Students from the Deerfield Beach Parks Department youth Jiu Jitsu program won 16 medals at the 2015 NAGA Grappling Championship held at Florida Atlantic University on Sept. 26. Nine students from Deerfield Beach attended, including Ian Honda, Dashaun Amos, Dante Amos, Auriel Neal, Hope Moberg, Faith Moberg, Luke Souza, Tanner Ross and Luis Cruz Monoz.

Sensei Marcos Souza heads the city’s Jiu Jitsu program, with classes every Tuesday and Thursday at 6 p.m. in the Johnny Tigner Community Center, in the Oveta McKeithen Recreational Complex, 445 SW 2 St. Cost is $50 per month. www.deerfield-beach.com

Blood Sweat and Tears, Chuck Negron & Mark Farner

Thursday, Oct. 8, Doors open 6 p.m., Concert 7 p.m.

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

$28 – $68. Free parking. Purchase tickets at www.ticketmaster.com.

Friends of the Arboretum

Thursday, Oct. 8, 7 p.m.

Deerfield Beach Arboretum, 2841 W Hillsboro Blvd. Deerfield, Beach, FL 33442

Free. Light refreshments. Dr John Pipoly discusses how you can become a Master Gardner. Call 954-480-4495, or visit www.treezoo.com.

6th Annual Ranse Jones Classic Volleyball Tournament

Friday, Oct. 9 through Sunday, Oct. 11

North of the International Fishing Pier on the beach, Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

To benefit the Ranse Jones Stroke Awareness Fund. For more information, visit www.ranseclassic.com.

Shining Stars Luncheon

Friday Oct. 9, noon to 2 p.m.

Marriott Oceanside, 1200 N. Ocean Blvd., Pompano Beach, FL 33062

$50 per person. Honoring community members who have worked hard to improve Pompano Beach. For tickets, call 954-941-2940 or visit www.pompanobeachchamber.com.

Deerfield Island Park Exploration Hike

Saturday, Oct 10, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

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

Meet at Sullivan Park for transport to island. Explore the unique coastal habitat and learn about the island’s history dating back to the days of rum runners and Al Capone. $20 per person or $10 per couple. Preregistration required. Ages 8 and up. Call Quiet Waters Park, 954-357-5100.

Indoor Yard Sale

Saturday, Oct. 10, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

St. Peter’s Anglican Church 1416 SE 2 Terr. Deerfield Beach, Fl. 33441

Great items priced to sell. Blessing of the animals at 10 a.m. Call 954-695-0336.

Hillsboro Lighthouse tour

Saturday, Oct. 10, 8:30 to 3:30 p.m.

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

$25, free to HLPS members. Transportation is by boat. Shuttle boats hourly. Public parking across from Sands Harbor Resort. Must wear fl at, closed shoes. Children must be 4 ft. tall to climb the tower. No pets. Visit www.hillsborolighthouse.org/tours.

Shredding and medication disposal

Saturday, Oct. 10, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Dan Witt Park, 4521 NE 22 Ave, Lighthouse Point, FL 33064

Shredding limited to Lighthouse Point residents. Limit three boxes per household.

Woman’s Club meeting

Tuesday Oct. 13, 1 p.m.

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

Guests welcome. Light refreshments. Sherry Schleuter of the South Florida Wildlife Center will speak on rescuing injured and baby wild animals. Call 954-421-4700 or visit www.dbwc.org.

Orchid Society Meeting

Tuesday Oct. 13, 7:30 p.m.

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

Mac Rivenbark of Mac’s Orchids in Ft. Lauderdale will be discussing “Mac’s favorites,” plants that thrive in South Florida. Visit www.deerfieldbeachorchidsociety.org or email deerfieldorchids@gmail.com.

Save the Date! These events are coming soon:

• Oct 17: Cheers to 90 Years, Doubletree Hotel, Deerfield Beach. $125 per person. www.deerfield-history.org.

• Oct. 17: Fall Festival, Pioneer Park, Deerfield Beach, 3 to 7 p.m.

• Oct 23: 50th Anniversary Lighthouse Point Library, LHP Yacht Club, 6 p.m.

• Oct. 24: 5th Annual Daytime Radness at Island Water Sports. Sponsor or donate raffle items. www.daytimeradness.com.

On May 4, 1998, millions of Americans viewed part one of the final Seinfeld episode, aptly titled “The Finale.” Stuck in a small, unfamiliar Massachusetts town, Jerry, George, Elaine and Kramer are witnesses to an armed carjacking. Showing little concern for the victim, Kramer hoists his large camcorder to film the event while the others poke fun at the driver, for both his physical appearance and ill-fated predicament. Their laughter fades when a police officer approaches the four and places them under arrest.

“What? No, no … We didn’t do anything,” said Elaine.

“That’s exactly right,” replied the police officer, charging them for violating the town’s newly passed Good Samaritan Law, requiring bystanders to take reasonable action to assist anyone in danger.

While behind bars, George said, “Why would we want to help somebody? That’s what nuns and Red Cross workers are for.”

We laugh at its absurdity: the idea that anyone would stand idly by while a fellow human was in distress, let alone film the event. Yet a few weeks ago, footage of a Southwest Airlines flight attendant “slurring his words” and “nodding off” during a safety demonstration was posted to LiveLeak. The story went viral, accusing the flight attendant of either falling asleep or being drunk.

While the digital world jumped to negative conclusions, a personal friend of the flight attendant reported that he was actually suffering from a medical condition, and was later hospitalized for a brain aneurysm.

What started out as a punchline to a ‘90s television show has become our 21st Century reality: film first, post later, feel good about our “likes.” Me. Me. Me. Surely this can’t be healthy?

Psychology Today reports that when we become “self-absorbed, it’s difficult for us to experience the world from other people’s perspectives. Other people become truly ‘other’ to us. And this makes it possible for us to inflict suffering on them,” or fail to help them when they are in need. Our cell phones are charged and ready for filming, yet, it’s our empathy, our ability to be human, which is depleted.

This is cause for concern as we consider the research of renowned psychologist Dr. Philip Zimbardo. In his TED Talk, Zimbardo asserts that the “slippery slope of evil — exercising power to intentionally harm people physically and psychologically” begins with the “dehumanization of others” via a “legal, political, economic or cultural background — a system” that “corrupts the individuals.”

Consider the recent national cases of police either being refused restaurant service or having derogatory remarks scribbled across their coffee cups. Let me be clear about what’s happening: Individuals are uniting against the police. There are those in our society — in every society — who do not understand the text of Romans 13:3, “For the authorities do not strike fear in people who are doing right, but in those who are doing wrong.” (Naturally, some have more to fear than others.) But, this is different. These individuals are uniting under the same pretense. A movement has been created, a system that is giving some people power and permission to dehumanize police, leading to the infliction of suffering against police officers, both emotional and physical. In short, evil.

Zimbardo later goes on to say that the antidote to evil is heroes: “Heroes are everyday people.” Police are everyday people. They are humans. Let us not lose our empathy, unjustly dehumanizing our peace officers. Let us recognize the true courage of those who put their life on the line during every shift, while so many of us idly stand to the side, camera phone in hand, waiting for our clip to go viral.

To all those who put on the uniform every day, thank you. Your service and sacrifice does not go unnoticed, and I believe substantially more citizens than those portrayed in the media agree that your lives matter. Not because you are a police officer, but because you are human, and to dehumanize a person is nothing short of evil.

C.J. Wetzler is the Next-Gen pastor at First Baptist Church of Deerfield Beach. Before transitioning into full-time ministry, CJ was a commercial airline captain and high school leadership and science teacher. For questions or comments, he can be reached at cj@deerfieldfirst.com.

By Gary Curreri

Even though the Deerfield Beach High School football team came up short in its game on Friday night against visiting Jacksonville Bolles, Bucks quarterback Teddrick Moffett was the big winner earlier in the week when he was presented with a very large check.

Moffett and Blanche Ely High School linebacker David Francis were each awarded $1,000 scholarships from the McDougle Family Foundation. The two players were recognized as MVPs of the rain-shortened McDougle Bowl held in honor of the McDougle Brothers on Sept. 12.

Stockar McDougle (1996 Deerfield Beach grad) and Jerome McDougle (1997 Blanche Ely grad) were on hand for the second annual McDougle Bowl game. Stockar McDougle went on to play college football at the University of Oklahoma, while Jerome McDougle played at the University of Miami. Both brothers went on to play in the NFL.

The scholarships were handed out during a pep rally at Deerfield Beach. Moffett accounted for four scores, while Francis had an interception and fumble recovery.

The mission of the McDougle Family Foundation and Firstability Program is to encourage teens to stay focused on their education and provide at-risk students with support during those crisis moments.

Jerome McDougle said the game and the Foundation help start the students off with the tools necessary to succeed. Jerome McDougle, who played with the Philadelphia Eagles and New York Giants from 2003-2008, said the game has its place.

“The McDougle Bowl is super important because it’s about two guys coming back to the community to show the kids there are many ways to make it to the next level,” he said. “You get through the front door and achieve success through academics.”

“This is awesome,” he continued. “It is great for me and my brother to come back to one of the greatest rivalries in Broward County and we were a part of it. Both teams have had players go and play in the National Football League so it is good for us to come back.”

Stockar McDougle, who played with the Detroit Lions from 2000-04 and the Miami Dolphins in 2005 before finishing his career with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2006-07, called it cool for him and his brother to give back to the community. He is the only one from his family that didn’t attend Blanche Ely because of unusual boundaries during his high school tenure.

“This is all about pouring more resources into the community,” Stockar said. “We have a lot of athletes who have come out of these two programs and who have gone on and done great things.”

Deerfield Beach coach Jevon Glenn said the game has taken off and is glad the McDougle brothers are invested.

“It has gotten bigger and actually better,” said Glenn, who played in the game in 1995-96. “Especially with the McDougles coming on board and doing everything leading up to the game. I am very pleased and proud of the growth that the game has had over the 20 years.”

Class 4A power Jacksonville Bolles (5-0) scored 26 unanswered points in the second half to carve out a 33-15 victory over the Bucks (3-1) in a battle of unbeaten teams. Moffett once again was the star as he scored on runs of 97 and 46 yards to account for both Bucks’ touchdowns.

Community Resource Fair

Thursday, Oct. 1, 2 to 8 p.m.

Oveta McKeithen Recreational Complex

445 SW 2 St., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Free. Meet with organizations dedicated to educating entrepreneurs and helping small businesses start, expand and succeed. Resources available to residents needing job training, résumé and job interview preparation, employment preparation for veterans and programs for young adults 16-24.

Barktoberfest

Saturday Oct. 3 through Sunday Oct. 4

9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Quiet Waters Park

401 S. Powerline Road, Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Activities include Doggie Fun Zone, Adoptions, Rescue Groups, Doggie Marketplace, K9 Splash Adventure ($5 per dog) and much more. Dogs must be socialized and well-behaved. Proof of current rabies and a County tag required. Park entrance fee of $1.50 per person (over age 5).

LOOKBOOK Live

Saturday, Oct. 3, 1 to 5 p.m.

Town Center Mall at Boca Raton

6000 Glades Rd., Boca Raton, FL 33431

Fashion shows throughout the day near Neiman Marcus. Personal styling sessions, contests, giveaways and more. Get the scoop on the fall season.

Coast Guard Safe Boating Course

Saturday Oct. 3, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Coast Guard HQ building, Spanish River Park

3939 N. Ocean Blvd., Boca Raton, FL 33442

Certificate given on class completion, plus Florida Boating ID card, required for boaters under 26 years. Some insurers give discounts for course completion. Bring lunch. $35 per person. Call 561-391-3600.

Yard Sale

Saturday, Oct. 3, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

St. Peter’s Anglican Church

1416 SE 2 Terr., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Indoors. Rain or shine. Great items priced to sell! Call 954-695-0336.

Duende AMP Festival

Sunday, Oct. 4, 3 to 10 p.m.

Pompano Amphitheatre

1806 NE 6 St., Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Local bands compete for Most Amped Performance and winner will perform at 6:30 p.m. followed by Sammy Figueroa, Otis Cadillac, The Jason Taylor Foundation’s Bluapple Poetry Network, and Body and Soul Dance Theatre. Also, 12 artists will compete against each other during 45-minute preliminary rounds creating a new work of art during ARTwar. Only one artist will become the winner. Part of Duende weekend of activities. Visit www.broward.org/Broward100 for more information.

9th Annual Page One Passion Breast Cancer Awareness event

Tuesday, Oct. 6, 6 to 8:30 p.m.

New York Prime

2350 NW Executive Center Dr., Boca Raton, FL 33431

Appetizers, pink champagne, cocktails, networking and raffle. $25. In support of Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Must pre-register at www.pageonepassion.com.

Soroptimist 42nd Annual “Women of Distinction” Award Breakfast

Wednesday, Oct.7, 8 a.m.

Boca West Country Club

20583 Boca W. Dr., Boca Raton, FL 33434

$60 per person. Contact: Judith Hinsch, 561-859-1883 or www.soroptimist4women.org.

Save the Date!

6th Annual Ranse Jones Classic Volleyball Tournament

Friday, Oct. 9 through Sunday, Oct. 11

North of the International Fishing Pier on the beach Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

To benefit the Ranse Jones Stroke Awareness Fund. For more information, visit www.ranseclassic.com.

Kids’ Fishing Lessons on DB Pier

Saturday, Sept. 26

10 a.m. to noon & noon to 2 p.m.

International Fishing Pier 200 NE 21 Ave. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Free. Mayor Jean Robb and Commissioner Gloria Battle will give fishing lessons for kids 9 – 13 on the pier. Limit 10 kids per session. Must be Deerfield resident. Sign up at www. Deerfield-Beach.com/registration. Transportation provided from Oveta McKeithen Recreational Complex, 445 SW 2 St. Next session Oct. 3. Call 954-480-4481.

Dunn’s Run Registration Packet Pickup and Party

Saturday, Sept. 26, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Two Georges at the Cove 1734 SE 3 Ct. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Runners who are registered for the 19th Annual Dunn’s Run can pick up their race packets. Another pickup is scheduled for Oct. 3 at Jersey Mike’s, 2350 N. Federal Hwy. in Pompano.

3rd Annual Festi-Fall Arts & Craft Show

Saturday, Sept. 26, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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

Handcrafted arts, gifts, holiday crafts, baked goods and more. Hourly drawings. Proceeds benefit Zonta of Deerfield Beach initiatives. $2 parking fee. Call 561-482-8708.

Bingo and Spaghetti Dinner

Saturday Sept. 26, 6 p.m.

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

Free. RSVP to Father Tracy: 954-695-0336.

Turkish Food and Fun Festival

Sunday, Sept. 27, Noon to 5 p.m.

Istanbul Cultural Center 2500 W. Sample Rd. Pompano Beach, FL 33073

Turkish and Mediterranean food, bounce house, face painting, arts and crafts, and more. Call 305-890-2072.

Annual Two Georges at The Cove Golf Tournament

Monday, Sept. 28, 1:15 to 6 p.m.

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

Corporate Sponsorships available from $350. Individuals — $125 per player. For information, contact Denise Buzzelli at 954-427-0353.

Job Fair

Monday, Sept. 28, 2 to 6 p.m.

E. Pat Larkins Community Center 520 Hammondville Road/Dr. MLK Jr., Boulevard Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Hosted by the City of Pompano Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). Call 954-786-7866.

Save the Date! These events are coming soon:

• Oct. 3-4: Barktoberfest Dog Day at Quiet Waters Park, call 954-357-5100.

• Oct. 9 – 11: 6th Annual Ranse Jones Classic Volleyball Tournament, Deerfield beach.

• Oct. 23 – 25: Zion Lutheran All Years Reunion, BBQ, alumni gathering, golf tournament, dance and more. Email zionpalooza@gmail.com.

By Gary Curreri

Both the stadium and the host football team suffered from a power outage, and, in the end, Deerfield Beach prevailed 30-12 over host Blanche Ely in the second annual McDougle Bowl last Saturday night.

Deerfield Beach struck early and often, and, ultimately, a power outage ended the contest with 3:25 remaining in the third quarter with the Bucks winning the contest. The second annual McDougle Bowl game was presented by brothers Jerome McDougle (1997 Ely grad) and Stockar McDougle (1996 Deerfield Beach grad) who both went on to play in the NFL.

Deerfield Beach coach Jevon Glenn said it is was a big game for the program.

“This is huge,” Glenn said. “It is a big rivalry game between the Pompano and Deerfield Beach communities. I played in this game (1995-96) so I know the electricity in this game and I want to make sure the kids know the importance of it. You can throw the records out of the window. Throw the wins and losses out the window. It is time to battle.”

“It has gotten bigger and actually better,” Glenn said. “Especially with the McDougles coming on board and doing everything leading up to the game. I am very pleased and proud of the growth that the game has had over the [past] 20 years.”

Deerfield Beach (2-0) struck as quickly as the lightning in the area that prompted the game to be delayed for one hour and 40-minutes. The game then endured a 20-minute power outage at 10:45 p.m. before officials called the game.

Bucks senior quarterback Teddrick Moffett, who transferred from Blanche Ely prior to the season, engineered three scores in the game’s first 6:25 as he threw for two scores and ran for another. Moffett finished the game with three TD passes and one running score.

Moffett hit Jerry Jeudy on a screen play on the first play from scrimmage that covered 62 yards and gave Deerfield Beach a 7-0 lead. The pair connected again on the next series on a 9-yard scoring play for a 14-0 lead and Moffett drove his team 60 yards in nine plays and capped the drive with a 3-yard scoring run and a 21-0 lead with 5:25 remaining in the first quarter.

Blanche Ely (0-3) was able to trim the lead to 21-6 following a fumble recovery by David Francis on the Bucks’ 25-yard line. Arthur Forrest capped the 5-play drive when he bulled in from three yards out with 8:25 remaining in the second quarter. Francis later added an interception for the host Tigers.

The Bucks closed out the first half scoring with Alton Allen hauling in a 23-yard scoring pass from Moffett on the final play of the first half for a 27-6 advantage.

Jefferson Souza booted a 23-yard field goal to make it 30-6 with 10:54 left in the third quarter and Blanche Ely took the ensuing kickoff and marched 88 yards in 17 plays to trim the lead to 30-12 on a 7-yard scoring pass from Perdue to Jeremy Taylor with 4:54 left in the third quarter.

Less than two minutes later, the lights went out rendering the stadium pitch black and after a 20-minute delay, officials called the contest.

Blanche Ely entered the contest 3-7 lifetime against the visiting Bucks.

Blanche Ely lost the first four meetings and the last three games sandwiched in between three victories from 2009-11. Deerfield won 14-12, 46-6 and 19-0 the past three years. The Tigers won 28-10, 37-0 and 34-16. Deerfield Beach won the first four matchups 36-27 (2004), 28-6 (2006), 20-2 (2007) and 21-14 (2008)

Glenn said the team didn’t go into the game overconfident.

“Nobody is more desperate than us,” Glenn said. “We went 4-6 last year. We are hungry. We will never walk into a game where somebody wants to beat us more than we want to beat them. That’s the mentality of our program.”

Blanche Ely coach Nakia Jenkins had guaranteed a victory before the game. He said the team made some coaching changes during the week, and Jenkins said he took over play calling duties.

“We just had a couple of bad breaks and the kids are ready,” Jenkins said. “We made a couple of coaching changes and I am back to calling plays.”

Jenkins said things hadn’t gone the way he thought they would despite a senior-laden team entering the year.

“Speaking for myself,” Jenkins said. “I think I got away from it. I wasn’t putting both hands in it like I should have. I think my kids started drifting and not focused like they should of. I am the leadership. It starts with me. I think if they see me take it more serious, then they do the same.”

For more information on what the McDougle brothers do in the community, visit their website at http://firstability.org/#first-ability.

LHP Kids Sports Registrations

• Girls Volleyball

On-going

City Clerk’s Office, 200 NE 38 St., Lighthouse Point, FL 33064

No registration fee; game schedule TBD. Grades 5 – 8

• Recreational Cheerleading

Saturday, Sept. 19, 9 to 10 a.m.

Frank McDonough Park

3500 NE 27 Ave., Lighthouse Point, FL 33064

Registration Fee: Residents and non-residents, $25. Grades 1 – 5. Game Schedule: Saturdays, Oct. 24, through Dec.19 at Frank McDonough Park following NFL Flag Football game schedule.

• Flag Football

On-going

City Clerk’s Office, 2200 NE 38 St., Lighthouse Point, FL 33064

Registration Fee: Residents $40, non-residents $70. Grades 5 – 8

Constitution Day at FAU

Thursday, Sept. 17, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Democracy Plaza, Florida Atlantic University

777 Glades Rd., Boca Raton, FL 33431

Free. Events celebrate the signing of the U.S. Constitution this day in 1787. Events include presentation of colors, national anthem, and presentations by various speakers. Contact Kevin Wagner at 561-252-1794 or kwagne15@fau.edu.

Fair Housing Act Seminar

Thursday, Sept. 17, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Kaye Bender Rembaum, 1200 Park Central Blvd. S., Pompano Beach, FL 33064

Free. RSVP seminars@KBRLegal.com or call 954-928-0680.

Carousel Carnival

Friday, Sept. 18, 6 to 9 p.m.

Pompano Citi Centre Federal Hwy & Copans Rd. Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Carnival midway games, free carousel rides, face painting, Sunshine Circus, clown show, acrobatic dogs and more. Visit www.PompanoCitiCentre.com.

Kiwanis Club Annual FUNd-raiser Golf Tournament

Saturday, Sept. 19, 8 a.m. shotgun start

Crystal Lake Golf Club

3800 Crystal Lake Dr. Pompano Beach, FL 33064

$125 individuals; $500 foursome. Proceeds benefit a wide range of Kiwanis programs and charities in our community. Sponsorship opportunities available. Call 954-242-6083, 954-980-1833, or visit www.deerfield-beachkiwanis.org.

Pop Tennis FREE Demo/Clinic

Saturday, Sept. 19, 8 to 10 a.m.

Pompano Community Park Pickleball Courts

2001 NE 10 St. Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Call Mitchell Ball, 754-201-9047 or visit www.misterpoptennis.com.

The Blues Brothers concert

Saturday, Sept. 19, 9 p.m.

Rips Sports Bar & Grill (in Diamond Strikes Lanes)

2200 N. Federal Hwy. Pompano Beach, FL 33062

You saw the movie … now see the show! Call 954-941-0968.

Church of Christ 37th Anniversary

Sunday, Sept. 20, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Oveta McKeithen Recreational Complex

445 SW 2 St. Deerfield Beach, FL 33444

Worship services, Sunday school, lunch and Song Fest featuring 15th St. Choraleers, Harmony of Hope and Grace Notes. Events and worship nightly Sept 21 – 24, 7:30 p.m. at the church, 360 SW 2 Ave. Call Rosemary Baker, 954-609-8215.

Zumba Gold® Fitness Classes

Tuesdays, Sept. 22, 11:15 a.m.

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

Low-impact workouts are upbeat, build cardiovascular health and feature a combination of dance styles, including salsa, tango and merengue. Every Tuesday and Thursday. $10 per month (Free to Healthways Silver Sneakers). Call 954-480-4447.

Grand Opening – Jersey Mike’s, Pompano

Wednesday, Sept. 23, 5:15 p.m.

Jersey Mike’s Subs 2350 N. Federal Hwy. Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Fundraiser for stroke awareness – $2 of each coupon redeemed between Sept. 23 and Oct. 12 will be donated to the Ranse Jones Stroke Awareness Fund. Pick up coupons at Jersey Mike’s Subs. Call 954-532-0209.

LHP Chamber Workshop on Video Marketing and Social Selling

Wednesday, Sept 23, 6 to 8 p.m.

Lighthouse Point Yacht & Racquet Club

2701 NE 42 St. Lighthouse Point, FL 33064

Free. The LHP Chamber offers this seminar for business owners on video marketing and social selling. Video expert Jessica Carter Brace and Steve Nudelberg with On The Ball Marketing will share their expertise. Broward County Commissioner Chip LaMarca will give a Broward Business update. RSVP to lhpchamberoffice@gmail.com. Visit www.lhpchamber.com for information.

Save the Date! These events are coming soon:

• Sept. 28: Fifth Annual Two Georges Golf Tournament, Deer Creek Country Club, call 954-427-0353.

• Oct. 3-4: Barktoberfest Dog Day at Quiet Waters Park, call 954-357-5100.

• Oct. 9 – 11: 6th Annual Ranse Jones Classic Volleyball Tournament, Deerfield beach.

By Rachel Galvin

When Ira Wechterman first proposed setting up a kayak ramp at Hillsboro Cove Condominiums in Deerfield Beach, a 55-year-old and over condo, he thought the response would be small. Boy, was he wrong. His project has taken on a life much bigger than he expected.

“I was pestering our dock master to see if we could get a system set up for kayaks. He said, ‘There are 10 empty boat slips. Pick one and see what you can do.’ I sent out a questionnaire, expecting three or four people interested. Instead, we got over 18,” said Wechterman.

That double digit interest increased more than three-fold, said Wechterman, who added, “People who were non-boaters now have the opportunity to get involved with boating at a minimal cost.”

Their condo maintenance staff built the racks – a total of 36 slots. Many residents, however, leave their kayaks in their condo units. Those interested in putting their kayaks in a slot pay an initial set-up fee to offset the cost of building the racks and a $10 monthly fee added to their Condo Area Maintenance (CAM). There is a dolly nearby to aide in transporting the kayak to the water.

In addition, he researched and found a local company to provide a dock and ramp with overhead bar for easier kayak entry and exit.

“My wife and I go out together paddling around Deerfield Island and up to Hillsboro Canal,” he added, saying they often see animals and marine life, including fish, manatees, birds and iguanas.

His wife, Helene, chimed in, “He had never kayaked before we moved here; but I had.”

When asked about the new dock ramp and racks, she said, “I love it. It is wonderful. We try to go out once a week.”

He hopes the city of Deerfield Beach will put in a kayak dock at Pioneer Park so that kayakers can more easily exit the water there and use restroom facilities, as well as explore nearby restaurants before getting back in the water.

The couple moved from Long Island and were snowbirds for 12 years before moving here full-time two years ago.

“My wife bought our condo without me ever seeing it,” said Wechterman. “It is one of the few places you can look out and see something green.”

Deerfield Island Park

That something green is Deerfield Island Park, a 53.3 acre nature-oriented park surrounded by the Intracoastal Waterway and the Hillsboro and Royal Palm canals, and accessible only by boat. For those without kayaks or boats of their own, there is a free boat that leaves from Sullivan Park to the island every hour from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekends. The last shuttle leaves at 4:30 p.m. The shuttle is dependent on weather conditions. If the weather looks bad, confirm first by calling Quiet Waters Park at 954-357-5100.

This island is an asset not only to those who live across from it at Hillsboro Cove, but all the residents of Deerfield Beach and beyond.

He said the upcoming Sullivan Park improvements will create a whole day experience. Kids can play in the fountain and then the family can go to Deerfield Island Park to explore the nature trails.

Friends of Deerfield Island Park

Wechterman, who is on the Marine Advisory Board, is the president of Friends of Deerfield Island Park (DIP), a group formed about six months ago to ensure that the island is protected by giving their voices and time to the cause. They not only volunteer, but also raise funds to help create improvements to the island and show others its value. The group is doing outreach to get more individuals and communities involved to increase membership and awareness of the park.

This month, Deerfield Island Park will build and install two kayak and paddleboard racks similar to the ones at Hillsboro Cove with the help of the Friends group and Lowe’s Home Improvement. Visitors will be able to rent kayaks and paddleboards through the Parks Dept.

Butterfly Garden

The Friends of DIP are also helping to create a butterfly garden on Oct. 17 from 9 a.m. to noon. They are seeking 20 volunteers to help plant shrubs and flowers that will attract butterflies. Tools will be provided by Broward County Parks and Recreation.

Those interested in being involved in their group can find out more information at www.friendsofdip.org.

Friends of the Arboretum Educational Meeting

Thursday, Sept. 10, 7 p.m.

Deerfield Beach Arboretum at Constitution Park

2341 W. Hillsboro Blvd. Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Harold Hoyte, City of Deerfield Beach Landscape Architect, will discuss Florida Friendly Landscapes and answer questions about plants and planting. Free. Refreshments served. Drawing for a free plant. Call 954-480-4495 or visit www.treezoo.com.

Yard Sale and Fundraiser

Friday, Sept. 11, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 12, 8 a.m. to noon

First Christian Church and Day School

1860 NE 39 St. Pompano Beach, FL 33064

Funds raised support the Youth Ministry and children at the licensed pre-school. Items: Furniture, motorized scooters, housewares, clothes, shoes, toys.

Fundraiser for Maddie – Car Wash and BBQ

Saturday, Sept. 12, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Cabin Sports Bar 154 N. Federal Hwy. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Funds to benefit baby Maddie Boudreau who suffers from a pediatric brain tumor. Car wash, BBQ, raffle, DJ, face painting, animal rescue and more. Call 954-428-6438 for information or to sponsor.

About Boating Safely

Saturday, Sept. 12, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Spanish River Park HQ Bldg.

3939 N. Ocean Blvd. Boca Raton, FL 33441

Class covers boat handling, navigation rules, federal and Florida regulations, safety and more. Certification may reduce your insurance premiums. $35. Bring your own lunch. RSVP at 561-391-3600.

Pet CPR Course

Saturday, Sept. 12, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Florida Humane Society 3870 N. Powerline Rd. Pompano Beach, FL 33073

Four-hour PetTech Pet CPR & First Aid program. Space limited. Bring an item to donate to Florida Humane Society. They always need paper towels, bleach, cat litter and similar items. Register in advance at www.PetTech.net. For information on Florida Humane Society, call 954-974-6152. For information about the Pet CPR or other CPR classes, call CPR Training 2 Go, LLC at 954-461-8203.

Hillsboro Lighthouse tour

Saturday, Sept. 12, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Sands Harbor Resort and Dock

125 N. Riverside Dr. Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Transportation is only by boat. Shuttle boats sail hourly. Use the public parking lot on the east side of the Intracoastal across from the Sands Harbor Resort. Look for HLPS Lighthouse tour table at dock. $25, free to HLPS members. Must wear fl at shoes with rubber soles and closed toes. No sandals, flip-flops or shoes with heels allowed inside light house. Children must be accompanied by an adult and must be a minimum of 4 ft. tall to climb the tower. No pets. For more information, visit www.hillsborolighthouse.org/tours.

Conversion of Tam O’Shanter Golf Course to Fairway Memorial Gardens

Tuesday, Sept. 15, 7 p.m.

Crystal Lakes Golf Villa Club House

3800 Crystal Lake Dr. Pompano Beach, FL 33064

Tam O’Shanter Golf Course is now Fairway Memorial Gardens, the first perpetual care cemetery to open in 45 years in South Florida. Homeowners and the public are invited to attend to learn about development plans that will increase home values. For information, call Perry Caudill at 954-830-5279.

History at High Noon

Wednesday, Sept. 16, Noon to 1 p.m.

Commission Chambers 150 NE 2 Ave. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

The Deerfield Beach Historical Society presents local historian Mae Silver, who will share stories from her many books focused on the accomplishments of women. Light refreshments are served; free entrance, donations accepted. For information, visit www.deerfield-history.org or call 561-429-0378.

Pompano Chamber Fine Food & Wine Event

Wednesday, Sept. 16, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Hillsboro Club 901 Hillsboro Mile Hillsboro Beach, FL 33062

Food prepared on-site by over 30 local chefs. $85 each or four tickets for $300 (save $60!). Call the Pompano Beach Chamber of Commerce at 954-941-2940 or visit www.pompanobeachchamber.com.

Save the Date Two Georges at The Cove Golf Tournament

Monday, Sept. 28, 1:15 – 6 p.m.

Deer Creek Golf Club

2801 DC Country Club Blvd. Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

A fun day of golf with a 1:15 p.m. shotgun start. Corporate sponsorships available from $350. Individual golfers $125 per player. Contact Denise Buzzelli at 954-427-0353.

Kiwanis Club of Deerfield Beach 5th Annual FUNd-Raiser Golf Tournament

Saturday, Sept. 19, 8 a.m. shotgun start

Crystal Lakes Golf Club 3800 Crystal Lake Dr. Pompano Beach, FL 33064

Register now. $125/ individual; $500 foursome (includes Continental breakfast and awards luncheon). Contests for Hole in One, Closest to Pin, Longest Drive. Raffles, silent auction, ball drop, free drinks on the course. See more info. pg. 2. or call 954-242-6083 or email hgouldrealtor@comcast.net.

Zion Lutheran All Years Reunion

Thursday, Oct 22 to Sunday, Oct. 25

For more information, e-mail drewshimkus66@gmail.com or visit their Facebook site: #zionpalooza2015.