“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

Up all night

Saturday, Dec. 22 to Sunday, Dec. 23

Constitution Park 2841 W. Hillsboro Blvd. Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Deerfield Beach Teen Zone will be hosting an eventful night at Santa’s Enchanted Forest, as well as bowling. $30 includes transportation, dinner, unlimited rides, bowling and breakfast. For ages 13-18. Registration TODAY! Call 954-571- 4568.

Nana’s Helping Hands

Saturday, Dec. 22 – 4 to 10 p.m.

Westside Park (west football field) 445 SW 2 St., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Annual event in which needy children are provided with a gift and entertainment, including a petting zoo and children’s fun zone.

You are preparing your Christmas shopping list, the cookies, and your time to accommodate all the activities you want to participate in. Do not forget the lights, tree, decorations, presents or wrapping paper . Do not forget all the planning, inviting guests, grocery shopping and cooking that you have to do. We prepare for Christmas, but do we actually prepare for the Christ of Christmas? Let me assure you that Jesus is more interested in how you prepare yourself for Christmas than He is in all of your other Christmas preparations.

God wants the most powerful impact of this Christmas to be the one He makes on your heart.

Let me ask you again, are you ready? Are you prepared for the coming of the King? Are you prepared for Christmas and Christ? How are you preparing your heart for Christmas? How are you preparing your life for Christ? Evaluate what the meaning of Christmas makes in your daily planner, your checkbook, your family, your marriage, your friendships and your spiritual growth.

Society and traditions try to tell us how to live our lives around the holidays and even how to celebrate our holidays. We need to be ourselves and serve the God we love by living for Christ all year round. Don’t allow people or circumstances in your life to break your holiday spirit and steal your joy. The words that come out of our mouths show what is in our hearts, and our actions will speak even louder than our words. The things we do and say show the kind of lifestyle that we have. Don’t become what the pressures of life want to mold you into, but rather, become a person full of joy and peace all year round. Then, it is not just a holiday thing, it is a lifestyle choice. When we do things the way God wants, and not by our own way or by our own plan, those changes become more permanent. Why change the way you act and behave like the seasons change? Just be the same happy, joyful, peaceful, giving person all year long. Then, you will not have to change around the holidays to fit in.

People will try to tell you how to celebrate Christmas but don’t let it happen. Make sure you wish someone a Merry Christmas every chance you get. May God bless you this holiday season! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Pastor Tony Guadagnino

Christian Love Fellowship Church

By Rachel Galvin

Photos by “Cinema” Dave Montalbano

In one of the biggest public relations events in four years, Disney World Orlando invited press as far north as Toronto and as far west as California to walk beyond Cinderella’s castle walls into the new Fantasyland.

There, they found an Enchanted Forest and Storybook Circus.

The opening ceremony included animation legends Jodi Benson, Paige O’Hara, Jo Anne Worley, Ron Clements and John Musker, as well as actress Ginnifer Goodwin, known for playing Snow White on ABC’s Once Upon a Time, and American Idol winner Jordin Sparks, who treated guests to some classic Disney songs.

The media who attended enjoyed VIP treatment and not only enjoyed the rides and attractions, but also saw fireworks and a fire breathing dragon!

The Observer’s own “Cinema” Dave Montalbano had a first-hand experience with this new and improved Disney magic.

Wondering what is within the new Fantasyland? In the Enchanted Forest, guests can listen to “tales as old as time” from Belle, have a sip of Le Fou’s Brew in Gaston’s Tavern and have dinner in Beast’s castle at Be Our Guest Restaurant. They can also visit with Ariel at Ariel’s Grotto or jump in a clamshell at Prince Eric’s Castle and take a dark ride beneath the sea in the Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid. These are just a few highlights.

The Storybook Circus is inspired by Dumbo. But features rides with other characters like Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy. Fly with Dumbo, spiral in a stunt plane at The Barnstormer or get soaked at Casey Jr. Splash ‘N’ Soak Station. You can even go to Fantasyland Station to take a 20-minute scenic tour of the Magic Kingdom on an antique train, the Walt Disney World Railroad! These are just a few of the attractions. Look for Peter Pan, Winnie the Pooh, Prince Charming and other familiar faces.

Splitsville Luxury Lanes also had a ribbon cutting in Downtown Disney (across from the House of Blues) and even Goofy attended. This twolevel venue, the largest of its kind, features 30 lanes and 50,000 sq. ft. of entertainment for families. It opens to the public Dec. 19.

And over at Epcot, the reimagined Test Track (presented by Chevrolet) celebrated its grand opening. Here, guests can drive their own custom concept vehicle through all the exhilarating twists and turns at as fast as 65 mph.

Walt Disney also announced some of its future plans, including Princess Fairytale Hall, scheduled to open in 2013, and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. At only about three hours away, Disney World is a fun holiday option for the whole family to get out of town, but not go too far.

Make sure to check out the Osbourne Family Dancing Spectacle of Lights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, featuring an extensive choreographed holiday light display. The event ends Jan. 6.

And if you are feeling a bit wild, head to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park, where they have improved their safari ride.

disneyworld.disney.go. com/parks

Boat parade took place Sunday night, Dec. 9.

Best in Show – Over 30 ft – SEXY

Most Unique Over 30 ft. – Noah’s Ark Under 30 ft. – Cruising Attitude Best in Sound Over 30 ft. – Bimini Twist Under 30 ft. – Captiva Best Entertainment Over 30 ft. – Rusty Hook Under 30 ft – Got Rum Best Club – Kokomo – HISC Best Commercial – Killer Green Best First Timers Tied between: Angela Nuran & Down the Hatch Most Effective Lighting Over 30 ft. – Knot On Call Under 30 ft. – Coconut Telegraph Best Private Boat Over 30 ft. – War Eagle Under 30 ft. – SeaTeaz Best Deerfield Beach Entry – Southern Breeze Best Lighthouse Point Entry – Reel Priority Pompano Beach Chamber Award Over 30 ft – Shake a Leg Miami Under 30 ft – Tuned Blue Spirit of the Parade Award – NO Name – Kiwanis Club of Pompano Beach TOP THREE POINT WINNERS – out of a possible 200

SEXY 183 pts.

Bimini Twist 178 pts.

Noah’s Ark 163 pts.

These are the winners of the Pompano Beach Yuletide Parade that took place last Friday night, Dec. 7.

Best Overall: Blanche Ely High School Band

Best Marching Unit: Diamonds and Pearls Dance Group

Best Band: Walker Elementary

Best Float: Oxygen Fitness

Best Youth Group Float: Piranhas

By Dave Montalbano

AdventuresOfCinemaDave.com

Skyfall will depart the Ft. Lauderdale Museum of Discovery IMAX Theater this week to make room for The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey 3D.

While mainstream movies are a major box office draw, the museum has not lost sight that science documentaries are better on the IMAX six-storey screen. Before The Hobbit has its Friday afternoon opening, the documentary The Last Reef 3D: Cities Beneath The Sea will be screening. This film is full of 3D razzle dazzle involving sharks, manta rays and dolphins with an environmental message about preserving reef ecosystems.

It opens with a historical surprise. With the atom bomb tests in the Pacific Ocean, the bikini atoll was basically untouched by human hands. Sixty-six years later, the Reef Ecosystem is thriving stronger than the rest of the reef ecosystems worldwide.

With the most advanced 3D camera technology, the production crew filmed the most biologically diverse reefs near Palau, the Bahamas, Cancun and French Polynesia. While it’s fun to poke at the 3D jellyfish and 3D Man of War, the camera technology thrives when it finds micro organisms that serve the symbiotic relationship between man, sea creatures, the reef and the green planet.

While the 27th annual Ft. Lauderdale International Film Festival concluded last month, Cinema Paradiso continues with their unique movie programming. This weekend, they are showing The Fitzgerald Family Christmas, produced, written and directed by Ed Burns. After Saturday’s 5 p.m. show, Burns will host a Q & A via Skype computer for those in attendance at Cinema Paradiso.

Ticket buyers are asked to bring either two canned food items or one new unwrapped toy per person to any one of seven daily screenings of the film. All items will be donated to the Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center in Ft. Lauderdale, which serves over 10,000 children and youth annually with medical care, case management, social services and other types of intervention to children and adolescents with chronic illnesses and development disabilities.

As Chanukah concludes this weekend and Christmas shopping and parties begin, schedule an escape to the movies. Info: www.fliff.com

Dec. 1, 2012 wasn’t a good day for the Pelini brothers. First, FAU Coach Carl Pelini saw his team commit key turnovers as his Owls lost their finale 35-21 to the Louisiana Lafayette Ragin’ Cajuns. FAU’s home loss saw the Owls drop to 3-9, 2-6 in the Sun Belt Conference. Louisiana improved to 8-4 and 6-2.

Hours later, Bo Pelini’s Nebraska Cornhuskers had a chance to win the Big Ten Conference.

But the Wisconsin Badgers (8-5) had other ideas … crushing the Cornhuskers 70-31 at Lucas Oil Field in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Wisconsin got the automatic bid to the BCS Championship Series and they’ll face Stanford in the Rose Bowl. Nebraska (10-3) will play Georgia (11-2) in the Capital One Bowl in Orlando.

During the Louisiana game, FAU trailed 21-14 at halftime and amassed 528 yards in total offense. At one point, FAU led 14-7.

The key turnovers halted scoring drives, as FAU had three turnovers with one fumble and two interceptions by senior QB Graham Wilbert, who played in his last game. Wilbert finished the 2012 season with 2,814 yards and only six interceptions.

He’ll spend the rest of the winter and beginning of the spring getting ready for FAU’s Pro Day.

Junior William Dukes had a career day against Louisiana catching nine passes for 204 yards and two touchdowns. He led FAU receivers with 979 yards.

Next on Pelini’s agenda is the recruiting trail as he prepares to improve on this season.

Now that football is over, the shift is to Men’s Basketball. On Sunday, FAU faced the Warner Royals, who were 6-4. The Warner Royals public relations staff never brought any game notes for the media, nor did they bring their “A” game, as FAU cruised to an 83-50 win at “The Burrow” in a contest that started at 3 p.m.

Before the game, I wondered how many people would show up since there was a full slate of NFL games. Believe it or not, there were plenty of fans and it was a half way decent atmosphere. FAU improved to 5-4.

Greg Gantt led FAU with 19 points and Stefan Moody had 18. One notable newcomer to the FAU roster is 7 ft. center Dragen Sekelja, from Zagreb, Croatia, who transferred from Baylor. His presence was felt as he grabbed 11 rebounds against Warner.

OWLS NOTES: Former FAU Athletic Director Craig Angelos is the new Associate Director of Athletics/Compliance Services for my alma-mater, the University of South Florida Bulls in Tampa.

Finally, the 2013 season will be the last in the Sun Belt Conference for FAU and Middle Tennessee, as both are headed to Conference USA in 2014. They’ll join FIU and North Texas, who are expected to be members of Conference USA in 2013.

The FAU/FIU rivalry will resume in 2014, after taking a oneyear hiatus in 2013.

Scott Morganroth can be reached at www.scottsports33.com.