Major renovation of town hall moving along; price estimates the next ...

PelicanNew

Pompano Beach • Deerfield Beach • Lighthouse Point • Lauderdale-By-The-Sea • Wilton Manors • Oakland Park • Hillsboro Beach

Friday, June 7, 2019 - Vol. XXVII, Issue 23

Visit Us Online at: PelicanNewspaper.com • 954-783-8700 • Send news to [email protected]

City misses out on $500K library grant, but state funds hazard grant, more funds possible in the wingsBy Judy Vik

New PelicaN staff

Oakland Park -- This city’s application for a $500,000 public library construction grant, ranked fourth of 23 applications to the state, was not funded by the legislature.

Lawmakers only appropriated $1 million of $11 million requested in all the applications. That amount can only fund the first two projects on the recommended list, Ana Alvarez, assistant city manager, wrote in a report to commissioners.

Oakland Park’s request will now roll

over and maintain its rank for the next state grant funding cycle, Alvarez said.

Oakland Park sought the funds to help fund construction of a new city library to replace the Ethel M. Gordon Library.

Plans for a new library will still go forward since voters in November approved a $40 million bond for city facilities, including the library.

“We are disappointed that full funding was not approved by the legislature but remain hopeful that next year additional funding will be provided,” said David Rafter, public information officer for the city.

Other grant newsThe city fared better with one of its

hazard mitigation grant applications. Its application for $500,000 for improvements to the Engineering and Community Development building has been approved for funding.

The city also applied for hazard mitigation grants for two other projects. They are moving through the process, and the funding determination will be announced soon, Alvarez wrote. They are $450,000 for retrofits at Fire Station #87, 2100 NW 39

See GRANTS on page 15

Major renovation of town hall moving along; price estimates the next stepBy Judy Wilson

New PelicaN staff

Hillsboro Beach – There is still a lot to be decided, but commissioners got good news about their town hall building: with smarter use of space it can become very serviceable.

Interior designer Stephanie Merryman has been assigned that task and this week showed the commission her proposed layout of the 65-year-old town hall. She also presented four options for sprucing up the exterior of the building and a plan for opening up the front entryway.

See TOWN HALL on page 6

By Judy VikNew PelicaN staff

Pompano Beach -- The NW CRA Advisory Committee voted Monday to recommend the CRA board approve conceptual plans for the Boulevard Arts Lofts housing project on Northwest 4 Court.

At the committee’s request, developer Don D. Patterson was back with renderings of his proposed public/private partnership to create affordable housing for artists, entrepreneurs and others.

The $24 million project includes 80 one- and two-bedroom loft-style apartments.

The building is between Annie Adderly Gillis Park and the Ali building. Patterson is paying $1.6 million for the land.

Rents will vary depending on household size and income. Average monthly rent will be $1,600, but some

Affordable rents could be a reality for NW areaTwo-bedroom rents set between

$1,500 and $1,600

See AFFORDABLE RENTS on page 5

SMART ART

Teens add final touches to a new mural at the Deerfield Beach Teen Center. Contributing artists were Alex Etheridge, Tyanna Bernadin, Fahim Islam, Salvadore Torres, Kevin Wright, Martha Augustin, Monet Blake, Chassidy Edwards, Fabienne Etienne, Benjamin Jackson, Jennifer Jean, Vanessa Jean, Wesley Jean Laurent, Jewell Jenkins, Eminahyiah Purrier, Gabriella Sams, Yva Schaber, Robertson Simon, Yaribeth Ubillus and Takieska Wright. [Story on page 14]

Get ready for this mosquito

See story on page 23

2 New Pelican Friday, June 7, 2019pelicannewspaper.com

ColorNew BSO substation planned in District 5 ; District 4 station closing

Advisory committee objects; Tables the item


Pompano Beach -- One Broward Sheriff’s Office [BSO] substation isn’t enough in the northwest section of this city. At least that was the conclusion of the city commissioner representing District 4 in the northwest and members of the Northwest CRA Advisory Committee.

News that a substation at Dr. Martin Luther King Boulevard and Northwest 18 Avenue was closing to make room for the Marquis Apartments, and a new substation planned in Collier City at Northwest 4 Court and Northwest 27 Avenue, did not sit well with the committee or Commissioner Beverly Perkins.

“Moving the substation; they never discussed that with me,” Perkins said. “They’re not going to take it out of District 4 and put it in District 5. Collier City needs a station. We have to get another station on this side of the tracks. We

need to put a substation back in District 4.”

Perkins said neither the mayor nor city manager ever discussed the move with her.

The discussion came up Monday evening, as the advisory committee considered a recommendation by CRA staff to convey a CRA-owned lot to the city for a new BSO substation in Collier City, a Pompano Beach residential

neighborhood, The new substation is

intended “ . . . to provide the Collier City area with some much needed BSO presence,” Nguyen Tran, CRA director, wrote in a report to the committee. He said the CRA requested the station be manned and available to the community for reports.

Committee member Shelton Pooler said he was more concerned that about “ . . . BSO service on the ground rather than buildings.” He said the building on MLK has just been for officers to have coffee and doughnuts.

Tran said the existing substation on MLK is not staffed. “There’s no one there,

and it’s not a welcoming facility.” He said the new building would be designed to look more residential.

Whitney Rawls, committee chair, said he was happy the new substation will be “ . . . an approachable building” where more services will be provided. He asked who was paying for the building. Tran said it was the city, not the CRA.

Rawls said with more residences planned in the area near the existing station, “we need to address police presence at 18 Avenue and MLK.” He asked how many BSO substations there are in the northwest. Tran said one, the one on MLK at 18 Avenue. Rawls then asked how many substations there are in the city, and Tran responded that he doesn’t know of any other.

Tran said the goal of the new station on 27 Avenue is “to have more of a police presence in the area and a

See SUB STATION on page 28

Rendering of proposed BSO substation in Collier City neighborhood. [Courtesy]

New Pelican 3Friday, June 7, 2019 pelicannewspaper.com

Color


Lauderdale-By-The-Sea - “Behind the scenes they save the world an animal at a time. They take care of the most fragile in our environment, a baby possum, a baby raccoon. They help wildlife hit by vehicles, pelicans that get tangled in fishing lines at the pier or get a hook in their beak.”

Commissioner Buz Oldaker made those remarks in introducing Dr. Renata Schneider, director of wildlife rehabilitation at the South Florida Wildlife Center at a recent meeting of the town commission.

Oldaker invited Dr. Schneider to explain what the center does so citizens would

know about help available to them if they come across a distressed animal.

The center, nearing its fifth decade of serving the community, operates from tight quarters at 3200 SW 4 Ave. in Fort Lauderdale, next to the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. They serve the tri-county South Florida area with most of their patients coming from Broward County.

Schneider is one of three veterinarians on staff, and along with six vet technicians and a full staff of 45 people, they treat 12,000 to 13,000 animals a year and 300 species.

The center is open 365 days a year from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. After hours the Coral Springs

Animal Hospital is used as an animal drop-off site. “Every animal suffering will get care,” Schneider said.

Prior to her presentation at the LBTS commission meeting, Dr. Schneider had performed surgery on a pelican’s shredded pouch that had prevented it from holding a single fish.

The center is currently seeking a lease extension from the Broward County Commission. The second of two public hearings on the

extension is set for June 11 and Schneider urged residents to contact commissioners to urge support of the extension. The county leases land to the center for $200 a year.

The center is also preparing to launch a capital campaign to build a new hospital at the current site so they can help even more injured wildlife. The proposed new center would be hurricane proof. During Hurricane Irma, Schneider said they evacuated 600 animals from

the property.A few years ago Schneider

said they safely relocated 30 burrowing owls from the airport, preventing airplane strikes and protecting the endangered species. Sixty percent of their cases are mammals, such as foxes, squirrels and coyotes, which are on the rise in the tri-county area. They don’t treat cats and dogs.

See WILDLIFE on page 4

Dr. Renata Schneider and team focus on wildlife patients

Pelican with fish hook gets an examination.


color

The center currently has 200 baby birds whose mothers were injured or nests destroyed, in their care. The patients include herons and two large ospreys being treated for release.

The center is an affiliate of the Humane Society of the United States. A 501c3 not-for-profit agency, the center receives no government funding. Donations are welcome.

The center operates with the help of 200 active volunteers. Three were still at work feeding baby animals and one was in the clinic helping to clean up when Dr. Schneider left for the commission meeting.

During the recent Fleet Week, 14 sailors came to the center to help tear down habitats destroyed in Hurricane Irma. Area Scouts also assist on a regular basis helping to build habitats and earning badges. Those interested in volunteering are urged to contact southfloridawildlifecenter.org.

Every area fishing pier posts bilingual signs with information on the center. Those fishing who see a bird caught in fishing line are urged not to cut the line. Center helpers will contain the animals at the pier until the center can help. The center has a rescue driver on the road five days a week and available

to pick up animals that need treatment.

More information about the wildlife center is available on their above website or by calling 954-524-4302.

WildlifeContinued from page 3

Dr. Renata Schneider, director of wildlife rehabilitation at South Florida Wildlife Center,


colorFPL assistance for seniors

Deerfield Beach – The Center for Active Aging, 227 NW 2 St., offers financial assistance for seniors struggling to pay their FPL bills.

To qualify, seniors must be at least 60 years old, have a written past due, final notice or disconnect notice from FPL, present State of Florida photo identification, show Social Security cards for all household members, show proof of income for all household members, and meet income requirements. Interested individuals must make an appointment to apply.

Call Elizabeth Moore, information and referral coordinator, at 954-480-4441 to schedule an appointment.

will be higher and some lower.

Patterson said the lion’s share will be workforce units at about $1,500.

Patterson said he intends to preserve the historic Grisham Hotel building at the site and incorporate it into the design.

He said the project is a private investment with Opportunity Zone financing.

Opportunity Zones are census tracts

generally composed of economically distressed

communities that qualify for tax incentives

to encourage those with capital gains to invest in low-income

and undercapitalized communities.

Committee member

Shelton Pooler said $1,500 to $1,600 monthly rent seems

high for this area for only two bedrooms.

Committee vice chair Jay Ghanem said that quadrant is blighted. “I thank you for stepping in and taking a chance and coming into the neighborhood to build. I ap-preciate that,” he said.

[Disclosure: Jay Ghanem is a full partner of this newspaper]

Committee chair Whitney Rawls said, “There’s a huge cry for affordable housing. This project is considered workforce market. There has to be a mix of low,low income, workforce and market rate housing.”

Rawls said “There is a market for a facility like this that addresses workforce and market rate housing. I think we’re moving in the right direction.” He said he likes this project.

Rawls added that they need to press the city’s housing authority for needed low-income housing.

Rawls asked Patterson how confident he is of obtaining Opportunity Zone funding. “On a scale of 10, a 9.5,” the developer said. He is

talking to multiple funds.Rawls noted that City

Vista started an early list of those interested in living in the apartments on MLK. He asked Patterson if he would do that. He said, “ Absolutely, as part of community outreach.”

Rawls asked about the intended audience. Patterson said the units will be a mix of artists and workforce housing. At least 30 percent will be artists.

Pooler said he likes the apartments, “but higher rent doesn’t mean it’s perfect for this area. We want something nice to upgrade the neighborhood.”

Rawls asked Patterson if he would consider adding some three-bedroom units.

His architect Alain Dezii of Gallo Herbert Architects said the units are designed in modular blocks, so he could put in a few larger units. Patterson said he would explore inserting some three-bedroom units.

If approved by the CRA Board and approved for Opportunity Zone funding, Patterson said he will try to

get the project permitted by Dec. 31 and start construction the next day. He said he will hire 20 percent local workers.

After the committee voted 4-0 to recommend approval, he said, “We won’t disappoint.”

Affordable rents

Continued from page 1

Cities move to form Census count committees

By Michael d’OliveiraNew PelicaN staff

To ensure as accurate a 2020 Census count as possi-ble, officials in several cities, including Pompano Beach, Deerfield Beach and Oakland Park, have moved to form “complete count” committees.

The greater a city’s popula-tion, the more federal funding it qualifies for. To qualify for as much funding as possible, cities need to ensure as many of their residents as possible register with the Census.

“Programs use Census Bureau data to determine the funds distributed to eligible recipients and providers,” reads the census.gov website.

At a recent meeting, city commissioners in Pompano Beach voted to establish their “complete count” committee. The purpose of the committee will be to inform the public

See CENSUS on page 16


color

Merryman said reworking the interior for better flow includes reorganizing office space and most importantly, for the public, creating additional commission room space in what is now the building plans room. Merryman has replaced the solid wall between the two rooms with a glass wall and set up the space as a conference room. It can be wired for sound so that when commission chambers overflows as happened at the

May meeting, the audience can view and hear the proceedings in chambers.

The area just off the commission chambers can be made more useful Merryman said with seating and tables and another glass wall which will muffle the sounds from water fountains. The reception area would be rearranged with more seating.

Said Mayor Deb Tarrant, “This is 100 percent better

than what we’ve been working with.”

Bob Meyer, a contractor who has built many of the town’s mansions, said selecting furniture that “fits the space” will be important.

For the entryway, Merryman would remove the circular wall and hedges and build a walkway from the front door to the Barefoot Mailman statue.

It was the exterior of the

3,200 square-foot building, built originally in Bermuda style, that drew the most comment.

Merryman’s four options for the exterior involved removing all the stonework and choosing colors for the walls, shutters and lighting in either white, grey, beige, charcoal, black or silver. The option shown, that Merryman labeled “white on white” seemed to have the most

appeal to the commissioners.Some of the stonework is

river rock, not appropriate for a seaside structure, Meyer pointed out. At the moment, stone is not a desirable design feature, he said.

Merryman was instructed to bring back material samples, color swatches and pricing.

A redo of town hall will be budgeted in the next fiscal year. Merryman is working with a $16,000 design contract.

The white-on-white color palette for the exterior of town hall got the most favorable response this week. Note the new entryway, minus the curved stone wall.

Town hallContinued from page 1

Pick up your Pelican at your local Publix

Supermarket, Walgreen’s and Whole

Foods.


bw

Pompano Beach, Deerfield Beach, Lighthouse Point, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, Wilton Manors, Oakland Park, and Hillsboro Beach

The New Pelican is published weekly on FridaysStreet Address: 1500-A E. Atlantic Blvd., Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Telephone: 954-783-8700Letters to the Editor are encouraged and accepted for print if signed, although a writer’s

name will be withheld on request; letters must also include a daytime telephone number and should be no more than 500 words. Advertising rates are available upon request. The New

Pelican is a nonpartisan newspaper and reserves the right to decline advertising. Reproduction of this publication in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission of the publisher. All advertising and copy is published at the sole discretion of the publisher. Opinions on this

page do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers.We welcome your critiques and ideas concerning this publication.

Publisher

ESTABLISHED 1993 • Volume XXVII, Issue 23Founder, The PelicanAnne Hanby Siren

Managing Editor: Michael d’Oliveira Assoc. Editors: Judy Vik, Judy Wilson,

and Phyllis J. Neuberger Classifieds: Jeanne McVickerWebmaster: David Ginsberg

Editor-In-Chief: John Geer Features Columnist: Phyllis J. Neuberger Graphics: Rachel Ramirez Windsheimer

Billing & Distribution: Al SchmidbergerFood Columnist: Malcolm McClintock

Jay GhanemJohn GeerMichael SobelTony Hill

To the editor, Edward J Willingham literally created Wilton Manors. He was a very successful farmer and factory owner in Georgia, a college

graduate and Baptist minister. He arrived in South Florida in the early 1920’s. In 1925, he created Wilton Manors. Willingham created Five Points, site of the magnificent entrance towers, and

Wilton Boulevard. In 1928, his son, Edward J. Willingham, Jr., removed the individual house lots

to encourage developers to buy larger plots of land. He also renamed the streets using a numeric scheme; he renamed Wilton

Boulevard to Wilton Drive.

Name the park for Edward J. Willingham; The man who created it

Letters

The grand entrance was the five pointed intersection of

Dixie Highway, Prospect Road, and Wilton Boulevard. Wilton Boulevard was framed by four Romanesque towers, designed by noted and prolific architect

Francis Abreu. Prospective buyers could climb to the top

of the largest tower to pick out their house lot!

Willingham created Wilton Boulevard to be strictly

residential, with big, expensive homes.

Courtesy Wilton Manors Historical Society.

Willingham Senior created a park, which has been there since 1925.

Today, there is no recognition of Willingham in the entire city. What better choice than to put his name on the park he created in the village he created.

There has been discussion about naming the park for Harvey Milk.

Milk is certainly an important person and has been very influential, but he has no connection with Wilton Manors.

We have given him a day in his honor; why name a park for him? The LGBTQ community moved here, not to a “gay enclave,” but because the houses were much more substantial and cheaper than the “cottages” in Victoria Park. The existing residents welcomed them.

The above words reflect my thoughts on this subject and may or may not reflect the thoughts of the city’s historical society’s board of directors as a whole.

BBL

OPINIONS

Perkins addresses flyer tainted with accusations of klansmen at the daisBy Commissioner Beverly Perkins

Guest commeNtary

Last week, I received several phone calls and text messages concerning a flyer circulating around District 4 and social media posts depicting key city officials as “Klansmen” in response to the disrespectful treatment felt by the community.

I have seen the flyer and must say how sad and disturbing this is that this type of speech is still being used by some in 2019.

This reminded of my first experiences with racist and bigoted comments directed at me throughout my life, both as a child, as a teenager and now as a city commissioner in the town where I was born and raised.

It has troubled me to the point, and I feel bound to express my thoughts to my colleagues and my community.

First, as the District 4 Commissioner, I hereby unequivocally refute any and all negative statements related to the flyer. I do not approve, nor do I support or encourage propaganda in any form that negatively depicts our city and/or its leaders.

I believe in the First Amendment and doctrines of freedom of speech, however this type of derogatory rhetoric does nothing to promote harmony and goodwill among the people of Pompano Beach.

This is counter productive and serves to disparage our city’s image to businesses and other entities who may view Pompano Beach as an ideal destination for new business startups, entrepreneurial opportunities or to raise a family.

Secondly, I believe the leadership and the residents of Pompano Beach as a whole, need to be mindful to the

illness, not the symptom of what this means and where it could go.

During my tenure as a teacher in Broward County, I regularly encountered students who “displayed” behaviors that were on the surface destructive, aggressive and volatile. However, upon more intense dialogue and interaction, I discovered the students acting out was a cry for acknowledgment and understanding. Historically, the residents of NW Pompano strongly believe they are not acknowledged or respected at times and are very concerned about the future direction of District 4. I am committed to continuing to be the voice for my community and trying to bridge the divide that is moving further apart.

I am asking for all community leaders, city officials, the business community and its residents of this wonderful city to take a step back to analyze and focus on the basic tenets of recognizing people hurting and actively work together to address the concerns of its citizens.

I believe we would be wise to use thoughtful dialogue and use workable solutions to defuse tension. It’s what I would do if I had a challenging student.

Perkins

It took some time, but beyond the hurt, pain and anger, Mayor Hardin’s meeting was a good beginningBy John Geer

Publisher

It’s a start – a little bumpy at times, but a good beginning.Communication makes the world go round and, in our case, can certainly

contribute to bringing our city together.Following his announcement a week ago, Mayor Rex Hardin held a town hall

at E. Pat Larkins community center on Tuesday evening. Approximately 45 members of the Northwest community sat in folding chairs;

Hardin stood by himself in front of them. No dais separating them. No com-missioners, city manager nor attorney on his sides and no three-minute speaking clock. [Commissioner Perkins, who also attended, sat in a folding chair and was silent].

He started with the comment that some have suggested there is a lack of communication or understanding in the city, that he was there to listen and to attempt to bridge any communication gap.

And listen he did. The town hall lasted almost three hours.There weren’t many questions of the Mayor. Among the few, he was asked

about guaranteeing that there would be local jobs for Northwest residents when the Innovation District moves to construction; others asked how he would bridge the communication gap. A few wanted to know he doesn’t discipline people who are out of order at city meetings, and what he would say to young

See MY VIEW AND MY HOPE on page 19

My view and my hope


bwSend your stories and photos to

[email protected] or call 954-783-8700.Business matters

Home Sweet Home ALF Changes Hands

Oakland Park – Rick Tobin of Premier Hotel Realty announced that Home Sweet Home, 460 NW 40 Ct., a 26-bed assisted living facility, was sold April 4 to a local buyer, for $1,050,000.

Said Tobin, “We saw massive interest from both local and foreign buyers looking for South Florida investments in this sector, especially since the population over 85 years old in Broward is projected to increase 31.9 percent.

Officer who detected gas leak commended

Hillsboro Beach - Police Sgt. David Clark’s sharp sense of smell may have saved lives. It probably averted a gas tank explosion.

Sgt. Clark detected the smell of gas coming from an underground gas tank adjacent to the Port de Mer condo near SE 10 Street and A1A on May 29. His quick action notifying BSO firefighters resulted in a safe, controlled gas release and the condo residents who had been evacuated returned to their homes. There were no injuries.

This week, Hillsboro Beach Police Chief Tom Nagy, awarded Clark with his department’s certificate of commendation award for outstanding police work.

-Judy Wilson

By Malcolm McClintockNew PelicaN writer

Pompano Beach – “We have absolutely everything that anybody would need to enjoy scuba diving,” says friendly expert, social media director and former dolphin trainer Nikole Heath. “We provide certification courses, tank fill-ups and all the equipment necessary for people to discover this wonderful sport.”

Indeed, with its 7,000 square foot store located directly across the street from Pompano’s city golf course, Force E is a cauldron of activity as novices and habitués alike descend daily on this mecca of scuba gear for all their diving needs.

With a seemingly limitless supply of masks, fins, wet-suits, regulators, tanks, dive computers, spear guns and

For 40 years, Pompano’s Force E Scuba remains top destination of choice to equip South Florida divers

specialty equipment, the shop is a hub of activity that welcomes all to discover the fantastical world of underwater exploration.

“We also have a large

“force for excellence” behind the Force E brand since opening their first store in Boca Raton back in 1976, the multiple South Florida locations are staffed by the most experienced and knowledgeable professionals in the industry.

“I have been with the company for 39 years,” says store manager Gary Thomas, a highly qualified scuba

instructor who has been teaching the sport for nearly a half century.

“People can get certified in a week. It is a great experience to do with friends as we offer group discounts as well.”

With lobster mini-season fast approaching and lionfish derbies in the offing, anyone

Divers discover the anchor while exploring the wreck of the Copenhagen (Courtesy Force E Scuba)

Snorkels, fins and masks abound at Force E’s 7,000 square foot showroom.

See FORCE E on page 11

“People can get certified in a week. It is a great experience

to do with friends as we offer group

discounts as well”- Gary Thomas

classroom where we teach all the courses for certification,” says Heath. “We offer group classes for as little as $325 per person. The PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) course is the most popular but the SSI [Scuba Schools International] is quickly becoming the new norm.”

Although company founders Skip and Cathy Commagere continue to be the driving


colorWilton Manors Business Association celebrates 30th year with 2019 directoryBy Malcolm McClintock

New PelicaN writer

Wilton Manors– “It’s our 30th anniversary!” says Wilton Manors Business Association President Tim Moffitt. “We are very excited about this wonderful milestone and, of course, about presenting this year’s new directory.”

Indeed, with a packed house of Wilton Manors business luminaries on hand at Hunters Nightclub, Moffit took the opportunity to recognize deserving members of the community before officially unveiling the 2019 business directory.

Overflowing with valuable information on just about every aspect of life in the “Island City,” the new 2019

guide is the perfect resource for anyone intending to do business, visit or live in Wilton Manors.

With approximately 12,000 residents coexisting in a 1.96 square-mile area, the

famously gay-friendly town boasts a plethora of historical sights, cultural activities, vivacious nightlife, eclectic restaurants and bars, 15 verdant parks and several boat ramps along seven miles of

pristine waterway.“We have a very active

association with over 250 members,” says Moffitt. “And we are continuously growing.”

With median annual

family income of more than $78K, median house value hovering around $301K and an extremely dedicated city government led by newly elected Mayor Justin Flippen, the affluent community represents an attractive destination to conduct commerce.

“It’s great to see the business community coming together,” says Justin Romano, owner of Bayview Payroll Services.

“We always have a great turnout,” says financial services expert and board member Travis MacDonald. “The business community and life in general in Wilton Manors are really very vibrant.”

For information on obtaining a directory, please visit www.WiltonManors BusinessAssociation.com.

WMBA Board Members are on hand to celebrate 30 years of continued success during unveiling of new directory. From left to right, Karl Lentzer, Dr.Vanessa Koutalidis, Julietta Wenzel, Tim Moffit, Peter Jackson, Anthony LoGrande, Justin Romano, Jeff Sterling, Jeffrey Selzer and Travis MacDonald.


colorMaking a Difference

Phyllis J. Neuberger wants your suggestions about people making a difference. Phyllis’ book, China Dahl, is available on Amazon.com. Send your recommendations for this column to [email protected]

Advertise in the

New Pelican!Call us

today at954-783-8700

By Phyllis J. NeubergerNew PelicaN staff

Regina Hall is a true Deerfield Beach native. With a cheery laugh she says, “I actually live one street over from the house I was born in.”

This hometown girl enjoyed a career in the engineering department of Bell South from 1979 to 1997. When she retired, she became the youth-elderly coordinator for a Deerfield Beach Housing Authority grant.

In 2000, she created Boys and Girls Night Out. Inc., and annual nights out have continued every year since.

This year’s Night Out took place in May at the Deerfield Beach DoubleTree Hilton. It was a huge success.

She says,“ Our theme, ‘Why you are; Who you are?’ was the focus. We entertained 40 children. Among our

guests was a mother and daughter volunteer team who have been with us for 14 years. Both are now mentors.”

James Stubbs, the organization’s first president, emceed the evening.

The entertainment was provided by the students from Deerfield Park Elementary, a magnet school.

Wendy Barron, a recent winner of an art contest, presented Hall with her original framed art. [See photo above]

Boys and Girls Night Out Inc. is a Florida based non-

profit that was established in 1999 and incorporated in 2008 as a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation. Its mission provides opportunities for youth ages 12 to 18 to meet and learn social skills that will enhance their way of life.

The program uses mentors and volunteers to encourage youth to achieve career goals. The program includes lessons in etiquette; how to dress appropriately and make positive life choices.

Hall is the founder and director of this motivating program that meets once

a month at the American Legion Hall on SW 2nd Street in Deerfield Beach. The focus of the meeting is always a lively discussion of life choices, arts & crafts and cursive instructions.

Included in the group are winners of the MLK Basketball Tournament at Mitchell Moore Park.

The major annual event is the “Dress to Impress” night out for boys and girls. “We take them to dinner at fine restaurants where they enjoy the meal and get to practice their social skills,” Hall explains.

Director Hall is supported by the organization’s president, Rodney Cox and vice president, Brenda Cox-Morris along with mentors and volunteers.

Board members are Joan, June and Telecia Stubbs, Grace Dowell, Tonya Wallace, Tonika Flemming, Virgie Duiejuste and Ja’Anal McAden.

Creating Boys and Girls Night Out Inc. has been a major effort for Regina Hall and she hopes to continue the good work as long as her health permits. She says, “Seeing the results of our efforts on the children who have participated in our programs is very gratifying. Watching these young people behaving well socially, dressing appropriately and making positive choices is the reward for all of us who helped make it happen.”

Thank you for bringing this mentoring organization to the youth of the community.

Meet Regina Hall, founder and director of Boys and Girls Night Out, Inc., dedicated to young people

Wendy Barron, fourth grader from Deerfield Park Elementary, is shown with her winning art work being presented to Regina Hall, director of Boys an Girls Night out Inc., a 501c3. Inc. non-profit organization for the mentoring of chil-

Pompano Beach -- The NW CRA Advisory Commit-tee on Monday recommended approval of CRA acquisition of property at 1560 NW 16 Ave. in the Coral Highlands.

The CRA is offering $22,540, the current assessed value, for the property. The CRA owns properties directly north and south of this lot.

The 10,018-square-foot property has two city code compliance liens totaling $502,350.

Both cases were for having grass or weeds over 12 inches in height. They are now in compliance and no longer accruing fines.

The lot has four to eight feet of accumulated fill and debris from trespassers dumping in the area, CRA director Nguy-en Tran wrote in a report to the committee.

Lots in this area currently can’t be developed because legal access to lots hasn’t been granted by adjacent property owners. There is no dedicated road to gain access. The property owners can’t get a permit to build a house be-cause no fire truck can access the property.

“It is the CRA’s intent to acquire this lot in an effort to stabilize the neighborhood and eventually improve this area,” Tran wrote.

CRA offers $22.5K for property with liens over $500K


color

classic dive sites such as the wreck of the Copenhagen, the Okinawa or the Lady Luck.”

With a constant emphasis on protecting the marine environment and the reefs, Force E is strongly committed to helping divers appreciate the natural beauty of the waters off the coast of Pompano Beach and Lauderdale-By-The-Sea in a sustainable and eco-friendly fashion.

“We try to make it exciting but also affordable to enjoy this amazing activity that is great for the whole family,” concludes Heath. “We want people to come away with a new hobby and lifestyle

which is why we offer a No-Fear Guarantee – customers can ‘buy it, use it, love it’ or return it within 30 days to trade in for a similar item of different brand, size or color.

“We also offer full refunds and will match any competitor’s price or give a 120 percent of the difference in store credit.”

For additional information, visit www.force-e.com and www.shipwreckparkflorida.org

Force-E Pompano 1312 North Federal Highway Pompano Beach. Call 954-943-3483 or email: [email protected].

Force EContinued from page 8

Arboretum rainforest getting major additionBy Judy Wilson

New PelicaN staff

Deerfield Beach – The rainforest in Constitution Park was approved for a $130,000 addition Tuesday night. Commissioners approved a contract with Bellas Aquatic Gardens to construct two natural stone bridges, two new waterfalls and a 200-foot water course leading to another pond.

One waterfall will face the seating area northeast of the existing pond, the other will face the large ficus tree which dominates the area.

The first waterfall, phase 1 of the project, was constructed by the same company in 2016.

Tuesday night, the commission heeded staff’s request and awarded the contract without a bid process based on the fact Bellas is one of only a few companies that do this work and to ensure the new features match the appearance that is already there.

The new rainforest pond

will be 50 percent larger that the current one. The bid for this new work is about the same amount as the city paid Ballas for phase 1 work.

Three companies vying to build Active Aging Center

At the end of a long discussion, commissioners agreed the three bidders to design-build the new Center for Active Aging, should put their numbers to the project and come up with competitive bids.

The three companies, Seawood Builders, DiPompeo Construction Corporation and West Construction, Inc. were the only respondents to the city’s request for proposal.

The campus at 225 NW 2 Avenue will undergo a complete rebuild and in 22,000 square feet will provide space for an adult day care center, senior center, activity room, health and wellness center and offices for the community development department and active aging

staff. A child - care center for preschoolers will be bid separately. There will be over 4,000 square feet of covered patios.

The issue drew criticism from the public who said the city should have received more bids. John Slattery asked if the bid request went to the usual channels. “It was not done right, “he said. “You would have had more than three responses.”

Interim City Manager David

Santucci said 137 vendors were notified and the project was advertised in the daily newspaper. “There is a very strong construction market. When the private sector booms, the public sector decreases. We could redo this bid and get more, or we could lose participation.”

Mayor Bill Ganz said the city went beyond the guidelines of the procurement code and Vice Mayor Todd Drosky said construction

companies have staff people who look for bid opportunities. “They are looking for the $100 million job, not the $10 million. That’s the harsh reality,” he said.

Commissioner Michael Hudak said the city wouldn’t gain by reopening the bidding. “The candidates should put pencil to paper,” he said.

The current building was built in 1981.

curious about the sport is urged to take the plunge. “We have relationships with several charter boat companies and can therefore take guests out diving any day of the week,” says Heath. “For those who just want to see or photograph beautiful marine life, we often head to

Send your news to [email protected]


colorFishing report

By RJ BoyleNew PelicaN aNGler

Last weekend we had a wonderful turnout for our monthly Mission Fishin’ family trip.

We fish from 8 a.m. to noon and leave from Marina One in Deerfield Beach.

It is so wonderful to give time and volunteer boats to get families out on the water for some joy and relaxation.

It’s always better to give than to receive so please check out missionfishin.org for outings and volunteer info.

As for the mutton snapper they are still biting.

Pictured at right is Michael Farin from Miami Beach with a pair of prize snapper. These fish have been biting all week and should continue through the weekend, so if you get a chance give it a go.

The weather looks fabulous, but beware of afternoon thunderstorms.

Get tight,RJ Boyle

About Missionfishin’

Tony Davis recalls the day four years ago when RJ Boyle took him and his son for a boat ride. His son’s wheelchair was no obstacle for Boyle.

Davis says it was a wonderful day and more children should have such an experience, regardless of a wheelchair or any other disability.

Mission Fishin’ is another success; mutton snapper still biting

Mission Fishin’ anglers return to dock after a day on the sea.

RJ Boyle

So Davis and Boyle started Missionfishin’ offering a day at sea for families with special needs children.

“Each family has a boat and a captain,” says Davis. “Some just want a ride on the water; others want to motor into the ocean.”

Meanwhile the idea became a 501(c)3 a year ago.. On June 1, seven families had their day on the water.

Visit the website at missionfishin.org.


colorCudjoe Key; On a clear day you can spear foreverCatching the ocean view

By Jim “Chiefy” MatthiePelicaN writer

Cudjoe Key - Our location is ideal if you’re a boater, diver or fisherman.

After all, there are very few locations in the world where you can spend time on pristine white, sandy beaches only steps from an abundant reef system with tropical, warm ocean temperatures.

The other advantage is we’re only a few hours from different types of diving and fishing.

I had the good fortune to be invited to Cudjoe Key last weekend for a few days of diving and spearfishing.

My buddy and president of the South Florida Spearfishing Club, www.spearfishing.org. Tom Campbell, owns a get-away house on the Atlantic side; he invited four couples all of whom are members of

the club. Unlike our area, the diving

on the Atlantic side isn’t off any white, sandy beaches. We had to travel almost 10 miles to get to our diving locations.

The direction is south, and we had a west current. The edge of the reef is 80 to 100 feet of water, but it’s very elaborate, with lots of corals and structure.

Our dives on Friday were with very limited visibility, perhaps 20 feet at best. There’s lots of marine life on these reefs, but with limited

visibility, the fish are difficult to spot. I was fortunate to land a 20-inch yellowtail snapper. They were in schools, making them tough to land with the poor visibility. A good thing for us with the minimal visibility, is we did land some nice sized lionfish.

Our second day of spearfishing was much better as our visibility was almost top-to-bottom with clear, blue water.

Now we could see the fish and there were a lot. Our dives were on the same reefs,

but with great visibility, we were able to land three black grouper and a large mutton snapper.

We did see plenty of fish, but unfortunately, sometimes the fish are smarter than us.

What a difference a day

makes!The black groupers behave

differently in the Keys, as I don’t think they get a lot of folks spearing them.

Most of them in our area are on the run, which make them a difficult targets.

In the Keys, they seem to stay local to their area and will slip into a hole or under a ledge to avoid being speared.

With the better visibility on Saturday, we would spot them hanging by their location. They would stop and stay motionless for a few seconds as we approached. Without the good visibility we wouldn’t see them, but because of the clear water, we landed some tasty grouper.

The best part of diving and spearing fish in the Keys was we then cooked up our catch and had the freshest seafood available.

There’s nothing better than having dinner eating your fresh catch with a great group of friends.

THE BIG CATCH - Peter de Villers, Mike Matson, Tom Campbell and Chiefy display their catches.

Matthie


colorYoung muralists leave their mark on Teen Center wallsBy Judy Wilson

New PelicaN staff

Deerfield Beach – Einstein would have been proud of the kids who used his portrait as the centerpiece of a room-size mural they unveiled last week at the Deerfield Beach Teen Center.

Nearly two dozen students from Deerfield Beach High School labored most of the year on the vividly colorful wall design titled “Timeless.”

“I thought this was a good way for them to become acquainted with Einstein,” artist Gabriela Gamperl said. Gamperl envisioned the mural and outlined it on the walls. The students then painted in the intricate segments of her design.

In his youth, Einstein also needed to focus. One can imagine he would have approved of the discipline these hours of creativity required of the students.

An admirer of bright women, Einstein might also have been impressed by Gamperl’s dedication to the project: she donated more hours with the students than she bothered to calculate.

The Teen Center, located in the former State Farm Disaster House on 1303 FAU Research Park Blvd., offers mentoring and tutoring programs for teens ages 13 to 17 along with some specialties such as mixing music, Deejay skills and screen printing.

This summer, 50 students are enrolled in the Future

Leaders Program, the new version of summer sessions initiated years ago by former state representative, Gwyn Clarke Reed.

More than artTeen Center Director Steve

Collazo has convinced more than a dozen public and private entities to hire the kids at minimum wage.

At the Hilton by Doubletree for instance, they will work the front desk, in catering and maintenance.

“I like the hospitality business because it gives them a broad range of experience,” Collazo said.

Among the other local companies in the program are DNA Labs, Food Bazaar, The Center for Active Aging, the Boys and Girls Club, The City of Deerfield Beach Parks Department and environmental services, and the housing authority. Some

of the kids will work with the Broward Sheriff’s Office. The city covers their pay and liability insurance.

Mondays, for four hours, the teens, 14 and 15 years of age, are in a classroom where they are taught business skills: how to write a resume, how to balance a checkbook, the importance of dressing appropriately for the job and showing up on time.

The program started Monday with an orientation and concludes on Aug. 2 with a “commencement.”

Last Friday, the Teen Center mural was revealed to a select group: local VIPs, the teens and their parents and parks and recreation supervisors.

Once it was unveiled, the young artists signed their work, making this year-long effort, for them, timeless.

•••Student artists were Alex

Etheridge, Tyanna Bernadin,

Fahim Islam, Salvadore Torres, Kevin Wright, Martha Augustin, Monet Blake, Chassidy Edwards, Fabienne Etienne, Benjamin Jackson, Jennifer Jean, Vanessa Jean, Wesley Jean Laurent, Jewell Jenkins, Eminahyiah Purrier, Gabriella Sams, Yva Schaber, Robertson Simon, Yaribeth Ubillus and Takieska Wright.

Student artists at the Deerfield Beach teen center critique their new mural, “Timeless.” [Courtesy]


color

Send your news to [email protected]

St., and $1 million toward construction of the new public works facility to incorporate the Emergency Operations Center.

The city’s application for a Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grant for construction of a new Fire Station #9 at 301 NE 38 St. has been approved by the state and sent to FEMA for evaluation. If approved, the grant will provide $1.15 million for code improvements to the new facility. A funding decision is anticipated in July.

Additionally, the city will receive about $35,000 to assist in the cost of supporting downtown events. These funds were awarded in a General Program Support Grant. State lawmakers appropriated $12.4 million of a recommended funding list of more than $40 million.

The city had two applications recommended for $50,000 in funding for improvements at Carter Woodson Park and Wimberly Field through the Florida Recreational Development Assistance Program. The legislature didn’t appropriate any funding for this grant program for the first time since 2015.

GrantsContinued from page 1

Massage parlor restrictions Ok’d on first reading, but questions remain

By Judy VikPelicaN staff

Oakland Park -- Commissioners recently approved two ordinances on initial reading aimed at regulating massage and health spa businesses. The city currently has 59 such businesses with business tax receipts. Scheduled for a second reading on June 5, at the request of City Attorney DJ Doody, commissioners agreed to table consideration until their next meeting June 19. The meeting starts at 6:30

p.m. in city hall chambers at 3650 NE 12 Ave.

In introducing one ordinance, Peter Schwarz, assistant director, Engineering & Community Development, said, “These businesses are problematic because they are often used for unlawful activities, including prostitution and human trafficking.”

The ordinance” is intended to address public safety through reasonable and uniform regulations to ensure that operators of massage and health spa type businesses do not knowingly allow their establishments to be used as places of illegal sexual activity or solicitation,” according to a staff report.

In the ordinance, massage and health type spa

establishments are defined as a site where a licensed massage therapist practices massage.

The second ordinance establishes distance requirements of 1,500 feet between such businesses.

All new massage businesses must comply with the new ordinance, if passed on second reading.

Existing businesses providing massage services in the city must apply for a massage therapy services permit within 90 days of adoption of the law. They must be in compliance within six months of the ordinance passing.

Applicants must provide proof of a state massage therapy license for the applicant and all personnel

providing massage services. Hours of operation of all new establishments will be restricted to 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week.

The applicant must permit routine inspections of the business periodically by Broward Sheriff’s Office and the city’s Code Enforcement Division for code compliance determination.

The ordinance provides for a number of requirements and standards including:

The owner or manager must be on site when the business is open. A certificate is not sufficient. A state licensed massage therapist must be present at the business during all hours when massages are performed.

A proposed fee structure will be developed and

presented in a resolution during second reading of the law.

The ordinance passed unanimously on first reading by a 4-0 vote. Vice Mayor Matthew Sparks was absent.

Distance separationCommissioners also passed

on first reading an ordinance to amend the city’s land development code to require new massage businesses to have a minimum of 1,500 feet distance separation from other similar businesses.

Other businesses with similar distance requirements include pawn shops, pay day loan firms, head shops and liquor stores.

Resident and former mayor Steve Arnst asked why this law was being proposed. “Just because two or three are doing it [illegal activity], doesn’t mean everyone is doing it. When we regulated pill mills it took so long because we had to have police reports done. You can’t just arbitrarily and capriciously add distance requirements without a reason,” he said. “Why 1,500

Human trafficking, prostitution associated with these businesses

says one official.

See MASSAGE PARLORS on page 25


Advertise your restaurant in the New Pelican for

6 weeksin our dining section.

Call us today at 954-783-8700

The Pelican wants your opinion! Send your letters to the editor to [email protected]

Pick up your Pelican at your local Publix Supermarket,

Walgreen’s and Whole Foods.Subscribe for a free subscription at

pelicannewspaper.com. about the Census and encour-age every resident to partici-pate.

Keester-O’Mills said the committee should be estab-lished no later than July. “We need to get this committee up and running quickly. It’s vitally important,” said Mayor Rex Hardin.

Those interested in joining the committee should call the city clerk at 954-786-4611.

In Oakland Park, the city is forming a 2020 Census Com-mittee under the direction of City Clerk Renee Shrout.

“In addition to identifying Oakland Park residents and businesses located in the hard to count areas to request their participation, we welcome others who are interested in assisting in these efforts to ensure the city has a complete count in the 2020 census,” said David Rafter, public information officer. For more information, call the clerk’s office at 954-630-4300.

Individuals interested in joining the Deerfield Beach committee should call the city clerk at 954-480-4213 or community development at 954-480-6420.

Census jobsAt the same meeting where

Pompano Beach commission-ers voted to establish their committee, a representative from the Census office in Miami, David Wilkinson, spoke about the type of jobs available.

He said the jobs include clerical and administrative in addition to Census workers who collect data in the field. “There are thousands of jobs available now through 2020. This is probably the longest temporary job you’ve ever seen. We’re talking over a year and a half. Wilkinson said wages range between $17.50 and $25 an hour.

“It takes 20 minutes [to apply] and you will be in the pipeline. The idea is to get hired now,” he added.

“I know people who have had Census jobs,” said Har-din. “It was a real nice extra paycheck.”

For more information, visit 2020census.gov/jobs.

CensusContinued from page 5

Golf course expenditures will go to budget committee

Pompano Beach – Dr. Richard Porraro, chair of this city’s golf advisory board, said the suggested $29 million in golf course improvements will be submitted to the budget review committee first. In May, the golf advisory committee voted to present its plan to the city commission.

After The New Pelican published its May 10 article, Porraro contacted this newspaper and said the request would go before the budget committee.

Porraro and other golf advisory members said the city needs to invest in its municipal course in order to keep golfers coming to the area and spending money in local businesses.

On the board’s wish list is $15 million for a new clubhouse and golf cart barn, $1 million for a starting deck, $9 million for the Palms Course, $2.5 million for Pines Course and $1.5 million for the driving range. Galuppi’s Restaurant, located at the course, would not be impacted.

-Michael d’Oliveira

New Pelican 17Friday, June 7, 2019

Email your calendar events to [email protected]. Events are free unless stated.

color

This Weekend6/8 – 1:30 p.m. - Earth Art

at NSU Museum, One East Las Olas, Fort Lauderdale. Lark Keeler leads a workshop on creative exploration. $15. 954-525- 5500.

Live Jazz in the Park. Saturday. 4 to 8 p.m. Annie Adderly Gillis Park, 601 MLK Blvd., Pompano Beach. Lawn chairs allowed. 954-786-4046.

“From The Swamp To The

Village: Florida Landscapes by Florida Artists” exhibit. Saturday. 7 p.m. Art Gallery 21, 600 NE 21 Ct., Wilton Manors. Live music and refreshments provided. 954-661-4740.Art & Expression

Lunch with Art – the Visual Arts Edition. June 5. 12:15 to 1:15 p.m. BaCA, 41 NE 1 St., Pompano Beach. Participate in art projects on your lunch break. 954-786-7879.

Artists Guild Gallery Opening Reception. June 7. 6 to 8 p.m. Artists Guild Gallery, 2910 N. Federal Hwy., Elegance Plaza in Boca Raton. Local art and

artists. 561-392-2500.Public meetings

6/10 – 6 to 7:30 p.m. Wilton Manors Business Association [WMBA] hosts evening mixer at the Stonewall National Museum, 2157, Wilton Manors.Appetizers, drinks provided. Members –Free. Future members $10.wilonmanors business association.com

6/29 – E. Pat Larkins center, 10 a.m. to noon. Calvin, Giordano & Associates, Inc. will review city updates and future plans. LARKINS TEL. Events

6/12 – 7 to 8:30 p.m. Lauderdale-By-The-Sea Community Center hosts “All Arts Open Mic.” Jarvis Hall, 4505 N. Ocean Drive. Free and open to the public. Stand-up comics, singers, musicians, dancers and poets. Call Armilio Bien-Aime at 954-640-4225.

6/14 – Deerfield Beach Dive-in Movies at aquatic center presents “Aquaman: Range of Atlantis.” Bring lounge chairs and pool floats for a fun family night out. Free swim at 7 :30 p.m.; show starts at 8 p.m. Call the Aquatic Center at 954-420-2262 located on the grounds of Deerfield Beach Middle School.

6/20 - Needlework Circle: Knitting, Crocheting, and More. 1 to 2:30 p.m. Beach Branch Library, 3250 NE 2 St, Pompano Beach. Club meets regularly. 954-357-7830.

6/15 - Veterans Helping Veterans Bowling Tournament. June 15. 12 to 3 p.m. Diamond Strike Lanes, 2200 N. Federal Hwy., Pompano Beach. Funds raised go to Broward Children’s Center and to help train veterans to help other veterans apply for disability benefits. Cost is $100 per person. Sponsorships available.Books

Used Book Sale. June 7. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Ethel M.Gordon Oakland Park Library, 1298 NE 37 St. Proceeds benefit library. Hosted by Friends of the

Library. 954-630-4370. 6/26 - Beach Readers

Book Club: Discussion of Tayari Jones’ novel, An American Marriage. June 26. 1 to 2:30 p.m. Beach Branch Library, 3250 NE 2 St., Pompano Beach. Copies of the book will be available to check out. 954-357-7830.Chambers & Business

6/27 - Breakfast and Business Meet & Greet. . 9 to 11 a.m. E. Pat Larkins Community Center, 520 MLK Blvd., Pompano Beach. Learn about Broward County’s Small Business Certification

See CALENDAR on page 18

pelicannewspaper.com

Lillian Kimmel celebrated her 102nd birthday on May 26 surrounded by family and friends. The party took place in the Woodlands at John Knox Village in Pompano Beach. Pictured with her are her daughter and son in law, Diane and John Dalsimer, four grandchildren and one great grandson. When asked how it feels to have lived 102 years, she replied, “I don’t make speeches anymore.”

Lillian Kimmel hosts 103 party at John Knox Village

18 New Pelican Friday, June 7, 2019

color

Programs, upcoming transportation projects, the penny sales tax impact, local business preference program and how to become a vendor. City and CRA staff are featured speakers. 954-786-4585.Children & Family

6/8 - Food & Fun Day. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bethlehem Church, 1060 S. MLK Ave., Deerfield Beach. Food, games and music. bmbchurch.org.

6/9 - Family & Friends Day. 11 a.m. Bethlehem Church, 1060 S. MLK Ave., Deerfield Beach. Worship, praise, preaching, giveaways. bmbchurch.org.Classes & Lectures

6/10 - Census 2020: Accounting for Civil Liberties. June 10. 6:30 p.m. Herb Skolnick Center, 800 SW 36 Ave., Pompano Beach. “Learn about the history of the U.S. Census Bureau, what it accomplishes for all citizens and residents if handled properly, and how ACLU activists can assure everyone is counted fairly.” Refreshments will be provided.Food & Fun

Wings and Wheels wing cook-off and car and bike show. June 15. 3 to 6 p.m. Oveta McKeithen Recreational Complex, 445 SW 2 St., Deerfield Beach. Sample wings and vote for the best ones. Deadline to enter contest is June 12. Waterslides for the kids. 954-480-4481.Health and Safety

6/8 - Rabies clinic 9 a.m.

to 2 p.m. Plantation Heritage Park, 1100 S. Fig Tree Lane, Plantation. Broward County will offer pet vaccinations; $25 if pet is spayed or neutered and $35 if it is not. Microchips, with free registration, will be available. Only Broward County residents qualify. Bring a copy of the rabies certificate to the event to receive the free microchip. Gate entry is $1.50 per person. 954-359-1010.

6/15 - Operation Medicine Cabinet & Shred-A-Thon. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Isle Casino Racing Pompano Park, 777 Isle of Capri Circle, Pompano Beach. Unwanted prescription medicine will be disposed of by BSO. $5 gift cards will be given in exchange for medicine while supplies last. Documents will also be shredded. Maximum number of five boxes per person. 954-831-8902.Music

6/9 - Soulful Sundays. 6 to 9 p.m. Ali Cultural Arts, 353 MLK Blvd., Pompano Beach. Features Soul, R&B, Neo Soul, Blues, Jazz and Funk performers. Art and other merchandise will be on sale. Vendors wanted. 954-786-7875.

CalendarContinued from page 17

Local citizens needed as volunteers for ocean BleachWatch

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Ad-ministration [NOAA], coral bleaching is harming and in some cases, killing sea coral.

Warmer water tempera-tures can result in coral bleaching. When water is too warm, corals will expel the algae (zooxanthellae) living in their tissues causing the coral to turn completely white. This is called coral bleaching. When a coral bleaches, it is not dead. Corals can survive a bleaching event, but they are under more stress and are subject to mortality.

In 2005, the U.S. lost half of its coral reefs in the Ca-ribbean in one year due to a massive bleaching event. The warm waters centered around the northern Antilles near the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico expanded southward. Comparison of satellite data from the previous 20 years confirmed that thermal stress from the 2005 event was greater than the previous 20 years combined.

Not all bleaching events are due to warm water.

In January 2010, cold water temperatures in the

Florida Keys caused a coral bleaching event that resulted in some coral death. Water temperatures dropped 12.06 degrees Fahrenheit lower than the typical temperatures observed at this time of year. Researchers will evaluate if this cold-stress event will make corals more susceptible to disease in the same way that warmer waters impact corals. [NOAA].

How to helpBleachWatch is a citizen-

science program designed to detect and monitor both coral bleaching and coral disease events in Southeast Florida.

To become a BleachWatch observer, certified divers can take one of upcoming free two-hour classes that will provide students with the classroom training to recognize coral bleaching and coral disease, and how to differentiate between the two.

Divers will become trained BleachWatch observers who can submit reports of coral bleaching and coral disease sightings on the reef.

Classes take place on the following dates from 6 to 9 p.m.

June 18- Marine Environ-mental Education Center at the Carpenter House (Bro-ward County)

June 20- Gumbo Limbo Nature Center (Palm Beach County)

June 25- Scuba Central (Martin County)

Students will receive informational material on coral bleaching and coral disease, as well as some stickers and fun giveaways for attending. BleachWatch is sponsored by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Call 850-245-2118.



color

Pelican Classifieds

Work!Place your ad today.

20 words for $15 a week.

Call 954-783-8700

people who believed that nothing would change.Feelings and opinions flowed freely from the participants. They were hurt, they were sad, they were angry and they felt disrespected. They believed they were not being treated the same way others were, and were very much second-class citizens.

When asked about whether there was any movement on the study conducted by Dr Wilhelmena Mack, the mayor indicated there had been, that the city manager had prepared a detailed response and that he would provide it to people who wanted it.

[The study was intended to identify challenges and opportunities in the Northwest community, what caused

them and action strategies that could be taken by the city and the residents to address the challenges and opportunities]

On crime, the mayor said he receives monthly reports from BSO and would make those available by email to the community. When the issue was Requests for Letters of Interest [RLI] about the Innovation District, he said he would make available the names of the companies solicited and the platforms on which that occurred.

There were comments about a racial divide, a failure to understand the black culture and a feeling that their comments were falling on deaf ears.

Toward the end of the meeting, the youngest person in the room, a not too long ago high school graduate, asked what she should tell her younger friends who believed that nothing would change. Hardin suggested that staying

engaged, persistence and being involved were essential.

A purpose was served in my view. For the first time it seemed, open unfettered communication occurred between residents of the northwest district and the sitting mayor. Pent up frustration was released; long-standing issues were expressed.

Promises were made by Hardin about providing information. The ball is in his court to do that.

Hardin offered to meet again in four months along with the city manager. Four months is too long in my view. A large ball has started to move, ever so minimally, and it’s essential that it be pushed and pushed soon to build momentum. Two months is more than adequate.

I saw more good last night than I expected. The mayor and the community are to be congratulated for getting together and actually communicating in a respectful manner.

My view and my hope




Cardinal Gibbons High breaks ground for new Phil Smith Family Building; classrooms planned for art, music, math, technologyBy Anne Siren

New PelicaN writer

Fort Lauderdale - The temperature was one degree short of 90 at Cardinal Gibbons High School on Tuesday for the groundbreaking of the Phil Smith Family Building.

The 20,000 square foot academic wing will house the STEAM [Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Music] programs for the school’s 1,160 students.

Charles Myers, general manager and partner at Phil Smith Acura represented the Phil Smith family who donated $750,000 for the school’s expansion. “This school has given us so much, it is right that we give back,” said Myers, referring to his three children who had graduated from Gibbons.

Cardinal Gibbons, a private Roman Catholic school was established in 1961 on 18 acres south of Commercial Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale. Among its many awards, the school received the U.S. Dept. of Education’s “Excellence in Education” award [1987].

The Most Reverend Enrique Delgado, Archdiocese of Miami, offered a blessing for the project invoking words from Psalm 127, “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless

the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain.” He added prayers for those who “study and teach here.”

And with a joyful laugh, accompanied by his acolyte, the bishop sprinkled the audience with holy water and then excused himself to take the holy water to the building site.

Former state representative [District 92] and more recently Fort Lauderdale mayor, Jack Seiler, Gibbons Class of ’81, recalled his years at the school. “This school is a family. I remember my

friends, and my wife [Susan] and I still hangout with them today. Asked if his time at Gibbons had an impact on his legislative career, Seiler said . “. . . huge impact; We learned to see and know the whole person; along with the academics, we learned to understand the social and spiritual aspects of our classmates.”

Madeline Diamond

Paul Ott, principal Susan and Jack Seiler

The Most Reverend Emrique Delgado prepares to sprinkle visitors and the building site with holy water. [Courtesy]

See GIBBONS on page 21


color


The Seilers co-chaired the steering committee along with Jim and Patty Motta and John and Kathy Tight.

Retiring principal Paul Ott, Class of ’66, spoke to the students. “Today, we honor our donors. Not just for today, but for tomorrow.” Ott served the school as an English teacher and principal for a total of 48 years. He gave credit to the students for his long tenure. “The kids shared their lives and love. The advantage of Gibbons is that values are taught here. We teach that the dignity of a person is worth more than their net worth.”

Asked about retirement, Ott says he wants to visit his grandchildren and see fall in North Carolina. “After that, I’m open to anything,” he said.

Gibbons president, Thomas Mahon, honored alumni who had attended the event, but his focus also went to the students. “We work for you. This building is for you. We

GibbonsContinued from page 20

love you.”Madeline Diamond, a 2019

grad, opened the ceremonies with Schubert’s “Ave Ma-ria.” The Gibbons Marching Chiefs closed the event with the school fight song.

Ott says construction will begin this summer.

Rendering of proposed choral

classroom

Rendering of the Phil Smith Family Building. Construction begins this summer.


bw

RELIGIOUS DIRECTORY


CLASSIFIED MARKETPLACEPlace your classified - visit [email protected] or call 954-783-8700 by Wednesday at 1 p.m.

REAL ESTATE • SALES • CARS • TRUCKS • SERVICES • JOBS

Furnished studios BOCA/DEERFIELD - $199/week and up -- $39/Daily -- $699/Month and up. Furnished studios – Utilities Paid. Call 954-934-934-3195.

STUDIOS

Advertisewith the

New Pelican! Call 954-783-8700

Advertisewith the

New Pelican! Call 954-783-8700


bw

RENTED

CONDOS FOR SALE

THE COVE BEACH CLUBRare opportunity, to purchase in The Cove Beach Club! The only building EAST of the Deerfield Beach Promenade! No roads to cross! 2/2 direct ocean view, private beach, gated parking. Becky with LoKation Real Estate knows the Best Locations on the beach! Easy to see, Call Becky Heineken 954-592-2760 MLS#F10176284.

CONDO FOR SALE OR RENT

POMPANO BEACH – 2Bd/2Ba, 1500 N Ocean Blvd. On the beach. Remodeled. Laundry inside unit. Price drop to $349,500 Or Annual Rental, furnished, $2,900/Mo. 954-861-9338.

CONDOS FOR RENT

1bdrm Condo from May 8 to Oct 31. On intracoastal walk to beach. $1300/Mo BBQ, pool, all amenities included. 954-943-8800.

LIGHTHOUSE POINT – Sunland Gardens 1Bd/1Ba, Completely Remodeled! Stainless steel appliances, granite, crown molding, plantation shutters, Hurricane windows and doors, no smoking, No Pets. 1 Assigned parking space, Laundry room on site, Yearly Lease. $1,150/Mo Rent and $1,500/Security. Credit and Background check required. Contact: Lorraine 954-993-7460.

POMPANO BEACH – Fully furnished. 1/1. Half-block to Beach. Pool, BBQ, Laundry. Private Parking. Avail. Till

Dec. 15. $1,195/Mo. Plus Elec. 954-993-3682.

WYNMORE VILLAGE

COCONUT CREEK - Gated and secure, over 100 clubs you can join. Lots of pools, fabulous gym, theatre, we have it all. 1/1, 1/1.5, 2/2 $1100 – $1400/Mthly. Charles Rutenberg Realty. 954-260-6552.

HOME FOR SALE4BD/3BA/2CG house on water, point lot, pool, ocean access, quiet cul-de-sac street. $899,000. Call Mark 954-531-2862.

ROOMS FOR RENT

EAST POMPANO – Professional Senior to share 2/1 duplex. Share kitchen/bath. Must be pet friendly. Quiet household/neighborhood. Walk to all amenities. No Smokers, No Drunks, No Druggies, No Hoarders, No Squatters. Background check will be done. MUST BE RESPONSIBLE AND CLEAN UP AFTER YOURSELF. $650/Mo. 954-913-3579.

POMPANO BEACH – Separate entrance, safe area, looking for mature quiet adult, No pets. Background chk. 1st and Security. Annual lease. Electric/Water included. $650/Mo. Call 954-934-8360.

POMPANO STUDIO BEACH AREA $1,050/Mo. and 1BD beach area for $1300/Mo, includes cable TV and wi-fi. CALL MARK AT 954-531-2862

TOWNHOUSE FOR RENT

POMPANO BEACH – 2 story townhouse, 2BD/1.5BA, pool, hot tub, washer/dryer, 3 car parking space, all utilities and cable, wi-fi, appliances and dishes included, Pets ok. Storage shed. Completely private. MONTH TO MONTH SPECIAL. 954-709 6802.

SERVICESCAREGIVER SMILING

HEART HOME HEALTH SERVICES

Will care for your loved ones in their homes. Light housekeeping, personal care, companions, errands and doctor’s appointments. Lic./Bonded/Insured. Visit www.smilingHHC.com or call for Free in home visit. 954-908-1560.

LICENSED CAREGIVERExperienced Caregiver will provide excellent assistance for your loved ones. References Avail. Upon Request. Eleven years experience. Dependable and Compassionate. Pls call Miss D at 754-368-6195 or 954-974-1755.

$ I BUY HOUSES$ APARTMENT BUILDINGS,

VACANT LAND AND COMMERCIAL

PROPERTIES FOR CASHI pay CASH and close at your convenience. Immediate cash available to resolve legal issues with property. Any condition. Specialized in estate sales. Realtors and Attorneys welcome. Local references. Call Richard at 954-531-2862.

PROFESSIONAL CLEANING SERVICESTop to bottom cleaning services. References avail upon request. Call Jeanette at 954-982-5417.

PERSONAL SERVICENeed a ride somewhere? Call Bob for personal transportation. Would you like a companion for breakfast, lunch, or shopping? Reasonable rates. Call Bob: 954-254-6221.

PAWN SHOPGUN COLLECTIONS WANTED! CALL POMPANO PAWN 954-968-4949.

G & H ENGINEERINGConsulting Engineers Serving the South Florida Region Contact: [email protected]

EDDIE BUYS HOUSES/CONDOS - CASH

Any Condition, size, price range or location! Cash offers and quick closings! Rent to Own option. Call: 954-300-2274. 24-Hour recorded Message. Visit: cashforhousesdepot.com. Email: [email protected].

ANTIQUESAntique Buyer – Buying Antiques & Art. Jewelry. Watches. Paintings. Military Items. Guns. Swords. Coins. Silver. House Calls. Free Appraisals. Robert’s Antiques. 954-295-6808.

EMPLOYMENTAre you 55 or older and seeking employment in Ft. Lauderdale? Urban League of Palm Beach County provides paid training opportunities at locations such as government agencies, senior centers, non-profits, schools and hospitals. This on-the-job training can then be used as a bridge to find employment outside of the program. To participate, you must be: age 55 or older; unemployed and seeking employment; qualified as low income. To apply, please call 954-858-5884 or visit the SCSEP office at 2901 W Cypress Creek Road, Suite 116, Fort Lauderdale.

POSITION WANTED

Retired business owner with great organizational skills seeks part time position as personal assistant. Will provide transportation to appointments, shopping, dining out and other social activities. I am a reliable and efficient companion. Also able to help with lifestyle transitions, i.e. moves to assisted living facilities or simply downsizing. References available. 561-347-8383 or [email protected].

HELP WANTEDPROJECT ENGINEER

Structural Preservation Systems has opening in Pompano Beach, FL for a Project Engineer. Provides support for field Project Management, Business Development, and Estimating Teams; Provides support to construction repair projects, including the means and methods related to concrete, masonry, high rise, and historic repair. Bachelor or equiv in civil engineering, construction management or related field. Send resumes to Structural Preservation Systems, Attn: Christie Golabowski, 10150 Old Columbia Road, Columbia, MD 21046. Must ref job title & code: PE-MZC

FRONT DESK/SECURITYSeeking retired law enforcement, military or security for 2/3 days per week/8 hour shifts for front desk/security position at oceanfront high-rise. For further information, contact [email protected].

HANDYMAN HELPHandyman Can needs help with all types of work. Must show up, must be drug free. MUST BE DEPENDABLE. 954-210-0706.

FOR SALECEMETERY PLOTS FOR

SALETwo cemetery plots, with two graves in each (total of 4 graves). Includes liners. Located at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens in Pompano Beach FL. Lots 171 & 176, Spaces 1 & 2, Garden of Peace Lawn Crypts, Phase 2. Will sell separate or together. $9,000 each site (2 graves), or $17,000 for both (4 graves).CALL 786-955-3092.

AUTOMOBILE FOR SALE

For Sale 2017 C 300 Mercedes-Benz, 17,700 miles, $24,000. 954-465-8006.

SERVICES

CONDOS FOR RENT


GO TO pelicannewspaper.com

and sign-up for a FREE Digital Subscription of the New Pelican

Newspaper.A link to The Pelican will be

emailed every Friday.

Prevent mosquito bites this season; Go for the source: standing waterBy Sallie James

Florida dePartmeNt oF HealtH iN Broward couNty

Mosquitos are annoying, but they can also cause serious health problems.

Mosquito bites can lead to serious diseases like encephalitis [West Nile, St. Louis and Eastern Equine], yellow fever, dengue and malaria and Zika.

But residents can take preventative measures to reduce the mosquito threat.

The bug to watch for is the Aedes aegypi mosquito, a small, black one with white markings on its legs and one in the form of a lyre on the

• Cover cribs, strollers and baby carriers with mosquito netting.

“Mosquitoes typically breed in very shallow water, a capful of water or a puddle behind a bush,” explained Anthony Vomero, environmental health administrator for the Florida Department of Health in Broward County. “Homeowners should dump water from potted plants and check anything that could hold water.”

Aedes aegypi can even breed inside the home, in spots where water drips and collects.

As the weather gets warmer, mosquito activity increases. Outdoor attire on a buggy night should include

shoes, socks, long pants and long sleeves. Spray skin and clothing with an insect repellent that contains DEET or other approved ingredients.

Draining standing water is the most effective way to stop them from reproducing.

“Mosquitoes multiply quickly, but can be stopped in their tracks,” says Dr. Paula Thaqi, director of the Florida Department of Health in Broward County.

“Practice ‘drain and cover.’ When you dump standing water, you eliminate the breeding ground for mosquito larvae and getting rid of the source is the best way to avoid being bitten.”

Mosquito eggs in shallow water can hatch in a day or two. The larvae grow fast, turning into a pupa that quickly develops into a full-grown mosquito. The life cycle, from egg to adult mosquito, takes eight to 10 days. The pupae become flying mosquitoes in two to three days.

For more information on mosquito control, call 954-213-0607.

To request a mosquito spray, call 954-765-4062.

upper surface of its thorax. These mosquitoes live close

to people, right outside or inside houses. They specialize in biting humans and stay active all day.Simple rules to avoid

the mosquito• Drain standing water

in and around the house. Mosquitoes use standing water to lay their eggs and breed.

• Keep flower pots and saucers free of standing water.

• Check old tires, buckets, toys, and birdbaths for pooled water.

• Flush out water-holding plants like Bromeliads with a hose every week.

• Discard items where rain or sprinkler water collects and clean pet water bowls twice a week.

• Check your house for torn window screens and keep windows and doors closed to prevent mosquitoes from coming inside.

• Use air conditioning.

[Left] The Culex mosquito transmits diseases of birds, humans to other animals. [Right] The bug to watch for is the Aedes aegypi mosquito, a small, black one with white markings on its legs and one in the form of a lyre on the upper surface of its thorax. [Courtesy]


color


By Concepcion LedezmaNew PelicaN SPortS

A game-turning bases-loaded double ultimately denied Cardinal Gibbons High the school’s first state title in 32 years.

After scratching and clawing back from a 3-1 deficit to a 3-3 tie against Melbourne Central Catholic, the Chiefs gave up three runs in the top of the eighth, then failed to respond in the extra inning, resulting in a 6-3 defeat in the FHSAA Class 5A finals in Fort Myers.

“I am sure at some point we will look back and reflect on what a great season it’s been,” said Coach Jason Hamilton said after watching his team complete his 19th season at 23-8. “These guys battled back, and getting this close and coming up short is hurting all of us.”

The Chiefs punched their tickets to the finals the day before by edging Bishop Moore, 4-3, behind the pitching of starter Tim Manning and reliever Keanu Buerosse.

The journey nonetheless has been quite memorable.

According to Hamilton, the competitive nature of the players on his team isn’t just limited to baseball.

“They like to compete with each other in everything,” Hamilton said. “They

try to beat each other in conversations, in checkers, any game . . . they carry that onto the field.”

The opponents have taken the brunt of the Chiefs’ competitiveness. Buerosse, a senior, and slugging catcher Kevin Hirsch led visiting Cardinal Gibbons to a 5-1 victory over Miami Monsignor Pace in the 5A regional finals, lifting the Chiefs to its first final four state appearance since 1992.

Cardinal Gibbons won the school’s only state title in 1987.

Buerosse, a righthander, improved to 7-1 as he pitched 5.1 scoreless innings, scattering four hits against Pace (20-6). Kirsch provided the offensive pop early with a second-inning solo home run for his seventh of the season, which leads the team.

Later, Logan Puente and Brice Montiel knocked in runs, including a two-run sin-gle by Montiel, to help build a 5-0 lead through six innings.

Starting pitching and a solid middle defensive play has been the winning formula this season, according to Hamil-

ton.“The starting pitching

(tandem of Buerosse and lefty Tim Manning) has been fantastic this year,” Hamilton said. “They’ve been really reliable.”

Manning, a junior, leads the team with 60 innings pitched and 12 appearances on the mound to go with his 6-2 record and earned-run-average of 1.62. He also has two saves.

Buerosse stats from the mound are similar with 11 appearances and a 1.68 ERA.

The other strength of the Chiefs is the flawless play of shortstop Trevor Kole, second

Cardinal Gibbons catcher Kevin Hirsch led the Chiefs’ historic season with seven home runs and 36 RBI.

Gibbons falls short of state title after memorable season

See GIBBONS on page 27

Sportspelicannewspaper.com

color


feet? What’s the rationale? I haven’t seen police reports with incidents of prostitution. There has to be a rationale.”

Commissioner Jane Bolin noted, “This is an epidemic problem that we have in some massage parlors. I don’t think every massage parlor is doing nefarious things. Research shows that in over 9,000 illicit massage businesses, victims were forced into human trafficking. We had a murder in one [massage parlor] in our town, and because of this, residents are pleased we’re taking action. It’s an epidemic we need to deal with.”

But she also asked how staff came up with 1,500 feet.

“I go to a massage parlor in Oakland Park; it’s a great establishment, but there are

plenty I will not walk into,” Bolin said. “I’m excited we’re taking action. We should prove there’s an issue and a need for the 1,500 foot requirement. It’s not connected to every owner.”

“I’m careful to not legislate my morality on this dais,” said Commissioner Michael Carn. “We had evidence in my community that girls were being abused at [a massage] establishment. What gets my attention is when I drive out of my house, someone comes out of a massage place to put up signs wearing a sheer little thing, a nightie, next to a school and right in front of

everyone.“It is an issue in our city,”

Carn said. “I watch traffic go in at 11 at night. Maybe insomniacs need massages, too. I’m in favor of these limits. I wish it could be a quarter of a mile.”

“I completely agree. Human trafficking is a huge problem,” said Commissioner Tim Lonergan. He also supported the distance requirement.

“We don’t want to be a dumping ground. There’s a huge difference between legitimate services and human trafficking,” said Mayor Sara Guevrekian. “I wish to be as strict as possible so these activities don’t take place in the city.”

A motion to amend the code and set the distance requirement passed by a vote of 4-0.

On Wednesday, city Attorney Doody said he had provided the commission

information on human trafficking in illicit massage parlors. He wanted them to consider the information before moving forward with the second reading of the proposed laws.

Resident Steve Arnst spoke again on Wednesday saying, “This is an overreach. If we have a problem with prostitution, let’s go after that. Get the police in there. We have a lot more things to look at. We have more crime in

Massage Parlors


“We had evidence in my community

that girls were being abused at [a massage]

establishment.

Commissioner Michael Carn.

this city than they know what to do with.” He mentioned burglaries and car break-ins.

“No one has told me why [we need] a 1,500-foot distance requirement between massage parlors.

Arnst also said he hasn’t seen any statistics that show human trafficking is a real problem in Oakland Park. “If you don’t like this business, prohibit it from the city. I see bars as more of a public safety issue than these.”


color


Pier renaming vote postponed Pompano Beach – At its recent meeting, the expected city

commission vote to rename this city’s pier the “Fisher Family Pier” was postponed to the June 25 commission meeting.

The New Pelican was advised that Tommy DiGiorgio,chair of the economic advisory committee who had recommended the renaming was out of town

The motion to postpone the vote came from Joe Usman, secretary of the committee.

DiGiorgio and Usman asked that the matter be postponed until they could be in attendance to support the item and speak if necessary.

The renaming, if approved by the city commission, would be in honor of former Pompano Beach mayor and current County Commissioner Lamar Fisher and his family.

Planning now for hurricanes later this season (June 1 through November 30th) is essential - and definitely good for one’s health.

The City of Pompano Beach made that planning easier last week with a comprehensive preparation session. It was recorded and is available for review on the city’s Youtube channel at www.youtube.com/user/PompanoEvents/videos

It’s very detailed, and includes an extensive and informative presentation by Mr. Robert Molleda, Warning Coordination Meteorologist, National Weather Service, Miami/South Florida Forecast Office

Its insight is not limited to Pompano Beach. We encourage residents in any of our areas to watch, learn, and do.

Don’t wait until there’s a storm on the horizon. Learn now, prepare now, be safe later.

Prepare for hurricane season; New video posted on Pompano Beach website covers all points

BSO steps up patrols on West Hillsboro Boulevard after a series of accidentsBy Judy Wilson

New PelicaN StaFF

Deerfield Beach -BSO Capt. Rodney Brimlow is making it a priority to ticket speeders on West Hillsboro Boulevard.

Following car crashes in March and April that killed three people and injured several more, his deputies have issued 1,000 traffic citations.

And Brimlow has increased patrols on the city’s major east-west thoroughfare.

“It’s ridiculous that you have to drive in fear,” the captain told a District 4 audience last week. The accidents have been caused by “stupid driving, distracted driving and drunken driving,” he said.

Brimlow has reorganized his staff and dedicated a certain number of his personnel to traffic enforcement only. “There will be increased enforcement for a long time to come,” he promised.

Encouraging speeders are

the timed lights on Hillsboro Boulevard. Drivers coming into the city from the west see green lights ahead for long distances. When traffic is light, they take advantage of these “go” signals and according to the captain, “they fly.”

Speeding motorists often are breaking another law, driving under the influence.

On a recent patrol, three DUI arrests were made of drivers coming over the Turnpike Bridge.

Last week, in broad daylight, a drunk driver ran into a water hydrant on SW 10 Street, another main roadway

here, causing a sinkhole and closing the road for most of the day.

That incident diverted traffic to Hillsboro Boulevard causing gridlock to an extent seldom seen there.

A sign at the turnpike bridge warns of the new enforcement and states the fine for speeding: $250.

This week, a driver crashed into it and then drove away.

The victim of the March 12 accident, Thais Haug, was a resident of this city living in Deer Creek. Plans are to name a pavilion in the Constitution Park Arboretum in her memory.


color


baseman Mike Sarakinis and freshman centerfielder Montiel, whose father and Chiefs assistant coach Dave was on the Gibbons championship team in 1987.

Kole and Sarakinis have each committed just two er-rors all season.

They are also just as solid at the plate. Kole leads the team with a .451 batting average, is tied with Felix Torres with 24 runs scored; he is second to Hirsch (34) with 20 RBIs.

Sarakinis is tied with Isaiah Farris with 10 stolen bases, and is third on the squad with 22 runs scored.

Hamilton, who is in his 19th year coaching Gibbons, said he is most impressed with his team’s consistency.

“Usually in a long season, you run into a lull,” Hamilton said. “But it didn’t happen with this team. . . even in losses, we’ve played well.”

“As the season went along, the coaches and I agreed that this is the team that we can take on a run.”

And that run went all the way to the state finals.

GibbonsContinued from page 24 Pour a healthy drink and wade into the depths of Whiskey

Books

By Jeff Sobel

reviewer

Whiskey by Bruce Holbert

Publisher: Farrar, Straus & Giroux

Misery loves company in this stark, gritty tale that follows two generations of a family beyond repair.

Told in three revolving timelines, we trace the disintegration of Andre and his brother Smoker, and how it all began with their parents, Pork and Peg.

Saying these characters are flawed would be too kind, as they are just as liable to shoot one another as hug in this family.

With the intriguing structure of three different time periods, we witness how the effects of their parents streams down to Andre and Smoker, and the next generation after them.

Initially, we hear about the irredeemable Pork and Peg, but we then jump back

in time to when they were children themselves and get to see firsthand how they became that way – leaving us to wonder if any of them truly had a chance in the first place.

Parenting is undeniably the hardest job around, and even when Pork and Peg try to raise their kids right they can’t help but stumble over their own damaged pasts in the process.

At one point, Smoker even asks the question that strikes the heart of this story:

“How old does a person have to be before he’s his

own damned fault?”It all comes full circle

when Andre’s marriage falls apart and he sets out to help Smoker track down his missing daughter.

The pair traverses the tranquil yet treacherous backcountry of Washington state, trying to mend their own broken pasts yet oftentimes failing to put aside their differences for the greater good.

of good or evil. They are all presented with opportunities to do the right thing, yet just as in real life, making the smart choice is easier said than done.

Amongst all of the darkness there is a sharp, comedic tone to this tale, since what can one do when faced with the harsh reality of the world other than simply laugh? It’s what makes us feel for these four terrible people as they shoot themselves in the foot, figuratively and literally, laughing at their own misfortunes all the way to hell. So light your lantern, pour a healthy drink, and wade into the murky depths of Whiskey if you dare.

“How old does a person

have to be before he’s

his own damned

fault?”

Everything leads back to the aspirational notion of being the generation to break the cycle of horrific dysfunction, yet what we see in others we can rarely see in ourselves.

And while these four characters are each sinners in their own way, we also get a glimpse into the good side of them, making it difficult to cast them into the corners

GO TOpelicannewspaper.com

and sign-up for a FREE Digital

Subscription of the New Pelican

Newspaper.A link to our

paper will be emailed every Friday.


color


presence in the area and a community building. This section of Collier City needs that stabilization,” he said.

Rawls said it would be prudent to add a second station, noting just because the station on MLK is closing doesn’t mean it isn’t needed. “We don’t want to lose the substation at 18 Avenue and MLK. We don’t want this one to move. That’s a conundrum,” Rawls said.

Tran said any decision to have two substations is not his to make.

“I don’t think it’s fair for our neighborhood to be deprived of a substation,” said committee vice chair Jay Ghanem. He asked if it’s

time to relocate the station from 18 Avenue and MLK [somewhere else in the neighborhood.]. “Is there a need?” [Disclosure: Jay Ghanen is a full partner in this newspaper]

Tran said other sites could be looked at noting that “absolutely, there are other options.” Who would fund the operation of a second station is above him, he said. “If we can get two, it would be up to BSO to maintain the station and for us [the CRA] to find the location. Who would build it, and who would pay for the operation?” he asked.

Perkins noted that the existing substation was named for two of the earliest black police officers in Pompano Beach, Henry Cristwell and Ernest Braggs.

[Cristwell was the first African-American policeman hired in 1952. He retired in the mid-1970s. Braggs was hired in 1968 and retired in 1995, not long before the city police department was disbanded and BSO took over law enforcement in the city. ]

Tran said the intention is to keep the same names at the new station.

The advisory committee voted 4-0 to table conveying the property to the city with a condition that they want more information on a second station. Voting for the tabling were Rawls, Ghanem, Pooler and Velma Flowers. Committee members Veronica Thomas and Phyllis Smith were absent.

Sub stationContinued from page


color

Major renovation of town hall moving along; price estimates the next ...

Documents

Transcript of Major renovation of town hall moving along; price estimates the next ...