Pelican

Turtle Nesting Season is March through October

The

Pelican

Friday, April 5, 2013 - Vol. XXI, Issue 14

Pompano Beach • Deerfield Beach • Lighthouse Point • Lauderdale-By-The-Sea Wilton Manors • Oakland Park • Hillsboro Beach • The Galt • Palm Aire Wherever you are, read The Pelican @ pompanopelican.com • Send news to siren2415@gmail.com

$93,000 entry sculpture approved for LBTS

By Judy Vik PELICAN STAFF

Lauderdale-By-The-Sea – Town commissioners on Tuesday authorized artist Laurie Huck to create a “Coral Arch” metal sculpture to highlight the western gateway to town.

Cost of the artwork is $93,025.

The 14-foot sculpture on a 3.75-foot base, featuring flying fish and a turtle, will be installed in the first town parking lot east of the Intracoastal Waterway bridge on the south side of Commercial Boulevard. It will be in the general vicinity of where the flagpole is today.

The vote to approve the agreement was 4-1, Commissioner Chris Vincent dissenting. He objected to the cost and the placement of the artwork.

Funds for the sculpture come from See SCULPTURE on page 12

Mayor wants charter revised but withholds specifics

By Judy Wilson PELICAN STAFF

Deerfield Beach – Mayor Jean Robb presented several of her initiatives this week, saying she would ask for formal action at future commission meetings. Top of her list is establishment of a charter review committee. Robb said some changes now allowed by ordinance should be given to the electorate and other things need to be eliminated or changed.

See DEERFIELD on page 5

Parties with fireworks mark city’s new look

By Anne Siren PELICAN STAFF

Pompano Beach - This city’s beach area is having a “coming-out” party tonight that will rival any other

event that has taken place on the east side of town for years. And the party moves from west to east.

Redevelopment at the beach has been a project of the city’s Community Redevelopment Agency,

or CRA. The big deal is that most of the work on the beach, Atlantic Boulevard and Harbor Village has been completed. The celebration See FEAST on page 18

Volunteer vets lead others through the VA’s tortuous claims process; average wait is 600 days

By Judy Wilson PELICAN STAFF

Deerfield Beach – Nine veterans from the Goldcoast Chapter of the Disabled Americans Veterans [DAV] have dedicated themselves to decoding the language of the Veteran’s Administration.

It is a monumental task.

Not only because as Navy vet Elliott Roth said, “It is the most confusing, disjointed manual I’ve ever seen, but that’s because the rules are constantly changing. As an example, Form 527 was two-pages long for many years. A recently published version, 527-EZ, is eight pages.”

Few veterans of earlier wars

– WWII, Korea and Vietnam - are capable of filing the VA’s benefit forms without help. So these nine volunteers spend most Tuesdays as service officers at the American Legion Post in Deerfield Beach, offering their free expertise to help their comrades navigate the government’s paperwork.

As broadcast recently on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe” the wait for the average VA disability claim is 600 days. And while the VA aims to update its processing systems by 2015, for most of the aging WWII veterans that help will come too late.

“They need these assets now,” said counselor Mike Butler.

So DAV service officers attempt to expedite the process.

Said one, filling out the forms correctly is more than half the battle because if information is missing, and the forms returned, many vets abandoned their efforts to get the compensation due them. “Ninetyfive percent need some additional information,” ex-Marine Bob Citrolo said. “We’re here to do it once and do it right.”

Florida has the largest population of veterans in this country and because the Goldcoast Chapter has the most service officers in the state, it handles See VETS on page 16

Friday, April 5, 2013

2 The Pelican

Sightings A community calendar for Northeast Broward County.

Send your event information to mdpelican@yahoo.com

Art 4-5 – Photographs of Peter J. Nolan will be on display at Art Gallery 21, 600 NE 21 Ct., Wilton Manors, until May 3. Gallery 21 is open Fridays from 7 to 9 p.m.

954-661-4740.

4-12 – Social Media & The Artists workshop from 7 to 9 p.m. at Art Gallery 21, 600 NE 21 Court. Cost is $5 donation to the Central Area

Neighborhood Association of Wilton Manors. Email PoetC7@aol.com or 954-6614740.

4-17 – Free “Artistic Candy Making” class from 7 to 9 p.m. at Friedt Family Fellowship Hall, 4433 Bougainvilla Drive, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea. Organized by Our Art By The Sea. 954-594-0444.

Auctions & Sales 4-13 – Yard Sale from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hagen Park, Wilton Manors. Vendor space available. 954-390-2115 or 954-390-2130.

4-27 & 28 – Garden Isles community garage sale from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Houses throughout community gardens, along Cypress Road and Northeast 3 Street, will be having garage sales. 954-6461948.

Town honors work of BSO Capt. Angelo Cedeno

Auditions & Theatre 4-6 – “Beau Jest” at 8 p.m. at Broward Stage Door Theatre, 8036 W. Sample Road, Coral Springs through April 28. Tickets are $38.

954-344-7765.

4-12 – The “Turn of the Screw” opera at 7:30 p.m. at Keith C. & Elaine Johnson Wold Performing Arts Center, Lynn University, 3601 N. Military Trail, Boca Raton.

Tickets range from $45 to $65. 561-237-9000.

4-27 – “With Love, from Broadway & More” at 8 p.m. at Herb Skolnick Center, 800 SW 36 Ave., Pompano Beach. Tickets range from $10 to $25. 954-784 0768.

See SIGHTINGS on page 11

Members of the Lauderdale-By-The-Sea Town Commission honored Broward Sheriff’s Office Capt. Angelo Cedeno with a proclamation Tuesday in recognition of his service to the town. He was executive officer from February 2009 to January when he was promoted to Internal Affairs. He was recognized for displaying a tremendous passion for law enforcement, exceptional leadership and a high level of professionalism. Shown with Cedeno, fourth from left, are Commissioners Mark Brown, Chris Vincent, Mayor Roseann Minnet, Vice Mayor Scot Sasser and Commissioner Stuart Dodd. [Staff photo by Judy Vik]

Friday, April 5, 2013

The Pelican 3

Looking to the future, mayor addresses long range planning

By Judy Wilson PELICAN STAFF

Hillsboro Beach – Mayor Dan Dodge has asked commissioners here to submit their ideas for the town’s long range planning. Saying he had trouble finding a plan that would mirror the needs of this small beachfront community, the mayor laid out what he thought should be considered.

Most important is keeping good financial controls and the town’s traditional low mileage rate, Dodge said,

and then assessing future capital needs which will likely include improvements to the water distribution system.

Maintaining the smalltown quality of life is also important, the mayor said.

Future transportation needs should also be considered: the town’s bus service, pedestrian crossings, speed limits, and the introduction of sidewalks.

The town owns just two pieces of property, the water plan site on Sample Road and the town hall complex on A1A. Acquiring more land

could be a possibility and the feasibility and affordability of that needs to be studied, Dodge said.

Along with the water distribution system which at some time will have to be either replaced or upgraded, other power sources such as natural gas or solar energy could be proposed, he said.

“It [the plan] doesn’t have to be overly complicated,” Dodge said. “But it is up to us to determine what is practical and correct for us. Then we will refine it at a public

workshop.”

Sun Bergeron wins disposal contract Hillsboro Beach - The commission chose Sun Bergeron as its waste disposal contractor this week commenting that they felt more material would be recycled and reintroduced as new products with Sun rather than with the other competitor present on Tuesday, Wheelabrator.

Sun’s price is $45.25 a ton against Wheelabrator’s $42.

Mayor Dan Dodge said the firm, new to the industry here, has shown success in winning accounts and that he liked the idea of the “small guy challenging the big guy.

Everyone seemed to admire their success in introducing their product to market,” he added. The small difference in tonnage fees makes little difference over the length of the five-year contract, he said.

Sun Bergeron won its first See HILLSBORO on page 16

Friday, April 5, 2013

4 The Pelican

Plan aims to make Deerfield Beach a nautical destination

By Judy Wilson PELICAN STAFF

Deerfield Beach – Marine interests here have drawn a proposal that, if accepted by the city commission, will improve access to local waterways, establish a nautical art program and create signature events with a nautical theme.

In addition, the business group headed by former fire rescue administrator Jim Mathie, is asking the city to establish a marine advisory committee, install mooring buoys along Angel’s Reef for divers, work to build an artificial reef, establish a system of floating docks for kayak and paddle-board users and ask the water management district to deepen the Hillsboro River east of Military Trail.

Additionally, the group wants to help the city design the maritime village being proposed for Sullivan Park.

Purpose of the plan presented Tuesday at the commission meeting is to

promote the city as a nautical destination for visitors and as a place to live with opportunities for recreation and business near the water.

It is a 44-page analysis of the area’s existing marine amenities and what is needed in the way of improvements.

On Mathie’s ‘team’ are major business owners such as Marina One, 2 Georges at the Cove, the Wyndham Beach Resort, Island Water Sports, Riva Motorsports, Dixie Divers, Oceans 234, Embassy Suites, Skirixen as well as the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Deerfield Beach Chamber of Commerce.

Already accomplished is one of their goals: a local map that highlights the city’s nautical destinations and which is now being distributed by the chamber.

“Deerfield Beach is currently ranked fifth among Broward’s 32 municipalities in the amount of tourist tax collected. Promoting the city as a nautical destination

should increase this amount and improve our overall ranking,” Mathie said. In 2011, this city sent $1.7 million in bed tax revenues to the county. “Tourism is Broward’s number one economic engine,” Mathie added. “To be a player, destinations need to find their niche and brag about it. Come aboard and help promote us.”

Integral to the image of Deerfield Beach as a nautical destination is the establishment of a funded public art program that emphasizes nautical themes such as the mural by artist Rick Novak at the 2 Georges.

Public art is encouraged and funded with development and redevelopment fees. In Boynton Beach, one percent of the cost of all commercial development is set aside for public art. Last year Pompano Beach approved an ordinance

establishing a two percent share of each public project for art.

Also presented for consideration was a logo design consisting of the pier, a wave and a rising sun.

Commissioners accepted the destination plan without comment except for Joe Miller who said he favored the idea of “branding our city” and asked if staff would look into the proposal.

DBES sets Round-Up for kindergarten parents Deerfield Beach- Another Kindergarten Round-Up will be held at Deerfield Beach Elementary School, 60 NE 1 St. April 10, 6 to 7 p.m. in the media center. Parents will meet staff and learn about curriculum and school activities. To enroll in kindergarten, children must be age five by Sept. 1, 2013 and provide original birth certificate, two proofs of residency, current Florida Immunization Record and physical exam form.

Call 754-322-6100.

Friday, April 5, 2013

Deerfield Continued from page 1

Robb has chaired several charter review committees in the past and said “there were things we should have looked at but didn’t.” She said she would elaborate further at another time.

Commissioner Bill Ganz said he would not favor establishing the committee without further discussion and Vice Mayor Ben Preston asked what the directive would be for the reviewers.

Robb said she would “table the issue for now” but asked the city clerk to determine what elections are being scheduled by the county prior to the next city ballot in 2015.

Noting the difficulty in filling advisory board seats,

The Pelican 5 the mayor also suggested disbanding the Memorial Committee and giving the Deerfield Beach Historical Society street-naming responsibilities and increasing the size of the Community Appearance Board to include two members from the now defunct Beautification Committee.

Pier lease being challenged by the mayor Deerfield Beach - The lease-holders of the Deerfield Café, the new restaurant on the fishing pier, may have to rethink their 24/7 business plan. Mayor Jean Robb said this week she wants to reconsider commission action taken before her election that permits the restaurant to be open 24 hours a day. She said

she wanted the commission to hear her concerns about the extended hours in that location.

In February, the commission granted a request from Toula Amanna to extend the 6 a.m. to midnight hours stated in the lease but retained the ability to revert to the original agreement if late-night problems occur.

Amanna had contended that the extended hours could produce much higher revenues for the restaurant and as much as $40,000 a year for the city.

Two commercial buildings approved Deerfield Beach - A commercial addition to the Target Super Store on Hillsboro Boulevard was approved by commissioners Tuesday night. The 48,425 square feet of retail space will be attached at the east side of

the Target building on what is now a grassy pad making the entire structure 241,364 square feet. The plat for the 23 acre property owned by United Growth Capital also sets aside two outparcels for future development. One was a Kentucky Fried Chicken outlet, the other a Subway store.

Construction of another large commercial building was also ok’d by the commission. A 97,615 squarefoot decorative tile showroom and distribution center will be built at 1901 W. Sample Road bordering Crystal Lake.

Owner is Bedrosian’s Inc. Commissioner Richard Rosensweig asked if landscaping would block views of the building for people living across the lake. A fence and required landscaping will be installed, he was told.

Funding set for summer programs Deerfield Beach – A summer camp program at Westside Park will be funded by a $50,000 grant from the Law Enforcement Trust Fund and a private benefactor chipping in another $125,000.

The new funding sources replace a former grant provided by the Children’s Services Council.

Children ages 5 to 12 are eligible to attend the camp which will be held June 10 to Aug. 16.

And students in grades three to 12 needing tutoring in math can attend summer classes at the Cathedral Community Church, 365 S. Dixie Highway.

Funded with $5,000 from the Cathedral Community Development Corporation, certified teachers are hired to help students improve their skills in pre-algebra, algebra, geometry and pre-calculus.

Opinion & Letters

6 The Pelican

Friday, April 5, 2013

Bicycle Rodeo Pompano Beach, Deerfield Beach, Lighthouse Point, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, Wilton Manors, Oakland Park and Hillsboro Beach ESTABLISHED 1993 • Volume XXI, Issue 14 Founding Editor and Publisher

Anne Hanby Siren Executive Assistant: Mary Hudson Graphics: Rachel Ramirez Windsheimer Bookkeeper: John White, Christopher Siren Classifieds: Fran Shelby Contributing Writers: Phyllis J. Neuberger, Judy Wilson, Malcolm McClintock, Judy Vik, Michael d’Oliveira Circulation - Joe McGee

Account Executives: Paul Shroads, Carolyn Mann, Bill Heaton, Bill Fox Special Office Assistant: Cathy Siren The Pompano Pelican is published weekly on Fridays

Street Address: 1500-A E. Atlantic Blvd., Pompano Beach, FL 33060 Telephone: 954-783-8700 • Fax: 954-783-0093 Letters to the Editor are encouraged and accepted for print if signed, although a writer’s name will be withheld on request; letters must also include a daytime telephone number.

Advertising rates are available upon request. Subscription rate is $31.80 including tax for one year’s delivery in Greater Pompano Beach; $95.40/per year including tax for others in the United States; call 954-783-8700 for rates abroad. The Pelican is a nonpartisan newspaper and reserves the right to decline advertising. Copyright 2013. Reproduction of this publication in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission of the publisher. The Pelican is a member of the Greater Pompano Beach Chamber of Commerce, Deerfield Beach Chamber and the LBTS Chamber. The Pelican is a state certified woman-owned minority business. The Pelican is delivered to businesses, libraries, schools, offices, hospitals, news racks and single family homes. All advertising and copy is published at the sole discretion of the publisher. We welcome your critiques and ideas concerning this publication.

Anne Siren, publisher

Pompano Beach’s CRA shines brightly with its latest projects at the beach on the Boulevard Tonight, weather permitting, this city’s residents will join officials to celebrate much more than the new look of Pompano Beach, they celebrate teamwork.

A year into the great economic crash, Pompano Beach commissioners stayed the course with their plans to redevelop the beachfront, what little the developers left for us.

Celebrate While all of us were thrilled with renderings of what could happen, mistrust and fear of Pompano’s new change often took a front seat. look tonight Then we went through months of dust in the air, disappearing parking spots, torn up sidewalks and lost customers.

Tonight all those memories begin to fade.

Pompano Beach has never looked so good with the renovations, redevelopment and restorations that have taken place since Kim Briesemeister and Chris Brown took leadership of the city’s Community Redevelopment Agency, or CRA. They came in as pros, and they withstood the doubts and complaints that always arise when ‘change’ raises its ugly head.

Tonight, the champagne glasses should point in the direction of Briesemeister and Brown as we all get used to a new pride in Pompano Beach.

Brown said it best. “April 5 is the turning point for Pompano Beach.

Tonight is our chance for residents to see that a city can really change.”

College scholarships open to Pompano Beach residents Unity in the Commnity of Pompano Beach is pleased to announce that two scholarships in the amount of $1,000 each will be presented this year to local highschool students. The qualifications are: the applicant must be a resident of Pompano Beach, have a GPA of 2.0 or greater, family income must not exceed Broward County median income, be drug and crime free and of good moral character, have completed 40 hours of community service, complete a 500-word essay and have been accepted to attend a college or vocational institute for the 2013-2014 school year.

Applications are available at the CRA Business Resource Center, 50 NE 1st St., Pompano Beach, 33060, or they may be requested by sending an email to Carolyn Mann at carpelican@gmail.com. Completed applications must be received by April 30.

Please mail or deliver the application and requirements to: Unity in the Community, 50 NE 1st St., Pompano Beach, FL 33060.

Pompano Beach – The City of Pompano Beach, in conjunction with Florida Bicycle Month, will hold its Bicycle Rodeo on Saturday, April 6 from 8 to 1 p.m. at McNair Park, 951 NW 27 Ave. There will be bicycle safety information, food and more for families and children of all ages. The event is free. Call 954786-7882.

Sheriff’s charity golf tournament Broward – The Sheriff’s Foundation of Broward County and the Broward Sheriff’s Office are hosting the 2nd Annual Sheriff’s Cup Golf Tournament on Monday, May 6 at the Weston Hills Country Club, 2600 Country Club Way, Weston. Registration is at 8 a.m. and. The tournament starts at 9:30 a.m. Cost is $125 per golfer or $500 for a foursome. The money raised will benefit nonprofit charities in Broward County. Visit www.birdeasepro.com/sheriffscup for more information.

Classic Car Show Pompano Beach – The Cruisin’ South Florida Classic Car Show takes place Saturday, April 20 at Pompano Citi Centre at the corner of Copans Road and Federal Highway, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cars from many different eras will be on display. The juried show is free to the public. There will be special giveaways for attendees. Car owners can pre-register by calling Russ Gagliano at 954-560-5412 or by email at russgevents@gmail.com.

Youth basketball registration Oakland Park – Registration has begun for the Summer Youth Basketball League. Parents can register children ages 7 to 16 [as of June 3] at city hall, 3650 NE 12 Ave., or online [www.oaklandparkfl.org] until the league is full.

Registration fee is $55 for residents and $100 for non-residents. There will be separate age divisions for girls and boys. Call 954-630-4506.

Recycling carts Wilton Manors – On Monday, April 22, residents in single-family homes will start to receive the new roll-out recycling carts. The 65-gallon carts will be dropped off at each single-family home. Residents can keep their old recycling bins or put them on the curb to be picked-up. Residents can start using their new carts on Monday, April 29. For more information, call 954-390-2100.

Seafood Festival returns Pompano Beach – The 29th Annual Pompano Beach Seafood Festival takes place over three days from Friday, April 26 to Sunday, April 28 at the Pompano Beach Fishing Pier, 222 N. Pompano Beach Blvd. Cost is $15 per person per day. Children 12 and under are free. In addition to the food and merchandise sold throughout the weekend, there will also be live entertainment every day and night. On Friday, 5 to 10 p.m., “Fourth Dimension” and “Never Stop Believing” will perform. Saturday’s lineup, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., includes “Brass Evolution,” “Ploomie,” “Low Tides” and “38 Special.” On Sunday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., “Two Can Blue,” “Across the Universe” and “Jimmy Stowe and the Stowaways” will be performing. Part of the proceeds from the event benefit local charities, including local school activities. Visit www.pompanobeachseafoodfestival.com for more information.

Low cost rabies clinic Fort Lauderdale – Broward County Animal Care and Adoption will host a rabies clinic on Saturday, April 6 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Roosevelt Gardens Park, 2841 NW 11 St. Pet owners can purchase low cost vaccinations for dogs or cats to protect them against rabies. Cost for a one-year rabies vaccination and registration tag is $15 per pet. Cash only payments will be accepted. To qualify, pet owners must provide proof of Broward County residency, such as a valid Florida driver’s license or a current utility bill. No appointment is necessary.

Customers are taken on a first come, first served basis. All dogs must be on leashes and all cats must be in carriers. Call 954-359-1313.

Classic movies for $1 Lauderdale-By-The-Sea – In the mood for a nostalgic movie? Every second Friday of the month at 6:30 p.m., a classic film is played at Jarvis Hall, 4501 N. Ocean Dr. The selection for April 12 is “Singin’ in the Rain.” Tickets are $1. Funds raised during the event benefit the American Diabetes Association.

On May 11 “Dr. Zhivago” will be played. “Grease” will be shown on June 8.

Attendees are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite character from the movie being shown. Call 954-449-4368.

Call 954-783-8700 or send your letters to the editor to mdpelican@yahoo.com

Friday, April 5, 2013

The Pelican 7

Transit center may bear Rosa Parks’ name, CRA plans move forward

By Michael d’Oliveira PELICAN STAFF

Pompano Beach – This city’s Northeast Transit Center may soon be named after Rosa Parks, the woman who helped end segregation in public transportation.

Officials with Broward County Transit [BCT] came up with the idea and are now looking for support from the community.

Phyllis Berry, manager with BCT’s Customer Relations and Communications Department, brought the issue before members of the Northwest CRA Advisory Committee

on Monday to enlist their support.

West “How appropriate CRA that the two Update who started their movements together may wind up together in your community,” she said, referring to Parks and Martin Luther King.

Opened in September of last year, the Northeast Transit Center is located at the corner of Dixie Highway and Martin Luther King Boulevard.

Advisory members will discuss the issue at their next meeting on Monday, May 6

at 5 p.m. at the E. Pat Larkins Center, 520 MLK Boulevard.

To rename the center, Berry said there have to be at least three letters of support from the community and facilities can’t be named after anyone still alive. Parks died in 2005. Since the transit center is a county-owned building, final approval will be determined by county commissioners.

Berry said she doesn’t want to assume how commissioners will vote but she’s confident they will approve the new name.

Dist. 4 Commissioner Woodrow Poitier, in whose district the center is located, said he would be fine with naming the facility after Parks

or someone from Pompano.

“I hadn’t given it much thought, but I don’t have any objections. Either way, I’m fine.”

NW Advisory Committee votes to acquire property Pompano Beach – Members of the Northwest CRA Advisory Committee voted Monday to acquire two properties – 690 Hammondville Road and 236 NW 7 Ave. CRA staff members said the purchase price of both properties would be for their combined assessed value – $56,600.

The final decision on the purchase will be made by city commissioners at their

CRA board meeting at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 16 in the commission chambers, 100 W. Atlantic Blvd.

Nguyen Tran, CRA senior project manager, said the properties are located adjacent to land already owned by the NW CRA. Once purchased, he said the CRA would clean up the sites and maintain them.

Carlton Moore, liaison to the NW CRA Advisory Committee, said CRA staff members recommended the purchase because they want to make sure the properties aren’t sold at a later date to a developer who might propose building something that isn’t good for nearby properties.

The CRA plans to leave the properties undeveloped for now.

MLK retail building 60 percent completed Pompano Beach – Carlton Moore, liaison to the NW CRA Advisory Committee, said the 731 Building on Martin Luther King Boulevard, a 4,100 sq. ft. commercial development financed for $1.5 million by the NW CRA, is 60 percent completed. In addition to the physical aspects of the project, Moore added that the NW CRA is also very close to securing leases from four tenants – two restaurants, See WEST CRA on page 11

Friday, April 5, 2013

8 The Pelican

Plans for mixed-use on MLK Boulevard move forward

By Judy Vik PELICAN STAFF

Pompano Beach – City commissioners this week authorized the CRA staff to negotiate with Landmark Development Corp. to construct a mixeduse development at MLK Boulevard and Northwest Sixth Ave. The vote was 5-1, Vice Mayor George Brummer dissenting.

Landmark, a Miamibased firm, was one of two firms to submit a request for proposal to develop the site.

The second, Pinnacle Housing Group, which proposed senior housing, withdrew from consideration last week.

Landmark proposes to build up to a seven-story building with the first floor retail/ commercial and residential floors above. Retail space, fronting on MLK Boulevard, would be about 4,000 square feet. The proposal also calls for a three-story parking structure with 160 spaces.

The developer proposes to build about 127 living units ranging from one to three bedrooms. Cost is $22.5 million and will be paid for in CRA [Community Redevelopment Agency] tax credits.

A family of four would be eligible to rent a unit with a maximum income of $40,800.

“It looks like we’re on our way finally,” said Commissioner Woody Poitier.

“I think it’s a good project.

I’m all for this project.”

Brummer questioned whether one respondent was sufficient. He wondered if the city should seek more proposals.

“I don’t think this does anything positive for the community except to build something where there is nothing,” Brummer said. “We’re putting more subsidized building into the community. We could do something with higher rentals.”

He noted that the new bus depot is within easy walking distance, and eventually the area will have a rail station.

And he said he’s not that sold on mixed-use development.

“It really doesn’t work.

You can only have so many barbers, beauty shops and cleaners.”

Brummer suggested rejecting this proposal and looking for something better.

Kim Briesemeister, coexecutive director of the CRA, noted the area has been designated for transit-oriented development and a mixed-use district. She said the district will have mixed incomes and a combination of uses.

Commissioner Rex Hardin, while noting he would support going forward with negotiations, said he was concerned “we’re limiting our future and limiting our potential. We’re almost saying that’s all that area will support.”

Brummer said they’re also looking for mixed use next to the bus station, questioning how much the neighborhood can absorb. “We should try

for something better. My aspirations are higher and my ambitions are greater,” he said.

Commissioner Barry Dockswell said, “It is a mistake to paint all subsidized housing with the same brush.

This is a great match and a great start. It will help kick

start the area.”

Mayor Lamar Fisher said he would like to see more retail in the development.

“I think it’s a great fit for what we’re trying to do and the right fit for the property.

This begins the availability to provide retail and residential.”

Fireworks at the beach Pompano Beach – The grand re-opening of East Village and the Beach takes place on Friday, April 5 from 5 to 10 p.m. at Harbor Village Shoppes, located at Atlantic Boulevard and Northeast 27 Avenue. To celebrate, the city will have a ribbon cutting at Harbor Village Shoppes at 6:30 p.m. and fire works at 8:30 p.m. on the beach. There will also be live music from 6 to 10 p.m., an interactive art project and children’s activities.

City officials will also turn on the water fountain built on the beach at the east end of Atlantic Boulevard at 7:30 p.m. Call 954-786-7824.

Send your news to mdpelican@yahoo.com

Friday, April 5, 2013

The Pelican 9

Yellow ribbon saves old oak tree, commissioners back off axing plans

By Judy Vik

and the school. “We were told that was imminent,” he said.

“We’re still waiting for an agreement.”

Any final proposals will come back before the commission, Adornato said.

“We won’t be building this project until we have a deal, and you are satisfied with the design of the parking lot,” City Manager John Stunson said.

“We acted with haste,” Vice Mayor Shari McCartney said of the previous decision, which she also supported.

Commissioner Jed Shank, who voted against the previous plan, said “It’s important that we preserve the tree that is such an important part of Oakland Park.” He said he’s happy an alternative is being presented and asked if the 100-year-old pine trees could be preserved as well.

PELICAN STAFF

Oakland Park – Commissioners in this city have had a change of heart and are revisiting a recent decision to destroy a 40-foot live oak tree to make way for a parking lot.

A group intent on saving the tree gathered last Saturday and hung a yellow ribbon about the old oak tree, prompting commissioners to discuss the matter again this week.

The previous commission had approved a site plan for a parking lot at 1201-1235 E. Oakland Park Blvd. just west of the property that will house the proposed culinary arts school. That plan called for 21 trees to be removed and 13 trees relocated. Among the trees slated for removal was the old live oak which could not withstand relocation.

Because of residents’ concerns, staff developed another plan which does not impact the oak trees and meets downtown parking lot requirements.

Mayor John Adornato said he will support the alternative plan that leaves the oak tree intact. He was among commissioners who approved the previous site plan.

He assured residents that the parking lot won’t be built until there’s a contract between the property owner

Residents gather at the site of a live oak tree in Oakland Park. In a plan approved by the City Commission last month, the tree was to be removed.

That plan is now being reconsidered. [Photo by Judy Vik]

“In the early sketches, it looks like all three oaks and one slash pine would be saved,” said Ray Lubomski, community and economic development director.

Shank said he is concerned about spending $750,000 for a temporary parking lot.

He asked if there were other things the city could do as an incentive for the school.

Commissioner Sara Guevrekian said she was optimistic about the culinary school. “Whenever possible, don’t remove trees.”

“I hear a consensus to maintain and preserve as many trees as possible,” Adornato said.

Commissioner Tim Lonergan said he wants to encourage business and is See OAKS on page 19

Friday, April 5, 2013

10 The Pelican

Highwaymen and history at Pastorius Park Oakland Park – The Oakland Park Historical Society presents the Florida Highwaymen artists from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 6, at Jaco Pastorius Community Center, 4000 N. Dixie Highway.

R.L. Lewis, one of the Highwaymen, will be painting at the event. Admission is free. Donations are accepted.

The Oakland Park Time Capsule, in recognition of Florida’s 500th birthday, will also be on display, and members of the Oakland Park Historical Society will accept any proposed articles for inclusion in the time capsule. The time capsule will be filled with Oakland Park items submitted and chosen by residents at the city birthday event on July 1.

For more information, email ophs. fl@gmail.com or call 954-253-0850.

Chamber fishing for networking group Pompano Beach - If it’s ‘who you know’ that makes a difference, the Pompano Beach Chamber of Commerce is putting together a new group of business owners to widen the net of names.

Says Ric Green, chamber CEO, the new group will start April 23, and he hopes interested members will offer input. Those interested should contact Marianne Miccoli mmiccoli@ pompanobeachchamber.com or by phone at 954-941-2940.

Tradition continues! Doreen Gauthier Lighthouse Point celebrates its 34th annual volunteers’ luncheon Making a Difference

Phyllis J. Neuberger wants your suggestions about people who are making a difference. Phyllis’s new book, China Dahl, is available on amazon.com. Call 954-783-8700.

By Phyllis J. Neuberger PELICAN STAFF

In an almost seamless transition, Doreen Gauthier has handed off a smooth as silk functioning library to the accommodating and very capable Christy Keyes.

Gauthier has guided this city’s independent library from a small store in a strip center to a technically savvy, computerized state of the art library.

Keyes is moving it into the future with outreach events like live story time televised simultaneously to over 12 schools, followed by student interaction in each school from children selected by classroom teachers.

The two librarians, who stay closely linked, never forget that this wonderful library couldn’t happen without the 110 volunteers who share their time, talent and dedication with just three and one half salaried

Lighthouse Point Commissioner Earl Maucker, Larainne Schorr, Commissioner Sandy Johnson, Betsy Maucker, Commissioner Glenn Troast, Doreen Gauthier, Mayor Fred Schoor and Mary Ann

employees. And on March 20, the traditional volunteer appreciation luncheon took place at Saint Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Lighthouse Point.

Once again Monsignor Brice gave the invocation. Mayor Fred Schorr gave brief but eloquent thanks to the staff and volunteers.

The ladies from Saint Paul Auxiliary were the gracious table servers. Doreen could be seen as she moved from place to place, helping to serve and pour tea and coffee. After lunch, she once again thanked and handed out a certificate of appreciation to each volunteer.

City commissioners, library advisory board members, Friends of the Library board members and the staff members –Cathy Anthony, Rosemary Wilson and Barbara Stiles were all on hand to thank the volunteers and receive thanks for their

efforts.

Blue and silver invitations, with a curious dimensional puzzle on the front, were created by Keyes. The center of the puzzle was missing. The mystery of the puzzle with a blank center was solved when the volunteers were seated at their tables. They found small silver boxes at each place setting. Inside was a pale blue card inscribed with the message, “Thank you for being an Essential Piece of the library.”

Lapel pins repeated the puzzle theme, each inscribed with the phrase, “Essential Piece.” In keeping with the theme, miniature puzzle shapes were scattered around the center piece of each table.

In her welcoming speech, Keyes highlighted each significant area manned by volunteers and echoed the theme of the importance of each piece See LIBRARY on page 17

Friday, April 5, 2013

West CRA Continued from page 7

an engineering firm and a printing firm. Built on 2.18 acres, the development will have enough space for up to seven businesses and NW CRA officials hope to fill the

The Pelican 11 rest of the space with retail and professional offices. The building is expected to be completed this spring.

Downtown Streetscape improvements Pompano Beach – Horatio Danovich, CRA

engineer, said the $11 million Downtown Streetscape Improvements project is one day ahead of schedule.

Plans include 60 new parking spaces, landscape, lighting and sidewalk improvements and entryway signs for MLK Boulevard and Historic Downtown Pompano.

About $7 million of that money is supposed to be spent on MLK, with the rest going to Downtown area east of Dixie Highway.

The first phase involves upgrading the sewer and water lines under MLK Boulevard.

The upgrades are being made so that the infrastructure can accommodate future residential and commercial developments. “We’re making provisions for all the future development coming to town,” said Danovich.

Management entity wanted for community garden Pompano Beach – CRA officials have started their search for a company or organization to develop, cultivate and manage the proposed 26,000 sq. ft. community garden that will be located on the corner of Northwest 6 Avenue and Northwest 10 Street, east of Blanche Ely High School.

Once completed, the $50,000 project would feature hydroponic towers and garden plots tended by residents.

Horatio Danovich, CRA engineer, said anyone can apply but in order to qualify they must be insured to protect the city from liability, in case something happens on the garden property, and they

must be able to manage the garden and provide assistance to residents who utilize the facility.

“We want [the process] as open as possible,” said Carlton Moore, liaison to the NW CRA. Jeanette Copeland, NW CRA Advisory Committee member, said she wants CRA officials to make sure everyone has a fair chance of getting the contract. “We make the puzzle so hard some people can’t get in.”

Danovich responded that the application process would be made “as simple as possible.”

To apply, call 954-786-7834.

Sightings Continued from page 2

Books & Libraries 4-6 – Anime Club - 2 to 3:30 at Pompano Beach Library, 1213 E. Atlantic Boulevard, Pompano Beach.

954-786-2181.

4-6 – Chess Club - 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Pompano Beach Library, 1213 E. Atlantic Boulevard, Pompano Beach. 954-786-2181.

4-9 – Writers’ Workshop Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m. at Lighthouse Point Library, 2200 NE 38 St. 954-9466398.

4-11 – Bingo Thursdays at 1 p.m. at Lighthouse Point Library, 2200 NE 38 St. 954946-6398.

4-12 – Spanish I help at 2 p.m. Fridays at Lighthouse Point Library, 2200 NE 38 St. Spanish II help at 3 p.m. every Friday. 954-946-6398.

4-15 – Senior Scams & Identity Theft class from 12 to 1 p.m. at Percy White Branch Library, 837 E. Hillsboro Blvd., Deerfield Beach. 954357-7697.

Business 4-8 – Wilton Manors Business Association meeting at 6 p.m. at RMS Accounting, 2319 N. Andrews Ave., Wilton Manors.

4-10 – Wednesday Winners from 11:30 to 1 See SIGHTINGS on page 13

Friday, April 5, 2013

12 The Pelican

Sculpture Continued from page 1

this year’s capital budget as part of the $1.2 million West Commercial Boulevard streetscape project.

Design plans for the area also include four wayfinding plaza sculptures by Huck, estimated to cost about $100,000. At earlier meetings, Commissioner Mark Brown preferred starting with those four sculptures rather than the entryway feature. This week he asked for consensus on that idea.

Only Vincent agreed with Brown and added that he wasn’t sure the town should spend so much on the entryway sculpture. He suggested a better location for the piece would be El Prado Park.

“I’m not happy with the cost, and I don’t know if this monument at that location says this is Lauderdale-ByThe-Sea,” Vincent said. He said more discussion was needed.

Mayor Roseann Minnet said she didn’t concur with Vincent at all.

“We have talked about the entry and how when you cross the bridge you don’t know you are in LauderdaleBy-The-Sea. This will bring the coral reef to you,” she said. “It will look magnificent, and at night when it’s all lit up you will see it before you cross the bridge.”

Minnet said she feels the entryway sculpture is very important. “The piece will make the town visible from so many places. We need that signature as you come into town. Lauderdale-By-The-Sea hasn’t created its own picture frame, and this will start that.”

The mayor then read portions of a letter from the artist, Laura Huck.

“Art is a great unifier and definer of a community. I can only think how natural it is for everyone to take note of the pelican sculpture at the end of Commercial Boulevard. The series we have planned will be even brighter and more eyecatching. Not only that, it will draw attention to the treasure trove of accessible reef off your beaches. Very few improvements to a townscape, such as you are planning, will have as much impact as the art.”

Huck said the main piece, the Coral Arch, is the first thing people will see as they enter the town. “It will say, ‘This is not an ordinary community, but a community with much to offer.’ The Coral Arch is designed to wow, in the day with its bright colors and details, and

at night, when lit, with its glowing rays.”

Minnet urged commissioners to approve executing the agreement and to start with the Coral Arch.

Commissioner Stuart Dodd said he agreed, that the Coral Arch sculpture “makes a huge statement. I think we should go ahead.”

Vice Mayor Scot Sasser said he was in full agreement with the mayor and with Dodd. “We’re talking about the entry and a true piece of art.”

Sasser, however, still seemed baffled by an earlier decision. “I think I’m in a dream world when everyone voted for a 33-foot Las Vegas parking lot sign to put in the center of the downtown. [That sign was later modified to 30 feet.] This [the entryway sculpture] is much more important than the other,” he said.

Vincent said he never

suggested the entryway sculpture wasn’t a beautiful piece of artwork. “It won’t be seen or recognized at that location. It won’t be appreciated by pedestrians or by vehicular traffic going east.”

State approves $100,000 grant for landscaping on Commercial In related news, Town Manager Connie Hoffmann announced Tuesday that state officials have approved the town’s grant application for $100,000 to assist with landscaping costs for the West Commercial Boulevard streetscape project.

This is a matching grant from the Florida Highway Beautification Council, and the town is committed to match it with $202,000 in additional landscaping monies.

Hoffmann credited staff member Pat Himelberger and Hugh Johnson of Architectural Alliance for their work on the grant.

Himelberger wrote the grant application, and Johnson modified the tree selection to improve the town’s chances getting the funding.

Lighthouse tours April 20 Hillsboro Beach – A tour of the Hillsboro Lighthouse will be offered Saturday, April 20. To participate, meet Hillsboro Lighthouse Preservation Society members at the Sands Harbor Marina, 125 N. Riverside Drive, Pompano Beach, beginning at 8:45 a.m. The first boat launches at 9 a.m. and the last boat leaves at 2:30 p.m. The tour is free for Hillsboro Lighthouse Preservation Society members and $15 for non-members.

The annual cost to join the Preservation Society is $25 for individuals, $35 for a family, $50 for a business and $500 for a lifetime membership. For more, visit www.hillsborolighthouse. org or call 954-942-2102.

Friday, April 5, 2013

Sightings Continued from page 11

p.m. at Bobby Rubino’s, 2501 N. Federal Hwy., Pompano Beach. Cost is $15. 954-9711077.

4-12 – The Originals business networking meeting at 8 a.m. at Jukebox Diner, 2773 E Atlantic Blvd., Pompano Beach.

Pompano Beach Chamber of Commerce’s networking event. 954-803-4174.

The Pelican 13

Children & Family 4-5 – Story Time at 10:30 a.m. every Friday at Lighthouse Point Library, 2200 NE 38 St. Ages 18 months to three years. 954946-6398.

4-6 – Bike Rodeo from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at McNair Park, 951 NW 27 Ave., Pompano Beach. Bicycle safety education and food. All ages welcome. 954-786-7882.

Clubs & Charity 4-5 – Dance from 7 to 10 p.m. at Elks Lodge, 700 NE 10 St., Pompano Beach.

Tickets are $15 per person.

Funds go to Relay For Life.

954-781-2300.

4-5 – Chess Club Fridays from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Pompano Beach Branch Library, 1213 E. Atlantic Blvd. 954-786-2181.

4-9 – Pompano BeachLighthouse Rotary Club - Tuesdays at 7:30 a.m. at Galuppi’s, 1103 N. Federal Hwy., Pompano Beach. 954972-7178.

4-9 – Deerfield Beach Rotary Club - Tuesdays at 1:15 p.m. at Deer Creek

Country Club, 2801 Country Blvd., Deerfield Beach. 866976-8279 4-9 – Rotary Club of Fort Lauderdale/Cypress Creek Tuesdays at 12 p.m. at Westin Cypress Creek Hotel, 400 Corporate Drive. 954-4928254.

4-10 – Kiwanis Club of Oakland Park - Wednesdays at 7:30 a.m. at Peter Pan Diner, 1216 E. Oakland Park Blvd., Oakland Park. 954566-9957.

4-10 – Kiwanis Club of Pompano Beach Wednesdays at 12 p.m. at Sea Side Grill, 1406 N. Ocean Blvd., Pompano Beach. 954783-4999.

4-10 – Kiwanis Club of Wilton Manors Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. at 2749 NE 14 Ave., Wilton Manors. 954-560-7813.

4-11 – Rotary Club of Oakland Park/Wilton

Manors - Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. at Tequila Sunrise Mexican Grill, 4711 N. Dixie Hwy., Oakland Park. 954491-6158.

4-12 – Pompano Beach Rotary Club - Fridays at 12:15 p.m. at Galuppi’s, 1103 N. Federal Hwy., Pompano Beach. 954-786-3274.

4-13 – Kiwanis Club of Deerfield Beach West second and fourth Saturdays at 9 a.m. at Westside Park, 445 SW 2 St. Meets every second and fourth Saturday.

954-54-732-9883.

Education & Self Development 4-8 – Property tax exemption filing assistance workshop at 9 a.m. at Lighthouse Point Library, 2200 NE 38 St. 954-3575579.

See SIGHTINGS on page 15

Friday, April 5, 2013

14 The Pelican

Fate of Pompano Beach skate park proposal delayed

By Michael d’Oliveira PELICAN STAFF

Pompano Beach – In the 25 years he’s been skateboarding, Rafal Dradrach has been kicked out of parks, malls, parking lots and countless number of other places.

Now, Dradrach and his fellow skateboarders want city officials here to build a concrete skate park where they won’t have to worry about cops or security guards chasing them away. “You usually have a max of about five minutes [to skate] before someone comes and asks you to leave the premises. We get kicked out of everywhere.”

On Wednesday, Dradrach and over 100 people, some with boards in hand, packed the meeting of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee at the Emma Lou Olson Civic Center. The skateboarders, some in their teens and some in their 40s and 50s, came to persuade the committee to recommend the city build the park.

“It will keep kids off the street and give them a safe environment. It will also minimize damage to public property [by reducing the number of kids who damage

hand rails and other surfaces in their quest for a cool trick],” said Dradrach.

But committee members delayed a vote until city staff could provide them with more information. Specifically, they want to know about attendance, safety, how much it will cost to build and maintain the facility and if a fee will be charged to use it.

“I’m not opposed to a skate park per say. I’m opposed to spending money the city doesn’t have,” said Rafael Katz, committee member. According to Mark Beaudreau, recreation programs administrator, the cost to build the skate park is $208,000.

But Katz wasn’t buying it. “I challenge you to show

me the numbers,” he said to Beaudreau. Dradrach said a $10,000 grant from the Tony Hawk Foundation will be available to help build the facility if it’s approved.

Katz also doubted the honesty of many audience members when the overwhelming majority of them put their hands up after being asked if they were from

Pompano. “Magically, 90 percent of them raised their hand,” he said. “If I sound annoyed, it’s because I am.

We’ve discussed this. We’ve beat this into the ground,” said Katz, who added that the issue of building a skate park has come up multiple times and has always been rejected See SKATE PARK on page 20

Friday, April 5, 2013

The Pelican 15

Sightings Continued from page 13

4-10 – Property tax exemption filing assistance workshop at 11:30 a.m. at Pompano Beach City Hall,

100 W Atlantic Blvd. 954-3575579.

4-11 – Property tax exemption filing assistance workshop at 10 a.m. at Century Village Deerfield Beach, 2400 Century Village Blvd., Deerfield Beach. 954-

357-5579.

4-12 – Identity theft protection class at 10 a.m. at St. Stephens Evangelical Lutheran Church, 2500 NE 14 Street Causeway, Pompano Beach.

Refreshments served. 954 943-3644.

4-15 – Identity theft and fraud protection class from 12 to 1 p.m. at Percy White Branch Library, 837 E. Hillsboro Blvd., Deerfield Beach. 954-357-7680.

Events & Activities 4-6 – Model train swap meet from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 445 SW 2 St., Deerfield Beach. Model train layouts, museum displays of railroad memorabilia and vendor tables for model trains, See SIGHTINGS on page 19

Friday, April 5, 2013

16 The Pelican

Vets Continued from page 1

more claims than any other chapter, more than 500 a year.

A large number of the vets applying for assistance here qualify because the government has taken responsibility for the illnesses caused by Agent Orange which has a long list of diseases from cancer to arthritis associated with the chemical. And it has now been determined that the chemical still affects future generations, the grandchildren of the Vietnam servicemen.

To establish exposure to Agent Orange counselors have to match the veteran’s service record with military records that show the exact place , time and amount of Agent Orange that was used to defoliate the jungles.

Having access to all this history is important to the outcome of the claim.

The local DAV volunteers

Hillsboro Continued from page 3

municipal contract in 2012 in Miramar breaking into a market controlled for 20 years

by Wheelabrator, a subsidiary of Waste Management. Its website cites its commitment to ‘zero waste’ for the cities it serves and its contracts guarantee 75 percent of the solid waste collected will be recycled.

are available 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Tuesday at the Legion, 820 SE 8 Ave. No appointment necessary.

Additionally, these volunteers spend four days a year being recertified at a seminar held at Lake Mary, FL. “The system is intimidating and these guys know the language of the VA,” says Acting Cmdr. Don Carney. “I’m not dumb, but it confuses me.”

Since the damaging effects of service-related injuries may not occur for years, returning vets from Iraq and Afghanistan need to start keeping track of their records now for future needs, Roth said.

The VA compensates for physical and mental disabilities and, for veterans or their spouses on very low incomes, provides a pension. Benefits, if awarded, are retroactive to the date the claim was started.

Healthcare is available at VA hospitals with a minimum of paperwork. Often these disabilities don’t surface until the vet ages requiring years of documentation.

While these local service officers are skeptical that the VA will go electronic anytime soon, they are looking for sponsors who will contribute money for computers, printers and wi-fi so they will be ready when it does happen.

Indicating the work going on behind him, Carney said, “These guys are doing the right thing. I’d like to see

it get known that they are available.”

While the DAV does not give direct financial assistance to vets in need, members of the chapter provide transportation, visit nursing homes to help residents with their claims, make some home repairs. They stress that all their time and their talents are given for free and caution that anyone being charged a fee to get help with their claim application is “being ripped off.” One widow who met with them this week reported being charged $750 by a “VA rep.” The service officers also advise their clients of other legal rights such as the additional Homestead Exemption.

Said Citrolo, “The reward is in helping people,” and Butler added, “We are handful of people who don’t mind fighting for other people.”

The local DAV chapter raises money by holding car shows and golf tournaments and manning their information booth at public events.

Other service officers from the Goldcoast Chapter are Bob Kontz, Jim Zane, Dave Nystrom, Gerg Chaipponi, Tom Perry and Chuck McLaughlin.

Send your events for publication to mdpelican@ yahoo.com