The Coastal Star September 2024 Boca

Along the Coast

Scenes from the lonely season

With part-time residents gone, construction workers sweat, security people manage slower pace, and diehards enjoy the peace

By John Pacenti

Crown Colony Club in Ocean Ridge is almost like a dystopian wasteland this afternoon. For religious people, the rapture may come to mind. Not a single soul is in sight.

The pool, pristine and inviting, plays host to no one. A scattering of vehicles, some covered, plays sentinel in the vast parking lot. Many of the 148 condos have their summer armor up — hurricane shutters are the decor du jour.   In many ways, year-round residents

Highland Beach

along the Gold Coast have indeed been left behind. Welcome to the lonely season. The part-timers catapult out of South Florida around Easter or Passover, start to trickle back in late September, and are back in force by Thanksgiving.

The effect is profound in the heat of August. The population in Briny Breezes drops 50% in the summer from the season high, according to a county report based on 2020 U.S. Census data. In Manalapan and South Palm Beach it falls 43%, while in Gulf Stream,

Highland Beach and Ocean Ridge, the populations drop by about a third.

At night in Boca Raton, the number of lights on in condos such as La Fontana and Sea Ranch Club can be counted on one hand, making them look like giant jack-o-lanterns ready to devour the night.

Even downtown Delray Beach — which at the height of the tourist season can resemble Disney World in the amount of foot traffic — is mostly abandoned, with workers smoking outside. At 11 on a weeknight, you could drive a golf ball down East Atlantic Avenue and not hit anything.

During the day, the Gulf Stream Golf Club, St. Andrews Club, the Ocean Club

See LONELY on page 14

Fire risk prompts ban on EV charging inside Highlands Place condo’s garage

By Rich Pollack

David Stern knows that the chances were extremely rare of a fire breaking out in one of the three electric vehicles that snowbirds parked in his condo’s garage last season.

He also knows that had one of them gone up in flames, the damage likely would have been

catastrophic — not just to other cars but to the structure of the 45unit Highland Beach building that stands above the garage.

“All it takes is just one fire,” he said. “We just don’t want to take a chance.”

With that in mind, Stern and fellow members of the Highlands Place condo board have taken the rare step of passing strict

regulations that ban the charging of EVs inside the garage and prohibit batteries for electric bikes and scooters from being anywhere within the interior of the building.

“We’re being extremely proactive,” said Stern, who is president of the condo association and Highland Beach’s vice mayor.

Boca Raton Mandarin Oriental’s slow building pace prompts flurry of lawsuits

By Mary Hladky

As the completion date for the Mandarin Oriental luxury condos and hotel in Boca Raton continues to be pushed back, four couples and an individual who placed deposits on units have filed lawsuits seeking the return of their money.

Developer Penn-Florida Companies either did not respond to their requests for reimbursement, refused to return the money or said they were not entitled to get it, according to five complaints filed over the past two months in Palm Beach County Circuit Court. Two of the complaints have been settled.

Penn-Florida announced it would build a 164-room Mandarin Oriental hotel and 85 branded residences in 2015, saying the project would be completed in 2017. Since then, the completion date has been delayed five times and now is slated for the end of 2025.

Boca Raton officials and residents initially were thrilled that Mandarin Oriental, renowned for its elegance and sophistication and operating in cities such as Paris, London and Geneva, would come to their mid-size city.

See LAWSUITS on page 15

Besides restricting EV charging, the condo is supporting use of maintainers, such as the one David Stern has for his car. They keep batteries in gas-powered cars charged. Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star See EV on page 13

Paul Smith of Crown Colony Club says summer is when the major repairs get done. Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

Publisher Jerry Lower publisher@thecoastalstar.com

Executive Editor Mary Kate Leming editor@thecoastalstar.com

Editor Larry Barszewski larry@thecoastalstar.com

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The Coastal Star is a monthly newspaper with two editions serving Hypoluxo Island, South Palm Beach, Manalapan, Ocean Ridge, Briny Breezes, Gulf Stream and coastal Delray Beach; Highland Beach and coastal Boca Raton. ©2008-2024 Send letters, opinions and news tips to news@thecoastalstar.com The Coastal Star 5114 N Ocean Blvd. Ocean Ridge, FL 33435 561-337-1553

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Editor’s Note

When errors creep into stories, we furnish fixes

Oops, ouch, mea culpa. Mistakes happen. As hard as we try, there are times when our publication doesn’t catch a date-error, typo or misspelling. Sometimes an item simply needs more explanation to make sense to readers. And much to our chagrin, there have been times when we published bad information.

Regardless of the error’s scope, our policy is to set the record straight. We do this a few different ways:

• Fix the error online as quickly as possible.

• Publish a print correction or clarification in the next print edition.

• When necessary, publish a revised story.

Reporting is a complex business. Distilling hourslong meetings into 600-word stories takes skill. As does winnowing down a lengthy inperson or telephone interview. Sometimes information is misunderstood, vague or not provided.

Feature stories and people profiles have their own challenges with the spelling of names, ages of individuals and dates of events. In short, there are plenty of places to err.

Corrections

So, to hold our readers’ trust, The Coastal Star spends an inordinate amount of production time on catching anything that doesn’t look or read right.

All of our stories are locally produced, so we check phone numbers and website addresses, double-check the spelling on names, check that today’s story accurately reflects the past. It’s a time-consuming process, but journalistic excellence is always our goal.

Still, on occasion we miss something that should be obvious, or a deadline keeps us from following up on questions, or we simply interpret information incorrectly. Mistakes happen.

And whether an error requires a quick tweak online, a simple clarification or a formal correction, we understand the importance of not perpetuating misinformation, so we fix it. And we let our readers know.

— Mary Kate Leming, Executive Editor

Coastal Star

Delray dentist ‘out of comfort zone’ in honing moves for Ballroom Battle

By Sallie James

For two minutes this month, dental professional Jacqui Moroco will doff her lab coat, slip into dancing shoes, step onto a stage before hundreds and wow the crowd with a spicy swing routine — all in the name of education.

Her routine will be one of eight acts in Boca’s Ballroom Battle, an annual fundraiser for the George Snow Scholarship Fund. Moroco and seven other community leaders will strut their stuff on Sept. 14 at The Boca Raton, where they will compete as dancers and fundraisers.

If You Go

What: Boca’s Ballroom

Battle 2024 Where: Grand Ballroom at The Boca Raton, 501 E. Camino Real, Boca Raton When: 5 p.m. cocktails to midnight Sept. 14 Why: Fundraiser for the George Snow Scholarship Fund

Tickets: Tables start at $2,500 but are almost sold out. A limited number of individual tickets are available on request. Info: Contact Amy Greene at AGreene@scholarship.org or 561-347-6799.

NOMINATE SOMEONE TO BE A COASTAL STAR Send a note to news@ thecoastalstar.com or call 561-337-1553.

money for the scholarship fund. Moroco, for instance, partnered with La Nouvelle Maison restaurant in June for a “dine and donate” event in which 10% of all proceeds benefited the scholarship fund. Other contestants organized fundraisers such as a ladies night out, a cornhole contest and a casino night party. Donors can also contribute on the scholarship fund’s website.

An article on the Around Town section cover of the August 2024 edition about restaurant openings and closings incorrectly reported the closing of one of the restaurants. While Avalon is closed for an interior redesign, according to owner Antonio Paganazzi, it will be reopening.

An article on Page 3 of the August 2024 Boca Raton/Highland Beach edition about capital improvements being considered by the Greater Boca Raton Beach and Park District incorrectly reported the status of restrooms proposed for Ocean Strand Park. District commissioners reviewed “proposed projects” including temporary restrooms, but took no action to include them in the district’s proposed budget, which will be finalized during September’s budget hearings.

An article on Page 21 of the August 2024 edition about Boynton Beach incorrectly reported when the city’s new fire boat will arrive. It is expected to arrive in August 2025. The story also misstated when the city’s fire department was last ISO inspected it was in 2017 and the terms of its contract with the Village of Golf (after a 10% cost increase the first year, future year increases will be connected to the Consumer Price Index).

“This is going to push me out of my comfort zone,” admitted Moroco, 59, a Delray Beach orthodontist for 31 years. “We are going to be at The Boca Raton in a very large ballroom. You need to exaggerate the moves.”

Just like in the TV show Dancing with the Stars, the contestants will compete in themed, choreographed dance routines. And just like in the real show, each participant will be paired with a professional dancer.

Moroco has been diligently practicing with partner Jan Clancy of Boca’s Fred Astaire Dance Studio since late April. So far, she’s feeling confident. Her biggest concern? “How do I make these sexy moves that are not typical of the way I carry myself?”

Because the contestants are all well-known in the community, the fundraiser continues to have huge appeal, said Robin Deyo, chairwoman of the scholarship fund’s board of trustees.

“Each one of them comes with their own circle of influence, so it’s always engaging new people to the event,” Deyo noted. “People like Jacqui are so inspired by the education component they really don’t have a problem asking … people to support their efforts.”

The other contestants are John W. Clidas, senior vice president, Synovus Trust Co.; Sarah Doyle, a luxury travel adviser with Valerie Wilson Travel; Al Goldberg, a retired chef/owner of Gourmet Adventures Catering; Gina Harrow, executive director of the Yellow Ribbon Fund; Zoe Lanham, vice president of The Addison; Alex Price, CEO of Priceless Perspective LLC; and Matt Williams, founder of Fropro Snack Bar. Contestants do much more than just dance. Each one was tasked with coming up with a unique way to raise

The Ballroom Battle “winners” are the male and female dancers who raise the most money.

To date, the scholarship fund has awarded $31.4 million in scholarships and support services to more than 3,300 students. The annual event is the Snow family’s way of turning tragedy into triumph.

The scholarship fund was established in 1982 in memory of Boca businessman-turnedchopper pilot George Snow, who disappeared in 1980 after transporting a news crew to the Bahamas to cover a story involving shipwrecked Haitian migrants. Their helicopter vanished without a trace on its return trip to Miami.

Moroco is in it to win it. A cardboard cutout of herself in a long dress, displayed in the lobby of her practice at Moroco Orthodontics at 4600 Linton Blvd., promotes the Ballroom Battle with a simple message: “Help me raise money for students & win!”P

Boca’s Ballroom Battle contestant Jacqui Moroco practices with her dance partner, Jan Clancy, at Fred Astaire Dance Studios in Boca Raton. Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

Town devises new system to handle code violations

By Rich Pollack

Hoping to streamline the code enforcement hearing process and ensure cases can be heard in a timely manner, Highland Beach commissioners last month approved a twotiered system utilizing a magistrate for complex violation cases and a code board for less complicated matters.

Under the new system — which Town Attorney Len Rubin says may be unique in Palm Beach County — cases such as parking code violations, trash issues and landscaping that doesn’t meet town restrictions can be heard by the

Code Enforcement Board, which is made up of residents selected by the commission.

More complex issues, such as violations of the town’s construction code, work being done without a required permit and violations of the Florida Fire Prevention Code, will be heard by a magistrate.

Previously all cases were handled by the quasi-judicial Code Enforcement Board, which on occasion struggled to have a required quorum. Under the new system, Rubin said, the magistrate can be available to handle cases that would go before the board if not enough members were available.

The board and the magistrate will both have the authority to impose fines.

“What I like about this is that it gives us options,” said Commissioner Evalyn David, who is one of two attorneys on the commission along with Judith Goldberg.

Earlier this summer, the Town Commission approved an agreement with attorney and FAU political science professor Kevin Wagner to serve as the town’s magistrate at a rate of $190 per hour.

Wagner already serves as a magistrate for several communities, including Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Gulf

Stream and West Palm Beach.

As part of the revamped processes, the town attorney will provide training annually to members of the Code Enforcement Board in an effort to ensure consistency.

That training includes an overview of the procedures applicable to the board and will cover the rules governing the conduct of the hearing, the role of board members as impartial decision makers, the required disclosure of ex parte communications, and ethical requirements set by the state and Palm Beach County.

Town commissioners also agreed to seek candidates for

the enforcement board who are residents and have experience in specific areas. If possible, the commission will look to appoint an architect, an engineer, a general contractor, a subcontractor, a business person and a real estate agent.

If they can’t find such representatives, commissioners have the option to appoint a resident who they believe is most qualified.

Commissioners, in approving the changes, said they believe the changes will help ensure the process is efficient and equitable.

“This is an effective way of dealing with code enforcement,” Goldberg said. P

Online registry helps residents give more information to emergency responders

By Rich Pollack

Information can be critical for first responders racing to an emergency. The more comprehensive the information, the better.

Knowing who lives in a house — pets included — before they respond to a fire can help emergency crews ensure everyone is out safely.

Knowing the code to a gate or which neighbor has a key to an apartment can make it possible for paramedics to access a patient sooner; and knowing what medications a patient is on can help establish a possible protocol while help is on the way.

Now Highland Beach Fire Rescue is among a small group of departments in the area pioneering a new technology that allows residents to provide what could be lifesaving information into a secure

Along the Coast

database that will automatically pop up on a screen first responders see when responding to an emergency call.

Called First Due Community Connect, the new system is entirely voluntary and makes it possible for the fire department to store information that can eliminate surprises and unexpected obstacles.

“Community Connect helps us provide residents with the best level of service based on their needs if information is given to us before an emergency,” says Assistant Chief for Operations Tom McCarthy.

In responding to a call, firefighters and paramedics often have information provided to them by dispatch operators who are trained to ask callers pertinent questions. With Community Connect, however, the information available to first responders is much more detailed and includes what

Open house meetings set for new FEMA flood maps

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has released new flood zone maps, putting thousands more Palm Beach County residents into high-risk flood zones.

The new maps are effective Dec. 20, requiring property owners’ immediate attention, particularly if they have mortgages requiring flood insurance.

Three open houses are being held in September to provide residents an opportunity to learn more about their flood zones and risks. Representatives from the county, municipalities, FEMA and the insurance industry will be available to answer questions and provide information.

The meeting for Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Briny Breezes, Delray Beach, Highland Beach, Hypoluxo, Ocean Ridge, South Palm Beach and unincorporated

Palm Beach County will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Sept. 11 at the Boynton Beach Police Department Community Room, 2100 High Ridge Road, Boynton Beach.

The session for Lantana, Manalapan and other municipalities will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 14 at the Howard Park Community Center, 1302 Parker Ave., West Palm Beach.

The third open house will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Sept. 26 at the Jupiter Community Center Auditorium, 200 Military Trail, Jupiter.

Everyone in the county is at risk for flooding no matter what zone you live in, FEMA says. If you have any questions, call the county’s Flood Hotline at 561233-5374.

residents think rescuers need to know.

An example, McCarthy says, is information a resident can provide to let emergency crews know if there is someone in a house or apartment who has special needs. If someone is in a wheelchair or bedridden, for example, it will help first responders en route to a fire know that they’ll have to focus on helping that person out of the building.

“It helps us on our game planning,” McCarthy says.

Residents who register can enter information in four areas. Under “household information,” the system asks if there are residents under 18, if it’s an apartment building, and does it have an elevator or pool. The system also asks if there is a meeting place, perhaps outside the home, where everyone will gather in case of an evacuation.

The system also allows

residents to put in any additional information about the home they think first responders should know.

Residents can also provide information about home medical equipment, including oxygen, and pet information, including photos and veterinarian contact information.

McCarthy says that one of the biggest changes in the ability of firefighters and paramedics to respond faster has been technology that makes it more efficient to access patients.

Since Highland Beach Fire Rescue launched in May, firefighters and paramedics have walked through all the buildings in town, getting familiar with all the access points and possible obstacles.

Community Connect, McCarthy says, puts that information at the fingertips of emergency crews.

“Being able to gain rapid access is important,” he says. “All of these things can help eliminate ‘time bandits.’”

The cost of the system to the town is about $20,000 a year, and McCarthy says that the Highland Beach department is one of the first to use it, although other area departments have expressed interest.

Residents can sign up for Community Connect at www. communityconnect.io/info/flhighlandbeach. P

— Steve Plunkett

Delray Beach City finds the money to support property tax rollback

By John Pacenti

After proposing deep cuts to support a rolled-back property tax rate, Delray Beach City Manager Terrence Moore found the needed money in the city’s couch cushions — though the new budget won’t be completely without pain.

Under the rollback rate, the city will reduce its contribution to the Community Redevelopment Agency by $1.3 million. It will also reduce its contribution to the CRA’s grant program, called A.-G.U.I.D.E., by $200,000.

“The CRA revenue is based on the millage rate set by the city of Delray Beach, and so we have to take that into

consideration,” Moore said at the Aug. 13 workshop. “So it’s just an accounting adjustment.”

Moore went on to say he has had discussions with CRA Executive Director Renee Jadusingh. “Fortunately, they do well financially. Yep, it’s pretty solid.”

The commission in July approved the rollback millage rate of just over $5.90 for each $1,000 of taxable value.

Mayor Tom Carney led the charge to decrease taxes for the upcoming fiscal year as the commission adopted a rate that would save a homesteaded property with a taxable value of $1 million last year about $278 in city property taxes.

At the rollback rate, Moore

said property taxes collected would fall $6.2 million from his originally proposed tax rate. He initially had department managers propose various cuts, such as reducing the number of firefighters on a shift, decreasing police patrols and curtailing events, such as the Christmas village.

Carney sent Moore back to find ways to make the rollback rate work without cutting significant services in the $187 million budget for FY 2025, which starts Oct. 1. Moore was able to make adjustments, taking into account the reduced CRA payment and other expenditure and revenue adjustments.

The city can expect

conservatively at least $900,000 more from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Chief Financial Officer Hugh Dunkley said various projects are in different stages of closeout, with FEMA owing the city $1.4 million for Hurricane Irma damage in 2017 and another $500,000 for damage from Hurricane Dorian in 2019.

“So it’s various events, hurricanes over the years,” Dunkley said. “FEMA usually takes a while.”

Other revenue funding adjustments included course fees from the new Creative Arts School ($291,000), which is expected to start in the fall; a reimbursement for EMS transport fees ($165,000) due to a vendor billing mistake; and additional revenues from boat launch and park fees ($277,659).

On the expenditure side of the equation, besides the CRA reduction, there was a $2 million reduction from the general fund to the beach renourishment project. Moore said this is allocation magic as the project will still be fully funded through the capital improvement program.

An additional $788,000 will be saved through department attrition by not filling current open positions or new openings as employees leave for various reasons, Moore said. The Police Department led all

Gulf Stream

departments with $236,468 through position attrition.

The new budget even found $97,989 more for library services, as requested by the commission.

“Delray Beach appears to be the only taxing authority in all of South Florida to support and embrace the rollback rate in this regard,” Moore said.

“There was a great deal of work accomplished over the last couple of weeks to bring back these considerations.”

Commissioner Tom Markert praised Moore and the staff.  “This was not fun, this was not easy, but you got it done, and I’m really comfortable with how you got it done and what the final work product looks like,” he said.

Commissioner Rob Long, who voted against the rollback rate along with Commissioner Angela Burns, said, “I do feel like we’re wrestling with our shoulders pretty close to the mat right now. So I could see budget amendments coming up down the road.”

At its Sept. 3 budget hearing, the commission tentatively approved of the proposed tax rate by a 4-1 vote, with Long voting no.

The commission also supported the proposed budget 3-2, with Long and Vice Mayor Juli Casale opposed.

The final vote on the budget and tax rate will take place at a Sept. 16 public hearing. P

Veteran police officers, rookies to get $4,000 pay boosts

By Steve Plunkett

Gulf Stream will bump up its starting salary for police officers $4,000, to $70,000, and give its veteran officers a $4,000 acrossthe-board raise.

Town commissioners agreed to the higher pay at their Aug. 9 meeting.

“Everybody’s competing because everybody’s having trouble hiring and retaining, so they’re throwing money at it,” Police Chief Richard Jones said.

Jones passed out a chart showing that the town’s police force pay ranks in the lower half of Palm Beach County municipalities.

“So that kind of puts us, Chief, with these different positions right now kind of the median range for the county,” Vice Mayor Tom Stanley said of the raises.

Jones and Town Manager

Greg Dunham said they would propose a step plan next year with police raises based on length of service to rein in the pay boosts. Starting salaries were $52,250 in October 2022, then lifted to $61,250 in June 2023 and $66,000 last October.

“If we keep going like this, a five-year police officer’s going to be making $200,000 a year,” Dunham said.

Dunham also said he plans to give $5,000 pay raises to Town Clerk Renee Basel, who has leadership roles in municipal clerks associations and serves as the town’s human resources director, and to Public Works Director Anthony Beltran, who is acting like an owner’s representative in dealing with Gulf Stream’s road and drainage project.

“I have contractors walk up to him and ask him, how do I do this?” Dunham said. P

LETTERS: The Coastal Star welcomes letters to the editor about issues of interest in the community. These are subject to editing and must include your name, address and phone number. Preferred length is 200-500 words. Send email to editor@thecoastalstar.com.

Along the Coast State considering new bicycle safety features along A1A

By Charles Elmore

A year that began with a traumatic crash injuring six bicyclists and a driver on State Road A1A in southern Palm Beach County was on track to end with a batch of new safety measures in place, from pavement markings to new road signs.

But a state transportation official is now calling such proposals a “preliminary draft,” with a broader study ongoing for what to do on an iconic coastal roadway that draws all sorts of travelers and residents — but not always consensus between the two.

For example, “sharrows” have been under consideration in Gulf Stream and Manalapan, places that have no A1A shoulders, according to a Florida Department of Transportation presentation to a countywide planning agency in June.

Sharrows mean markings on the pavement depicting a bicycle with forward-pointing arrows. The purpose, as state officials describe it, is to remind travelers that bicycles can command the whole lane in such circumstances.

An FDOT spokesman said Aug. 27 that plan was not set in stone and research continues.

“The Florida Department of Transportation is conducting a comprehensive study of bike/

Gulf Stream

pedestrian facilities on State Road A1A in Palm Beach County,” said Guillermo Canedo, spokesman for the agency’s District 4.

Gulf Stream Town Manager Greg Dunham said Sept. 3 that after discussions with FDOT, the town will not be getting sharrows. Dunham said “in lieu of sharrows, the department has decided to place six signs along A1A near the town.”

Such road signs are also being planned in some towns that have unmarked shoulders on both sides, including Ocean Ridge, Briny Breezes, Boynton Beach and Delray Beach. The signs say, “Share the Road,” and have a bicycle symbol.

During FDOT’s June presentation to the Palm Beach Transportation Planning Agency governing board, a department design manager, Chris McCurdy, said the

One idea is sharrows, which are already in use in Delray Beach near City Hall. They indicate cyclists may use the full lane.

Photo provided

sharrows and sign safety features for A1A in South County would be completed in the next six months.

Canedo’s take was different.

“Once the study is completed, the recommendations from the study will inform our decisionmaking for specific locations along SR A1A where there may be short-term and long-term safety improvements that are viable,” he said.

That study would be completed in October, according to the timeline shown in June.

A Manalapan official said his town had not heard much about what is coming and would like more information.

“We want to make sure everyone’s safe,” said Eric Marmer, assistant town manager for Manalapan.

There has been talk of having transportation officials come to a Manalapan town meeting. The

New Intracoastal home to be only one story

By Steve Plunkett

The first of Bluewater Cove’s two Intracoastal Waterway lots will be home to a single-story 6,343-square-foot Georgianstyle residence.

Gulf Stream town commissioners approved the site plan for the house at their Aug. 9 meeting after considering what people on the opposite side of the Intracoastal might say.

“I think this one has a pretty significant impact on the neighbors especially since I received some comments that some of the neighbors thought they were going to be looking at a FIND area for the rest of their lives from the east side,” Vice Mayor Tom Stanley said.

The land that is now Bluewater Cove on the west side of the Intracoastal was previously owned by the Florida Inland Navigation District, which swapped its waterfront acreage with the Gulf Stream Golf Club, which then sold the property to the developer of the street. FIND commonly keeps its land undeveloped to use as storage sites for dredging the waterway.

Before commissioners could approve the house’s plan, they passed an ordinance allowing front-entry features on any onestory home to be 16 feet high instead of 14. The architects for the Bluewater Cove residence said they would have to reduce the slope of the roof, making the overall structure unattractive, poorly scaled and not truly Georgian design, if forced to build at the lower level.

The new home will have four bedrooms, a club room, a three-vehicle garage opening to the side, and in another first for the street,

a circular driveway to the front door. The house faces a turning circle at the end of the cul-de-sac.

Commissioner Michael Greene questioned the amount of hardscape at the front of the house. “It just seems like it could be more greenery in the front of the property,” he said.

Landscape architect Louis Vlahos said some of the plan’s drawings omitted plantings to show more of the house, and that the specimen tree shown in the driveway island will grow to be 18 to 20 feet tall, “almost twice the size.”

The drawing also lacked two large oaks at the front, he said.

“I think it’s attractive,” Mayor Scott Morgan said. “Our main concern is the view from the east, and I think by maintaining a single-story home with a large portico for the setback of your glass doors, I think you’ve achieved that.”

Also approved was a variance for 555 Pelican Lane allowing a dock into the Intracoastal to be rebuilt at an angle to the sea wall instead of parallel. The original dock dated to 1951 and needed to be replaced after the equally old sea wall was redone. It also was 4 inches wider than the maximum allowed 5 feet.

Lawyer Tom Murphy, representing property owner Susannah Scott-Barnes, said the dock cannot be seen by any other member of the community.

“This is really not a variance for relief in order to therefore do something new but rather a variance to preserve what is old, and … what is old in Gulf Stream is good,” Murphy said. P

next regularly scheduled one would be Sept. 24, but nothing was arranged as of late August.

Longer-term A1A repaving plans could take five years and involve bicycle and pedestrian safety components in Boca Raton, Highland Beach and Delray Beach, among other places in the county. For example, the project underway in Highland Beach is to include a 5-foot bike lane on each side once it is complete, possibly late in 2025.

The feasibility study that began in March, two months after the accident in Gulf Stream, aims to look at further ways to improve bike and pedestrian safety on the corridor. One of those ways could be to widen A1A shoulders “where feasible.”

Plenty of factors complicate the issue. Residents in some towns have resisted expansion of A1A in the past and questioned the wisdom and safety of encouraging more cycling or other traffic.

Features such as signs and pavement markings might be considered “push button” projects that could be completed with relatively modest planning and cost by year’s end, McCurdy said at the June 20 meeting.

The point of sharrows, for instance, is to “communicate to the traveling public, that’s those behind the dashboard and those

on the bicycle, that the bicycle has the ability to command the full width of the lane,” McCurdy said. “The people behind the dashboard recognize the bicycle has the right to be there.”

The pavement markings recur every 250 feet, she said. “That’s constant reminders,” she said.

At that meeting, County Commissioner Marci Woodward of Boca Raton said she liked many elements of the plan but wondered if it risks burdening drivers with so much information that they tune out. Signs or pavement markings would join existing safety features that can include flashing lights.

“It gets to be a lot and I think people go blind to it,” Woodward said. “People are looking at the ocean on A1A when they come to an open area. There’s a lot to look at.”

Her husband recently witnessed a crash on A1A, she said, where a vehicle slowed sharply for a pedestrian crossing but the following driver was caught off guard and it resulted in a rear-end collision.

Getting the balance right could be one the program’s challenges.

“It’s not realistic for drivers to pay attention to 20 signs on a quarter-mile stretch of A1A,” she said. P

Steve Plunkett contributed to this story.

Town OK’s spending up to $977,305 more on roads, drainage

By Steve Plunkett

Gulf Stream’s road and drainage improvement project continues to be plagued by unexpected conditions — the latest by underground utilities being buried less deep than usual.

“Typically, utilities of power, Comcast, things like that going across roadways are 2 feet or greater below pavement,” Jockey Prinyavivatkul of Baxter and Woodman Consulting Engineers told town commissioners Aug. 9. “Your cable (TV) and telephone cables are a little bit more shallow.”

The same situation happened with Florida Power & Light Co.’s underground electric lines.

“FPL runs 4 feet typically, but when they go into residential and they don’t have the room to directional-bore at 4 feet, they compensate,” said Anthony Beltran, the town’s public works director.

It’s all too close for contractor Roadway Construction LLC to use a tilling machine to prepare a street for asphalt. Instead, it will have to dig down to the utility conduits, cover them with 5½ inches of base rock to protect them from the weight of traffic, then fill in the trench and compact the soil. The dirt that is removed must also be hauled away.

And that means a change order to the construction contract. The commission approved two, along

with a budget adjustment, for a total change of up to $977,305.

One is a $95,691 order to do the necessary extra work on Wright Way and Old School Road. Commissioners also approved spending up to $704,228 more on the base rock alternative as the project moves forward, without the need for the engineer and contractor to return to commission chambers.

“The big number is a worstcase scenario. At least it gives us the funding in place that we can move forward efficiently,” said Rick Chipman, the construction project manager for Baxter and Woodman.

“We do not anticipate the entire amount being used,” Prinyavivatkul said. Commissioners also approved a $177,386 change order for widening parts of Banyan and Gulfstream roads, Lakeview Drive and all of Old School Road, from 18 feet to 20 feet to match the Core’s other streets.

Meanwhile, construction workers have been deployed to a handful of other areas to keep busy while waiting for money to be authorized.

“We don’t want them to be not coming in to work and not having any work to do,” Town Manager Greg Dunham said.

Roadway planned to spend the weeks of Aug. 26 and Sept. 3 preparing Wright Way and Old School Road for paving. P

Council members still high on Brightline as commuter trips decline

By Mary Hladky

The number of commuters using Brightline continues to slide downward, exacerbated by the company’s decision to eliminate on June 1 a reducedfare monthly trip pass.

While long-haul ridership to and from Orlando sets records, short-haul riders dropped from 149,536 in June 2023 to 84,062 this June. In July, they fell to 76,907, according to Brightline’s ridership and revenue reports to bondholders.

Brightline’s prioritizing long-haulers has prompted commuter complaints — and raised questions about whether the rail line’s Boca Raton station actually is the economic boon to the city that its leaders expected.

City officials, however, want residents to know that

Brightline is not letting the city down.

“Brightline is a catalyst that has allowed us to re-envision”

part of downtown, Mayor Scott Singer said at an Aug. 26 Community Redevelopment Agency meeting. Its benefits should be measured in years and decades rather than short periods of time, he said.

“To say Brightline is a failure is a completely inaccurate statement,” said Deputy Mayor Yvette Drucker.

“Brightline certainly is not a failure,” said Council member Marc Wigder, adding that it creates opportunity for the city.

City Manager George Brown agreed. “We are very fortunate to have it here,” he said. “It is being used.”

Singer aggressively lobbied Brightline officials to build a

station in Boca Raton. Council members agreed to a long-term lease of 1.8 acres of city-owned land to the rail line for $1 per year where the station now sits and paid the $10 million cost of a parking garage.

Brightline does not release ridership information for each of its stations, so it’s not possible to know if fewer people are traveling to and from Boca. But it seems likely that if fewer commuters are using it, that affects the city.

Another problem commuters have faced, in addition to higher fares, is that Brightline’s overall ridership has grown to the point that often there are not enough seats for all who want to ride.

Brightline now says it will be getting new passenger cars soon that will increase the number of cars per train to five from four.

Council reverses preservation board, will move Children’s Museum building

By Mary Hladky

The historic Singing Pines Children’s Museum building will move to Meadows Park despite pleas by museum lovers to keep it at its current location near Boca Raton City Hall.

The City Council unanimously voted on Aug. 27 to reverse a decision by the city’s Historic Preservation Board that the museum should remain at 498 Crawford Blvd.

City officials early this year decided to relocate it to make way for a new building administration and code enforcement building. The Boca Raton Historical Society had no objections.

But some who cherish the museum took to social media to press the city to change course, and the preservation board sided with them at a July 18 meeting.

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Among the board’s reasons were that the city should not “shove it into a park that nobody uses,” according to minutes of the meeting. Members also said that the city should incorporate the building into its plans to overhaul its government campus and surrounding areas by creating a transitoriented community.

But city staff pushed back. When the city designated the building as historic in 1988, it was not because of its location. The current site is not the original one.

It is historic because of its architectural design, association with the city’s pioneer era and its history as the home of significant citizens. Moving the building changes none of that, staff concluded.

With little discussion, council members overruled the board.

The Singing Pines house was built in 1913 or 1914 at 301 SE First Ave. It is the second-oldest home in the city that still exists. It was built by William Myrick on property purchased from Henry Flagler’s Model Land Co.

The museum opened in 1979, but closed in 2019 as operational costs increased. The COVID-19 pandemic stalled efforts to reopen it.

No date has been set for the move to Meadows Park, located at 1300 NW Eighth St., near Boca Raton Middle School. P

Regardless of any uncertainty, the Brightline station remains key to the city’s plan to create a transit-oriented community (TOC) for the area around the station and the adjacent 30 acres of city-owned property where City Hall and the Police Department now sit.

The idea is to allow for residential, retail, entertainment and recreation, as well as city functions, in the TOC. The city also anticipates a public-private partnership with a developer that would bear at least some of the cost of redevelopment.

Council members are now figuring out exactly what they want to see in the TOC.

CRA chair Fran Nachlas asked her colleagues on Aug. 26 what each envisions.

They offered general ideas that have been floated before,

Boca Raton News

but no concrete plans.

Singer wanted residential, office, retail, restaurants and great landscaping “to create a vibrant district,” along with a new City Hall and Police Department. Others generally agreed with that.

He also suggested building affordable housing for city employees to help attract and retain them.

“I have a very open mind on what the campus should look like. That extends to where things go,” Council member Andy Thomson said. But city employees need a new City Hall to replace the crumbling, 60-year-old existing one, he said.

Singer and Nachlas said they, too, are open-minded.

“Everything is on the table,” Singer said. P

Motorist rescued from Intracoastal — Boca Raton police and fire rescue rescued a 75-year-old Boca Raton woman from water near Silver Palm Park on Aug. 22 after she called police late at night saying she was lost and her car was filling with water.

Mary Chauvin was transported to Boca Raton Regional Hospital with life-threatening injuries, Boca Raton police said. She remained hospitalized as of Aug. 27.

When officers arrived, they saw her white Buick partially submerged in the Intracoastal Waterway, moving northbound with the current.

Witnesses told the rescuers that Chauvin drove into the water from a boat ramp in the park, located at 600 E. Palmetto Park Road along the west side of the Intracoastal.

Online map shows where to find public art — Boca Raton has launched an online interactive map that shows the location and photos of public artworks and information on the artists.

Current public art includes that on the Mizner Park Amphitheater stage doors, sculptures at Sanborn Square and Wildflower and Silver Palm parks, and murals on beach tunnels at Spanish River Park under State Road A1A.

“The new interactive map is a fantastic way for everyone to experience the public art that enriches our city,” Veronica Hatch, the city’s public art coordinator, said in a release.

Boca Raton’s public art program, a priority of former Deputy Mayor Andrea O’Rourke, was launched last year with the hiring of Hatch. The city will create a master plan and establish a public art fund that includes city contributions and private funding.

A survey of city residents this year showed that 46% thought public art was very important and 36% said somewhat important.

The interactive map can be accessed at myboca.us/2452/ Experience-Public-Art.

‘Glass House’ project approved — The Boca Raton Community Redevelopment Agency unanimously approved on Aug. 26 a developer’s plan to build a nine-story, 28-unit luxury condominium in the heart of downtown at 280 E. Palmetto Park Road.

It will replace a vacant bank and office building on the 0.62acre site.

While many downtown projects have drawn vehement opposition, the so-called Glass House drew very little negative comment.

The ground floor will include a lobby, fitness center, lounge, and steam and sauna room. The roof deck will have a pool and spa, covered outdoor seating, cabanas, fire pit and landscaping. Parking is underground. Two-, three- and four-story condos are priced between $2.5 million and $6.9 million.

Developer 280 E. Palmetto Park Road LLC is managed by Brandon Chasen, CEO of Baltimore-based Chasen Companies, and Paul Davis, Chasen’s managing partner and chief investment officer. The architect is GarciaStromberg of West Palm Beach.

— Mary Hladky

Manalapan

Longtime town manager retiring with expression of thanks, if not a party

By Anne Geggis

When she steps down as Manalapan’s town manager at the end of this month, Linda Stumpf will go out in much the same way she’s led the smallest of the South County coastal municipalities: efficiently and without much fanfare.

The twodecade town employee (nearly 14 years as manager, the balance as finance director) has issued the edict that no retirement party will be held to mark the occasion.

Still, her staying power stands out in a time when most municipal managers don’t last more than a few years.

“I would put her down as one of the top town managers I’ve had the pleasure to know,” said South Palm Beach Mayor Bonnie Fischer, who tried to woo Stumpf to come north to her town from Manalapan.

The Town Commission is planning to give Stumpf a $25,000 going-away gift, which it expects to include in the new budget that will be voted on this month.

“We hope everyone will support that as part of a thank you to her for her 22 years of service to Manalapan,” Mayor John Deese said at the commission’s July 23 meeting. “It’s not necessarily a normal precedent for the town, but it’s also not a normal precedent to have someone serve the town for 22 years.”

He described the payout as “good and fair.”

At a March meeting of the Town Commission, Stumpf praised the addition of Eric Marmer as assistant town manager. He will assume her duties at her retirement. She also made a rare statement about her ongoing medical issues, which in recent years have meant she used a wheelchair in dealing with a chronic illness.

“I’ve been sitting in this chair for over a year,” she said. She’s still working at recovery, going to occupational and physical therapy sessions.

“So, my legs … the atrophy is there and I have to build it back,” she said.

Stumpf is leaving after overseeing some seismic change in Manalapan. The transformation has occurred without a lot of metaphoric storms — even if there were hurricanes to manage and, more recently, the sudden resignation last year of all but two members of the seven-member Town Commission because of a new state law requiring fuller disclosure of elected officials’ assets.

The property value of the town, which covers about .45

square miles of land, has nearly doubled in the time Stumpf has been a part of Manalapan’s operations — expanding from $635 million in 2003 ($1.19 billion when calculated in 2024 dollars) to its current taxable value of $2.24 billion.

Per square mile, Manalapan is among the most valuable in South Palm Beach County.

Boynton Beach, for example, is 35 times Manalapan’s size in land mass, but its taxable value is only about four times greater than Manalapan’s.

Stumpf is credited with shepherding the development of the only Publix located on the South County barrier islands.

The store opened in 2016 with Publix officials calling it a store unlike any other in the country.

“People were afraid it was going to cause too much traffic,”

Fischer said. “But the end result … everybody loves it.”

Tracey Stevens, who worked in neighboring Ocean Ridge from 2016 to 2022 as town clerk and then town manager, has served on committees with Stumpf and collaborated as officials in neighboring towns.

“Whenever we had a police issue or a hurricane issue, we always came together and worked together for the betterment of the communities,” said Stevens, who is now Haverhill’s town manager.

Stumpf, Stevens said, brought an authoritative, no-nonsense manner to the proceedings.

“She really knew what she was talking about,” Stevens recalled of their collaboration.P

Jane Musgrave contributed to this story.

Stumpf

Boca Raton City agrees to pause legal battle, will reconsider beachfront variance

By Steve Plunkett

The city and a developer that for years has wanted to build on a vacant parcel east of State Road A1A have put two contentious lawsuits behind them and agreed to decide within 90 days whether to allow the home to go up on the beachfront.

The City Council on Aug. 27 authorized a “full settlement” of the lawsuits and other legal matters with Delray Beachbased Azure Development LLC and its affiliate 2600 N Ocean LLC over property the developer owns at 2600 N. Ocean Blvd., which is east of the Coastal Construction Control Line.

“Importantly,” Assistant City Attorney Joshua Koehler wrote in a memo to council members, “approval of the settlement agreement does not constitute approval of the CCCL variance, with the City Council reserving its regulatory and review authority throughout the process.”

Council member Andy Thomson emphasized that fact before voting in favor of authorizing the settlement.

The resolution authorizing it “does not in any way indicate that I by voting for it or not, support a variance for this underlying piece of property. I’ve not formed an opinion on that application, nor can I until we hear evidence at a public hearing,” said Thomson, who voted to deny Azure/2600’s first request for a CCCL variance in 2019.

“And I don’t think, speaking for myself, it would not operate as a bias in favor of or against the application for this applicant if we were to approve this (settlement agreement) today,” he said.

Mayor Scott Singer and the other council members concurred with Thomson.

“It will be the first time that I would be hearing this application, so I agree,” Deputy Mayor Yvette Drucker said.

Notable in the settlement is this statement: “The City recognizes that 2600 is entitled

to construct a single-family home on the Property, subject to satisfying the CCCL variance criteria as set forth in the City’s Code of Ordinances and all other zoning, building and other applicable regulatory requirements.”

In 1971, state legislators created the Coastal Construction Setback Line, which banned construction seaward of the line. That was altered in 1978 to become the Coastal Construction Control Line, which does not prohibit such construction but puts the buildings under increased review. The line is supposed to preserve and protect beaches from construction that can harm the beach-dune system, speed up erosion, endanger adjacent properties or interfere with public beach access.

Boca Raton passed its own coastal construction line in 1981. With that resolution, the city also scrutinizes any oceanfront projects within its borders.

To get a variance to build seaward of the CCCL, an applicant must meet six criteria, including that special and unique conditions exist that are peculiar to the case and that those special and unique conditions are not directly attributable to the actions of the applicant.

The settlement calls for both sides to pause legal activity for at least 90 days or until the City Council makes its decision on the CCCL variance. If the variance is denied, the settlement becomes void and legal action will resume.

The agreement also calls for the developer and the city to pay their own attorneys’ fees and costs. Boca Raton lawyer Robert Sweetapple, who represents Azure and its affiliate, has said the legal tabs on his side exceed $1 million.

“Obviously we’re pleased that we’re moving forward,” he said after the council’s vote to settle.

The Azure team is waiting to see the city staff’s report continued on page 13

The 2600 N. Ocean home design has two living floors, basement and rooftop terrace with pool. Renderings provided

EV

Continued from page 1

“We’re erring on the side of safety.”

Throughout south Palm Beach County, fire department leaders are spreading the word about the hazards that come with charging electric vehicles inside a garage and with keeping batteries for electric recreational vehicles indoors.

They are clear in their belief that EVs are safe and are not discouraging their use, but at the same time, they want to be sure the public understands what could — in very rare instances — happen.

“We just want the residents of multi-family buildings to be aware of the hazards and to take appropriate precautions,” said Highland Beach Fire Chief Glenn Joseph.

One of the most important steps that residents and condo boards can take to reduce the risk, according to Boynton Beach Fire Marshal Jon Raybuck, is to make sure all charging stations are installed according to recommended codes and are done with a permit.

“Unverified work may increase the chances of a charging station malfunctioning due to improper installation,” said Raybuck, whose department also provides fire protection service to Ocean Ridge and Briny Breezes.

If and when the charging station or rechargeable electric vehicle batteries malfunction, they pose a major threat to structures as well as to firefighters, who still haven’t figured out how to effectively extinguish the blaze.

“When the batteries go

Continued from page 12

on Azure’s current variance application either this month or in October, he said, then for hearings before the city’s Environmental Advisory Board and the City Council itself.

“There’s nothing else to be done other than those hearings,” Sweetapple said.

Azure originally wanted to build a duplex on the parcel with four living floors, an uninhabitable basement and a rooftop terrace with pool. It now wants to construct a single-family residence with two living floors, the basement and rooftop terrace with pool.

The four-bedroom home would have 6,931 square feet of airconditioned space. The rooftop would also have a gym room, a summer kitchen and a spa.

The new design has 2,550 square feet of glass facing the Atlantic Ocean, down about 29% from the original plan’s 3,600 square feet.

“In keeping with the city’s suggestion to maintain modest home designs, the house has been thoughtfully designed to harmonize with its surroundings,” the

Electric vehicle charging

Fire safety leaders recommend following these steps when installing electric vehicle chargers and when charging:

Install chargers in accordance with current codes and always get a permit.

Use manufacturer recommended products when charging. Avoid using an extension cord.

Avoid storing rechargeable batteries, especially those for e-bikes and scooters, in a dwelling.

Avoid charging rechargeable batteries unattended.

Charge electric vehicles outdoors, whenever possible.

Source: Palm Beach County Fire Marshal’s Office

haywire, they go haywire in a big way,” Joseph said.

The fires in electric vehicles burn much hotter than most traditional fires and are so intense that the most prescribed method of putting them out is not trying to do it at all.

Instead, firefighters, armed with the knowledge that pouring water on the fire or trying to smother it won’t work well, will find a way to get the vehicle out of a parking garage and then just let it burn itself out.

“Right now, we’re working on a better process to put the fire out,” said Dave DeRita, the fire marshal for Palm Beach County Fire Rescue, which provides service to South Palm Beach and Manalapan.

Unlike traditional batteries, those used in EVs and e-bikes and scooters have their own internal fuel source and don’t require oxygen. If those battery fires can be put out at all, they often will reignite hours later.

“It’s a very hot fire and a very bright fire,” said Highland Beach Fire Marshal Matt Welhaf. “Fire sprinkler systems can’t keep it in check. There’s not enough water.”

Those hot fires — which can be triggered by overcharging,

long-term exposure to standing water or other damage to the battery — spread rapidly and often create damage that can harm a building’s structural integrity.

One of the problems for fire prevention officials, Welhaf and others in the fire safety business say, is that battery technology is moving so fast that it’s difficult for them to keep up.

“Our suppression techniques haven’t caught up with the technology,” Joseph said.

At the same time, manufacturers are focusing on ways to keep the batteries from going up in flames.

“As the battery technology improves, the hazard will be reduced,” Joseph said.

One manufacturer, according to the county’s DeRita, is developing a solid-state battery, which will be less likely to cause a fire.

Until that happens, fire department leaders are recommending that condo boards and others in multifamily buildings install car-charging stations outdoors.

“We rather they not be in a garage,” Welhaf said. But if that is where they need to be, they should be easily accessible to firefighters who will need to pull

project’s architect wrote in his submission to the city’s Development Services Department.

2600 N Ocean LLC appealed the City Council’s 2019 denial of a CCCL variance to the Palm Beach County Circuit Court. In September 2020, a three-judge panel ordered a rehearing of the CCCL variance request and disqualified then-Council members Andrea O’Rourke and Monica Mayotte from voting on it based on email messages they sent to constituents and to each other that showed they were not impartial.

Also in 2019, Azure sued the city alleging a violation of the state’s Public Records Act over

them out. “The difficulty for us is access.”

Batteries for electric bikes and scooters should not be kept indoors at all, fire safety officials say.

“Improper use of these devices, charger failure or the utilization of incorrect charging cables may increase the risk of fire associated with them,” Boynton Beach’s Raybuck said.

Batteries on electric bikes and scooters are more exposed than those in electric cars and more susceptible to damage, such as when the bike falls. The damage could cause failures.

Because electric car batteries are more protected, they are less at risk of being damaged but are still at risk of overheating when charging.

While fire safety officials and building officials have building and electrical codes that can be used to ensure chargers are installed properly, there are no statewide or county regulations regarding where chargers can be placed or where electric bikes and scooters can be placed.

“There’s not a code that regulates the charging unit,” DeRita said.

Welhaf said that could be changing, but not for a few years.

The Florida Legislature has authorized the Division of State Fire Marshal to begin the process of drafting rules, but that takes time, Welhaf said.

Still, the topic remains a big issue for people in the fire safety industry and will be discussed this month during a statewide symposium organized by the marshal’s office.

In the interim, Stern and his board have stepped in and passed requirements and are working with residents to

undeveloped beachfront parcel, U.S. District Judge Rodney Smith disqualified O’Rourke, Mayotte and Mayor Singer from involvement in future issues regarding development

implement them in a way that is acceptable. Highlands Place is the first condo in Highland Beach to implement such restrictions and possibly the first in Palm Beach County.

To accommodate the residents with electric vehicles, the condo board is making space available outside the garage for a leased charger. Residents who use the charger will pay for the electricity they use and the cost of installation will be covered by a resident who volunteered to foot the bill.

Any resident with electric bikes or scooters will be required to store the batteries outside the building. Should they wish, they can purchase a fireproof battery locker that will be installed on condo property. Wheelchairs and similar items are exempt from the restrictions in order to comply with ADA rules.

Highlands Place, at 2901 S. Ocean Blvd., also now requires residents of gasolinepowered vehicles to use battery maintainers, rather than trickle chargers, to keep the battery from dying. The maintainers automatically shut off when the battery is charged. Condo maintenance will check the maintainers every two weeks to make sure they’re working properly.

Stern said that residents have been in agreement with the changes.

“The pushback has been nonexistent,” he said.

Stern said the building has been working with Welhaf and others in the fire department and hopes other buildings will follow Highlands Place’s lead.

“We want to be an example of safety first,” he said. P

there, similarly citing bias on their part. Smith’s final judgment in that case was handed down in March. P

its late or non-production of officials’ electronic messages.

Last February, Circuit Judge Donald Hafele in a case concerning public records requests said Facebook Messenger messages that then-Council member Jeremy Rodgers sent to a constituent also showed bias against the Azure proposal.

The judge noted that “timely production of the Rodgers Facebook Messenger exchanges might well have led to a determination that a majority of Council members had prejudged 2600’s application” and ordered the city to pay Azure’s attorneys’ fees.

In a separate matter brought by the owner of 2500 N. Ocean Blvd., Boca Raton’s only other

The proposed 2600 N. Ocean home as viewed from A1A.

LONELY

Continued from page 1

of Florida and The Little Club are like ghost towns along A1A from Ocean Ridge to Delray Beach. Luggage carts are empty and sad out front. The tennis courts are under maintenance and the golf courses are being aerated.

‘Kind of quiet, subdued’

At Crown Colony, a cumulonimbus cloud does a hit-and-run, drenching the facility. Then, there is suddenly life, in the corner of the near-empty parking lot where several cars are covered. It’s affable Paul Smith. He’s building new downspouts and lifting bricks into a wheelbarrow.

“During the summer, when everybody’s gone, is when we do the major work. When everybody’s here, it’s crowded, it’s busy. Almost every spot in the parking lot is taken,” said Smith, who is the treasurer of the condo association. “Now it’s kind of quiet, subdued. So we have four or five months of just total chaos and then six or seven months of nice and calm.”

Smith is hardly alone in taking on construction projects. Trucks and vans advertising on their sides all types of renovation work — marble tile, kitchen counters, air conditioning — dot the side of A1A and stand in driveways of condo complexes on the oceanside. Ladders and scaffolding hang like jewelry off of buildings and homes.

“When all the snowbirds go home, and then we get to work on their houses, and then they come back and they’re all finished, like magic,” said Mike Monaco of Palm Beach Trim, just leaving a job at Casa Serena in Gulf Stream.

Across the street from Casa Serena, a police car sits, discouraging speeders. Upon closer inspection, nobody is in the driver seat. Though this is a common tactic year-round, it adds to the summer’s deserted feeling.

Police Capt. John Haseley agreed that summer is slower, but said that before COVID-19, the difference between summer and winter was more pronounced. The pandemic brought many younger year-round residents

Off-season population ebb

South Florida’s busy season generally runs from October to May, with many residences emptying as the hot summer months approach. How big is the population drop-off from the season’s peak to the summer doldrums? Take a look. The decline is calculated by dividing the additional seasonal population by the combined U.S. Census and additional seasonal population totals. Municipality

security desk at Beach Walk East Condominium in Highland Beach, said, “I read, do my crossword puzzles, watch TV and occasionally look at the monitor. I like being alone.”

... and from residents

A common sentiment found among year-round residents: Yes, it’s more lonely in the summertime — but it’s a good change of pace from the go-go of the tourist season.

Ann Carmody is tooling down A1A on her golf cart, back from a hobby club where she said they were making quilts for disabled people. She said five residents decided to stay the summer on her street in Briny Breezes.

When asked if she was anticipating seeing her neighbors return, Carmody said, “It’s good and it’s bad. It’s really good to see the friends again and all the parties — but it gets more crowded.”

Source: Palm Beach County planning division: Palm Beach County Profile, updated May 17.

who have changed the demographics somewhat, he said.

“There’s a fair amount of seasonal still, but nothing like it used to be,” Haseley said.

Traffic remains the top priority whether it be in the summer — yes, those construction trucks ignore the empty squad cars if speed is an indicator — or the increased resident traffic in the winter. Despite the empty homes, one crime statistic has remained static.

“I can’t even tell you how long it’s been since we had a residential burglary,” Haseley said.

Views from workers ...

Christien Pittman, the owner of Titan Security who has overseen Ocean Place Estates in Highland Beach for the last 14 years, says this summer he has been surprised to see an uptick in homeless individuals moving through this wealthy community. He sees them walking down with their shopping carts on A1A. He sees them being roused by police from their sleep in the morning.

“Last month, there were some people under the stairs here. I saw them on my camera,” Pittman said. “So I go down there and there’s a whole family. It was two kids and a man and his wife.”

Pittman says he is not lonely because he knows the neighborhood, the fulltime residents. He points across the street. “I’ve seen the kids grow up. They’ve seen me get older,” he said.

While Pittman is content, others who work at resorts and complexes say summer can be taxing in a dull sort of way.

Valet David Olmos, 23, is waiting for anybody needing his services outside of the Delray Sands Resort — which is actually in Highland Beach. “It does get lonely,” Olmos said.  “I do have the front desk person to talk to.”

Olmos said he was still mourning the cat Sandy who lived at the complex for years and died recently.

One security guard at a complex in Delray Beach who asked that his name or building not be printed said he spends the summer “watching the grass grow.”

Robert Rourke, who works the

At Seagate Towers in Delray Beach, where one of the 13-story high-rises had 15 people living there in August, Ron Mitchell is trying out his new knee, taking out his bike for the first time since replacement surgery.

“I was in the wine business for a while, so when it’s more crowded, obviously, there’s more money, right? But it’s not bad, you know, you are able to park, you are able to get to the beach,” Mitchell said.

At the St. Andrews Club, Blakely Ashley Larrabee has flown in from Delaware with her husband and two children. She says her parents own a condo across the street. “It’s not much hotter in Delaware than it is here. You get the nice ocean breeze and it’s not as crowded on Atlantic Avenue.”

Back at Crown Colony, count Smith as one of those who likes the vibe in the lonely season.

“Well, it’s kind of nice, actually, in the summertime where it’s kind of empty,” he said. “You go to the pool. It’s like your private pool, right? During the wintertime, you can’t find a seat.”

Then he thinks for a moment and adds, “But you know, it’s also nice having the members here too, because we all know each other, right? We’re friends, we hang out.” P

LEFT: Christien Pittman, owner of Titan Security, oversees Ocean Place Estates in Highland Beach. RIGHT: David Olmos works as a valet at Delray Sands Resort. How to deal with the off-season? Pittman says he knows the neighborhood’s full-timers. Olmos can chat up the front desk person. Photos by Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

Continued from page 1

But construction has proceeded at a snail’s pace, with seemingly little progress made in the last year even as rumors swirled about reasons for the delay. Many residents regard the unfinished buildings just north of the intersection of Camino Real and Federal Highway as an eyesore.

“In fact, as of the date of this complaint, the entire structure of the (Mandarin Oriental) condominium is still just a few steps beyond a concrete shell and a closing is far off into the future,” several of the lawsuits state.

All along, Penn-Florida officials have insisted nothing is amiss. Speaking to The Coastal Star in 2023, Penn-Florida Chief Operating Officer David Warne said the COVID-19 pandemic did cause some disruption, but completion was only a few months behind schedule. Company officials also have said they have adequate financing.

Suits seek deposit refunds

Michael and Elyse Filon of Highland Beach filed suit on July 8 to recoup $697,500 in deposit money. They subsequently resolved the matter and voluntarily dismissed their suit on July 31.

Trisha and Michael Polk, also of Highland Beach, filed suit on July 29 to get back nearly $2.3 million in deposit money. They voluntarily dismissed their case on Aug. 19.

Attorneys for both couples did not provide specifics on how much compensation they received. Adrian Alvarez, who represented the Polks, said the settlement agreement was confidential.

Three cases remained open as of Aug. 29:

• Frank and Nancy Scala, now renting an apartment in Boca Raton, placed deposits totaling nearly $1.3 million and sued on Aug. 13.

• Robert and Brenda Needleman of Boca Raton filed suit on Aug. 22 to recoup nearly $1.8 million.

• Erinn Starcher, who placed deposits on two units totaling over $1.3 million, sued on Aug. 23.

More lawsuits may be in the offing.

James Ferrara, a former Palm Beach County Circuit Court judge who represented the Filons and continues to represent the Scalas, said he has additional clients who are attempting to get their money back. If that fails, he anticipated litigation.

After speaking with The Coastal Star on Aug. 16, he filed suit on behalf of the Needlemans and Starcher.

The defendant in each of the cases is Via Mizner Owner III LLC, which is Penn-Florida’s project name for the condo building.

Penn-Florida said in a statement that it cannot comment on pending litigation,

but the company honored the terms of purchase agreements.

“The overwhelming majority of our future Residents are excited to be a part of this exceptional development,” the statement said. “However, we understand that, over time, circumstances may change for a small percentage of Residents. In such cases, we will continue to not only honor our agreements, but endeavor to be as flexible as possible in accommodating their needs, just as we have done thus far.”

Scale of complaints unclear

Because of its stance that it can’t comment on pending litigation, the company did not answer questions such as whether it had fully reimbursed buyers who had voluntarily dismissed their cases and how many other buyers have requested and received reimbursement without resorting to litigation.

Ferrara and Alvarez said they did not know how many other would-be owners sought and received reimbursement without filing suit.

But Ferrara has heard that other people did get their money back.

“I have been told through the grapevine it is very haphazard as far as who gets their money back. There was a couple that just got $2 million back yesterday,” he said on Aug. 16. “Their situation is no different” than that of the Scalas.

“Certain people get their funds back and others don’t,” he said. “That seems a little unfair.”

The lawsuits state that the purchase agreements the buyers signed specify that their units “shall be” completed and delivered within three years after the estimated completion date. Failure to do so would place Penn-Florida in default of the agreements. The deadlines had passed before the lawsuits were filed.

The Filons signed a purchase agreement in 2018, with an estimated completion date in November 2020. The Scalas signed in April 2021 with an estimated completion date that June. The Polks signed in March 2021 with an estimated completion date that June.

The Needlemans signed a

purchase agreement in August 2019 with the unit to be completed in June 2021. Starcher signed purchase agreements in June and September 2020 with completion dates in June 2021.

When Penn-Florida’s closing deadline passed for the Scalas on June 30, Ferrara sent a demand letter to Penn-Florida’s attorney. After getting no response, he asked when the money would be forthcoming.

In an email, that lawyer said, “We spoke to the client. They do not agree the buyer is entitled to the return of his deposits and are prepared to contest any legal action.” Ferrara asked the legal basis for that decision. When two weeks passed without a response, the Scalas authorized Ferrara to file the lawsuit, he said.

Anticipating they would be moving, the Scalas had sold their home and moved into a two-bedroom rental near the Mandarin Oriental project site. They can’t buy somewhere else without getting their deposits back, Ferrara said.

In the Polks’ case, their

Sign of things to come Key West — Aug. 30

closing also was to take place no later than June 30. Their closing attorney made inquiries about getting the money back, but did not get a response. So litigator Alvarez took over, sending two demand letters on June 17 and July 1 asking for the money but also hearing nothing.

“We were left with no other option but to file a lawsuit,” Alvarez said. “My clients are simply enforcing their contract rights because they are no longer willing to wait.”

But it’s not just the long wait time, he said. “They had no idea when (the condo building) was going to be done.”

Company ‘confident’

Partially addressing why the condo building is taking so long to complete, PennFlorida’s statement cited the complexity of the very large project encompassing more than 2 million square feet and “a variety of outside influences since COVID.”

Boca Raton attorney Robert Sweetapple, who represents Penn-Florida, said a clause in

the purchase contracts allows for project completion delays that result from bad weather and difficulty getting construction materials such as cement and windows.

The pandemic caused supply disruptions and the huge size of the project necessitated more materials than suppliers could provide, he said.

If the case goes to trial, “our expert will establish June 30 was not the contract closing date,” he said, adding that he is “very confident” Penn-Florida will prevail in court.

The project continues to attract buyers, he said. For those who no longer want to complete their purchase, “the irony is these units are going to sell now for more” than the original purchase price.

“We have had limited requests to back out on the contract,” Sweetapple said.

Litigation against PennFlorida is not limited to wouldbe condo owners.

In its Aug. 13 lawsuit, Areda Construction of Miami Lakes said it had not been paid $1.8 million for concrete work it started in 2021 and finished in 2023 on the Mandarin Oriental hotel building.

Strategic Group Builders of Miami, which was engaged to provide construction management services for the hotel and the condo building, filed its lawsuit on Aug. 23. The company said it has not been paid nearly $1.7 million for its work.

Both of those lawsuits were voluntarily dismissed on Aug. 29.

Alex Barthet, the Miami attorney representing Areda, said the company and PennFlorida had reached an agreement “that is satisfactory to both sides.” P

The Mandarin Oriental hotel and condominiums on Aug. 31. Not much has changed in its exterior appearance in the past two years. The attorney for the developer says the condo units continue to attract buyers. Jerry Lower/The Coastal Star

Key West, synonymous with Margaritaville, received the first sign designating State Road A1A in Florida as the Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway. Eventually, the new markers should be erected statewide, including along A1A in Palm Beach County. ABOVE: Buffett’s sister Lucy makes remarks at the private unveiling of the new signage one day prior to its public unveiling. Photo provided by Heather Jones, Margaritaville Enterprises

South Palm Beach News

Town manager reviewed — Town Manager Jamie Titcomb received positive remarks from Town Council members as part of his annual evaluation on Aug. 12. Unlike previous managers, Titcomb, who earns $82 per hour, is part-time and limited to 25 hours a week. His two-year contract expires in June of next year.

Council members rated him in various administrative categories from one to five, with five being the strongest. His overall scores from the four council members ranged from four to five.

Mayor Bonnie Fischer called for better communication and said Titcomb needed to do a better job of keeping the council apprised of details, such as the new people that are working in Town Hall.

Fischer also wanted to know how the manager was doing with hours, since early on he was spending more time at work than his contract allowed.

“I’m pretty much staying within my cap,” Titcomb answered. “There are some weeks when the sewer main breaks, or I have to come in after hours for something, that can bump my hours. But averaging out, I think I’m in pretty good shape.”

Titcomb thanked the council for the good scores and said he would take to heart the areas for improvement. The review won’t affect his salary but is a condition of his contract.

Virtual attendance allowed — The council voted to amend town law to allow its members, as well as members of town boards, to occasionally attend meetings virtually, by phone or other digital means. However, a quorum must be established in person, according to Town Attorney Ben Saver.

The amendment, Saver said, puts into words what is already the practice. No definition was given for what “occasionally” meant.

Even though the Town Council was reduced to four members after the resignation of former Vice Mayor Bill LeRoy in April — and the council is choosing to leave the seat vacant until the 2026 elections rather than fill it as the Town Charter provides — it still takes three council members to make a quorum.

Council member Ray McMillan, who attended the Aug. 13 meeting by phone, wanted to know if virtual attendance had any effect on salaries. Saver said it did not. Members receive $600 a month, with the exception of the mayor, who is paid $1,000.

Deputy honored again — Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Deputy Donna Korb was recognized as Deputy of the Month after her lifesaving efforts involving a resident who cut her left arm while moving a glass tabletop in her condo. Korb arrived at Southgate Condominiums on May 21 ahead of paramedics and applied a tourniquet to stop the bleeding. When paramedics arrived, they applied another tourniquet and administered additional care.

“Deputy Korb’s quick action was instrumental in the lifesaving effort,” said Sgt. Mark Garrison, who made the presentation.

In May, Korb was honored after rescuing a 68-year-old swimmer who struggled to stay afloat off the shores of South Palm Beach.

New Community Affairs board member appointed — Elenora Levin was appointed to serve a two-year term on the Community Affairs Advisory Board. Levin, who lives in the Barclay Condominiums, has held leadership roles at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and St. John’s University in New York and has experience in grant writing. In her application, Levin said she has a strong ability to take initiative and make decisions based on facts.

— Mary Thurwachter

South Palm Beach/Lantana

Added beach sand may arrive this winter

By Mary Thurwachter

Some good news on the beach front. The long-awaited project to add sand could begin as soon as January. South Palm Beach Mayor Bonnie Fischer made that announcement during a Town Council meeting on Aug. 13.

“I spoke to Public Works Director H. Paul Brazil of Palm Beach and he’s starting the dune restoration project probably in January,” she said. “One hurdle they have to get through is to get permission from Lake Worth Beach in order to get access for the heavy equipment to come down south of Lake Worth’s beach to get to South Palm Beach.

“If this is accomplished, and we get the project going, I was told they will not charge South Palm Beach anything for placing the sand. All we have to pay for is the sand, and I thought that was very generous.”

Fischer said she would be in close contact with Palm Beach and find out more as January approaches.

The first phase of the town of Palm Beach dune restoration project was completed in May 2021 for $739,000.

The second phase has been planned for several years, the result of an interlocal agreement among Palm Beach, South Palm Beach and Lantana. Since South Palm Beach has no public beach, truck access had previously been planned by way of Lantana’s public beach. But the latest proposal would utilize Lake Worth Beach for that purpose.

Trucks will likely transport the sand from a stockpile at Phipps Ocean Park.

Lantana has yet to decide if it will participate in the project, but its town manager, Brian Raducci, is optimistic.

“Assuming it is economically feasible for the town of Lantana, it is my hope to be able to participate in this exciting and important project and bring about this vital beach improvement to our residents and visitor,” he said.

Since the current plan is to use Lake Worth Beach for

South Palm Beach

access, Raducci said “they should not need beach access through Dorothy Rissler (Lane) as originally planned.”

Raducci, like Fischer, is awaiting an estimate of what should be expected for a unit rate for sand and an estimate of the quantity that each would need based on current conditions.

“Everything will be based on how much dry beach they have to work with in both the town of South Palm Beach and Lantana,” Raducci said.

Raducci said Lantana did not anticipate reimbursing the town of Palm Beach for the cost of the sand; that was originally proposed in exchange for the use of Dorothy Rissler Lane for access, “which apparently is no longer needed.”

“They are going to reach out to Palm Beach County ERM to see if they have any funds available to help place sand in Lantana,” he said. “Once that is all worked out, we would need to enter into a new interlocal agreement in order to move forward.” P

Town’s tax rate likely to remain the same

By Mary Thurwachter

South Palm Beach residents can expect the budget for FY 2025 to look much like this year’s with the same — or possibly slightly lower — tax rate. So said Town Manager Jamie Titcomb, who discussed the proposed budget during a workshop on Aug. 12.

While all the numbers were not yet ready to be plugged into the document, Titcomb said he was proposing to keep the same rate as this year — $3.40 per $1,000 of taxable value.

The current valuation of the town is up 10% over last year and using the $3.40 rate, based on usual calculations,

would generate an additional $192,722 in revenue.

Any extra money, the town manager suggested, would go in a contingency fund to take care of transitional expenses connected to building a new Town Hall.

In July, the council signed a design contract for the new governmental center with CPZ Architects of Fort Lauderdale.

During a special meeting with staff and the architect’s representative on Aug. 29, the council unanimously voted to adopt the proposed first phase of the architectural program.

“Starting the following week and into the coming weeks, we will begin implementation of scheduled one-on-one meetings with council members for their input and priorities with the architects and their team,” Titcomb said. “We are anticipating scheduling of community input meetings to follow shortly thereafter. We will also begin to initiate ancillary site studies, surveys, and geotechnical phases necessary for design conditions affected by site configuration requirements.”

Update reports will be given at most every Town Council meeting going forward, Titcomb said. “Everyone is excited and motivated to get the project started and

progressing efficiently.”

The new building will cost about $4 million, but the town won’t have to borrow or raise money for it.

“You guys collectively with previous councils have been very prudent and conservative and had foresight to put away money over time, which is in our investment accounts,” Titcomb told the council.

One of the largest expenses in the $2.7 million budget is the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office contract, which is increasing 2% for an additional cost of $22,279. The total cost for the contract will be $1,136,223.

Budget hearings are set for 5:01 p.m. Sept. 9 and Sept. 16 and the town could lower the property tax rate as late as the second hearing.

But at least one council member, Vice Mayor Monte Berendes, said that while lowering the rate sounds “wonderful,” it may not be the best idea this year. It was a switch for Berendes, who in July had said it might be “a good year to give the residents a break” on their taxes.

“With the building going up and our expenses, I don’t think we can afford doing that,” he said at the August meeting. “I don’t think lowering it would make that much of a difference.” P

Briny

Breezes

Town awarded $8.6 million in state and federal matching grants

Residents agitated by news removed for disrupting meeting

By Steve Plunkett

Briny Breezes has qualified for a $7.2 million grant from the state to upgrade its stormwater drainage system and raise its sea walls.

The Town Council authorized Mayor Ted Gross to formally accept the grant as well as a $1.4 million federal grant at its Aug. 22 meeting, but the council had to take a recess, directing police to ask several opponents of the grants to leave after they disrupted the meeting.

Hanna Tillotson, grants administrator for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Resilient Florida program, alerted Town Manager Bill Thrasher three days before the meeting that the money would soon be available.

“The Program will be providing you with a formal notice of grant award and

Proposed code changes target turtles, lights and fires on the beach

By Steve Plunkett

Briny Breezes is taking steps to clarify that fires on the beach are banned during turtle nesting season and require a permit from November through February.

After inconclusive discussions on April 25, May 23 and July 25 followed by a somewhat heated hour-long workshop on Aug. 15, town aldermen on Aug. 22 approved on first reading an update to the town’s ordinances on sea turtles, artificial lighting and fires on the beach.

“This ordinance has had a fairly robust history to this point,” Town Attorney Keith Davis said as he started the Aug. 22 conversation.

If approved on a second reading, the changes will allow amber, orange or red lights, which sea turtles cannot see, to be visible from the beach instead of insisting only that lights be shielded or aimed away from the sand. The dates of sea turtle nesting season will be corrected to say March 1 to Oct. 31. The code will prohibit fires on the beach during nesting season and require a town permit at other times of the year. Permits will not be needed for small enclosed fires or propane-generated fires, although rubbish fires will be banned.

“You’ll be happy to hear that I’ve read through and I like it the way that it is. I think it represents everything that we ended up discussing,” Mayor Ted Gross said.

The idea of updating the ordinance began in February when Michael Gallacher, general manager of Briny Breezes Inc.,

asked if a permit would be necessary to build a bonfire on the beach. Davis and colleague Trey Nazzaro quickly noticed that the town code incorrectly said turtle nesting season started on April 1 and devised some other suggested changes.

When the changes were presented at the workshop session, Gross was the strongest critic.

“One of the things that we talked over and over again is about the color scheme that renders the light safe for turtles,” he said then.

“In the memorandum that the lawyers sent us, we can add that to the ordinance,” Council President Liz Loper said.

“Frankly I thought that’s what we were having them do. I thought we’d come to this meeting with that already done,”

Gross responded. “I’m kind of baffled because I thought when we came to this meeting we’d be discussing it in the form we had already discussed. But it looks like we’re going all the way back to stage one. … We’ve done this five or four times. Why is this never updated?”

Even with a permit at the right time of the year, someone would not be able to light a bonfire on the beach if it was a “no burn” day, Police Chief Scott McClure said. He said his department would check with Palm Beach County on the day of the planned fire to see if weather conditions would allow it.

The proposed ordinances will return to the council for a second reading at a future meeting. P

Brannen, board president, hailed the “incredibly positive news” as “a huge step in the right direction.”

While Briny Breezes has to come up with matching dollars to receive either grant, Thrasher said he and the town’s consultants are optimistic that still more grant money will be available.

“Our objective is that it won’t cost one penny to any resident. That’s the objective,” Thrasher said to the handful of doubters who attended the meeting. “Is it possible? Is it a realistic objective? I want you to listen to me. It is 100% possible. And your negativity is not helping anything whatsoever.”

next steps, but DEP wanted to provide you with this notice of grant award in order to secure the Town’s federal grant funding award for this project,” she wrote.

Thrasher said he wanted Gross authorized to sign the paperwork ahead of time so the council would not have to schedule a special meeting to do so.

In a note to corporation shareholders, Michael Gallacher, general manager of Briny Breezes Inc., and Susan

The opponents in the audience said they did not want to be saddled with paying back grants, that the grant items were added to the council’s agenda the day before the meeting, and that the decision to accept them should be put to a vote of the residents.

“You were not even elected. You were appointed,” resident James Arena complained.

At one point the opponents of the grants grew rowdy. Council President Liz Loper loudly hammered her gavel on the dais and declared a recess. Police asked some to leave for being disruptive.

Gross was also appointed as

the council’s liaison to lobby County Commissioner Marci Woodward for possible financial assistance on the sea wall work, a role previously taken by Mayor Gene Adams, who resigned last year.

“I did work with Commissioner Woodward for a little bit on that and it is the opportunity to get money back to pay for the grants,” Adams said at the meeting.

The town was awarded the $1.4 million “pre-disaster mitigation” grant in March but then had to complete a complicated application process by June 28 to get it.

Thrasher said he will recommend using $3.5 million of the state and federal grants on the drainage work. He hopes to use the remainder and find an additional $7.2 million for the sea wall construction.

He and consultants Brizaga Inc. and Engenuity Group Inc. have been working for more than three years to identify the effects of sea level rise on aging sea walls and to find money to fix them. A Flooding Adaptation Plan in 2021 recommended installing a multi-pump drainage system, pumping station and discharge pipes to help eliminate road flooding and prevent damage to personal property and homes. P

Ocean Ridge Police Chief Scott McClure (right) and Lt. Aaron Tobin talk with longtime resident Edith Behm before escorting her and other residents out of the Briny Breezes Town Council meeting last month. Jerry Lower/The Coastal Star

MEET YOUR NEIGHBOR: Tatyana Nektalova

One of the nicest perks dermatologist Tatyana Nektalova has found since her move from New York City to South Palm Beach two years ago has been the difference in her commute.

“In New York it was an hour on the Long Island Expressway into Manhattan,’’ the skin doctor said. “Now it’s a 10-minute walk. It’s the best part of my day. I love it.”

A former chief resident of the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital, Nektalova, 35, left her practice in Tribeca during the coronavirus pandemic when businesses closed for several months. She decided to relocate to coastal Palm Beach County, where she realized the barrier islands were lacking any dermatology facility.

“I had been looking in Boca, Palm Beach, West Palm Beach when I was walking past this shop (in Plaza Del Mar) and didn’t realize we had missed it,” she said. “It was zoned for retail, so it wasn’t coming up in our searches.”

Nektalova resolved that issue by presenting her case to officials from the town of Manalapan, who opted to make an exception. Then the real work began as she set about establishing her practice, Dermatology & Aesthetics of Palm Beach.

“I got the approval from the commission in January (2023) and signed the lease in March. Then I had to find an architect who understood our vision, and then the construction to build a 2,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art office with everything in terms of cutting-edge treatments.”

While waiting for it to open, which happened this past April, Nektalova signed up to provide concierge services, seeing more than 100 patients. That has helped her establish a client base that has continued to grow, albeit slowly, during the off-season.

“The whole practice has been built through word of mouth, no advertising or marketing,” she said. “I’ve been super grateful to the community. I’m trying to fill a very big unmet need.”

Nektalova says she had a severe skin condition called polymorphous light eruption while growing up.

“This itchy, and sometimes painful, rash would emerge with sun exposure,” she said. “Each summer, I was the kid that was restricted to swimming outdoors after dusk and was forced to always wear an oversized T-shirt and wide-brimmed hat to protect my skin. This experience profoundly shaped my life, giving me a window into what my patients are going through, especially the little ones.”

Recognized by her peers as one of New York’s “Super Doctors” yearly from 2019 to 2022, Nektalova also established a mentorship program with impressive results. Invited several years ago to speak at an event for aspiring medical students, she connected afterward with several of them.

“One of my mentees is now a dermatology resident at my alma mater, Mount Sinai Hospital, and we’ve published a paper together. I’ve been able to connect her with the chairman of Mount Sinai Hospital, who got her involved in research, and I’ve tried to keep in touch and be helpful when I can,” Nektalova said.

“Many of my students are now physicians’ assistants, nurses, nurse practitioners, so I really enjoy taking on that role and getting involved, so it’s not

just a job where they’re handing me a scalpel. I want them to learn, I want them to be engaged, get hands-on experience, which is as good as it gets.”

She hopes to establish a similar program with students in the Palm Beach area.

Driving around the area with its beaches, Nektalova said she is sometimes alarmed at how casually people can respond to the dangers of the sun’s rays.

“You can enjoy daily activities, you can go to the beach, you can go for a walk or run; you just have to do them safely,” she said. “Sun protection is important: wearing sunscreen, a hat, glasses, SPFprotected clothing, and avoiding peak hours.

“I don’t think dermatologists want to scare people,” she said. “They just want them to be a little bit wiser in their decisions.”

— Brian Biggane

Q: Where did you grow up and go to school? How do you think that has influenced you?

A: I grew up in Brooklyn, New York, within a Bukharan Jewish family that fled the Soviet Union as refugees in the early 1990s. This background influenced my perspective and aspirations, instilling in me a pursuit of the American dream and an unwavering emphasis on education.

The challenges my family faced taught me resilience, which became crucial as I navigated the rigorous academic demands of the Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education.

This accelerated bachelor of sciencedoctor of medicine program not only honed my commitment to excellence but also reinforced the values of hard work instilled by my immigrant experience.

Medicine, both noble and compassionate, naturally became the pinnacle of profession for me.

Q: What professions have you worked in? What professional accomplishments are you most proud of?

A:: Over the past decade, I have worked as a physician, specializing in medical, cosmetic and surgical dermatology. My training at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, where I served as chief resident, laid a strong foundation for my career. I previously practiced in SoHo, Tribeca and the Upper East Side neighborhoods of Manhattan, caring for adults and children.

I am most proud of founding Dermatology & Aesthetics of Palm Beach, a concierge dermatology practice at Plaza Del Mar in Manalapan. My goal with this venture is to build a practice where I can develop deep connections with my patients and offer unparalleled personalized care. I strive to make every person feel seen and be heard, which I believe is central to the essence of medicine and human experience.

Q: What advice do you have for a young person seeking a career today?

A: Focus on being of service to others. Finding fulfillment and gratification often comes from making a positive impact on people’s lives. Follow your internal compass, the place where your personality aligns with your soul’s purpose, and you will not miss.

Q: How did you choose to make your home in South Palm Beach?

A: Like many New Yorkers, I escaped to Palm Beach County during the pandemic and am happy to now call it home.

Q: What is your favorite part about living in South Palm Beach?

A: My walk to work. The palm trees, ocean breeze and sunshine ground me.

Q: What book are you reading now?

A: I am an avid reader. The book I

am currently reading, for the second time, is Man’s Search for Meaning, by Viktor Frankl. Profound and compelling, it drives the following message home: “When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.”

Q: What music do you listen to when you want to relax? When you want to be inspired?

A: Andrea Bocelli’s voice can be incredibly soothing. I was lucky to attend one of his most special events at Madison Square Garden, where he performed with his son and daughter. Frank Sinatra’s My Way tells the story of self-determination and inspires confidence in all people.

Q: Have you had mentors in your life? Individuals who have inspired your life decisions?

A: My parents, Svetlana and Daniel. They moved to this country with nothing. Without the ability to formulate a single sentence in English, my father got his first job as a tailor by walking into a local dry cleaner with only a thimble in his pocket, and knowledge of the work he was certain his hands could do. He is now the head tailor for major Hollywood films and television series. My mother, who started out as a medical assistant for a cardiologist, is now the assistant nurse manager of a surgical intensive care unit at a Level 1 trauma center. They are the definition of the American dream and, above all else, good people.

Q: If your life story were to be made into a movie, who would play you?

A: Penelope Cruz. She is deep, authentic, and has reinvented herself over and over again.

Q: Who/what makes you laugh?

A: My nephew, Benjamin. He is 5 years old. Even when he is misbehaving, you can’t help but smile.

Dr. Tatyana Nektalova set up her dermatology practice in Plaza del Mar after realizing that barrier island residents had to cross the bridge and drive a ways to receive this service. Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

Delray Beach

City to replace dead royal palms on Federal, Atlantic

By John Pacenti

Delray Beach Mayor Tom Carney sees the ghosts of dead palm trees. But Carney is not the kid in The Sixth Sense Everyone else can see the stumps, as well.

Carney said residents have grown so used to his complaining about the cut-down royal palm trees on Federal Highway and Atlantic Avenue that they started calling it his “stump speech.”

The city on Sept. 4 planned to begin the process of replacing the eyesores. The first step is for a crew to grind down the stumps and remove the root balls of some 30 trees, Parks Director Sam Metott said.

The palm trees were cut down over the years because they were dying from disease or just old age. Some got hit by cars, Metott said.

“This is something that the mayor really was pushing,” Metott said. “It’s just taken us some time to get the budget allocated and then the purchasing process completed with quotes and bids from the vendors.”

Metott said the stump-grinding will cost taxpayers $25,000.

The issue of the tree stumps bubbled up during public comments at the Aug. 19 City Commission meeting when Mary McCarty, a former Delray Beach and Palm Beach County commissioner, said she has been “nagging” Carney since he came into office about the stumps.

“It sends a message that we don’t care about our town,” McCarty said.

Carney and McCarty said that diseased stumps are just as contagious as diseased trees.

Florida’s palms — not just royals — have been besieged by a bacterial disease

Lantana

for more than a decade, spread by tiny, winged insects commonly known as treehoppers.

McCarty urged the city to employ an arborist so that when the trees are replaced, they are properly taken care of.

City Manager Terrence Moore said in his Aug. 30 newsletter that the city will “develop a landscape plan that will offer specific guidance for palm tree care, removal, and replacement.”

McCarty urged the elected officials and the city manager not to be cheap with the replacements.

“We need to have them replaced with real royal palms,” she said. “I know they’re expensive, but you got … to put it in the budget, four or five of them a year, or some kind of plan.”

Metott couldn’t quote a dollar figure on how much it would cost to replace 30 royal palms. Homeguide.com puts the average price of a fully grown royal palm at between $450 and $650 with installation extra but McCarty said the city might be able to get a bulk deal.

The royal palm Roystonea regia is generally considered to be one of the most beautiful and is a cultural icon in Cuba and the namesake of a village in Palm Beach County.

Another option would be to plant baby or juvenile royal palms — but Metott said municipalities have learned residents aren’t fans of that plan. It takes 20 years for a royal palm to reach maturity.

“People don’t like putting in the smaller ones because it looks small and not grand and it takes years, but it’s very hard and very expensive to plant fully grown royal palms,” he said. P

New restaurants opening at Water Tower Commons

By Mary Thurwachter

It’s been 10 years since 72 acres of state-owned land — once home to the A.G. Holley state tuberculosis hospital — was sold to developers to build Water Tower Commons, the largest development in Lantana’s history.

While construction was slow to begin at the site on Lantana Road between Andrew Redding Road and North Eighth Street, it has since been populated with hundreds of snazzy residential apartments as well as commercial buildings such as Aldi, Wawa, Chick-fil-A and El Car Wash.

New to the mix are Dunkin’, which opened recently, and two restaurants about to open: Panda Express, a casual Chinese eatery, and Carl’s Jr., an American fast-food burger chain.

Another business, Fifth Third Bank, is under construction.

“When new tenants come in, they look to update the master signage program,” said Nicole Dritz, Lantana’s development director.

To that end, they brought in planner Sandra Megrue and her team from Urban

Design Studios, Water Tower’s architectural firm, to address the Town Council on Aug. 12.

“The signage program has already been approved,” Dritz said, “but tenants are requesting a few changes.” For example, Dunkin’ wanted to have twice as many signs as the two it is allowed to have.

Council members held off on approving Dunkin’s request for four signs, but they did like the one that reads “Lantana Runs on Dunkin’.” Dritz said her staff would meet with owners of the coffee and donut shop to discuss a compromise and bring back a proposal later.

The council did approve signs proposed for Panda Express and Carl’s Jr.

Two other Water Tower Commons variances brought forward by Megrue won council approval. One had to do with the landscape plan, in particular a change in some trees planted beside the car wash to better block the view from neighboring houses; another was asking to reconfigure the drive-through lanes at Panda Express and Carl’s Jr.

Megrue said Carl’s Jr. will have outdoor seating, Panda Express will not.

Although it was not part of the variances requested, Vice Mayor Pro Tem Kem Mason was concerned about the noise made by the blowers at the car wash.

“The town manager, Mr. Raducci, and I were both at the very end of the blower and it’s really loud and I was wondering if there’s anything neighborly we could do,” Mason asked, referring to Brian Raducci.

“If you’re that house,” the one closest to the car wash, “I think your property value just sunk a lot.”

Mason said the car wash mufflers aren’t doing enough to buffer the noise. He asked if perhaps a sound barrier wall could be put up or vegetation added at the very end where the blowers are located and where cars drive out.

“It’s just not acceptable for the people that live there,” he said.

Hunter Monsour of Lantana Development Company, part of Megrue’s team of experts, told Mason he would go with him to the car wash to inspect the mufflers to see if anything could be done.

“Maybe nothing can be done, but we have to at least try,” Mason said. P

Reading tutors sought — Library director Kristine Kreidler said the town has teamed up with the Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County to offer tutoring this fall between 3:30 and 5:30 p.m. Thursdays at the library.

“We do need volunteers and have applications,” Kreidler said.

The job does require training.

“The relationship between the students and the tutor is very important, so it does require a commitment as well,” she said.

For more information, call 561-540-5740 or email librarystaff@lantana.org

Stormwater and flooding program — The Town Council voted to establish a comprehensive Stormwater and Flooding Improvement Program.

This was the town’s way of addressing the increasing challenges posed by stormwater runoff and flooding within the coastal community and outlines a proactive approach to mitigating flooding risks by implementing strategies that reduce the runoff and improve drainage infrastructure.

Fence height limit modified — Fences in the public zoning district have been limited to 8 feet but will be allowed to be 10 feet tall, thanks to a modification of town rules. The Town Council was spurred to make the change after the planning commission recommended it. This modification was requested as a result of town staff’s application for a building permit for new fencing at the town’s tennis courts.

— Mary Thurwachter

Lantana News

The stump of a royal palm tree on one side of Federal Highway with four healthy ones on the other side of the road. Jerry Lower/The Coastal Star

Boynton Beach

Commission moves to prevent sale or development of Oyer Park

By Jane Musgrave

A week before Florida officials ignited a firestorm when plans surfaced for a golf course at Jonathan Dickinson State Park, Boynton Beach took steps to make sure Harvey E. Oyer Jr. Park will never be developed.

The move, which brought sighs of relief from dozens of commercial and recreational boaters, came even though there were no plans to develop the 8-acre waterfront park on Federal Highway that is named after a former city mayor, commissioner and pioneer who died in 2010.

“There was never any developer who came through to the city inquiring about developing the park,” City Manager Dan Dugger said after the Aug. 20 City Commission meeting.

Commissioners agreed that a restrictive covenant should be placed on the land to close

a loophole that would have allowed the commercial use or sale of the park, which has a boat ramp that provides access to the Atlantic Ocean.

“We have used it for many years and will continue to use it for many years,” Vice Mayor Aimee Kelley told the dozens of boaters who crowded into the meeting. “We want to protect the park in perpetuity.”

Commercial development, including hotels and restaurants, would be prohibited under the proposal commissioners tentatively embraced. However, commissioners and boaters agreed a tackle shop would be a welcome addition.

If boaters forget ice, bait or other supplies, they have to leave the park to stock up, said Commissioner Thomas Turkin.

“It would be the same way we service the golf course with a private vendor … or the beach,” he said. “The fishing community deserves the same access.”

Turkin said he suggested that

a restrictive covenant be placed on the park after Dugger alerted him that there was nothing that would block most of the park from being turned over to a private developer.

Part of it would be protected because the city accepted a $125,000 grant from the Florida Inland Navigation District to build a dock at the park for the police and fire departments. As part of the grant approval process, the city agreed to keep that part of the park in public hands, Dugger said.

While doing research for the grant, Dugger said it became clear that there was nothing to protect other parts of the park from development.

Dugger noted that the need for the restriction was starkly illustrated in the days after the meeting when the Florida Department of Environmental Protection acknowledged it was considering plans to let a private group build a 600-acre golf course on the 10,500-acre

Jonathan Dickinson State Park, just over the Palm Beach County line in Martin County.

Faced with intense opposition from park lovers, environmentalists and lawmakers, the group withdrew its plans. But, as part of the state’s 2024-2025 Great Outdoors Initiative, development, including hotels and pickleball courts, is being considered in other state parks.

The commission has already recognized the need to protect city parks, Dugger said. In 2023, the commission prohibited development in a passive park next to Leisureville and did the same for Meadows Park.

He “wouldn’t be surprised” if more get the same protection.

Commissioners said they want to make sure the covenant remains in place. A unanimous vote of the commission should be required to lift the restriction, Turkin said.

Boynton resident Susan Oyer, who is the daughter of Harvey

Oyer, said more protection was needed. She suggested that a referendum be required.

Turkin and Commissioners Angela Cruz and Woodrow Hay supported Oyer’s idea. “You should decide, not the people sitting up here,” Hay said.

Kelley sided with City Attorney Shawna Lamb, who said she didn’t think the matter could be decided by referendum. She promised to do additional research before the commission votes on a measure that would prohibit the development of the park.

Mayor Ty Penserga was absent.

The vote will probably come in November or December, Dugger said.

Turkin urged city residents to remain vigilant. “Do not lose sight and make sure you pay attention,” he told those who filled the commission chambers. “Because if you don’t pay attention, things like this will happen.” P

City and Little League make progress in hashing out differences

By John Pacenti

Could there be peace in Mudville?

There seems to be at least a detente between the East Boynton Beach Little League and the city of Boynton Beach. Meanwhile, the league’s players keep bringing home trophies, leaving the drama to the adults.

August, though, started with a new episode of “How the Little League Turns,” when the city severed its contract with the Little League, saying it violated its 2022 contract by failing to pay to be the city’s baseball provider at the sports facility on Woolbright Road.

The Aug. 8 letter did not say how much the Little League owed the city: “Accordingly, the

termination of the agreement will not affect your right to continue to request permits for the use of Little League Park through the Recreation Parks Department. However, a fee will be required to continue to use the park.”

The letter came two days after the Boynton Beach City Commission met in closed session with its lawyer to discuss the litigation the Little League brought against the city for greenlighting the renovation of the field used by the league’s most senior team — thus forcing it to use fields elsewhere in the city.

Then on Aug. 20, the clouds parted and the two frenemies made peace. Commissioners mentioned the barrage of

emails they’ve received on the issue. The Little League asked parents to stand down on attacks — through email or social media — against the city.

In an email the Little League sent out to families, it said negotiations were fruitful in regards to field use “and a longterm partnership.” The Little League said it has confirmed its permit requests for the fall season and that the city has committed $1 million toward T-ball fields and park repairs.

The Little League said a “new sports provider agreement” will be forged to protect field use and future involvement of the Little League in any planned renovations of baseball facilities.

The two sides mutually

buried a much-hated proposal to build a 17,000-square-foot indoor facility at Little League Park.

And, most important, city commissioners at their Sept. 3 meeting recognized the EBBLL’s 11-and-under All-Stars for their state championship this year.

“The city is committed to EBBLL long-term and wants to support us,” the email to parents and coaches went on. “These are truly wonderful events in the first step towards resolving this long-fought battle.”

The Little League then directed “everyone to discontinue any public/social media/or email campaigns against the city as we know

many rumors are flying around.”

At the Aug. 20 commission meeting, City Manager Dan Dugger said the city would sign a new sports provider agreement when the Little League drops its lawsuit.

Dugger read the email from the Little League to parents and coaches.

“A lot of misinformation was definitely out there,” Dugger said. “We were able to clear up a lot of that misinformation, and we made some real progress.”

He said one false rumor was that he personally would benefit from the indoor facility and aimed to privatize the fields. “I can tell you honestly that was a complete lie,” Dugger said. “There were also allegations I got a kickback of a blue Camaro or Corvette.”

City Commissioner Thomas Turkin seemed to still be bothered by the rumors, asking City Attorney Shawna Lamb if Dugger had the authority to make unilateral decisions on the use of the fields. She told him the city manager does not.

Earlier this year, parents and players blasted the commission over the renovation of the biggest field — which now has synthetic turf. They were also upset over the proposed indoor facility, clashing with the sports agent working to build it.

However, the fields have a storied history in the city. The team of 10- to 12-year-olds reached the 2003 Little League World Series. Then, when Hurricane Wilma devastated the fields in 2005, ABC’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition renovated them for the television show. P

Along the Coast

Roy Michael Simon

By Rich Pollack

DELRAY BEACH — Roy Simon loved Delray Beach.

A Delray native and a descendent of one of the community’s first families, Mr. Simon had a passion for his hometown. That energy charged much of his work and focused his vision on ideas that define Delray Beach even today.

An architect whose blueprints underlay notable Delray Beach buildings and numerous homes, Mr. Simon was at his drawing board for 65 years and was putting plans together until shortly before his Aug. 14 death. He was 93.

“My dad was a visionary,” said his daughter, Laura Simon. “He could see the potential of the city and believed in it. He believed Delray was special and could always be better.”

Mr. Simon’s dedication to the community helped make it easy for others to share his vision.

“When Roy Simon talked, people listened because what he said wasn’t about personal gain, it was always about the betterment of the community,” said Mark Denkler, a longtime downtown business owner who along with his wife hired Mr. Simon to help with plans for a 1939 home he is renovating. “He was devoted to the town.”

Born in the family home — he never went into the hospital until a few weeks before his death — Mr. Simon was one of four brothers who attended Delray Beach Elementary School and Delray Beach High School. He graduated in 1948, went on to receive degrees from Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, and later served as a captain in the U.S. Air Force before returning home.

One of the founders of the Delray Beach Historical Society, Mr. Simon was among the leading voices advocating for the preservation of the buildings that made up his elementary and high schools and that eventually became Old School Square.

That was just one of many community efforts he stood behind.

“My dad was involved in everything,” Laura Simon said. “I don’t know how he did it.”

Mr. Simon is credited with creating the Delray Beach Gladiola Fest, which evolved into the Delray Affair.

In a 2022 conversation with The Coastal Star, Mr. Simon recalled how the idea was born after he saw a street festival while visiting relatives in Winter Park. “I came home and said, ‘We ought to have this in Delray,’” he said.

Mr. Simon was also one of the driving forces behind efforts to keep the state from widening Atlantic Avenue, thus helping the downtown to blossom.

“My dad always saw the potential, not just that moment, but bigger,” Laura Simon said. “Maybe that comes from his architectural background.”

It was Mr. Simon who stepped up in 2011 to help organize Delray Beach’s centennial celebration after realizing that little was being done to mark the occasion.

Mr. Simon was active in several community service organizations including Rotary and Lions Club. He was involved in the Little League and served two terms as president of the Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce.

“Delray is a community and Roy was one of the community torch bearers,” Denkler said.

Mr. Simon was the founder of the Delray Beach Downtown Development Authority that his daughter now leads.

He served on a couple of city boards and ran once unsuccessfully for what was then the Delray Beach City Council, but found that he was better behind the scenes.

“He was the quintessential Delray guy,” Laura Simon said.

Mr. Simon was a lifelong member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, where he served as chalice bearer, acolyte and on the vestry.

Throughout his lifetime, Mr. Simon was known for his kindness and for being the gentleman in the room.

“He was that guy,” Laura Simon said. “He always cared and would always see the good in everyone. He was a gentle giant. He was just 6-foot but he always seemed bigger.”

A devoted family man, Mr. Simon was married to his wife, Beth, for more than 60 years until her death last year. He is survived by his three children, Michael (Charlene), Laura (Sven Mautner) and Christopher (Claudia); three granddaughters, four grandsons and five great-grandchildren.

A funeral service was held on Aug. 25 at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. A military burial followed at the Delray Beach Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church or the Delray Beach Historical Society.

By Tao Woolfe

While celebrating its 15th year in business, The Coastal Star received 13 awards for excellence from the Florida Press Association, a nod to the paper’s reporters, photographers, and artists who are showing how the paper endures.

“These are difficult times for practicing journalism, but The Coastal Star continues to hang tough, and with the strength and depth of our team — and our business partners — we keep looking forward,” Mary Kate Leming, the paper’s executive editor, said at the beginning of 2024.

The monthly newspaper — which was competing in an awards division dominated by the state’s largest weekly publications — won five firstplace awards this year, four second-place awards, and four third-place awards for writing, photos and graphics.

The awards, from the 2024 Florida Press Association Weekly Newspaper Contest, were announced in July.

One of the first-place winners was a profile by Brian Biggane of tennis star Coco Gauff’s grandmother — Delray Beach resident Yvonne Odom — who watched the young athlete become a U.S. Open champion.

Biggane used the tournament backdrop to portray the “almost legendary” status the Odom/ Gauff family has achieved in Delray Beach since the 1950s. Odom, for example, was the first Black student to integrate Seacrest (now Atlantic) High, in 1961.

Reporter Ron Hayes took home a first-place award for his story about the sartorial splendor of John Jackson, a longtime staffer at Harbour’s

Edge luxury senior living community in Delray Beach.

“Relaxing at a table outside the Edgewater dining room before his 5 p.m. shift, he sports a suit so red it almost could make Santa jealous, a black dress shirt, red-and-black plaid socks, a white necktie and white boutonniere,” Hayes wrote.

Hayes also won a first-prize award for an obituary he wrote about Vin Dinanath, longtime owner of Gulfstream Texaco — the only gas station along State Road A1A in the 47 miles between Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale.

Reporters Rich Pollack and Jane Musgrave won a first-place award for a breaking news story about how the execution of Duane Eugene Owen for two brutal murders — including that of teen Karen Slattery while babysitting in Delray Beach — would not make the pain go away for the victims’ families.

Besides the families’ pain, the piece explored the crimes and examined the psychology of the murderer through the lens of his own horrific childhood.

Pollack also received a firstplace award for a column he wrote about some of the best birdwatching spots in Palm Beach County. With a little patience and binoculars, people can spot some of the rarest of birds— such as a red-legged thrush and La Sagra’s flycatcher — in coastal hammocks and nature preserves, he wrote.

A second-place award went to local photographers Peter Cross and Susan Wasserman, who provided photos for Pollack’s story on birding destinations.

Photographer Tim Stepien won a second-place award for a feature photo depicting people finding inspiration on the beach at sunrise.

The Coastal Star staff scooped up second-place awards for an arts season preview supplement and in “general excellence” for the March, April and October editions. The same editions earned a third-place honor for graphic design.

Reporter Sallie James won a third-place award for an obituary about Doug Baumgarten, the longtime dockmaster of Briny Breezes. Third-place awards also went to reporter Joe Capozzi for a story about a bicyclist who gave up riding along State Road A1A after a debilitating collision with a truck; and to reporters Charles Elmore, Larry Barszewski and Steve Plunkett for in-depth reporting about how the state’s new financial disclosure requirements were leading some elected council and commission members to give up their seats rather than comply.

“I am so very proud of the work done by everyone for The Coastal Star,” Leming, the executive editor, wrote in her award announcement memo. “Fifteen years and still going strong!” P

LETTERS: The Coastal Star welcomes letters to the editor about issues of interest in the community. These are subject to editing and must include your name, address and phone number. Preferred length is 200-500 words. Send email to editor@ thecoastalstar.com.

Ellison snags Eau Palm Beach, now owns Manalapan’s premier commercial and residential properties

By Jane Musgrave

With

purchase

to more than $450 million.

Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, who stunned the real estate world in 2022 by plunking down a recordbreaking $173 million for a 15.7-acre estate north of the Boynton Inlet, last month purchased the Forbes FiveStar oceanfront resort for $277.4 million, real estate records show.

Manalapan municipal leaders, whose offices are less than a block from the 7-acre resort, said they were pleased a town resident had purchased its signature property.

“As a resident, I’m sure he has a vested interest in making sure it is a world-class property,” said Assistant Town Manager Eric Marmer.

Mayor John Deese agreed. “I think it’s a very positive thing for the community,” he said. “He was the largest property owner. Now, he’s really the largest property owner.”

Real estate experts had speculated that the sale of the 309-room resort and 42,000-square-foot spa could fetch $1 million a room, or “key” as it is known in the industry.

Jan Freitag, national director for the CoStar Group, which tracks commercial real estate transactions, including hotels, said he would have been surprised if the resort had

Florida’s million-dollar hotel rooms

The Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa may epitomize the lap of luxury, but its $277.4 million sale price or nearly $900,000 per hotel room doesn’t match these Florida hotel sales in recent years that topped $1 million per room.

Source: CoStar Group

commanded such a high price. “One million a key is still rare,” he said. “It’s more like what happens in Miami and New York.”

Since October 2022, only six resorts in Florida have sold for more than $1 million a room, he said. Three were near Miami and three were in the Florida Keys.

The January sale of the 291-room Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne topped the list when it sold for $400 million, nearly $1.4 million a key. It also has 188 hotel condo units.

But that sale didn’t eclipse the December 2022 sale of a resort on Little Torch Key, which can only be reached by

boat or seaplane. The $54.6 million purchase price meant each of the 30 suites at Little Palm Island Resort & Spa sold for $1.8 million.

The purchase price of the Eau Palm Beach, at nearly $900,000 a room, “matches expectations,” Freitag said.

The sale was announced cryptically when the Londonbased owner, the Lewis Trust Group, ran a full-page ad in The Palm Beach Post on Aug. 8, thanking those who had helped make the hotel a success.

“As Eau Palm Beach acquires new owners, we know you will continue to build on the legacy we created together,” the Lewis family wrote.

The Eau Palm Beach sale price was recorded at $277.4 million. Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

noted that Ellison is no stranger to the hotel business.

The Eau Palm Beach will be part of a portfolio that includes Four Seasons Resort Lanai, Sensei Lanai, Nobu Ryokan Malibu, Nobu Hotel Palo Alto, Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe, and Sensei Porcupine Creek. A longtime California resident, the 80-year-old Ellison moved to the Hawaiian island of Lanai in 2020 and owns 98% of it.

Later in the day, the group announced Ellison had bought the resort. Property records show the sale also included a roughly 3-acre triangularshaped parking lot at 499 Greynolds Circle, south of Hypoluxo Road in Lantana.

In 2022, when Ellison purchased the former Ziff estate from Netscape co-founder Jim Clark, he notched the most expensive home purchase in state history.  At the end of July, Ellison’s net worth was estimated at $173 billion by Forbes, making him the fifthrichest person in the world.

In the news release, Lewis family members and hotel general manager Tim Nardi

“Ellison’s extensive experience in luxury hospitality brings a new level of innovation to the resort and we are confident that his transition will not only enhance the unique experiences we offer but also introduce new amenities and services,” Nardi said in a statement.

While no specifics were offered, the release said that Ellison plans to upgrade the hotel, which most recently underwent a face-lift in 2023 when it was painted pale yellow with teal and gray trim. A year earlier, the Lewis family spent $25 million on an interior renovation, saying more work was planned in 2025.

The family has talked about selling the resort for several years. The Lewises put it on the market in February 2019. When no qualified buyers surfaced, they canceled the planned sale less than three months later.

The land has been home to a hotel since La Coquille Club was built in the 1950s and became a playground for the rich and influential, including the Vanderbilt, Ford and Rockefeller families. It was razed in the 1980s.

The late shopping center magnate Mel Simon redeveloped the site, with the Ritz-Carlton Palm Beach opening its doors in the early 1990s. The Lewis family purchased it in 2003. Ten years later, it was rebranded as Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa, taking its name from the French word for water.

“Our family feels privileged to have been a successful part of the Eau Palm Beach story,” said Simon Lewis, principal of the Lewis Trust Group. “Though we are sorry to bring our tenure to a close, we are gratified in knowing that Larry Ellison will treasure the resort and guide its hoteliers to even greater heights.”

Boca’s Terran Orbital receives $254 million satellite contract

Terran Orbital’s Tyvak Nano-Satellite Systems Inc. was recently awarded $254 million by the Space Development Agency to produce 10 satellites for the Tranche 2 Transport Layer Gamma contract.

Terran Orbital, based in Boca Raton and in the process of being acquired by Lockheed Martin, will undertake the design, construction, integration, testing and delivery of these satellites. This will include the integration of the associated ground control system and the execution of launch and early operations.

These satellites will carry equipment designed to detect and respond to threats through the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture. PWSA envisions a constellation of hundreds of satellites in lowEarth orbit, featuring advanced satellite communications, data transport, missile warning and missile-tracking functionalities.

“Our ongoing collaboration with the Space Development Agency across multiple Tranche iterations has been immensely rewarding, and we deeply value their continued trust in our capabilities,” said Marc Bell, chairman, co-founder and chief executive officer at Terran Orbital.

Delivery for launch is scheduled to begin in 2027.

Dort Financial Credit Union, which was acquired by Flagler Bank last year, celebrated its new ownership with ribbon-cutting ceremonies at its four Florida branches, one of which is at 5255 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton.

Now being operated as Flagler Credit Union, a Division of Dort Financial, it is served by the same staff and will provide expanded services later this year. Former Flagler Bank President Ed Sterling is now the chief operations officer of Flagler Credit Union.

Dort Financial Credit Union was founded in 1951 and serves more than 110,000 members with assets exceeding $2 billion across 11 locations in Michigan and four in Florida. Membership is open to individuals in Michigan or Palm Beach, Martin, Hendry and Broward counties. For more information, visit flaglercu.org.

BrickTop’s restaurant plans to open a Delray Beach location at 12 NE Fifth Ave. by next summer.

The Nashville-based chain updated the site plan application it submitted in October 2022, which was reviewed and approved by the city’s Site Plan Review and Appearance Board on July 24. Sited on a 0.37-acre lot, the new 4,420-square-foot Deco-style restaurant will have a 580-square-foot mezzanine for additional dining and 21

on-site parking spaces.

The site plan application listed Jeffrey A. Costello, principal of the Delray Beachbased JC Planning Solutions, as the restaurant’s agent. The lot is owned by 12 NE 5th LLC, with Pascal Liguori of Delray Beach-based Premier Estate Properties listed as the registered agent. The LLC paid Bethesda Hospital Foundation Inc. nearly $3.6 million for the commercial site in May 2021.

The health food cafe Pura Vida, founded by Omer and Jennifer Horev in 2012 with more than 20 locations in South Florida, is scheduled to open this month at 6 S. Ocean Blvd., Delray Beach, taking the place of the former BurgerFi, which closed this year.

A newly completed sevenbedroom, 14,427-total-squarefoot waterfront estate at 360 E. Alexander Palm Road, Boca Raton, in the Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club, sold in July for $28.5 million.

The 360 East Alexander Palm Road Trust, with Miami attorney Jay M. Sakalo as trustee, was the owner. The buyer is listed as Alexander Palm Road Trust, with Coral Springs attorney Larry A. Rothenberg as trustee. David W. Roberts of Royal Palm Properties represented the seller in the deal, while Angelo Liguori of Premier Estate Properties represented the buyer.

On a 0.48-acre property along a canal leading to the Intracoastal Waterway, the home was built by Boca Ratonbased SRD Building Corp.

Alan B. Miller and his wife, Jill, sold their Manalapan oceanfront estate at 3 Ocean Lane for $18.25 million to Corinne Anna Buckley. Alan Miller founded Universal Health Services, a chain of hospitals and other health-care providers, in 1979.

2021.

Andrew Left heads the California-based Citron Capital. In late July, the SEC filed a civil lawsuit against Left accusing him of stock fraud. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California also charged Left with felony securities fraud. Both cases remain pending.

David W. Roberts of Royal Palm Properties represented the seller in the deal, while Jessica Schuble of Serhant worked with the buyer.

Boca Raton-based Concierge Property Solutions was named development consultant for the 28-unit Glass House Boca Raton residential development at 280 E. Palmetto Park Road.

Constitution Today” with Emily Bazelon and Katie Phang at 2 p.m. Sept. 17. Bazelon, staff writer for The New York Times Magazine, will share her expertise on how the U.S. Constitution continues to shape and influence contemporary legal debates and social issues.

The Millers paid $2.25 million for the house in 1992 and remodeled it in 2001.

Pascal Liguori and Antonio Liguori of Premier Estate Properties were the listing agents. Matthew Moser and Nicholas Gonzalez of The Matt and Nick Team at Serhant represented the buyer.

The 1964 East Royal Palm Trust — with Robert C. Kopple as trustee and Andrew and Stephanie Left as homestead property owners — sold a residence at 1964 Royal Palm Way, Boca Raton, in the Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club, for $15.8 million. It was purchased by RP 1964 Trust, with Paul A. Krasker as trustee. The Lefts bought the property for $11.25 million in January

The Lantana Chamber’s Leadership Program, which runs through March 2025, offers firsthand experiences, behind-the-scenes access, and an inside look at how the community works and the challenges it faces.

The program aims to help participants hone their leadership strengths, find new areas to make contributions and grow a network.

The kickoff event is scheduled for 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Sept. 12 at Ravish Off Ocean, 210 E. Ocean Ave., Lantana.

The cost of the program is $350 for Lantana Chamber members and $400 for nonmembers. To register, visit lantanachamber.com/20242025-lantana-leadership.

Florida Atlantic University’s Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters presents “The

Phang, host of The Katie Phang Show on MSNBC and a legal contributor for NBC News and MSNBC, will provide analysis and commentary on the associated legal issues across the globe. A panel discussion will follow the presentations.

The event is sponsored by the FAU School of Communication and Multimedia Studies; Department of Political Science; Division of Student Affairs; and the Osher Lifelong Learning Society.

It will be held at the Osher Lifelong Learning Society’s Barry and Florence Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Road, on FAU’s Boca Raton campus. Tickets are $20 and are available at 561-297-6124 or fauevents.universitytickets. com/w/event.aspx?id=6264.

Send business news to Christine Davis at cdavis9797@ gmail.com.

Bazelon

Terran Orbital, based in Boca Raton, is in the process of being acquired by defense contractor Lockheed Martin. Photo provided by Proof Photography

Phang

‘Mail with a smile’

Letter carrier has been delivering for 43 years on East Atlantic

Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds.

— Unofficial motto of the U.S. Postal Service

By Ron Hayes

East Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach doesn’t see a lot of snow, and the mail is delivered before sundown, but there is rain, and lately way too much heat. Sometimes thoughtless drivers spray puddles. Sometimes tourists ask directions, then contradict you when you offer them. And once there was this dog.

None of that has stayed the courier from her appointed rounds.

On Oct. 3, Denise Diane Price of the U.S. Postal Service will have been delivering the mail along East Atlantic Avenue for 43 years.

“Letter carrier is the correct term these days, but little kids used to call me Aunt Sam. You know, like Uncle Sam?” she says with a laugh. “I’ve seen kids grow up around here.”

Everyone who knows Denise Diane Price calls her DD — no periods, just DD

ABOVE:

Letter carrier DD Price shares a laugh with Mavis Benson at the Avalon

Tim

LEFT: Her hair color has changed since this picture from the early 1990s, but Price’s radiant smile is still present.

Dining

Tips from chefs on hurricaneseason kitchen prep. Page AT4

Health & Harmony

Living to 104 a piece of cake for this woman. Page AT10

Paws Up for Pets

Meet the ’Catman’ of Delray Beach. Page AT9

Outdoors Life returns to once buried near-shore reef. Page AT16

Gallery on Atlantic Avenue.

Stepien / The Coastal Star

Photo provided

New officers ready to serve Literacy Coalition

At its annual meeting, the Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County announced its 2024-25 officers.

They are: Dr. Regine Bataille, president; Grace Halabi and Sharon Hill, vice presidents; Aurora Arthay, secretary; Caleb Bowser, treasurer; Chris Duke and Laurie Gildan, membersat-large; Matthew Criscuolo, immediate past president; and Debra Ghostine, Len Gray and Bernadette O’Grady, parliamentarians.

Working together as an executive committee, they will support the Literacy Coalition’s adult and family programs, children’s programs and the AmeriCorps program, all aimed at helping clients achieve literacy.

Call 561-279-9103 or visit literacypbc.org

Trio added to board of Community Foundation

Marti LaTour, Kevin Powers and Kenneth West II began their three-year terms July 1 serving the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties.

The agency facilitates partnerships with donors,

organizations and the public with the goal of solving chronic problems and addressing emerging issues.

“We are pleased to welcome three fantastic additions to our board of directors,” Chairman Jeffrey Stoops said. “Marti, Kevin and Ken are wonderful advocates for their respective communities, and each uniquely brings a wealth of experiences in business and philanthropy that will strengthen our work at the

Community Foundation now and into the future.”

Call 561-659-6800 or visit yourcommunityfoundation.org

New development director joins ACCF in Delray Beach

Gina Griffin has been named to the key fundraising position of director of development at Achievement Centers for Children & Families in Delray Beach.

Griffin, who has 25-plus years

of experience in the charitable community, is a graduate of Leadership Palm Beach County and a member of Executive Women of the Palm Beaches.

“I'm ecstatic to be joining the team at Achievement Centers for Children & Families because of its mission, my early interactions with the organization through the Junior League and the team members I have already gotten a chance to meet,” she said.

Stephanie Seibel, the organization’s CEO, added, “With Gina’s wealth of experience in the nonprofit world, I know she will contribute significantly to the continued success and growth of the organization.”

Call 561-266-0003 or visit achievementcentersfl.org

Truist Foundation awards $55,000 to YMCA

The YMCA of South Palm Beach County received a generous grant that will help more than 950 teens involved in programs and services.

The funds totaling $55,000 came courtesy of the Truist Foundation and are to be shared

between the Peter Blum Family YMCA in Boca Raton and the DeVos-Blum Family YMCA in Boynton Beach.

“Investing in our teens is one of the most impactful commitments we can make,” said Bryan Hunt, executive director of the Peter Blum Family YMCA. “At the YMCA, we see firsthand how these programs empower young people to grow into confident, capable leaders.

“By providing a supportive environment and opportunities for personal development, we help teens build the skills and resilience they need to succeed and contribute positively to their communities.”

Call 561-395-9622 or visit ymcaspbc.org

Children’s museum to benefit from bash

The wild, wild West will come alive at the Back to School Country Bash to benefit the Schoolhouse Children’s Museum, a Boynton Beach nonprofit whose programs and exhibits enable children and families to explore, play and learn.

The fundraiser, a signature event for the museum, will saunter into town Sept. 20 at Benvenuto. Proceeds will be used to update the museum’s farm exhibit. Tickets cost $150.

“Curiosity flourishes most in young minds, and wonder is the spark that ignites a lifelong love of learning,” said Miriam Naranjo, museum assistant director. “Our Family Farms exhibit is designed to spark that curiosity by allowing children to explore and experience what life was like for Florida’s early pioneers — through play, imagination, and hands-on learning.”

Call 561-742-6787 or visit schoolhousemuseum.org

‘Toasts, Tastes & Trolleys’ tour returns to Boca Raton

The Boca Raton Historical Society/Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum has announced the return of a much-anticipated event Sept. 27

Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County CEO Kristin Calder (top left) is joined by board members and directors (l-r, front) Nicole Rocco, Ken Spillias, Sharon Hill, Dr. Regine Bataille, Matthew Criscuolo, Debra Ghostine, Bernadette O’Grady, Grace Halabi, (back) Telsula Morgan, Carol Rose, Valrie Martin Buchanan, Lindsay Reinhart, Debbie DeHoog, Janel Williams, Kelly Starling, Maggie Dickenson, Andrew Loewenstein, Caleb Bowser, Laurie Gildan, Alma Horne and Pierre Deltor. Photo provided

Celebrations

2024 Scholarship awards

Lynn University, Boca Raton — June 15

The George Snow Scholarship Fund has awarded more than $5 million in scholarships and scholar services to 375 local students this year, marking the largest financial commitment and class size to date. ‘Each scholarship we award is a reflection of the generosity and goodwill that makes up our community,’ says Tim Snow, president of the fund. ‘We owe a special debt of gratitude to our scholarship donors for making education possible. Their contribution to our Snow scholars will leave a lasting impact on the lives of our scholars, propelling them forward in their future careers.’

ABOVE: (l-r) Madison Ciccone, Jennifer Ciccone, Leslie Cornwell, Channon Ellwood, Tim

provided

Continued from page AT2

at The Boca Raton.

The end-of-summer celebration — Toasts, Tastes & Trolleys began in 2012 — offers an immersion into the city’s rich history and vibrant lifestyle.

Participants embark on trolleys at the resort and travel to intriguing destinations to enjoy light bites, interesting trivia and special toasts. Tickets cost $150.

“Each stop provides a blend of historical insights and delightful sips, creating a memorable evening for all attendees,” according to a news release. “The evening will conclude at The Boca Raton where guests may enjoy nightcaps at a cash bar.”

Call 561-395-6766 or visit www.bocahistory.org/toaststastes-trolleys

Have a ‘ball’ celebrating Boca Raton centennial

Dubbed as the don’t-miss event of the season, the ninth annual Mayors Ball benefiting

the Rotary Club Downtown Boca Raton is set for Nov. 16 at Boca West Country Club. The gala will recognize the city’s 100th anniversary in 2025.

Tickets go on sale this month for an affair that attracts hundreds of attendees, including elected officials, dignitaries and corporate leaders.

“Proceeds from last year’s gala helped 17 nonprofits through our Service Above Self grants,” said Jeff Weber, chairman of the club’s fund.

“Thousands of lives were touched, and we anticipate an even greater impact from the generous giving of those attending this year’s black-tie event.”

Call 561-289-0436 or visit rotarydowntownbocaraton.org

Send news and notes to Amy Woods at flamywoods@ bellsouth.net.

The next edition of The Coastal Star will be delivered the weekend of October 5

Snow, Natalie Capiro, Austin Havass, Nikki Hamilton, Amy Greene and Jay Brandt. Photo

Dining

FGet your kitchen hurricane-ready, and grab a meal deal

loridians know what this month brings — more storm watches. It’s peak hurricane season, and time to get serious about preparations — if you haven’t already.

While a major storm may not hit, it’s possible that even a blow-by can take out power long enough to cause trouble. But with advance warning, there’s time to prepare.

Local chefs have planned and readied for several storms and emergencies and have tips for people who may be new at this.

First and foremost, use the tracking notices for storms to create a timeline, says Jimmy Everett of Boynton Beach’s Driftwood. Focus on perishables, and shop judiciously.

“Plan on using all your perishables and buying only what you can use for a short time ahead of the storm. The biggest threat is the power goes out afterward,” he said. Expect to be without refrigeration and a freezer.

“My wife is from Puerto Rico,” Everett said. “They get storms all the time that knock out the power. If there’s a storm on the way, you’ll see everybody baking cakes or breads and using up all the perishables. You’ll have baked goods for days.”

If you have capacity to preserve some of the fresh foods by canning or pickling, that’s ideal.

“We keep a few pickle juices on hand,” Everett said. “Just boil them and pour them over the foods.”

Sliced root vegetables such as carrots, as well as cucumbers or cabbage, green beans, okra — all can be pickled, and will last outside refrigeration when done properly. (Use a pickling guide such as the Ball Blue Book for safety.)

Freeze water, or buy ice ahead of time, and fill the freezer to capacity to keep food cold during an outage. “Don’t open it just to check on temperature,” Everett said.

Equipment that should be on everyone’s list is a propane or charcoal grill, or small propane stove that runs on canisters, the same ones sold for camping, said Suzanne Perrotto, owner of Rose’s Daughter and Brulee in Delray Beach.

“Those are wonderful to have anywhere,” she said. “You can cook eggs, soups, stews; if you have a propane grill, you can even bake bread in it by covering it up.”

She also has a “ton” of wood for her outdoor pizza oven.

Water is essential. “I have a lot of bottled water and buckets to catch water if I need to. I remind all our staff to make sure they have plenty of water on hand this time of year. And have food in reserve, too.”

Perrotto sells sourdough starter at The Pantry, an

Suzanne Perrotto, owner of Rose’s Daughter in Delray Beach, recommends buying a propane grill or stove for use when the power is out, and stocking up on water and non-perishable foods. Photo provided by Libbyvision

More hurricane prep tips

Prepare for a power outage — the most common threat, even after a minor storm — as well as flooding.

To stock:

• Manual can opener

• Matches or grill lighters

• Propane stove and canisters, or tanks for grill

• Ice chests filled with drinks to avoid opening refrigerator

• Foil pans for cooking on grill

• Lantern and batteries for cooking area

• Contractor-strength trash bags — use as small tarp, containers for dry foods, or covering counters stacked with appliances

• Disposable plates and utensils

• Shelf stable dairy products: milk, pudding, cheese

• Shelf stable bacon, cured meats, canned proteins

• Juices and coconut water

• Canned foods — buy small cans so no leftovers

To do:

• Pack up cherished recipes or cookbooks to store with important papers.

• Fill all spaces in the freezer to keep it cold longer.

• Bag up any meltable foods such as ice cream or popsicles.

• Freeze large bottles (gallon and half-gallon) of drinking water and store in top of freezer.

• Use up perishables in a stew, but package in small containers to avoid waste.

• Buy farmer’s eggs, which don’t need immediate refrigeration.

offshoot of Rose’s Daughter.

“You can have bread every day if you keep a starter. No refrigerator needed.”

Store-bought tortillas can sub out for bread and they will last for weeks, she said.

Having a store of dry foods to eat or reconstitute with boiling water will go far toward preparing full meals.

“Quinoa, rice, and those ramen noodles in a pinch,” Perrotto said. Adding herbs, spices and flavorings such as bouillon powder or dry soup base will make basic canned foods palatable.

“I have Patriot meals,” she

Gary Rack’s Farmhouse Kitchen is one of the eateries participating in Downtown Delray Beach Restaurant Month. Its deals include half off prices on the dinner menu and half off drink prices from 3 to 7 p.m. daily in September. Photo provided

These help digestion and boost nutrition.

Canned soups, meats, black beans, chickpeas, canned tomatoes and other vegetables can be made into cold salads, soups or stews and provide protein.

Perrotto keeps green juices in reserve, to get nutrition in a glass and move beyond bottled water. She also has “lots of instant coffee and coffee creamer on hand. I can’t live without my coffee.”

When buying canned goods, smaller is better, she says. “Once they’re opened, you’ll need to avoid leftovers or have refrigeration available.”

Proteins may be hardest to obtain, Perrotto said, but “guess you can always eat an iguana. I’m just kidding. But we really have to do something about them.”

Restaurant month in Delray and throughout county

September marks the ninth annual Downtown Delray Beach Restaurant Month.

— Jan Norris

said. These military-style rations last for a year and are found in various forms online or in some sports stores. “I have a 100-hour candle, too.

“I use fresh herbs from my garden, but you can use dried herbs — thyme, basil, rosemary, parsley — to boost flavors,” Perrotto said.

“I do use a lot of Asian spices at home, such as curry powder. Coconut milk, dried mushrooms, a variety of peppers — these can all add flavor. Garlic lasts for a long time.

“Vinegar and oils, you’ll need those, too,” she said.

More than 40 restaurants are participating in the discount program that offers special menus or deals through Sept. 30.

In an effort to draw in new diners to their eateries, participants offer special drink pricing at happy hour, a prix fixe dinner or a special event.

Those offering prix fixe menus include Bounce Delray, 50 Ocean, Amar Mediterranean, J&J Seafood Bar and Grill, Costa by OK&M, The Office Delray, The Grove and others.

Cafe deals are served at Jonny’s Deli in Tony’s Market, Kilwin’s Windy City Pizza, The Pantry and Fit Food Express.

Special dinners and events are scheduled at Akira Back

and Ramen Lab Eatery. A food tour is on the list, provided by Craft Food Tours. Restaurants are added to the list with updates daily. For a list of all participating restaurants, prices and menus, go to downtowndelraybeach. com/restaurantmonth.

Flavor South Florida also returns in September and covers more territory. Restaurants in the discount program range from Port St. Lucie to Boca Raton.

Special prix fixe meals are offered for both lunch and dinner at more than 60 restaurants.

This year, staycation deals at local resorts cover both lodging and dining at a discount.

A wide variety of cuisines fall into the program such as Italian and French, as well as sushi bars, steakhouses and plant-based foods.

In Boca, look for menus from the Pavilion Grille, Sushi by Bou, Il Mulino and the Loch Bar.

Boynton Beach’s Driftwood and A’lu Mexican Cuisine are participating. In Delray Beach, Dada and The Wine Room are, too.

Polpo in Manalapan, and Cafe Boulud, Echo, Florie’s, Henry’s Palm Beach, La Goulue and others are offering prix fixe menus.

For a look at menus and an updated list of participating restaurants, visit flavorpb. com/restaurants.

With both programs, it’s a good idea to make reservations.

Jan Norris is a food writer who can be reached at nativefla@ gmail.com

TOY stories

Doll exhibit at Morikami offers deep dive into Japanese culture

By Jan Engoren Contributing Writer

While Barbie may recently have had a retro moment here in the United States, the culture of dolls in Japan dates back millennia and is firmly entrenched in Japanese society and culture.

Many types of dolls, including festival dolls, display dolls, wood dolls, clay dolls, theatrical dolls, play dolls, friendship dolls and warrior dolls (musha-ningyō), play a role in Japanese culture as talismanic figures and as the focal point of Japanese festivals, including Boy’s Day — or, “Tango no Sekku” — and Girl’s Day, “Hina-matsuri.”

Running through Oct. 6, Musha-Ningyō: Avatars of the Samurai Spirit, an exhibit of ningyō, or traditional dolls, at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, depicts Japan’s rich samurai culture inspired by “Kodomo no Hi,” or the Children’s Day Festival.

According to Bonnie LeMay, administrator at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, the exhibit was three to five years in the making.

“We always try to educate and inspire our members and visitors about Japan, and the museum’s exhibits complement the country’s history, culture, art and music,” she says about this exhibit, noting that highlights of the show are the sheer size of the dolls, the “wonderful” materials used to create them and the “captivating” facial expressions on many of the ningyō.

Curated by Asian art expert Alan Scott Pate, also an author and dealer of Japanese dolls, the exhibit highlights more than 50 of these warriorinspired figures created by leading doll artists of the 19th and 20th centuries.

“We’re excited to offer this exhibit of musha-ningyō here at the Morikami,” says

Carla Stansifer, curator of Japanese Art at the museum in western Delray Beach. “These dolls are a deeply rooted art form in Japan and not children’s toys or entertainment. These dolls are meticulously crafted and created and dressed in beautiful silk textiles and garments.”

The most important artist featured in the exhibit is Hara Shūgetsu III (1826-1899), with three examples of his dolls displayed, including one of the mythical flying creatures known as the “Nue,” depicted with the body of a Japanese raccoon dog (or badger), legs of a tiger, head of a monkey and tail of a snake.

“This is a stunning piece that will grab your attention,” Stansifer says.

Other well-known artists include Maruhei Ōkiheizō IV, Yamakawa Eitokusai III, Watanabe Gyokuo VI, Hirata Yōko and Shyugoku, active in the early 1900s.

The warrior figures embody loyalty, courage, honor and tenacity — all traits that parents wanted to instill in their boys — and later, in their girls as well. The figures are displayed

Music

Pompano Amphitheater to make a Squeeze play

By Bill Meredith ArtsPaper Music Writer

Fifty years together as a band is rare, but the route toward such a golden anniversary isn’t often as circuitous as that of Squeeze. The heady British pop group’s celebratory tour of the United States started in Oregon in mid-August and includes a stop at Pompano Beach Amphitheater on Sept. 21.

Best-known for late-1970s and early-1980s U.K. and American hits like “Black Coffee in Bed,” “Cool for Cats,” “Pulling Mussels (From the Shell)” and the memorable “Tempted,” Squeeze formed in 1974 when bandleading vocalists/guitarists Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook were still teenagers. Two breakups have occurred during that 50-year run, one relatively brief, the other lengthy.

“Glenn was two or three years younger than me when we first met,” Difford says from his home in England during a July Zoom meeting. “He was 15, I think, and I was around 17.

Opera

By Robert Croan Contributing Writer

Palm Beach Opera has announced that Russian soprano Anna Netrebko will be the featured guest at the company’s annual Gala, to be held Feb. 5 at The Breakers Palm Beach resort.

She will partner with pianist Angel Rodriguez in a recital program to benefit Palm Beach Opera — “An Evening with Anna Netrebko” — and the event will be the singer’s Palm Beach Opera debut.

The annual gala is considered by many to be the major social event in South Florida. It includes a cocktail hour, a recital performance and a dinner with dancing, with ticket prices starting at $1,250. Proceeds raised from the gala will be used for the company’s educational programs, which provide young artists with individual and group training along with opportunities to perform in main-stage productions and communitybased performances.

The choice of Netrebko is a

We were young and ambitious, like pinballs going around in the machine, not knowing what was going to happen. But the enthusiasm and love of music were there.”

The songwriting team actually stayed intact through Squeeze’s first, 1983-1984 hiatus, releasing the 1984 album Difford & Tilbrook. And the two collaborated occasionally as each pursued a solo career from 1999-2006. In early 2007, Squeeze reunited again and hasn’t looked back since — except to play such hits live.

“‘Black Coffee in Bed’ sounds like the Beatles doing Motown,” says Boynton Beach-based singer, guitarist and songwriter Sean Hanley. “The first time I heard them was on MTV, and the timbre of Glenn Tilbrook’s voice on it reminded me of Paul McCartney right away.”

Squeeze’s first lull would be based, in part, on personnel departures. Its initial keyboardist was Jools Holland, who left the band

See SQUEEZE on AT6

controversial one. The Russian singer, who will be 53 on Sept. 18, is one of opera’s most famous luminaries, but she has not performed in the United States since 2019. Because she is known as a personal friend and close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, and has steadfastly refused to criticize him or his policies — notably on LGBTQ+ rights and more recently, the war in Ukraine — the Metropolitan Opera and

Anna Netrebko will appear at the annual Gala on Feb. 5. Photo provided

Young boy holding an iris sheath, by Hirata Yōko, made of pigmented gofun, glass, silk, hair and straw, is one of the dolls on display at the Morikami. Photos provided

Empress Jingu, made of wood, gofun, glass, lacquer, mother-of-pearl, metal and fur. Art

DOLLS

Continued from page 5

against a backdrop of boldly decorated Boy’s Day banners and crested battlefield curtains, adding to the celebratory nature of the festivals.

At its core, the Boy’s Day Festival was designed to appease the goryō or angry spirits of the lost warriors, with the figures acting as temporary lodging places (yorishirō) for those spirits, and to bring health and goodwill to the country and its people.

Boy’s Day (First Day of the Horse) was held on the fifth day of the fifth month. It was known for the elaborate display of dolls depicting renowned warriors, both historic and legendary and drawn from Japan’s martial past. In 1948 the Japanese government rededicated the May holiday to all children — boys and girls — and renamed it as Children’s Day.

Girl’s Day is celebrated March 3 with an elaborate presentation of an imperial doll court known as “hina-ningyō.”

The exhibit is organized into four main sections — Tango no Sekku, Samurai Lore and History, Myths, and the Meiji Period, when the subject matter of the dolls shifted to the imperial family in line with the politics of the time.

According to the Morikami, the popularity of the festivals brought an increase in the sophistication and quality of the dolls and a more elaborate presentation, which included

SQUEEZE

Continued from page 5

in 1980 to start a solo career and, eventually, his own incomparable, long-standing BBC musical variety show Later ... with Jools Holland His replacement, vocalist/ keyboardist Paul Carrack, arrived with hit single pedigree, having been the voice on Ace’s 1975 smash “How Long.” Carrack sang lead on “Tempted,” from Squeeze’s 1981 U.S. breakthrough album East Side Story (produced by Elvis Costello), but would leave after its release.

“Glenn will sing ‘Tempted,’” Difford says. “We’ll play all the radio songs. If we didn’t, it might be a very short set.”

“‘Tempted’ is such a great track,” says Hanley, “and ‘Pulling Mussels (From the Shell)’ definitely has that Elvis Costello sound. ‘Cool for Cats’ is also great, with Difford’s vocals. They have a great complement of vocal styles.”

Current Squeeze personnel includes members who came on board after its second hiatus, in 2007 (keyboardist Stephen Large, drummer Simon Hanson), then 2017 (percussionist/vocalist Steve Smith), 2019 (pedal/lap steel guitarist Melvin Duffy) and 2020 (bassist Owen Biddle, formerly of hip-hop act The Roots).

The band’s songwriting template usually involves

tiered stands, banners, flags and other ephemera designed to create a festive atmosphere.

Some of the most widely known figures include the tragic hero Minamoto Yoshitsune and his attendant Musashibo Benkei (the warrior monk), the ruthless samurai Katô Kiyomasa, the otherworldly Shôki the Demon Queller and the warrior empress Jingū-kōgō, the only woman depicted as a musha-ningyō.

A legendary Japanese empress, Jingū-kōgō ascended the throne following her husband ’s death in 200 A.D. According to folklore, the empress had sex with the god Azumi-no-isora and strapped a stone to her stomach to delay the birth of her son, while on a military mission to conquer Korea.

Three years later she gave birth to a baby boy. Legend has it she lived to be 100 and died in the year 269.

Minamoto Yoshitsune (11591189), from the Edo Period,

is depicted as a large-scale figure dressed in silk brocade with lacquered paper armor and metal fittings, wearing an elaborate kabuto helmet worn by the samurai class, emblazoned with a dragon and a breast plate with the crest of the Minamoto/ Genji clan.

His detailed visage, created with layers of gofun, a white pigment of pulverized oyster shells and glue, displays wellformed features with painted eyes and silk fiber as hair.

Other figures include Toyotomi Hideyoshi, “Japan’s Great Unifier”; Kato Kiyomasa, “The Devil General”; archer Minamoto Yorimasa, “The Monster-Slayer”; Momotarō, “Peach Boy”; and Kintarō, the “Golden Boy,” renowned for his strength, courage and kindness.

By the Meiji era (18681912) and with more Western influence in Japan, ningyō became a symbol of the emperor and his power and for the first time, a living figure, Meiji, the

If You Go

Musha-Ningyō: Avatars of the Samurai Spirit runs through Oct. 6 at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach.

Admission: Adults $15; seniors, $13; children, $9.

Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday Info: 561-495-0233; morikami.org

Momotarō with animal entourage. Photo provided

122nd emperor of Japan, was represented in the Boy’s Day Festival, along with his wife, Masako Ichijō, known after his death as the Empress Dowager Shōken.

Many of the musha-ningyō on display at the Morikami are on loan from the collection of Tennessee resident Vickie Hannig, a retired genetics counselor. Visiting Japan at the age of 12 with her parents, Hannig remembers her first Japanese doll — a geisha doll that she treasures to this day.

“I’ve always appreciated Asian cultures and always liked dolls,” she says, noting that she also collects corn husk dolls and Hopi kachina dolls. She stumbled upon her first ningyō at a gift shop in San Francisco’s Chinatown, and later met Pate in 1998 at a gallery in La Jolla, California, where she purchased her first pair of Hina dolls. She credits Pate for encouraging her interest and inclination to collect these dolls.

Difford writing his thoughtful, introspective lyrics first. Tilbrook then paints instrumental chords and textures around them, resulting in unique songcraft and vocal harmonies that rise above standard pop fare. That formula will extend to a couple forthcoming Squeeze releases.

“We started out this year working on an album of brandnew material,” says Difford, “which should be available in about a year-and-a-half. But by April or May of next year, we expect to release ‘Trixie’s,’ a different album of 13 songs we’d written in 1974 and never dreamt we’d ever record. The only versions of them that existed were on a cassette tape

from rehearsals back then. And we plan to play a few of those selections on this tour.”

At age 69, Difford and the 67-year-old Tilbrook have navigated countless changes in the music industry over a half-century. Squeeze formed when LPs, 8-tracks and cassette tapes were industry listening standards in the ’70s, and the band gained renown as CDs and music videos took over in the ’80s (the latter helping to launch their opening act, vocalist Boy George and his band Culture Club).

“Squeeze, Elvis Costello, XTC, Split Enz, and later Crowded House reminded me of if the Beatles had gone to art school instead of grimy pubs,”

says Hanley. “I guess it was referred to as the second British invasion. Perfect. Squeeze’s style and pop/rock songcraft are obvious influences on my own music.”

The second Squeeze hiatus ended around the time when streaming usurped most existing audio technology, taking many of the major recording labels with it and making touring the only surefire way for a name act to earn a living. In effect, the shift turned many veteran artists into nostalgic touring tribute acts to themselves.

“Everything really has changed, and that’s why you see so many bands on the road at the moment,” Difford says.

“I thought they would be my only pair,” says Hannig, who later became interested in the warrior dolls and gosho (palace or court) dolls.

One of her favorite pieces in the show is that of the Emperor Meiji and his wife the empress, depicted in Western dress and created for their silver anniversary in 1894.

“This exhibit is a chance to see so many wonderful examples of musha-ningyōon display at one time,” says Hannig, who attended the opening in April. “I’ve learned so much from Alan. I appreciate the artistry of the dolls.”

She says appreciation for the dolls goes hand-in-hand with a love of Japanese culture.

“The more you appreciate the artistry, heritage and symbolism of the dolls, the more appreciation you have for the culture of Japan and the significance of the role dolls play in the larger Japanese society and culture.”

If You Go

Squeeze, with opening act Boy George, performs at Pompano Beach Amphitheater, 1806 NE 6th St., Pompano Beach. When: 7:30 p.m. Sept. 21

Tickets: $54-$528 Info: 561-223-7231; pompanobeacharts.org

“Stages are occupied because recording royalties, which used to pay around 50 percent of our income, now pay around 2 percent. It’s quite a drop, so now you practically have to tour.”

Even at retirement age, Difford explains that songwriters never have to retire completely. His compositional partnership with Tilbrook continues to stand the test of time, and his primary influences include elders and peers who’ve yet to quit writing, or for some, even roadwork.

“There are still so many things for me to explore from a lyrical point of view,” he says. “Influences change over the years, depending on who you’re listening to and responding to, like recently Joni Mitchell or Todd Rundgren. Or it could be John Lennon and Paul McCartney. Glenn and I have received occasional comparisons to those two, and it’s an incredible honor to be noted in the same breath.”

Squeeze, including Chris Difford and Glenn Tillbrook (fourth and fifth from left), will perform at the Pompano Beach Amphitheater on Sept. 21. Photo by Danny Clifford

Cornell manager focusing on regional artists

By Lucy Lazarony ArtsPaper Art Writer

Marusca Gatto came to Delray Beach a decade ago fleeing the cold of Rochester, New York, and has found a place in the sun as manager of the Cornell Art Museum.

Gatto has been working with the Downtown Development Authority as downtown activation manager since July 2020 and cultural arts director since October 2022, when the DDA tasked her with reopening and managing the Cornell.

She has brought activity back to the museum, which reopened in December 2022 after being closed for nearly a year following the city’s canceling of a contract with the nonprofit arts group that had run the Old School Square complex for three decades. The DDA took over in the wake of that controversial decision.

Gatto oversees and manages the Cornell, curating all of the art exhibitions and events.

“I mostly focus on regional artists,” Gatto says. “We have a lot of amazing artists that choose to live in South Florida.”

The current show, Nature’s Palette: Art Inspired by the Earth, is a group exhibition featuring more than 40 artists and 70 works of art.

Gatto says she loves surprising visitors with new and inspiring art.

“This is a small but powerful museum. It’s impactful. People love coming back,” Gatto says.

She manages the museum’s three part-time employees and 15 volunteer docents. The docents

Arts Calendar

Editor’s note: Events listed through Oct. 4 were current as of Aug. 24. Check with the presenting agency for any changes. Ticket prices are single sales unless otherwise specified.

ART

Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens: Opens Nov. 15: Slim Aarons: Gold Coast, photographs from Florida’s southeast coast. Through Jan. 26. $15; $10 seniors; free for members. 253 Barcelona Road, West Palm Beach. 10 am-4 pm W-Sun. 561-832-5328. Info@ansg.org

Armory Art Center: Opens Sept. 3: Threads of Time and Imagination, by South Florida multidisciplinary artist Apia, celebrating women artists. Through Oct. 25. Free. 811 Park Place, West Palm Beach. 10 am-4 pm M-F, 10 am-2 pm Sat. 561-832-1776 or armoryart.org Boca Raton Museum of Art: Through Oct. 13: Myths, Secrets, Lies and Truths: Photography from the Doug McCraw Collection Tony Oursler: Creature Features; through Oct. 20: Julie Evans: Eating Sunshine $16; $12 seniors 501 Plaza Real (Mizner Park), Boca Raton. 11 am-6 pm W, F, Sat, Sun. 11 am-8 pm Th. 561-392-2500, bocamuseum.org Cornell Art Museum: Opens Sept. 6: Nature’s Palette: Inspired by the Earth, works by 42 regional artists exploring art and our connection to nature. Through Sept. 28: Oceana Phenomena, sea-inspired works by artist Jane Baldridge. $15; $8 children 4-17; free for members, veterans, children under 3. Noon-5 pm T-Sun. 561-243-7922 or oldschoolsquare.org

Cultural Council for Palm Beach County: Free. 601 Lake Ave., Lake Worth Beach. Noon-5 pm T-F and second Sat. of month. 561-4712901, palmbeachculture.com/exhibitions

Flagler Museum: $28; $14 ages 6-12. 1 Whitehall Way, Palm Beach. 10 am-5 pm M-Sat, noon-5 pm Sun. 561-655-2833, www. flaglermuseum.us

Lighthouse ArtCenter: Opens Sept. 12: Lush 3, an exhibit of contemporary ceramics from a biennial open call. Also included are photographs from underwater photographer Chris Leidy. Through Nov. 16. $5 non-members. 9 am-5 pm M-Th; 9 am-4 pm F; 10 am-4 pm Sat. 561-746-3101, lighthousearts.org

are trained in the history of Old School Square; in the history of the museum, which is housed in Delray’s 1913 elementary school building; and the museum’s current exhibitions.

“They are ready to give a tour at any time,” Gatto says. “We run group tours, student tours all the time.”

She chooses the musicians who play at art openings, First Friday Art Walks, and in front of the museum on Wednesday afternoons during the season.

She creates public art installations such as Wings Over the Square, which features the work of fine artist Lisa Littell. The wings belong to whimsical, colorful butterflies that can be found around the grounds of Old School Square and inside the Cornell Art Museum.

In her work with the DDA, Gatto has created the Delray Art Trail, a website that showcases the public art installations, murals, cultural arts organizations and art galleries in the

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens: Through Oct. 6: Musha-Ningyo: Avatars of the Samurai Spirit $15; $13 seniors; $9 children; free for members, ages 5 and under. 4000

Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach. 10 am-5 pm T-Sun. 561-495-0233, morikami.org

Norton Museum of Art: Through Nov. 17: Cut Up/Cut Out: Photomontage and Collage, works by Romare Bearden, Martha Rosler, Barbara Kruger and others. Through Jan. 19: Dragons: Commanders of Rain, two Chinese court robes and a Japanese print based on a print by the late 13th -century Chinese painter Yan Hui. Through Jan. 26: Surroundings: Video Encounters of Nature, films by Donna Conlon (through Sept. 22), Carolina Caycedo (Sept. 28-Nov. 24), and Nadia Huggins (Nov. 30-Jan. 26). $18 adults; $15 seniors; $5 students; free for ages 12 and under, 1450 S. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach. 10 am-5 pm, M, T, Th, Sat; 10 am-10 pm F; 11 am-5 pm Sun. 561-832-5196, www.norton.org Society of the Four Arts: 100 Four Arts Plaza, Palm Beach. 10 am-5 pm daily. 561-655-7226, fourarts.org

CLASSICAL

Saturday, Sept. 14

Lynn University Wind Ensemble: Kenneth Amis leads the Conservatory winds in music by Riegger, Harbison, Hartley, Spittal, Montague and Jenkins. 7:30 p.m., Wold Performing Arts Center, Lynn University in Boca Raton. 561-2379000 or lynn.edu

Saturday, Sept. 28-Sunday, Sept. 29

Lynn Philharmonia: The first concert of the season by the student orchestra of the Lynn University Conservatory of Music. Conductor Guillermo Figueroa in music of Elgar, Beethoven and Gabriela Lena Frank. Wold Performing Arts Center. 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday. 561237-9000 or lynn.edu

Saturday, Sept. 7

JAZZ

Dion Kerr: The young Delray Beach bassist appears with a quartet at Delray Beach’s Arts Garage on a release tour for his new album eko vizion meusik. 8 pm, 94 NE 2nd Ave., Delray Beach. $35-$40. 561-450-6357, artsgarage.org

Sunday, Sept. 15

The Kittens: Cuban bassist Israel Rodriguez appears with his two prodigy sons, 10-year-old

If You Go

The Cornell Art Museum is at 51 N. Swinton Ave. in Delray Beach.

Admission: Free Hours: Noon-5 p.m. Wednesday and Sunday; noon-7 p.m. Thursday and Friday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday Info: 561-654-2220; oldschoolsquare.org

city.

She is working to reinstall a recently refurbished mural in the Pineapple Grove district of downtown Delray, and she works with the Public Art Advisory Board as the DDA’s liaison.

Coming to the Cornell Art Museum in October is Hot Glass, an all-glass exhibition in collaboration with Benzaiten Center for Creative Arts in Lake Worth Beach.

Featured in the exhibit are glass artists from both Florida coasts as well national and international artists. Works by South Florida glass artists from the Netflix glassblowing competition show Blown Away also will be on display.

“These are glass masters. It’s going to be an honor and a privilege to show their work,” Gatto says.

A glass artist herself for 20 years, Gatto works with kiln-formed glass.

“It’s fused rather than blown,” Gatto says. “Once I started working with glass, I connected with it emotionally. I am mostly driven by the reflectivity and light and brightness. It’s very cathartic.”

pianist Tiger and 8-year-old drummer Leon. 7 pm, Arts Garage, Delray Beach. $10-$15. 561450-6357 or artsgarage.org

Saturday, Sept. 21

Nestor Torres: The Grammy-winning jazz flutist returns with his quintet in a concert honoring John Coltrane, Miles Davis and Charlie Parker. 8 pm, Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave., Delray Beach. $50-$55. 561-450-6357, artsgarage.org

POPULAR MUSIC

Thursday, Sept. 12

Luke Bryan: The Georgia singer-songwriter and American Idol judge is one of the bestselling recording artists now working. He’s here on his Mind of a Country Boy tour. 7 pm, iThink Financial Amphitheatre, 601 Sansburys Way, West Palm Beach. $90-$460. livenation.com

Saturday, Sept. 14

Korn: The alternative-metal quintet from California first made themselves known in the early 1990s. 6:30 pm, iThink Financial Amphitheatre. $51-$555. livenation.com

Saturday, Sept. 21

Weezer: The Los Angeles alt-rock favorites begin their Voyage to the Blue Planet tour. 7 pm, Hard Rock Live, 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood. $65-$205. ticketmaster.com. Creed: Tallahassee’s post-grunge band is on its Summer of ’99 tour. 7 pm, iThink Financial Amphitheatre. $72-$422. livenation.com

Tuesday, Sept. 24

Jewel and Melissa Etheridge: The earnest pop folkie teams up with the raspy-voiced singer and LGBTQ hero. 7:30 pm, Hard Rock Live. $97-$147. ticketmaster.com

Thursday, Sept. 26

Staind and Breaking Benjamin: The altmetal band from Massachusetts with hip-hop flavor teams up with the Pennsylvania rockers for a dual tour. 5:30 pm, iThink Financial Amphitheatre. $50-$226. livenation.com. Mötley Crüe: The bad-boy metal quartet from Los Angeles first formed more than 40 years ago,. 8 pm, Hard Rock Live. $69-$259. ticketmaster.com

Saturday, Sept. 28

Hootie and the Blowfish: The popular pop rockers from South Carolina, led by Darius Rucker, is on its Summer Camp With Trucks tour. 7 pm, iThink Financial Amphitheatre. $31-$167. livenation.com

DIVA

Continued from page 5

other American companies have refused to engage her, although she continued to perform in major European venues.

As far back as 2013 at the Met, at the opening night of Tchaikovsky’s Eugene Onegin, there were demonstrations provoked by Netrebko’s silence regarding Putin’s anti-gay policies. In 2015, at one of her curtain calls, a protester jumped the orchestra pit and climbed on stage waving a sign. (He was arrested.) There were also protests when she appeared with the Berlin State Opera.

Netrebko subsequently issued public statements that she is not connected with Putin and does not condone the war. She also sued the Met for, among other things, discriminating against her for being Russian, defamatory statements to the press, breach of contracts and lost work. The Met, unsurprisingly, disputed this.

Palm Beach Opera, with its proximity to Mara-Lago and supporters who may be more in tune with the soprano’s Russian sympathies, is perhaps the most appropriate setting for her return to this country.

The singer avoided controversy in her prepared statement, which reads, in part, “I am honored to be lending my voice to Palm Beach Opera’s annual gala … and to be supporting the PBO’s inspiring initiatives.” PBO general director James Barbato called the coming event a “historic evening,” lauding the soprano as “a cultural icon [whose] long-awaited return to the U.S. is not to be missed.”

Metropolitan Opera general manager Peter Gelb, however, said PBO had made an “unfortunate decision,” claiming that Netrebko’s efforts to distance herself from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine were “disingenuous.”

The exchange continued in the media, with Gelb saying, “she can sing a recital at the Met tomorrow if it was to benefit Ukraine,” and the singer’s manager, Miguel Esteban, retorting that “Anna Netrebko will be happy to return to the Metropolitan Opera — after the departure of its current general director.”

THEATER

Opens Saturday, Sept. 7 The Little Mermaid: A new adaptation of the Hans Christian Andersen story by Jacqueline Goldfinger gets its Southeastern premiere at FAU’s Theatre Lab in this production designed for ages 5 and up. 11 am and 3 pm Saturdays, and 3 pm Sundays, through Sept. 29. Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton. $25 per adult, includes 2 student tickets. www.fauevents.com or 561-297-6124 Through Sunday, Sept. 15

A Chorus Line: The groundbreaking 1975

Michael Bennett musical about the lives of Broadway dancers, with a now-classic score by Marvin Hamlisch. Delray Beach Playhouse, 950 NW 9 th St. $45. 561-272-1281 or delraybeachplayhouse.com

Opens Wednesday, Sept. 18

Sidekicked: Boca Stage opens its season with Kim Powers’ one-woman show about Vivian Vance, the actress best-known as Ethel Mertz on TV’s I Love Lucy. Irene Adjan plays Vance. Through Sept. 29 at the Cabaret Theatre in the Delray Beach Playhouse, 950 NW 9 th St. $59$69. 561-272-1281; delraybeachplayhouse.com

Marusca Gatto has been running the Cornell Art Museum since October 2022. Photo provided

— and everyone seems to know DD Price.

“I wouldn’t want to be doing anything else,” she says. “People greet me. They beep their horns at me. I don’t always know who it is, but I always wave.”

She was 23 when she started the job. She’s 66 now.

“I grew up in Stuart,” she begins. “We had one red light.”

After high school, softball got her to Palm Beach Junior College on a scholarship. “They paid me $400 a month to play shortstop for the Palm Beach Pacers.”

She earned an associate’s degree, worked as a lab technician drawing blood at Bethesda Memorial Hospital, left to work for UPS. And then, on Oct. 3, 1981, she was hired by the U.S. Postal Service and started delivering the mail on East Atlantic.

Getting in her steps — for miles and miles

In those early days, her route reached from Swinton Avenue east to the Intracoastal Waterway, then all the side streets up to Northeast Fourth Street.

“They put me on this route because it was 14 miles and nobody else wanted it,” she says. “They wanted to slide their arm out of the truck and put the mail in a curbside box.”

DD walked the route, and walked, and walked. The town grew. More buildings went up, more people moved down. More people meant more mail, so more carriers were needed, and DD’s route grew smaller. Today, she delivers from the railroad tracks east, but only up to Northeast Second Street, five or six miles a day.

“I’m at the main post office on Military Trail by 8 a.m. and I hit the street by 11 a.m.”

She pushes a three-wheel cart bearing four bags of mail, one bag each for letters, parcels, flats, and outgoing. Down the south side of Atlantic, back up the north, and then the side streets.

“I punch out about 4:30 p.m., and I never go to a gym.

“I never work out. This is my exercise.”

She’s seen a lot of changes, walking the avenue for 43 years.

“So many people use email now, the loads are lighter than when I started,” she says. “The other day I heard a little boy ask his mother what the blue box was. He had no idea what a mailbox is.”

She’s seen the street transformed from attorneys’ offices and travel bureaus to trendy restaurants and boutique art galleries.

“When I started, there were seven travel agencies,” she recalls. “The attorneys used to open their offices about 9:30 and they wanted their certified letters. Now the avenue doesn’t really start kicking until 11.”

No one had cell phones when DD began. They had beepers. Now she carries a GPS scanner that records the bar codes on

packages.

“That’s how the tracking number can tell you when I delivered it,” she says.

Aggravation abounds, but so does gratification

Yes, there are aggravations.

“I’m easygoing,” she says, “but one thing that pisses me off is being splashed by dirty street water. Some people just don’t think anymore.”

Tourists can be both frustrating and funny.

“They ask me for directions, and I give them directions and they say, ‘No, that’s not the way, I was just there.’”

She laughs. “I’ve actually seen tourists run out of the ocean because it’s raining.”

And there’s weather to deal with, of course. Torrential rain. Sweltering heat.

“If it rains, I get wet,” she says. “If I feel in danger, I stop. Lightning, I sit in the truck. But I’m a Floridian. I’m used to the heat, but it’s been brutal lately. As soon as I wake up, I drink 16 ounces of water.”

The businesses along the avenue offer her water, and Restroom for Customers Only doesn’t apply to her.

Over the years, addresses became names and names became friends.

When Hand’s Office at 325 E. Atlantic closed in June 2021 after 87 years, owner David Cook lamented the changes on the avenue, but treasured the memory of old friends like his letter carrier.

“If you wanted to know what was really going on along the avenue,” he says, “you could ask DD and she would always tell you.”

DD was knowledgeable, and she was reliable.

“When it was her day off, she’d warn us because some other person would deliver, and we’d get everybody else’s mail. Then we’d redistribute it until DD was back. It was comical.”

DD has been delivering mail to the Northern Trust bank at 770 E. Atlantic Ave. for nearly three decades, and Senior Vice President Stacey Hallberg has

known her for 20.

“While we value her service,” Hallberg says, “it’s DD’s friendship and daily positivity that we love most. It’s much more than just mail. It’s mail with a smile!”

Personal connections extend beyond the job

She had already been delivering the mail for 23 years when John and Mavis Benson opened their Avalon Gallery at 425 E. Atlantic in 2004.

“People complain that they’re just a number,” Mavis Benson says, “but having DD as our mail person you’re a number and a name.”

After their gallery had been open a year, DD invited the Bensons to a 2005 Thanksgiving breakfast at her house in Del-Ida Park.

“Her yard was set beautifully with linens and china and silver, and nothing but tables filled with her friends,” Benson remembers. “Good Southern food, and I was like, This is it. This is the place to be, the

About that motto

“Neither snow nor rain...” is not the official motto of the U.S. Postal Service. However, it is chiseled in gray granite over the entrance to the James A. Farley building at Eighth Avenue and 33rd Street in New York City. The sentiment comes from book 8, paragraph 98, of The Persian Wars by the Greek historian Herodotus.

During the wars between the Greeks and Persians (500-449 B.C.), the Persians operated a system of mounted postal couriers who served with great fidelity.

According to the USPS, the firm of McKim, Mead & White designed the Post Office building, which opened to the public on Labor Day in 1914. One of the firm’s architects, William Mitchell Kendall, was the son of a classics scholar and read Greek for pleasure. He selected the “Neither snow nor rain …” inscription, which he modified from a translation by Professor George Herbert Palmer of Harvard University, and the Post Office Department approved it.

people to know. She gives us a sense of community.”

Benson once told DD that when DD retired, she would too. That’s not likely to happen any time soon.

“I’ll retire when I wake up some morning and say, OK, that’s enough,” DD says. “I enjoy my job. What are you if you’re not out meeting people and seeing what they’re going through? Delray Beach isn’t the old, cracked sidewalks anymore, and I’m growing with the avenue.”

And besides, in all her 43 years of delivering mail, Denise Diane “DD” Price has been attacked by a vicious dog only once.

“I opened the door to hand a lady the mail,” she explains, “and their dog ran out and grabbed my ankle and wouldn’t let go.

“It was a Chihuahua.” P

TOP: DD Price make her way through the lobby of the Colony Hotel.

ABOVE: Price stops to chat with Shannan Robinson at Lilly Pulitzer on Atlantic Avenue.

Photos by Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

Paws Up for Pets

Community rallies to support man who helps community cats

This column is dedicated to people who help people who help cats. In particular, the spotlight shines on what people have done to transform the living situation for a Delray Beach man named Levoyd Mitchell.

But most people know him as simply Catman.

For years, Catman has gathered bags and cans of donated food to feed about 200 community cats in Delray Beach every day. He pedals to specific feeding spots morning and night. And the felines are waiting for him.

He is quiet-spoken. He prefers talking about cats more than himself. His focus is on helping cats who have been abandoned or born without homes.

“I have always loved animals, and I started feeding these community cats for a number of reasons,” he told me in a recent phone conversation. “Pedaling my bike with bags of food is good exercise and good for my health. And I love when the cats see me, come out and let me pet them.”

He is also a man filled with gratitude. With the help of many, led by Delray Beach Vice Mayor Juli Casale and Jill Merjeski, founder of Jill’s Next Door pet services in Highland Beach, Mitchell is now living in a furnished one-

Helping the cause

bedroom apartment and pedals a donated e-bike to feed the felines.

“I want to thank all who have donated food for the cats and to those who helped me find a place to live,” he says. “Thank God for them. They saved me because I would be homeless otherwise. I had nowhere to go.”

Organizers were able to fulfill the Amazon wish list 100% for his apartment furnishings.

Merjeski says, “This is a real miracle story. Catman has been

Tri-County Animal Rescue, Boca Raton

Lang Realty and Lang Management associates teamed up in July to do volunteer work at Tri-County Animal Rescue. The volunteers installed sod donated by M.B. Gardening Services LLC to restore the turf for the shelter’s dog runs. They also spent time with new rescues and donated dog supplies.

ABOVE (l-r): Noreen Payne, Amy Snook, Talisa Roberts, Jill Levitt and Belkis Tenner. Photo provided

How to help Ship cat food donations to Levoyd Mitchell, 36 SW 12th Ave., Delray Beach, FL 33444.

See updates on Catman’s crusade at: https://www. facebook.com/lloyd. mitchell.1460.

neuter-vaccinate-return cat program in Delray Beach.

“This kind gentleman has been feeding our community cats every day,” she says. “He is hardworking and quiet. These cats rely on him.”

Casale’s home for the past two decades has always included rescued pets. Currently they are former street cats called Patrick and Peter.

fixing and feeding Delray’s community cats on his own accord for years. He is helping control our cat population while caring for legal homeless cats. He has a huge heart.

“This project reflects our community’s compassion and support by transforming his new space into a loving home,” she adds. “I’m honored to belong to a community that truly makes a positive impact on one another.”

Casale met Catman about five years ago, when efforts were underway to start a trap-

Patrick was found on the streets with no fur due to mange and now sports a fluffy black-and-white long-haired coat. Peter followed Casale to her car for five days in a row. He had no microchip identification, and she estimates he was about 10 when she adopted him.

Catman knows that there are some people who don’t like free-roaming cats.

“Sometimes, people call the police on me because I am feeding cats in an alley, but fortunately, the police know me

and what I am doing,” he says. “These community cats take care of lizards and snakes in yards.”

Casale agrees, adding, “With TNVR, these cats serve a service to the community. Community cats are not going away, and we should treat them with care.”

Quotes from Catman fans

Here are just some of the raves on his Facebook page: “The good guy comes out on top for a change. Way to go, Catman.” — Lori Meyers DiBacco

“I am so incredibly grateful to the village that came together to help a man who does so much for our beautiful cats!” — Susan Gilbert

“I’m so happy to see Levoyd in a safe and comfortable home of his own. Well-deserved.” — Sharon Casella

“It’s nice when good things happen to good people.” — Frank Malickson

“Thank you for doing what you do for the cats of Delray.” — Laila Petruzziello

Arden Moore is an author, speaker and master certified pet first aid instructor. Learn more at www. ardenmoore.com.

Levoyd ’Catman’ Mitchell, of Delray Beach, holds one of the community felines that he feeds and cares for. Photo provided

Health & Harmony

Want proof that healthy aging is possible? Look to this 104-year-old

Marjorie Beall, who turned 104 on Aug. 10, is an ideal illustration of aging well and could be the poster child for September’s National Healthy Aging month.

Beall, who has lived in Palm Beach County for 102 years, lived on her own in recent years until she moved into MorseLife Health System, a residential service for seniors in West Palm Beach, last year.

According to the NIH National Institute on Aging and the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, healthy aging encompasses a balanced diet and exercise, learning new things, getting seven to nine hours of sleep each night, not smoking, volunteering, staying connected, minimizing stress, perhaps getting a dog and walking it — and signing up for a free virtual memory screening at https://alzfdn.org

Coming to the “land of sunshine and oranges,” Beall arrived at age 2 with her parents —Thomas and Edith Robinson — and older brother, Colin, by way of Australia, New Zealand and England. They sailed from England to Havana, Cuba, and then boarded Henry Flagler’s ferry to Key West and then his overseas railroad to Palm Beach.

Looking for opportunity

beyond the boom-and-bust Florida of the 1920s, the family traveled in an open touring car to Long Beach, California, and Seattle, then returned to Australia and England by ship.

Hearing once more of a land “more fertile than the Nile,” the family returned to Florida, and in 1926 survived the hurricane, even though their wood frame house in Northwood Village was destroyed.

“My father hollered ‘make for the beds!’ while my mother sang ‘Nearer My God to Thee’ as our roof was coming off,” Beall recalls.

The centenarian treasures a yellowed photograph of her at

age 2 with Colin, then 6. The two are floating on a rickety handmade boat in a town known as Geerworth, near Belle Glade.

Beall can remember simpler times with no air conditioning, when people swam in the ocean to stay cool and listened to WIOD in Miami — the only local radio station back then. She grew up on Palm Beach island, where her parents were caretakers in the Frazier mansion, home to socialite and “Poor Little Rich Girl” Brenda Frazier.

Beall, who has three grandchildren and three greatgrandchildren, graduated from Palm Beach High School in 1938 and landed a job as a typist for $18 a week at a Worth Avenue real estate office.

In 1942 she married James Warner Beall, a U.S. Army Air Corps electronics officer who helped set up the Army Air Base in Boca Raton near the Bath & Tennis Club. The base housed military employees and worked with a top-secret technology known as radar.

Beall herself earned a topsecret military clearance from the U.S. government and was able to work as a secretary for $30 a week at the Boca Raton Club, which was used by the military for housing and classrooms from 1942 to 1944.

After the war, Beall and her husband built a home on

a lake in the southern part of West Palm Beach, where she remained until last year. He died in 1979.

During the Korean conflict, with her security clearance still active, Beall went to the Philippines and worked for the government typing secret military communications.

“I’ve been very thankful for all of my life,” she says.

Her only son, James “Jim” Colin Beall, 81, a retired pediatric dentist in South Carolina, says, “My mom was always active and always worked. She became an avid walker and would walk with her companion, Mike Fischer, her former high school sweetheart.”

Involved in Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in West Palm Beach, Beall “loved cruises, reading and swimming and never smoked or drank,” according to her son.

“I credit this for her good health,” he adds, noting that Beall’s own mother lived until the age of 88.

Beall agrees, attributing her longevity to swimming, eating lots of fruits and vegetables, hot tea and a love of murder mysteries.

Her caretaker of three years, Magda Jean Noel, 43, is amazed by Beall’s resilience and positive outlook.

“I’m so blessed to work with Marjorie,” she says. “It’s an honor.

“She always tells me to eat tomatoes and vegetables and to buy only what I can afford,” she says. “She’s so humble and loves people. You can see and feel it.

“Marjorie has a real heart,” Noel says.

These days, Beall reads and watches TV in her room and joins the other residents for meals in the dining hall.

“I’m very thankful I’m still here,” Beall says by phone from her room at MorseLife.

Due to Hurricane Debby’s hitting South Carolina in August, her son wasn’t able to attend her 104th birthday party, thrown by the staff.

Does Beall have any birthday wishes? “To keep going a little longer,” she says. “I’ve almost reached the end of the road.”

She recalls traveling the world with her family and husband (“hundreds of thousands of miles”).

“He promised that if I followed him, he would bring me back to Florida for my golden years,” she says. “Palm Beach County has always been where my heart is.

“I’m truly blessed.”

Jan Engoren writes about health and healthy living. Send ideas to jengoren@ hotmail.com.

Health Calendar

Note: Events are current as of 8/28. Please check with organizers for any changes.

SEPTEMBER 7

Saturday - 9/7 - Morning Beach Yoga at The Seagate Beach Club, 401 S Ocean Blvd, Delray Beach. Every Sat 8-9 am. $20/person. Tickets: 561-330-3775; eventbrite.com/e/sunrisebeach-yoga-tickets-336433921917

9/7 - Saturdays @ Sanborn: Yoga Class at Sanborn Square, 72 N Federal Hwy, Boca Raton. 8:45 am registration; 9 am class. Free. 561-3937703; downtownboca.org

9/7 - Zumba Class at South Beach Park Pavilion, 400 N State Rd A1A, Boca Raton. Every Sat 10 am. Free. 561-393-7703; downtownboca.

org 9/7 - Yoga Class at South Palm Beach Town Hall, 3577 S Ocean Blvd. Every Sat 9 am. $5/ class. 561-588-8889; southpalmbeach.com

9/7 - Yoga at the Beach at Red Reef Park West, 1221 S Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. No cash accepted on-site. Every W 6:30 and 1st & 3rd Sat 10-11 am. $10-$12.50/class; 60-day membership $65/resident, $81.25/nonresident. 561-393-7807; myboca.us

9/7 - Judo Class at Boca Raton Community Center, 150 Crawford Blvd. 6:30-8:30 pm mixed ages/ranks; Sat 10 am-noon all groups. Per month $21.50/resident; $27/non-resident. 561393-7807; myboca.us

9/7 - AA Meeting at Unity of Delray Beach, 101 NW 22nd St. Every Sat 5:30 pm. Free. 561-2765796; unityofdelraybeach.org

SEPTEMBER 8-14

Sunday - 9/8 - Yoga at the Museum at Boca Raton Museum of Art, 501 Plaza Real. 9:30-11 am. $15/member; $30/non-member. 561-3922500; bocamuseum.org

9/8 - Yoga at the Beach at Red Reef Park East, 1400 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. No cash accepted on-site. Every Sun 4:30 pm. $10$12.50/class; 60-day membership $65/resident, $81.25/non-resident. 561-393-7807; myboca.us

Monday - 9/9 - Zumba Cardio at Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E Ocean Ave. Adults. Every M/W 5:30-6:30 pm. $10. 561-7426221; boynton-beach.org

9/9 - LGBTQ ACOA Meeting at Unity of Delray Beach, 101 NW 22nd St. Every M 6:30 pm. Free. 561-276-5796; unityofdelraybeach.org

9/9 - Adult Zumba Class at Boca Raton Community Center, 150 Crawford Blvd. Every M through 8/26 7-8 pm. $6-$7.50/1 class. 561393-7807; myboca.us Tuesday - 9/10 - Tai Chi Class at Boca Raton Community Center, 150 Crawford Blvd. Beginner through advanced. Ages 16+. Every T 6-8 pm. $8-$10/class. 561-393-7807; myboca.us 9/10- Al-Anon Meeting at Unity of Delray Beach, 101 NW 22nd St. Every T 7 pm. Free.

561-276-5796; unityofdelraybeach.org

Wednesday - 9/11 - Tai Chi Class at South Palm Beach Town Hall, 3577 S Ocean Blvd. Every W 9 am. $5/class. 561-588-8889; southpalmbeach.com 9/11 - Stretch & Strengthening Mindfulness Class at South Palm Beach Town Hall, 3577 S Ocean Blvd. Every W/F 10:30 am. $5/class. 561-588-8889; southpalmbeach.com 9/11 - Wellness Wednesday: Yoga at Cornell Art Museum at Old School Square, 51 N Swinton Ave, Delray Beach. Every W 11 amnoon. $5/class. Registration: 561-654-2220; delrayoldschoolsquare.com/events 9/11 - LGBTQ+ AA Meeting at Unity of Delray Beach, 101 NW 22nd St. Every W 7 pm. Free. 561-276-5796; unityofdelraybeach.org Thursday - 9/12 - Alateen Meeting at St. Mark Catholic Church, 643 NE 4th Ave, Boynton Beach. Every Th 7:30 pm. Free. 561-278-3481; southpalmbeachafg.org

SEPTEMBER 15-21

Wednesday – 9/18 - Scripps Research Front-Row Lecture Series: How Do You Feel? Molecules That Sense Touch and Other Pressures w/ Ardem Patapoutian, Ph.D. 1-hour virtual lecture. 7 pm. Free. Register for link: frontrow.scripps.edu

Health Notes

FAU professor wins grant for cancer treatment program

Wazir Muhammad, a principal investigator and professor at Florida Atlantic University’s Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, received a $701,000 grant from Precess Medical Derivatives. He’ll use the money to personalize radiation therapy for cancer treatment.

Muhammad is leading a three-year project using artificial intelligence. His treatment creates a “digital twin” of each cancer patient to better understand the condition. The digital twin uses observational data to represent a patient’s current state of health and predict future transitions.

Delray Medical Center’s Carolyn Kern, an ortho/spine/ oncology patient navigator, has been recognized as a Palm Beach Health Network 2023 Tenet Hero winner.

Tenet Heroes are the health network’s employees who go beyond their everyday duties.

Kern began her career at the hospital in 1996 as a physical therapist and quickly rose to clinical coordinator for orthopedic and spine services. She created educational materials and a video for patients who were considering joint replacement or spine surgery.

Recently, she became the oncology and lung navigator. Her mantra is, “What can I do to help?”

Additionally, Palm Beach Health Network announced a new hire and a promotion. Orthopedic spine surgeon Michael Stark, DO, has joined the network’s Physician Group and will be on staff at its Delray and West Boca medical centers.

Stark recently served as the orthopedic surgery chief resident at Jefferson Health New Jersey, in Stratford.

He earned his doctor of osteopathic medicine degree from Nova Southeastern University, where he was the recipient of a Howard Dunbar Scholarship, presented to the top five students for academic excellence.

He completed his fellowship in spine surgery at SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, New York. He is a member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the American Osteopathic Academy of Orthopaedics.

His office is at 9970 N. Central Park Blvd., Suite 400A, Boca Raton, and his phone number is 561-430-4610.

Derek Collins was recently promoted to Palm Beach Health Network’s chief strategy officer. Previously he was senior director of business planning at Tenet Healthcare’s corporate office. Prior to joining Tenet,

he worked at McKinsey & Company and DaVita Kidney Care.

Delray Medical Center received the American Heart Association’s “Get With The Guidelines Stroke Gold Plus” quality achievement award. In addition to following treatment guidelines, Get With The Guidelines participants educate patients to help them manage their health and recovery at home.

Delray Medical Center also received the American Heart Association’s Target: Stroke Elite Plus award.

To qualify, hospitals must meet criteria that reduce the time between an eligible patient’s arrival at the hospital and treatment with thrombolytic therapy.

In addition, Delray Medical received the American Heart Association’s Target: Stroke Honor Roll Advanced Therapy award by meeting specific criteria that reduce the time between an eligible patient’s arrival at the hospital and treatment to remove the clot causing the stroke.

Delray Medical Center also received the American Heart Association’s Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll award for ensuring that patients with Type 2 diabetes receive the most up-to-date care when hospitalized due to stroke.

Delray Medical Center also met guidelines as a Comprehensive Stroke Center, offering a system for rapid diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients admitted to the emergency department.

Delray Medical Center recently treated a patient with the new Nectero Endovascular Aneurysm Stabilization Treatment System.

The procedure was performed by Dr. Joseph Ricotta, chairman of the vascular surgery program at the hospital, as well as national medical director of vascular surgery and endovascular surgery for Tenet Healthcare. The procedure, a potential treatment for small to midsized infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms, can be conducted under local anesthesia, takes under an hour to complete, and leaves no implant behind.

Delray Medical Center also opened its new kosher hospitality room, designed to support Jewish families visiting loved ones at the hospital by offering access to kosher food and a peaceful space for reflection.

Send health news to Christine Davis at cdavis9797@gmail.com.

Boca Beach Chabad finds new home just west of Intracoastal

By Mary Hladky

After years of searching, Boca Beach Chabad finally has found a new home.

The Chabad in August closed on the purchase of a 30,000-square-foot office building located at 490 E. Palmetto Park Road, immediately west of Silver Palm Park.

That will allow the Chabad to move from its very cramped quarters at 120 NE First Ave., across the street from Sanborn Square.

“We are very excited,” said Rabbi Ruvi New. “Depending on how you calculate it, we really have been looking for a permanent site for close to 20 years. It definitely has been a long road and we definitely have taken the scenic path.

“It is very clear that God had a plan for us in mind and was testing our patience through earlier attempts that we made to lead us to this place at this time.”

New described the new location as “absolutely ideal and perfect,” as it is highly visible and accessible with plenty of parking spaces and near the Intracoastal Waterway.

Finding Faith

OThe building “almost looks like it was meant to be a Jewish center,” he said. “It doesn’t look like an office building.”

The Chabad previously wanted to build a synagogue and Israel museum at 770 E. Palmetto Park Road on the barrier island. But nearby residents objected, saying the project was too large and tall for the location and would overburden streets with traffic. They also challenged a city zoning change that would have allowed synagogue construction.

The result was years of litigation that ended when the Chabad decided to

abandon those plans after a promised donation of land was withdrawn.

The lawsuits spurred charges of antisemitism, which the Riviera Beach Civic Association strenuously denied at the time.

The association’s president, Katie Barr MacDougall, said Boca Beachside residents have no reservations about the new location.

“No one on the barrier island has any objection to the desired location west of the bridge,” MacDougall said in an email. “We wish them well.”

About a year ago, congregants heard that they might be able to lease the office

building, New said.

That spurred a conversation about buying the property and the owner put it up for auction.

The Chabad’s bid of $13 million was accepted in November.

To finance the purchase, the Chabad launched a capital campaign that raised $9 million in three months. A bank loan made up the difference.

“We are very grateful for the outpouring of support from the community,” New said.

Fundraising is continuing so that money is available to pay off the loan and renovate the three-story building. Renovation plans have been submitted to the city for

approval.

Rabbi New plans to lease out the third floor and a portion of the ground floor. That will leave 15,000 square feet for the Chabad and synagogue.

If all goes as he hopes, New wants the renovations to be completed by next September in time for High Holy Days.

The religious center will be known as Boca Beach Jewish Center Chabad.

While the Chabad won’t occupy the entire building, that could change. The number of congregants is growing, with more than 1,000 providing financial support or being engaged in some other way. New anticipates the new space will attract even more.

The growth started before the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas on Israel, but that brutal assault has spurred even more.

“Oct. 7 definitely impacted the Jewish world in many ways,” New said. “There is a greater sense of connectivity to one another and the connection to Israel and the need for us to come together to be unified and strong, to be present and to be proud in the face of all this antisemitism.”

Boca Beach Jewish Center Chabad “is very much needed,” on the east side of the city, New said. “It will be a hub for Jewish life for every demographic.” P

St. Vincent crowd hears speakers against abortion amendment on ballot

n a hot Wednesday in August, more than 200 people gathered in the gym at St. Vincent Ferrer Catholic Church in Delray Beach to talk about politics. The lively crowd came from other local Catholic churches — St. Jude and St. Joan of Arc in Boca Raton and Holy Name of Jesus in West Palm Beach — to hear the program on Florida’s Amendment 4 hosted by the Respect Life Ministry.

Amendment 4, which will be on the ballot on Nov. 5, is a 49-word amendment that would change the state’s existing abortion law, which bans abortions after the sixth week of pregnancy. Titled “Amendment to Limit Government Interference with Abortion,” it reads: “No law shall prohibit, penalize, delay, or restrict abortion before viability or when necessary to protect the patient’s health, as determined by the patient’s healthcare provider. This amendment does not change the Legislature’s constitutional authority to require notification to a parent or guardian before a minor has an abortion.” Father Dennis Gonzales welcomed the four speakers on the program: Sara Johnson, the statewide grassroots director of

the “Vote No on 4” initiative; Dr. Anthony Dardano, medical director at Delray Medical Center; the Rev. Timothy Cusick, academic dean at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary; and Mary Rodriguez, the former program director for Birthline/Lifeline.

Johnson spoke about her campaign that would be traveling the state pushing its message. Dardano spoke in detail about what happens in the hospital when an abortion happens on its own — what we usually call a miscarriage. Cusick spoke about ethics in medicine. Rodriguez spoke about the rewarding work she did at Birthline, which offers free pregnancy care services to clients who meet basic criteria at five locations in Palm Beach County. A woman coping with an unplanned pregnancy can access counseling regarding adoption and alternatives to pregnancy termination.

For this panel, any loosening of abortion regulations is in direct contradiction with their goal of a full abortion ban. Guests came to understand what the amendment meant so they could encourage others to vote “No” too.

The amendment will require a 60% “Yes” to pass. In a Florida

Atlantic University survey prior to the Aug. 20 primary election, 56% of those responding supported the amendment and 23% of Floridians were undecided. The poll showed only 21% were “solidly opposed.”

A July 30 poll by the University of North Florida said 69% of those surveyed said they’d vote yes compared to only 23% saying no.

The materials distributed at the St. Vincent Ferrer event — at least five tables were covered with pamphlets and printouts, bumper stickers and buttons — were enough to convince some undecided voters to side with the audience and oppose the proposed amendment.

The Catholic Church is fully behind this movement and is investing significant time and money into defeating the amendment. So is Gov. Ron DeSantis. DeSantis told the Tampa Bay Times that passing the amendment would mean the “end of the pro-life movement” in Florida and that he has raised millions to defeat it. Amendment 4 is sponsored by Floridians Protecting Freedom, which describes itself as “a statewide campaign of allied organizations and

concerned citizens working together to protect Floridians’ access to reproductive health care and defend the right to bodily autonomy.”

Miami Archbishop Thomas Wenski told the Catholic News Agency that “abortion is not a religious issue, it’s a human rights issue.” And it isn’t a red/ blue issue either. FAU reported that Democrats are largely united with 80% in support of the amendment, plus 35% of Republicans. A closer look found 59% of independents, 62% of voters ages 18-49, and 59% of women polled support the amendment. It is also supported by the ACLU of Florida, Planned Parenthood, Florida Women’s Freedom Coalition, Florida Rising and others.

The amendment has been criticized because it fails to define several important terms, which could make it difficult for some pro-choice voters to get on board. What is the definition of “viable”? Who qualifies as a “health care professional”?

Moral questions — such as, is abortion murder? — can provoke soul-searching. The Bible doesn’t say that abortion is or is not a sin. As biblical scholar Melanie A. Howard wrote in 2022: “Christians on

both sides of the partisan divide have appealed to any number of texts to assert that their particular brand of politics is biblically backed. However, if they claim the Bible specifically condemns or approves of abortion, they are skewing the textual evidence to fit their position.” (www.religionnews. com/2022/07/25/what-the-bibleactually-says-about-abortionmay-surprise-you/)

U.S. bishops wrote in November about the role of the Catholic Church in American political life, including in debates over the sanctity of life.

“Conscience is a means by which one listens to God and discerns how to act in accordance with the truth," the bishops wrote. "The truth is something we receive, not something we make.”

Janis Fontaine writes about people of faith, their congregations, causes and community events. Contact her at fontaine423@ outlook.com

The Chabad hopes its new home at 490 E. Palmetto Park Road will be ready in a year. Google maps

Religion Notes

Take action against hunger this month

Hunger Action Month in September offers chances to stay active and slow down hunger in Palm Beach County. It is a nationwide initiative created by Feeding America to raise awareness. Feeding South Florida reports that in South Florida, more than 1.2 million people are food-insecure, with one in nine individuals uncertain where and when they’ll eat their next meal.

Hunger Action Month features myriad activities to encourage South Floridians to stand against hunger, including:

• Participate in an online auction through Sept. 30

• Make a cash donation that will be matched by Delta Airlines up to $25,000.

• Start a food drive collecting non-perishables from your neighbors and friends.

• Volunteer to sort food at one of Feeding South Florida’s warehouses, or help prepare and cook meals for children and seniors at the organization’s Community Kitchen in Boynton Beach.

• Wear “Go Orange” swag on Sept. 13, Hunger Action Day, and your “Hunger Heroes” T-shirt ($25 at www. feedingsouthflorida.org/ ham2024).

• Join the Outrun Hunger 5K Palm Beach County, which takes place at 7:30 a.m. Sept. 21 at Okeeheelee Park, 7715 Forest Hill Blvd., West Palm Beach. Walk or run with a team, with your family, friends or coworkers, or just go it alone to raise awareness and funds. Money raised provides meals for families facing hunger in our community. Registration opens at 6:30 a.m. An awards ceremony takes place at 8:30 a.m. Registration is $25, or $40 with a T-shirt.

For more information on any of these programs or events, visit feedingsouthflorida.org

Cros Ministries 5K run

Cros Ministries Hustle to

Religion Calendar

Note: Events are current as of 8/28. Please check with organizers for any changes.

SEPTEMBER 7

Saturday - 9/7 - C-Kids Shabbat Program at Boca Beach Chabad, 120 NE 1st Ave.

Every Sat 10:45-11:45 am. 561-394-9770; bocabeachchabad.org

SEPTEMBER 8-14

Sunday - 9/8 - Chabad Hebrew School at Boca Beach Chabad, 120 NE 1st Ave. Jewish education for girls and boys ages 5-13. Every Sun. 10 am-noon. Full tuition: $1,250 plus $50 registration fee. 561-394-9770; bocabeachchabad.com/hebrewschool

Sunday - 9/8 - Zoom Bible Study at Ascension Catholic Church, 7250 N Federal Hwy, Boca Raton. Every Sun 7 pm. Free. Zoom link: communications#accboca.net; 561-997-5486; ascensionboca.org

Monday - 9/9 - Women’s Bible Study via Zoom at First Presbyterian Church of Delray Beach, 33 Gleason St. Every M 10 am. Free. 561276-6338; firstdelray.com 9/9 - Rosary for Peace at St. Vincent Ferrer

Family Life Center, 840 George Bush Blvd, Delray Beach. Every M 5:45-6:15 pm. Free. 561-

End Hunger 5K takes place at 7:30 a.m. Oct. 5 at John Prince Park in Lake Worth Beach. The run/walk also has a virtual option. All of the proceeds support CROS Ministries’ hunger programs. www. crosministries.org/events

Congregation helps needy Boca Raton Community Church takes the words of Jesus to heart: “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me. ... Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.”

On the fourth Saturday of every month, the church works from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Boca Helping Hands Food Center. The volunteers prepare and distribute between 300 and 350 meals to those in need and clean up afterward.

New volunteers are always welcome. The next event is Sept. 28 at Boca Helping Hands, 1500 NW First Court. Volunteers are asked to park in the lot across the street from the center. Closed-toe shoes with rubber soles are required for safety. Call 561-395-2400 or visit www.bocacommunity.org/ detail/?groupID=266

St. Gregory’s and Haiti

St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church hosts a special dinner and presentation, Journey with Bondeau, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Sept. 28 at the church in Harris Hall, 100 NE Mizner Blvd., Boca Raton. The event is in conjunction with the South Florida Haiti Project. Reservations required at 561395-8285 or email office@stgregorys.com

Birthline volunteers sought Potential Birthline/Lifeline volunteers are invited to an “Interested Volunteer Orientation” from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sept. 9 and 16 at 212 E. Boynton Beach Blvd., Boynton Beach. Register

276-6892; stvincentferrer.com

9/10 - Tuesday Morning Prayer Service at Unity of Delray Beach, 101 NW 22nd St. 10 am. Free. 561-276-5796; unityofdelraybeach.org

Wednesday - 9/11 - Men’s Spirituality Hour via Zoom at St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church, 100 NE Mizner Blvd, Boca Raton. Every W 8 am. Free. For link: 561-395-8285; stgregorysepiscopal.org

9/11 - Wednesday Evening Meditation Service at Unity of Delray Beach, 101 NW 22nd St. 6:30 pm. Free; love offering. 561-276-5796; unityofdelraybeach.org

Thursday - 9/12 - Thursday Morning Telephone Prosperity Coffee presented by Unity of Delray Beach Church, 101 NW 22nd St. Phone meeting (605-475-6006, passcode 3031030). Free; love offering. 561-276-5796; unityofdelraybeach.org

9/12 - Men’s Fellowship at First Presbyterian Church of Delray Beach, 33 Gleason St. Every Th 8:30 am. Free. 561-276-6338; firstdelray.com

9/12  - Women’s Bible Study at St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church, 100 NE Mizner Blvd, Boca Raton. Every Th 1 pm. Free. 561-395-8285; stgregorysepiscopal.org

Friday - 9/13 - Legion of Mary at St. Vincent Ferrer Family Life Center, 840 George Bush Blvd, Delray Beach. Every F 9:30-11 am. Free. 561-

by calling 561-732-0570 or emailing Karen O’Neill at koneill@ccdpb.org.

Help to get out the vote

The Environmental Voter Project needs help identifying non-voting environmentalists so it can send postcards encouraging them to vote. This postcard campaign is sponsored by the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Boca Raton after the morning services on Sept. 15 and 22 in the Parker Room at 2601 St. Andrews Blvd., Boca Raton. Snacks will be provided. Call 561-482-2001.

Adult Bible discussion

Lori J. Durante will lead a a four-week Bible discussion about Dr. Rosa J. Young’s remarkable history as a pioneer and the Black mother of Lutheranism. Discussions will be held 9:45-10:45 a.m. on Saturdays in October at Cason Cottage at the Delray Beach Historical Society, 3 NE First St. Parking is available in the rear. Bring your Bible. To prepare, watch the Dr. Rosa Young feature film produced by Lutheran Women’s Mission League at https:// vimeo.com/157626572 or go to lcms.org/thefirstrosa. The program is free, but registration is required. Email Durante at ljdurante@aol. com.

Leadership conference

CityLead Conference 2024 takes place from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 12 at Boca Raton Community Church, 470 NW Fourth Ave., Boca Raton. Participate in multiple leadership sessions and engage in meaningful conversations. Enjoy light refreshments, snacks, coffee and an optional lunch as Pastor Bill Mitchell shares his story of faith. Registration is $35 at www. citylead.com/boca.

276-6892; stvincentferrer.com

9/13 - Bible Study w/Dave Kirk at Advent Boca Raton, 300 E Yamato Rd. Every F 10-11:30 am. 561-395-3632; adventboca.org

9/13- Virtual Shabbat Service at Temple Sinai of Palm Beach County, 2475 W Atlantic Ave, Delray Beach. Every F 7:30 pm. Free. 561276-6161; templesinaipbc.org

SEPTEMBER 22-28

Sunday - 9/22 - Annual Community Members Breakfast at Boca Beach Chabad, 120 NE 1st Ave, Boca Raton. 10 am. RSVP: 561394-9770; bocabeachchabad.com/breakfast Saturday - 9/28 - "Spiritual Symphony" to Celebrate Selichot at B'nai Torah Congregation, 6261 SW 18th St, Boca Raton.

B’nai Torah volunteer effort

Dixie Manor, Boca Raton

Volunteers from the B’nai Torah Congregation spent the summer with the pre-K program at Dixie Manor, a low-income complex run by the Boca Raton Housing Authority. Program volunteers, made up of neuro-typical and neuro-divergent high school and college students, plus retired teachers and authors, spent a few hours a day reading to the children. Summer Faerman, director of the Tzedakah, Learning and Chesed program at B’nai Torah, said in a news release: ’Our volunteers are loving every minute of their time spent on campus. No one is looking at their watch.’ Photo provided

Interfaith meeting

The Interfaith Committee for Social Services meets 9-11 a.m. Sept. 12 in the Guild Room at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 188 S. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach. The Interfaith Committee helps homeless people and provides social services and referrals for clients who need direction. New volunteers and donors are welcome. For more information, visit www. interfaithcommittee.com.

’Jesus Tour’ comes to Boca PenFlorida Assemblies of God Youth Ministries is bringing the “Jesus Tour South East” to the Church of All Nations, Boca Raton, 1300 NW Fourth Ave., from 7 to 10 p.m. Sept. 21. This free tour is a catalyst for both local and global youth missions and is

Music features cantors Fishman and Keren, musical director Adaddi and B'nai Torah Choir. Free. 8:15 pm/doors open and light refreshments, 9 pm/service. Free/open to community. Registration: 561-392-8566; btcboca.org/selichot

SEPT. 29-OCT. 5

Wednesday, 10/2 - Erev Rosh Hashana service at Temple Sinai, 2475 W. Atlantic Ave. in Delray Beach. $200 reserved seating, $136 general seating. Tickets: 561-276-6161, ext. 100.

designed to rally students and leaders to attend the regional youth conference Nov. 8-9 in Daytona Beach. The target audience for the tour and the conference is sixth grade and up. Everyone is welcome, from large groups to individuals. Tickets start at $80 for the Daytona Beach conference. youth.penflorida.org

St. Gregory’s on beach

St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church will host a sunrise beach eucharist and beach cleanup at 6:30 a.m. Sept. 22 at South Beach Park at State Road A1A and Palmetto Park Road, Boca Raton. www. stgregorysepiscopal.org

Send religion news to Janis Fontaine at fontaine423@outlook. com

Thursday, 10/3-10/4- Rosh Hashana services at Temple Sinai, 2475 W. Atlantic Ave. in Delray Beach. $200 reserved seating, $136 general seating. Tickets: 561-276-6161, ext. 100. 10/3 - Islamic Center of Boca Raton Open House at 3480 NW 5th Ave, Boca Raton. All welcome. Refreshments, tour of the mosque, Q&A. 1st Th 7-9 pm. Free. 561-395-7221; icbr. org Friday - 10/4 - Adoration & Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament at St. Mark Chapel, 643 NE 4th Ave, Boynton Beach. 1st F 9 am-3 pm. Free. 561-734-9330; stmarkboynton.com Saturday - 10/5 - Bible Discussion: Black Lutheran History & Missionary Dr. Rosa J. Young w/ Lori J. Durante at Historic Cason Cottages, 3 NE 1st St, Delray Beach. Adult Bible discussion every Sat through 10/26. 9:45-10:45 am. Free. Registration: ljdurante@aol.com

Tots & Teens

Music helped FAU High grad overcome debilitating illness

By Faran Fagen

Music saved his life.

That’s the first thing Angelo Sanders thinks of when asked what playing his oboe has meant to him during his teenage years.

For the 18-year-old recent graduate of FAU High School in Boca Raton, music and the oboe fueled his emotional expression, creativity and purpose to overcome disabilities that could have threatened his musical potential and dreams.

“Without music, I don’t know if I’d be alive,” said Sanders, of Coral Springs. “I was in a dark space a lot of the time and music became my source of joy.”

Raised by a widowed mother on limited income, he suffered debilitating pain and complications of undiagnosed hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, along with anxiety and a sleep disorder that compounded physical and mental health issues.

The genetically based illness was finally identified only two years ago.

Despite that, Sanders earned a 3.83 grade-point average in high school, where he excelled on the oboe and English horn.

His musical exploits, along

with his academic prowess, earned him the 2024 Nat and Maria Cole Memorial Scholarship, a full four-year grant sponsored by Nat King Cole Generation Hope, the Palm Beach County-based provider of music education for underserved children and teens.

“As our 2024 scholarship recipient, Angelo Sanders

Tots & Teens Calendar

Note: Events are current as of 8/28. Please check with organizers for any changes.

SEPTEMBER 7

Saturday - 9/7 - Drop-In Family Storytime at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Up to ages 5. Every Sat 10-10:30 am. Free. Registration: 561-393-7968; bocalibrary.org

9/7 - Saturday Morning ART (smART) at Boca Raton Museum of Art, 501 Plaza Real. Based on artwork at the museum. Ages 5+. Held again 10/5. 10-11 am. $15/member; $25/ non-member. Registration: 561-392-2500; bocamuseum.org

9/7 - Little Wonders at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. Hike, crafts, stories. Ages 3-4 w/an adult. Held again 10/5. 10-10:45 am. $8/resident & member; $10/ non-member. Reservations: 561-544-8605; myboca.us/calendar.aspx?CID=47

9/7 - Cheers & Gymnastics Basics Class at Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E Ocean Ave. Every Sat through 10/26. Ages 4-6: 10-10:45 am; Ages 6-11: 10:55-11:40 am. $144/ resident; $180/non-resident. 561-742-6221; boynton-beach.org

9/7 - Play & Learn for Storytime at Boca Raton Public Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Ages 3-5. Every Sat 10:30-11 am. Free. Registration: 561393-7968; bocalibrary.org

9/7 - Nature Detectives at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. New mystery each month. Ages 5-6 w/ adult. Held again 10/5. 11:30 am-12:15 pm. $8/resident & member; $10/non-member. Reservations: 561-544-8605; myboca.us/ calendar.aspx?CID=47

9/7 - Tail Waggin Tutors at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Elementary school children read to certified therapy dog. Ages 6-8. Held again 9/21 & 10/5. Noon-1:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-393-7968; bocalibrary.org

9/7 - Sandoway Discovery Center Animal Feedings at 142 S Ocean Blvd, Delray Beach. All ages. Daily shark & stingray feedings 1 pm; daily aquarium feedings 2 pm; animal encounters 3 pm. T-Sat. Free w/$10 admission. 561-274-7263; sandoway.org

SEPTEMBER 8-14

Sunday - 9/8 - The Rock & Roll Playhouse: Music of Taylor Swift for Kids! at The Studio at Mizner Park, 201 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. Doors open 1:30 pm; show 2 pm. $17.50. 561203-3742; thestudioatmiznerpark.com Monday – 9/9 - Acting For Kids Class at Lake

Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. Ages 8-14. Every M through 12/9 5-6 pm. $250/12-weeks. 561-586-6169 x217; lakeworthplayhouse.org

Tuesday - 9/10 - Play & Learn for Toddlers at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Learn literacy skills during playtime. Ages walking to 23 mos. Every T 10:30-11 am. Free. Registration: 561-393-7968; bocalibrary.org

9/10 - Reading Buddies at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Ages 6-8. Every T 4:30-5:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-393-7968; bocalibrary.org

9/10 - Teen Tuesday at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Ages 13-17. Every T 5-7 pm. Free. 561-742-6393; boyntonlibrary.org

9/10-11 - Sensational Story ‘n More at Schoolhouse Children’s Museum & Learning Center, 129 E Ocean Ave, Boynton Beach. Ages 2-5. Every T 10-10:45 am & W 3-3:45 pm through 8/14. Free w/paid admission. 561-742-6780; schoolhousemuseum.org

Wednesday - 9/11 - Outdoor Storytime at Boynton Beach Library under the banyan tree, 100 E Ocean Ave. Stories, rhymes, more. Held again 9/25 10-10:30 am. Free. 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

9/11 - Reading & Rhythm for 2-3s at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Literacy enrichment class. Child must be accompanied by an adult. Every W 10-10:30 am. Free. Registration: 561-393-7968; bocalibrary.org

9/11 - Play & Learn for 2-3s at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Playtime w/literacybased toys. Every W 10:30-11 am. Free. Registration: 561-393-7968; bocalibrary.org

Thursday - 9/12 - Drop-In Family Storytime at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Up to ages 5. Every Th 10-10:30 am. Free. Registration: 561-393-7968; bocalibrary.org

9/12- Play & Learn for Storytime at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Ages 3-5. Every Th 10:30-11 am. Free. Registration: 561-3937968; bocalibrary.org

9/12 - World Coloring Day at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. All ages. 2:30-5:30 pm. Free. 561-393-7968; bocalibrary.org

9/12 - Make & Take at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Ages 5-12. 4:30-5:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

9/12 - Create-a-Comic! at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Ages 13-17. Held again 9/26. 6-7 pm. Free. Registration: 561-393-7968; bocalibrary.org

Friday - 9/13 - Play & Learn for Babies at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Learn literacy skills during playtime. Ages 0 months to

path to a classical music career, will attend the renowned School of Music at State University of New York at Fredonia, a training ground for the next generation of music professionals.

He aims to become a distinguished, first-chair professional oboist who will perform with leading national orchestras and chamber ensembles, as well as a college professor who will educate and inspire future virtuosos of his instrument.

“Music is my whole life and I hope to help others and do what I enjoy,” he said, adding that he wants to impart his favorite mantra of instruction when he plays — response, pitch, tone. Those are the three most important facets of oboe playing, in that order, he said.

embodies the ideals of Nat King Cole, who cherished the privilege of bringing harmony to people with his music,” said Shanna St. John, executive director of Nat King Cole Generation Hope. “Music always motivated Angelo to keep going, and without a doubt, it always will.”

This fall, Sanders, now on a

non-walking. Held again 9/20 & 27 11:30 amnoon. Free. 561-393-7968; bocalibrary.org

9/13 - The Art of the Story at Schoolhouse Children’s Museum & Learning Center, 129 E Ocean Ave, Boynton Beach. Children create art based on book. Ages 3-7. Held again 9/27 & 10/4. 3-3:45 pm. Free w/paid admission. 561742-6780; schoolhousemuseum.org

9/13 - Bright Minds Storytime: Someone Builds the Dream by Lisa Wheeler at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. For children with Autism Spectrum Disorder ages 6-8. 3:30-4 pm. Free. Registration: 561-393-7968; bocalibrary.org

Saturday - 9/14 - Bones to Books at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Children read to friends from Bonafide Therapy Dogs. All ages. 1-2 pm. Free. Registration: 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org 9/14 - Chess Mates at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Ages 13-17. Introduction to Chess: 1-2 pm; Open Play Chess: 2-3 pm. Free. Registration: 561-393-7968; bocalibrary.org

SEPTEMBER 15-21

Monday - 9/16 - Brainfuse: HelpNow & JobNow at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. HelpNow offers K-12 homework assistance, personalized eLearning tools, and a 24-hour writing lab. JobNow provides online job assistance and resources. 2 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org 9/16 - Epic Crafters Book Club at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 6-8. 3:30-4:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org 9/16 - K-Pop Club at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 13-17. 5-6 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0197; delraylibrary.org

9/16 - Family Fun Night at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. 5-6:30 pm. Free. 561742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

Tuesday - 9/17 - Chapter Master Book Club at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 9-12. 4-5  pm. Free. Registration: 561-2660194; delraylibrary.org

9/17 - Karate Class at Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E Ocean Ave. Ages 6-17. Every T/Th through 10/24. Beginner: 5:30-6:25 pm; Intermediate/Advanced: 6:30-7:25 pm. $90/resident; $113/non-resident. 561-742-6221; boynton-beach.org

Wednesday - 9/18 - Bouncing Babies Story Time at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 3 mo.-2.5 yrs. Held again 10/2. 1010:30 am. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

9/18 - Bilingual Outdoor Storytime at Boynton Beach Library under the banyan tree, 100 E Ocean Ave. Stories, rhymes, more. Held

sophomore year, Sanders has bought wood and sculpted it with a knife for the desired reed shape.

He hopes to mass produce the woodwind reeds and provide them to young musicians for free.

“I like my reeds to be narrow and soft,” Sanders said. “Not sure why that works best for me, but it does.”

While attending FAU High School, Sanders participated in the school’s Wind Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Band, Chamber Winds and Summer Concert Band, and volunteered more than 500 hours of school/music community service.

Another way Sanders hopes to give back is through the reeds he uses to play the oboe. According to Sanders, if you don’t have a good reed, you won’t be able to play.

Sanders, who learned to scrimp and save at a young age (he did his own car repairs at age 16 so he had a ride to school), began making his own reeds to save money. Since his

again 10/2. 10-10:30 am. Free. 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

9/18 - Ballet Palm Beach presents Peter And The Wolf at Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. For grades K-5. 11 am. $8. 561-5866410; lakeworthplayhouse.org

9/18 -Young @ Art: Square Off the Square at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Create fun arts/crafts. Ages 6-8. Held again 9/25 & 10/2 3:30-4:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561266-0194; delraylibrary.org

9/18 - Inventors Academy: STEM-Based Book Club at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 9-12. 4-5  pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

Thursday - 9/19 - Library Card Sign Up Month Open House at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. 4-6 pm. Free. Registration: 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org Saturday - 9/21 - STEM Camp: Robotics at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 9-12. 10:30-11:45 am. Free. Registration: 561266-0194; delraylibrary.org 9/21-22 - Creation Station at Boca Raton Museum of Art Grand Hall, 501 Plaza Real. Limited seating. Noon-4 pm. Free w/admission. 561-392-2500; bocamuseum.org

SEPTEMBER 22-28

Sunday - 9/22 - Rookie Rooks: Introduction to Chess for Youth at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Ages 9-12. 10:30-11:30 am. Free. Registration: 561-393-7968; bocalibrary.org

Monday – 9/23 - Visual Adjectives Graphic Novel Workshop at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. 4-week workshop: instruction in art, writing, production. Registrants must commit to all 5 sessions. All materials provided. Ages 9-12. Held again 10/28, 11/18, 12/2 & 16. 4-5:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0197; delraylibrary.org

9/23 - TAB (Teen Advisory Board) Meeting at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. 5-6 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

Tuesday - 9/24 - Zumbini at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Ages 0-5. 1010:45 am. Free. Registration: 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

9/24 - Teen Tech Sandbox at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 13-17. 3:304:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

9/24 - Booktastic Book Talk: So, You Want to Be An Athlete? by NFL Player Brandin Bryant at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Ages 7-8. 4-4:45 pm. Free. Registration: 561393-7968; bocalibrary.org

9/24 - Teen Banned Book Talk at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Ages 13-17. 6-7 pm.

He also volunteered with Equine-Assisted Therapies of South Florida, preparing and tending to the horses and assisting the instructors.

His main goal is to become a professional oboe player, but as he begins his college journey, as long as it involves music, he knows he’ll be a success.

“I had to do music because I was miserable otherwise,” Sanders said. “When I didn’t know what to do or how to keep going, music gave me a place to belong.” P

Free. Registration: 561-393-7968; bocalibrary. org

Wednesday - 9/25 - Special Storytime w/ 211: Help Me Grow at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Provides developmental screenings for children younger than 5. 10-10:30 am. Free. 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org 9/25 - Zumba Kids: Dance, Move & Groove! at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Ages 6-11. 3-4 pm. Free. Registration: 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

Thursday - 9/26 - Special Guest Storytime w/Police at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Up to age 5. 10-10:30 am. Free. Registration: 561-393-7968; bocalibrary.org 9/26 - Picture Book Club at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Ages 5-12. 4:305:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-742-6393; boyntonlibrary.org Saturday - 9/28 - ART Tales Story Time at Boca Raton Museum of Art Wolgin Education Center, 501 Plaza Real. Literacy/arts program. Ages 4-8 w/adult. 10:30-11:30 am. Free. Registration: 561-392-2500; bocamuseum.org 9/28 - ColorSpace: Teen Art Studio at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 13-17. 11 am-noon. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org 9/28 - Chess Mates at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Ages 13-17. Intermediate Class: 1-2 pm; Open Play Chess: 2-3 pm. Free. Registration: 561-393-7968; bocalibrary.org

SEPT. 29-OCT. 5

Sunday - 9/29 - The Rock & Roll Playhouse: Music of Billy Joel for Kids! at The Studio at Mizner Park, 201 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. Noon. $17. 561-203-3742; thestudioatmiznerpark.com

Monday - 9/30 - National Video Games Day Tournament at Delray Beach Public Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 11-17. 6-7 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

Tuesday - 10/1 - Teen Book Club at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 13-17. Held again 10/15 5-6pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org Wednesday- 10/2 - STEAM Lab at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Ages 8-12. 3:30-4:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

Thursday - 10/3 - Passport to Adventure at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Ages 5-12. 4:30-5:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-7426390; boyntonlibrary.org

Saturday - 10/5 - Auditions: The Sound of Music at Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. Production dates 1/17-2/2. Noon-4 pm. 561586-6410; lakeworthplayhouse.org

Angelo Sanders is headed to the School of Music at State University of New York at Fredonia on a full scholarship from Nat King Cole Generation Hope. Photo provided

Along the Coast

Uncovered patch reef teeming with life — and bringing poachers

By John Pacenti

It’s just before low tide at Gulfstream Park on the morning of Aug. 15, and a mere 30 yards from the beach is a snorkeler’s treat. On this day when the shimmering water is like glass, transparent and smooth, juvenile fish gather on rocky outcroppings within the short swim from shore.

Endangered queen conch have come back — and unfortunately so have the poachers. Some visitors have seen lobsters under rocks, and even spear fishermen have shown up to hunt.

This is a relatively recent occurrence, according to Ocean Ridge Mayor Geoff Pugh, who said beach renourishment projects have covered up the patch reef for years at a time. The last renourishment in the vicinity occurred a decade ago.

“It’s almost like it was when I was a kid, that’s how neat it is,” he said. “There’s actually Gorgonian sea fans.”

On one sea fan, Pugh said he counted 34 flamingo tongue cowries with their oblong spotted shells. Pugh said it was his son who told him to get out there and snorkel.

“There’s all kinds of fish and there’s actually real live queen conch shells,” Pugh said.

This is not John Pennekamp

Reef State Park in the Florida Keys — or even Phil Foster Park in Riviera Beach — but for the snorkeler seeking serenity and a quick jaunt among sea life, the area from around Ocean Ridge to the County Pocket fits the bill.

A recent outing produced no lobsters but did have a queen conch along with a Crayola-box variety of tiny reef fish, with yellow the predominant color.

A school of silvery-blue bar jacks, sergeant majors, porkfish, the zebra markings of high hats along with grunts and wrasse

were all visible.

Imagine jumping into a saltwater aquarium — that is what snorkeling this area is like this summer. Most fish aren’t big — some are super tiny — but are spectacular nonetheless.

Still, this is Florida, and every ray of sunshine has opportunistic savagery trying to shade it. Witnesses saw men taking queen conch from the ocean to eat, Ocean Ridge police confirmed.

Florida law prohibits the commercial and recreational harvesting of queen conch in

state waters, a second-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.

An anonymous posting on Facebook said three men in their 30s or 40s harvested “two beautiful large queen conch.”

“They said they intend to eat them and keep the shells,” the post said.

Ocean Ridge Police Chief Scott McClure said his department received a report of individuals taking three conch on Aug. 10. “Persons had left the area prior to the officer’s

arrival,” he said.

Any good news is welcome on the reef front. The last two summers have been brutal on some prominent Florida reefs as record ocean temperatures have bleached out pristine underwater gardens in the Florida Keys and Biscayne Bay. The civic group Friends of Delray pointed out in its newsletter that Delray Beach is home to several companies positioned to make the city a leader in artificial reef technology. P

Coral

LEFT: Dozens of juvenile reef fish seek cover among the rocks off Ocean Ridge.

ABOVE: A 4-inch-tall sea fan has emerged since the rocks became exposed.

Photos by Jerry Lower/The Coastal Star

On the Water

Secret to catching snook lies in weight, color of lure

The snook is one of the most sought-after saltwater gamefish in Florida, and there’s no better time to catch one in South Florida than after the season opened on Sept. 1.

The hard-fighting, goodtasting fish are congregated at Palm Beach County beaches, fishing piers and inlets, in the Intracoastal Waterway and at spillways this time of year. They can be caught on live bait and a variety of lures such as jigs and soft-plastic baitfish imitations.

“Swimbaits work great on the beaches and at the spillways,” said Tom Greene of Lighthouse Point, who grew up in Boca Raton, where he started fishing for snook 60 years ago.

In the old days, Greene and his fishing buddies used what he called chicken feather jigs to catch snook at inlets.

Those were replaced by Red Tail Hawk bucktail jigs, which offered more color combinations and are still used today. Lures also have replaced what once were popular baits.

“For 50 years we fished live shrimp,” Greene said. “Now we have fishing lures that look like a shrimp that are better, and they don’t die on you.”

Because snook are so popular, they are intensely managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Anglers are allowed to keep only one snook per day with a total length of 28 to 32 inches along the Atlantic coast.

The season is closed from June 1 to Aug. 31, which is when snook spawn in Atlantic waters.

The open season is Sept. 1-Dec. 14, then it closes Dec. 15-Jan. 31, when the potential for cold weather can make snook so lethargic that unethical anglers could simply scoop up the fish with a landing net.

The season reopens Feb. 1-May 31. (Visit myfwc.com/ fishing/saltwater/recreational/ snook.)

To successfully catch snook in local waters, Greene said it is essential to match the weight of the lure you’re fishing to the depth of the water and the strength of the current.

If the lure is too light, it won’t get down to where the snook are lurking. If the lure is too heavy, it won’t swim naturally in the current and might simply plummet to the bottom.

Greene also said to match the lure’s color to the color of the baitfish that the snook are feeding on. Numerous tackle manufacturers offer swimbaits in colors that look like a croaker, a pilchard, a sardine, a sand perch or a mullet, which are all popular snook live baits in South Florida.

If South Florida has a lot of rain in September, Greene recommended fishing at the Boynton and Lake Worth spillways.

After a heavy rain, fresh water is often released at the spillways that flow into canals that connect to the Intracoastal so that water can eventually flow out the nearest inlet. When the spillways are open, snook will be there waiting for small freshwater fish such as bluegills, shad and shiners to be swept out into the canals.

Another of Greene’s favorite

Outdoors Calendar

Note: Events are current as of 8/28. Please check with organizers for any changes.

SEPTEMBER 7

Saturday - 9/7 - Outdoor Marine Aquarium Feedings at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. All ages; child must be accompanied by an adult. Daily 12:30 pm. Free. 561-544-8605; myboca. us/calendar.aspx?CID=47

SEPTEMBER 8-14

Tuesday - 9/10 - Island Treks at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. Visitors will be guided on a short trek along the shaded boardwalk through the tropical hardwood hammock forest. All ages; child must be accompanied by an adult. Held again 9/24. 10-10:30 am. Free. 561-544-8605; myboca.us/calendar.aspx?CID=47

Friday - 9/20 - After-Hours Guided Tours at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. Guided tour through Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Facility, outdoor aquariums, open-air butterfly garden, nature trail; ends w/sunset views of the Intracoastal Waterway. Ages 7-adult; child under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Held again 10/4. 6:30-8 pm. $10/resident & member; $13/nonresident. Register: 561-544-8605; myboca.us/ calendar.aspx?CID=47

Saturday - 9/21 - 2024 International Coastal Cleanup at multiple locations in Palm Beach County. Coordinated by Keep Palm Beach County Beautiful, Inc. The world’s largest, one-day volunteer effort to clean up the marine environment. Free. Check website for locations/times/registration forms: 561686-6646; keeppbcbeautiful.org

A close-up of a snook caught on a soft plastic jig.

Saturday - 9/14 - Coast Guard Auxiliary Boat America: A Boating Safety Course at Spanish River Park HQ Building, USCG Auxiliary Classroom, 3939 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. Boating terminology, boat handling, navigation rules, federal & Florida regulations, more. Course provides knowledge needed to obtain a boating certificate; possible insurance discount. 9 am-5 pm. $35/adult; $5/ teen. 561-391-3600; peauxboca@gmail.com 9/14 - Family Fun Snorkel at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. Snorkel shallow intracoastal waters, study animals sheltered/protected from ocean’s dangers. Bring your own snorkel, mask, water shoes (no fins allowed). Ages 10-adult; child under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. 10-11:30 am. $15/member; $19/non-member. Registration: 561-544-8605; myboca.us/ calendar.aspx?CID=47

SEPTEMBER 15-21

Sunday - 9/15 - Intracoastal Adventures: Advanced Kayaking at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. Includes short talk about South Florida’s unique animals/ecosystems. Ages 7-adult; each child under 13 must be accompanied by one adult. 9-10:30 am. $20/resident & member; $25/non-member. Registration: 561544-8605; myboca.us/calendar.aspx?CID=47

SEPTEMBER

22-28

Sunday - 9/22 - Seining the Lagoon at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. Explore grasses/flats of the Intracoastal Waterway behind Gumbo Limbo. Wear clothes that can get wet. Closed toed shoes required. Ages 7-adult; child must be accompanied by an adult. 9:30-11 am. $15/ member; $19/non-member. Reservations: 561-544-8605; myboca.us/calendar. aspx?CID=47

Saturday - 9/28 - Intracoastal Adventures: Advanced Canoeing at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. Short talks about South Florida’s unique animals/ecosystems. For experienced paddlers ages 13-adult; child under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. 9-10:30 am. $20/member; $25/non-member. Registration: 561-544-8605; myboca.us/ calendar.aspx?CID=47

SEPT. 29-OCT. 5

Sunday - 9/29 - Intracoastal Adventures: Intro to Kayaking at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. Includes short talk about South Florida’s unique animals/ecosystems. Ages 7-adult; each child under 13 must be accompanied by one adult. 9-10:30 am. $20/resident & member; $25/non-member. Registration: 561544-8605; myboca.us/calendar.aspx?CID=47

snook spots is in and around inlets starting at the end of the outgoing tide. As the tide starts to come in, it’ll bring baitfish with it, and the snook will gather in an inlet to ambush the bait as it swims past.

The start of the outgoing tide is also good because baitfish are being flushed out of an inlet. Anglers fishing from boats can drift through an inlet while fishing lures or live bait just off the bottom or they can troll through the inlet with swimming lures such as jointed Rapalas.

Bridges across the Intracoastal Waterway in Palm Beach County can be snook hot spots at the start of the outgoing and incoming tides. The fish will almost always be on the down-current side of the bridges, waiting behind pilings for the tide to carry baitfish to them.

Regardless of the tide and the location, Greene said a prime time to catch a snook is from an hour before daylight to 30 minutes afterwards If the tide is changing during that time period, you can almost guarantee yourself a September snook.

Outdoors writer Steve Waters can be reached at steve33324@aol. com.

Capt. Steve Gordon holds a snook caught by Tom Greene in a Palm Beach County inlet.

Photos by Steve Waters/The Coastal Star

Community Calendar

Note: Events are current as of 8/28. Please check with organizers for any changes.

SEPTEMBER 7

Saturday - 9/7 - Freestyle Saturdays Art Class at Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E Ocean Ave. Age 18+. Every Sat through 12/28 10 am-12:30 pm. Per class $29/resident; $35/non-resident. Registration: 561-742-6221; boynton-beach.org

9/7 - Climate Action Meet & Greet at Cornell Art Museum, at Old School Square, 51 N Swinton Ave, Delray Beach. 10 am-2 pm. 561654-2220; delrayoldschoolsquare.com/events

9/7 - Free Fun Saturday at The Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum, 71 N Federal Hwy. Family craft activities 2-3:30 pm. Held again 10/5. 10 am-4 pm. Free. 561-395-6766; bocahistory.org

9/7 - Workshop: Indigo Ferns in Watercolor at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 10:30 am-12:30 pm. $40. 561330-9614; artswarehouse.org

9/7 - Current Events Discussion at Highland Beach Library Community Room, 3618 S Ocean Blvd. Every Sat 10:30 am. Free. 561-266-9702; highlandbeach.us

9/7 - Conversational Spanish at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. Every Sat through 11/9. 11:30 am-1 pm. Registration: 561-393-7906; bocalibrary.org

9/7 - Sick Puppies Improv Comedy Extravaganza Show at Doghouse Theater, 105 NW 5th Ave, Delray Beach. Every Sat 7:30 pm. $20-$30. 954-667-7735; sickpuppiescomedy.com

9/7 - Calling All Serious Writers! Saturday Zoom Writers Studio presented by Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Every Sat 10 am. Free. 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

9/7 - Ruben Studdard: The Masterpiece Tour at The Studio at Mizner Park, 201 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. 6:30 & 8:30 pm. $40 and up. 561-203-3742; thestudioatmiznerpark.com

9/7 - Drag Queen Bingo at Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. Ages 21+. Doors open: 6 pm; show: 7 pm. $25. 561-586-6410; lakeworthplayhouse.org

9/7-8 - 29th Annual Downtown Delray Beach Craft Festival at 401 E Atlantic Ave. 100+ craft booths. 10 am-4 pm. Free. 561-7466615; artfestival.com

SEPTEMBER 8-14

Sunday - 9/8 - Sunday Matinee Music

Series: It Takes Two at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 3-4 pm. 561-3937906; bocalibrary.org

Monday - 9/9 - Pickleball at Hester Center, 1901 N Seacrest Blvd, Boynton Beach. Combines badminton & tennis. Adults. M-F 9

am-noon. $5; $50/24-visit pass. 561-742-6550; boynton-beach.org

9/9 - Advanced Squares at Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E Ocean Ave. Adults. Every M 2-4 pm. $6. 561-742-6221; boyntonbeach.org

9/9 - Guided Discussion: William Faulkner’s Absalom, Absalom! w/ Richard Chapin at Florida Atlantic University Friedberg Auditorium, Room 102, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. Every M through 9/30 3-4:30 pm. $60/ annual membership; $100/member; $130/ non-member; $35/guest pass. 561-297-3185; olliboca.fau.edu

9/9 - Mastering Google Apps at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Adults. 5-6:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

9/9 - Monday Movies: Documentary - Toni Morrison: The Pieces I Am directed by Timothy Greenfield-Sanders at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 5:30-8 pm. Registration: 561-393-7906; bocalibrary.org

9/9 - Theatre Dance for Adults at Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. Age 18+. Every M through 12/9 6-7 pm. $275/13 weeks; $25/ drop-in. 561-586-6410; lakeworthplayhouse. org

9/9 - Make a Mix Mondays!: Giftable Brownie Mix at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 6-7:30 pm. Registration: 561393-7906; bocalibrary.org

9/9-10 - Auditions: Brighton Beach Memoirs at Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. Production dates 11/15-12/1. By appointment only at 7 pm: 561-586-6410; lakeworthplayhouse.org

Tuesday - 9/10 - Career & Employment Help w/CareerSource PBC at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Adults. Every T 9 am-4 pm. Free. 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

9/10 - Hot Topics in the News: Let’s Discuss w/ Marlene Solender at Florida Atlantic University Friedberg Auditorium, Room 102,

Municipal Meetings

9/9 – Ocean Ridge Town Hall, 6450 N Ocean Blvd. 6 pm. Agenda: oceanridgeflorida.com

9/9 – South Palm Beach Town Hall, 3577 S Ocean Blvd. 2 pm. Agenda: southpalmbeach.com

9/9 & 9/23 – Lantana Town Hall, 500 Greynolds Cir. 6 pm. Agenda: lantana.org

9/10 & 9/24 – Boca Raton Auditorium, 6500 Congress Ave. 6 pm. Agenda: myboca.us

9/13 – Gulf Stream Town Hall, 100 Sea Rd. 4 pm. Agenda: gulf-stream.org

9/16 & 10/1 – Delray Beach City Hall, 100 NW 1st Ave. 6 pm. Agenda: delraybeachfl.gov

9/17 – Highland Beach Town Hall, 3614 S Ocean Blvd. 1:30 pm. Agenda: highlandbeach.us

9/23 & 10/1– Boynton Beach City Hall, 100 E Ocean Ave. 6 pm. Agenda: boynton-beach.org

9/24 – Manalapan Town Hall, 600 S Ocean Blvd. 4 pm. Agenda: manalapan.org

9/26 – Briny Breezes Town Hall, 4802 N Ocean Blvd. 4 pm. Agenda: townofbrinybreezes-fl.com

777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. Every T through 10/1 10-11:30 am. $60/annual membership; $70/member; $90/non-member; $30/guest pass. 561-297-3185; olliboca.fau.edu

9/10 - New Discoveries from the James Webb Space Telescope: Three Years Later w/ Ata Sarajedini presented by FAU Lifelong Learning Institute at Old School Square, 51 N Swinton Ave, Delray Beach. 10:30 am-noon. $30/member; $35/non-member & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olliboca.fau.edu

9/10 - Abstract Expressionism with the Gelli Plate Printing Method at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. Held again 9/24. 10:30 am-2:30 pm. $90. 561-3309614; artswarehouse.org

9/10 - ESOL Conversation Corner at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. Held again 9/24. 11:30 am-1 pm. Registration: 561393-7906; bocalibrary.org

9/10 - Pop-up Lecture: A Discussion with Dr. Robert Rabil & Dr. Eyal Lewin at Florida Atlantic University Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 12:30-2 pm. $60/annual membership; $40/member; $50/non-member & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olliboca.fau.edu

9/10 – Socrates Café at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Philosophical discussions. Every T 1:30-3 pm. Free. 561-393-7852; bocalibrary.org

9/10 - Book Talks - Fall Book Previews at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 2-3 pm. 561-393-7906; bocalibrary.org

9/10 - Poets on the Fringe at Boca Raton Public Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 4-6 pm. Free. 561-393-7906; bocalibrary.org

9/10 - What is Cybersecurity? at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Adults. 5-6:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

9/10 - An Evening with Etgar Keret - BestSelling Israeli Writer Award-Winning Filmmaker at Florida Atlantic University Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 6-8 pm. Free. 561-297-3185; olliboca. fau.edu

9/10 - All Arts Open Mic Night at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. 2nd T 8-10 pm. $10-$15. 561-450-6357; artsgarage.org Wednesday - 9/11 - 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at Centennial Park & Amphitheater, 120 E Ocean Ave. Observing the 23rd Anniversary of September 11. 8 am. Free. 561742-6024; boynton-beach.org

9/11 - Workshop: Powerful Palette Knife Painting at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. Three day workshop held again 9/18 & 25. 10 am-12:30 pm. $165. 561-3309614; artswarehouse.org

9/11 - YouTube Success Secrets at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Adults. Noon-1 pm. Free. Registration: 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

9/11 - Pastels Made Easy Class at Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E Ocean Ave. Age 18+. Every W through 12/18 1-4 pm. Per class $35/resident; $44/non-resident. Registration: 561-742-6221; boynton-beach. org

9/11 - Workshop: Crushing It With Collage at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. Three day workshop held again 9/18 & 25. 1:304 pm. $150. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

9/11 - Town Hall Talk: Theodor Pratt: A Florida Writer’s Life w/Taylor Hagood at The Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum, 71 N Federal Hwy, Boca Raton. 6 pm check-in/ refreshments; 6:30 pm lecture. $10/guest. RSVP: 561-395-6766 x100; bocahistory.org

9/11 - Delray Beach Orchid Society Meeting at Veterans Park, 802 NE 1st St, Delray Beach. 2nd W 7 pm. Free. 561-573-2422; delraybeachorchidsociety.org Thursday - 9/12 - Quilters meet at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Limit 10 quilters. Every Th 9 am-noon. $1/lifetime membership. 561-742-6886; boyntonlibrary.org

9/12 - Guided Discussion: GroovyTek: The Basics of the Smartphone and Tablet w/ Nicholas DeAngelis at Florida Atlantic University Friedberg Auditorium, Room 102, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. Every Th through 10/24 10-11:30 am. $60/annual membership; $150/member; $193/non-member; $35/guest pass. 561-297-3185; olliboca.fau.edu

9/12 - Tech Talk Thursdays at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Adults. Every Th

10:30-11:30 am. Free. Registration: 561-7426390; boyntonlibrary.org

9/12 - Line Dancing at Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E Ocean Ave. Basic modern western square dancing. Adults. Every Th 10:3011:30 am. $6. 561-742-6221; boynton-beach.org

9/12 - The Magical Combinations of the Color Wheel at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 3-3:30 pm. Free. 561-393-7906; bocalibrary.org

9/12 - Knights and Dames: Cinematic Royalty w/ Kurt Stone, D.D. at Florida Atlantic University Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. Every Th through 10/24

3-5 pm. $60/annual membership; $90/member; $120/non-member; $35/guest pass. 561-2973185; olliboca.fau.edu

9/12 - Art Sublimation: Your Coloring on a T-Shirt! at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 4-5 pm. Free. Registration: 561393-7906; bocalibrary.org

9/12 - Beginning Sewing Program at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Adults. 5-7 pm. Free. Registration: 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

9/12 - Sunset Sounds: The People UpStairs at Boca Raton Museum of Art Courtyard, 501 Plaza Real. Bring your own folding chairs, or rent for $5. Food/drink available for purchase. Part of the summer music series. 5-8 pm. Free. 561-392-2500; bocamuseum.org

9/12 - Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Miles Davis: The Men and Their Art! w/ Fran Mann Goodman Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 6-7:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-393-7906; bocalibrary.org

9/12 - Quinteto BR5 in Concert at Florida Atlantic University Theatre, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 7 pm. $10. 561-297-6124; fauevents.com

9/12 - A Fundraiser for Sandoway Discovery Center: Johnnie Brown’s presents The Guzzlers at 301 E Atlantic Ave, Delray Beach. All band proceeds benefit Sandoway Discovery Center. 7 pm-midnight. 561-274-7263; sandoway.org

Friday - 9/13 - Shakespeare Troupe Season 10 Fundraiser: A Classic Night at the Theatre at Sol Theatre, 3333 N Federal Hwy, Boca Raton. Featuring food/beverages, silent and live auction, songs from Shakespeare, student showcase and sneak preview of Macbeth. 6-9 pm. $100. 754-228-7228; shakestroupe.org

9/13 - Beginner Squares at Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E Ocean Ave. Adults. Every F 7:15-9 pm. $6. 561-742-6221; boyntonbeach.org

9/13 - Castoffs Square Dance at Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E Ocean Ave. Basic modern western square dancing. Adults. Every F 7:15-9 pm. $6. 561-742-6221; boyntonbeach.org

9/13 - Sick Puppies Stand-Up Comedy Show at Doghouse Theater, 105 NW 5th Ave, Delray Beach. Every F 8 pm. $30-$35. 954-6677735; sickpuppiescomedy.com

9/13 - A Night with Zac Harmon and The Drive at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. 8 pm. $40-$45. 561-450-6357; artsgarage.org Saturday - 9/14 - Boynton Beach Fire Rescue Department’s Centennial Celebration at Centennial Park & Amphitheater, 120 E Ocean Ave. Featuring food trucks, artesian market, children’s activities and music. 10 am-6 pm. Free. 561-742-6024; boynton-beach.org

9/14 - Workshop: Delight in Dynamic Drawing w/ Charcoal at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. Three day workshop held again 9/21 & 28. 10 am-12:30 pm. $150. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

9/14 - Open Figure Studio w/Model at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. Age 18+. Held again 6-8 pm 9/26. 10:30 am-12:30 pm. $15. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

9/14 - Workshop: Mindful Artistry Through Meditation & Journaling at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. Three day workshop held again 9/21 & 28. 1:30-4 pm. $165. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

9/14 - Boca’s Ballroom Battle 2024 at The Boca Raton Grand Ballroom, 501 E Camino Real. Benefits George Snow Scholarship Fund. 6-11 pm. Tickets start at $250/person; raffle tickets $100/each, 4/$300. 561-347-6799 x114; ballroombattle.com

9/14 - Beautiful Loser: The Bob Seger Tribute at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. 8 pm. $40-$45. 561-450-6357; artsgarage.org

SEPTEMBER 15-21

Sunday - 9/15 - Music in the Museum: Angel David Mattos at Boca Raton Museum of Art, 501 Plaza Real. 3-4 pm. $8/member; $18/ non-member. 561-392-2500; bocamuseum.org

9/15 - Story Central Storytelling Slam at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 4-5:30 pm. Free. 561-393-7906; bocalibrary.org

9/15 - Beijing Normal University Art Troupe Premiere at Florida Atlantic University Carole and Barry Kaye Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 7 pm. Tickets start at $38.80. 561-297-6124; fauevents.com

Monday - 9/16 - A Pioneer Family’s Odyssey into America’s Past w/ Donna Adair at Florida Atlantic University Friedberg Auditorium, Room 102, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 12:30-2 pm. $60/annual membership; $40/member; $50/non-member & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olliboca.fau.edu

9/16 - Crafting for Fun & Small Business: Knitting 101 at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 1-3 pm. Free. Registration: 561-393-7906; bocalibrary.org

9/16 - Brainfuse: HelpNow & JobNow at Delray Beach Public Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. HelpNow offers K-12 homework assistance, personalized eLearning tools, and a 24hour writing lab for constructive feedback. JobNow provides live online job assistance and resources. Attend this session to learn more. 2 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

9/16 - Excel Formulas Everyone Should Know at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Adults. 5-6:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

9/16 - Poetry Night at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. 3rd M 8-10 pm. $5-$10. 561-450-6357; artsgarage.org Tuesday - 9/17 - Musical Sound Bath at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Adults. 11 am-noon. Free. Registration: 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org 9/17 - The Constitution in The Modern Era: A Conversation w/ Emily Bazelon at Florida Atlantic University Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 2-3:30 pm. $60/annual membership; $20/member, non-member & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olliboca.fau.edu 9/17 - Book Talks - Non-Fiction/ Biographies: Trove Jansson: Life, Art, Words by Boel Westin at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 2-3 pm. Registration: 561-3937906; bocalibrary.org 9/17 - Appy Hour: eBooks at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. 2 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org 9/17 - Cutting the Cable Cord at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Adults. 5-6:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org 9/17 - FAU Astronomical Observatory public viewing at Florida Atlantic University Science & Engineering Building 4th floor, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 1st F & 3rd T 7:30 pm. Free. Schedule subject to change; check website: 561297-7827; cescos.fau.edu/observatory Wednesday - 9/18 - Book Buzz Adult Book Club at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Adults. 10:30 am-noon. Free. Registration: 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org 9/18 - Masters and Masterpieces II w/ Terryl Lawrence, Ed.D. at Florida Atlantic University Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. Every W through 11/13 12:30-2 pm. $60/annual membership; $120/member; $160/non-member; $30/guest pass. 561-2973185; olliboca.fau.edu

9/18 - Appy Hour: Streaming Video at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. 2 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary. org 9/18 - Palm Beach Opera Listening Club: Audience’s Choice at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Adults. 4 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

9/18 - Crafting in the Library: TBA at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Adults. 5-7 pm. Free. Registration: 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

9/18 - Go Pink Challenge: Sip, Bite, Shop at The Shops of Boca Center, 5150 Town Center Circle. Proceeds benefit Boca Raton Regional Hospital Foundation breast cancer programs/ services. 5-7:30 pm. $25. eventbrite.com/e/ boca-center-go-pink-challenge-sip-bite-shoptickets-945080379857

9/18 - Public Outreach Meeting: Delray Beach Adaptation Plan at Swinton Operation Complex Training Room, 434 S Swinton Ave. 6 pm. 561-243-7000; delraybeachfl.gov Thursday - 9/19 - The American Revolutionaries: The Men and Women Who Created America w/ Jerrold Goldstein at Florida Atlantic University Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. Every

Th through 10/10 10-11:30 am. $60/annual membership; $60/member; $80/non-member; $30/guest pass. 561-297-3185; olliboca.fau.edu

9/19 - How to Use a Sewing Machine: Sewing Basics at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. Held again 9/26. 10 am-noon & 1-3 pm. Free. Registration: 561-393-7906; bocalibrary.org

9/19 - Acting for Adults at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. Every Th through 12/12 Noon-2 pm. $420. 561-450-6357; artsgarage. org

9/19 - Sewing: Intermediate Project at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Adults. 5-7 pm. Free. Registration: 561-7426390; boyntonlibrary.org

9/19 - Sunset Sounds - Frayabel & the Latin Band at Boca Raton Museum of Art Courtyard, 501 Plaza Real. Bring a folding chairs, or rent for $5. Food/drink available for purchase. 5-8 pm. Free. 561-392-2500; bocamuseum.org

9/19 - Get To Know Your Ballot 2024: Amendments in Plain Language w/ Janet Elinoff from The League of Women Voters Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 6-7:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-393-7906; bocalibrary.org

9/19 - Summer Sips & Sounds: Our Hispanic Heritage at the Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum, 71 N Federal Hwy. Led by docents from Boca Raton History Society. 6 pm social; 6:30 pm concert. $40/member; $45/nonmember. 561-395-6766 x100; bocahistory.org

9/19 - Matthew Broussard at The Studio at Mizner Park, 201 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. 7:30 pm. Tickets start at $36. 561-203-3742; thestudioatmiznerpark.com

9/19-20 - Workshop: Color Theory Basics at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 10:30 am-1:30 pm. $90. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

9/19-29 - How I Learned to Drive by Paula Vogel at Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. Runs through 9/29. Th-Sat: 8 pm; Sun: 2 pm. $28. 561-586-6410; lakeworthplayhouse.org

Friday - 9/20 - Sustainability: History & Science of Needle Felting at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 10 am-noon. Free. Registration: 561-393-7906; bocalibrary. org

9/20 - iPad/iPhone Basics Class at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Adults. 1 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.

org

9/20 - Scan and Organize Your Family

Photos at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 1:30-3 pm. Free. Registration: 561-3937906; bocalibrary.org

9/20 - Karaoke Night at Lake Worth Cultural Plaza, 414 Lake Ave. All ages. 6:30-8 pm. 561-586-1702; lakeworthbeachfl.gov/ events/2024/09/20/karaoke-night

9/20 - Back to School Country Bash at Benvenuto, 1730 N Federal Hwy, Boynton Beach. Benefits Schoolhouse Children’s Museum. Adult fun, dinner, line dancing, games, silent auction, awards. Attire: Country Western. 6:30 pm. $150. 561-742-6780; schoolhousemuseum.org

9/20 - Kris Allen at The Studio at Mizner Park, 201 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. 7:30 pm. Tickets start at $29.50. 561-203-3742; thestudioatmiznerpark.com

9/20 - Kat Riggins & Her Blues Revival at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. 8 pm. $35-$40. 561-450-6357; artsgarage.org

Saturday - 9/21 - Community Shred Day at Cason United Methodist Church, 342 N Swinton Ave, Delray Beach. 9 am-noon. $5/bankers box; $10/bag. Cash preferred. 561-276-5302; casonumc.org

9/21 - Abstract Painting with Watercolor at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 10:30 am-12:30 pm. $50. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

9/21 - South Florida’s Craft Show: Hispanic Heritage Month at Sanborn Square Park, 72 N Federal Hwy, Boca Raton. 1-6 pm. Free. msha. ke/southfloridascraftshow

9/21 - Hand Crafted Greeting Cards at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Create custom greeting cards w/Cricut Maker & Sizzix Big Shot machine. Adults. 2-4 pm. Free. Registration: 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

SEPTEMBER 22-28

Sunday - 9/22 - Shining Bright: A Tribute to Neil Diamond at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. A benefit concert for Arts Garage featuring complimentary lite bites. 7 pm. $104. 561-450-6357; artsgarage.org

Monday - 9/23 - Building a Nation: Architecture in Israel w/ Sylvia Gurinsky at Florida Atlantic University Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. Every M through 10/28 12:30-2 pm. $60/annual membership; $90/member; $120/non-member; $30/guest pass. 561-297-3185; olliboca.fau.edu

9/23 - Let Us Descend by Jesmyn Ward part of Afternoon Book Group at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. 1 pm. Free. 561266-0196; delraylibrary.org

9/23 - Mango Languages Class at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Adults. 2 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary. org

9/23 - Introduction to MS Word Class at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Adults. 5-6:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

9/23 - Monday Movies - Feature Film: Bagdad Cafe at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 5:30-8 pm. Registration: 561393-7906; bocalibrary.org

9/23 - Making The World Less Foreign: Our Continuing Journey with AwardWinning International Cinema w/ Shelly Isaacs at Florida Atlantic University Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. Every M through 10/14 7-9 pm. $60/annual membership; $60/member; $80/non-member; $30/guest pass. 561-297-3185; olliboca.fau.edu

Tuesday - 9/24 - The MET in HD: A Preview of the 2024-2025 Season, Part I: Les Contes d’Hoffmann, Grounded, and Tosca w/ Paul Offenkrantz, D.M. at Florida Atlantic University Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 10-11:30 am. $60/annual membership; $30/member; $35/non-member & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olliboca.fau.edu

9/24 - Basics of Building Business Credit Class at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Adults. 11 am-noon. Free. Registration: 5561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

9/24 - Appy Hour: Password Managers at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Adults. 2 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

9/24 - Microsoft Word Intermediate Class at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. 5-6:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

9/24 - Faculty Recital: Dr. Jose LeonTrombone: Past, Present & Future at Florida Atlantic University Theatre, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 7 pm. $20. 561-297-6124; fauevents.com

Wednesday - 9/25 - Get VOTE Ready! at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Visit voter registration team to help you with steps to ensure that you will be able to cast your vote on election day. Walk-in service. Noon-7 pm. Free. 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

9/25 - Appy Hour: Photos at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Adults. 2 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

9/25 - Seminar: Refresh, Renew, Redo

Your Florida Home w/ Lynn Kaplan, ASID at Florida Atlantic University Friedberg Auditorium, Room 102, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 3-4:30 pm. $60/annual membership; $40/member; $50/non-member & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olliboca.fau.edu

Thursday - 9/26 - Florida Constitutional Amendments on the November Ballot w/ The League of Women Voters of Palm Beach County at Florida Atlantic University Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 12:30-2 pm. $60/annual membership; $10/non-member & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olliboca.fau.edu

9/26 - Lifestyle Changes and Fad Dieting w/ Jackie Schneider, RD from Baptist Health at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 2-3 pm. 561-393-7906; bocalibrary.org

9/26 - Bark in the Park at Mizner Park, 327 Plaza Real, Suite 315, Boca Raton. A night of fur and fun as the DJ sets the mood. Proceeds will benefit Tri-County Animal Rescue. 5-7:30 pm. $20/person (including pets). Registration: 561362-0606; miznerbarkinpark24.eventbrite.com

9/26 - Living on the Urban Ocean: Planning for the Expected and the Unexpected w/ Dr. Alan Blumberg Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Part of the Thursday Night Speaker Series. Adults. 6-7:30 pm. Free. 561-393-7906; bocalibrary.org

9/26 - Fuller Center’s 2nd Annual Charity Poker Tournament at The Studio at Mizner Park, 201 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. 6-10 pm. $250/tournament; $150/spectator. 561-4823006; fullercenterfl.org

9/26 - Surfing Delray! 105 Years of Local Surfing Culture at St. Paul’s Parish Hall, 188 S Swinton Ave, Delray Beach. Part of the Delray Beach Historical Society Heritage Lecture Series. 6:30 pm. $10/person; free/ DBHS members. Reservations: 561-274-9578; delraybeachhistory.org

9/26 - Friends Virtual Book Club: Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Lisa See presented by Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 6:30-7:30 pm. Free. Zoom link: https:// us02web.zoom.us/j/6188745394; 561-3937968; bocalibrary.org

9/26 - Of Curses, Witches, and Fairies: Music with Vocalis and FAUSO at Florida Atlantic University Theatre, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 7 pm. $10. 561-297-6124; fauevents.com Friday - 9/27 - Open Call for Artists: Art Festival 2025 at Boca Raton Museum of Art, 501 Plaza Real. 11 am-8 pm. Free. 561-3922500; bocamuseum.org 9/27 - iPad Intermediate Class at Delray

Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. 1 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

9/27 - Toasts, Tastes & Trolleys at The Boca Raton, 501 E Camino Real. Trolleys embark from The Boca Raton and travels to local destinations, where participants enjoy light bites, historical trivia, and special toasts. Evening concludes at The Boca Raton, where guests enjoy nightcaps at a cash bar. Attire: Tropical Chic. 6 pm. $150/person. 561-3956766; bocahistory.org/toasts-tastes-trolleys

9/27 - Comedy Night with Joe Zimmerman at Sol Theatre, 3333 N Federal Hwy, Boca Raton. 7 & 9 pm. $30-$35. comiccure.com/boca-raton

9/27 - Sunset Concert: The Resolvers at Old School Square Amphitheater, 51 N Swinton Ave, Delray Beach. 7-10 pm. VIP: $50; General admission: free. 561-243-1077; delrayoldschoolsquare.com/events

9/27 - Suenalo at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. 8 pm. $45-$50. 561-450-6357; artsgarage.org

9/27-29 - Firebringer at Florida Atlantic University Studio One Theatre, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. Runs through 10/6. F/Sat 7 pm; Sat/Sun 2 pm. $25/general public; $18/faculty/ staff/alumni. 561-297-6124; fauevents.com Saturday - 9/28 - Walk To Defeat ALS Boynton Beach at Centennial Park & Amphitheater, 120 E Ocean Ave. No fee to participate but fundraising is encouraged. Check in: 9 am; walk start: 10:30 am. 305-6973931; https://secure2.convio.net/alsa/site/TR/ Walks/Florida?fr_id=16244&pg=entry

9/28 - Pocket Refuge Planting & Mini BioBlitz at Old School Square, 51 N Swinton Ave, Delray Beach. The Pocket Refuge program plants native pollinator gardens in public spaces in urban areas. 9 am-noon. Free. 561243-7252; delraybeachfl.gov

9/28 - Workshop: Intro to Creativity with Jackson Pollock at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. Age 16+. 10:30 am-12:30 pm. $55. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

9/28 - Let’s Go Coconuts Community Bake Off at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. For home bakers. Celebrity judges, prizes, family fun. 1 pm. Free. Entry deadline 9/16. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

9/28 - CPR/AED/1st Aid Certification Class at Sims Center, 225 NW 12th Ave, Boynton Beach. Age 18+. 1-5 pm. $60/resident; $75/ non-resident. Registration: 561-742-6640; boynton-beach.org

9/28 - Pop Up and Shop Up Market at The Shops of Boca Center, 5150 Town Center Circle. Held monthly through December. Unique artisan and handcrafted items from local makers, artists, crafters and live music. 2-7 pm. Free. bocacenter.com

9/28 - Comedy Night with Kevin Farley at Sol Theatre, 3333 N Federal Hwy, Boca Raton. 6 & 8:30 pm. $30-$35. comiccure.com/boca-raton

9/28 - Season 6 Golden Bell Battle of the Bands at Boca Raton Innovation Campus, 4950 Communications Ave, Boca Raton. Benefits Golden Bell Education Foundation. 6:30-11 pm. $90/VIP; $65/general admission. goldenbellbattleofthebands.com

9/28 - Milagro Center’s 6th Annual Harvest Hoedown at Delray Beach Elks Lodge, 265 NE 4th Ave. Featuring Gabriel Key, line dancing, bbq, wine/beer bar, silent auction, raffle. 7-10 pm. $50. 561-279-2970; auctria.events/ milagro-hoedown

9/28 - Sugar Hill Gang at The Studio at Mizner Park, 201 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. 7 pm. Tickets start at $59.50. 561-203-3742; thestudioatmiznerpark.com

9/28 - Memphis Lightning at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. 8 pm. $40-$45. 561-450-6357; artsgarage.org

SEPT. 29-OCT. 5

Monday - 9/30 - Using AI for Research at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Adults. 5-6:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-7426390; boyntonlibrary.org

Tuesday - 10/1 - Lake Worth Beach Waterside Farmers Market Every Saturday under the overpass at A1A and Lake Ave, Lake Worth Beach. 9 am-1 pm. Free. 561-547-3100; lakeworthfarmersmarket.com

10/1 - Guided Discussion: Great Debates in American History w/ Edward Shapiro, Ph.D. at Florida Atlantic University Friedberg Auditorium, Room 102, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. Every T through 10/22 12:30-2 pm. $60/ annual membership; $100/member; $130/ non-member; $35/guest pass. 561-297-3185; olliboca.fau.edu

10/1 - Book Talks - Modern Literature: The Possessed by Witold Gombrowicz at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 2-3 pm. Registration: 561-393-7906; bocalibrary.org

10/1 - Seminar: The 2024 Presidential Election Through the Lens of Pop Culture w/ Kristin Shockley, M.A. at Florida Atlantic University Friedberg Auditorium, Room 102, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 3-4:30 pm. $60/ annual membership; $40/member; $50/nonmember & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olliboca.

fau.edu

10/1 - Beginning Tap for Adults at Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. Age 18+. Every T through 10/22 5:30-7 pm. $60/4 weeks; $20/ drop-in. 561-586-6410; lakeworthplayhouse. org

10/1 - Quinteto Leopoldo Federico in Concert at Florida Atlantic University Theatre, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 7 pm. $20. 561-2976124; fauevents.com

10/1 - Comedy Night at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. 8-10 pm. $5-$10. 561450-6357; artsgarage.org

Wednesday - 10/2 - Hand Crafted Greeting Cards at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Create custom greeting cards. Adults. 5-7 pm. Free. Registration: 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

Thursday - 10/3 - Restoring The Link Between People and Nature at Delray Beach Historical Society, 3 NE 1st St, Delray Beach. Fundraiser for Institute for Regional Conservation. Family fare. 5-8:30 pm. $45/adults; $5/kids. 561-274-9578; delraybeachhistory.org

10/3 - Intermediate Tap for Adults at Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. Age 18+. Every Th through 10/24 5:30-7 pm. $60/4 weeks; $20/ drop-in. 561-586-6410; lakeworthplayhouse. org

10/3 - Boca Raton Night Market at Sanborn Square Park, 72 N Federal Hwy, Boca Raton. Food options, beer & wine, local artisans and live music. 6-9 pm. Free. myboca.us/2324/ Night-Market

Friday - 10/4 - First Friday @ 5 Concert: TBD at Centennial Park & Amphitheater, 120 E Ocean Ave. Featuring food trucks, artesian market, children’s activities and music. 5-9 pm. Free.

561-742-6024; boynton-beach.org

10/4 - Exhibition Opening: Hot Glass at Cornell Art Museum at Old School Square, 51 N Swinton Ave, Delray Beach. Presented in collaboration with Benzaiten Center for Creative Arts. 6-9 pm. 561-654-2220; downtowndelraybeach.com/events/hot-glassexhibition-opening

10/4 - First Friday Art Walk at Cornell Art Museum, 51 N Swinton Ave, Delray Beach. 6-9 pm. Free. 561-654-2220; delrayoldschoolsquare.com/events

10/4-6 - The Prom at Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. Runs through 10/20. F/Sat 8 pm; Sat/Sun 2 pm. $48/opening night; $40/show. 561-586-6410; lakeworthplayhouse.org

Saturday - 10/5 - Drive Up Paper Shred at Greater Lantana Chamber of Commerce, 212 Iris Ave, Lantana. Proceeds benefit Jeff Industries. 9-11 am. $5/donation per box/bag of documents. 561-585-8664; lantanachamber. com

10/5 - Art & Ale Soiree at Boca Raton Museum of Art, 501 Plaza Real. Adults. 5-10 pm. $40/ member; $45/non-member. 561-392-2500; bocamuseum.org

10/5 - Boca Chamber Annual Gala at The Boca Raton, 501 E Camino Real. 6-11 pm. $325. 561-395-4433; bocaratonchamber.com 10/5 - 100 Years of the Spady House Commemoration Opening Reception at Spady Cultural Heritage Museum, 170 NW 5th Ave, Delray Beach. 7-8:30 pm. Donations start at $20. 561-279-8883; spadymuseum.com 10/5-6 - The Broadway Tenors: Ultimate Broadway at The Wick Theatre & Costume Museum, 7901 N Federal Hwy, Boca Raton. Sat: 7:30 pm; Sun: 2 pm. $85-$125. Reservations: 561-995-2333; thewick.org