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From The Manager
Hurricane Season Starts June 1 To Nov. 30
By April Narine, LCAM, General Manager
As we approach the beginning of the hurricane season in June, we urge you to take proactive steps to ensure your safety and preparedness.
1. Emergency Kit: Please assemble a kit that includes essential items such as water, nonperishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, and important documents.
2. Stay Informed: Monitor local weather reports and follow guidance from local authorities. Make sure to have a reliable method to receive alerts.
3. Prepare Your Home: Secure outdoor items, reinforce windows and doors, and ensure your property is ready to withstand strong winds.
From The Desk Of Commissioner Marci Woodward
A Message From Marci
First and foremost, my heartfelt condolences go out to the Stark family following the tragic plane crash that occurred in Boca Raton on Friday, April 11. Please know you remain in my thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.
Minutes after I learned of the crash, I received a call from Executive Director Dave Dech of the South Florida Regional Transportation Authority (SFRTA), informing me—as chair of SFRTA’s board—that a plane had landed on Tri-Rail’s tracks just south of the Glades Road overpass. His team had already been dispatched to assess damages. As with any situation like this, information was fluid and rapidly changing. One thing was certain: there were fatalities, and the area would be closed for many hours, if not days.
My next call was to County Administrator Verdenia Baker, who initiated a partial activation of our Emergency Operations Center to aid the city and partner agencies with needed support. I then spoke with Mayor Scott Singer, who was already in route to the scene.
The next several hours, although heartbreaking, showed the best of our community coming together. The City of
Boca Raton’s first responders quickly contained the fire and secured the scene without needing additional backup. While Military Trail and the train tracks for Tri-Rail and Amtrak remained closed, Glades Road was reopened later the same day once deemed safe. The FAA and NTSB would determine the next steps.
While the scene remained closed, we needed to transport Tri-Rail passengers between the Boca Raton and Deerfield Beach stations. A “bus bridge” was created with the assistance of Palm Beach County’s Palm Tran and Broward County Transit. After navigating Friday evening’s rush hour, the rest of the weekend was managed with Tri-Rail’s buses. Multiple press releases were issued, encouraging riders to find alternative routes between Palm Beach and Broward counties.
Community Association Annual Meeting
All Village Association Directors Invited Open to all residents who would like to attend.
Tuesday, June 10th, 2025
Location: Edgewater at Boca Pointe Auditorium 23315 Blue Water Cir. Boca Raton 9:30am Registration, 10am Meeting Begins
AGENDA
Year End BPCA Audit Results Al Romano, Hacker & Romano CPA
BPCA Board Elections
Village Presidents will elect BPCA Directors For Districts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 & 9 And 6 AT Large Directors
“State of the Association” Address BPCA Chairman/President Robert Cornell
If you would like to run for an AT Large position, Please contact our office (561) 395-7551. We ask that all attendees RSVP the BPCA Management office.
Official Palm Beach County Hurricane Planning Guides are available in our office for pick up. Your safety is our top priority. Let’s work together to stay safe this hurricane season. The BPCA Management office will be closed on Monday, May 26th in observance of Memorial Day.
In anticipation of the closure continuing into Monday, I had a phone call with Dave Kerner, former Palm Beach County Commissioner and current director of the Florida Highway Patrol, requesting FHP support during morning and evening rush hours for the bus bridge should the investigation extend into the following week. He was willing to help in any way necessary. Our Palm Beach International Airport director was in contact with the Boca Raton Airport Authority to offer assistance for diverted air traffic. Road, rail, and air traffic were all closed in the area, but the network of support in Palm Beach County was fully activated for this unprecedented event.
The NTSB released the scene midday on Saturday. Military Trail, being a county road, was inspected and cleared by our engineering department. Tri-Rail employees worked diligently to examine the train tracks, signal crossings, and surrounding areas for damage. The City of Boca Raton had staff on hand to manage the scene
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 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.
A Journey Through India – An Unforgettable Experience
By Arthur Dermer, Resident
India is a land of contrast, where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with modernity. The trip which my wife Lois and I took to India was nothing short of extraordinary, filled with vibrant cultures, historic landmarks, and some of the most delicious food I have ever tasted. From the bustling streets of Delhi to the serene backwaters of Kerala, every moment was a new adventure.
After a long 18-hour flight, we arrived in Delhi, India’s capital city. The first thing that struck me about Delhi was the unbridled energy, honking cars and hordes of shouting street venders. The aromatic scent of street food filled the air. After settling into our modern hotel room, our first stop was the iconic Red Fort, a magnificent 17th century structure that once served as the residence of Mughai emperors. Delhi is home to India Gate, a War Memorial, reminiscent of the Arch de Triumph in Paris. At night, the gate was beautifully lit, and the atmosphere was lively with families enjoying an evening out. India is home to the world’s largest Hindu population and home to the Jama Masjid, one of the world’s largest and most beautiful mosques. We were privileged to attend a religious service held at the mosque. The climb to the top of the mosque offered a breathtaking view of Old Delhi. From there we witnessed several very colorful street weddings. Being driven in a bike-rickshaw-taxi we made our way to Chandni Chowk, the heart of India’s street food scene where we sampled some very spicy food. The food was good but a little too spicy for our taste. We completed our visit to Delhi at the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial. This monument commemorated the famous Salt Protest March of 1930 which was one of the major protests leading to Indian Independence from Britain. The Memorial was but one of several in the city dedicated to Gandhi.
No trip to India is complete without visiting Agra and seeing the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal. Arriving at sunrise, we witnessed the white marble mausoleum bathed in a soft golden light with its reflection shimmering in the long water channels. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is truly a wonder of the world. The symmetry, intricate carvings and sheer grandeur leaves you speechless. We also visited the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site that once housed the Mughai rulers. The Fort’s massive red sandstone walls and beautiful palace provided an insight into the grandeur of Mughai architecture.
Our drive to Jaipur gave us a chance to observe rural Indian life. It was colorful, loud and very backward by any Western standards. Women in colorful saris were cooking in the streets. Young boys were pumping water from wells. Venders sold food by the roadside. “Sacred” cows walked in and out of small shacks that were the homes to most of the residents. There were very few cars. Bicycles and motor bikes were the most used method of transportation. Jaipur is called the Pink City because of its terracotta-colored structures. Our first stop was the Hawa Mahal or “Palace of Winds,” an architectural marvel with its honeycomb like façade designed to allow royal women to be unseen
while observing street festivals. Jaipur is also home to the Amber Fort, a stunning blend of Hindu and Mughai architecture perched on-top of a hill. Riding an elephant up to the fort’s entrance felt like we were stepping back in time. The Sheesh Mahal (Mira Palace) was mesmerizing with its walls and ceilings embedded with tiny mirrors that reflected light beautifully. The evening ended with a traditional Rajasthan meal at Dan’s where we enjoyed a great meal while watching a folk dancer show. That night we slept in a beautifully restored 18th century palace.
An unplanned visit was made to the formerly “hidden city” of Khajuraho. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site only opened to visitors in 1986. It consists of a group of 20 Hindu and Jain temples built over a thousand years ago. It is recognized for their historic significance but known today more for the exotic statuary featuring images from India’s famous Kama Sutra. Particularly impressive was the “art” work at the Lakshmana Temple which had visitors ogling at the carvings of people, war elephants and deities in very exotic poses. Needless to say, Khajuraho is not recommended for younger children.
The crowded train to Varanasi brought us to the spiritual heart of India. Many riders sat on top of the speeding cars. This ancient city is one of the world’s oldest, continuously inhabited places. It sits along the sacred Ganges River. That morning we took a boat ride on the Ganges watching priests perform ritual cremations and disposing of the bodies into the river. Cows and people bathed together. Fakirs performed with their cobras. Beggars sought money from the tens of thousands of people making a required, once in a lifetime, sacred pilgrimage to this holy site. The evening was an even more surreal experience. Priests holding flaming lamps danced to the rhythmic chants of loud drums and other oriental instruments. Together it created an almost hypnotic effect. We also did some required shopping in the small shops in the narrow alleys of the old city. Every turn led to hidden temples, bustling markets, and tiny shops selling colorful silk saris and religious artifacts. The next day we made a visit to Sarnath
where we observed another religious ceremony performed by monks at the site where Buddha gave his first sermon. It was a colorful, peaceful and introspective experience. The next day we flew south to Kerala, often called “God’s Own Country.” It is noted for its lush landscape and tranquil backwaters. We spent four days and nights on a houseboat drifting through serene canals lined with coconut palms and small villages. We were surrounded by rolling tea plantations and misty mountains. We visited a tea factory which gave us insight into the tea making process and sampled tasty freshly brewed Chai. We ate fish caught by the crew. Frequent stops were made in small villages with no running water – where people bought food, clothing and household goods from men in large rowboats. It was an unforgettable experience. While in Kerala we visited the small coastal fishing village of Kochi (Cochin). This city once hosted a large population of Jewish spice merchants and traders. There we visited the well preserved Paradesi Synagogue built in 1568 by Spanish and Portuguese refugees seeking to escape religious persecution in their home countries. The synagogue, we were told, is the oldest continuously functioning synagogue in the world. It was built on the site where a synagogue was first erected in the fourth century. With the help of five Israeli soldiers touring India, we took part in a Shabbat service. Four of 10 surviving Jews in Kochi attended the service. Later, we were invited to their home for a glass of “grappa di Moscato” (shnapse) and a pleasant dinner. The experiences we shared that day were truly memorable.
Our final stop was Mumbai, formally known as Bombay. It is India’s financial capital. The city’s energy was infectious. Mumbai’s street food was bland and much more suited to American tastes. We took a short ride to Bandra, home to Bollywood celebrities where we took a tour of Film City. This is where many of India’s most famous movies have been made since the 1930s. We met “up close” with a few of the beautiful people acting on those films. It was like being on a tour of a major Hollywood film studio.
In closing, India is a land of endless wonders. Our month-long journey was a kaleidoscope of experiences. Each city had its own unique charm, history and culture. Every day was an adventure – from the architectural marvels of the north to the natural beauty of the south, from the spirituality of Varanasi to the slow pace of houseboat life, every day was filled with eye-popping beauty and color. As we boarded our plane for our flight home, I knew that this trip had changed us in many ways. India is not just a place to visit. It is a place to experience, to immerse oneself in and to fall in love with. I only regret that Lois and I did not have another opportunity to return to India to explore more of this incredible land.
I invite you to watch my 30-minute video “Soul of India” on YouTube.
Taj Mahal
Art and Lois Dermer houseboat living for 4 days.
Snake Charmer
and assist partner agencies in preparing for reopening. The seamless collaboration among city, county, state, and federal agencies resulted in all transportation networks being fully operational by Saturday evening.
All of this work was done by individuals with heavy hearts, keenly aware of the tragic loss of three individuals, now known to be from the same family. I cannot name everyone who helped during this tragedy, but I hope you know your service is deeply appreciated. It is difficult to put into words the mixture of honor I feel being part of a system that responded so seamlessly, and the profound sadness of knowing the full extent of what occurred.
May God bless and comfort the Stark family and their loved ones.
On March 1, our County Administrator, Verdenia Baker, announced her retirement, effective May 31. This announcement set in motion the process for the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) to begin the search for her successor. As you may have heard, the development of the search process sparked some debate. Like any significant decision, it brought differing opinions and outside voices seeking to shape the outcome.
After extensive discussions across multiple meetings, the board reached consensus on March 27 regarding the timeline, minimum qualifications, and overall process. Applications for the County Administrator position are currently being accepted through the close of business on April 28.
Our Human Resources Director, Dr. Kahn, will screen the applicants to ensure they meet the qualifications before forwarding the list to a newly established citizen taskforce on May 6. The taskforce, working closely with Dr. Kahn, will narrow the pool to a maximum of five candidates for the BCC to consider in June. At that point, we will begin our portion of the interview process.
Should we be unable to secure majority support for a candidate, we will engage an external search firm to conduct a targeted recruitment and restart the interview process.
I’d like to extend my sincere appreciation to Sam Caliendo and Brian Stenberg for accepting the roles of my primary and alternate appointees to the citizen taskforce.
I will reflect on Administrator Baker’s dedicated service and upcoming retirement in next month’s newsletter.
Recently Approved Agenda Items
Each month, the Board of County Commissioners approves a wide range of important agenda items that impact areas such as engineering, facilities, housing, airports, and more. Here are some key items approved this month:
• A resolution passed (6-1 vote) to include a dedicated time in each meeting for commissioners to give direction on future actions and priorities.
• Updated rules for all county advisory boards. Changes include term limits, attendance requirements, residency rules, and clarification on ethical and Sunshine Law compliance.
• Created a new County Administrator Task Force (CATF) and appointed members by district.
• Staff was directed to continue exploring options for sourcing mini-cottages as affordable housing and to proceed with analysis of the Ramada hotel property. No further hotel conversions are being pursued at this time.
• Sales price limits were set for homes under the Housing Bond Loan Program (HBLP) to 80% of the maximum prices allowed by the Florida Housing Finance Corporation.
• Up to $250 million in bonds to support homebuyer mortgage assistance and adopted the Local Housing Initiatives Partnership Plan (LHAP) through 2028 and up to $250 million in bonds for new student housing and related facilities at Palm Beach Atlantic University.
○ Neither the taxing power nor the faith in credit of the county, nor any county funds shall be pledged to pay the principle, redemption premium, if any, or interest on the bonds.
• An 8-year lease for a new Palm Tran Connection paratransit facility in Palm Springs and a fare increase from $3.50 to $4 (effective January 2026) and clarified service areas for ADA and non-ADA riders.
• Initial approval for a public hearing on June 3 to reauthorize the 6-cent local fuel tax and re-adopted the distribution formula in partnership with several cities. These funds are strictly for transportation use.
• An ordinance was passed (6-0 vote) to end the one-cent Local Government Infrastructure Surtax on December 31, 2025.
OpenGov: A Look Into PBC’s Finances
The Clerk’s Office recently launched OpenGov, a new online financial transparency tool that gives taxpayers easy access to Palm Beach County’s financial records.
This interactive and easy-to-use portal allows users to explore detailed financial data, including a searchable “checkbook” by vendor name, one-cent sales surtax revenues and expenditures, and the county’s annual revenue and expense reports.
Users can also filter and customize their searches—such as viewing spending related specifically to roads, public safety, or debt—and download the data for further analysis in a spreadsheet. OpenGov makes it easier than ever for residents to see how public dollars are being spent.
Nonprofit Spotlight
Located in the heart of Mizner Park, the Boca Raton Museum of Art is a local nonprofit that plays an important role in our community’s cultural life.
The museum offers a wide range of exhibitions, educational programs, and events aimed at making art more accessible to the public.
I recently had the opportunity to visit the museum with Dr. Ena Heller, the new CEO of the Boca Raton Museum of Art, to learn more about the work they’re doing and some of the current exhibits on display.
It was a great chance to see how the museum continues to engage with the community and support arts education through its art school and outreach programs.
The museum’s upcoming exhibit, Glasstress, will showcase over 20 works by internationally renowned artists, highlighting the innovative use of glass in contemporary art. This exhibit continues the tradition of presenting unique collaborations between artists and the skilled glass masters of Murano, Italy. For more information, visit bocamuseum.org.
If you require assistance, please contact our office at 561-355-2204 or email Mwoodward@pbcgov.org.
City Of Boca Raton Hosts Ceremony In Recognition Of Memorial Day
By Hillary Reynolds
In honor of Memorial Day and in remembrance of all military personnel who died in service to the United States, the City of Boca Raton will host a commemorative ceremony on Monday, May 26 at 9 a.m. at the Boca Raton Cemetery and Mausoleum, 451 SW 4th Avenue. The event is free and open to the public. Limited seating will be provided.
A Special Lady
By Judith Levy
The florists and the candy makers are enjoying Mother’s Day. But, when did this annual holiday come about? It seems as though this celebration was around forever, but actually Mother’s Day became an official holiday in this country in 1914. It became a day to put a spotlight on how precious your devoted mother was to you. Flowers fly across the country, boxes of candy are received but the most valuable of all gifts she will get is what you express in the note that accompanies this delivered present. So, have you taken the time to let your mother know how valuable the guidance she gave to put you on the right path, to being the kind and caring person, has meant to you?
Perhaps your mother didn’t come from wealth. She may have struggled, yet she always aimed to make your life happy and promising. Did she urge you on to a future that would bring you joy and fulfillment? I’m certain there is nothing you can do to repay her for this gift except to use her goodness as an example to guide your own children as they grow up.
So, what’s best to send, flowers, candy or another scarf? What seems to count the most to her, is having the doorbell ring on Mother’s Day and joyfully finding that she is remembered and treasured.
Though Mother’s Day is celebrated in other countries on different days, the message is always the same. Sometimes it’s offered in song, like the Irish Mother Macrae, or the Italian Mama, or the Jewish Yiddishe Mama. They are all heartwarming renditions of the love felt for the most important person in a child’s life. No matter how many years come to pass, the pull on one’s heartstrings that’s felt when memories of your mother spring forth, makes the opportunity of this holiday, Mother’s Day, a time to shout out. I remember, I care, and I’ll always love you. Is her doorbell ringing? Is yours’? I hope so.
Judith Levy speaks for organizations. Her long awaited beautifully illustrated book, GREATGRANDMOTHER REMEMBERS, is a perfect gift for this special lady. This new book can be ordered on Amazon or Target. This accomplished author is likely to produce yet another best-selling work.
In observance of the Memorial Day holiday, all City offices will be closed on Monday, May 26, 2025. For additional information, visit www.myboca.us/ communityevents, or Boca Raton Recreation on Facebook.
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, worldclass 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
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.
Architectural Control Site Committee
Board of Directors 3rd Tuesday of each month at 9:30 a.m. Budget & Finance Committee
The Gift Of Life: Empowering Midwives To Save Lives With Magen David Adom
By Yishai Mizrahi and Leslie Viselman
Dear Friends of Boca Pointe,
This month, we’re proud to spotlight a remarkable and lifesaving new initiative from Magen David Adom—one that truly embodies the Gift of Life
Move Over LAW
(FS 316.126)
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….
In partnership with the Israel Midwives Organization, MDA has launched a groundbreaking program that brings over 200 professional midwives—Jewish, Arab, and Druze—into the field to support out-of-hospital births during emergencies and in isolated areas. What began as a pilot program in Northern Israel during the height of the war in July 2024 has quickly grown into a national effort to ensure every mother and baby receives the best possible care, no matter the circumstances.
Each midwife is equipped with a comprehensive MDA-supplied birth kit, including advanced tools like portable ultrasound dopplers, oxygen tanks, and full resuscitation gear for both mother and newborn—ensuring readiness for every situation.
The importance of this initiative is clear: during wartime or routine life, access to hospitals can be uncertain. In 2024 alone, MDA assisted in 1,156 out-ofhospital births. That’s why we’re expanding the “First Contractions” program to Jerusalem and Central Israel, the areas with the highest birth rates. These skilled midwives—who volunteer on-call outside of their hospital shifts—undergo special field training and integrate
directly with MDA’s dispatch system to respond swiftly and effectively to women in labor.
As Project Manager Yossi Halabi, head of MDA’s First Response Division, puts it: “Local midwives are often the fastest and most trusted responders in their communities. What began as an urgent wartime response is now becoming a vital component of Israel’s healthcare system—helping to maintain one of the lowest maternal mortality rates among OECD countries.”
If you’d like to learn more about how to support this life-affirming work, get involved, or schedule a visit to our facilities in Israel, we’d be honored to connect. Please feel free to reach out to either of us— Yishai Mizrahi or Leslie Viselman , Co-Area Directors for AFMDA—at 561.288.5658 or Boca-Delray@afmda.org.
Thank you for standing with us. Your commitment saves lives—every day.
Am Yisrael Chai, Leslie and Yishai
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!
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.
Midwives in the “First Contractions” program
Israeli midwife on duty on Mobile Intensive Care Unit Ambulance
Hoping Someone Who Cares Answers Your Call For Help
By Robert W. Goldfarb
Moments after I returned home from the hospital, the wound of the procedure I had undergone began gushing blood. Its red stream swept aside my attempts to bandage the site. I needed help and didn’t know where to find it.
I had immediately telephoned the surgeon’s office where a metallic voice told me to call 911. I had lost my wife of nearly seventy years and now must turn to strangers for help.
I hesitated to call EMS because I didn’t want to return to the hospital. I pressed one hand against the wound, scrolling with the other through a list of doctor’s offices, urgent care clinics and nurses at the hospital I had just left who might see me privately. In a world noisy with words the only ones I wanted to hear were, “Come here; we’ll help you.”
The blood seeping through my flimsy dressing had become flammable enough to set my panic afire. Names
on the list I held were now a trembling scrawl. If my judgment was as unsteady as my hand, panic would seize the phone and begin calling those least likely to help me.
I thickened the bandage and forced myself to breathe deeply and sit quietly. Perhaps in the stillness I would hear what my intuition was trying to tell me. I trusted that voice, certain if I could hear it amid panic’s blaze it would tell me who to call.
I needed someone with medical training, but found myself ruling out doctors and nurses who seemed more hurried than caring, more impersonal than kind. I began recalling how I felt when they examined me. Was their touch more routine than healing, more brusque than gentle? Did they sit as we spoke or did they edge toward the examining room door?
Amid all the names, I had to find someone whose instinct was to bestow kindness on people they barely knew. The voice I was desperate to hear would seem to reach through the phone to take my hand and comfort me. It wouldn’t ignore a frightened plea to command, “Call 911.”
Suddenly, out of the stillness a name leaped out. I would call the office of my internist, not to speak to the doctor, but to his nurse. My internist is a very competent physician whose care I valued. But he understood his strengths and those of his nurse were very different. He was quick to diagnose a problem and plan a solution. She sat quietly to hear not only what a patient said, but what they weren’t saying. I felt safe talking with her, that I could trust her with my fears. Her gentle attention softened the sharp edges of the examining room. Vital signs such as blood pressure improved when she took them. I knew that if I called it would be her voice I heard, not that of a machine.
I was equally certain she would say, “Of course we’ll help. Come in right now.” I called and she said just that, adding only “The doctor will call your surgeon, asking that he see you the moment you leave here.”
One of my daughters had come to care for me during and following the procedure. Together we raced to my internist’s office. For thirty minutes his nurse pressed her hand against the wound to slow its rushing stream. Later, I learned she hurried to the waiting room to assure my daughter the bleeding had diminished and the surgeon was awaiting us. She then fashioned a bandage that absorbed the blood as we hurried to the surgeon’s office.
Knowing I was enroute, the surgeon saw me immediately and sealed and bandaged the wound. It was clear the dressing had been removed too soon at the hospital.
Living alone, I often wonder who I would call if I suddenly needed help. Is there someone out there who does care? I know now there are people who understand that kindness heals a frightened soul. I can think of nothing kinder than the words “Of course we’ll help. Come in right now.”
Bob’s articles have appeared in The New York Times , The San Francisco Chronicle and in Next Avenue , the publication of the Public Broadcasting Service. His book, “What’s Stopping Me From Getting Ahead?” was published by McGraw Hill and is in five languages.
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
Boca Raton Celebrates 100 Years With Centennial Weekend Featuring Weezer, A Spectacular Drone Show And A Special “Centenni-ALE”
Saturday, May 24 And
Sunday, May 25
Weezer Tickets Go On Sale
Friday, April 11 at 10 a.m.
By Hillary Reynolds
The City of Boca Raton is marking its 100th anniversary in grand style with a Centennial Celebration Weekend featuring an epic concert headlined by the iconic rock band Weezer at Mizner Park Amphitheater on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. (doors open at 6 p.m.), followed by a breathtaking, high-tech drone show at Boca Raton Innovation Campus (BRiC) on Sunday, May 25, 2025 with two shows at 8:15 p.m. and 9:15 p.m. (doors open at 7:30 p.m.).
Tickets for the Centennial Concert featuring Weezer and special guests go on sale on Friday, April 11 at 10 a.m. and are expected to sell fast. The concert promises to be an unforgettable night of music, community, and celebration under the stars as Boca Raton honors its rich history and bright future. Tickets range from $40 to $124.50 at https:// www.axs.com/artists/104969/weezer-tickets.
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 will 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.
A Meet & Greet event with refreshments will be scheduled for current and new writers. Show your interest in joining the writing team by contacting Lisa Cammaleri at lisa.cammaleri@fsresidential.com.
“Boca Raton’s Centennial Weekend is a celebration of our city’s rich history and bright future. From world-class entertainment to cutting-edge innovation, this weekend showcases everything that makes Boca Raton special,” said Mayor Scott Singer. “Whether you’re rocking out at Mizner Park, marveling at the drone show at BRiC, or raising a glass to 100 incredible years, we invite everyone to be part of this unforgettable milestone.”
A Historic Tribute In Lights At BriC
The Centennial Drone Show at BRiC will offer a dazzling, free-to-attend visual spectacle, transforming the night sky into a choreographed symphony of lights, color, and movement. Refreshments will be available for purchase on-site. The Boca Raton Innovation Campus – the birthplace of the IBM personal computer – serves as a symbol of the city’s pioneering spirit, making it the perfect setting for this futuristic celebration.
“BRiC represents Boca Raton’s deep roots in innovation and progress,” added Singer. “As we celebrate 100 years, we honor the ingenuity that has shaped our past while embracing the technology that will propel us into the future. This spectacular drone show is a fitting tribute to the vision, ambition, and creativity that define our city.”
Introducing “CentenniALE” – A Brew Fit For Boca Raton’s 100th Birthday
No birthday celebration is complete without a toast, and Boca Raton is raising a glass with CentenniALE, a limited-edition craft beer brewed exclusively for the City’s Centennial. Created in partnership with Prosperity Brewers, this refreshing, locally inspired brew will debut during the Centennial Weekend, offering residents and visitors alike the perfect way to sip and celebrate Boca Raton’s milestone year.
Boca Raton’s Centennial Weekend Celebration is the must-attend event of 2025, blending music, innovation, and community spirit. For the safety and enjoyment of
all attendees, certain items are not permitted at the Boca Centennial Weekend Celebration events, including pets, coolers, sparklers, fireworks, drones, alcohol, and glass bottles of any kind. These restrictions are in place to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for everyone.
Event Details
• Saturday, May 24, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. (doors open at 6 p.m.) – Centennial Celebration Weekend Concert
• Mizner Park Amphitheater | 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton, FL 33432
• Weezer + Special Guests
• Tickets range from $40 to $124.50 and go on sale Friday, April 11, at 10 a.m., (add link).
• Sunday, May 25, 2025 at 8:15 p.m. & 9:15 p.m. (doors open at 7:30 p.m.) – Centennial Celebration Weekend Drone Show
• Boca Raton Innovation Campus (BRiC) | 5000 T-Rex Ave, Boca Raton, FL 33431
• FREE Event | Family-Friendly 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, worldclass 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
Sheryl Sagel, ABR® SFR® BPOR RENE SRS RSPS Broker Associate
COLDWELL BANKER REALTY
The Boca Raton Resort & Beaches 1200 N. Federal Highway, Suite 111 Boca Raton, FL 33432
Cell - (561) 400-4845
Search the MLS - sherylsagel.com
Search for New Homes - showingnew.com/SherylSagel
12, 2025
RSVP: Claire Taylor. 561-392-3311 clairetaylor2706@gmail.com
07, 2025
13, 2025
RSVP: Nancy Goldstein 561-910-1299 ng9401@yahoo.com
RSVP: Ann Rhodes 561-289-8327 aroads@bellsouth.net
JANUARY 2026
PARTY & LUNCHEON
RSVP: Gail Meddoff 561-542-1625 gmeddoff@gmail.com
MEMBER HAPPY HOUR RSVP: Andrea Gralnick 561-302-9108 Gralnick.andrea@gmail.com FEBRUARY 17, 2026
Belinda Coon 954-609-4323 belindalee9999@hotmail.com
28, 2026
Information Contact : Deborah Rhodes Van Buskirk rockyrd1@bellsouth.net MARCH 2026 UP CLOSE & PERSONAL
RSVP: Claire Taylor. 561-392-3311 clairetaylor2706@gmail.com OCTOBER 23, 2025
PBCFR Yellow Dot Program
Have you ever wondered, what would happen if you got into a car crash and you were unconscious? Have you thought to yourself… how would anyone know what my medical history is; or how would they know about the medications I am taking; or the medicines I’m allergic to; or better yet, how would they know what hospital that I want to go to…? Who would call my family and let them know I’ve been hurt? How would they even know how to get in touch with my family?
The good news is that you don’t have to wonder or worry about that anymore. Palm Beach County Fire Rescue supports a new Program called the Yellow Dot. The Yellow Dot gets important information into the hands of emergency responders quickly and it can save your life!
If you are involved in a car accident and can’t communicate, first responders can look in your glove compartment box for the “Yellow Dot” pamphlet where you have written essential medical information about yourself.
Performing experience – In 2008, after having knee replacement, I joined Harriet in her “Club at Boca Pointe Performing Scam Troupe.” This was lots of fun and I have continued whenever we get a call to perform.
Candy Bar – In 2014, Harriet decided to form a Clown Troupe at Boca Pointe. Of course, I was interested and I soon realized I loved doing magic tricks. Over the first few years I started to accumulate all kinds of magic tricks and materials, especially cards. I was able to learn from several professional magicians, attended a few large conventions, practiced a great amount of time and now I am pretty good for an amateur! I especially love seeing the kids and the adults amazed when I make things appear and disappear, and I am in awe of the wonderful magicians who created these unbelievable acts! I never leave my house without at least one deck cards and If people know I do magic, I love to pull out a deck and say, “Wanna see a card trick?” Who would have thought???
So, who is Candy Bar, the Magic Clown? Well, it’s just me, and I love doing it!
This information can help rescue crews decide the best approach to your emergency treatment. This is especially important after a car accident where you may be unconscious, in shock, or simply unable to communicate clearly.
When you can’t talk to Emergency Responders to provide them with vital medical information, the Yellow Dot is your tool to provide personalized information on your behalf!
This is how it works…just follow three steps.
1- Fill out the form on the Yellow Dot pamphlet.
2- Put the Yellow Dot pamphlet form in your glove compartment box.
3- Place the sticker on the back/rear windshield in the lower left hand corner so emergency responders can see it quickly and easily when approaching from behind.
*Important Tips*
* Keep the Yellow Dot pamphlet updated as information changes.
** How many do you need??? (i.e. One Yellow Dot sticker per vehicle & One Yellow Dot pamphlet for each person.) You can stop in to any Palm Beach County Fire Station to pick up Yellow Dot pamphlets and stickers for your household. For quantities more than that, please call our Community Education Office at 561-616-7033. If your club or organization would like a presentation about the Yellow Dot, to learn more about additional resources available, and to have an opportunity to ask questions, please call 561-616-7051. Yellow Dot Sticker/Pamphlet sets will be brought to the presentation for audience attendees. Quantities can be discussed when presentations are booked.
Making Your Safety My Priority, Elyse Weintraub Brown, Community Education Specialist, South County, Palm Beach County Fire Rescue 561-616-7051
ewbrown@pbcgov.org
Spring Cleaning For Your Health: Essential Tips From Dr. Luisa Brito And Dr. Althea Watson
As you refresh your home this spring, don’t forget to tidy up an often-overlooked area — your health. Spring cleaning isn’t just for your closets; it’s the perfect time to declutter your medicine cabinet, update your first aid kit, and schedule overdue checkups.
1. Declutter Your Medicine Cabinet
Medications can lose potency or even become unsafe after their expiration dates. Dr. Luisa Brito, a primary care physician with Palm Beach Health Network Primary Care, recommends sorting through your medications twice a year.
“Discard expired medications, old prescriptions, or anything you no longer need,” advises Dr. Brito. “Be sure to properly dispose of them at designated pharmacy dropoff locations to prevent environmental harm.”
Organize remaining medications by type — such as pain relievers, allergy medications, and prescriptions — to make them easier to find when needed.
2. Refresh Your First Aid Kit
A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for treating minor injuries at home. Dr. Althea Watson, who sees patients in both Boca Raton and Boynton Beach, emphasizes the importance of keeping supplies current.
“Check your kit for expired ointments, dried-out antiseptic wipes, or missing essentials like bandages and gauze,” says Dr. Watson. “Keeping everything up to date
can help you respond quickly to minor accidents.”
Both doctors recommend having kits in multiple locations — your home, car, and even your workplace — to ensure you’re prepared wherever you are.
3. Schedule Your Annual Physical
While spring is a great time to organize your medications and first aid supplies, it’s also the ideal moment to prioritize preventive care. Annual physicals help detect potential health concerns before they become serious.
“Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and elevated cholesterol often develop silently,” explains Dr. Brito. “Routine checkups allow us to identify risks early and create a personalized care plan.”
Dr. Brito offers appointments in Boca Raton, while Dr. Watson sees patients in both Boca Raton and Boynton Beach. Both physicians provide same-day appointments, making it easier to fit a checkup into your busy schedule.
Boca Raton: 9970 North Central Park Blvd., Suite 400-B | 561-487-7931
Boynton Beach (Dr. Watson only): 8200 Jog Road, Suite 204 | 561-740-4762
Clowns On Call from page 21
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**
Book Review
The Safari
By Nils A. Shapiro
Nils began his career as marketing director for a major book publisher. He has since edited the authors’ manuscripts’ for more than 20 published books, written more than 200 book reviews, served as publisher of several million-plus circulation national magazines, created the official yearbooks for teams in Major League Baseball, the National Football League, National Basketball Association and National Hockey League and “retired” as president of a successful telecommunications company.
When you are deep into a mystery novel and changed your mind several times about the identity of the murderer, then finally discover who it is—only to realize that the final chapters reveal even more shocking surprises—you know that you are under the spell of a master storyteller.
Having already enjoyed and favorably reviewed author Jaclyn Goldis’s two earlier novels in my columns, I looked forward to this one, which is being published this month. But when I decided to read a few more pages last evening in preparation for writing this column even I did not anticipate staying up until 2 a.m., unable to stop turning the pages until I had reached the end!
Jaclyn Goldis is a young American woman who, after seven years as a practicing attorney, decided that she was instead meant to be a writer— boy, was she right —so she fit what she could into a backpack, traveled the world for a year and settled in Tel Aviv, where she writes in beachside cafes.
Although my own reading tastes lean toward nonfiction I include fiction reviews in consideration of this column’s range of readers, and in 2023 came across this author’s debut novel, The Chateau, which so impressed me that I compared it to the best of Agatha Christie; the book proved to be very successful. A year later her second novel, The Main Character, showed Jaclyn Goldis to be a consistently genuine talent. I loved it as much as I did her first book.
The Safari continues this streak of brilliant work in a story of family dynamics set in one of the world’s most fascinating locales, Africa’s safari country. Odelia Babel is the powerful, wealthy and—still attractive in her early sixties—the CEO of Cirq, a highly successful fashion empire. Her son, Joshua; twin son and daughter, Sam and Bailey; and Joshua’s wife, Davina, all work for Cirq, which Odelia runs with a controlling hand since its founder, her husband Aba, passed away some years earlier.
The announcement that Odelia is now engaged to marry Asher Bach, the company’s new designer—a handsome, talented man twenty-five years younger than she is but who clearly adores her—comes as a shock to the family, all of whom are now informed that the wedding ceremony will take place at Leopard Sands, the luxurious company-owned safari lodge in Africa that has long been a much-loved place of vacation adventures for the family and tourists.
The book’s narrative unfolds over 44 chapters, each titled with the name of one of the book’s main characters and its story continuing in that person’s voice
• Odelia herself, whose pre-nuptial excitement is dimmed by a series of threatening, unsigned notes and a negative tarot card reading by her best friend, Gwen.
• Joshua, her older son, second in command at Cirq. A reserved man somewhat lacking in total self-confidence, very much in love with his beautiful wife, Davina, and of other men’s attraction to her.
• Davina, the ravishing top model at Cirq who, having just given birth to a daughter, Ruby, has been told by Odelia that her post-pregnancy body may no longer fit the company’s fashion image.
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
• Asher , the handsome young groom to be, whose design contributions to Cirq and clear adoration of Odelia seem to provide all the reasons needed to overlook the 25year difference in the couple’s ages.
• Sam , the gay younger son whose excitement about his secret new boyfriend is offset by anger toward his mother, Odelia¸ for her refusal to help him cover serious financial debts.
• Bailey , who is Sam’s twin sister. Always concerned for him, she is a gentle soul whose ambition is to protect the wild animals beyond the lodge from poachers and other dangers.
• Gwen , Odelia’s best friend since childhood. Loyal to Odelia and entirely trusted by her, Gwen has a prison record from many years earlier that the two will never discuss with anyone else. Gwen is an expert with tarot cards; it is she who reveals the negative reading that unnerves Odelia the weekend before the wedding.
• Markus is the safari guide who takes Leopard Sands guests on tours through wild animal territory. Odelia’s family have known him since their childhood.
• Violett , the resort’s long-time general manager, has been charged with making all the arrangements for the wedding. Although loyal for decades, her request for financial aid to help her ailing, hospitalized grandmother has been denied by Odelia. Violett has always had a special relationship with Joshua ever since he was a small child, and now he convinces Davina that Violett can be trusted to babysit their infant daughter, Ruby, when they are on safari with Markus.
By telling this story through the eyes and voice of each character we soon begin to understand the feelings and motivation of each toward one another. It is a very effective technique and one that readers will use in attempting to guess the identity of the killer when Odelia is murdered the night before the wedding
Ultimately, what becomes clear is that in a world where lions, leopards, crocodiles and other wild creatures roam free, the most dangerous creature is often human.
Once again, as in her earlier novels, what stands out is the author’s extraordinary imagination and storytelling fluency, a combination so rare that I found myself stopping reading once in a while, taking a moment to savor Jaclyn Goldis’s impressive skills.
As I noted at the opening of this review, the most fascinating surprises in this story just begin after you discover the identity of the murderer! I strongly suggest you get to know Jaclyn Goldis. The Safari is a good place to start.
Legal Plan Checklist To Protect Yourself
By Martin Zevin, Attorney
I have touched on these subjects in many articles. Here is a condensed checklist.
1. Current Advanced Care Directives:
A. Designation of Health Care Surrogate for someone to make your medical decisions if you cannot communicate. Even if you are married, you MUST have this legal document and it needs to be current and done by a Florida lawyer. Do NOT rely on generic forms or a document you got from your doctor or a hospital or out of state documents.
B. Living Will. Very specific Florida language regarding “pulling the plug.” Must be witnessed and notarized and designate someone to make the final decision.
C. Durable Power of Attorney. Covers legal and financial matters while you are alive. Again, needs to be done by a lawyer who is aware of current Florida law, including many specific powers that must be initialed by you to be valid. Our current document is 26 pages. When you die, the advanced care directives die with you.
2. Last Will and Testament. If you are a Florida resident, you should have a Florida Will and your Personal Representative (Executor) must be a Florida resident OR a blood relative.
3. If you own real estate, in Florida or elsewhere, you need one of these to avoid probate when you die.
A. Life Estate Deed: You own property for the rest of your life and you designate someone on the Deed to inherit it without probate when you die. Be sure it is an “enhanced” (also known as “Lady Bird”) Deed to allow you to sell it without consent or joinder of the person you name.
B. Trust and Deed transferring property to you (and your spouse) as Trustee(s) of your Trust. This allows you to name
contingent beneficiaries if your first choice dies before you or with you in a common accident. The Revocable Living Trust also allows you to buy future properties as Trustee and to Amend the Trust at any time while you are alive. The Deed to your home should have language confirming that it remains your homestead.
Talk to your lawyer about the risks of a Life Estate Deed versus no risks for the Trust.
The above documents should be done with the assistance of an Estate Planning Attorney. The following need to be done by you personally:
4. Designate beneficiaries on ALL of your accounts to avoid probate. This is also known as payable on death (p.o.d.), transfer on death (t.o.d.) or in trust for (i.t.f.). Also designate contingent beneficiaries. Each institution has its own forms but it should not cost you anything except some time.
5. If you know that you want to be cremated or buried, contact cremation societies or funeral homes to discuss pre-need plans. You will be signing a contract to pre-pay for your funeral, saving your loved ones a lot of stress, time and money. Be sure to give a copy of your contract to your primary and contingent Personal Representative so they will know who to call.
6. Have car insurance that includes at least $100,000 of bodily injury liability (b.i.) and uninsured motorist (u.m.). Do not have any deductible on your P.I.P. (no fault). If you own more than one car, consider “stacking,” which allows you to double (two cars) or triple (three cars) your uninsured motorist coverage for a small additional premium. Uninsured motorist is the most important insurance you can have, since Florida does not require bodily injury coverage.
If you do all the homework on this list, you are well on your way to getting an “A” in Legalities of Life 101.
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.
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