Carrying the Olympic torch is quite an honor and one your teen could have if nominated. Coca-Cola is currently seeking nominations for teens that reflect their live positively values to do just that for the Olympics to be held in London in 2012. Ten teens will be selected to carry the flame around Oxford, England July 9-12, 2012 as it makes its way to London for the Opening Ceremony on July 27, 2012. Teens must live healthy and be active and encourage others to do the same. They must strive to make a difference in their community and must be active in helping our planet. To nominate a teen, visit www.LivePositively.com and submit and essay (150 words max) that expresses why this nominee is a great example of living positively. Nominees must be legal residents of the U.S. and between the ages of 13 and 18 as of July 25. Deadline is 11:59 p.m. on Aug. 15!

A Guest Editorial from a famous Historian and our Publisher

In 1887, Alexander Tyler, a Scottish history professor at the University of Edinburgh, had this to say about the fall of the Athenian Republic some 2,000 years prior:

“A democracy is always temporary in nature; it simply cannot exist as a permanent form of government. A democracy will continue to exist up until the time that voters discover they can vote themselves generous gifts from the public treasury. From that moment on, the majority always votes for the candidates who promise the most benefits from the public treasury, with the result that every democracy will finally collapse over loose fiscal policy, (which is) always followed by a dictatorship.”

“The average age of the world’s greatest civilizations from the beginning of history, has been about 200 years. During those 200 years, these nations always progressed through the following sequence:

From bondage to spiritual faith;

From spiritual faith to great courage;

From courage to liberty;

From liberty to abundance;

From abundance to complacency;

From complacency to apathy;

From apathy to dependence;

From dependence back into bondage.”

Therefore,the question for each of us today as Americans  is — “What am I going to do about it?” (With an emphasis on the “I”). Everyone who loves this country needs to get involved. It will require a massive effort.

We need you!Get involved!

David Eller, Publisher

By Dave Montalbano

While I am not a fan of end-of-the-world-as-we-know-it-flicks, The Rise of the Planet of the Apes was a pleasant surprise on so many levels — good story, interesting character development with a clarity of vision. Thought-provoking and fully entertaining, Rise of the Planet of the Apes has set a new standard with summer Science Fiction movies, while remaining true to the wild and original ideas of Pierre Boulle’s novella.

San Francisco Professor Will Rodman (James Franco) seeks to find a cure for Alzheimer’s Disease, as his father Charles (John Lithgow) suffers from this malady. When a female test subject reacts badly to treatment, Professor Rodman adopts her son, a baby ape. While Charles names the ape Cesar (Andy Serkis), Professor Rodman provides a nurturing environment and pharmaceuticals that promote intelligence.

Tragically, paradise is lost and Cesar ends up being a captive in a monkey house run by John Landon (Brian Cox)and his sadistic son Dodge Landon (Tom Felton).  After torture and abuse, Cesar organizes his cell-mates and creates ‘the rise of the planet of the apes.’

Director Rupert Wyatt provides realistic logic to Cesar’s evolution, making Cesar’s growth a joy to behold. The audience gets to know Cesar and his compatriots, as well as the rogues’ gallery of brutal humans. Wyatt is not afraid to present static scenes with no dialogue. When dialogue is spoken, the words actually have meaning.

In spite of the epic grandeur of this movie, this film is full of clever details for the Apes fans. Shortly before one climatic moment, a cameo appearance from the late Charlton Heston helps set the dramatic moment on a subconscious level.  It is a bone-chilling moment.

Given his performances as “King Kong” and “Gollum,” Serkis is the perfect actor to play Cesar in his motion-capture costume. The Academy Awards should create a special category for this type of performance. As Professor Rodman, Franco puts behind his public relations fiasco at this year’s Oscar’s ceremony. Given his success as Draco Malfoy, hopefully Felton will be able to play a nice guy soon, for the actor is quite good as the cad you love to hate.

On Aug. 20, Deerfield Beach High Class of ’81 reunion commences at Deer Creek Country Club. Tickets are $125 and include open bar, buffet, prizes and music. Save $25 by contacting Kelly Palmer-Skidmore at 561-445-6854 by close of business tomorrow, Friday, Aug. 12.

A few weeks ago, I had some ideas as to what events should be held at the new FAU Football Stadium.

I spoke to Associate Athletic Director for Corporate Sponsorships Michael Smith. He took this position after serving as Director of Collegiate Sports Properties for the University of Mississippi in the Southeastern Conference.

Smith gave me his reasons why he moved to Boca Raton and in this Observer interview, he talked about what the South Florida Community has to look forward to.

Q: What made you decide to take this position at FAU?

A: To be Associate Athletic Director was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. I am looking forward to the inner workings of working behind the scenes, of what it takes [to build]  a new stadium for a Division I School. I see the athletic program growing into a Conference USA, Big East or ACC member one day. I am thrilled to see the excitement of the Boca Raton Community.

Q: How many events do you foresee and what type of financial benefit will Boca Raton receive?

A: I anticipate that the stadium has a $1.7 million impact to the community of Boca Raton. It’s the largest facility between Miami and Orlando. It will hold 15 events the first year … five football games, along with 10 other events. I anticipate concerts, college events, international soccer, high school all-star games and, eventually, landing a college bowl game. We hope to expand to at least 20 events.

Q: Were you familiar with FAU before you took this position?

A: Yes. Football Coach Howard Schnellenberger’s reputation speaks for itself. Mike Jarvis won 21 games this year for the basketball team and has an excellent track record for taking his teams to the NCAA Tournament. John McCormack’s baseball team [players] are perennial winners.

Q: How will your previous position benefit you here?

A: I worked in the multimedia areas. I worked in marketing, advertising and promotions so we have lots of inventory here. I will be working on selling signs for the Football Stadium, radio spots, coach’s call-in radio shows for all sports, Internet and promotions on the field.

According to Smith, there has been an increase in landing new students. Last year, FAU had 9,000 applications from incoming freshman. This year, the total is 22,000.

Oct. 15 is right around the corner and, by the end of the week, the FAU Football Team will be in training camp, preparing for that inaugural season. It will be interesting to see which players go down in history as the ones who score the first touchdown, have the first yard, etc.

If the growth of the football program goes according to planned, the football stadium has the ability to be expanded in two phases, from 30-45,000 and 45-65,000. The addition of more students, as aforementioned, could be the beginning of what lies ahead.

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

DEERFIELD BEACH

Aug. 5. A man reported that three men attacked him for no reason at 1250 W. Hillsboro Blvd.

Aug. 5. A man was arrested and charged with theft at the Target store on 3599 W. Hillsboro Blvd. He was observed placing meat into a suitcase and attempted to leave the store without paying for the meat.

Aug. 5. A woman reported that she was approached by two men on foot. One man pulled her to the ground and demanded property. The man removed a chain from her neck at 411 NW 1 Terr.

Aug. 6. A man was arrested and charged for improper exhibition of a firearm at 925 S. Ocean Blvd. The man was involved in an argument and began waving a gun.

Aug. 6. A man was observed breaking into a car at 660 Siesta Key Circle. The man fled when he realized he was being watched.

Aug. 6. A man was arrested and charged with aggravated battery after stabbing an individual following an argument. Incident took place at 500 SW 3 Ave.

Aug. 6. A woman was stopped for a traffic violation at 1200 W. Hillsboro Blvd. She was then arrested and charged with possession of narcotics. She was found with crack cocaine and a crack pipe.

Aug. 7. Banks notified a woman that she was the victim of fraudulent activity on her credit cards. She realized her purse was stolen from Duffy’s. Incident was reported at 401 N. Federal Hwy.

Aug. 7. A man was arrested and charged with a narcotics felony at 600 NE 44 St. He was in possession of crack cocaine.

Aug. 7. A man was observed trying to break into a car at 4286 NW 1 Place. Suspect fled on foot.

Aug. 7. A woman was arrested and charged with theft at Publix. She stole $45.56 worth of merchandise from the store. She was issued a trespass warning and a notice to appear in court.

DEERFIELD – District 4

Aug. 4 Residential burglary was reported at 107 Lock Rd. Complainant said unknown person(s) had broken into his apartment. Point of entry was via the front door, which was pried open. Taken from the residence was a 50″ TV, PlayStation and credit cards. Scene was processed for latent prints and the area was canvassed. Aug. 7 ARREST was made when victim called BSO advising he saw suspect who had committed his residential burglary. During a consensual search, deputies recovered victim’s PlayStation. Suspect was transported to the station, where he confessed to a detective that he had taken a 50″ television and Playstation from the victim’s residence and also stated that he sold the television for $400.

Aug. 8 Conveyance burglary ARREST, 1074 S. Military Tr. (apartment complex just south of SW 10 St. on Military Tr.) Deputies responded to a burglary conveyance in progress and established perimeter. Witness advised three subjects were entering unlocked vehicles. Helicopter and K-9 unit on scene. Three suspects were apprehended, one by K-9. All three were charged with burglary conveyance.

Aug. 8 Conveyance burglary at 4286 NW 1 Pl., Hammocks at Riverglen. Witness observed subject trying to open victim’s driver door by pulling door handle. He also observed the subject around two other cars nearby. Witness confronted the suspect, who ran to his Toyota parked nearby. Witness blocked in the car and the suspect fled on foot. Suspect was not apprehended. Aviation assisted.

LIGHTHOUSE POINT

July 29. A man was arrested and charged with possession of less than 20 grams of marijuana. Incident took place at a McDonald’s at 4830 N. Federal Hwy.

July 30. A man was observed stealing three packages of cookies from a Publix at 3700 N. Federal Hwy. The man was stopped in the parking lot and he returned the cookies. He was issued a trespass warning.

Aug. 1. A man reported his Honda motorcycle stolen. The motorcycle was later recovered. Incident was reported at 2863 NE 35 Court.

SW 10 Street Ramp

Dear Editor:

Thanks to the city of Deerfield Beach for realizing we needed another lane coming off (North) on SW 10 street. Now, please give us a right-turn-on-green arrow when the northbound traffic has a green light. The right lane could easily turn with no problem. Post a right-turn-on-green-arrow-only sign. Thanks.

M. Henderson

Deerfield Beach

Cove businesses alive and well

Dear Editor:

My family and I have just opened a small restaurant in The Cove Shopping Plaza on Hillsboro Boulevard.  The Cove is in the process of a beautification project and some exciting changes are happening here.  We are very happy to be a part of the new and improved look, and hope to be a part of the community for many years to come.

In the midst of the beautification process, of course, the parking lot and sidewalks are being redone.  The new pavers look fantastic, and soon the parking lot will be black-topped, and it will also take on a look that will make the businesses proud to operate in The Cove.  This will only enhance our customers’ experience as they come for lunch or dinner, or stop by one of the other many new and existing businesses located here.

I write to you today in the hopes that I can appeal to the Deerfield Beach residents, and those who frequent The Cove area, to remember that all of us are still open for business.  Although there are some larger trucks and work equipment blocking our ‘view’… we are still here for you and your ongoing patronage and support.

Thank you!

Kim Cournoyer,

Beach Buns … the best buns under the sun!

Deerfield Beach

RE: Open Letter in Observer 8/4

The Deerfield Chamber of Commerce is committed, active and continues to move the business community forward.

We strive to create new opportunities targeting business sectors with themed events.  This month, our 31 Days of Dining is designed to help our restaurants during a typically slow month.  See the details on our website: www.deerfieldchamber.com.

At our August breakfast, over 30 members and prospective members participated.  Our speaker, Andrew Duffell, from Florida Atlantic University Research Park, gave us updated plans for development, improvements and their mission here in Deerfield.

At the beginning of 2011, our outstanding debt from previous administrations was over $35,000. Your Chamber of Commerce is presently debt-free, with no outstanding, unpaid obligations.  Funds are available to operate and include a separate fund to sponsor events.

The value of membership is increasing every month with new partnerships.   Several businesses have recently joined.  We welcome Paragon Theaters and Deerfield Beach Toyota.

We invite you to take a look at your chamber by attending our next membership breakfast at:  Embassy Suites, 950 Ocean Blvd., Sept. 1 at 7:30 a.m.  Our guest speaker will be U.S. Rep. (R) Allen West.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS,

 DEERFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Greater Pompano Beach  Senior Citizens Club meets

Wednesday, Aug. 10, 10 a.m. 

Emma Lou Olsen Community Center , 1801 NE 6 St., Pompano Beach, FL  33060

Activities focus on welfare, health, education, security of senior citizens. Fun trips and outings offered. Information: 954-943-7787.

Networking Event

Thursday, Aug. 11, 5:30 p.m.

Deerfield Country Club (Christine’s on the Green), 50 Fairway Dr., Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

FREE entry. Professional Social Networking Group hosting with South Florida (Broward Biz) Chamber of Commerce. Over 300 attendees. LIVE music, food available. Overflow parking at Hilton. One complimentary drink. 561-251-0846.

Moonlight Melodies concert

Friday, Aug. 12, 7 p.m.

Main Beach Parking Lot, SE 1st St. and Ocean Way, Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Performance by Mid-life Crysis (easy listening and covers of the classics). FREE. Bring beach chair or blanket. 954-480-4430 or www.DeerfieldBeach.com.

“Blue Hawaii”

Friday, Aug. 12, 7 p.m.

Count de Hoernle Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton, FL 33432

FREE. Final “Summer in the City” music series performance features a tribute to the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley. Bring blanket or chair. 561-393-7827.

Clarke-Reed Neighborhood Initiative Program luncheon

Friday, August 12, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.                                                                                                                     

Westside Park Community Center, 445 SW 2 St., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Luncheon honoring business leaders and students who have participated in this summer’s 17th Annual Neighborhood Initiative Program for at-risk youth. Program is brainchild of State Rep. Gwyndolen Clarke-Reed and Pastor Dr. Nathanial Knowles. 954-786-4848.

US Coast Guard Auxiliary Safe Boating Course

Saturday, Aug. 13, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Imperial Point Medical Center, Auditorium C, 6401 N. Federal Hwy., Ft. Lauderdale, FL  33308

Cost $50 per person (materials/lunch provided).  For registration and information, call 954-421-0502.

Hillsboro Lighthouse Tour

Saturday, Aug. 13, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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

Tour historic lighthouse, see the Keeper’s Cottages (usually closed to public). Hillsboro Lighthouse Preservation Society members FREE, non-members: $15 transportation fee. www.hillsborolighthouse.org/tours.html or call 954-942-2102

34th Annual Bon Festival

Saturday Aug. 13, 4 to 9 p.m.

Morikami Park (Seishin-am Tea House), 4000 Morikami Park Rd., Delray Beach, FL 33446

Cost: $15 (adult), $6 (age 4 to 17), FREE (under 3 plus museum members). Info: www.morikami.org.

Calling “All” Concerned Deerfield Residents

Monday, Aug. 15, 6 p.m.

All My Children Daycare IV, 355/377 NW 3 Court, Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Discussion of ways to make Deerfield a better place for all residents. Come with issues, problems and concerns. Look forward to leaving with new positive ideas and solutions. Brought to you by Community Action Team of Deerfield Beach. www.myperspectiveis.blogspot.com. 954-871-CATO (2280).

Services for the visually impaired

Tuesday, Aug. 16, noon to 1 p.m.

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

Presented by Karen Parparian, Lighthouse of Broward. 954-480-4446.

Democratic Women’s Club of NE Broward meets

Wednesday, August 17, 7 p.m.

Emma Lou Olson Civic Center, 1801 NE 6 St., Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Topic: Women’s Equality Day. Refreshments served. Features 10-minute film, Equality, I am Woman, which chronicles the Aug. 26, 1970 March for Equality down New York’s 5th Avenue. The film documents the largest gender-equality event in U.S. history, when over 50,000 women, men and children gathered to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Women’s Suffrage. The following year, at the urging of Congresswoman Bella Abzug, Congress officially declared August 26 as Women’s Equality Day. 954-942-8711.

“Party to the Max!”

Wednesday, Aug. 17, 6 to 8 p.m.

Max’s Grille, 404 Plaza Real , (Mizner Park), Boca Raton, FL 33432

Part of Boca Festival Days. Events held at different locations during Aug., facilitated by Greater Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce. $25 per person for two FREE drinks and hors d’oeuvres. 561- 416-5007.

As I returned home from work the other day, I did what I always do … I stopped on the way up to my condo to pick up my mail. I started thumbing through and, in the midst of all the junk mail, I noticed an envelope that showed that my health insurance company, which has been wonderful, sent me my renewal rates.

I am on the small business guaranteed issue plan. When I first went on the plan, my wife of blessed memory, worked as my bookkeeper, and we were fortunate enough to get in as a two-person group. When she passed away, even as I dealt with my grief, I was concerned about my health insurance. Caring for my beloved wife had taken its toll on me and I was emotionally and physically exhausted. Fortunately, I was informed that, as I had been on the plan for quite some time, I would be grandfathered in at the two-person rate.

Now, please don’t get me wrong, the two-person rate was not exactly what you would call inexpensive. But I needed a good insurance plan and I stayed with it. This year, however, I was informed that I would be receiving rates based on a one-person group. Well, let me tell you something, when I saw the rate increase, I almost had a heart attack… So you might be wondering what the new rate is? Well, let me tell you, and before I do, remember that I am only 56. I do Zumba two to three times a week and I do ballroom and Latin dancing twice a week. It is true that I had bypass surgery within the past five years, but my cardiologist says that I am in better aerobic shape than most people my age. I don’t smoke and I don’t drink. So what is the new rate? Are you ready for this? $1,553.71, and that is not the yearly amount … no, that is what I am expected to pay each and every month to keep my health insuranc!

On top of this raise … since I hope to remarry again someday, I asked my agent what the rate would be if I had a wife whom I wanted to put on the plan. He said, “Double it.” For those of you who don’t feel up to doing the math in your heads, doubling it would meant I would be paying just under $40,000 dollars a year for health insurance premiums on a high deductible no less.

I needed to come up with a solution and fast. So I did a little research and found that the small business rate I get is based on the age of the owner of the company. So I thought about marrying a 21-year-old and making her the owner of the corporation, but let’s face it, 21 is a wee bit young for me.

So when I was at one of the health centers the other day, I walked over to the nurses’ station and announced that if any of them have good insurance and would like to get married that I am available. While they found the announcement amusing, the truth is that their response was … “Rabbi, we work in healthcare, we don’t have good insurance … you’re looking in the wrong place.”

So, dear readers, I now turn to you … and who knows … maybe this will get passed on to the national or international press … If any of you ladies out there have a good insurance plan and that plan entitles your husband to go on it for a reasonable (or at least, affordable) price, give some thought to the possibility of marrying me … a good insurance plan is all I ask … okay, there may be one or two other things I ask for, but, sadly, right now, insurance has become a top priority.

Shalom My Friends,

Rabbi Craig H. Ezring

BSO deputies working a vehicle burglary in progress in the Lakes at Deerfield apartment complex quickly apprehended three suspects in the area for attempting to enter vehicles.  During the investigation information was received regarding two occupied residential burglary attempts in the Bonnie Loch area.  One of the suspects in custody was also charged with those crimes.  If you see suspicious activity in your neighborhood call 911 immediately.

This tax “free” holiday, Chipotle Mexican Grill is offering its Florida guests FREE Food With Integrity.

Simply eat at any Miami or Ft. Lauderdale Chipotle on Tuesday, August 9, or Wednesday, August 10, and save the receipt. Return any time during tax “free” weekend, August 12 – 14 and receive a free burrito, bowl, order of tacos or salad with your receipt. No charge. No tax. No strings attached.