Boca businessman Robert Campbell recently began his second consecutive year of service to the American Heart Association’s Greater Southeast Affiliate Board of Directors.
Campbell is the CEO and founder of BBC International, a full-service footwear company, and was appointed to the position at a 2008 leadership summit.
“I am honored to continue my service as a board member and look forward to helping the American Heart Association’s lead the fight to saves lives from cardiovascular disease and stroke,” said Campbell.

He has also served as the honorary chairman of the Boca Raton Heart Ball and has been involved with the AHA for five years.

For more information about the AHA, visit www.americanheart.org.

> Discuss this entry

Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0) | Share:

Ricardo, Wasylik & Kaniuk, ricardolaw.com

How long have you been practicing law?
I have been a practicing attorney for 14 years and have been practicing in Florida since 1997.

How did you end up handling foreclosures and bankruptcy?
It just kind of fell into place. I did a clerkship for a very prominent federal judge in Brooklyn and everything just evolved from there.

Did you see signs of the collapse and economic downturn?
I think a lot of people knew conditions were going to deteriorate, but it was impossible to predict the scope and seriousness of what we are dealing with.

What is the typical scenario for someone facing foreclosure?
There really is no one situation, and they are all so different. We represent homeowners, investors and small businesses. I also have clients who were wiped out by Madoff, and they would have been able to weather the storm in a good economy, but not this one.

What are roadblocks prohibiting people from seeking counsel?
There are definitely pride and self esteem issues, and it is not something anyone wants to face. But people go to the dentist when a tooth hurts and a mechanic when the car has problems. It is the same scenario, and there is nothing shameful about seeking help for financial matters.

What one piece of advice would you give to a person facing these conditions?
The sooner you seek help, the better. If a person is questioning whether or not they need assistance, they most likely do. The longer you wait, the more limited the options become.

> Discuss this entry

Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0) | Share:

The Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County’s Metro Business is hosting a series of seven business networking opportunities from 5:30 to 7 p.m. beginning Aug. 11 at Asia Sushi, Wok & Grill, 7600 W. Camino Real.

The Tuesday Schmooze-Day gatherings will provide a networking opportunity and a glimpse into the Federation’s focus.
“These happy hour events are designed to bring together Jewish professionals to have fun and network without a formal speaker, presentation or program. Newcomers are most welcome, and the evenings are open to all for a small couvert, with no minimum Federation gift,” said Metro Business Co-chairwoman Marcy Robbins.

The cost for each event is $10 for $365 and above donors to the UJA/Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County’s 2010 Annual Campaign or $15 for donors below $365 or those who have not made a 2010 Campaign gift.

Visit www.jewishboca.org/metroAsia or call 561-852-6058.

> Discuss this entry

Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0) | Share:

From left, Gissel Ellington, employee at Florence Fuller charity resale/thrift shop, makes sure everything is in order, helped by volunteer David Burnham and retail director Kim Stone-Burnham.

The Florence Fuller Child Development Center, 200 NE 14th St., provides a range of services to low-income Boca Raton families including after-school care, summer camps, medical screenings and food programs. I stopped by their charity resale/thrift shop at 141 NW 20th St., and retail director Kim Stone-Burnham told me the landscape has shifted dramatically since the economy began its downward spiral.

“The money we raise here goes to the Fuller Center and while we always need donations, it has become more acute. People used to come in to purchase things they may not necessarily need, but now we have people coming in daily to buy the necessities,” she said.

Business definitely seems to be booming, and there was a steady stream of customers checking out the shop’s wares.
“We are getting to the point where demand is outpacing donations, and we have a particular need for furniture,’ said Stone-Burnham.

The shop is currently running a 50 percent of everything sale that began a few months ago, and Stone-Burnham said it will continue for the foreseeable future.
“We will also pick up any large items for donation and will pack up your residence for you. If someone is moving and they have several items they wish to donate, we will come out and box it and take it for them,” she said.

For more information about the resale shop or to donate, call 561-391-9379.

> Discuss this entry

Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0) | Share:

Members of the Family Promise network of congregations.

Juana Jimenez, 39, managed to escape a violent relationship and found refuge in a domestic violence shelter in December 2008. Jimenez and her three young children were now safe, but their financial situation and future prospects looked grim. ‘Someone from the shelter told me about Family Promise, and we were refereed to them in February of 2009. I cannot say enough for all they did for us, and I graduated the program in March and now have a job and things are looking much better,” said Jimenez.

Family Promise is a nationwide organization with networks in 39 states, and the goal is to provide hospitality, food and shelter to families in the program. The South Palm Beach County chapter has been up and running since November 2008 and is comprised of 15 congregations from Boca Raton to Delray Beach.

St. Gregory’s Episcopal church in Boca is part of the network, and volunteer coordinator Diane Jones said the congregations take turns hosting and supporting families.
“We work with the school district, nonprofit organizations and other local congregations to see what resources are out there for our families. With such a vast network, someone is sure to know someone that can address a particular need,” she said.
Jimenez said those needs ranged from transportation to counseling services.
“My children are between two and 12-years-old, and they made sure we all got wherever we needed to go. They worked with me on writing resumes and interviewing, and I really cannot say enough for all they do,” she said.

Families in need do not have to belong to a specific congregation or adhere to any specific faith, and the only requirement for assistance is a proven need. Those needs range from diapers to cars, which have been donated and fixed up for families in need. Program Director Kokie Dinnan said they are always looking to bring more congregations in to the fold.

“We can only accommodate four families or 14 people right now due to issues with transportation and resource allocations. We currently have a waiting list of families, and we would love for any congregation from Boca north to Lake Worth to join us in helping families in need,” she said.

For more information and a complete list of participating congregations, visit www.familypromisespbc.org.

> Discuss this entry

Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0) | Share:

As the recession mounts and more jobs are shed, business ownership can be an appealing option, but burgeoning entrepreneurs must navigate a complicated landscape. A new company in Boca Raton is offering perspective owners a different option through franchising. FranchiseMart, 151 E. Palmetto Park Road, is run by father and son team Perry and Adam Blank, and they provide free consulting services to interested franchise seekers.
“We were looking into a few opportunities and options for our own business, but none panned out. We went back to the Internet to research, and it was so much to sift through and not an easy process,” said Perry.
During the search, they happened upon Franchise Mart’s parent company, United Franchise Group.
“We’ve been there and done that with more than 1,400 franchisees under the UFG umbrella of brands. We’re well acquainted with the skill sets and nuances of franchising and can help direct entrepreneurs to business opportunities that have the potential for success,” said UFG CEO Ray Titus.
Prospective clients come to the Boca location and sit down with Perry or Adam to get a sense of options and interests.
“They come in for a no pressure discussion, and we really try to get a sense of their qualifications, desires and interests. Maybe they’ve had a life-long dream or passion, and there may be an opportunity that matches,” said Adam.
Davie resident Kirby Salgado availed himself of the Blanks’ services and said their approach is comprehensive.
“They sit you down and ask very good, insightful questions to get to know your needs, skill set and interests. They are very easy to work with, and though I have yet to find the perfect match, I know this approach will be successful,” he said.
FranchiseMart is also hosting a franchise and business opportunity show Aug. 15 at the Town Center Mall, and Adam said there will be opportunities for all investment levels.
“It will be a great opportunity to meet face-to-face with franchise and business leaders. Loans will be approved on-site, and there will be several other financing options as well,” he said. For more information, visit www.franchisemart-bocaraton.com or call 561-210-7771.

> Discuss this entry

Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0) | Share:

Tastemaker of Mizner Park gift cards go on sale Aug. 1 and entitle the card holder to discounts at top Boca restaurants until Oct. 31 and a special event in mid-September. The cards cost $25, a portion of which goes to Kids in Distress, and there will be a Tastemaker party on Sept. 15 or 16 (cardholder’s preference). The party will feature complimentary food and drinks from a wide range of participating restaurants.
“With new restaurants joining long-time favorites, 13 dining spots in all, Mizner Park is a better than ever dining and shopping destination. Tastemakers gives our guests the opportunity, in a single night, to experience seven of these distinctly different venues and menus and help Kids In Distress” said Mizner Park marketing manager Beth Hendrick. Cards can be purchased at Max’s Grille, Truluck’s, ZED451, Pranzo, The Dubliner, Soba Sushi and Villagio. For more information, call 561-362-0606.

> Discuss this entry

Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0) | Share:

Local author Gloria Rothstein is hosting a young writers workshop for children ages 9 to 12 from July 27 to 30 at Sugar Sand Park, 300 S. Military Trail. During the "Once Upon a Happily Ever After" workshop, children will learn what questions writers need to ask, how to get ideas and word play.
“Whether they’re looking for inspiration, hoping to develop memorable characters or coming to learn more about writing, publishing and the creative process, kids who love to write will enjoy spending four afternoons creating stories, books, poems, fairy tales and happily ever afters,” she said.
The cost is $275 for residents and $330 for non-residents. Registration must be competed at least two days in advance. For more information, call 561-347-3900.

> Discuss this entry

Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0) | Share:

Boca Festival Days kicks off in August and features a series of events planned and run by nonprofit organizations in an attempt to raise funds and awareness. The Greater Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce runs the festival, and each nonprofit is paired with a for-profit chamber business. This year’s chairwoman is Boca Helping Hands executive director Linda Gove, and she said this year’s festival takes on added importance.
“We always see a decline in assistance during these slower months, but it is even more acute with the shape of the economy. We really want to bring visibility to smaller nonprofits that may not have the capacity to host events or reach the community on a regular basis,” she said.
Boca Consultants owner John Schneyer is this year’s co-chairman and said there are several misconceptions related to Boca’s image.
“When people think Boca, they often think big cars, big houses, plastic surgery and abundance, but there are people and families in need,” he said.
Gove and Schneyer estimate there are close to 300 nonprofit organizations in Boca Raton and Palm Beach County, and he said it does not have to be a zero sum game. “Sometimes people think that if one group receives, it takes away from another. There are so many distinct groups, and we need to emphasize that we can all share resources,” he said. For a full list of events, visit www.bocaratonchamber.com and click on Festival Days Events.

> Discuss this entry

Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0) | Share:

The Brandeis Used Book Store in the Boca Hamptons Plaza, 9070 Kimberly Blvd., is having a summer-long used book half-price sale. The store houses best sellers, rare finds and used books including Judaica, Classics, Art, History and Philosophy. They are a nonprofit organization also accepting donations of used books and will provide receipts for all donations. For more information, call 561-852-2650.

> Discuss this entry

Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0) | Share:

Boca police detectives recently obtained an arrest warrant for Richard Allen Mingst, 70, for sexual battery on a minor and possession of child pornography. A family member who found pornographic images of Mingst and a child on his digital camera first alerted detectives. The acts occurred in Mingst’s Boca Raton condominium, and he was arrested at his home in Blue Ridge, Ga. He is currently awaiting extradition to Palm Beach County and also faces charges in Georgia.

> Discuss this entry

Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0) | Share:

11-year-old Boca Raton resident Jessie Robinson was recently diagnosed with an optical condition that will eventually result in blindness without proper treatment. The family has visited several South Florida doctors to no avail, but found a specialist in Boston who may be able to help Jessie save her sight. Expenses are mounting, and the Boca Gatsby’s has offered to host a Casino Night at 7 p.m. July 30 to raise funds for Jessie’s care.

“When we heard about Jessie and her family’s situation we felt compelled to help them, and as a community we have the ability to provide this family with the opportunity to try to save their daughter’s sight. This fundraising event is going to be a fun evening filled with music, great food, fabulous drinks and wonderful raffle prizes, and we encourage everyone to come out for a terrific time,” said Mike Henry, one of Gatsby’s new owners. There will be Vegas-style gaming options including Black Jack, Craps, Roulette and slots. Tickets cost $30 at the door, which includes one premium drink, food and a casino card with 50 chips. Those unable to attend can still donate at any Washington Mutual Bank, care of Katya Robinson and The Benevolent Fund of Jessie Robinson, account #3184417159. For more information about the event, call Gatsby’s at 561-393-3900.

> Discuss this entry

Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0) | Share:

From left, Billi Marcus and Claire Abrams.

Claire Abrams and Billi Marcus are co-chairwomen of the Jewish Association for Residential Care’s golf tournament Jan. 18, 2010 at Delaire Country Club. The event provides funds to JARC, whose mission is to assist adults with disabilities and their families.
“Families who have a child with developmental disabilities have to plan for two lifetimes, the one during theirs, but more importantly the one that they know will continue when they are no longer here on this earth,” said JARC executive director Debra Hallow. Country Club chairpersons are being organized. For more information or to assist, call 561-558-2550.

> Discuss this entry

Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0) | Share:

The Weppner Center for Civic Engagement and Service is collecting school supplies and uniforms until July 31 to benefit the Spirit of Giving Network’s "Back to School Bash." Gently used uniform items including khaki shorts, skorts and pants are needed, along with red or blue polo-style shirts. The usual supply items from pencils to dictionaries to three-ring binders are also needed. Donations can be dropped off on Thursdays beginning July 16 between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. at Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Road, in Building Eight, room 226A. For more information, call 561-297-3607.

> Discuss this entry

Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0) | Share:

Boca resident Amy Vitale is a woman of many parts. The Tampa transplant's acting resume includes stints on the CW Network and the USA Network Series "Burn Notice," and she is also a model with The Patriot Girls and a pro wrestling diva. The Patriot Girls was founded in May of 2007, and models and photographers donate time to appear in calendars and at special events, with a portion of the proceeds going to related charities.
"I have been active supporting the troops through a number of causes, and someone from the Patriot Girls came across my profile online. It is not a political organization and they do not support a particular party, just the troops," she said. Her role in the world of indie-pro wrestling is that of a snobbish, beautiful foil who typically ends up in a bind.
"I've had everything from cakes in the face to being thrown into lakes, and it is so much fun. I was introduced to wresting at an early age, and I remember how beautiful the women involved were and wanting to be just like them," she said.
Vitale has been voted Florida Woman of the Year three years in row and Pro Wrestling Manager of the Year two years in a row, and she said that it's not all fun and games.
"It takes a lot of conditioning and hard work to stay in shape, and it really is nice when the hard work pays off," she said. For more information, visit www.amyvitale.net

> Discuss this entry

Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0) | Share:

Mike Nealy and Packy Nealy discuss menu options in anticipation of the opening. Packy’s Sports Grill in West Boca, 11379 W. Palmetto Park Road, thrived from 1995 to 2005 under its original owners, the Nealy family, but a string of owners could not make it a go the past few years. The Nealys are back to right the ship, and the former New York Jet fan haven will be up and running July 13.
“We had always envisioned Packy’s as a family restaurant where parents can bring their children and have an affordable evening out. I think over the past few years there was a bit more emphasis put on the bar aspect,” said owner Mike Nealy. This is not to say the bar focus has been shed, and Mike said there will still be a focus on sporting events and bar clientele.
“We have updated all the TVs and now have 24 flat-screen options. What we have done is to partition off the bar area from where the families may prefer to eat, which is near all of the games and restrooms,” said Mike.
The 3,600 square-foot space features all the usual suspects including Golden Tee video games, a jukebox and games for the younger fare as well. The Nealys are no stranger to the industry, and their experience spans decades and locales.
“I used to manage a place called Wednesdays in New York back in the late '60s, and it was pretty much the hottest place in town. We sold Packy’s in 2005 because the time was just right, and now the time is right to return,” said Mike's father, Packy Nealy. The focus will be on affordability, particularly for families.
“We are going to have a kid's meal for $3.99 and it will include the meal, a drink and dessert. We know times are tough for everyone, and we want to bring that original focus back,” said Mike. For more information, call 561-482-0052.

> Discuss this entry

Permalink | Comments (2) | TrackBacks (0) | Share:

On The Spot With Psychologist Dr. Robin Goldstein

How long have you been in the new Boca location? I have been here since May, but practicing in Florida for 26 years.

What a few areas of specialization? I deal with a variety of issues that impact adults and adolescents including depression and chronic pain, relationships, divorce recovery and how to be happier in daily living.

What are typical roadblocks preventing people from seeking mental health care? There is unfortunately still a bit of a stigma attached, which is quite ridiculous. You would go to the doctor for a chronic cough, so why wouldn’t’ you see a specialist for chronic mental health issues?

What are common misconceptions? That people think it’s just the way things are. For instance, someone may be functioning at a high level, but not completely happy in their everyday life or they may worry unnecessarily, and it does not have to be that way.

What is the primary difference between treating adults and adolescents? The issues may be the same: depression, anxiety or whatever the situation may be. The difference is adolescents do not have things like a family or career to keep behaviors in check and they are far more impulsive.

What is the typical method of treatment? There really is no typical approach because every situation differs. I have several tools and approaches to address whatever those individual needs may be.

> Discuss this entry

Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0) | Share:

Former Spanish River High School valedictorian Aron Croft is hosting a free seminar for parents with college-bound children at 8 p.m. July 8 at the Embassy Suites, 661 NW 53rd St. Croft is a Harvard graduate and will focus on methods to heighten a child’s college potential during the ‘How to Get Into Your Dream School’ seminar. Croft said the goal of the seminar is to dispel the five primary myths that typically prevent students from attending their dream schools. "Colleges from UF to Harvard have posted record-high rejection rates recently, and our goal is to show parents how to keep their children from becoming victims in this hyper-competitive admissions environment,” said Croft. For more information or to register, call 561-266-0105 or visit www.elitecollegecoaching.com.

> Discuss this entry

Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0) | Share:

Florida Atlantic University’s Charles E. Schmidt College of Biomedical Science is seeking volunteers to take part in an Alzheimer’s medication study. The late-stage clinical trial is sponsored by Eli Lilly and Company and will study the effects of semagacestat, a new drug designed to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s.

“The current available treatments for Alzheimer’s disease do not address the development of amyloid plaques. If these new medications prove to be safe and effective, it will truly represent a game-changing breakthrough in the treatment of this devastating disease,” said FAU clinical assistant professor of biomedical science Peter J. Holland.

Volunteers must be 55 or older with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s and have a caregiver who spends at least 10 hours a week with them. For more information, call Michelle Owens at 561-297-0164 or e-mail at mowens5@fau.edu.

> Discuss this entry

Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0) | Share:

2009-10 Greater Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce Chairman-Elect Forrest Heathcott hands $150 prize to Rachel Fallas.
University of Florida student Rachel Fallas recently won the Boca Festival Days Poster Contest, and her winning design will appear throughout the city and on the festival’s marketing materials.

“I wanted to create a simple, yet sophisticated design for Boca Festival Days, and the colors were chosen to reflect the ocean, which is very characteristic of South Florida. Palm trees are incorporated to give a local, yet exotic feel to the poster, and the idea is this poster is an invitation to a fun and relaxing event for the local audience wishing to escape the everyday drudgery,” said Fallas.

Boca Festival Days is run by the Greater Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce and features events throughout August hosted by and for nonprofit organizations. For more information, visit www.bocaratonchamber.com.

> Discuss this entry

Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0) | Share:

West Boca Medical Center recently received the 2009-10 Maternity Care Excellence Award from HealthGrades, an independent healthcare ratings organization. The hospital was ranked in the top 5 percent nationally for maternity care, and it is the fourth consecutive year they received such a distinction.

“I am proud to say that this is West Boca Medical Center’s fourth consecutive year to receive this award. We could not have done this without the dedication and talents of our nurses and medical staff,” said West Boca Medical Center CEO Mitch Feldman.

The study is based on 13 million hospital delivery records from 1,500 hospitals in 19 states between 2005-07. To view the full study, visit www.healthgrades.com.

> Discuss this entry

Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0) | Share:

On The Spot With Linda Gove, Boca Helping Hands executive director

www.bocahelpinghands.org

How long has Boca Helping Hands been assisting local families? The organization began close to 11 years ago as a small soup kitchen that was open three days a week.

How did things evolve? It just made sense to add a food pantry to help people in need on a more consistent basis, and then we began looking at things like job assistance, financial assistance and a range of other services.

How is the job mentoring program going? Fantastic! We have been up and running since April 2 and have already had numerous success stories. We had one gentlemen come in and use the computers to search job sites. He found a posting that was only 53 minutes old, we got his resume in order and sent him over, and he got the job!

How big a role do volunteers play? They are everything. We only have four employees, and our volunteers are the core of our mission, and they sustain the relationships with our families in need.

Read more about this story in the July 8 issue of the Boca Forum.

> Discuss this entry

Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0) | Share: