SEINE THE LAGOON DEC 26th FOR A NEW EXPERIENCE FOR KIDS & ADULTS

An adult must sign up with children to Seine the Lagoon at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center Dec. 26 from 3-4:30 pm.
Grab a net and see what lives in the grasses of the Intracoastal. Hand-held dip nets and large seine nets will help you catch and release a variety of fish, shrimp, crabs and other marine life. Sneakers or wading shoes are your best best for footwear. Reservations required: 561-338-1473. Members: $4 per person; non-members: $6 per person. Great fun to discover what lives here. Explore the Gumbo Limbo trails, canoe the mangroves, learn about GPS, find Red Reef beach treasures, head to the Boca beach and attend an echo-picnic. Endless wonderful activities at this Environmental Center.

BOOKSTORE and ZED 451 RESTAURANT COMING TO MIZNER PARK

Expanding the former Museum of Cartoon Art, a 25,000 sq ft 2-level bookstore and Brazilian-style eatery will be opened within the year. The restaurant is described as a contemporary, internationally-inspired upscale steakhouse.

Feb. 10th Healthy Living Expo in West Boca seeks vendors

The Levis Jewish Community Center and West Boca Medical Center are holding their 11^th annual Healthy Living Expo from 11 am to 3 pm on February 10^th, catering to those age 55 and over. They are looking for participation from physicians, nutritionists, chiropractors, dentists, vision and hearing specialists, rehabilitation centers, mental health centers and related vendors. Location will be the JCC, 9801 Donna Klein Boulevard, off Glades Road at 95^th Avenue South. Register up to 12-31 and pay $250. Afterwards: $350. Contact Lesley Surfer at LesleyS@levis jcc.org or call 561-852-3212.

FAU PRESENTS “THE NUTCRACKER” BY BOCA BALLET

The 16th annual production of “The Nutcracker” will be held November 23-25 at the FAU Theatre. NYC’s American Ballet Theatre dancers Sara Smith and Jared Matthews will be dancing in the production. Smith began her first serious ballet training at Boca Ballet Theatre at age 11, and later attended the Harid Conservatory for four years on full tuition scholarship, and then receiving a scholarship to train at the Joffrey Ballet School in NYC. She next attended Indiana University with a merit scholarship, majoring in ballet performing and nutrition science, and dancing as the Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker and Odette in Swan Lake. In January 2004 Smith joined the American Ballet Theatre as an apprentice. Jared Mathews studied at the North Carolina School of the Arts summer program and with scholarships attended summer intensives at Joffrey Ballet School and School of the American Ballet. In April 2003 he became a member of the corps de ballet of the American Ballet Theatre and was promoted to solist in July 2007. Performances are scheduled at 7 pm Friday November 23, 2 pm and 8 pm on Saturday, November 24 and 2 pm on Sunday, November 25. Tickets are $30 for adults, $25 for children and seniors. Call 561-995-0709 or go to www.bocaballet.org. The Boca Ballet Theatre Volunteer Guild is holding a Gingerbread Ball after both matinee performances, including punch and cookies and a change to meet and get autographs from the dancers. Tickets are $6 and must be purchased in advance, with limited availability.

YOUR RENTAL CAR MAY PAY TURNPIKE & BRIDGE TOLLS WITHOUT USING SUNPASS


Customers of Avis, Budget and Hertz will pay daily fees of $2-$2.50 using “Plate-Pass” with charges billed to credit card of renter. “Rent-A-Tollpass” can be used with Dollar and Thrifty for a flat daily fee of $5.95 per rental day or $27.95 weekly with all toll charges included. These agreements are between Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise and American Traffic Solutions and Rent A Toll, Ltd. License plate information will identify the vehicles and electronically collect the toll. In it’s current newsletter, SunPass states that open road tolling will soon be available in 4 turnpike plazas – Lantana, Cypress Creek, Bird Road and Homestead Toll Plaza with plans to add this feature to other turnpike plaza areas. This will entail removal of the concrete islands (barriers, gates and columns) and adding new toll equipment structures and equipment so that cards with SunPass transducers can keep traveling at speeds of 55 mph instead of the current designated speed limit of 25 mph. Go to http://www.sunpass.com/ to update your license plate, check account balance, replenish your account, update your contact info and answer survey questions. Did you know that Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise invested $7.5-MM for generators for all service plazas giving full power for 72 hours without refueling, for use during hurricanes, and has external defibrilators available? Construction updates and real-time traffic info is available at http://www.floridasturnpike.com/. Another site for traffic info is http://www.traffic.com/.

FIRST BOCADOG WALK – BRING ALONG YOUR POOCH

Do you and your dog look alike? Is yours very small, very large, or very talented? Come to the Canine Carnival and the First BocaDog Walk on Saturday, November 3, 2007 at Mizner Bark, Banyan Trail in Boca Raton and you and your pooch might win a prize! There will be vendors, contests, prizes, and demonstrations. $25 registration fee for you, and the pooch has free admission. Your pooch will get a goodie bag! Registration is at 8:30 am. Walk begins at 9:30 am. Canine Carnival is from 10:30 am to 2 pm. Prizes will be awarded for Best Dressed, Owner/Dog Look Alike, Best of Show, Biggest, Smallest and Most Talented. For more info call 561-305-3351 or go to http://www.bocadogmagazine.com/CanineCarnival

Alas, all the sand-renourished beach areas in the county have been returned to the ocean by abnormal winds and tides, leaving behind long buried groins, rocks, tree stumps and revetments. Stairs, lifeguard stands and building foundations have also been removed. Nearby parking areas and parks have been flooded. Millions of tons of sand are gone, ensuring death to the off-shore environment. The sand smothers fragile coral reefs and all life that inhabits them, limiting food sources for sports and food fish, interfering with “catches” for the fishermen. According to the NEW YORK TIMES (10-2-07) the world’s polar areas are experiencing and ice melt so vast that predictions are that by 2013 a blue Arctic Ocean will exist. Would you say this is an exercise in futility, and that Mother Nature wins?

BOCA RATON HOLIDAY BOAT PARADE DROPPED BY CITY BUT CORPORATIONS COULD CHIP IN TO SAVE IT

Deep cuts in this year’s budget made to meet state legislative mandates eliminated funding for the Holiday Boat Parade, a traditional and popular local event. The Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County has partnered with the city to run this annual event since 2003, when the Greater Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce dropped the event, but they cannot pay for the parade without the City’s contribution. However, they have said that if the City funds the Boat Parade next year, they will again participate. The City of Boca Raton has also cancelled funding for this year for the downtown concert series, Halloween Happenings and the Police Athletic League, though the PAL got $50,000. Other area boat parades planned include Parade of the Palm Beaches, and events in Boynton-Delray, Pompano Beach and the Winterfest in Ft. Lauderdale. Participation in the boat parade has dropped, but the association would increase the number of participating water craft to 45. Boats decorated for the holidays took part in the parade that traveled south on the ICW from Delray Beach to the Deerfield Beach border. Best entries received prizes in several categories. Boats would pull up along the shore and people donated items for a holiday “Toys for Tots” drive.

NAR: A GOOD DAY FOR HOUSING… September 18, 2007

Along with “the FED” cutting the discount rate by half a percentage point, the House of Representatives passed the Expanding American Homeownership Act of 2007, HR 1852, offering homeowners a safer alternative to risky mortgage products, helping homeowners who may be facing foreclosure, increasing loan limits and eliminating the statutory 3% minimum cash down payment. Mortgage modifications will allow borrowers to change mortgage terms so they can afford to stay in their home. “Partial Claim” programs will cure a loan default with the FHA lending the borrower money with a no-interest loan due when the property is sold or paid off. The National Association of Realtors (NAR), America’s largest trade association, represents 1.3MM+ members involved in all aspects of residential and commercial real estate and is known as “The Voice for Real Estate.”

BEACH CLEANUP SATURDAY SEPT 15TH

Make it a beach day... a little bit north! Come to Gulfstream Park, 4489 No. Ocean Blvd, Gulfstream, 8-10:30 am and help cleanup, get free t-shirts, drinks and cookies and be awarded community service hours. Pre-reister with Gary Solomon, TheRecipeExchange@Comcast.net, 561-734-9128. www.Sandsifters.org. Gulfstream Park is a small beach park nestled on a hill behind a mass of Sea Grape bushes and shaded by Australian Pines. There are open picnic benches, a few BBQ grills, a children’s play area, showers and restrooms as well as areas to sit overlooking the ocean. The beach is wide and clean and there is usually a lifeguard on duty. Walk the vegetation-covered boardwalk to the beach. There are 86-parking spaces (free). Activities include fishing, swimming and sunbathing – a great place to take the kids to!

MARCH OF DIMES PRESENTS SIGNATURE CHEFS & WINE EXTRAVAGANZA

Don’t miss this fabulous night of gourmet food presented by 20+ local restaurant chefs (Chef Chair is Zack Bell of Café Boulud in Palm Beach), fine wine spirits, exciting entertainment and live and silent auction prizes at the Marriott Boca Raton, 5150 Town Center Circle on Thursday, October 11, 2007 from 6 pm – 9 pm. Advance Purchased Tickets are $100; $125 on event day. Purchase tickets at marchofdimes.com/florida or call 561-276-2001. Valet parking provided. Located one mile north of Palmetto Park Road on Military Trail in Boca Raton.

BOCA RATON PUBLIC LIBRARY CHESS CLASS A HIT!

Kids from 7-17 have been learning the moves and strategies of chess on Saturday mornings this past summer at the Boca Raton Public Library. Chess is a game that strengthens one’s critical thinking skills. Retired educator Barbara McManus, a member of the City of Boca Raton Education Advisory Board, suggested and then supervised the classes. Other Board Members became instructors. McManus explained that chess is NOT a game of luck, but rather of the ability of the players to analyze, reason, and plan ahead and involves geometric patterns and spatial relationships. McManus hopes to coordinate another series of chess classes at the Boca Raton Public Library in the coming year. Volunteers to teach chess or participate in another way can contact Catherine Vanden Broeck, volunteer coordinator for the city of Boca Raton, at 561-393-7700.

RECENT GRANT TO HELP OUR CHILDREN

Remember the slogan, “A (wo)man never stands so tall as when they stoop to help a child?” A new Boca Raton children’s support group, the first of its kind in the US, and other schools with projects devoted to caregiving children, are among the recipients of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s $500,000 grant. About 15,000 children in Palm Beach County care for relatives with mental illness, disability or frailty, without any organized support, taking time away from their education and homework hours. The Volunteers Homebound & Family Caregivers Inc. are helping bring aid to those children, and to promote awareness of the dual role of youth who are both students and young caregivers within families. The Caregiving Youth Project will use grant money to determine whether 1,000 children are emotionally and physically healthy, get adequate education with time for homework. The funding will support 100 children in 10 schools. Among those being worked with are Boca Middle School, Congress Middle School and Lantana Middle School. Olympic Heights High School may be included. There are 192 Boca Middle School students who are caregivers.

FL MASTER NATURALIST COURSE OFFERED Sept 8 through Oct 16

The Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension Service will provide programs of interest to those with “green thumbs,” who love the great outdoors. Freshwater Wetlands is the first in the series, to promote awareness, understanding an respect of Florida’s natural world among Florida’s citizens. Topics will include concepts of echo-system processes, identification of key plants and wildlife, and how humans can help shape Florida’s environment. There will be both classroom learning and field trips. Cost is $225 per course and will include detailed course manuals with certificate, path and pin upon completion. Participation is limited to 20. The 2nd module, the Uplands Module, begins in October, and the 3rd will be at the Gumbo Limbo Center in Boca Raton on A1A. You can register at http://www.MasterNaturalist.org or call Alyssa Dodd at 561-233-1725 or email Adodd@co.palm-beach.fl.us.

CITYPLACE EVENTS in WEST PALM BEACH

On August 9th, CityPlace fine restaurants are featuring CityPlaceUncorked at the Harriet Himmel Theater. Over 150 fine wines from all over the world to taste… VIP Receipton 6:30-7:30. General Admission 7:30 – 10 pm. Call 1-866-449-2489 to purchase tickets. Tickets are $100 (reserved for exclusive tastings) and General Admission is $60 in advance, $75 on day of event. Participating restaurants in clued Blue Martini, Il Bellagio, Legal Seafoods, Saito’s Japanese Steakhouse, Starbucks, City Cellar, Brewzzi, Columbia, Continental Catering, Jinja, Mark’s and Taverna OPA.

WATER RATE HIKE COMING TO BOCA RATON RESIDENTS IN NOVEMBER

Water consumption in Boca Raton has been cut back about 15% since drought-related water restrictions started in April. However the City Manager, Leif Ahnell told City Council this is NOT related to the increase coming soon.

AUGUST BRINGS BOCA FESTIVAL DAYS

Organized by the Greater Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce, special activities include:

Saturday, August 4: 22^nd ANNUAL OPEN JURIED ART EXHIBITION. Open Mon/Fri 9 am – 5 pm. The Artist Guild of the Boca Raton Museum of Art has opened this show to all South Florida artists and sales of the artwork will benefit the Museum. Exhibit is open through September 7^th at the Courtyard Building, 5301 North Federal Highway, Boca Raton. Call 561-738-4842 or 561-487-3362 for more information.

August 4, 11, 18, 25, 2-3:30 pm, GUIDED TOUR OF HISTORIC BOCA RATON RESORT AND CLUB. Here is an opportunity to see a famous area in Boca Raton with historic significance. 90 minute tours of this beautiful historic property built in 1926 by Addison Mizner will be conducted by the Boca Raton Historical Society docents. $12 per person ($10 for BRHS members). $9 for valet parking. See www.bocahistory.org or call 561-395-6766 Ext 100 for more information.

Friday, August 10, 7-9 PM, SUMMER MUSIC IN THE PARK will feature the Hal Roland Band – a free concert at Sanborn Square on Federal Highway, a half-block north of Palmetto Park Road. Bring a blanket or chair. Parking available nearby. For information call 561-393-7827.

Friday, August 24^th, 7-9 PM SUMMER MUSIC IN THE PARK will feature the Applause Band with Joel Lawrence. A featured Las Vegas entertainer and lead singer in a “Doo-Wop” group. See Sanborn Square directions above.

Tuesday, August 14^th, 9 am, BIRD WATCHING BASICS at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 North Ocean Boulevard, Boca Raton – learn about birds in your backyard. Binoculars recommended. All ages – children must be accompanied by adults. $15 each, reservations required. 561-338-1473. Info: 561-338-1483.

FAR “PUTS MONEY WHERE ITS MOUTH IS” RE PROPERTY TAX REFORM BALLOT

The Florida Association of Realtors, the largest trade group in the state, with 150,000 members, has pledged up to $1-MM to support passage of the Save Our Homes Amendment to allow homeowners to continue the 1992 Amendment for a 3% tax cap or to choose a new “super-homestead” exemption, taking up to $195,000 off their home’s taxable value. Passage of this amendment will provide meaningful tax relief for thousands of families including 1^st time homebuyers, and will equalize neighbor’s property taxes, says the FAR President Nancy Riley. She stated that then nurses, police officers, teachers and emergency first responders can afford to live in the communities they serve.

BREAST CANCER SCREENINGS AVAILABLE AT BRCH

BRCH has opened a satellite location of the Diagnostic Center of Boca Raton BRCH on the Clint Moore campus, Suite 114, at 1905 Clint Moore Road, offering state-of-the-art digital technology for breast screenings with hours from Monday-Friday, 8 am to 4 pm. Other locations are at the Women’s Center at BRCH, 690 Meadows Road and Women’s Center at Deerfield, 1979 W Hillsboro Boulevard, Suite 3, Deerfield Beach.. Screening appointments are now available – call 561-955-5000.

From the BOCA NEWS, Friday-Saturday, July 13-14

Girls 12 and under national clay court tournament starts Sunday at Boca Polo Club. For 20 years, girls from all over the country have descended on the Polo Club at Boca Raton for the USTA Girls National 12 and under Clay Court Championships. This year’s tournament begins Sunday with singles matches at 8 a.m. Doubles follow at 2 p.m. Opening ceremonies are Saturday at 5:30 p.m. on Court 11.

“We’re very excited,” Polo Club Tennis Director Jean Mills said. “You’ll see the future Chris Everts and Lindsay Davenports at the event.” Madison Keys, Jennifer E. Brady and Julia O'Loughlin are he only competitors from Boca Raton.

The format is a compass draw, which assures each participant a minimum of four matches before the knockout stage begins Wednesday.The finals are scheduled to start at 8 a.m. on Saturday, July 21.

Mills said the reason the USTA has had such a long and continuous relationship with the Polo Club is easy to pinpoint. “We both have in common that we want to help our future stars and players of tomorrow,” she said.

BIDS WILL BE SOUGHT FOR NOISE-DEADENING INSULATION

With no cost to homeowners, the Boca Raton Airport Authority will seek bids in August through advertising, according to the Sound Insulation Land Use Committee, “to provide acoustic treatments to residential structures located adjacent to the airport,” at no cost to the homeowners, included will be new windows, doors, insulation and air conditioning.

Opening of bids for the Boca Raton Airport QuieterHome Program is scheduled for September 12^th. The contract should be awarded in October or November. The Program will begin with 10 homes and then another 35 homes which experience the highest aircraft noise, by reducing the noise level at least 5 decibels. Other areas using the QuieterHome Program include Cleveland, Detroit, Pittsburg, Tulsa, San Diego, Buffalo and Anchorage.

BOCA MUSEUM PLANS EXHIBIT OF DEGAS SCULPTURES

While a Jacksonville art gallery owner claims the 74 sculptures are “fakes,” made after Degas’ death in 1917, the Museum’s Board of Trustees discounts the art gallery owner’s opinion, noting the goal might be “to get his name in the newspaper.” Museums currently displaying all or portions of the Degas bronzes include the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the Getty Museum in Los Angeles and the Chicago Institute of Art in Chicago. The National Endowment for the Humanities has underwritten some of the insurance expenses for the upcoming show. The museum’s website says that the exhibit, DEGAS IN BRONZE, “offers an extremely rate opportunity to view 74 sculptures, posthumously cast in bronze from Degas’ original composite and wax models.”

IN MY HUMBLE OPINION…

With reports just in that New York City and Salt Lake City are avoiding “the [real estate] bust,” can Palm Beach County be far behind? Some investors tell me they are “sitting on the sidelines” waiting for prices to keep dropping… other investors want to “sell and get out now,” but in many cases sellers are “standing pat.” Expired listings number near or over 500 properties each day. Some sellers cancel listings after getting low low bids. Remember that June and July are usually “slow months” with so many residents and part-timers out of town. August has been an outstanding month for sales in past years as folks come down to purchase residences for this coming winter… perhaps that will happen in 2007 as well. As a Realtor, I can tell you that every day in this career is exciting… new faces… new properties… no two ever alike. Like the stock market, real estate is cyclical… and what goes down will go up… just a matter of time. Stay cool. Hang in there.

Marilyn Farber Jacobs, Realtor, ePRO

IF YOU "FLIP" HOMES, THIS MAY BE OF INTEREST

A nationwide search is being done for the new cast of characters who will be featured on the upcoming season of Flip This House! The producers are searching for confident, charismatic, motivated and opinionated people who "flip" residential properties for a living. They want real-estate adrenaline junkies who love the high risk, high reward nature of their jobs and who are devoted to doing a great job! If you would like your team featured on the upcoming season send me an email and I’ll have them contact you.

marilynfjacobs@gmail.com

SPANISH RIVER LIBRARY DEBUT SCHEDULED FOR JANUARY 2008

After more than a year’s hiatus, construction has restarted. Once completed it will have a café, two terraces, computer lab, teen meeting room and story area for children. Computers have been purchased. The planned downtown library on the NW 2^nd Avenue site is in the pre-design state, and it’s future depends on how tax reform impacts the city. This library will be adjacent to a new development, Library Commons.

MIZNER PARK LEASEHOLDER SUING PROPERTY APPRAISER

Accusing Property Appraiser Gary Nikolits of using different appraisal practices to set a value for the retail/office/residential shopping center in downtown Boca Raton, rather than for “comparable properties within the same class in Palm Beach County,” thelawsuit says Nikolits assessment “is in excess of the value of the property”… and that Nicolits “failed and refused to consider all the factors set forth” in the applicable state statutes. Nicolitis said, “Highest and best use is one of 8 criteria considered for appraising property.” Nicolitis set a value on the property of $44-MM. The land is owned by Boca Raton and the current 99-year leaseholder and management company is General Growth Properties, who, along with Boca Raton Community Redevelopment Agency have filed the lawsuit.

“Human Rights in Turbulent Times” Topic at Boca Raton Museum of Art

On Wednesday, July 18^th at 6:30 pm, Dr. Mark Frrezzo, assistant professor of sociology at Florida Atrlantic University’s Dorothy F Schmidt College of Arts and letters will speak on “Human Rights in Turbulent Times, coinciding with the museum’s current exhibition, “Thy Brothers’ Keeper”, a photography exhibition on display through August 26th.

It is free to the public and will be held in the museum’s Wolfin Auditorium.

Global issues of justice and the media’s reporting and the American public’s reaction will be discussed.

4th of JULY

BOCA RATON:

Wear your red, white and blue outfit and mosey over to FAU, beginning at 6 pm on Wednesday, July 4^th for a musical revue at 4 pm of “An American Songbook: Irving Berlin, at FAU’s University Theater. Tickets are $20. At 5:30, a few blocks away, the outdoor event will begin with games at the carnival midway and family activities. The muxic beings with the “Rumor Has It” band offering music of the 1950’s and 1960’s. At 6 pm family activities are held and at 6:30 pm there will be a stage show, “You’re A Grand Old Flag. At 7:30 the Florida Wind Symphony presents a patriotic musical tribute including vocal selections from the “Irving Berlin Review” and popular family musical, “Bye Bye Birdie, both currently being presented at the University Theatre.

At 9 pm, a fireworks display will take place with traditional patriotic music supplied by Radio station WRMF 97.9 FM.

Other activities include appearances by FAU athletic teams and coaches, clowns amking animal sculptured balloons, face painting, sand art, gift drawings and family games. Special music and activities will be provided by the Childrens Museum and Glass Productions. “Operation Goody Boxes”, coordinated by the Humanitarian Society and othes, will receive monetary donations at their tent by the stage area to prepare and mail “goody boxes” to troops overseas.

Food vendors will provide picnic-type foods. No personal fireworks, open fires, pets or alcoholic beverages allowed. Bring blankets and lawn chairs. Closest parking lots to the events are 1, 2, 4 and the parking garage next to parking lot 1. Those with handicapped needs are asked to use the 20^th Street entrance and go to parking lot 1. For information call 561-393-7806, selection 2.

HOME & CONDO SALES PREDICTED TO MAKE STRIDES

More and more positive mentions of home sales are being seen in the media.

NAR projects that sales will have a gradual upturn becoming more pronounced by the end of 2007. FAR reports that statewide sales of existing single-family homes in Florida totaled 12,607 in May, which is more in line with May 2002 activity, prior to the housing boom years, than May 2006 with 19,072 homes – a 34% decrease in the year-to-year comparison.

The MSA (Metropolitan Statistical Area) reported that the Boca-West Palm area had 741 homes sold last month compared to 982 a year ago, producing a 25% decrease. Median price was $387,800 whereas in May 2006 it ws $391,000 resulting ina 1% decrease. 613 existing condos changed hands last month, up 11% from the 552 condos sold the previous year. Existing condo medial sales price in May was $217,400; a year ago it was $218,900, for a 1% decrease.

Among the state’s larger markets, the West Palm Beach-Boca Raton Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) reported 741 existing homes sold last month compared to 982 homes sold a year ago for a 25 percent decrease. The market's median sales price for homes was $387,800; it was $391,000 in May 2006 for a 1 percent decrease. A total of 613 existing condos changed hands in the MSA last month, up 11 percent from the 552 condos sold the previous year. The existing condo median sales price in May was $217,400; a year ago, it was $218,900 for a 1 percent decrease.

ISRAEL BONDS INVESTMENT BILL SIGNED BY GOV CHRIST

A bill authorizing county and local governments throughout the state to invest surplus funds in bonds backed by the full faith and credit of the State of Israel has been adopted by the Florida State Legislature, starting July 1st, and was signed by Governor Charlie Christ on June 8th at a ceremony at Temple Beth El in Boca Raton.

Those authorized to invest are state agencies, municipal fire and police pension funds and local governments.

Gov. Christ recently returned from a trip to Israel that focused on bilateral trade between Israel and the State of Florida.

The first Israel bond was sold in 1951 and close to $25-billion in investment capital has been secured for the development of every aspect of Israel’s economy including agriculture, commerce and industry, and to absorb Jews from the former Soviet Union, Ethiopia and elsewhere.

More than $100-million of Israel Bonds are purchased every year within the State of Florida by individuals, corporations, pension plans, universities, hospitals, foundations, unions, banks and insurance companies.

BOCA TEECA TOWNHOUSE PROJECT NEARS FINAL RULING

The Planning and Zoning Board recommended the 211-unit townhouse project to be built on 30 acres on the southwest edge of Ocean Breeze Golf Course at Boca Teeca to the City Council after a hearing this past week. A public hearing will be held on August 14, and next the Department of Community Affairs must review the proposal. It then goes back to City Counsel in November or December for a final vote, requiring 4 yes votes of the 5 members voting. The proposal includes renovating the Inn at Ocean Breeze by adding 46 hotel rooms to the existing 46, and refurbishing the Boca Teeca clubhouse by adding a new social center. Included would be creating a new 9-hole executive golf course and a redesigned 18-hole golf course on the existing fairways. The townhouses would have golf course views. President of the President’s Council said that “the overwhelming majority of Boca Teeca unit owners fully endorse this plan and voluntarily agree to lift the deed restriction on 30 acres of the south course to allow for a limited 211-unit town home project.” Concerns included traffic along NW 2^nd Avenue and the loss to some residents of golf course views.

“PROTECTING FLORIDA’S INVESTMENTS ACT” SIGNED

Florida has now become the first state in the US to link its public investments with the actions of “rogue” nations.

The new law allows Florida to divest some of its $150-BB fund and other public investments from firms that refuse to stop doing business with or otherwise support Iran and Sudan. Genocide and the development of nuclear weapons by Iran, the “world’s leading state sponsor of terror,” will not be sponsored by Florida, said Senator Ted Deutch (D-Boca Raton) and he praised Florida Governor Charlie Christ, just back from a trip to Israel, for signing the bill.

Deutch says he is working with other states to accomplish a similar program, and Governor Christ has sent letters to Governors of 49 other states encouraging them to follow suit. Deutch said the use of the law would require three steps: Identify firms with ties described by the law, Engage those firms “in a dialogue that causes them to understand what they are doing, and Ask that those ties be severed. If they are not severed, those stocks will be divested from the pension funds holdings.

This bill was signed by Governor Christ at Temple Beth El in Boca Raton.

CORNELL MUSEUM’s 13th ALL-FLORIDA JURIED FINE ART EXHIBITION OPENS

The Cornell Museum of Art & History at Old School Square Cultural Arts Center is holding this event June 14 through Sept 8. Competition closed in March, open to all Florida artists. There were more than 200 entries. There will be 70 works by 59 artists displayed including watercolors, oils, acrylis, graphites, dollage, pen and ink, mixed media, stone, wood, digital and traditional photography.

On June 21 from 5:30 pm to 8 pm $2500 in cash prizes will be awarded at an awards reception. Prizes will include Best of Show, three Awards of Excellence, Special Recognition Awards and Merit Awards.. No cost to Old School Square members and exhibiting artists, $6 for others.

Museum’s summer hours are Tuesday-Saturday, 10:30 am – 4:30 pm. $6 general admission, $4 students and seniors, children 13 and under are free. For more information call 561-243-7922.

MORIKAMI MUSEUM & JAPANESE GARDENS CELEBRATING 30TH YEAR

On Monday, June 25, a very special anniversary party, free to members and non-members, will be held at the facilities from 10 am to 5 pm. At 1:30 pm a huge anniversary cake will be cut and served.

There will be two free tours of the Pastimes and Amusements of the Japanese exhibition including Japanese toys, games, musical instruments and other objects depicting the spirit of amusement and playfulness enjoyed in Japan, which officially opens on June 26^th. One tour will be held at noon, one at 3 pm, limited to the first 100 people. Two tours will also be offered of the exhibition Yamato Colony at 11 am and 2 pm, each tour limited to 50 people. These are provided by a one-year Florida state grant. Tickets for all tours will be given out on a first-come, first-served basis, starting at 10 am. Guests are invited to stroll through the Japanese Gardens and can use a free audio tour.

For children, a treasure trek activity is being scheduled to take place in the Gardens. The Cornell Café will be open for lunch. The museum store will give a free Japanese fan for purchases over $15 and discounts on some items.

The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens are owned and operated by the Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation Department. They are located at 4000 Morikami Park Road in Delray Beach off Jog Road between Linton Boulevard and Clint Moore Road. 561-495-0233 or www.morikami.org.

FLORIDA’S HERITAGE TO BE SHOWN IN ART SHOW & THEATRE AT SUGAR SANDS PARK

Willow Theatre presents “The Life of Ivy Stranahan: A florida Pioneer, Saturday June 23^rd at 2 pm. Reknowned historical Chautauqa portrayal artist tells tales of old Florida, with Mrs. Stranahan trekking through knee-deep mud, championing the Seminole Indians cause and becoming Ft. Lauderdale’s first teacher, a portrait of achievement and courage. Tickets are $12. Purchase at box office (561-347-3948).

The Boca Historical Society exhibits will include”Herstory: Boca Raton’s Pioneer Women.”

Sugar Sands Park Community Center and the Willow Theatre are located at 300 S. Military Trail, B oca Raton (561-347-3900 or www.sugar-sandpark.org).

DOT EAST ATLANTIC AVENUE IMPROVEMENTS HEARING

On June 6 a meeting will be held to discuss proposed improvements to East Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach between NW and SW 12^th Avenue to A1A. This will include milling and repaving existing roadway, updating curb ramps at intersections and adding cross walks, installing new mast arm traffic signals at some intersections, installing new highway lighting and adding new landscaping and decorative features. No formal presentation will be made; it will be an informal open meeting. It will be held 3-8 pm at the Old School Square Gymnasium at 51 N. Swinton Ave, just north of Atlantic Avenue. Construction is expected to begin in August 2008 and completed in a year and a half. Estimated cost is about $6-MM. For more information call FDOT’s Project Manager John Thmpson at 866-336-8435, Ext 4680 or email: John.Thompson@dot.state.fl.us.

THIS FRIDAY STARTS A 12-DAY TAX FREE HOLIDAY ON STORM ITEMS

Save money on batteries, generators, flashlights, fans, portable radios and other storm-related supplies during this period when you won’t be paying sales tax on these items. Florida residents are expected to save about $25-MM in sales taxes during this period.

DOWNTOWN BOCA SPINE

Plans for Crocker Partners to create a downtown Boca Raton pedestrian “spine which will include stores, shops, a hotel, offices and restaurants to create a pedestrian-friendly area with green space to attract walkers, are moving ahead now. The CEO, Tom Crocker says he has the backing of about 50% of downtown property owners for this Sandborn Square development, and is still working towards accord with one of the city’s largest landlords, who owns the Royal Palm Place shopping plaza at the south end of the city, which is planned to connect with Mizner Park. Two city blocks in downtown Boca will be involved. An architectural firm has been hired. The city, under Crocker Partners’ proposal, could authorize creation of a self-taxing community development district, which would be devoted to the spine road and public parking, then requiring no outlay of city money nor the need for bonds. Estimate from the city for the cost of the spine is about $30-MM.

BOCA AIRPORT OFFICIALS WINNING FIGHT AGAINST NOISE

Stage 1 and Stage 2 aircraft, weighing less than 75,000 lbs., are considered the noisiest of the small jets. Currently, an amendment to a bill that would phase out these aircraft has been approved by the US Senate Commerce Committee. Owners and operators of these craft would have a 5-year time frame either to discontinue operations or retrofit the planes with quieter engines. The Boca Airport has some Stage 2 planes based at the airfield, but no Stage 1 planes. Boca Airport is a member of the national organization, “Sound Initiative: A Coalition for Quieter Skies,” formed by airports and supported by local governments and anti-noise proponents. A noise abatement report and a committee to handle noise complaints were created a few years ago as a result of the aircraft noise from the Boca Airport. Next the bill goes to the Finance Committee for consideration, and then a House version will be considered.

ARTICLE IN TODAY'S BOCA NEWS

POLO CLUB RESIDENTS AID BOCA HELPING HANDS

Hundreds of Polo Club Residents emptied cupboards prior to leaving for their homes up north and brought canned goods and dried food products to a central gathering point for the benefit of Boca Helping Hands last month.

..."Polo Club prides itself on community involvement," said Stan Frank, president of the Board of Governors. "We are known for our commitment through the number of Polo Club residents who volunteer in the hospitals, schools, fire stations, the art museums, music performances and other community organizations."

Polo Club, a golf and tennis country club residential enclave opened its gates in 1981. A major overhaul of its clubhouse took place in the early nineties, providing Polo Club members one of the lArgest clubhouses in the area at 90,000 sq ft. It also has another 40,000 sq ft fitness Facilitiy on 2 floors, featuring new equipment and programs such as Pilates, spinning, kiniesology, current aerobics trends, ballroom dancing, personal trainers and a complete spa for men and women.

Its two golf courses were redesigned and rebuilt - one three years ago, the other was just finished.

100 COMPUTERS PURCHASED FOR PUBLIC USE BY NEW BOCA LIBRARY

With construction back on track and completion expected by the end of the year, there will be 65,000 books and 7,000 other media (DVD’s and CD’s). Computers will be purchased and there will be 2 computer labs, one for children and the other for adults. Another new library is planned on a parcel of land just north of the existing downtown facility at 100 NW Second Avenue.

UPDATE: FLORIDA LEGISLATURE

PROPERTY TAX – “where it is” on 5-4-07

The Florida Legislature suspended negotiations on Save Our Homes portability, rollbacks and other property tax reform proposals until next month when lawmakers return to Tallahassee for a 10-day special session from June 12-June 22. Both sides have already agreed on two FAR-supported tax relief measures - $25,000 exemption on personal intangible property for small businesses and some form of Save Our Homes portability (terms not released). Sources say that so far there is agreement on cutting property taxes by about $20-$25-billion over 5 years; no sales tax increase; some form of Save our Homes portability.

To write your legislator send an email to http://floridarealtors.org - see Legislative Center.

Legislators made it easier for certain property owners to get insurance from Citizens which is now Florida’s largest insurer with 1.3 million policyholders. Property owners will be allowed into the Citizens pool if the only insurance they could obtain on the private market was 15% more expensive than what they would pay Citizens. Citizens rates would freeze through 2008. On Jan 1, 2009, Citizens would again be allowed to raise rates.

Homes valued at over $750,000 and located in high-risk zones will be required to install opening protections as of July 1, 2008 if they seek a building permit for work estimated at $50,000 or more. By 1/1/2009, all homes valued at over $750,000 in high-risk zones must be fitted wit opening protections to remain eligible for Citizens coverage. This is to help reduce some of the risk in the event of a devastating storm. Free inspections of 400,000 single-family homes is called for and grants and loan are provided to certain homeowners to make improvements to strengthen their home against storms.

Home inspectors, mold remediators and mold assessors will be required to be licensed by the Dept. of Business and Professional Regulation as of July 1, 2010 IF SIGNED BY THE GOVERNOR.

Landlords are limited to a financial penalty when a tenant breaks a lease of two months of rent for leases of less than a year. Effective at once IF THE GOVERNOR SIGNS IT.

Mortgage brokers and lenders will now have many disclosure and education requirements to help protect consumers during the mortgage loan application process. This bill includes additional enforcement and investigative tools for prosecuting mortgage fraud. The definition of “primary title services” and “related title services” will be amended and a civil court case codified that permits a portion of a title insurance premium to be rebated IF SIGNED BY THE GOVERNOR.