Japan Through the Eyes of a Child

Elementary school-aged children, along with their families and classmates, can step into Japanese culture and experience it first-hand in this exhibition designed especially for them.

Four Japanese neighborhoods transport you from Florida to far-off Japan. The exhibition was developed by the National Children's Museum in Washington, D.C. and is funded by a grant from the Kohnken Family Foundation. The extensive, multifaceted exhibit will debut in its new home in The Morikami Yamato-kan on November 7, 2009.

Trainstation
Japan's public transportation system is one of the best in the world and a great way to see the country. In "Japan Through the Eyes of a Child," kids walk onto a train platform and board the famed Shinkansen Bullet Train. Once inside, they sit in seats from a real Bullet Train and see what Japan's fastest mode of transportation is like.

Elementary School Classroom
In Japan, kids take off their shoes at school as they do at home and keep their classroom neat and tidy by cleaning it themselves. In "Japan Through the Eyes of a Child," American kids see what a classroom in Japan is like. They don't have to take off their shoes, but they can sit at real desks and discover for themselves what their Japanese counterparts are learning. The black bag hanging from the side of the desk? It's a randoseru, the type of book-bag all elementary school children use. Also here is a giant soroban (abacus) to be used as an aid to teach this ancient calculating device that is still very much in use in Japan today. Kids learn their ABCs in a classroom like this, but also their toyo kanji that make up the Japanese writing system, all 1,800 of them, according to a chart on the wall.

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Healthcare Status; Answers from a panel of Experts, Wednesday, November 4, 2009 at South County Civic Center, Jog Road, Delray Beach, opposite Morkami Gardens. Doors open at 9 A.M. Meeting begins at 9:30. The public is welcome.

Featured Panelists:
...Michelle O. McGovern, from U. S. Senator Bill Nelson's office
...Dr. Fred Carlisle, AARP Volunteer and Advocate
...Tatiana Paradelo, Social Security Administration
...Moses Baskin, Area SHINE coordinator.

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Southern Palm Beach County Projects: 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. 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 work is being performed by Weekley Asphalt Paving, Inc. and is expected to be completed in November.

Restrictions: Travel lanes will be closed between I-95 and Swinton Avenue 7 a.m. until 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and 7 p.m. until 6 a.m., Sunday through Thursday. At least one lane will remain open in each direction. On-street parking and access to side streets may be temporarily restricted during those times. Detours will be established when necessary. Access to local businesses and residences will be maintained at all times. Motorists should expect delays.

S.R. 7 / U.S. 441 from the Broward County Line to Glades Road--Construction on this 2.9-mile project began February 9, 2009. Work consists of milling and resurfacing, curb ramp replacement, guardrail, and signalization. The project will cost an estimated $4.7 million. The work is being performed by Hardrives of Delray, Inc. and is expected to be completed late November 2009.

Restrictions: Lane closures will occur from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and from 6:30 p.m. to 6 a.m., Sunday through Thursday, for paving and other project related work. Motorists should anticipate delays and seek alternate routes when possible.

Powerline Road / S.R. 845 from the Broward County Line to Glades Road--Construction on this 3-mile project began Tuesday, May 26, 2009. Work consists of milling and resurfacing, minor widening and reconstruction, signalization, lighting, drainage, bridge replacement, irrigation and landscaping. The project will cost an estimated $9.7 million. The work is being performed by Ranger Construction Industries and is expected to be completed summer 2011.

Restrictions: Lane closures will occur at various locations between Glades Road and the Broward-Palm Beach County line, 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. The contractor will install temporary barrier wall and establish continuous lane closures at various locations, as necessary, for drainage work. At least one lane will remain open in each direction at all times. Turn lanes will be closed at various locations for safety reasons. Motorists may experience delays.

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Healthcare Status; Answers from a panel of Experts, Wednesday, November 4, 2009 at South County Civic Center, Jog Road, Delray Beach, opposite Morkami Gardens. Doors open at 9 A.M. Meeting begins at 9:30.

Featured Panelists:
...Michelle O. McGovern, from U. S. Senator Bill Nelson's office
...Dr. Fred Carlisle, AARP Volunteer and Advocate
...Tatiana Paradelo, Social Security Administration
...Moses Baskin, Area SHINE coordinator.

The public is welcome!

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We made the trip to the renovated Wal-Mart on Military Trail in Delray Beach on the day it opened in all its expanded glory, Wednesday Oct. 28th.

The Mrs. needed an item from the drug department and breakfast cereal from the grocery department. Bring your roller skates! Be prepared to walk what seemed like the length of Dolphins Stadium to journey from one end of the store to the other.

But the prices are good. They will probably do harm to the local Albertson’s and Winn-Dixie. Publix looks like they lowered some prices already.

Competition in the market place: That’s what benefits the consumer.

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If you bring Total Ink at 5028 W. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, (phone (561) 865-1323) your empty brand name printer cartridges they will refill them for you at handsome savings. They also sell toner cartridges and do computer and printer repairs. I've been using their cartridges for several months and find them serviceable.

I had a problem with a printer and brought it to them for repair. They charge $15 to look at the problem and add on additonal cost for the repair if necessary. They repaired my printer for only the $15 fee.

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Dear Friend: This year, Florida took a step forward in the war against prescription drug abuse when the Florida Legislature passed, and the Governor signed in to law, legislation creating a prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP) in Florida.

I feel very passionate about this issue, which is why I was a sponsor of the bill in the Florida House. In the next few months I will be working with experts in the field to look for ways to build and improve upon the PDMP legislation. I look forward to taking another step forward during the 2010 Legislative Session.

Florida is facing a growing prescription drug abuse epidemic that has devastated many Florida families. 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. Over 742,000 Floridians illegally use prescription drugs each year. As of last spring, the top 50 dispensing practitioners of oxycodone, nationwide, were located in Florida. Now that Florida has a monitoring system, I hope our state will cease being a prime destination for criminals looking to buy and sell prescription drugs, spreading misery throughout Florida and other states.

I strongly recommend you watch the new documentary, “The OxyContin Express,” on prescription drug abuse and the role of pain clinics in Florida. This documentary by Current TV/Vanguard really hits home.
You can watch it here: http://current.com/groups/vanguard-the-oxycontin-express/. Get Involved!

This fight requires people in the community to get involved. If you are interested in joining the fight against substance abuse, please consider joining the NOPE Task Force, Narcotic Overdose Prevention and Education, for the 3rd Annual NOPE National Candle Light Vigil, which will take place in communities across the nation on Thursday, October 29th, during Red Ribbon Week, a week to raise awareness of drug abuse.

The Palm Beach County vigil will be held at Lynn University in Boca Raton. The Vigil Ceremony will be at 6:30pm in the Green Center. The Broward County vigil will take place at 6:30pm at Tradewinds Park in Pompano Beach. For more information and to find a vigil nearest you, please visit www.nopetaskforce.org or call 866-612-NOPE.

Lastly, you can get involved in the United Way of Broward County Commission on Substance Abuse, which includes a Prescription Drug Abuse Task Force. The UWBCCSA has regularly scheduled monthly meetings. For more information please contact: Joel Kaufman, Ph.D., Executive Director/Vice President, (954) 760-7007, Ext. 205 or jkaufman@unitedwaybroward.org. The website is www.drugfreebroward.org. In Palm Beach County you can contact the Palm Beach County Substance Abuse Coalition at (561) 844-5952 or send e-mail to info@pbcsac.org. The website is www.pbcsac.org.

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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Dear Friends,

I have very exciting news that will provide a tremendous boost for our campaign. Today, Congressman Robert Wexler endorsed me to succeed him in 19th Congressional District. In addition to Robert’s vote of confidence, I also received the endorsements of Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Rep. Alcee Hastings and Rep. Ron Klein. I now have the unanimous support of four Democratic Members of Congress who represent Palm Beach and Broward Counties in Congress.

I am truly overwhelmed by this outpouring of support from these four impressive Members of Congress. I want to especially thank Congressman Robert Wexler, who has done such an extraordinary job representing the people of the 19th Congressional District over the last thirteen years. Every day in Congress, he fights for the seniors and families of Palm Beach and Broward Counties. His support and commitment to Israel is one that I will passionately continue. His commitment to the people is a model for how I want to serve in Congress.

Senator Ted Deutch is a talented legislator who has earned a national reputation for successful efforts to ensure that the retirement funds of Florida's workers do not support Iran's illicit quest for nuclear weapons or genocide in Darfur. Ted has also passed meaningful reforms protecting seniors and children, and he was recently honored by the American Cancer Society for passing legislation that will reduce smoking and fund nearly $1 billion in critical health care programs in Florida.
More information may be found at www.tedforcongress.com

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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, I-95 traffic information, call 511. To view real-time video of I-95 in Palm Beach County, visit the Florida Department of Transportation’s Palm Beach SMART SunGuide Transportation Management Center (TMC) website at www.smartsunguide.com. FDOT and the SunGuide™ Partners provide these free services. For updated lane closure information, please refer to www.pbfdot.com.

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Consumer Traps & Tips: A weekly service of the Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs Division
Topic: Dietary Supplements

Trap: Health-conscious, 52-year-old Mary was looking to slow the effects of aging and improve her overall health. She ordered a free trial of a product she saw on the Internet. It promised to increase her energy and help her sleep at night too. After taking some pills for two weeks, she started having headaches and chest pains. Her doctor told her to stop taking the supplements immediately. What should Mary have done?

Tips: Many online companies offer dietary supplements, and while supplements can be used safely by most people, some can be harmful. Some important tips to consider before purchasing supplements are:
• Don’t be influenced by celebrity endorsements of a product. Check with your doctor first as some supplements may interact with your prescription drugs.
• Shop around before you buy from an out-of-state or foreign company. You may be able to find comparable products locally.
• Read all the terms and conditions of the purchase sale. A free trial may obligate you to buy additional product with automatic monthly billing and deliveries or convert to a membership if not canceled within the trial period.
• Be skeptical of “miracle” supplements, “wonder” cures or any product offering a “quick fix.” If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Do your own research with agencies such as National Institutes of Health, http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/dietarysupplements.html, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, http://www.fda.gov , and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, http://www.nutrition.gov .

Check on the company you are considering by going to the Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs Web site: http://www.pbcgov.com/consumer or call at 561-712-6600 (Boca/Delray 1-888-852-7362 toll free).

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Dear Friends:

Legislative leaders have expressed concern about Governor Charlie Crist’s latest attempt to finalize a gambling compact between the State of Florida and the Seminole Tribe. The governor’s proposal would give the tribe a 20-year monopoly on blackjack games and slot machines outside of South Florida, and the proposal appears to delve into matters that go beyond what the Legislature approved during the 2009 session.

As a state representative from Palm Beach and Broward counties, which is home to several pari-mutuel facilities that employ hundreds of people locally, it is very important to me that any expansion of gaming provided to the Seminole facilities be paired with an acceptable expansion of gaming at the pari-mutuel facilities. Without receiving competitive benefits, the pari-mutuels may struggle to compete with the Seminole facilities, and could be driven out of business.

The governor’s proposal would provide a 15-percent reduction in the tax that tracks and frontons pay the state, and facilities outside Broward and Miami-Dade counties could offer no-limit poker and extended cardroom hours. But representatives of the gaming industry have said that those changes may not be enough to offset the advantage the deal gives the Seminoles.

I am hopeful that any new proposal agreed upon by the House and Senate would allow pari-mutuels to remain competitive with the Seminole facilities and provide an opportunity to create jobs, generate revenue for the state and increase much-needed funding for education.

Toward this goal, Senate President Jeff Atwater and legislative advisers sent a nine-page document to the governor’s General Counsel, asking for answers to two dozen questions regarding the compact, including details of an exclusivity clause. I am eager to review the responses to those questions, and will be mindful of the needs of our local and overall state economies when I have the opportunity to debate and vote on this issue.

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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ALLIANCE SECURITY MEETING

Leaders of Member Associations Empowered by Updates and Instruction from Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office and Vital Information from Guest Speaker Andrew Rosenkranz, Regional Director of Anti-Defamation League.

Host Community: Lakes of Delray. Meeting location: Starlight Theatre, Lakes of Delray Clubhouse.

Pictured from Left: PBSO Deputy R. Duran; Alliance Director Charles Laufer; PBSO Lt. P Ebel; Alliance 1st VP Mort Mazor; PBSO Capt. J. Calise; Alliance Pres. Bob Schulbaum; ADL Regional Director Andrew Rosenkranz; Detective Ryan Miller.

PHOTO: 2009 COPYRIGHT LORI VINIKOOR ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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Southern Palm Beach County Projects: 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 work is being performed by Weekley Asphalt Paving, Inc. and is expected to be completed November 2009.

Restrictions: Travel lanes will be closed between I-95 and Swinton Avenue from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and from 7 p.m. until 6 a.m., Sunday through Thursday. At least one lane will remain open in each direction. On-street parking and access to side streets may be temporarily restricted. Detours will be established when necessary. Access to local businesses and residences will be maintained at all times. Motorists should expect delays.

S.R. 7 / U.S. 441 from the Broward County Line to Glades Road--Construction on this 2.9-mile project began February 9, 2009. Work consists of milling and resurfacing, curb ramp replacement, guardrail, and signalization. The project will cost an estimated $4.7 million. The work is being performed by Hardrives of Delray, Inc. and is expected to be completed late 2009

Restrictions: Lane closures will occur at various locations, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday, between Glades Road and the Broward County Line for project-related work. On Monday, October 19, the contractor will begin paving at night, between the hours of 6:30 p.m. and 6 a.m. Nighttime work will last approximately one week, weather permitting. Motorists should anticipate delays and seek alternate routes whenever possible.

Powerline Road / S.R. 845 from the Broward County Line to Glades Road--Construction on this 3-mile project began Tuesday, May 26, 2009. Work consists of milling and resurfacing, minor widening and reconstruction, signalization, lighting, drainage, bridge replacement, irrigation and landscaping. The project will cost an estimated $9.7 million. The work is being performed by Ranger Construction Industries and is expected to be completed summer 2011.

Restrictions: Travel lanes will be closed at various locations between Glades Road and the Broward County Line, 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. The contractor will install temporary barrier wall and establish continuous lane closures at various locations, as necessary, for drainage work. At least one lane will remain open in each direction at all times; however, turn lanes will be closed at various locations for safety reasons. Motorists should use caution and anticipate delays.

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If your association was affected at all by a hurricane in the last five years, we would like to alert you to a battle that our Firm, Katzman Garfinkel Rosenbaum (KGR), and our Community Advocacy Network (CAN) are currently waging to educate Florida's community associations about their rights to pursue unresolved Hurricane Wilma and other storm claims. There is a 5-year statute of limitations in Florida to pursue a casualty claim. Hurricane Wilma battered our state four years ago in October, 2005.

Many associations at that time were either bullied into believing they should not file a claim for storm losses for fear of having their rates raised or their coverage canceled or they were told that their claims did not meet their deductible. As a result, many associations were forced to specially assess their members to pay for necessary storm repairs and they did not pursue their insurance companies for everything they may have been owed. If you would like more information about your association's ability to reopen or file a claim for any storm damages you may have suffered four years ago, please don't hesitate to contact me at 954-315-0372 or via email at dberger@KGRlawfirm.com.

Donna D. Berger, Esquire, Managing Partner Katzman Garfinkel Rosenbaum

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A weekly service of the Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs Division

Topic: How Do I Cancel a Contract

Trap: Jennifer asked a friend if she knew someone who could do some remodeling at her Lake Park home. Mike came highly recommended, and Jennifer’s friend said she never had any problems. However, after signing the contract and paying a $1,000 deposit, Jennifer did some checking and found the “contractor” was not properly licensed to do the work. Worried, she called the contractor to cancel the job, but he told her he already purchased the materials! She considered contacting a lawyer but couldn’t afford the cost. How could Jennifer have protected herself?

Tips: Here are some important tips to consider before signing on the dotted line:
• Never sign a contract before reading and understanding it. If you feel pressured, ask for a copy to review when you have the time, or just walk away.
• If the contract contains a cancellation clause or refund policy, follow the terms exactly. Usually, cancellation notices are required to be sent by certified mail. Ask for a return receipt to verify delivery, and keep a copy for your file.
• The Federal Trade Commission has a “Cooling-Off Rule” but it doesn’t cover everything. Generally, if you buy an item in your home or at a location that is not the seller’s place of business, you may have the option to cancel three days after the sale. Check http://www.ftc.gov for details.
• Businesses must be properly licensed or certified to do the job. Verify their contractor’s license status with the State Department of Business and Professional Regulation at: http://www.myfloridalicense.com.
• And never believe anyone who says it’s OK to cancel by telephone.

Check for consumer complaints and get more information about contracts at the Consumer Affairs Web site: http://www.pbcgov.com/consumer or call 561-712-6600 (Boca/Delray 1-888-852-7362) for more information.

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First meeting of the new season of the South Palm Beach County Chapter of the Hearing Loss Association of America, 9:45 A.M., Friday Oct. 16 at the South County Civic Center. Listen to important information from President Oscar Segal, the dedicated leader in the fight to help the hearing impaired.

The public is welcome.

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The Tax Collector’s office will mail 2009 property tax notices on October 31. Property taxes are collectable November 1 - March 31. Discounts for early payment are allowed as follows:
• 4% in November
• 3% in December
• 2% in January
• 1% in February
No discounts are allowed in March. Taxes become delinquent on April 1st. The discount is determined by postmark of payment. The Tax Collector’s website offers a new and improved fast payment system to process property tax payments at www.taxcollectorpbc.com.
Please read the “Important Information About Your Property Taxes” brochure included in your property tax notice. It includes an explanation of the tax notice, Installment Payment Plan Application, Address Change Notice and other important property tax information.
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First meeting of the new season of the South Palm Beach County Chapter of the Hearing Loss Association of America, 9:45 A.M., Friday Oct. 16 at the South County Civic Center.

Listen to important information from President Oscar Segal, the dedicated leader in the fight to help the hearing impaired.

Learn how and where you can participate in a Lip Reading Class given by board member Merry Rubinstein. She has been helping people to do this for the past eight years.

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First meeting of the new season of the South Palm Beach County Chapter of the Hearing Loss Association of America, 9:45 A.M., Friday Oct. 16 at the South County Civic Center.

Listen to important information from President Oscar Segal, the dedicated leader in the fight to help the hearing impaired.

Learn how and where, as a member of the chapter you can participate in a Lip Reading Class given by board member Merry Rubinstein. She has been helping people to do this for the past ten years.

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I attended an interesting and enlightening all day seminar conducted by Act for America's founder Brigitte Gabriel and her staff this past Saturday at the South County Civic Center

This is her story:
I founded ACT! for America because Islamic militants have declared war on America. I know what this means. For years, I witnessed first-hand how brutally jihadists treat non-Muslims.
We are in for the fight of our lives and we must ACT! - before it's too late.
WHAT WE'RE UP AGAINST
Islamic extremists have proclaimed jihad against Christians, Jews, non-Muslims and secularists - simply because they regard us as infidels.
The warriors of Islamofascism are not only "over there". Tens of thousands of Islamic militants now reside in America, operating in sleeper cells, attending our colleges and universities, even infiltrating our government. They are here - today. Many have been here for years. Waiting. Preparing.
They are being aided and abetted by the purveyors of political correctness - those in government, the media, academia and Hollywood who are apologists for Islamofascism, who outrageously blame America for the cruel and brutal actions of those who want to kill us and destroy our way of life.
Political correctness can be annoying, frustrating, even exasperating. In the battle against Islamofascism, political correctness will literally kill us.
WHAT IS ACT! FOR AMERICA?
ACT! for America is an issues advocacy organization dedicated to effectively organizing and mobilizing the most powerful grassroots citizen action network in America. We are committed to informed and coordinated civic action that will lead to public policies that promote America's national security and the defense of American democratic values against the assault of radical Islam.
The fight against Islamofascism is a fight I know all too well. I was born in Lebanon and raised as a Christian. When the Lebanese Civil War broke out, our family and our Maronite community came under vicious attack by Islamic extremists. They promised to destroy us, and today the country is nearly all Islamic.

I was nearly killed by a mortar. Our home was destroyed. We lived in a bomb shelter for seven years. Most of my childhood friends were killed. That's how I know about this fight.
The democratic values of Western Civilization, exemplified by the celebration of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, are under attack from militant Islam, exemplified by its celebration of death, terror and tyranny. This is an enemy that is determined, relentless and intent on imposing its ideology and values on all freedom-loving people everywhere - including the United States.

You can learn more at their website: www.actforamerica.org.

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Dear Friends, It is absolutely essential that we act now to protect our environment and economy and slow down the runaway campaign to drill off of Florida’s coast. Our current system fails Florida because critical decisions are too often made by lobbyists and politicians without the public’s input or knowledge. This system must end, and I have the plan to end it.

Earlier this week, State Senator Dave Aronberg and I introduced legislation that that will deliver genuine accountability to our system in order to prevent the irresponsible efforts to immediately drill off of our pristine coasts.

Proponents of off-shore drilling are making every attempt to relax the off-shore oil drilling ban in the waning days of Governor Crist’s term of office. The lack of independent evaluation of such a change is simply unacceptable. The potential negative ramifications to new off-shore drilling include damage to our environment, tourism industry, and our fragile economy in general.

Through this new legislation, Senator Aronberg and I will ensure the public gets a larger voice in these critical decisions. To get the information we believe is required to make an informed decision – our bill would create the “Florida Energy Independence and Coastal Protection Task Force” – and require the legislature to do its due diligence before a bill is passed.

This group would be dedicated to studying and reporting on the economic and environmental impacts of – and alternatives to – lifting the ban on oil drilling in Florida waters. The Task Force will consist of nine non-governmental members appointed by the Governor, the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House and the House and Senate Minority Leaders. There will also be several ex-officio designees from relevant governmental agencies.

Through the task force, public hearings would be held throughout the state, and a technical advisory committee would convene to provide independent analysis of the issue as part of a Final Report provided to the public by December 15, 2010.

Should Governor Crist include off-shore drilling as part of the agenda for any special session, I will do everything in my power to enact our proposal into law during the special session.

Florida’s future shouldn’t be needlessly endangered by making rash and potentially irresponsible policy decisions. Any decisions of this magnitude should be able to withstand scrutiny and independent evaluation.

To read the bill we are proposing, access this website: http://www.tedforflorida.com/images/oiltaskforce.pdf

More soon. Thanks always for your kind support.

Ted

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09/24/09
Washington, D.C. – One day after Congressman Ron Klein (FL-22) called for urgent action to prevent reductions in benefits for seniors and other Social Security recipients, the U.S. House passed a fix by a broad, bipartisan majority.

Klein helped lead the fight to ensure that seniors, who are not scheduled to receive a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for the upcoming fiscal year, are protected from increases in Medicare Part B premiums. Without this Congressional fix, certain Social Security beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Part B, as well as new enrollees in Social Security and Medicare, would have faced a reduction in monthly social security benefits.
“Our seniors in South Florida and around the country face skyrocketing medical costs,” Klein said. “I have been fighting for a quick solution to ensure that Medicare premiums, which are rising every year, do not take an even larger bite out of Social Security benefits. I am extremely proud that my colleagues in the House heard the concerns of our seniors and acted quickly to ensure that their benefits are safe and secure.”

The legislation passed by the House today, the Medicare Premium Fairness Act (H.R. 3631), will protect seniors and people with disabilities from increases in their 2010 Medicare Part B premiums. The legislation, which is fully paid for and does not add to the deficit, makes sure that seniors can still access Medicare Part B services at no additional cost. Without today’s Congressional action, premiums for seniors who need services like doctor visits or home oxygen equipment would have risen from $96 to $120 per month.

“For the first time in 35 years, seniors will not receive a cost of living adjustment in their Social Security payments because inflation has not increased,” Klein said. “But if you tell our seniors inflation isn’t a concern, they’ll show you their medical bills and prove you wrong. The fact is, seniors have fundamentally different expenses than a typical family of four.”

Speaking in support of the bill on the House Floor, Klein added that “During these tough economic times, we cannot ask seniors who face staggering losses in the value of their homes and retirement plans and increased medical costs to make additional sacrifices. That is why the Medicare Premium Fairness Act is so important. This bill will ensure that next year’s premiums for all Medicare Part B beneficiaries will not increase by a dime.”

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A weekly service of the Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs Division
Topic: MVP = Consumer Confidence

Trap-- The Thompsons recently moved to Palm Beach County. They purchased a 1950’s style home that was in foreclosure and desperately needed remodeling. The expensive project will include new kitchen cabinets, painting, tile floors and upgrades to the old plumbing and electrical systems. They plan to save money by dealing directly with various contractors. They’re new to the area and apprehensive about which businesses to use. Here are some tips they should consider:

Tips-- Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs Division has its MVP Program which is a prototype public-private endeavor designed to promote consumer confidence and trust. The Division maintains a list of home service providers and other businesses which have voluntarily agreed to high standards in customer service.
• Participants in the program can easily be recognized by the MVP logo. The list of MVP members can be obtained from the Consumer Affairs Web site at http://www.pbcgov.com/mvp or by calling 561-712-6MVP (6687).
• Consumer Affairs also maintains a data base that in 2009 had over 1.2 million “look-ups” of its Business Information Reports which provides detailed information about 20,000+ companies.
• Extensive renovations require a licensed or certified contractor. Contact the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation by calling 850-487-1395 or checking their Web site at: http://www.myfloridalicense.com. To determine if a business needs to be certified, check the Palm Beach County Contractor’s Certification Web site at http://www.pbcgov.com/pzb/contractors or call 561-233-5525.

For more information, call Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs at 561-712-6600 (Boca/Delray 1-888-852-7362), or visit http://www.pbcgov.com/consumer.

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Each year, thousands of older Americans fall at home.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an older adult is treated in a hospital emergency room for a fall every 18 seconds, and every 35 minutes an older adult dies as a result of a fall related injury. In Florida, falls are the leading cause of injury, death and hospitalizations for residents 65 and over.

The good news is that falls are preventable. It is time we bring the issue of falls to light and address it as a community. The South Florida Fall Prevention Coalition, formed April, 2009, celebrated their first Fall Prevention Awareness Day this past September 22, the first day of fall 2009.

Whether you’re at risk, you know someone at risk, or you care for people who are at risk of falling, you can make or suggest a few changes to lower the chance of a fall. Experts recommend a physical activity regimen with balance, strength training, and flexibility components; consulting with a health professional about getting a fall risk assessment and making sure the home environment is safe and supportive.
For more information check online at http://www.miamidade.gov.
Also, take a moment to visit the CDC’s National Center for Injury Prevention and Control and read more on falls. http://cdc.gov/HomeandRecreationalSafety/Falls/adultfalls.html There are some useful podcasts to listen to as well.

In the upcoming months, the South Florida Fall Prevention Coalition will be in contact with you providing additional resources and information on local fall prevention programs that currently exist in Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties. Additionally, we want to find out what fall prevention action is currently taking place by you, your organization, or your community. Please send any questions or information to magec@med.miami.edu or call 305-355-9123.

Mamie Brisker, Coordinator
South Florida Fall Prevention Coalition

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Dear Friend: In preparation for an unpredictable flu season, local health departments are collaborating closely with schools and senior centers to reduce illness and limit disruption of day-to-day activities. The best prevention and protection is to stay informed of the latest guidelines, updates and recommendations from public health officials. We will be updating you in the near future on locations for flu shots through our local health departments.

The Florida Discount Drug Program--The Florida Discount Drug Card has been designed to lower the cost of prescriptions for Florida residents. This card is available to the following individuals:

• Anyone age 60 and older who is without prescription drug coverage or those who fall into the Medicare Prescription Drug Gap.
• Anyone under age 60 without prescription drug coverage, and with annual qualifying family income levels.
The Discount Drug Card can be used at participating pharmacies and eligible participants receive a discount on virtually all drugs. For more information on qualifying incomes and to learn more about the program, visit www.floridadiscountdrugcard.com/.

Long-Term Care in Florida

Florida’s Department of Elder Affairs provides free and unbiased counseling and assistance regarding long-term care planning and insurance options through its SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) program. The goal is to help people understand and receive the health insurance coverage they need through Medicare, Medicaid, Prescription Assistance, Long-Term Care Planning and Insurance. Various resources and Internet links are available at its website http://elderaffairs.state.fl.us/shine/
You may also contact the Elder Helpline at 1-800-963-5337 to speak directly to a SHINE counselor or email any questions to information@elderaffairs.org.

Florida Unclaimed Safe Deposit Box Auction October 24th--The Department of Financial Services will be holding an unclaimed property auction in Ft. Lauderdale at the Embassy Suites Hotel. The event is open to the public and includes tangible items such as watches, jewelry, coins, currency, stamps, historical items and other miscellaneous articles from abandoned safe deposit boxes. A free catalog is available on the Bureau of Unclaimed Property’s website. For more details visit www.FLTreasureHunt.org.

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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The H1N1 “swine flu” is a hot topic and I would like to update you on how your county and communities are responding.

There will be an initial 3.4 million doses of H1N1 vaccines to the United States. Palm Beach County (PBC) can expect 64,100 doses of that first round. Vaccinations will be distributed throughout Florida following the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) guidelines. This priority list contains five target groups that are more susceptible to the virus. They are: pregnant women; persons who live with or provide care for infants aged less than 6 months such as parents, siblings and daycare providers; health-care and emergency medical services personnel; persons aged 6 months to 24 years; and persons aged 25 to 64 years who have medical conditions that put them at higher risk for influenza-related complications.

Dr. Alina Alonso, Director of the PBC Health Department, recommends that people with respiratory illnesses stay home from work and school to avoid spreading infections. The health department has developed a checklist of items that will be distributed at Publix, Walgreens and CVS urging people to prepare for illness as they would a hurricane. Other helpful tips include:
• Avoid close contact with people who are coughing or otherwise appear ill
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• Wash hands frequently to lessen the spread of respiratory illnesses
• If you are sick with flu-like illness, the CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities and that you stay away from others to keep from making others sick

It is important to know that even if you receive the seasonal flu shot you will not be protected against H1N1, or vice versa. Many of you are already planning on getting your seasonal flu shot shortly by way of the Alliance of Delray Beach, the Coalition of Boynton West Residential Association (COBWRA) or by another means. Throughout the month of October the Alliance of Delray Beach will be supplying the serum to 40 communities within their membership and COBWRA is scheduled to administer the serum to 9400 residents in 47 Boynton communities. Both organizations are planning on providing similar services with the H1N1 vaccine as it becomes more readily available. The PBC Health Department is strongly recommending that people get both vaccinations and will be hosting outreach events to get vaccines to residents. For more information on these events, visit www.PBCHD.com or call 561-840-4500.

I would also like to suggest that individual communities make instant hand sanitizer available to its residents in all your common areas such as clubhouses, pool sides, card rooms, dining halls, etc.

For more information on H1N1 and the availability of vaccines, visit the CDC online at www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu or by calling 800-232-4636. Updates can also be found through the Florida Health Department at www.myflusafety.com or by phone at 877-352-3581.

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

Topic: Non-Medical Transportation Services

Trap-- Mike is wheelchair-dependant, and due to his condition he requires many visits to doctors and other medical facilities. He tries to schedule appointments around activities of friends and family, but sometimes this is very difficult. He was starting to feel trapped and less independent because he thought he had no other alternative. While on the way to his doctor’s office, Mike saw a van advertising wheelchair and stretcher service. He quickly made note of the telephone number and made plans to call. But who are they? Mike had lots of questions and was very interested in receiving more information.

Tips—Non-medical, wheelchair and stretcher transportation services are licensed and regulated in Palm Beach County. Here is some important information to consider:
• Palm Beach County Palm Tran Connection provides prearranged, shared-ride, door to door transportation. Services are provided under the following: Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), PBC Division of Senior Services (DOSS) and Transportation Disadvantaged (TD).
• Non-medical transportation providers are required to be licensed and insured. Permitted vehicles are inspected and are specially equipped to safely transport passengers who are wheelchair or stretcher-bound.
• Drivers must pass a criminal background check and driver history review before being issued a special Consumer Affairs Driver ID Badge. Drivers are not authorized to provide medical assistance to riders who need medical assistance while in transit.
• Taximeters are not used, and most fares are determined by a flat rate.
Check out licensed non-medical, wheelchair and stretcher transportation companies at the Consumer Affairs Web site: http://www.pbcgov.com/consumer or call 561-712-6600 (Boca/Delray 1-888-852-7362) for more information.

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by Judi Gray

Confused about what can be placed in the yellow and blue recycle bins or the amount of trash that can be placed at the curb for weekly pickup? Hopefully the following information will help banish that uncertainty.

Paper products are to go in the yellow recycle bins. This would include newspapers, magazines/catalogs, unwanted mail, school/office papers, phone books, paper bags and all cardboard boxes (including beverage cartons, tissue boxes, dry food boxes, corrugated cardboard. Boxes must be flattened and cut to 3’ x 3’ maximum.

Recyclable containers go in your blue recycle bin. These include plastic containers, steel cans, aluminum cans, foil pie plates, drink boxes, milk and juice cartons and glass bottles and jars.

Contamination affects the marketability of the materials collected so be careful not to place plastic grocery bags, Styrofoam or food waste in your recycle bins.
If you need to replace your recycle bins or if you would like to order a set of bins you can call the Solid Waste Authority (SWA) at 561-123-4567

Residential Yard Waste (Vegetation) Collection
The limit allowed for the collection of yard waste (loose and containerized combined) is 6 cubic yards per week, which is equivalent to 3 standard size refrigerators. With the exception of tree branches and palm fronds, yard waste must be containerized in standard 32-50 gallon cans or sealed in plastic bags. Weight is not to exceed 50 pounds and branches must be less than 6 feet in length. Do not mix yard waste with garbage or other debris.

Construction Debris
Home construction rubbish is limited to 2 cubic yards per collection (equal to a standard size refrigerator). Items must be containerized in standard 32-50 gallon cans or sealed in plastic bags and weigh no more than 50 pounds. Carpeting must be cut to 4-foot lengths, and rolled up. With the exception of carpeting, any construction debris from minor home repairs placed on the ground and not containerized will not be collected. Major construction debris such as roofing shingles, fencing, concrete blocks, bricks, and asphalt are never collected curbside.

Hazardous Waste Material Disposal
Household hazardous wastes such as propane tanks, fluorescent light bulbs, oil based paint, auto batteries and pesticides are not collected curbside. You may drop off your hazardous waste at any designated SWA site at no charge. The closest drop off site for Lakes residents is located at 6161 North Jog Road, West Palm Beach 33412. Operation hours are Monday through Friday from 7 am to 5 pm and Saturday from 7 am to 5 pm.

For additional information about the Solid Waste Authority please visit their web site at www.SWA.org

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Dear Friend, With one in seven adults functioning at the lowest levels of literacy and 31 percent of our third graders unable to read at grade level, the Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County is working hard to meet the literacy needs of children and adults in South Florida. September is National Literacy Month, and as part of this celebration, the Literacy Coalition is partnering with various organizations and businesses in Palm Beach County to raise awareness about literacy issues in our community.
For their next event, the Literacy Coalition has invited all parents and grandparents to read The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle to the preschool children in their lives. The goal is to have as many adults and preschoolers as possible reading the same book together on October 8 as part of the national Read for the Record Celebration. The Literacy Coalition will be sponsoring an event on October 8 at 10 a.m. where local celebrities will read books and lead fun activities with preschool children at Mounts Botanical Gardens, 531 N Military Trail in West Palm Beach. For more information call 561-279-9103.

Win a One-Year Tri-Rail Transit Pass--Tri-Rail is offering commuters a chance to win a one-year transit pass as part of their “Go Green & Save” campaign to promote the economic and environmental benefits of riding Tri-Rail. According to the American Public Transportation Association, commuters can save up to $8,000 per year by riding Tri-Rail to work or school. To register, visit tri-rail.com or call 1-800-TRI-RAIL. Contest entrees will be accepted through the end of September.

Stay Informed with Florida Insurance Consumer Tools--The State of Florida has many online resources available to help insurance consumers save money, find the best products for their needs and monitor costs. A particularly useful tool is available at shopandcomparerates.com, which allows consumers to review and compare homeowner’s insurance rates in Florida.

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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Southern Palm Beach County Projects: 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 work is being performed by Weekley Asphalt Paving, Inc. and is expected to be completed late 2009.

Restrictions: Daytime lane closures will occur, 7 a.m. until 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday, between SW/NW12th Avenue and Swinton Avenue and from U.S. 1 to A1A for project-related work. Nighttime paving operations will begin on Wednesday, September 30, between I-95 and Swinton Avenue. Paving will occur between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m., Sunday night through Friday morning. One lane will remain open in each direction at all times. On-street parking and access to side streets may be temporarily restricted. Detours will be established when necessary. Access to local businesses will be maintained at all times. Motorists might experience delays.

S.R. 7 / U.S. 441 from the Broward County Line to Glades Road -- Construction on this 2.9-mile project began February 9, 2009. Work consists of milling and resurfacing, curb ramp replacement, guardrail, and signalization. The project will cost an estimated $4.7 million. The work is being performed by Hardrives of Delray, Inc. and is expected to be completed late 2009

Restrictions: Lane closures will occur at various locations, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday, between Glades Road and the Broward County Line. Paving operations will resume on Sunday night October 4. This work will be done from 6:30 p.m. until 5 a.m., Sunday through Thursday nights and last approximately three weeks. At least one lane will remain open at all times. Access to turn lanes and driveways may be temporarily affected. Motorists should anticipate delays.

Powerline Road / S.R. 845 from the Broward County Line to Glades Road -- Construction on this 3-mile project began Tuesday, May 26, 2009. Work consists of milling and resurfacing, minor widening and reconstruction, signalization, lighting, drainage, bridge replacement, irrigation and landscaping. The project will cost an estimated $9.7 million. The work is being performed by Ranger Construction Industries and is expected to be completed summer 2011.

Restrictions: Travel lanes will be closed at various locations between Glades Road and the Broward County Line, 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. The contractor will install temporary barrier wall and established continuous lane closures at various locations, as necessary, for drainage work. At least one lane will remain open in each direction at all times. Motorists should use caution and anticipate delays.

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Tipping

As Americans we're neurotic, guilt-prone, and don't want to be thought of as cheap or ignorant. Those are some of the reasons that Cornell professor Michael Lynn has found in his 20 years of research on tipping behavior about Americans.

"The major reason people tip," said Lynn, "is to avoid social disapproval."
So much for rewarding good service.
In fact, Lynn, found that how customers rate service has a very small effect on the amount they choose to tip in restaurants. About 4 percent of the variability in tip size is due to their rating of the service provider, his research revealed. That's the same level of variability that the sun has on tip size. (Folks tend to tip more on sunny days.)
“It also has been argued,” Lynn said, “that our willingness to tip regardless of service reflects a sense that the customer is in a better position financially than the server and wishes to avoid incurring the server's envy. A tip, then, is a payment to reduce that envy,"

It's also a way for the equality-minded to feel less guilty about being served. Looking across cultures, he has found that tips tend to be higher in countries where there is greater neuroticism about and intolerance of ambiguous situations.

Unfortunately it doesn’t seem to bother many people that play golf at our local public county run golf courses. My friend (who must remain anonymous if he wants to keep his job), works at one of these local clubs as a bag carrier.

“You would be amazed at how many people whose golf bag I have just lifted from their car and placed on a golf cart seem to accept this service as being included in their green fees, and do not hand me a buck or two for the effort,” he told me recently. “The same thing happens when they have completed their round and I return the clubs back to their car; maybe a mumbled ‘Thank you.’ More often not even that or a tip. And some of these bags seem to way a ton.”

So the next time you enjoy a round of golf at one of our beautiful public courses at The Links in Boynton Beach, the Delray Golf Club, Lakeville Golf Course, Kings Point Executive, Southwinds or Boca Raton Municipal, show the bag person you appreciate his saving you the job of lugging your heavy golf bag. Slip him a buck or two. It will help the economy.

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

Topic: Complete this Survey and get Paid!

Trap: Maria in Delray Beach received an unsolicited e-mail from a fast food restaurant chain. It offered her an opportunity to participate in their customer satisfaction survey. All she had to do was complete the online survey, provide her bank account number, hit the send button, and $80 would be transferred to her account! Six weeks later, Maria had received no payment and also noticed unauthorized charges on her bank statement. Alarmed that she might have been a victim of identity theft, she wondered what to do next.

Tips: Here are some warning signs to consider before completing an online survey:
• Beware of promises to pay large amounts of money for little effort. Most online surveys don’t pay you $250 to answer a few simple questions. If they pay you at all, it will probably be $5 - $20.
• Bogus survey sites use well-known companies or sound-a-like names to get your personal information. Never provide your bank account, credit card, or social security number in response to e-mail surveys or solicitations.
• Reputable companies don’t ask for your personal information over the Internet. If you receive suspicious e-mails, alert your e-mail provider’s “Spam” department.
• Contact your bank immediately if you notice unauthorized access to your accounts. If you are a victim of identity theft, contact your local law enforcement agency to file a report and to ask for an ID theft kit.

For more information, contact the Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs Division at 561-712-6600 (Boca/Delray 1-888-852-7362) or check out company consumer complaints at: http://www.pbcgov.com/consumer.

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Warning..!!!! Just last weekend on Friday night we parked in a public parking area. As we drove away I noticed a sticker on the rear window of the car. When I took it off after I got home, it was a receipt for gas. Luckily my friend told me not to stop as it could be someone waiting for me to get out of the car. Then we received this email yesterday:

WARNING FROM POLICE:

THIS APPLIES TO BOTH WOMEN AND MEN

BEWARE OF PAPER ON THE BACK WINDOW OF YOUR VEHICLE--
NEW WAY TO DO CARJACKINGS (NOT A JOKE)

Heads up everyone! Please, keep this circulating... You walk across the parking lot, unlock your car and get inside. You start the engine and shift into Reverse. When you look into the rearview mirror to back out of your parking space, you notice a piece of paper stuck to the middle of the rear window. So, you shift into Park, unlock your doors, and jump out of your car to remove that paper (or whatever it is) that is obstructing your view. When you reach the back of your car, that is when the carjackers appear out of nowhere, jump into your car and take off. They practically mow you down as they speed off in your car.

And guess what, ladies? I bet your purse is still in the car. So now the carjacker has your car, your home address, your money, and your keys. Your home and your whole identity are now compromised!

BEWARE OF THIS NEW SCHEME THAT IS NOW BEING USED.
If you see a piece of paper stuck to your back window, just drive away. Remove the paper later. And be thankful that you read this message. I hope you will alert your friends and family, especially to women. A purse contains all kinds of personal information and identification documents, and you certainly do NOT want this to fall into the wrong hands.

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Dear Members:
Our long fought battle to stop University, Coral Ridge and Riverside Drive from crossing the Hillsboro Canal is finally over after more than seven years. Yes, I've said this in the past, but truly there are no more "road blocks". The Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously on Tuesday to abandon the final portions of these roads, which was the last step necessary to turn the "Golden Triangle" over to Broward County.

The removal of these roads will keep 70,000 cars a day off our streets and, most importantly, away from our many schools ensuring the safety of our children and residents---our number one goal. Thank you to all the residents that helped by sending letters, making phone calls and attending the many meetings. A special thank you to Commissioner Burt Aaronson for helping us see this through to the very end.

Sincerely,
Sheri A. Scarborough, President, West Boca Community Council

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Facing foreclosure? Already in foreclosure? I am here to help YOU!

I’d like to introduce my latest project: “Sachs Brings H.O.P.E to YOU”! An all-day workshop designed to educate our community and college students about financial responsibility. I will be joining forces with the already established and well-oiled machine, the “H.O.P.E for Palm Beach County Taskforce”, which focuses on helping those residents of Palm Beach County who might or are facing the possibility of losing their home due to foreclosure. In addition, there will be on hand financial aid specialists, credit card counselors, and other experts who can and assist the students and explain recent changes, such as the Credit Card Bill of Rights. The event will also address the needs of not only the students but the greater community. As mentioned the H.O.P.E for Palm Beach Task Force will be on hand along with counselors and other elected and local dignitaries. Community residents seeking help with their mortgage should attend the 10:00AM-1:00PM workshop, whereas, students should come to the afternoon workshop, 2:00PM-5:00PM.

This event is FREE and will take place at the Boca Raton campus of Florida Atlantic University behind the Student Union on Thursday, October 1.

JOIN SACHS’ TEAM--Every year legislators travel to our state’s capital in Tallahassee and sponsor six bills. These are six opportunities to change the environment in which we live. So many of you are interested in various areas of our life. Be it education, healthcare, veterans affairs, or disaster preparedness now is your chance to have your voice heard and become part of the change we so desperately need in this state. Sign up now for one of my “Blue Ribbon Committees”. You can become part of the process by contacting my office by e-mail, fax or phone. I look forward to working with you.
On a more fun note, how would you like to volunteer at my above mentioned workshop? It is the ideal opportunity to give back to your community and be a part of our effort to help distressed homeowners keep their homes. If you are available on October 1 and would like to be an official member of “Teach Sachs”, please call me directly. I would love to have you on board!

SACHS’ TIP OF THE WEEK: Did you know that
• Once a month, Bank of America cardholders can visit local museums for free. The Museums on Us program offers free admission to nine South Florida museums on the first full weekend of every month.
• You can dial 411 for FREE: 1-800-FREE-411 or 1-800-GOOG-411
• One way to cut down on your phone bill is to ask to have the activation fee waived. It never hurts to ask and why not save some $$$.
• AARP Members can receive a 5% discount on monthly service charges.

Please visit my new website www.mariasachs.com to stay connected to everything you have read in this newsletter. Along with the latest news from my office and instant updates on my calendar.

As always, it is a true honor to serve as the State Representative for District 86, and if you have any questions and/or comments, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Maria Sachs
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To read my story in Sunday, Sept. 13 Sun-Sentinel CLICK HERE.

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September 11, 2009
Dear Friend, The Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation released the latest employment figures recently, and their findings are simply staggering. Nearly one million Floridians are jobless today, struggling to survive in an economic storm that has battered Florida for months. At 10.7 percent, Florida’s unemployment rate for July is the highest it’s been in 34 years. And while thousands struggle to find a new job or fight to hold on to the one they have, health care costs are increasing, gas prices are going up and it is getting more and more expensive to send our kids to college. Our citizens, and the small businesses that employ so many of them, are in need of serious, common-sense solutions to help weather the economic storm we are currently facing.

Florida families affected by unemployment are clearly feeling the economic crunch and so are their former employers. Florida businesses contribute taxes to the Florida Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund that are used to pay unemployment benefits to their former employees. With so many Floridians receiving unemployment benefits to stay afloat until they can find a new job, the trust fund recently became entirely depleted. As a short term fix, the state borrowed over $6 million from the federal government to replenish the trust fund, but if Florida is to continue providing unemployment benefits, we need to make significant changes to prevent a dramatic increase in taxes on small businesses or a cut to critical benefits.

I co-sponsored legislation last session that would have modernized our 75-year-old unemployment laws to allow Florida to receive $444 million in unemployment benefits from the federal economic recovery package. The legislation prevents an unemployed individual from being disqualified for benefits if he or she separates from work for compelling family reasons, such as to care for an ill or disabled family member or follow a spouse whose job has been relocated. Unfortunately the majority of the Florida House of Representatives blocked these changes, and I am both disappointed and frustrated that we were not able to bring needed relief to so many Floridians and small businesses. I will be fighting for these changes again during the next legislative session and I hope my colleagues will do what is right for Florida.
9/11 Remembrance Day: My condolences go out to the family members of those whose lives were lost on September 11, 2001, and thank you to the brave heroes who responded to the emergency in our time of need. You will always be in my thoughts and prayers.

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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To read my article in Sunday, September 13 Sun-Sentinel CLICK HERE.

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Southern Palm Beach County Projects: 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 work is being performed by Weekley Asphalt Paving, Inc. and is expected to be completed late 2009.

Restrictions: Daytime lane closures will occur, 7 a.m. until 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday, between SW/NW12th Avenue and Swinton Avenue and from U.S. 1 to A1A for project-related work. One lane will remain open in each direction at all times. On-street parking and access to side streets may be temporarily restricted. Detours will be established when necessary. Access to local businesses will be maintained at all times. Motorists might experience delays.

S.R. 7 / U.S. 441 from the Broward County Line to Glades Road--Construction on this 2.9-mile project began February 9, 2009. Work consists of milling and resurfacing, curb ramp replacement, guardrail, and signalization. The project will cost an estimated $4.7 million. The work is being performed by Hardrives of Delray, Inc. and is expected to be completed late 2009

Restrictions: Lane closures will occur at various locations, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday, between Glades Road and the Broward County Line. At least one lane will remain open at all times. Access to turn lanes and driveways may be temporarily affected. Motorists should anticipate delays.

Powerline Road / S.R. 845 from the Broward County Line to Glades Road--Construction on this 3-mile project began Tuesday, May 26, 2009. Work consists of milling and resurfacing, minor widening and reconstruction, signalization, lighting, drainage, bridge replacement, irrigation and landscaping. The project will cost an estimated $9.7 million. The work is being performed by Ranger Construction Industries and is expected to be completed summer 2011.

Restrictions: Northbound and southbound travel lanes will be closed at various locations between Glades Road and the Broward County Line, 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. At least one lane will remain open in each direction at all times; however, turn lanes might be affected. Motorists should use caution and anticipate delays.
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To read my story in Sunday, Sept. 13 Sun-Sentinel CLICK HERE.

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Consumer Traps & Tips--A weekly service of the Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs Division
Topic: Wreck Chasers

Trap--Margie was driving home and stopped for a red light. The car behind her didn’t stop and ran into her. Although dazed, Margie was able to call 9-1-1 and report the accident. Within minutes, a man appeared and gave Margie a business card for a body shop. The man said that he could tow her car to the shop, and they would fix it like new. The shop could also waive her insurance deductible! Although still upset, Margie agreed. The next day she spoke with her insurance agent and decided to have her car repaired elsewhere. Margie called the body shop and was told she would need to pay $750 in cash to get her car released. Margie was stunned. How could this happen?

Tips--Beware of “wreck chasers” and remember these tips:
• “Wreck chasers” monitor the police channels with scanners to get to accidents and take advantage of drivers who may not be thinking clearly. They promise discounted rates and savings on insurance deductibles.
• “Wreck chasers” usually have an affiliation with a body shop that pays them for their services.
• Most law enforcement agencies have procedures to call for a licensed and insured towing company to recover your vehicle safely after an accident. If the law enforcement agency is not under contract with a towing company, the maximum fees are regulated by the Palm Beach County Board of Commissioners.
• Keep the business card of a local reputable licensed tow company in your vehicle, just in case. It is a good idea to establish a relationship with a towing company. Even though you may be a member of AAA, often their tow companies are unable to timely respond to an accident scene.

If you need more information, call Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs at 561-712-6600 (Boca/Delray 1-888-852-7362), or visit http://www.pbcgov.com/consumer for a list of licensed towing companies that meet Palm Beach County requirements and to see if other consumers have complaints against a towing company you are considering.

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Time-Saving Conveniences Offset Impact of Budget Cuts

As your Clerk & Comptroller, I am committed to providing you with the highest quality of service and that’s why I’m taking steps to minimize the impact of recent legislative budget and staff cuts on our customers. For example, we’ve determined the best, non-peak hours to visit our offices for the fastest services. Your time is valuable, so please use our “Ideal Times to Visit” chart to plan your business with the Clerk’s office. We are closely monitoring wait times and will revise the chart, as needed, on our Web site, www.mypalmbeachclerk.com.

We’ve also implemented a system at the South County Courthouse, our busiest branch location, which allows us to monitor current wait times and report them to you. Customers using the Clerk’s office in Delray Beach may call (561) 355-2996 to find out up-to-the-minute wait times for criminal and civil services.

Don’t forget, you can also avoid a trip to the Clerk’s office by going online. Many services including traffic ticket payments, court and official record searches, Self Service online court forms, Value Adjustment Board petitions and more are right at your fingertips at www.mypalmbeachclerk.com. In fact, to save you time, we’ve recently made all our online information and services easier to find with an improved customer-friendly Web site. It’s easier than ever to find what you need with helpful drop-down menus that include quick links to our most popular services, keyword searches on each page and more.

Making information and services easier to access online helps everyone! If you haven’t already, please take a look, and tell us what you think. Or, simply send me an email with your thoughts and comments.

Best regards,
Sharon R. Bock, Esq.
Clerk & Comptroller
Palm Beach County

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Dear Friend: The beginning of the school year is one of the best times to participate in stimulating educational activities and take advantage of new services available to educators, students and their families. The following activities and services provided by the State of Florida are great opportunities to facilitate learning and participate in the improvement of education in our state.

Free State Park Admission September 11-13 to Celebrate Literacy--The governor has designated September 2009 as Florida State Parks Literacy Month to encourage reading in our state parks. In recognition of National Library Card Sign Up Month, park visitors who bring a library card, a book checked out from a library, or donate a new or gently used family-friendly book will be granted free admission from September 11-13.Visit floridastateparks.org or call 850-245-2157 for more information.

For information on how to obtain a library card, visit pbclibrary.org/cardfaq.htm if you live in Palm Beach County and browardlibrary.org/lcapp.html if you live in Broward County.

College and Career Planning Tools Available to Middle and High School Students--As part of Florida’s Career and Education Planning course requirement for middle school students, the Florida Department of Education provides middle school and high school students with access to an electronic Personal Education Plan (ePEP). ePEP allows students and parents to create a high school plan for achieving college and career goals, offers assistance in selecting appropriate courses, and tracks a student’s progress toward meeting his or her goals. To sign up for ePEP or to find more information on college and career planning, visit FACTS.org.

Public Input Needed for Florida’s Application for Federal Education Funds--The Florida Department of Education is looking to the public for innovative ideas to include in their competitive grant application for federal education funds. Portions of the $4.35 billion “Race to the Top” education fund will be awarded to states on the basis of past achievements in education and plans for future improvements. The submission deadline is September 11. To submit your ideas, click here.

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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Dear Friends: I want to update you on news relating to some of the legislation and initiatives that I have been working on recently.

First, in response to the recent cancer-fighting legislation I sponsored (which was signed into law), the American Cancer Society has invited me to Washington, DC to present me with its National Distinguished Advocacy Award. I am grateful to be chosen to receive this honor, and I am very proud that this legislation will help reduce the number of smokers in Florida while generating over one billion dollars for health care. In addition, the new law allocates $50 million per year for cancer research right here in our state.

In a recent email, I wrote about the dangers of texting while driving and my strong belief that we need to push for a law that specifically bans it. A small number of you questioned the need for a new law when there are already laws on the books for failure to use due care. Unfortunately, too many drivers don’t see texting while driving as falling into that category, even if it does. A specific law to ban texting would provide more incentive for drivers to keep their eyes on the road – thereby saving lives.

As an advocate for a texting-while-driving ban, I have been invited to participate in the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Distracted Driving Summit – designed to facilitate a structured conversation among government, academia, and the private sector on current and future initiatives to address the safety issues associated with distracted driving.

Of particular interest to me (and of great relevance to Florida) is a panel that will review “legislative and regulatory approaches for dealing with distracted driving; evaluations of the impact of such measures; enforcement issues; and public attitudes towards the issue.”

If this issue is of interest to you, a live webcast of the seminar that I will participate in (which occurs from 9/30-10/1) will be broadcast on the DOT website. Further information as it becomes available can be found at the Department's website:

http://www.rita.dot.gov/distracted_driving_summit/

In the meantime, I hope you have a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend, and I will continue to update you on my re-election campaign as we move forward.

With warm regards,

State Senator Ted Deutch
www.tedforflorida.com

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Battalion 4 Chief Tom Tolbert brought crew members from Station 42, Hagen Ranch Road to Wenesday's Alliance of Delray Residential Associations meeting at South County Civic Center to demonstrate what action the men and women of Fire Rescue do in response to a 911 emergency call for a heart attack victim.

The "patient" once stabalized is then removed to an ambulance.

The finely trained and courageous men and woman of Station 42 stand by after completing demonstration.

The Alliance of Delray meets the first Wednesday of each month through May 2010 at 9:30 AM at the Civic Center, uinder the leadership of Bob Schulbaum, President. The public is always welcome. To learn more about the Alliance of Delray CLICK HERE.

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Consumer Traps & Tips--A weekly service of the Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs Division
Topic: The Dry Cleaner Shrank My Suit
Trap: Sonia from Royal Palm Beach was eager to wear her freshly dry cleaned suit to her business meeting. When she put on the pants, however, she could barely zip and button them. The pant legs didn’t reach her ankles, the jacket was tight, and the sleeves didn’t reach her wrists. The dry cleaner had shrunk her suit!
Tips: Most people have very few problems with dry cleaners, but even one issue can be upsetting. Here are some “before and after” steps you can take:
• Read the care label carefully. An item may be washable and not require dry cleaning. If either method is allowed, make sure your preference is clear to the dry cleaner.
• When dropping off clothing, make sure the claim ticket lists all items. Check the reverse side of the ticket for any store policies.
• When picking up, make sure all items are present before leaving the store. Check for any damaged items or do so as soon as you get home. Promptly notify the store and return any damaged items.
• Speak with the owner or manager about any damages. Good dry cleaners will offer solutions: repeat the cleaning process, re-weave a hole, block and re-shape a garment, etc.
• If the store assumes liability, the remedy may be limited to monetary compensation based on the age and condition of the garment, a pre-determined formula, or a policy that provides store credit only.
• Care labels can be wrong! In such situations, the manufacturer is at fault. Return the item to the retail store for directions on how to contact the manufacturer.
For more information, contact Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs at 561-712-6600 (Boca/Delray/Glades 1-888-852-7362) or visit http://www.pbcgov.com/consumer to check if other consumers have filed complaints against a store you are considering.

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Dear Friend: Citizen involvement is the key to successful communities. Being informed and speaking out allows public officials to know how constituents feel about issues. Due to the many changes being proposed to county budgets, I strongly encourage urge you to participate in the public budget hearings that will be taking place in the upcoming weeks.

2010 BUDGET PUBLIC HEARINGS--State law requires that two public hearings be held to discuss a budget prior to adoption. These hearings are opportunities for the public to comment on the development of the county’s fiscal year budget.

In Palm Beach County the meetings will be held on September 8th and 21st at 6:00 p.m. in the Jane Thompson Memorial Chambers on the 6th floor of the Governmental Center, 301 N. Olive Avenue, West Palm Beach. Hearings will be televised on PBCTV-20 and webcast live on www.pbcgov.com/publicaffairs/video/channel20.ram

In Broward County the meetings will be held on September 10th and 22nd at 5:00 p.m. in the Broward County Governmental Center, 115 S. Andrews Ave., Room 422, Ft. Lauderdale. Public hearings are televised on participating cable channels and webcast live on www.broward.org

Palm Beach County Citizen’s Criminal Justice Academy--Find out what goes on in our local criminal justice system by attending the Citizen's Criminal Justice Academy. The program will provide a good foundation of knowledge and introduce you to our local criminal justice professionals. The free 10-week course will include tours of the Juvenile Assessment Center, Main County Courthouse, Main County Detention Center, Medical Examiner's Office and the 9-1-1 center. Classes will take place between 6 and 9 p.m. on Thursdays from October 8th through December 17th at the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office headquarters at 3228 Gun Club Road in West Palm Beach.

Registration is limited to the first 50 people who sign up by Sept. 10. For more information you may call 561-355-4943 or go online at www.co.palm-beach.fl.us/criminaljustice

2009 International Coastal Cleanup--On Saturday, September 19th at 8:00 a.m. help our coastline and become a part of the world's largest, one-day volunteer effort to clean up our marine environment. Last year, nearly 400,000 participants collected more than 6.8 million pounds of trash in 100 countries and 42 US states. In our state, the International Coastal Cleanup is much more than just removing trash. Volunteers gather valuable information about the types and sources of debris found. Analyzed and tracked year by year, this information serves as a powerful tool for educating the public, influencing public policy, and effecting positive behavioral change on the part of individuals, organizations, and communities.

For more information about the cleanup and locations you may go to www.coastalcleanup.org In Palm Beach County go online at Keep Palm Beach County Beautiful and in Broward County call (954) 519-1230.

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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Palm Beach County Traffic Report August 28 through September 4, 2009

Palm Beach County – Palm Beach County traffic will be affected this week by ongoing construction project 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, I-95 traffic information, call 511. 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. FDOT and the SunGuide™ Partners provide these free services. For updated lane closure information, please refer to www.pbfdot.com.

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August 21, 2009
Dear Friend, as we approach the middle of the 2009 Hurricane Season, now would be the best time to check on your disaster preparedness supplies and go over your family’s emergency plan. If a hurricane or severe tropical storm is threatening our coast, you can obtain real-time hurricane updates through local county offices. In Palm Beach County go to www.pbcgov.com and in Broward County go to www.co.broward.fl.us to subscribe to a hurricane e-mail update. Remember, being prepared is the most important thing you can do to ensure the safety of your home and family.

August is “Kids Get a Plan Month” for Disaster Preparedness--The Florida Division of Emergency Management has developed a new interactive web site to help kindergarten through fifth grade students have the opportunity to learn about disaster preparedness at school and home. The web site features online activities that allow students to assemble virtual supply kits, learn how to stay safe during a thunderstorm, how to prepare their home for severe weather and how to protect themselves from hazards such as tornadoes. For more information visit www.KidsGetAPlan.com

FDOT Launches New 511 Traveler Information System--The Florida Department of Transportation recently launched a new statewide 511 Traveler Information System that provides information on roadway conditions such as construction, traffic delays, lane closures, crashes and safety alerts. Call 511 or visit FL511.com for more information.
Consumer Alert: Fraudulent Foreclosure Rescue Services--The Florida Attorney General’s Office has filed a lawsuit in Palm Beach County against four South Florida companies offering loan modification services to homeowners facing foreclosure. The companies claim to be able to lower your mortgage payment after receiving an up-front fee for their service, but the Attorney General’s Office has found that they are taking money from consumers without performing any services. The four companies under investigation are FHAAllday.com, Safety Financial Services Inc., Housing Assistance Law Center and Housing Assistance Now.

To file a complaint against any of these companies, or if you think you have been harmed by another loan modification company, visit myfloridalegal.com/mortgagefraud.

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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Here’s news you can use: The SeniorNet Learning Center has found a new home and also has changed it name to Computer Learning Center, Inc.

They are now located on the campus of Temple Shaarei Shalom at 9085 Hagen Ranch Rd, Boynton Beach, FL. Their website which contains all information about location, courses available, schedules and registration procedure is www.clcbb.org .
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To read my Sunday, August 23 article in Sun-Sentinel CLICK HERE.

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Southern Palm Beach Road 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 work is being performed by Weekley Asphalt Paving, Inc. and is expected to be completed in fall 2009.

Restrictions: All lanes are open.

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 work is being performed by Weekley Asphalt Paving, Inc. and is expected to be completed late 2009.

Restrictions: Daytime lane closures will occur, 7 a.m. until 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday, between SW/NW12th Avenue and Swinton Avenue. One lane will remain open in each direction at all times. On-street parking and access to side streets may be temporarily restricted. Detours will be established when necessary. Access to local businesses will be maintained at all times. Motorists may experience delays.

S.R. 7 / U.S. 441 from the Broward County Line to Glades Road--Construction on this 2.9-mile project began February 9, 2009. Work consists of milling and resurfacing, curb ramp replacement, guardrail, and signalization. The project will cost an estimated $4.7 million. The work is being performed by Hardrives of Delray, Inc. and is expected to be completed late 2009

Restrictions: Lane closures will occur at various locations, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday, between Glades Road and the Broward County Line. At least one lane will remain open at all times. Access to turn lanes and driveways may be temporarily affected. Motorists should anticipate delays.

Powerline Road / S.R. 845 from the Broward County Line to Glades Road--Construction on this 3-mile project began Tuesday, May 26, 2009. Work consists of milling and resurfacing, minor widening and reconstruction, signalization, lighting, drainage, bridge replacement, irrigation and landscaping. The project will cost an estimated $9.7 million. The work is being performed by Ranger Construction Industries and is expected to be completed summer 2011.

Restrictions: Travel lanes will be closed at various locations between Glades Road and the Broward County Line, 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. The contractor has installed temporary barrier wall and established continuous lane closures at various locations for drainage work. At least one lane will remain open in each direction at all times. Motorists should use caution and anticipate delays.
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Here’s news you can use: The SeniorNet Learning Center has found a new home and also has changed it name to Computer Learning Center, Inc.

They are now located on the campus of Temple Shaarei Shalom at 9085 Hagen Ranch Rd, Boynton Beach, FL. Their website which contains all information about location, courses available, schedules and registration procedure is www.clcbb.org .
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To read my Sunday, August 23 article in Sun-Sentinel CLICK HERE.

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Thursday evening, August 20, 2009 Public TV and Radio station WXEL conducted a Foreclosure Crisis Symposium from 7 to 9 PM at the South County Civic Center, Delray Beach, in coordination with the South County Partnership: Alliance of Delray Residential Associations; Coalition of Boynton West Residential Associations and West Boca Community Council.

Steve Pomeranz, who conducts the radio program “On the Money” on WXEL 90.7FM was the moderator. Participants were State Senator Ted Deutch, District 30; Attorney Louis Caplan, Partner at Sachs, Sax and Caplan Law Firm and Colleen A. Donahue, Interim Condominium Ombudsman.

(Shown in photo: Sen. Ted Deutch, Bob Schulbaum, Pres. of Alliance of Delray; Sheri Scarborough, Pres. West Boca Community Council; Louis Caplan; Steve Pomeranz.)

Senator Deutch presented sobering figures pertaining to foreclosures in Florida. There have been 271,300 foreclosures in the state since January 2009. In July there were 57,000 foreclosures. Palm Beach County had 2,652 foreclosures in the month of July. The major point made was when a foreclosure occurs, the remaining residents in a condo association or HOA pick up the costs of maintaining the foreclosed property. This forces boards of directors to levy special assessments. When that happens additional residents may be forced into foreclosure because they cannot afford to pay the assessment.

Sen. Deutch stated the banks were taking from 18 to 24 months to take possession of a foreclosed property. They stall this process because they do not want to be responsible for the monthly maintenance outlay they must make to the association once they take over the property.

One member of the audience suggested with the power of the numbers of residents we have in the area we should use that as leverage with the banks to force them to assume responsibility for the foreclosed property more quickly. If they do not comply then we should take our accounts to other banks that will be more cooperative.

Sen. Deutch will suggest to the legislature that a special session be held where banks and consumers sit down with legislators and come to some solution to these serious foreclosure problems.

Attorney Lou Caplan spoke at length stating the banks have more money to lend now than they had a year ago. With the foreclosure situation so dire, many community boards are putting off improvements to save money. This has impacted many supplier companies such as landscaper’s, tree trimmers, paint contractors, etc. forcing some to go out of business.

It is important, stated Caplan that boards go after non-payers of special assessments, and/or monthly dues. He described the legal process involved. For condo associations a letter to put a lien on a property can be sent after thirty days of non-payment. After another 30 days of non-payment a letter of foreclosure can be sent. With HOA’s the procedure is extended to 45 days instead of 30.

He suggested some options to avoid foreclosure a board can offer a resident: Consider an extended payment plan. Or stop resident from using the community facilities.
It is important for boards to consult their legal counsel for the proper procedures to use.

The Ombudsman representative, Colleen A. Donahue stressed that all legal means be used by boards so abuses to residents do not occur.

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Representative Kevin Rader is pleased to announce that Citizens Property Insurance Corporation will be holding “Office Hours” in his Boynton Beach office on Tuesday, September 1st 2009 from 10 a.m. - 12 noon. Senior staff members with Citizens will be available to answer questions and to assist constituents who have been experiencing difficulties with their policy.

In 2002, the Florida Legislature created Citizens Property Insurance Corporation (Citizens), a not-for-profit alternative insurer, whose public purpose is to provide insurance to, and serve the needs of, property owners who cannot find coverage in the private insurance market.
Appointments are needed for Citizens “Office Hours.” Please call Representative Rader’s Boynton Beach office at (561) 279-1633 to schedule your time to meet with Citizens staff.

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

Topic: Medical Identity Theft Can Be Hazardous to Your Health

Trap--Christopher has never had serious health issues, so he was surprised to learn he owed thousands of dollars for emergency medical services. He had just requested a copy of his credit report since he was getting married and planned to buy his first home. The credit report showed several collection notices for various medical services around the country all under his name.

Tips--Medical Identity Theft: someone uses your name, insurance information or other personal information to make false claims for medical services or goods. The imposter’s health problems and vital information, including blood type, prescription drug use, allergies or diseases, could become part of your medical record. Victims of medical identity theft may receive the wrong medical treatment, find health insurance benefits have been exhausted, or become uninsurable for life/health insurance coverage based on erroneous information. The unpaid medical debts of the impostor could end up on your credit report.
Preventative steps to take:
• Closely monitor any “explanations of benefits” sent by your insurer.
• Be pro-active: Request a list of benefits paid in your name once a year. (Imposters might change the billing address so you do not see the bills.)
• Request a copy of current medical files from each medical provider and immediately correct erroneous/false information.
• Regularly check your credit report (http://www.annualcreditreport.com)
• Request an accounting of disclosures: you have a right to know what information was disclosed, when, why and who received it. Medical records are often shared by many entities during treatment.

Resources: World Privacy Forum (http://www.worldprivacyforum.org); Federal Trade Commission (http://www.ftc.gov/idtheft), 1-877-FTC-HELP; or Consumer Affairs (http://www.pbcgov.com/consumer), 561-712-6600 (Boca/Delray 1-888-852-7362).

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Water Article Series - The County Water Department wants to keep its customers informed on their water use and choices. Please feel free to reproduce this article in your HOA newsletter or distribute via email.

Why Tap Water?
…Why would you want to pay more for a product whose quality is worse than the water that flows from the faucet in your home?
… More than 99.9 percent of Americans live in homes where unlimited amounts of fresh, treated water is available...so turn on the tap!
… Tap water is highly treated and free of bacteria.
… Water systems that provide tap water have to test for water pathogens that can cause intestinal problems.
… County tap water can have no confirmed E.coli or fecal coliform bacteria. FDA bottled water rules include no such prohibition (a certain amount of any type of coliform bacteria is allowed in bottled water).
… County tap water, from the Biscayne Aquifer, must be filtered and disinfected. In contrast, there are no federal filtration or disinfection requirements for bottled water.
… Drinking tap water not only supports mental and physical health, but is easy on the planet. People who buy bottled water are doing harm to the environment and acting out of ignorance.
… In one publicized taste test in New York City, conducted by Showtime television, researchers found that 75% of participants actually preferred the taste of tap water to bottled water.
… County tap water must meet standards for certain important toxic or cancer-causing chemicals, such as phthalate (a chemical that can leach from plastic, including plastic bottles); some in the industry persuaded FDA to exempt bottled water from the regulations regarding these chemicals.
… County water systems must issue an annual “Water Quality” report, telling consumers what is in their water. Bottlers successfully killed a “right to know” requirement for bottled water.
… Tap water is the best water available; according to the Florida State Department of Health and the Environmental Protection Agency. There is nothing harmful in tap water.
… For those who feel tap water is any less clean than bottled water, filters may be purchased; buying filter cartridges once or twice a year requires much fewer resources than buying bottled water each day.
Adapted from www.tappening.com
www.pbcwater.com
Palm Beach County Water Utilities Department
BEST WATER, BEST SERVICE & BEST ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP.

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Dear Friend, For years, Florida has relied on the housing and tourism industries to sustain the tax and employment bases of our state. However, the collapse of the housing market has clearly shown that we can’t rely on these industries alone to keep our economy moving forward. Initially fueled by the housing collapse, Florida’s unemployment rate skyrocketed to 10.6 percent in June - the highest it’s been in 34 years. About 970,000 Floridians are out of work, and many of the people who are lucky enough to have a job are wondering whether or not it could be gone tomorrow. To turn things around, the state must promote a diversity of industries that can lead to promising, new jobs for the future, and one of the most promising is the green energy industry.

There is tremendous potential in Florida to create thousands of green jobs installing solar panels, updating our energy grid and retrofitting buildings for energy efficiency. The state has offered various financial incentives to businesses, organizations and residents such as the Solar Energy Systems Rebate Program, Renewable Energy Technologies Tax Incentives Program, and the Florida Farm to Fuel Grant Program to encourage the implementation of green technologies. However, we must continue to think of new and effective policies moving forward. Last session, I co-sponsored a bill that would have given homeowners and business owners an incentive to install solar panels on their property by allowing them to sell excess energy to the utility companies at a fair rate of return. Unfortunately, the bill failed, but this is the type of innovative idea that will create jobs and help consumers and small businesses save money.

The green energy industry is an important component of a sustainable economy for the future and a new employment base for our state, but we must continue to grow other industries as well such as biotechnology, aerospace, marine and information technology. We have the potential to create a new economy moving forward, and the opportunity to do so is now.

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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Information from Anne Gannon, Palm Beach County Tax Collector:
Most people ignore the Notice of Proposed Taxes, not realizing its significance. The Notice of Proposed Taxes is important because it identifies the deadline and instructions for filing a challenge to your proposed property values and gives you an opportunity to review budgets and tax rates with the taxing authorities who levy them.

The Property Appraiser sends property owners a Notice of Proposed Taxes that explains any proposed changes in the millage rate of each taxing authority and informs property owners of their property’s assessed value. Notice of Proposed Taxes will be mailed to property owners on August 21, 2009.

If you feel the assessment is incorrect or missing an exemption and you have not been able to resolve the issue with the Property Appraiser’s Office, you may file a petition to challenge the proposed assessment with the Value Adjustment Board (VAB). The deadline to appeal property assessments to the VAB is September 14, 2009. This is also the deadline to appeal to the VAB for late applications of exemptions and Agricultural classifications. For more information call the Clerk & Comptroller’s Office at 561-355-6289 or visit the VAB website at www.mypalmbeachclerk.com.

Property value is only one component of the equation to determine property taxes. Once the assessed value is determined exemptions are subtracted and then taxable value is multiplied by the millage rate (or multiplication factor). This rate is determined by each entity, or taxing authority, that has a right to collect taxes on your property. Palm Beach County has 93 taxing authorities. Property owners may provide input at taxing authorities’ public hearings to adopt a tentative budget and millage rate (usually held in September).

Review your Notice of Proposed Taxes closely to find contact information for the taxing authorities applicable to your property.

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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 work is being performed by Weekley Asphalt Paving, Inc. and is expected to be completed in fall 2009.
Restrictions: All lanes are open.

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 work is being performed by Weekley Asphalt Paving, Inc. and is expected to be completed late 2009.

Restrictions: Daytime lane closures will occur, 7 a.m. until 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday, between SW/NW12th Avenue and Swinton Avenue. One lane will remain open in each direction at all times. On-street parking and access to side streets may be temporarily restricted. Detours will be established when necessary. Access to local businesses will be maintained at all times. Motorists may experience delays.

S.R. 7 / U.S. 441 from the Broward County Line to Glades Road--Construction on this 2.9-mile project began February 9, 2009. Work consists of milling and resurfacing, curb ramp replacement, guardrail, and signalization. The project will cost an estimated $4.7 million. The work is being performed by Hardrives of Delray, Inc. and is expected to be completed late 2009.

Restrictions: Lane closures will occur at various locations, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m., Sunday through Thursday, between Glades Road and the Broward County Line. At least one lane will remain open at all times. Access to turn lanes and driveways may be temporarily affected. Motorists should anticipate delays.

Powerline Road / S.R. 845 from the Broward County Line to Glades Road--Construction on this 3-mile project began Tuesday, May 26, 2009. Work consists of milling and resurfacing, minor widening and reconstruction, signalization, lighting, drainage, bridge replacement, irrigation and landscaping. The project will cost an estimated $9.7 million. The work is being performed by Ranger Construction Industries and is expected to be completed summer 2011.

Restrictions: Travel lanes will be closed at various locations between Glades Road and the Broward County Line, 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. The contractor has installed temporary barrier wall and established continuous lane closures at various locations for drainage work. At least one lane will remain open in each direction at all times. Motorists should use caution and anticipate delays.

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New Fees to Take Effect September 1st, 2009

During the 2009 legislative session, the legislature approved an increase in the cost of renewing vehicle registrations and driver licenses, despite my votes and those of my colleagues in the Minority against the increases.

There is a long list of fee increases that are schedule to take effect September 1, 2009. For example, the cost of renewing a driver license is currently $27 but will increase to $48 after the 1st as will the tax collector’s service fee for processing driver’s license transactions increase to $6.25.

I encourage citizens to take advantage of a provision of state law that allows vehicle owners to renew their tags up to three months before the tags expire. Residents can save a little by renewing their tags before September 1st by paying the current fee. Waiting until after August means drivers will pay a higher rate. To really make that dollar stretch, renew for a two-year period and pay the current fee rate for both years, which double your savings.

The benefit of early-renewal is similar for driver's license renewals. I urge motorists whose driver licenses expire 2009 or 2010 to renew before September 1st. The renewal will extend licenses by eight years.

For more information please visit the link below to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicle website http://www.flhsmv.gov/DHSMVFees.htm.

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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 work is being performed by Weekley Asphalt Paving, Inc. and is expected to be completed in fall 2009.

Restrictions: Lane closures will occur, 7 a.m. until 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 7 p.m. until 6 a.m., Sunday through Thursday. Motorists may encounter delays during these hours. One lane will remain open in each direction at all times.

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 work is being performed by Weekley Asphalt Paving, Inc. and is expected to be completed late 2009.

Restrictions: Daytime lane closures will occur, 7 a.m. until 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, between SW/NW12th Avenue and Swinton Avenue and from Federal Highway to A1A. One lane will remain open in each direction at all times. On-street parking and access to side streets may be temporarily restricted. Detours will be established when necessary. Access to local businesses will be maintained at all times. Motorists may experience delays.

S.R. 7 / U.S. 441 from the Broward County Line to Glades Road--Construction on this 2.9-mile project began February 9, 2009. Work consists of milling and resurfacing, curb ramp replacement, guardrail, and signalization. The project will cost an estimated $4.7 million. The work is being performed by Hardrives of Delray, Inc. and is expected to be completed late 2009

Restrictions: Lane closures will occur at various locations, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m., Sunday through Thursday, between Glades Road and the Broward County Line. At least one lane will remain open at all times. Access to turn lanes and driveways may be temporarily affected. Motorists should anticipate delays.

Powerline Road / S.R. 845 from the Broward County Line to Glades Road--Construction on this 3-mile project began Tuesday, May 26, 2009. Work consists of milling and resurfacing, minor widening and reconstruction, signalization, lighting, drainage, bridge replacement, irrigation and landscaping. The project will cost an estimated $9.7 million. The work is being performed by Ranger Construction Industries and is expected to be completed summer 2011.

Restrictions: Travel lanes will be closed at various locations between Glades Road and the Broward County Line, 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. The contractor has installed temporary barrier wall and established continuous lane closures at various locations for drainage work. At least one lane will remain open at all times. Motorists should use caution and anticipate delays.

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Celebrate Bon Festival! Saturday, August 8, 5-9 PM

Inspired by Obon, Japan's traditional three-day holiday honoring ancestors and thanking them for the quality of life enjoyed by the living, The Morikami celebrates Bon Festival in one fun-packed evening. Events include rousing taiko drum performances, traditional Japanese folk dancing with audience participation, and a street fair with games and vendor booths. The highlight of the evening begins at sunset when Morikami Lake is transformed into a tranquil sea of lighted lanterns which, in accordance with Japanese custom, guide the departure of ancestors' souls who have come for a brief visit among the living. A special fireworks display caps the enchanting evening.

Admission and Online Ticket Sales
Purchase ADVANCE tickets online and skip the lines, click here. Tickets can also be purchased at the door the day of the event.
Advance tickets are available online only through Friday, August 7th at 12PM. Order Now!
• $10 Adults (18 and over)
• $5 Children (4-17)
• FREE for museum members and children 3 and under. (No special senior discounts are available for this event)

For additional information on the event visit www.morikami.org/bon

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Consumer Traps & Tips--A weekly service of the Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs Division
Topic: Tree Trimming Before The Storm

Trap: Tony had put it off long enough. The hurricane season was here and the big mango tree had to be trimmed. Tony found a flyer stuck under his front door mat. He called the number and a voice answered, “Tree service.” Tony discussed the work he wanted to have done and was impressed by the very low estimate. He felt there was more he should know before making his decision, but what questions should he asked?

Tips: Here are some suggestions to protect yourself from damage to your trees, home or from tree trimmers who may injure themselves while on your property:
• Insurance for the tree industry is very expensive. Companies which give low-ball estimates often do not have sufficient insurance coverage. Ask to see a certificate of insurance and then call the insurance company to verify its status. Avoid businesses that can’t show proof of worker’s compensation.
• Qualify the business. Look for affiliations with trade associations. Some, like the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA), and International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) offer the industry accreditation and certification.
• Ask if the business has a certified arborist on staff. Improper pruning (such as tree topping) kills more trees than any other trimming mistake.
• Ask friends and neighbors for recommendations. Check to see if your home owner’s association can provide references or referrals.
• Ask if the company drug tests workers regularly.
• Make sure the company picks up all cuttings. Most cities do not pick up brush left by contractors. It could leave the home owner open to fines and other costs.
• Don’t pay in advance. Only pay when the job is finished. It is best to pay by credit card or check.
• Get a detailed contract in writing or you may find yourself out on a limb.
Call Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs at 561-712-6600 (Boca/Delray 888-852-7362 toll free) or visit http://www.pbcgov.com/consumer to see if other consumers have had complaints against tree trimmers.

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Congressman Wexler will be a featured speaker at the following event:
Mark your calendar -- August 20th
“HEALTH CARE FOR ALL”
Please join us. Together we can make a difference
Health Care Forum

The Florida Alliance for Retired Americans will be sponsoring an important health care event on Thursday, August 20, 2009. Co-sponsors for the event include Floridians for Health Care and the First Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Palm Beaches. We will be discussing with elected officials vital information about health care for all Americans. We wish to implement policies that ensure all Americans have access to affordable health care and prescription drugs.

Date: Thursday, August 20, 2009. Time: 1 to 3pm. Location: South County Civic Center, 16700 Jog Road, Delray Beach , FL 33446

For additional information contact Tony Fransetta , FLARA president at (561) 792-8799, Jennifer Kenny , ASA state organizer at (321) 277-9385. Rick Ford , Floridians for Health Care at (561) 601-9150 ffordpa@aol.com , or Larry Stauber 1stUUPB lstauber@bellsouth.nett .
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FPL to perform emergency cable crossing on southbound I-95 at Gateway Blvd., August 6, 2009
Boynton Beach, FL. – FPL will establish a “rolling roadblock” and restrict southbound traffic for approximately one hour to perform an emergency cable crossing over I-95 at gateway boulevard in Boynton Beach, beginning at 1 a.m., Thursday, August 6, Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) officials report.

Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) officers will be on site to assist with traffic. Southbound motorists should anticipate delays and seek alternate routes if possible. Northbound I-95 should not be affected.

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Vital Message below from State Senator Ted Deutch reprinted from Sun-Sentinel:

From the Sun Sentinel, July 30th, 2009:
Florida can't wait for federal mandates to prevent texting while driving.
By Ted Deutch

This past week, a major research study concluded that drivers who text while behind the wheel of a motor vehicle are 23 times more likely to crash than other drivers. In response to this report, Congressional leaders on Wednesday proposed a nationwide ban on texting that would force states to write laws banning electronic messaging in vehicles within the next two years or risk losing 25 percent of their annual federal highway money.

With over 14 million licensed drivers in Florida, and hundreds of thousands of new licenses issued each year we cannot afford to wait until a federal bill mandates us to protect the safety of our roadways. Nor can we afford the further cuts to our already depleted transportation budget that we will face if we sit back and wait.

For two years, I have sponsored legislation that would ban texting while driving, but the bill was never heard. This latest report confirms that the time to act is now. I will again sponsor legislation that will impose a statewide ban on texting for all drivers together with a complete cell phone ban for public transportation operators and school bus drivers, and limitations on cell phone use by new drivers.

Texting is a danger to the driver, his passengers and anyone else on the road. According to the study, the average text message takes a driver's eye away from the road for 4.6 out of every 6 seconds. This is the equivalent of driving the length of a football field at 55 mph without looking at the road! The New York Times recently reported that texting and driving is more dangerous than drunk driving. If we teach our kids that it is wrong to drink and drive, why are we allowing behavior that is potentially as deadly?

There will soon be teens on the road who have no memory of life before cell phones. We cannot continue to ignore this dangerous and sometimes deadly problem. I am calling on citizens from across Florida to urge their legislators to join me in helping to save lives by making our roads safer. Texting behind the wheel imperils the driver and so many others. Let's finally make this dangerous behavior illegal.

Ted Deutch is a Democrat who represents the 30th district in the Florida Senate.

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Southern Palm Beach County Road 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.

Restrictions: Lane closures will occur, 7 a.m. until 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 7 p.m. until 6 a.m., Sunday through Thursday, for project-related work. Motorists might encounter delays during these hours. One lane will remain open in each direction at all times.

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.

Restrictions: Daytime lane closures will occur, 7 a.m. until 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, between SW/NW12th Avenue and Swinton Avenue and from Federal Highway to A1A, for project-related work. One lane will remain open in each direction at all times. However, on-street parking and access to side streets might be temporarily restricted. Detours will be established when necessary. Access to local businesses will be maintained at all times. Motorists might experience delays.

> Discuss this entry

Southern Palm Beach County Road 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.

Restrictions: Lane closures will occur, 7 a.m. until 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 7 p.m. until 6 a.m., Sunday through Thursday, for project-related work. Motorists might encounter delays during these hours. One lane will remain open in each direction at all times.

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.

Restrictions: Daytime lane closures will occur, 7 a.m. until 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, between SW/NW12th Avenue and Swinton Avenue and from Federal Highway to A1A, for project-related work. One lane will remain open in each direction at all times. However, on-street parking and access to side streets might be temporarily restricted. Detours will be established when necessary. Access to local businesses will be maintained at all times. Motorists might experience delays.

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The Volen Center presents Health and Wellness Day
Tuesday, August 18th, 2009, 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Screenings Include:
• Meet a Nutritionist by
Allegiance Home Health
• Medication Management by
Allegiance Home Health
• Vision Screenings by
Ocean Optics
• Hearing Screenings by Tympany
• Glucose Screenings by Hospitals Without Walls
• Podiatry Screenings by Hospitals Without Walls
• Ask A Nurse by A-Plus Home Health
• Blood Pressure Check by
Boca Raton Rehabilitation Center
• Chiropractic Screenings by
Boca Pain Relief & Wellness Center
• Meet a Neuro-psychologist,
Dr. Susan Rodell
• The Volen Center Exhibit

Event is being held at The Volen Center, 1515 West Palmetto Park Road, Boca Raton, Florida 33486. www.maevolen.com
For more information, please contact Jared Policano at 561-395-8920, ext. 272

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

Topic: Computer Viruses and Repair

Trap--Susan in Delray Beach won a car, at least that’s what her computer pop-up showed. However, after clicking the link, her computer became very sluggish. Susan also noticed lots of new pop-ups. She had no virus protection, and all her data and pictures were on the hard drive, so she called the first computer repair company she found. They wanted $175 in cash just to open and diagnose the computer problem.

Tips--Computer viruses cost consumers millions of dollars and many hours of lost time. Viruses such as malware, adware, spyware, worms or trojans steal information, send you advertisements, or wreak havoc on your computer. Here are some ways to avoid computer problems and choose a computer repair company:
• Keep your computer’s anti-virus software current. Some Internet providers offer free anti-virus software. There are legitimate free anti-virus software companies like AVG (http://free.avg.com/ ) or Malwarebytes (http://www.malwarebytes.org/). Free anti-virus software usually doesn’t provide the full-spectrum of services and protection as the paid versions do.
• Don’t open e-mails or attachments from unknown sources – delete them. Don’t visit Web sites you don’t know. Be very wary of “you’ve just won” pop-ups.
• Before having someone repair your computer, make sure all computer and power cables have tight connections (This is the cause of 70 percent of all computer problems.)
• Avoid paying cash for computer repairs. You have more recourse and options when paying by a credit card. Request a guarantee – and get it in writing.
• Ask friends about their experiences with computer repair companies. Ask computer repair workers to list their experience. Ask for and check references.

Call Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs at 561-712-6600 (Boca/Delray 888-852-7362 toll free) or visit http://www.pbcgov.com/consumer to see if other consumers have had complaints against the computer repair company you are considering.
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To ready my story in Sunday, July 26 Sun-Sentinel CLICK HERE

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Phil Levenstein, Palm Beach County Health Department’s Cities Readiness Initiative Coordinator held the first of three briefing meetings at the Vizcaya community in West Delray Beach for its Readiness Initiative volunteer staff of 25 residents Tuesday evening July 21, 2009 in the main ballroom of the clubhouse.

“Volunteer workers throughout the county will be responsible for mass antibiotics dispensing in case of a medical emergency such as an Anthrax attack,” said Levenstein.

He described the program: “We are identified nationally as Region 7 for the state of Florida. There will be 45 locations in Palm Beach County for mass dispensing of three medications in an emergency. Amoxicillin, Cipro and Doxycycline. We have 1,000 people in the County Health Department who are on call 24/7. However they are not enough during an emergency. We need 5,400 volunteers at the 45 dispensing points to dispense the meds at the rate of 625 people per hour. All drugs are pre packaged in bottles with a 10 day supply for rapid dispensing. That is why we are going to communities, schools, colleges and businesses to enlist the aid of volunteers. We have 35 communities signed up right now and are recruiting more. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) supplies the three medications at no charge during an emergency situation.

There is nothing stronger than the heart of a volunteer.

For More Information on establishing an R-POD at our Residential Association
Or Home Owners Association, Or to find out how to volunteer, please call:
Philip Levenstein
PB County Health Department
Office of Emergency Preparedness
(561) 355-3150 or E-mail: Philip_Levenstein@doh.state.fl.us
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To ready my story in Sunday, July 26 Sun-Sentinel CLICK HERE

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Palm Beach County Traffic Report—July 24 through July 31, 2009

Palm Beach County – Palm Beach County traffic will be affected this week by ongoing construction project 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, I-95 traffic information, call 511. 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.

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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To ready my story in Sunday, July 26 Sun-Sentinel CLICK HERE

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Topic: Scholarship & Financial Aid Scams

Trap: Barbara graduated from high school last year and lives with her mother. She works for a company that provides temporary office help. Barbara likes the work, but it doesn’t provide a strong career path. She wants to become a nurse but doesn’t have the money for school. A friend told her about an Internet advertisement. The company guarantees financial aid to all applicants who pay a registration fee and attend a four-hour seminar at a local hotel. It sounds a little too easy. What could go wrong?

Tips: Before using a financial aid service, check them out thoroughly. Contact your high school guidance counselor or local college financial aid office for information, and watch out for these red flags:
• “Apply now before it’s too late.” Resist high pressure tactics. You may end up paying for information you can get free.
• “Millions of dollars of aid go unclaimed…” The “millions” represent an estimated national total of employee/member benefits that are only available to employees and/or their families of companies or unions that have made funds available.
• “We guarantee you’ll get aid.” The company may charge $1,000 and provide a $200 scholarship and then claim this fulfills the promise.
• “You can’t get this information anywhere else.” Actually, scholarship information is available from libraries, schools, government offices and FREE Internet scholarship sites if you’re willing to search for it.

If you need more information, visit the U.S. Department of Education’s Web site, http://studentaid.ed.gov, or call Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs at 561-712-6600 (Boca/Delray 1-888-852-7362), or visit http://www.pbcgov.com/consumer.

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Last month, Senator Deutch and I called on the Governor to appoint a Condo Task Force comprised of community association leaders and representatives, realtors, lenders, banking officials and legislators to address a broad range of condo issues, including the impact of the current foreclosure crisis on community associations. It’s my hope that we’ll be able to address these issues during an accessible, public forum prior to the start of House and Senate committee meetings in Tallahassee, which begin in October. I’ll be sure to keep you informed of any developments as we push for the Governor and the Legislature to address your concerns.

The Florida Supreme Court is also looking for solutions to address the foreclosure crisis, and they would like to hear from you. The court’s Task Force on Residential Mortgage Foreclosure Cases will be recommending changes to foreclosure proceedings and they would like input from homeowners who have been involved in a residential mortgage foreclosure case. Click here to complete a foreclosure survey. Your input is essential to developing common sense solutions to the foreclosure crisis.

2010 Palm Beach County Budget Information Online--Information on the 2010 Palm Beach County budget has been posted on the county website. You can review the line-item budget, view presentations and videos from the budget planning workshops and find information on public hearings.

Online Map of Bicycle-Friendly Roads in Broward--Riding a bicycle is great exercise and an economical, environmentally-conscious method of transportation to significantly reduce your consumption of gasoline. However, it’s very important to be as safe as possible when riding a bicycle on crowded South Florida roads.

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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To read my Sun-Sentinel article in Sunday's July 19 issue CLICK HERE: http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/palm-beach/delray-beach/sfl-flhagen0719pcjul19,0,4617698.story

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Southern Palm Beach County Road 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.

Restrictions: Lane closures will occur, 7 a.m. until 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 7 p.m. until 6 a.m., Sunday through Thursday, for project-related work. Motorists might encounter delays during these hours. One lane will remain open in each direction at all times.

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.

Restrictions: Daytime lane closures will occur, 7 a.m. until 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, between SW/NW12th Avenue and Swinton Avenue and from Federal Highway to A1A, for project-related work. One lane will remain open in each direction at all times. However, on-street parking and access to side streets might be temporarily restricted. Detours will be established when necessary. Access to local businesses will be maintained at all times. Motorists might experience delays.

S.R. 7 / U.S. 441 from the Broward County Line to Glades Road. Construction on this 2.9-mile project began February 9, 2009. Work consists of milling and resurfacing, curb ramp replacement, guardrail, and signalization. The project will cost an estimated $4.7 million and is expected to last until late 2009. Work is being performed by Hardrives of Delray, Inc.

Restrictions: Single lane closures will occur at various locations, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday and two lanes will be closed for roadway paving, 7 p.m. to 6 a.m., Sunday through Thursday, between Glades Road and the Broward County Line, weather permitting. At least one lane will remain open at all times. Access to turn lanes and driveways might be temporarily affected. Motorists should anticipate delays.
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To read my story in Sunday's July 19 Sun-Sentinel CLICK HERE:

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Consumer Traps & Tips--A weekly service of the Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs Division
Topic: This hospital bill is 4 years old!

Trap: Joyce of Palm Springs was upset to receive a call from a collection agency saying she owed money for a hospital stay four years ago. She did not recall receiving any bills from the hospital at that time and thought insurance had paid for the stay. How can they attempt to collect from her after all this time?

Tips: How old is too old? Debts that are so old they are beyond the point at which a creditor or debt collector may sue you to collect are called “time-barred debts.” In Florida, civil court actions are not permitted unless they are within the time limits prescribed by law (Chapter 95). For most debts not involving real property, the time limit is four or five years. In some situations the time limit can be reset when any kind of payment was made on the principal or interest owed. Even if you can’t be sued, the creditor or a debt collector may continue contacting you to pursue payment of the debt as long as the company does not violate the Federal Fair Debt Collection Act.

Steps to take:
• Send a letter requesting an original itemized bill. Is this your debt? Older debts are often sold to collection agencies without proper documentation to show who is responsible.
• Compare the itemized bill with your own records to determine if you already paid the bill. Compare it with your insurance “Explanation of Benefits” (EOB) to see if the bill was submitted to your insurance company and what was paid.
• Contact the original creditor and ask them to review their records to verify that payments were correctly credited to your account.

For more information: Contact the Federal Trade Commission (http://www.ftc.gov) or call1-877-FTC-HELP; or Consumer Affairs (http://www.pbcgov.com/consumer) or call 561-712-6600 (Boca/Delray 1-888-852-7362).

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Topic: Hook by Crook

Trap: Mary met friends in Boca Raton for a night out. After dinner they all walked back to her car. When she got in and turned the ignition key, the car wouldn’t start. A tow truck soon appeared, and the driver asked if she needed help. She told the driver her car was under warranty and to take it to her dealer as they had a 24-hour drop-off service. The driver charged Mary $100 and would only accept cash. She was concerned about paying cash, but was sure she could get it back from the dealer. It was getting late, so Mary paid the driver, got a receipt, and gave him the name and address of her dealer. Mary rode home with her friends. When she called her dealer the next morning, she was told her car had not been dropped off! She called the tow truck company only to find that the number had been disconnected. Mary’s next call was to the police department to report that her vehicle was stolen.

Tips: Be aware of roving “bandit” tow truck operators, and remember these tips:
• “Bandit” tow truck operators can appear out of nowhere to offer assistance when vehicles break down or are involved in accidents.
• If your car breaks down, contact local law enforcement for assistance, or ask your mechanic to recommend a tow truck company. Keep the company’s information in your wallet or glove compartment.
• Many insurance companies and independent providers of service contracts offer affordable 24-hour emergency roadside assistance plans.
• When possible, pay by debit or credit card, and avoid paying with cash.
• South Florida weather is rough on car batteries. Have your mechanic check your battery regularly.
• Palm Beach County has established towing regulations that protect consumers.
They can be found on the Consumer Affairs Web site along with a list of licensed tow truck companies that meet Palm Beach County requirements.
Visit http://www.pbcgov.com/consumer or call 561-712-6600 (Boca/Delray 1-888-852-7362) for more information.
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To read my stories that appeared in Sunday's Delray Community News Section of the Sun-Sentinel CLICK HERE. and HERE

> Discuss this entry

Southern Palm Beach County Road 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.
Restrictions: Lane closures will occur, 7 a.m. until 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 7 p.m. until 6 a.m., Sunday through Thursday, for project-related work. Motorists might encounter delays during these hours. One lane will remain open in each direction at all times.

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.
Restrictions: Daytime lane closures will occur, 7 a.m. until 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, between SW/NW12th Avenue and Swinton Avenue and from Federal Highway to A1A, for project-related work. One lane will remain open in each direction at all times. However, on-street parking and access to side streets might be temporarily restricted. Detours will be established when necessary. Access to local businesses will be maintained at all times. Motorists might experience delays.

S.R. 7 / U.S. 441 from the Broward County Line to Glades Road--Construction on this 2.9 mile project began February 9, 2009. Work consists of milling and resurfacing, curb ramp replacement, guardrail, and signalization. The project will cost an estimated $4.7 million and is expected to last until late 2009. Work is being performed by Hardrives of Delray, Inc.
Restrictions: North and southbound single lane closures will occur between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., at various locations between Glades Road and the Broward County Line, Monday through Saturday, for minor widening and other project-related work. Motorists should use caution and anticipate delays traveling through the area.
Nighttime paving operations will begin on Monday, July 13. Paving will occur, 7 p.m. until 6 a.m., Sunday through Thursday, weather permitting and will last approximately three weeks. At least one lane will remain open. However, access to turn lanes and driveways might be temporarily affected.

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To read my stories that appeared in Sunday's Delray Community News Section of the Sun-Sentinel CLICK HERE. and HERE

> Discuss this entry

The skyrocketing cost of health care is putting a tremendous burden on Florida families, small businesses and our state budget. While Congress grapples with the best way to ensure that everyone in this country has access to the quality health care they deserve, we also need significant, positive change at the state level as well.

I believe it is important to enact policies that will offer health care to those who need it most, such as the 800,000 uninsured children in our state. That is why I was proud to be a co-sponsor of legislation signed into law by the Governor recently that streamlined the application process for Florida Kidcare, making it easier for parents to obtain affordable health insurance for their children.

These changes went into effect on July 1, 2009 and I strongly encourage families to apply for coverage if they are finding it difficult to purchase affordable health insurance for their children. For more information about enrollment in Florida KidCare, visit floridakidcare.org or call 1-888-540-5437.

Establishing and improving programs like Florida Kidcare are important steps forward. However, we still have a lot of work to do to significantly improve health care in Florida, and I will continue fighting for the positive changes we need.

New License Requirement for Shoreline Anglers: Beginning August 1, 2009, saltwater anglers who fish from shore or a structure affixed to shore are now required to purchase a shoreline fishing license as a result of new state law, unless they have a valid regular resident saltwater fishing license. The new license goes on sale July 15. For information on how to obtain a license, Palm Beach County residents should CLICK HERE. http://www.pbcgov.com/tax/services_h&f.shtml

Broward County residents should CLICK HERE. http://www.broward.org/revenue/rvi00400.htm

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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To read my stories that appeared in Sunday's Delray Community News Section of the Sun-Sentinel CLICK HERE. and HERE

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The 3 organizations known as South County Partnership - ABC, the Alliance of Delray, West Boca Community Council (WBCC), and Coalition of Boynton West Residential Associations (COBWRA), are inviting all residents to join in their legislative project to review association statutes: Chapter 718 (COA) & Chapter 720 (HOA). Our local legislators are ready and willing to listen to our ideas for changes to the existing laws. Therefore, ABC intends to take them up on their offer to help make our voices heard.

YOU can be part of our effort for change no matter what your level of legislative knowledge. If you want one word, sentence or section added or deleted, let us know. If you have an opinion or a new idea, please let us know. You may provide your input by e-mail and/or by attending legislative project meetings starting this summer. The links to texts of 718 & 720 will be provided by e-mail, major sections of concern will be e-mailed, and full written texts of 718 & 720 will be available at the scheduled meetings.

Together, WE can provide the information for positive changes before negative changes are made for us by others. Our local legislators need our suggestions and ideas for change in order for us to be proactive instead of reactive in the 2009 – 2010 legislative session. Please invite your friends and neighbors to join us in this effort!

To respond to this message or for further information regarding the ABC Legislative Project contact Barbara Zee, Alliance VP of Legislative Affairs at email address: allianceofdelray@bellsouth.net or (561) 495-9670.

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Lori Vinikoor, Vice President of the Palm Beach Chapter of the Rare Fruit Council International informs us of this unusual event:

There is no other plant sale like this on the planet. The Palm Beach Chapter of the Rare Fruit Council International announces its semi-annual Tropical Fruit Tree and Plant Sale. With hundreds of varieties of fruit and spice plants to choose from there will be something available for every taste and every space. Whether you are looking for a specific type of banana or an early producing mango or that elusive jaboticaba, you’ll probably find it here. The growers and members of the Rare Fruit Council will also be present to answer questions related to care and propagation of tropical fruits.

Come to the South Florida Fairgrounds Agriplex between 9 AM and 2 PM on Saturday July 11, 2009 to choose from thousands of wonderful trees and plants. Directions from Route 95: take Southern Blvd. west to Fairgrounds Rd. north. Gate 8 will be on the right. Directions from State Rd 7 (441): take Southern Blvd. east to Fairgrounds Rd. north. Gate 8 will be on the right.

The Rare Fruit Council’s own “Fruitilizer,” a fertilizer specifically formulated to Rare Fruit Council specifications, will be available for sale. “Fruitilizer” provides the proper nutrients and minerals for optimum tropical fruit crop production.

The Rare Fruit Council Meets the Second Friday of every month 7:30 PM at the Mounts Botanical Garden, Military Trail, West Palm Beach.

“Dedicated to promoting and furthering the cultivation and use of tropical and rare fruit both in south Florida and throughout the world”

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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.

Restrictions: Lane closures will occur, 7 a.m. until 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 7 p.m. until 6 a.m., Sunday through Thursday, for project-related work. Motorists might encounter delays during these hours. One lane will remain open in each direction at all times.

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.

Restrictions: Daytime lane closures will occur, 7 a.m. until 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, between SW/NW12th Avenue and Swinton Avenue and from Federal Highway to A1A, for project-related work. One lane will remain open in each direction at all times. However, on-street parking and access to side streets might be temporarily restricted. Detours will be established when necessary. Access to local businesses will be maintained at all times. Motorists might experience delays.

S.R. 7 / U.S. 441 from the Broward County Line to Glades Road. Construction on this 2.9 mile project began February 9, 2009. Work consists of milling and resurfacing, curb ramp replacement, guardrail, and signalization. The project will cost an estimated $4.7 million and is expected to last until late 2009. Work is being performed by Hardrives of Delray, Inc.

Restrictions: North and southbound single lane closures will occur between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., at various locations between Glades Road and the Broward County Line, Monday through Saturday, for minor widening and other project-related work. Motorists should use caution and anticipate delays traveling through the area. Nighttime paving operations will begin on Monday, July 13. Paving will occur, 7 p.m. until 6 a.m., Sunday through Thursday, weather permitting and will last approximately three weeks. At least one lane will remain open. However, access to turn lanes and driveways might be temporarily affected.

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Dear Friend, Independence Day is always a wonderful celebration of the founding of this great nation and an opportunity to spend time with friends and family. There will be various Independence Day celebrations throughout Palm Beach county on July 4th, and I thought the events listed below would be of particular interest to everyone who lives in District 90 or nearby.

Each event will have several activities planned throughout the day, ending with an exciting display of fireworks. Click on the website links below for additional details. Be sure to arrive early and don’t forget to bring a blanket or lawn chair. Happy Independence Day!

Boca Raton Fabulous 4th Celebration: Time: 6:00 - 9:30 p.m. (fireworks at 9 p.m.), Location: Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Road, Boca Raton, southwest corner of the university. Parking on location. Contact: (561) 393-7806 selection 2.

West Boca Raton Celebration: Time: 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. (fireworks at 9 p.m.).Location: Cove Amphitheater, 12551 Glades Road, 2.5 miles west of State Road 7, Boca Raton. Parking on location. Contact: 561-488-8069

Delray Beach Celebration: Time: 8:00 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. (fireworks at 9 p.m.). Location: Ocean and Atlantic avenues and downtown area along Atlantic Avenue. Free parking at Robert Federspiel Parking Garage (22 SE 1st Avenue) and the Old School Square Parking Garage (95 NE 1st Avenue) which may be accessed by traveling eastbound or westbound on NE 1st Street or southbound on NE 1st Avenue. Contact: 561-279-1380 ext. 3.

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. Have a safe and happy Independence Day! All the best,
Kelly Skidmore, State Representative, District 90

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Consumer Traps & Tips--A weekly service of the Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs Division
Topic: Renters Insurance

Trap: Brittany finally completed decorating her apartment. She purchased new designer accessories which enhanced the antique furniture she inherited from her mother. That night, a pipe burst in the wall and flooded her apartment. Brittany’s living room furniture was ruined and her big screen TV was damaged beyond repair. She thought her landlord’s insurance would cover the replacement of her property. Later, she found out she was wrong.
Tips: Aside from broken pipes and fire damage, powerful tropical storms pose the same type of concerns for area renters. Thousands of dollars in damages can occur and your landlord’s insurance policy won’t cover the tenant’s losses.
• Renters insurance will cover your household items including furniture, clothing, electronics, and appliances if they are damaged or destroyed.
• Liability coverage is also available if the insured is sued by someone who claims they were injured while in the apartment.
• Natural disasters like floods are typically not included. Coverage can be purchased separately through your insurance agent or company.
• You may receive a discount on your policy if your apartment contains safety features like fire extinguishers, alarm systems, or sprinklers.
• Take an inventory of appliances, electronics, jewelry, collectables and other valuable possessions. Shop around before you buy to get the best price. Talk to your agent about deductibles and coverage available.
• Check with the Florida Department of Finance for insurance company ratings (www.fldfs.com).

Get more information at our website www.pbcgov.com/consumer or give us a call at 561-712-6600 (Boca/Delray/Glades call toll free at 888-852-7362).

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Dear Friend, The Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) held public hearings this week in Broward and Palm Beach counties to consider a petition from Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) for a permanent base rate increase of about $12.40 more per month per household. According to the PSC, FPL is requesting this increase of about 12 percent “to earn a fair rate of return on its investment and to cover increasing operating costs.”
The PSC, which consists of five members appointed by the Governor with the power to regulate utilities, will vote on the proposed rate increase November 13, 2009. Click here to visit the PSC website and click on the link for the June 2009 Florida Power & Light Company Special Report for more details on FPL’s petition.
Anyone who wants to comment on the proposal and was not able to attend the public hearings can email the PSC at contact@psc.state.fl.us or send a letter to:
Florida Public Service Commission, Office of Commission Clerk, 2540 Shumard Oak Boulevard, Tallahassee, FL 32399-0850
Please be sure to include the docket number, 080677-EI.
Our office attended the hearings this week and I will be paying close attention to this issue as the PSC continues reviewing FPL’s petition.

Unemployment Benefits Extension: The Florida Legislature passed legislation this session authorizing the Agency for Workforce Innovation to begin paying Extended Unemployment Compensation Benefits to people who have been out of work and have exhausted all unemployment benefits. Payments will begin in early July and will be made retroactive to February 22, 2009 for those who are eligible. For more information visit www.floridajobs.org and click on the link for “Extended Benefits” or call 1-888-896-0091.

Palm Beach County Offering Free Summer Food Program for Children: Palm Beach County Division of Human Services is offering free meals and snacks to low-income, school-age children on weekdays between June 8 and August 14. Children who are age 18 and under are eligible. Sites are located throughout Palm Beach County in low-income neighborhoods. Click here to visit the Summer Food Service Program website for a list of locations, or call Georgiana Devine at (561) 355-4775 for more information.

Zicam Health Warning: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently warned consumers to stop using and discard or return three zinc-containing Zicam intranasal products that may cause a loss of sense of smell. The FDA has received more than 130 reports from consumers who used the following products to treat the common cold and lost their sense of smell:
• Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Gel (15mL, NDC 62750-003-10)
• Zicam Cold Remedy Swabs (20 swabs, NDC 67250-003-20)
• Zicam Cold Remedy Swabs, Kids Size (20 swabs, NDC 67250-003-21)
To find more information online, click here, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

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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To read my article in the Sunday, June 28 Delray Community News Section of the Sun-Sentinel
CLICK HERE.

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

Topic: Dating Services

Trap: Roger in Jupiter felt his life was in a rut. He was working full time and wanted to meet new people. Roger received a flyer in the mail inviting him to join other singles and meet new people. He went to the agency, signed a contract for 15 introductions and paid $2,500. During the first six months of the contract, the agency arranged only one introduction and two dinner dances. Roger didn’t meet anyone he was interested in dating and wanted a refund. The agency denied his refund request.

Tips: Dating services are not licensed by a government agency. It is important to read and understand the terms of any dating contract and to know exactly what you are purchasing.
• Does the contract allow refunds? Some agencies deduct an initiation fee on the day the contract is signed. Sometimes this fee is not refundable once an introduction has been arranged by the company.
• The agency may promise they have many clients who fit your profile. Find out how many active members are in the database. Ask about the percentage of members in your age group, profession, etc.
• Understand that an introduction to another member does not guarantee compatibility. Lack of “chemistry” or “connection” with other clients does not necessarily mean the business failed to meet its contractual obligations.
• There are many ways to meet new people and get out of a rut. Along with dating services, consider joining special interest clubs or service organizations or taking a class at a community college or adult education center. You can also pursue hobbies that enable you to meet people of similar interests.

It is always very important to thoroughly read a contract. Also, make sure all verbal promises are put in writing. Check with Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs at 561-712-6600 (Boca/Delray 1-888-852-7362) or visit http://www.pbcgov.com/consumer to see if other consumers have filed a dispute against the company being considered.

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To read my article in the Sunday, June 28 Delray Community News Section of the 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.

Restrictions: Daytime lane closures will occur, 7 a.m. until 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, at various locations within project limits. Motorists might encounter delays during these hours. One lane will remain open in each direction at all times.

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.

Restrictions: Daytime lane closures will occur, 7 a.m. until 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, between SW/NW12th Avenue and Swinton Avenue and from Federal Highway to A1A, for project-related work. One lane will remain open in each direction at all times. However, on-street parking and access to side streets might be temporarily restricted. Detours will be established when necessary. Access to local businesses will be maintained at all times. Motorists might experience delays.

S.R. 7 / U.S. 441 from the Broward County Line to Glades Road
Construction on this 2.9 mile project began February 9, 2009. Work consists of milling and resurfacing, curb ramp replacement, guardrail, and signalization. The project will cost an estimated $4.7 million and is expected to last until late 2009. Work is being performed by Hardrives of Delray, Inc.

Restrictions: North and southbound single lane closures will occur between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., at various locations between Glades Road and the Broward County Line, Monday through Saturday, for minor widening and other project-related work. At least two lanes will remain open in each direction at all times. Motorists should anticipate delays traveling through the area.

Powerline Road / S.R. 845 from the Broward County Line to Glades Road
Construction on this 3 mile project began Tuesday, May 26, 2009. Work consists of milling and resurfacing, minor widening and reconstruction, signalization, lighting, drainage, bridge replacement, irrigation and landscaping. The project will cost an estimated $9.7 million and is expected to last until summer 2011. Work is being performed by Ranger Construction Industries.

Restrictions: Travel lanes will be closed at various locations between Glades Road and the Broward County Line, 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, for project-related work. The contractor has installed temporary barrier wall and established continuous lane closures at various locations for drainage work in the median area. At least one lane will remain open at all times. Motorists should anticipate delays.

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June 19, 2009

Dear Friend, Governor Crist signed Senate Bill 462 yesterday, which authorizes the creation of a prescription drug monitoring system in the Florida Department of Health. I’m proud to have been among the sponsors of this legislation that will help end the prescription drug abuse epidemic that has devastated many Florida families and given our state a reputation as the nation’s pill mill. I appreciate Governor Crist’s positive action on this legislation. Florida’s lack of a monitoring system has made our state a target for criminals looking to buy prescription drugs easily and sell them illegally here and elsewhere. I am pleased that we are now equipping physicians and law enforcement personnel with the tools they need to stop the abuse, misuse, and illegal sale of prescription drugs.

We would not have been able to get this bill signed into law without the help of the many people who called and e-mailed the Governor, and I thank you for your support.

Broward County Website Provides Access to Economic Recovery Money--Broward County has launched a new website that allows citizens to track how Broward County is using its share of the federal economic recovery money. The site also includes links to federal and state recovery websites, and information on economic assistance programs available to local residents and businesses. Visit http://www.broward.org/recovery, or for more information, call the Stimulus Grants Coordination Office at 954-357-5358 or 954-357-5338.

Palm Beach Water Utilities Department to Flush Lines with Chlorine--Starting June 15 through July 15, the Palm Beach County Water Utilities Department will temporarily change the disinfection process used to treat our drinking water in order to maintain high water quality in the county’s distribution system. The county will be using a slightly stronger process that produces chlorine residual instead of a chloramine residual. These temporary changes will not cause adverse health effects. If you use a home dialysis machine, or you are an owner of tropical fish or a manager of stores and restaurants with fish and shellfish holding tanks, you should seek professional advice for removing chlorine residuals from tap water. For more information, call the Palm Beach County Water Utilities Department at (561) 740-4600, option #3.
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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Sound off about Florida Power & Light’s proposed base rate increase at the Florida Public Service Commission’s customer service hearings in South Florida

WEDNESDAY, June 24 4:00 p.m. in West Palm Beach Palm Beach County Governmental Center Jane Thompson Memorial Chambers, 6th Floor 301 N. Olive Avenue.

cnc.videochannels.com

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McCollum, Public Counsel Encourage FP&L Customers to Participate in Rate
Hike Hearings, Share Concerns
TALLAHASSEE, FL -- Attorney General Bill McCollum and Florida's Public
Counsel, J.R Kelly, today issued a consumer advisory on upcoming hearings to
be held by the Public Service Commission (PSC) on a proposed $1.3 billion
rate increase by Florida Power & Light (FP&L). The first of the hearings, at
which residents may air their concerns about the proposed increase, are
scheduled to take place in Sarasota and Ft. Myers on Friday June 19.
Additional hearings will occur over the following week throughout the FP&L
service area.

"This proposed rate increase is excessive, especially when homeowners are
already struggling to make ends meet," said Attorney General McCollum, whose
office has intervened before the PSC in the rate increase hearings. "While
the economy is affecting power companies, the difference should not be made
up entirely at the expense of Floridians' wallets."

Members of the Florida Counsel's Office and the Attorney General's Office as
well as representatives from the Florida Retail Federation, Florida
Industrial Power Users Group and AARP will also attend the hearings to hear
the concerns of Floridians and voice their opposition to the increase
proposed by Florida's largest public utility.

"These are difficult economic times for ordinary citizens, businesses and
state and local governments all over Florida," said Kelly, who represents
customers in utility cases before the PSC. "We all should be tightening our
belts rather than trying to raise prices and increase profits."

FP&L filed its request to increase its rates by $1.3 billion over a two-year
period. The increase would apply to the base rate portion of the bill which
accounts for approximately 42 percent of the total bill that customers pay
each month. The increase amounts to $12.55 per month, or 30 percent, of the
current base rates for customers who use 1,000 kilowatt hours per month,
although most customers use more.

"Utility monopolies have a special obligation to Florida's citizens. Without
competition to keep prices in line, the PSC is the protector of the people
and businesses they serve," said Rick McAllister, President and CEO of the
Florida Retail Federation. "The rate increase requested by Florida Power and
Light appears irrational and a disservice to the people of Florida. We
encourage business leaders to attend the public hearings and voice their
outrage."

The Palm Beach County hearing on the Petition for increase in rates by
Florida Power & Light Company will be held on June 24 at 4 PM at the PB
County Governmental Center, Jane Thompson Memorial Chambers, 6th Floor, 301
N. Olive Avenue.
There will be a total of nine customer hearings throughout the state, and
these hearings will be the only opportunities for customers to personally
address the PSC about FP&L service and the proposed rate increases. Both the
Attorney General and Kelly urged FP&L customers to attend the hearings to
voice their concerns and opinions. A full list of the hearing dates, times
and locations is available online at:
http://myfloridalegal.com/webfiles.nsf/WF/MRAY-7SXH8B/$file/FPLCustomerHeari
ngs.pdf

"On behalf of our 3 million members statewide, we urge Floridians to attend
these hearings and share their views," said AARP Florida State Director Lori
Parham. "The hearings are Floridians' best opportunity to influence the
Public Service Commission on plans that could cost us more than $1 billion
in higher utility rates."

Customers who cannot appear at the hearing can share their concerns with the
PSC at its website, http://www.psc.state.fl.us/about/contact/form.aspx.
Formal proceedings on the rate increases start on August 24 in Tallahassee.

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Ms. Joyce Kaufman, outspoken radio talk show star of WFTL, 850 AM, was the guest speaker of the Jewish War Veteran’s Joseph Chimerine Post 819 meeting, Sunday morning, June 14 at Valencia Isles clubhouse. The audience was comprised of mostly senior citizens, many who were veterans of World War II. Sr. Vice Commander of the Post, Norton Morgenthal was responsible for planning this program.

Ms. Kaufman began by recognizing this was Flag Day, stating “This is what FLAG means to me: F is for freedom, our precious freedom as Americans. L is for the legacy of those who fought and died for us. A is for American and what we stand for—the right things in this world. G is for guardians; all those service personnel who have defended our wonderful country throughout history including all of today’s U. S. armed forces throughout the world.”

Ms. Kaufman responded to many questions on a wide range of topics:
The dangers we are facing today with jihad in America from the growth of the radical Muslim movement. They want to recognize only their way of life and pose a threat to all those who they consider “nonbelievers.”

She favors term limits for politicians: “a maximum of six years, and you’re out.”

She was highly critical of certain elected officials.

Her answers were a powerful tour de force, expressing unequivocally her strong opinions on many of today’s vital public issues which she does every day on her radio program, Monday through Friday, 2 to 5 P.M.

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Dear Friend, Governor Crist received Senate Bill 462 and Senate Bill 440 this week, which I was a sponsor of in the Florida House. The legislation authorizes the creation of a prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP) in Florida. The Governor has until June 23rd to act, and I need you to encourage him to sign the legislation. Please contact the Governor today at (850) 488-4441 or Charlie.Crist@MyFlorida.com.
Thank you for your support on this issue, and with your help and the Governor’s signature we can help put a stop to the prescription drug abuse epidemic that is devastating so many Florida families.

CFO Sink Unveils Online Insurance Library--Comprehensive insurance information is now available on the Florida Department of Financial Services website in the Insurance Library. Florida CFO Alex Sink launched the Insurance Library to give consumers a central location to find information on financial and insurance issues, as well as information on hurricane preparedness as it relates to insurance.

Chamber Launches Online Job Search--The Greater Boca Raton Chamber of commerce recently added a new job search function on their website. Anyone can view job postings by visiting www.bocaratonchamber.com/jobs. The website lists job openings at the Chamber and its member companies.

Free Online Affordable Rental Housing Locator--The Florida Housing Finance Corporation recently launched a free, online affordable rental housing locator. Properties listed on FloridaHousingSearch.org are affordable for people who earn up to 120 percent of an area’s median income (AMI). For help searching the online database, call 1-877-428-8844.

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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From the June 2009 Issue of Your Public Trustee
Published by Sharon R. Bock, Clerk & Comptroller, Palm Beach County

Longer lines, unprecedented filing backlogs and the elimination of several customer conveniences at Clerk & Comptroller offices throughout Palm Beach County are the anticipated result of state-mandated budget cuts and staff reductions. Clerk Sharon Bock announced May 30 that 66 of her employees would need to be cut to meet a $7.1 million, or 18 percent, reduction in the office’s budget by July 1 as required by the passage of Senate Bills 2108 and 1718 during this year’s legislative session. The bills, initiated by Florida judges and supported by the Florida Bar, Rep. Ellyn Bogdanoff and Sen. Ken Pruitt, slash $46 million from Clerk budgets statewide and place Clerks in the legislative appropriations process, instead of being self-funded.

“This legislation has destabilized Clerks’ offices throughout the state, and unfortunately, the public will suffer the most,” said Clerk & Comptroller Sharon Bock.
Legislation Impact

With an annual loss of more than 210,000 work hours locally, service level reductions are inevitable. Several practices focused on customer convenience will be eliminated. For example, the mid-county branch office in Royal Palm Beach will close to the public on June 30. Also being eliminated are front-counter windows designed to expedite transactions for civil and criminal attorneys and same-day payment for cash bonds. The office will no longer have funding for overtime, which was used to clear out heavy backlogs such as those caused by the skyrocketing increase in foreclosure case filings. In fact, document processing time is expected to increase from 24-48 hours to several weeks as court case workloads continue to increase. To keep customers informed about what cases or documents are currently being processed, in the coming weeks the office will begin posting daily updates online and in each department.

Proactive Measures
The Clerk’s office began strategically reducing staff and expenses more than a year ago when revenue significantly decreased due to the downturn in the real estate market. Operating expenses were cut by 33 percent, positions were eliminated and several departments or functions were consolidated for increased efficiency. With the recent layoffs and the positions previously eliminated, the office has cut 101 positions in the past year. As the chart below illustrates, while clerk staff has been cut by 13 percent this year alone, the number of new cases filed has increased by 12 percent since 2005.

“Truly Disappointed”
The Clerk & Comptroller’s office has maintained an average 98 percent customer satisfaction rating for the past several years and earned the Governor’s Sterling Award in part because of its focus on customer service. It has also been twice named a finalist for the Best Places to Work award by the South Florida Business Journal.

“I am truly disappointed that everything we have worked so hard for—providing exceptional customer service and being a great local employer—is now in jeopardy because of the State Legislature,” said Clerk Bock.

The Clerk & Comptroller’s office, which currently employs more than 800 employees in offices throughout Palm Beach County, handles the “business arm” of the court system. Employees receive, file and retrieve court documents, process fees and traffic fines, and enter and maintain case information in the court’s computer system, making the information readily available to the public.

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On Sunday, June 14th, Flag Day, at 9:30 A.M., the star radio-personality JOYCE KAUFMAN, will be the guest speaker at The Jewish War Veterans Post 819 General Meeting at the Valencia Isles main clubroom.

Members and guests must telephone in their reservations to Board Member William Katz at 561-736-2031 no later than June 10th.

Among the topics to be aired are special help to disabled veterans, seeing-eye and special guide and assist dogs for veterans, and the survival of the Israeli nation.

NORTON MORGENTHAL, Sr. Vice-Commander Post 819.

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A weekly service of the Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs Division

Topic: Moving Out of State

Trap: Mike was ecstatic about his new job with a prestigious marketing company. His only major concern was the need to move from West Palm Beach to New York. To save money, Mike decided to hire a mover who advertised a low rate on the Internet. The rental truck arrived on moving day three hours late! Pressed for time, he signed forms he didn’t read. Two weeks later, Mike’s furniture was delivered with many pieces damaged or missing. Mike contacted the mover who refused to consider his claim.

Tips: Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs licenses local movers. However, when your furniture is transported across state lines, the responsibility to investigate complaints falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Here are some tips to help you select the right mover:
• Get written estimates from three movers based on visual inspections.
• Companies who conduct interstate moves must have insurance and a United States Department of Transportation (DOT) permit issued by the FMCSA. The DOT number must be displayed on all estimates, bills of lading (contract) and trucks. You can verify a mover’s license at FMCSA’s Web site, www.protectyourmove.gov.
• Getting the cheapest price can be costly in the long run. You may be required to pay more than the agreed upon price before the mover will release your goods.
• By law, movers are required to deliver your goods based on a “binding or non-binding” estimate. Call the FMCSA at 1-800-832-5660, and ask for the booklet, “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move,” to learn more.
• Ask the mover about “full value protection” if you are concerned about possible damage. The most common valuation coverage is “release value” which means you will only be reimbursed 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged goods.
• Never ship valuables, heirlooms, irreplaceable family photos or medicine.

Consumers can check for licensed Palm Beach County moving companies and consumer complaints by going to the Consumer Affairs Web site at, www.pbcgov.com/consumer.

For more information, call Consumer Affairs at 561-712-6600 (Boca/Delray 1-888-852-7362).

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Dear Friend, To the surprise of many, Governor Crist has vetoed the condo reform bill (SB 714), citing safety concerns about extending the deadline for associations to install fire sprinklers in their buildings. Senator Deutch and I joined representatives of community associations from throughout Palm Beach and Broward counties at a press conference recently to express our serious concerns about the Governor’s veto of the bill, and the Legislature’s failure to address the impact of the foreclosure crisis on seniors and others living in community associations.

We called upon the Governor to appoint a task force comprised of community association leaders and representatives, realtors, lenders, banking officials and legislators to address a broad range of condo issues, including the impact of the current foreclosure crisis on community associations.

As a result of Governor Crist’s veto and the Legislature’s failure to address the foreclosure crisis, thousands of Floridians who live in community associations will face increased association fees, also known as assessments, to comply with Florida law and make up for delinquent assessments unpaid by owners of foreclosed units. A perfect storm is brewing and it’s not out in the Atlantic. It’s right here in our community. Condo owners and their associations are about to collapse under the weight of a financial burden with no help in sight.

The condo reform bill would have fixed a glitch created during the 2008 session requiring condo owners to purchase specific insurance, and provide proof of that insurance to their associations. As a result of the veto, associations must continue to request proof of insurance, and may force insurance on owners who do not comply. Additionally, the state-mandated deadline for installing fire sprinkler systems will not be extended, and one to two story condos will not be exempt from having to install a manual fire alarm system. To meet these requirements, unit owners will face increased assessments, which could push many owners closer to foreclosure.

Senator Deutch and I will continue working together to find common sense solutions for the many Floridians who live in community associations, and for the volunteer board members who do their best to uphold Florida law and preserve a quality of life for themselves and their neighbors.

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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State Senator Ted Deutch, State Representative Kelly Skidmore and other Officials from Miami, Broward County and Parkland Call upon Gov. Crist to form Task Force to repeal his veto of Condo Reform Bill Senate Bill 714

State Senator Ted Deutch and

State Representative Kelly Skidmore organized a press conference to urge Gov. Crist to form a task force to undo his recent veto of Senate Bill 714. They were followed to the podium by the following elected officials and community leaders:
State Senator Jeremy Ring (D-Parkland); State Representative Mark Pafford, West Palm Beach; Miami Beach City Commissioner Jerry Libbin and local community associations presidents Sheri Scarborough, President of West Boca Community Council;

Robert Schulbaum, President Alliance of Delray Residential Associations; Ken Lassister, President Coalition of Boynton West Residential Associations (COBWRA); and Charlotte Greenbarg, President Broward Coalition of Condominium, Homeowners and Community Organizations.

Commissioner Libbin urged a bus caravan to Tallahassee to protest the lack of protection coming from the state government to residents who have been forced into foreclosure by banks. Bank officials have refused to sit down to discuss how to cope with the massive foreclosure failures. He wants to publish a list of banks that have most foreclosures on their books so customers can pull their money out of these banks as a form of protest. He stated that some condos in Miami have 50% of their residents unable to pay their monthly dues and assessments.
All the speakers urged the public to become more involved and let their voices be heard in Tallahassee. “You must make more noise. There are 6 to 7 million Floridians and over 10,000 associations. The Governor and legislature have to enact laws that are important to citizens--not the lobbyists and the companies they represent.”

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The Alliance of Delray held its annual breakfast for member community presidents, delegates and alternates Mon
day, June 1 at Gleneagles Country Club. Featured guest speaker was Dr. Robert Watson of Lynn University.

More than 170 community leaders attended including State Senators Ted Deutch and David Aronberg, State Representatives Maria Sachs and Kelly Skidmore and Palm Beach County Commissioner Burt Aaronson.

Alliance President Robert Schulbaum spoke about the recent legislative session in Tallahassee and the need for constant vigilance by community executives against unfair encroachment by legislators on the duties and responsibilities of board members.

Dr. Watson, a familiar guest speaker to this organization, presented his overview of the “first hundred days of President Obama,” using examples of previous presidents going as far back as George Washington. As usual, his stirring delivery and depth of historical facts was well received by the audience.

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Dear Friend, This week, the Governor signed the state’s $66.5 billion budget into law. However, he used his line-item veto authority to remove a 2 percent pay cut for state employees making $45,000 a year or more, and a raid of the concealed weapons and firearms licensing trust fund that pays for processing concealed weapons permits.

The Governor also signed House Bill 1495, which allows state-backed Citizens Property Insurance Corporation to increase its premiums by 10 percent annually until they are actuarially sound. This will affect more than 1 million homeowners.
I’ll be sure to keep you informed of other significant legislation as it is signed into law in the coming weeks, but if you’d like to view a complete list of all the bills that the Governor has taken action on thus far, visit his website.
CFO Unveils New Tool to Monitor Government Spending--Florida Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink has unveiled a new website called Florida’s Checkbook that increases transparency and accountability for government spending by allowing Florida taxpayers to view state contracts, revenues and expenditures.
Free “Green Job Corps” Training Classes--The National Green Energy Council is offering “Green Jobs Corps” training classes in Delray Beach on June 8th and 9th at the Old School Square-Crest Theatre Building, 51 N. Swinton Avenue.
The first 100 people to register who meet the following criteria will be able to attend classes for free: Currently unemployed and can provide a recent unemployment check stub
• A college student with a college photo ID
• A local, city or state official
• Interested in becoming a future teacher of this course as a GEC “Ambassador for Change”
Individuals who do not qualify for free classes may still pay to attend. Email gecgjc@greenenergycouncil.com to register. Registration will be on a first come, first serve basis. For more information, visit the Green Energy Council website by clicking here.

Hospital and Health Plan Ratings Available Online--The Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) has recently updated www.floridahealthfinder.gov with the most recent quality care and patient satisfaction measures for Florida HMOs and PPOs to give Florida consumers the tools they need to compare services and obtain the best health care possible. The website also offers tools for consumers to compare nursing homes, prescription drugs, hospice providers, health plan performance and hospital inpatient data.

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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