The fourth annual Children & Parents Day Winter Wonderland is set for noon to 4 p.m. Jan. 11.
The Candy Land-themed event will take place at the Boynton Woman’s Club, 1010 S. Federal Highway.
This year also marks the 10th anniversary of the Museum of Lifestyle & Fashion History, the event's host.
Honorary chairpersons for the event are Kristin and Glen Calder, both Boynton Beach residents.
Kristin Calder said the event is special because it is more than just fun for the family but also provides learning for the children. She also said he family is excited for the Candy Land experience.
The event is to take place at the 1925 Boynton Woman’s Club, with activities planned including winter-themed arts and crafts, a magic show and book readings.
Saint Joseph’s Episcopal School in Boynton Beach also stepped up as one of the financial sponsors for the event.
“Saint Joseph’s loves to give back any way we can to the community,” said Janet Page, school spokeswoman. “I know a couple of the parents are involved in the event, and we wanted to support it as well.”
Page said art is a big factor in her school, and that all the children and parents love the museum and the programs it puts on.

For information, call 561-243-2662.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

The Boynton Beach Senior Center, 1021 S. Federal Highway, is looking for seniors to sign up for an upcoming mature driver class from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Jan. 12.
Barbara Zengage has been teaching mature driving and basic driver improvement for about eight years at the Boynton Beach Senior Center.
She said the class is a four-hour course and that at the end, participants get a certificate that they can present to insurance companies for discounts.
“The certificates are recognized by the state of Florida,” she said.
The classes take place once a month at the center but January’s class has no participants as of yet.
“It is a great course that you can get done in just one day,” she said. “It is very interactive and not just a lecture.”
The cost for the class is $15 and anyone interested can call 561-512-6407 or e-mail buzzy89@bellsouth.net

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

The city of Boynton Beach is extending its reach through the use of new online social network media, including Twitter and a recently launched blog that allows two-way communication between the city and those that have an interest in the city.
City spokesman Wayne Segal said that technology has given Boynton Beach new tools that allow the city to invite conversation with the community.
“I went to a conference in December in Lakeland and one of the topics was Twitter,” Segal said. “I am still trying to understand it but it is very exciting.”
He said the social networking has potential for disseminating information, including emergency information, about the city and its services, for recruitment and for announcing special events.
The Twitter messages are short at 140 characters but enough to communicate with staff members. The 140-character messages get posted on the user’s wall.
“You get your message across,” Segal said.
Some Twitter messages have nothing to do with the city at all but are just conversational. One golf-related follower wrote that he was taking a shower on the Twitter board. The idea is to get residents talking to each other.
The city’s other main objective in creating a blog to open up an interactive channel with the local community, Segal said.
Residents can comment and add relevant content.
Staff members on the blog include Segal and Vicki Robertson, who works in the Art Center. The staff members post updates on trash collection, about local centers and city awards.
To receive the city’s frequent “tweets,” either on a computer or mobile device, it is necessary to sign up for a free Twitter account.
Visit http://twitter.com and after signing up, go to “Following” in the right hand column and click on “add.” Add “cityofboynton.”
To view the city’s blog at any time and read the updates, go to http://boyntoncityblog.wordpress.com.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com or followed on Twitter at rothman88.

> Discuss this entry

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

New classes are taking place in January at the JCC Hochman Branch of the Jewish Community Center, 8500 Jog Road.
Cheryl Green, Adult Services director, said the first class is on learning how to play the piano, beginning from 10 to 11 a.m. Jan. 6 through Feb. 10. The cost for the program is $108 for JCC members and $150 for non-members.
The next class is beginner Mah Jongg, 10 to 11:30 a.m., running from Jan. 7 through Jan. 28. The cost for this program is $48 for members and $72 for non-members.
Finally, the JCC is having “Make It or Take It” classes for art. Participants will create an oil painting in four hours from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jan. 7 and following Wednesdays. The cost for this class is $48 for members and $72 for non-members.
For information, call 561-736-4751.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

The Boynton Beach Regional Symphony Orchestra is back for another year and the first concert is set for 7:30 p.m. Jan. 10 at Boynton Beach Community High School, 4975 Park Ridge Blvd.
Felicia Volkman, spokeswoman for the orchestra, said the first concert would be in honor of Bob Ensler, who helped to get the orchestra started almost four years ago.
“When we started to advertise that we were looking to start an orchestra, he called us and asked what he could do to help,” Felicia Volkman said. “He also got us funding from his discretionary funds.”
Bob Ensler was a Boynton Beach City Commissioner who died in January 2007. It was no secret that the former commissioner was a fan of classical music.
Barry Volkman conducts the more than 40 members from Boynton Beach and beyond, and the orchestra has concerts also coming up Feb. 21 and March 28.
Tickets for the Jan. 10 concert are $18 for adults and students are admitted free.
“We really believe in teaching students to love the classical music we play,” Barry Volkman said.
Barry Volkman said if not for Ensler, Boynton Beach would not be part of his orchestra’s name.
In honor of Ensler, the orchestra will play the Arthur Sullivan Overture, his favorite piece of classical music.
For information or for tickets, call 561-369-3432.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

Boynton Beach Police are investigating a home invasion robbery that resulted in a man being shot on Wednesday, Dec. 24, said Stephanie Slater, police department spokeswoman.
Police were flagged down by Cyrus Deale, 35, who had been shot in the right leg.
Deale said he had received a call letting him know someone was tinkering with his car. He saw four men, three of whom pointed guns at him.
As Deale ran away, he was shot.
Two of the men ran into the house and pistol whipped Nicole Williams and demanded the location of any money. The house was then ransacked, and it is not known what they took.
Deale was taken to a Delray Beach Medical Center and is in stable condition.

Anyone with information, should call Detective Juan Montoya at 561-742-6163.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

The Sand Sifters, a local beach cleanup group, is having its monthly group cleanup coupled with “National Pie Day,” from 8 to 10:30 a.m. on Jan. 3.

Gary Solomon, Sand Sifters organizer, said volunteers would receive a free slice of pie, and that the group would have its first pie-eating contest.

The first 10 participants to register can compete. Prizes will be given out for adult and child winners.

The event will take place at Oceanfront Park, 6415 N. Ocean Blvd.

For information, call 561-734-9128.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

By DAVID DiPINO

The Community Foundation of Palm Beach and Martin counties is now accepting scholarship applications. More than $600,000 will be given away to “deserving local high school graduates” for financial assistance in their upcoming college freshman year.
Scholarships range from $1,000 to $25,000, and will be awarded from 84 funds setup by donors of the Community Foundation. Since 1983, the Community Foundation has awarded more than $4.5 million in scholarships to some 1,200 students in Palm Beach and Martin counties.
"Now more than ever, today's students need financial help to further their education," Barbara Bishop Chapin, chairwoman of the Scholarship Committee said.
"We are honored to provide scholarships to students who have overcome obstacles, possess exceptional talents and demonstrate academic excellence. Through the collective power of our Community Foundation, we can help provide a better future for these students and our community."
The deadline for application is 5 p.m. Feb 2. Students can find online applications at www.yourcommunityfoundation.org/scholarships

> Discuss this entry

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

Many residents across Boynton Beach have time off for the holidays. The water plant operator and water professionals will still be working at Christmas time, said Wayne Segal, city spokesman.
Segal said few people realize the job of producing drinking water goes on 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Melvin Pinkney, chief operator from the East Water Plant, said since he is on the front lines of public health, it makes it worthwhile to do his job during the holidays.
Pinkney is just one member of the Boynton Beach Utility staff of water professionals working to keep water flowing through the hundreds of miles of water lines across the community.
Kofi Boateng, the city's utilities director, said he is proud of the people who take time off from their families to do their job.
Segal said along with staff working at the treatment plant, there are other Boynton Beach Utility personnel who are on-call during the holidays to respond at a moment’s notice to emergencies such as large water line breaks and service outages.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

The Boynton Beach Green Market, 129 E Ocean Ave., will have muralists Judy Dempsey and David Nau assisting teens from the Youth Violence Prevention Program to paint a Kwanzaa Mural from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Dec. 27.
Sandra Watson, a Youth Violence Prevention Porgram service provider who had a group participate in last year’s Heritage Highwaymen Mural Program that the Art in Public Places program facilitated, approached the two muralists to teach a similar program this year.
Debby Coles-Dobay, the city's public art administrator, said during a four-week period, the artists taught classes in which the teens learned about the seven principals of Kwanzaa, how to individually express the colors and textures of the Kwanzaa celebration, and collaboratively created a banner depicting the Kwanzaa celebration.
The banner will be on display at Saturday's Green Market and the group will do a live 4-foot-by-6-foot mural demonstration. 

The Art in Public Places program will support this effort by assisting to publicly display the mural when it is completed.
Coles-Dobay said she is urging residents to come out and see the banner and meet the teens.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

Larry VanBuskirk, 80, recently took up Tai Chi because the arthritis in his hands, particularly his thumbs, was starting to really set in and cause him pain.
“The exercise really loosened him up,” said wife Norma VanBuskirk, who also takes the Tai Chi classes with Larry. “The chi that flows through your body is very warm and soothing, and he is quite pleased with the results.”
Larry VanBuskirk said as long as he keeps doing the Tai Chi he would not be worried about simple things like picking up a cup to have a glass of water.
“I used to get a sharp pain in my hand and just drop the cup, now that is gone,” he said.
Seniors from the ages of 55 to 94 had a Tai Chi performance last week in the courtyard of the mall on the corner of Military Trail and Old Boynton Road.
The presentation of the internal Chinese martial art often practiced for health reasons, was part of classes that run twice a week 11:30 a.m. Mondays and Fridays for seniors with physical problems.
The classes take place at the United State of Fitness located in the outdoor mall.
Tai Chi instructor Lee Ann Ingram teaches a class of 30 seniors including a woman, Francis, who could not walk when she started the class.
“One day she just decided to stand up and everyone started to clap for her,” Ingram said.
Ingram said many of her students feel a major difference after the classes, some even healing.
“These people are people who are crippled and have serious arthritis, and this is therapy for them,” she said.
Shirley Hunn, 72, started taking the classes because her doctor recommended them after her bout with pelvic cancer.
“It has really helped me,” she said. “I’ve lost 17 pounds. I was so stiff before and my doctor said if I didn’t do some form of exercise, the stiffness would not go away.”
She said before taking the classes, she could not even bend down to put on pants.
Anyone looking to take classes can call Ingram at 561-742-9694.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

In desperate financial times, an informal group from Wellington has come forward to help Boynton’s Caridad Center, 8645 W. Boynton Beach Blvd., a free clinic for impoverished workers and children from the Palm Beach area.
Anna Marie King, director of special events and marketing for the center, said the people are from an equestrian community in Wellington.
“They called us about three or four months ago,” she said. “Apparently they helped out another center like ours some years ago.”
The group has raised thousands of dollars strictly for children, including toys, sending low-income children on safety patrol trips to Washington, D.C., covering college scholarships and helping out with the pediatric dental program.
“The group donated 1,000 toys last Saturday for our little party for the kids, and members were actually here handing them out,” King said.
King said the group’s goal is to help some of the needy children in the area.
She said the money raised is in the upper thousands and still growing.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

The Palm Beach County Tax Collector’s Office supported Forgotten Soldiers Outreach through its “Helmets for the Holidays” campaign for the second year.
“Helmets for the Holidays” is a postcard designed by the Tax Collector’s office that sells for $1. The office asked residents to write a message that would be mailed to a soldier overseas.
Forgotten Soldiers is a Boynton Beach nonprofit sending care packages to soldiers overseas fighting the war in Iraq.
The employees were successful in raising more than $1,500 to send care packages and help pay for the packing of the items.
Tax Collector Anne Gannon presented the check to Lynelle Zelnar, executive director of Forgotten Soldiers, Dec. 17.
“We have about 10 people in our office with a son or daughter that is over in Iraq so it is a good cause that we decided to adopt as one of our charities,” Gannon said. “This is really an important cause.”
In the past four years, Forgotten Soldiers has sent more than 20,000 packages overseas touching more than 50,000 soldier’s lives.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

The Jewish Community Center of the Greater Palm Beaches announced a transition plan designed to broaden the reach of its programs and services from Boynton Beach to Jupiter.
The JCC is a beneficiary agency and close working partner of the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County whose board approved the transition plan last week.
Key components of the plan include expanding its Hochman Branch, 8500 Jog Road, in Boynton Beach.
Executive Director Michelle Wasch said the JCC is committed to engaging people in Jewish life and providing quality Jewish programs close to where people live.
Plans to expand the agency’s Boynton Beach branch are in early stages, said Scott Benarde, JCC spokesman. He said there are going to be phases to the expansion of the Hochman Branch.
Benarde said the first phase of the expansion is planned for the first quarter of 2009.
The Jewish community in south Palm Beach County is growing and the center plans to grow with it, he said.

Read more about this story in the Dec. 24 issue of the Boynton Forum.

> Discuss this entry

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

The Public Works Department announced the Christmas/New Year’s holiday pickup schedule.
On Dec. 24, pickups will be normal and on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, there will be no pickup. In addition, on Jan. 1, there will also be no pickup.
For convenience, a roll-off will be placed in the Public Works employee parking lot located at 222 NE Ninth Ave. from Dec. 19 through Jan. 9 for co-mingled recycling.
There will also be two Dumpsters in the same area for cardboard and paper only.
Any questions regarding the holiday pickup schedule can be answered by calling the Public Works Department at 561-742-6200.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

The United Way of Palm Beach County, 2800 Quantum Blvd., announced it would conduct a nationwide search for a new president and CEO.
Dianne Laubert, spokeswoman for the United Way, said a search committee has been formed and is comprised of five current board members.
She said preliminary work has begun following the Nov. 14 resignation announcement of Scott Badesch, who has served as president and CEO since 1995. Badesch’s resignation will take effect on Jan. 30.
The search will cast a wide net to attract candidates locally and nationally who meet the selection criteria. Criteria includes that the individual has integrity, has a proven track record as a successful fund raiser, is results oriented, exhibits high energy, demonstrates business acumen and presents evidence of leading an organization or major business unit.
The search is expected to last four months, culminating in the selection of a new executive by April. The new executive will be expected to start in May.
Input from multiple community stakeholders, including donors, board and staff members, local nonprofit agencies and other community leaders, will be gathered by the search committee.
The position will be advertised in January in local and national newspapers, on the United Way of America and United Way Palm Beach County Web sites, and in the Journal of Philanthropy among others.
Resumes will be accepted once the position requirements are posted and should be sent to Debby Diamond, executive assistant, United Way of Palm Beach County, 2600 Quantum Blvd., Boynton Beach, FL 33426 or e-mailed to debbydiamond@unitedwaypbc.org.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

Boynton Beach was recently the recipient of an American flag flown at Joint Security Station Love, Salah-ad-Din, Iraq, during Operation Iraqi Freedom, said Wayne Segal, city spokesman.
Mayor Jerry Taylor introduced at the Dec. 16 City Commission meeting a certificate of authenticity and a memorandum accompanying the flag.
The memo was written by Company Commander Nathan Hicks.
Hicks said his company wanted to thank the City Commission and Boynton Beach residents for generosity and unwavering support to the soldiers and families of Delta Company 2/327 IN 101st Airborne Division.
Hicks said the actions by residents were a true example of patriotism.
In 2003, the City Commission reaffirmed the city’s support of the company, also known as the Delta Demons. City staff accepted the responsibility of acting as organizers and liaisons to the community to support the troops.

> Discuss this entry

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

Michael Juneau, 10, is a fourth-grader at Galaxy Elementary School who happens to like only the villains from his favorite movies.
For just one day, Dec. 17, he is a fan of police officers, as well.
Juneau got the chance to buy his own holiday toys at the third annual Operation Shop with a Cop at Super Wal-Mart, 3200 Old Boynton Road. The event was for needy children who otherwise would not get any holiday presents.
He picked up action figures of Venom from "Spider Man" and General Grievous from "Star Wars."
More than 85 children from four local elementary schools, the Lord’s Place and the Boynton Beach Police Athletic League teamed up with police officers and Wal-Mart to shop for holiday presents.
Each officer was paired up with a child to go through the store and pick out various gifts for the child. Officer Robert Kellman, one of the organizers of the event, said the children got around $75 to spend in the store.
For more about this story and photos from the event check out the Dec. 24 issue of the Boynton Forum.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

Third grade students have been reading the “Little House on the Prairie” books and will take reading to the next level from 9 a.m. to noon on Friday when they dress up like the 1800s characters at the school, 3300 S. Seacrest Blvd.
Janet Page, the school's spokeswoman, said the children would dress in clothes depicting that era and have a pioneer luncheon consisting of ham, fried chicken, buttermilk biscuits, cornbread pudding, apple sauce, cookies and lemonade.
“It will be cute,” she said. “All the students are bringing sack lunches and writing on slates like it was done back in the 1800s."
Sewing quilt pieces, playing marbles and making corn-husk dolls are among some of the other activities they will participate in.
"It is very old school," Page said.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

Saint Joseph’s Episcopal School’s fourth through eighth grade students will participate in the first round of the 2009 National Geographic Bee on Dec. 17 and 18.
Janet Page, the school's spokeswoman, said the geographic bee would ask students questions all about geography from all over the world.
“It is something completely different from a spelling bee,” she said.
The winner of Saint Joseph’s School’s bee will advance to the next level of competition to determine state competitors.
Winners are eligible to win the national championship - first prize of a $25,000 college scholarship.
The National Geographic Society has been having the Geographic Bee for 21 years in schools across the United States, in the five U.S. territories, as well as in the Department of Defense Dependents Schools around the world.
For information, call 561-732-2045.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

Seniors from the ages of 55 to 94 will perform Tai Chi at noon on Fri, Dec. 19 in the courtyard of the mall on the corner of Military Trail and Old Boynton Road.
The presentation of the internal Chinese martial art often practiced for health reasons is part of classes that run twice a week 11:30 a.m. Mondays and Fridays for seniors with physical problems.
Tai Chi instructor Lee Ann Ingram teaches a class of 30 seniors including a woman who could not walk when she started the class.
“One day she just decided to stand up and everyone started to clap for her,” Ingram said.
Ingram said the students would be performing in black and white uniforms.
“These people are people who are crippled and have serious arthritis, and this is therapy for them,” she said. “One man had serious hand pain and once he started do this, it went away.”
The classes take place at the United State of Fitness, located in the outdoor mall.
For information call Ingram at 561-742-9694.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

About 10 senior residents and four aides from Manor Care, a local senior-assisted living facility and rehab center, 3001 S. Congress Ave., were welcomed by the students at South Tech Academy on Dec. 15 for a full day of relaxation, including a spa treatment and a student-prepared meal.
The seniors had their hair shampooed and styled, along with a manicure, which started at 9 a.m., followed by a luncheon at 11:30, prepared by the students for the residents and their aides.
“It’s multi-faceted really,” said Jim Kidd president at South Tech. “Students from the nursing program have been doing clinical care and can get the hands on training with the seniors, while the seniors get a day out and a little spa treatment.”
Holly Klingenstein, an 11th grader with the cosmetology school, got a chance to cut some of the seniors’ hair and give some manicures, as well.

“They seemed really happy,” she said. “I got the chance to talk to one man, Satchel, who told me all about where he came from in New York and what he used to do. It was really interesting and I can’t wait for the next one.”
Read more about this story and see photos from the event in the Dec. 24 issue of the Boynton Forum.
Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

The Boynton Beach Police Department is having its third annual Operation Shop with a Cop from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 17 at Super Wal-Mart, 3200 Old Boynton Road, said Stephanie Slater, department spokeswoman.
More than 85 children from four local elementary schools, The Lord’s Place and the Boynton Beach Police Athletic League will team up with police officers to shop for holiday presents.
Each officer will be paired up with a child to go through the store and pick out various gifts for the child.
Wal-Mart, Sam’s Club and other local Boynton businesses have donated the required funds to make this possible for the needy children.
“The support for this program has been overwhelming,” said Officer Robert Kellman, one of the organizers of the event. “This is my third year doing it and it has just grown and grown, just as I wanted it to.”
Kellman said he is just happy to be making a difference in the lives of the children involved.
Kellman has said in the past that this event helps children to grow to appreciate and not fear their local officers.
To contribute, call Officer Robert Kellman at 561-742-6849.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

According to the American Stroke Association, each year about 700,000 people suffer a stroke, 500,000 of which are first attacks and 200,000 are recurrent.
A stroke is the rapidly developing loss of brain functions due to a disturbance in the blood vessels supplying blood to the brain. A stroke can cause permanent neurological damage, complications and death.
Bethesda Memorial Hospital has received the American Stroke Association’s Get With The Guidelines-Stroke Silver Performance Achievement Award, said Kiswana Russell, hospital spokeswoman.
The award recognizes Bethesda’s commitment and success in implementing a higher standard of stroke care by ensuring that stroke patients receive treatment according to nationally-accepted standards and recommendations.
Russell said the hospital has developed a comprehensive system for rapid diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients admitted to the emergency department. This includes always being equipped to provide brain imaging scans, having neurologists available to conduct patient evaluations and using clot-busting medications when appropriate.
To receive the GWTG-Stroke Silver Performance Achievement Award, Bethesda Memorial Hospital consistently complied for at least one year with the requirements in the GWTG–Stroke program. Requirements include aggressive use of medications like tPA, antithrombotics, anticoagulation therapy, DVT prophylaxis, cholesterol reducing drugs, and smoking cessation.
The 12-month evaluation period is the second in an ongoing self-evaluation by the hospital to continually reach the 85 percent compliance level needed to sustain the award.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

The Fire Chief’s Association of Palm Beach County in conjunction with the Palm Beach County Fire Marshal’s Association, the Fire Training Officers of the Palm Beaches and the Palm Beach County EMS Provider’s Association had the “Annual Installation Luncheon” on Dec. 3 at the Crown Plaza Hotel in West Palm Beach.
The event marked the swearing in of each organization’s incoming officers for 2009. Guest speakers for the event included Les Hallman, director of the Division of the State Fire Marshal, and Florida’s Chief Financial Officer, Alex Sink.
From Boynton Beach, Chief William Bingham was sworn in as president of the Fire Chief’s Association for 2009.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

The Boynton Beach Police Department is having its third annual Operation Shop with a Cop from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17 at Super Wal-Mart, 3200 Old Boynton Road, said Stephanie Slater, department spokeswoman.
More than 85 children from four local elementary schools, The Lord’s Place and the Boynton Beach Police Athletic League will team up with police officers to shop for holiday presents.
Each officer will be paired up with a child to go through the store and pick out various gifts for the child.
Wal-Mart, Sam’s Club and other local Boynton businesses have donated the required funds to make the event possible for the children.
To contribute, call Officer Robert Kellman at 561-742-6849.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

A public artwork mural installation is happening in Boynton Beach.
Gloria Bowden, owner of the Pantry at 206 S. Federal Highway, is improving her business through the CRA facade grant program.
The improvement is a public art mural painted by Dana Donaty, a public artist who serves on the Delray Beach Public Art Review Board.
Debby Coles-Dobay, the city's public art administrator, said the mural depicts a small retro-style building framing the taco service window in bright Key West colors, a tiki hut that frames the Pantry entrance all encompassed in a beach scene setting.
To complete the scene, the driveway is lined with nautical roped pylons with coconut palms planted in between.
Coles-Dobay said 
many of the customers are pleased with the improvement and love the artwork.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

Mayor Jerry Taylor took time to welcome the first “green” office to Boynton Beach on Monday, Dec. 8 at 100 NE Sixth St. in the Marina Village.
Wayne Segal, city spokesman, said the office was part of an initiative to attract “green” businesses to Boynton.
Segal said heating, cooling and powering office space were responsible for about 40 percent of carbon dioxide emissions in the country, and account for more than 70 percent of annual United States electricity usage.
In its new Boynton Beach office, architectural firm Environmental Dynamics, Inc. has incorporated design, construction and operational practices that will significantly reduce negative impacts on the environment and company employees, Segal said.
Taylor recognized EDI for being the first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-certified office in the city at the ribbon cutting ceremony that took place Monday morning.
He also took the opportunity to discuss how “green” jobs are the key to the country’s economic recovery and long-term growth.
Taylor said local government could be a catalyst for the creation of these “green” jobs.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

The Schoolhouse Children’s Museum, 129 E Ocean Ave., is trying to make a visit with Santa more affordable for local families this year.
Santa will be available for listening to wish lists and taking pictures free with admission to the museum from noon to 3 p.m. on Dec. 13.
Admission is $3 for children ages 2 through 17; $4 for grandparents; and $5 for adults.
Kelsey Harris, the museum's director of operations, said after Santa’s appearance, the chorus of Galaxy Elementary School is set to put on a holiday performance of their own.
The chorus will perform seasonal songs while the museum offers arts and crafts for kids of all ages.
Harris said the museum is trying to share the joy of the holidays with its visitors.
For information, call the museum at 561-742-6785.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

Steven Nussdorf, a Boynton Beach artist, is part of a new art show taking place from 6:30 to 9 p.m. on Dec. 11 at the Neighborhood Gallery of Boynton Beach, 422 W. Industrial Ave.
The show will include metal sculptures, oil paintings, ceramics and kinetic sculpture.
It is the first show of the holiday season at the Neighborhood Gallery. Wine and refreshments are set to be served at the event.
For information, call 561-736-8181.
Some other local artists that will be featured at the opening include Rick Beau Lieu’s metal sculptures, Tom Brewitz’s Mobiles, Jeff Foti’s acrylic paintings and Lois Neisen’s glassware.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

Women, ranging in age from 30 to 80, religiously attend the Quilter’s Club from 9 a.m. to noon Thursdays at the Boynton Beach City Library, 208 S. Seacrest Blvd., said Karen Abramson, library spokeswoman.
Abramson said the ladies have been working for years on different types of quilts, including holiday quilts, children’s quilts and even queen-size quilts.
“The quilts are just so beautiful and have such vibrant colors,” Abramson said.
The quilters would like to share the group’s creations by putting the quilts on sale every Thursday at the group’s meeting time.
“These quilts will be great for when the weather drops and you just want to snuggle up,” Abramson said.
All proceeds from the sales will go toward library programs.
For information, call 561-742-6390.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

Boynton resident Jody Bertin said she never took the time to stop and think about what people are going to do when their homes get foreclosed because of the current recession.
“I just never thought about it,” she said.
Local churches in Boynton Beach have thought about it and are doing something to help.
New Hope First Community Church, 2929A S. Seacrest Blvd., is set to have "A Season of Hope Concert" at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 12.
All of the proceeds from the concert will benefit the Lord's Place of Palm Beach County.
New Hope's own talent, area musicians and singers will take the stage for the holiday concert. Rev. Gregory L. Denton and Terry Bradlow, organist, will be joined by New Hope's Joyful Noise Choir.
“We picked The Lord’s Place particularly because of the economy today,” Denton said. “With the housing market the way it is, so many people are losing their homes and homelessness is becoming a big problem.”
For more than 25 years, The Lord's Place has been transforming the lives of homeless men, women and children living in Palm Beach County. The Lord’s Place tries to restore dignity and hope to the homeless.
Other artists performing in the concert include Edward Krynicki from Church of the Palms; composer and arranger Jeffery Steffen; Christian recording artist Shawn Thomas; and Glen Arfsten from Prosperity Farms Road Presbyterian Church.
“There will be variety for everyone,” Denton said. “We are the church hosting it but so many other churches in the community are sending representatives. It really is a community effort.”
The Lord's Place began as a small soup kitchen in 1979. Today, The Lord's Place gives homeless families and individuals a new beginning, helping them to get out of trouble.
Tickets are $10 at the door. A free-will offering will also be received for those who want to make additional contributions to the event.
To reserve seats, call the New Hope church office at 561-424-0699.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

Saint Joseph’s Episcopal School recently participated once again in the annual Food for Families community food drive.
Cathy Nevad, teacher at Saint Joseph’s, said considering the student body is around 250, it was a large feat to collect 2,070 pounds of food for the drive.
The school has been participating in the food drive for 10 years.
In addition to the food drive, the school collects turkey gift certificates for the Community Caring Center of Boynton Beach.
The school also purchased items for needy children so that they could have gifts.
For information, call 561-732-2045 of visit www.sjsonline.org.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

To benefit the Palm Beach County veterans through USA Cares, Coffee Beanery, 1000 N. Congress Ave., is having local psychic Maria Lavara come out from 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 3 to give readings for a small donation.
Martie Wrock, event organizer, said she is also having a raffle in addition to the readings.
“With all the cutbacks, we just know how hard it must be for these vets,” she said. “If it gets too crowded, maybe we will have Maria answer two questions for people.”
Wrock said she had talked with Maria earlier in the month and that she was more than happy to come out and help the cause.

For information, call 561-732-2940.

> Discuss this entry

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

Temple Shaarei Shalom’s capital campaign recently dedicated new stained-glass windows adorning the synagogue’s sanctuary and honored the donors who made them possible.
The donors were honored for their participation in the synagogue’s Generations Building Together Campaign, which has raised nearly $3 million for the construction of additional space that will meet the synagogue’s needs for the growing congregation and its spiritual, educational and social programs.
Construction on the expansion should be completed by July.
Joan Milowe, campaign director, said sanctuary window donors include Milton Gilman, the Bell family, the Heydt family, Rochelle Bergman, Stacey and Steven Ellison, Sylvia Sussman, and Heidi and Marvin Zeichner.
Milowe said the windows, designed by Nancy Rich of Art Glass Environments, depict the spirit of remembrance as well as the celebration of life with scenes from nature.
She said the butterfly on the window represented new beginnings.
Temple Shaarei Shalom was founded 16 years ago with 18 members meeting in a rented space. Currently, the synagogue serves more than 850 congregants with religious, social and educational activities, many of which are open to everyone.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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

The Schoolhouse Children’s Museum, 129 E Ocean Ave., is planning a new exhibit for the winter, “The School Bell is Ringing” will feature the history and the future of both public and private schools in the Boynton Beach area.
Janet DeVries, the museum's archivist, said the new exhibit would be in the Community Archives Gallery.
DeVries also said the museum has accepted donations and loans of items chronicling local schools from residents to be part of the display.
Kelsey Harris, the museum's director of operations, said the exhibition opens on Jan. 13 and would remain on display through May 16.
For information, call 561-742-6397.

Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.

> Discuss this entry

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