“Festivus Pole”
Dear Editor:
Oh, come on, commissioners of Deerfield Beach. Retract your permission granted to Chaz Stevens. A self-proclaimed gadfly, his sole purpose of installing his “festivus pole” [outside Fire Station #1 at the corner of Federal Highway and Hillsboro Boulevard] is to thumb his nose at the Holy meaning of Christmas and Hannukah.
The sweet imagery that the public sees but once a year to reflect on God and His wonders is no place to display this nonsense. Especially in light of the tragedy in Connecticut; people need to be reminded to focus on God and others. Get out from behind computers and video games. Unplug, and care about one another as you would yourself. Let it be said of us here in beautiful Deerfield Beach that we take seriously what really matters.
Kimberly Grimmel
Deerfield Beach
BSO Chief Sudler given pink slip?
Dear Editor:
I have lived in Deerfield Beach for 34 years. Today I was very disappointed to hear of the firing of BSO Chief Pete Sudler. A fixture in the community as a Chief in Deerfield for the last 7 years, he has guided his officers though a time when the economy is at an all-time low and the crime rate in other cities is at an all-time high – and reduced crime in Deerfield.
He spearheaded the crackdown on peewee gambling when, after watching ESPN with his son, he saw gambling in the stands at our kids’ football games. Our children are safer for that.
Chief Suder brought the community together to work with officers. He has worked with the churches, revitalized Crime Watch and supported many community events at the expense of his family.
His leadership and guidance has made Deerfield Beach a city to be proud of.
Politics got in the way of our progress. Chief Sudler was advised by email that he would no longer be Chief of Deerfield Beach OR part of BSO. Yes, I said by email – to a man who has dedicated himself to our town. This is a great blow to our city where the Chief is not just a figure head but a real worker.
I understand that when a new person is in charge they want their people in place, but don’t you think you should come to Deerfield and see what’s going on first?
For the people of Deerfield Beach this is not politics as usual. This is OUR city and our life.
When running for Sheriff, Scott Israel ran on integrity. Is it integrity to give someone notice by email? I think that is the coward’s way out.
Most cities only dream of having someone to bring the city closer together.We had that in Chief Sudler. Should you have any questions or comments, please contact Ron Gunzburger at BSO [at 954-448-0403].
Avis Swenson
Deerfield Beach
BSO Chief Sudler to resign
Dear Editor:
With so many rumors flying around the agency, I wanted to be sure everyone in our command heard directly from me. This evening [Tuesday, Dec. 18] I was notified by Mr. Ron Gunzburger via email that I will no longer be the District Chief for the City of Deerfield Beach or a member of the Broward Sheriff’s Office.
With that being said, I will resign from the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) after 23 years of service.
I have to be honest, when I started in the jail back in 1990, I never imagined that I would one day be the chief of the greatest city in Broward County.
The past 6+ years in Deerfield Beach were the best of my career.
The hours were long but so rewarding.
What we accomplished together in such a short time is absolutely amazing.
Your hard work and dedication to BSO and the city of Deerfield Beach is very much appreciated….not just by me, but by the City Manager, elected officials and the residents. I believe our relationships with the residents, pastoral community, civic organizations, business leaders and HOA groups has never been better, and I ask that you continue to serve this community with all your heart.
As many of you know, I often brought my children to the station and city events. The reasons I did that were because I liked them being around cops … and it also allowed me to spend time with them when I had to work.
The hard part will be explaining my new circumstances to my son Peter. He would often watch me put my uniform together and say, “I like that you are a cop, Dad.”
Although I am disappointed about leaving BSO and this great city, I leave you with this final thought. Leaders are loyal and support their bosses.
On Jan. 8, 2013, there will be a new sheriff of Broward County. Be a leader and support your new boss.
May you have a healthy and safe holiday. God bless.
Chief Pete Sudler
Deerfield Beach District
Don’t give a puppy for Christmas!
Dear Editor:
As a professional dog behavioral therapist and trainer, I see cases year after year of puppies that were given as a “wow for now” surprise, but when the newness wore off and their owners became tired of all the daily puppy care responsibilities, they were neglected, given up or even abused.
Many dogs surrendered to shelters are young – just 6 months to 3 years old – and many are puppies less than 6 months old.
Many of these dogs will be euthanized simply because the owner didn’t want to take care of them. In fact, 3 to 4 million dogs and cats will be euthanized this year in the U.S.! That number could include that cute puppy bought as a Christmas gift!
Adding a puppy to your life is, on average, a 15-year responsibility.
If the intended recipient seems ready for a puppy, they must answer “yes” to these questions:
• Are you ready to participate in training and managing all aspects of the responsibilities of puppy (and dog) ownership, each and every day?
• Can you afford to provide good nutrition, veterinary care, and training?
• Are you willing to walk or take your dog out to toilet at least six times a day?
• Do you have a reliable pet sitter or dog walker who can care for your pet, if needed?
Robin Edwards
Davie
