By Joe Capozzi

Lynne Ladner, a former interim town manager in Pinellas County, will take over as interim town manager in Ocean Ridge. 

Town commissioners Aug. 8 voted 4-0 to hire Ladner after interviewing one other candidate, former Lake County Manager Alan Rosen. Commissioner Geoff Pugh was absent. Ladner formally accepted the job on Aug. 10. 

She is expected to start Sept. 1 or a few days earlier, working alongside outgoing town manager Tracey Stevens, whose last day is Sept. 11. Stevens has accepted the town manager job in Haverhill. 

Commissioners hope to interview candidates for a full-time town manager in October and hire one by Thanksgiving. Ladner told commissioners she is interested in the full-time position. 

A third candidate, former Sewall’s Point Town Manager Michelle Berger, had applied for the interim job but later withdrew.

Commissioners were impressed with Rosen, but felt Ladner was the better fit. Rosen told commissioners he probably would not be interested in the full-time position because of family commitments.

“I think Lynne would be a good fit for keeping the boat afloat for the three months while we are looking for somebody else,’’ Mayor Susan Hurlburt said. 

Ladner has more than 15 years of experience working in local governments in Florida, Michigan and Kansas. More recently she served as interim town manager in Kenneth City, a suburb of St. Petersburg. She is currently working as a consultant for the city of Pahokee, a job she will leave before starting in Ocean Ridge. 

Ladner will draw a paycheck based on a $100,000 annual salary for the first two weeks. On Sept. 12 her pay will increase to $132,500 a year, which Stevens is making. 

By Larry Barszewski

The Coastal Star received five first-place awards and 14 overall in the Florida Press Association 2022 Weekly Newspaper Contest for non-daily newspapers.

The articles receiving first-place recognition covered a variety of topics, from inspections of aging condos, to newly found photos of a ship that wrecked off Manalapan’s coast more than a century ago, to a Valentine’s look at the love letters and the endearing affection between former Florida Atlantic University head football coach Howard Schnellenberger and his wife, Beverlee.

The association presented the awards at a ceremony Aug. 5 in Ponte Vedra Beach near Jacksonville. Though it comes out monthly, The Coastal Star competed against weekly newspapers in a division for papers with circulations over 15,000.

The paper’s top awards went to:

• The staff, led by reporter Joel Engelhardt, for in-depth reporting, non-investigative, with its look – following the Surfside condo collapse – at the number of aging condos in coastal South Palm Beach County.
• Ron Hayes, with two first-place awards. The first, in the feature story, non-profile category, was for his story about the Delray Beach Public Library providing free laundromat services to the homeless. His second came in the community history category, for a story about one historian’s efforts that uncovered photos of the Lofthus, which ran aground off Manalapan in 1898.
• Brian Biggane, in the sports feature story category, for his poignant telling of the Schnellenbergers’ decades-long love story.
• Janis Fontaine, in faith and family reporting, for a pair of pandemic-related stories: One on how the musical director at St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church in Boynton Beach was able to rediscover his creative passion during the pandemic lockdown; the other on how Jehovah’s Witnesses responded after they had to put their communal gatherings and door-to-door visits on hold because of COVID.

Second place awards went to:

• Rich Pollack for general news story;
• Larry Keller for education feature story;
• Gretel Sarmiento for arts, entertainment and review reporting; and
• The Coastal Star staff, for general excellence.

Third place awards went to:

• Larry Keller for faith and family reporting;
• Tara Mitton Catao for arts, entertainment and review reporting;
• Rich Pollack and Jane Smith for local government reporting; and
• The Coastal Star staff for overall graphic design and for website excellence.

By Rich Pollack

More than a year after a sometimes contentious split in which Highland Beach told Delray Beach it no longer wants the city’s fire rescue services, the two municipalities are in talks to determine if — and how — they can work together down the road.
Fire chiefs from both communities met Aug. 1 to begin hammering out an agreement that would be beneficial both to Delray Beach and to Highland Beach, which is scheduled to start its own fire department in May 2024.
The meeting came just a few weeks after the county’s Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council tabled a vote on whether to recommend to the Palm Beach County Commission that Highland Beach receive a certification of need, and asked that the two municipalities talk about helping each other.
Details on how a partnership between the two communities would be structured are up in the air, with a fee-for-service option on the table.
“We have to figure out a framework for working with Delray,” said Highland Beach Town Manager Marshall Labadie. “In the long run, it will be good for both parties. It has the potential to be a win-win for both of us.
Delray Beach Fire Rescue Chief Keith Tomey said the last word on whether there will be an agreement with Highland Beach rests with city commissioners.
Tomey, who met with Highland Beach’s newly appointed fire chief, Glenn Joseph, said much of the initial discussion focused on how Delray Beach could assist Highland Beach if needed.
“My main focus is on the safety of my firefighters and the residents of Delray Beach and Highland Beach,” he said.
Highland Beach Mayor Doug Hillman said the town is looking forward to discussing an agreement. “We are happy to discuss mutual aid as long as it’s mutually beneficial,” he said.
Under the current agreement, Delray Beach staffs Highland Beach’s fire station with a rescue vehicle and a fire truck. Because that station is considered part of Delray’s overall system, backup vehicles are available from stations within the city limits.
In addition, the Delray Beach firefighters and paramedics assigned to Highland Beach currently respond to calls within Delray’s city limits. A recent study showed that the station was dispatched to about 670 calls a year in Delray, about half of its total calls.
Tomey said his department will be able to absorb those calls by filling almost two dozen open positions.
Highland Beach is planning to spend up to $10 million approved by voters to build a new station and include two fire trucks and two rescue vehicles.
“We have the ability to supply mutual aid service to adjacent municipalities,” Labadie said.
The EMS council’s vote is a potential stumbling block.
In order to provide emergency medical services to residents and potentially Delray Beach, Highland Beach must receive a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity, which must be approved by the County Commission.
During its meeting last month, members of the EMS council were prepared to vote on recommending approval but stopped when it was suggested that the decision be tabled until after Highland Beach and Delray Beach meet.
The council also asked for reassurances from Highland Beach that it would have three paramedics on each rescue wagon.
Prior to the tabling of the vote, Tomey expressed concern about whether Highland Beach’s plan to have seven firefighter/paramedics on a shift would be adequate.
Labadie, pointing out that Highland Beach averages about two calls per day, believes the proposed staffing levels are adequate but is not closing the door on a small increase in personnel per shift.
Both Labadie and Hillman say they are optimistic that the council will recommend that the County Commission approve the town’s application.
“We have public support, we have capacity, and we have proven value,” Labadie said.

By Rich Pollack

Highland Beach now has a new incoming fire chief, one with extensive experience in south Palm Beach County, who was chosen last month to lead the town’s effort to get its new fire department up and running.
Glenn Joseph, a veteran of more than three decades in fire service, including serving as chief in Boynton Beach and deputy chief in Boca Raton, was selected from a field of candidates after serving for almost a year as a fire consultant to Highland Beach.
“We think he’s going to be a spectacular chief and an outstanding community partner,” Town Manager Marshall Labadie said.
Joseph was one of five finalists who were interviewed for the position and stood out among the candidates, according to Mayor Doug Hillman.
“Nobody could hold a candle to Chief Joseph,” Hillman said. “He’s a fabulous choice.”
Hillman said that Joseph’s vast experience in fire rescue, as well as his understanding of the town’s needs — thanks to his months of consulting — were striking.
“He also fits right into our culture, and culture is very important in our little town,” Hillman said. “We have built a team spirit and Chief Joseph is definitely a team player.”
Joseph, 58, said he is excited about creating a new fire department and the challenges that come with it.
“How many firefighters get to start a department from the ground up?” he said. “It’s an opportunity I can’t pass up.”
The fire chief says his focus in the short term will be making sure the town obtains all the licenses and approvals it needs from county and state officials. He’ll also focus on developing policies and procedures and building the necessary infrastructure.
He expects to begin the process of hiring personnel in late fall or early winter and says the town will be looking for “the right people for the right jobs.”
In addition to being a veteran fire service administrator, Joseph is a paramedic and a nurse who worked in a trauma intensive care unit.
He has served as an adjunct instructor for the National Fire Academy since 1994 in areas related to emergency response to hazardous materials incidents.
After coming to Florida in 1976 from Saint Lucia in the Caribbean, Joseph worked for an ambulance service before joining Lantana Fire Rescue and then Boca Raton Fire Rescue.
While in Boca, he served as a firefighter, paramedic, hazardous materials technician, lieutenant, captain and paramedic supervisor before retiring in 2016 as deputy chief.
Soon after, he accepted the position as chief of Boynton Beach Fire Rescue and was there until 2019, when he left to begin a consulting practice.
Joseph holds associate’s degrees in business and nursing, and a bachelor’s degree in organizational management as well as a bachelor’s in nursing and a master’s degree in emergency management.
The chief said he is looking forward to working with the town staff and commission as well as working with nearby communities.
“We want to be good neighbors and collaborate with Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Boynton Beach and Palm Beach County,” he said.

By Rich Pollack

The Florida Department of Transportation will offer a preview this month of a major road-improvement project on State Road A1A through Highland Beach and part of Delray Beach that will include lane closures and other disruptions.
A public meeting at 6 p.m. Aug. 31 at Highland Beach Town Hall will share information about the $8.8 million resurfacing project, which is scheduled to begin in spring 2024 and continue until summer 2025.
The meeting, which will also be available virtually and posted online afterward, will include a presentation followed by an opportunity for people to ask questions.
Project manager Brad Salisbury said in addition to the resurfacing, the work will include 5-foot-wide bicycle lanes on both sides of A1A as well as improvements to drainage in swales.
The drainage improvements, designed to keep water from pooling on the roadway after a heavy rain, have long been sought by town leaders, while bicyclists have long expressed wishes for marked bicycle lanes.
To accommodate the bicycle lanes, Salisbury said, the pavement will need to be wider, with much of the expansion occurring on the west side of A1A. The project will also include upgrades to signage and pavement markings.
“There are going to be construction impacts and impacts to some landscaping,” he said.
To reduce inconveniences to motorists, work on the 3.35 miles of A1A will be done in phases, with work crews directing traffic during single-lane closures. Impacts to pedestrians are not expected, and engineers say access to all properties will be maintained throughout the project.
Those wishing to attend the meeting virtually or in person are asked to register at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/520314613533228046
Participants can also dial in by calling 213-929-4221 and using access code 896-220-094.
A recording of the meeting will be posted at http://bit.ly/3LbAv9K.
“This is a good opportunity for residents to learn about the impacts they can expect for the duration of the project,” Highland Beach Town Manager Marshall Labadie said.

By Steve Plunkett

Peace and quiet is no more along the shores of the Intracoastal Waterway just south of the Camino Real bridge.
Palm Beach County, after a recent review of operations there, ordered the bridge’s tender to activate its horn each time the bridge opens — as often as every 20 minutes.
“This thing is a blast,” said Tom Tyghem, who lives two doors south of the bridge. “It’s very annoying. Everyone is annoyed, but we can’t do anything about it.”
Tyghem, who has lived in the Royal Palm Yacht and Country Club for 28 years, said the horn had not been used “for many, many years.”
“This is unnecessary noise pollution, and it degrades the community,” he wrote in an email to County Mayor Robert Weinroth’s office.
Tyghem and his neighbors — including the 200-resident Boca Inlet Apartments, the Royal Palm Improvement Association and The Boca Raton resort — have met with representatives of the county’s bridge operations and sent petitions to Assistant County Engineer Steve Carrier, who oversees the Road and Bridge Division.
The petition states that the horn’s “almost constant assault” is an annoyance and a danger to hearing and property values, and begs Carrier to “let our community return to its normally quiet and peaceful existence.”
Carrier insists the bridge tender is following the book, and he sent The Coastal Star a detailed email saying how the horn’s operation and volume are according to the Florida Department of Transportation’s Structure Design Guidelines for movable bridges.
Weinroth’s office got the same reply.
“The county’s hands are tied on this,” said Lucia Bonavita, senior aide to Weinroth. The horn, which blasts for 4 to 6 seconds at each opening, could be even louder. Specifications call for a 120-decibel horn, about the loudness of a concert or jet engine. Adam Faustini, director of the Road and Bridge Division, took readings that put the sound level on the bridge deck at 107 dB, about one-half the loudness stipulated.
The sound dropped off to 86 dB on the southeast shore and 70 dB on the southwest shore, Faustini reported. He noted that bridge logs reveal night-hour openings are “minimal to none.”
By comparison, the maximum volume level for a train horn is 110 decibels while the minimum is 96 decibels, according to the Federal Railroad Administration. Tyghem noted that the city instituted “quiet zones” to protect people living near the CSX railroad tracks from hourly blasts from Brightline trains.
“I think I’m entitled to a quiet zone as well,” he said.
The Camino Real bridge is shorter and lower than other bridges over the Intracoastal. The Coast Guard schedules it to open on the hour, at 20 minutes past and 40 minutes past. Other bridges open only twice an hour or on demand.
Carrier said the logs for a recent month showed the span opened 32 or 33 times a day during the week and 44 times a day on weekends.
He was not sure why bridge tenders were not using the horn until now.
“For whatever reason, the horn was not being sounded in the past,” he said.
Philip Petito, commander of the Boca Raton Flotilla of the Coast Guard Auxiliary, took a guess.
“I would assume that the fatal accident on the Royal Park bridge this past February has something to do with it,” he said.
The bridge in West Palm Beach opened as a woman walked her bicycle across it and she fell to her death.
To possibly add to the noise, Petito said Coast Guard navigation rules permit a boater to request a bridge opening with one long blast of the boat’s horn followed by a short blast.
“The bridge operator should acknowledge with the same signal,” he said. “Fortunately in practice, vessel operators use channel 9 on their VHF radio (to) request an opening.” 
Bascule bridges use gongs on each side of the span to warn motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists of an impending opening. The horns, which are aimed directly up and down the Intracoastal and perpendicular to land traffic, alert boaters that the bridge is going up.
Carrier said Florida Drawbridges Inc., which operates the county’s eight bridges, follows the book on opening the spans. Other county-managed bridges are at Palmetto Park Road, Linton Boulevard, George Bush Boulevard, Woolbright Road, Ocean Avenue in Lantana, Donald Ross Road in Juno Beach and Jupiter Island.
FDOT operates the 12 other drawbridges in Palm Beach County.

Work will last until at least Aug. 12 to repave Spanish River Boulevard from its western end to State Road A1A.
“Hopefully the weather is good to us and job will be completed on schedule,” All County Paving project manager Brad Jones said in an email.
“We will do our best to keep traffic moving but some delays should be expected, especially during rush hours,” Jones said.
The project began on July 25 at the boulevard’s terminus with Military Trail.
Workers are grinding 1 inch of the existing asphalt on the first day for each section, then repaving the road surface on the second day.
A tack coat is sprayed first and cannot be driven on until hot asphalt is laid and compacted and the crew reopens the road.
Jones said his company will control as much as possible the dust caused by the grinding. Vehicle access to homes and businesses will be affected during the project’s work hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
— Steve Plunkett

Boca Raton City Council members will soon vote on a proposed 12-story, extended-stay hotel at Royal Palm Place. It would be located on property that previously housed the Black Rose Irish Pub and 4th Generation Organic Market and Cafe. Rendering provided

By Mary Hladky

Three years after Investments Limited first proposed building an extended-stay hotel in Royal Palm Place, the project is heading to a City Council vote with support from two key city boards.
The Planning and Zoning Board recommended the council approve the project by a 6-0 vote on July 7, just two days after the Community Appearance Board green-lighted the proposed 144-room hotel and restaurants on land that has been occupied by the Black Rose Irish Pub and 4th Generation Organic Market and Cafe.
Investments Limited, the largest commercial property owner in the downtown whose holdings include Royal Palm Place, anticipates the hotel will meet the needs of visitors seeking accommodations for two- or three-month stays. The company has not yet inked a deal with a specific hotel company.
The 12-story project would include two parking garages within the hotel with a total of 408 spaces. It would also feature a fast-food eatery and two fine or casual dining restaurants with bars that would offer outdoor seating areas. A pool with deck and amenities for guests would be on the 10th floor.
The main hotel entrance would be on Southeast First Avenue. A valet parking station to serve hotel patrons would be added to the four existing stations within the 13.9-acre Royal Palm Place.
Investments Limited has proposed expanded sidewalks around the hotel and extensive landscaping.
The existing Garden of Humanity, just southeast of the 4th Generation market, would be expanded and include large shade trees and water features.
Architect Doug Mummaw has redesigned the building several times since it was first presented to the city after CAB members criticized its design for using too many precedents from Spanish, Italian and Moorish architecture. The new design is simplified and was praised by the city’s urban design consultant.
Royal Palm Place has a shortage of parking, which Investments Limited has partially addressed by reducing the deficit by 54 spaces. City staff calculates that still leaves the property short 680 spaces. But project attorney Ele Zachariades disputed that, contending it reduces the deficit by 290 spaces.
Three residents who commented on the project at the planning board meeting did not oppose the hotel but criticized the project for not having enough parking.
“This is going to be a big problem going forward,” said Eddie Weinstein, a resident of the Townsend Place condominium located across Southeast Mizner Boulevard from Royal Palm Place.
In other business, the planning board voted 6-0 to recommend the City Council approve five luxury townhomes on the southeast corner of East Boca Raton Road and Northeast Mizner Boulevard.
The Reve Del Mizner project would be located across Mizner Boulevard from the proposed Aletto at Sanborn Square, a 12-story luxury apartment tower, seven-story office and retail building and eight-story fully automated parking garage.
The property previously was the site of a single-family home but now is vacant.
The townhomes are being developed by Reve Del Mizner LLC, headed by Scott Brenner. Each will be approximately 6,000 square feet with four bedrooms, six and one-half baths and four garaged parking spaces. They will have rooftop terraces and summer kitchens.
“It’s a good-looking project,” said planning board Chair Arnold Sevell.

By Mary Hladky

Boca Raton’s tax rate likely will remain unchanged for the coming fiscal year — though that translates into a 15% tax increase.
The 2022-23 tax rate, presented to the City Council on July 26 by City Manager Leif Ahnell, is the same as the current rate of $3.68 per $1,000 of taxable property value.
The city has long prided itself on its low tax rate that has kept steady for many years, which is possible because Boca Raton has the strongest tax base of any municipality in the county.
Even so, property owners will see higher tax bills because of soaring property values fueled by an exceptionally strong real estate market. The city would have to lower the millage rate to $3.20 per $1,000 of taxable value to bring in the same amount of tax revenue as the previous year.
Taxable property values surged by 14.5% this year, up from last year’s 3.8%. But homeowners whose properties are homesteaded will not feel the brunt of that increase because state law caps the taxable value increase at 3%. Non-homesteaded properties are capped at 10%.
The amount that homeowners will pay for fire protection services will rise to $155 in the fiscal year that begins Oct. 1, up from last year’s $145. The hike is the result of the increased cost of providing fire protection, the city said.
The increase in the annual assessment for commercial and industrial properties is based on the class and size of the buildings.
Boca’s tax rate will not be finalized until September. City Council members cannot raise the tax rate above what Ahnell submitted, but they do have leeway to lower it.
A public hearing on the tax rate and proposed 2022-23 budget will be held at 6 p.m. Sept. 12 in the auditorium of a city-owned building at 6500 Congress Avenue.
Mayor Scott Singer acknowledges that tax bills will rise, but notes that many residents are protected by homestead exemptions.
Boca, like all cities, is facing rising costs for materials, equipment and building projects due to price increases and supply chain issues, he said. The growing city also needs to hire more employees to keep service standards high and retain existing employees who have other job opportunities in the current strong labor market.
“We want to make sure we are balancing (the tax rate) appropriately because the costs of some of the basic functions we depend on every day are rising rapidly,” he said.
In other business:
• The city is set to approve a proposed cultural arts complex in Mizner Park at an Aug. 22 special meeting.
The Center for Arts and Innovation, the complex’s new name, is an ambitious $130 million project to be built on city-owned land and will include a performing arts center, completely renovated amphitheater, jewel box theater, rooftop terrace and outdoor performing arts spaces.
The City Council must approve two agreements that have been negotiated by city staff and the cultural center’s team. The pre-construction and development agreement includes specifics on the center’s and city’s obligations. The agreement to lease city land to the center has a 74-year term with two 10-year renewals for a total of 94 years.
Negotiations are largely concluded, but a few matters were unresolved as of the end of July.
• Deputy City Manager Mike Woika gave his farewell to City Council members during a July 25 meeting, marking the end of his 22-year career with the city.
Woika was the city’s jokester-in-chief. In true form, his speech was in verse, recalling highlights and lowlights of his tenure.
Andy Lukasik, a former North Palm Beach village manager and Jupiter town manager, has replaced Woika.
Council members thanked Woika and offered best wishes.
“We will miss your service,” Singer said. “We will miss some of your jokes.”
• Council members filled Gordon Gilbert’s seat on the city’s advisory Parks and Recreation Board after he declined to seek reappointment and moved out of the state. Gilbert, 91, a former Boca Raton High School biology teacher, sat on the board for 48 years. He conceived the idea for and was the first director of the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center. He also was a Greater Boca Raton Beach and Park District commissioner for 20 years.
“I just want to thank him for his many, many decades of service to our city,” council member Monica Mayotte said.

The Boca Raton resort is repainting its iconic 27-story Tower hotel next to the Intracoastal Waterway. ‘The pink is staying, but we are lightening up the shade of pink to be more fresh and updated than our previous shade,’ resort publicist Christine DiRocco said. The resort’s original Ritz-Carlton Cloister Inn opened in 1926. The Tower was added in 1969. Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

By Rich Pollack

Highland Beach commissioners in early August gave tentative approval to a revised condominium recertification ordinance that incorporates changes passed by the Florida Legislature.
While much of Highland Beach’s original ordinance remains the same, the new state law includes a two-tier process that town leaders say is unnecessary and confusing.
Under Highland Beach’s initial ordinance, approved in late 2021, buildings in town that are more than three stories or 50 feet in height are required to have a recertification inspection when they reach 25 years old.
For buildings up to 40 years old, those inspections will be required every 10 years. For the 45 buildings over 40 years old, inspections will be required every seven years.
Under the state legislation passed in May, however, buildings that are three stories in height and have four or more units will be required to be recertified. That change, says Highland Beach Building Official Jeff Remas, will affect only three additional buildings in town.
In its original ordinance, Highland Beach gave condominiums 365 days to file reports from certified engineers that detail any critical or major structural or electrical problems. The associations would then have another year to resolve the issues unless residents faced imminent danger, in which case the town would step in and, in the worst scenario, require evacuation.
Under the new state law, which supersedes the town ordinance, condominium associations now have 180 days from the time of notification by a local government to complete a phase 1 — or visual — inspection by a certified structural engineer.
If that initial inspection finds no issues, the association is done and can receive its building certification.
If the visual inspection finds potential issues, however, the association will have 180 days from the time it is notified to make those repairs. All work must be completed by Dec. 31, 2024.
“The phase 2 inspection makes the process more complicated,” Remas said.
Mayor Doug Hillman says he fears the two-tiered system will create confusion for condo leaders and says he doesn’t think the phase 1 inspection plan is thorough enough.
“I don’t believe a purely visual inspection is adequate,” he said. “I think the state law needs a good deal of refinement.”
The mayor is also critical of a provision in the state law that requires condo boards beginning in 2025 to conduct a structure reserve study and set aside money for future repairs.
“It’s a gross overreach,” he said. “I believe if you’re certified you don’t need a reserve study.”
In addition to being mayor, Hillman is president of the board at his Dalton Place condominium, which is the first building in Highland Beach — and most likely the county — to receive certification.
He said that work was already being done on the building when the town passed its original recertification ordinance.
“We were about 80 to 85 percent done,” he said, adding that the structural engineer working with the building was able to sign off on the report after a few tweaks.
The board also brought in an electrical engineer to complete a report required for recertification by Highland Beach but not by the state.

Boca Raton police detectives are continuing to investigate an armed robbery that occurred on the barrier island early Sunday morning, July 24.
The two victims arrived home on Banyan Road at 4:28 a.m. after spending the evening at the Seminole Hard Rock casino in Hollywood, police said in a news release. Both victims stated that when they parked and got out of the car, they were approached by a masked man who pointed a gun at them and demanded their belongings.
Both victims complied and gave the man their wallets, phones and cash. Both stated he began to flee and before jumping over a concrete wall turned and fired one shot in their direction. The man then got into a dark SUV parked on Banyan Road and fled north. Neither victim was injured.
The incident happened in the 2700 block of Banyan Road. Banyan is a block west of State Road A1A and runs parallel to it from East Camino Real to Southeast 31st Street.
The suspect was described as being about 5-feet-8 to 5-feet-10-inches tall, wearing dark pants and a long-sleeve hoodie.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Scott Hanley at 561-338-1344.
— Steve Plunkett

By Steve Plunkett

Greater Boca Raton Beach and Park District commissioners set a tentative property tax rate that is 15% higher than the rollback rate, but assured taxpayers they will trim the rate in September to an 11.8% increase.
The current rate is $1.05 per $1,000 of taxable value; the rollback figure is 94 cents per $1,000. Commissioners approved a tentative rate of $1.08 per $1,000 of taxable value partly because Commissioner Bob Rollins was absent and missed the July 18 discussion.
“I will vote for the higher, tentative millage rate, but when push comes to shove in September, barring unforeseen catastrophe, I will vote for us keeping the millage rate at $1.05,” Commissioner Steve Engel said.
The rollback rate is the tax rate the district would charge to collect the same amount of property taxes as this year, except for any additional taxes generated from new construction.
Briann Harms, the district’s executive director, said the existing $1.05 rate, or 11.8% increase, would be enough.
“By keeping the same rate, we will be able to maintain our facilities, to continue to keep them up to the standards that they’re at, while also making the improvements that are necessary and improvements that we’ve planned on,” Harms said.
Commissioner Susan Vogelgesang said she expects more people at the parks in the coming year.
“With the current environment, economic environment that we have, I think we’re going to see a lot more families utilizing our parks because they’re not going to be able to do things that are really so cost-effective,” she said.
District Chair Erin Wright assured homeowners that she was happy with the $1.05 rate.
“I’m just afraid of, you know, the public thinking that we are going to raise rates. I have no interest in raising the rate,” Wright said.
The rollback 94-cent rate would give the district $644,500 more in tax revenue than it collected this year. The $1.05 rate would yield $4.5 million more; the $1.08 rate would provide $5.6 million extra.
In other business, Harms said the carousel at Sugar Sand Park, closed for repairs since mid-December, was to reopen by the end of July.

The Greater Boca Raton Beach and Park District is a finalist in a contest that could yield $75,000 toward the development of Ocean Strand Park.
Ocean Strand is one of 10 contenders that survived the cut in the National Recreation and Park Association’s “Perk Your Park” competition. The contest, sponsored by Niagara Bottling, will award three of the parks $75,000 each based on the results of an internet election.
“Ocean Strand will be a great natural park. Now the Boca Raton community can vote to earn money that will offset the development cost,” District Chair Erin Wright said in a release.
People can visit NiagaraPerkYourPark.com to vote for Boca Raton’s Ocean Strand Park. Each voter can do so once a day through Sept. 12.
Located between Spanish River Park and Red Reef Park, Ocean Strand is a 14-acre parcel that stretches from State Road A1A to the Intracoastal Waterway.
The district purchased Ocean Strand in 1994 and recently cleared invasive vegetation from the site in preparation for the creation of natural walking trails to the Intracoastal. 
Other Florida communities in the contest are Boynton Beach (Pioneer Canal Park), Deerfield Beach, Riviera Beach, Coconut Creek, Fort Pierce, Groveland and Leesburg.
Texas rivals are in Rosenberg and The Woodlands.
— Steve Plunket

By Ron Hayes

Maybe we shouldn’t call them libraries anymore.
The word comes from the Latin librarius, meaning “of books.” But libraries haven’t been about just books for years. They’re DVDs and CDs and computers and even yoga classes — all free.
This year, the Florida Library Association named the Boynton Beach City Library its “2022 Library of the Year.”
“They strive to meet their patrons where they are needed most,” the FLA said in presenting the award, “whether that meant working out of a temporary site while their new building was being constructed, providing virtual programming during the pandemic, or creating free resources to kick-start local entrepreneurs.
“They took a year of inevitable change and transformed it into a challenge to be the library their community needs.”
“They” are the librarians, of course, dedicated professionals who make libraries so much more than books.
To honor their service, we asked a few of our area librarians to tell us about themselves.

Meet the librarians

Q&As by Ron Hayes

‘There are many out there that think, why do we need libraries? I tell them what libraries offer today and invite them to come and tour the Boynton Beach City Library. I promise them they will be amazed at what we offer here. It is the best bang for your tax buck,’ says Craig Clark, the library director. Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

Craig Clark, director, Boynton Beach City Library

Education: Master of library and information science administration degree from Wayne State University in Detroit.
Where did you work before getting this job?
I was an administrative assistant to the library director and a reference librarian at Macomb County Library in Clinton Township, Michigan, from 1994-1997, and an assistant branch manager and a regional branch manager at St. Louis Public Library in Missouri from 1997 to 2004.
What first made you want to become a librarian?
When I worked for the library director at the Macomb County Library in the administration office, the thought of being an information detective was exciting to me, so I decided to pursue a master’s degree in library and information science. I also enjoyed working in the library atmosphere and helping people improve their lives by providing assistance to library users. This fulfills me still today!
How has the profession changed since your first job?
Since 1994, the library field has transformed and expanded into many exciting areas. We not only lend books in many formats, we improve lives by providing a pathway for someone to get their high school diploma, help people find a job, teach how people can start their own small business, develop and improve their personal brand, providing machines and technologies in our Creative Edge Studio that people can use at the library and cannot afford on their own, learn how to sew, improve technology skills, and much more.
What’s your biggest professional challenge?
Getting the word out to the community about the many programs and services the library has to offer is very challenging. I speak to many people that have not been in a library since they were a child or in high school.
There are many out there that think, why do we need libraries? I tell them what libraries offer today and invite them to come and tour the Boynton Beach City Library. I promise them they will be amazed at what we offer here. It is the best bang for your tax buck.
What is the future for libraries? Will we see a day when almost all books are borrowed by download?
The future of libraries is bright. There will always be people that will need assistance with life skills, technology training, finding a job, etc. I do not believe there will be a day when all books will be digital. You may be surprised how many people still love holding a print book in their hands, including myself. I do not believe the print book will ever go away.
When library users ask you to recommend a novel, do you have a favorite answer?
I ask open-ended questions to determine what subjects they are interested in reading about. Librarians call this “the reference interview.” I like reading biographies and autobiographies. Librarians are experts at getting people to express what their true interests are.

Helen Silver is collection services librarian at the Boca Raton Public Library. ‘It’s like I get paid to enjoy a hobby, even though — despite popular belief — I don’t read all day,‘ she says of her job. Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

Helen Silver, collections librarian, Boca Raton Public Library

Education: Bachelor of arts degree in history from FAU and a master’s in library and information science from the University of South Florida.
Where did you work before getting this job?
I was a student assistant at FAU’s Wimberly Library for about a year and have been at the Boca Raton Public Library for more than 20 years.
What first made you want to become a librarian?
I’ve always been a reader and library user growing up, so for my friends and family this career choice was no surprise.
It’s like I get paid to enjoy a hobby, even though — despite popular belief — I don’t read all day.
How has the profession changed since your first job?
Almost every business needs to adapt to changing times and demands. Libraries are no exception. A recent turning point for libraries was the arrival of digital content, and libraries were challenged with incorporating this new technology into the collection. While books continue to be the backbone, physical collections now include nontraditional library items such as board games, hotspots, puzzles, toys, cake pans and much more.
What’s your biggest professional challenge?
I am the buyer for the Boca library, and besides budgeting, the recent challenges are reviewing and filtering through the numerous social issues and hot topic books that are being released. It can be exhausting at times, like watching the news 24/7.
What is the future for libraries? Will we see a day when almost all books are borrowed by download?
I hope not in my lifetime. I don’t foresee this happening anytime soon. There is still a demand for physical books, and many people enjoy reading from both formats, print and digital, depending on their current needs. Having choices is still preferable. Media formats like DVDs, CDs and audiobooks I don’t see lasting for very long, but physical books will still be around for a while.
When library users ask you to recommend a novel, do you have a favorite answer?
I immediately ask what the person likes to read and go from there. I can usually recommend at least one book or author based on the preferred genre, even if it’s something I haven’t read. Because I’m a buyer, I can answer based on what I know has been popular or well-reviewed.
For me, I can’t pick one book as a favorite at this point because I’ve read many great books, and it’s not fair to pick just one.
I do love the Harry Potter series.

Before Mykal Banta was promoted to executive director, he championed an innovative program to bring books to homeless people and other citizens in a laundromat. Coastal Star file photo

Mykal Banta, executive director, Delray Beach Public Library

Education: BA with a concentration in journalism from Wayne State University in Detroit and a master’s in library science from State University of New York at Albany.
What jobs did you work before getting this one?
I’ve been with the Delray Beach Public Library since September 1994, when I was hired as the head of reference. Four years later I was promoted to assistant director, which I held until being named executive director this year.
What first made you want to become a librarian?
I have loved libraries since I was a small boy. One of my most vivid memories is being read to by my elementary school librarian, “Mr. Mike.” Also, my mother was a librarian before me, so I consider library work a kind of legacy.
How has the profession changed since your first job?
The largest change I have seen is the amount of programming and outreach modern libraries do.
What’s your biggest professional challenge?
The largest challenge I face as a librarian today is the same challenge every librarian has accepted enthusiastically since the first public library opened its door: to give every person that walks through our door the best verified and trustworthy information available, as well as the greatest literature in the world, all with the goal of offering everyone the opportunity to lead happier, healthier and more enriching lives.
What is the future for libraries? Will we see a day when almost all books are borrowed by download?
No. Print books have proven a surprisingly durable and beloved format. Readers still love a book in their hands. Readers use digital books upon occasion, often for convenience, but they love the print book always.
When library users ask you to recommend a novel, do you have a favorite answer?
The answer is often different depending on the person seeking a recommendation. A skilled librarian will tailor their response, depending on the patron’s likes and preferences. If you're asking me what my favorite novel is, I often say The Iliad by Homer or, depending on my mood, The Plague by Albert Camus.

Lois Albertson, director, Highland Beach Library
Education: Master’s degree in library and information science from the University of South Florida
Where did you work before getting this job?
I came to the library world later in my career. After previous jobs in editing and web content management, I worked as the director of continuing education for the Southeast Florida Library Information Network. I became the director of the Highland Beach Library in 2016.
What first made you want to become a librarian?
I always loved books and reading and thought it would be wonderful to be a librarian. I volunteered at the Highland Beach Library for years before I ever considered a career change. Working at SEFLIN gave me the opportunity to learn all about the profession and interact with library staff from around the state.
How has the profession changed since your first job?
The Highland Beach Library has transformed to become the community gathering place for our residents and neighbors. Managing events and setting up audiovisual equipment for concerts and movies was not taught in library school, but it should be. Sometimes we feel like roadies for the band!
What’s your biggest professional challenge?
I am very fortunate to work in a community where the residents, elected officials and town staff are so supportive of the library. My library staff is amazing, and it is a pleasure to come to work every day. When a challenge arises, we all work together to figure it out.
What is the future for libraries? Will we see a day when almost all books are borrowed by download?
I don’t see that happening in Highland Beach. Patrons of all ages tell me that they prefer to read a physical book. I view e-books as an additional format, rather than a replacement for print books.
When library users ask you to recommend a novel, do you have a favorite answer?
I love mysteries and thrillers. Some of my favorite authors that I love to recommend are Lisa Jewell, Clare Mackintosh and Lucy Clarke.

Kristine Kreidler, director, Lantana Public Library

Education: The Lantana native received a master’s degree in library science from Florida State and a bachelor’s in English and women’s studies from FAU.
Where did you work before getting this job?
My first job at a library was at the Broward County African-American Research Library and Cultural Center, working with the business librarian. I then worked for the Boynton Beach City Library as the teen librarian. I learned so much from them and it is still my favorite part of my career. After the assistant director and my mentor, Anne Watts, left, I became the youth services manager for the Boca Raton Public Library for a year, and then after Sid Patchett passed away, a friend sent me the job posting for Lantana and I knew that’s where I should be.
What first made you want to become a librarian?
I had fully intended to get my MFA [master of fine arts] in writing, but my friend was dating the youth services manager from the West Palm Mandel Library, Jennifer McQuown, and one night we got to talking and she was so passionate about public librarianship that I decided to look into it. Around the same time, I went to a recruiting session for the FBI and they also talked about how they needed librarians.
How has the profession changed since your first job?
It honestly hasn’t changed too much since I only started 11 years ago. There are more streaming services, DVD collections have started to dwindle and give way to streaming, but we were doing yoga and offering digital skills workshops 11 years ago.
What do you see in the future for libraries? Will we see a day when almost all books are borrowed by download?
No, not unless paywalls disappear. Until then, libraries will be here providing equitable access to all members of our community and evolving to meet their needs. Do we really want to trust Google or Amazon or another corporation to be the torch holders for knowledge, art and access to information?
What’s your biggest professional challenge?
Funding. We have this beautiful library set to open this fall and I am the only full-time employee. It’s hard to rely on a part-time employee working 15 hours a week to do much except work the front desk. But the community wants programs like story times and classes, and we have been doing that with a grant-funded position, but that ends this September.
When library users ask you to recommend a novel, do you have a favorite answer?
Oh, man, so many! As an English major, I think a lot of the modern classics come into play for me, like Zadie Smith’s White Teeth, Ian McEwan’s Atonement, Ishiguro’s Never Let Me Go. But whatever you do, don’t read The Kite Runner in public! So sad you’ll ugly cry.

By Tao Woolfe

Although a merger with the Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office was not on the Boynton Beach City Commission’s Aug. 2 agenda, most of the evening’s meeting was spent discussing that topic.

More than 20 members of the audience — both in-person and those viewing from home — spoke out against bringing in PBSO to police the city.

They urged the commissioners to “Say ‘No’ to PBSO” for several reasons, including the sheriff’s refusal to use body and dash cams, refusal to carry Narcan to treat narcotics overdose victims, and generally poor record of dealing with minorities.

The comments were spurred by PBSO’s recent 11-page proposal submitted to the city last week outlining some of the services that would be offered in a merger. The annual estimated cost would be $42 million.

The commissioners agreed that the proposal did not offer enough detail about costs and services.

Commissioner Woodrow Hay, saying “Citizens of Boynton Beach, I hear you,” made a motion that the city immediately cease negotiations with PBSO. But the motion failed because the other commissioners said they needed more information — and community input — before making a decision.

Mayor Ty Penserga asked city staff to present a comparison of services, staff and budget offered by the Boynton Beach Police Department and the PBSO. No date was set for the presentation.

By Amy Woods

The George Snow Scholarship Fund’s annual awards ceremony marked the distribution of $2.2 million in scholarships to 121 recipients.
The generosity of donors, partners and volunteers enabled the nonprofit, celebrating its 40th year, to achieve one of its biggest fundraising years on record.
“Thank you to all who attended our 2022 annual awards ceremony,” said Channon Ellwood, scholar coordinator and communications specialist, referring to the June event. “We are always grateful for the chance to come together as a community and celebrate the special young people we serve.”
For more information, call 561-347-6799 or visit scholarship.org.

New board member at Boca Helping Hands
Zoe Lanham, vice president of the Addison, was appointed to the board of directors of Boca Helping Hands.
For the past 15 years, Lanham has run the Addison, a private event venue and caterer in Boca Raton. She also manages the sales and marketing departments of various international portfolio companies and serves on various philanthropic boards, including the Boca Raton Historical Society. Lanham and the Addison have been longtime supporters of Boca Helping Hands.
“BHH plays such a key role in providing crucial basic needs to its clients within the community. I am excited to contribute my expertise to further their mission and positively impact my community," Lanham said.
For more information, call 561-417-0913 or visit bocahelpinghands.org.

FAU benefactor Charna Larkin with (from left) Michael Horswell, dean of the Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters; John Kelly, university president; and Chris Delisio, the FAU foundation CEO. Photo provided

Boca Raton benefactor donates $1.6 million to FAU
Florida Atlantic University has received an estate gift of $1 million from longtime benefactor Charna Larkin of Boca Raton.
The donation will establish the Alan B. and Charna Larkin Student Opportunity Fund within FAU’s Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters. It is in addition to a $617,000 gift from Larkin to build and name the Alan B. and Charna Larkin American Presidential Study at the S.E. Wimberly Library.
“I understand the importance of FAU to our greater community,” Larkin said. “I want to ensure young people are given every opportunity to be successful and attend college regardless of their humble beginnings.”
In other FAU news, the foundation set a fundraising record for fiscal year 2022, which ended June 30. The foundation, operating under the Division of Institutional Advancement, exceeded $81 million in donations from more than 5,300 supporters — the largest in university history. The total breaks the record of $57 million from the previous fiscal year.
“FAU was founded on philanthropy, and that tradition has continued for more than 60 years,” said Chris Delisio, the foundation’s CEO. “This last fiscal year shows just how committed our friends, alumni and partners are to the mission and vision of the university.”
Another record was set in May when FAU received the biggest scholarship gift on the books. John and Ann Wood pledged $28 million to aid students enrolled in the Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine.
“At the university’s dedication ceremony in 1964, former U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson declared that our goal must be to open the doors of higher education to all who can qualify,” FAU President John Kelly said. “Thanks to generous gifts from our many supporters, Florida Atlantic is able to provide opportunities for talented, hard-working students to earn degrees, regardless of their background.”
For more information on the foundation, call 561-297-3000 or visit fauf.fau.edu.

The second mother-doggie benefit for Tri-County Animal Rescue raised proceeds for the nonprofit’s medical fund. The medical fund helps pay for full-service veterinary services at the rescue’s onsite clinic. During the sold-out event, a special surprise donation of $25,000 was presented by Mark and Pam Polani for financially struggling seniors who have dogs in need of medical attention. The open-air plated meal in the courtyard included festivities for both moms and their precious pups.
ABOVE: (l-r) Honorary Chairwomen Marta Batmasian, with Tamar; Constance Scott, with Gigi; Bonnie Kaye, with Maddie; and Alisa Cohen, with Punim. BELOW: Mercedes Mottek, Pam Casanave-Pianta, with Dapper, Ingrid Fulmer and Linda Petrakis. Photos provided by Gina Fontana

Celano Design created the interior look at Bar 25 Gastropub. Celano also designed the Lionfish on Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach. Photo provided

By Jan Norris

The man behind Nick’s New Haven Style Pizzeria in Boca Raton has opened Bar 25 Gastropub in Delray Beach. It takes over the 5,000-square-foot space formerly housing Mellow Mushroom on Southeast Sixth Avenue.
Anthony Giovanniello said he wanted to bring something different to downtown Delray, a city he says he has seen change to a destination for new residents and tourists alike.
“It’s the type of place that a chef or restaurant owner wants to visit on their day off because the service is as friendly as it is at any of their favorite local spots, but the experience is elevated by the culinary program and design,” Giovanniello said.
He hired chef Walter Pytel, most recently of Cafe Martorano in Fort Lauderdale, to oversee the food.
It’s heavy on shareables, with a variety of flatbreads leading the menu. The White Clam flatbread, with Rhode Island clams, bacon, cherry peppers, garlic and mozzarella, is in line with the Northeastern shore flavors. More unusual offerings include a mushroom and onion pierogi, and a new pub favorite, crab fries — French fries seasoned with Old Bay, and served with a white American cheese sauce.
Philly cheesesteaks, sliders, cauliflower tacos and a variety of salads also are on the menu.
A brunch menu, served Saturday and Sunday, picks up New Orleans flavors, with a bananas Foster French toast and shrimp and grits, as well as a fried BLT. Bottomless bloody Marys and mimosas are specials.
The Bar 25 happy hour is one of the longest in the city, from noon to 5 p.m., with a unique menu for both drinks and food.
Craft cocktails and beers are part of the program that Pytel says complements the food.
The interior design may look familiar: Celano Design also created the Lionfish on Atlantic Avenue, as well as the notable Stubborn Seed in Miami Beach. The design includes a dog-friendly patio.
Bar 25 Gastropub, 25 SE Sixth Ave., Delray Beach, bar25.com. Open for lunch and dinner daily, noon to midnight; happy hour weekdays from noon to 5 p.m.; brunch on weekends from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Downtown Delray Restaurant Month
Downtown Delray Beach Restaurant Month moves to September this year, in response to the eateries and others. The promotion, in its seventh year, is popular with locals as well as tourists and features meal deals at the restaurants and hotels within the downtown area.
Laura Simon, Downtown Development Authority executive director, said feedback from restaurants and residents showed September to be the month the promotion is most needed. “People are getting kids settled in back to school, there’s less travel competition, and it gives locals the opportunity to try out new restaurants.”
The number of visitors to the city and the restaurants has taken a significant dip this summer, Simon said.
“This summer’s been rough downtown. It’s a very different July for us. We saw a bigger dip than before COVID during the month. The hotels have been slower, as well.”
She said the economy has played a role, but more so is the competition for travel money. Last year, Delray had a good tourism rebound as well as new residents exploring their area. This year, more cities, cruises and airlines have opened up, giving travelers more options, she said.
Simon and restaurateurs hope Restaurant Month introduces new and other restaurants to local diners, whether they are new residents or not, and to visitors. She expects to see diners from Boca Raton, Boynton Beach and Lake Worth Beach check out the scene for brunch, or for dinner without crowds.
“We have several new restaurants signed up, as well as hotels participating with staycations,” Simon said. “The Ray has three restaurants signed up, including Akira Back, and is offering special stays. And Drift in Opal Grand is also signed up. Bar 25 is new, as is Meso Beach House.”
Other newcomers include Pour & Famous, and The Falcon, which took over Death or Glory. Throw Social also is signed up.
Simon hopes by the time sign-up is complete in mid-August, more than 50 restaurants will be included.
“We have close to 120 restaurants in the downtown area. That includes quick-serve and juice bars, up to fine dining,” she said. “Almost half of them will be participating. We’re pleased that the program supports all types of restaurants, so diners have choices. It’s inclusive for everyone.”
Deals include multicourse prix fixe meals at both lunch and dinner, special menus for brunch or happy hour, or a percentage off all food or drink, or other discounts, determined by each restaurant.
Veterans of the program return, such as 50 Ocean, City Oyster, The Grove, Rocco’s Tacos and The Office.
Delray Market, the food hall downtown, is offering 10% off its dining card in September. The discount is accepted at all of the 20-plus restaurants inside.
Meanwhile, several Delray restaurants are participating in the county’s Restaurant Month in August. “We partner with Discover Palm Beach for their program, and so it’s two months of opportunity for some to showcase their menus,” Simon said.
Go to downtowndelraybeach.com/restaurantmonth to see the September participants. It is updated as restaurants sign on.
How to do it right:
• Check the website before you book a reservation. Be aware of what and when deals are on.
• Before you order, ask for the Restaurant Month menu, if it is offered.
• Don’t assume everything is discounted — get clarification.
• Tip as you would on any meal — on the full amount.
• If you like restaurants at a discount, go back to support them when it’s full price. Leave positive reviews and spread the word with others.

In brief
Look for the grand opening of Kapow in its new space in Mizner Park in Boca. The Asian spot will have much more bar room, and more tables as well as a large patio for outdoor dining. … Pour & Famous at 524 W. Atlantic Ave. in Delray has expanded its offerings to include a full-service restaurant menu. It has been popular as a tavern with craft cocktails, natural wine and craft beer, with upscale bar food.

Daniel Listi was appointed chief executive officer of Delray Medical Center in June.
Listi came from Shelby Baptist Medical Center in Alabaster, Alabama, where he served as CEO for the past four years. Both Delray and Shelby are Tenet Healthcare hospitals.
Prior to that, he was the chief operating officer of Valley Baptist Medical Center, Harlingen, Texas, and the market chief operating officer of the El Paso/RGV hospitals, overseeing six Tenet Healthcare hospitals.
Listi holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Texas A&M University and a master’s degree in health care administration from Texas A&M’s public health school. He is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives. 

Following the completion of its 250th TCAR procedure, Delray Medical Center honored its patients and clinicians for achieving this milestone at a reunion event, with past patients — including the first and the 250th — who attended and shared their experiences. 
For some background: In June 2018, Delray Medical Center began using TransCarotid Artery Revascularization, for high-surgical-risk patients who need carotid artery treatment. The procedure was performed by Joseph J. Ricotta MD, MS, FACS, now Tenet’s regional medical director for vascular surgery and endovascular therapy.
With TCAR, blood flow is temporarily reversed so that any small bits of plaque that may break off are diverted from the brain, preventing a stroke from happening. A stent is then placed inside the artery to stabilize the plaque, minimizing the risk of a future stroke. For more information, visit www.delraymedicalctr.com/services/cardiovascular/tcar.

Delray Medical Center and HCA Florida JFK Hospital received these awards from the American Heart Association’s Gold Plus Get With the Guidelines program: Stroke Quality Achievement award and the Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll award. JFK was also given the Stroke SM Elite Plus award, and Delray Medical Center was given both the Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus award and the Stroke Honor Roll Advanced Therapy award. 

Hacker Dermatology, with 29 years in Delray Beach, is expanding its practice and has brought in podiatrist Dr. Andrea P. Aedo. She will use a multidisciplinary approach to help patients with foot and gait problems avoid falls.
“Foot disorders currently affect 80% of our older patients and those problems can result in falls and difficulty walking due to pain and arthritis,” said Dr. Steven Hacker, founder of Hacker Dermatology.
Aedo, with more than 12 years of surgical podiatry experience, completed a three-year intensive surgical and trauma podiatric medicine residency at Jackson North Medical Center, where she served as chief resident in 2009.
Appointments for Aedo can be requested at www.HackerDermatology.com or by calling 561-276-3111. Hacker Dermatology is at 230 George Bush Blvd., Unit B.

CR8 Health, an anti-aging and wellness clinic, debuted its new center at 8234 Glades Road, Boca Raton, in July.
Founded by Dr. Nadav D. Fields, CR8 Health focuses on age management, aesthetic enhancement and health maximization. Services include medical weight loss, hormone replacement, Botox and dermal fillers, skin tightening, skin resurfacing, laser hair removal, SkinPen microneedling, peptide therapy, functional medicine, acupuncture and herbs, IV therapy, injection therapy, sexual wellness and hair restoration. 
“We take a personalized approach to the science of wellness and beauty and strive to provide an increasingly improved patient experience,” Fields said.
“CR8 Health brings comprehensive medical services, aesthetic treatments and weight management programs to Boca Raton, empowering our clients to look and feel better with age.”
Fields received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and attended medical school in New York City.
He completed his residency training in internal medicine at the University of Arizona and is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine and the American Board of Obesity Medicine.
Fields is trained in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy as well as peptide therapy. For more information, visit cr8health.com or call 561-922-8418.
— Christine Davis