Monday, January 23, 2012
Rankings of City Manager
Due to the rankings of the previous post being skewed, I have deleted it and it will be posted after correction. The City staff had a sheet with all of the rankings going across each category before the individual commissioners. It was not consistent in the order when it came to each individual commissioner's rankings. The order was changed. Thus the last post was wrong. My apologies. A correct post is coming.
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Little Mama underwent surgery - Lion Country Safari
Little Mama
Photo: Bill Ingram, The Palm Beach Post
Great Apes, or more often referred to as Chimpanzees, can live up to 60 years in captivity. Big Mama is estimated to be 73 years old and lives at Lion Country Safari. Chimpanzees are members of the Hominidae family, along with gorillas, humans, and orangutans. Chimps split from the human branch about 4 to 6 million years ago. We are forever reminded of that relationship as we watch their antics, observe their intelligence and their empathy towards one another, reasons why we are always intrigued by these special animals and wonder why we evolved and they did not.
Chimps are probably one of the most popular animals in the world. And despite such popularity, the chimpanzee's survival is most threatened by us. They are endangered in some areas of the world because of hunting and trapping. Chimpanzees have been used extensively for testing drugs for such diseases as AIDS.
Little Mama underwent two hours of oral surgery to remove some bad teeth. Her lower back was also treated for some wounds. There is a belief that Little Mama performed at one time with the Ice Capades back in the 1940's. She pulled through the surgery like the trooper she has always been.
Chimps are probably one of the most popular animals in the world. And despite such popularity, the chimpanzee's survival is most threatened by us. They are endangered in some areas of the world because of hunting and trapping. Chimpanzees have been used extensively for testing drugs for such diseases as AIDS.
Little Mama underwent two hours of oral surgery to remove some bad teeth. Her lower back was also treated for some wounds. There is a belief that Little Mama performed at one time with the Ice Capades back in the 1940's. She pulled through the surgery like the trooper she has always been.
News on the Lake Worth Whistleblower's Lawsuit
On January 18, the lawsuit was amended to include a First Amendment issue. On January 19, Dave Mulvay and Debbie Jackson both were served with subpoenas for their depositions.
COUNT IV
VIOLATION OF 42 U.S.C. §1983
BY PLAINTIFF REYES
COUNT IV
VIOLATION OF 42 U.S.C. §1983
BY PLAINTIFF REYES
- Plaintiff realleges and references each and every allegation contained in the receding paragraphs, and incorporates the same as if set forth fully herein.
- Plaintiff's speech, namely his statements to the commissioners was of public concern regarding the potential harm to the City's energy system.
- Plaintiff's interest in speaking out to thep1edia outweighed the City's interest in efficient public service, as the subject of his speech was health, safety and welfare of the public.
- Defendant discriminated against Plaintiff and deprived Plaintiff of rights, privileges, and immunities secured by the Constitution and laws by its actions, including terminating Plaintiff and causing harm to his good name.
- As a direct result of Plaintiff's speech, Defendant retaliated against him in violation of the fundamental protections of his basic constitutional rights.
- Defendant City's discriminatory and retaliatory actions against Plaintiff chilled the exercise of his constitutionally protected speech.
Jeff Clemens stands up for the Environment
You have to be suspicious when groups such as Associated Industries of Florida, the Florida Onsite Wastewater Association, the Florida Home Builders Association, Florida Realtors and the Coalition for Property Rights vote for a Bill that would eliminate a statewide requirement for septic tank inspections.
In 2010, SB 550 was passed requiring septic tanks to be inspected every 5 years.
HB 999 was just passed in the Economic Affairs Committee on a 14/1 vote to repeal SB 550. Instead it says that 19 counties with the 33 largest "first-magnitude" springs would be required to conduct inspections unless county commissions vote not to.
One environmental group, Audubon of Florida, approved the Bill if the requirement for inspections is expanded to include counties within the basins of first magnitude springs. Red flags were raised with other groups with reservations such as The Sierra Club, The Nature Conservancy and even The League of Cities.
The State Affairs Committee Bill, HB 115, terminates future imposition of prohibition of land application of septage from onsite sewage treatment & disposal systems. It maintains a ban starting by 2016 on the land application of septic tank waste that was included in 2010's SB 550. Audubon opposes HB 115, which would repeal the ban.
On a 14/2 vote, this Committee passed HB 115 forward because they "think" it protects the environment; they "think" it has a positive affect. Jeff Clemens, once again, and looking out for Florida's environment, voted against it. This is a typical political situation that pits the rights of property owners against the protection of our environment.
In 2010, SB 550 was passed requiring septic tanks to be inspected every 5 years.
HB 999 was just passed in the Economic Affairs Committee on a 14/1 vote to repeal SB 550. Instead it says that 19 counties with the 33 largest "first-magnitude" springs would be required to conduct inspections unless county commissions vote not to.
One environmental group, Audubon of Florida, approved the Bill if the requirement for inspections is expanded to include counties within the basins of first magnitude springs. Red flags were raised with other groups with reservations such as The Sierra Club, The Nature Conservancy and even The League of Cities.
The State Affairs Committee Bill, HB 115, terminates future imposition of prohibition of land application of septage from onsite sewage treatment & disposal systems. It maintains a ban starting by 2016 on the land application of septic tank waste that was included in 2010's SB 550. Audubon opposes HB 115, which would repeal the ban.
On a 14/2 vote, this Committee passed HB 115 forward because they "think" it protects the environment; they "think" it has a positive affect. Jeff Clemens, once again, and looking out for Florida's environment, voted against it. This is a typical political situation that pits the rights of property owners against the protection of our environment.
Another Lake Worth Robbery and Stabbing
Comment Up
Man stabbed on D Street. K-9 units and PBSO helicopters were searching for the two alleged perpetrators.
Man stabbed on D Street. K-9 units and PBSO helicopters were searching for the two alleged perpetrators.
Do you feel safer?
Jupiter Sunrise by Cpt. Kimo
If you want to see some spectacular photography from my favorite photographer, go to CaptainKimo.com.
This particular shot was taken in Jupiter. 'Captain Kimo' says, "I came up with this idea at the last minute as the sun was peaking over the horizon. Even though it was bone chilling cold, I was sweating trying to get this to line up before the sun rose into the clouds. It took me three handful of shells to make this work."
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Crime Stats Lake Worth
Comment Up
Week ending January 21--not quite as horrific as usual. That should satisfy all you PBSO advocates who know that the Sheriff is looking out for you and one step away from reducing crime.
Theft 12
Proactive Policing 13
Pedestrian Stop 13
Vehicle Recovery 1
Robbery 4
Quality of Life 19
Drugs 7
Disorder 7
Liquor 5
Property Crime 3
Property Crime 3
Other 43
Death 1
Family Offense 11
Weapons Offense 1
Alarm 10
Other 16
Missing Person 4
Assault 6
Assault 6
Traffic 20
Week ending January 21--not quite as horrific as usual. That should satisfy all you PBSO advocates who know that the Sheriff is looking out for you and one step away from reducing crime.
Theft 12
Proactive Policing 13
Pedestrian Stop 13
Vehicle Recovery 1
Robbery 4
Quality of Life 19
Drugs 7
Disorder 7
Liquor 5
Property Crime 3
Property Crime 3
Other 43
Death 1
Family Offense 11
Weapons Offense 1
Alarm 10
Other 16
Missing Person 4
Assault 6
Assault 6
Traffic 20
Evening on the Avenues
Comment Up
Lake Worth's downtown was jammed packed last night. There were people buzzing here and there. It seemed like every bar had its own music that was conflicting with another's right next door. No one minded. It was vibrant and fun. Every now and then I hear from someone who says our downtown is suffering. It sure doesn't look that way whenever I am there which is often.
We walked from one end of the avenue and back, stopping first at 531 East, Inc. where I bought a belt. Next purchase was at The Sunflower Room, the greatest place. This is where I spotted this hat and told Barbara Jean, "This is you." She bought it. We next went over to SouthShore and discovered they had changed their menu. Just wanting something small to eat, we then walked over to the pizza place and had a slice with Coke. SouthShore is on my return list of things to do.
There truly is something for everyone in our downtown not to mention that the art is out of this world.
Lake Worth's downtown was jammed packed last night. There were people buzzing here and there. It seemed like every bar had its own music that was conflicting with another's right next door. No one minded. It was vibrant and fun. Every now and then I hear from someone who says our downtown is suffering. It sure doesn't look that way whenever I am there which is often.
We walked from one end of the avenue and back, stopping first at 531 East, Inc. where I bought a belt. Next purchase was at The Sunflower Room, the greatest place. This is where I spotted this hat and told Barbara Jean, "This is you." She bought it. We next went over to SouthShore and discovered they had changed their menu. Just wanting something small to eat, we then walked over to the pizza place and had a slice with Coke. SouthShore is on my return list of things to do.
There truly is something for everyone in our downtown not to mention that the art is out of this world.
Robert Waples on the Lake Worth Finance Advisory board
Robert Waples writes to the Lake Worth Commission--Re: Finance Advisory Board:
To hear of Mr. Pickett's resignation is very much a harsh blow again to this very important board. What is even more disturbing is that this board is still struggling to become and receive its full potential.
As quoted in Mr. Pickett's Resignation Letter - "It has been abundantly clear to me for some time that this Board has been largely ineffective because we as a Board have not been allowed or able to serve either function. Despite the great efforts of City Staff, particularly Mr. Carr (who I believe is the best asset the City has), we have not, in my opinion, been granted access to financial information in a timely manner on various issues where we might have made a difference in City policy; rather, we often receive the information after policy has already been formulated or decided, effectively watering down any opinion we might have."
I am positive that all of you will agree that this board, if provided the tools in which to do and perform its function, could clearly and in detail deliver to the "Shareholders" of Lake Worth, we the taxpayers, a very clear and true financial picture and make recommendations with feed back from the share holders for a course and action plan. However, we the shareholders still remain in the dark with many of the financial woes of the city. I urge and plead with you, if part of the issue is man power then maybe, just maybe, we need to hire temps to perform some of the day to day operations while permanent staff can spend time pulling the resources needed by the FAB in order to perform and be effective as a board.
I may be way off base here and gladly will accept feed back but it will and still is my personal opinion that the financial woes are not glued to one factor of falling property values but a clear mis-management of funds, unnecessary spending and in some cases a lack of competitive bidding in the past regardless if that is from Staff or Commissions. As a Shareholder in Lake Worth, it would be my wish that this diverse and representative commission throw all the financial "chips" on the table and let's get to the bottom line regardless of what the picture is.
The FAB is a perfect avenue and vehicle in which this can be accomplished and I for one would love to see the city spend the temporary funds to make it happen.
Corporations are not People they shouted
Comment Up
At the Federal Court on Clematis Street in West Palm Beach, 40-45 people ( mostly mature adults) held signs, listened to speakers and signed petitions to amend the Constitution to eliminate the corporate control of our elective process which has been enabled by the Citizens United decision by the right wing majority on the Supreme court calling corporations people and money "protected speech."
Prior to yesterday's demonstration, 161,000 signatures have been gathered and Move to Amend expected several thousand were added from yesterday's gatherings.
Photo by Dee McNamara
Move to Amend organized a nationwide demonstration (occupation) at multiple Federal Courts across the country in order to urge that the Supreme Court's decision on corporate and labor spending in federal elections be overturned by a constitutional amendment. Occupy Wall Street joined their forces with Move to Amend to organize the demonstrations.
At the Federal Court on Clematis Street in West Palm Beach, 40-45 people ( mostly mature adults) held signs, listened to speakers and signed petitions to amend the Constitution to eliminate the corporate control of our elective process which has been enabled by the Citizens United decision by the right wing majority on the Supreme court calling corporations people and money "protected speech."
Prior to yesterday's demonstration, 161,000 signatures have been gathered and Move to Amend expected several thousand were added from yesterday's gatherings.
Friday, January 20, 2012
Missing Cat in Lake Osborne Heights
Comment Up
He is a neutered male, small tiger striped named Saki, missing from his home on Cochran Drive. Everyone in the ROLOH neighborhood, please look out for him. If you see him, call
Saki the cat
He is a neutered male, small tiger striped named Saki, missing from his home on Cochran Drive. Everyone in the ROLOH neighborhood, please look out for him. If you see him, call
Palm Beach County Cultural Council Opening - A Place For Art
Comment Up
Thursday was the opening of the Palm Beach County Cultural Council's new home on Lake Avenue. They did a wonderful renovation on the old theater building of seven decades ago. I had a lot of great memories as a kid going there to the movies and throwing Jujubes at some boy for whom I had a crush. Great fun back then. To see two double features and cartoons plus the news of the day cost us 25 cents and of course, we were out of our parent's hair for 5 hours.
Rick Gonzalez of REG Architects, did the interior renovation. He was the architect of our new Casino that is now under construction. Notice the beautiful and exquisite molding around the entry ways and ceiling in the reception area. These are the original moldings and were retained by REG.
Featured in this slideshow is Nichole Hickey, Artist's Services Coordinator. The Council is featuring the South Florida Cultural Consortium Fellowship winners for this inaugural exhibition through April 14. The have a gift shop where you can purchase various works of art from jewelry to handbags and other items by the area artists and craftsmen.
As gifts to those visiting their grand opening, they gave out a packet of note cards made by the VSA, the state organization on Arts and Disability. There will be an Artist's Reception on February 29 from 5 to 7 pm.
Thursday was the opening of the Palm Beach County Cultural Council's new home on Lake Avenue. They did a wonderful renovation on the old theater building of seven decades ago. I had a lot of great memories as a kid going there to the movies and throwing Jujubes at some boy for whom I had a crush. Great fun back then. To see two double features and cartoons plus the news of the day cost us 25 cents and of course, we were out of our parent's hair for 5 hours.
Rick Gonzalez of REG Architects, did the interior renovation. He was the architect of our new Casino that is now under construction. Notice the beautiful and exquisite molding around the entry ways and ceiling in the reception area. These are the original moldings and were retained by REG.
Featured in this slideshow is Nichole Hickey, Artist's Services Coordinator. The Council is featuring the South Florida Cultural Consortium Fellowship winners for this inaugural exhibition through April 14. The have a gift shop where you can purchase various works of art from jewelry to handbags and other items by the area artists and craftsmen.
As gifts to those visiting their grand opening, they gave out a packet of note cards made by the VSA, the state organization on Arts and Disability. There will be an Artist's Reception on February 29 from 5 to 7 pm.
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Crime in Lake Worth
Comment Up
During the week of January 6 - 12, there were 75 bookings into the Palm Beach County Jail: burglary, larceny, grand theft, tress-passing, marijuana possession, carrying a concealed weapon, battery, DUI and other sundry violations to warrant arrest. These are the criminals who were caught.
Sorry I have to burst everyone's bubble again but we have a serious crime problem in Lake Worth.
During the week of January 6 - 12, there were 75 bookings into the Palm Beach County Jail: burglary, larceny, grand theft, tress-passing, marijuana possession, carrying a concealed weapon, battery, DUI and other sundry violations to warrant arrest. These are the criminals who were caught.
Sorry I have to burst everyone's bubble again but we have a serious crime problem in Lake Worth.
SOPA Protest
Did anyone try and access a web site yesterday that took you instantly to a black page on the SOPA protest. I tried Wikipedia and they were part of the protest.
"The Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) and the Protect IP Act (PIPA) have lost some support on Capitol Hill after many websites shut down in protest this week. Once a co-sponsor of PIPA, Senator Marco Rubio of Florida reversed his position and said he hoped a new piece of legislation could be put into place that would address Internet piracy "while protecting free and open access to the Internet.” Meanwhile, after its protest Wednesday, Wikipedia continues to provide users with instructions on how to fight SOPA and PIPA."
For the rest of the story, please go to CNN.
"The Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) and the Protect IP Act (PIPA) have lost some support on Capitol Hill after many websites shut down in protest this week. Once a co-sponsor of PIPA, Senator Marco Rubio of Florida reversed his position and said he hoped a new piece of legislation could be put into place that would address Internet piracy "while protecting free and open access to the Internet.” Meanwhile, after its protest Wednesday, Wikipedia continues to provide users with instructions on how to fight SOPA and PIPA."
For the rest of the story, please go to CNN.
City Manager Resumes
Comment Up
For the week ending January 13, the City received 13 resumes. That makes 43 to date.
Is there a CUT-OFF date for city manager resumes? Just checking, as it seems there was NO CUT-OFF date for beach leases.
Top 8 Resumes:
D Sugerman...55
P White...46
R Hudnall...45
F Spence...42
R Kerbel...40
J Kroll...40
C Pilgrim...39
D Stepan...38
For the week ending January 13, the City received 13 resumes. That makes 43 to date.
Is there a CUT-OFF date for city manager resumes? Just checking, as it seems there was NO CUT-OFF date for beach leases.
Top 8 Resumes:
D Sugerman...55
P White...46
R Hudnall...45
F Spence...42
R Kerbel...40
J Kroll...40
C Pilgrim...39
D Stepan...38
Robert Waples on our Casino Leases
Comment Up
Today, Robert Waples, President of ROLOH, wrote to the City Commission about various issues. This is an excerpt of that e-mail regarding the Casino leases. I will follow with other opinions from him on the John Pickett resignation from the Finance Advisory Board and the Sunset parcel in his neighborhood.
Today, Robert Waples, President of ROLOH, wrote to the City Commission about various issues. This is an excerpt of that e-mail regarding the Casino leases. I will follow with other opinions from him on the John Pickett resignation from the Finance Advisory Board and the Sunset parcel in his neighborhood.
"Casino:
Can we please all just agree on what the rate is. If its going to be $30 per square foot then so be it and those who are interested will come. I personally love the idea of Mulligans and hope that becomes the decision on the first floor and look very forward to being a Patron.
I was some what disturbed by this quote from Ms. Margolis "We now have restaurant tenants who are interested in the separate north anchor first floor and second floor spaces. The first floor tenant wants the entire north space and is offering $30 sf. Fox is now only taking one bay, #5, at 667sf for $25sf for the same permitted use as his earlier lease. We have a Women’s Fashion Store that is offering $30sf for either Unit 5, 6 or 7 (which is not available if the restaurant takes the whole north space). "
I was some what disturbed by this quote from Ms. Margolis "We now have restaurant tenants who are interested in the separate north anchor first floor and second floor spaces. The first floor tenant wants the entire north space and is offering $30 sf. Fox is now only taking one bay, #5, at 667sf for $25sf for the same permitted use as his earlier lease. We have a Women’s Fashion Store that is offering $30sf for either Unit 5, 6 or 7 (which is not available if the restaurant takes the whole north space). "
This is indicating that there are various rent negotiations. We should just set the rate and approve appropriate business to this City Jewel in a family friendly beach front that will be second to none. This is simply not that hard of a decision and going back and forth on leases is very discouraging to the businesses that want to be there.
Just like the City of Lake Worth is a mutli-million dollar business, the casino should not be or continue to be caught up in politics. But as a board of directors (you the commission), with interest of the share holders (we the taxpayers), need to move this forward quickly and smoothly to not only get the financials for the Casino solved, but get it self sustaining and in place so when it opens we hit the ground running with a bright and shining jewel for Lake Worth and a positive and clear example of 'Yes, Lake Worth is Business Friendly and can conduct business professionally'.
I'm not saying that is not what we are trying to accomplish but the public perception will become the business perception if we are not careful."
Just like the City of Lake Worth is a mutli-million dollar business, the casino should not be or continue to be caught up in politics. But as a board of directors (you the commission), with interest of the share holders (we the taxpayers), need to move this forward quickly and smoothly to not only get the financials for the Casino solved, but get it self sustaining and in place so when it opens we hit the ground running with a bright and shining jewel for Lake Worth and a positive and clear example of 'Yes, Lake Worth is Business Friendly and can conduct business professionally'.
I'm not saying that is not what we are trying to accomplish but the public perception will become the business perception if we are not careful."
Lake Worth Annual Daddy-Daughter/Mother-Son Date Night
CITY OF LAKE WORTH ANNUAL “DADDY DAUGHTER/MOTHER SON DATE NIGHT”
WHEN: FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2012
WHERE: LAKE WORTH GOLF COURSE (One 7th Avenue N., East of Dixie)
Calling all Dads, Grandfathers & Uncles looking to showcase your little princess during a night she’ll always remember.
Show your daughter(s) the true meaning of a “Perfect Date” by actually taking her out on one. Dress up in your finest attire and bring your daughter on a date to a beautiful ballroom especially designed for a princess like her.There will be elegant dining complimented by music, games and fun Daddy-Daughter activities.
We haven’t forgotten you moms wishing to bring your handsome prince. You are more than welcome to show off your son(s) as your pride and joy as well. The Cost:$36.00/couple, which includes all of the festivities listed above. An additional $15.00/person is required for more than two (2) people. . .
To register or for additional information please contact Melissa Garvin @ 561-719-5002 or the Lake Worth Recreation Department at 561-533-7363.
HB 673 will hurt local governments
Comment Up
Finally. The League of Cities finally is opposing a bad Bill. When you have a Bill that has the support of several contractor groups, including the 200,000-member Associated Builders and Contractors of Florida, but is drawing opposition from the Florida League of Cities, then you know it is hot stuff. Incidentally, Jeff Clemens voted NO as well. Good going, Jeff.
The Bill (HB 673):
"Local governments wouldn't be able to employ local bid preferences when awarding construction contracts using state dollars under a House bill lawmakers moved forward with on Wednesday.
Members of the House Government Operations subcommittee voted 8-3 in favor of the legislation (HB 673) sponsored by Rep. Jason Brodeur, R-Sanford, who said the preferences drive up the cost of public construction projects and sometimes eliminate the best bidder for the project because they're located in another Florida county."
Hogwash. Read more at Tallahassee.com.
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Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Passing the Gavel
Comment Up
The Vice Mayor asked the Mayor last night if she wanted to pass him the gavel. She said "yes" and proceeded to make a motion to wipe out the entire night and leases previously approved except for Kilwins. Scott Maxwell kept saying, "Let's call the vote."
WHAT IS REALLY GOING ON?
The Vice Mayor asked the Mayor last night if she wanted to pass him the gavel. She said "yes" and proceeded to make a motion to wipe out the entire night and leases previously approved except for Kilwins. Scott Maxwell kept saying, "Let's call the vote."
WHAT IS REALLY GOING ON?
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