RE: Deerfield discusses creating NEW Public Safety position

Dear Editor:

Thank you for delaying publication long enough to publish a report on the meeting to create a new Public Safety Director. [in the Jan.3 dated Observer, which delivered Jan. 4] It looks like the mayor and the city manager are behind this. Clearly they wanted as few citizens as possible to know about the meeting. They didn’t allow viewing the meeting on the Internet like they do with regular commission meetings.

This is cronyism at its worst. How can they justify a new position that we don’t need when they fired 106 people? Why do they want to give Mr. Sudler an additional $100 K [$90 K plus benefits for a full-time position] on top of the generous pension he will get?

I want to thank Commissioners Ganz and Preston for showing some common sense on this issue.

Robert Lloyd

Deerfield Beach

RE: Beach Parking stickers

Dear Editor:

My husband and I have lived in Deer Creek for about 20 years. We have purchased a beach sticker for about 10 years. We would like to know why it doubled in price this year. It is now so high, we have decided to go back to putting quarters in the meter although the sticker was more convenient.

Thank you.

Arlene Mohr

Deerfield Beach

A New Year resolution for 2013

Dear Editor:

Freedom lies with all who choose to live for God each day, but chains of bondage shackle those who choose some other way. Just listen to God’s wisdom and your heart and be good to yourself and others.

Let us pray for the New Year 2013 – for the world around to be better and safe for all the families and children, a place without murder, raping, abusing and shooting.

Donna Marie Tilligkeit

Pompano Beach

How Israel approaches the right to bear arms

Dear Editor:

Israel did not want to get involved in the discussion as the National Rifle Association (NRA) did not tell the truth in their speech. I want to write you the facts. The NRA did not tell you the following as stated by the Israeli government. a) Israel has much stronger gun regulations than the USA.

In fact, they have the highest rejection rate for gun permits: 40 percent. b) Israel has the lowest rate of gun ownership and the lowest rate of violence in the developed world. c) Gun permits are only given to special people and they have to be renewed every year. (Only Israel and Switzerland have that rule.) d) It isn’t true that Israel had a great deal of school shootings, and it wasn’t armed guards that stopped killings but as stated by Israeli government- anti- terror policy is what they used to combat terrorism, which is not the same as school shootings. e) Israel understands the NRA is close to or mainly involved with the Republican Party and don’t believe “they should be used” when the facts presented weren’t true. f) Israel doesn’t believe in citizens arming themselves, except for a small number with good reasons to do so.

Marty Weisberg

Coral Springs

Beach sticker

Dear Editor:

Twelve years ago I purchased a home in the Deer Creek section of Deerfield Beach.

Each year since that time, I’ve purchased a beach sticker – which went up from $35 to $50 to $100.

Even though the number of times I visit the beach would never cost me $100 if I were feeding the meters, I chose to pay for a sticker so I wouldn’t have to hunt for quarters; plus, I felt I was helping to pay for the beach beautification. This year, I was told I can’t buy a sticker since my auto registration and license are registered in Indiana, where I continue to be homesteaded. This hasn’t changed in the past 12 years.

Since I pay property tax and utilities, I feel the more apt criteria would be proof of ownership.

While I was at the courthouse [City Hall], others were also being turned away. I really feel that Deerfield is now costing itself money.

I’d appreciate some feedback from the city manager on this issue.

Thanks,

Pete Troost

Deerfield Beach

Kudos to Pier Project

Dear Editor:

As a former resident (52 years) I do not miss the traffic or the hot weather. However, after visiting last week and walking on the new pier complex, all I can say is WOW!!!! Very nice, especially the night lighting and the paver walk to the north.

Gary Lawrence “Go Bucks”

Morganton, GA

The passing of Bill McBride

Dear Editor:

On [Dec. 22] our state [of Florida] lost Bill McBride, a true champion of the middle class and public education. Although Bill’s passing will leave a hole in our hearts, his lifelong commitment to public service will leave a lasting impact on our community and state.

Bill McBride was a mentor and friend. Anyone lucky enough to have known him will miss his incredible smile, kind heart and warm spirit.

My thoughts and prayers are with his wife Alex [Sink], his children Bert and Lexi, and the entire McBride family.

Alan Clendenin

Tampa

Editor’s note: McBride, 67, was candidate for governor of Florida in 2002. He defeated Janet Reno for the Democratic party nomination but lost to Republican Governor Jeb Bush.

Remembering Senator Inouye

Dear Editor:

Sen. Daniel Inouye [U.S. Senator, Hawaii] served 50 years in the Senate, was a war hero, lost an arm in WWII, and was awarded the purple heart for bravery.

Sen. Inouye was friends with Sen. Bob Dole. They were in the same hospital and were close even though they were from different political parties.

When the Japanese attacked, Sen. Inouye volunteered to serve in battle, a Japanese American who fought with other brave Japanese Americans.

After the war, Sen. Inoye, wearing an Army uniform, went into a barbershop in the U.S. and the barber stated, “Where are you from?” Sen. Inouye told him he was a Japanese American. The barber said, “We don’t serve Japs.”

Inouye wanted to hit him, but had respect because he was wearing an Army uniform. Almost all Japanese and Black Americans who served during WWII received the same bigoted treatment. Can you believe how they must have felt?

Sen. Inouye, may you rest peace.

Marty Weisberg

Coral Springs

P.S. President Obama and Sen. Harry Reid attended the memorial service for Sen. Inouye in Honolulu.

RE: BSO Chief Sudler to resign

Dear Editor:

Merry Christmas and may God bless you and your family into the future… with health and good fortune forever.

To me, you will always be way more than Chief, much more than a father, and transcend anyone who has to tell you how much integrity or professionalism they possess.

I have had the pleasure of working with BSO and the many chiefs through the years since moving to Florida. I maintain many relationships through all commands and districts. I represent many professional police officers throughout the country and I know leadership and professionalism when I see it.

Your efforts on behalf of the residents of Deerfield Beach and your fellow officers sets you apart in regard to those attributes, because real leaders earn their respect through self-effacing service and loyalty, which is why many are sad to hear of your status and the way you were treated.

Loyalty is earned, trust is earned, integrity is earned and respect is accumulated over time.

Everyone appreciates all of your efforts in regard to everything you have accomplished – which has added immeasurable value through the years you have served Deerfield Beach.

If there is a way to keep you in Deerfield Beach in some capacity, I will work on your behalf.

Real men with the qualities you possess only come along in life sporadically.

As we say in the survivor group Voices of Sept. 11, “We must always remember the sacrifices of our heroes for they have made our lives possible.”

“God speed,” my friend. You will always excel in any endeavor you undertake and I will always be your friend.

All the best and God bless!

Frank Congemi

Deerfield Beach

RE: Beloved mail carrier killed on motorcycle

Dear Editor:

We read [recently] about our mail carrier Jeff [in the Nov. 29 Observer newspaper] and his death while riding his motorcycle.

We are so, so sorry to hear this sad news. Jeff was never too busy to not say “hi” and always asked about our scuba diving.

He read this newspaper and whenever I would write a letter, he would jokingly tell me I was famous. He will be very much missed. Our deepest condolences to his family and friends.

Donna, and Tom Allan

Deerfield Beach

Mail carriers make a difference

Deerfield Beach is a great place to live. We have so many city services at our fingertips. Led by our dedicated Mayor Peggy Noland and her supporting cast, we have a clean, safe city and beautiful beach.

There is a star player, [who is] seldom, if ever, mentioned. But if you use our local post office, you will know her.

When postal worker Jackie Wallace is on duty, you will always see a smile on her face and you will leave with a smile on yours, walking a little lighter and feeling happier because of your encounter with her.

Sue Oliphant

Deerfield Beach

“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

RE: Homeless man killed

Editor’s note: On Saturday morning, Dec. 1, Bradley Suessine, 42, was stabbed in the alley between Rattlesnake Jake’s and the Sea Girl shop in Deerfield Beach. His family wishes to share their memories of Brad.

Dear Editor:

I was Brad’s cousin and pretty close with him growing up.  We are the same age.

Although it has been about 10 years since we spoke last, I have many childhood memories [of growing up] and celebrating the holidays together.  We caught back up later in life after high school.

We shared a very close and special relationship that I will forever cherish.

In our 20’s we went to college together.  It was the best!

He would come to my house and pick me up and we [would] drive together.  It didn’t matter, our class times being different. He was thoughtful that way.

We did things together outside of work or school.  My friends were his then and vice versa.

We did things on the weekend or went to parties together and always had a fun time. Never ever a bad moment, never ever any type of arguments, only great times.  People even commented about how they couldn’t believe we were cousins — we got along so well.

Now, [all] I have is memories, but I am blessed and thankful that I have those and was granted those special moments in life to spend with him. It was a privilege and I am tremendously glad I was granted that in life.

I am so deeply affected by how this vicious act was done upon him and it keeps me awake [at night], his last moments, how tragic they were, and that he was not with his loved ones.

He was an amazing guy, one of the best.

I know the newspapers state “homeless” over and over again, but life’s journeys take us all down different paths. Though he didn’t have the traditional roof over his head and all of what one would expect to be normal, really,what is “normal?” I guess that is to one’s own description now.

His way of life to him at that time was normal.  It was living life the way he knew best and how it made the most sense to him at the time and what made “him” ok.

That doesn’t discount his value in our society, in life or as a valued citizen.

His importance to all his mom/dad, brothers and all of us extended family and friends was great.  I feel for my aunt/uncle and cousins (his brothers) who have to deal with this great loss.  This is not fair.

I hope that he can see us and look upon us, knowing that he was really loved and really meant a lot.

You hear too often that “life is short” or the “would of’s, could of’’s” but it’s too late for all that now.

We have to try to find a way to deal with this great loss and how he was so cruelly taken from us.

He will be in my heart and thoughts — and I am sure many others’ — for eternity and I will love him always.

I hope Brad is always that twinkling star above now and a true angel that I hope will hear me always.

His loving cousin,

Deanna Letourneau

Bradenton, FL

RE: Baumgardner incident

Dear Editor:

On Sept. 30, my brother [Tom] was physically assaulted while riding his bicycle back to his home in Deerfield Beach.

Allegedly, there was a verbal altercation between my brother and an individual in a truck.

The alleged attacker got out of the truck and punched my brother, leaving him with a severe brain stem injury, eye injury, multiple facial fractures and a broken clavicle. He then fled the scene, without rendering aid, leaving my brother unconscious and unresponsive in the roadway.

The Broward County Sheriff’s investigating detective tells me the alleged attacker did text a friend in the Deerfield Beach fire department and paramedics were dispatched to the scene. I have asked what that text message said and that information has not been shared with me or my family.

The medical report indicates paramedics found my brother unconscious and unresponsive and transported him to the hospital. He remained in a coma for 6 days on life support, in the hospital a total of 25 days, and then was transported to a neurologic rehabilitation center, where he remains.

I understand the alleged attacker has been questioned; however, there have been no charges filed. I have had no further update from the Broward County Sheriff’s office other than the case was presented to the state attorney with no further action.

To the individuals and friends who organized a recent fundraiser [Nov. 19 Baumfest at Tipperary Pub] to assist with my brother’s medical and living expenses, my family extends our greatest appreciation for your kindness and generosity.

To the individual who did this to my brother, I hope every day you think about how you forever changed the life of a vibrant, gainfully-employed man and that of his entire family.

Gina Firsching

Binghamton, NY

Editor’s note: At the Nov. 27 Special city commission meeting, Deerfield Beach commission decided to do the evaluation themselves regarding potential operators for the pier restaurant. [A panel presented them with a final ranking on Nov. 27.]

On Nov. 29, the commission did their own final ranking based on their individual rankings.

1. Class Act Restaurant Group LLC

2. Burgerfi (Two Together LLC)

3. Brewzzi International Inc.

According to Purchasing Manager David Santucci, the commission voted unanimously to accept the ranking and authorized staff to negotiate a lease. The lease is currently being worked on by the city attorney. The matter will come before the commission again to approve the lease.

City Attorney Andy Maurodis said, “the ranking has been approved, nothing has been awarded. It states in the RFP [Request for Proposals] that the final lease must be approved by the city commission.”

Pier Restaurant

Dear Editor:

I was taken aback by typical Deerfield Politics being played.[Nov. 29 Special city commission meeting to re-rank pier operators.] No different than in the past! They may argue with this, but it’s a very self-serving group as many of us see it.

As a resident, I am disgusted with the commission, except Joe Miller on this particular vote, though it should not count. Joe actually stood his ground last night and went with whom the staff recommended. As the staff did not play politics. They were looking out for what was best for the city, but obviously the mayor and commission thought otherwise. It’s like a broken record, I have seen and heard this before.

However, all this said, no one, including our city attorney, who I believe knew this, went ahead and let the commission proceed with giving a lease to Class Act.

I am disgusted, as many others are.

John Grassi

Deerfield Beach

Hello Mr. Grassi:

I appreciate your interest in the selection process for the Pier Restaurant operator.

The process employed last night [Nov. 29] was strictly according to the law and City Charter.

I assume your concern is with the provision of the Charter requiring a 4/5 vote prior to the award of a lease for the Pier Restaurant (Section 7.09).

I am sure you are aware that last evening no lease was awarded.

What did occur was a ranking process.The ranking was then approved by all four commissioners present. The resolution provided for negotiations with the No. 1 ranked firm with the commission having the final say in approving a lease for the Pier Restaurant if staff felt that an acceptable lease had been negotiated.

The resolution also indicates that if the city does not negotiate an acceptable lease with the No. 1 ranked firm, the commission could authorize negotiations with the No. 2 ranked firm for eventual consideration by the commission.

When an actual lease is presented to the commission for award, it must be approved by a 4/5 vote – we are not at that stage yet.

The resolution, adopted [Nov. 29] by a vote of four commissioners, should make all this clear.

1. No lease was awarded and thus Section 7.09 of the Charter is not applicable.

2. The commission merely approved a ranking and authorized negotiations; as it happens it did so by a 4/5 vote (though this was not necessary).

3. When a final lease is awarded, it will require a vote of 4/5 of the commission.

Andrew Maurodis

City Attorney, Deerfield Beach

Graffiti in Deer Run

Dear Editor:

I recently took my 3-year-old grandson, who, by the way, can read simple words, to the park in Deer Run. I was appalled by the filthy words scribbled ALL over the playground equipment.

What is wrong with kids today, who think they have the right to deface property? Where were the parents to teach them right from wrong? Trying to figure out today’s youths is ONE BIG QUESTION MARK.

Lorraine Barsher

Deerfield Beach

Shirley, where are you?

Dear Editor:

For 52 years, he enjoyed our ocean and beaches. Several weeks ago, he parked at beautiful Deerfield beach and enjoyed the blue water with rounded white caps. Then, no view. It was blocked.

A woman stood between him and his ocean. When she turned, facing him and their eyes met, he asked: “Hungry?” She nodded slightly and her silent lips murmered softly, “Thank you,” as he passed a bill to her.

Then she turned around to again face their ocean.

She turned north to where the restaurants are. She disappeared into the crowd.

Harry wants to see Shirley again – for lunch or dinner at the new restaurant across from the new pier. He will park the little red car near the No.3 lifeguard station at 4 p.m. Thursday [today] through Sunday, and watch.

Shirley, where are you?

Harry

Lighthouse Point

Flying old glory

Dear Editor:

As a merchant marine captain, I find it a ‘disgrace’ and, as a matter of fact: illegal.

What I refer to is the way the American flag is or is not displayed on vessels leaving port and especially in the Intracoastal waters. And most amazing is that the BSO vessels don’t display ‘old glory!’

If you were to go to the Bahamas and did not display their flag, as required by international law, they can confiscate your vessel!

Protocol requires the vessel fly a flag of the country you are in, or a yellow ‘quarintine’ flag.

If you were to ‘get on this issue, maybe you could change the attitude of day sailors who don’t understand that we are at war … and flying the ‘colors’ is a matter of nation pride, along with being nautical protocol!

How about starting with the new [sheriff] and asking, “Why is it that your vessels don’t have a flag painted on their safety vessels … Or, for that matter, Why don’t the ‘BSO’ officers have a flag on their uniforms and equipment.

Are they not ‘American?’

Timothy R. Browne

Deerfield Beach

City’s response gets residents’ problem solved

Dear Editor:

For the past 3 years, the county has promised to install solid concrete privacy walls along the back of our development backing up to Military Trail.

The promises started with announcement of the expansion of the road making or adding turn lanes. To date, nothing has been done. The only thing we have received from the county engineer is one empty promise upon another. Each excuse thrown out would insult the intelligence of a frog.

I have tried unsuccessfully to reach our county commissioner, to no avail. Emails sent to her office go unanswered, text messages go unanswered, a request for an appointment with her more than 3 weeks ago was granted for Nov. 19 at 3:30 p.m. That was her ONLY time.

Deer Creek is the premier property in Deerfield Beach. There are over 4,000 residents living here.

I invited all the presidents of the other HOAs, including the master association of Deer Creek, city officials, along with county representatives to attend a Homeowners Meeting, Monday, Nov. 19, in the Hidden Woods clubhouse. We need answers, not excuses.

As of Monday, the county finally got a contractor to do the work they had promised.

I spoke to Commissioner Bill Ganz and he spoke to her [the county commissioner] to get things moving. I’m gonna tell you, that guy is phenomenal! If it wasn’t for Bill, I don’t think that project would’ve gotten done.

The other people in the city of Deerfield have been absolutely wonderful … [City Manager] Burgess Hanson, [Director of Environmental Services] Charlie DaBrusco and [City Landscape Architect] Harold Hoyte have bent over backwards to help us out.

Perri Cohen

President: Wildwood of Deer Creek

Deerfield Beach

Operation Shoe Box

Dear Editor:

With the cooperation of the Howard Beach Kiwanis Club NY and the Deerfield Beach Kiwanis Club in FL, we here in Deerfield Beach, with the support of the Mayor of Deerfield, Broward Sheriff’s Office with Fire Rescue of Broward County, have acquired a warehouse and necessities for the victims of the storm in Broad Channel and Breezy Point. This is called “Operation Shoe Box.”

Volunteers are filling the shoe boxes donated by the “99 cent stores” for distribution in those affected areas. “Atlas Van lines” has donated the truck and driver. It will have a Broward Sheriff’s police escort all the way to NYC.

The Mayor of Deerfield will fly to New York to personally oversee this distribution as she, Elaine, as well as myself, are former New York residents. We are working through the Howard Beach Kiwanis Club as to local logistics and coordination with the Police Captain of the local precinct.

If anyone from Florida wants to participate, they can volunteer or donate to the following address: Kiwanis Club of Deerfield Beach, 1901 Green Rd., Pompano Beach, FL 33064. [Questions, call 954-830-5773.]

We have an approximate ETA [estimated time of arrival] of the day after Thanksgiving!

Frank Congemi

Deerfield Beach

Election date issues

Dear Editor:

On the day of the most important Presidential Election of our time, Deerfield Beach commission scheduled an official city meeting. It is not as though they have not cancelled meetings throughout October, November and December. Why this meeting on this historical day?

Was it so they could pass a resolution indicating that the next Municipal Election would take place on Tuesday, March 12, 2013? At that time, the mayor’s seat held by Peggy Noland, the District 3 seat held by term-limited Marty Popelsky, and the District 4 seat held by Bill Ganz will be up for election.

Now they take the time to set the date for the election, but when it was suggested that the date be made to coincide with this Presidential Election on Nov. 6, it was not even put to a vote.

This lack of action cost the city $62,000 that would have been saved with the date change. Many of our neighboring cities took advantage of this saving opportunity, but NOT OUR GROUP.

When a great number of our residents are struggling to make ends meet, why bypass the opportunity to save $62,000? That savings would pay the salaries of two of the commissioners, add money to our youth programs, light up the dangerous intersection in District 2, or pay back some of the money taken from city employees.

Now that they have told you that [the Municipal Election] is on Tuesday, March 12, 2013, you can tell them how you feel. Let them hear your voices.

Steve Krevoy

Deerfield Beach

Pier history

Dear Editor:

The new, beautiful, family-friendly Deerfield Beach pier facility will soon have its grand opening. [Dec. 7, 6 p.m.] Let’s not forget that back in 2004, we nearly lost this public treasure to an individual who almost got a 54- year lease on the pier property and was going to build an 18,000 sq. ft. massive restaurant and banquet facility right at the pier entrance.

The members of the Deerfield Beach Original Save Our Beach (“OSOB”) committee found out about this and sprang into action to protect the pier. We fought a long hard battle to prevent this “taking” of our public property. We had the full support of the people of Deerfield Beach, who were adamantly against the idea of giving away our pier area. Due to our love of the beach and pier area, and our firm belief it needed to be preserved for future generations, we fought the battle and the residents won.

So, as the city and its residents celebrate the opening of the new pier facility, remember that if it had not been for the “OSOB” committee and our supporters, this beautiful, family- friendly pier facility would only be a dream. www.originalsaveourbeach.org.

Pam Militello

Deerfield Beach

Congrats on 50th Anniversary!

Dear Editor:

On behalf of the staff, participants and Board of the NE Focal Point, we would like to take this opportunity to congratulate you and the Observer Team on your 50th Anniversary.

Thank you for being a wonderful community partner! We enjoy reading the Observer newspaper each week to find out about our community, friends and neighbors. Our very best wishes for continued success!

Donna DeFronzo

Director of Senior Services

NE Focal Point

“Many homes do not even have a newspaper…”

Dear Editor:

When students don’t learn, many say ‘fire the teachers.’ It is never the students who don’t do their work, nor the parents.

There are many studies completed by top colleges like Yale, etc., that say it is not the teachers, it is the parents. Their academic success is [due to] “parental involvement.” (Really?) It doesn’t matter whether private or public school? It has been proven that just having books in the house makes a huge difference in a child’s development, [compared to] if your home just has video games, TV or, like Sarah Palin, who wrote on her hand because her father used to do it.

Yes, there are crappy teachers but so are there crappy parents, cops, soldiers, politicians, sanitation men, business executives, union leaders.

Do we say ‘let’s fire cops’ because crime in their area has increased or [question] did they fix the stats?

Many homes do not even have a newspaper (like The New York Times, Washington Post or The Wall Street Journal) and sports and partying is [considered] more important than studying.

Because the truth is that:

a) Improving education is a very long process that can take many years, but can be done.

b) Improving education means improving the area where students live and who their role models are.

We need to:

c) Change values in America, where football is considered more important than science

d) Create more jobs in the economy – and we know government can only do so much.

e) Spend more and wiser in inner cities, which are still racially and economically segregated.

f) Give minorities a chance, along with our fastestgrowing group of immigrants.

g) Reduce crime by police in “bad” areas.

Marty Weisberg

Coral Springs