From The Manager
By April Narine, LCAM General Manager
As summer comes to an end and we transition to fall, we will start welcoming back all our residents who were away for the summer as well as the seasonal residents. We hope you had a wonderful summer and are ready to enjoy the beautiful fall season.
We also want to remind everyone that we are now in the peak of hurricane season. It’s crucial to stay informed and prepared. To ensure you receive important updates and emergency information through email blasts, please register for our community website if you have not done so already at www.bocapointe.com. This is our quickest method to get information out to all residents. This will help us communicate quickly and effectively.
Thank you for your attention, and welcome home once again!
From The Desk Of Commissioner Marci Woodward
A Message from Marci
Summer break had some unexpected but delightful turns for me and my family. Many of you may have heard about the 24 dogs believed to have been abandoned in poor conditions here in Palm Beach County.
Thanks to the tireless efforts of volunteers at Three Stooges Rescue in Stuart, all of the dogs were safely captured and began receiving the care they desperately needed.
Commissioner Gregg Weiss first shared this story with me after working with law enforcement and Animal Care and Control to ensure the animals were safe.
When Michael and I learned more, we knew we wanted to help. We agreed to “foster” one of the pups, but as you can probably guess, it didn’t take long for our dogs Zoey and Fritz to fall in love with him. And just like that, fostering turned into adopting. This summer, we officially welcomed Toby to the Woodward pack!
I want to thank the volunteers, shelters, and animal lovers across our community who helped these dogs find safe, loving homes. Their efforts are a reminder that compassion can turn a difficult story into a hopeful one.
Additionally, Team PBC officially welcomed Joe Abruzzo on his first day serving as County Administrator and during his first BCC meeting. I look forward to many meetings, discussions, and solutions happening right here as we work together to serve the residents of Palm Beach County.
And to all our Palm Beach County students and teachers heading back to school this month, good luck! Drivers, remember: the maximum speed in school zones is 20 mph.
Many municipalities have also added school zone cameras, so please slow down and pay extra attention when lights are flashing to help keep children safe. Fines are doubled (up to $400) for illegally passing a stopped school bus displaying a stop signal. A second offense within five years could result in your license being suspended.
DOGE Visits Palm Beach County
This week, Palm Beach County welcomed the Florida Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) for its on-site audit of county government operations. The DOGE team began by reviewing documents provided in advance, focusing on contracts, procurement, personnel management practices, diversity and inclusion, and grants.
County staff, led by Sherry Brown, Director of the Office of Financial Management and Budget, worked closely with Administration, multiple departments, and the Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller’s office to provide requested information related to financial management, compliance, and reporting. Additional documentation was also supplied throughout the visit.
Over two days, DOGE staff conducted in-depth interviews and Q&A sessions with more than 35 county employees. Departments engaged in the process included Community Services, Facilities Development & Operations, Housing and Economic Development, Human Resources, Mounts Botanical Garden, the Office of Community Revitalization, the Office of Equal Business Opportunity, the Office of Resilience, Parks and Recreation, Procurement, the Tourist Development Council, Engineering (Transportation), and Youth Services.
At a press conference held at the Governmental Center, Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia emphasized Palm Beach County’s unique distinction among Florida’s 67 counties and noted that additional visits are expected here and across the state.
We will continue to provide updates as DOGE’s review progresses.
Hotwire Communications Important Launch Project Update
The underground construction work in the Villages included in Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the project are complete. Phase 3 & 4 underground construction is in progress; you may see our crew in the area.
If you live in one of the Villages included in Phase 1 and Phase 2 and have not completed your consultation appointment you need to schedule as soon as possible. If you are a seasonal resident and are currently away, please contact Hotwire to schedule a virtual appointment or make other arrangements based on your schedule.
Important Note: Installations continue for Phase 1 and 2. If you have not completed your consultation, you will not be able to schedule your installation appointment. Hotwire would also like to remind you the Hotwire Launch Office is Now Open!
If you would like to schedule your consultation or installation appointment, or have any questions about our Hotwire launch process, please email Bocapointe@ hotwiremail.com. You can also call (561) 509-5429 or visit the Hotwire Launch Office and speak to your dedicated Launch Account Manager, Vanessa Perez. Hotwire Office Address: 6919 SW 18th Street, Suite 214, Boca Raton, FL 33433
The Hotwire Launch Office is located in the same plaza as the Boca Pointe Management Office in the building adjacent to the BurgerFi.
Villages Now Scheduling Installations
Phase 1
Caravelle, Esplanada, Palomar, El Dorado, Montego Bay, Villa Flora, Palladium, La Paz, Lakes at La Paz, Villa Sonrisa Phase 2
Meridiana, El Viento I, El Viento II, La Mirada, La Corniche, Pointe 100, Plum Cortina, Villa Stel
For your convenience, the BPCA office now accepts
for
purchases or speeding fine payments. Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express along with a check or a money order.
Palm Beach County Launches PBCMoves.com
I’m thrilled to share that as part of the Countywide Transportation Master Plan (CTMP), a new website, PBCMoves.com, is officially live!
This site will serve as a central hub for residents, community partners, and stakeholders to stay informed, provide input, and track the progress of our transportation initiatives.
You can sign up for notifications, share transportation data, and eventually view the plan’s final recommendations. With public meetings and surveys coming soon, this is your chance to help shape a safe, efficient, and connected transportation network for Palm Beach County over the next two decades.
The consultant for the CTMP will host a public meeting for District 4 residents at Arts Garage (94 Northeast 2nd Avenue, Delray Beach, FL 33444) on Thursday, September 11, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m. We invite you to attend, meet the consulting team, and learn more about the CTMP.
Nonprofit Spotlight
Clinics Can Help is a local nonprofit in Palm Beach County that connects people with medical equipment and supplies, empowering them with mobility, independence, and dignity at all stages of life.
Founded in 2005 by hospice nurse Owen O’Neill, Clinics Can Help began by collecting hospital beds and wheelchairs that would have gone to waste and providing them to patients at local free clinics.
Starting with a small storage locker, Owen’s efforts have grown into a large warehouse and a dedicated team that serves nearly 4,000 individuals and their families each year.
I recently had the opportunity to meet with Sally Degenhardt Chester and Owen O’Neill, CEO of Clinics Can Help, and learned more about their work. Every day, a simple piece of medical equipment can make a real difference, whether it’s a child’s first wheelchair or a senior’s new walker.
For more information, visit https://www.clinicscanhelp.org/.
If you require assistance, please contact our office at 561-355-2204 or email Mwoodward@pbcgov.org.
Lease Renewals
Renters- If you plan to renew your lease at Boca Pointe, please provide the BPCA Management office a copy of your renewal lease and vehicle registration prior to your lease expiration date. Both items are needed to ensure that your transponder does not get deactivated when the lease ends. Please email to admin@ bocapointe.com.
Thank you!
Tom English
Board Of Directors
June 2025 – June 2027 Officers/Executive Committee
Chairman and President Robert Cornell
Vice President Steve Retzer
Vice Chairman Howard Weinstein
Secretary Chandra Stewart-Keith
Treasurer Lawrence Gelfond
District Directors
District 1 Morton Karper (Valencia)
Encantada, Valencia and The Palms
District 2 Chandra Stewart-Keith (Panaché)
Promenade, Imperial Royale, Imperial, Regency and Panaché
District 3 Steve Retzer (La Mirada)
La Mirada and Meridiana
District 4 Robert Greenstein (Lakes of La Paz)
El Viento, La Paz 1, La Paz 2, Lakes at La Paz, Lakes at La Paz 3 and Southwinds
District 5 Barbara Windheim (Esplanada)
Esplanada, Caravelle, Palomar, La Corniche, and El Dorado
District 6 Parrish Gamarra (Palladium)
Villa Flora, Montego Bay, Villa del Sol, and Palladium
District 7 John Mineo (The Plum)
The Plum/Cortina, Villa Sonrisa and Pointe 100
District 8 Robert Cornell (Costa Brava)
Costa del Sol and Costa Brava
District 9 Susan George (Edgewater)
Edgewater Pointe Estates and Stratford Court
At Large Directors Through June 2027
Jacob Stark (Costa Del Sol)
Howard Weinstein (El Dorado)
David Weinstock (Esplanada)
Zachary Elliott (Encantada) Daniel Gabrielle (La Corniche) Lawrence Gelfond (La Corniche)
The Mystery Of Life Lies Behind The Walls We Build
By Josette Veltri
Did you know that there is a quiet truth many of us live with that often goes unnoticed? This quiet truth is the mysteries we hide behind like the walls we construct around our hearts, the masks we wear hoping not to be noticed by others and even preventing us from seeing who we truly are.
Why is this and why for heaven’s sake do we do this? Could it be fear of being vulnerable? Or, could it be fear of being judged or even judging ourselves? Or, could it be fear of rejection? All are possibilities. However, somewhere along the way, we learned that showing up as our authentic selves can be dangerous, costly and opens us up to being hurt.
So, we continue to hide behind walls, masks and roles pretending to be fine and hearing ourselves say, “I’ve got this,” even when we know it is not true. And, the consequence of this pretense is the distance we create between others and even our own authentic selves.
The paradox in living this pretense is what motivational guru Tony Robbins identified as six basic human needs that we all have (tonyrobbins.com)
Boca Pointe Community Association, Inc.
6909 SW 18th St., Suite A120
Boca Raton, FL 33433
Office (561) 395-7551 Fax (561) 395-5936
Email: info@bocapointe.com Website: www.bocapointe.com
Access Control
Operator: (561) 395-3392
Voice mail system: (561) 395-3369 Website: www.gateaccess.net
Staff
April Narine, General Manager
Lisa Cammaleri, Assistant Manager
Alexis Brito, Administrative Assistant Ebenson Bristol, Director of Security
Viewpointe of Boca Pointe is the newspaper of Boca Pointe Community Association, Inc. Please direct all questions, comments or articles for Viewpointe to lisa.cammaleri@ fsresidential.com.
Steve Handwerker
Judith
Harold
Harriet
Anne
They are:
1. Certainty: the assurance that you can avoid pain and gain pleasure
2. Uncertainty/Variety: the need for the unknown or new stimuli
3. Significance: feeling important, special, or needed
4. Connection/Love: a strong feeling of belonging, a closeness or union with someone or something
5. Growth: an expansion of capacity, capability or understanding
6. Contribution: a sense of service focusing on helping, giving to, and supporting others
The basic needs we all long for—connection, meaning, understanding, love—can only be found when we take down our walls and remove our masks. Then and only then will we allow ourselves to show up authentically seen.
No, we are not always going to show up perfectly, not always show up as strong, but at least we will show up real. In the movie The Greatest Showman, Keala Settle plays the role of a bearded lady and sings THIS IS ME as she fearlessly enters the crowd. A pivotal courageous moment in her life of growth and self-love.
As the walls come down and the masks are removed, the quiet mystery of life begins to dissolve and a whole new world of connection is revealed.
So, the question now is what wall will we begin to take down and which mask will we remove first?
Robert
William
Milagros
Yishai
Elyse Weintraub Brown Hillary
The views of the writers of the various articles in this newspaper do not necessarily reflect the views of the Boca Pointe Community Association. The Association nor the individual writers are not responsible for claims or promises contained in any advertising material appearing in the Viewpointe. Such claims and promises are the sole responsibility of the individual advertiser.
Office Hours
Monday Through Friday 8:30 a.m to 4:30 p.m
Josette Veltri, a Boca Pointe resident, is a certified educator and coach on loss and transition. Her purpose, to assist clients heal and move forward so they can go from I Can’t to I Can, One Step at a Time. She can be reached at josette@nextstepnewstart. com. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/josettejveltri/)
Attention Dog Owners
It is your responsibility to pick up after your dog. It’s the law.
Some of you have been negligent in doing so.
Please keep our Boca Pointe community beautiful!
Therapy Dogs Serve Patient
By Arthur Dermer, Resident
If you have ever been in a hospital, you know the effects on your mental state. Hospitals can be lonely and stressful places, especially for older adults who may often be away from family. But something wonderful has been happening in more and more hospitals across America. Specially trained dogs are coming to visit patients. These dogs known as “Therapy Dogs,” are helping patients feel more relaxed, happier, and even healthier. These dogs are being used in hospitals and other facilities where they help people, especially older adults and children. Of course, these dogs are only used when strong safety measures are in place to make sure that their visits are safe and beneficial. There are, of course, many different breeds of dogs that are used in hospitals. The most frequently used are Golden “Retrievers.” This breed is generally friendly, and adaptable to most hospital situations. They are not generally owned by the hospital, but are brought in by volunteers for short visits to see patients who would like to spend time with them. These dogs should not be confused with “Service” dogs which are more highly trained than are “therapy dogs.” Service dogs usually assist individuals with specific medical needs such as impaired vision, hearing deficiencies, mobility issues, or even severe emotional problems. These dogs usually stay with their owner all the time.
A few months ago, I was rehabbing in Edgewater at Boca Pointe. I had broken an ankle and had very poor mobility. I was pleasantly surprised when Vanessa, Kathy and their therapy dogs “Ivy” and “Jackson” came into my room. Each week Vanessa Carosella and Kathy Klein, along with their therapy dogs “Ivy” and “Jackson,” visit patients at Edgewater at Boca Pointe. They also visit patients in Boca Raton Regional Hospital.
Kathy and Vanessa are among 140 other volunteers working with Canine Assisted Therapy, a nonprofit organization based in Fort Lauderdale. Its mission is to improve the health and well-being of people in need through the healing power of
LEAH'S PET CARE
My name is Leah Goldberg, a full time resident of Villa Sonrisa for the last six years. I have been working with dogs of all sizes for over 15 years. Services I provide include daily walking, administering medications, veterinary and grooming runs, or just plain spending some time with dogs that are home alone during the day. I am bonded and insured through Pet Sitters International. I would love the opportunity to take care of your pet. P.S. I will also take care of cats for anyone who needs that service. I can be reached 7 days a week at 561-849-8191.
the human-animal bond. They help bring loving kindness to people in hospitals, nursing homes, veteran facilities and schools. In schools, dogs are used to help teach reading to young students. “We love visiting patients and receive far more out of our visits than do the people we see,” says Kathy. “People look forward to our weekly visits.” Vanessa enjoys connecting with families as well as patients.
For elderly patients, being in a hospital can be emotionally very difficult. There may be long hours of waiting, worrying, or dealing with physical discomfort. Having a dog come by for a visit can make a big difference. Dogs offer unconditional love. They do not judge. They don’t rush in and out, and are always happy to see you. These simple companionships can help relieve feelings of sadness, fear or loneliness. Many elderly have had dogs earlier in their life and seeing or petting the dog can bring back warm, comforting memories. The Therapy Dogs also tend to reduce stress and anxiety. Spending time with a calm dog can help lower stress levels. Scientists have found that petting a dog can reduce blood pressure and heart rate. It can help raise levels of oxytocin (a hormone that helps us feel good). The dogs offer encouragement to stay active which is very important for some patients recovering from surgery or long illness. It is often hard to find a motivation to get out of bed or to do something physical. But a dog can encourage movement by giving patients a reason to sit up, reach out or even take a few steps.
Therapy dogs improve mood and social interaction. When a dog comes into a hospital room the atmosphere can change quickly. Smiles appear, conversations start and patients become more engaged. This can improve overall mood and even encourage patients to talk more with nurses, doctors or even visitors.
There are many questions that patients and visitors ask regarding dog safety. Are dog visits really safe? The answer overwhelmingly is “yes.” Hospitals that allow dogs have strong safety rules in place to ensure that visits are safe and comfortable for everyone. Dogs receive advanced training in working with people. They are trained to stay calm, particularly in noisy, crowded conditions like elevators and busy hallways. They are regularly tested for good behavior and must be very gentle and obedient. Before a dog can be designated a “certified therapy dog” it must pass a rigorous exam and inspection. All dogs must be clean and healthy with up-to-date vaccinations. Not only the dogs need training, but their handlers also are required to complete a mandatory training course and pass several tests before bringing their dog into the hospital.
Some patients have allergies to dogs and others are afraid of them. That is completely understandable. Hospitals take these concerns very seriously and make sure that dog visits are optional and respectful of each person’s needs. If someone has a fear of dogs or just prefers not to be visited, that request is always honored. Before a dog enters a patient’s room a volunteer will inquire of the patient if it is okay to come in with the dog. About 70 percent of patients welcomed a dog visitation.
Many elderly patients have shared how much they enjoyed visits by the dogs. One woman in a wheelchair said that petting a golden retriever happily reminded her of the dog she had when she was raising her children. That visit brought a huge smile on her face and she asked when the dog could return. Another gentleman recovering from surgery said cuddling the dog helped him laugh for the first time in a week. A third woman sarcastically noted that her son in Chicago had NOT visited her during her two weeks stay in hospital but the therapy dog had been to her room three times. Dogs in hospitals are proving to be more than just a friendly visitor. They are becoming valuable part of the healing process, especially for the elderly and the young. They bring smiles and comfort. With careful training, therapy dogs can be a safe and joyful addition to patient care. If you or a loved one is ever in the hospital and have a chance to have a therapy dog visit, don’t be shy. Welcome the dog in. A warm furry nose and a wagging tail might just be the medicine you need. Whether it’s comforting a scared child in the hospital before a procedure, or sparking the memory of an elderly person in memory care, therapy dogs have a special way of bringing hope, healing and light to those facing life’s challenges.
If you are interested in volunteering at Boca Regional Hospital, please call 561-955-4098. A wonderful experience awaits you. There are also many opportunities for residents of Edgewater at Boca Pointe to volunteer there. Call Marcia at 561-445-2472 for more information.
Vanessa Carosella and Kathy Klein with therapy dogs at Edgewater at Boca Pointe
Therapy dogs “Ivy” and “Jackson” at work at BRRH helping patients
Therapy dogs Princess Lola, Rudy and James Taylor
Welcome To The Fantastic World Of FENG SHUI!!
By Milagros Gutierrez de Herrera P.H.D.
In this September installment we will dedicate it to the five elements and CHI (positive energy). This is because many readers who are new to our publications can clarify doubts about it, therefore, in the next installment we will be presenting how CHI influences our lives.
After reviewing our library, where for years we have acquired an extensive bibliography, which has allowed us to nourish our knowledge about this ancient science. This bibliographic review allowed us to reread some authors specialized in this discipline, however, within it we have chosen for this article the author Sarah Rossbach, who has studied, written and published several books on FENG SHUI, after having been a disciple of great master’s specialists in the field.
Within numerous publications we have chosen to bring and paraphrase to this article some fragments of the book called “Interior Design with Feng Shui,” in this publication of the author it is important to limit the relevance that the five elements have for human beings such as: Metal, Wood, Water, Fire and Earth.
Rossbach, on page 167 says verbatim ... “A person’s CHI also contains varying quantities of each element ... ”;
which tells us that in each person there is a variation of the five elements. Therefore, if we review each of the elements according to the author, it will give us different perspectives.
We will break down each element according to Sara Rossbach, for this we find ourselves in the case of the Metal element, she points out that according to the amount of Metal that each person possesses there is a categorization that is given as follows: If a person has little Metal he will tend to be shy, calm and cautious. In the case that he has an average level of Metal, the exact amount will speak, no more and no less. For those people who have high levels of Metal he will be a compulsive talker.
Reviewing the Wood element, we will also have levels of this, as is the case of having little Wood, they will be people who “float like a leaf in the air.” But if your level of the Wood element is medium it will be like a sapling. For those people who possess high levels of the Wood element, the product is like a robust palm tree impervious to subtle winds. It will also have a lot of ideas, according to the author, who has so far presented us with her categorization of two elements out of the total of five, but which in a very subtle way helps us to interpret the influence on the human being and the impact of each one.
Community Association Meetings Monthly Schedule
(All meetings held via Zoom and in person.)
All meetings will be held electronically via Zoom and in person. The following is our regular schedule of monthly meetings, however, sometimes meetings are cancelled or schedules are revised due to holidays, etc. If you would like to attend, please call the BPCA office, (561) 395-7551, the day before the meeting to request the Zoom link be emailed to you.
Next, we will talk about the Water element, which, following Rossbach, divides Water into two phases: Still Water or Water in Motion. Water in motion for the author represents a world of social contacts, business and activities, as well as management, movement and effectiveness. This type of person is very active, but they are routine, that is, they always perform the same activities, without any changes in their lives. The opposite happens with the still water that reflects perspectives and intelligence as well as a clear and large deposit.
Continuing with the breakdown that each element we present the element of Fire, for Rossbach, Fire ... “is the element of reason, expression and label” ..., which describing the amount of Fire that each human being possesses, we find that if a person has little Fire he will tend to internalize his feelings; if they possess a medium Fire they will be considerate and will have a strong sense of justice and criticism with their words, but if their Fire level is high they are verbally aggressive, with a bossy voice.
For people who possess the Earth element, this element represents Honesty and Loyalty, in case the amount of Earth is small, they will take great care of themselves, not sharing with others. If it is of medium Earth level it is sincere, reliable and faithful; but if the Earth level is high, he will be too serious and self-sacrificing.
This analysis of the five elements presented by Sara Rossbach and their influence on the personality of each human being has allowed us to “look” at other lenses as each element leaves a mark that identifies people’s own attitudes.
It is possible that through the reading they do, they will recognize the amount of each element they have.
Until the next installment.!!
Milagros Reference bibliography: Rossbach, Sara. 1987. Interior design with Feng Shui New and Expanded. Published by the Penguin Group. Penguin Putnam Inc., Hudson Street, New York 10014, U.S.A.
Author Milagros Gutierrez de Herrera, Feng Shui Specialist, is a resident of the Plum. Email: herreramilagros1983@gmail.com.
Boca Raton Gears Up For America250
With Bold Talks, Revolutionary Revelations & A Spotlight On Florida’s Untold Stories
Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum Launches Series of Immersive Programs
Leading Up to America’s 250th Anniversary
By Hillary Reynolds
What did it feel like to wear a Redcoat? How did Washington’s army endure brutal winters and impossible odds? And could you have survived surgery during the Revolutionary War?
As America marches toward its 250th birthday, the Boca Raton Historical Society and Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum invite the public to experience history like never before with a thought-provoking series of Town Hall Talks and a landmark exhibit, America 250: The 14th Colony, all commemorating the national America250 initiative.
“America250 invites us to take a thoughtful look at how our country came to be—and the people who shaped it along the way,” said Mary Csar, Executive Director of the Boca Raton Historical Society. “Through compelling stories, scholarly insights, and often-overlooked perspectives, we hope to spark dialogue and reflection as we approach this historic milestone.”
From now through 2026, this multi-year movement encourages Americans to reflect, reconnect, and reimagine our collective story—and Boca Raton is embracing the moment with a rich lineup of educational and engaging events.
Town Hall Talks: History Comes Alive in Boca’s
Original Town Hall
Led by acclaimed historian and reenactor Robert Feeney, this three-part fall lecture series dives deep into the lived experiences of those on the front lines of the American Revolution—on both sides of the battlefield.
September 10, 2025 | 6 p.m.
“The Redcoats Are Coming”
March into the world of British soldiers during the Revolution: their training, gear, mindset, and the myths that still surround them.
October 8, 2025 | 6 p.m.
“Continental Soldiers: Washington’s Army in the Revolution”
Discover the trials and triumphs of America’s early fighters—ordinary men who became extraordinary heroes. November 12, 2025 | 6 p.m.
“Medicine and Surgery During the Revolutionary War”
Not for the faint of heart: explore battlefield surgeries, 18th-century remedies, and the roots of American military medicine.
Each talk features limited seating. RSVP required at www. bocahistory.org.
Coming Spring 2026:
Scholars, spies, and surprising stories round out the commemorative journey:
• February 18, 2026 Declaration: The Story of American Independence with Dr. Robert Watson (Lynn University)
• April 8, 2026 – A Strategic Overview of the American Revolution with Dr. Jason Sharples (Florida Atlantic University)
Speeding fines are being enforced! Fine schedule: 6-20 mph over the limit $50 and more than 21 mph over the limit $100. Please obey the posted speed limit signs and drive safely!
• May 15, 2026 – Spies! The Shadier Side of the American Revolution with Roger Smith
• May 15, 2026 – Women of the American Revolution: Lost Voices of America’s First Generation with Roger Smith
• May 16, 2026 The 14th Colony, The Best Kept Secret of the American Revolution with Roger Smith
• May 16, 2026 – It Was the 4th of July … Or Was It? with Roger Smith
• June 17, 2026 South Florida in the 18th Century with archaeologist Robert Carr
• June 26, 2026 The Road to Revolution family activity with BRHS Education Director Shannon Patron
• July 2, 2026 America 250! Concert with Festival of the Arts
• July 22, 2026 Spain, the Forgotten Alliance with author Martha Guttierez Steinkamp
• August 1, 2026 Conquistadors for Kids! With Robert Feeney
America 250: The 14th Colony Exhibit
May 13 – August 27, 2026
Before it was a sunny paradise, Florida was a land of ambition, exploration, and resilience. America 250: The 14th Colony uncovers Florida’s pre-statehood journey through centuries of cultural clashes, freedom seekers, and trailblazers.
Bonus: View reproductions of important Documents of Liberty provided by FAU’s Spirit of America Collection et al. Mark your calendars. Bring your curiosity. And get ready to rethink everything you thought you knew about America. For more details and to RSVP, visit www.bocahistory.org. Follow along on social media @BocaHistory for updates, behind-the-scenes previews, and historical trivia as we count down to July 4, 2026.
British soldier
Colonial era surgeon Continental soldier
A Night In Mizner’s Footsteps
Brings Boca’s History To Life At The Addison
By Hillary Reynolds
History, architecture, and community spirit came together on August 14th as the Boca Raton Historical Society hosted In Mizner’s Footsteps: Explore the Legacy, Toast the Vision at the historic Addison, celebrating the city’s Centennial in grand style.
More than 100 guests gathered in the landmark building—originally Addison Mizner’s administration offices—for an evening filled with elegant hors d’oeuvres, specialty cocktails, and exclusive behind-the-scenes tours. Visitors were treated to rarely seen spaces, including Mizner’s personal office and private quarters, where his credenza, signed documents, and other treasured artifacts were on display.
Adding to the charm, a costumed “Addison Mizner” greeted guests, sharing witty anecdotes and historical insights that brought Boca Raton’s founding era vividly to life.
“This was truly a one-of-a-kind celebration—honoring our city’s rich past in one of its most iconic locations,” said Mary Csar, Executive Director of the Boca Raton Historical Society. “You could feel the pride and connection in the room as we toasted Boca’s first 100 years.”
The evening was made possible by a generous $10,000 grant from The Addison as part of its 100 Years, $100K Giving Initiative, along with the support of sponsors Alman and Katz
Please Help
We are all so fortunate to live at Boca Pointe. However, there are many who are struggling to just get by. The homeless in our area have a constant need of clothing. Please consider donating any used clothing to those less fortunate. The only requirement is that the clothes are clean and placed in a bag (no loose items). All clothing collected will be donated to local homeless shelters and programs. All clothing can be
Dentistry, Berman Law Group, and Premier Estate Properties. Proceeds benefit the Boca Raton Historical Society and the Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum, which work yearround to preserve and share the city’s heritage.
dropped off at the Boca Pointe Community Association Office at 6909 SW 18th Street, suite A120. Thank you for your generosity and care for those in need.
Karen Larkan, Denise Alman, Lauri Saunders – (photo credit LivingFLA)
Ryan Alman, Bethany Alman, Denise Alman and Steve Alman – (photo credit LivingFLA)
Zoe Lanham, Mary Csar and Alexandra Duncan
Mindful Sustainability
By Steve Handwerker
The idea and practice of mindfulness is becoming more and more pervasive in the art and science of evolving consciousness. Certainly, it would be more than useful for developing a sustainable lifestyle. What would this mean from an individual perspective? We are all beings of habit and patterns that, to a certain extent, rule our daily lives. Think about how our psychological and emotional habits govern our lives in many ways. Consider the significance of what you take for granted in your personal life regarding your actions regarding the use of clean water, food, and electricity. We unconsciously assume this is the way it should be.
Try to step outside the box NOW and consider for a moment your daily routines around how you consume or use water. How do you consume plain clean (more or less these
Forget The List
By Judith Levy
In the past, I’d get pencil and paper and make a list of things to do. I’d put ten items on the list and then even add one or two more. Now that I’m greying, I do one or two chores and then I’m done. I’m weary, the rest will have to wait. And why not? There’s no whip at my back. Whatever I have to do, I can do tomorrow. But, I was never like that. I had to accomplish whatever I needed to do, and do it immediately. Some of the people who received my timely response were surprised because they didn’t intend to deal with this project for another week or two and they felt rushed by my urgency, and most felt annoyed by it. It seemed as though I was indicating that they were lagging on the project. That wasn’t my intention but something within me demanded I handle every project, letter, and bill with a life and death timeliness. At least that’s the way I was.
Well, I’ve changed. Let the other guy race across the finish line. I’m now devoted to taking my time and I’ll get to it tomorrow or perhaps next week.
I’ve decided this is the key to living longer, at least without so many pressure-filled days. There are some letters on my desk that require my attention but right now I plan to take a nap. You find fault with that?
Don’t. Actuarial tables reveal that removing the pressure from your life will help you live longer and in any case you’ll smile more. The people around you will be pleasantly surprised by the ease and calm that has now entered your life. Take it slow, those bills won’t go away, but they can be handled tomorrow.
And the sun will come out, tomorrow.
Judith Levy is the New York Times best-selling author of GRANDMOTHER REMEMBERS, which has sold four million copies to date. Her newest offering for the twenty million great-grandmothers in the United States, is a beautifully illustrated book titled GRANDMOTHER REMEMBERS. This perfect gift, is available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. It’s bound to be another best-seller.
days) water, for drinking, preparing food, washing yourself or clothes, or your car? NOW consider how these actions to use water impact or affect your/our environment, and consider this multiplied by several million or even billions. You will be surprised or even shocked at what you see. NOW do the same thing for electricity use and the habit patterns you have regarding its use. And again, multiply that by a million and a billion. This exercise can also be applied to the use of plastics.
Consider how you might conserve these resources. For example, turning water off even during the process of brushing your teeth, washing your hands, or showering, or being more conservative about washing your car, etc. Consider how often you leave lights on or run electrical products, or do not unplug them when they are unused. Running the air conditioner on an automatic temperature setting without thought has a significant impact on creating a more sustainable environment.
We generally are not conscious of how our patterns and habits impact our environment. In simple ways, we all can
make a difference in resource sustainability. Washing our hands, brushing our teeth, taking a shower, leaving lights on or other products, what we eat, or waste/do not eat all have a significant impact on the depletion of precious resources. Creating a change in our habits and patterns requires a greater awareness of our automatic behaviors and habits that we take for granted.
Please take a moment or two and objectively think about how you utilize these resources each day and how you might initiate change in a more sustainable and conserving manner. You will be surprised at all the changes you can create by being more mindful and aware. Thank you for listening and for conserving our planet’s precious and limited resources!
Steven
E. Handwerker
Ph.D. D.div, RM Board Certified Licensed Psychologist 50 years’ experience www.peacewk.org.
Books and Blogs
Current Events Group
The Current Events Group meet every Monday from 10am-11:30am at the BPCA office. The members consist of both men and women and all Boca Pointe residents are invited to attend. If you would like more information or to sign up, please call 516-835-2670.
The Last Rodeo
By William A. Gralnick
I’ve owned a lot of dogs in my life. This one, Jax, is the last. I’m what’s known as a dog person. Throughout high school, I wanted to be a veterinarian. Allergies did that in. Not many people can say they lost a career at age 16, but what a year that was. I worked as an old-fashioned apprentice to an old-fashioned vet who was also a pharmacist. Until a cat made my allergies overwhelm me, the doctor said I had assisted in about every procedure there was to be performed on a dog. I assisted in delivering puppies, I saw what gangrene can do to the skin, we spayed and neutered, there were stitchings galore, and more.
Oddly enough, I was only allergic to cats, not dogs. And I was as knowledgeable about breeds as I was about the Brooklyn Dodgers. I could name every dog that pranced around the circle at the Westminster Kennel Club show, which even today, I never miss. My 81 years have held many different breeds: one German Shepherd, two dachshunds, a Boston Terrier, two Great Danes, two Weimaraners, and two Cocker Spaniels. Almost every one of them had a story.
The German Shepherd, which ended up becoming a Seeing Eye dog for the Blind dog because of my mother’s allergies, just refused to be ferocious enough to be a watchdog. There is a Talmudic saying that Abraham’s tent was open at the four corners—everyone was welcome. So, it was with Salty.
One of my dachshunds, a hefty black and tan named Wolf (I have no idea why), was poisoned by some lunatic. Horrid experience for a boy to watch. Wolf was followed by a miniature doxie. Her name is long gone; my memory of her is sharp as a knife. She was red and inbred, a term that is best explained by using the problems that develop when first cousins are married. The genes get screwed up. This dog was clinically hysterical. In the middle of the night, she would start screaming. My father was a dentist. He arose each morning at 7 a.m. and wasn’t getting any sleep. You don’t want anyone putting a high-speed drill in your mouth who hasn’t had a good night’s sleep. A woman answered our
ad. She was connected to the long-ago Hungarian monarchy. She loved the dog, and, near as we could tell from occasional communiques, carried it around all day long and slept with it at night—two happy customers.
And the beat went on. The Boston was brilliant, learning anything taught in a matter of minutes. ‘Loved to sit up and have a dog biscuit balanced on its nose, which, on command, it would flip into the air and chomp on as it came down. We registered him with the AKC, and because he had a silver streak on one of his ears, his AKC registered name was Billy’s Silver Streak.’
A car, driven by a hit-and-run driver, hit one of the Great Danes while she was walking the neighborhood children to the bus stop. The other Dane, some years later, leapt over a fence and faced off a cow that she thought was going to threaten our firstborn. She died of a terrible condition often seen in large, deep-bellied dogs. It’s called Bloat. ‘enough said.
One of the Weimaraners was a rescue. She looked like a Holocaust victim. While we got her healthy, she never attained the weight she was supposed to carry. Some people need to be flogged in the public square. Both dogs had to be put down at age 15 due to a nerve disorder that crippled them.
The first Cocker was a wedding present we gave to my wife’s daughter, who didn’t take our marriage, 36 years ago, with ease, to say the least. Lady was her name. She died of illnesses common to Cockers. There was a time in the ’50s when Cockers were the most popular breed in the country. Puppy mills began turning them out like cookies on a baking sheet. They developed several inbreeding problems. Puppy mill breeders should also be put in the public square and flogged.
And now we come to Jax, who, as I write this, is sleeping his last hour as we await the vet. Jax was a rescue dog who was a loser in a divorce proceeding. For most of his life, Jax, who was to be named Jack, that somehow turned into Jax, was a whirling dervish. Then, in his middle years, he became attached to me at the hip. If I moved, he moved. He wouldn’t let me out of his sight. He’s about 13. About two years ago, he lost the ability to jump up on the coach, his favorite spot for being near me. Looking back, I can see more of the signs that I missed as his
decline continued. He was amazingly docile, something not usually a trait of cockers; he was fading.
Dog professionals say the animal tells you when it’s time. Two days ago, he didn’t eat. Usually, he scarfs down his food. Last night, he had trouble walking, and when I brought him in, he plopped down on the floor. He didn’t make it to his bed, where his nightly treat awaited him and still does. This morning, he couldn’t lift himself. ‘didn’t even lift his head. Not even a morning wag of the tail. I got the message.
Jax’s death comes a month after the sudden death of my brother-in-law. So, if you see me on the street while you are walking your dog, and I ask permission for a pat or two, please know I need it. I’m grieving.
Columnist and author Bill Gralnick was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. He recently finished a humorous memoir trilogy. The first book is “The War of the Itchy Balls and Other Tales from Brooklyn.” The second is “George Washington Didn’t Sleep Here.” The recently published third is, “That’s Why They Call It Work.” He is currently working on a novel. His books are available on Amazon and his other writings at https://www. williamgralnickauthor.com.
MDA: The Beating Heart Of Israel’s Courage
By Yishai Mizrahi and Leslie Viselman
In this issue, we are pleased to share “MDA: The Beating Heart of Israel’s Courage,” an article by James Ogunleye, published in The Times of Israel
From battlefields to birth rooms, the medics and midwives who keep showing up
I have written here before about Israel’s everyday angels – the volunteers, soldiers, neighbors, and strangers who step into the breach when life turns upside down. But there is one group I have been saving for its own tribute, because nothing else would do them justice: the heroes in white, the men and women of Magen David Adom.
If you have ever stood at the side of a road, watched an ambulance tear past, lights flashing and sirens cutting through the air, you know the feeling – that quickening in your chest that says, help is on the way. For Israel, on October 7 and in every exhausting, terrifying day since, that help has had a name: MDA.
I have met volunteers, soldiers, and innovators of every kind. But there is something about an MDA medic that defies easy description – a blend of steel and tenderness, urgency and calm. On October 7, when so many of us froze in disbelief, MDA teams were already in motion, racing towards the danger.
Take Alisa Krant, just 23 years old on the morning the world changed. Sirens in Ashkelon at dawn, dispatches into combat zones within the hour. She and her crew moved wounded civilians and soldiers under fire, performing life-saving procedures in bulletproof ambulances. At one point, she kept a gravely injured police officer alive with a thoracentesis as rockets roared overhead. He had rescued two little girls whose parents had been murdered; now she was rescuing him. Later, they would become friends, bonded by trauma, resilience, and a shared understanding of what it means to simply show up.
Alisa did not go home and decide she had done her bit. She returned to the field, leading responder training programs, all while earning her degree in industrial engineering. “When you have a why,” she says, “you can bear any how.” It is a sentence that could be engraved on MDA’s shield.
Then there is Chaya Lock, a Manchester-born palliative care worker who came to Jerusalem for a temporary post and stayed. When the war erupted, she could have gone home. Instead, she enrolled in MDA’s English-language training program and joined ambulance crews across the country. She learned Hebrew under pressure, treating car crash victims, rushing newborns to hospital, navigating the most human and heartbreaking scenes. Sometimes, she says, she was the oldest responder on the scene – and marveled that “this country is being run by kids, but it works.”
One of her toughest calls involved saving the life of a Palestinian baby whose parents were in Israel illegally. Chaya and her bat sherut partner worked frantically to keep the child alive en route to hospital. When they handed the baby over, police were waiting. “Who will this child become?” she wondered aloud. In that moment, she was not thinking about politics or policy – just the fragile thread of life in her hands. This, too, is Israel.
And then, of course, the luminous Tehila Kadosh and Mera Bokae, both honored this summer by President Herzog for extraordinary service. Tehila, a paramedic and rapid response training coordinator, worked extra hours under rocket fire during the war with Iran, leading advanced emergency medicine courses in between missions into missile strike zones. Mera, a senior EMT from Akko, has earned the trust of
her colleagues not just for her skill under pressure, but for her quiet, meticulous care –making sure every emergency vehicle in her station is fully equipped and ready to roll.
But MDA’s courage is not confined to battlefields and bomb shelters. In a remarkable example of innovating the future of Israel, they have turned their lifesaving reach to one of the most human moments possible – childbirth – under some of the most inhuman circumstances.
From sirens to lullabies – volunteer midwives of MDA’s “First Contractions” project stand ready with birth kits in hand to reach mothers in labour when hospitals are too far, roads are blocked, or rockets are falling. In war or peace, they carry the quiet power to deliver life where it is needed most. (Photo credit: Times of Israel/MDA)
Last year, during the Hezbollah rocket barrages in the north, MDA and the Israel Midwives Organization launched the First Contractions program. It began with just 60 volunteer midwives – Jews, Arabs, and Druze – each paired with expectant mothers in their communities in case war or blocked roads made reaching a hospital impossible. Now, that initiative has expanded nationwide, with more than 200 trained midwives equipped with full birth kits, portable ultrasound dopplers, oxygen tanks, and neonatal resuscitation gear.
In 2024 alone, MDA teams helped 1,156 women give birth in their homes or en route to hospital. That number is not just a statistic – it is a thousand stories of life beginning even as sirens wailed overhead. It is the essence of resilience and renewal: mothers bringing children into the world while rockets fall, and a network of midwives standing ready to catch those first cries.
One of those midwives, Gilat Dolev from Kfar Tavor, says it best: “It’s important that midwives are available not only during emergencies but during holidays, when women might not make it to the hospital.” She is ready, at any hour, to drop everything and bring new life safely into the world. It is a mission as urgent as any trauma call – and every bit as heroic.
What unites these women, and the thousands of MDA medics, drivers, dispatchers, and now midwives, is not just professional excellence. It is the conviction that someone must go towards the need. And if not them, then who?
Since October 7, MDA has lost more than three dozen of its own. Still, they keep showing up. Still, they drive into rocket fire, into ambush zones, into shattered buildings, into moments when seconds mean the difference between life and death – or into living rooms where a new Israeli is seconds away from taking its first breath.
Every MDA uniform tells a story. Some are worn by teenagers fresh out of high school, learning to triage on their first accident scene. Some by veterans of countless emergencies, who can calm a hysterical parent or improvise a field treatment with the ease of muscle memory. Some
are worn by immigrants like Chaya, who arrive speaking another language but soon master the Hebrew of emergency commands: tachuf – urgent; nashima – breathe.
And yet, MDA is not just the sum of its individuals. It is a national force that binds us. In an ambulance crew, you might have a secular Tel Avivian, a religious girl from Efrat, an Arab driver from the Galilee, a Druze midwife from the north, and a lone soldier from Los Angeles – all working seamlessly. There is something quietly profound in that.
I once listened to a survivor who said he asked an MDA volunteer why she kept going back, knowing the risks. She smiled and said, “Because I can’t imagine being anywhere else when someone’s life is on the line.” That is it. That is the whole mission.
We owe Magen David Adom more than gratitude. We owe them our support – in funding, in equipment, in making sure every medic, every midwife, knows that we see them. That we remember that on October 7, and every day since, they have been there for strangers, for soldiers, for children, for mothers in labour; for all of Israel.
So here is to Alisa, to Chaya, to Tehila, to Mera, to Gilat, and to the thousands of others whose names we may never hear but whose hands have steadied Israel in its hour of need. You are not just saving lives; you are stitching the torn fabric of the nation, one act of care at a time.
In Israel, people say kol hakavod to mean “well done.” To Magen David Adom, I say something more: May you never need to answer another call born of violence. But if the siren wails, may you always have the strength, the courage, and the grace to answer it.
Because in the story of Israel’s courage, MDA is not just a chapter, it is the lifeline.
If you’d like more information or to get involved in our efforts, please feel free to reach out to Yishai Mizrahi or Leslie Viselman, Co-Area Directors for AFMDA, at 561.212.7495 or via email Boca-Delray@AFMDA.org.
Celebrate Library Card Sign-Up Month
With The Boca Raton Public Library In September
In September, the Boca Raton Public Library joins the American Library Association and public libraries nationwide to encourage everyone to sign up for the most important card of all—a free library card!
In celebration of Library Card Sign-Up Month, the Boca Raton Public Library is launching a new library card design for children, My First Library Card! This bright, colorful card features adorable animal friends such as fox, racoon, squirrel, and blue bird reading together. This year’s City of Boca Raton Centennial special edition library card is also available (while supplies last).
Residents of the City of Boca Raton and the Greater Boca Raton Beach & Park District are encouraged to select their favorite design when they sign up for a free library card (after showing proof of City residency). Current cardholders can also trade in their old card for a new one. Visit bocalibrary.org for more information on obtaining a library card.
“The Boca Raton Public Library has four terrific libraries all in one—the Spanish River Library, the Downtown Library, Mobile Library Services, and the Digital Library,” notes Laura Sparrow, Account Services Librarian. “At the Spanish River Library or the Downtown Library, cardholders can check out books, movies, puzzles and games, instruments, cake pans, and American Girl dolls; take live French, Italian, and Portuguese language classes; use Wi-Fi, computers or printers; attend a storytime or book club; or find a nice place to study/work/ meet. The Mobile Library Services team takes popular
How To Add Your Guests To The Gate
The Boca Pointe Community Association offers a few different methods to add guests to your visitors list, so please ensure that you add your guest BEFORE they arrive. If your guest is not on the list, they may be denied without a phone call being placed to get your approval. Phone calls are placed as a courtesy depending on how busy the guard is when they arrive.
To add a guest to your visitor list, you have several options:
• Website- www.gateaccess.net
• Cell phone app- Download ABDI/Gate Access from the app/play store
• Access Control- Call 561-395-3392 or leave a voicemail message at 561-395-3369
The advantage of using gateaccess.net or the app is the ability to:
• Add a guest for the day or permanently
• Remove a guest
• Send a pass with barcode
• Receive notification of guest arrival
If you have any questions regarding access methods, please call the Boca Pointe Community Association 561-395-7551.
library programs out to parks, schools, community centers, and other partner locations. The Digital Library provides 24/7 access to online books, audiobooks, news, magazines,
genealogy and investment research. Take online language and technology classes or stream popular apps Kanopy and Hoopla to watch on your Smart TV. Any way you choose to visit the Library, you can access the best of entertainment and lifelong learning. It’s a great value!”
In addition to these benefits, new and current Boca Raton Public Library cardholders get a special bonus from Florida Atlantic University! Their card enables them to attend the Florida Atlantic University football game on September 27, 2025, against Memphis for the special rate of only $5 per ticket. Visit https://www.gofevo.com/event/ Fauloves76 to get a ticket today!
The Boca Raton Public Library provides outstanding library services, resources, and programs that meet the educational, recreational, cultural, and informational needs of library users in its two locations.
Armchair Traveling With Murder In Mind, Part II
The Allure of the Nordic Noir
By Linda Leshnik – sleshnik@gmail.com
What a difference! Traveling from sunny Italy or France to Europe’s northern countries where life seems bleaker, darker and colder, and fictional characters are more likely to test the depths of human depravity. In the northern crime stories, you often meet morally weak and seriously flawed people. Police investigators are typically haunted by their own demons while on the trail of criminals. The northern authors have no illusions about our species and their novels are not for the faint hearted.
I discovered the lure of Nordic mysteries in the early eighties of the last century. It started with a Swedish author couple. Maj Sjöwall and Per Wahlöö were all the rage among my friends, and I too became fascinated by their antihero homicide detective Martin Beck, whose patch is Stockholm and surroundings. Two of their best books, I thought then and still do, are The Man Who Went Up In Smoke and The Laughing Policeman . The latter was made into a movie, starring Walter Matthau.
I’m inclined to think that the long winter nights have something to do with the intensity of the northern writing style. Stieg Larsson, another Swede, wrote the runaway bestseller trilogy The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, The Girl Who Played With Fire and The Girl Who Kicked The Hornet’s Nest . The heroine in all three books is a self-reliant young woman whom the writer describes as punkish. Unfortunately, Stieg Larsson never knew of his success. He died in 2004, shortly before the first book of the trilogy was published.
The media calls Camilla Läckberg, “the hottest female crime writer in Sweden.” She began publishing in 2004 with The Ice Princess , and has thus written fourteen books. My favorite is The Stonecutter , in which Inspector Patrik Hedström investigates the drowning of a child in a small fishing village. The murder investigation exposes the dark past of the village and shreds its idyllic façade.
Then, there is author Henning Mankell with his creation Kurt Wallander, a police inspector who lives in the little town of Ystad, Sweden, not far from Malmö. Mankell’s 21 books are considered to be a classic of Nordic Noir crime novels.
He has been praised for his realism in portraying the impact of crime on individuals and society. Mankell died in 2015. I read eleven of his novels that were published in English and liked best The Dogs Of Riga
After writing ten novels featuring Inspector Van Veeteren, perhaps Håkan Nesser, another Swede, got tired of his cynical and introspective hero. In any event, he created another inspector, Gunnar Barbarotti, who is of Italian descent and has a more upbeat personality. Nesser has published ten novels with Barbarotti as the hero. I read The Secret Life of Mr. Roos . In this story, a family celebrates a big birthday. Before the weekend is over two family members are missing and Barbarotti has to unravel a web of sinister family secrets as he investigates. I still enjoy the Van Veeteren books, especially The Strangler’s Honeymoon , in which a priest brings to the inspector’s attention a series of murders by strangulation.
Except for Jo Nesbø and his popular Harry Hole series, I have not (yet) read other Norwegian authors, such as Karin Fossum, the acknowledged Norwegian queen of crime fiction. She is known for her Inspector Konrad Sejer series. Gunnar Staalesen is also on my “to read list.” He sets his thriller series with private investigator Varg Veumin his home city of Bergen. My favorite in the Harry Hole series is The Snowman. In this book Hole investigates a series of disappearances of women, all of whom vanish on the day of the first snowfall. In their place is a snowman adorned with the scarf of the missing woman.
Peter Høeg and Jussi Adler-Olsen top the list of Danish crime authors. Adler-Olsen became famous overnight with the first book of his Department Q series (eleven books so far). A Netflix series with that name premiered in May of this year. My favorite in the series is The Shadow Murders, one of Adler-Olsen’s most haunting stories. It follows the Department Q team, led by Detective Carl Mørck, as it looks into a number of suspicious deaths. At each of the crime scene salt is present in one form or another.
Peter Høeg’s 1992 novel Smilla’s Sense of Snow won three awards and was published in more than thirty countries. For a time, Høeg faded from public view. He claims he hates fame. He does, however, continue to write, but no more Nordic Noirs.
Four of the most prolific Nordic crime writers come from Iceland, a country with only about 400,000 population. I read with great pleasure Ragnar Jonasson’s Snowblind , his first novel in his Dark Iceland series. In it, inexperienced Detective Ari Thor has to solve two seemingly unrelated deaths.
The doings of Arnaldur Indridason’s Detective Erlendur usually keep me glued to my chair. He is a brooding and introspective investigator with a troubled personal past. Through his eyes we see the harsh Icelandic environment. Indridason is an inter-national top seller and if you haven’t seen his film Jar City , I recommend you catch it on Netflix or Amazon’s Prime Video.
Eva Björg Aegisdottir was born and raised in a small town just half an hour outside of Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital. In her first novel The Creak on the Stairs , a woman’s body is discovered dumped in a lighthouse. Elma, the chief investigating officer, probes deeply with her tough questions. So far, there are six novels in Björg’s Forbidden Iceland Series.
The North European countries have more crime writers that are no doubt, worth reading. But my space is limited and I have therefore concentrated on the authors I know and cherish. But beware: as I said before, Nordic Noirs are not for the faint of heart
The Freedom Of Letting Go
By Ilene Brookler
Rosh HaShana, the Jewish New Year, reminds us that every year we can turn the page, reflect, and start anew. Even in family relationships that feel locked in place, the New Year calls on us to consider what burdens we can set down and what new possibilities might be waiting if we do.
From the very beginning, my in-laws decided I was not good enough for their son. They did not bother with the messy business of getting to know me. They had made their ruling, and—like an HOA board denying a fence request—they stamped it in ink: Not Approved. When my husband and I became engaged, his parents skipped the engagement party, and on our wedding day my mother-in-law’s scowl was impossible to miss. Their attitude never softened, not even when our son was born. In fact, it hardened into something worse—active disdain. Once, when a teacher praised my parenting to her face, my mother-in-law scowled so dramatically that the teacher later told me about it, horrified. Another time, when I emailed from overseas to let my mother-in-law know her son had been hospitalized, she asked flatly, “And what do you want me to do with that information?” It was a response that spoke volumes. Eventually, my in-laws’ contempt became official in the form of a certified letter demanding my husband divorce me or lose his “relationships” with his parents and siblings.
(Spoiler alert: he chose love over certified mail.) We moved far away, cut off contact, and spent a blissful dozen years surrounded by my extended family—cousins, siblings, and people who actually liked us.
But anger has a way of piling up, and at some point, it becomes too heavy to drag around. Rosh HaShana has the tradition of tashlich, where we symbolically cast our sins and regrets into flowing water. I realized our anger was no different— it needed to be tossed out, not because my in-laws deserved a clean slate, but because my husband and I deserved the freedom of walking without that weight. I worked for months to release my anger—not to forgive or forget, but to free myself.
When the chance came this year to meet my mother-in-law one-on-one, I said yes. Our son, protective as ever, insisted on joining. And so, after twelve years, I opened my door. My mother-in-law had aged, though the frostiness remained. I kept smiling anyway. I showed her around the house. She surprised me by complimenting my décor. She lit up when speaking about our son. And she admitted she had misunderstood me. She thought I did not want her near our children. The truth was simpler: I cherished motherhood and did not want anyone else doing my favorite parts. She admitted her mistake and even teared up at the years she had lost.
It was not a fairy-tale ending. No sweeping apologies, no sudden embrace of unconditional love. But it was something. Enough to open a crack in the wall.
Seven months later, here is what I have learned: We cannot control how others treat us, only how we respond. Reacting in anger feeds the cycle. Responding calmly preserves dignity.
By Elyse Weintraub Brown,
Community
Education Specialist,
Palm Beach County Fire Rescue (561) 616-7051 or ewbrown@pbcgov.org
This message is brought to you by your friendly Firefighters from Palm Beach County Fire Rescue….
Every day firefighters and other emergency responders drive to emergencies. What’s more, oftentimes the emergency they are driving to is actually in the roadway. Although they are helping others and rendering aid, they are also at risk of being injured and killed on our roadways by motorists. Help protect them…because if they can’t help you in your time of need…who will?
Learn the Move Over LAW (FS 316.126)
Are you unsure about what you are supposed to do when you are driving on a local roadway, and you see DRIVING BEHIND YOU a fire truck or other emergency vehicle with lights flashing and sirens wailing on the way to an emergency? The Answer is …you must yield the right of way. When it is safe to do so, move over as close as reasonable to the closest edge of the curb of the roadway, clear of any intersection and then stop. When this happens on highways and interstates, rather than stop, slow down and then safely move over so that the emergency vehicle can pass. Are you unsure about what you are supposed to do when you are driving on a roadway with multiple lanes, and you see a fire truck or rescue truck working an emergency ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD? The Answer is….When it is safe to do, merge away from a vehicle working on the side of the roadway to provide an empty travel lane for the emergency worker. If you are not able to safely move over, you must slow down to a speed of 20 MPH below the posted speed limit unless directed otherwise by a law enforcement officer.
On a two-lane roadway…Where there is NO lane of travel in the same direction to merge over to, you are REQUIRED to slow down to a speed that is 20 miles per hour less than the posted speed limit. If the speed limit is 20 miles per hour or less, you must slow down to five miles per hour.
In the State of Florida, drivers must also move over for sanitation vehicles and utility service vehicles performing tasks related to their services, and wreckers displaying amber rotating or flashing lights performing a recovery or loading on the roadside. Violating the Move Over Law can result in a fine and points on your license; and worse, because it puts rescuers, civilians, and other motorists at risk of serious injury and even death. For everyone’s safety, share the Move Over Law with others. Help us…help You!
Boundaries are not for negotiation. You set them, live by them, and politely walk away when they are ignored.
Letting go of anger is a gift you give yourself. It is not about excusing others; it is about freeing yourself from carrying their baggage.
These lessons apply well beyond family estrangement. In neighborhoods, workplaces, and yes—even HOAs— people will misunderstand, misjudge, and misinterpret. We cannot control their choices, but we can choose ours.
So now, when my husband deals with his parents, he does so with respect but without compromising our family’s peace. We visit, but we do not stay overnight. We talk, but we end conversations that veer into hurtful territory. We carry gratitude for the life they gave him without carrying the weight of their disapproval.
And in the end, that is the balance. Rosh HaShana teaches us that every new year is a chance to take stock, to set aside old grudges, and to move forward with intention. We may not forget the past, and we may not receive the apologies we wish for, but we can still choose how to live the next chapter.
Ilene Brookler, a Boca Pointe resident and Columbia Law School graduate, brings over 30 years of litigation experience to her role as a certified mediator. She founded Family First Divorce Mediation Services with the goal of helping families navigate divorce quickly and affordably. She can be reached at info@familyfirstmediate.com. For more information, visit www.familyfirstmediate.com.
If you have never registered on the Community Association web site, call Access Control for our “Community Code,” then go to www.bocapointe.com. Click on the “Not registered yet?” link right under the log in box.
If you think you are registered, but just can’t remember your User Name and Password, click on the “Forgot your password?” link and it will be mailed to the email address you used when you registered. Want to update your email address or add your mobile number to receive text messages? Go to the
You?
web site Residents Only page and click on the “User Profile” link.
Once you are a registered user, to log onto the web site, you simply go to www.bocapointe.com and you will find the User name and Password boxes in the top right hand corner. Fill in your information, then click on the small blue forward arrow. The log in is “case sensitive.”
If you are a smartphone user, we now have a mobile version of the web site for your use that even includes a Comment Form. Let us know what you think and give us your suggestions for improvements.
The old style transponders that you use to gain entry through the gates work off of batteries. The batteries are built into the device and cannot be replaced. At the end of their life, the entire device must be replaced. Most of our devices have been in use for over five years now and are beginning to fail. If your device is no longer working properly, it may be time for you to purchase a new one. Replacement devices are sold at the discounted price of $75. Driver’s license and vehicle registration required. We are now using windshield devices.
$100.00 - New transponder
$75.00 - Replacement transponder
**Homeowners, tenants and club members will be issued a transponder to the village they reside in and into the Boca Pointe Club if they are a member**
ACCEPTABLE FORMS OF PAYMENT CREDIT CARD, CHECK or MONEY ORDER NO REFUNDS ARE ISSUED
100 Years Bold: Boca Raton’s Centennial Celebration Hits Its Stride—And The Best Is Yet To Come
By Hillary Reynolds
From epic concerts and vibrant public art to heartfelt community stories and flamingo-filled fun, Boca Raton’s Centennial celebration is turning 100 into a year to remember. With the city’s biggest moments still ahead, 2025 is proving that Boca doesn’t just celebrate its history … it brings it to life.
“Boca Raton is world-renowned for the special community we are, and this year has truly shown the strength of our community spirit,” said Scott Singer, Mayor of Boca Raton. “From heartfelt poetry to city-wide celebrations, the Centennial is bringing our story to life in a way that honors the past while building a bold future.”
Since its kickoff in January, the year-long celebration has brought together residents, visitors, and businesses to honor the city’s rich history and vibrant present. From blockbuster concerts to community art, the first half of 2025 has been filled with unforgettable moments—and even more are still to come.
“As the organizers of this year-long, community-wide program, we’ve loved seeing our vision for the Centennial enjoyed throughout the community,” said Anne Marie Connolly and Amy DiNorscio, Centennial Co-Chairs and City staff members. “From poetry and public art to concerts and community storytelling, this celebration isn’t just about celebrating 100 years ... it’s about connection to people and place that honors our shared history and creates a legacy.”
Highlights So Far:
• Boca Street Fest, a brand-new celebration of food, music, and community, kicked off the Centennial year—and is now slated to return annually.
• A sold-out Weezer concert and dazzling free drone show marked the official Centennial weekend, drawing thousands to Mizner Park and The Boca Raton Innovation Campus.
• The “Ode to Boca” initiative in partnership with O, Miami has gathered over 1,000 original poems, some of which are on display in the “Plastic Poetry” public art installations at both City libraries.
• A recreated historic welcome sign now greets visitors in Sanborn Square, offering a nostalgic nod to Boca’s past.
• Boca Raton Untold , a captivating video series in partnership with Lynn University, continues to preserve and share stories from long-time residents, civic leaders, and pioneers.
• Local businesses are joining the fun with Centennialthemed hotel packages and the wildly popular 1925 CentenniAle, a Prosperity Brewers custom blonde ale brewed with pineapple and served in over 60 locations across the city. What’s Still to Come:
• Our video interview project, Boca Raton Untold, in partnership with Lynn University will wrap up. The series captures stories from the voices of those who were part of the history of Boca Raton from the creation of the personal PC at IBM to the development of Mizner Park, and more.
• The next chapter in the City’s Centennial storytelling initiative, Voices of Boca , invites residents to share their authentic Boca Raton stories in an interview collection project inspired by StoryCorps. In partnership with The Flamingo House, the program preserves heartfelt conversations between friends, family, and neighbors— capturing memories, milestones, and moments that shaped our community. The goal: 100 stories to honor 100 years. Submit your story today: https://www.surveymonkey. com/r/9DV7G72
• Ode to Boca will continue, and 100 finalists will be selected at the end of the Centennial year for acknowledgement and to be featured in future civic publishing projects.
• A new “Ode to Boca”-inspired mural will be unveiled on the Mizner Park Amphitheater stage doors.
• Additional public art installations will continue to pop up across the city.
• FAU will host a special Centennial Celebration at their home football game against FAMU on September 6th at 6 p.m.
• A Centennial Celebration Concert: Through the Decades on Saturday, October 25 at 8 p.m., will invite residents to journey through 100 years of sound. The free performance is an encore presentation from the 2025 Festival of the Arts Boca Centennial Concert.
• Poetry in Pajamas at BRiC on November 8 – A magical open mic for children, where kids of all ages are invited to recite their favorite prose among an audience of pajama-clad peers.
• Centennial Gala hosted by the Addison on November 9 – A night celebrating the City and the Addison’s Centennial, honoring the past, embracing the present & inspiring the future.
• A Centennial-themed Holiday Street Parade will bring festive cheer to the streets on Wednesday, December 3.
• Centennial Legacy Project , set for completion December 6 – A Public Art Project at Wildflower Park includes pavilion mosaics, splash pad mural and bench, and swings.
• The Flamingo Flock – In celebration of Boca Raton’s Centennial, the City and The Flamingo House have teamed up to release a flock of 100 flamingos throughout special locations across town.
• New items will debut on the Boca100 Boutique , featuring commemorative apparel and gifts.
Get Involved:
The City encourages residents, businesses, and visitors to continue celebrating throughout 2025. Follow along at www.Boca100.com and on social media @CityBocaRaton using the hashtag #Boca100.
About the City of Boca Raton:
Boca Raton, the second largest city in Palm Beach County, blends history and innovation with its Mediterranean Revival architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Influenced by architect Addison Mizner, the city is home to live concerts, international art exhibits, world-class museums, five miles of Atlantic coastline, and 49 parks offering 1,650 acres of recreational space. A hub for business and innovation, Boca Raton hosts 40 publicly traded corporate headquarters. With three nationally ranked universities, top-rated schools, and a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, Boca Raton is a dynamic, safe, and educated community with a low property tax rate. Learn more at myboca.us.
For more information on Boca Raton’s Centennial events, visit www.Boca100.com or email Boca100@ bocaraton-fl.gov.
ARLYNE Edgewater at Boca Pointe Near Boca Pointe Country Club
After decades of hard work and planning, it’s time to relax and spend your time doing what you love. That’s why moving to an Acts Retirement-Life Community is the smart choice for your QOL. Come in and talk with one of our happy residents to learn how moving to Edgewater at Boca Pointe enabled them to focus on Quality of Life.
COMPREHENSIVE RETIREMENT
Your residence, amenities and more are all included with a one-time entrance fee and an ongoing monthly fee. And if you need more help in the future, your monthly fee will remain predictable thanks to Acts Life Care®.
Opening in late 2027, The Winsberg at Green Cay will be more than a brand-new luxury Life Plan Community – it will also be a fresh start filled with new friends, new adventures, and new reasons to smile.
Here, every detail will be designed to bring people together. From happy hours and live entertainment to lectures, clubs, and friendly competitions, you’ll be surrounded by people who love to stay active, engaged, and inspired.
Be among the first to shape the culture, build the community, and belong from the very beginning. Join the Founders Club and secure priority residence selection, exclusive benefits, and savings averaging $120,000.
Fall Festivities At The Club
This fall, The Club at Boca Pointe is bringing the community together for meaningful traditions and familyfriendly fun. From celebrating the High Holidays with services that inspire and uplift, to a festive Halloween evening filled with treats and spooky surprises, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Mark your calendars and join us for these special events!
High Holiday Services, September 22 & October 1
Boo House & Trunk or Treat, October 18
High Holidays
Inviting Boca Pointe Community Residents
The Club at Boca Pointe is proud to host Jewish High Holy Day Services as we have for the past 30 years,
We’re Right in Your Backyard – Discover ClubLife at The Club at Boca Pointe!
Get ready to play, dine, and connect like never before. With our new Discovery Membership, enjoy full Dining & Social Privileges, plus access to Pickleball, Tennis, Fitness, Aquatics, and—we’re excited to introduce— PADEL programming launching this fall!
Membership Term: September 1, 2025 – August 31, 2026
Clowns On Call
By Harriet Rubin, aka Florabelle the Clown
It’s still too hot!!! For those of you who follow my column, on Friday, August 8th, “Wiggles and Giggles” was performed by the Junior Joey Clowns at the Club at Boca Pointe Summer Camp!
What a busy week we had with the camp kids the first week in August. Tuesday was our last day to practice juggling and balancing spinning plates with Juggles, and the kids were so excited to show off their skills. I decided to encourage anyone who wanted to try to perform to take part in that juggling segment of the show, even if they were
with a Cantor and a Rabbi officiating. These services are meaningful, spiritual, and beautifully conducted.
Both days of Rosh Hashanah are celebrated along with evening Kol Nidre and Yom Kippur services. It is a wonderful opportunity to come together, reflect, and begin the year with purpose and community spirit.
We extend a warm invitation to all Boca Pointe Community residents to participate and join us:
The ticket cost for adults is $165, and for children 4 – 12 years, no charge. Seating availability is limited.
Contact Margie Alphonse to reserve your ticket(s):
Phone : 561.864.8500, ext. 0
Email: bpccreception@heritagegolfgroup.com
We look forward to having as many as possible join us for these fantastic services as we welcome the New Year of 5786 at The Club at Boca Pointe.
Introductory Enrollment Fee: $4,000*
Monthly Dues: $500*
ClubLife is better with friends. Enroll together and split the Introductory Enrollment Fee—up to four Memberships can share!*
Why Join?
ü Conveniently located in your neighborhood ü Year-round lifestyle and recreational access ü New Padel courts debuting Fall 2025
ü Enjoy the Club with friends and family
We’re just around the corner—let us show you what ClubLife is all about.
Boo House & Trunk or Treat
not consistent in their attempt. As a result, we ended up with many kids who had tried mastering the skills during the summer with varying degrees of success, but they were willing to try, in front of an audience and that was great!
We had a first-time camper who at 13 was able to master the spinning plates almost immediately and it was really remarkable to watch him!
Thursday was dress rehearsal and excited was not a strong enough term for the 14 kids who were getting ready to perform in front of their families. Twinkle Toes and I had our hands full, but we felt very confident that the show would be a great success.
Friday was showtime and the wonderful counselors did all the make-up on all 14 of the performers. The photos show how great they all looked! And then it was time to perform. I don’t know how many of you have ever supervised a performance with 8 boys and 6 girls ages 6 to 13, but it is a real learning experience. The performance was in the large exercise room at the Fitness Center, and the only place the cast could line up and wait to go “on stage” was behind a wall in a corridor used for equipment storage, which is part of the main room. Trying to keep 14 kids quiet while some of them are performing just a few feet away, but the ones waiting to go on could not watch because of the wall—well, needless to say, it was a challenge. Twinkle Toes, Juggles, Cutie Pie and I had our
Get ready for a spooktacular evening at our 3rd Annual Boo House & Trunk or Treat on Saturday, October 18, from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Step inside our haunted Boo House for some spine-tingling fun, stroll through rows of decorated trunks overflowing with treats and have a blast in the bounce houses. We’ll have food trucks on-site so you can grab a bite while enjoying the festivities. This family-friendly Halloween celebration is filled with laughter, costumes, and plenty of sweet surprises!
Email Mallory to register mbarash@ heritagegolfgroup.com.
$15 Cash-only entry fee for children 2 and up.
*Eligible family members include a single member or two adults residing together (excluding adult children) and unmarried children under 26 living in the household. Prices exclude applicable taxes and additional fees. Discovery Membership eligibility is not guaranteed. Please review Club Bylaws and Rules & Regulations. Restrictions may apply.
Contact: Alexis Robertson, Membership Director (561) 864-8537 arobertson@heritagegolfgroup.com
Follow this link to learn more.
One Big Beautiful Bill Act: Estate And Trust Planning
By Carolina Rosenthal, CPA, Principal –crosenthal@withum.com
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) was signed into law by President Donald Trump on July 4, 2025, making several of Trump’s 2017 tax-related provisions permanent, while adding and expanding on those provisions as part of a sweeping tax cuts package that will prove to impact millions of taxpayers and businesses nationwide. Here is an analysis of how the bill affects the estate planning of high-net-worth clients and planning strategies to consider.
The headline in the bill for estate planners is that the increased lifetime estate, gift and generation skipping transfer (GST) tax exemption amounts are scheduled to increase to $15 million for single filers and $30 million for joint filers in 2026. Accordingly, planners and their clients should consider the following when exploring the use of these increased exemptions:
• Review the structure of trusts in place and fund new trusts, such as:
○ SLATs (Spousal Lifetime Access Trusts): Maximize the use of increased exemptions for at least one spouse while
hands full! Somehow, we were able to get the correct kids out for the next act without too much delay, and of course the audience was very tolerant and patient.
I can’t tell you how pleased we all were with the talent and abilities these kids displayed! They juggled, they spun plates, they made balloons of various shapes, they played (all together) on their funny kazoos, they remembered their lines in the skits, they performed magic tricks successfully, marched in and marched out together (as practiced) and the opening and closing acts went smoothly and very professionally! The audience applauded with cheers with a standing ovation at the end, and the performers deserved every bit of it!
We could not have accomplished this outstanding event without the co-operation of Kaci Goodner – head counsellor and her great staff, so a big thank you to all of you. Also, thanks to Ashley Rozo for all her help throughout the 8 weeks! It’s always a pleasure to work with you! Looking forward to next summer!
September is still slow for us as we are awaiting the return of our snowbird clowns. Candy Bar did two shows for 100 + kids in the Hamptons and she reports that it was a great success! We will probably do a Red Nose performance at the YMCA, and we look forward to an introduction to the new 3–4-year-olds, many of whom have never seen a real clown! Don’t forget we are always seeking new people to train! Never a charge, and it’s such a good way to contribute happiness to those who need it and to the community! You too can be a CLOWN!
Wave when you see us on campus!
On behalf of The Club at Boca Pointe we would like to remind our residents that NO walking, running, bicycle riding or dog walking is permitted on the golf course or golf cart paths. For safety reasons, the paths are for golf carts only.
Thank you for cooperating with The Club's policy.
maintaining indirect access to transferred assets through the beneficiary spouse.
○ IDGTs (Intentionally Defective Grantor Trusts): Offers a variety of planning opportunities through transactions between the grantor and the trust.
○ Irrevocable Non-Grantor Trusts: Trusts that generally pay their own tax and allow for the shifting of income, as well as maximizing deductions available at the trust level. Additional considerations for income tax planning opportunities are discussed later in this article.
○ Dynasty Trusts: Multi-generational planning available through the utilization of the increased GST tax exemption.
○ Bypass Trusts: Maximize the use of increased exemptions at the federal level and as a tool to manage state exemptions where applicable.
• Efficient use of portability between spouses.
○ The remaining unused exemption from the first spouse to die is transferred to the surviving spouse.
• Transfer minority interests in illiquid assets, such as closely held businesses or real estate.
○ Using valuation discounts where applicable for reduced gift tax cost.
For clients who may have already used nearly all their exemption by way of lifetime transfers, consider a Grantor Retained Annuity Trust (GRAT) or an installment sale of assets between a grantor and an IDGT to transfer future appreciation out of the grantor’s estate at minimal or no gift tax cost. Additionally, ensuring life insurance is in place and held by an Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust (ILIT) will be crucial for these clients.
The OBBBA prompts us to take a fresh look at income tax planning considerations surrounding non-grantor trusts
as well. By way of the bill increasing the SALT deduction cap from $10,000 to $40,000 and making permanent the QBI deduction in 2025, which are both applied individually to trusts, opportunities for the shifting of income to trusts to maximize these deductions have become more relevant. For instance, rather than fund one trust for the benefit of three beneficiaries, funding a separate trust for each beneficiary may provide more deductions for each trust, resulting in overall tax savings. Alternatively, trustees of non-grantor trusts could consider retaining income in the trust if the state income tax deduction shields the income from taxation at the trust level.
High-net-worth clients with philanthropic goals should also revisit their charitable giving strategies, as the OBBBA has brought changes to charitable contribution deductions starting in 2026. Itemizers will see their charitable contribution deduction reduced by a floor of 0.5% of their Adjusted Gross Income (AGI), and an overall limit on itemized deductions for clients in the 37% bracket. This effectively limits the tax benefit received from itemized deductions to 35 cents on the dollar for amounts beyond where the 37% bracket begins for the taxpayer.
Continuing to implement estate planning strategy, even for clients likely to fall below the estate tax exemption at death, remains crucial even in this environment of increased exemptions. Future legislative proposals surrounding more severe estate tax, wealth taxes and tighter scrutiny surrounding the use of trusts in estate planning are not out of the realm of possibility. Clients with significant wealth should move forward with a sense of urgency to ensure they maximize the opportunities presented by the OBBBA while they are available.
Open Call For Viewpointe Contributing Writers!
We are looking for volunteers, whether experienced or hobbyist, interested in writing an article or a column for the Viewpointe. You may be interested in writing just once, occasionally or on a regular basis. It’s a great way to sharpen your skills or develop your talent while enlightening your community. Some themes we would like to include in the Viewpoint are as follows:
• Village Spotlight - write about your community. A different village can be featured each month.
• My Story - featuring a member of the community with a unique or interesting story.
• Student Life - High school students writing about school or a topic that interests them. Student writers will be eligible to earn community service hours.
• Global Cuisine or Gourmet Recipes - share a special, gourmet recipe or a recipe from our international community.
• Share an idea you may have for a new column or article.
Show your interest in joining the writing team by contacting Lisa Cammaleri at asstmgr@bocapointe.com.
Vehicle Information
If you have purchased a new vehicle within the past 6 months, please make sure the Boca Pointe Community Association management office has a copy of your current vehicle registration on file. Your gate transponder is linked to your vehicle so it is important that we have accurate information in our system. Please fax it to (561) 395-5936 or email it to admin@bocapointe.com.
Thank you for your cooperation! BPCA Management team
Clowns
Centennial Nights, Boca Lights: City Of Boca Raton Announces 2025–26 Night Market Season
Sanborn Square comes alive monthly with food, art, music & community spirit
By Hillary Reynolds
The City of Boca Raton is keeping the Centennial celebration glowing well into 2026 with the return of its beloved Night Market series in Sanborn Square (72 N Federal Hwy). Launching Thursday, October 2, 2025, from 6–9 p.m., the monthly evening event invites locals and visitors alike to gather under the stars for an unforgettable mix of food, music, and art.
Each Night Market transforms Sanborn Square into a lively open-air festival, featuring:
• Tastes & Treats – A variety of delicious food and sweet indulgences
• Makers & Artisans – Handcrafted goods and local treasures
• Live Music & Art – Performances and installations that bring Boca’s creative spirit to life
• Mobile Bar – Sip and stroll beneath the lights of downtown
2025–26 Night Market Dates
• October 2, 2025
• November 6, 2025
• December 11, 2025
• January 8, 2026
• February 5, 2026
• March 5, 2026
• April 2, 2026
• May 7, 2026
This year, the City is adding an extra touch of convenience and sustainability: FREE rides to and from the Night Market with BocaConnect, the new eco-friendly shuttle service. Attendees can download the Circuit App to book rides with ease.
“Boca Raton’s Night Markets capture the heart of our Centennial—bringing people together to share food, music, and culture,” said Mayor Scott Singer. “From bites to beats to browsing, it’s where Boca Raton shines brightest under the stars.”
For more details on the Night Market and other Centennial events, visit www.myboca.us.
Are You Watching Your Speed?
Please obey all posted speed limit signs throughout Boca Pointe for the safety of our residents. As a reminder, the speed limits are as follows:
Boca Pointe Drive 30mph
Via de Sonrisa del Norte 25mph
Promenade Drive 20mph
SPEEDING FINES ARE BEING ENFORCED!!
About the City of Boca Raton: Boca Raton, the second largest city in Palm Beach County, blends history and innovation with its Mediterranean Revival architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Influenced by architect Addison Mizner, the city is home to live concerts, international art exhibits, world-class museums, five miles of Atlantic coastline, and 49 parks offering 1,650 acres of recreational space. A hub for business and innovation, Boca Raton hosts 40 publicly traded corporate headquarters. With three nationally ranked universities, top-rated schools, and a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, Boca Raton is a dynamic, safe, and educated community with a low property tax rate. Learn more at myboca.us.
For more information on Boca Raton’s Centennial events, visit www.Boca100.com or email Boca100@bocaraton-fl.gov
What Are The Differences Between A Will And A Revocable Living Trust?
By Martin Zevin, Attorney
Many people mistakenly believe that, if they have executed a Florida Will, probate will be avoided when they pass away. This is not true.
In Florida, an Estate will go into probate when a person owns any property in his or her name alone without named beneficiaries. For example, if your spouse is deceased and the deed to your home is in both of your names, that home will have to go through the probate process in Court when you die. Likewise, if you have a brokerage account or bank account in your name alone with no one named as payable on death, that asset will also need to be probated upon your death.
The main purpose of a Will is to designate who you want to get certain assets when you die. If you die without a Will in Florida, the law will still require probate of your assets and your beneficiaries will be based on your closest living blood relatives. Florida Law provides for an order of priority of blood relatives if someone dies without a Will. If you are a Florida resident and own real estate in another state, it is likely that two probates will be required: a primary probate in Florida and a secondary probate (known as an ancillary proceeding) in the state where the property is located.
With cash assets such as bank accounts, CD’s, brokerage accounts, annuities, life insurance policies, etc. you can avoid probate by designating one or more beneficiaries on the account. These beneficiaries will be entitled to the proceeds of that account upon your death, regardless of whether you have a Will or what you may have indicated in the Will; in other words, the designation of a beneficiary in a specific account takes precedence over anything stated in a Will.
The Will will only apply to those assets where there are no designated beneficiaries (or if the beneficiaries have died before you). Therefore, one of the primary reasons that many clients choose to create a Revocable Living Trust is to avoid probate on all of their assets, particularly their home and any other real estate. I have many clients who own their primary home in Florida and a vacation home in another state. We create a Revocable Living Trust in Florida and also prepare a Quit Claim Deed to transfer the Florida property into the Trust. An attorney in the other state can then prepare a Deed transferring that property into the the Florida Trust. This legal work will avoid probate in both states and allow for quick and easy sale or distribution of the properties.
The Trust which we prepare also provides that your Successor Trustee (the person or persons you designate to administer the Trust after you pass away) can also take over managing the assets of your Trust if you become legally incapacitated. Legal incapacity is defined in the Trust document with language that requires a written statement from two medical doctors indicating that you are not able to carry on your legal affairs. The language allows your Successor Trustee to take over without a Court Order, but still provides you the protection of requiring written statements from two doctors.
In addition, it is much more difficult to contest a Revocable Living Trust than a Will. Your Successor Trustee can sell your properties and make distributions very quickly following your death, whereas the probate process required for a Will generally takes six to nine months or longer.
I leave you with the words of wisdom that my father left for me: “May you live as long as you want and never want as long as you live.” I am available for a free personal meeting or phone consultation regarding Estate Planning. Call me at 954-569-4878. My address is 3275 W. Hillsboro Blvd., Suite 204, Deerfield Beach, Florida 33442. My website is www.martinzevinpa.com and my e-mail address is martinzevin@netzero.com.
Paid Advertisement
We have had a few recent complaints from residents who have had uncomfortable encounters with dogs off leash around the property. We are reaching out to our residents to remind them of our rules concerning keeping dogs on leashes and cleaning pet litter. As a resident of Boca Pointe you must: Keep your dog on a leash. All dogs must be controlled on a leash by an able-bodied person, at all times, whenever the dog is on property. Also, you must clean up and properly dispose of pet waste when your pet relieves itself. Knowing and abiding by our community’s animalrelated ordinances will help make our neighborhood a better place for everyone. Thank you!
Water
Tax Talk
Dear friends:
The other day I mentioned to a colleague about a potential visit I was planning to Marathon later this year and we both started listing all the wonderful opportunities and resources we have as residents of South Florida. We are fortunate to have so many things to do right in our own backyard. We have year-round great weather and a unique variety of attractions and resources. For instance, the Florida Keys are a nearby treasure, perfect for a quick weekend getaway.
We also have several regional cruise ports, making it easy to hop on a ship for a quick trip to the Bahamas or other islands without the hassle of a flight. And for a truly unforgettable experience, a view of a nighttime rocket launch from Cape Canaveral is an absolutely astounding sight on a clear night.
Enjoy whatever is left for your summer doing what brings you the most pleasure because we are so fortunate to have so much to do and see as residents of Palm Beach County!
Anne M. Gannon, Constitutional Tax Collector, Serving Palm Beach County
Park Here!
As of July 1, expectant mothers are now eligible to apply for a temporary disabled parking permit. Applicants must complete Form 83040, Application for Expectant Mother Parking Permit at www.pbctax.gov/onlineforms. The form must be completed and signed by the applicant and physician. The permit costs $15 and will be valid for one year from the date of issuance.
Completed applications may be submitted through one of the options below:
• Mail to: Tax Collector, Palm Beach County, P.O. Box 3715, West Palm Beach, FL 33402-3715 – Be sure to
include copy of valid Florida driver license/ID card and payment (money order or check).
• Drop boxes located in all Palm Beach County Tax Collector Offices (8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m.) – Be sure to include copy of valid Florida driver license/ID card and payment (money order or check).
• Make a reservation for in-person service at www.pbctax. gov/reservations.
Faces Of The TCO: Steve Weiss
Title: Chief Excellence Officer
Hometown: Lakeland, Florida
Favorite Activity: Surfing
Favorite Food: Seafood or steak
One of the key areas of our office that you may not know about is our Excellence Department. Led by Chief Excellence Officer
Steve Weiss, this team has several important functions that impact our day-to-day operations, which you may encounter as a client.
Steve’s team is responsible for corrections to the tax roll, which is provided to us by the Property Appraiser’s Office. If a home ownership changes, or someone qualifies for an additional exemption, Steve’s team will handle that correction. They also handle transactions related to delinquent property taxes, including tax certificates and tax deeds.
“I’m super proud of my team because of their commitment to public service,” says Steve, who has been with our organization for five years. “They take great pride in their work with helping clients with any property tax-related issue they may be facing.” However, Steve notes, “The reason we are called Excellence is because we assist all departments in the organization with process improvement projects.”
When Steve is not leading his team of 11 analysts, he enjoys spending time with his two daughters, ages 19 and 16. He also loves spending time on and in the water surfing, fishing, swimming and free dive spear fishing.
Road
Test Process Gets An Upgrade
Great news for anyone preparing for their road test with our office! We have been piloting a new system to make the process faster and more efficient for everyone and the results are impressive.
Previously, the road test examiners would take shifts during the day, which contributed to delays whenever a change of examiner took place. To streamline this process, we now have a designated road test examiner assigned each day. This dedicated person focuses solely on conducting tests, ensuring a streamlined experience for you.
This change has had a significant impact as there has been a 37% increase in our daily road test capacity since launching this new process at our North County and Central service centers. We plan to implement this at other service centers soon. This means shorter wait times, more available reservations, and a quicker path to getting a license. To schedule a road test or any service with our office, visit pbctax. gov/reservations.
We are committed to providing exceptional service and are constantly evaluating how we can improve, and this is another example of our commitment to exceptional service.
South Florida’s Favorite Fall Tradition Returns: The Ford Boca Pumpkin Patch Festival Pops Up At Mizner Park Amphitheater
October 11 & 12 / Tickets Now on Sale!
By Hillary Reynolds
Grab your flannel and get ready to sip, snack, and celebrate the season! The Ford Boca Pumpkin Patch Festival returns to Mizner Park Amphitheater on Saturday, October 11, and Sunday, October 12, bringing thousands of pumpkins, unlimited carnival rides, and festive fall fun to the heart of downtown Boca Raton.
Back for its eighth year, the festival features three timed sessions:
• Session #1: Saturday, October 11 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Session #2: Saturday, October 11 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
• Session #3: Sunday, October 12 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“We always say fall doesn’t ‘happen’ in South Florida—so we build it,” said Vanessa Goodis, Executive Producer of the Ford Boca Pumpkin Patch Festival. “From pumpkins to pie, we’ve curated the ultimate fall escape right here in Boca Raton. It’s become an annual tradition
Stamp and Coin Club
Boca Raton Stamp & Coin Club asks you to start a new hobby.
Visit with us at the Stratford Courts Auditorium located at 6343 Via Sonrisa del Sur, off S.W. 18th Street, between Powerline Road and Military Trail. We meet the second and fourth Thursday each month at 7 p.m. Please call membership coordinator Harvey Golinger at (561) 752-4922.
for so many families, and we can’t wait to share what we have in store this year.”
At the center of the action: a giant pumpkin patch filled with more than 2,500 pumpkins, plus a full carnival with rides for all ages, live entertainment, and festive food favorites.
General Admission: $32 (ages 3+)
Includes unlimited carnival rides, a kiddie cornstalk maze, fall photo ops, a scarecrow dressup village, and sponsor giveaways. Admission is free for kids under 3 (excluding carnival rides).
All tickets must be purchased or secured in advance at www.bocapumpkinpatch.com.
Extras for Purchase:
• Pumpkins from the patch (priced by size)
• DIY Pumpkin Decorating Kits (available at any decorating station)
• Pumpkin-flavored eats and treats at the Pumpkin Food Court
• Pumpkin craft cocktails and cold brews in the Pumpkin Beer Garden (21+)
by O, The Oprah Magazine, and a Top 2 Fall Festival in the U.S. by Country Living
Location: Mizner Park Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton, FL
Dates: October 11 and 12, 2025
More Info And Tickets: www.bocapumpkinpatch.com
Follow @bocapumpkinpatch on Instagram and Facebook.
We are a women’s group who remember Reva Tucker. Hot Topics has resumed meetings every Friday and are seeking new members. Please join us for lively discussions at 11:00am to 12:30pm at the Boca Pointe Community Office. If you would like more information or to sign up, please call 561-715-8298.
The Ford Boca Pumpkin Patch Festival is produced by Promo Moxie, Inc., the team behind the acclaimed Coconut Grove Pumpkin Patch Festival—named one of the Top 20 Fall Festivals
