Be informed at the voting polls

With the primary election at the end of the month and the general election only three months away, I wondered, “What should I know before casting my vote?” I should be prepared to know who and why I will make my choice for that next senator, [congressman], circuit court judge, school board candidates [and the sheriff]. In addition, there is an amendment on the ballot — Amendment No. 4 — that will need our decision.

For most of us, there is no valid excuse for not making informed choices. With the aid of the Internet and newspapers, plus the many political advertisements crowding our mailboxes, we can do a little research to help us read up on the candidates and make those informed choices at the voting poll.

Working up to the General Election, there are a lot of speeches and debates to help us make up our mind. All it takes is a little willingness to get started. After all, this is about our government, folks, and how we want our country to be run. So, we need to get busy.

Does anyone remember the old Jay Leno “Jaywalking” skits on “The Tonight Show” years ago? Jay played “the man on the street” and he would walk around in Hollywood, CA interviewing people. He would ask them general questions about the government and the Constitution and he would get the funniest and most bizarre answers, which were so wrong. One of the funniest responses he got from a young, college girl was when he asked, “What is the first amendment of the Constitution?” Her answer was “Never cheat on your wife!” The answer to who said “give me liberty or give me death?” could be any response from John Hancock to Colonel Sanders. Of course, when one is put on the spot with cameras glaring at you, it is easy for the mind to go blank.

Now is the time to get involved and know who will be your choice for this election. Let’s exercise our right to vote and keep America the great nation that it is.

Mary “Franki” Klemyk

Lighthouse Point

By Emily Rosen

ERosen424@aol.com

www.emilyrosen424.com

I received the big envelope today — the one with a bunch of names, some of which ring a bell, others of which pull a blank – my “test” of citizenship. It’s my ballot for the local primary elections on Aug. 30 and my instinct is to put it aside and pray for the gods to fill it out judiciously for me. (Call your Supervisor of Elections if you haven’t received yours – Broward County : 954-712-1903, Palm Beach County: 561-276-1226)

Unless you’re a “party regular” or actually pay attention to the junk mail ads you get, how would you know what to believe? These people are a sea of faces with important jobs. But are, nonetheless, mostly invisible to the majority of us, including me – a political junkie – who is still faced with the dilemma of executing good choices.

Unless you make primary voting the focus of your life or you are an integral part of the inner circle of the party of your choice, you will be hard pressed to find the resources required to make informed decisions. You can tap a friend or an acquaintance, a person “who knows,” whose judgment is in alignment with your own, and copycat his or her choices, or you can follow the editorial lead of a newspaper of choice [The Observer Election issue is Aug. 25]. You can Google individual names and make judgments based on their experience, background and the position they take on issues, or you can go down the list, guessing and marking names as you used to do with multiple-choice tests in school.

www.vote411.org is a good source sponsored by the non-partisan League of Women Voters, providing information on candidates and the election process. In preparation for the Aug. 30 primary, the league has contacted each local candidate requesting that they complete questionnaires with biographical information and their positions on issues. Voters who go to this website enter their address and it shows only candidates who will be on their ballot. They can compare candidate information and even print out a ballot with their choices.

So while the kids are stocking up on their school supplies, buying new outfits and reconnecting with friends they haven’t seen all summer, it would be a good idea for you to go to “voting school” [to get informed] this month. Do you even know what district you are in? Decide on who you want for state attorney, state senator for your district, circuit judge for your judicial circuit … There are several groups on several ballots, county court judges, school board members, the office of sheriff, property appraiser, supervisor of elections, amendments to the Florida constitution and questions on local ordinances.

Boring? It may not be fun, folks – but it is the bedrock of our democracy which is the ultimate greatness of our country. If we don’t make it our business to become informed about our local governance, then we will no longer have legitimate “griping rights.” Granted — it’s not as exciting as national politics, but this is where it all begins folks.

By Dave Montalbano

http://cinemadave.livejournal.com

It has been a 27 year wait, but Ghostbusters finally appeared on the big screen full of big screen special effects. Despite the endorsement of the original cast-mates (Dan Aykroyd, Sigourney Weaver, Bill Murray, Annie Potts and Ernie Hudson) and mass marketing, the rebooted film failed to secure first place in its opening weekend, losing out to The Secret Life of Pets.

The reviews have been split evenly and decisively, with 50 percent (mostly female) feeling inspired by the film, while the other 50 percent (mostly male) feeling their childhood has been betrayed. It is true that the Ghostbusters reboot lacks the freshness of Aykroyd’s, and the late Harold Ramis’ vision; however, director and co-writer Paul Feig has created new characters that are both quirky and charming.

Professor Erin Gilbert (Kristen Wiig) is about to achieve tenure at Columbia University when an academic skeleton comes out of her past. Erin wrote a book about the paranormal with her old friend, Abby Yates (Melissa McCarthy), who now works at a low budget institute with techno-nerd Jillian Holtzmann (Kate McKinnon). After a series of mishaps involving vomiting ghosts, the three ladies form a unique business partnership.

As the paranormal activities increase, this new enterprise hires a beefcake secretary who can’t type (Chris Hemsworth) and Patty Tolan (Leslie Jones), a streetwise cabbie whose uncle (Ernie Hudson) owns a Hearst business. Together, these five individuals confront the cause of all evil in New York City.

The five main characters are the heart and the humor of the film. Kate McKinnon is the most committed to her role and often steals scenes by doing absolutely nothing. Chris Hemsworth is the most broad character. His dancing during the closing credits will keep Chippendale fans in the theater for the final frames.

Like Ghostbusters, The Secret Life of Pets is set in Manhattan. Told from the perspective of domesticated dogs and cats, the audience learns the untold adventures these animated creatures face during the daytime. This film has been the box office champion two weeks in a row. Combined with the much superior Finding Dory, animated talking animals have been the box office monarch for the Summer of 2016.

Twelve years ago, Michael Moore’s Fahrenheit 9/11 was released with much hype and remains the biggest grossing documentary ever made. Four years ago, Dinesh D’Souza’s 2016 Obama’s America was released with far less hype and became the fifth highest grossing documentary of all time.

Hillary’s America: The Secret History of the Democratic Party is D’Souzas’s look at the next chapter of American presidential history. After four years of increasing terrorist violence in America and abroad, we learn that D’Souza served jail time for making an illegal campaign contribution. While serving his sentence with murderers and thieves, D’Souza becomes more street smart and learns the rules of the con. D’Souza compares and contrasts the “street con” with the Democratic political machine and presents many similarities.

Like a good history teacher, D’Souza raises many questions. He asks why the Republican Party that was founded on an antislavery platform became perceived as the party of racist, rich, white men?

The first President of the Democratic Party was Andrew Jackson, slave owner. Abe Lincoln’s Republican Party opposed slavery. For almost a century, the Democratic Party opposed the civil rights of African American Individuals through the Jim Crow laws.

When the Civil Rights Act was created 52 years ago, it did so with a majority of Republican congressmen, though it was signed into law by President Lyndon Baines Johnson, a Democrat. This historical fact is downplayed in the recent HBO drama – All the Way starring Bryan Cranston as LBJ. From this point of American History, we learn that young Hillary Rodham was a “Goldwater Girl,” the presidential alternative to President Johnson’s reelection efforts in 1964.

Writing graduate papers about abortion-advocate Margaret Sanger and becoming streetwise thanks to the writings of Saul Alinsky, the story of Hillary Rodham-Clinton is simply told. Unfortunately, the simplicity of Hillary’s America mars the journalistic impact of the thesis. Though valid, the historical recreations featuring Ida B. Wells, President Woodrow Wilson, and Bill Clinton feel as broad as a Saturday Night Live skit.

Tonight Hillary Clinton accepts her nomination to be the first female President of the United States. Take the time to see Hillary’s America for an alternative point of view. Pay attention to the upcoming Presidential debates and then vote your conscience.

By “Cinema” Dave

http://cinemadave.livejournal.com

An entertaining big screen epic with efficient storytelling, Hunt for the Wilderpeople expands distribution this weekend. This film is an old-fashioned summer movie that deserves to be seen on the big screen. With his fourth movie under his belt, director Taika Waititi has proven his mettle and will be directing the next Disney/Marvel Superhero movie, Thor Ragnarok.

With a far more somber tone, The Innocents opens tomorrow. An official selection from the 2016 Sundance Film Festival, this film is a European drama told with English subtitles. Whereas Hunt for the Wilderpeople is an outdoor Disney-style family epic, The Innocents feels like an acclaimed Ingmar Bergman drama with deep themes. It is set in Warsaw, Poland in December of 1945.

While performing their morning prayers, a Polish nun slips out of the cloister and seeks medical assistance. After receiving directions from some street kids, the nun enters a Red Cross M.A.S.H. unit and asks Mathilde (Lou de Laage), a French female doctor, for assistance. The French doctor refuses, but later spies the Polish nun on her knees praying in the snow.

Dr. Mathile visits the nunnery and uncovers many secrets under the cloth. The brutality of the soldiers are a given, but the Head of the Cloister hides many secrets that are both hypocritical and life-affirming.

While our local weather has been beach friendly, The Shallows will make one question if it is safe to go to the beach. A modest mainstream box-office success, this film is the spiritual sequel to Jaws that audiences always wanted.

While escaping the grief of losing her mother, Nancy goes to a secluded Mexican beach to surf. While waiting for one last wave to take her into shore, she spots a dead whale. She investigates and runs afoul a man-eating shark. With echoes of The Old Man and the Sea, All is Lost and The Deep, The Shallows presents a showdown between an intelligent protagonist and a primal antagonist.

At one hour and 25 minutes, The Shallows is a simple story with enough visualization to feel like an epic experience. Director Jaume Collet-Serra provides visual clarity with sly use of special effects. As the main protagonist, Blake Lively gives a low-key performance full of intelligence and fear. The director is smart enough to slow down the film’s pace to simply allow his leading lady moments to sit and think. This film is better experienced because of these directorial choices.

Food Truck Invasion

Thursday, June 16, 5 to 10 p.m.

Quiet Waters Park

401 S. Powerline Rd.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Bring the whole family to the park and dine under the open sky. Food trucks with a wide variety of selections. For information, call 954-357-5100 or visit www.foodtruckinvasion.com.

Movies on the Lawn: The Lego Movie

Friday, June 17, 8 p.m.

Great Lawn

90 N. Pompano Beach Blvd.

Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and picnics.

NE Focal Point Annual Senior Prom

Friday, June 17, 10 to 11:30 a.m.

NE Focal Point Senior Center

227 NW 2 St.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Appearing live — Shane LeMar and The Ink Spots. Everyone encouraged to dress to impress. For information, call 954-480-4447 or e-mail tsutton@deerfield-beach.com.

Scoops with BSO’s Troops

Saturday, June 18, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

McDonald’s Restaurant

3901 W. Hillsboro Blvd.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Free event hosted by Sheriff Scott Israel. Enjoy free ice cream cones; speak with BSO personnel in a laid-back atmosphere. Also DJ, Ronald McDonald, K-9s and more.

Guided Tour of Butler House

Saturday, June 18, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Historic Butler House

380 E. Hillsboro Blvd.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Find out more about our community and the Butler House. New Alice B Gift Shop, filled with historical pictures, T-shirts and other gifts, is open.

Downtown Drive Car Show

Sunday, June 19, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Mizner Park

327 Plaza Real

Boca Raton, FL 33442

Great Father’s Day outing! Showcase of antique, classic, European sport & exotic cars. Free admission. Proceeds benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation. For more information, visit www.miznerpark.com.

Writing Workshop Program

Monday, June 20, 1 to 3 p.m.

Century Village Clubhouse

2400 Century Blvd.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Must be Century Village resident. Twice a week – Monday and Friday. Six sessions for $50. Bring paper and pen or pencil; be prepared to write. In each session, you will find out what you should write and bring to the following class. During class, you will have the chance to read whatever you write aloud and receive feedback from the group. For more information, call Kimberly Dove at Bay Management, 954-428-6892, ext. 4 .

Tuesday Night Beach Dance

Tuesday, June 21, 7 to 9 p.m.

Main Beach Parking Lot

149 SE 21 Ave.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Total Recall will be playing for your entertainment and dancing pleasure. Wear your dancing shoes and bring your beach chair for a fun evening under the stars. Free. Call 954-480-4429 for information.

Zonta Membership Reception

Tuesday, June 21, 5:30 to 7 pm.

DoubleTree Hilton

100 Fairway Dr.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Prospective members and guests can learn about organization and service projects.Visit www.zontadeerfieldbeach.org or contact Sandy Manning at 561-392-2223 or bosanboc@bellsouth.net.

Butterfly Gardening event

Saturday, June 18, 8 a.m. to noon

Recycling Drop Off Center

401 SW 4 St.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

City of Deerfield Beach needs help expanding its butterfly garden. All ages and abilities welcome. Receive a free plant, T-shirt and light lunch. R.S.V.P. to hmarshall@deerfield-beach.com or call 954-480-1420.

Basketball Camp: Kenny Boynton’s Train Like A Pro Weekend

Friday, June 24 through Saturday, June 25

Highlands Christian Academy

501 NE 48 St.

Pompano Beach, FL 33064

Think, train, perform like a pro. K-12th grade. Limited space. Also includes Elite Training Clinic: Sunday, June 26, Coral Springs Rec. Ctr. Register now at: arcitecbasketball.com

Worth the Drive: Repticon

Saturday, June 18, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Universal Palms Hotel & Conference Center

4900 Powerline Rd.

Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309

Hundreds of reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, spiders and small exotic animals to see. Top breeders and vendors offering animals, merchandise, cages, supplies, and expert advice about animals, their habitats, feeding and care. $10 adults, $5 children 5 to12; children under 5 free. VIP tickets available online at www.reptiday.com/ftlauderdale.html.

Extreme Kayak Fishing Summer SLAM, Part One

Saturday, June 18

Just south of the Pompano Beach Pier

Bring your family for a fun day, including The Sunshine Sup Series paddle board races, Free SUP and kayak demos on the beach, lots of free goodies from the 50+ vendors! The Copper Tones will be performing live on stage from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Weigh in at 2:30 p.m. Also join the kick-off party June 16, 6 to 9 p.m., Bru’s Room, 235 S. Federal Hwy., Pompano Beach, FL 33062. For more information, visit www.extremekayakfishingtournament.org.

Splash Adventure

Thursday June 2, 9:30 a.m. to 5:20 p.m.

Quiet Waters Park

401 S. Powerline Rd.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

All ages. $5.25 plus tax per session. The park’s regular gate entrance fee of $1.50 per person (children 5 and under free) will be in effect. Coolers are now permitted in the aquatics area. Food and drinks available for purchase. No glass containers and no alcoholic beverages permitted. For more information, contact the park office at 954-357-5100.

Food Truck Invasion

Thursday, June 2, 5 to 10 p.m.

Quiet Waters Park

401 S. Powerline Rd.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Bring the whole family to the park and dine under the open sky. Food trucks with a wide variety of selections.

For information, visit www.foodtruckinvasion.com or call 954-357-5100.

22nd Annual Hope Floats Sidewalk Sale for JDRF

Friday, June 3 through Sunday, June 5

11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily

The Fresh Market

100 W. Camino Real

Boca Raton, FL 33432

Each of The Fresh Market’s 175 stores will offer hot dogs, root beer floats and ice cream sundaes (regular and sugar-free), each for a $2 donation. 100 percent of funds raised will benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), whose goal is to prevent and end Type 1 diabetes.

The Ultimate Music Game Show

Friday, June 3, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Skolnick Community Center

800 SW 36 Ave.

Pompano Beach, FL 33069

The Ultimate Music Game Show hosted by Doug Shannon. This interactive and engaging event includes snippets of stories with trivia questions, Name That Tune (and Artist) and Let’s Make a Deal all rolled up into one. Prizes. Free family event. For information, call 954-786-4590.

Rainforest Planting Day

Saturday, June 4, 9 a.m. to noon

Deerfield Beach Arboretum

2841 W. Hillsboro Blvd.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Come out and help plant new rainforest exhibit. Plenty of work for everyone including planting, fertilizing, watering and simply cheering others on. Lunch and drinks provided. Wear close-toed shoes and bring work gloves. Email jerry@treezoo.com or call 954-234-1002 for information. See more on Pg. 7.

6th Annual Board Swap & Sample Sale

Saturday, June 4, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Island Water Sports

1985 NE 2 St.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Hey surfers, ready to get rid of your old board and get something new? Now is the time to turn in your board and swap it out. Raffle, discounts, and Kiwanis fundraiser for surf camp scholarships (www.islandcamps.com).

Call 954-427-4929 or visit www.islandwatersports.com.

Butler House Tour

Saturday, June 4, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Historic Butler House

380 E. Hillsboro Blvd.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Guided tours of the Historic Butler House. New Alice B. Gift Shop now open.

Kid’s Discovery Day

Saturday, June 4, 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Community Presbyterian Church

1920 SE 4 St. (Briggs Hall)

Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Fun family event. Activity stations featuring gardening, fishing, soccer, Capoeira, arts and crafts, knitting, music, face painting and more. For information, call 954-427-0222.

Tuesday Night Beach Dance

Tuesday, June 7, 7 to 9 p.m.

Main Beach Parking Lot

149 SE 21 Ave.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Total Recall will be playing for your entertainment and dancing pleasure. Wear your dancing shoes and bring your beach chair for a fun evening under the stars. Free.

Call 954-480-4429 for information.

Save the Date!

Tommy James and the Shondells perform

Saturday, June 11, 8 p.m.

Pompano Amphitheatre

1801 NE 6 St.

Pompano Beach, FL 33060

The legendary act will be playing all their classic hits, including “Crimson & Clover,” “Crystal Blue Persuasion,” “Mony, Mony” and more. Purchase tickets at Ticketmaster.com. For information visit www.PompanoBeachArts.org or call 954-519-5500.

Save the Date!

Summer Music Festival and Wing Warrior Contest

Saturday, June 11, Noon to 6 p.m.

Oveta McKeithen Recreational Complex

445 SW 2 St.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Celebrate the tastes, smells, sights and sounds of summer at the City of Deerfield Beach’s Annual Summer Music Festival. This year includes Wing Warrior Contest! Free, family friendly event will feature live music by DJ Big Man Kelly, Joey Gilmore, Skotch Bonnett Band, and Howard Hewett. Plenty of entertainment, and a kid’s zone. Arts, crafts and food vendors. No outside food or beverages allowed. Call 954-480-4429 for information.

Hillsboro Inlet to Palm Beach Regatta

June 3 & 4

Pavilion of the Chalfonte

500 S. Ocean Blvd.

Boca Raton, FL 33432

• Friday, June 3

— 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.: Pre-Race Party

• Saturday, June 4

— 7 a.m.: Skippers Meeting

— Race starting at 10 a.m., with three more “starts” in five minute increments.

— 4:30 to 6 p.m.: Cocktails

— 6 to 7 p.m.: Dinner

— 7:30 to 8 p.m: Awards

Race starts just north of Hillsboro Inlet and concludes at Palm Beach Inlet. $50 entry fee includes one dinner; additional dinners $30 each. To register and for details, visit www.regattanetwork.com.

Family Fun Day: Rockstar Day

Saturday, May 28, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Pompano Citi Centre

1955 N. Federal Hwy.

Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Plenty of family fun with performances, dress like a rock star station, video games, arts and crafts, $1 carousel rides and much more. Free. Call 954-943-4693 or visit www.pompanociticentre.com for more information.

Tuesday Night Beach Dance

Tuesday, May 31, 7 to 9 p.m.

Main Beach Parking Lot

149 SE 21 Ave.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Total Recall will be performing for your entertainment and dancing pleasure. Wear your dancing shoes and bring your beach chair for a fun evening under the stars. Free. Call 954-480-4429 for information.

Splash Adventure

Thursday June 2, 9:30 a.m. to 5:20 p.m.

Quiet Waters Park

401 S. Powerline Rd.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

All ages. $5.25 plus tax/person per session. The park’s regular gate entrance fee of $1.50/person (children 5 and under free) will be in effect. Coolers are now permitted in the aquatics area. Food and drinks available for purchase. No glass containers or alcoholic beverages permitted. For more information, contact the park office at 954-357-5100.

Food Truck Invasion

Thursday, June 2, 5 to 10 p.m.

Quiet Waters Park

401 S. Powerline Rd.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Bring the whole family to the park and dine under the open sky. Food trucks with a wide variety of selections. For information, visit www.foodtruckinvasion.com or call 954-357-5100.

Worth the Drive!: Ft. Lauderdale Home Design and Remodeling Show

Friday, May 27, 4 to 9:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 28 & Sunday May 29, noon to 9:30 p.m.

Monday, May 30, Noon to 7:30 p.m.

Broward County Convention Center

1950 Eisenhower Blvd.

Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316

An amazing marketplace of home renovation and design products, featuring celebrity designers, landscape designers, artists and chefs. Home improvement products from the smallest to the largest. Admission: $10 adults, $1 children under 11. Visit www.homeshows.net.

Free weekly naturalist-led tours

• Thursdays every week, 10 a.m. Quiet Waters Park, 401 S. Powerline Rd., Deerfield Beach, FL 33442. Meet at Harbin Butterfly & Bird Sanctuary, adjacent to Ski Rixen.

• Third Friday every month, 10 a.m., Military Trail Natural Area, 4600 NW 9 Ave., Deerfield Beach, FL 33442. For information, call Quiet Waters Park at 954-357-5100.

MEMORIAL DAY EVENTS

DEERFIELD

• Commemorative Ceremony

Sunday, May 29, noon to 2 p.m.

Historic Butler House

380 E. Hillsboro Blvd.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

The Deerfield Beach Historical Society and local veterans groups will honor members of the military who lost their lives in service to our country. The ceremony will include the presentation of the colors, an invocation, singing of the national anthem, a 21-gun salute, a concert of patriotic music, and commemorations by local public officials and citizens. Free. Picnic-style food available for purchase. Bring a blanket or chair to sit on the lawn. Park within walking distance at the Post Office, Deerfield Beach Woman’s Club Building or City Hall. Call 954-428-0378 for information, or e-mail elilly707@aol.com.

• Pier Ceremony

Monday, May 30, 11 a.m.

Deerfield Beach International Fishing Pier

200 NE 21 Ave.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

The City of Deerfield Beach and the American Legion will hold a Memorial Day Ceremony on the fishing pier. This year, a plaque will be dedicated to Specialist Daniel Courtney Lawson, a graduate of Deerfield Beach High School, who lost his life during deployment in Afghanistan in 2009. Parking at Main Beach Parking Lot, 149 SE 21 Ave. Reserved seating available for veterans, call 954-480-4429.

Note: City Hall closed for Memorial Day.

POMPANO

• Commemorative Ceremony

Monday, May 30

— 9 a.m.

Westview Cemetery

NW 18 Ave., Pompano Beach, FL 33069

— 11 a.m.

Pompano Beach Cemetery

400 SE 23 Ave., Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Both ceremonies in Pompano Beach are conducted by the American Legion Post 142.

BOCA RATON

• Commemorative Ceremony

Monday, May 30, 9 a.m.

Boca Raton Municipal Cemetery

451 SW 4 Ave.

Boca Raton, FL 33432

Laying of wreath and ceremony to honor those who gave their lives.

• Memorial Day Concert

Monday, May 30, 7 p.m.

Mizner Park Amphitheatre

590 Plaza Real

Boca Raton, FL 33432

New Gardens Band, Inc presents Indian River Pops Orchestra in “An American Tribute,” featuring the Robert Sharon Chorale. Full concert band will play patriotic music under the direction of Dwight Robert Roadman. Free. Call 561-393-7995 for information.

This election cycle has produced an ongoing war of words between opposing candidates. And while it is not a new phenomenon in the contest to attain a political office, the growth of Twitter and other social media platforms has increased the exposure that candidates and their words normally receive. In this season, the demeaning and destructive tone of political rhetoric has resounded among both of the dominant parties of this country. Many are beginning to lament that what ought to be a contest of ideas has degraded to carefully crafted attacks intended to destroy one’s opponent.

In his observation of human life and behavior, King Solomon concluded that “death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Proverbs 18:21). There is a power inherent in words to set or change the course of a person’s life and destiny. Our earliest awareness of this is during childhood, when kind words spoken to us make us feel good about ourselves whereas harsh words create hurt, fear, or sadness. The old expression “sticks and stones may break my bones but names can never harm me” was not true at all. Name calling, especially among children and the emotionally fragile, can inflict grievous psychological and spiritual injury. Consider the effect that bullying has on young people who felt trapped, and who gave in to despair.

We must be careful to monitor what we say in conversation with each other. Even as adults we are not immune to the effects of positive or negative discourse. An ill-timed word can quickly create an argument, but a well-placed word can just as soon quiet a verbal tempest. What we say is important, and how we say it is even more so. Our thought life is affected primarily by the words that we hear or read throughout our lives, and we communicate chiefly through our speech and conversations. How much easier would it be for us to live together if we were more encouraging, helpful, and kind with our words?

Jesus taught that we will be called into account for the things that we say. In Matthew 12:36-37 He stated, “But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.”

It is true that the intense emotions of our particular circumstances can often be the stimulus for hasty speech and unplanned outbursts, but a well-managed demeanor is a characteristic of mature individuals. Constantly apologizing for words that were spoken can be indicative of a problem that one should seek help in correcting. Those who excuse their harsh and critical language may discover that their words will return to haunt them one day.

Perhaps this is why King David demonstrated an awareness of the power of words in some of his psalms. He advised, “Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies” in Psalm 34:13. And he prayed that God would approve of his conversations in Psalm 19:14, “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.” That sounds like good practice and a good petition for all of us to mimic and employ in our interaction with each other. Choose your words carefully for they have power to bring about both good and bad.

Bishop Patrick L. Kelly is the pastor of Cathedral Church of God, 365 S. Dixie Hwy., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441, 954-427-0302.

Food Truck Invasion

Thursday, April 21, 5 to 10 p.m.

Quiet Waters Park

401 S. Powerline Rd.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Food trucks with a wide variety of selections. For information, visit www.foodtruckinvasion.com or call 954-357-5100.

Pompano Beach Seafood Festival

Friday, April 22 through Sunday, April 24

Friday, 5 to 10 p.m.

Saturday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Sunday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Atlantic Boulevard at the beach

Great food, live music on three stages, 160 arts and crafts booths, two food courts offering both seafood and non-seafood items. Tickets at the door or online. Admission is $10 on Friday, $15 on Saturday and Sunday. Children12 and under free. A free trolley service runs on Atlantic Boulevard. Visit www.pompanobeachseafoodfestival.com or call 954-570-7785.

Tour the Historic Butler House

Saturday, April 23, 10 to 2 p.m.

Historic Butler House

380 E. Hillsboro Blvd.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Learn about the heritage of Deerfield Beach’s farming pioneers, including the Butlers. Donations welcome.

BSO Motorcycle Rodeo

Saturday, April 23, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Pompano Citi Centre Mall

1955 N. Federal Hwy.

Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Twenty local law enforcement agencies will take part in challenging motorcycle courses. Family activities, food vendors and fun. Free. For more information, visit www.southeastpolice.com or call 954-288-7201.

Pancake and Matzo Brie Breakfast

Saturday, April 23, 8 to 11 a.m.

Oveta McKeithen Recreational Complex

445 SW 2 St.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Kiwanis West fundraiser breakfast offers pancakes, sausages, juice and coffee, and, this time, Matzo Brie for our Jewish friends who are celebrating Passover. $10 for adults; $5 for children 3-12 years. Proceeds benefit the Children’s Literacy Program and high school scholarships. For information, or to purchase tickets, contact Jan at 954-805-5068 or Velemina at 954-600-2159.

Spring Yard Sale

Saturday, April 23 and Saturday April 30

8 a.m. to noon

St. Peter’s Anglican Church

1416 SE 2 Terr.

Deerfield Beach, Fl 33441

Air-conditioned indoor yard sale! Great variety of items priced to sell. Rain or shine event. Call 954-695-0336 for information.

114th Anniversary of the First Zion Missionary Baptist Church

Sunday, April 24, 11 a.m.

First Zion Missionary Baptist Church

125 SW 1 Ct.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Come and celebrate. Guest speaker Minister Ernest Gonder. Reverend Theodus T. Tines II presiding. Call 954-428-1550 for more information.

Deerfield Farmers Market plus Garage Sale

Sunday, April 24, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Pioneer Park

NE 5 Ave.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Free. Farmers Market has farm fresh produce, honey, pickles, jellies and more. Garage sale may have that rare item you’ve been seeking! Vendor spaces cost $20.

Junior Bass Fishing Tournament

Sunday, April 24, 6 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Quiet Waters Park

401 S. Powerline Rd.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Ages 12 to 17. Participants must be accompanied by an adult age 18 or older. The angler making the most points in tournament wins the title of Junior Bass Angler of the Year. $85 per person tournament fee. The park’s entrance fee of $1.50 per person (children 5 and under free) will be in effect. For information, call Bob Newland at 954-214-8771.

Mardi Gras Casino trip

Tuesday, April 26, 10 a.m. departure time

St. Ambrose Catholic Church

380 S. Federal Hwy.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

St. Ambrose Men’s Club trip to the Mardi Gras Casino. Bus transportation provided. Must have a Mardi Gras Casino Player’s Card, driver’s license or passport. $15 per person includes bus, $5 free play and $3 food coupon. Call Jerry Mann, 954-856-6062.

Democratic Club Meeting with Sheriff Scott Israel

Wednesday, April 27, 7:30 p.m.

Emma Lou Olson Civic Center

1801 NE 6 St.

Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Broward County Sheriff Scott Israel will talk about the use of body cameras by law enforcement agencies, now coming into effect at the BSO. Free, open to public. Refreshments. Call 954-783-8232.

Save the Date: Spaghetti Dinner

Friday, April 29, noon to 7 p.m.

First Zion Missionary Baptist Church

125 SW 1 Ct.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Dinner includes spaghetti, salad, garlic bread and soda. Donation: $5 per person/$15 per family of 6. Each additional person $2. For information, call Lorrine Cummings, 954-421-0592.

Food Distribution

Friday, April 15, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

House of God

600 NW 18 Ave.

Pompano Beach, FL 33069

State representative Gwyndolen Clarke-Reed, Farm Share Inc. and the City of Pompano Beach have teamed up to offer this event. Items include fresh produce and fruits, as well as baked goods, and other items. Open to the public, bring your own bags. For more information, call 954-786-4848.

Movies on the Lawn: The Good Dinosaur (in 3-D)

Friday, April 15, 8 p.m.

Great Lawn

90 N. Pompano Beach Blvd.

Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and a picnic!

Arboretum Plant Sale

Saturday, April 16, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Deerfield Beach Arboretum

2841 W. Hillsboro Blvd.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Shop for a wide range of beautiful plants!

Festivus Fitness Games

Saturday, April 16, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Crossfit Barracuda

740 S. Deerfield Beach Ave., #7

Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Fourth annual Festivus Games Fitness Competition for beginner, intermediate and master athletes. Water provided; food vendors. Spectators free; $75 to compete. Register at www.festivusgames.com/register/537.

Tour the Historic Butler House

Saturday, April 16, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Historic Butler House

380 E. Hillsboro Blvd.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Learn about the heritage of Deerfield Beach’s farming pioneers, including the Butlers. Donations welcome.

Relay for Life

Saturday, April 16 at 6 p.m. to

sunrise on Sunday, April 17

Quiet Waters Park

401 S. Powerline Rd.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

This beloved annual event honors cancer survivors, remembers those who were lost and raises money for cancer prevention and cure. Food, entertainment, vendor booths, and more. For the Survivor Dinner, call Anais Vu at 954-200-7533. For event registration and information, visit www.relayforlife.org/dblpfl, or contact Event Co-Chairs Karen Hardy at karengle@yahoo.com or Kenny Brighton at kennyjbrighton@gmail.com.

Beach Tennis Tournament

Sunday, April 17, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

South of Pompano Beach Pier (South side)

222 N. Pompano Beach Blvd.

Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Categories include Men’s Doubles and Women’s Doubles, Mixed Doubles, Singles. RSVP online by Thursday, April 14 at www.beachtennis.us.

History at High Noon

Wednesday, April 20, Noon to 1 p.m.

Deerfield Beach City Commission Chambers

150 NE 2 Ave.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Presenter Derek T. Davis, Curator of the Old Dillard Museum, will the share a PowerPoint presentation. Donations welcome.

Save the Date! Pompano Beach Seafood Festival

Friday, April 22 through Sunday, April 24

Friday, 5 to 10 p.m.

Saturday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Sunday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Atlantic Boulevard & Pompano beach

Great food, live music on three stages, 160 arts and crafts booths, two food courts offering both seafood and non-seafood items. Tickets at the door or online. Admission is $10 on Friday, $15 on Saturday and Sunday. Children12 and under free. A free trolley service runs on Atlantic Boulevard. Visit www.pompanobeachseafoodfestival.com or call 954-570-7785.

9th Annual Pig Out ‘n Deerfield Beach

Saturday, Apr. 30, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Quiet Waters Park, Shelter #10

401 S. Powerline Rd.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Prepare to Pig Out! Deerfield’s annual BBQ competition features both professional and backyard cooks, SingOut@PigOut singing contest, live music, Wyatt Earp Wild West Show, Kid’s Corner activities, vendors for food and drink. Everyone can sample the contestant’s entries and vote for the People’s Choice! $15 per person, or 4 for $40. Visit www.deerfieldchamber.com.

Worth the Drive: 37th Annual Hatsume Fair

Saturday, April 16 to Sunday, April 17

11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

4000 Morikami Park Rd.

Delray Beach, FL 33446

Three stages of continuous entertainment, rows of artisans and vendors, a Japanese food market, specialty sake and beer selections and so much more! $15 for adults (ages 11+) and $10 for children (ages 4-10). Discounted tickets and 2-day passes available online. Museum members and children 3 and under free. For information and tickets visit www.morikami.org/hatsume or call 561-495-0233.

Tortuga Music Festival

Friday, April 15 to Sunday, April 17

Friday, 1 p.m. to 10:15 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 10:15 p.m.

Ft. Lauderdale Beach Park

1100 Seabreeze Blvd.

Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316

Superstar headliners include Blake Shelton, Tim McGraw, Dierks Bentley, as well as dozens of other artists including Billboard’s Top New Country Artist of 2015 and rising star Kelsea Ballerini. This oceanfront event includes sun, songs, and sand, as well as an exclusive viewing deck with a pool for VIP attendees. Tickets are now available at www.tortugamusicfestival.com.