“The season” in South Florida means two very different times of year. Most prevalent is the season when cold winds blow up north and winter residents and vacationers stream south in search of paradise.

A second season is when hot winds blow down south. We watch the Weather Channel during this season, at the ready to put up shutters, gather supplies, hunker-down or flee in search of safety and security.

Every four years, along with the rest of our great nation, we have another season. It is “the season” of presidential politics. This season combines many of the characteristics and objectives of the first two! I will leave it to you to draw your own parallels!

I recently watched portions of both national political conventions. Carefully-crafted speeches by two accomplished and genuinely brilliant men, President Obama and Governor Romney, bore true two themes found in the letter of James, brother of Jesus.

“All of us make mistakes” and “No one can completely tame the tongue.” [James 3] These eternal truths amazingly presuppose speech writers and teleprompters.

Imagine how inspiring, how compelling both conventions could have been had every speaker and speech from the podium commenced with and then followed the instruction of the 19th Psalm. “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer!”

I realize to always give highest and top priority to pleasing God is a challenge for all of us. And, my nose might begin to grow if I were to suggest pleasing God is the strategic aim of a national political convention. Most would agree a convention’s goals are more, shall we say, “down to Earth.” But hope springs eternal …

I grew up being attentive and engaged in politics and I still believe politics and governing are enormously important. I encourage anyone who believes otherwise to read the 13th chapter of Paul’s letter to the Romans. A careful reading of these verses may drive you to the polls!

Theologian John Calvin’s take on Paul’s writings on government is that civil power originates with the sovereign God. In other words, God is the foundation, not the footnote; the farm, not the farmer. God is source and supplier, not client or customer. Surely people of every political bent can agree we did not build ourselves!

I think the outcome of every election is important, and this year’s presidential election is no exception, but I believe the fate of our nation is always and forever in the hands of God, who is the author of the liberty we champion. What I recommend for every season is that we not look to government for paradise or even for lasting safety and security. These things, much like all God’s seasons, are things of God, not men.

An important endnote from Calvin’s writings on “Religion in the Public Square” is not surprisingly his focus on the church itself.

Calvin did not see church and state merged into a theocratic monster. He called instead for the church to energize distinctly under the leadership of Jesus Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit to be the world-changing community. May this be “the season” for that! And may God bless America in all her seasons!

Cross the bridge and join us this weekend: Saturday evening at 6 p.m. or Sunday morning at 8:30 or 11 a.m. www.communitych.org.

This Weekend’s Message is “The Season.”

Reverend Dr. Dennis Andrews is Minister at Community Presbyterian Church of Deerfield Beach (Steeple on the Beach) located five blocks south of Hillsboro on AIA.

By Dave Montalbano

AdventuresOfCinemaDave.com

Eight years ago, Michael Moore’s Fahrenheit 911 earned $222 million, thus becoming the highest grossing documentary of all time. It should be noted that Moore received $666 million in free public relations from the major news networks, while American troops were fighting two wars against al-Qaeda in Iraq and Afghanistan.

With far less support from the mainstream media, 2016: Obama’s America is quietly filling theater seats across the nation.

Lacking Michael Moore’s artistic flair, directors John Sullivan and Dinesh D’Souza present their case in a no nonsense style. Not trying to press emotional buttons, Sullivan and D’Souza challenge the intelligence of the ticket buyers.

The first half of this film provides a good history lesson for people not familiar with the malaise of Jimmy Carter’s presidency. The second half of the film predicts what the world could be like if Obama wins a second term on Nov. 6. One premise seems certain – that Obama’s policies are not about helping the poor, but stripping the wealthy.

Michael Moore and his sycophants are not likely to watch 2016: Obama’s America, but those seeking an informed opinion may want to catch this flick at a matinee price. When the film concluded, people applauded. While the credits rolled, a man shouted “Vote Romney” and the Monday afternoon crowd applauded again.

Despite some amazing blockbuster performances from Marvel’s The Avengers and The Dark Knight Rises, the summer of 2012 will be remembered for the loss of many fine actors with connection to South Florida: Ben Gazzara, Ernest Borgnine, Celeste Holm and G-Star teacher Ron Palillo, best known for his work on Welcome Back, Kotter.

The latest loss is Michael Clarke Duncan. Best known for his Oscar-nominated performance in The Green Mile, Michael was a big man with a basso profundo voice utilized for many television commercials and animated features, most notably Brother Bear and both Kung Fu Panda movies.

Like a big kid, Michael loved being associated with action movies, especially comic book adaptations like Sin City and Daredevil. These roles made Michael more approachable to children. While receiving his award from the 2004 Palm Beach International Film Festival, Michael visited Palm Beach schools and encouraged students, “You can do anything.”

If there were ever a time to be late for a football game (due to a prior commitment), then FAU’s home Opener Friday night against Wagner College was it.

I arrived at 9:10 p.m. with five minutes left in the second quarter and FAU trailing the Seahawks, 3-0. The first person I saw was Assistant Athletic Director and Media Relations Director Katrina McCormack. She smiled and said, “things worked out for you.” This meant that I didn’t miss much.

By halftime, FAU had amassed a mere 79 yards in total offense.

The Owls woke up during the fourth quarter as QB Graham Wilbert connected with wide receiver Byron Hankerson for a 39-yard touchdown pass with 11:36 left in the game. The drive was one play for 39 yards and the time of possession was seven seconds.

The 14,510 fans had their first win of the season before Labor Day. (Last season, it was after Thanksgiving before FAU won their first game. The Owls defeated UAB 38-35 on Nov. 26, 2011 in a 1-11 season.)

Wilbert went 10-13, had no interceptions for 126 yards and one touchdown. Hankerson had five receptions for 93 yards and a touchdown. Running back Martese Jackson gained 99 yards on 21 carries as FAU finished the game with 327 total offensive yards.

They defeated Wagner, which is located in Staten Island, New York and has been playing football since 1927. Going into the FAU contest, Wagner had an alltime record of 379-324-19 for a .534 winning percentage. They currently play in the Football Championship Series (FCS), a level below FAU, which participates in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS).

FAU has been playing football since 2001 and the Owls record is 58-74 for a .439 winning percentage. Despite being on different levels, the FCS schools compete well against the FBS squads.

(On Sept.1, 2007, Appalachian State put the FCS on the map, defeating the Michigan Wolverines, 34-32, in Ann Arbor, MI, in one of the biggest upsets in college football history.)

During week one of this season, FAU’s next opponent, Middle Tennessee State, lost 27-21 to McNeese State. Another FCS upset occurred in Pittsburgh, as Youngstown State defeated the Panthers, 31-17, of the Big East at Heinz Field.

These FCS schools are good and they produce quality NFL players. Former Chicago Bears running back Walter Payton and San Francisco ‘49ers wide receiver Jerry Rice began their Hall of Fame careers at FCS institutions.

When the game was over, FAU Coach Carl Pelini admitted he had butterflies during his head coaching debut.

“This was just another football game, but we prepared as best as we could,” Pelini said. “Nothing that happened out there shocked me. Graham did it for us. We made mistakes, no panic, and I will not apologize for a win.

“Our greatest leap should be between weeks one and two.”

DEERFIELD BEACH

August 29 A man was arrested and charged with disabling a gas pump at Texaco and stealing gasoline. Another man, who was his accomplice, remains at large. Report was made at 4517 N. Dixie Hwy.

August 29 A man was arrested and charged with stealing an iPhone and $500 from a woman at 1540 SW 3 Terr.

August 30 A man was attacked by another man at 850 NE 48 St. The attacker demanded money. The man who was attacked ran away and was chased by the attacker.

August 30 A woman who was working as a nanny stole three personal checks from her employer while he was out of town. The woman cashed them into her account for $1,600. The suspect was located in Margate.

August 30 A man reported his laptop, checkbook and jewelry stolen from his residence at 733 SE 9 Terr.

DEERFIELD – District 4

August 18 Residential burglary was reported in Country Knolls Mobile Home Park on NW 4 Ave. Victim stated that between August 17 at 1 p.m. and August 18 at 8 a.m. unknown suspect(s) entered mobile home by removing a screen and breaking a window. It is unknown what items are missing at this time, as the victim is out of town.

August 18 Conveyance burglary occurred on West Hillsboro Boulevard. Victim stated that between 12 and 6:40 p.m., unknown suspect(s) smashed the window of 2006 Audi. Once inside, suspect(s) removed a purse containing credit cards, drivers license, a phone and a wallet.

August 20 Conveyance burglary took place in Starlight Cove, NW 6 Street. Victim advised that at 3:30 p.m. they parked gray 2011 Toyota Sienna in the parking lot of the Villages of Hillsboro Park. When victim returned to the vehicle at 5:20 p.m., victim discovered the driver’s side window smashed in and purse taken from under the seat. Nothing else was disturbed. No witnesses. Scene was processed.

August 26 Residential burglary was reported in Deer Creek on Jefferson Drive. Victim arrived home to find his apartment vandalized. Neighbor who lives below heard the sliding glass door open and close while victim was not home. Nothing was missing.

August 29 Bank robbery was reported at the Bank Atlantic at 1299 S. Military Trail. BSO was working the scene. White male suspect fled the area in an unknown direction.

Remember, if you see anything suspicious, call 911 immediately.

LIGHTHOUSE POINT

August 24 A woman reported that her car was broken into and a beach bag stolen. Incident was reported at 2091 NE 36 St.

August 25 A police officer noticed that a car had an expired tag. The officer stopped the driver and requested a search. Cocaine was found. The man was arrested and charged with possession of cocaine at 2400 N. Federal Hwy.

August 26 A woman reported her home broken into at 2134 NE 36 St. The dressers were gone through but nothing was taken.

Changes at Pompano Municipal Golf Course

Dear Editor:

We’re a nation of obesity, and Pompano Beach Municipal Golf Course’s Advisory Board has decided by majority to restrict those who like to walk on their golf course.

No longer will the Pines Course of Pompano Beach Municipal allow walking. Walkers have received exercise while walking with golf shoes that have aerated the grass, thus promoting grass growth. Instead only 1,000 lb. golf carts will be allowed to pound down the earth.

Not only that, but the course has increased their membership dues from $800 for a single membership to $2,500. This also will contribute to restricting walkers who desire to stay in shape with a game they love.

Pompano’s sister course, the Palms, has also increased their walking fees 110 percent – from $8 for members to $17. Well, that tells you how those involved in the decision-making process feel about exercise, obesity and those who want desperately to continue playing golf at a price they can afford.

There are “Haves and Have Nots” in life and Pompano Beach’s Golf Advisory Board has decided to contribute to this process with their decision to increase cost drastically and severely curtail those wishing to get out and walk.

Scott Watkins

Pompano Beach

DBLL Annual Mtg. of General Members

Thursday, Sept. 6 – 7 p.m.

DBMS Athletic Complex (upstairs) 501 SE 6 Ave., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Become a general board member of 2013 Board of Directors or vote for an active member. Only members approved from this meeting will able to vote for positions within the Board of Directors. $5 for voting card.

DB Computer Club reopens

Friday, Sept. 7 – 10 a.m.

Century Village East, Le Club, Rm. B 3501 W Dr., Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

New location. $1 per person. Info: 954-725-9331 or www.db-cc.org.

Ask the Expert

Friday, Sept. 7 – 4 to 6 p.m.

Business Resource Center 50 NE 1 St., Pompano Beach, FL 33060

FREE one-to-one consultation with a technology professional. Topics: hardware configuration, PC repair, software installation, i-Pod, i-Tune, smart phone assistance and virus help. 954-586-1111.

Lighthouse Tour

Saturday, Sept. 8 – 8:45 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Sands Harbor Hotel 125 N. Riverside Dr. Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Park in Pompano Beach city parking lot and catch boat to lighthouse. First boat leaves at 9 a.m., last boat at 2:30 p.m. Last boat returns at 4 p.m. Visitors must have flat-toed shoes with rubber soles and closed toes. No sandals, flip-flops or heels. Children must be accompanied by adult and must be a minimum of 4 feet tall to climb tower. No pets. 954-782-3313.

Registration: Instructional Jr. Pee Wee Soccer

Saturday, Sept. 8 – 11 a.m.

3500 NE 27 Ave., Lighthouse Point, FL 33064

Ages 5-6. 954-943-6500.

Pancake Breakfast

Sunday, Sept. 9 – 9 a.m. to noon

Elks Lodge 700 NE 10 St. Pompano Beach, FL 33441

Hosted by the Benevolent Patriotic Order of DOES, Drove 142. Adults $5, children $2.50. Open to the public. 954-587-1121.

Kavana Mindfulness

Sunday, Sept. 9 – 7:30 p.m.

Chabad of East Boca 120 NE 1 Ave., Boca Raton, FL 33432

Rabbi Dr. Laibl Wolf LL.B M.Ed.Psych. D.Div. provides specific strategies to create inner peace and wisdom. Training program sourced in contemporary positive psychology and ancient Kabbalistic teachings. $15. 561-417-7797 or www.ChabadBocaBeaches.com.

DB Democratic Club Meets

Monday, Sept. 10 – noon

Century Village (Le Club) 3501 West Dr. Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Speaker: Sen. Jeremy Ring and Pres. Maggie Macauley of Miramar Democratic Club will discuss Amendment 8. Lunch served to paid-up members.

PB CRA Business Networking Open House

Monday, Sept. 10 – 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Business Resource Center 50 NE 1 St., Pompano Beach, FL 33060

FREE. Meet local business owners, build your external team, discover common connections, win prizes! Open to all, light refreshments. 954-586-1111 or info@iedfl.com.

GFWC Woman’s Club of DB

Tuesday, Sept. 11 – 1 p.m.

910 E Hillsboro Blvd., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Season begins! Second Tuesday of the month. Video about club shown. Deerfield Beach Woman’s Club is service organization, which funds scholarships and donates to more than 25 charities. Annual dues: $35. 954-421-4700.

Zumba Gold classes

Tuesday, Sept. 11 – 1 to 2 p.m.

NE Focal Point Senior Center 227 NW 2 St., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Every Tuesday and Thursday. Classes are part of the Healthways SilverSneakers Fitness Program. 954-480-4200.

Greater Pompano Chamber Business Expo

Wednesday, Sept. 12 – 5 to 8 p.m.

1955 N. Federal Hwy., Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Network with local businesses, who will have booths showcasing their products and services. $10 per person or $15 for two if bought in advance. For information, call 954-941-2940 or visit www.PompanoBeachChamber.com.