At Thursday, September 25 Sheriff’s Citizen Academy Class at District 6 Headquarters off Jog Road in Boynton Beach, we formed an auto caravan behind Captain Martin Bechtel and drove up to Sheriff’s Headquarters off Gun Club Road in West Palm Beach.

Our first lesson occurred in the Communications Department, a large area where there are cubicles with civilian employees manning four computer screen consoles. A young lady and her male supervisor were our guides through this important area where all 911 calls come in throughout the county and action dispatches are made. Each employee in the console area handles a specific bit of geography in the county. Each computer screen shows important information such as location of an accident, location of sheriff’s deputy patrol cars, records of licensed drivers, and much more. These operators work long hours in a very stressful occupation.

Leaving one stressful occupation for another, our group of nineteen Academy classmates followed Capt. Bechtel next door to the second lesson of the evening: The County Jail. Here we were given a tour by a prison guard Sheriff’s Deputy and his Sergeant. At each door we had to go through our guides had to shout the count of how many were in our group to the deputy guard in charge so the doors could be unlocked. By this time two more of our classmates joined us.

We were shown the “intake area” where prisoners are first brought in, frisked and processed. One such event happened before our eyes, as a hapless male went through the process. We walked by the first floor cells the prisoners occupy temporarily when they are first arrested before they are transferred to the upper floors. This jail holds about 1,500 prisoners. We were then whisked upstairs in two large elevators to the sixth floor to see where the prisoners live, eat and take their exercise.

After a fifteen minute break at the open air area on the 12 floor of the building which is the staff break area that offers a splendid view of the surrounding area, and the planes going in and out of PBI, we returned to the exit lobby for a demonstration of the weapons used to maintain order, demonstrated by our host deputies. One was a paintball type of gun, the other a Tommy-gun looking weapon that holds six heavy projectiles that can be shot at an unruly prisoner.

“If someone gets hit in the chest with one of these heavy projectiles,” said the ex-Marine deputy who was demonstrating the gun, “it’s like getting hit with a cinder block.” Their weapon of choice is the stun gun which they carry as a sidearm. They said the other two weapons rarely have to be used.

We ended our three hour visit, leaving this sad, drab building packed with unhappy people. An interesting place to visit once—and never have to see it again.

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September 26 through October 3, 2008

Palm Beach County – Palm Beach County traffic will be affected this week by ongoing construction projects and maintenance work, Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) officials report. Weather permitting; closures will be in effect on I-95, Southern Boulevard (S.R.80) and in other areas throughout Palm Beach County for construction activities.

For around-the-clock, real-time, traffic information within the tri-county area (Palm Beach, Broward and Miami Dade counties), travelers should call 511. For I-95 Palm Beach County traffic reports just say "I-95” or “Interstate 95". Information is also available on-line at www.511southflorida.com.

To view real-time video of I-95 in Palm Beach County, visit the FDOT I-95 Interim Traffic Management System (ITMS) website at www.palmbeachcotraffic.org. These free services are provided by FDOT and the SunGuide™ Partners. For updated lane closure information, please refer to www.pbfdot.com.

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Best Wishes for a Happy, Healthy and Peaceful New Year for people of my faith, and all mankind.

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Dear Concerned Citizens,

As the declining economy continues to cause reductions in funding for social
service programs, the Partnership for Aging of Palm Beach County (PFA) is
sending you this letter to request your help. PFA has been approached by
several local congressmen who have requested written testimonials regarding
the impact of the reduction in funding for social service programs. This is
an opportunity for your voice to be heard and to join with PFA in its
campaign to ensure continued funding for these vital programs.

This letter is a call for action. PFA is seeking written testimonials from
both seniors who have been wait listed or denied services, and from
organizations who have been impacted by recent budgetary restrictions. A
single page letter citing the impact of reduced funding may be submitted to
PFA via email to: dawnarom@yahoo.com , or by mail to the address listed
below. All letters received will also be included in the PFA Legislative
Binder that will be going to Tallahassee this fall.

Again, we ask that you assist PFA with this important cause.
Deadline for submissions is November 17, 2008.
Mail to:
Steve Delach
Cresthaven East ALF
5100 Cresthaven Blvd
WPB FL 33415

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
At last night’s (Thursday, September 25) Sheriff’s Citizen Academy Class at District 6 Headquarters off Jog Road in Boynton Beach, we left the classroom behind, formed an auto caravan behind Captain Martin Bechtel and drove up to Sheriff’s Headquarters off Gun Club Road in West Palm Beach.

Our first lesson occurred in the Communications Department, a large area where there are cubicles with civilian employees manning four computer screen consoles. A young lady and her male supervisor were our guides through this important area where all 911 calls come in throughout the county and action dispatches are made. Each employee in the console area handles a specific bit of geography in the county. Each computer screen shows important information such as location of an accident, location of sheriff’s deputy patrol cars, records of licensed drivers, and much more. These operators work long hours in a very stressful occupation.

Leaving one stressful occupation for another, our group of nineteen Academy classmates followed Capt. Bechtel next door to the second lesson of the evening: The County Jail. Here we were given a tour by a prison guard Sheriff’s Deputy and his Sergeant. At each door we had to go through our guides had to shout the count of how many were in our group to the deputy guard in charge so the doors could be unlocked. By this time two more of our classmates joined us.

We were shown the “intake area” where prisoners are first brought in, frisked and processed. One such event happened before our eyes, as a hapless male went through the process. We walked by the first floor cells the prisoners occupy temporarily when they are first arrested before they are transferred to the upper floors. This jail holds about 1,500 prisoners. We were then whisked upstairs in two large elevators to the sixth floor to see where the prisoners live, eat and take their exercise.

After a fifteen minute break at the open air area on the 12 floor of the building which is the staff break area that offers a splendid view of the surrounding area, and the planes going in and out of PBI, we returned to the exit lobby for a demonstration of the weapons used to maintain order, demonstrated by our host deputies. One was a paintball type of gun, the other a Tommy-gun looking weapon that holds six heavy projectiles that can be shot at an unruly prisoner.

“If someone gets hit in the chest with one of these heavy projectiles,” said the ex-Marine deputy who was demonstrating the gun, “it’s like getting hit with a cinder block.” Their weapon of choice is the stun gun which they carry as a sidearm. They said the other two weapons rarely have to be used.

We ended our three hour visit, leaving this sad, drab building packed with unhappy people. An interesting place to visit once—and never have to see it again.

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[From the Community Advocacy Network “CAN”]
Boards will now have additional powers in the event that a "State of Emergency" is declared. These powers include the ability to:
1. Conduct meetings without satisfying typical notice requirements
2. Cancel and reschedule meetings
3. Name assistant directors or officers
4. Relocate the principal office of the association
5. Mitigate further damages
6. Use reserve funds without a membership vote
7. Declare the building and/or units uninhabitable
8. Order a mandatory evacuation
9. Insulate the board from any liability in the event that owners or occupants stay in the building despite an evacuation order
10. Levy special assessments without a vote of the membership if the documents require such a vote; and
11. Borrow money to fund emergency repairs.

More information from CAN (Community Advocacy Network) Regarding Condominiums
New Board Certification form required by Section 718.112(2)(d)3 of the Condominium Act is now available on the DBPR's website at:
http://www.myflorida.com/dbpr/lsc/documents/candidate_certification_form.pdf

The new law requires an individual who wishes to run for the board to certify, in advance of the election, that he or she has read and understands to the best of their ability the association's governing documents, the Florida condominium law and the administrative code.

The form must be sent out with the First Notice of Election.

Please make sure to discuss this new form with your association attorney and property manager to ensure that your annual meeting package is correct.

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With the presidential election, the economic woes affecting us all, the news from Wall Street, the Olympics in China, and the tragedy across the Gulf Coast from Hurricane Ike, 2008 is shaping up to be a very engaging and challenging year for many of us. This entire year serves as a reminder for us all that being involved and working to give back to our communities can really make a difference. From participating in the democratic process to volunteering for a local cause, here are some tips on how to stay active in our neighborhoods.

Head Start Program of Palm Beach County in Search of Volunteers
The Palm Beach County Head Start program is in search of individuals willing to participate in the Godparent Volunteer Program. Participants will be asked to interact with children involved with the program through various educational and social activities.
Head Start of Palm Beach County emphasizes education, social services, medical, dental, nutrition, counseling services, and parental involvement to aid in the development of our community’s children.
For information, please call 561-233-1600.

Voter Registration Deadline Approaching for the 2008 Presidential Election
With less than 60 days remaining before November 4th, the Broward and Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections offices are finalizing preparations for the 2008 General Election. Here is some important information residents should be aware of regarding the election.
• All residents who are eligible to vote must be registered prior to the October 6th deadline in order to participate in the 2008 General Election.
• Early voting will begin on October 20th and last until November 2nd. Specific locations and times will be announced in the coming weeks.
• The deadline to request an absentee ballot is October 29th. For instructions on how to do so, please contact your supervisor of elections office.
For more information, please call 954-357-7050 in Broward County or 561-656-6200 in Palm Beach County. Additional information is also available online at http://www.BrowardSOE.org and http://www.PBCElections.org.

Health Tip of the Week
With more than 2.2 million people diagnosed with the disease, Glaucoma is one of the most prevalent eye related maladies in the nation. Although the cause of the disease is largely unknown to our scientific community, many things can be done to help reduce your risk of developing Glaucoma as well as other eye-related problems.
1. Consume plenty of fruits and vegetables, especially those that are high in beta carotene.
2. If you are a contact lens user, be sure to follow the proper wear and care recommendations by your medical provider.
3. Protect your eyes from Ultra-Violet radiation by wearing polarized lenses to prevent harm to your eyesight.
4. Be sure to balance time watching television and staring at a computer screen with other activities that allow your eyes to focus on objects at a farther distance.
5. Be sure to wear goggles or other protective eye wear when working with chemicals or any place with harmful airborne particulates.
Following these tips will help to reduce your risk for developing Glaucoma and other eye-related problems. However, these recommendations should never be used in place of direct care and treatment from your physician. Be sure to consult your doctor or medical professional before making any changes to your healthcare regimen.

As always, I appreciate the opportunity to be of service to you. Please do not hesitate to contact me or my staff if you have any questions or concerns. Our district office number is (561) 470 6593.
All the best
Kelly Skidmore
State Representative, District 90

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The 2,094 yard, 18 hole Kings Point Par 3 Golf Course is open to the public for the new season beginning September 22.

Located in the heart of West Delray, just west of Jog Road off W. Atlantic Avenue, enter through the Kings Point main entrance, bear right to the Par 3 Pro Shop and sign up for a round to improve your short iron game and putting prowess.

Reservations for daily golf at the Par 3 or the Kings Point Executive Golf Course can be made by calling Kings Point Tee time number, 561-638-2719. Green fees are attractively moderate.

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Board Member Merry Rubinstein will begin her Lip Reading classes for Chapter Members on Tuesday October 7, 1:30 PM at Emmanuel Catholic Church.

Register with Merry at 561-738-5630.

Week of September 22 at Hagen Ranch Road Library
Monday, Sept. 22, 2:00 pm-Monday at the Movies: "Beat the Devil." Meeting Room.

Wednesday, September 24, 1:30 pm: Preserving the Power of Your Brain as you Age. Dr. John Conde from the Conde Center for Chiropractic Neurology will discuss Alzheimer's, Parkingson's and Multiple Sclerosis. Meeting Room.

Thurs. Sept. 25, 2:00 pm: Introductory Internet. Meeting Room.

Sunday, Sept. 28, 3:00 pm, Mexican Music.

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In 1972, the Kings Point Delray Beach Par 3 course designed by famed master golf architect Robert Trent Jones, Sr. was built providing interesting hole by hole challenges for beginner and serious golfer alike. Thousands of rounds have been played since then by young and old, beginner and veteran players.

The sporty 2,094 yard Par 3 Golf Course opens to the public for the new season Monday, September 22, after being closed for renovations since June 16 this year.
Located in the heart of West Delray, just west of Jog Road off W. Atlantic Avenue, you enter through the Kings Point main entrance, bear right to the Par 3 Pro Shop and sign up for a round to improve your short iron game and putting prowess.

This summer all of the Par 3 course 18 greens have been replaced with Champion Ultra Dwarf sprigs. These grow into the finest putting surface available throughout the Southern states. It is used by many of the Tour professional venues, producing a firm and true putting surface.

Shown examining one of the newly grown greens is Bill Guimond, Director of Golf operations at Kings Point.

Champion Turf Farms, Bay City, Texas is unique in the industry in that they are the breeders, producers, and installers of their grasses. This reputation, combined with their decades of experience led them to develop their own support network. No one else in the industry can claim to have a knowledge base developed from 40 years of traveling the country planting and studying grass. All of this experience is available to golf course superintendents who have Champion turf. In addition the company has spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on research as a part of developing the best turf management practices for their grasses. They continually revisit courses they have planted every month of the year.

Among the many courses in Palm Beach County that have grown improved greens by installing Champion sprigs are: Boca Raton Country Club, Boca Raton Resort & Club, Emerald Dunes, Gleneagles C. C., Hamlet C. C., Ibis C. C., the five PGA courses in North Palm Beach and the Royal Palm Golf & Yacht Club in Boca Raton.

Guimond stated, “Prior to the Par 3 greens renovation project a state-of-the-art new irrigation system was installed on the course in May. This was a prerequisite to insure the proper growth of the Champion sprigs. We also put in a new drainage system on numerous fairways. The tee boxes which were re-done in 2007 have been fertilized and re-groomed and are in perfect condition.”

Some of the regular patrons have said, “Don’t be fooled into thinking just because it’s a Par 3 course it’s too easy. This course provides a true test for your short iron game and putting skills.”
Kings Point resident Ray Prendergast has been playing the course three times a week for the past twelve years. “I look forward to getting back on the course again. The staff is helpful and friendly. I walk the course, so it’s a great source of exercise for me.”

Gloria Levine, a senior golfer and the unofficial captain of ‘Les Girls,’ her group of two foursomes who play every week says: “I can’t wait to get back on the course. I had a disappointing summer because I couldn’t play golf on the Par 3.”

Reservations for daily golf at the Par 3 or the Kings Point Executive Golf Course can be made by calling Kings Point Tee time number, 561-638-2719. Green fees are attractively moderate.

An assortment of membership plans is available, including morning and afternoon League/Community Group plans and Multi-play tickets. Call 499-3335, Ext. 156 for details.

“We look forward to welcoming back all our players to the newly renovated Par 3 Course,” says Bill Guimond. “And to the folks that never played here, join us. It’s a hidden gem of a course in the heart of West Delray.”

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Delray/Boynton Chapter of the Hearing Loss Association of America first monthly meeting of the new season will take place Friday, September 19, 2008 from 9:45 A.M. to 12 Noon at the South County Civic Center, 16700 Jog Road, Delray Beach (opposite Morikami Park.) Coffee “and” served.
We meet the third Friday of every month through June 2009.

Season Opener; Oscar Segal, President of HLAA presents: “Living with Hearing Loss; Learn How to Keep Up with The Crowd.”
Our 2008-2009 Season is a must for anyone with hearing loss even if you only are suffering a small loss. Learn about new techniques, procedures, aids and Assistive Hearing devices that can enhance your ability to hear in different situations.

This is the first meeting of our new season’s dedication to improving the quality of your life.

Question and Answer period will follow.

Board Member Merry Rubinstein will begin her Lip Reading classes for Chapter Members on Tuesday October 7, 1:30 PM at Emmanuel Catholic Church. Register with Merry at 561-738-5630.

Message from Representative Skidmore:
Public Workshop for Property Insurance Issues
The Citizens Property Insurance Corporation is holding a policyholder forum on September 24th from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the Sheraton Airport Hotel (1825 Griffin Road) in Fort Lauderdale. The purpose of the meeting is to create a dialogue between the corporation and the community in order to improve customer satisfaction and service. Included in the forum will be a discussion on the Declaration of Rights for policyholders.
For more information please call 1-850-513-3874.

Identification Requirements to Change for Florida Driver Licenses
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FDHSMV) has announced changes that will affect Florida drivers beginning October 1st. Here is a list of some of the principal modifications taking place as provided by the department.
• Customers must present proof of social security number (ex. Social Security Card).
• All passports, permanent resident cards and employment authorization cards presented as proof of identification or legal presence must be valid. Expired documents will no longer be accepted.
• The department will no longer accept driver licenses or identification cards issued by other states as primary identification.
• A person will be allowed to elect the school option to avoid points five times in a 10-year period instead of five times in a lifetime.
• Commercial Driver License holders who receive a driving under the influence (DUI) conviction on or after Oct. 1, 2008, even while driving a personal vehicle, will be disqualified from operating a commercial motor vehicle for one year for the first offense, and permanently disqualified for the second offense. These penalties are based on convictions dates and not offense dates.
For more information, please call 1-850-617-2000 or visit, http://www.flhsmv.gov

Public Library System Offering Homework Assistance for Students
The Palm Beach County Public Libraries are now offering free, on-demand homework help for students in the area. The program, Live Homework Help, connects students to tutors in math, science, social studies and English via the Internet. Students in grades 4th through 12th, as well as college students, are eligible.
All tutors are certified teachers, college professors and professional tutors from across the county. Every tutor is certified by Tutor.com and has completed a third party background check.
For more information, please call 561-233-2600 or visit http://www.pbclibrary.org.

Health Tip of the Week
Studies have shown that when you skip meals, two things happen. First, your metabolism slows down. Second, since your brain thinks that you are starving it will tell your body to store any food that it does receive in the form of fat. In other words, skipping meals can result in weight gain. The best thing you can do for your body, no matter what your goals are, is to begin each day with breakfast and to eat a supportive meal or snack every 3 hours. This in turn will fuel your metabolism and provide you with an abundance of energy throughout the day.
As always, I appreciate the opportunity to be of service to you. Please do not hesitate to contact me or my staff if you have any questions or concerns. Our district office number is (561) 470 6593.

All the best,

Kelly Skidmore
State Representative, District 90
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Monday, September 15 at 2:15 P.M. as part of the Sheriff’s Citizen’s Academy course it was my turn to spend an hour in the car with Road Patrol Deputy in Boynton Beach’s District 6. This District extends from Lantana Rd to Pipers Glen and from the ocean to State Road 7.

I was partnered with a friendly and pleasant Deputy Exzabrion Barton who looked to be about 6’ 2” and weigh 220 pounds. He’s been a deputy for the past four years. He’s married and the proud father of two little girls. His father before him had been in law enforcement for 22 years.

Each day’s shift covers 11½ hours.

We left District 6 Headquarters off Jog Road near Park Vista H.S. Our first stop was a development in East Boynton called “Homes at Lawrence.” This is a mostly African-American community of several hundred homes. In some of the abandoned homes people hang out and use them for drug dealing. Deputy Barton pointed out spots of interest: “The Sheriff’s Department erected this chain link fence in this vacant lot adjacent to a canal to stop stolen cars from being dumped.” A little further on our drive he added, “A guy was shot right here not long ago. From here we’ll go over to the Sandcastle development, which is the toughest area around; lots of drug activity there.”

Sandcastle is the community three deputies spoke to us about at last Thursday night’s academy session. These deputies, including Sergeant Thomas Euell, are part of District 6’s special Community Policing Squad. They work at low-income communities to try and establish a positive relationship with residents by taking a proactive approach establishing a problem solving partnership with community leaders. They attempt to bond with the children by taking them on “Shop with a Cop” ventures occasionally.

On the way, Deputy Barton spots a homeless man near the grounds of Freedom Shores Elementary School. He’s in a canal just outside the school splashing water on his face and arms. “He’s not supposed to be anywhere near the school,” explained the Deputy. “I know who he is. I have to pick him up again and arrest him.” He turns the car around, pulls up to this man who looked to be about 55 years old, puts handcuffs on him and sits him in back of our patrol car. This guy starts an all out cursing war. The deputy had to contact the Safety Officer of the school. It took 30 minutes to fill out paper work. By the time we return with “the prisoner” to District 6 headquarters my tour was over.

“We never got to Sandcastle,” I said to Deputy Barton. He looked at me with a rueful smile as if to say, “You didn’t miss anything, man.”

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The next general meeting of the Boca Raton Computer Society will be held on
Wednesday, September 17, 2008 beginning at 7:30 PM.

Guest Speaker: Jerry Naditch, Vice President BRCS
“Everything you ever wanted to know about Google.”

Question and Answer sessions on Internet, Windows XP & Vista and Paint Shop ProX2 will begin at 6:30 PM.

All meetings take place at the South County Civic Center, Jog Road, Delray Beach and are open to the public. 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.
BRCS has provided its members with these services during the past 25 years: BOCA BITS - the monthly magazine…NUMEROUS SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP CLASSES… TECH SUPPORT and MORE.

Activities at Hagen ranch Road Library this Week
Monday, Sept. 15, 2:00 pm--Monday at the Movies: "Infamous," a biographical drama about Truman Capote, his classic work, In Cold Blood, and his relationshjip with men convicted of the 1959 murders of a Kansas family of four. Meeting Room. "R" rated.

Tuesday, Sept. 16 2:00 pm--Orchid Roadshow. Tickets required. Pick up at reference desk. Two tickets per person. Meeting Room.

Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2:00 pm: Cardiovascular Health and You. Dr. Michael Anesta of Delray Medical Center discusses this important subject. Meeting Room.

Thursday, Sept. 18, 2:00 pm: Book discussion "The Color Purple." Meeting Room.
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Message from Larry Zalkin, Executive Vice President Alliance of Delray:

The following information was given to me by the land planner for The Boys Market on Military Trail and we're passing it on without any verification:

A complete revised site plan was submitted to the City of Delray Beach in December. Subsequently an additional plan and four meetings were held to review the plan. The plan originally called for a stacking lane on Military and FPL said they would have to move five power poles to accommodate it; the cost was $200,000 a pole and The Boys could not agree to that expenditure. The plan was modified to remove the requirement and the plan now sits again with the City for approval.

I can personally verify that The Boys have met with the City in the distant past to move this along since I attended some of the meetings.

Larry

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Changes to Mobile Unit Service from Palm Beach County Tax Collector Anne M. Gannon

The Tax Collector’s Office operates a full-service Mobile Unit office at convenient locations throughout Palm Beach County. After evaluation of service volume at our current locations and increased fuel costs to operate the vehicle, the Mobile Unit will centralize service to south Palm Beach County.

Effective September 26, 2008, our Mobile Unit will cease operations in North County. Clients with business needs in northern Palm Beach County will be served at our Palm Beach Gardens Branch (3188 PGA Boulevard; Palm Beach Gardens FL, 33410).

The Mobile Unit will continue to operate in West Boca on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays and in East Boca on Thursdays and Fridays until January 1, 2009. At that time, all operations of the Mobile Unit will cease in its entirety.

West Boca Location
Sandalwood Plaza
23081 S. State Road 7
West side of State Rd. 7, North of Marina Blvd.

East Boca Location
City of Boca Raton, Police Department
100 NW Boca Raton Blvd / NW 2nd Ave
North of W. Palmetto Park Rd, W of North Dixie Highway

Visit our website at www.taxcollectorpbc.com for locator maps and hours.

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Bonjour from Paris. I promised to share some quick impressions from my latest business travel to Europe. I have always been - and remain - a huge fan of working and collaborating with colleagues in Europe. There are so many cultures from a variety of countries living so close to one another. As a result, business meetings in Europe through my experience are very often filled with colleagues from multiple countries with the ability to speak in not one, but regularly 2, 3 even 4 languages. For those of us not so fortunate to speak in more than 1 language, it is a quick reminder of the imperative in Europe to work and communicate across cultures.

There is a balance of very focused business discussion with collegiate and personal interest discussion. Unlike our typical business meetings in the States, meetings in Europe always include regular and somewhat lengthy by American norms, coffee and tea breaks. The uninformed typically assume these are truly breaks where productivity stops. In fact, I've always found it is quite the opposite. The "breaks" are opportunities to form and improve relationships, further discuss the topics at hand, but sometimes in a slightly more casual manner and always with excellent European-style, strong coffee. There is something just a bit more polite and traditional about these multiple, mid-meeting pauses throughout a normal working day.

Anyhow, getting ready to head back home. Talk to you soon!

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Contact Person: Robin Isaacson 561-498-1012
Event: September 14, 2008 from 1-5pm
Zinman Hall of South Palm Beach County Jewish Federation
9901 Donna Klein Blvd, Boca Raton, Fl 33428

In the 2008 Legislative Session, State Senator Ted Deutch sponsored legislation that would have modified the process of determining child custody and visitation arrangements in cases of domestic violence and sexual abuse. The bill, which was supported by the Family Law section of the Florida Bar, was inspired by the story of Palm Beach County resident Jenny Carter. In 2006, Ms. Carter’s ex-husband murdered their two children and himself by setting the home on fire. Although Ms. Carter had a restraining order against her ex-husband, he was still allowed unsupervised visitation with their children. Since the incident, Ms. Carter has been an advocate for women in colleges and throughout the community.

In support of Jenny Carter’s hard work, the Florida Atlantic Region of Hadassah is sponsoring the “Women’s Fighting Chance” program. This FREE event will take place September 14th 2008 at Zinman Hall-Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County campus and will feature a 3 hour instructional course in Krav Maga, a form of Israeli martial arts, taught by local expert Rick Seid. Additional participants at this event will be Jenny Carter and Senator Ted Deutch. In an effort to bring women together and prepare them in case they are ever attacked, the event will also serve as a forum for the sharing of vital information on issues ranging from domestic violence to education.

Around the world, at least one in every three women has been beaten, coerced into sex or otherwise abused during her lifetime, 84% of spouse abuse victims are females, and 86% of victims during partner abuse are female. This event will give women a chance to learn the skills needed to protect themselves from these dangers.

Since it’s beginning in 1912 the 300,000 women of Hadassah have always been pioneers in bringing women together for a cause, and the issue of Domestic Violence is a cause we are passionate about. By sponsoring this event the Florida Atlantic Region of Hadassah hopes to ensure that women will indeed have a “fighting chance”.

To read an article about Father Carlos Anklan, the new pastor of Our Lady Queen of Peace Mission in West Delray Click here: http://www.sun-sentinel.com/community/news/palmbeach/sfl-flanklan0907pnsep07,0,1703140.story

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Interesting information from State Representative Kelly Skidmore:

The Interdisciplinary National Science Project Incorporating Research and Education Experience Program (INSPIRE) by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) provides students in 9th to 12th grade an opportunity to learn about science, technology, and mathematics fields of study and careers with the organization.

Selected students will be eligible to compete for various summer experiences in 2009 including a VIP tour and workshop at a NASA facility, a 2-week on-campus residential experience at a participating college or university, and paid internships with NASA.

To apply, a student must be enrolled in high school, be a U.S. citizen, have a 2.5 grade point average, and demonstrate the desire and academic preparation necessary for intensive studies beyond a high school curriculum.

For more information, please visit http://www.NASA.gov and go to the “For Students” section.

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With the fall season upon us, many are already gearing up for the holiday season. From the Jewish High Holy Days through Thanksgiving, many of us will be traveling to see family and friends, but there are several important things to remember when away from home.

TRIM (Truth in Milage) notices were sent out in August to notify homeowners of changes to their property taxes for the upcoming year. Don’t forget your annual property taxes will be discounted if paid in November.

This November 4th is also Election Day. Not only do we have the opportunity to vote in an historic Presidential election, but there are also many state and local races, and several important constitutional amendments. If you have not yet registered to vote, remember the deadline is October 6th. If you cannot make it to the polls on November 4th, you may vote early beginning October 20th, or vote by absentee ballot. For information on voter registration, early voting locations, and instructions on obtaining an absentee ballot call the Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections Office at (561) 656-6200 or visit their website at www.pbcelections.org.

The Florida Legislature will resume committee meetings in the beginning of 2009. With a new Senate President, Speaker of the House and potentially dozens of new members, I am excited to get back to work on the serious issues facing Floridians. Over the next several months, I will be working on legislation for the 2009 Legislative Session. As always, I welcome input from my constituents and would encourage you to call my office with any legislative issues or concerns we may address.

I wish you all a safe and happy holiday season. It is an honor to serve you.

Ted Deutch

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For the past several months Vizcaya community residents have been conducting English classes for landscape crew members. The classes are held outdoors in a gazebo in the middle residential section of the community Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays during half of the crew's lunch time. Shown in photograph are residents with two of the landscape workers: (l. to r.) Juana Conyngham, landscaper Wilson Reys, Elsa Greenberg, Judy and Steve West, landscaper Jose Saban. Resident Fabio Bruschtein also tutors not present in photo.

The classes are often one-on-one, with role playing of common situations playing a large part. The landscape workers are benefitting from these sessions by learning more of English language useage to apply to their everyday experiences.

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Now available throughout the Hurricane Season a direct link to the National Hurricane Center on the Alliance of Delray Website:

Go to www.allianceofdelray.com and click on "Hurricane Tracking" in the very center of the home page...you will immediately be connected to the National Hurricane Center of NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration)

Alliance of Delray September 3, 2008 meeting

President Schulbaum opened meeting and asked for a moment of silence to honor the memory of late board member Jack Miles.

Sheriff Ric Bradshaw was introduced. He thanked everyone for their support in his recent election. He said his victory was a result of the people endorsing the work of the entire staff of the sheriff’s department. They are doing their job—putting their lives on the line for the public 24/7.

Kevin Rader, District 78 winner introduced. He stated it was an honor and privilege to serve replacing State Representative Richard Machek, whose term expires.

There will no meeting at the Civic Center for the Alliance on Oct. 1. The next meeting will be a “Meet the Candidates” meeting Tuesday, Oct. 14 at the Morikami auditorium.

Volunteers are needed for the telephone squad. All you have to do is call a short list of members before each meeting to remind them to attend. Call Board Member Nancy Brin to volunteer at 637-9898.

Board Member Lori Vinikoor needs everyone’s e-mail address. Call her at 495-4694, or e-mail her at vinikoor@bellsouth.net.
It is important every delegate and alternate do the job of informing their community of the information presented at each Alliance meeting.

Executive Vice President Larry Zalkin introduced attorney Joshua Gerstin who gave us an excellent presentation on how communities should handle Bank Foreclosures, Bankruptcy and Community Association Collections. A most important “extra” furnished by Joshua Gerstin was a printed handout of his talk, providing everyone with the all the vital facts to bring back to their board of directors.

The full text of his talk is on the Alliance of Delray website at www.allianceofdelray.com.
Commissioner Burt Aaronson brought us updated news of Hurricane Hannah. It seems to be breaking up and moving a bit easterly, away from our state. This should result in lots of rain and winds 10 to 20 mph, starting Thursday evening, rather than a major event with winds of 60 mph or more. He said he and Mary Lou Berger are in close contact with the Alliance, COBWRA and West Boca Community Council pertaining to hurricane timely information and support.

Meeting adjourned at 10:45 A.M.

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Monday, Sept. 8, 2 pm: Movie "Breakfast at Tiffany's," starring Audrey Hepburn and George Peppard. Meeting Room.

Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2 pm: Discussion Group for amateur philosophers on a variety of topics such as integrity, tolerance, friendship, happiness, and more. Meeting Room.

Thursday, Sept. 11, 2 pm: Basic Computers. Learn the basics about computers at this free presentation. 90 mins. Meeting Room.

Monday Sept. 15, 2 pm Movie: "Infamous," a biographical drama about Truman Capote.

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Lumosity Brain Games. Try it today. Click here: http://www.lumosity.com - Brain Games

Now available throughout the Hurricane Season a direct link to the National Hurricane Center on the Alliance of Delray Website:

Go to www.allianceofdelray.com and click on "Hurricane Tracking" in the very center of the home page...you will immediately be connected to the National Hurricane Center of NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration)

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Joshua Gerstin, Esq. will be the guest speaker at Wednesday's September 3 Meeting of the Alliance of Delray.

Topic: "Bank Foreclosures, Bancruptcy and Community Assoication Collections in a troubled economy."

South County Civic Center, Jog Road, West Delray Beach opposite Morikami Gardens.
Doors open at 9:00 am. Meeting begins at 9:30 am.The public is always welcome.

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http://www.511southflorida.comPalm Beach County to Hold Public Hearings on Proposed 2009 Budget
The Palm Beach Board of County Commissioners will hold two public hearings in the coming weeks for preliminary and final adoption of the 2009 Fiscal Year Budget at the sixth floor commission chambers at the County Government Center (301 North Olive Avenue, West Palm Beach). The hearings will take place at 6 p.m. on September 8th and September 22nd and residents will have an opportunity to comment during both meetings.
For more information, please call the Palm Beach County Administrator’s Office at 561-355-2030.

Information Database on Government Programs and Services
The United States General Services Administration is offering a one-stop source for information about government services and programs. They cover topics such as money management, federal assistance programs, identify theft prevention, government auctions, health, housing, and jobs.
To access the database, please call 1-800-333-4636, or visit http://www.USA.gov. You can also request a printed publication to be sent to your residence by calling 1-800-878-3256, or visiting http://www.pueblo.usa.gov.

Health Tip of the Week
Fresh Blackberries are both high in trace minerals and provide a wide-range of anti-oxidants to help keep your immune system strong and your body healthy. The nutrients found in blackberries include calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, beta-carotene, and vitamin C. Blackberries also help to provide key nutrients to support cardiovascular health and its natural fruit sugars can provide energy for daily activities.

As always, I appreciate the opportunity to be of service to you. Please do not hesitate to contact me or my staff if you have any questions or concerns. Our district office number is 561-470-6593.

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Lumosity Brain Games. Try it today. Click here: http://www.lumosity.com - Brain Games

Now available throughout the Hurricane Season a direct link to the National Hurricane Center on the Alliance of Delray Website:

Go to www.allianceofdelray.com and click on "Hurricane Tracking" in the very center of the home page...you will immediately be connected to the National Hurricane Center of NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration)

Palm Beach County – Palm Beach County traffic will be affected this week by ongoing construction projects and maintenance work, Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) officials report. Weather permitting; closures will be in effect on I-95, Southern Boulevard (S.R.80) and in other areas throughout Palm Beach County for construction activities.

For around-the-clock, real-time, traffic information within the tri-county area (Palm Beach, Broward and Miami Dade counties), travelers should call 511. For I-95 Palm Beach County traffic reports just say "I-95” or “Interstate 95". Information is also available on-line at www.511southflorida.com.

To view real-time video of I-95 in Palm Beach County, visit the FDOT I-95 Interim Traffic Management System (ITMS) website at www.palmbeachcotraffic.org. These free services are provided by FDOT and the SunGuide™ Partners. For updated lane closure information, please refer to www.pbfdot.com.

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