During last Tuesday’s Boca Raton City Council Meeting, City Manager George Brown strongly implied Memorial Park facilities were not built out before 1959 and that Memorial Park did not have a strong association with veterans or memorial events. While Brown might be correct that recently most city memorial functions have been held at the Boca Raton Cemetery, historically many of these sorts of functions took place at Memorial Park. At the center of the conflict is a debate about whether the property was explicitly named a “war memorial” in honor of World War II, or if the name “Memorial Park” is merely a generic, non-specific designation. But what the city does not seem to understand is that perception is reality and tone-deafness around veterans issues can turn a citizenry against local government.
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STATEPOINT CROSSWORD
THEME: FICTIONAL CANINES
ACROSS
1. *”Call of the Wild” dog
5. Lightning McQueen, e.g. 8. Island near Java 12. Popular hairdo in the 1960s and ‘70s 13. Governmental space agency, acr. 14. Meat in a casing 15. Larry Bird’s target 16. Narrative poem 17. Richard Bachman to Stephen King 18. *Sherman’s Mr.
20. Fence plank 21. Small jar 22. FedEx competitor 23. *Tabaqui of “The Jungle Book”
26. Most vital part
30. a.k.a. Home of the Brave
31. Bewilder
34. Y’all
35. Phonograph media
37. Williams sister’s return
38. “Two mints in one” classic mints
39. Celt
40. Red carpet suit
42. Pirate’s turf
43. Flag on a ship, pl.
45. Solar system model
47. Like a fiddle
48. Sweating room
50. Chesterfield, e.g.
52. *National Crime Prevention Council’s mascot
54. “The Martian” (2015) actor Matt ____
55. Verbal exam
56. Half-man, half-goat
59. Deflect
60. Charge a tax
61. Division word
“You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”
62. Darn a sock, e.g.
63. Bo Peep follower
64. Long, long time
DOWN
1. Scrooge’s exclamation
2. E.T. transporter, e.g.
3. Photo editing option
4. 1/100th of a ruble
5. Mafia’s top dogs
6. “All joking ____”
7. Risqu
8. *Target’s mascot
9. “Si, mi chiamo Mimi” in La Boheme, e.g.
10. Law school test acronym
11. “____ a Wonderful Life”
13. Interstellar cloud
14. Flying stingers
19. Omani and Yemeni
22. Consume
23. TV Judy’s title
24. Of the Orient
25. Lawyers’ loads
26. Major European
LAST WEEK RESULT
river
27. Relating to Scandinavia
28. Like a button, but more so
29. English homework
32. Swine and avian diseases
33. *Maid Marian of Disney’s “Robin Hood” movie (1973)
36. *The Big Red Dog
38. ____copia
40. Blast maker, acr.
41. Sullenly
44. James Dean’s last movie (1956)
46. Basket-making fiber
48. Nut holder
49. Tequila source
50. “____ me a seat”
51. Damien’s prediction
52. Lawn pest
53. *Rubeus Hagrid’s faithful boarhound
54. Beaver’s edifice
57. Beehive State native
58. Us, in Mexico
The Boca Raton Tribune
COMMUNITY
Boca’s New City Hall Partner? The Same Developer Sued Over Surfside Collapse
By Kartik Krishnaiyer
Terra Group, the Miami-based developer now pursuing a high-profile project in Boca Raton, was a key defendant in lawsuits tied to the 2021 Champlain Towers South collapse in Surfside. This is despite not disclosing the lawsuit in the proposal submitted to the City of Boca Raton in January of 2025.
In November 2021, plaintiffs named Terra Group, Terra World Investments, and 8701 Collins Development—entities linked to Terra’s Eighty Seven Park project in Miami Beach—as defendants in a consolidated class-action lawsuit. The claims alleged that excavation and pile-driving work during Eighty Seven Park’s construction weakened the neighboring Champlain Towers South, contributing to the tragedy that killed 98 people.
The Miami Herald wrote as part of its March 2022 investigation
“Our investigation has uncovered additional entities, who along with the original defendants, we believe share responsibility for the Surfside collapse,” Harley Tropin and Rachel Furst, two of the plaintiffs’ attorneys, said in a statement. The plaintiffs have already sued the developers, among them the prominent Miami firm Terra Group, and several other engineering, construc -
tion and law firms affiliated with either Eighty Seven Park or Champlain South. The previous complaint alleged that the Eighty Seven Park developers ignored clear warning signs that their work posed a danger to Champlain South and failed to follow industry standards. The defendants deny the claims.”
The litigation concluded in mid2022 with a nearly $1 billion settlement,
one of the largest of its kind. Court records show Terra-affiliated entities contributed about $400 million toward the agreement. The settlement was reached without any admission of liability.
Since resolving the case, Terra has pressed ahead with major real estate ventures across South Florida. Among its most closely watched initiatives is a partnership with Palm Beach–based Frisbie Group on the planned redevel-
opment of the City Hall Campus downtown
The proposed project would transform the municipal site into a mixeduse development, combining residential units, retail, dining, and public spaces. Supporters argue it could create a new gateway for downtown, boosting economic activity and providing a modern civic hub. Critics, however, have raised concerns over scale, traffic, and the involvement of a developer tied to the Surfside litigation.
The City Hall redevelopment plan remains controversial as we have covered in depth. The project underscores the high stakes of development in Boca Raton, where demand for luxury real estate continues to grow but questions of accountability and urban planning loom large.
The Surfside collapse, which remains one of the deadliest building failures in U.S. history, has reshaped how Florida and the nation approach condominium safety, construction oversight, and the responsibilities of developers and engineers. For Boca Raton residents, Terra Group’s new role in shaping the downtown core adds a layer of scrutiny to the city’s redevelopment future.
Protest in the City of Boca Over the Proposed Relocation of the Children’s Singing Pines Museum
By Stacy Carchman
With the proposed redevelopment project of the city campus in Boca comes much controversy and issues. One of these issues is the potential for the “Singing Pines” children’s museum, a historic landmark in the City of Boca to be moved to another location to make room for the project. They are planning on moving it before there is even a solid approved plan for the government campus.
“The museum will be moved off the beaten path to Meadows Road and not accessible” said Andrea Levine O’Rourke, a concerned citizen and former City of Boca Raton council member and Deputy Mayor. “
The Children’s Museum is one of the oldest buildings in Boca Raton dating back to around 1913-1914 and was donated to the city. It is not in its original location and has been funded
by different non-profits over the years like the Junior League and the Florence Fuller Child Development Center.
There are three buildings on the property that the developers of the proposed city campus seek to move.
The most historic of these is the Singing Pines Museum. It will cost millions of dollars to move these buildings to a new location.
The community and local nonprofits like the Junior League and The Rotary Club of Boca Raton have invested throughout the years in the museum. In fact, in 2018, $20,000 was raised to put a white picket fence around the museum. So, there is much at stake with its relocation. The museum and programming will just not be the same at the new location.
“The Historic Preservation Board of Boca is 100% for keeping the building where it is,” said Andrea Levine O’ Rourke. So are many other concerned citizens who feel that the city’s plan for the new city campus should work around the Singing Pines Historic Landmark and keep it preserved.
The only way this iconic and historic site will be preserved is if citizens speak out and voice their concerns. That is why groups like “Save Boca” have formed and people are voicing their concerns on social media.
Lynn Cancer Institute Adds Focus on Endocrine Surgery
To meet the growing need in Palm Beach County and provide the highest-quality care close to home, a new program focusing on endocrine surgery has been established at the Eugene M. and Christine E. Lynn Cancer Institute at Boca Raton Regional Hospital, a part of Baptist Health.
The expanded service will streamline and improve access to leading-edge care in the treatment of benign and malignant thyroid and parathyroid conditions, adrenal gland tumors and neuroendocrine pancreas disorders.
“This is a new, dedicated program, with an intense focus on providing the most up-to-date care,” explains Rachel Slotcavage, M.D., M.Ed., FACS, a fellowship-trained endocrine surgeon who joined the Institute earlier this year. “We’re working hard to build up the cancer care part of the program wih true multidisciplinary collaboration, coordinating with our medical oncologists, radiation oncologists and pathology team.”
The incidence of thyroid cancer has increased dramatically in the past three decades, making it one of the fastest growing cancers. More than 44,000 new cases of thyroid cancer are expected to be diagnosed in 2025, according to the American Cancer Society.
The most common type of thyroid cancer is papillary carcinoma, which makes up about 80 percent of cases. It tends to grow very slowly and usually develops in only one lobe of the thyroid. The remaining 20 percent of thyroid cancers can behave more aggressively, but in most cases the prognosis is good. “Thyroid cancer is very common, but thankfully very curable,” Dr. Slotcavage says.
Typically, treatment involves the removal of at least one lobe of the thyroid. By leaving half the thyroid, patients may be able to continue producing the hormones that help regulate metabolism, heart rate, blood pressure and body temperature without having to take daily medication. In some cases, people with very small thyroid cancers may choose to have the cancer watched closely with
regular ultrasounds and blood tests, rather than having surgery right away.
The key is having the medical expertise and experience to help patients determine which care plan makes the most sense for them. That starts with careful diagnostics, Dr. Slotcavage says.
Conservative treatment, when possible, can help preserve a patient’s quality of life, Dr. Slotcavage notes. “Nowadays, we know that minimally invasive surgeries are all that thyroid cancer patients need. For a long time, physicians were dramatically overtreating these malignancies, but we’ve realized that people can be cured with very minimal approaches.”
Dr. Slotcavage also specializes in the surgery and treatment of parathyroid and adrenal conditions. In addition, she performs surgery on benign thyroid tumors that require removal because they are causing an overactive or underactive thyroid, difficulty swallowing, sleep apnea, voice changes and other symptoms.
Lynn Cancer Institute makes it a top objective to provide fast, efficient care. “Having everyone under the same roof and being able to take advantage of multimodality clinics provides a very different experience for our patients,” she says.
Care at Lynn Cancer Institute is highly individualized, taking into consideration each patient’s desires, goals and lifestyle, Dr. Slotcavage says. “We look at the whole picture, the whole patient — not just one particular aspect of their disease.”
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MONDAY MANNA
By: Rick Boxx
Do You Suffer From ‘Semmelweis Reflex’?
Ignaz Semmelweis was a Hungarian physician and scientist who in the mid-19th century implemented hand-washing procedures for doctors at Vienna General Hospital. This practice decreased the incidence of maternal death, then called “childbed fever,” from 18% to 2%. Semmelweis, the “savior of mothers,” was a pioneer in medical antiseptic policy and practices that have become commonplace today.
At the time, however, many in the medical community were offended to be told a “gentlemen’s” hands could possibly carry disease. Because of this attitude and resistance to change, doctors unanimously continued their deathly procedures. Happily, the wisdom offered by the “father of hand hygiene” was not ignored forever, and death rates during childbirth were reduced dramatically.
Resistance like what Semmelweis received was hardly a unique response. Many of the great advances in history initially were opposed or rejected because they ran counter to conventional wisdom. This behavior, sometimes termed ‘groupthink’ or ‘confirmation bias,’ is known as the Semmelweis Reflex.
We see this in the marketplace all the time. Maybe you have responded in similar ways yourself. We do not seem to mind change when we initiate it, but when significant change is being imposed on us, we might dig in our heels and complain, “But we have always done it this way!”
This happens with new technology. When mobile phones were introduced, many were reluctant to try them not only because of cost but also because they were unfamiliar. A writer friend, when offered his first desktop computer, initially resisted. He thought, “My electronic typewriter works perfectly well.” Once he tried using the computer, however, he quickly asked to have his trusty typewriter taken away.
In the Bible we see many examples of minds set in old ways, resistant to change. Especially with the Pharisees and Sadducees – religious leaders who were rigid and hard-hearted. They
might not have heard of the Semmelweis Reflex but behaved as if they had invented it.
In the gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John we see numerous incidents where these ‘experts of the Law’ presented strong opposition to the ministry and teachings of Jesus Christ, regarding him as a radical and troublemaker, a threat to the religious practices and rituals they were espousing.
When they resisted His teachings of repentance, forgiveness and mercy, they hurled many accusations at Him. In response, Jesus said things like, “You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good?” (Matthew 12:34). Another time, He rebuked the leaders for their hypocrisy: “You snakes! You brood of vipers! How will you escape being condemned to hell?” (Matthew 23:33).
However, Jesus spoke more kindly to His tender-hearted disciples. He said, “Blessed are the eyes that see what you see!” (Luke 10:23). This is especially important when we deal with spiritual truth, but it is equally valid when facing change in the marketplace. When fresh new ideas are being introduced, let us seek to see what the Lord sees, and not just what our industry embraces.
“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’” John 14:6 (NIV)
Our modern world often says that you can’t know the truth. But you can! Truth is absolutely knowable. In fact, truth can be discovered. Here’s how: You discover truth through creation. You can learn a lot about truth— about God—simply by looking at nature and studying science. Romans 1:20 says, “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse” (NIV). When you look at the thousands of kinds of beetles, you learn that God likes variety. When you see a volcano, you learn God is powerful. When you study our delicately balanced ecosystem, you realize how organized God is.
You discover truth through conscience. The Message paraphrase says it like this: “When outsiders who have never heard of God’s law follow it more or less by instinct, they confirm its truth by their obedience. They show that God’s law is not something alien, imposed on us from without, but woven into the very fabric of our creation” (Romans 2:14-15). A sense of right and wrong is woven into all of us. Virtually everyone would agree that it’s better to help an elderly woman cross the street than to push her into traffic. You don’t have to be a “spiritual” person to know that. You instinctively know what’s right and wrong because God has given everyone a conscience.
You discover truth through consideration. You don’t have to simply accept all truth by faith. You also can observe
truth, test it, and prove it. The Bible says, “Ponder the path of your feet” (Proverbs 4:26 ESV). God doesn’t want you to drift or to rush through life. He wants you to spend time in consideration and observation. Ask yourself, “Am I on a true path?” And if you’re in doubt, check it out.
You can discover truth through God’s commandments. The Bible is full of instruction and direction. And you can trust it. 2 Timothy 3:16 says, “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right” (NLT). You can discover the truth through Christ. God came to earth in human form to personify truth. The Bible says that Jesus was full of grace and truth; he was truth incarnate. Truth is not a principle; truth is a person. One of the clearest and most well-known verses in the Bible is: “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me’” (John 14:6 NIV). The best way to discover the truth is by getting to know Jesus.
It’s tempting to think you can’t know anything for sure. But you can! God has provided his creation, your conscience, consideration, his commandments, and—most of all—Christ, so you can know and live in the truth. Talk It Over
What are some things you’ve learned about God by looking at creation?
When has your conscience helped you to know what’s right or wrong? How has getting to know Jesus helped you understand truth more deeply?
The Boca Raton Tribune
COLUMNIST
By: Tom Madden
Majestic Through Warmest of Years, In 2050, Lady Liberty Gets a Vacation
On Labor Day 2050 with thermometers surpassing 125 degrees, President Karloff will sign an Executive Order to rewrite what has become too attractive a message that’s now “overworking freedom and driving liberty a bit berserk.”
The President today aimed both barrels from his high perch in the State of Columbia at what was once meant as a heartfelt message welcoming immigrants to America but today may be too hot for the U.S. to handle.
Reminiscent of President Reagan’s “tear down this wall” message to Soviet leader Gorbachev during an earlier tumultuous era, President Karloff orders this message be torn down from The Statue of Liberty: “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.”
It will now be replaced with one warning all immigrants: “Better deserve what you’re seeking or please turn back.”
The original historic welcoming message from a poem by Emma Lazarus was well meant, Karloff said, but has become “too inspiring, too attractive in today’s oppressively hot climate.”
What it’s been doing in the 2030’s and 40’s, he said is bringing to America not only decent honest folk fleeing corrupt countries, seeking a better, safer way of life, but along with them “a horde of desperadoes and troublemakers.”
These felons tag alongside decent folk seeking freedom from tyranny and oppression, fleeing harm and impover-
ishment, he said. “But we don’t need accompanying them ruffians who come for darker reasons, to capture vulturous opportunities, run illegal schemes, do dastardly things and exploit freedom to enrich themselves immorally and illegally.”
Today, Karloff said that noble invitation has become the most glaring miscarriage of messaging on the planet, evolving from one originally intended to inspire good souls to embrace freedom to now one that’s also inviting conniving opportunists to come place their bets.
“Over the years that message has triggered a flood of deserving immigrants onto our shores, but today among them are coming criminals and deviates entering illegally, exploiters inherently unfit and undeserving the freedom our democracy provides its citizens and worthy aspirants,” said President Karloff.
That poignant message will now be temporarily removed from the Statue and replaced by one Karloff believes a predecessor, Donald J. Trump, might give today.
If Trump saw the stampede that immigration has once again become, Karloff believes Trump would do what he did in 2025 when he became president for the second time, expelling nearly two million immigrants who had entered the U.S. illegally. Trump was known not to mince words, he said.
Here is what that former no-nonsense president probably would say to immigrants today in 2050:
You’d better deserve what Lady Liberty’s offering you, bub.
If not, see ya later alligator!
Don’t get Tom Madden wrong, he respects immigrants. His wife Rita is from Brazil and his grandparents on both sides were immigrants, but they all came to our shores legally, worked hard and lived wholesome, productive lives. This is more a satire of what could happen if immigration ever became a stampede again needing to be trumped back to doing it the right way, legally. When not writing books and blogs, Madden is CEO of TransMedia Group, the PR firm he started when he left NBC . . . legally!
By: Douglas G Logan SOLVITUR
AMBULANDO
Swing Back
It’s a rabbit tale. We have several families living harmoniously with us on our .75 acre lot. We’re friends. They love our clover and crabgrass; we have been known to warn them when we see the red hawks.
We bought six pots of chrysanthemums for planting in anticipation of Autumn. The rabbits love the flowers. We watched as they denuded every bud. It has made for great entertainment, well worth the $36.00.
We’re coexisting.
We watched a neighbor build a house on an adjoining lot. He clear-cut the entire property. He decided what elevation he wanted for his floor slab, then cut and filled. No thought to work harmoniously with the topography. He probably cut down 150 trees; mature pine and hardwood. Landscaped his home with maybe 50 young trees, curated from a local nursery. His trees.
He’s the master.
There was a time when the human race had to master nature to survive. The need to do that has greatly diminished. Vast swaths of the planet have been dominated; technology and intelligence have given us the ability to adapt and mitigate the bludgeoning of our environment. Yet, there are those who continue to rapacious-
ly conduct themselves as conquerors. Why? Usually for comfort. For profit. For ego. And sometimes for more onerous motives. An assault on the defenseless as a salve for insecurity. False bravado. And, in a lot of cases, out of ignorance.
I don’t want to portray myself as holier-than-thou. I am burning my fair share of hydrocarbons, in my cars, in my furnace. But I’m trying to take more steps towards respect. I do not fertilize any more; don’t use pesticides; do not fumigate. I am an ally to trees, toads and natural fungus. I decided, intentionally, to try to coexist with Mother Nature on her terms, rather than try to master her.
In a past professional life I was a dam builder; changing the natural coursing of water in order for man to water more lawns and irrigate golf courses. I lived in a fine house on a barrier island; intuitively I knew I was invading a fragile ecosystem and disturbing the regenerative defenses of nature. I profited from my actions.
It’s a beautiful day today in the Northlands. It was 48 when I began to walk; 70, now at mid-day. Sunny, dry and clear. A pretty day in a pretty spot. I struggle with reducing my inclination to master my world. I want to spend the rest of my time here more harmoniously.
CARTOON RFK JR
By: Tim Campbell
Memorial Park Controversy Shows How Tone Deaf Boca Raton’s Leaders Have Become
By Kartik Krishnaiyer
During last Tuesday’s Boca Raton City Council Meeting, City Manager George Brown strongly implied Memorial Park facilities were not built out before 1959 and that Memorial Park did not have a strong association with veterans or memorial events. While Brown might be correct that recently most city memorial functions have been held at the Boca Raton Cemetery, historically many of these sorts of functions took place at Memorial Park. At the center of the conflict is a debate about whether the property was explicitly named a “war memorial” in honor of World War II, or if the name “Memorial Park” is merely a generic, non-specific designation. But what the city does not seem to understand is that perception is reality and tone-deafness around veterans issues can turn a citizenry against local government. The tone has been stunning particularly from Mayor Scott Singer, who in the past appeared a highly-intelligent and thoughtful public official- and one in tune with the preferences of the citizens of Boca Raton. One must assume he’s not actually driving this train but external forces are, because it seems so out of character
for him.
Whatever the specifics are of the debate which we will outline below in broad strokes, the city not understanding the sensitivity of the Memorial Park issue is mind-blowing. I will concede as someone who writes professionally about history, I was so shocked by the apparent callousness of Boca Raton’s posture, I hesitated to write my initial story and delayed its publication until I had all the backup evidence I needed to recognize my hunch was correct- that a World War II memorial, no matter what the “formalities” of its designation was being removed at the whims of politicians and developers.
The argument for a war memorial
According to historical records and town council resolutions from 1947, the park was officially named “Memorial Park” and “War Memorial.” Proponents of this view argue that given the resolution was passed just two years after the end of World War II, the intention was clear: to create a memorial for those who served and died in the war. The word “Memorial,” used in this specific context, directly refers to a memorial for World War II. Furthermore, as we have previously reported proponents point to the consistent use of the name in official city documents. For example, many city budget documents refer to capital improvements on the property as being for “Memorial Park Tennis Center,” or “Memorial Park recreation improvements,” which they argue proves the name has been significant and consistently applied over many years- even if the names have been changed now for whatever reason, political or otherwise.
The counter-argument: A question of “designation”
The opposing side argues that while the property has been called Memorial Park, no official war memorial building was ever erected or designated on the site. Their arguments rely on a timeline of events, pointing out that:
When a playground and recreational facilities were opened in 1959, they were not named or designated as a war memorial.
A new city hall and community center were later added, and neither facility was given this designation.
Parking lots added in 1980 were also not officially designated as a war memorial.
This view suggests that the term “Memorial Park” is insignificant and was applied at random to a variety of projects on the property, like a tennis center that was informally known as the Boca Tennis Center. However, as the below documents show these items were added AFTER the area was clearly used for war memorial functions for many years and the building out of the space began before 1959.
Most importantly, as stated above perception is reality. Why the city’s leadership would want to do something that is perceived to many as the desecration of something honoring the sacrifices Americans made during World War II is quite honestly is stunning. Beyond that it indicates an arrogance and entitlement by elected officials and bureaucrats at the city based on technicalities- even if they are correct on some of those technicalities, the court of public opinion is widely outraged at this moment about this.
In a democracy quite frankly, that stinks. And that is the sort of thing that leads citizens to lose trust in government, something we are grappling with throughout the western world at the moment.
As this debate evolves it is becoming clear the city’s arguments which have been inconsistent (The FAQ’s on the project page pertaining to the War Memorial issue are now on their third version) don’t hold much water and have in many ways further inflamed the situation. And now the international press is showing an interest in this matter.
This debate over the park’s name and intent is a central point of contention for the new master plan to redevelop the area. The city’s inability to understand the sensitivity of this matter and the seriousness many take the perception of desecration of a World War II memorial has been alarming. At a time when trust in government is at an all time low and the perception many have is that politicians and bureaucrats “lie” all the time, the city needs to do better. We hope, pray and trust they will do better now that this thing has blown up.
Others issues exist around the development of the new downtown government campus, but quite frankly from an optics perspective (though not necessarily from a resident or policy perspective) they are all fairly minor compared to this Memorial Park matter. How the city got it so badly wrong on the Memorial aspect of this is something that could permanently sour many on Boca Raton – and that’s not good for anyone, regardless of you view of this issue.
City Leaders Receive Certificates of Achievement from the Florida League of Cities
Boca Raton, FL – August 28, 2025 –The City of Boca Raton is proud to recognize four City Council members for their achievements in the Certificate Program for Elected Municipal Officials, hosted by the Florida League of Cities (FLC). Deputy Mayor Fran Nachlas and Council Member Andy Thomson earned the Bronze Certificate of Merit, Council Member Yvette Drucker earned the Silver Certificate of Leadership, and Council Member Marc Wigder earned the Gold Certificate of Excellence.
The certificate achievement program rewards municipal officials for their commitment and dedication to training and continuing education, at three certificate levels.
“The Florida League of Cities continues to offer outstanding educational opportunities for municipal leaders at every stage of their public service,” said Michael C. Blake, 2024-2025 FLC President and Mayor for the City of Cocoa. “By partic-
ipating in the FLC’s training opportunities, elected leaders are strengthening
their knowledge, growing professionally, and ensuring they are prepared to meet the needs of their communities with confidence and integrity.”
The City’s Deputy Mayor and Council Members all completed the certificate program between July 2024 and July 2025. Officials earned points for participating in training events offered by FLC, including monthly webinars, online orientation, the Institute for Elected Municipal Officials (IEMO I and II), the State-Mandated Continuing Education in Ethics, and the League’s Annual Conference and legislative events.
Certificate recipients at all levels will be featured in the League’s online magazine, qualitycities.com, and at the FLC Annual Conference.
For more information on the Certificate Program for Elected Municipal Officials, visit flcities.com/certificate.
What Boca’s Other Park and Rec Leaders Did
By Marci Shatzman
Want to take the kids for a carousel ride in Sugar Sand Park in Boca Raton? They’re free for the entire month of September to celebrate the carousel’s 20th anniversary. That announcement came at the regular meeting of the Greater Boca Raton Beach & Park District that oversees Sugar Sand Park and other local recreation facilities. The district has a list of projects they’ll spend public money on the rest of this and next year, including $150,000 on carousel repairs.
For instance, major renovations coming at Patch Reef Park Community Center in another of the district’s parks. Plans were just to have Walters Zackria Associates update the restrooms to ensure ADA compliance. But district commissioners approved $94,580 for the expanded scope of work. Among that will be reconfiguring the meeting room layout to create a barrier-free multipurpose room. Replacing flooring throughout with carpet tile and/or luxury vinyl tile. Interior painting of walls, trim, and doors. And removing the glass partition at the lobby reception and modifying finishes.
Here’s what else the district approved Wednesday night: Interviewing seven of the nine
firms that submitted proposals for the east side of the 212+ acre North Park, the former golf course property in Boca Teeca that the district owns and plans to build a public park. https:// northparkplan.com/ Miller Legg, the district’s consultant, evaluated all nine submissions and chose seven firms recommended to advance to the Request for Proposal phase. The district will also meet on Oct. 6 and 7 about the west side of the property.
Adopted a tentative levying of ad valorem taxes that fund most of the district’s projects. The FY 2025-2026 tentative operating millage rate is 1.08 mills, which is greater than the rolledback rate of 1.0302 mills by 4.83%. For the year ending September 30, 2026, the tentative operating budget expenditures are 10.5% more than last year’s total operating expenditures. Total revenues and other financing sources $67,424,000. Total estimated revenues and balances $105,980,400. The final public hearing will be 6 p.m. Sept. 15.
Here’s the district’s upcoming capital expenses: North Park Project $22,500,000. Patch Reef Projects $5,400,000. District Capital Projects other $1,720,000. Sugar Sand Projects $8,050,000. Beach Renourishment Sinking Fund transfer $300,000.
The Boca Raton
CHARITY
It’s a Wrap for Boca Chamber Festival Days
By Marci Shatzman
Whether you went to the sold-out kickoff for the Boca Raton Bowl on Dec. 23 and FAU’s football season, the Bingo and Brunch 4Kids finale or 20+ events in between, this year’s Boca Chamber Festival Days did what they were supposed to do.
The Chamber started Festival Days 48 years ago to fill a void…what used to be down time in August. The mission has stayed the same: “Non-profit Chamber Members join forces with for-profit Chamber Members to hold events during the month of August…to enhance awareness and gather funds….” And as Chamber CEO/ President Troy McLellan announced to a full house at Best Foot Forward’s Battle of the Bartenders, the first Festival Days were nearly 50 years ago. This year’s both BFF and the event’s 15th anniversary drew 300+ supporters and was a record-breaking fundraiser, BFF announced afterward. https:// bestfoot.org/
Chamber executive V.P. Sarah Pearson sent her lookback. “Not only did we have new nonprofits participate this year, we also had past nonprofit participants that created new events this year. Both were very, very successful,” she said. “We also had a Boynton Beach event, which not only gave exposure to the nonprofit but did provide them with some money as well. That was ex-
citing.”
In fact, among the new events that attracted a crowd was the HabCenter Boca Raton’s Chopstick Challenge. We watched teams of mostly Boca notables vie for bragging rights, and CEO Sherry Henry present a lifetime achievement award to former board chair Barbara Cambia. https://habcenter.org/
Habitat for Humanity Greater Palm Beach County had two seatings of a sushi experience: https://habitatgreaterpbc.org/ And among the well-known events were the YMCA’s Casino Night https://www.ymcaspbc.org/locations/ peter-blum-family-ymca-boca-raton; Boca’s Got Talent for Myla’s Beleaf non-
rprofit supporting families dealing with childhood cancer https://mylasbeleaf. com/ and Boca Helping Hand’s Bowling for Bread https://www.bocahelpinghands.org/ Roots & Wings Foundation helping low-income kids got involved, too. https://rootswings.org/ Speak Up for Kids’ Margarita Monday was again at Rocco’s Tacos in the Boca Center. “We brought in just shy of $3,000. The total was $2935.50 which included ticket sales, 50/50, and the raffle,” the nonprofit reported. “This was our third year at Boca Chamber Festival Days, and once again the Boca community showed why it is such a driving force in Palm Beach County. The gen-
erosity, energy, and commitment here are unmatched. With half of the county’s foster youth living in South County, Boca’s support is nothing short of critical in ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive,” Speak Up’s executive director Coleen LaCosta said. We sat next to their board v.p. Frank Cupido and met board chair Concetto Theros. County Commissioner Marci Woodward was there for the whole event as she was at many of the Festival Days we covered this year. https:// speakupforkidspbc.org/
Bob Weinroth reprised his earlier role as emcee for the American Association for Caregiving Youth’s Game Night. Five teams vied in this “Family Feud” knockoff, and AACY reported their longtime supporter and sponsor AvalonBay Communities’ team raised the most money for the only nonprofit in the U.S.A. that helps kids who care for family members fulltime. https:// aacy.org/
Boca Chamber’s nonprofit Golden Bell Education Foundation had their event at The Boca Raton. http://www. goldenbelleducationfoundation.org/ And a constant presence were Rosie Inguanzo-Martin and Joe Martin, whose Allegiance Home Health again sponsored all the Boca Chamber Festival Days this year. https://www.ahhrehab.com/
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Financial Tips for Women Sweet Ideas for Afternoon Snacks
By State Point
Women face unique financial challenges, such as career breaks for caregiving and gender wealth gaps.
CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professionals are offering insights into some of these challenges, along with tips to help women build wealth and achieve financial independence.
The Challenges
Wealth gap: Across all workers nationwide, women were typically paid 75 cents for every dollar paid to a man in 2023, a figure that’s held steady for decades. Given this persistent wage gap, it’s no surprise that the TIAA Institute finds that women have 30% less in retirement income than men, a big issue considering that American women live 5.8 years longer on average.
Caregiving roles: Women are often the primary caretaker to children and other family members, such as elderly parents, and are more likely than men to take time off from work to fulfill this role. This can impact long-term savings, professional advancement opportunities and Social Security benefits.
Health issues: While no one likes to imagine getting sick or feeling unwell, the unfortunate reality is that 1 in 8 American women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. Other women’s health conditions, while not life-threatening, can also be costly to manage. Menopause, for example, associated with more than 100 symptoms, costs U.S. women $26.6 billion annually in medical expenses and lost work, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Financial abuse: Financial abuse is a common form of domestic abuse whereby a member of the household seizes control over another’s financial
resources. While financial abuse transcends socioeconomic boundaries, the majority of victims are women.
The Solutions
So how can women overcome these challenges? Here are several strategies for building wealth and holding onto it:
• Be proactive about potential health issues. Understand the price tag involved for care and adjust your budget accordingly. Have disability insurance to replace income should a medical condition sideline you, and a life insurance plan in place before a serious diagnosis to secure an affordable policy.
• Select a health insurance plan that meets your needs.
• Establish an emergency fund.
• Diversify your income streams.
• Begin investing in a well-diversified portfolio as early as possible.
• Build retirement savings by paying yourself first with each paycheck, maximizing contributions to tax-advantaged accounts.
• Create an estate plan to ensure your wishes will be met should you not have the capacity to speak for yourself.
• Educate yourself on finance and investing through workshops, books or by consulting with a CFP® professional.
• Reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline for support if you’re experiencing financial abuse.
To find a CFP® professional who can help you take these steps and work with you to overcome the unique challenges you face, visit LetsMakeAPlan. org.
Understanding the financial challenges you could face and the solutions to overcome them can help you pave the way to a secure future.
By State Point
Snack time is not just about refueling yourself, it’s also an opportunity to hit the pause button and unwind, whether that means rewarding yourself for a job well done, connecting with coworkers in the breakroom, or building memories with friends and family.
According to Wonder bread, the iconic brand with over 100 years of expertise in feeding American families, snack time can be a satisfying indulgence without being complicated. That’s why the brand has recently introduced a new line-up of nostalgic sweet treats that are making your alltime favorites even yummier. To celebrate the launch, Wonder is offering these simple ideas for afternoon snacks that will give you and yours that much needed pick-me-up:
1. Enjoy the rich flavor of Glazed Honey Buns or Pecan Cinnamon Twists with a steaming cup of Earl Grey tea. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, enjoy these treats à la mode!
2. Turn the afternoon into a party with Creme Filled Confetti Cakes.
Whatever the occasion – a birthday, the completion of a big project or just because – you can pair these airy treats with strawberries and milk. Feeling more chocolatey? Try serving the Creme Filled Chocolate Cupcakes along with bananas or raspberries.
3. Nothing goes better with an afternoon cup of joe or cappuccino than some classic and delicious Frosted or Powdered Mini Donuts.
4. Spice up the afternoon with the warmth and sweetness of Brown Sugar Cinnamon Donut Sticks and a chai latte served piping hot or iced.
Of course, all these treats can be enjoyed perfectly on their own and are great for kids’ lunch boxes, as workplace treats, or for on-the-go snacking. For more snack ideas that put new twists on nostalgic favorites and that will “Treat Your Wonder,” visit www. wonderbread.com.
Snack time means many different things to many different people, but one thing is certain – these moments can and should be both simple and delicious.
The Boca Raton Tribune
BUSINESS
Spirit Airlines, Fort Lauderdale’s Largest Carrier and one of Broward County’s Largest Employers Files for Bankruptcy Again
By Kartik Krishnaiyer
Spirit Airlines, the largest airline at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and one of Broward County’s biggest employers, filed for bankruptcy protection Friday afternoon — just five months after it exited its previous restructuring.
The Dania Beach-based carrier, a fixture in South Florida’s aviation industry, acknowledged that its comeback attempt in March wasn’t enough to offset mounting costs, softening domestic demand, and ongoing struggles tied to engine recalls and an abandoned merger with JetBlue.
A Local Economic Anchor Spirit operates more flights at FLL than any other airline, accounting for roughly one in three passengers moving through the airport. Its bright yellow jets, long synonymous with ultra-lowcost flying, have helped Fort Lauderdale grow into a major gateway for domestic and Caribbean travel. Spirit
plans to serve 70 different cities nonstop from Fort Lauderdale this winter. For the region, the carrier’s financial turmoil raises immediate concerns about service cuts. Spirit said in court filings that it plans to shrink its fleet and reduce its network to save “hun-
dreds of millions of dollars” annually. That could mean fewer flights in and out of Fort Lauderdale — a potential blow to tourism and local businesses that depend on steady visitor traffic. Or it could mean Spirit retrenches to Fort Lauderdale, which is their home base
and cuts in other large markets like Orlando, Las Vegas, Atlanta and Chicago.
From Optimism to Crisis
When Spirit emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy in March, it projected a $252 million profit for the year. Instead, it reported a $257 million loss from March through June, citing stubbornly high operating costs.
CEO Dave Davis admitted Friday to CNBC that Spirit’s earlier restructuring “was targeted exclusively on reducing debt and raising equity capital” but didn’t go far enough to stabilize the airline.
Meanwhile, competitors are circling. Frontier Airlines, Spirit’s longtime rival and one-time suitor, announced 20 new routes this week directly targeting Spirit’s customer base. Six of those twenty routes touch Fort Lauderdale.
We will keep tabs on this developing story in the coming days.
ENTERTAINMENT
Spirit Airlines, Fort Lauderdale’s Largest Carrier and one of Broward County’s Largest Employers Files for Bankruptcy Again
By Marci Shatzman
One of the highlights of the new social season is the annual Mayors Ball. Here’s an interview with chairman Bob Tucker. Tickets go on sale
Tuesday Sept. 1.
Q: When and where is this gala, and who will be honored?
A: This year’s black-tie gala will be Saturday, Nov. 1 at The Boca Raton. We are expecting 500 of the best of Boca – elected officials, C-suiters from many of the 40-plus companies headquartered here, philanthropists and anybody else who wants to celebrate our city and all that it stands for. Three organizations will be honored; Town Center at Boca Raton, The Addison and George Snow Scholarship Fund. Also, we will recognize three individuals; George Brown, Gary Peters and Jon Kaye. A special guest will be Barry Rassin, former International President of Rotary who led 1.4 members. Co-emcees are Miss Universe 1992 Michelle McLean and WPBF-TV meteorologist Glenn Glazer. A live auction will be conducted by Bill Riddick of Saffer and Company who will sell several exotic travel experiences. To purchase single tickets for $495, click the QR ad in the graphic or contact me at
522btucker@gmail.com.
Q: What does the ticket price cover, i.e., cocktail reception, program, dancing to live music?
A: The ticket price includes valet parking, open bar, an elegant multicourse dinner, decadent dessert and a live band so revelers can dance the night away.
Q: Why is this called the Mayors Ball? What does that means and who puts it on?
A: Launched 10 years ago by the Rotary Club Downtown Boca Raton, Mayors Ball honors city visionaries, past and present, and all that makes Boca Raton a wonderful place to live, work and play. Proceeds are distributed among many Boca nonprofits, touching thousands of lives every year.
Q: Who started this, and do you expect to do anything different this year?
A: In 2015, Jon Kaye conceived Mayors Ball during his presidency of the Rotary Club Downtown Boca Raton and produced it very successfully
for the next eight years before passing the baton to me. The main difference this year is we moved the gala from Boca West to The Boca Raton because of its historical significance and how that coincides with the Centennial of the city.
Q: Will there be a tie-in to the city’s Centennial?
A: We are theming it “Party of the Century” to celebrate the Centennial and all that has made Boca the best city in America to live, work and play. We will have décor in the ballroom which reflects Boca through the decades and some other surprises
Q: Anything else you want to say? Are you still looking for sponsors?
A: While pre-event sponsorship opportunities have expired, like a logo on the invitation, sponsorships can still be secured. Opportunities range from logo exposure in the printed program to signage in the ballroom the night of the gala. Contact me at 522btucker@gmail.com for a sponsorship packet. Have a Ball at the Ball!
CLASSIFIELDS
FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF FLORIDA IN AND FOR PALM BEACH COUNTY Circuit Probate In the Estate of Case No: 50-2025-CP-001490-XXXA-MB
JAMES ANTHONY OLIVA, Judge: Deceased
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
TO ALL PERSONS HAVING CLAIMS OR DEMANDS AGAINST THE ABOVE ESTATE: The administration of the Estate of James Anthony Oliva, deceased, File Number: 50-2025-CP-001490-XXXAMB, is pending in the Circuit Court for Palm Beach County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 205 N Dixie Hwy, West Palm Beach, FL 33401; that the decedent’s date of death was November 18, 2024. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM.
All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is 28 day of august, 2025.
Attorney for Personal Representative: Frank F. Owen, Esq. Florida Bar # 702188 13357 Gershwin Lane Port Charlotte, FL 3398
Email:Frank@Owen.law Phone: 954-964-8000
Personal Representative: 125 Cameron Drive
Christina Oliva Hagin Cameron Lakes, Weston, Florida 33326
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IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR PALM BEACH COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION
IN RE: ESTATE OF HELEN MICHELLE FISHER A/K/A SHELLEY FISHER, Deceased.File No. 502024CP005712XXXANB
Division IA
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The administration of the Estate of Helen Michelle Fisher a/k/a Shelley Fisher, deceased, whose date of death was October 31, 2024, is pending in the Circuit Court for Palm Beach County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 205 North Dixie Hwy., West Palm Beach, Florida 33401. The names and addresses of the Curator of the Florida Estate of the Decedent is set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. The curator and/or personal representative has no duty to discover whether any property held at the time of the decedent’s death by the decedent or the decedent’s surviving spouse is property to which the Florida Uniform Disposition of Community Property Rights at Death Act as described in §§ 732.216-732.228, Florida Statutes, applies, or may apply, unless a written demand is made by a creditor as specified under § 732.2211, Florida Statutes. The written demand must be filed with the clerk. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.
The date of first publication of this notice is 28 august, 2025.
Curator: /s/ Ryan Grubich
Ryan C. Grubich, Esq.
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