By Mary Hladky

The Boca Raton City Council has rejected a special magistrate’s non-binding recommendation that would have cleared the way for a landowner to fill in largely submerged property along the Intracoastal Waterway so that it can be developed.

The case involves William Swaim, who has made many efforts in South Florida, including in Ocean Ridge, to reclaim submerged land. Such land has become attractive because almost all highly valuable waterfront property already has been developed.

Swaim acquired the 4-acre Boca Raton property at 3000 NE Eighth Ave. in 2019 and has said it would be worth $43 million if filled in for development.

In 2024, the city’s Public Works and Engineering director, Zachary Bihr, spotted a truck dumping fill material on the property — on the mainland side of the Intracoastal across from the south end of Spanish River Park — even though Swaim did not have permits to do so. He was issued a stop work order and a notice of city code violation.

Swaim then filed for permits to clear and fill in the property, according to case documents, but the city found many deficiencies in the permit applications.

Swaim asked for a special magistrate to hear the matter under the Florida Land Use and Environmental Dispute Resolution Act.

On May 16, Special Magistrate Mark Bentley, a Tampa attorney agreed to by both sides, concluded that the city had acted inappropriately. In two examples, the magistrate said the city had “effectively frustrated (Swaim’s) efforts” by not responding to his permit applications for more than 100 days after he filed for them and by “constant ‘moving the goalposts.’”

The magistrate determined that the city’s code enforcement order unreasonably burdened Swaim and recommended that the order be nullified, that the city issue the permits and, if it did not, that the city purchase the property at an amount based on the land being filled in.

In response, the city strenuously denied that it had done anything improper. The special magistrate’s conclusion that Swaim was unreasonably burdened was “based on numerous erroneous factual and legal conclusions,” its pleading states. In another instance, the city said the findings were “factually and legally incorrect.”

The matter landed before the City Council on June 10 when City Manager George Brown recommended that the city reject the special magistrate’s recommendation.

Swaim’s attorney, Hope Calhoun, argued against that action.

“This project owner just wants to get on developing his property and have the permits requested issued,” she said. “We are just trying to get this property to a space that can be developed as it should be.”

Swaim said the property was “high and dry” until the mid-1950s when the soil on it was illegally removed by a neighboring property owner.

Council member Andy Thomson suggested it might “make sense” to postpone the vote so that council members could meet in a closed-door executive session to discuss the matter and consider a settlement.

Council member Marc Wigder and Mayor Scott Singer were willing to hold an executive session, but wanted to proceed with a vote.

City Attorney Joshua Koehler said the council could vote and hold the executive session later.

The council rejected the special magistrate’s recommendation by a vote of 4-1, with Thomson dissenting.

Swaim and Calhoun did not respond to questions from The Coastal Star about what action Swaim might take in response.

By Steve Plunkett

The Florida Department of Transportation will add buffered bike lanes to 1.3 miles of Federal Highway in downtown Boca Raton and create a new mid-block pedestrian crossing by Mizner Park just south of Plaza Real.

In a June 4 informational meeting at the Downtown Library, state officials outlined their plans for the estimated $5.5 million project, which is scheduled to start next summer and finish in the fall of 2027.

Federal Highway will lose one traffic lane each way — from three lanes to two — from Camino Real to Southeast Fifth Street/Southeast Mizner Boulevard to make room for 11-foot-wide paved sidewalks and 5-foot-wide bike lanes. That stretch currently has 6-foot-wide sidewalks and 4-foot-wide, unbuffered bike lanes. Bicyclists will be separated from motorists by 2 feet of raised concrete and 2 feet of sod; there will be 4 feet of sod between the bicyclists and the sidewalks.

From Southeast Fifth to Northeast Eighth Street/Northeast Mizner Boulevard — already only two lanes in each direction — construction crews will widen the roadway into part of the median to make room for the buffered bike lanes on the outside. A concrete wall will separate bicycles and traffic. The vehicle lanes will shrink from 11 feet wide to 10 feet 11 inches on the outside lane and only 10 feet on the inside. Sidewalks will remain 6 feet wide.

“I’m very, very excited to see the city’s first [improved] sidewalk and bicycle lanes that are going to go in. That’s going to be monumental. And I appreciate it and hope to see more of that within the city,” said Deputy Mayor Fran Nachlas, who attended the meeting.

Also in the plan are milling and resurfacing Federal Highway, drainage modifications and replacing the mast arm that holds the traffic signals on the east side of the Camino Real intersection.

The northbound Federal Highway left turn at East Camino Real will be modified from a single left turn lane to dual left turn lanes.

Throughout the project, signs and pavement markings will be upgraded to meet current standards and increase reflectivity, and green pavement markings will be added to enhance safety at bicycle-vehicular conflict areas, FDOT officials said.

The new midblock crossing south of Plaza Real will get upgraded decorative light poles to increase illumination.

As usual, work will be done in phases to reduce the impacts of construction on the community, temporary lane closures will be done during non-peak hours, and access to residences and businesses along with pedestrian traffic will be maintained during construction, the transportation officials said. 

By John Pacenti

Accusations that rocked the Delray Beach apparatchik for weeks came to an end June 27 when an independent investigator found the claim by a recently hired director that her job was threatened by Vice Mayor Rob Long to be “unsubstantiated.”

Still, the investigator — attorney Brooke Ehrlich — found plenty of room for improvement, recommending City Manager Terrence Moore stop his practice of conference calls with city employees and individual commissioners. She also recommended that commissioners stop directly contacting city directors — and, if they do, ensure the city attorney or internal auditor is on the line.

In the meantime and before the investigation’s conclusion, the center of the storm — Rodney Mayo, lightning rod restaurant and coffee shop owner — decided to pour gasoline over the already raging fire by releasing a scathing email that blasted the director who leveled the complaint: Jeri Pryor, the neighborhood and community services director who also oversees code enforcement.

The report redacts Pryor’s name, but The Coastal Star previously identified her as the complainant, citing a leaked document.

Pryor accused City Manager Terrence Moore and Long of telling her in a Feb. 20 conference call to “stand down” on code enforcement for Mayo’s Subculture coffee shop and his restaurant Dada.  She said they “threatened her employment,” according to the report.

Moore and Long react

The 52-page report — obtained by The Coastal Star July 1 through a public records request — also found “unsubstantiated” Pryor’s complaint that Moore directed her to go soft on businesses represented by the Downtown Development Authority.

“With the conclusion of this investigation, the City remains committed to fostering a respectful and supportive work environment,” Moore said in a July 1 statement.

“We look forward to strengthening leadership within Neighborhood and Community Services and across all departments to ensure positive, productive relationships both internally and in service to our community.”

Long emailed a statement, saying the complaint called his integrity into question.

“The report also raises legitimate concerns about the reliability of the complainant’s account. She waited two months to raise her complaint, never brought her concerns to her direct supervisor, and acknowledged that her decision to file was shaped by prior trauma in a different workplace,” Long said.

“Those factors, combined with the absence of corroborating evidence and the consistent accounts of multiple witnesses, speak for themselves. I’m grateful that the facts are now on the record.”

Pryor, when she was working as chief of staff for Fort Lauderdale Commissioner Warren Sturman, filed a complaint against Commissioner Steve Glassman there for using an expletive in her presence on Jan. 9, 2024. Pryor accused Glassman of “violent, hostile and aggressive behavior.”

The investigator ended up recommending that the Fort Lauderdale City Commission adopt a code of conduct, but concluded that Glassman’s comments did not constitute harassment or bullying.

Pryor did not return a phone call for comment.

Not a whistleblower

At times, the report flies far afield from the central complaint to address Pryor’s numerous accusations.

There are pages delving into alleged bad behavior by a developer subject to a noise complaint and how Pryor felt undermined by Moore and Deputy City Manager Jeff Oris at the April 22 commission meeting when commissioners inquired about code violations by Subculture on Northeast Sixth Avenue.

The meandering report was released to The Coastal Star without any supportive documentation or addendums — such as Pryor’s original complaint and her supporting material.

It also made another significant finding: Pryor was not considered a whistleblower. Pryor had claimed protection under the state law, stating that Long and Moore violated the city’s charter by telling her to engage in “selective enforcement.”

“Whether or not (Pryor) engaged in a protected disclosure is unnecessary to examine in this matter, given that ultimately, no adverse employment action has been taken by the City against (Pryor) since the time her disclosure was made,” Ehrlich found.

The phone call

Pryor was hired in January and Moore said he felt the phone call was more of an introduction between her and Long.

Long said he felt the phone call was cordial.

Both men denied putting any pressure on Pryor to go easy on Mayo’s establishments but said the conversation may have addressed prioritizing “big” code violations, rather than “small” ones.

Dada had been cited for using an A-frame sign, which is prohibited by the city.

Pryor, though, said Long yelled at her and threatened her employment.

“I’m telling you right now, lay off of them, just lay off of them,” Pryor claimed Long said. “This person [Mr. Mayo] has been in business for 25 years. You need to leave them alone. This is just a small issue.”

Long disputes that, saying: “The conversation at the center of this investigation was described consistently by both myself and Mr. Moore as brief, professional, and focused on broader goals such as education, voluntary compliance, and rebuilding trust in Code Enforcement.”

Ehlrich’s report claims that Moore and Long contradict each other, but then goes off on an unrelated tangent. At most, the two men’s accounts have insignificant differences.

Commissioner Juli Casale said there had been at least one other incident of Long — her political nemesis on the dais — yelling at a city director.

“The report ignores the fact that this is not the only recent incident of this nature, involving the same city commissioner,” she said. “I am inclined to believe the city employee who had no reason to falsely report the incident and immediately documented it verbally and in writing.”

Long said he doesn't know of any other email from a director making a complaint about him. "I virtually never speak to our directors unless Terrence is present and I have absolutely never disrespected, bullied or given specific directions to them. Any aspersions to the contrary are more politically motivated lies," he said.

Mayo on the attack

Mayo certainly didn’t sit on the sidelines when his businesses were brought into the fray.

He unleashed a June 17 email — at 3:14 a.m., no less — to Delray Beach commissioners, blasting Pryor. Mayo entitled his email, “The Jeri Pryor Dossier — politics is ugly and inept!”

“Can anyone on the Commission or city staff justify the newly hired head of community services Jeri Pryor?” Mayo wrote. “Was there any due diligence, background checks or concern of Mrs. Pryor's past job performance and strange anomalies? Is this the best hire the city of Delray can offer its residents?”

Mayo attached documents that showed poor performance reviews and Pryor’s previous complaint against the Fort Lauderdale commissioner.

“Our staff work hard. They deserve to be protected from persistent offenders when they are merely doing their job,” Casale said at the June 17 meeting.

Moore and Mayor Tom Carney also criticized Mayo’s email as inappropriate.

Mayo said he is concerned his coffee shop has been unfairly targeted for having modest events.

“I had to cancel our chess club, comedy night, open mic night, poetry readings. Everything has been canceled in Delray because I was told I'm going to get another $3,500 violation if I do it.”

When asked why he went on the offensive with the email, Mayo said he is being singled out and targeted for political reasons.

He said Long was going to have his wedding reception at Dada because the commissioner met his fiancée there. But Long cancelled because of the uproar with Subculture and the whistleblower complaint. “He was going to pay full price, no discount,” Mayo said.

“The whole whistleblower thing was about Subculture and me and that started with Jeri and since then, I’ve had nonstop violations, inspections,” Mayo said. “I’ve been scrutinized to the nth degree.”

From storms to blazes to parades, this firefighter on wheels served community for much of a century

ABOVE: Old Betsy was new to Boca Raton in 1926 when the station was at Old Town Hall. Photo provided by the Boca Raton Historical Society 

BELOW: Betsy now resides at Fire Station No. 3 on State Road A1A near Palmetto Park Road. Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

By Ron Hayes

Boca Raton’s oldest fire engine turns 100 next April, but it’s been “Old Betsy” from the day it was born.

On Oct. 21, 1925, the Boca Raton Town Council approved a check for $1,000, the down payment on a $12,500 engine to be built by the American LaFrance Fire Engine Co. of Elmira, New York.

It would be 20 feet 1 inch long, 6 feet 2½ inches wide, and 9 feet 1 inch tall.

It would weigh 9,050 pounds, minus the firemen, hose and water.

It would pump 750 gallons per minute.

It would be unloaded at the town’s railroad station on April 20, 1926, to the delight of elementary school children excused from class to watch.

And it would be called Old Betsy.

•

Why not Old Nancy? Old Mary? Old Sue?

“Old Betsy meant reliable,” says Thomas Wood, who retired in December 2021 after 15 years as the city’s eighth fire chief. “All fire engines are Old Betsy. 

“We know of at least 10 other departments that have an Old Betsy.”

Venice, Florida, has an Old Betsy, and so does Stockton, California.

Davy Crockett fans may wonder if the nickname was borrowed from that other Old Betsy, Crockett’s fabled rifle, but no connection has been established.

Except of course that both rifle and fire engine were famously reliable.

Old Betsy the fire engine was already 48 and retired from active duty when Wood joined the department in June 1974. Now in his own retirement, Wood has been studying the century-long history of Fire Engine No. 1, and on June 11, he shared that history with a full house at a Town Hall Talk in the Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum (the city’s Old Town Hall).

•

“Our first two fire chiefs were volunteers,” he said.

Guy Bender served from 1925 to 1934, and Clifford Purdom from 1934 to 1946.

In fact, the entire department consisted of volunteers, and they were paid more in respect and gratitude than money.

The chief was paid $150 a year, the assistant chief $8 a month, and the volunteer firemen $4 per fire and $2 for each drill they attended.

The first paid chief was John F. Loughery (1946-1964), who painted Old Betsy white to match his white hair.

During its almost 100 years, Old Betsy has been painted white, red, white, and finally red again, Wood said.

•

ABOVE: After the 1926 hurricane, Old Betsy responded to a hotel fire in Hollywood and pumped flood water for more than 100 hours. Photo provided by the Boca Raton Historical Society

The engine had been in service five months when it worked its first big job.

In September 1926, a Category 4 hurricane struck South Florida, killing more than 370 people in Miami and Moore Haven. Old Betsy responded to a hotel fire in Hollywood and pumped flood water for more than 100 hours.

It was not Old Betsy’s last encounter with a killer storm.

On Aug. 24, 1992, while Betsy was being restored in a barn down in Homestead, Hurricane Andrew roared through South Florida.

The man restoring the engine was able to move it to a warehouse in Florida City before the 165-mph winds hit.

“When we went down to see the damage later,” Wood recalled, “the tarpaper roof had been torn off the warehouse and the top panel of the garage door was blown in. We borrowed a ladder and looked over the top and were able to see Old Betsy was fine.”

Old Betsy fought its last major fire at 10:36 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 16, 1967, when hot tar set the roof of the San Remo’s Villa Verona ablaze, under construction at the time.

A workman was trapped on the roof when the city’s tallest ladder couldn’t reach the top of the five-story building. A smaller ladder had to be raised from a balcony below.

•

Old Betsy was more than 40 years old, and retired from active duty the following year, to be rewarded with the honor all Old Betsys receive: fire department competitions and holiday parades.
At the Tampa Fire Department’s 1995 centennial celebration, it won Best Restored To Original and first place in the balloon race for breaking balloons with its hose.
For the city’s residents, Old Betsy’s appearance at the holiday parade became an annual tradition — and for one in particular, a final bow.
Among the first volunteers to join the new department was Francis M. Thomason, only 19 when he volunteered in 1927. You can see him standing, third from the right, in a photo of Old Betsy taken that August.

•

He served as a firefighter until the early 1950s and, years later, when The Boca Raton News asked him to recall the most memorable fire he had ever fought, Thomason didn’t hesitate.

“My house!”

One evening when his house caught fire, he ran over to the City Hall, which also served as the fire station, and drove Old Betsy home to put out the fire.
Thomason rode one last time on Old Betsy in the city’s 1995 holiday parade and died on Sept. 4, 1997. He was 89, and Old Betsy was 71.

•

That 1995 parade was Old Betsy’s last appearance in the holiday parade.
On Nov. 1, 2001, Old Betsy was added to the National Register of Historic Places. In 2024, a state historic marker was unveiled outside Boca Raton Fire Rescue Station No. 3 — Old Betsy’s current home — on State Road A1A south of Palmetto Park Road. 

More than 60 people attended retired Fire Chief Thomas Wood’s talk about Betsy in June. Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

Old Betsy is almost 100 years old, after all, and not the spry young firefighter that arrived in 1926, exciting the local school children.
“It’s missing a water pump, and has a cracked head,” Wood said, “so it hasn’t run in several years. We’ve found a company in Pennsylvania that manufactures the parts to either repair or replace the head.”
Repairs would cost less than $10,000, Wood estimated.
“I spoke with the chief earlier this week, and he spoke with the city manager, but the wheels of government do run slow.” 

The Junior League of Boca Raton has appointed Victoria Matthews as its president and has appointed a new board of directors.

The 2025-26 team was introduced at the league’s annual dinner meeting. Board members for 2025-26 include Debbie Abrams, Darina Bowerman, Daniele Jean, Kristin Martin, Jocelyn Mijares, Shannon Moriarity, Amanda O’Brien, Jackie Reeves, Lee Ann Ryan, Alexandra Scheiber, Christina Seamster, Christa Siciliano and Alex Welsh.

“The Junior League is more than service,” said Matthews, a league member for 18 years. “It’s about sisterhood, leadership and creating lasting change.”

For more information, call 561-620-2553 or visit jlbr.org

Nonprofit gives nurses gifts of gratitude 

In honor of National Nurses Day, Her 2nd Chance, a nonprofit social enterprise that empowers women in recovery, delivered more than 1,000 handcrafted mugs to Boca Raton Regional Hospital.

The mugs were made and packaged by women participating in Her 2nd Chance’s transitional-employment program, which provides job skills, workplace confidence, and healing through the process of creating.

“This is more than just a gift,” Her 2nd Chance board member Jim MacCutcheon said. “It’s a symbol of heartfelt appreciation for the incredible nurses who show up every day for others.”

For more information, call 561-405-6346 or visit her2ndchance.org

Financial adviser receives philanthropic designation

Doug Mithun, a Wells Fargo financial adviser, has earned the Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy title.

The title marks a significant milestone in Mithun’s commitment to helping clients leave lasting legacies.

“This achievement reflects his dedication to empowering individuals and families to align their financial goals with their personal values and philanthropic vision,” according to a press release. 

Grants enable 10 charities to advance their missions 

The Addison has announced the 10 nonprofit recipients of its “100 Years, $100K Giving Initiative” created to celebrate the venue’s centennial by giving back to the community.

The winners were celebrated at a cocktail reception in June.

“We were incredibly moved by the level of passion and purpose displayed by all the applicants,” said Zoe Lanham, The Addison’s vice president. “This initiative is a reflection of our century-long commitment to serving the community, and we look forward to helping these 10 deserving organizations advance their missions in meaningful ways.”

The following organizations received $10,000 grants to support a future fundraiser or awareness event at The Addison:

• Boca Raton Historical Society/The Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum

• Boca Raton Police Foundation

• EmpowHERto

• Florida Atlantic University Foundation

•  Friends of Foster Children

• Great Plains Foundation

• Impact 100 Palm Beach County

• JARC Florida

• Sweet Dream Makers

• Twin Palms Center for the Disabled

For more information, call 561-372-0568 or visit theaddisonofbocaraton.com/celebratingourlegacy

Send news and notes to Amy Woods at flamywoods@bellsouth.net

The Pap Corps Champions for Cancer Research presented a $3.4 million check to Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the corps’ annual breakfast meeting. The event brought together hundreds of enthusiastic volunteers, prominent sponsors and executive leaders and marked the culmination of a yearlong fundraising effort by the corps’ 20,000-plus members across nearly 50 South Florida chapters. ‘The tools at our disposal come from research, and The Pap Corps is our essential partner,’ said Dr. Antonio Iavarone, deputy director of the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. ‘We could not survive without you.’ ABOVE: (l-r) Jayne Sylvester Malfitano, Susan Dinter, Sally Berenzweig and Dr. Iavarone. Photo provided by Kay Renz

The George Snow Scholarship Fund kicked off a new event that honored two of South County’s most inspiring women — Christine Lynn and Barbara Schmidt. A conversation with both of them was moderated by Terry Fedele and explored deep themes of community, purpose and defining moments. The event also was a call to action to support local youths preparing for college. Every ticket sold sponsored Scholar Packs, large rolling duffel bags filled with college essentials, for the fund’s incoming class. ‘Together, we make it happen,’ Lynn said. ‘It doesn’t matter how much you give, but when you believe in what you believe in and you give what you can, you’re making a difference.’ ABOVE: (l-r) Robin Deyo, Fedele, Schmidt, Lynn and Zoe Lanham. Photo provided by Michelle Lawson Photography

The Boca Raton Historical Society’s signature food and wine event concluded its 22nd year with record-breaking attendance, exquisite vintner dinners and an unforgettable Grand Tasting, all in celebration of the city’s centennial. More than $200,000 was raised for The Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum. ‘Boca Bacchanal 2025 was a truly special tribute to our city’s centennial,’ said Mary Csar, the society’s executive director. ‘The community’s support helps us preserve Boca’s history while enjoying everything our incredible culinary and cultural scene has to offer.’ ABOVE: (l-r) Olivia Hollaus, Sharyl Curry and Emily Snyder. Photos providedL-R: Thom and Joyce DeVita. 

L-R: Denise Alman, Dr. Nathan Nachlas and Fran Nachlas. 

The Delray Beach Historical Society and Heritage Gardens welcomed 350 guests to its annual fundraiser in and around the landscaped paths of the gorgeous grounds. Tastings from 11 area restaurants were provided, as were live music and an auction with one-of-a-kind items. History exhibits were displayed for all to enjoy. Proceeds will go toward the preservation of an archive of more than 100,000 items from the city’s past. ABOVE: (l-r) Geoff and Melissa Braboy, Katie Moyer and Tracy and John Backer. Photos provided

L-R: Singleton Cox, Allyson Sullivan and Kristin Finn.

L-R: Diane Helfrich, Kim Solari Brown and Megan Knott Mignano. 

An inspiring afternoon of celebration and philanthropy took center stage at the Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida’s ceremonial luncheon. The more than $170,000 raised will help the organization continue to empower girls to grow into leaders who make a difference in their communities and beyond. The Lifetime Achievement Award for Philanthropy went to Nancy Brinker. The other honorees were Christine DelVecchio, Sophia Eccleston, Marti LaTour and Wendy Sartory Link. ‘Each year, the Emerald Awards shine a light on outstanding women whose passion, perseverance and leadership help shape stronger communities,’ said Lisa Johnson, CEO of the Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida. ‘Their stories inspire our girls to dream bigger and lead with courage, confidence and character.’ ABOVE: (l-r) Eccleston, Sartory Link, Brinker, LaTour and DelVecchio. Photo provided by Premier Photo Palm Beach

Nearly 70 golfers teed up to help raise more than $50,000 for the Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County. The ninth annual event was chaired by coalition board member Nancy Vera, and committee members included Caleb Bowser, John Campo and Travis Foels. ‘I am proud to chair this event and to be part of a community that believes in building brighter futures one reader at a time,’  Vera said. ‘Thank you to all the players and sponsors for your support of this year’s Literacy Links.’ ABOVE: (l-r) Sacha McGraw, Janet Donovan, Brenda Medore and Leanne Adair. Photo provided by Tracey Benson Photography

Boca Helping Hands supporters dressed the part and danced the Charleston at the sold-out event with a 1920s theme. Donning flapper dresses and pinstripe suits, they enjoyed an unforgettable evening of music, auctions, cocktails, dinner and the crowning of this year’s champion, Mike Wohl. ‘Combining the timeless excitement of Monopoly with the energy of the Roaring Twenties made for a truly unforgettable evening,’ said Gary Peters, Boca Helping Hands’ board president. ‘Most importantly, every roll of the dice helps support neighbors in need through Boca Helping Hands.’ ABOVE: (l-r) Peters, Bob Tucker, Wohl, Leonard Wierzbowski, Lisa Pechter and Tara Currier. Photo provided

Tri-County Animal Rescue’s fourth annual furry fundraiser drew more than 200 guests who helped raise money for the nonprofit’s mission of saving, rehabilitating and re-homing abandoned and abused animals. The festivities included a cocktail reception, a plated brunch, lively music and plenty of wagging tails. ‘This event is truly a celebration of love, compassion and the bond we share with our pets,’ Executive Director Suzi Goldsmith said. ‘We are beyond grateful to our guests, volunteers and sponsors whose generosity helps us continue our life-saving work.’ ABOVE: Ted Campbell and Goldsmith. BELOW: Rick Goldsmith and Mary Stern. Photos provided

Granger’s Grille in Delray Beach closed its doors after more than 30 years when the building was sold to developers who plan to put an office building there. Photos provided

By Jan Norris

It’s been a tough year for some longtime restaurants, as well as some newer ones.

In mid-May, Granger’s Grille, a local favorite for more than 30 years in Delray Beach, closed unexpectedly. Writing to customers about the impending closing, owner Marino Pagones said, “This is not how we imagined things ending.”

The restaurant moved from north of Atlantic Avenue to its spot on south U.S. 1 between Southeast Eighth and Ninth streets about nine years ago. 

The mom-and-pop eatery shuttered after its building was sold to developers who plan to put an office building there.

“As a family-owned business this decision was not made by will but by circumstance,” the owner said.

Fans lit up the local social media pages. And in an online forum, the owner hinted the restaurant may reopen elsewhere.

On Atlantic Avenue, another local favorite, J&J Seafood Bar and Grill, announced its closing in June. But only days afterward, it was announced the restaurant would stay open, thanks to a vendor who stepped in to buy it.

The 26-year-old restaurant was a destination for parties, special occasion meals and holidays.

Owners John and Tina Hutchinson didn’t give a specific reason for closing.

Linen vendor Anthony DeSabato and his spouse, Christine, took over without closing the doors, keeping staff and menu the same to start out.

DeSabato said he owned delis in New York about 12 years ago.

As for plans, he said, “We’ll do a nice happy hour. They were closed on Sundays and Mondays; we may open for a boozy brunch Sunday.”

No renovations are planned, he said. “Just minor painting and touch-ups. We like the antique-y look of it.”

He said they want to keep it a “mom and pop” spot. “We’ll do some more modernizing, but it’s a small place, and it’s got a good following.

“I’ve learned business is like a marriage. We’re not trying to reinvent the wheel here. Just keep it simple. We’re selling booze and fish.”

A reiteration of a popular Lake Worth Beach restaurant, Not So Bizaare Ave Cafe, also closed in May after less than a year.

Owner Lisa Mercado said it was a combination of one thing after another: a nearby shooting, an election that she says worried everyone, tariffs, and people watching their money.

“We were counting on having a good season to stack up funds through the season, and though we had some amazing nights, it just wasn’t enough to cover us for summer,” she said.

The landlord was great, she said. “He understood the restaurant biz.”

Mercado didn’t want to be indebted or plead for her lease. “It just wasn’t working. You can only work so long for free.”

Also, Todd English’s Lula’s in Lake Worth Beach has closed after less than nine months.

The James Beard award-winning chef opened the Mediterranean eatery in October 2024 to fanfare on Lake Avenue; it never gained footing.

Word is that owner of Lantana’s Ravish, Alexandra Dupuis, will open a restaurant in Lula’s space. (Mercado sold Ravish to Dupuis two years ago.)

Lisabet Summa has seen this downturn in the hospitality industry in other years. As director of culinary operations for Big Time Restaurant Group, which is behind Elisabetta’s on Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach and in West Palm Beach, as well as Louie Bossi’s in Boca Raton, she has weathered the years around the pandemic and economic uncertainty.

This time, she said, there may have been too many restaurateurs from out of state coming in and trying to “strike while the iron was hot,” without understanding Florida’s market and seasonality.

“I think the growth of restaurants was organic until after the pandemic,” she said. “I think a lot of people coming from out of town don’t get the highs and lows of season.” 

They may have seen some peaks and dips in the past few years, but “nothing like the higher highs and lower lows” that took place before the pandemic.

“What we’re seeing is a return to normal for us,” Summa said. A lot of people are “falling prey to operating costs that may not have been in their financial plan.”

She said she “wouldn’t want to be a new operator today.”

Gary Rack, owner of Rack’s Farmhouse Kitchen and Rack’s Fish House and Oyster Bar in Delray Beach, agrees.

“It’s hard out there,” he said. “Rents are astronomical. We see one-bedroom places going for $2,000.”

He added, “I think people are watching what they spend. Let’s say the customer went out two to three times a week in the past; now, maybe two to three times a month.”

Rack says his playbook of solid, quality food, with a variety at moderate prices, works well for him. 

“People can come from the beach dressed casually, have bar bites and drinks, or dress up and have entrees with wines inside. Farmhouse makes it because it doesn’t have that $60 or $70 entree.”

In summer, he implements his half-price menu at all his restaurants from 3 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. Nearly all items on the menu are half off. 

“We did it to support our locals, and our serving staff. We’re crowded and it’s a good vibe of people,” Rack said.

Newly opened Roka Hula on Atlantic Avenue in Delray has a Polynesian theme and offers entrees with dumplings, above, and shrimp, below.

Atlantic Avenue restaurant capitalizes on Asian trend

Newly opened Roka Hula on Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach is capitalizing on a trend of modern Asian restaurants with tiki bars and Polynesian touches. 

This one’s from the True Grit Hospitality group, which is behind the Mexican Calaveras Cantina in Boca Raton and Jupiter, as well as the Cajun-Creole Voodoo Bayou in Palm Beach Gardens. 

Exotic tropical drinks in showy goblets and mugs, over-the-top tiki decor, and “provocative” and interactive dishes carry the theme throughout.

The menu shows dishes such as Korean short rib gyoza, pork soup dumplings, a Japanese A5 wagyu cooked on hot stone, and prawn and lobster curry noodles. Lists for bao buns, nigiri, sashimi and rolls fill out the menu. 

Roka Hula, 270 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach. rokahula.com/delray-beach

Taco eatery opens third PBC location in Delray

Talkin’ Tacos, a halal taco spot, has come to east Delray Beach on Linton Boulevard. 

A sensation for its birria tacos and bold seasoning, the taco chain comes from two Miami friends who began a taco truck during the pandemic.It became so popular, they decided to open a shop. The chain now has several locations in several states; this one is the third in Palm Beach County.

Talkin’ Tacos, 551 Linton Blvd., Delray Beach. talkintacos.net

Pizza franchise expands to new site in Delray Beach

The Ah-Beetz New Haven Pizza franchise continues to expand in the county, with a new flagship added in Delray Beach by founder Nicholas Laudano. The 3,300-square-foot space at 1732 S. Federal Highway gives diners a choice of indoor or patio seating, as well as takeout. New Haven, Connecticut, claims this style of coal-fired, thin crust pizza, famous for the white clam pizza. Salads, bowls and appetizers also are on the menu.  “Ah-beetz” is the colloquial pronunciation of the pies.

On the mend 

Louie Bossi’s in Boca Raton is still on the mend from a fire. Work is progressing albeit slowly, Bossi said, as the construction team awaits permits for the rebuild.

Jan Norris is a food writer who can be reached at  nativefla@gmail.com.

South Florida, meaning Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties, boasts the third- largest Jewish community in the United States, after New York and Los Angeles.

On May 23, Gov. Ron DeSantis did his part to remember the Jewish population when he approved SB 356, sponsored by Senate Minority Leader Lori Berman, D-Boynton Beach, to declare Jan. 27 Holocaust Remembrance Day. The bill passed unanimously in the Senate and the House.

SB 356 says, “In honor of the millions of victims killed in the Holocaust, the Governor shall annually proclaim January 27 to be ‘Holocaust Remembrance Day,’ which may be observed in the public schools of this state and by public exercise at the State Capitol and elsewhere as the Governor may designate.”

January has been Florida Jewish History Month since 2003, but the first official observance of Holocaust Remembrance Day in Florida will take place Jan. 27, 2026. 

Florida schools already have a Holocaust Education Week, held the second week in November. That coincides with the anniversary of the Kristallnacht pogrom, Nov. 9-10, 1938. Local schools will now be encouraged to teach about the Holocaust and antisemitism throughout the year in an attempt to curtail the rising trend in antisemitism and attacks on Jewish people.

In a Florida Senate session on June 5, Jewish lawmakers said antisemitic threats have surged in the state with reported incidents in 2023 and 2024 above those reported in 2022.

Acts included vandalism of Jewish properties and places of worship, hate groups distributing flyers, and even the battery of a 68-year-old Broward man near a synagogue. 

Sen. Tina Polsky, D-Boca Raton, urged her colleagues to “be a light in the darkness” and speak out against hate, warning that silence is deadly and endangers Jewish communities. Florida lawmakers, including the 14-member Jewish Legislative Caucus, are urging public condemnation of antisemitism and hate crimes.

Rep. Debra Tendrich, D-Lake Worth Beach, organized the call-to-conscience news conference on June 5 where Rep. Jennifer “Rita” Harris, D-Orlando, said, “Hate wants us to be
silent.” 

The Antidefamation League of Florida’s Audit of Antisemitic Incidents for 2024 tracked 353 incidents in the state, from harassment to vandalism to assault, down from 463 the previous year but up from 127 in 2020 and 269 in 2022.

The report (available at florida.adl.org/news/48334/) said there were 51 incidents in Palm Beach County in 2024, down from 83 in 2023. 

Boca Community Church offering student activities 

Reaching out to kids this summer is high on the agenda at Boca Raton Community Church, and its youth ministry is thriving. College, high school and middle school students are invited to learn about the Bible. The church hosts three groups: College students meet at 7 p.m. Sundays (July 6, 13, 20 and 27). High school and middle school groups each meet at 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays (July 9, 16, 23 and 30). 

These special events for youths are also planned: 

• BocaStudents HS: Tacos & Trivia Night from 7 to 9 p.m. July 11 for high school students; features fun, competition and everyone’s favorite food. Test your knowledge of pop culture, Bible facts and trivia to win prizes. Register at bocacommunity.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/964/responses/new

• BocaStudents MS: Sky Zone Day for middle school kids takes place from 1 to 3 p.m. July 26 at Sky Zone Trampoline Park, 1729 N. Congress Ave., Boynton Beach. High-flying fun on wall-to-wall trampolines, plus foam pits and dodgeball; cost is $25, which includes two hours of jump time and Sky Zone socks. Register at bocacommunity.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/960/responses/new

• The Sunday Summer Group meets at 9 a.m. July 13, 20 and 27 in the Family Room at the church for a special summer presentation. A casual alternative to Sunday school, each week features a church leader/guest speaker who will focus on a different section of scripture. 

Boca Raton Community Church is at 470 NW Fourth Ave. Call 561-395-2400 or visit bocacommunity.org.

Temple Beth El to host Book, Brunch & Mimosas 

The Temple Beth El Sisterhood hosts Book, Brunch & Mimosas from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 13 at the temple’s Schaefer Family Campus, 333 SW Fourth Ave., Boca Raton. 

The Sisterhood and Rabbi Laila Haas meet for fellowship and brunch catered by The Sticky Bun, along with a lively discussion of the book The Third Daughter by Talia Carner.

Inspired by true events, the novel is a dark but important story of thousands of young Jewish women who were trafficked into prostitution at the turn of the 20th century in Buenos Aires. 

Tickets are $41 for members, $47 for guests. Reservations are required. Call 561-391-8900 or register online at tbeboca.staging.shulcloud.com/event/sisterhood-book-brunch--mimosas.html

St. Gregory’s offers another Yoga Mass 

The combination of prayer and yoga poses is offered by St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church again from 4 to 5 p.m. July 26 in a Yoga Mass at St. Mary’s Chapel in the church. The Rev. Elizabeth Pankey-Warren and Father Andrew Sherman lead. All levels are welcome. Bring your own yoga mat.

St. Gregory’s is at 100 NE Mizner Blvd., Boca Raton. Call 561-395-8285.

Cancer support group at St. Vincent Ferrer Church

St. Vincent Ferrer Catholic Church offers a cancer support group for anyone of any faith (or no faith at all) fighting any form of cancer directly or indirectly, on the first Tuesday of the month at 10 a.m. and the third Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. in Room D near the gym. The leaders are all cancer survivors. St. Vincent Ferrer is at 840 George Bush Blvd., Delray Beach. Call 561-665-8555 or email romans1212@stvincentferrer.com 

Donations, volunteers needed at First United

Changing Lives of Boca Raton sponsors a homeless outreach from 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays at First United Methodist Church, 625 NE Mizner Blvd., Boca Raton. The group offers clothes, toiletries, food, showers, haircuts, spiritual encouragement and more to the community. Donations and volunteers are needed. 

Changing Lives focuses on improving the lives of those suffering from — or at risk of — homelessness by providing scholarships for sober living facilities and detox, housing stipends, costs for mental and physical care, personal documentation, and more. 

Changing Lives runs a thrift store at 2170 N. Dixie Highway, Boca Raton. Call 561-961-4635. 

Eagle Scouts refurbish church’s Memorial Garden 

The Eagle Scouts at First United Methodist Church, 625 NE Mizner Blvd., Boca Raton, have refurbished the church Memorial Garden as part of their scout project, and it includes offering parishioners a chance to add an engraved brick to the garden in remembrance of a loved one. Proceeds will be used to purchase new banners for the Sanctuary and the Gathering Place.

Bricks are $100; find an order form at files.constantcontact.com/2a360acc001/0168ae62-f26d-4ae4-ac63-3d2e91252e5d.pdf

Registration open for Hustle to End Hunger

Registration is open for the annual Hustle to End Hunger footrace on Oct. 4 in John Prince Park in Lake Worth Beach. CROS Ministries depends on this annual fundraiser to feed thousands of residents in Palm Beach and Martin counties. All proceeds go to ensure access to healthy food for those in need. 

Register at runsignup.com/Race/FL/LakeWorth/Hustle2EndHunger5K

The chip-timed 5K race ($40) begins at 7:30 a.m. A walk and virtual versions are also offered as well as the new “Lil’ Hustle,” a 100-yard kids dash open to ages 7 and younger. 

Volunteers are also needed. Contact Gibbie Nauman at 561-344-4910 or gnauman@crosministries.org.

The event is presented by Genetics Institute of America and Lake Worth United Church of Christ.

Worship Night in Delray

The first family-friendly, community-wide Worship Night in Delray is planned for 7 p.m. July 19 at Cason United Methodist Church, 342 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach.

A spirit-filled evening of worship, prayer and unity for the whole community will feature live music and words of hope from guest pastors and Cason Pastor David Schmidt, who helped organize the event.

Admission is free, but tickets are required. Go to casonumc.org/calendars or call 561-276-5302.

 — Janis Fontaine

Senior Rabbi David Steinhardt retired after 31 years from B’nai Torah Congregation in Boca Raton, the largest conservative synagogue in South Florida. Photo provided 

By Janis Fontaine

When Rabbi David Steinhardt of B’nai Torah said goodbye to his congregation of 1,400 families, he said goodbye to thousands of friends he knew by name. 

Harold Jacobsohn of Highland Beach and his wife, Beatriz, became B’nai Torah members even before Steinhardt arrived in 1994, but for the last 31 years, the man Harold Jacobsohn calls “the people’s rabbi” has been their rabbi. 

“We respect him tremendously as a rabbi and as a personal friend. He’s been there for our family during our joys, and he was there with a hug that felt genuine and was a great source of comfort in a moment of sorrow,” Jacobsohn said.  

For births and bar mitzvahs, weddings and funerals, Steinhardt served without restraint before he retired at the end of June after 42 years as a rabbi. He knew people’s most intimate stories but never shared the details. 

“We are pleased with the way he has led the congregation through difficult times and always served the community socially and spiritually,” Jacobsohn said. “He handled COVID extremely well. What I most admire is his deep insight into the soul of his community and people individually.”

Steinhardt has faced myriad challenges leading the largest conservative Jewish congregation in South Florida and has witnessed tremendous growth in the population and prosperity of the Jewish community in Boca Raton. He’s especially proud of his work with Cathy Berkowitz, the synagogue’s longtime education director, in redesigning and revolutionizing the after-school program, bringing in computers and the arts, and charting students’ growth and progress. As a result, attendance soared. 

“Small ideas perpetuated into big programs,” Steinhardt said. “Like TLC with Summer Faerman. I take great pride in that.” 

TLC — Tzedakah, Learning, and Chesed — began in 2012 to turn the concept of the “mitzvah of tzedakah,” one of the most important components of synagogue life, into tangible acts to help others. Led by Steinhardt and Faerman, hundreds of volunteers perform acts of service like feeding the hungry and working with the mobile shower ministry with their Christian partner, St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church. 

Steinhardt will continue his interfaith work, performed alongside the Rev. Andrew Sherman of St. Gregory’s, in retirement. “The interfaith work is really who he is,” Sherman said by phone. 

The two men met 20 years ago when Sherman was conducting his first Christmas Eve service at St. Gregory’s. “I noticed a Jewish man sitting in the back enjoying the music, so I introduced myself and we agreed to meet for coffee. We started connecting and we resurrected the Boca Raton Interfaith Clergy Association. He and I have been coworkers and colleagues ever since,” Sherman said. 

Today, the Gentile and the Jew are best friends.

“I love him so much!" Sherman said. “He’s a true mensch, as they say. I’ve always responded to his warmth, but our friendship and our mutual work, like feeding the homeless, has blossomed. 

“For 20 years our vision has been the same: to bring the community together. One of the gifts of Boca Raton is the diversity of the religious community, our Christian and Jewish members as well as a growing Muslim population and presence. We believe if we can model in Boca Raton what a conversation that doesn’t compromise your religious integrity might look like, we can help spread that message to other communities. We are fellow children of God, and we can serve together, connecting and affirming our community. We know this is possible. We feel if we model it in Boca Raton, we can show that to the world.” 

There may be no better model for interfaith understanding than David Steinhardt. 

A rabbi is a rabbi for life, but now Steinhardt, 72, becomes a “rabbi emeritus.” He’ll continue to serve his congregation as he’s needed, but he’s ready to make time for himself and for his family, and spend summers in cool green spaces around the Berkshires in Massachusetts with his wife, Tobi, five children and seven grandchildren.

“It was a huge decision, but the timing was right,” he said. “This is very unique work, and it puts you in a special place. It’s very public. I get a lot of adulation as a virtue of the role.” 

In reality, the love and respect he’s given have been largely earned. Helene Ballen of Highland Beach, who worked alongside him, said the rabbi has a rare ability to make people feel “seen and heard and understood. He knows our stories and he knows how to comfort us. He takes on everyone’s hardships, but he doesn’t let it weigh him down. I hope people know how hard he worked and how much he cares. He’s the heart of our congregation.”

That came with long hours, and Steinhardt is ready for a life without working weekends and nights or being on call. “I want time to pursue personal interests. I plan to spend time outdoors. I plan to spend more time taking care of myself, and by that I mean pursuing a spiritual life with more time reading and at study, and more time traveling with my wife.”

Steinhardt is confident B’nai Torah will continue to thrive.

“The synagogue is better than it’s ever been,” he said.

Jewish life in South Florida continues to grow and Steinhardt’s interfaith work will be critical to its success. 

“I’ll continue to have conversations with leaders and write and learn more about the theology of our differences, to study pluralism,” he said. 

Put 700 people in a room and tell them the word of God and each will hear something different, Steinhardt says. “People hear it based on their own backgrounds and learning. We need humility to see that there are other perspectives.” 

The reaction to his departure has been “quite beautiful,” Steinhardt said. “People understand working as a rabbi for 42 years is a long time.” 

If he could leave one message for his congregation, perhaps it would be this: “Never stop learning. Learning is fundamental to Jewish life.” 

As he looks to what’s next, Steinhardt said, “I look at the future with guarded optimism. We’re from a tradition of suffering and we’ve always come through. The near future is going to be really challenging, We have to remember that autocracy does not help democracy. Equal rights and freedom and justice — that stuff is being challenged. But the pendulum will swing, so there’s reason to be optimistic. 

“We’re facing a great challenge. We need voices and visionaries. We need to find the people who are working to make life better among our educators and scholars and in the arts. Give them the support they need. 

“The truth is, everyone is afraid. Huddle close. But never give up hope.” 

A successor has not been chosen, but Steinhardt will continue to assist the congregation as a “rabbi emeritus.”

Janis Fontaine writes about people of faith, their congregations, causes and community events. Contact her at fontaine423@outlook.com 

Leonardo ’Leo’ Vallejo-Bryant, former manager at the Breeze Ocean Kitchen, receives a Lifesaving Award from the Red Cross for dislodging food from a choking diner’s throat while on duty. Julie Unwin, the Red Cross South Florida Region’s chief operating officer, presents the certificate. Photo provided

By Jan Engoren

It was a typical Saturday afternoon at the Breeze Ocean Kitchen in the Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa when, without warning, a man began choking on his food, causing a hush to fall over the room.

General manager Leonardo “Leo” Vallejo-Bryant, 43, of Hypoluxo, was overseeing operations when one of his team members signaled to him from across the restaurant.

Expecting a customer complaint or a problem, he suddenly saw a life-or-death situation and a woman attempting the Heimlich maneuver and performing abdominal thrusts on her husband.

Noticing that she was struggling, Vallejo-Bryant sprang into action and took over the lifesaving technique.

“I was in shock watching his lips turn purple,” Vallejo-Bryant recalled. He instructed his assistant manager to call 911 while continuing the thrusts and incorporating back blows.

After roughly a dozen attempts by the manager, a piece of hot dog dislodged from the man’s throat.

“I felt so grateful once he began breathing,” Vallejo-Bryant said. “I could see his wife’s relief.”

Despite feeling shaken, he returned to work — thankful the outcome was positive.

Vallejo-Bryant, a 2010 graduate of Florida Atlantic University, credits his training and experience for his quick response. With 20 years in the food and beverage industry, he’s taken numerous CPR and lifesaving courses through his workplaces. 

The knowledge stayed with him as he used these skills for the first time.

Vallejo-Bryant, now a client adviser at Braman BMW MINI in West Palm Beach, is passionate about taking emergency training seriously.

“Be prepared to act,” he said. “People freeze in a high-pressure situation — but take action and just do it.”

As a team leader and a father of two, Vallejo-Bryant was used to being in a position of responsibility. His motto, “Sometimes you just gotta clean up, even when it’s not your mess,” encapsulates the mindset that drove him to intervene without missing a beat.

In May, Vallejo-Bryant was honored by the Palm Beach and Treasure Coast Chapter of the American Red Cross with its Lifesaving Award.

The award recognizes ordinary individuals who step up in extraordinary moments.

“Learning lifesaving skills doesn’t just prepare you for the unexpected,” said Traci Mitchell, executive director of the American Red Cross South Florida Region, “it gives you the power to become someone’s hero.”

The Red Cross refers to the technique originally known as the Heimlich maneuver as abdominal thrusts — first aid for when a person can’t breathe due to an obstruction in the throat or windpipe.

The Red Cross offers in-person and online training in basic life support; adult, child and baby first aid/CPR/AED; babysitting and child care; swimming and water safety, and workplace safety, among others.

The training in abdominal thrusts is given as part of the CPR and AED training.

Dariana Molina, the American Red Cross regional communications manager for South Florida, said: “Emergencies don’t wait for anyone. That’s why it’s critical for folks to be equipped with lifesaving skills, so that you feel empowered to act at a moment’s notice, like Leo, and potentially save someone’s life.”

Molina was impressed that Vallejo-Bryant acted in a cool, calm and collected manner, stepping up and using the lifesaving skills he learned in his training classes. And she wasn’t the only one.

“That’s my dad,” said his 6-year-old son and biggest fan, Lincoln, who attended the ceremony. “He’s a hero."

Jan Engoren writes about health and healthy living. Send column ideas to jengoren@hotmail.com.

Lifesaving resources

American Red Cross material includes:

Website: redcross.org/southflorida

Training information is at redcross.org/take-a-class

A first aid app, provided by the American Red Cross, can be downloaded for free for guidance on what to do in common emergencies.

Awards that allow you to nominate a hero in your community, or a group of individuals who used Red Cross skills or training to save or sustain a life, are at LifesavingAwards.org.

Florida Atlantic University’s Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine hosted the second annual FairfaxWood Amyloid Related Diseases Summit in May. It was attended by an international group of scientists who discussed the latest research and advancements in the study of these diseases.

Buildup of amyloid proteins, or fibrils, causes amyloidosis, a life-threatening disease that can affect various organs. The most common is in the brain and usually manifests as Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias and as stroke. Treatments are limited and there are no cures. 

In 2023, the FairfaxWood Scholarship Foundation, supported by Boca Raton philanthropists Ann Wood and her late husband, John Wood, gave $11.5 million to the FAU Schmidt College of Medicine in support of amyloidosis research.

 This gift established the FairfaxWood Health and Innovation Technology Initiative, the FAU Amyloidosis Project, and the endowed FairfaxWood chair of clinical neurosciences. 

“Amyloidosis is an awful disease that deserves to be thoroughly researched to get results and to eliminate it,” Ann Wood said. “Our family was personally impacted — my husband, John Wood, in particular — so we are committed to making a difference by funding this annual summit.” 

Michael R. Dobbs, M.D., the first endowed FairfaxWood chair of clinical neurosciences, said: “There are dozens of amyloid-protein related diseases, neurological disorders as well as cardiac, nerve and kidney diseases. There also are millions of people suffering from these diseases with the common thread of amyloid protein deposition.
      “Our summit is an important and timely conversation to bridge the gap between amyloid research and clinical practice,” said Dobbs, who is chair and professor of the Clinical Neurosciences Department and associate dean of clinical affairs within the College of Medicine at FAU. 

Send health news to Christine Davis at cdavis9797@gmail.com.

John Strunk holds up his lobster catch. He recommends getting your gear checked and taking a practice dive in advance of the July 30-31 miniseason. Photo by Steve Waters/The Coastal Star

By Steve Waters

Just about everyone who dives for lobsters looks forward to Florida’s two-day lobster miniseason.

The annual event, which this year is July 30-31, is the first opportunity for recreational divers to catch lobsters since the regular season closed on April 1. The commercial season also closed that day, so there should be an abundance of lobsters hanging around coral reefs, rock piles and ledges.

In addition, because they haven’t been harassed for nearly four months, the bugs — as they are known because of their insect-like appearance — should be less wary.

Best of all for divers in Palm Beach County, the daily bag limit is 12 lobsters, which is twice the limit during the regular season, which opens Aug. 6. The miniseason limit in Biscayne National Park and the Florida Keys is six bugs per person per day (myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/recreational/lobster/).

Many divers only dive during miniseason, so their skills and their neglected dive equipment could be rusty. But even if you dive often, having a local dive shop check out your gear now will save you some headaches. 

If you want your air tanks inspected and filled, don’t wait until a few days before miniseason because dive shops won’t have time to do it. The same goes for having your regulator and buoyancy compensator checked and repaired, if necessary. 

Why have your dive gear inspected at all? Because a dried-out rubber O-ring that allows air to leak from your tank or your regulator can end your miniseason in a hurry. So can a tear or a rusted spring in your buoyancy compensator. Even something as simple as a broken fin strap can keep you from catching lobsters.

That’s why it’s also a smart idea to dive before miniseason. Not only can you scout for lobsters, you can get reacquainted with being underwater and make sure all of your gear is working properly.

When opening day arrives, many divers are in a rush to get to the bottom and start hunting. If they’d slow down, they’d catch plenty of lobsters and be much safer.

Divers who swim around too quickly end up spooking their quarry. Others, caught up in the thrill of the hunt, run their boats too close to other divers. And some have no idea what they’re doing, but they want a lobster dinner.

“There are a lot of people out there who have no business being out there,” Dave Brisbane said. “One time I was diving in 20 feet of water and a guy jumps in off another boat and almost hits me.”

Brisbane, of Boca Raton, dives during the miniseason with Frank Schmidt of Lighthouse Point. Unlike those who haven’t been diving since last year’s miniseason — “the ones who take their gear out of the garage and blow the dust off,” Schmidt said — they put in their time scouting before the miniseason and they take their time when the season arrives.

“One of Frank’s favorite lines is that guys beat up the lobsters,” Brisbane said. “You can tickle them out nice and easy. Don’t be aggressive.”

There are basically two methods for catching lobsters. Brisbane uses a tickle stick, which is a metal rod with a bend at the tip, and a net. Brisbane taps on a lobster’s tail with his tickle stick to get it to come out from its hiding place, then puts the net behind the lobster. Then he taps the lobster on its head so it scoots backward into the net and rakes the tickle stick across the back of the net so the lobster can’t get out.

Divers also use a lobster snare, which is a shaft with a length of wire or nylon inside that has a loop that protrudes from the end of the shaft. Divers open the loop and slip it over the tail of a lobster and then pull it tight.

A trick that works well with a snare is to extend your hand and wave at the crustacean. While the lobster looks at that hand, you use the other hand to put the loop around its tail. Because the bug is distracted by your hand, it doesn’t notice the snare.

Just take your time doing that and you’ll have the key ingredients for several delicious dinners.

Outdoors writer Steve Waters can be reached at steve33324@aol.com.

Achievement and emotion ruled the day as the Gulf Stream School celebrated its 87th graduation. Head of School Gray Smith honored Charlotte E. Thomas of Gulf Stream with the Donald H. Miller Award, given to the student with the highest grade-point average. Charlotte had a stunning 98.93 GPA (on a 100-point scale). Photos by Jerry Lower/The Coastal Star

After 30 years at the school, Wendy Zieglar, assistant to the director of development, is retiring; she held back tears as students entered the ceremony. 

Also retiring after decades at the school, third-grade teacher Nancy Moore armed herself with a bundle of tissues as she received numerous hugs.