By Rachel Galvin

The cooler weather was a refreshing change for the participants of this year’s Dunn’s Run.

For the 18^th year, the large crowd lined up behind the starting line for the 5K walk/ run and 5 mile run benefitting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County.

With a time of 16:59, Gabe Leitz was the first to cross the finish line. A winner last year as well, Leitz was barely breathing hard after the race, although he said, “I sound better than I feel.”

Gabe Leitz, winner of 5K race, was the first across the finish line.

The first woman across was Valerie Mebane with a time of 20:17. She had to walk it off following the run, but had her training partner with her to cheer her on.

The five mile winners came in at 26:21 and 29:39, respectively, Chris Miller and Alice Henley, who easily got lost among the crowd, which gradually took over the street to welcome the runners and walkers.

Besides the race, there also were plenty of vendor booths to peruse and several types of auctions conducted following, as well as the awards ceremony.

To see all the results, visit www.splitsecondtiming.com.

See more pictures in the October 9 issue of Observer Newspaper. SEE VIDEO ON OBSERVER TV!

Free High Holiday Services

Friday Oct. 3, 7 p.m. Kol Nidrei, Saturday, Oct. 4, 9:30 a.m (prayers), noon (yizkor memorial)

Chabad of Lighthouse Point 4081 N. Federal Hwy. #100A Lighthouse Point, FL 33064

Spend Yom Kippur with Chabad. No tickets required, no affiliation and no membership. www.JewishLHP.com or 347-410-1106.

Blessing of the Animals

Saturday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m.

Saint Peter’s Anglican Church 1416 SE 2 Terr. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

A special service to bless our pets and all animals. Safely leashed pets welcome. 954-695-0336 or www. stpetersdeerfield.org.

About Boating Safely

Saturday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Spanish River Park HQ 3939 N. Ocean Blvd. Boca Raton, FL 33431

Everyone who completes the class is given a certificate and will be sent a Florida Boating ID card, which is required for boaters under 26 years. The course also is valuable for anyone new to Florida boating or needs a classroom “safe boating” class. In addition, many insurance companies give annual discounts for completing this course. The topics include boating terminology, boat handling, navigation rules, aids to navigation, federal and Florida regulations, safety equipment and other boating techniques. Bring lunch. Materials fee is $35. For questions or RSVP, call 561-391-3600 and leave a message.

Program 1: Beethoven Lives Upstairs

Sunday, Oct. 5, 3 p.m.

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

Music by Beethoven’s contemporaries, friends and competitors, features music by Reicha, Hummel, Weber, Schubert and Haydn. Tickets are $20 for general admission and $15 for students and seniors. As always, children under 12 are free. Tickets are available at www.sfcemusic. com or by calling 954-803-3762.

Sheffield Brothers perform

Sunday, Oct. 5, 3 to 4 p.m.

Boca Raton Downtown Library 400 NW 2 Ave. Boca Raton, FL 33441

Renowned local entertainers, The Sheffield Brothers, will be performing at the Sunday Matinee Music Series Concert. The concert is sponsored by the Friends of the Boca Raton Library and is open to the public, free admission. Register at www.bocalibraryorg to reserve your seat. Call 561- 299-8684 for information.

Save the date: On-Site Mammovan

Monday, Oct. 13, 2014. 8:00 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Festival Flea Market Mall 2900 W. Sample Rd. Pompano Beach, FL 33073

In honor of Festival Flea Market Mall’s support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month throughout October, the mall will host a one-day event where guests will have the convenience of receiving a mammogram screening in the Boca Raton Regional Hospital MammoVan. Price is $0 to $75, depending on insurance. Appointments are required and can be scheduled by calling 561-955-4700 or online at BRRH.com/MammoVan. For additional information, call 954-979-4555 x135.

Save the date: “Love the Body Your In”

Saturday, Oct, 25 & Sunday, Oct. 26, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Marriott Fort Lauderdale 1200 N. Ocean Blvd. Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Pure BodyLove Retreat gives attendees the opportunity to transform their health, wealth and love while learning to eliminate self-limiting beliefs, and heal their bodies and minds holistically. Through a series of workshops and presentations, attendees will learn the tools to create their own healing protocol. Hosted by Healthy Healing Habits and Melissa S Binkley International, LLC. To find out about all aspects of event, including VIP party and red carpet, visit www.purebodyloveretreats.com.

Mammopalooza

Broward Health encourages everyone to get their mammograms. Weekend and evening hours available. Most insurance accepted, or self-pay $115 cash or credit. Appointment includes a mammography screening and review by a board-certified radiologist. Everyone who has a mammogram will receive a special gift. Appointments strongly encouraged. Walk-ins welcome Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Find a location near you. Call 954-759-7500 to schedule your mammogram, or visit www.BrowardHealth.org/ mammo.

Dunn’s Run

Saturday, Oct. 4, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. – Packet pickup/ registration

Sunday, Oct. 5, 7:30 a.m. –race day!

Held on Deerfield beach, Dunn’s Run is an annual 5K Walk & Run/ 5 Mile Run that benefits Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County. Racers can sign up and support the cause, competing for awards. People can also come out and cheer them on and browse through vendor booths. It makes for a fun morning on the beach. For more information, See pg 1 or visit www.DunnsRun.com.

2nd Annual Festi-Fall Arts & Craft Show

Saturday, Sept. 27, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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

$2. Arts & crafts, food items and gift baskets and stage entertainment. Benefits Women in Distress and Zonta initiatives. Sponsored by Zonta Club of Greater Deerfield Beach.

Sundays at the Butler House

Sunday, Sept. 28, 2-5 p.m.

The Butler House 380 E. Hillsboro Blvd. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Free entrance. Classic car display by Russ G. Events. Music of the ‘60s and ‘70s, with DJ Talani. Entertainment, food, exhibits, tours, special displays and more.

CRA Business Resource Center Job Fair

Monday, Sept. 29, 3 to 7 p.m.

E. Pat Larkins Community Center 520 Hammondville Rd./MLK Jr. Blvd. Pompano Beach, FL

The Pompano Beach CRA Business Resource Center will be hosting a job fair with a mix of companies from a variety of industries. For more information, call 954-586-1132.

Toastmasters Open House – Deerfield

Monday, Sept. 29, 7 p.m.

Old Schoolhouse 323 NE 2 St. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

FREE. Presentation: How to improve your listening skills.

10th Annual Museum Day Live

Saturday Sept. 27

The Butler House 380 E. Hillsboro Blvd. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

The Butler House Museum will open its doors free of charge with a Museum Day Live ticket, which can be downloaded at Smithsonian.com/museumdaylive. 954-429-0378, www.Deerfield-History.org.

Dunn’s Run Registration Packet Pick-Up & Party

Saturday, Sept. 27, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Two Georges at the Cove 1754 SE 3 Ct. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Register for the popular 5K Walk & Run/ 5 Mile Run, which will be held Oct. 5. It benefits the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County. Also, registration on Oct. 4, from 11 a.m. to 3 p..m. at Oceans 234, 234 N. Ocean Blvd., Deerfield Beach 33441. For more information, call 954-537-1010 or email dcox@bgcbc.org , or visit www.DunnsRun.com.

Dixieland/Swing With Dancing

Sunday, Sept. 28, 1 to 4 p.m.

Pompano Beach Elks Lodge 700 NE 10 St. Pompano Beach, FL 33060

$10. Presented by the Hot Jazz & Alligator Gumbo Society. 954-563-5390 or 561-809-6410.

NE Focal Point Senior Center Open House

Tuesday, Sept. 30, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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

Experience first-hand all of our classes, programs and services. Dr. Mohsin Jaffer and Dr. Noel Mora will speak. Tours, entertainment, interactive activities, exhibits, light refreshments, raffle. Also volunteer opportunities for Senior Center, Preschool, Multi-Cultural Adult Day Care, Alzheimer’s Day Care Center and Thrift Shop. 954-480-4447 or email tsutton@deerfield-beach.com .

Toastmasters – Boca Raton

Tuesday, Oct. 2, 12:15 to 1:15 p.m.

Train Depot Countess de Hoernle Pavilion 747 S. Dixie Highway Boca Raton, FL 33432

Free. Improve public speaking and leadership abilities. Ongoing every Tuesday. 561-251-4164.

ZUMBA Fitness Class

The City of Deerfield Beach Parks & Recreation Department will be starting ZUMBA Fitness Classes at Westside Park, 445 SW 2 St., on Sept. 30. This class is low impact for beginners and takes place on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 9:50 a.m. Registration is $7 per class for walk-ins or you may purchase a package of 10 classes for $60. Bring a friend and get a free class!

For more information, contact Westside Park at 954- 480-4481.

The spirit of a man will sustain him in sickness, but who can bear a broken spirit? Proverbs 18:14

Life’s challenges can be successfully overcome when one’s spirit, inner being, is strong and healthy.

The power of one’s inner drive is undeniable in attempting and accomplishing great feats.

Mental fortitude, control of one’s thoughts, disciplined reactions, and an optimistic outlook are traits of a healthy spirit.

Solomon’s observations about life revealed that even physical sickness cannot break down a person whose spirit is healthy. The will to live and survive often sustains the one facing an infirmity.

The importance of the spirit to our management of life however, is shown in the reality that when it is broken, life is unbearable. If a healthy spirit enables us to face unhealthy situations in life, how are we to go on when our spirit is unhealthy and broken? When the thing that you rely on for support becomes unstable, what do you do?

We live in a world where many things threaten to break our spirits. Stress from work, financial, family and personal issues are taking a toll on far too many. The pressures of life have driven some over the edge and left others teetering close to the brink.

Solomon does not offer a solution so much as make the observation, but perhaps he wanted us to consider the need to maintain a healthy spirit. Our bodies are kept in health by a proper diet and exercise. What are we feeding and ingesting in our inner being? What are we listening to that may be affecting us for good or for bad? What kind of thoughts are constantly streaming through our minds informing our attitude and disposition? What do we possess internally that will help us to address the external issues that we face daily?

It has been discovered that a common trait among successful people is that they meditate at least once a day.

The ability to sit silently, close out the world, and concentrate on one’s inner self has been proven to be therapeutic and advantageous to a person’s wellbeing. Meditating upon God’s mercies, His love, and His plans for us help believers to maintain a healthy spirit.

Solomon’s father, David, remarked in one of his Psalms, “I would have fainted had I not believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living” (Psalm 27:13). Thinking about and anticipating God’s favor upon his life sustained David in some harrowing experiences (facing a lion, a bear, a giant, and a jealous king).

If your spirit is unhealthy or broken, you can regain vitality by feeding it with the instruction and promises of Scripture.

Connect or re-connect with God in a relationship that recognizes His sovereignty and your dependence upon Him. Meditate upon His truth and strengthen your inner man through obedience and faith. Allow your thoughts to be directed by what is good, pure, right, just, honest and lovely. Let your attitude inform you how to respond to adversity, rather than be emotionally driven by the circumstances of your life.

Live selflessly and learn to love your neighbor as yourself.

Be thankful for the good things you have experienced, for lessons learned in adversity, and for the people who bring out the best in you.

Practice kindness and hospitality daily. Laugh often and smile consistently. These are the types of activities that promote a healthy spirit.

Strengthen your spirit and transform your outlook. Transform your outlook and watch how it will affect your life.

Bishop Patrick L. Kelly is the Pastor of Cathedral Church of God, 365 S. Dixie Hwy, Deerfield Beach, FL 33441, 954-427-0302. The Church just celebrated its 90th Anniversary over Labor Day weekend — 1924-2014.

Pompano Beach CERT Classes

Begins Thursday, Sept. 18, 6 to 9 p.m.

Pompano Beach Fire Rescue Training Center 180 SW 3 St. Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Classes held every Thursday for eight consecutive weeks. Training is free. Residency is not a requirement. www.pompanobeachfl.gov/getready or call 954-786-4510.

AARP Driver Safety Program

Thursday, Sept. 18, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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

Save money, earn discount on insurance and update driving skills. $20 ($15 for AARP members). For ages 50+. Limited space, reservations required. Call 954-480-4447 or email tsutton@deerfield-beach.com.

Free Safety Day/ Car Seat checks

Saturday, Sept. 20, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Lou Bachrodt Chevrolet 1801 W. Atlantic Blvd. Pompano Beach, FL 33069

Free. Certified car seat installation technicians will install and/or inspect your car seat, making sure it’s properly installed and in good condition. Fun activities for children and equipment displays by BSO and Pompano Beach Fire Rescue.

Part of Child Passenger Safety Week, Sept. 14-20. Created by Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue, Broward Sheriff’s Office Pompano Beach District, Pompano Beach Fire Rescue, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital at Memorial and Safe Kids Broward County.

Additionally, car seat safety checks are offered at many BSO law enforcement district offices. If you can’t make the safety day event and want to schedule an appointment for a free car seat safety check, call the BSFR life safety educators at 954-831-8210 or visit www.sheriff.org for more safety tips and information.

Deerfield Beach Taste of the Islands

Saturday, Sept. 20, noon to 7 p.m.

Westside Park 445 SW 4 St. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Experience the culture of the Caribbean Islands and Brazil. Variety of foods and cold beverages from this region (available for purchase), arts and crafts booths, kid’s zone with waterslides, free live entertainment. Complimentary shuttle service available: Main Beach Parking Lot (149 SE 21 Ave.) to Westside Park. Shuttle service will continuously run: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Visit www.deerfield-beach.com/toti or call 954-480-4429.

I Am Complete Woman’s Club Wellness Workshop

Saturday, Sept. 20, 1:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Lakeside Terrace 7880 Glades Rd. Boca Raton, FL 33434

Fun, informative event focused in improving your health naturally. Limited space. http://on.fb.me/1qNgA4S

Beach Tennis G-4 Tournament

Sunday, Sept. 21, 9:30 a.m. (check-in)

222 N. Pompano Beach Blvd. Pompano Beach, FL 33062

To participate, you must email your name and partner’s name/categories to mybeachtennis@aol.com. Indicate if you need a partner; emails to register must be received by Friday, Sept 19. Categories: Men’s and Women’s Doubles, Junior Doubles (12 and under). Cost per player: $20-1 category; additional category, add $5. Cash only at check-in. Winner receive medals and IFBT World Ranking Points.

Murder mystery/ dinner

Tuesday, Sept. 23, 6 p.m.

Café Med Wyndham Resort 2096 NE 2 St. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

By Actors with a clue $60 per person. Info: 561-207-8947 or email events@actorswithaclue.com.

Free High Holiday Services

Chabad of Lighthouse Point 4081 N. Federal Hwy. #100A Lighthouse Point, FL 33064

No tickets required, no affiliation and no membership. For info., call 347-410-1106 or visit www.JewishLHP.com

• Rosh Hashanah: Wednesday, Sept. 24, 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 25, 9:30 a.m.-Prayers begin/ 11:30 a.m.-Shofar blowing Friday, Sept. 26, 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m.- Shofar blowing

• Yom Kippur: Friday Oct. 3, 7 p.m.-Kol Nidrei Saturday, Oct. 4, 9:30 a.m.-Prayers/noon- Yizkor Memorial Service

Zumba Fitness Class

Beginning Sept. 30 (Tuesdays & Thursdays), 9 to 9:50 a.m.

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

Classes begin Tuesday, Sept. 30. Low impact class for beginners. Registration, $7 per class for walk-ins or purchase package of 10 classes for $60. 954-480-4481.

Fun 2 Be Fit, Teen Exercise Program

The City of Deerfield Beach Parks & Recreation Dept., in conjunction with Natural Body Sculpting by Wilson, is hosting a FREE basic training exercise program for teens at the Teen Center, 1345 SW 11 Way — starting Nov. 10 at 6:30 p.m.

This program focuses on having fun, making new friends, getting into shape, building muscle and living a healthier lifestyle.

The program will run Mondays and Wednesdays for five weeks. Please bring a towel or mat, water and wear athletic clothing.

For more information, call 954-571-4568.

9/11 Memorial Concert

Thursday, Sept. 11, 7: 30 p.m.

Pompano Beach Amphitheater 1801 NE 6 St., Pompano Beach, FL 33060

FREE. Hosted by The City of Pompano Beach Parks and Recreation Dept. and the American Legion 9th District. Memorial Concert honors our armed forces, police, fire, EMT’s and those lost on 9/11. Features the American Legion Band with lead vocalist James Perkowski. For more information, call 954-786-4111 or visit www.pompanobeachfl.Gov.

Friends of the DB Arboretum mtg.

Thursday, Sept. 11, 7 p.m.

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

Speaker: Vladimir Foursa, curator of the Bonsai collection, Morikami Japanese Gardens. Plant giveaway. Light refreshments served. Free meeting, open to the public. 954-480-4494.

Sisterhood of Temple Beth Israel meets

Thursday, Sept. 11, 11:30 a.m.

Temple Beth Israel 201 S. Military Tr. Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Mini lunch will be served with program to follow. $2.50 donation requested. 954-421-7060.

CarFit

Friday, Sept. 12, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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

Free, appointment required, limited space. Call 954-831- 8210 to schedule your 20-minute appointment.

Party Brazil

Friday, Sept. 12, 7 p.m.

Seminole Casino Coconut Creek Nectar Lounge 5550 NW 40 St. Coconut Creek, FL 33073

Celebrate Brazil’s Independence Day. High-energy, popular Brazilian band Batuke Samba Funk will provide entertainment, along with DJ Marcelo and his Brazilianstyle dance music. Samba dancers, drummers and more. Brazil native, Adriana De Moura, of Real Housewives of Miami, will be the evening’s special guest. Drink specials available. To book a VIP table, call Guest Services at 954- 935-2626.

BBI Workshop: The Study of an Election

Saturday, Sept. 13, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

BB International Preschool 1735 E. Atlantic Blvd. Pompano Beach, FL 33308

Brunch with Ellyn Bogdanoff, candidate for State Senate. Learn how to incorporate the academic disciplines in a real life event such as a national election. www.bbinternationalpreschool.Org.

About Boating Safely

Saturday, Sept. 13, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Spanish River Park HQ Bldg. 3939 N. Ocean Blvd Boca Raton, FL 33431

$35. Bring lunch. For pre-registration or information; call 561-391-3600 and leave a brief message for a call back.

Yard sale

Saturday, Sept. 13, 7 a.m.

The Palms of Deerfield 425 NW 1 Terr. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

For more information, call 954-420-9321.

Healing Hands for Arthritis

Wednesday, Sept. 17

Massage Envy 200 S. Federal Hwy, Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

$10 from every one-hour massage or facial session during this one-day national event will be donated directly to the Arthritis Foundation to help fight, raise awareness and eventually cure arthritis and related diseases. 954-570-8883.

GFWC Deerfield Beach Woman’s Club Evening Chapter meeting

Wednesday, Sept. 17, 7 to 8 p.m.

Clubhouse 910 E. Hillsboro Blvd. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Guest speaker: Author Ms. Mateja Petje. 954-421-4700. www.DBWC.org.

Leadership in Greener Summit

Wednesday, Sept. 17, 1 p.m. general registration

Office Depot HQ 6600 N. Military Tr. Boca Raton, FL 33496

Speakers on sustainability and more. Keynote speaker: David Gottfried, founder of US Green Building Council, about rapid growth of green marketplace. Register: http://gray.cvent.com/greenersummit.

New Yoga Class at NE Focal Point

Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2 to 3 p.m.

NE Focal Point Senior Center, Multi-Purpose Room 227 NW 2 St. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

FREE for all HealthWays SilverSneakers Members. For Non Healthway members, $10 monthly donation. Classes with certified Instructor Maxine Rolle held every Wednesday. Annual $15 registration donation requested for an identification card for the NE Focal Point Senior Center. For more information, call 954-480-4447 or email tsutton@deerfield-beach.com.

Deerfield Beach Middle School Open House

Thursday, Sept. 4, 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Deerfield Beach Middle School 701 SE 6th Ave. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Come out to meet all the teachers. 754- 322-3300.

SW 15th Street Beautification

Saturday, Sept. 6, 7:30 a.m.

Deerfield Beach High School 910 SW 15 St. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Help plant flowers, laying sod and other landscaping. Be there at 7:30 a.m.; clean-up is 8 a.m. to noon. Parking for all volunteers available in high school parking lot or at the lot next door to the Fire Station located at 1441 SW 11 Way. Wear closed-toe shoes or work boots and bring work gloves. Volunteers should also wear sunscreen and/or a hat for protection from the sun. The City will have plenty of water & Gatorade available; lunch will be provided.

The beautification project, dedicated to Fallen Navy SEAL, Petty Officer Second Class James Suh, to take place in front of High School, includes trees, signage, monuments and flags. Nearly one year ago, Vice Mayor Ben Preston and several City of Deerfield Beach staff sat down with DBHS Principal, Jon Marlow to put this plan into action. A memorial for James Suh will be unveiled in his honor on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2014.

If you have any questions, call 954-480-4430.

Yard Sale

Saturday, Sept. 6, 8 a.m. to noon

First Christian Church 1860 NE 39 St. Pompano Beach, FL 33064

Proceeds will go toward the church youth activities. For more information, call the church office at 954-942-2515.

Deerfield Beach Orchid Society meets

Tuesday, Sept. 9, 7:30 p.m. Sharp

Women’s Club of Deerfield Beach 910 E. Hillsboro Blvd. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Dan and Margie Christensen of Dan and Margie Orchids will present an informative program on “Dos and Don’ts.” New members welcome. No charge for a guest to visit the fi rst two times. After that, there is an annual membership fee. www.deerfieldbeachorchidsociety.org.

Sunday Matinee Music Series: Brazilian Voices Choir

Sunday, Sept 7, 3 to 4 p.m.

Downtown Boca Raton Library 400 NW 2 Ave. Boca Raton, FL 33432

Performance by the Brazilian Voices choir, a 50 female vocal group that is a non-profi t community service organization that performs and records locally, and internationally. Under the direction of world-renowned Brazilian singer and songwriter, Beatriz Malnik.

This launches the 2014-2015 Friends of the Boca Raton Library Sunday Matinee Music Series, which takes place the fi rst Sunday of each month from September 2014 to April 2015. A wide variety of performers featuring every genre of music are scheduled for the one-hour free concerts. Reservations required: 561-807-7141 or www.bocalibrary. org. For more information, please call 561-299-8684 or www. bocalibraryfriends.org.

Deerfield Beach High School Open House

Tuesday, Sept. 9, 6 p.m.

Deerfield Beach High School 910 S.W. 15 St. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Meet the teachers, listen to them describe programs, expectations, grading system and syllabus. This is an important event for parents and staff. 754-322-0650.

Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group

Wednesday, Sept. 10, 10 a.m.

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

Weekly Caregiver Support Group, meets every Wednesday at 10 a.m. Upcoming Meeting Dates September 17 and 24. Meetings allow caregivers to share their experiences with each other, learn from each other and gain valuable information. Guest speakers are also scheduled to present information to help caregivers understand and deal with various situations. Kelly Gallo, LMHC, facilitates the Support Group. For information, call 954-480-4463.

Save the date: 2nd Annual Fest-Fall Arts & Crafts Show

Saturday, Sept. 27, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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

Presented by the Zonta Club of Deerfield Beach. Features arts & crafts, food and gift baskets. Funds benefit Women In Distress and Zonta initiatives. Seeking vendors, financial sponsors and swag bags too. Email elilly707@aol.com or call 561-299-8684 for more information.

Beach Party with Live Surf Music

Friday, August 29, 10 to 11:30 a.m.

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

Senior Center transforms into a beach oasis with live surf music courtesy of Carla Parks, fresh fruit smoothies courtesy of Humana of Broward County, fun beach games, awards for best dressed beach attire, and more. For more information, call 954-480-4447 or email tsutton@deerfield-beach.com.

“Back in the Day” Senior Prom

Saturday, August 30, 4 to 9 p.m.

E. Pat Larkins Community Center 520 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Pompano Beach, FL 33441

If you’re “In The Mood” for some ‘40s, ‘50s and ‘60s music that will take you back in the day, the City of Pompano Beach Parks Recreation and Cultural Arts Department and the E. Pat Larkins Senior Program invites you to a “Back in the Day” Senior Prom. This will be a night of fun, dancing and swingin’ memories of a High School Senior Prom back in the day. $10 for seniors age 55 and up; $15 for 45 to 54. Evening includes entertainment by Derrick the DJ, refreshments and snacks. Formal wear is encouraged, but not required. For more information, call 954-786-4585.

Labor Day Comedy Explosion

Saturday, August 30, 8:30 p.m.

American Legion Post 287 191 SW 1 Terr., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Hosted by Comedian RJ, featuring Lady-T from Comic View. Headliner: Lenny Travis, who has been headlining comedy clubs for over 20 years. He has been seen on Showtime, A&E, and FOX on such shows as Evening at the Improv, Comedy Tonight, Comedy on the Road and Full Frontal comedy. $10 donation, $20 drink wristbands. Raffles and giveaways. Sponsored by Tayst Magazine, Mr. Wipe Down and Papa Sauce. More info: 954-821-1902 or 954-650-9126.

August Authors and Autographs

Sunday, August 31, 2 to 5 p.m.

Butler House 380 E. Hillsboro Blvd., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Free Entrance. Over 25 award-winning, published authors living in the south Florida area will be autographing and selling their books. Used book sale, ice cream social and concert by The Ron Nabors Duo. All donations support the programs of the Deerfield Beach Historical Society. Call 561-299- 8684 for more information.

In The Round Nashville Style

Sunday, August 31, 5 p.m.

American Rock Bar & Grill The Cove Shopping Center 1600 E. Hillsboro Blvd., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Free. An intimate evening of singing in the round with singer/ songwriters. Hosted by Steve Minotti. Info: 954-428- 4539.

13th Annual Labor Day Picnic

Monday, Sept. 1, 1 p.m.

Pompano Beach Community Park, South Pavilion 2001 NE 10 St., Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Hosted by North Broward Democratic Club and sponsored by more than a dozen Broward Democratic clubs. More than 30 Democratic elected officials and candidates in attendance. Topic: Celebrating organized labor and electing Democrats in 2014. Picnic is open to the public. Hamburgers and hot dogs off the grill provided. Please bring a dish to share. Meet your elected officials and candidates. Event goes on rain or shine. For information, please call 954-783-8232.

Relay For Life Committee Round Up

Wednesday, Sept. 3, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Hampton Inn 660 W. Hillsboro Blvd Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

The Relay For Life of Deerfield Beach/Lighthouse Point & Hillsboro Beach seeks members of their communities who would like to serve on the planning committee. This community-based walk-a-thon celebrates cancer survivors, remembers those who we have lost to cancer and raises funds that primarily support cancer research. They have a few positions and welcome participation. Light refreshments will be served. RSVP by August 29 to Karen Hardy at karengle@yahoo. com or 954-242-5485. For more information, call 954-481-1221 or visit www. relayforlife.org/dblpfl.

Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group

Wednesday, Sept. 3, 10 a.m.

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

Weekly Caregiver Support Group, meets every Wednesday at 10 a.m. Upcoming Meeting Dates September 3, 10, 17 and 24. Center conducts the caregiver training and support group for individuals caring for people with Alzheimer’s disease, memory impairments, dementia, and cognitive limitations. Individuals who would like to learn more about Alzheimer’s disease and available resources are also welcomed. Meetings allow caregivers to share their experiences with each other, learn from each other and gain valuable information. Guest speakers are also scheduled to present information to help caregivers understand and deal with various situations. Kelly Gallo, LMHC, facilitates the Support Group. For information, call 954-480-4463.

Emerge 2014

On August 28-30, Emerge 2014, a three-day business conference, will be hosted at the Waldorf Astoria in Boca Raton helping entrepreneurs to reclaim their cape! Participants will reclaim their inner dreams and learn how to gain success. They will create their own “secret sauce,” build a team-building blueprint, create and dominate their niche globally and learn how to host their own six-figure events, and more. The intense learning comes from industry leaders in the areas of sales, marketing, social media and more. To find out full schedule of events and to register, call 561-632-7183, email Info@EmergeEvent. com or visit www.emergeevent.com.

Imagine God decided to break the covenant with humankind and flood the earth again. But this time, Noah’s ark is big enough to hold all humanity. Everybody in the world would have another chance. Our fate would depend on everybody in the ark getting along!

This is a scary idea for several reasons, not the least of which is we would all be in the same boat. Because if we were all in the same boat, it would be hard to distinguish people jumping overboard on their own from people being thrown overboard by somebody else.

No time would pass on the new ark before people would segregate by race, religion, culture and language. Territories on the ark would be fought for and claimed. Competition for resources would be intense. Walls would be built to keep undesirables out. A scant few pockets of genuine joy would be threatened by jealousies that annoy. These things and more would occur before flood waters recede; that is, if flood waters recede …

Ferguson, MO and what happened there is not new.

It is a sad sequel provided by the “Show Me State” that gives us a fresh peak under the rug … Another young man’s life is tragically lost; another policeman’s life is dreadfully wrecked. Families mourn, communities are torn, friends defend friends, looters loot and shooters shoot, politicians and, even clergy, scramble to grab a picket sign or a microphone when God only knows and understands.

Paul writes to the church in Rome, “God does not show favoritism.”

What Paul is telling Christians in Rome is, “We all are already in the same boat …” Our boat is called planet earth and we all occupy this space under the same expectations of the same God. How ‘bout we begin with that, hmm?

What are God’s expectations of people of faith?

The answer to this question is key because if we satisfy God’s expectations then tragedy like the one in Ferguson, Mo. will be averted. God’s expectations are found, in part, in God’s law: the Commandments, the Torah and the Holiness Code, and some would argue the entirety of the Holy Bible.

We need law, but when we see people use and abuse even God’s law to establish or sustain their own ideas, their territory, their walls, their pockets, their expectations, then we begin to realize all of us have the capacity to miss the forest for the tree.

Christ Jesus comes, in part, so we may more clearly see God’s expectations for the planet. It was a lawyer, an expert in the law, who asked Jesus, “Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?”

He said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the words of all the prophets.” (Matthew 22: 36 – 40)

Our role as followers of Christ Jesus could not be clearer.

Yes, the president has a job to do. The Attorney General has a job to do. A governor, mayor, sheriff, prosecutor, defense attorney, journalist, a minister preaching the social gospel, a grand jury has a job to do. We all have a role to play, but the sooner we understand we are all in the same boat subject to the same expectations of the same God, the sooner these tragedies end.

If you want to make things better, then, sure, run for office, grow the economy, create living wage jobs, elevate access to quality education, register voters, establish more crime prevention programs; improve police community relations. Really, there are many good things you can do …

But if you want to fix Ferguson, if you want to fix the planet, then “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and all your soul, and all your mind, and love your neighbor as yourself.”

Dr. Dennis Andrews is a reverend at Community Presbyterian Church, at 1920 SE 4 St. in Deerfield Beach, 33441.

Fall Baseball Registration

Monday, August 25 thru Friday, Sept. 12

Middle School Athletic Complex, 501 SE 6 Ave., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Ages 4 to 15. Ages 8 & under: $50-residents/$60-non-residents. Ages 9 to 15: $65-residents/$75-non-residents. For information, call 954-480-4426 or 954-480-4427.

2014 Greater Pompano Beach Business Expo

Tuesday, August 26, 5 to 8 p.m.

Pompano Elks Lodge 700 NE 10 St., Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Find out about other local businesses, network, enjoy refreshments. There will also be raffles.

For more information, visit www.pompanobeachchamber.com.

Authors & Autographs

Sunday, August 31, 2 to 5 p.m.

Historic Butler House, 380 E. Hillsboro Blvd., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Part of Sundays at The Butler House. Free Entrance. Over 25 local published authors will be autographing and selling their books. Also used book sale, ice cream social and concert by The Ron Nabors Duo. All donations support the programs of the Deerfield Beach Historical Society. 561-299-8684.

Walking Club

Begins Tuesday, Sept. 2, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Westside Park , 445 SW 2 St., Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Held Mondays through Fridays. Free walking club for the entire family. To participate, sign up inside Westside Park Rec. Ctr. Walk newly renovated walking path at own pace and come inside to log your miles each time to receive prizes for specific mile levels. For more information, call 954-480-4481.

Save the date: Relay For Life Committee Round Up

Wednesday, Sept. 3, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Hampton Inn 660 W. Hillsboro Blvd Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

The Relay For Life of Deerfield Beach/Lighthouse Point & Hillsboro Beach seeks members of their communities who would like to serve on the planning committee. This community-based walk-a-thon celebrates cancer survivors, remembers those who we have lost to cancer and raises funds that primarily support cancer research. They have a few positions and welcome participation. Light refreshments will be served. RSVP by August 29 to Karen Hardy at karengle@yahoo.com or 954-242-5485. For more information, call 954-481-1221 or visit www.relayforlife.org/dblpfl

Fill the Boot

Monday, August 25, starting at 9 a.m.

Local 3080 Union Hall 304 NE 1 St. Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Members of the Metro Broward Professional Fire Fighters Association Local 3080, along with the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) will host a special event to celebrate their 60-year partnership and kick off the firefighters’ annual Fill the Boot fundraising campaign to benefit children and adults affected by neuromuscular disease throughout the Metro Broward area. City officials, fire chiefs, firefighters, MDA staff and families will be in attendance. Jeff Atwater, Chief Financial Officer and Fire Marshall for the state of Florida will be among the speakers. Michael J. Ryan, Mayor of Sunrise, will also be sharing thoughts. Representatives from the cities of Sunrise, Tamarac, Coral Springs, Margate, Coconut Creek, Lighthouse Point, Lauderhill and Oakland Park confirmed their plans to attend. Hundreds of members of Local 3080 will fan out across the county with boots in hand for this year’s drive on August 26-Sept. 2.

Funds raised through the 2014 Fill the Boot events will help support MDA’s programs of worldwide research, specialized healthcare services and day-to-day support , which includes sending children affected by muscular dystrophy and related diseases to a weeklong, barrier-free MDA summer camp at Gold Coast Christian Camp in Lake Worth.

As the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s largest national sponsor, the IAFF fuels MDA’s mission to find treatments and cures for life-threatening muscle diseases. The IAFF is a major contributing sponsor of the MDA Show of Strength Telethon, and IAFF contributions from charity baseball games and other local events help support MDA’s efforts to raise awareness and provide professional and public education about neuromuscular diseases.

IAFF support for MDA began in 1954 when the organization committed by proclamation to support MDA until a cure is found, and the organization’s unwavering commitment to MDA has remained strong to this day. The IAFF raised $100,000 for MDA in 1955, and $1 million in 1970, and firefighters continue to raise the bar in their fundraising efforts. In 2013, more than 100,000 fire fighters participated in Fill the Boot events across the country and raised $26.2 million. To date the IAFF has raised $530 million for MDA.

For more information, visit www.mda.org.