Under a bright, hot sun around 6 P.M. Saturday March 29, 2008 with a crowd of nearly 1,000, the grand opening ceremony of the Sunset Cove Amphitheater in West Boca Raton was conducted by Palm Beach County Commissioner Burt Aaronson. (Shown in photo with Sheri Scarborough, President of the West Boca Community Council, Aaronson, Robert Schulbaum, President of the Alliance of Delray Residential Associations and Barbara Katz, President of Coalition of Boynton West Residential Associations.)

The invocation was given by Paul Murray, Deacon, Saint John the Evangelist Church. Presentation of colors was made by Honor Guard and Aviation Unit of Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office. Student Michael Dobrin led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the singing of the National Anthem by students Shannon Martin, Meridith Mox, Michael Natoli and Matthew Vo Pelt.

Among the speakers were State Representive Richard Machek, Tom Kruse, West Boca Chamber of Commerce,
Dennis Eshleman, (left) Director, Parks and Recreation Department and Troy McLellan, President of Boca Raton chamber of Commerce. Machek praised Aaronson and Eshleman for their efforts to bring this new West Boca public facility to completion.

In his closing remarks Commissioner Aaronson said: "This is your facility--for all the families throughout the county. We hope you will use it for the enjoyment of you and your children for many generations to come." The ribbon cutting ceremony then followed (photo above), and the entertainment began, provided by Spanish River H. S. Symphonic band under the direction of Craig White, the Olympic Heights H. S. Soundsation under direction of Brad Lister. The West Boca Raton H. S. Choral Group, directed by Jason Locker was the final entertainment group of the evening. A sensational fireworks display lit the night sky at the conclusion of the evening.

Future programs include: April 11 Movie Night, 9 PM. Sound of Music.
April 22 Boca Raton High School will perform an evening of music. 7-9 PM.
April 25 Movie Night 9 PM Eddie Murphy as Dr. Doolittle.

The 9,930 square foot amphitheater has a 1,700 square foot stage with rear screen projection capability; a state of the art sound and light system, four dressing rooms with private attached restrooms and a production office, all air conditioned.

The outdoor grass festival seating area will seat up to 3,000 spectators (bring your own chairs or blankets.) There is a covered vending area where grilling and cooking takes place with an electric hook-up and potable water. Additional facilities for the public adjacent to the amphitheater is a large group picnic pavilion, restroom building, single table picnic shelters and ample parking.

It is a facility that will truly be enjoyed by adults and children for generations.

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Alliance of Delray Residential Associations Monthly Meeting,
Wednesday April 2, 2008

Guest Speakers:
Hon. Sharon Bock—The activities of Comptroller and Clerk of Palm Beach County.
Sheriff’s Department Detective Mirko Ivanovic speaks on Identity theft prevention

Alliance Board Members will discuss How proposed state legislation will
affect your community board.

South County Civic Center
Meeting Begins 9:30 A.M. Doors Open at 9 A.M.
The Public is Welcome
Robert Schulbaum, President
Visit Our Website at: www.allianceofdelray.com

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S.R. 806/ Atlantic Ave. from a point east of S.R.7/ U.S. 441 to a point west of Lyons Rd.
Construction began on January 7, 2008 on 0.5 miles of S.R. 806/ Atlantic Ave. from a point east of S.R.7/ U.S. 441. This $756,745.68 construction project including milling and repaving of the existing roadway, drainage improvements, guardrail relocation and new signing and pavement markings. The project is being built by Ranger Construction Industries, Inc. and is expected to be complete May 2008.

Restriction: There will be alternating lane closures from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., Monday, March 31 through Friday, April 4. Flagmen will be onsite to assist motorists during lane restrictions, delays are expected. There will be intermittent lane closures 8 p.m. until 6 a.m., Monday through Friday, through March 31, for guardrail installation. Flagmen will be onsite to assist motorists during lane restrictions.

U.S. 1 from the C-15 Canal just north of Hidden Valley Blvd., north to Linton Blvd.
Construction will begin on this project Monday, March 24, 2008 on U.S. 1 from the C-15 Canal which is just north of Hidden Valley Blvd. in Boca Raton, north to Linton Blvd. in Delray Beach. This $3.3 million construction project consists of milling and resurfacing, roadway widening to add designated bike lanes, bridge widening over the C15 Canal to add a 3 ft. shoulder and 6 ft. sidewalks on both sides of the bridge, sidewalk improvements to construct a 5 ft. concrete sidewalk throughout the project, landscaping and drainage improvements and new signage and pavement markings. The project is being built by Weekley Asphalt Paving, Inc. and is expected to be complete December 2008.

Restriction: There will be two informational public meetings about this project held 5 p.m. until 8 p.m., Tuesday, April 1 at Veteran's Park, 802 NE 1st St. in Delray Beach and a second meeting held 9 a.m. until 12 p.m., Thursday, April 3, at the Boca Raton Community Center's Royal Palm Room, 150 Crawford Blvd. in Boca Raton. All are welcome to attend. This project begins on Monday, March 24, 2008. There will be intermittent lane closures 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., Monday, March 31 through Friday, April 4. Flaggers will be on-site to assist motorists. .

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Merry Rubinstein, Board Member of the Hearing Loss Association of America, Delray/Boynton Chapter has been teaching Lip Reading to the hard of hearing for the past seven years.

For the past four years, she has given her Lip Reading course at the Emmanuel Catholic Church off Military Trail, north of Linton Blvd. in Delray Beach every Tuesday afternoon from 1:30 to 3 P.M. This course is open to members of the Delray/Boynton Chapter of HLAA at no charge. The next class will be April 1 and every Tuesday thereafter through April 15th.

Weekend Activities at Morikami Gardens

The Origami Extravaganza!
 with guest artist Jeremy Shafer 
Saturday, March 29, 2008
 

Enjoy this whole day of folding fun with time before and after to enjoy the exhibits and a stroll through the gardens! A day sure to please those who love to fold - beginners to pros!  
 
Beginner folders: This year 19s theme is "Sound Safari," folding the "sounds" of The Morikami Gardens! Transform a simple piece of aper into insects, birds, fish, and other objects you "hear" in our gardens.  
Advanced folders: Take an advanced folding class with our guest artist, Jeremy Shafer, who is widely known for his origami book Origami to Astonish and Amuse. He will teach two classes, one for ages 8-15 and the other for ages 16 and up.
All museum visitors: With his entertaining and magician-like techniques, the audience will also enjoy Mr. Shafer 19s free origami demonstrations in the theater. 
 
Schedule and cost (all costs are in addition to paid museum admission): 
-"Sound Safari" of the Morikami Gardens (basic folding for the novice and up): $3 per 45 minute session. Multiple sessions are available throughout the day.
-Sessions with Jeremy Shafer:
Ages 8-15: 10:15 am-11:30 am ($7)
Ages 16 and up: 1:00 pm-2:30 pm ($10)
-Talk and demonstration by Jeremy Shafer: 11:45 am-12:15 pm and 3:00 pm-3:30 pm (no additional charge)
 
For registration and details, call 561-495-0233 x 237.

 
Katagami - Japanese Stenciling Workshop
Sunday, March 30, 2008
10:00 am - Noon or 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm
 

Artist Masao Yamada will introduce the traditional Japanese art form of katagami (stencil making) and provide a sample on authentic paper of a stencil pattern. Students will design and cut their own stencil using regular paper.
 
*Students must bring an x-acto craft knife, #11 blade.*
 
Cost: $40 + material fee of $15   
 
Advance registration required. For registration and additional information, call 561-495-0233 x 210.
 
  
 

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Dr. Steven Sederholm, a frequent guest speaker at Delray/Boynton Chapter of the Hearing Loss Association of America meetings will be competing in a 5 kilometer race in Charlotte, NC on April 4, 2008 to benefit Pediatric Audiology.

Please feel free to sponsor him by logging on to www.audiologyfoundation.org
or calling (703) 226-1049.

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Tri-Rail is offering seniors a chance to have a free ride, to introduce them to the easy access Tri-Rail wants to provide them.

No purchase necessary. Must be 65 years or older. Ticket offer is
non-transferable and has no cash value. Limit one round-trip ticket per
person. Deadline is June 2, 2008.

Call 1-800-TRI-Rail (874-7245) or www.tri-rail.com to get a form.

Or - send your complete name, address, age, phone # and/or e-mail address,
WITH a stamped, self-addressed envelope, to:
Tri-Rail, P.O. Box 5148, Lighthouse Point, FL 33074-5148.

West Atlantic Ave. Construction Update:
S.R. 806/ Atlantic Ave. from a point east of S.R.7/ U.S. 441 to a point west of Lyons Rd.
Construction began on January 7, 2008 on 0.5 miles of S.R. 806/ Atlantic Ave. from a point east of S.R.7/ U.S. 441. This $756,745.68 construction project including milling and repaving of the existing roadway, drainage improvements, guardrail relocation and new signing and pavement markings. The project is being built by Ranger Construction Industries, Inc. and is expected to be complete May 2008.

Restriction: There will be alternating lane closures from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., Monday, March 24 through Friday, March 28. Flagmen will be onsite to assist motorists during lane restrictions, delays are expected. There will be intermittent lane closures 8 p.m. until 6 a.m., Monday through Friday, which began on March 10 and will be ending on March 31, for guardrail installation. Flagmen will be onsite to assist motorists during lane restrictions.

U.S.1 Construction project begins March 24. Public Open Houses Scheduled
Palm Beach -Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Officials announce the U.S.1 construction project from just south of C15 Canal, north of Hidden Valley Blvd. in Boca Raton, north to Linton Blvd. in Delray Beach, is scheduled to begin on Monday, March 24.

This project work consists of milling and resurfacing, roadway widening to add designated bike lanes, bridge widening over the C15 Canal to add a 3 ft. shoulder and 6 ft. sidewalks on both sides of the bridge, sidewalk improvements to construct a 5 ft. concrete sidewalk throughout the project, landscaping and drainage improvements and new signage and pavement markings.

There will be public meetings held 5 p.m. until 8 p.m., Tuesday, April 1 at Veteran's Park, 802 NE 1st St. in Delray Beach and a second meeting held 9 a.m. until 12 p.m., Thursday, April 3, at the Boca Raton Community Center's Royal Palm Room, 150 Crawford Blvd. in Boca Raton. All are welcome to attend.

These informal public meetings will help to inform both residents and businesses in the Boca Raton and Delray Beach areas about the project. No formal presentations will be made. Representatives from FDOT, Creative Engineering, Weekley Asphalt Paving Inc., the City of Delray Beach and the City of Boca Raton, will be available to discuss the project one-on-one, answer questions and listen to public concerns.

Public participation is solicited without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability or family status.

For information on FDOT construction projects in Palm Beach County, please refer to www.pbfdot.com . For around-the-clock, real-time traffic information within the tri-county area (Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade Counties), travelers should call 511. Information is also available on-line at www.511southflorida.com . These free services are provided by FDOT and the SunGuide(tm) Partners.

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West Delray Beach resident Galo Rivera is at the control on the engineer’s console at the Swing & Jazz concerts at the Spanish River Performing Arts Center the third Tuesday of each month that take place through April.

Born in Ponce, Puerto Rico 52 years ago he arrived in New York City when he was 15 years old. After graduating high school he attended the Recording Institute of America in New York City and at age 20 became recording engineer and record producer, as well as a song writer and guitarist.

In 1975 he co-wrote the song Yo se Que Lay un Dios, which translates in English to

I Know There Is a God

Recently Galo produced two CD’s of Spanish River church music. Not confined to only this genre, he also produced a CD for Novich’s Honkies Blues Band.

Today he plays his guitar specializing in Latin Rock music, inspired by world famous artist Carlos Santana. During the past six months his sextet recorded a song titled Neuve (Move) which has received extensive radio play in Miami, Texas, Central America and Spain. He and his sextet played a Latin Rock concert in Fort Myers, Fl. on this past February 8.

“Life is fun every day,” says 5’ 9” mustached and goateed Galo. “My 250 lbs. attest to my love of good food,” he says with a happy smile. “I like smoking a cigar in a quiet place; gives me time to think and create.

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John Thompson, Project Manager of the Florida Department of Transportation responded to questions (shown in picture with Ms. Ruth Wagner, Camelot resident) from West Delray residents’ at the West Delray Public Library, 7777 W. Atlantic Ave. Monday evening, March 17, 2008 from 5: 15 P.M. to 7:45 P.M.

Atlantic Avenue between slightly east of Jog Road and West to the Northbound Turnpike entrance will be widened to 3 lanes on each side beginning September 2010. At present it is 2 lanes wide on each side. The project is estimated to take two and a half years to complete and cost $32.5 million.

Responding to a question about whether sound walls would be erected on the north side of Atlantic Ave. adjacent to the Camelot community, Thompson replied: “We will have to make a new model analysis of whether the wall is needed, and then we would question the residents affected to determine whether they wanted a wall erected or not.”

Some of the additional improvements planned in the area with the road project are construction of a four foot bicycle lane on both sides of the roadway; construction of new sidewalks, creating a continuous sidewalk on both sides of the roadway. New construction will include ADA compliant curb cut ramps. New storm water management systems will be constructed; lighting improvements; modifications to median openings. Replace existing span wire traffic light signalization with a mast arm configuration at Hagan Ranch Road, Legends Way, Cumberland Drive and Kings Point Atlantic Ave. entrance; and adjustment to the Lake Worth Drainage District L-34 canal.

Also present to answer questions were Maroun Azzi, Project Engineer Palm Beach County Commissioners Engineering & Public Works Department, Roadway Production Division and representatives from Wantman Group, Inc., the road design company: Maverick Marshall, Project Manager and Chastain (Chad) M. Johnson, Project Engineer.

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“Listening is a magnetic and strange thing—a creative force.
Stop what you are doing and listen for two minutes. Then write the new thoughts you had as a result of this simple activity of just listening.”

I gave the above assignment to the students of the Advanced Writing Class I conduct at Kings Point recently. I want to share with you an imaginative piece of excellent writing by student Dr. Sidney Prager:

By Dr. Sidney Prager
Listen, just listen to the world, even more than that, listen to the universe.

At the shore the water takes command as the waves slowly form and grow and crash against the rocks or sand to let you know who or what is in control here.

The message is clear. I am Nature or I am Poseidon, and this is my domain. All of life has come from me and without me all would perish. I have been here for billions of years, and intend to stay for billions more.

And you, you puny insignificant bit of flesh and blood and bone, you stand by my edge like millions of others have done throughout time. You are but a speck that lasts as long as a blink of your eye. Can you imagine how many others have stood like you looking over my vastness? Humans of all different colors, shapes and sizes and animals too, so many that I can’t even count them all.

Most are gone, some forms of life you will never even know existed. There is no record but I knew them all. And there are millions more within my being, in my very substance. I provide the things they need to live, to grow and to flourish. My power is greater than you can imagine and most of the things I can offer still remain hidden from even the brightest of your kind. But I have time, lots of time and I will slowly unveil what I have.

Me and Sol (that bright yellow ball in the sky) have made this planet what it is. Remember that. Lucky Sol, he is 93 million miles away and safe. But I am here and an easy target for your garbage, chemicals and poisons.

Hear me well you tiny speck, have the proper respect for me. Treat me with kindness and wisdom or you will pay a terrible price.

By the way, it’s such a nice day today, why don’t you come in for a swim?

Florida Department of Transportation Holds Information Meeting
for West Atlantic Avenue (State Road 806) Road Reconfiguration

John Thompson, Project Manager of the Florida Department of Transportation responded to questions (shown in picture with Ms. Ruth Wagner, Camelot resident) from West Delray residents’ at the West Delray Public Library, 7777 W. Atlantic Ave. Monday evening, March 17, 2008 from 5: 15 P.M. to 7:45 P.M.

Atlantic Avenue between slightly east of Jog Road and West to the Northbound Turnpike entrance will be widened to 3 lanes on each side beginning September 2010. At present it is 2 lanes wide on each side. The project is estimated to take two and a half years to complete and cost $32.5 million.

Responding to a question about whether sound walls would be erected on the north side of Atlantic Ave. adjacent to the Camelot community, Thompson replied: “We will have to make a new model analysis of whether the wall is needed, and then we would question the residents affected to determine whether they wanted a wall erected or not.”

Some of the additional improvements planned in the area with the road project are construction of a four foot bicycle lane on both sides of the roadway; construction of new sidewalks, creating a continuous sidewalk on both sides of the roadway. New construction will include ADA compliant curb cut ramps. New storm water management systems will be constructed; lighting improvements; modifications to median openings. Replace existing span wire traffic light signalization with a mast arm configuration at Hagan Ranch Road, Legends Way, Cumberland Drive and Kings Point Atlantic Ave. entrance; and adjustment to the Lake Worth Drainage District L-34 canal.

Also present to answer questions were Maroun Azzi, Project Engineer Palm Beach County Commissioners Engineering & Public Works Department, Roadway Production Division and representatives from Wantman Group, Inc., the road design company: Maverick Marshall, Project Manager and Chastain (Chad) M. Johnson, Project Engineer.

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The week of March 17, beginning with St. Patrick’s Day celebrations offers various venues of interest:

Tuesday, March 18 the Swing & Jazz Preservation Society presents Alan Vache and his clarinet leading a spectacular sextet of outstanding musicians playing pure classical jazz. All Swing & Jazz Preservation Society performances take place the third Tuesday of each month from November through April 15, 2008 in the 1500 seat venue at Spanish River Performing Arts Center located at 2400 Yamato Road, corner of St. Andrews Blvd. in Boca Raton beginning at 7:30 P. M. Tickets are $18 for members and $26 for non-members. Membership applications for a full 12-month period are available in the lobby at concert night, or by calling (561) 499-9976.

Wednesday, March 19, 2008 the Boca Raton Computer Society has Guest Speaker: Carl Franzblau, Ph.D. who will speak about "Electronic Medical Records." Dr. Franzblau will demonstrate a new flash drive that will contain the complete medical history of a patient. It can be carried with the patient at all times, thus enabling emergency room physicians to obtain information on medications, allergies, surgical history, etc. Franzblau is professor and chairman of the Department of Biochemistry and the Associate Dean of the Division of Graduate Medical Sciences at the Boston University Medical School.

All meetings begin at 6:15 P.M. at the South County Civic Center, Jog Road, Delray Beach and are open to the public. From 6:15 to 7:30 P.M. question and answer sessions are held on Internet, Paint Shop Pro, E-Bay, Vista and Windows XP. Since 1983, members of the Boca Raton Computer Society, Inc. have been helping one another use and learn about computers. There are now close to 1,000 members in the society, including computer professionals, business owners, home users and novices.

Friday, March 21 the Hearing Loss Association of America, Delray/Boynton Chapter holds its monthly meeting, open to the public at the South County Civic Center beginning from 9:45 A.M. to 12 noon. Refreshments served 9:45 to 10 A.M.

Two Guest Presenters:
1. Nimet Adams, Dr. of Audiology will speak about advances in hearing aids and hearing aid technology.

2. Clear Sounds will demonstrate state-of-the art assistive hearing devices. A must for anyone hearing impaired. Learn about the latest devices for hearing enhancement in the many situations where a hearing aid is not enough for clarity and understanding.

West Atlantic Avenue Construction Update
S.R. 806/ Atlantic Ave. from a point east of S.R.7/ U.S. 441 to a point west of Lyons Rd.

Construction began on January 7, 2008 on 0.5 miles of S.R. 806/ Atlantic Ave. from a point east of S.R.7/ U.S. 441. This $756,745.68 construction project including milling and repaving of the existing roadway, drainage improvements, guardrail relocation and new signing and pavement markings. The project is being built by Ranger Construction Industries, Inc. and is expected to be complete May 2008.

Restriction: There will be alternating lane closures from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., Monday, March 17 through Friday, March 21. Flagmen will be onsite to assist motorists during lane restrictions, delays are expected. There will be intermittent lane closures 8 p.m. until 6 a.m., Monday through Friday, beginning on March 10 and ending on March 31, for guardrail installation. Flagmen will be onsite to assist motorists during lane restrictions.

Salute to St. Patrick;s Day

Maureen Ford is an Irish born lady who enrolled in my class of seniors on “How to Write the Story of Your Life” at Kings Point this past January. She is an outstanding writer who paints a descriptive word picture that enthralls the reader. I asked her to describe how St. Patrick’s Day was celebrated in her native country. Enjoy this authentic word picture!
M.M.

By Maureen Ford, West Delray Kings Point resident
Growing up in Ireland in the 1950’s in the countryside of County Tipperary made it easy for all of us to have fresh-picked shamrock every St. Patrick’s day. It was a holy day of obligation, when everyone had to go to Mass.

Children liked to wear a shop-bought symbol of ‘Irishness’ pinned on their Sunday best. That meant displaying either a gold-colored harp on a green silk ribbon, in honor of “The harp that once on Tara’s halls the soul of music shed,” where our beloved St. Patrick began his journey from the hill of Tara; or a green shamrock-shaped flower on a gold ribbon, or a flag-pin of the green, white and gold.

The fresh picked shamrock would be separated from the clay and pinned on the lapel. I don’t think we ever spent a St. Patrick’s Day when Daddy would not comment after Mass that somebody or other didn’t display a fine bunch of clover. The green has no white strata of color on its tiny leaves. It grows profusely in Ireland but is not as common as the clover on which feed the cows that produce the superior milk, butter, cheese and Bailey’s Irish Cream.

St. Patrick’s Day was also the day we could eat the sweets we gave up for Lent. The pubs also did a brisk business, where they were open. Non-teetotalers were expected to abstain from the booze for Lent and bishops were not shy to let publicans (barkeepers) know they expected them to keep their doors closed for the season. Back then when people were more inclined to listen to the bishop, a man had to go to the horse-races in Limerick or Fairyhouse or to the dog show in Dublin to get a drink on that national holiday. But that day is over. They now have horse-racing on Sundays in Ireland.

A few cities in Ireland had parades of floats through their main streets. Dublin’s was always the biggest and the best. A Sunday dinner was the fare of the day and the dance halls which were silent for Lent were always packed on St. Patrick’s night.

I was past my 30th birthday when I came to live in the United States. It was on St. Patrick’s Day 1979 that I first tasted corned beef. Bacon boiled with cabbage is the most common dinner in the Irish countryside, where farmers slaughter their own pig and cure the pork in a barrel of brine. Beef cured in brine becomes corned beef so that’s why the Irish adopted the dish as their favorite for the big day.

I was amazed by the size of the St. Patrick’s Day parade in New York City. I was a spectator there in my first year where I enjoyed the camaraderie of all the onlookers enjoying the parade with me. Even on the subway, everyone, black and white were Irish on the 17th March. I marched proudly in the New York St. Patrick’s Day parade the year the late Mike Flannery was the Grand Marshall. Not only did Mike Flannery come from my home place in Tipperary, he was in jail in Ireland with my uncle Pat, as political prisoners. That was the year when the late Cardinal Cooke refused permission to the Catholic schools in his diocese in New York to march. He did not approve of the choice of Grand Marshall. Mike Flannery was an exemplary citizen who not only fought for and suffered for the land of his birth against an occupying British presence who denied the Irish the right to practice their religion or speak their native language, but he also supported many an Irish immigrant and helped them get on their feet in the U.S. History was repeating itself…the bishops are not always listened to.

I hope to see the Irish symbols of the harp and shamrock, the green, white and gold prominently displayed by those who honor St. Patrick, who began on Tara’s hills.
Happy St. Patrick’s day.

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Dr. Robert Watson, Ph.D., Director of an American Studies program at Lynn University addressed a sell out audience of 375 members and guests of the Trails and Delray Chapters of Brandeis University National Women’s Committee at Temple Sinai, Delray Beach Thursday evening March 12. This is his first talk of a two part series. Watson, who speaks extemporaneously, is an eagerly sought after speaker on American History, particularly Presidents and their wives.

Dr. Watson was welcomed by Ms. Bernice Wornow, Co-President of the Trail Chapter. Watson opened his wide ranging talk by stating this evening he probably sets a world record for appearances at Brandeis University Women’s Committee groups.

“I have just returned from Washington, D. C. where I interviewed Super Delegates," he began. "It is fascinating to speak to them, seek their opinions and watch the polls. Results are changing practically every minute. The Super Delegates state they don’t know which way they are going to vote.

We are facing the most historic and important election in the history of America. The next President will inherit a nation that is divided at home, is least popular throughout the world; that is facing an education crisis. Florida is the 49th ranking state in education in the nation. If it wasn’t for Mississippi we would be last. Regarding education, consider this: When my four year old daughter is old enough to go to college the cost will probably be $150,000 a year.

Today we have the deepest debt in our history; an energy crisis and a health insurance crisis. We need a Manhattan Project type of approach to the energy crisis to find alternative fuels and reduce our dependence on oil from Venezuela and the Middle East.

A year ago there were a dozen candidates from each party running for the Presidency, the most crowded since 1928. This is the first time in 50 years that a sitting Vice President is not running for the President’s job. History will be made with this election if a Democrat wins: The first woman or the first African American. The country will change after the 2009 inauguration. Incidentally, in the late 19th century Victoria Woodhull and Frederick Douglass ran for President—a woman and an African American. Throughout the world there are women heads of state. Most of our President’s have been of Scotch ancestry, Presbyterian religion.

If John McCain is elected he will be 72 on Inaugural Day, making him the oldest President in history when taking office.

This will be the most expensive election in history. Perhaps over 250 million dollars will be spent by each party. Obama is bringing in $30 million per month currently. The next President will be compromised. Special interest money is electing the next President. He or she will owe the big donors lots of favors. Because of this campaign reform will never go anywhere in Washington.”

Watson cited Washington, Lincoln and Truman were not educated men, but they had character and integrity. That’s what made them great Presidents.

Speaking about the current election situation in Florida, he said Florida’s 210 delegates won’t count. What will happen is the Democratic candidates will continue almost tied until the Convention in Denver. Hillary will be at a disadvantage the longer they campaign. It seems that Obama gains ground in each market when the campaign extends over a lengthy period. Every single delegate will count from here on in. Another advantage to Obama is the Puerto Rico caucus in June. They have 63 delegates. Caucuses have favored Obama. In Puerto Rico they usually vote 63 to 0 in favor of one candidate.

“My solution to the election mess we have now is to have a one week national Primary in the month of August each election year.”

There are 795 Super Delegates. These are elected officials. Bill Clinton is a Super Delegate. They are free agents. “I recommend they vote 796 to 0 for ONE candidate,” said Watson.

He concluded his talk speaking of Israel. “Clinton and Obama are pro Israel, despite all the rumors about Obama’s religious associations.” Warm applause was followed by a lively question and answer period.

Sally Heller, Lakes of Delray resident and a Region Advisor of the Trails Chapter "felt reassured about Obama" after listening to Watson.

Audrey Rubin, Gleneagles Country Club resident said he was "erudite, factual and entertaining."

Watson has published over 25 books and over 100 scholarly articles about the Presidency, civil rights, election reform and environmental policy. He is constantly being interviewed by major media outlets such as CNN, ABC, MNBC, FOX , USA Today, New York Times, and others.

West Atlantic Ave. Consturction Update
S.R. 806/ Atlantic Ave. from a point east of S.R.7/ U.S. 441 to a point west of Lyons Rd.

Construction began on January 7, 2008 on 0.5 miles of S.R. 806/ Atlantic Ave. from a point east of S.R.7/ U.S. 441. This $756,745.68 construction project including milling and repaving of the existing roadway, drainage improvements, guardrail relocation and new signing and pavement markings. The project is being built by Ranger Construction Industries, Inc. and is expected to be complete May 2008.

Restriction: There will be alternating lane closures from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., Monday, March 17 through Friday, March 21. Flagmen will be onsite to assist motorists during lane restrictions, delays are expected. There will be intermittent lane closures 8 p.m. until 6 a.m., Monday through Friday, beginning on March 10 and ending on March 31, for guardrail installation. Flagmen will be onsite to assist motorists during lane restrictions.

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Maureen Ford is an Irish born lady who enrolled in my class of seniors on “How to Write the Story of Your Life” at Kings Point this past January. She is an outstanding writer who paints a descriptive word picture that enthralls the reader. I asked her to describe how St. Patrick’s Day was celebrated in her native country. Enjoy this authentic word picture!
M.M.

By Maureen Ford, West Delray Kings Point resident
Growing up in Ireland in the 1950’s in the countryside of County Tipperary made it easy for all of us to have fresh-picked shamrock every St. Patrick’s day. It was a holy day of obligation, when everyone had to go to Mass.

Children liked to wear a shop-bought symbol of ‘Irishness’ pinned on their Sunday best. That meant displaying either a gold-colored harp on a green silk ribbon, in honor of “The harp that once on Tara’s halls the soul of music shed,” where our beloved St. Patrick began his journey from the hill of Tara; or a green shamrock-shaped flower on a gold ribbon, or a flag-pin of the green, white and gold.

The fresh picked shamrock would be separated from the clay and pinned on the lapel. I don’t think we ever spent a St. Patrick’s Day when Daddy would not comment after Mass that somebody or other didn’t display a fine bunch of clover. The green has no white strata of color on its tiny leaves. It grows profusely in Ireland but is not as common as the clover on which feed the cows that produce the superior milk, butter, cheese and Bailey’s Irish Cream.

St. Patrick’s Day was also the day we could eat the sweets we gave up for Lent. The pubs also did a brisk business, where they were open. Non-teetotalers were expected to abstain from the booze for Lent and bishops were not shy to let publicans (barkeepers) know they expected them to keep their doors closed for the season. Back then when people were more inclined to listen to the bishop, a man had to go to the horse-races in Limerick or Fairyhouse or to the dog show in Dublin to get a drink on that national holiday. But that day is over. They now have horse-racing on Sundays in Ireland.

A few cities in Ireland had parades of floats through their main streets. Dublin’s was always the biggest and the best. A Sunday dinner was the fare of the day and the dance halls which were silent for Lent were always packed on St. Patrick’s night.

I was past my 30th birthday when I came to live in the United States. It was on St. Patrick’s Day 1979 that I first tasted corned beef. Bacon boiled with cabbage is the most common dinner in the Irish countryside, where farmers slaughter their own pig and cure the pork in a barrel of brine. Beef cured in brine becomes corned beef so that’s why the Irish adopted the dish as their favorite for the big day.

I was amazed by the size of the St. Patrick’s Day parade in New York City. I was a spectator there in my first year where I enjoyed the camaraderie of all the onlookers enjoying the parade with me. Even on the subway, everyone, black and white were Irish on the 17th March. I marched proudly in the New York St. Patrick’s Day parade the year the late Mike Flannery was the Grand Marshall. Not only did Mike Flannery come from my home place in Tipperary, he was in jail in Ireland with my uncle Pat, as political prisoners. That was the year when the late Cardinal Cooke refused permission to the Catholic schools in his diocese in New York to march. He did not approve of the choice of Grand Marshall. Mike Flannery was an exemplary citizen who not only fought for and suffered for the land of his birth against an occupying British presence who denied the Irish the right to practice their religion or speak their native language, but he also supported many an Irish immigrant and helped them get on their feet in the U.S. History was repeating itself…the bishops are not always listened to.

I hope to see the Irish symbols of the harp and shamrock, the green, white and gold prominently displayed by those who honor St. Patrick, who began on Tara’s hills.
Happy St. Patrick’s day.

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I don’t usually do movie reviews, but my widower 88 year young brother-in-law Charlie saw this movie twice—once in the theater and a second time at home a few days ago when he rented the DVD from Blockbuster.

“How come you wanted to see it a second time,” I asked.
“I didn’t really understand what it was all about when I saw it in the theater,” he replied. “Maybe I slept through part of it, so I figured I’d give it another try at home.”
“You understand it any better the second time?” I asked him.
“It’s a very confusing movie,” he said. “You take the DVD and watch it, then explain it to me. Make sure you get it back to Blockbuster on time, though.”

The Mrs. and I watched it on a recent Sunday night. “Here’s my take on this flick, Charlie:”

The opening segments are all in that fast, multi frame business they use in Hollywood these days that hurts your eyes. George Clooney stars as Michael Clayton. He’s a lawyer working for a large law firm in New York City. Instead of trying cases he is the company trouble shooter who the bosses assign to clean up problems for clients.

We meet his young son who’s around 10 years old. We meet Clooney’s brothers—one a cop the other a deadbeat. We meet his associate and good friend, Arthur, who is working a high profile case for the firm fighting a class action suit by over 400 people against one of their biggest and most profitable clients. These folks claim that using the client’s insecticide, has caused cancer.

And we also meet three horses on a hill in Westchester County, N. Y., when Clooney spots them, gets out of his car, climbs the hill and stands in front of the three horses for about two minutes. They stare at each other. The three horses must represent some metaphoric symbol to someone in Hollywood, but I couldn’t figure out their purpose. Suddenly two explosions go off in Clooney’s car and the horses get spooked and gallop off. Clooney runs back to his car which is being burned beyond recognition. He throws his wallet and wrist watch in the vehicle and runs away. This helps him “disappear” while he searches for the reason and the perpetrator who killed his friend Arthur in an earlier scene.

The last third of the movie is more understandable than the initial footage. I don’t want to give anymore away and spoil it for those who haven't seen it yet.

“Charlie, do you understand it better now?” I’m leaving for Blockbuster.

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From the time he was 10 years old, 70 years ago, he learned to play the piano. He has performed annually at the Doctors Piano Concerts at the Steinway Piano Gallery in Boca Raton in 2005, 2006 and 2007 where he plays popular favorites such as Embraceable You, and Body and Soul as well as classical numbers including Chopin Nocturne in E Flat Major Opus 9. You get the idea—he plays it all!

Throughout his entire 45 year career as a doctor Kaitz devoted himself to help and heal his patients. His hobby during those years was horticulture, specializing in raising orchids in his own greenhouse. Upon retiring in November 1999 he maintains residences in Massachusetts and Delray Beach.


Imagine his surprise and pleasure when the American Orchid Society’s Visitors Center and Botanical Gardens opened off Jog Road in Delray in 2000. He volunteered his services and they quickly gave him a job as a weeder. When Alan began taking pictures of the orchids and designing “What’s In Bloom” posters for the Orchid Society (where he is known as “Mr. Technology”), he didn’t have to weed anymore. He also created a website which provides a virtual tour of the Orchid Society facility.

Alan, slightly built at 5’ 6 ½”, weighing 134 lbs., is a native of Chelsea, MA. After graduating from Chelsea High School he entered Harvard College. At the end of his freshman year he enlisted in the Army. Returning from service after VJ Day, with the aid of the GI Bill he resumed his education at Harvard, graduated from there and then Harvard Medical School, specializing in internal medicine and geriatrics.

He became Chief of Medicine at Chelsea Memorial Hospital and an Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. When Chelsea Memorial Hospital closed in 1978 he practiced in Revere, MA. until 1993. He went on to work at the Rehabilitation Hospital in Woburn until retirement, where he cared for many former high school classmates and their parents.

Alan and his wife Marlene raised two daughters and a son. One daughter is a CPA, the other a physical therapist. Their son followed in Dad’s footsteps, attending Harvard Medical School and becoming a primary care physician in Concord, N.H. The couple enjoys nine grandchildren. Alan and Marlene plan to spend more time with their children’s families who live in Andover MA., North Andover, MA. and Concord, N.H.

Dr. Alan enjoys reading biographies when he’s not practicing playing his piano, caring for his orchids, or working in his spacious home office where he uses two computers, a desktop, and a laptop, two printers, a copy machine and scanner. He also takes beautiful orchid pictures with his Sony digital camera.

Healer, piano artist, photographer, ex weeder and loving family man. That’s Dr. Alan Kaitz, the modern Renaissance man.

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Mel Goldstein, the Director of the volunteer 34 member “Guys & Dolls” Choral Group rehearses every Tuesday morning at Delray Villas Clubhouse B. They recently performed at Majestic Isles in Boynton Beach, and local nursing homes. After performing at Manor Care, Yamato Road in Boca Raton on February 18, they have been invited back for a return engagement on March 24.

Goldstein, besides leading the group, is a soloist singing high tenor. Selma Moskowitz, soprano is the main female soloist, with other women performing solos dependant on the number being sung.

“We have 13 male tenor and bass voices in our chorus. I consider these men the finest male singers in the area. Many of them do solo turns at our concerts,” says leader Goldstein. “We have a vast library of music we use for our performances, from Broadway show tunes like Camelot, to Irving Berlin.”

Goldstein, 68, a big six footer, moved from Lindenhurst, L. I. to Delray Villas four and a half years ago. He was instrumental in restarting the choral group which had been dormant for a few years.

For 40 years he volunteered as a fireman and EMT on Long Island. He and his wife Lynn raised a son and daughter and have one grandchild. His son, daughter in law, their daughter and grandson are all professional singers. Goldstein's one regret was not becoming a Cantor.

“Working with the Delray Villas guys and gals talented singers has been a joy,” says Goldstein. With each rehearsal and live performance we improve our artistry. If any organization would like to book our group, call me at 561-381-0131.”

Traffic Update: S.R. 806/ Atlantic Ave. from a point east of S.R.7/ U.S. 441 to a point west of Lyons Rd.
Construction began on January 7, 2008 on 0.5 miles of S.R. 806/ Atlantic Ave. from a point east of S.R.7/ U.S. 441. This $756,745.68 construction project including milling and repaving of the existing roadway, drainage improvements, guardrail relocation and new signing and pavement markings. The project is being built by Ranger Construction Industries, Inc. and is expected to be complete May 2008.

Update for Week of March 10: Restriction: There will be alternating lane closures from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., Monday, March 3 through Friday, March 7. Flagmen will be onsite to assist motorists during lane restrictions, delays are expected. There will be intermittent lane closures 8 p.m. until 6 a.m., Monday through Friday, beginning on March 10 and ending on March 31, for guardrail installation. Flagmen will be onsite to assist motorists during lane restrictions.

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Edwin Goldwasser, President of the Pine Ridge community off Hagen Ranch Road, will serve as Chairman and Master of Ceremonies at the 75th Anniversary Dinner of the “Jewish War Veteran’s Protest March against Nazi Germany” at the Shoreham Hotel, Washington, D. C., Saturday, March 8, 2008.
The keynote speaker for the evening is Ms. Pamela Nadell, Chairman of Judaic Studies at American University, Washington, D. C.

This affair celebrates the march which took place in New York City on March 23, 1933 when thousands of veteran coalition partners including the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars and others marched side by side with Jewish War Veterans. Most significantly, hundreds of thousands observed that march.

Goldwasser, a long time West Delray resident serves on the board of the Alliance of Delray and is a past National Commander of the Jewish War Veterans and past President of the National Museum of American Jewish Military History in Washington, D. C.

Alliance of Delray Vendor Fair Attracts Community executives from Palm Beach and Broward Counties

This past Friday, February 29, the Alliance of Delray held its second annual Condominium and Homeowner Vendor Fair at the South County Civic Center. Over 525 community board, committee members, and property managers visited the 38 booths where vendors exhibited their goods and services. From landscape companies to banks, physical fitness services to free home inspection services, these companies presented themselves to community decision makers. Also participating were the Office of the State of Florida Ombudsman and representatives of elected officials U. S. Congressman Robert Wexler, Commissioner Aaronson, State Senator Ted Deutch, and State Representatives Richard Machek and Kelly Skidmore.

Many of the exhibitors expressed their satisfaction with the attendance and interest by signing up for the 2009 Alliance of Delray Vendor Fair to be held Friday, March 27.

Alliance of Delray March 5, 2008 Meeting

President Bob Schulbaum distributed copies of letter drafted by U. S. Congressman Wexler and signed by Wexler, Congressman Klein, Hastings and Mahoney addressed to Gov. Charlie Crist regarding the disparity of Medicare benefits between Miami-Dade and Palm Beach Counties: $233 more per person per month in Miami-Dade as compared to Palm Beach County residents. The Alliance initiated this request to Wexler several weeks ago.

Sheriff's Capt. Jeff Calise reported on crime in District 4. Only two vehicles were stolen in last month. There were ten residential burglaries. Don’t leave valuables in cars with doors unlocked. Next month Capt. Calise will present a program on how to protect against identity theft. Leslie Shreiberg spoke about the I.C.E. program for your cell phone. Put in phone number of relative closest to you so EMT can contact nearest of kin in case you are involved in an accident.

Ms. Jackie Miller, from the Memory Disorder Center at St. Mary’s Medical Center was guest speaker. Memory is retrievable information consisting of thoughts and knowledge. How many of us have difficulty in recalling names when you first meet a new person? We have to make associations to remember them. “I often forget where I left my keys, glasses or wallet,” said Miller. That is typical because you tend to be distracted. Involve your senses when you put your keys down by shouting “KEYS.” That should help you remember where you put them.

Do you forget to turn off your stove? Set a timer, place a note nearby and check the stove. Don’t go to another room to watch TV when you are cooking. Write “to-do” lists. A list will allow you to remember. Your thinking process slows down as you age.

What are the factors that contribute to the loss of memory? Smoking, drinking, lack of education, aging, diabetes, uncontrolled hypertension, obesity, and head injuries are some of the reasons we lose our memory. Keep your brain active. Use your mind. Social activity is important. Interact with others. You must keep stimulating the brain by being physically, socially and mentally active.

Cross train your brain. Do different things like wear watch on your right hand if you normally wear it on your left; brush your teeth with left hand. This makes your brain more active when you do things differently than usual.

Diet is important—foods rich in antioxidants like leafy green vegetables and fresh fruits. Fish oils. Take 2000 mgs. of Omega 3 each day; eat salmon 3x week; flax seeds are healthy.

Try to lift your spirits when depressed or stressed by meditating. A great exercise for the brain: Read something upside down. Improves concentration.

Palm Beach County Clerk Sharon Bock will be the principal speaker at the April 2 meeting. Alliance meetings are open to the public which begin at 9:30 the first Wednesday of each month from September through May at the South County Civic Center, opposite Morikami Gardens, on Jog Road, Delray Beach.

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