Athletes, friends, family and volunteers of the Miracle League take part in a home run celebration victory lap at Miller Park in Delray Beach. Maura Evans pushes her sister, Brenna Evans, around the bases. Zack Green runs with his father, Jesse Green. Behind them are student volunteers from Lynn University. Photos by Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

By Faran Fagen

Maura Evans wrapped her hands around the fingers of her older sister, Brenna, and held the bat steady. They were playing ball with the Miracle League of Palm Beach County, an organization that aims to give every child with special needs the opportunity to play baseball.

This year, the organization marks its 20th year at Miller Park in Delray Beach.

At the practice game, the pitch came in and Brenna, her weight positioned safely on her walker, sent a soft version of a baseball into the infield.

Maura, with her sister now in a wheelchair, pushed Brenna to first base, where she was safe.

It was a victory for Brenna, who has cerebral palsy. And it was satisfying for Maura as well as a volunteer.

On the sidelines of the Jan. 14 scrimmage, the girls’ mom, Tara Evans, applauded. She said she smiles every time Maura, a senior at Saint John Paul II Academy in Boca Raton, helps Brenna swing the bat. 

The Ocean Ridge family has been involved in the Miracle League for nine years, since  Brenna took her first swing at age 12. 

“Brenna loves it,” her mother said. “She gets a kick out of it. The biggest thing is the connection that builds between the athletes and the volunteers. We love the Miracle League to pieces.”

About 250 people participate in the league. Players range from those with severe disabilities to others with high functioning autism.

As the athletes score, a line of volunteers greets them by home plate with a row of high-fives.

“They’re all so genuine and happy and it reminds me to celebrate the small things in life, like playing baseball,” said Maura Evans, 18, who’s been a volunteer for six years. “All the parents and players are so full of gratitude, and it won’t take more than a Saturday or two before a child tells you that they ‘love you,’ or ‘thank you.’ This may seem small, but it makes me feel like I actually helped others and left a positive impact on their day.

“Volunteering at Miracle League has been a life-changing experience for me and I would recommend it to anyone that’s looking for a way to make a difference in the community,” she said. “Each child I’ve been buddies with is such a ray of sunshine and they give me a new perspective on life.”

Julia Kadel, executive director of the Miracle League  of Palm Beach County, congratulates Rory Fetter following his out-of-the-park home run.

Julia Kadel of Delray Beach is co-founder and executive director of the league.

“This 20th anniversary milestone fills us with immense pride,” she said. “Over the years, we’ve witnessed how this community comes together to celebrate individuals of all abilities. The joy and inclusion fostered by the Miracle League of Palm Beach County are truly extraordinary.”

Kadel and her husband, Jeff, started the local league in 2005. One night, they were watching an HBO Real Sports broadcast featuring the Miracle League, open to children regardless of mental or physical disabilities. It was then that the Kadels, coaches for their three boys, decided to bring this special baseball league to the children and families of South Florida.

After the success of the initial season, the plan to build a specialized field came to fruition. The city provided the Miller Park location and $10,000 in seed funding, and Miracle League raised over $500,000. 

The field is smaller and paved with recycled rubber. The bases are painted-on to ensure no runner trips. The dugouts are wheelchair accessible. On any given game day, dozens of athletes, and at least as many volunteers, show up to play ball with a throng of parents and coaches cheering them on.

“Watching athletes grow, seeing families find support, and having volunteers form lifelong connections has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Julia Kadel said.

Sebastian Schmier hits the ball pitched by coach Dan Altman. The catcher is Don Schneider, a 10-year volunteer

The spring season kicks off April 5, and Kadel is excited to welcome both new and returning athletes. Miracle League is free, thanks to its fundraising efforts, and encourages anyone aged 5 and up who cannot play on a regular team to join. 

The organization operates on a $150,000-$175,000 annual budget.

It is also looking for volunteers or groups to help cheer on the athletes, be buddies, or assist at events. Information on how to get involved is available at www.MLPBC.com and via social media channels.

One large group of volunteers hails from Lynn University in Boca Raton. 

On Jan. 12, 2010, a devastating earthquake in Haiti took the lives of four Lynn University students and two Lynn professors who had traveled to the country on a humanitarian mission.

To honor their memory and legacy, Lynn students engage in community service initiatives each January called the Citizenship Project.

“I’m a professor of sports management, so I sought out a sports-based community service project, and I found the Miracle League of Palm Beach County,” said Theodore Curtis, an associate professor at Lynn.

Maura Evans pushes her sister, Brenna Evans, around the bases following her hit during a scrimmage last month.

Each January, Lynn students help to clean up the field in Delray Beach and then run a “spring training” game with their Miracle Leaguers.

“Working with the Miracle League of Palm Beach County continues to be among the most-rewarding pieces of my 27-year career at Lynn University,” Curtis said.

For Kadel, one of her proudest moments was hosting the All-Star event in 2023, where 125 athletes with special needs from all over the world came to Palm Beach County for a weekend of baseball. More than 1,000 people attended.

In 2020, the Kadels built their second Miracle League location — in Palm Beach Gardens, now home for many of the athletes.

“We’re currently working on building a third location to serve even more of the 110,000 individuals with special needs in our county and beyond,” Kadel said, referring to a collaboration with the county for a field in John Prince Park. “These developments ensure we can reach more families and continue to provide a safe, inclusive and joyous environment for everyone involved.”

The spring season opener will coincide with a 20th anniversary celebration on April 5 at Miller Park. It will feature activities, concessions, and opportunities to connect with the athletes and families who make the Miracle League special. Donations will be accepted. 

Miracle League of Palm Beach County

What: Baseball league for children with special needs

Where: Miller Park, 1905 SW Fourth Ave., Field No. 6, Delray Beach

Season begins: April 5

To join, volunteer or donate: Call 561-414-4441, visit www.MLPBC.com, or email Julia@MLPBC.com

Zack Green rounds third base and is congratulated with a high-five from a volunteer as his father, Jesse Green, watches in approval.

FROM LEFT: Co-Chairwomen Whitney Jones, Alexandra McCall and Laurie Molbert. Photo provided

Dozens of vendors from throughout the United States will set up shop at the Wayside House’s premier fundraiser supporting addiction treatment services for women. Time is 5 to 7 p.m. Feb. 11 (preview party) and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 12 and 13. Cost is $125 Feb. 11 and $10 Feb. 12 and 13 at the hotel. Call 561-278-0055 or visit waysidehouse.net/2025-spring-boutique. 

Woman’s Club of Delray Beach President Joycelyn Patrick (with basket) and Corresponding Secretary Joyce Warner (front) are joined by scheduled participants (l-r) John Miller, C. Ron Allen, Delray Beach City Manager Terrence Moore, Bill Morse and Ezra Krieg. Photo courtesy of Ditmar Ingram

By Amy Woods

 Following a five-year hiatus, the Woman’s Club of Delray Beach’s sweet and savory signature fundraiser returns Feb. 10.

“Real Men Bake and Valentine Sock Hop” has a roster of celebrity chefs who are raring to show off their kitchen prowess and take home a trophy.

“They’re so competitive,” club President Joycelyn Patrick said of the more than two dozen local participants. “I just had one guy tell me his dish is going to be phenomenal.”

Among the boastful bakers are Mayor Tom Carney and City Manager Terrence Moore. Sample-size portions of their culinary concoctions will be tasted and voted on by the 100-plus guests expected to attend at Boca Delray Golf and Country Club.

“No one has revealed to me what they are making,” Patrick said. “They like to surprise us.”

Besides devouring delectable treats, attendees will be dancing to ’50s music spun by a deejay. A silent auction will round out the fun with themed baskets for beach lovers, orchid growers and people who like designer accessories. Another themed basket sure to be a hit for the husbands comes with whiskey, glasses, cigars and a gift card to Ruth’s Chris Steak House. 

All proceeds help the oldest charitable organization in the city fund nonprofits that benefit women and children.

“It keeps us visible in the community, and also it highlights some of the work that we do,” Patrick said. “It is an event that people have come to recognize as the Woman’s Club’s signature.”

Because Real Men Bake has not taken place since 2019, ensuring the 2025 installment is a success is important.

“We just had to regroup after that,” Patrick said, referring to the pandemic-related cancelation in 2020. “It’s taken this long.”

As for a monetary goal, she said, “We’re in recovery mode so we’ll be happy with whatever we take in.” 

If You Go

What: 'Real Men Bake and Valentine Sock Hop'

When: 6 to 9 p.m. Feb. 10

Where: Boca Delray Golf and Country Club, 5483 Boca Delray Blvd., Delray Beach

Cost: $40

Info: 561-870-6345 or 561-706-8577 or delray womansclub.com

Impact 100 Palm Beach County has selected the semifinalists that will vie for a series of large grants up to $100,000.

All the semifinalists serve South County and represent one of five categories of interest — arts, culture and historic preservation; education; environment and animal welfare; family; and health and wellness.

“We are thrilled to showcase the inspiring efforts of these nonprofit organizations, each striving to address vital needs in our community,” said Jeannine Morris, co-president of Impact 100 Palm Beach County. “The dedication and innovation they bring to their work exemplify the spirit of collaboration that Impact 100 Palm Beach County fosters.”

In alphabetical order, the semifinalists are: 

• Achievement Centers for Children & Families 

• American Association of Caregiving Youth 

• Arts Garage 

• Baptist Health South Florida 

• Barky Pines Animal Rescue & Sanctuary 

• Bella’s Angels 

• BiWi “Because I’m Worth It!” International 

• Boca Raton Museum of Art 

• Center for Child Counseling 

• ChildNet 

• Community Greening

• Connect to Greatness

• Delray Beach Children’s Garden 

• Faulk Center for Counseling

• Hanley Foundation 

• Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition of Palm Beach County 

• Milagro Center 

• Move to Heal 

• Palm Beach County Food Bank 

• Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League 

• Restoration Bridge International 

• Roots and Wings 

• The Lord’s Place 

• The Volen Center 

• Volta Music Foundation

• YMCA of Palm Beach County.

“This year’s semifinalists reflect the power of community-driven philanthropy,” Co-President Kimberly Boldt said. “Their innovative projects hold the potential to create meaningful and lasting change for the people of southern Palm Beach County.”

Finalists will be announced April 2. The Grand Awards Celebration is April 23.

 For more information, call 561-336-4623 or visit impact100pbc.org.

Davidowitz endowment boosts scholarship fund

The George Snow Scholarship Fund has a new source of income — the Davidowitz Family Endowment Fund.

The gift from the Boynton Beach family marks the largest single endowment in the nonprofit’s 42-year history, although the family requested that the amount be kept private. The donation by Dan, Shoshana, Leah and Ben Davidowitz will ensure future generations of students have access to higher education. The money will be used for scholarships for high school seniors in Palm Beach County with financial need.

“For many years now, our family has marveled at the amazing work the George Snow Scholarship Fund has done in identifying scholarship candidates and then providing them with tremendous resources throughout their college lives,” the family said in a statement, which then referred to Tim Snow, the nonprofit’s president.

 “Every year, Tim, his team and many volunteers do the heavy lifting for students well beyond any other scholarship fund we are familiar with. Our hope is that this endowment on top of our ongoing annual commitment will be able to provide scholarships for decades to come.”

From their participation in Boca’s Ballroom Battle to the establishment of two scholarships in the Davidowitz name, the family members have gone above and beyond to empower youths.

“The scholarship I received from the Davidowitz family has been crucial to my success as a first-generation college student and former caregiver,” said former Snow scholar Joanna Chowdhury, a Florida State University graduate. 

“It has lightened my financial load, enabling me to focus on my studies and responsibilities even during challenging times. This support has given me strength to keep pushing toward my academic goals.”

For more information, call 561-347-6799 or visit scholarship.org.

Designer deals available at luxury thrift sale

Members of the Junior League of Boca Raton have been busy cleaning out their closets and donating their finest accessories, including Gucci, Prada and more, to the Boca Bazaar, a thrift sale with a luxury twist.

On March 8 and 9, shoppers can explore an exceptional collection of curated items — high-end purses and shoes, chic home décor and elegant housewares.

“This one-of-a-kind event offers the perfect opportunity to shop sustainably while indulging in fabulous finds at unbeatable prices,” said Nicole Stelzer, league president.

Boca Bazaar takes place at 9 a.m. both days at Plastridge Insurance, 2100 N. Dixie Highway in Boca Raton. Proceeds will benefit the Junior League and its programs. 

Alexandra Scheiber is chairing the event. Honorary chairwomen are Susan Diener and Marina Morbeck.

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

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

FROM LEFT: The Coastal Star reporter Rich Pollack, Advertising Director Chris Bellard (one of the paper’s founders), Woodward and Editor Larry Barszewski. Photo provided by Palm Beach County

The Palm Beach County Commission recognized The Coastal Star’s 16 years of publication with a proclamation. Commissioner Marci Woodward, whose district includes the paper’s entire circulation area, sponsored the proclamation honoring the paper, which first published in November 2008. It cited the paper’s coverage — both news stories and features — of South County’s barrier island communities and applauded it ’for fostering a larger sense of community within coastal towns and cities.’  The proclamation noted that during the newspaper’s 16 years, it has won more than 325 awards in annual competitions sponsored by the Florida Press Club and the Florida Press Association. 

Men Giving Back board members (l-r) David Hollander, Robert Snyder, Derek Witte, Perry Isenberg, Alan Ferber, Jason Hagensick, Dr. Nachlas, Bill Donnell, Richard Newman, William Marino, Ed Ventrice, Brad Winstead, Marc Malaga and Jon Sahn. Photo provided

Men Giving Back awarded more than $500,000 to 25 local organizations during its fourth annual night of charity. Attended by 200-plus members and guests, the ceremony saw Boca Raton Mayor Scott Singer select finalists by choosing golden balls from a draw cage or spinning a wheel. ‘We’re incredibly proud to be able to support so many nonprofits year after year,’ said Dr. Nathan Nachlas, a co-founder of Men Giving Back. 'Our members continue to be inspired by the impact we’ve collectively had on these worthy causes and the ways they help better our community.’ 

FROM LEFT: Bernstein, Bernstein-Henderson, HomeSafe CEO Matt Ladika and Rex Kirby. Photo provided

HomeSafe cut the ribbon to a reimagined facility that will welcome 12 foster children and provide them with a therapeutic environment to work through trauma. The residential facility at 680 Ipswich St., named after Steve Bernstein and Abby Bernstein-Henderson, also will offer preventive services through the Leslie L. Alexander Center for Healthy Beginnings, a space for team members to screen, assess and provide support services to youths. ‘The sad truth is that trauma is pervasive,’ said Laura Barker, HomeSafe’s chief philanthropy officer. ‘The most common outcome of trauma is anger, and anger turned inward is sadness and shame. Turned outward, it becomes rage. Here on our campus, our children let out their anger, safely. We address it head on with loving and compassionate staff who understand our children and what they need and hold on to them even on their worst days. If you can work through their anger, we can get to the other side, which is hope.’ 

Fuller Center’s annual benefit shined brightly with the theme ‘Neon Disco.’ It brought the community together for a dazzling night of philanthropy in support of programs that help children reach their full potential. ‘This was a special evening that highlighted the incredible work that Fuller Center does every day to assist local families that need our help the most,’ said Co-Chairwoman Dr. Patricia Anastasio. ‘Without Fuller Center, many parents would simply no longer be able to afford to live and work in South Florida.’  The evening featured live music with professional dancers and a tribute to Hiromi Printz, a recipient of the Bernie Award that recognizes people who further the center’s mission.

ABOVE: (l-r) Sponsors Sam and Simone Spiegel with Sabrina and Jonathan Smith.

BELOW: Pam and Bob Weinroth with an event mascot. Photos provided

The sixth annual affair raised a record $270,000 for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County’s Delray Beach club. Proceeds will go toward the club’s school bus and furniture upgrades. Hannah Childs, Laura Compton, Whitney Garner, Virginia Kinsey and Jenny Streit were co-chairwomen. Executive Director Francky Pierre-Paul addressed the audience about the club’s accomplishments. Jaene Miranda, president and CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County, gave remarks as well. ‘It is thanks to inspiring events like this that will literally change the lives of so many children and their families in Delray Beach,’ Miranda said. ‘Special thanks go out to Virginia, Whitney, Jenny, Hannah and Laura for making this a night to be remembered.’ 

ABOVE: (l-r) Sponsor William Costa, Pierre-Paul and Thomas Stanley. 

BELOW: (l-r) Kinsey, Garner, Childs, Compton and Streit. 

Photos provided by Tracey Benson Photography

At Radcliffe’s in Delray Beach, diners can enjoy the ’Give Her Flowers’ special, which offers a tasting menu and dishes from chef Blake Malatesta for $120 per person. Photo provided 

By Jan Norris

Love is in the air — and on the tables. Valentine’s Day dinners are booking quickly, so if you’re brave enough to go out on what restaurant workers often call “amateur night,” hop to it.

It’s a busy night when seldom-seen diners venture out for an upscale meal. Thus, the amateur moniker. 

But specials are set up to handle the Feb. 14 crowds, with restaurants creating dining packages and adjusting service times to accommodate all the two-tops. Hurry, though — many were already booking up last month. 

A heads-up for people who usually book The Addison in Boca Raton, recognized as one of the most romantic venues in the area. “We’re doing a wedding on that day and so we won’t be doing the Valentine’s dinner,” a spokeswoman said. “We’ll miss it, too.”

Another popular romantic locale, The Sundy House, remains closed for renovation. It’s not scheduled to reopen until late 2026, according to its website.

Here are other choices. Prices quoted — in effect for Valentine’s Day only—do not include alcohol, taxes or tips, unless noted.

Radcliffe’s, the speakeasy room in Delray Beach created by the owners of the rebranded Wine and Spirits Kitchen, will serve up “Give Her Flowers,” a four-course tasting menu with wines and flowers, and dishes from chef Blake Malatesta for $120 per person. Radcliffe’s, 411 E. Atlantic Ave., 561-243-9463; thewineroomonline.com

Diners at Corvina Seafood Grill in Boca Raton get a three-course dinner, plus surprises, for $99. “Basically, it’s from our full menu to choose from, maybe with an up-charge for some items,” said Eduardo Pagan, host. Choose from dishes such as snapper almondine, crabcakes, scallops or a fresh catch. Two small complimentary surprises will make it a five-course event, he said. Corvina, 110 Plaza Real S., 561-206-0066; corvinabocaraton.com

Thinking French? La Nouvelle Maison, inside the 5 Palms Building in Boca Raton, will serve three prix-fixe courses, sans wines, for $160 per person. Thanks to a 1,300-bottle cellar, oenophiles will be able to choose a wine from a global, but Franco-friendly list. La Nouvelle Maison, 455 E. Palmetto Park Road, 561-338-3003; lnmbocaraton.com

If it’s Italian you crave, Casa d’Angelo in Boca Raton will serve a four-course menu for $135. Expect a few appetizer choices, along with pasta dishes from the menu as a second course, entree choices, and a selection of desserts with coffee.  Casa d’Angelo, 171 E. Palmetto Park Road, 561-996-1234; casa-d-angelo.com

Latitudes, the oceanfront restaurant in the Delray Sands Resort in Highland Beach, will have specials served along with the regular seafood-forward menu available daily. The draws here are the view and the Chef’s Seafood Bar — an interactive experience. Latitudes, 2809 S. Ocean Blvd., 561-278-2008; opalcollection.com/delray-sands/restaurants/latitudes/

At Drift in the Opal Grand in Delray Beach, a three-course, prix-fixe menu will be offered. Prices are based on the entree chosen from seven on the menu. A vegetarian choice, roasted vegetable ravioli with a San Marzano sauce and unfiltered extra-virgin olive oil, is $60, while the land and sea entree — rosemary-dusted filet mignon and panko-crusted lobster with asparagus and whipped potatoes — is $95. Several choices are available for appetizer and dessert courses. 

Drift, 10 N. Ocean Blvd., 561-274-3289; opalcollection.com/opal-grand/restaurants/drift/

Prime Catch in Boynton Beach will serve an abbreviated menu for the evening. New executive chef Michael Boyet will create the a la carte menu. 

Prime Catch, 700 E. Woolbright Road, 561-737-8822; primecatchboynton.com.

At the new Novecento, which took over the former Falcon House in Delray Beach, acclaimed chef Niven Patel brings his Argentinian-inspired cuisine. A special three-course menu will be available for three nights — Feb. 14-16 — for couples who can choose two appetizers, two entrees, and a dessert to share for $95.

Among the dishes included are a burrata, arancini, fiochetti with gorgonzola and charred pears, pistachio-crusted salmon, tiramisu brulee or a warm chocolate truffle cake. Novecento, 116 NE Sixth Ave.,  561-450-6101; novecento.com. 

Dare to be different

Looking for a different experience? Chocolate and Valentine’s Day are synonymous. Boxes of the stuff are sold everywhere, along with the requisite roses.

Be different. Give your love interest an educational tour of a chocolate shop, and learn to appreciate the confection a bit more.

At 5150 Chocolate Factory in Delray Beach, tours are given on Saturdays. Visitors — only 12 on a tour — see the equipment and learn how chocolate is made, step-by-step. Choosing cacao beans, roasting them, grinding, mixing and tempering — the process is described in detail with the experts who turn out the final bars and candies display.

Although chocolate bars are the mainstays, including the Delray Beach bar, with 76% cacao dark chocolate, specialties include dark chocolate-covered dried cherries ($11.99 a jar), and whimsies such as a chocolate cellphone ($6.99) and six chocolate-covered “golf balls” made of white chocolate ($12.99). 

Guests on the tour, which costs $15, get a free bar, as well as 25% off their purchases the day of the tour. 

Tours book quickly once reservations open and are sold out for February; consider a gift certificate for a later tour.

5150 Chocolate, 1010 N. Federal Highway, Delray Beach: 561-562-5731; 5150chocolate.com/product/5150-factory-tour-saturdays-at-1pm

Update

Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak, scheduled to open in December at the renewed Seagate Hotel in Delray Beach, has been pushed back to a mid-March opening. 

One more thing 

Savor the Avenue, the annual event that has diners eating at long tables set up on Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach, is scheduled for 5:30-9 p.m. March 24. Reservations begin Feb. 3 for this sell-out event, so check downtowndelraybeach.com/savortheave for details and book through your restaurant ASAP. 

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

Temple Beth El offers a four-week Lunch and Learn — “Understanding Ourselves and Judaism in a Complex World” with Rabbi Larry Kotok — from noon to 1 p.m. Tuesdays on Feb. 4, 11, 18 and 25 at the Schaefer Family Campus of Temple Beth El, 333 SW Fourth Ave., Boca Raton.

Call 561-391-8900 or visit tbeboca.org/event/lunch-learn-understanding-ourselves-and-judaism-in-a-complex-world/2025-02-04/

First Presbyterian’s annual rummage sale on tap  

First Presbyterian Church of Delray Beach hosts its annual Step Above Rummage Sale from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 6-8 at the church, 33 Gleason Road. Look for bargains galore at this year’s sale. Call 561-276-6338 or visit firstdelray.com.

Come on out to women’s luncheon by the sea

Dolores McNaboe and Kathy Wilsher of First Presbyterian Church of Delray Beach host Women’s Lunch by the Sea at noon Feb. 11 and on the second Tuesday of each month at Boheme Bistro, 1118 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach. No reservations are needed. Self-pay. Contact McNaboe at mcnaboe@aol.com or Wilsher at gatormom129@gmail.com. 

Family Gleaning Day to teach kids about farm 

Grace Community Church in Boca Raton hosts Family Gleaning Day in Delray Beach with CROS Ministries at 8:30 a.m. Feb. 8. Bring the kids to harvest nutritious yet imperfect vegetables and learn about where our food comes from and that this food, rejected for cosmetic reasons, would otherwise be wasted. 

A gleaning waiver is required for each person. Be sure to wear closed-toe shoes and bring water and sunscreen. The exact location will be emailed to registrants the week before gleaning. Register at www.graceboca.org/gleaning or call 561-395-2811. Grace Community Church is at 600 W. Camino Real, Boca Raton.

Jewish Film Festival is this month in Delray

The Levis JCC presents the 2025 Judy Levis Krug Boca Raton Jewish Film Festival from Feb. 8 to 22 at Movies of Delray, 7421 W. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach. The festival will show more than 30 Israeli and Jewish-themed feature films, short films, documentaries and comedies from around the world. The festival, in its ninth year, has both depth and diversity with films like Bliss on Feb. 8 and documentaries like Elie Wiesel: Soul on Fire on Feb. 18.

 The festival’s mission is to foster a deeper understanding of Jewish life across times and territories. Information on schedule, films, festival pass packages and individual tickets is available at levisjcc.org/filmfestival, or contact Evan Foster at evanf@levisjcc.org. 

B’nai Torah concert series to include Israeli cantor  

B’nai Torah Congregation’s 2025 Concert Series continues with three more performances in the sanctuary at 6261 SW 18th St., Boca Raton: 

• ABBAFAB, the music of ABBA, at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 12. 

• Israeli Defense Forces Chief Cantor Shai Abramson at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 26. 

• Cantor Magda Fishman, Maestro Tomer Adaddi and Friends at 7:30 p.m. March 11. 

Tickets are $30-$80 for members and $40-$105 guests at www.btcboca.org/cs/ or 561-392-8566 or info@bnai-torah.org. A virtual option is offered.

L’Dor Va-Dor honors the late Rabbi Barry Silver 

Congregation L’Dor Va-Dor hosts a gala luncheon in honor of the late Rabbi Barry Silver at 1 p.m. Feb. 16 at the Delray Beach Golf Club, 2200 Highland Ave., Delray Beach.

Silver was the spiritual leader of L’Dor Va-Dor for over 16 years, following in the footsteps of his father, Rabbi Sam Silver, who served the congregation from its inception in 1997. 

Rabbi Barry, 57, passed in March 2024 from cancer. Musical entertainment for the gala is by the Pink Slip Duo, who will perform some of Rabbi Barry’s creatively adapted songs. Tickets are $54 members, $64 guests, and include a three-course sit-down luncheon. Call 561-968-0688 or visit www.ldorvador.org/donations/

Noah Aronson featured at B’nai Israel concert 

Congregation B’nai Israel, in partnership with Temple Beth El of Boca Raton, presents the 17th annual Cantor Stephen Dubov z”l Memorial Concert featuring Noah Aronson and his Powerhouse Band at 3-5 p.m. Feb. 16 at B’nai Israel, 2200 Yamato Road, Boca Raton. 

Praised for the spiritual depth of his music, Aronson reinforces the profound connection between Jewish prayer and music. He tours with a gifted group of musicians he met while studying at Berklee College of Music in Boston. Tickets are $18 general admission, $10 students, $36 reserved seating, $100 premium seating. Get tickets at www.eventbrite.com. 

Jewish music pioneer to perform at B’nai Torah

The PJ Library Community Concert presents the diverse talents of Rick Recht at 1:30 p.m. Feb. 23 at B’nai Torah Congregation, 6261 SW 18th St., Boca Raton. Born and raised in St. Louis, Recht, the national celebrity spokesman for PJ Library, developed a strong Jewish identity while attending a conservative synagogue. 

In high school, Recht joined North American Federation for Temple Youth, where he was deeply influenced by Jewish music. After college he toured nationwide, from Los Angeles to New York. His debut Jewish album, Tov, was released in 1999, and he’s gone on to release 13 top-selling Jewish albums including his most recent release, Here I Am. 

His blend of radio-friendly pop uses Hebrew and English and has themes of social responsibility, leadership and building a positive Jewish identity. His website says, “My greatest goal is to identify, support, and train new Jewish artists, educators, and leaders who will provide inspiration and connection for generations to come.”

 Recht is married to Elisa and has two sons, Kobi and Tal.

 Tickets are $18 per family, or $180 per family for reserved seating. 561-852-6080 or www.jewishboca.org.

St. Vincent Ferrer to host its 58th annual festival

      St. Vincent Ferrer Parish hosts its 58th annual Parish Festival Feb. 28-March 2 at the church, 840 George Bush Blvd., Delray Beach. The family fun includes carnival rides, live music, food vendors and the chili cook-off, classic bingo and other activities. Hours are 5-11 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday and noon-8 p.m. Sunday. 561-276-6892. 

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

Dr. Lewis S. Nelson, the new dean of the Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine at Florida Atlantic University, started on the job in January. 

Nelson previously served as professor and inaugural chair of the department of emergency medicine and chief of the Division of Medical Toxicology and Addiction Medicine at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School in Newark. He also served as chief of the emergency department at University Hospital of Newark.  

Nelson is board certified in emergency medicine, medical toxicology, and addiction medicine. His research and scholarship focus on the medical and social consequences of substance use, including opioid overdose and withdrawal, alcohol withdrawal, and alternative pain-relief strategies.

First free-standing ER planned in Boca Raton 

The first free-standing emergency room in Boca Raton, temporarily being called the East Boca Emergency Room, is being planned for 1001 E. Telecom Drive, next to Boca Raton Innovation Campus. 

The project was recently advanced by the city’s planning board. A full vote by the City Council will follow later. 

The emergency room will offer identical services at the same level of care as a traditional emergency room. Patients may be transported by ambulance or arrive another way. In keeping with Florida statutes, the emergency room will be affiliated with a licensed hospital operator. In this case, it will be HCA, Hospital Corporation of America. 

“This is the first free-standing emergency room in the city,” said Eoin Devlin, Boca Raton’s senior city planner. “It’s separate from the actual hospital — it’s going to be its own emergency room. And we have conditions in the resolution that would prevent it from having any overnight stays or outpatient services. This is going to be an emergency room. … If you need further care, they will transport you to the hospital.”

Boynton emergency center is ranked among top 5%

HCA Florida Boynton Beach Emergency, a free-standing emergency room that is affiliated with HCA Florida JFK Hospital, was named a 2024 Human Experience Guardian of Excellence Award winner in Press Ganey Associates’ annual ranking of the top hospitals and health systems in the country. That put the center, located at Woolbright and Jog roads, in the top 5%. 

“HCA Florida Boynton Beach Emergency is setting the standard for excellence in patient experience,” said Patrick T. Ryan, CEO and chairman at Press Ganey. “They are leading the way by turning words into action and creating a culture where every interaction is an opportunity to make a positive impact. It’s clear they’re committed to making a difference.” 

Press Ganey through its surveys works with more than 41,000 health care facilities in its mission to reduce patient suffering and enhance caregiver resilience.

Delray Medical Center receives national honors

Delray Medical Center received 25 accolades from Healthgrades and was named as one of the best 250 hospitals in the country. Healthgrades is a site that helps people who are searching online for a doctor or hospital. 

Among the accolades the hospital garnered, Delray Medical Center received America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Pulmonary Care Excellence Awards, placing among the nation’s top 5% for overall pulmonary services. The hospital also earned Healthgrades 2025 Critical Care Excellence Award, placing in the top 5% in the nation for critical care. 

Ultrasound system offers incisionless treatment

Delray Medical Center has acquired the Exablate Prime system, a technology that offers incisionless treatment for movement disorders such as essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease. This system uses focused ultrasound guided by MRI to precisely target and remove affected areas in the brain. 

“The precision and safety of the Exablate Prime system represent a significant advancement in neurosurgery,” said Dr. Lloyd Zucker, chief of neurosurgery at Delray Medical Center. “By offering an outpatient, incisionless procedure, while utilizing some of the latest technologies, we can improve patient outcomes and reduce recovery times for those battling conditions like essential tremor.”

Health screenings offered as part of Hadassah fair

The public is invited to the Hadassah Florida Atlantic Health Fair, a free event on Feb. 11 that offers health screenings as well as the opportunity to gather information from health-related vendors. 

Event highlights include lectures by Drs. David Watson, a neuropsychologist and founder of the Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment Center, and Scott R. Sobieraj, a cardiologist with NYU Langone. Iris Sandberg, a member of Hadassah’s National Assembly, will speak about the organization’s contributions. 

The event is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Abbey Delray South, 1717 Homewood Blvd., Delray Beach. Registration is necessary. To register, visit https://events.hadassah.org/FARHealthFair25.

 Hadassah Florida Atlantic Region is part of Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America Inc.

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

Jake Baker, who lost his left leg below the knee after surviving a motorcycle crash, was excited about the prospect of getting a prosthetic device late last month. Photo provided

By Jan Engoren

Jake Baker’s world turned upside-down on Sept. 27. That’s when the Delray Beach resident and FAU alum was in Pompano Beach on his 2020 Ducati Monster 797 motorcycle. When he crossed the intersection of Atlantic Boulevard and Northwest Sixth Avenue, a driver ran a red light and crashed into him.

“My life changed in the blink of an eye,” says Baker, who was wearing a helmet when he was hit. “I was doing everything right and this still happened.”

Baker, 31, was rushed to Broward Health North Hospital with multiple injuries, including an ankle broken in five places and a severe injury to his left foot and ankle, where the top layers of skin and tissue were torn away from the underlying muscle and bone.

He spent 35 days in intensive care, another 10 in the inpatient therapy unit and underwent six surgeries. Despite the doctors’ efforts, they were unable to save Baker’s left leg and had to amputate below the knee.

After Baker was discharged from the hospital, he fell at home, reopening an incision, and had to spend another week in Delray Medical Center.

“It’s been a long, tough road, mentally, physically and emotionally,” he says.

Baker is excited because his first prosthetic prototype was ready to be fitted and he hoped to walk out of the clinic late last month on both legs rather than rely on crutches or a wheelchair. He worked with a physical therapist to prepare his leg for the device and will work again with a PT two to three times a week to learn how to walk confidently and get back to his normal activities.

Another part of his recovery is his mental health. He is doing what he can to stay positive. After his initial hospital stay, he worked with a counselor for two months, but in the New Year his insurance deductible reset and he was unable to meet the $200 co-pay. Baker says he plans to return to therapy after his deductible is met.

“The therapy made a huge difference and helped me to process everything I was going through to adjust to my new reality,” he says.

Keeping a positive outlook has been “one of the hardest things for me, but the most important,” he says.

The experience of Matthew Sacks, a psychologist with the South Florida Center for Psychological Equanimity & Resilience, supports that idea.

“The ability to bounce back and stay optimistic is key to being resilient,” says Sacks, who is not involved in Baker’s treatment. 

Sacks points out that anyone who lives long enough will experience some traumatic event. And, he says, new research on the subject reveals that resiliency is not a “trait,” but a skill that can be taught.

“Resiliency is something you can learn over time,” he says, noting that approximately 30% of the population will go on to develop PTSD after a traumatic event, while the rest demonstrates a greater level of resiliency.

And while he says there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to treating trauma, many people benefit from seeking professional help of psychologists or other trained mental health practitioners.

Fortunately for Baker, an electrical engineer, his family, friends, his employer and community of Spanish Wells in Delray Beach all stepped up to help and support him.

His dad came in from Minnesota to stay with him in Baker’s two-story townhome, and Baker says his neighbors have come by with dinner. His shower is now equipped with a chair and grab-bars.

 He was able to work from home through the end of December and his friend Emily Kolber, 23, set up a GoFundMe page for him to help cover medical expenses.

While he has insurance coverage through his employer, Baker says his out-of-pocket expenses are more than $600,000.

The other driver’s insurance will pay only $10,000, he says.

By late January, the fundraiser totaled $15,681 out of the goal of $45,000.

“Jake is a go-getter and very kind,” says Kolber, an interior designer who dated Baker for three years. “He is always very generous and giving — a great person with a good heart.”

She was the first to visit him in the hospital and says seeing him there was “nerve-racking.”

The two have remained friendly and Kolber says she still cares about him (and his dog, Moe) and wants to make sure he gets through this traumatic experience.

“Jake is an inspiration for anyone going through a similar situation,” she says. “He’s had bad days, but overall, has stayed upbeat.”

An outdoorsman, Baker loves to go scuba diving, mountain biking, hiking, skiing, rock climbing and shark diving, all of which he hopes to resume once he is fitted with a prosthetic.

Until then, he sets small goals each day for himself, like walking Moe three times a day.

“Having something to work toward keeps me motivated,” he says, while still holding on to larger goals, such as planning a ski trip for next winter.

“Thinking about moments like that gives me hope and reminds me that even though life looks different now, it’s still full of possibilities.”

For now, Baker says he is “stepping away” from riding his motorcycle.

“Losing part of my leg is one of the hardest things I’ve had to face,” he says, “but it shows me I need to stay hopeful and positive.”

He works out with resistance bands at home as part of the effort to regain strength.

“I like the feeling of getting stronger each day,” he says, noting that he couldn’t even stand after spending more than a month in the hospital.  

“I often picture myself running free again on two legs, enjoying the simple luxury of walking without assistive devices.” 

He says he’s learned to appreciate small victories and the kindness of others and is grateful to have so many caring friends, family and neighbors.

What would he say to others in a similar situation?

“Reach out for help,” he says. “Take one day at a time and find strength and perseverance with the people you love.”

To learn more, visit Baker’s GoFundMe page at tinyurl.com/mry824tn. 

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

Don DeMott of Boca Raton with a largemouth bass. DeMott likes fishing in tournaments on Lake Okeechobee, but he appreciates Lake Ida for fun. Photo by Steve Waters/The Coastal Star

By Steve Waters

With its warm weather and year-round growing season, South Florida has a reputation for producing big largemouth bass. Now through March is the best time to catch a trophy bass, and one of the best places to land that lunker is in eastern Palm Beach County.

Winter is when bass spawn in area lakes, ponds and canals. In the Lake Ida chain, which extends from Boca Raton to Lake Worth Beach, bass spawn in the canals that connect the lakes.

Your chances of catching a bass of 7 or more pounds are better this time of year because big, egg-laden females are concentrated and often visible.

If you look in areas with a hard, sandy bottom, you can see white spots where the fish have used their tails to sweep out shallow, crater-like beds. I’ve also walked along canal banks and seen bass hovering over flat rocks.

Typically, you’ll see a female on the bed and a nearby male, which is almost always smaller than the female. When the female releases some of her eggs on the bed, the male fertilizes them.

Anglers who sight-fish look for bass on the beds as they slowly move their boats through spawning areas. When they spot a fish, they try to cast a lure onto the bed in the hopes that the female will pick it up.

There are a number of effective lures, from soft-plastic worms and crawdads to jigs and jerkbaits. Many anglers like plastic lizards and tubes with a quarter-ounce weight. A favorite color is white because it’s easy to tell when a bass has the lure. Often, a bass will pick up a lure, move it off the bed and spit it out before you realize what’s happened. With a white lure, as soon as you can’t see it, you know to set the hook.

Another effective tactic: Instead of targeting individual beds, reel soft-plastic swimbaits through bedding areas to get strikes.  

Bass pro Don DeMott of Boca Raton has done exceptionally well fishing tournaments on Lake Okeechobee. But when he just wants to go out for a few hours and catch a bunch of fish, he heads to Lake Ida.

The lake isn’t all that big, but it connects to miles and miles of canals. At the southern end of the Lake Ida chain is the C-15 Canal, on the Boca-Delray border. At the north end of Lake Ida is Lake Eden, which connects to a canal that runs all the way north to Lake Osborne.

“You don’t need a big boat,” DeMott said. “You could fish the whole chain in a johnboat.”

Or you could spend a whole day fishing in a couple of canals not far from the Lake Ida Park boat ramps. The influx of big fish into the shallow areas that hold their spawning beds makes them a lot easier to target than during the rest of the year, when they can be anywhere in a lake.

“They get out of the main lake and move into the canals because that’s where they do most of their spawning,” said DeMott. “There’s more grass and the canals are protected from the wind and wave action that could tear up spawning beds. Plus, the water in the canals warms faster.”

The spawning beds are in the grass, and DeMott said the key is to fish your lures around the pockets in the grass. A popular surface lure is a plastic frog imitation. Fished on a rod and reel spooled with braided line, which is much stronger than monofilament line of a similar diameter and resistant to breaking, a frog is very productive worked over the vegetation in the canals.

A silver-and-white spinnerbait, which imitates the abundant shad in the Lake Ida chain — bass love to eat the little baitfish — not only catches largemouth bass but also peacock bass. 

Some anglers believe that bedding bass should be left alone. Others say that any female bass they catch this time of year, even if she’s not on a bed, will have eggs.

The solution is to quickly release every bass you catch this time of year. Handled with care, bass will return to their beds, spawn successfully and provide even more good fishing during future winters.

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

By Arden Moore

In my 25 years as a pet-centric journalist, I have had the honor to spotlight some amazing animal stories. But this one definitely demonstrates how a never-give-up resilience can lead to a tail-wagging happy ending in West Palm Beach.

This tale begins in a dirty backyard in rural North Carolina. For 10 years, a medium-sized black dog named Rusty spent his days and nights attached to a chain. 

For 10 years Rusty never stepped foot in the home of his owner. His world was limited to a dirt patch in the backyard with a shoddily built doghouse.

Members of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals learned about Rusty early on. 

“Rusty was one of thousands of dogs we visit every day, 365 days a year, by our field workers,” says Rachel Bellis, director of local affairs for PETA US. “Studies show that dogs who are chained are almost three times more likely to attack than those who are not. 

“That’s because they are forced to eat, sleep and go to the bathroom in this tiny patch of dirt. Their life is the length of their chain they are on. They can become protective and possessive of their space.” 

PETA members reached out to his owner and got permission to visit Rusty. Senior field worker Chris Klug made many of those daily visits to bring treats and offer company. 

“Rusty became one of our favorite field dogs,” says Bellis. “We reached out to his owner continuously to try to convince her to surrender him so that he could be adopted and live in a home and be part of a family.”

Bellis was ready for my next question: Why keep a dog if he lives on a chain outside?

“People give different reasons to us,” she says. “These dogs to them are cheap alarm systems, or they breed them to make a few bucks on selling the puppies or they simply believe that dogs belong outside and not in the home.”

Finally, the owner gave PETA permission to take Rusty. He was immediately placed in a foster home. Once given thorough medical care and further assessment, Rusty was ready to be featured in PETA’s website adoption pages. 

 Hannah Caldwell of West Palm Beach spotted Rusty. Something clicked. She quickly reached out to PETA.

“Rusty looked adorable in the photos and reminded me of my childhood dog, Bentley, who is now 10 and lives with my parents,” says Caldwell, an executive assistant. “I have a soft spot for older dogs because they are so sweet. I saw this as an opportunity to rescue an animal in need. I emailed PETA right away about wanting to adopt Rusty.”

The timing was right for both Rusty and Hannah. For the past few years, Caldwell was unable to have a dog in the condo she rented, but she now lives in her own home.

“The second that PETA told me that Rusty was mine, I immediately started ordering dog food, doggy items and toys, even though I was not sure if Rusty even loved toys,” says Caldwell. 

PETA coordinated Rusty’s 13-hour car ride to Hannah’s home. Klug and a videographer chronicled the trek, sharing photos and videos of the happy Rusty in different states.

On the morning of Aug. 12, 2024, Rusty arrived at Caldwell’s home.

“Aug. 12 — I will always remember that day,” she says. “The first time Rusty saw me, he was wagging his tail at my front door. He just entered and it was like this was his home. The bond between us was instant — 100%. He trusted me and I trusted him right away.”

Since then, the pair have been nearly inseparable. Rusty joins Hannah for long walks on the beach, at pet-friendly outdoor cafes and when she shops at a Saturday outdoor market. At home, Rusty is never far from her. He also enjoys wearing colorful bow ties and bandanas. 

“He definitely has furniture rights, and he sleeps on my bed at night with his head on his pillow,” says Caldwell. “His favorite toy is a stuffed green frog. His favorite treat is peanut butter. I just love his white muzzle. And I especially love that he is happy now.” 

Hannah and Rusty illustrate the immeasurable benefits that occur when a person decides to adopt a rescued dog or cat.  

“I definitely believe in ‘adopt, don’t shop’ for pets,” says Caldwell. “Give older dogs a chance. Rusty is so easy. He doesn’t chew my furniture. He enjoys his daytime naps. With him in my life, I smile so much more now.”

Arden Moore is an author, speaker and master certified pet first aid instructor. Learn more by visiting  www.ardenmoore.com.

A tree-trimmer at Ocean Ridge Town Hall died Tuesday after being pulled into a wood chipper. Police are investigating the incident. Jerry Lower/The Coastal Star

A worker was killed Tuesday morning in a wood chipper while doing tree-trimming work at Ocean Ridge Town Hall.

The unidentified worker was part of a crew trimming coconut palm trees on the north side of the building when the incident occurred.

Ocean Ridge Town Manager Lynne Ladner in a statement said it happened at about 9:30 a.m. The crew, from contracted vendor Carlton Tree Service, started the work at Town Hall about 8 a.m.

Ocean Ridge police officers arrived at the scene and determined one person had been pulled into the machine and was killed.

“I’m devastated. This is a horrible loss of life,” Ladner said. She added that Boynton Beach Fire Rescue is providing grief counselors for town employees and the vendor’s staff.

Ladner also said representatives from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration had been contacted and were headed to the scene.  

Boynton Beach police are assisting Ocean Ridge police in the investigation.

—Henry Fitzgerald

LEFT: From A1A, the decorative driveway leads to a three-car garage amid lushly landscaped grounds. RIGHT: With nonstop ocean views, the gourmet kitchen is practical, modern and outfitted with a large island, pantry, breakfast nook and state-of-the-art appliances and amenities.

A two-story estate in Delray Beach, this gated property is nestled on a deep private oceanfront parcel that boasts panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

With six spacious bedrooms, six baths and three half baths, this estate seamlessly combines style and comfort. It is perfect for entertaining or simply relaxing.

The interior features thoughtfully designed spaces tailored to modern living. Multiple flex spaces serve as potential offices, playrooms, gyms, studios, or libraries, while a dedicated media room enhances home entertainment. All the main living areas offer uninterrupted ocean views. 

The 10,546-total-square-foot residence includes an elevator, a whole-house generator, complete impact windows throughout, two laundry rooms, bar, volume ceilings and built-ins. Offered at $22,950,000. 

Contact Nicholas Malinosky, 561-306-4597, nicholas.malinosky@elliman.com, and Michael O’Connor, 561-414-1249, michael.oconnor@elliman.com. Douglas Elliman, 900 E. Atlantic Ave., #1, Delray Beach, FL 33483.

Police body camera video from the scene of a June 2023 crash involving firefighter David Wyatt in downtown Delray Beach. Wyatt was also the driver of a city aerial ladder fire truck Dec. 28 that was hit by a Brightline train. Police video provided by City of Delray Beach

By John Pacenti

The suspended Delray Beach firefighter who was at the wheel of the aerial fire truck when it was struck by a Brightline train had been investigated for DUI 1 1⁄2 years earlier when he ran his Jeep over a median and into a tree.

But a field sobriety test wasn’t conducted related to the Jeep accident, a breath test was determined to be not practical and a blood sample was never taken due to “lack of probable cause,” according to a police report of the 2023 incident released Jan. 23 that referenced the driving under the influence investigation.

Information from that crash, now part of a separate police investigation, is getting new attention because of the Dec. 28 Brightline crash. Video of the train crash shows the enormous fire truck — operated by firefighter David Wyatt — maneuvering around a lowered railroad crossing gate before impact. 

The crash took place on the Florida East Coast Railway tracks on Southeast First Street a block south of Atlantic Avenue in downtown Delray Beach.

Wyatt, Captain Brian Fiorey and firefighter Joseph Fiumara III were taken to the Delray Medical Center as trauma alerts and have since been released. Palm Beach County says nine Brightline passengers were transported to the hospital.

Wyatt had his license suspended in October 2023 when he failed to take a required class after being cited earlier in June for careless driving for crashing into a tree near Atlantic and Swinton avenues, court records show. The license remained suspended for two months and It is unknown if he continued to operate city-owned vehicles during that time.

The city on Jan. 23 released the police report and the body camera footage of the June 9, 2023 response after Wyatt’s 2015 Jeep hit the tree around 10:22 p.m.

“Given the significant public interest in this matter, I believe releasing the body-worn camera footage from the 2023 citation is the right step toward providing a full and accurate account of the events,” said Delray Beach City Manager Terrence Moore.

Delray Beach blurred portions of the released body camera video that showed Wyatt.

The city blurred out the images of Wyatt on the body camera videos — 11 in all. The audio of the videos is sporadic as officers on the scene choose not to activate sound.

Wyatt hit the tree in the median with enough force to deploy all his airbags, according to the police report written by Officer Nicholas Windsor. Wyatt was transported to Bethesda Memorial Hospital.

Windsor spoke to Wyatt in the emergency room triage area, noting his eyes were red but pupils were normal size. He informed Wyatt he was conducting a DUI investigation and read him his Miranda rights, the police reports state.

Wyatt declined to answer any questions.

“I did not observe Wyatt standing under his own power. Wyatt was either sitting on the ground, lying on a stretcher or sitting in a wheelchair,” Windsor wrote.

Field sobriety tests were not conducted at the scene of the crash and Windsor said a breath test was impractical because he was being treated for over an hour at the hospital.

“I did not request Wyatt provide a blood sample due to the lack of probable cause,” the officer wrote. Wyatt wasn't charged with DUI.

A front view of the Jeep in the 2023 accident, as seen on police body-camera video.

A witness, who knew Wyatt, said he was traveling behind his friend’s Jeep, on Swinton. Wyatt made a right turn onto Atlantic, jumped the medium and hit the tree.

“The witness did not provide any further information such as where Wyatt and he were traveling to or from and what Wyatt was doing prior to the crash,” Windsor wrote.

City Attorney Lynn Gelin at a Jan. 7 City Commission meeting said it has been discovered that 10 current fire-rescue employees did not have valid driving licenses. How many, if any, of those employees have been driving city vehicles without a valid license is unknown.

In his 2009 review, in areas to improve, Wyatt was told to make certain to have a valid driver’s license kept current at all times after he allowed it to lapse.

At the time of the Brightline crash, Wyatt and all those aboard the fire truck had valid licenses.

Mayor Tom Carney said he called for the release of the body camera video. “Better to release it with transparency than to have everybody speculate about everything,” he said.

He didn’t want to comment on the report or the body camera videos because he said the June 2023 crash is yet another subject of an internal investigation.

Vice Mayor Juli Casale commended the release of the report and body camera video. “Our city’s capability, impartiality and integrity are in question. Residents deserve answers,” she said.

Yet, she questions the police narrative in the short-circuited DUI investigation, saying “It leaves more questions than answers.”

As for the Brightline crash, the city earlier asked PBSO to take over the lead investigation. Police Chief Russ Mager cited the “complexity of the crash, the multiple agencies involved, and the need for transparency.” Besides the PBSO investigation, there are three internal Delray Beach investigations and an investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board.

Two of the internal investigations – the train accident and the staff’s driver's licenses –  will be handled by the firm Johnson Jackson, the city announced on Jan. 23.

Fire Chief Ronald Martin on Jan. 3 placed two of the three staff members on the fire truck — Wyatt and Fiorey — on paid administrative leave, along with Assistant Chief Kevin Green and Division Chief Todd Lynch, pending an internal investigation to determine if policies were followed leading up to the crash.

The Delray Beach Fire Rescue aerial ladder truck Dec. 28 after being struck by a Brightline train. Jerry Lower/The Coastal Star

Other recent developments include:

• The city released dispatch audio and the 911 recordings, showing Battalion 111 responding to a call reporting smoke on the second story of the four-story condo complex at 365 SE Sixth Ave. However, another crew on the scene reported that all that was needed was ventilation because of burnt food. The dispatcher then informs other crews that Battalion 111 had been struck by a train.

• Gelin told elected officials at the Jan. 21 commission meeting not to publicly discuss the crash because of potential litigation and the pending investigations.

• The U.S. Department of Transportation notified Delray Beach it will review its quiet zone designation for train horns when approaching public crossings, City Manager Terrence Moore said in his Jan. 17 memo to commissioners.
• Knauf Group submitted a $70,000 bill for towing the damaged fire truck — left in three pieces after the crash, according to an email from Gelin to Moore. The company also cleaned up the downtown crash site.
• Chief Martin put all external programming and community engagement initiatives for the fire department on hiatus. The chief also announced cutbacks to overtime for special events and administrative staff.

At the Jan. 7 commission meeting, Carney and fellow commissioners threw their support behind Martin after the firefighter’s union went on Facebook attacking him over the suspensions.

Delray Beach Fire Fighters IAFF Local 1842 said that Martin failed to follow departmental policies — spelled out for employee discipline — by publicly sharing the names of those suspended.

“This public dissemination of information causes significant harm to the employees involved, damages their reputations, and undermines trust in the City’s internal processes,” the union posted on its own Facebook page.

Martin issued a response, saying that he wanted to ensure that the investigations would be conducted with fairness towards the employees involved.

Casale told The Coastal Star, “Sadly we are seeing the effects of an all-powerful union that has built a lack of accountability into the fire union contract.”

Right now much of the focus is on Wyatt.

The adjudication for the 2023 ticket was withheld, and a two-month-old D-6 license suspension was lifted in December of that year after the court received verification that Wyatt had completed the required course. A D-6 is an indefinite suspension until certain conditions are met.

By having adjudication withheld, Wyatt did not get any points against his license that would lead to higher insurance rates. He paid $207 in fines and court costs.

Wyatt has also been cited for minor vehicular violations — such as speeding and having an expired tag —  five times in Palm Beach County since 2004, records show.

George Bush Boulevard's bascule bridge over the Intracoastal Waterway in Delray Beach will be closed from 8 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 25, to 8 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 1, for essential maintenance and repair to the bridge house, machinery, and associated bridge span gear indexing.

During this seven-day closure, both vehicle and pedestrian traffic will be redirected, Palm Beach County Engineering and Public Works announced. Drivers should use the Atlantic Avenue bridge to the south in Delray Beach via Ocean Boulevard or Federal Highway for detour routes. Another alternative is the Woolbright Road bridge to the north connecting Ocean Ridge and Boynton Beach.

In a news release, Engineering and Public Works said it "appreciates the community’s patience and understanding during this temporary closure."

--Staff report

The firetruck demolished by a Brightline train in a Dec. 28 crash in downtown Delray Beach. Jerry Lower/The Coastal Star

Ten fire department employees without valid driver’s licenses, city investigation finds

Update: On Jan. 9, Delray Beach released dispatched audio and the 911 calls involving the Dec. 28 crash between a city fire truck and a Brightline train. Battalion 111 was responding to a call reporting smoke on the second story of the four-story condo complex at 365 SE Sixth Ave. However, another crew on the scene reported that all that was needed was ventilation because of burnt food. The dispatcher then informs other crews that truck 111 had been struck by the train.

The city also said it has asked the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office to take over the lead investigation. Police Chief Russ Mager cited the “complexity of the crash, the multiple agencies involved, and the need for transparency” in asking PBSO to do a comprehensive examination of the accident.

—John Pacenti

By John Pacenti

A suspended Delray Beach firefighter – who was at the wheel when a Brightline train crashed into his aerial firetruck on Dec. 28 – was ticketed in 2023 for careless driving after running over a median and crashing into a tree in a private vehicle, Palm Beach County court records show.

David Wyatt, 46, has been identified as the driver of the fire truck in the crash by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, his name included in a traffic division log entry released on Jan. 8. The PBSO Traffic Division has been requested to review the incident and subsequent findings, the entry says.

Wyatt is one of four department employees suspended with pay by Fire Chief Ronald Martin as the investigation into the truck-train collision proceeds. Assistant Chief Kevin Green, Division Chief Todd Lynch and Captain Brian Fiorey were also placed on administrative leave pending an internal investigation to determine if policies were followed leading up to the crash, Martin said.

Driver’s license concerns

In a related issue, Delray Beach City Attorney Lynn Gelin confirmed at the Jan. 7 City Commission meeting that 10 fire rescue employees have been found to have invalid driver’s licenses.

Martin on Jan. 3 directed every staff member to perform a driver’s license check and provide results to administrative staff. City spokeswoman Gina Carter did not respond to a question about how many of the 10 drove firetrucks or city vehicles.

In a Jan. 5 email to Vice Mayor Juli Casale, Martin said all three firefighters involved in the  Brightline crash had valid driver’s licenses.

Video released from Brightline shows the firetruck — the length of four regular vehicles — maneuvering around a lowered railroad crossing gate before impact. The crash took place on the Florida East Coast Railway tracks on Southeast First Street a block south of Atlantic Avenue in downtown Delray Beach. 

The firetruck was destroyed. The replacement cost for a similar aerial ladder fire truck is $2.3 million, according to a Dec. 31 email from Martin to commissioners. He recommended the city replace it with a smaller truck for $1.365 million.

The city has not addressed if the firefighters were responding to an emergency call. The accident sent the three firefighters aboard to the hospital and a dozen Brightline passengers.

'Careless driving’ cited in earlier crash

In the June 14, 2023, careless driving case, Wyatt needed to complete driving school to avoid penalties. He did not complete the course on time, leading the court to adjudicate him guilty that October, court records show.

That adjudication was then withheld, and a two-month-old D-6 license suspension lifted, in December 2023 after the court received verification that Wyatt had completed the required course. A D-6 is an indefinite suspension until certain conditions are met.

By having adjudication withheld, Wyatt did not get any points against his license that would lead to higher insurance rates. He paid $207 in fines and court costs.

The private vehicle crash occurred, according to the citation, around noon at the intersection of Atlantic and Swinton avenues. Wyatt was driving a 2015 Jeep.

“Went off the roadway and onto the median and struck tree and signs,” the citation reads.

Wyatt has also been cited for minor vehicular violations — such as speeding, expired tag —  five times in Palm Beach County since 2004, records show.

Fallout causes tensions to rise

City Manager Terrence Moore sidestepped the question about fire staffers without valid driver’s licenses from Casale at the Jan. 7 commission meeting. It was only after Casale directed her question to Gelin that she got an answer.

“Mr. Moore owes residents the truth, and we are not getting it,” Casale told The Coastal Star.

At the Jan. 7 meeting, Casale said it was “unimaginable” that firefighters would not have valid driver’s licenses.

“At the end of the day, hundreds of people were on that train, including children that could have died,” she said.

Mayor Tom Carney sent a Jan. 8 email to Moore, expressing much of the same, saying a week after the accident there are more questions than answers.

“I understand that some information needs to be held confidential as the investigation continues, but there is so much that is considered public information (or would be deemed to be public information) which still has not been disseminated. This is causing the public to feel that they are not being told everything,” Carney told Moore. 

Carney and fellow commissioners at the meeting the night before threw their support behind Martin after the firefighter’s union went on Facebook attacking him after the chief announced the suspensions on Jan. 3.

Delray Beach Fire Fighters IAFF Local 1842 said that Martin failed to follow departmental policies — spelled out for employee discipline — by publicly sharing the names of those suspended.

“This public dissemination of information causes significant harm to the employees involved, damages their reputations, and undermines trust in the City’s internal processes,” the union posted on its own Facebook page.

Martin issued a response, saying that he wanted to ensure that the investigations would be conducted with fairness toward the employees involved.

Casale told The Coastal Star, “Sadly we are seeing the effects of an all-powerful union that has built a lack of accountability into the fire union contract.”