The Swing & Jazz Preservation Society, Inc., led by President Rene Zerah brought saxophonist Sid Parker, his quintet and vocalist Roberta du Moro to the newly opened Palm Beach County Public Library at Rte. 441 in Boca Raton to present a free concert Wednesday, Feb. 25 between 2 and 3 PM. An appreciative audience enjoyed Ms. Du Muro's singing, especially her rendition of "Makin' Whoopee."

Bass fiddler Al Ferrari strummed and sang "Time after Time," in his unique style. Leader/Saxophone player Sid Parker played many favorites including "Back Home in Indiana," "Bernie's Tune." Joe Belanger was featured on drums and Sonny Maruso handled the keyboard. Johnny Amoroso, the happy trumpeter concluded the joyful occasion, singing "Lulu's Back in Town."

Two more free concerts are planned for the end of March: At the Rte. 441 Library in Boca Raton, Wednesday, March 25 at 2 PM; followed by the final concert at the Hagen Ranch Road Library in West Delray on Saturday March 28th at 2 PM. Free admission tickets will be given out at each library about ten days in advance of each concert date. Check for exact date at each library Information Counter.

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Wed., Feb. 25, 2:00 PM--Hospice of Palm Beach County: Reflections of a Lifetime. J. C. Stern of Hospice will show you how to capture those important passages in your life. (60 min.) Meeting Room.

Thurs., Feb. 26, 2:00 PM--Internet Tips & Tricks. Some computer experience necessary. (2 hours) Meeting Room.

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To read my Sunday article in Community News section of Sun-Sentinel CLICK HERE.

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Condo and Homeowner Association Supplier Exhibition--The Alliance of Delray Residential Associations is holding a free supplier exhibition exclusively for community presidents, board and committee members, Alliance Delegates, and property managers on Friday, February 27, 2009 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the South County Civic Center, 16700 Jog Rd., Delray Beach. Suppliers representing insurance, painting and property management will be exhibiting. All Broward and Palm Beach County community association and property management executives are invited to attend. For more information please call 561-495-9670 or visit http://www.allianceofdelray.com/.

South Florida Diversity Job Expo-- DiversityjobsUSA is hosting a free job expo and many of Florida’s top employers will be attending. The details are as follows: Thursday, February 26, 2009, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. The Signature Grand, 6900 State Road 84, Davie, FL 33317. Business attire is required and make sure to bring plenty of resumes. For more information and to register call (954) 537-3045 or visit http://www.diversityjobsusa.com/show_expo.php?id=6.

Health Tip--Eating food with a lot of salt, while sometimes tasty, can dramatically increase the sodium in your diet, which in turn can raise your blood pressure and increase your risk for heart attack and stroke.The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute offers the following suggestions to lower the amount of sodium in your diet:
• Choose fresh, lean meats, poultry, and fish instead of processed versions.
• Skip the salt and use fresh herbs, spices, and low- or no-salt seasonings.
• Stick to fresh or frozen vegetables instead of canned. If you do choose canned, look for "no salt added" versions, or rinse vegetables before use.
• Don't add salt to the water when cooking rice or pasta. Also, avoid instant versions of these foods.
• Stay away from pre-packaged foods that are often high in sodium, such as frozen meals, pizzas, canned soups and foods, and packed food mixes.
Some people may have different dietary needs so please consult your doctor for advice before making major changes to your diet.

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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To read my Sunday article in Community News section of Sun-Sentinel CLICK HERE.

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Consumer Traps & Tips--A weekly service of the Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs Division

Topic: Selecting the Right Tax Preparer

Trap: The 2008 tax year was not very good for Ruth from West Palm Beach. She was widowed, her small business failed, and her rental property didn’t do well. All of this left Ruth confused since her husband had previously handled the taxes. With all these changes in her life, should Ruth try to do her own tax preparation? She had seen advertisements for tax preparers and even heard she could get her refund right away, for a fee. One tax preparer promised to get her a big refund. What should Ruth do?

Tips: The tax preparation industry is not regulated in Florida, and preparers are not required to be licensed or pass a background check. The following lists several ways to avoid a tax preparation nightmare:
• First, decide if you even need a tax preparer. Many tax returns are not complex and require only a simple filing. Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and ask about free or minimum cost assistance programs.
• Ask about your preparer’s qualifications. Some situations may call for a certified public accountant or an “enrolled agent” licensed by the IRS.
• Get an estimate of costs up front. Don’t be afraid to shop around or change preparers if you are not comfortable.
• Be wary of preparers who promise a big refund or base their fee on the amount of your refund. You, not the preparer, are ultimately responsible for your tax return.
• Be cautious about “refund anticipation loans.” These loans are secured by your anticipated tax refund and may carry hefty fees and interest rates. By using the IRS’s e-file program, tax refunds can be processed in as little as 10 days.

For more information, call Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs at 561-712-6600 (Boca/Delray 888-852-7362 toll free) or visit www.pbcgov.com/consumer to see if other consumers have filed complaints against the company you are considering.
Dennis Moore, Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs Division, 561-712-6600 Boca/Delray/Glades toll free: 1-888-852-7362. Fax: 561-712-6610
50 So. Military Trail, Suite 201, West Palm Beach, FL 33415

Check out our website at:
http://www.pbcgov.com/consumer

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To read my Sunday article in Community News section of Sun-Sentinel CLICK HERE.

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Southern Palm Beach County Projects: 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: Two lanes on Atlantic Avenue will be closed nightly, Sunday through Friday, 7 p.m. until 6 a.m., between Via Flora and McNab Avenue for paving operations through late February. Daytime lane closures will also occur, between 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., at Congress Avenue and Atlantic Avenue and other areas within project limits as necessary Monday through Friday. At least one lane will remain open in each direction at all times. Motorists might encounter severe delays through the intersection of Congress Avenue and Atlantic Avenue during non-peak daytime hours, due to project-related work.

Atlantic Avenue (S.R. 806) from NW/SW 12th Avenue to A1A
This $4.2 million construction project began 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: Lane closures on Atlantic Avenue through the project area will be suspended from Saturday, February 21, through Sunday, March 1, for the Delray Beach International Tennis Championship. Please note that project-related work will continue. On-street parking on Atlantic Avenue will be restricted and side streets might be closed for drainage work between 12th and 8th Avenue

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To read my Sunday article in Community News section of Sun-Sentinel CLICK HERE.

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New Supervisor of Elections Welcomes Clerk’s Financial Oversight

The Clerk & Comptroller’s office will help the new Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections usher in a new era of financial accountability. One of Supervisor Susan Bucher’s first priorities after taking office in January was to ask Clerk Sharon Bock to conduct a financial audit of her office’s accounting and payroll records. In the interest of ensuring that tax dollars are protected, Bucher also asked the Clerk to resume providing accounting services and other financial oversight to the Elections office.

As the County’s treasurer, accountant and auditor, the Clerk is authorized by the Florida Constitution to provide financial services to other constitutional officers. However, Bucher’s predecessor, Dr. Arthur Anderson, discontinued the Clerk’s accounting and auditing function after the Clerk questioned some expenses.

“I’m honored that Susan Bucher values the independent oversight and accountability that our office can provide,” said Clerk Bock. “We both agree that it’s what’s best for the taxpayer. We both want good government.”

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Boca Raton Computer Society meets Wednesday night, Feb. 18 at 6:15 P.M. at South County Civic Center, Jog Road, Delray Beach. Open to public. Main speaker from 7:30 to 8:30 P.M.: Ms. Lindsay Albers of Smart Computing Magazine.

Hearing Loss Association of America—Boynton/Delray/Boca Chapter, Friday, Feb. 20th, 10 A.M.- 12 Noon. Guest Speaker: Ali Danesh, Ph.D, FAAA. Topic: Tinnutus. They plan to have captioning so everything said is projected in large type on screen at front of room. Coffee served at 9:30. The public is always welcome.

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Tuesday Feb. 17th , 7:30 – 9:45pm
The Swing & Jazz Preservation Jazz Society Concert
A 4th return engagement of the JB SCOTT’S SWINGIN’ ALLSTARS, with Vocalist Lisa Kelly
Spanish River Performance Arts Center
2400 Yamato Road
INFO: 1.561.499.9976

Pictured: J. B. Scott and Lisa Kelly

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Busy Week Ahead:

Tuesday evening Feb. 17 at 7:30 P.M, The Swing & Jazz Preservation Society presents the music of the J.B. Scott All-Star Band and the song stylings of Lisa Kelly at the Spanish River Performing Arts Center, Yamato Rd. and St. Andrews Ave. Tickets on sale at box office night of performance, or call 499-9976 to reserve seats. Scholarship award presentation to deserving F.A.U. student jazz musician that night.

Boca Raton Computer Society meets Wednesday night, Feb. 18 at 6:15 P.M. at South County Civic Center, Jog Road, Delray Beach. Open to public. Main speaker from 7:30 to 8:30 P.M.: Ms. Lindsay Albers of Smart Computing Magazine.

Hearing Loss Association of America—Boynton/Delray/Boca Chapter, Friday, Feb. 20th, 10 A.M.- 12 Noon. Guest Speaker: Ali Danesh, Ph.D, FAAA. Topic: Tinnutus. They plan to have captioning so everything said is projected in large type on screen at front of room. Coffee served at 9:30. The public is always welcome.

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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 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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“In these days of stressful economic times and massive job losses,” says West Delray’s Barbara Kalfin, “one field stands out as needing thousands of workers: Skilled Professional Health workers to handle the administration of doctor’s and hospital offices. At present there are thousands of unfilled Medical Transcription positions throughout the United States.”

Kalfin holds a responsible management position at Palm Beach Community College, Lake Worth campus. For the past two and a half years she has been Program Manager of the Medical Office Program. Prior to that time she taught classes in these programs for four years at PBCC, City College, Keiser College in Ft. Lauderdale and BOCES Vocational System in New York.

“These four programs are being taught,” Kalfin explains, “only at our Lake Worth campus in the PBCC Medical Program curriculum which I help administer for the college:
1. Medical Assisting—Multi-skilled health professionals specifically educated to work in ambulatory settings performing administrative and clinical duties
2. Medical Information Coder and Biller—Prepares students for employment as Medical Coders and Health Insurance Specialists.
3. Medical Transcription—Prepares students to be Medical Terminology Specialists, and to utilize the computer and specialized software programs to transcribe medical reports into a complete medical record of each patient. This is the only portable career out there.
4. Associate Degree in Health Information Management. This provides the pathway for Coders to administrative positions in the Health Information Management Department in hospitals.

Enrollment in these programs is popular. Savvy young high school graduates and older adults needing a job, or a change in career; see it as an opportunity to train for a career in an industry that is always hiring.

We provide people in today’s uncertain economy the opportunity to reinvent themselves and embark on a new career path, as well as provide young high school graduates a career that is in demand. These courses have low tuition costs and are nationally accredited. We have an excellent faculty of competent professionals in these programs, including doctors and certified professionals.

The Medical Assisting program takes thirteen months, daytime only. The Medical Information Coder/Biller Program graduates earn a 34 credit College Credit Certificate which can be applied towards continuing their studies to complete an Associate Degree in Health Information Management. Medical Assisting & Medical Transcription can also use this degree as a pathway and receive college credits towards the degree. Real time on the job training in doctors and hospital administrative offices are included in the curriculum, as well as on-line virtual training for students in Medical Coding.”

Kalfin is a member of the American Association of Medical Assistants—recognized by the American Medical Association. She continues her own education, earning Continuing Education Credits in order to be nationally accredited as a CMA (AAMA)—Certified Medical Assistant every five years. She was born in the Bronx, N. Y. She raised a son and daughter who have now blessed her with four grandchildren. During the time her children were attending college, she earned a B.S. in Health Occupation from the New York Institute of Technology in Old Westbury, L. I. and was delighted when her son and daughter attended her own graduation ceremony.

“I enjoy working and being with people who are caring, have inner strength, high intelligence, integrity and are not afraid to fight for what they believe is right,” says Kalfin. “I gain great satisfaction seeing young people and older adults who want to start new careers graduate from our courses and gain steady, interesting employment in the health care industry.”

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I am honored to serve as your State Representative and I am very excited to be working on several important pieces of legislation during the 2009 Legislative Session. Below is a summary of the six bills I will be sponsoring:

HB 7 – Driver License Restrictions: HB 7 limits the number of teenage passengers less than 18 years of age allowed in an automobile when the licensed driver is 16 or 17 years old. Many studies have shown that such a law would reduce the number of accidents and fatalities caused by young, inexperienced drivers. Forty other states have enacted similar legislation.

HB 583 / HB 585 – Monitoring the Dispensing of Controlled Substances: HB 583 / HB 585 creates an electronic prescription drug monitoring system that tracks the dispensing of controlled substances in the state of Florida to prevent abuse, misuse, and illegal sale of prescription drugs. According to the Florida Office of Drug Control, “the rate of deaths caused by prescription drugs [in Florida] is over three times as high as the rate of deaths caused by all illicit drugs combined.”

HB 397 – Prohibited Discrimination: HB 397 prohibits discrimination in employment and housing based on an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity.

HB 331 – Public Health Initiatives: HB 331 implements changes to the duties and structure of the Florida Public Health Foundation to help the Foundation more effectively promote public health awareness.

HB # TBD – Sterilization of Pets: This bill requires any animal shelter, rescue group or control agency to spay or neuter all medically-fit cats and dogs before they are given up for adoption. Sterilization of adopted dogs and cats helps prevent animal overpopulation that may later lead to euthanization.

HB # TBD – Senior Services District: This bill allows counties to create a special taxing district to fund senior services, only if such a district were approved by a majority of the voters in that county. The district would provide services to seniors who are ailing, at risk, abused or neglected.

I look forward to working with my colleagues on these important pieces of legislation.

Health Tip: Computer use occupies a large part of daily life these days. When working on the computer for hours at a time it’s very important that you address any instances of pain or discomfort to avoid more serious problems. The University of California – Berkeley offers the following tips to avoid computer-related pain or injuries:
• If you develop any pain or discomfort when working on the computer for long hours you should take immediate action to relieve it.
• Stand up and walk away from your computer at least every hour. Walk around for a little bit, stretch or just relax.
• Your chair should be adjusted so that your feet and back are firmly supported by the floor and seat back. Try to lean back in your chair a little bit.
• You should usually position your keyboard at a low height, near the height of your elbows, and the mouse should be right next to the keyboard. They can be higher if you use a padded forearm rest. Continuously reaching for the keyboard or mouse may lead to shoulder pain.
• Try different keyboards and mice until you find the ones that are most comfortable for you.
• If you experience recurring or persistent discomfort, especially pain, numbness or weakness, contact your physician as soon as possible. By treating the problem early on you can avoid serious, even disabling conditions in the future.
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.
Kelly Skidmore, State Representative, District 90

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We drive by that odd looking building on Jog Rd. all the time. We attend meetings and functions there day and night: the South County Civic Center, a 7,000 sq. ft. building in West Delray, across Jog Road from Morikami Gardens. That inanimate object is a valuable asset to our neighborhood, that springs to life every day.

More than 200 separate private functions a year are held there, which includes more than 50 monthly community clubs during season. Groups such as the Alliance of Delray; various homeowner associations; bridge players, Hearing Loss Association-Delray/Boynton/Boca chapter; Hadassah chapters; cancer research chapters; Boca Raton Computer Society; Brandeis University groups from Boca and Delray, etc. all convene in this building that opened in 1994.

As many as five large groups can meet in the main hall at one time when it is subdivided according to need. Two groups of less than twenty can meet in the small meeting rooms in the south side of the building. Fees for the facility are assessed by the hour and vary with the size of the room desired.

Outdoors there is the Gov. Lawton Chiles Memorial Park where an organization can rent the picnic pavilion with barbecue grills and use the athletic field, usually three
months in advance. Sand volleyball and horseshoe courts are available.
Petanque and bocce courts also available on a first come, first served basis.

The business of the Center is handled by Aaron Ligon, Facility Manager (above left) and Patsy Ivy, Registration Clerk (right) and a staff of four helpers: Christopher Dolk, Luis Castano (photo left). Leo Perez and Andre Clegg (not pictured.) These four men are responsible for reconfiguring the room layouts, moving the requested chairs and tables in and out for each function.

For more information or to reserve space call 561-495-9813.

It makes one wonder: Where did we all meet before this building was built in 1994?

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Wednesday, February 4 attend the Alliance of Delray Meeting at the South County Civic Center. Coffee "and" served at 9 AM. Meeting begins at 9:30 AM. Hear reports from Elected Officials. The public is always welcome!

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Southern Palm Beach County Road Improvement Projects:

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: Two lanes on Atlantic Avenue will be closed nightly, Sunday through Friday, 7 p.m. until 6 a.m., between Via Flora and McNab Avenue for paving operations. Daytime lane closures will also occur, between 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., at various locations, Monday through Friday for other project-related work. At least one lane will remain open in each direction at all times. Paving is a rolling operation that requires shifting lane closures. Workers and heavy machinery will be moving in and around the work zone. Motorists should use caution and anticipate delays when traveling through this area.

Atlantic Avenue (S.R. 806) from NW/SW 12th Avenue to A1A
This $4.2 million construction project began 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.

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This past Saturday night we watched a superlative show at our Vizcaya Community Clubhouse: “Almost Abba” a talented group of young people, Kristi Kellog , Jeff Kellog , Terry Baker and Lisa Ewing playing and singing all the rockin’ tunes from “Mama Mia.”

Catch them if you can at one of their next three gigs: Feb. 7th at Cascades clubhouse, Boynton Beach.
Feb. 9th at The English Pub Dinner Show-Naples, FL.
Feb. 14th at Sunrise Lakes Phase 3 Clubhouse -Sunrise, FL.

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A weekly service of the Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs Division

Topic: Driveway Repairs

Trap: Mr. T from Boynton Beach was tired of looking at his faded black top driveway. He remembered the flyer left at his front door, “Driveway Repairs…FREE estimates”. He called and spoke with a nice guy who said he could come right over. The nice guy said he had some materials left over and could do the job today for a special cash price. Mr. T, sensing a good deal, gave the go ahead. A half hour later, the job was done. However, after the first rain, the driveway’s shiny black finish was gone. Mr. T called the business and was told, “The cellular number you have dialed is no longer in service” and Mr. T had no way to get in touch with Mr. Nice Guy.

Tips: Mr. T was looking to get the job done quick and cheap! He could have saved himself time and money by:
• Being wary of anyone soliciting home repair work by distributing flyers.
• Always getting at least two written estimates. Verify that the business has an active city/county business tax receipt.
• Making sure the contract spells out the terms completely and shows the name of the business and street address.
• Never paying cash or a large upfront fee to “get more materials”. You’ll never see him again!
• Asking for proof of worker’s compensation insurance. You may be responsible if someone gets hurt on your property.
If someone comes to your door unsolicited and uses high pressure tactics, tell them no, close the door and call the Sheriff or your local police department. Need more information - call Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs at 561-712-6600 or visit our website www.pbcgov.com/consumer to see if other consumers have filed complaints against the company you are considering.

Dennis Moore, Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs Division, 561-712-6600
Boca/Delray/Glades toll free: 1-888-852-7362 Fax: 561-712-6610
50 So. Military Trail, Suite 201, West Palm Beach, FL 33415
Check out our website at: http://www.pbcgov.com/consumer

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Report from State Reperesentative Dist. 90 Kelly Skidmore
Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office Sets Up Online Reporting for Minor Crimes
The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office recently unveiled an online reporting system for minor crimes, which can be used to report a harassing phone call, traffic crash, hit and run, identity theft, lost property, theft, trash dumping, vandalism, graffiti, or file an informational report.

To submit a report, visit https://reporting.pbso.org/dors/Coplogic/start-report.html. However, if you have an emergency please call 911.

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