where we, and several other media members, were treated to several appetizers and burgers, which are based after different rock and roll hits in line with the restaurants rock and roll theme.

Burger & Beer Joint will maintain its current branding, but will expand its menu. “We are thrilled to partner with Frank Entertainment on venues that offer so much to the consumer,” said Bill Herman, President of B&B Franchise Group. “In essence, it’s a unique and exciting one-stop shop for restaurants, bars, movie theatres and bowling under one roof; a complete entertainment complex.” We checked out the West Delray location

oche bun. The veggie burger was more of a knife and fork style burger with its thick patty. It was served up with zucchini fries. For chicken lovers, we got to try the

B&B Franchise Group, parent company of Burger & Beer Joint, now has a joint venture partnership with Jupiter-based Frank Entertainment. The collaboration will feature the popular restaurant concept in some of the entertainment company’s Frank Theatres, Cinebowl and Revolutions brands. “When exceptional proven concepts align, success is destined to happen,” said Bruce Frank, CEO of Frank Theatres. “We are confident this new partnership will deliver an unprecedented entertainment experience for our guests.”

chego cheese, a basil-mint pesto on a bri-

chicken burger “Hey Jude.” It came with a thick slice of applewood smoked bacon, havarti cheese, avocado and honey mustard on a whole wheat bun with a side of sweet potato fries. The chicken was hefty and juicy.

If you finish the burger, which starts at $150, within two hours, the 10 pounds of beef is free.

First, we sampled ahi tuna tacos, which provided the perfect amount of zing with its chili-garlic aioli, jalapeño salsa, cilantro and guacamole inside a won ton shell. We also sampled the baked mac and cheese named the Mac Daddy Cheese Gratin. It was filled with three cheese, topped with crispy breadcrumbs and more cheese. Then, it was time for the main attraction, the burgers. We got to sample several of the burgers, including the “Dr. Feelgood,” a veggie burger that featured toasted rainbow quinoa, smoked cumin beans, roasted red peppers and oats. It was topped with a roasted red pepper and corn salsa, man-

Finally, we got to see the main event. The serving of the “Mother Burger!” a “ginormous bear the size of a manhole cover, sandwiched in a bun that resembles a couch cushion!”

For a meat burger, we tasted the Mustang Sally, a wagyu beef burger with a red onion marmalade, brie cheese and prosciutto on a brioche bun served with skinny fries. The burger was cooked to a perfect medium rare and the prosciutto was sliced thinly and added a sweetness that paired with the marmalade.

Even if you can’t finish the challenge, the presentation is an experience. Servers parade the burger out while clanking pots and pans. The burger is then cut into heaping servings with a saw.

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER | FEBRUARY 2017

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FEBRUARY 2017 | YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Delray Beach Open returns this month Beach in 2014, is 1-2 in two singles ap-

Staff report

pearances. In 2013, he won the 2013 dou-

Watch your favorite tennis pros hit the

bles title with James Blake. Sock reached

court this month during the Delray

the Top 25 for the first time in his career

Beach Open.

this year after reaching a pair of ATP

The world’s only 10-day tennis event that

World Tour finals and the fourth round

features an ATP Champions Tour event

of the US Open, where he upset world

and an ATP World Tour event is back on

No. 9 Marin Cilic in a third-round tussle.

Feb. 17.

He won his first career ATP singles title in 2015 in Houston and led the US Da-

The Champions Tour will take place from

vis Cup team to a 3-1 win over Uzbeki-

Feb. 17-19 and the World Tour will take

stan. The 23-year-old was the only tennis

place from Feb. 20-26. The event is cel-

player to medal twice in the Rio Olym-

ebrating its 25th anniversary and plans

pics, winning gold with Betthany Mat-

to bring 32 ATP World Tour players to Delray Beach.

tek-Sands in mixed doubles and a bronze Milos Raonic, who is currently No. 3 in

their 1,000th career match wins - a feat

The tour is one of 11 ATP events that

the world, has won eight ATP titles in 19

accomplished only in singles by ATP leg-

takes place in the United States. It con-

finals. This season his accomplishments

ends Jimmy Connors, Roger Federer and

sists of single-elimination singles and

include reaching the Wimbledon final in

Ivan Lendl.

doubles events. The Champions Tour

July 2016 against Andy Murray, reaching

features legends of the game in a United

this year’s Australian Open semifinal,

States vs. International team format.

winning the Brisbane tournament and

In case you can’t catch all the matches in person, the tournament is televised in more than 120 countries. In addition to tennis, there will be live music, on-site dining, drinking, interactive exhibits and shopping.

playing in the Indian Wells and London finals. Juan Martin del Potro won the 2011 Delray Beach Open title and reached the semifinals in 2016. CAREER: A quarterfinalist at this year’s US Open, del Potro moved back into the Top 100 (No. 64) for

Kids can get involved onto court as Ball

the first time in two years—he began the

Kids. Ball Kids must be 12 years old or

year ranked No.1045. The 2009 US Open

older and attend a series of training ses-

champion was world No. 5 twice in his

sions to prepare them for the role they

career (2009 & 2013) and has won 18

play during the professional matches.

ATP World Tour titles.

Each participant receives a uniform,

Ivo Karlovic is Delray Beach Open’s

meals, match tickets for family and

2015 champion and the two-time final-

friends and an invitation to the Ball Kids

ist is 11-7 in nine appearances. He set a

party. Ball Kids must work at least three

tournament-record of 91 aces in winning

sessions including the weekend matches.

the 2015 title, including 13 in the final.

Training dates for the 10-day Delray Beach Open are Wednesday and Thursday, Feb. 8 and 9, 5:00 - 7:00 pm, and on Saturday, Feb. 11, from 10:00 am to noon. New applicants must attend two of the three sessions. All ball kids information, including an application and release form, can be found at http://yellowtennisball.com/ ballkids/. A look at the players:

He has eight career ATP World Tour titles, and led the 2005 Croatian Davis Cup team to the world title. He struck one of the fastest serves of all time, a 156-mile missile that came in a Davis Cup tie in 2011. Bryan Brothers (twins Bob and Mike) are four-time Delray Beach Open winners (2009, 2010, 2014 & 2015) and they will be looking to build on their record 112 ATP tournament wins, and reaching

Jack Sock who last appeared in Delray

in doubles with Steve Johnson. The three-day ATP Champions Tour event featuring a six-player competition includes players James Blake and Mardy Fish, along with Vince Spadea and Mikael Pernfors.

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER | FEBRUARY 2017

Then Jack Happened to make it work. We began to fight more and more, the financial stress was a lot on me, and eventually she moved back home while I stayed back. We were more or less broken up. We stayed in contact and, of course, began to hook up when I’d visit which led to her coming out to see me every few months and we began to vacation together and I think we really missed each other. Recently she asked me what was happening in our relationship and if I was going to move back. I don’t want to. She might be willing to move to a balmier environment but I’ve really

25 31

43 45

46 51 54

55 61

Across 1. Book part Across 5. “Cut it out!” 1. Book part 10. Five-time U.S. Open champ "Cut it out!" 5. Almond 14. 15. Five-time U.S. Open champ 10.Auspices 16. All-night party 14. Almond 17. Gardening guy? Auspices 15.Boreal 20. forest 21. Germans All-night party 16.Old 22. ___ and aahs 17. Gardening guy? 25. Dentist’s direction Boreal forest 20.“Blue 26. ___”

21. Old Germans

Down 1. Affranchise 2. Genuine 47 3. Zone 52 4. Film maker 5. Chocolate source 56 57 58 59 6. “A rat!” 62 63 7. “Give it ___!” 8. Sort carefully 66 9. To be, to Brutus 69 10. Free 11. Radioactive element 30. Opens 12. A plant of the rose family 33. Brilliance Down 13. Shield figure 34. Denials 1. Affranchise18. Rabbitlike rodent 35. Eerie gift 19. Engine sound 38. Romantic guy? 2. Genuine 23. Driven 42. Haw partner 3. Zone 24. Big bore 43. Ricelike pasta 4. Film maker26. “Little Women” woman 44. Diminished by 27. Yearn 5. Chocolate source 45. More lively 28. Hypothetical form of matter 47. Sportscaster Musburger 6. "A rat!" 29. Symbol of strength 48. Ski trail 31. Earlier 7. "Give it ___!" 51. “Get ___!” 32. Wednesday tree? 8. Sort carefully 53. Profound 35. Coastal raptor 9. To be, to Brutus 44

50. Brace 52. Banana variant 54. C-worthy 55. New newts 57. Come into view 58. Deeply 59. Cut, maybe 61. “i” lid 62. “Rocky ___” 63. Scale note

F U J I

36. Bowl over 37. “Check this out!” 39. “___ any drop to drink.” Coleridge 40. Insignia 41. Cause of inflation? 45. Mounts 46. ___ Station 48. Arouse 49. Sign on a plane facility

A R E A

56. Contradict 60. 1991 Tinka Menkes film 64. Took advantage of 65. Zeno, notably 66. Assortment 67. Sea slitherers 68. Old Roman port 69. Don’t believe it

L E E C T H T

Your monthly crossword

Y O L A E K M

A C H E

B E T H

10 16

G R A F R A V E A D E S T O N S I N S E S E S P A R T S I N U S R E N T

E D S I O T H

I N L Y

L O O M

E A S E E G I S K O F S P T E U H S R U N B A R N O E S G O F H E R Z O M Y E R B R E A L E B E F D I A M T O I C S T I A

Delray/Boca I’ll give it all up for you if you promise to keep having problems in your life and sharing them with me at thenjackhappened@gmail.com

C A A C G A O O U T I N O P R E N S N O S O

I’m afraid maintaining the status quo is not going to be an option much longer unless you want to start lying and stringing her along. Her questioning of the status quo is a pretty strong indicator that your arrangement is temporary. This is where you are at: fish or cut bait.

S T E E D S

The most interesting thing about your question is that nothing appears to be different for either one of you except you are no longer in close proximity. Things fell apart after you transitioned from the honeymoon phase to the ‘next step’ with the accompanying differences. Now you are back in a kind of honeymoon limbo and things are nice again when you are together because you spend your time vacationing and sexing sans the day-today responsibilities that cracked you before. None of that is a surprise but if you want to make things more serious there must be changes that neither of you seem interesting in making. You are willing to be with her if ABC, she isn’t willing to be with you unless XYZ. That’s a lot of conditions on a relationship that doesn’t appear incredibly serious.

S T E E L

Two years ago I moved across the country with my ex/current girlfriend. It was her idea but I was excited about it and we made it happen. I got a job I really like while she had a hard time finding consistent work that she was satisfied with that she wanted to keep. We had never lived together and we had a bunch of stress related to that, money and home life, but we really got a long great in many ways. She didn’t particularly like the city either I felt she didn’t give it her all Part ofand a Straight? by Myles Mellor

Answer:

That’s not to say things aren’t salvageable—but there must be sacrifices and communication. You have to discuss things that you never discussed before. Groceries! Gas bills! Toilet paper! How do you get her to understand that you don’t want to relocate for the relationship? Tell her. How do you get her to help out financially? Figure out what you think is a fair sharing of expenses and talk to her about it. See what is agreeable and what is not. If she doesn’t agree with what you require from the relationship, then you have to decide whether to move on. If you don’t agree with what she needs, then she has to make the same decision. You know the problems, so make some changes or this thing is going to crash and burn.

I N U S E

Dear Jack:

established myself where I’m at and like it very much. Honestly, I have been very happy with where we are at with everything. I’d be open to her moving back here, but I don’t want to move back to my old hometown. How can I get her to get more on board with helping out financially and understanding that I don’t want to go anywhere, but I still want to be with her, or at least maintain the status quo?

P I Q U E

FEBRUARY 2017 | YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Boca Raton Library launches One Child Rescue Coalition holds annual gala this month Book Boca, meet author this month Boca Raton-based Child Rescue Coalition is holding its second annual gala on Feb. 17.

Staff report The library’s 2017 One Book Boca title is The Soul of an Octopus: A Surprising Exploration into the Wonder of Consciousness, by Sy Montgomery. The library staff chose this National Book Award finalist and New York Times bestseller for its funny, entertaining, touching, and profound exploration of this fascinating and intelligent sea creature and the implications regarding the connections it makes with humans. Last year, the library created its first community reading experience to encourage connection among community members through the reading of one book. Author and popular naturalist Sy Montgomery has been called “equal parts poet and scientist” by The New York Times. She is a frequent speaker at schools, museums, libraries and universities. Montgomery will discuss the book, her work and animal adventures (she is also the author of The Good Good Pig and Birdology) at the Downtown Library on Feb. 12 at 3:00 p.m. “We are thrilled to bring back our community reading initiative with bestselling author Sy Montgomery,” notes Oyuki Poletz, Program Services Librarian. “Her insight into the connection between humans and the natural world is profound.” The library offers both print and eBook versions of The Soul of an Octopus for check-out by library cardholders. Register through the calendar at bocalibrary.org. Books will be available for purchase and signing after the talk at the Downtown Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave.

The event “Eat, Drink and Be Giving” takes place at 6 p.m. at Delray’s Seagate Country Club and features special guest and child advocate John Walsh. Walsh, host and creator of “America’s Most Wanted” and “The Hunt” will inform guests on how the nonprofit’s technology enables law enforcement to track, arrest, and ultimately convict offenders creating and distributing child pornography online. The evening will also honor local law enforcement officers who have demonstrated success in using Child Rescue Coalition’s technology. Child Rescue Coalition’s technology has successfully aided in the prosecution and conviction of more than 8,600 online predators and rescued nearly 2,000 abused children in the past four years. The event will raise funds to provide this technology to law enforcement officials around the world at no cost. Proceeds will also increase law enforcement utilization, enhance community awareness and expand the technological capability of the program. “We are proud to share the tremendous strides our law enforcement partners have made to combat the distribution of this despicable material,” said Carly Asher Yoost, Child Rescue Coalition founder and CEO. “We look forward to hosting a beautiful evening alongside guests and community partners who share our commitment to protecting innocence through technology.” Special musical performances throughout the evening will include an original song written for Child Rescue Coalition by Nashville-based recording artist and songwriter Jamie Floyd as well as performances by Dawn Marie Basham, former Ms.

From left to right: Desiree Asher, Carly Asher Yoost and Judith Asher. Submitted photo.

United States and celebrated children’s rights advocate, as well as a lively auction led by L.A.- based comedienne Dana Goldberg. The cocktail reception begins at 6:00 p.m. and the program begins at 7:30 p.m. The event will also feature a powerpacked live and silent auction, including a lavish four-day vacation to Las Vegas with airfare and accommodations at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino and 100,000 American Airlines travel points, a private wine class for 20 guests at Total Wine & More, golf outing for eight at PGA National and Seagate Country Club, Nashville getaway and more. A VIP after-party will offer music by DJ Chaser, dancing, cocktails and hand-rolled cigars provided by Prime Cigar and Wine Bar. Tickets are $275 per person and $400 for VIP. For more information and to purchase tickets, call 561-208-9000 or email Christopher Noe, vice president of strategic development at cnoe@childrescuecoalition.org.

March 2-12, 2017 Mizner Park

La Bohème

Sat • March 4th Mizner Park Amphitheater

Sun • March 5th Mizner Park Amphitheater

Puccini’s La Bohème

Joey Alexander & Daniela Liebman

Semi-staged opera with The Symphonia, Boca Raton & Constantine Kitsopoulos, conductor (in Italian with English supertitles)

Two 13-Year Old Piano Prodigies with The Symphonia, Boca Raton & Constantine Kitsopoulos, conductor

Tues • March 7th Mizner Park Amphitheater

Brian Greene

Author of The Elegant Universe, theoretical physicist and entertaining communicator of cutting-edge scientific concepts— Beyond Einstein: Space, Time and Reality

Fri • March 10th Mizner Park Amphitheater

Sarah Chang and Pianist Daniel Hsu With The Symphonia, Boca Raton & Constantine Kitsopoulos, conductor.

Also featuring: Jennifer Egan, Pulitzer Prize-winning author; Branford Marsalis, saxophone with orchestra; Bob Mankoff, Cartoon Editor for The New Yorker; Jon Meacham, Presidential historian and Pulitzer Prize-winner; The Pink Panther (1964) film with live orchestra; Sergio Mendes & Brasil 2017, S. Florida exclusive performance.

FOR TICKETS VISIT: FEST IVALBOCA.ORG OR CALL 866-571-2787

Sponsored in part by the Board of County Commissioners, the Tourist Development Council and the Cultural Council of Palm Beach County

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER | FEBRUARY 2017

Flavors of Boca returns this month We reached out to one of the event planners of the Junior League of Boca Raton’s Flavors of Boca Raton event to get the inside scoop on what to expect at the fundraising event.

Beach County. Located at The Addison in downtown Boca Raton, attendees enjoy the finest fare and wines this side of delicious.

Here is what Emily Ghijselinck had to share:

year’s event?

1 Tell us a little bit about yourself. What do you do? Where do you live? How did you get involved with Jr. League? My name is Emily Ghijselinck and I work and live in Boca Raton. I got involved with the Junior League about three years ago when I was looking for a way to get more involved in the community.

2 Tell us a little history about the Flavors event? How did it get started and how long has it been going on? What does the event benefit? Flavors is currently in its fifth year and evolved from the Junior League event Chocolate Decadence. Flavors is our second largest fundraiser that will benefit our programs that currently focus on hunger, child welfare and nonprofit support. This event is known as one of the most entertaining boutique food and wine events in south Palm

3 What can people expect to see that is new at this Guests can expect to sample signature dishes from new and some of the best restaurants in the area while enjoying the beautiful venue that is The Addison! In addition there will be live music for a little dancing. Our head chef for the evening is Patrick Duffy, Executive Chef at The Addison. We have a great lineup of restaurants this year including Allstar Gourment Cupcakes, Atlantic Avenue Beverage, Barrel of Monk Brewery, Buddah Skybar, Bolay, Chops Boca, Duffy’s, Harvest Seasonal Grill and Wine Bar, Jardin, Kapow!, M.E.A.T, Rebel House, Shake Shack, Islamorada Beer Co., Vic & Angelo’s, Bacon Box, The Addison, and many more to come! Let’s not forget the Hooter’s Girls selling kisses, Hershey kisses for our raffle!

4 Walk us through what it takes to put on this event. It takes persistence to pull this off! It’s a lot of reaching

out and follow up as well as maintaining a good relationship with all our wonderful sponsors. Although, once people learn what we do and what it’s for, it all comes together and the stress goes out the door.

5 What are you most excited for about this event and what Jr. League has in store this year? I’m so excited, I don’t even know where to start with this question! Mostly, the food and having a great time with my friends. I’m looking forward to trying some new restaurants and some of my local favorites. I think it’s going to be the best year yet!

Soroptimist group marks holidays with party at Boca’s Gallery 22 By: Barbara McCormick Special to the Boca Newspaper The Soroptimist Chapter of Boca Raton and Deerfield Beach celebrated the holidays with an early December party for Soroptimisters, friends and benefactors. It was held at Gallery 22, the store and studio of artist/sculptor Yaacov Heller in

Boca’s Royal Palm Place, and hosted by his wife, Sue Heller, a recently inducted Soroptimist member.

Soroptimist means “Best for Women,” and the local chapter works diligently each year to raise funds that are donated to service organizations and individuals with similar goals and to improve the

From left, Kim Champion, Mariela Montgomery, Co-President Michele Belisari, Dr. Ron Rubin, Sue Heller, event host; Elke Schmidt and Dr. Heidi Schaeffer, Co-President. (Photo by Barbara McCormick)

lives of women and children locally and internationally.

Sue Heller, event host, stands in front of a painting of her created by her husband, artist Yaacov Heller. (Photo by Barbara McCormick)

The Gallery patio was filled with largerthan-life masterpiece canvasses and sculptures of iconic entertainment celebrities. Among works on display were those depicting local singer Kendra Erika along with Connie Francis, Frank Sina-

tra, John Lennon, Marilyn Monroe and a bronze rendition of The Fiddler on the Roof. Vocals by Vanessa Simpson, music for dancing, a catered “dinner by the bite” and raffle prizes added to the holiday festivities.

FEBRUARY 2017 | YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Meet your Boca Raton City Council candidates Boca Raton’s registered voters will be able to cast their vote for who they want to see fill three seats on the council. In anticipation of the March 14 election, we have reached out to each candidate who has qualified to run for election or re-election. This year there are three seats up for election and all are contested. We reached out to every candidate who filed and asked them to complete our questionnaire. Each candidate was asked the same set of questions: 1. Tell us a little bit about yourself. Your age, how long you have lived in Boca, where you live, your profession, your family. 2. Why are you running for office? 3. What are the top three issues you want to address in the city if elected or re-elected? 4. What do you see as Boca’s biggest challenge? What do you see as Boca’s biggest opportunity? We have printed their answers as provided. We will block together the candidates running for the same seat either A, B or Mayor. We will start with the Mayor’s seat. We will list responses incumbent, challenger for the Mayor Seat and Seat A. For Seat B answers will listed alphabetically.

Meet your incumbent: Mayor Susan Haynie 1 Tell us a little bit about yourself. Your age, how long you have lived in Boca, where you live, your profession, your family.

tation improvements.

3 What are the top three issues you want to address in the City if re-elected? Safety and security enhancements, longterm fiscal sustainability, City-wide mobility.

I am 61-years old and a Florida native. I have lived in Boca Raton for 45 years. My husband Neil and I live in Camino Gardens. We have 5 adult children and 6 grandchildren. I am a licensed General Contractor and a licensed Community Association Manager.

4 What do you see as Boca’s biggest challenge? What do you see as Boca’s biggest opportunity?

2 Why are you running for office

again?

I have participated in shaping our community with over three decades of service. I currently serve in leadership roles at the State, Regional and County levels representing Boca Raton. I wish to continue my service to my community. I have advocated for many initiatives I want to see through to their completion

including: Spanish River Interchange, 20th Street District, Municipal Campus Master Plan, Lake Wyman Park, Waterfront Master Plan, Downtown transpor-

Our challenge going forward is to maintain the quality of life and character that define Boca Raton while keeping our taxes low. Boca’s biggest opportunity is strengthening our partnerships with our City institutions – FAU, Boca Raton Regional Hospital, Greater Boca Raton Beach and Park District, Chamber of Commerce and Boca Raton Airport Authority. Together we are a world-class community.

Meet your challenger: Al Zucaro 1 Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Your age, how long you have lived in Boca, where you live, your profession, your family. I am 67 years of age, and I have lived in Boca Raton with my wife Yvonne Boice since 2009. We live on Golden Harbour Drive with our two dogs Cocoa and Casey. Since 1986, I have practiced immigration and nationality law in Palm Beach County. In 1995, I was elected to the West Palm Beach City Commission where I worked on balancing the budget and establishing Palm Beach County as an international destination for business. I founded the World Trade Center Palm Beach in 1999. In 2012 I founded BocaWatch as a platform for residents to have a voice, and to keep a careful watch over city hall. In my tenure as Editor-in-Chief, I worked to create a network of thousands of residents concerned about the direction our city’s leadership was taking us in. BocaWatch quickly became one of the most trusted sources of information for current events and government accountability in the city.

2 Why are you running for office again? Truth be told, I did not want to run for public office again—but I could not stand by and watch what is going on at city hall any longer. Now more than ever, it feels like the developers and outsiders are given the keys to the city every year. I am running for mayor to restore the voice of

the people on our city commission. City Hall works for the residents, not the other way around. In my role as Editor-In-Chief of BocaWatch, I had the opportunity to speak with countless residents about the current state of our city, and many people in the eastern and western communities are upset. They are frustrated because in the past several years, overdevelopment has led to unprecedented traffic congestion downtown, and there is simply no accountability and no long-term plan that has the best interests of residents in mind. Taxpaying and responsible citizens feel left behind and voiceless at city hall. What we need now, more than ever, is strong leadership in City Hall. As mayor, I will rely on my business experience and history of bringing people together, in order to apply common sense solutions to the problems we face.

3 What are the top three issues you want to address in the city if elected? We urgently need to address overdevelopment, traffic, and our lack of strategic planning at city hall. These problems can be solved simply—by bringing everyone to the table. If elected, one of my first steps as mayor will be to convene a summit with local business owners, community leaders, developers, and residents, in order to discuss the direction of our city’s development projects and create a plan for the future. We need to promote smart, responsible development, while staying true to who we are as a community. The common good will be the new theme of

city hall, if I am elected. My campaign is based on three equally important concepts: integrity, transparency, and accountability. If elected, I will serve my full term as mayor, and I will not ever seek higher office. This is an important concept to me—people do not trust their government officials because it always feels like those we elect are thinking about their next career move above anything else. This is why we need to hold our leaders accountable, just as I expect the voters to hold me accountable when I am your mayor.

4 What do you see as Boca’s biggest

challenge? What do you see as Boca’s biggest opportunity?

Our biggest challenge is balancing the small town community “feel” of Boca Raton, while offering the high caliber services and amenities of a world class city. Our residents are diverse and unique, and we all should have say in the future of our city. We have a unique opportunity— in fact we have an obligation—to bring together many voices and perspectives to ensure our community values outweigh those of special interests and outside influences.

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER | FEBRUARY 2017

Seat A: Meet your candidates Meet your incumbent: Councilman Scott Singer 1 Tell us a little bit about yourself. Your age, how long you have lived in Boca, where you live, your profession, your family. My wife Bella and I are proud to raise our two young children in Boca Raton. Born and raised in South Florida, I started spending time regularly in Boca Raton in 1983, and have seen this community mature over the last 30 years. Boca was the American Dream for me – a beautiful city with opportunity and great people and neighborhoods – and is the place my wife and I chose to settle permanently and build our family here six years ago. Now at age 40, I’m honored to be a servant of the residents, and a Boca Raton lawyer and small business owner who helps other businesses grow and prosper.

2 Why are you running for office again?

I’m proud of my record the last three years in being one of the most accessible and transparent Council Members in our city’s history, and my work to lower taxes, cut red tape, enhance green spaces and our waterways, protect our neighborhoods, and raise our ethical standards. We have more work to do for a brighter Boca Raton, and I’m committed to keep on working for long-term solutions for safe and livable neighborhoods, appropriate development, stronger job growth, improved traffic planning, and better schools and opportunities for our children.

the priorities I have to continue making

3 What are the top three issues you want to address in the city if re-elected?

prosperous for generations to come. I’ve

In this publication, I recently unveiled “Five Big Ideas”: more support for public schools, innovation and best practices in city government, greater accountability

Boca Raton the best place to raise a family, build a career, and enjoy life.

4 What do you see as Boca’s biggest challenge? What do you see as Boca’s biggest opportunity? Boca Raton has the opportunity to make the future of our world-class city even brighter. We can build on the strength on our residents and businesses to become a leader again in technology and create more high-paying jobs and attract companies to keep our city strong and

and accessibility, a plan to ease traffic in Downtown Boca and make it more walkable, and a parking garage and transit circulator downtown. These are among

worked residents to gain their input for better ideas for our city, and I see great opportunity by working, as I have, to ensure everyone has a seat at the table and your voices are heard.

Meet your challenger: Patricia Dervirshi 1 Tell us a little bit about yourself.

have a voice by getting out the vote on

gency then waiting in grid lock to get to

Your age, how long you have lived in

March 14th of concerned citizens. It is

the hospital, there was no reply. It is my

Boca, where you live, your profession,

our city not theirs. I am not against de-

opinion this women should be removed

your family.

velopment it is inevitable. I’m for traffic

from office. My further concerns are sup-

studies before development, providing

portive services such as fire police and

I Patricia Dervishi am a 70 year old semi-

streets adequate parking and preventing

retired native born Floridian, who left

traffic gridlock.

the mayhem and congestion of Miami to

3 What are the top three issues you

seek a better life by making Boca Raton

want to address in the city if elected?

my home 25 years ago.

2 Why are you running for office? I’m seeking City Council seat A as a so-

should travel north and use Spanish Riv-

the concerns of tax paying citizens like

er bridge in a evacuation and avoid Pal-

myself. I started attending council meeting eight years ago making speeches on behalf of citizen concerns and promoted Anthony Majess as councilman. I can honestly say in all that time never once did I witness the concerns of citizens take priority over those of the demands of developers. I soon came to the realiza-

biggest opportunity?

mayor on this issue she replied “residents

oritizing the request of developers over

metto Pk.Rd.”, really? When questioned tion the only way for citizens to have a voice was to get a majority of councilmen and women who would cast their votes on behalf of the welfare of citizens. An oath City Council takes but in my view is not being upheld. Now is the time to

4 What do you see as Boca’s biggest

ing beach residents with adequate means

When I questioned Susan Haynie our

leadership of Mayor Susan Haynie pri-

their profits?

challenge? What do you see as Boca’s

of getting to the hospital in a emergency.

this present City Council under the

like myself while developers skip off with

One of my primary concerns was providof evacuation in a catastrophe or a means

lution to what I have experienced as to

streets becoming a tax burden to citizens

further about some one who has a heart attack getting to the hospital on time

My opponent Scott Singer makes flowery speeches at town hall gatherings and yes he is a Harvard graduate but when it comes to developers request to build yet another building, Tower 155 in a very congested area he approved it. His family owns a commercial real estate business which also concerns me. We need

she replied : “that is why I provided fire

not one but a MAJORITY of concerned

rescue on the beach”. She did not others

citizen elected. It is my belief the second

did. The next question was obvious: Are

candidate for each seat on the ballot is

you suggesting a recue vehicle is bet-

deserving to be elected as our city offi-

ter equipped to handle a medical emer-

cials.

FEBRUARY 2017 | YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Seat B: Meet your candidates

Meet your candidate for Seat B: Emily Gentile 1 Tell us a little bit about yourself. Your

age, how long you have lived in Boca, where you live, your profession, your family. I’m 65 and retired from my career as a Business and Marketing Consultant to Fortune 500 companies and local busineses. I’ve lived in the area for 25 years; the last nine in my current home on the barrier island. I raised two wonderful kids, Austen and Missy. Missy just gave birth to two beautiful girls here in Boca, Grace and Emma, making me a new grandmother. When I’m not doting on my grand-daughters, I dedicate my time and talents to serving others in a variety of roles throughout the community. For hobbies and relaxation I paint, I sculpt and I’m a professional writer, currently working on two different books. I serve the City of Boca Raton as Chair of the Business Improvement District Steering Committee, Vice Chair of the Downtown Advisory Committee, a member of the Historical Preservation Board and an elected officer of the Beach Condo Association of Boca Raton and Highland Beach. I serve Boca Raton Regional Hospital as a member of their Collaborative Care Council and I serve both Florida Atlantic University and Boca Raton Regional Hospital as a member of the Residency Project supporting the Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Internal and Surgical Residents.”

2 Why are you running for office? I decided to run for City Council for two main reasons. First, because Boca Raton is undergoing a growth spurt that’s been in the planning for years, and I want to help better manage it. The new development was approved years ago, but we’re still figuring out how to improve our infrastructure and transportation to accommodate it. Our voice needs to be heard to ensure that Boca stays pristine and beautiful and our quality of life only gets better, never worse.

I have worked extensively on city boards and committees, and with local civic organizations and charities all around Boca. Along with my business background, these experiences have given me a comprehensive knowledge of our city’s business climate, employment issues, fiscal concerns, growth management and environmental issues. With all that I’ve learned, and the valuable background I have, it’s time for me to step up and lend my time and expertise to the city. Second, because I want to bring the community back together under a spirit of mutual respect, cooperation and civic pride. We have 90,000 residents in Boca now, and we can’t go backwards to an earlier time. It’s not always easy to reach broad consensus over everything. There are times for each of us when we’re not in the majority, and we need to remain civil and neighborly. Some local activists have introduced a spirit of meanness to our public discourse that has no place in our magical city. They should disagree without being disagreeable; without accusing our city staff and elected officials of being corrupt, dishonest or incompetent, as they have at various times. I want to express the sincere gratitude of city residents for the wonderful job that city staff and city officials do. Boca is not without growing pains, but we’ve never been better, stronger or more beautiful than we are today.

I’m fortunate enough to live on the barrier island, but I know that the intracoastal and the beach are city-wide resources, not the private reserve of those of us who live immediately adjacent to them. We are blessed with an abundance of parks and green space, and everyone should feel welcome, whether they live within walking distance or across town. I want to make sure that every resident, no matter where in the city they live, or how long they’ve lived here, has abundant access to our waterfront and beaches, and feels welcome. I don’t want Boca to become too dense, but I definitely don’t want us to become less welcoming to people or to businesses. We all thrive together.

3 What are the top three issues you want to address in the city if elected? My first issue is to better manage our growth. As a resident of the barrier island, I see firsthand how the downtown is congested, and finding parking is difficult. That’s a challenge not only for downtown residents but for downtown businesses and customers and anyone passing through. My experience as Chair of the city’s Business Improvement District Steering Committee has exposed me to new ideas and solutions to the city’s traffic and mobility conditions. I will be an advocate for a new downtown parking structure, bike lanes and bike racks, and better public transit downtown, all designed to reduce congestions and encourage more pedestrian traffic for a more walkable downtown. By continuing my work with the South Florida Regional Transportation Authority, the Florida Department of Transportation, and the city’s engineering department, I will find the right solutions for our traffic and mobility issues and expand transportation options throughout Boca. Our community also needs some aesthetic and technological upgrades. We need to bury more utilities for aesthetic reasons, and for storm impact protection. In my current roles, I have been a longtime advocate of Art in

Public Places here in Boca, which will compliment a more walkable community, as well as greater support for Historic Preservation. Boca Raton is also behind the times in not allowing residents to use their cell phones to text or send photos to 911 in the event of an emergency, when battery power or reception is low, or you’re unable to speak, or unable make noise because of an intruder. The new standard is called Next Generation 911, and I believe Boca shouldn’t wait to adopt it before we regret not addressing it sooner. A third issue I’d like to address during my term is saving the Ocean Breeze Golf Course. Between the obstacles posed to development from the Boca Teeca resident’s consent that is required to develop housing, and the city’s control over zoning and development approvals, I believe the city should be able to acquire the land at a reasonable price. We can acquire it using the proceeds from the sale of Boca Municipal Golf Course that is outside of the city. It’s an elegant solution to preserving green space and public recreation in the city.

4 What do you see as Boca’s biggest challenge? What do you see as Boca’s biggest opportunity? I would say we have our share of challenges to contend with now. Probably our biggest challenge is the transformation going on downtown and how we deal with the traffic and parking shortage. But this is also a golden age for Boca’s leadership, with former Mayor Steven Abrams on the County Commission, and current Mayor Susan Haynie also serving as President of the Florida League of Cities, so I’m optimistic about our ability to meet the challenges. Our biggest opportunity is probably the opportunity to re envision the waterfront. How we can make boatingaccess, green-space, Art in Public Places and an attractive public restaurant coexist for the mutual benefit of all residents, not just the immediate neighborhood.

Meet your candidate for Seat B: Andrea O’Rourke 1 Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Your age, how long you have lived in Boca, where you live, your profession, your family. Personal: -I am a 37 year resident of Boca Raton.

-After growing up in Brookline Mass, a suburb of Boston, my family moved to Florida in 1971. We happily settled in Boca Raton in 1979. My husband George and I raised our daughter Melissa here and she and her husband are now

raising our grandson in our community as well. He is following our daughter’s footsteps going through Boca Raton public school system. -We lived in Boca Del Mar for 20 years and moved to Downtown Boca 17 years ago. -Graduated FAU with a BFA Professional: Creative Services – Owner design company (graphics, interiors, residential/ commercial) past 16 years.

HARID Conservatory – Dormitory Director, Student Services Director Betty Levine & Assoc Interior Design – Office Manager, Marketing, PR, Designer Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce – Director of Communications AlphaGraphics Print & Graphics Company – Owner Wallrich Home Design Firm – In House Director of Advertising and Marketing (multiple chain stores). [CONT. PG 66]

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER | FEBRUARY 2017

Meet your candidate for Seat B: Andrea O’Rourke [FROM PG 65]

Community Service

Downtown Advisory Board Member Past Chair and Board of Directors of the Federation of Boca Raton Homeowner Associations. Boca Raton Police Dept – Crime Watch, Board of Directors Boca Raton Bowl Community Captain- 3 yrs Co-Founder and President Neighborhood Homeowner Association, Mentor 2002-present. Mentor of the Year - 2009, The Milagro Center

2 Why are you running for office?

Primarily to provide a voice for the residents of Boca Raton. I have served on city and community boards and organizations as a volunteer and leader. I want to put my local experience to work for the community. Over the course of many years I have attended hundreds of city meetings and workshops, representing the community and residents on important issues. I have worked to be a voice of reason and encouraged open, fair and collaborative dialogue between residents and city officials. I would like to take my service to the city to a higher level

3 What are the top three issues you want to address in the city if elected? -Traffic – I would like to see traffic solutions become part of the development approval process. Currently we are building with a promise to solve traffic

issues later. -Development – I would encourage developer give-back in the approval process in the form of art in public places and additional open/green space in keeping with the trend of world class cities. Boca is great, my goal is to keep it great and enhance our quality of life. Ensure that resident’s voices are heard and part of the process in governing the City of Boca Raton. A lack of transparent government leads to a lack of trust. I will encourage open dialogue, respect.

4 What do you see as Boca’s biggest

challenge? What do you see as Boca’s biggest opportunity? Challenges are:

-Balancing the continual building boom

and the addition of new residents with quality of life issues. -Protection of open/green space. -Keeping building density at responsible levels. Opportunities are: -Collaboration of residents, business community, developers and city leaders. -Creating a vision for the future to include Placemaking & public art programs. -Expansion of cooperation between business and our growing local universities with an emphasis on technology and medical. -Our city is an attractive destination for corporate relocations.

Meet your candidate for Seat B: Andy Thomson 1 Tell us a little bit about yourself. Your age, how long you have lived in Boca, where you live, your profession, your family. My roots in Boca Raton go back almost 50 years. In 1967, my mom and dad met and fell in love at Florida Atlantic University, making me a product of Boca Raton. I’ve lived in South Florida my entire life, with the exception of four years - which were cold by my standards - spent studying engineering in Atlanta at Georgia Tech. Almost 40 years after Boca Raton brought my parents together, a similar story played out at the law school of the University of Miami - that’s where I met my wife, Joanna, on the first day of classes and we’ve been together ever since. We’ve been married for 7 years now, and have three terrific kids: Allie (4), Maddie (2), and Henry (10 months). We live in Millpond. Before I became a lawyer, I worked at a civil engineering firm where we did transportation planning and conducted traffic studies – for municipalities like Boca Raton – to help fix traffic problems. Now, as a lawyer, I resolve business disputes for worldwide companies, local businesses, and residents. Since 2011, my practice has been in Boca Raton.

2 Why are you running for office? I am running for office because I love Boca Raton and want to keep it a worldclass city. I see divisiveness within Boca, and I want to promote and represent the City as a whole. I believe strongly that we are one city, with one voice. We should not sacrifice one section for the other; instead, we must find a way to resolve conflicts in a manner that benefits everyone.

As a business litigation attorney, I have extensive experience doing exactly that. I have worked with organizations and companies that span the globe, as well as with local businesses and residents. My priority always is to find the best solutions that all parties can agree on. I want to take this skill and perspective to the Council so that I can be a voice for all of Boca Raton. Another reason behind why I decided to run for office is because I want to make sure that my children have the same wonderful memories of playing in Boca’s parks that I have. There is an analogy I like to use for Boca Raton. My daughter Allie, at four years old, is the perfect age. She is so much fun, so innocent, and always happy; part of me wishes that I could keep her this age forever. That’s a natural feeling for most parents. As natural as that feeling may be, however, I cannot prevent her from growing up, and if I tried, the consequences would be disastrous. The same is true for our City. I love Boca

Raton and want to protect its charm and character. But we cannot stay the same age forever; we would become stagnant and begin to deteriorate. Instead, the key is to make sure that we manage Boca’s growth so that it is done in a responsible and sustainable way, and that’s what I plan to do.

public safety is always on my list of priorities. I want to make sure we feel safe in our City, and families see Boca Raton as a great place to live and raise their children. One arm of public safety is our first responders, and it is imperative that they have the resources they need to do their job efficiently and effectively.

I have an extensive track record of leadership and public service here in Boca Raton. I am on the Board of Directors of the Children’s Home Society, on the advisory council for the Florence Fuller Child Development Centers, I serve as a community captain for the annual Boca Raton Bowl, and I’m a guest lecturer at FAU. I am proud to be able to represent and contribute to my community, and I look forward to continuing my work on the City Council.

4 What do you see as Boca’s biggest challenge? What do you see as Boca’s biggest opportunity?

3 What are the top three issues you want to address in the city if elected? 1. I want to improve on the opportunities available for local businesses to open and grow. If we can improve our job market, we can also retain more graduates from our local universities. We need to keep Boca Raton a business-friendly community with a thriving job market. 2. One of my biggest priorities on the Council is to improve the transparency and inclusivity in the council’s decision making process. Recently there has been divisiveness within our City on particular issues, and I believe that creating a more transparent vetting process for City projects, and doing a better job of increasing public participation, will help to ease the tensions. 3. As a father of three young children,

There are two hurdles I see in Boca’s future. The most pressing, in my view, is the turmoil regarding development. Some think that, in the past few years, Boca Raton has grown up too fast. That again relates to the analogy I mentioned before with my daughter Allie: nobody wants their children growing up too fast. That’s why it’s important to have rules in place to govern growth to make sure that it’s done responsibly and sustainably. On the other hand, forcing the City to stay the same – essentially making it stagnant – is not healthy either. We need to find a way to allow Boca Raton to grow with smart development choices, which can be accomplished through informative and transparent processes. We need the community to come together to decide what projects we think align with Boca Raton’s character and foundation. Our biggest opportunity is the homegrown talent we have graduating from our universities here in Boca. We should work hard towards retaining this talent here in Boca. To do this, we need to preserve Boca’s quality of life, keep our Downtown vibrant, and ensure that our tech sector continues to grow.

FEBRUARY 2017 | YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Council Corner

town and explore a circulating shuttle downtown. These efforts can cut down on traffic, because each car that circles is equal to four cars downtown.

What’s on residents’ minds By: Councilman Scott Singer Special to the Boca Newspaper This month, I have an update from my many conversations with residents over the last few months. In addition to my regular series of in-person town halls, I’ve spoken with literally thousands of residents through a very successful telephone town-hall this month and at their homes as I’ve walked door-to-door across Boca Raton. Here’s some of what’s on residents’ minds: Green Space – Residents are concerned about environment and ensuring that our parks stay pristine and beautiful. Our neighbors are interested in how the Wildflower property will develop. At my suggestion, the City both recently installed bleachers and opened the site for the first time in years for the annual Boat Parade and has begun looking a permanent pedestrian promenade along the waterfront. Many people were glad to hear of the City Council’s initiatives to restore canoe trails and add motorboat ramps at Lake Wyman and Rutherford Parks. Your neighbors are also happy

with our landscape improvements and an initiative I moved forward to take campaign signs off our medians. Even without the signs, you still need to vote on March 14th in the upcoming city election! Traffic – It’s no surprise that traffic is a concern for us all. To better address traffic issues, I’ve proposed some long-term solutions. Last month, in Boca Newspaper, I discussed how a bypass for downtown Federal Highway can both improve traffic flow and create a more walkable, “Main Street” feeling in our downtown. The City Council moved quickly a few months ago to add better technology for our traffic signals to increase flow and increase staff to monitor intersections in live time, and both improvements have been successes. I’ve also opposed projects that I thought would burden neighborhoods. I’ll keep working to find ways to better handle traffic. Taxes – Taxes are always a concern. It’s

a testament to strong financial planning and lean government that Boca Raton provides world-class services while maintaining the lowest millage rate of any full-service city in Palm Beach County. As your City Councilman, I’m proud to have opposed tax increases, and not only voted to keep taxes low, but also to have lowered the millage rate. Low taxes are essential to keeping our property values high and attracting companies and highpaying jobs to Boca. Parking – Residents know that parking is at a premium. So do I. That’s why I’ve consistently called for a new garage downtown, and have renewed those efforts in recent months. The City Council will take up this issue in our upcoming meetings to plan for greater parking down-

Councilman Robert Weinroth on local government By: Robert Weinroth Special to the Boca Newspaper mental, corporate, and land use powers and facilities their performance of municipal functions and services. The Act foreclosed the preexisting presumption that local government action was restricted to the immediate needs of the residents. The Act further dictates that local governments should be allowed to act if not clearly directed otherwise by the state. In the absence of some necessity for a statewide action, local officials are empowered to address problems relating to the health and welfare of their residents. With our newly elected president now sworn in and pressing forward with his new agenda many among you are likely so numb from this past election cycle that the idea of focusing on the upcoming municipal elections is at the bottom of your near term priorities. However, it is important to understand the impact your elected municipal representatives have on your business and your family. Cities and our county government provide our residents with the essential services of modern life. Under the Municipal Home Rule Powers Act, enacted by the legislature in 1973, cities have been guaranteed the right to “exercise any power for municipal purposes except as otherwise provided by law.” The Act guarantees local governments the ability to retain govern-

Hopefully, it is clear that local elections (like elections for state and federal offices) have consequences. Ignoring the issues of the campaigns is a recipe for finding yourself with elected representatives that do not reflect your values. Our representatives in Tallahassee (especially those who are newly elected) sometimes need to be reminded to leave many decisions in local hands focusing, instead, on state issues. That being said, there ARE issues facing the county and municipalities that will require affirmative action by the state legislature during the 60-day legislative session due to begin on March 7, 2017. The first is the vexing issue of group (sober) homes, which have proliferated many of our cities causing impacts on the resi-

dential character of the neighborhoods where they operate. During the last legislative session, State Attorney Dave Aronberg was given $250,000 and tasked with preparing a report with recommendations for legislative action. At the same time, the US Department of Justice and US Department of Housing and Urban Development issued a joint statement to provide guidance on how effectively enact and enforce laws to regulate these facilities. Hopefully the bills being offered by Sen. Jeff Clemons and Rep. Bill Hager will receive favorable action in this session. The second issue on which the county and cities are seeking legislative action is the result of voter approval of Amendment 2, making it legal for medical professionals to recommend the use medical marijuana for their patients. Boca Raton, like many other municipalities, has enacted a moratorium on the establishment of dispensing faculties within its boundaries, near term. Hopefully, the legislature will provide local governments with a clear set of rules and regulations to fulfill the voters’ intent while ensuring the distribution and sale of the product is done safely, without adversely impacting our neighborhoods. After the recent shooting at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport it is clear the rules for carrying a licensed firearm will have the attention of the legislature. One anxiously watched bill, SB

Public Safety - One recurring issue on residents’ minds is public safety. We in Boca Raton are blessed to have worldclass first responders, and senseless tragedies this month in Fort Lauderdale and Orlando remind us how essential our police officers and firefighters are. Last year, our fire rescue department received a national ranking putting us in the top 0.4% of all departments. I’m proud to have worked to attract and retain the best talents and ensure our brave men and women have the necessary resources to serve and protect us all. I’ll keep working to enhance public safety, such as through my role on the state’s Sober Homes Task Force to find solutions for protecting Boca’s single-family neighborhoods. These are some the issues that your neighbors have been discussing. Want to hear or share more? Please contact me at ssinger@myboca.us, or join my next telephone town hall on February 7. You can always find more details at SingerForBoca.com. I’m always interested in hearing from you, and it’s my honor to serve you! 140 (filed before the killings) would allow “open carry” and would allow licensed owners to carry their firearm into many areas where they are currently prohibited. The debate on this and other bills impacting the right to carry a firearm will likely be quite emotional and constituents are urged to make their feelings known to their elected representatives as the session progresses.

Meet the team

Ryan Boylston, Co-founder and Publisher Jeff Perlman, Editor-in-Chief and Principal Scott Porten, Chief-Financial-Officer and Principal Craig Agranoff, Content Director and Principal Fran Marincola, Adviser and Principal Marisa Gottesman, Associate Editor Heather Melman, Account Manager

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER | FEBRUARY 2017

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1/28/17