DB Chamber After Hours

TONIGHT (Dec. 15), 5:30 p.m.

Deerfield Beach Chamber, 1601 E. Hillsboro Blvd., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

“Giving N’ the Holiday Spirit.” Food from several restaurants, music, decorations, networking. Bring unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots. Bring food or drinks to share. $15 at door. 954-427-1050.

AARP Driver Safety program

Thursday, Dec. 15, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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

Save money, earn a discount on your car insurance and update your driving skills! Provides those over 50 years old with updated information on current Florida Statutes, as well as coping with changes. $14 for 6-hour course ($12 AARP member). Space limited, reservations required. 954-480-4447 or e-mail mflower@deerfield-beach.com.

Percy White Library Holiday Fair

Through Dec. 23, Mon.,Wed., Sat., 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tues.,Thurs., noon to 8 p.m.

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

Holiday decorations/cards. Come early for best selections. Call 954-360-1380.

Winter Wonderland

Thursday, Dec. 15, 3 to 5 p.m.

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

Enjoy an afternoon of frolicking fun featuring two snow hills, horse-drawn hayrides, a giant peppermint twist game, refreshments and holiday treats. www.Deerfield-Beach.com.

Kung Fu Panda 2

Friday, Dec. 16, 7 p.m.

Main Beach Parking Lot, Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

“DB FilmFest” provided by Paragon Deerfield 8. Bring blanket or lawn chairs. Refreshments available for purchase. 954-480-4430.

Prime Timers Yard Sale

Sat., Dec. 17, 9 a.m. to noon

1008 SE 3 St. (first right off 12 Ave.), Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Clothes, furniture, books, bedding, assorted items. Proceeds go to Community Presbyterian Church. 954-642-6419.

Christmas Coffeehouse with carols

Saturday, Dec. 17, 6 to 7 p.m.

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

Observer editor plays with Luminotti bassist. Bring your friends. Christmastime message by Rev. Dennis Andrews. Part of the Saturdays at Six series at Steeple on the Beach. 954-427-0222.

35th Annual Boca Raton Boat Parade

Saturday, Dec. 17, 6:30 p.m.

Along with a spectacular boat parade and fireworks display, also featured is the famous ‘on the water’ U.S. Marines’ Toys for Tots drive featuring dockside donation pickups during the parade to benefit needy children in our area. Tow boats travel the parade route and collect new, unwrapped toys from folks using flashlights to signal the tow boats along the route.

Registration is free and all entries are guaranteed to win prize packages and/or cash prizes, valued at over $10,000. Parade is FREE and open to the public with bleacher viewing areas at Red Reef Park and Silver Palm Park. The parade begins in the Intracoastal Waterway at the C-15 Canal at the Delray Beach/Boca Raton border and continues south to the Hillsboro Boulevard Bridge just south of the Boca Raton city limits.

For more information, call 561-239-1536  or 561-393-7827. www.myboca.us/rec/specialevents.

Christmas set-list w/rockin’ 5-piece band

Sunday, Dec. 18, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Boca Raton High School, Performing Arts Theatre, 1501 NE 15 Ct., Boca Raton, FL 33486

Rock into Christmas with band. Journey Church, a young, open to the public, hip group, that has fun learning about the Lord. For more information, call 561-245-8264.

Dixieland Jazz

Sunday, Dec. 18, 1 to 4 p.m.

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

Presented by the Hot Jazz & Alligator Gumbo Society. $10. 954-563-5390 or 561-394-0269.

Surfers for Autism Holiday Happy Hour and 2012 Tour Release Party

Sun. Dec. 18, 3 to 8 p.m. 

Oceans 234, 234 N. Ocean Blvd., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

LIVE entertainment, happy hour drink prices, discounted menu. 954-428-2539.

The Deerfield Beach Chapter of Hadassah Meeting

Monday, Dec. 19, 12:15 p.m.

Century Village E., Le Club-Activity Room B, 3501 West Dr., Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Speaker: Irving Baker on “The Impact of Islam on Judaism.” Refreshments served.  Guests welcome. 954-428-6265 or 954-427-9902.

Yappy Hour

Tuesday, Dec. 20, 6 p.m.

Deerfield Beach Toyota, 1441 S. Federal Hwy., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Celebrate the season with The Florida Humane Society. Refreshments and treats for you and your dog! Get a holiday pic with you and your best four-legged friend. RSVP: Ted@neweyesmarketing.com.

History at High Noon

Wednesday, Dec. 21, noon to 1 p.m.

Old School Museum, 232 NE 2 St., (near City Hall), Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

FREE lecture by Deerfield Beach Historical Society. Speaker: Owner of Dixie Divers, Pavan. Topic: Underwater history. Donations welcome. 954.429.0378.

Holiday food giveaway

Saturday, Dec. 17, 10 a.m. to noon

408 Hammondville Rd., Pompano Beach, Florida 33060, (Street next to the E. Pat Larkins Community Center)

State Representative Gwyn Clarke-Reed, Dist. 92, in conjunction with Jack Cory and the Pompano Beach Farmer’s Market bring this event to Pompano. Bags are courtesy of Broward Health. There is no cost for produce.

Detox battle of rights

Dear Editor:

A storefront at 504 S. Federal Hwy. has become ground zero in a classic case of David vs. Goliath. In this case, David is a band of neighbors from The Cove neighborhood, whose homes are next to or near the property. Goliath is a business owner who owns Deerfield Florida House, Inc., a substance abuse treatment facility across the street from the storefront, formerly known as Reel Smokers World.

Even without a change of land-use approval from the city, the owner purchased the property for over $1 million and sank $100,000 in architectural fees for a 24- to 28-bed detoxification facility for drug and alcohol abusers with dual diagnoses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and other psychiatric illnesses. Patients will arrive at the facility while under the influence of substances with the goal of removing the substances from their bodies, so they may be admitted to the Florida House directly across Federal Highway for long-term drug rehabilitation. Florida statutes prevent the facility from retaining patients against their will, so they may leave treatment after six hours. Needless to say, neighbors became concerned and organized to fight the plan.

The business owner met with neighbors and denied that patients had committed crimes or were a threat to the surrounding community.

However, in February 2011, a Florida House patient fled the facility and stole a knife from Publix prior to burglarizing and vandalizing cars in The Cove parking lot and at homes on SE 17 Ave. and SE 17 Terr. The patient’s rampage didn’t stop there. He entered an occupied home on SE 5 Court then stumbled out onto the lawn. The resident recognized the patient was in distress and offered assistance, but the patient punched him in the face.

Prior to that, a Florida House resident robbed Papa John’s pizza on S. Federal Highway in 2009. Neighbors currently report being solicited for money and rides to the airport at local businesses from patients from the Florida House.

In September, the Planning and Zoning Board [recommended to the city commission] denial of the change of land use request, stating the proposed facility was not compatible with the residential zone next to it. In addition, city code states that a substance abuse treatment facility cannot be within 1,000 feet of another substance abuse treatment facility. The city rejected the application.

End of story? Not so fast. The owner has appealed the ruling, stating that the planned facility is merely an extension of the substance abuse facility across the street, even though different services will be provided there. He has also vowed to spend up to $6 million to defend his right to build the facility. He has retained counsel of an attorney who specializes in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). That lawyer has already sent a threatening letter to city officials alleging “hostile and irrational community prejudice.” If his appeal to the Planning and Zoning Board special master is denied, it is expected he will turn to the ADA for ammunition against the city.

What’s at stake for the business owner? Millions of dollars in profit from the desperate families of addicts who will pay any amount for help for their loved ones. What’s at stake for the neighbors? At the very least, a drop in property values of their biggest investment — their homes. At worst, their safety and security. Who has already won this battle? The previous owner of the property, who purchased it for $600,000 in 1999 and sold it to Deerfield Florida House for $1.3 million in 2011.

Can Deerfield Beach afford to fight this battle? If we don’t, does that mean a dual diagnosis detoxification facility may be built anywhere in our city? Will the next one be built next to your house?

Donna Ihle

Deerfield Beach

RE: Paid Advertisement

Dear Editor:

Congrats to Frank “It’s all about me” Congemi. After his power play struggle failed, he felt it necessary to take out a full page ad in the Observer in an attempt to undermine those who still believe in the Chamber. Frank, get over yourself. In my opinion, you’re still a bull in a china shop. You challenge the integrity of people. As for your last line, “God bless,” who are you kidding? Live with yourself, you deserve you.

Steve Miller

Deerfield Beach

RE: Publisher’s Perspective

Dear Editor:

I always enjoy reading Op-Eds written by the publisher, because of their clarity and conciseness.  However, the Opinion piece in the Dec.1 issue is particularly worthy of praise.

Politicians frequently say that raising taxes will kill jobs. Rarely, if at all, do they explain why. The publisher does this with a logical, yet simple case and argument explaining why increased taxes and, therefore, increased costs decreases business and lessens the ability of a business owner to pay employees.

Don Kolb

Deerfield Beach

DEERFIELD BEACH

Nov. 25 A man reported that a residence at 26 Tilford B was burglarized and $7,700 in cash was stolen.

Nov. 25 A man reported that his car was missing from the parking lot of 4022 Ventnor C.

Nov. 25 A man reported that three men approached him while he was using his computer at 760 Tivoli Circle. One man showed him a gun and demanded that he surrender his laptop computer. The men fled.

Nov. 26 The owner of Berger Windows at 4100 N. Powerline Rd. reported an open bed trailer valued at about $2,000 was stolen from the business.

Nov. 26 A woman reported that a man stole her purse while she was at 1319 S. Military Trail and fled in a car.

Nov. 26 A man reported that a trailer was stolen from 1323 SW 1 Way.

Nov. 26 A man reported that a man approached him and then stole a gold necklace from his neck while he was sitting in his car at 299 W. Hillsboro Blvd.

Nov. 27 A woman reported that she was staying at the home of a relative at 4725 NW 3 St. The woman said she returned to the residence and found it burglarized. Televisions, a laptop and jewelry were stolen.

Nov. 27 The owner of Power Construction at 1323 SW 1 Way reported that he believes a former employee entered the business and stole $11,000 worth of merchandise.

Nov. 27 A woman was arrested and charged with a narcotics felony at 1000 S. Federal Hwy. She was found to be in possession of more than 20 grams of marijuana.

Nov. 27 A man reported that his car was stolen from a parking lot at 1629 E. Hillsboro Blvd.

Nov. 27 A car was stolen from a residence at 280 NW 2 Ave.

Nov. 27 A woman was arrested and charged with stealing a car from the parking lot of Hampton Inn at 660 W.Hillsboro Blvd.

Night of Magic

Thursday, Dec. 1, 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Bru’s Room Sports Grill, 5460 W. Hillsboro Blvd., Coconut Creek, FL  33073

Dr. Magic will entertain you at this event sponsored by Team Gateway Logistics to benefit Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Donation of $15. Free glass of wine, beer or soda. 954-571-6999.

Chamber Breakfast N’ Deerfield

Thursday, Dec. 1, 7:30 to 9 a.m.

The Horizon Club, 1208 S. Military Dr.

Speaker – Molly Murphy, Outreach Manager of Horses For The Handicapped. Don’t miss – on Dec. 7, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Luncheon Leads Group at the Chamber, 1601 E. Hillsboro Blvd., Deerfield Beach, 33441. 954-946-5452.

Yuletide Parade

Friday, Dec. 2, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

NE 5 Avenue to Community Park ,Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Parade begins at 5 Avenue near Sample McDougald House, proceeds east to NE 10 Street to NE 11 Avenue, south to NE 9 Street and east into Community Park. Floats, bands, clowns, dancers and more. Park will have even more activities and Santa will be there. Mayor Fisher will light the Yuletide Tree. Refreshments will be available. 954-786-4111.

Nova Singers perform

Friday, Dec. 2, 8:15 p.m.

First Presbyterian Church, 2331 NE 26 Ave., Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Enjoy melodies from the 15th and 16th Centuries, songs with lyrics from Shakespeare as well as standard holiday songs by various composers and arrangers. $10 donation. 954-941-2308, ext. 112. www.pinkpres.org.

Breakfast with Santa

Saturday, Dec 3, 9 to 11 a.m.

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

Santa and his elves will arrive by fire truck and the Deerfield Beach Historical Society will provide breakfast, crafts for the children and a photo with Santa!  $5 per person.  Call for reservations: 954-429-0378.

Volunteer Day

Saturday, Dec. 3, 9 a.m.

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

Bring own work gloves. Water and lunch provided. 954-480-4494.

18th annual Breakfast with Santa

Saturday, Dec. 3, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Boca Raton Children’s Museum, 498 Crawford Blvd., Boca Raton, FL 33432

Snow, Santa, pancake breakfast, train rides, multicultural crafts, entertainment by “Uncle Willy” and Flora Belle the Clown, sand art activities and more! Admission is $10 per person, infants are free. Reservations required. 561-368-6875 or visit www.cmboca.org.

Toys for Tots

Through Dec. 7

Bartell Chiropractic Life Center, 57 W. Hillsboro Blvd., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441 

Bartell Chiropractic Life Center is an official drop-off location for “Toys for Tots.”  Bring in a new, unwrapped toy and receive a ”Health Pass” for $37 (value $300) and a chance to win a 1 night stay at Deerfield Beach Embassy Suites Resort and Spa. 954-426-3200.

Relay for Life seeking teams

The American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life of Deerfield Beach, LHP & Hillsboro Beach is looking for teams. The relay will be held May 5-6, 2012 at Quiet Waters Park. For more info, contact Nona Breitenstein at nonabreit@gmail.com  or 954-304-4248. www.relayforlife.org/dblpfl.

Toys for Tots Drive

Through Friday, Dec. 16, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Monday to Friday)

Allen West for Congress Headquarters, Fifth Avenue Shops, 2108 N. Federal Hwy., Boca Raton, FL 33431

The Allen West for Congress Campaign and United States Marine Corps collected nearly 1,000 toys for needy children through the Toys for Tots program last year. This year, they hope for more. Bring new, unwrapped toys. 877-906-2010.

Deerfield Beach Computer Club meets

Fridays, except holidays

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

Need some computer experience? This club can help. $1 per class. 954-725-9331 or www.db-cc.org.

Food Drive

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

Needed: Non-perishable food items such as peanut butter, canned vegetables, cereal (hot or cold), rice, pasta, canned soups & stews, canned fruits, dried or canned milk, canned tuna, and canned chicken or turkey. Please drop off your food donations: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. 954-480-4449.

Seeking boats for 49th Annual Pompano Beach Boat Parade

To be held Dec. 11 on the Intracoastal Waterway, leaving from Lake Santa Barbara to Deerfield Beach, the Pompano Boat Parade is sure to bring many onlookers to see the lit-up decorated boats. For more information, visit www.observernewspaperonline.
com or contact Pompano Chamber at 954-941-2940 to register. Register NOW!

Ribbon cutting at MarCha’s  Breakfast Shack

Wednesday, Dec. 7, 11-30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

3110 Plaza at 3100 N. Federal Hwy., Lighthouse Point, FL 33064

Free samples, snacks, drinks; lunch specials and delicious homemade hot soups. All food is made from scratch or is ordered from top quality organic producers and is hormone, antibiotic and preservative free. www.marchasbreakfastshack.com.

9th Annual Lighthouse ‘A Glow

Wednesday, Dec. 7, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

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

Kick off your holiday season with family entertainment!

DEERFIELD BEACH

Nov. 15 The caretaker of a home at 30 NE 11 Way reported the home was broken into and said rooms had been entered. It was not determined if anything had been stolen.

Nov. 15 A woman reported that her home at 1472 SE 5 St. was broken into. She said a laptop, a plasma television and a jewelry box containing $6,000 worth of jewelry was stolen.

Nov. 15 A person reported that lug nuts were removed from three of four tires on an automobile parked at 1535 SE 14 Court.

Nov. 16 A man reported that his truck was stolen from the parking lot of the Best Western Deerfield Beach Hotel & Suites at 1050 Newport Center Dr.

Nov. 17 A man reported that someone entered his truck at 558 NW 44 Terr. and stole about $1,000 worth of tools.

Nov. 17 A man was arrested and charged with stealing a Jet Ski and trailer valued at $17,000 from Riva Motorsports at 3971 N. Dixie Hwy.

Nov. 17 A woman reported a break-in at her home at 425 SE 17 Terr. and that jewelry and cash were stolen.

DEERFIELD — District 4

Nov. 19 Armed robbery was reported at 1200 W. Hillsboro Blvd. (formerly the Mobil Station, now 7-11) at 10:30 p.m. Victim stated that an unknown white male entered the business with a handgun and demanded money. The clerk surrendered approximately $60 dollars in cash and a pack of cigarettes. Suspect fled southbound towards Holiday Park. Canine and aviation responded.

Nov. 19 Felony narcotics arrest took place at 200 S. Powerline Rd. at 2:45 a.m. During the course of a traffic stop, a passenger in the vehicle was found to be in possession of controlled substances, was placed into custody, and transported to jail.

Nov. 19 Residential burglary arrest was made in Deer Run at 170 SW 32 Ave., at 6 p.m. On Nov. 15, a residential burglary occurred at the above address where two black males and one white male were seen forcibly entering into the victim’s house via smashing out a rear window. Entire incident was witnessed by a nearby resident. One of the suspects was identified and on Nov. 18, the witness was presented with a BSO double blind line-up, where the suspect was positively identified as taking part in this incident. Case is ongoing. Subject charged with grand theft.

Nov. 19 Residential burglary was reported in Riverglen, 125 NW 45 Ave., at 11:09 a.m. Victims reported that their bicycles, tied to the carport by a locked wire cable, were taken. Bicycles were located in the rear of the carport by the front entry door. No suspects or witnesses located.

LIGHTHOUSE POINT

Nov. 4 A man was issued a trespass warning and asked not to return to a Publix at 2450 N. Federal Hwy. after he was observed to have stolen a package of crackers and candy.

Nov. 6 A woman reported that a woman attempted to steal her purse while she was at Publix Supermarket at 3700 N. Federal Hwy.

Nov. 7 A woman reported that a female relative died. She said that a man who had been living with the deceased woman had taken two televisions and a computer monitor. The woman believed that the televisions and monitor should go to the deceased woman’s two sons. It was determined that the deceased woman may have wanted the televisions and monitor to go to the man and that the sons were not interested in pursuing the matter. The report was made at 3180 NE 48 Court.

Nov.10 A woman was arrested and charged with stealing $97.41 worth of groceries from a Publix at 2450 N. Federal Hwy.

Nov. 11 A man reported a firearm missing from his home at 1971 NE 31 St. The gun was later found.

Nov. 11 A man reported that his coin and antique collection were stolen from his home at 1960 NE 30 St. The man believes a contractor who worked in his home may have stolen the collection. The man said there was no sign of break-in.

Nov. 15 A woman reported that the tires were stolen from her automobile at 2741 NE 47 St.

RE: Day in Court — Sylvia Poitier

Dear Editor:

Yesterday [last Wednesday], in room 465 of the Broward County Courthouse, I witnessed a horrible miscarriage of justice. A jury voted and found the embattled ex-City of Deerfield Beach Commissioner Sylvia Poitier guilty on all 4 counts of falsifying a document.

Sylvia was charged with falsifying a document because she did not indicate that on the legal form 8B that her brother Lionel was a debtor of the WDBA [Westide Deerfield Businessmen Association] when matters came before the City Commission.

Somehow, the jury found that as a matter of fact, Sylvia should have completed the form 8B’s and publically declared she had a conflict of interest because her brother was a debtor of the group.

I have previously stated that this whole case was based on if Sylvia had a legal obligation to declare that Lionel Ferguson was a debtor. The law clearly states that she would have to declare only if she knew that a vote on a matter before the Commission would result in her brother receiving a direct and immediate special private gain.

I guess David Schulson, assistant state attorney, proved beyond a reasonable doubt that Lionel would have received a direct and immediate special private gain from the four measures in question and, therefore, the jury passed down a unanimous verdict of guilty on all four counts.

However, I am still waiting to see or hear what special private gain Lionel would receive from any of the measures before the Deerfield Beach City Commission concerning the WDBA, as all of the states’ witnesses, exhibits and testimonies clearly indicated that Lionel Ferguson did not stand to gain anything from any of the measures presented before the Deerfield Beach City Commission that were in question in this case.

Sylvia’s lawyer, Johnny McCray, indicated he would be filing a new motion and appeal.

Sylvia, herself, stated she would not shed a tear today because she knows she did not falsify any documents and she did not and still does not believe that she or her brother had a conflict of interest according to the law.

It may be too soon to celebrate, for those who are celebrating, as the past has shown us that many of the African-American politicians who were originally found guilty have had their verdicts overturned on appeal. Will that be the case here? I don’t know. Only time will tell.

Hopefully, everyone will go out and get the facts of this case and not listen to the rumor, conjecture and innuendo that has been circulating in the media for quite some time. It would seem, at least to me, that Sylvia Poitier was not convicted today on any merits of this court case but on past perceptions and the fact that we, as people, want to believe that all politicians are innately corrupt.

Are they? Well, yes, many are. That is the nature of politics.

I am sure we would all be hard-pressed to find one who isn’t, but in this particular case, this politician, Sylvia Poitier, was wrongly convicted and I am sure that this conviction will be overturned on appeal. The law is clear and, once that fact is clearly and accurately presented, Sylvia will be cleared of all charges and returned to her seat as the District 2 City Commissioner of Deerfield Beach.

David Cody

Deerfield Beach

Dear Editor:

I am happy to serve the citizens of Deerfield Beach. That is what I want to do. I wish the best for her [Sylvia]. Had the political process gone the other way, and I had to give my seat back to her, I would have done that gladly. In that case, I would have encouraged the rest of the community to get behind her, to make for a healthier Deerfield Beach.

Ben Preston, Commissioner, District 2

Deerfield Beach

Food Drive

Ongoing for holidays, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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

Needed: non-perishable food items such as peanut butter, canned vegetables, cereal (hot or cold), rice, pasta, canned soups & stews, canned fruits, dried or canned milk, canned tuna, and canned chicken or turkey. 954-480-4449.

Holiday Fantasy of Lights

Now through Sunday, Jan. 2, 6 to 10 p.m. nightly

Tradewinds Park, 3600 W. Sample Rd., Coconut Creek, FL 33073

Drive through 3 miles of giant animated displays illuminated with lights sponsored by various companies. This year, enjoy the 3-D experience for only $3 more. Open Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and Christmas Eve. $13 per car. Monday through Wednesdays are $10 per car.

Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration

Friday, Nov. 25, 5 to 8 p.m.

Mizner Park Amphitheater, On Federal Hwy. between Glades and Palmetto, Boca Raton, FL 33432

Holiday entertainment, children’s activities, walkabout entertainers, tons of “real” snow, Mr. and Mrs. Santa, free kiddie rides, holiday displays, vendors, food and beverages sold. 400,000 LED lights will be displayed nightly though holidays along Plaza Real including a 40-foot Christmas tree featuring ‘dancing’ lights choreographed to holiday music favorites at the south end of Mizner Park.  www.miznerpark.com or call 561-362-0606.

Holiday Kick-Off

Friday, Nov. 25 & 26, noon to 4 p.m.

Pompano Citi Centre, 1955-201 N. Federal Hwy., Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Bounce house, magic show, music, games, cotton candy, popcorn and more. Santa meet and greet.  954-943-4685.

Light Up MLK for the Holidays

Saturday, Nov. 26, 5 to 8 p.m.

Annie Adderly Gillis Park, 601 Martin Luther King, Jr. B1vd/Hammondville Rd, Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Hosted by Pompano Beach CRA with NW Advisory Committee. Free family event with live musical and dance performances, interactive festivities, cookie and ornament decoration, holiday treats. Tree lighting ceremony at 7:30 p.m. Visit www.pompanobeachcra.com or call 954-786-7824 for info.

Chosen People Ministries speaks

Saturday Nov. 26, 5:30 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 27, 10 a.m.

Zion Lutheran Evangelical Church, 959 SE 6 Ave. , Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Rabbi Dr. Ben Alpert, a representative of Chosen People Ministries, will be speaking on “The Messiah in the Old Testament.” Chosen People Ministries hopes to make the message of the Messiah more accessible to Jewish people and also help Christian believers achieve a greater appreciation of the Jewish basis of their own faith traditions. Open to Christian and Jewish community to attend. 954-421-3146.

Intracoastal History Tour

Sunday, Nov. 27, 10 to 11:30 a.m.

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

Discover the history of Deerfield Island Park. Ages 6 and up. $5 per person. Pre-registration required, call 954-357-5100. Must be at Sullivan Park by 9:30 a.m. to catch shuttle. (Sullivan Park is on Riverview Road off Hillsboro Boulevard on the west side of the Intracoastal Waterway).

Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration

Wednesday, Nov. 30, 6 p.m.

Zion Lutheran Evangelical Church, 959 SE 6 Ave., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Everyone welcome. Tree will be in courtyard in front of the high school. Enjoy holiday music, chorus, bell choir and Christmas carols. Refreshments will be served. A special guest with a “Red Suit” and white beard will be making a special appearance for Pre-School through Elementary children.

High schoolers’ final game

Dear Editor:

Someone needs to inquire why the graduating class of 2012 is not allowed to play in their last high school game, due to a couple of hurt egos by the coaching staff … After a disappointing season, they took Monday off from practice to de-stress. At this point, meetings are being held to discuss the punishment, but no parents have been notified. In these meetings, the coaches were threatening the players that they would not help them get into college. It’s no wonder why the parents of Deerfield are looking for [schools] outside the city limits to send their children. I hope this isn’t the future that the students will have to endure — the unprofessionalism of the teachers, coaches and other employess of the system.

Upset Parent

Deerfield Beach

Dear Editor:

I am extremely disturbed by events that are transpiring at my old high school, Deerfield Beach High School (DBHS). It has been reported to me that the Senior Class of 2012 football players are not being allowed to play the final game of their high school careers at their home stadium and players are even being silently retaliated against for voicing their opinions and disgust with the situation.  These kids deserve better. I will personally be writing the school and the school board of Broward County on this. Please review and investigate, as I was informed this is a group being punished for the actions of a few. Thank you.

Carlos Luis Maysonet Hernández Jr.

Deerfield Beach

Editor’s note: According to DBHS football coach Allen Jackson, “They played that game — last Friday.” Were any not allowed to play because of disciplinary action? “They all played.”

 Vinny Tozzi, the school’s athletic director, said, “If it’s a situation where a coach was disciplining players who obviously didn’t come to practice – if you don’t show up to practice, someone has to practice in your spot, and they deserve the right to play. If that’s what you’re asking, I support the coach 100 percent!”

LHP Annual Fall Book Sale

• Thursday, Nov. 17 and Friday Nov. 18, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Saturday, Nov. 19 (bargain day, $1 a bag), 9 a.m. to 1 p.m

Dixon Ahl Recreation Building, 2220 NE 38 St., Lighthouse Point, FL 33064

Items include fiction, non-fiction, childrens’, books on tape, DVDs, CDs. Proceeds support collection development of Doreen Gauthier Lighthouse Library. 954-946-6398.

Luminotti plays

• Thursday, Nov. 17, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.                                                                                                                             

The Dubliner Irish, Mizner Park, 435 Plaza Real, Boca Raton, FL  33432

561-620-2540

• Saturday, Nov. 19, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.                                                                                                                               

The Wishing Well, Royal Palm Plaza, 111 SE Mizner Blvd., Boca Raton, FL  33432

561-750-5208

Catch local classic rock band at two new venues!

Cresthaven Neighborhood Watch Meeting

Thursday, Nov. 17, 7 p.m.

St. Elizabeth Catholic Church-Social Hall, 3331 NE 10 Terr., Pompano Beach, FL 33064

Last meeting of year. Guest speaker: Sherry McDaniels, Chief Business Tax Inspector. Light refreshments served. No charge, everyone welcome. 954-786-7536. Park on west side of hall.

Deerfield Democratic Club meets

Thursday, Nov. 17, 7:30 to 9 p.m.

Café & Bakery 2000, 2100 SW 10 St., Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Speakers: Congressional Candidate Lois Frankel (Dist. 22) and Commissioner Ben Preston. Light snacks, pastries and coffee served. 954-684-3690.

2011 Gridiron Grill-Off

Friday, Nov. 18, 4 to 11 p.m.

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

Chefs and Dolphin fans collide to eat, drink, vote and compete for South Florida’s best grill recipe and bean bag toss championship. Benefits 4KIDS of South Florida. (See story, pg 8)

“25 Years of Caring and Sharing”

North Broward Medical Center-Conference Center

Friday, Nov. 18, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

201 E. Sample Rd., Deerfield Beach, FL 33064

For Health Care Professionals, Aging Network Staff and Care-givers. 954-745-9567.

His Caring Place Dinner and Auction

Friday, Nov. 18, 6:30 p.m.

Banyan Air Hanger, Ft. Lauderdale Executive Airport, 5360 NW 20 Terr., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309

Event features LIVE and silent auction and Asian Cuisine themed dinner. $50 per person. Online registration required: HisCaringPlace.org/newsandevents. 954-905-5177.

Hillsboro Lighthouse Tour

Saturday, Nov. 19, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

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

Tour historic lighthouse, see the Keeper’s Cottages, Barefoot Mailman and the new Centennial Comemmorative Brick Patio, plus a Boat ride from Sands Harbor Hotel’s North dock. Hillsboro Lighthouse Preservation Society members free, non-members: $15 transportation fee. 954-942-2102 or www.hillsborolighthouse.org.

Youth Group’s Annual Thanksgiving Basket Drive

Through Sunday, Nov. 20 (Tuesday-Friday), 9 a.m.to 4 p.m., (Sunday), 8 a.m. to noon.

First Presbyterian Church of Pompano, 2331 N.E. 26 Ave., Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Goal is to fill 100+ baskets with food, each including 15-lb. turkey, canned and boxed goods, etc. Baskets given to most needy local families. Donations of food or cash accepted. 954-941-2308 ext. 111.

Classic Car Show

Sunday, Nov. 20, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Toyota of Deerfield, 1441 Federal Hwy., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Rescheduled from date of Pink Heals Tour. Sponsored by Olympia Flame, BSO, City Of Deerfield and others. $20 classic car registration. Benefits Greater Broward Fire-fighter Cancer charities. Gourmet food trucks. Dash plaques and trophies, kids activities. 954-410-5536 or jpmiranda@comcast.net.

DB Chapter of Hadassah meeting

Monday, Nov. 21, 12:15 p.m.

Century Village E., Le Club, Activity Room B , 3501 West Dr., Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Speaker: Dr. Stephen Schwartz, Podiatrist. Topic: “Foot Care for Seniors and Diabeties.” Refreshments served, guests welcome. 954-428-6265 or 954- 427-9902. Bus 5/6 stops at Le Club.

Thanksgiving at Zion

Wednesday, Nov. 23, 7 p.m.

Zion Lutheran Church & School, 959 SE 6 Ave., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Following service, there will be a pie-tasting event. Bring a pie to share or just a fork!

DEERFIELD BEACH – Broward County residents are invited to view new preliminary flood insurance rate maps for the County at three public open houses, November 14-16, 2011. Flood maps show the areas at risk for flooding, and help determine flood insurance rates and building requirements.

Open house dates and locations are:

Monday, November 14, 4-7:45 p.m.
South Regional Library
7300 Pines Blvd.
Pembroke Pines, FL 33024

Tuesday, November 15, 4-8 p.m.
Volunteer Park Community Center
12050 W. Sunrise Blvd.
Plantation, FL 33322

Wednesday, November 16, 4-8 p.m.
Herb Skolnick Center
800 S.W. 36 Ave.
Pompano Beach, FL 33069

Property owners — both homeowners and business owners — renters, realtors, mortgage lenders and insurance agents are encouraged to attend the open houses and take advantage of this opportunity to meet one-on-one with specialists, including Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other local representatives, to ask questions and learn more about flood risk within their communities.

Broward’s preliminary maps have not yet been officially adopted. Maps will become effective after a public comment period, during which property owners can submit appeals and protests if they can show that any parts of the maps are in error.

For more information on the flood map timeline and new building elevation standards for Broward County, visit broward.org and click NEW BROWARD FLOOD MAPS under Hot Picks. There is also an interactive map viewing tool that allows residents to enter their address and determine their flood zone designation and flood risk.