Sisterhood of Temple Beth Israel meets

Thursday, March 13, 11:30 a.m.

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

Mini lunch served. Hebrew Academy Children’s Choir performs. Info: 954-428-6265 or 954-421-7060.

Shining a Light on ACS

Saturday, March 15, 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Community Presbyterian Church, Briggs Hall 1920 SE 4 St. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Casual worship gathering, light meal. Preparing for Relay for Life (Apr. 5 at Quiet Waters Park). FREE, canned good donation appreciated, will be donated to Gateway Community Outreach. 954-427-0222.

Ballet & Jazz Dance for Children

Saturday, March 15, 1–3:45 p.m.

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

Children ages 6-15. Registration technically over but still may be able to get a free class, or possibly enroll. $90 for 8 weeks plus registration fee- $30. Each class will hold a recital at the end of the session. To register, visit www.deerfield-beach.com or visit any of the City of D.B. Parks & Recreation facilities. 954-480- 4494.

Elite Force Martial Arts Black Belt Spectacular

Saturday, March 15, 11 a.m.

Township Center for the Performing Arts 2424 Lyons Rd. Coconut Creek, FL 33063

Tickets Available at the Dojo. 954-785-1348.

6th Annual Prayer Breakfast/Fundraiser

Saturday, March 15, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

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

Guest speaker: Bishop Patrick Kelly. Donation: $10. Call 954-418-0216 or 954-667-5074 for tickets.

New Presbyterian Church Concert Series

Sunday, March 16, 2 p.m.

Pompano Beach High School Gymnasium 1400 NE 6 St. Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Samuel Metzger, Organist, Farewell Concert. No tickets needed, offering will be taken. 954-946-4380 or www.newpres.org.

Dance Fitness for Adults

Monday, March 17, 7p.m.

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

Registration until March 13 (you may be able to come in after for free trial class). $100 for 8 weeks plus registration fee-$30. To register, visit www.deerfield-beach.com or visit any City of DB Parks & Recreation facilities. 954-480-4494.

Zonta Club of Greater Deerfield Beach meets

Tuesday, March 18, begins 11:15 a.m.

DoubleTree by Hilton 100 Fairway Dr. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

11:15 to 11:45 a.m. — social networking, noon — lunch and business. Guest Speaker: Dr. Brian Sheen, Complementary & Alternative Medicine Practitioner and Life Coach at The Quantum Healing & Empowerment Center. $20 all inclusive. Cash or checks only. RSVP: queenrmv1@bellsouth.net or 561-750- 7355.

ArtHall

Wednesday, March 19, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

50 NE 1 St. Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Features Harmony Jones, a contemporary mixed-media artist. FREE. Food trucks on-site as well as wine, snacks, and live music. Info: 954-586-1111.

Woman’s Club meets

Wednesday, March 19, 7:30 p.m.

910 E. Hillsboro Blvd. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Info: 954-421-4700.

5th Annual All People’s Day Diversity Festival

Saturday, March 22, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Pompey Park 1101 NW 2 St. (indoor) & NW 10 Ave. (outdoor) Delray Beach, FL 33444

Non-profit event that brings in people from all over. Dance, music, social theater, costumes, culture, interactive booths, Origami folding, games, crafts, Kids’ workshop from 9 to 11 a.m. Call 561-495-9818 for more information. Some kids’ activities require registration and may have an extra fee.

SAVE THE DATE: Rotary Charity Scholarship Golf Tournament

Friday, May 9, 11:30 a.m. registration; 1 p.m. shotgun start; 5:30 p.m. dinner & awards;

Deer Creek Golf Course 2801 Deer Creek Country Club Blvd. Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

The Deerfield Beach Rotary Fund has provided over $100,000 in charitable contributions over the past 6 years, including providing scholarships to high school graduates in the area. Sign up today. Call 954-421-5550 or visit www.deerfield rotarygolf.com for more info.

Those Fabulous’ 40s Concert

Thursday Mar. 6, 7 p.m.

Herb Skolnick Community Center 800 SW 36 Ave. Pompano Beach, FL 33069

$12. Tickets may be purchased in advance or at the door. 954-786-4590.

Movies in the Park: “The Lorax”

Tuesday, Mar. 7, 7 p.m.

Villages of Hillsboro Park 4111 NW 6 St. Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Bring blankets/ lawn chairs. Call 954-480-4429 or visit www.Deerfield-Beach.com.

Author Presentation & Luncheon

Saturday, Mar. 8, 11:30 a.m.

Lighthouse Point Yacht Club 2701 NE 42 St. Lighthouse Point, FL 33064

American Association of University Women (AAUW), Pompano Beach fundraiser. Patsy West, ethno-historian & preservationist speaks on “bathing costumes to bikinis.” $40 (includes silent auction.) Reservations Required: 954- 524-2938.

Huge Yard Sale

Saturday, Mar. 8, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

3870 N. Powerline Rd. Pompano Beach, FL 33073

Benefits “no kill” Florida Humane Society. Donations accepted Thursday – Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. 954-785-2165. Rain date: March 15.

Soroptimist International Annual “Casino Night”

Saturday, Mar.8, 7 to 11 p.m.

Elks Lodge 700 NE 10 St Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Theme: “Shake your Shamrock,” features dinner, dancing, gaming, raffles, auctions. $65 (includes $100 in chips) Tickets: 954-553-0887. Benefits Woodhouse of Pompano Beach.

Hillsboro Lighthouse Tour

Saturday, Mar. 8, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Transportation from: Sands Harbor Hotel & Marina 125 N. Riverside Dr. Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Transportation to and from the lighthouse grounds by boat. $25 per person. Must have flat shoes with rubber soles and closed toes. Children must be accompanied by an adult and must be a minimum of 48″ (4‘) tall to climb the tower. No pets allowed. www.hillsborolighthouse.org.

Music under the Stars: WT Heck and the Indelibles

Saturday, Mar. 8, 7 p.m.

Herb Skolnick Community Center 800 SW 36 Ave. Pompano Beach, FL 33069

FREE concert: Jazz and Blues. 954-786-4590.

About Boating Safely

Saturday, Mar. 8, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Spanish River Park HQ Bldg. 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 22 years old. Topics include boating terminology, boat handling, navigation rules, aids to navigation, federal and Florida regulations, safety equipment and other boating techniques. Materials fee is $35. For questions or RSVP, call 561-391-3600 and leave a message.

Mardi Gras Celebration — Chamber GALA

Saturday, Mar. 8, 6 p.m.

Deer Creek Country Club 2801 DC Country Club Blvd. Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Held by Deerfield Beach Chamber of Commerce. A portion benefits International Society for Autism. Info: www.deerfieldchamber.com.

Sunday Matinee Music Series Concert

Sunday, Mar. 9, 3 to 4 p.m.

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

Free admission/open to the public. Features “Great American Songs” by Jim Kovalcik Trio. Reservations required. Visit www.bocalibrary.org or call 561-299-8684.

Pompano Beach Garden Club Meeting

Monday, Mar. 10, 12:30 p.m.

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

“Demonstration of Floral Design” presented by Cindy Rieger and Joanne Nelson. Open to the public. Refreshments served. 954-943-0029.

Deerfield Beach Orchid Society Meeting

Tuesday, Mar. 11, 7:30 p.m.

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

Orchid Auction (and orchid accessories). Arrive by 7 p.m. to preview items. Guests or new members welcome. No charge for guest visit first two times. After, there is membership fee. Visit: www.deerfieldbeachorchidsociety.org or contact deerfieldbeachorchidsociety@gmail.com.

Greater Pompano Beach Senior Citizens Club meets

Wednesday, Mar. 12, 10 a.m.

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

Activities and events for seniors. 954-786-3902.

8th Annual Festival of the Arts

Thursday, Mar. 6 to Saturday, Mar. 15

Mizner Park 327 Plaza Real Boca Raton, FL 33432

Enjoy world-class musicians, authors and other performances. For more info., call 561-368-8445 or visit www.festivalboca.org.

By Gary Curreri

While Deerfield Beach High School’s baseball team is still searching for its first win of the season, it already scored a victory of sorts during the offseason.

Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Mike Fiers, a 2003 graduate of Deerfield Beach High, spent a few weeks at his alma mater helping coach the players before he left for spring training. The Pompano native worked with both the pitcher and position players on the varsity and junior varsity programs.

Fiers said he came back to help players reach the next level. He is good friends with Bucks assistant coach Mike Dobre and asked to come out and help.

“I wanted to help them out with everything whether it is baseball or life in general,” said Fiers, who is 10-14 for his major league career. “I came out every day before I left for spring training and I loved being out there.”

After graduating from Deerfield Beach, Fiers went on to Broward College, spent a year at the University of the Cumberlands in Kentucky for one year and finished as an All-American at Nova Southeastern University. He was drafted in 2009 in the 22nd round by Milwaukee and reached the big leagues in 2011.

Fiers said he always had a dream to pitch in the major leagues. He played with another major leaguer in Mickey Storey, who is a pitcher with the Toronto Blue Jays, for three years at Deerfield.

“It’s definitely a tough game and takes a lot of hard work,” said Fiers, 28, of Pompano Beach. “I pride myself on that. I always had that dream and I wanted it. I’ve had setbacks. I’ve had success. It was a long journey. I had the mindset of knowing I was going to make it and staying positive.”

Fiers said he was impressed by the work ethic the players displayed at DBHS. He worked on the fundamentals of baseball with many of the players. In his senior year at Deerfield Beach, they lost in the regional final to Hialeah High.

It was his second visit to Deerfield Beach High since he graduated. Fiers went while he was at Broward College and also volunteered at nearby Zion Lutheran when Dobre was a coach there.

“I like coaching and helping out kids,” Fiers said. “They have to take it as a game, because it is a game. You want to go out and have fun and that makes it easier. Some guys maybe take it as a job, but it is not a job yet. You want to get good grades and that will help you out.”

“I graduated 10 years ago and it feels the same,” Fiers continued. “It is good to come back and help them get where they want to go. I just want them to compete and, hopefully, their mindset is to want to win. I just wanted to try and make the game as simple as possible.”

Deerfield Beach High School junior Kyle Miller said it was a bonus to have Fiers around.

“It was great to have coach Fiers around,” Miller said. “He’s been through this program before and he knows the ins and outs of baseball. He is somebody you can listen to because he is at the top level of baseball right now.

“He is not just some guy that puts on a hat and calls himself a coach,” Miller added. “He lives it every day. It was good to have him around teaching us.”

Miller said among the things that Fiers helped him with was his approach to pitching.

“He is a right-handed pitcher who doesn’t throw 98 (mph), but he knows how to pitch and get outs,” Miller said. “He relies on good off speed pitches and good location. You really learn good pitching from a guy like Mike Fiers. It’s cool that he volunteered to give back to the program, a program that gave him so much as a kid.”

“This definitely gives you hope to see a guy who came out of Deerfield and has had great success playing the sport,” Miller said. “It shows a lot of kids that if you work hard every day and you want it bad enough, even if you don’t throw a 106-mph fastball, you can still have success.”

“Mike was like the Pied Piper with the players following him and picking his brain,” said first year Bucks coach Angelo Latrento. “He’s a homegrown kid who gave the kids hope and motivation.”

Florida Renaissance Festival

Through March 16 (Weekends), 10 a.m. to sunset

Quiet Waters Park 401 S. Powerline Rd. Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

$20-adults/$9-children ages 6-11/Kids 5 & younger free. www.ren-fest.com or 800-3-REN-FES.

St. Ambrose Carnival

Thursday, Feb. 27 to March 2

St. Ambrose Church 380 S. Federal Hwy. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Rides, games, food, drinks, entertainment, Bingo and more! Ticket prices for rides vary. 954-427-2225 or www.stambrosecarnival.com for more info.

Pompano Beach Republican Club meets

Thursday, Feb. 27, 7 p.m.

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

Guest speaker: Andrea McGee, candidate for Congress, District 22. Refreshments served. 954-786-7536.

Premier Master’s Art Show

Friday, Feb. 28, 6 to 9 p.m.

2611 E. Atlantic Blvd. Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Artists from around Florida showcasing photography, painting, collage and mixed media. Live music and wine. Admission free/open to public. 100 percent of art sales go directly to artist. 954-788-9044 or www.greightspaces.com.

First Christian Church Yard Sale

Saturday, Feb. 28, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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

Proceeds go toward church youth fundraiser activities. 954-942-2515.

First Annual Victorian Gothic Masquerade

Saturday, March 1, 7 to 11 p.m.

Sample McDougald House 450 NE 10 St. Pompano Beach, FL 33060

New Orleans, early 1800s setting, costumed dance unique and interactive performers, musicians, DJ, opportunities to learn the waltz and be professionally photographed. Black tie affair, mask required. $65 per person (includes hors d’oeuvres and two drinks. Cash bar available.) Tickets must be purchased in advanced at http://artisticproductionsinc.com.

Historic Butler House Tour

Saturday, Mar. 1, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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

Call for appointment: 954-429-0378.

Boca Raton Green Market

Saturday, Mar. 1, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Royal Palm Place S. Fed. Hwy. & SE Mizner Blvd. Boca Raton, FL 33432

Farm-to-table, freshly-picked produce and organics from local growers, plants, flowers, bakery items and more. 561- 299-8684.

Women’s History Month event

Saturday, Mar. 1, 11 a.m.

Deerfield Beach Percy White Library 837 E. Hillsboro Blvd. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

The History of Women Artists from the 1500s. 954-357- 7680.

Free Prostate Screening

Saturday, Mar. 1, 10 a.m. to noon

Broward Health North 201 E. Sample Rd. Deerfield Beach, FL 33064

Register for free prostate screening. By appointment only. 954-759-7400.

Intracoastal Clean-up

Saturday, March 1, 9 a.m.

Sullivan Park (on Riverview Rd., off Hillsboro Blvd.) Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Help remove trash and debris. Volunteers of all ages welcome and will receive WWCU T-shirt and invitation to “Trash Bash” after party. Wear close-toed shoes, sunscreen and clothes for getting dirty. Bring bottled water. Gloves provided. Visit waterwaycleanup.org for more information and to sign up.

Shimmy for a Cause

Sunday, March 2, 4 p.m.

Puppetry Arts Center Theater 94 NE 2 Ave. Delray Beach, FL 33444

See some belly dancing and give back! Hosted by the Anti- Cancer Belly Dancers, benefits Relay for Life. $25. www.beledy.net/acbd.

Annual Black Heritage, Women’s History Month Banquet

Saturday, March 1, 7 p.m. (Doors open at 6 p.m.).

Westside Park Dr. Leo J. Robb, Jr. Memorial Gymnasium 445 SW 2 St. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Soul food buffet and entertainment by Reaxion Band and Ethnotricity African Dance Group. Guest speakers: Dr. Rosalind Osgood, Bishop Quan L. Miller. Also “Saluting Hometown Heroes” honorees: Troy Randell, William “Willie” West, Francine Baugh, Coach Allen Jackson, Amie Kay Tanner and Rev. Geraldine Miller. Tickets at Johnny Tigner, Sr. Community Center for $25. African attire recommended, but not required. For more information, call 954- 480-4480 or visit www.deerfield-beach.com

Women’s issues support group

Tuesday, March 4, 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Faulk Center for Counseling 2455 Boca Rio Rd. Boca Raton, FL 33433

For women who need support and to discuss concerns about everything from finances and divorce to caregiving issues, loss of a loved one, substance abuse, general malaise and more! First meeting free. Only $5 after. Call for more info: 561-483-5300. www.faulkcenterforcounseling.org

The Legends Rock On Show

Wednesday, Mar. 5, 7:30 to 9:00 p.m.

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

Doors open 6:30 p.m. $12. 954-786-4111.

Pickleball / Free Demo Clinic

Wednesday, Mar. 5, 9 to 11 a.m.

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

Combination of tennis, badminton and ping pong. Great for seniors and young adults. 954-480-4494.

Save the date: DB Chamber of Commerce 2014 Annual Gala

Saturday, March 8, 6 p.m.

Deer Creek Country Club 2801 DC Country Club Blvd. Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Visit www.deerfieldchamber.com for details.

Many years ago, a friend and his wife learned they would not be able to have their own natural born children. They decided to adopt. It took the patience of a judge for them to move through the process, but they finally succeeded.

They imagined an infant from the beginning. An infant, they thought, would be perfect and know them as parents from the outset. What they received were not one, but two, young boys. These boys were anything but infants and anything but perfect. They had been abused by their drug-addicted parents. The boys arrived with mental, psychological and emotional baggage.

But, my friend and his wife were steadfast in their parental duties, long-suffering in their love for these two boys through formative years of school expulsions, arrests, juvenile detention and one heart-wrenching problem after another.

My friend once told me, “As hard as it has been, our faith has grown alongside these boys. The experience may have given us insight as to how God feels watching us grow!”

Adoption meant these boys received far more than a new last name and safe place to stay. They were adopted into a family. They were forgiven even when they didn’t deserve it. They were loved. They survived.

Did you ever wonder what would have become of baby Moses had he not been adopted by Pharaoh’s daughter or what would have happened to Hadassah, the beautiful young woman who became Queen Esther, had she not been adopted by good ole Uncle Mordecai?

Moses likely would have been drowned with the other male babies. Hadassah probably would have been killed with the rest of her people. The course of human history and the development of Judeo Christian faith traditions would at the very least be different were it not for God’s plans for adoption.

What are God’s plans for adoption today?

There are thousands of children in South Florida in need of physical adoption. If you are able, then I encourage you to consider adoption, But, the truth is, we all have need of adoption, just an adoption of a different, more permanent, kind.

The Apostle Paul says it this way: “Even before God made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ….” [Ephesians 1:4- 5, NLT]

Our most important adoption is made possible by the cross, not by the courts. There is no lengthy legal process. We consent to our adoption when we accept Christ as Lord.

No perfection required. None of us remain innocent as a newborn child. We all have baggage. None of us are always loveable, and we may not deserve forgiveness, but we all can have it through Christ.

Pray God continues to be steadfast and longsuffering with the open loving arms of adoption, patiently watching us grow and accepting us into the family.

Ever think about adoption? I hope so because the most consequential adoption you will ever think about is your own …

Dennis Andrews is a minister at Community Presbyterian Church of Deerfield Beach (Steeple on the Beach) located five blocks south of Hillsboro on A1A. See more at www.comm unitych.org or on Facebook. Worship gatherings are: Saturdays @ Six, Sunday morning at 8:30 and 11 a.m.

DB Island Club Assoc. meets

Thursday, Feb. 20, 6 p.m.

Community Presbyterian Church 1920 SE 5 St. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Guest speakers: Deerfield Beach Vice Mayor Joe Miller and Public Information Officer Rebecca Medina, includes PR video on all the “Hot Spots” in Deerfield Beach.

Garden Club of Lighthouse Point Celebrate 55th Anniversary

Thursday, Feb. 20, 11 a.m.

St. Paul’s Education Hall 2700 NE 36 St. Lighthouse Point, FL 33064

Annual salad luncheon and Chinese auction. Orchid program by Hyla Levine, Queen Barn Orchids. $10 non-members/ guests. RSVP, limited space. 954-942-9310.

Zion Lutheran School’s 50th Anniversary Social

Friday, Feb. 21, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Galuppi’s on the Green 1103 N. Federal Hwy. Pompano Beach, FL 33062

$25, includes food, drink and $5 raffle tickets.

Bully Defense Seminar

Saturday, Feb. 22, 2 p.m.

Elite Force Martial Arts 4754 N. Federal Hwy. Lighthouse Point, FL 33064

All kids welcome – age 5+. 954-785-1348.

Children in the Arts Piano Competition

Saturday, Feb. 22, 7 p.m.

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

Free recital/open to the public. Competition of kids of all ages and levels. 954-786-4111.

Tea in the Garden

Saturday, Feb. 22, 4 to 6 p.m.

The Fruitful Field 100 NE 44 St. Pompano Beach, FL 33064

5th annual fundraising event includes English tea (at 5 p.m.) and pastries. Explore the tropical food forest and vegetable growing areas while listening to LIVE music. Fruitful Field not only educates, but also inspires new ways to feed those who are hungry. www.thefruitfulfield.org.

City of LHP: Girls Softball Registration

Saturday, Feb. 22, noon

Frank McDonough Park 3500 NE 27 Ave. Lighthouse Point, FL 33064

Register for: Coach pitch softball ages 6-8, Junior girls ages 9-11, Senior girls ages 12-15. Call 954-784-3449 to find out more.

Mardi Gras Celebration

Sunday, Feb. 23, 1 to 4 p.m.

Henry’s Hideaway 1500 S. Andrews Ave. Pompano Beach, FL 33069

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

Relay For Life fundraiser at Tijuana Flats

Monday Feb. 24, 5 to 8 p.m.

Tijuana Flats 278 S. Federal Hwy. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

20 percent of anything you purchase will go toward our Relay for Life. “Heads n Tails” Contest, “Hot Sauce and Tortilla Chip” eating competition – 2014 Saucy King and Queen will be crowned. Free prizes raffled every 30 minutes. 954-304-4248, www.relayforlife.org/dblpfl.

DAV offers help

Tuesday, Feb. 25 and Wednesday, Feb. 26, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

American Legion, Post 162 820 SE 8 Ave. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Disabled American Veterans Mobile Service Office will personally provide counseling and claim filing assistance. FREE to all veterans and their family members. 727-319- 7444.

Winter Concert Series: The Fabulons

Wednesday, Feb. 26, 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Skolnick Community Center 800 SW 36 Ave. Pompano Beach, FL 33069

$12. Tickets: 954-786-4111.

North Broward Democratic Club

Wednesday, Feb. 26, 7:30 p.m.

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

Speaker: Ft. Lauderdale City Commissioner, Dean Trantalis, on climate change. FREE. Refreshments served.

Florida Renaissance Festival

Through March 16 (Weekends), 10 a.m. to sunset

Quiet Waters Park 401 S. Powerline Rd. Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

$20-adults/$9-children ages 6-11/Kids 5 & younger FREE. www.ren-fest.com or 800-3-REN-FES.

(Great thanks to Rabbi Jacqueline Mates-Muchin for getting the creative juices flowing.)

I know you probably weren’t expecting a Rabbi to bring up Valentine’s Day, but, in case you haven’t figured it out in reading my columns here in The Observer, I am a romantic at heart. So, when I studied the Torah Portion the other week, I couldn’t help but find connections between them.

This Torah reading gave a description of the special clothing, the Kohanim, that Aaron and his sons were to wear. Since Valentine’s Day was coming up, many ads were pushing clothing and jewelry. They showed items of adornment that can be worn on the head, the neck and on the wrist. Why are these items shown as gifts for Valentine’s Day? Well, aside from the fact that the stores are hoping to make lots of money, hopefully, these types of gifts are a way of telling someone you love that they are special to you.

After all, I would not advise you to get the love of your life a new vacuum or a new mop along with a Cupid Card. Why? Because that would not be a very good way of saying that they are special.

So how does this connect with the Torah Reading? Well, for that, we have to look at why Aaron and his sons had special vestments to wear and I can think of no better way of finding the answer then looking at that last piece of the coordinated outfit, the frontlet that the priest was to wear on his forehead, because that piece was inscribed with the words “Holy to the Eternal.”

Of course, reading this, you might think for a moment that only the Priests were special to G-d, that only the priests were to be holy. But we are told to be “A Kingdom of Priests …”

In other words, we are all supposed to be special and we are all supposed to be holy. We are also supposed to emulate G-d. If G-d feeds the hungry, then we are to feed the hungry. If G-d clothes the naked, then we are to clothe the naked. And, if G-d finds people holy … if G-d loves others, then we to are to find people holy and love them.

Now, please don’t get me wrong, in Judaism we are not exactly fond of tattoos, so I am not suggesting that you have your loved ones tattooed on the forehead with the words “Holy to me.” But, I would suggest you try this to add to the holiness and the love in your life … each time you look at those you love, imagine those words on their forehead. Remember that we have the ability to decide what is holy and special to us.

In a perfect world, we would all be special to one another; but, for now, having just celebrated Valentine’s Day, at least see those words on your spouse, on your parents, on your children and then let those words change how you treat them.

Before you do something like getting angry or giving the silent treatment, before you tell them you don’t have time for this or that, don’t just imagine the words “Holy to me” on their forehead. Show them how Holy they are to you and show them how very much you love them as, when you do, you truly show them that they are consecrated unto you.

Shalom my friends,

Rabbi Craig H. Ezring

Rabbi Ezring is the spiritual leader of Temple Beth Israel of Deerfield Beach. We welcome you to join our warm and caring family for Shabbat and festival services. We’ll make your heart glow…who knows, you might even fall in love with Shul all over again.

Florida Renaissance Festival

[Weekends through March 16 & Mon, Feb. 17] 10 a.m. to sunset

Quiet Waters Park 401 S. Powerline Rd. Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

$20-adults/$9-children ages 6-11/Kids 5 & younger free. www.ren-fest.com or 800-3- REN-FES. (See more, pg. 2.)

“Senior Prom”

Thursday, Feb. 13, 1 to 3 p.m.

Broward Health North Conference Room 201 E. Sample Rd. Deerfield Beach, FL 33064

Big Band music and other classic tunes. Refreshments served. Free, reservation required. 954-759-7400.

Sisterhood of Temple Beth Israel Luncheon

Thursday, Feb. 13, 11:30 a.m.

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

$15, includes lunch, dessert, coffee. Musical program by Cantor Silver. 954-421-7060.

Music Under the Stars

Friday, Feb. 14, 7 p.m.

Pompano Beach Great Lawn 10 N. Pompano Beach Blvd. Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Free Concert featuring JN Big Band. Second Friday of every month. 954-786-4111 or www.pompanobeachfl.gov.

Sunset Kayak Social

Friday, Feb. 14, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Deerfield Island Park 1720 Deerfield Island Park Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

For 21 or older, all skill levels. Light picnic, water provided. Space limited; early registration recommended. $15- with own kayak or paddleboard/$30 to rent (rental includes a single or double kayak, paddles, and U.S. Coast Guardapproved life jackets). Must bring own white navigation light/flashlight (rental-$10).

Pompano Beach Doll Club — 24th Annual Show & Sale

Saturday, Feb. 15, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Pompano Beach Amphitheatre and Grounds 1806 NE 6 St. Pompano Beach, FL 33060

For sale and display: dolls, bears, toys and accessories. Free. 954-788-4111 or www.pbdc.info.

Florida Grand Opera’s Young Artists perform

Saturday, Feb. 15, 4 p.m.

Saint Nicholas Episcopal Church 1111 E. Sample Rd. Pompano Beach, FL 33064

Arias, duets and ensembles. No charge, free will offering. Wine & cheese reception follows. www.stnicholasfl.org.

DBHS Class of 1973 Valentine’s Dance

Saturday, Feb. 15, 8 to midnight

The Forum 600 SW 3 St. (Sao Paulo Room-6th floor) Pompano Beach, FL 33060

$10-advance/$15-at door. Derrick the DJ. Wear “after five” party attire. 754- 234-0095 or 754-235-5640.

100 Voice Concert Choir

Sunday, Feb. 16, 2 p.m.

Pompano Beach High School 1400 NE 6 St. Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Sponsored by New Presbyterian Church. Patriotic spectacular to honor veterans. Also featuringThe King’s Brass, The New Young Patriots, The Jubilation Brass Quintet and the Pompano Beach High School ROTC Color Guard. Pre-concert: 1 p.m. Tickets not needed, offering will be taken. 954.946.4380 or www.newpres.org.

Walk a Mile for the Cure

Sunday, Feb. 16, 9 a.m.

On Deerfield beach

$12-advance/$15-after Feb. 1. Includes Tshirt and continental breakfast. Donations benefit Relay for Life for American Cancer Society. Visit www.relay forlife.org.

DB Hadassah meets

Monday, Feb. 17, noon

Le Club-Rm. C 3501 West Dr. Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Speaker: Lisa Moore on benefits of Hadassah annuities and other sponsored aids by National Hadassah for its members. Refreshments served. Guests welcome. 954-427- 9902.

Used book sale

Tuesday, Feb. 18 to Thursday, Feb. 20, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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

Fiction, non-fiction and large print books. Hardcover- .50 and up/Paperback-.25 or 5/ $1.00. 954-421-7060.

Winter Concert Series 2014

Wednesday, Feb. 19, 7:30 to 9 p.m.

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

Those Fabulous 40s! $12. 954-786-4111. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

GFWC Deerfield Beach Woman’s Club meets

Wednesday, Feb. 19, 7:30 p.m.

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

New evening meeting. Info: 954-421- 4700.

Pro-Labs Art on the Boulevard

Friday, Feb. 7, 6 to 9 p.m.

Greight Spaces Interior Design 2611 E. Atlantic Blvd. Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Local artists showcasing art. Live music/ wine. Free admission, open to public. 100 percent of art sales go directly to artist. 954-788-9044.

Movies in the Park: “Hook”

Friday, Feb. 7, 7 p.m.

Villages of Hillsboro Park 4111 NW 6 St. Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Bring blankets and chairs. Refreshments sold. Info: 954- 480-4429 or www.Deerfield-Beach.com.

Hillsboro Lighthouse Tour

Saturday, Feb. 8, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Transportation from: Sands Harbor Hotel & Marina 125 N. Riverside Dr. Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Transportation to and from the lighthouse grounds by boat. $25 per person. Must have flat shoes with rubber soles and closed toes. Children must be accompanied by an adult and must be a minimum of 48″ (4 feet) tall to climb the tower. No pets allowed. www.hillsborolighthouse.org.

7th Annual Quick Draw & Shoot

Saturday, Feb. 8, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

On Pompano beach

Opportunity for artists, photographers of all ages/levels to come out and be inspired by Pompano’s beautiful new beach front. Finished pieces will be displayed at ArtHall. Reception/ Silent Auction: Wednesday, Feb. 19, 5:30-7:30 p.m. For more details, call 954-537-3370 or email info @BrowardArtGuild.org.

Florida Renaissance Festival

Saturday, Feb. 8 to Sunday, Feb. 9 10 a.m. to sunset

Quiet Waters Park 401 S. Powerline Rd. Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Runs through March 16 on weekends. $20-adults/$9- children ages 6-11/Kids 5 & younger free. This weekend’s theme: “Wine & Chocolate.” www.ren-fest.com or 800-3- REN-FES.

Sunday Matinee Music Series Concert: “33 Years”

Sunday, Feb. 9, 3 to 4 p.m.

Boca Raton Downtown Library 400 NW Ave. (Boca Raton Blvd.) Boca Raton, FL 33432

Country songs and classic blues concert by 33 Years. Free. Reservations required. Go to www.bocalibrary.org and click on Events Calendar to register. For more information, call 561 299-8684 or www.bocalibrary.org.

Pompano Beach Garden Club meets

Monday, Feb. 10, 12:30 p.m.

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

Presentation “Preparing for a Flower Show” by Ann Schandelmayer, master flower show judge. Open to the public. Refreshments served. 954-943-0029.

Deerfield Beach Orchid Society meeting

Tuesday, Feb. 11, 7:30 p.m. sharp

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

Speaker: Carlos A. Cahiz from OFE Orchid Supplies, R.C.K will provide tips and tactics to help orchid lovers and collectors. No charge for a guest to visit the first two times. After, there is a membership fee. For info., email deerfieldbeachorchidsociety@gmail.com or visit www.deerfieldbeachorchidsociety. Org.

Greater Pompano Beach Senior Citizens Club meets

Wednesday, Feb. 12, 10 a.m.

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

Club activities deal with general welfare, health, education, entertainment and security of Senior Citizens. For more info., call 954-786-3902.

Puppet Show-The Frog Prince

Wednesday, Feb. 12, 10:15 a.m.

Deerfield Beach Percy White Library 837 E. Hillsboro Blvd. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Presented by Bob Nathanson and Puppets to Go. Program suitable for children 3 and older. 954-357-7680.

Zonta Club of Boca Raton meets

Wednesday, Feb. 12, 6 p.m.

The Holiday Inn 2809 South Ocean Blvd. Highland Beach, FL 33487

Now accepting people for membership. Meets second Wednesday of the month for dinner. info@zontabocaraton. org.

Enroll America

Saturday, Feb. 1, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Boca Community Center 150 Crawford Blvd. Boca Raton, FL 33432

Find out more about Affordable Care Act and sign up if desired. Info: www.getcoveredamerica.org.

Jewish Folk Songs & Songs Of Peace and Social Justice

Sunday, Feb. 2, 3 p.m.

Century Village Activities Center 3501 West Dr. Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

$10. Refreshments available. Reserve ticket by Feb. 1: 954-942-0394 or email Franknnick@Gmail.Com. Proceeds go to Peace Action Education Fund.

Matinee Music Series: “Friction Farm”

Sunday, Feb. 2, 3 p.m.

Spanish River Library 1501 NW Spanish River Blvd. Boca Raton FL 33431

Concert by Friction Farm, a modern folk duo featuring guitarist/vocalist Aidan Quinn and bassist/vocalist Christine Stay Free. Reservations required. Go to www.bocalinrary.org and click on Events Calendar to register. Info: 561-299-8684.

AAUW Membership Meeting

Monday, Feb. 3, 12:30 p.m.

Pompano Beach Historical Society 217 NE 4 Ave. Pompano Beach, FL 33061

FREE. Hosted by American Association of University Women, Pompano Beach Branch. Presentation/ discussion: “Brain Matters” by H. Murray Todd, M.D., medical director of Neurological Institute & Memory Center at Broward Health North, Deerfield Beach. Call: 954-524-2938.

Couch to 5K-Adult Exercise Program

Monday, Feb. 3, 6 p.m.

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

9-week exercise program designed to prepare the non-exerciser, beginner athlete for 5K (3.1 mile) race. Classes Mondays and Thursdays. $20-Deerfield residents/$30-non residents. Registration until Jan. 31, 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Middle School Athletic office or any Deerfield Beach Parks and Recreation facilities. 954-480-4427.

Pompano Beach Highlands Civic Improvement Assn. (PBHCIA)

Tuesday, Feb. 4, 7 p.m.

Pompano Highlands Park 1650 NE 50 Ct. Pompano Beach, FL 33064

Special guest: Brian Donovan, Assistant to the City Manager. Open to the public, light refreshments available. Visit www.pbhighlands.org.

Winter Concert Series

Wednesday, Feb. 5, 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

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

Bossa Jazz. $12. For information, call 954-786-4111.

SAVE THE DATE: Florida Renaissance Festival

February 8 to March 16 (Weekends), 10 a.m. to sunset

Quiet Waters Park 401 S. Powerline Rd. Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

$20-adults/$9-children ages 6-11/Kids 5 & younger free. www.ren-fest.com or 800-3-REN-FES.

2014 theme weekends:

• Romance Weekend-“Wine & Chocolate” – Feb. 8, 9

• Pirates Weekend-“Pillage the Village” – Feb. 15, 16, 17

• Wenches Weekend-“Bodacious Bodices” – Feb. 22, 23

• Time Travelers Weekend–“From Steampunk to the Stars”– Mar. 1, 2

• Game of Thrones –Mar. 8, 9

• St. Patrick’s Weekend- “We’re going Green”–Mar. 15, 16

1st Annual Beach Walk at the Founders’ Days Festival

Sunday, Feb. 16, 9 a.m.

Deerfield Beach

Walk a Mile for the Cure. $12-advance/$15-after Feb. 1. Includes T-shirt and continental breakfast. Donations to American Cancer Society. www.relayforlife.org.