The Mae Volen Senior Centers offers core services including care management under state and federally funded programs and private geriatric care management; In-Home services (including homemaking, respite, meal preparation, bathing assistance and nine other services that support in-home care.) Also an early intervention program for individuals in the early stages of dementia called the Garden Bridge Program. This program combines active senior programming, memory classes and a special support service.

Hannah Klingsberg, the Director of Community Outreach and Volunteer Support of Mae Volen Senior Center, Inc., which was founded in 1968, explains the valuable help available in these troubled economic times.
“There is a lifeline available to those in need—in need of a free meal at ten no-cost senior dining sites throughout Palm Beach County (including two kosher sites); home-delivered meals for almost 600 homebound seniors; care for those suffering Parkinson’s, dementia, Alzheimer’s.

In addition, the Mae Volen Senior Transportation program has 24 wheel-chair vehicles providing 70,000 annual rides and traveling 500,000 miles throughout southern Palm Beach County for people age 60 and over that have to get to a doctor or to a local hospital for medical tests at no cost. Registration one day in advance is required.”

Ms. Klingsberg continues: “We have two Adult Day Health Care facilities, offered to 147 individuals amounting to almost 20% of all ADC spaces in Palm Beach County: one in Boca Raton at 1515 West Palmetto Park Road, the other in Delray Beach, 850 No. Congress Ave. Two new sites with 35 more spaces will be opened within 6 months.

More than 300 volunteers help us serve seniors of all ages, races, religions and socioeconomic status everyday. We have an active senior program which includes dozens of educational classes, craft and art activities, special events and social activities. Membership dues for the active seniors are only $40 annually.

We anticipate starting something new for youngsters around March 2009—a Children’s Daycare program.”

The Mae Volen Senior Center is a private not-for-profit 501©(3) organization, registered as a charitable organization in the State of Florida. It relies on the generosity of caring individuals such as founding donors Benjamin and Mae Volen as well as the seniors who attend programs and the many caregivers, friends and family members who want to recognize the contribution the Volen Senior Center has made to the community with donations. Many corporate donors and sponsors support the Center’s activities. For further information contact the Mae Volen Senior Center: 561-395-8920, or toll free 866-711-6872. Visit their website at: www.maevolen.com/.

Hannah Klingsberg will be the guest speaker at the January 7, 2009 Alliance of Delray monthly meeting at the South County Civic Center, Jog Road, Delray Beach which begins at 9:30 A.M. The public is always welcome.

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Many of you may already be receiving notification from your insurance
companies about the new insurance requirements that apply to individual HO-6
condominium policies which become effective January 1, 2009.

Many of the changes are being met with resistance and there is already talk
that the new requirements will be repealed during the 2009 Legislative
Session. That being said, you still need to comply with the law as currently
written.

The three changes garnering the most attention are the requirements to add
the association as a "named additional insured and loss payee" on all
casualty insurance policies issued to unit owners; the requirement for the
HO-6 policy to provide loss assessment coverage of at least $2,000; and the
ability of the association to buy or "force place" missing policies.

A condominium association must now inquire one time per year as to whether
or not its owners have HO-6 policies that comply with the new requirements.
The owners have 30 days from receipt of the association's request to provide
proof of such coverage. If the owners do not provide such proof, the
association MAY but is not required to purchase or "force place" those
missing policies and specially assess the owners who neglected to insure
their units.

From a practical standpoint, many associations have already indicated that
they are not inclined to start purchasing missing policies in this economic
climate only to wind up pursuing those costs in court. Many unit owners are
understandably concerned that purchasing a compliant policy now will result
in any loss payments for any reconstruction costs related to any condominium
property that the unit owner is required to insure (i.e.
cabinetry,applicances, etc.) must be made payable jointly to the owner(s)
AND the condominium association. The owners will then need to obtain the
association's endorsement of that payment which could open the door to
problems in certain communities.

Many insurance agents are grappling with the new language found in Section
718.111(11) of the Condominium Act which does not comport with insurance
industry standards. Unfortunately, it will not be surprising if you and your
neighbors receive conflicting information about these new changes and what
they mean. If you are in doubt about your board's responsibilities
regarding HO-6 policies, please contact your association attorney for an
opinion.

On a separate note, reports have resurfaced about possible health problems
associated with so-called "Chinese drywall". Drywall is a very common
manufactured building material that is used globally for the finish
construction of interior walls and ceilings. Drywall is made from gypsum
plaster, the primary component of which contains sulfur, the element which,
when mixed with moisture, emits the distinctive odor of rotten eggs.

During the construction boom that occurred between 2002 and 2006, drywall
became increasingly expensive, forcing builders and suppliers to look for
alternate sources of the material. Suppliers began importing significant
amounts of drywall from China.

This "Chinese drywall" is believed to be the culprit behind increasing
reports of noxious odors in condominium units and single family homes,
frequent, unexplained headaches and other physical ailments. It is believed
that prolonged exposure to high concentrations of sulfur dioxide or other
compounds in defective drywall may pose significant health risks. One
warning sign that high levels of sulfur are present is the "blackened"
appearance of copper pipes in some air conditioning units since sulfur is a
copper corrosive.

Although health is naturally the first point of concern, monetary damages
may also be incurred if defective drywall must be removed and replaced. If
any of your owners have complaints which may be attributed to defective
drywall, please let me know. CAN is attempting to determine the scope of the
problem before developing a possible plan of action.

Lastly, our next two free Board Member Boot Camps are tentatively scheduled
for late Spring in Lee/Collier and Palm Beach counties. Please contact Drill
Sergeant Diane Schick at 954-315-0372 or via email at dschick@askthefirm.com
if you would like to register. A video clip from our Sunrise Boot Camp is
now posted on the CAN website at www.canfl.com.

Donna D. Berger, Esq.
Executive Director of the Community Advocacy Network (CAN)
Telephone: 954.315.0372
Facsimile: 954.315.0373
Web: www.canfl.com
Email: dberger@canfl.com

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A weekly service of the Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs Division

Topic: Extended Warranties

Trap: Jim Tyler traveled from Tequesta to the county Consumer Affairs office to vent his concerns. “I can’t believe it! I just bought my TV from them!” (A national electronics store chain). “I also got a three-year warranty the salesperson suggested. Then I read in the newspaper they filed bankruptcy! Who’s going to honor the warranty? Can I get my money back? Don’t they have to say something about their bankruptcy? How can they still sell warranties?”

Tips: In today’s difficult economy, some retailers are filing bankruptcy under Chapter 11 which means they are reorganizing. It gives businesses time to make changes to avoid going out of business. The company may be around for many years. Stores in financial difficulty are not required to reveal an impending bankruptcy and can still sell extended warranties. Use these tips when considering an extended warranty.
• Extended warranties are really service contracts. If it comes free with the product, it is a warranty. If you pay for it, it is a service contract.
• Some consumer agencies recommend against buying service contracts saying the manufacturer’s warranty is usually sufficient. Consider buying a service contract at the end of the manufacturer’s warranty.
• While it is usually possible to cancel a warranty, often there are numerous steps to getting your money back. A refund may be full or prorated. There may be a cancellation fee. If the warranty cost was included in your financing, refunds may be applied to the loan.
• The service company is often different from the retailer selling the warranty. Ask questions about the product and the warranty. Read any printed information available from the store and do some Internet research.

Call Consumer Affairs at 561-712-6600 for a company report or get it online at: www.pbcgov.com/consumer.
Dennis Moore, Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs Division, 561-712-6600
Boca/Delray/Glades toll free: 1-888-852-7362
Check out our website at:
http://www.pbcgov.com/consumer

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Best Wishes for a Merry Christmas!

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Legislative Update: This week was the first week of House committee meetings in Tallahassee. On Wednesday, the Full Appropriations Council on General Government & Healthcare met for a budget workshop to begin discussing how to address the $2.3 billion budget shortfall for the current fiscal year. As the Ranking Democratic Member on the council, I will be working very hard to make sure our Democratic members present a unified voice in advocating common sense solutions on how to address this shortfall. The discussions were only preliminary, and over the next several weeks I will be sure to inform you of any major developments.

Free Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) Training for Women: The City of Delray Beach is holding a free Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) training for women over the course of four 3-hour sessions on January 6, 13, 20, and 27 of 2009. Pre-registration is required and can be made by contacting Sergeant Adam Rosenthal at (561)239-2828 or Rosentha@ci.delray-beach.fl.us (NOTE: there is not an “L” in Sgt. Rosenthal’s name in his email address), or Detective John Young at (561)243-7826 or YoungJ@ci.delray-beach.fl.us.

2009 Summer Internships in D.C. for Students with Disabilities: The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) is looking for college students with disabilities to apply for AAPD sponsored internships in Congressional offices or the IT divisions of federal government agencies. Round trip airfare, accessible housing, and a living stipend will be provided for each intern. To apply, visit www.aapd.com/internships.html. Completed applications must be received by 5:00 PM EST, Friday, January 9, 2009.

Able Trust Youth Leadership Forum Taking Applications for New Delegates: The Able Trust is now accepting applications for first-time delegates to the 2009 Youth Leadership Forum, scheduled for July 22-26, 2009 in Tallahassee. The Youth Leadership Forum is a great opportunity to participate in learning activities about living with a disability, meet with disability leaders, business professionals and government officials, and participate in social activities. The deadline to submit an application is January 31, 2009. For more information, contact Natalie Lamb or Susanne Homant of The Able Trust at info@abletrust.org or 850-224-4493. Please forward this information on to anyone you know who works with students who have a disability, especially those who work in the school system.

Health Tip of the Week: There is never a shortage of cooking, candles, and lights during the holidays, which unfortunately can sometimes be a perfect storm for starting fires. The U.S. National Safety Council recommends always having at least one fire extinguisher available to make sure you stay safe and healthy. Consider keeping an all-purpose extinguisher in the kitchen, the garage, near your fireplace, or anywhere else in your home where something could start a fire. Fire extinguishers can be a life saver, but make sure everyone in your household knows where they are located and knows how to properly use one.

As always, I appreciate the opportunity to be of service to you, and I hope you have a safe and happy holidays! We will resume our weekly update after the holidays, but 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.
Kelly Skidmore

Traffic Cautions
Roadwork at Congress and Atlantic Ave. continues to play havoc with traffic. Avoid that area if possible. Coming off I-95 especially blocked up. (Been there, done that. M.M.)

Additional Southern Palm Beach County Projects: U.S. 1 from the C-15 Canal just north of Hidden Valley Boulevard, north to Linton Boulevard
Construction began on March 24, 2008 on U.S. 1 from the C-15 Canal which is just north of Hidden Valley Boulevard in Boca Raton, north to Linton Boulevard 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 by the end of December 2008. Restriction: No closures at this time. The project is nearing final acceptance by the Florida Department of Transportation.

Atlantic Avenue (S.R. 806) from Via Flora to McNab Avenue This $3.6 million, 2.7 mile construction project began on December 1, 2008, between Via Flora and McNab Avenue in Delray Beach. The work to be performed during this project includes: milling and resurfacing the roadway; replacing sidewalk curb ramps to meet current Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards; and signalization, widening, and storm water drainage improvements at the intersection of Atlantic Avenue and Congress Avenue. The project is being built by Weekley Asphalt Paving, Inc. and is expected to be complete in fall 2009. Restriction: Inside travel lanes will be closed intermittently between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday, December 22 and Tuesday, December 23. Work will be suspended from Wednesday, December 24 until Monday, December 29. There will be intermittent lane closures during non-peak daytime hours (9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.) Monday, December 29 through Wednesday, December 31. Work will be suspended from Thursday, January 1 until Monday, January 5, 2009.

Atlantic Avenue (S.R. 806) from NW/SW 12th Avenue to A1A This $4.2 million construction project will begin on January 5, 2009, from just east of I-95 to just west of A1A in Delray Beach. The work to be performed during this project includes: milling and resurfacing the roadway; replacing sidewalk curb ramps to meet current Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards; and signalization, widening, and landscaping. The project is being built by Weekley Asphalt Paving, Inc. and is expected to be complete in late 2009. Restriction: There are no restrictions at this time.

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To read my Sunday, Sept. 21 article that appeared in the Sun-Sentinel CLICK HERE.

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/community/news/delraybeach/sfl-flrawls1221pcdec21,0,4544166.story

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Following important information courtesy of Donna Berger
Executive Director of the Community Advocacy Network (CAN

In today's economic climate, more and more people are asking that
question. Bauer Financial, Inc. has been analyzing the performance of U.S.
banks and credit unions since 1983. Their ratings are based on an analysis
of the 30-page report that each bank must file with government regulators
each quarter. These ratings are updated four times per year: March, June,
September and December.

In the State of Florida Bauer has ranked 314 banks on a scale ranging from
zero to five stars as follows:
5 Stars is Superior
4 Stars is Excellent
3.5 Stars is Good
3 Stars is Adequate
2 Stars is Problematic
1 Star is Troubled
0 Stars is Deeply Distressed

Banks listed by Bauer as Startup are too new to rate and those listed as
Resolved are failed banks.
Florida had 11 zero star banks in the third quarter up significantly from
the previous quarter. Those zero star or deeply distressed banks are:
Bank of Bonifay, Bonifay, FL;
BankUnited FSB, Coral Gables;
Century Bank FSB, Sarasota;
Federal Trust Bank, Sanford;
Integrity Bank, Jupiter;
Ocala National Bank, Ocala;
Ocean Bank, Miami;
Premier American Bank, Miami;
Republic Federal Bank, Miami;
Riverside of the Gulf Coast, Cape Coral; and
Vision Bank, Panama City

In the third quarter, the number of one star or troubled banks in Florida
are:
Centerbank of Jacksonville;
Commerce Bank of Southwest Florida, Fort Myers;
Community National Bank of Sarasota County, Venice;
Flagship National Bank, Bradenton;
Florida Community Bank, Immokalee; and
Peoples First Community Bank, Panama City

35 banks were declared two star or problematic banks:

Bank of Miami, Coral Gables;
Bayside Savings Bank, Port St. Joe;
Beach Community Bank, Fort Walton Beach;
Coastal Community Bank, Panama City Beach;
Community Bank of Cape Coral;
Community Bank of Manatee, Bradenton;
Espirito Santo Bank, Miami;
First Commercial Bank of Tampa Bay, Tampa;
First Guaranty Bank & Trust of Jacksonville;
First National Bank of Florida, Milton;
First Peoples Bank, Port St. Lucie;
Florida Capital Bank, Jacksonville;
Great Florida Bank, Miami;
Gulf State Community Bank, Carrabelle;
Haven Trust Bank of Florida, Ponte Vedra Beach;
Hillcrest Bank Florida, Naples;
Horizon Bank, Bradenton;
Key West Bank, Key West;
Liberty Bank, Naples;
Marco Community Bank, Naples;
Oceanside Bank, Jacksonville Beach;
Oculina Bank, Fort Pierce;
Old Harbor Bank, Clearwater;
Olde Cypress Community Bank, Clewiston;
Orion Bank, Naples;
Partners Bank, Naples;
Peninsula Bank, Englewood;
Prosperity Bank St. Augustine;
Riverside Bank of Central Florida, Fort Pierce;
Royal Palm Bank of Florida, Naples;
Security Bank, North Lauderdale;
Sun American Bank, Boca Raton;
Synovus Bank of Tampa Bay, St. Petersburg; and
Vanguard Bank and Trust, Valparaiso

To find out your bank's rank, go to www.bauerfinancial.com.

Considering the number of Florida banks listed in distressed,troubled and
problematic condition, now might be a good time to revisit the topic of
federal deposit insurance and whether or not it can provide you with some
peace of mind.

Congress created the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) in 1933
to restore public confidence in the nation's banking system. The FDIC
insures deposits at 8,384 banks and savings associations throughout the
United States. The FDIC receives no federal tax dollars but is instead
funded by insured financial institutions.

On October 3, 2008, the FDIC temporarily increased deposit insurance from
$100,000 to $250,000 per depositor through December 31, 2009. The
insurance limit is scheduled to return to $100,000 starting in 2010 but
will not affect certain retirement accounts which will continue to be
protected up to $250,000. Moreover, a depositor may qualify for more than
the basic insurance coverage at one insured bank if the funds are held in
different "ownership categories" such as single accounts, joint accounts,
certain retirement accounts and trust accounts.

In a recent press release, the FDIC announced the results of its "Wealth
in America" survey which gauged the confidence level of depositors. The
survey found that 32% of depositors said they were totally confident that
their money is safe, 33% said they were mostly confident, 20% were only
somewhat confident, 11% were not confident that their money is safe and 4%
said they weren't sure.

For more information about FDIC coverage, please call toll-free at
1-877-ASK-FDIC (1-877-275-3342) or go to the FDIC website at
www.myFDICinsurance.gov. A Spanish version is available at
www.fdicseguro.gov.

Knowledge is power so stay informed!

Donna D. Berger, Esq.
Executive Director of the Community Advocacy Network (CAN)

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To read my Sunday, Dec. 21 article that appeared in the Sun-Sentinel CLICK HERE.

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Consumer Traps & Tips A weekly service of the Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs Division
Topic: Merchandise Returns/Refunds
Trap Cha-ching! It is the time of year for great Black Friday deals! Amy from Delray Beach bought an iPod, Xbox and finally that big, beautiful flat screen TV! But two weeks later she realized all that spending was just too much. Then she learned about re-stocking fees and “store credits only.” Though she had receipts, the refunds were not what she expected. At one store she discovered that “all sales were final.” Sadly Amy learned that gone are the days when you can walk in a store, return the items and get your money back.

Tips It’s the law: Retailers that DO NOT offer refunds or exchanges MUST post a sign saying so. If no such sign is posted, then the store must provide its policy in writing when asked. The law also requires stores with no refund or exchange policy to provide refunds within seven days of the date of purchase when you have the original receipt, assuming the items were not used and are in the original packing.
• On pricey electronics, check the store refund or exchange policy before you buy. Retailers may have their policies on the receipt. Keep it as your proof of purchase. Get a gift receipt to be included with the gift, just in case.
• Always look for the refund/return/exchange policies which are usually posted in the customer service area or at cash registers. Do not assume the regular return policy applies to sales or clearance items. Some merchants consider sale items to be final, so ask.
• Remember, during the holidays stores may hire seasonal workers who may not be familiar with all the store policies. Be patient and ask to speak with a manager. Be prepared with your original receipts.

No such policy information provided and you were refused a refund? Don’t give the Grinch an inch! Call PBC Consumer Affairs at 561-712-6600, or visit www.pbcgov.com/consumer to file a complaint.

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Delray/Boynton Chapter of the HEARING LOSS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA monthly meeting will take place Friday, December 19, 2008 from 9:45 A.M. to 12 Noon at the South County Civic Center, 16700 Jog Road, Delray Beach (opposite Morikami Park.) We meet the third Friday of every month through June 2009.

Program Speakers: Pres. Oscar Segal—How law enforcement officers should deal with hard of hearing and deaf people when they are stopped for questioning.

Sheriff’s Deputy Jackson: Report on how Visor Card program was received at Southeastern States Law Enforcement Officer Crime Prevention Conference he addressed in October. He will also bring another deputy who will speak on “Seniors and Crime,” how to protect yourself against scams.

Question and answer period will follow.

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Wednesday December 17, 2008 at 7:30 PM, South County Civic Center, Jog Rd. Delray Beach.

"What You Should Know About Your Digital Camera!" By Ed Ostrowski

Ed is not only a BRCS member but is the President of the SeniorNet of Boynton Beach Learning Center, Inc. a non-profit company.

SeniorNet services hundreds of seniors in the Boynton Beach/Delray area by presenting an array of computer courses under Ed's capable direction.

Special Interest Group's begin at 6:15 PM.

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The Swing & Jazz Preservation Society Presents
THE SID PARKER BIG BAND VARIETY SHOW
TUESDAY DECEMBER 16, 2008 at 7:30 P.M.

Sid Parker, the man with the “Sax of Gold” brings his 17 piece big band, plus vocalists Steve Leeds and Roberta DeMuro to the stage. Extra added attraction: Comic “Sarge.”

All Swing & Jazz Preservation Society performances take place the third Tuesday of each month through April 21, 2009 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.

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Looking for a friendly place to party New Year’s Eve? Kings Point Grand Ballroom at 7000 W. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach will be the scene of a grand gala celebration Wednesday, December 31 and the public is invited.

The party will run from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. Dinner, dancing, entertainment and a complimentary bottle of champagne at each table comprises the spectacular package. (Beer and wine available for sale throughout the evening.)

Entertainment features the “Five Boroughs” Singers; a six piece band and the “Latin Heat Dancers,” with three mini stage shows. Table buffet and beverages served. All this at a cost of $60 per person.

To order tickets call (561) 499-7751, Ext. 200. Master and Visa Cards accepted.

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Dear Friend,
During this time of year, it’s important to remember the people who don’t have a home and a family to spend time with on the holidays. There are thousands of people living on the street just in Palm Beach and Broward County alone, and anything we can do to lift their spirits during the holidays is probably appreciated more than we can ever imagine.

Coalition to End Homelessness Seeking Donations
The Coalition to End Homelessness is looking for donations of basic personal items such as toiletries, nail clippers, rain ponchos, flip-flops, flashlights, manual can openers, AM/FM radios and batteries to be distributed at their Homeless Holiday Party. The party will be held at noon on December 20th at the City Parking Garage in Fort Lauderdale at 290 NE 3rd Ave. next to the First Baptist Church. Any donations would be greatly appreciated and can be made by calling the Coalition to End Homelessness at 954-792-4000. You can visit their website at www.help4homeless.org.

New Boca Raton Crime Prevention Website and Email Alerts
The Boca Raton Police Department recently unveiled a new website and email alert system as a part of its enhanced V.I.P.E.R. Crime Prevention Program that allows users to receive regular email alerts about criminal activity in their area. To sign up for email alerts and learn about crime prevention in Boca Raton visit www.bocaviper.com.

Health Tip of the Week
While the winter holidays are a great time to have some fun with friends and family, the stresses of planning big family meals, shopping at crowded malls and traveling long distances by plane or car can lead to big headaches. The Mayo Clinic and several health magazines offer the following suggestions to prevent headaches: Stick to a regular sleep schedule. Try to wake up at the same time every day, including weekends, to maintain your body’s natural rhythms.
• Make sure you eat regular meals and don’t skip meals. You’re brain runs on oxygen and sugar converted from the food you eat. A headache very likely could be your brain trying to tell you it’s hungry.
• Frequently fill up on fluids to prevent dehydration which may lead to headaches. Keeping a water bottle by your side and refilling it several times throughout the day is a great way to stay hydrated.
• Take a time out for a few minutes if you feel stress mounting.
• Exercise regularly to increase circulation. Exercising increases the release of endorphins, which are your body’s natural painkillers.
• Wind down slowly after a day of activity. Reading a book before going to sleep is a good calming activity.
• Please consult your doctor if headaches become frequent.

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Contact: Dennis Moore PBC Consumer Affairs Division, (561) 712-6600

Trap: Jacqueline wanted shoes for the company holiday party. She searched online for a Boca Raton-based boutique and found the shoes she wanted for just $399. She purchased the item with a few mouse clicks. When the package arrived, the shoes didn't look like the pair she saw on the Web site and they didn't fit.

Immediately, she went to the boutique's Web site to check the return policy. She discovered that not only was the company not located in Boca (only the billing department was), but the return needed some kind of an authorization code and she had to pay for return shipping. The last straw was the 40 percent restocking fee! When she called the company's phone number, the recording said, "mailbox full."

Tips: Online purchases dramatically increase during the holiday season. With just a quick mouse click, you can shop from your seat instead of on your feet. Here are some tips to keep in mind when shopping online:
• Deal only with reliable, well-established and well-known businesses.
• Be sure the company's physical address and telephone number (a local number in the city of origin is better) are displayed prominently on the Web site.
• Call the business directly to see what kind of customer service they have. Get a good understanding when the order will be shipped.
• Check and understand the return policy.
• Make online payments with a credit card – not your debit card.
• Check for shipping/handling charges and print copies of each page you enter information on and the transaction confirmation which may be e-mailed to you.
If you need more information call Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs at 561-712-6600 or visit www.pbcgov.com/consumer
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To read about one woman's life changing accident CLICK HERE.
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With 80% of property tax payments processed in November and December, our staff is working full force. To ensure that your payment is processed efficiently, please follow these guidelines when submitting your property tax payment.

When mailing a payment, remember to:
• Write your property control number on your check.
• Include a stamped, self-addressed envelope with your payment if you would like a validated receipt for your mailed payment.
• Use the return envelope provided in your tax notice.

What’s new from last year?
• Our phone system allows users to check the status of property tax payments by calling (561) 355-2266. You may also make your payment (e-check or credit card) using the phone system.
• Our improved website, www.taxcollectorpbc.com, offers streamlined payment options and the ability to receive an electronic receipt by e-mail.
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To read about one woman's life altering experience CLICK HERE.
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December 7, 2008 marks 67 years since Pearl Harbor was attacked. We honor the memory of all those lost on that day.

That Sunday I was a month away from my 18th birthday, visiting my father in his tenement apartment on 9th Street off Ave. C on New York’s lower East Side, listening to radioStation WOR broadcasting the N. Y. Giant football game when the announcement came on telling everyone we had been attacked.

Here is a Timeline of a few events I have selected from the Authentic History Center Website to give you a flavor of the day:
1:23 p.m. EST (7:53 a.m. in Hawaii): the first Japanese bombs fall on Pearl Harbor.

1:28 p.m. EST (7:58 a.m. in Hawaii): from Ford Island on Oahu, this message is relayed to Mare Island Naval station in San Francisco Bay: “Air Raid Pearl Harbor. This is no Drill.”

2:00 p.m. EST (8:30 a.m. in Hawaii): NBC Blue begins broadcast of Great Play. NBC Red begins broadcast of Sammy Kaye’s Sunday Serenade. CBS begins broadcast of Spirit of ’41.
The kickoff starts the football game between the New York Giants and the Brooklyn Dodgers at the Polo Grounds being broadcast by WOR in New York.

2:26 p.m. (8:56 a.m. in Hawaii): WOR interrupts their coverage of the New York Giants vs. Brooklyn Dodgers football game at approximately this time.(How many people recall that this game had a sell-out crowd of 56,000 when the announcement was made for all military personnel to report to their base?)

10:30 p.m. EST NBC Red: Sherlock Holmes: Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce star in “The Mystery of Mrs. Warren’s Lodger.” The program is interrupted at 10:39 p.m. to announce that President Roosevelt will address a joint session of Congress tomorrow.

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Rachel Joy Scott was the first student killed in the Columbine High School Tragedy in 1999. Her family and friends have created an extremely moving and inspirational program to help our children create an environment devoid of fear, violence and prejudice in our schools. We urge you to join us and accept the "challenge" to start a Chain reaction of kindness and compassion.This is an opportunity to make a difference in all of our children's lives.

We implore you to take an active part in helping to spread this vital message and program to all the schools, students and families of Palm Beach County.

We look forward to sharing this event with you.
Questions or comments:

Laura Dunn, Secretary, Eagles Landing Middle School PTSA
VP Ways & Means, Sunrise Park Elementary School, Treasurer, Palm Beach County Council PTA/PTSA. laurapta@comcast.net
Claudia Mossini Volunteer Coordinator, Eagles Landing Middle School PTSA.picassofl@aol.com

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Message from Tax Collector Anne M. Gannon's Office:

The downturn in the U.S. housing market and subsequent financial credit crunch has resulted in record foreclosure filings in Palm Beach County. These foreclosed properties have the potential to become sources of abandonment and blight within their communities. In an effort to stabilize neighborhoods and stem the decline of house values of neighboring homes the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) recently unveiled it’s Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP).

NSP will provide funds to state and local governments to address the problem of abandoned and foreclosed properties. HUD will allocate to Palm Beach County $27 million in NSP funds which will be administered by the Department of Housing & Community Development.

Eligible uses of the NSP funds include:
• establishment of financing mechanisms to purchase and redevelop foreclosed homes and residential properties;
• purchase and rehabilitation of abandoned or foreclosed residential properties; the establishment of land banks for foreclosed homes;
• demolition of blighted structures; and
• redevelopment of demolished or vacant structures.

All uses of funds must benefit households earning no more than 120 percent of the area median income for Palm Beach County. Contact the Palm Beach County Department of Housing & Community Development at (561) 233-3600 for area median income information.
Palm Beach County’s Commission on Affordable Housing sponsored a workshop on October 23, 2008 to discuss the Neighborhood Stabilization Program and to solicit public input. Additional public input can be submitted to the Palm Beach County Department of Housing & Community Development until November 17, 2008. Subsequently, the county’s NSP Program will be developed through the direction of the Board of County Commissioners and submitted to HUD by the application deadline of December 1, 2008.

Visit the Palm Beach County Department of Housing & Community Development website (http://www.pbcgov.com/hcd/) or contact the office at (561) 233-3600 for additional information on the program.

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Hagen Ranch Road Library Dec.3 – Dec. 5

Wed. Dec. 3, 2:00 p.m.-Roberta Proctor leads a discussion of “Breath, Eyes, Memory” by Edwidge Danticat. (60 min.) Meeting Room.

Thurs. Dec. 4, 10:00 a.m. Basic Window. (Hands –On) Prerequisite: Mousing (Hands-On). Learn the basics of Windows. Sign up at information Desk. (60 min.) Conference Room.

Thurs. Dec. 4, 11, & 18, 1:00 p.m.-Improve your conversational English skills. Join Lit-eracy@AmeriCorps member, Paula Alexander where you can practice speaking English. Basic English speaking skills needed to participate. (2 hrs.) Call 561-649-5493 to preregister. Study Room.

Thurs. Dec. 4, 2:00 p.m.-Making People Happier. Dr. Ann Ruben provides tips on how to bring more happiness into your life. (45 min.) Meeting Room.

Fri., Dec. 5, 2:00 p.m.-Book Discussion: Barbara Harnick will lead a discussion of “Love in the Time of Cholera,” by Gabriel G. Marquez. Sign up and check out a copy of the book. (60 min.) Meeting Room.

Fri., Dec. 5, 2:00 p.m. Storytelling: Get together with storyteller Glad McLeod and have fun sharing our stories. (60 min.) Conference Room.

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To read my Sunday, Nov. 30 Sun-Sentinel article CLICK HERE.
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The public is always welcome at the monthly meetings of the Alliance of Delray.

Wednesday’s December 3 meeting will feature Mr. Alvin Perlman, Retired Deputy Director Soviet Union, Eastern and Southern Europe, American Foreign Service, U.S. Information Agency. His topic:
“The Role of the Foreign Service and Public Diplomacy in International Relations.”

We will also hear status reports from County administrators, elected officials and current information vital to our communities.

Continental Breakfast courtesy of Costco Corporation.

South County Civic enter, Jog Road, Delray Beach.
Doors open at 9 A.M.; Meeting begins at 9:30 AM.

Visit our website at: www.allianceofdelray.com

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To read our Nov. 30 article in the Sun-Sentinel CLICK HERE

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Palm Beach County Traffic Information

Atlantic Avenue (S.R. 806) from Via Flora to McNab Avenue
This $3.6 million, 2.7 mile construction project begins on December 1 between Via Flora and McNab Avenue in Delray Beach. The work to be performed during this project includes: milling and resurfacing the roadway; replacing sidewalk curb ramps to meet current Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards; and signalization, widening, and storm water drainage improvements at the intersection of Atlantic Avenue and Congress Avenue. The project is being built by Weekley Asphalt Paving, Inc. and is expected to be complete in fall 2009.

Restriction: Beginning December 1, northbound and southbound travel lanes will be closed intermittently between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. daily, through the intersection of Atlantic Avenue and Congress Avenue. Motorists could experience delays traveling through this area.

An informational Open House will be held on Thursday, December 11, between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. at the Veteran’s Park meeting room, located at 802 NE First Street in Delray Beach. Throughout the meeting, the project team will be available to discuss the Atlantic Avenue projects, scope of work and construction schedule and address any questions and concerns attendees may have.

I-95 Lanes Closed for Repair Work on Hypoluxo Bridge Over I-95

Palm Beach County – The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), District Four Palm Beach Operations will close lanes on I-95 and Hypoluxo Road in the vicinity of the Hypoluxo Road Bridge to replace a damaged traffic railing. Closures will occur between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Monday, December 1 through Wednesday, December 3, weather permitting. The following lanes will be closed for this work:

• One southbound I-95 right thru lane under the Hypoluxo Road Bridge
• One southbound exit ramp lane on the ramp to Hypoluxo Road
• One eastbound lane on Hypoluxo Road over I-95

Florida Highway Patrol will be on hand to assist as necessary throughout this operation. Motorists should anticipate delays through this area.

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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