Playing it safe at the ATM

Dear Editor:

Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) are a great convenience, but they can compromise your safety. A motivated criminal only has to keep watch on an ATM for a short time to scope out the availability of a potential victim.

I remind you, as consumers, to always be cautious of your surroundings and conduct your business only in areas where you feel comfortable.

Due to the availability of surveillance cameras, ATMs at banks are typically the safest option, but that does not mean you have to steer clear of the ones at shopping malls, airports and sports venues.

When you need to get cash, be sure to plan ahead before making an ATM withdrawal. If possible, always have someone with you.

There are several safety tips you should follow to avoid becoming a victim at an ATM.

• Always be aware of your surroundings when using an ATM. If you notice someone or something suspicious, do not stop to use it! Go to another ATM or return at a later time.

• Avoid using an ATM after dark. If you must, do so only in a well-lit area. Be mindful of tall or overgrown shrubbery and vegetation in the area.

• Have your ATM card and any other documents you need ready when you approach an ATM. Fumbling with your wallet or purse makes you an easy target for thieves.

• When you use a drive-up ATM, be sure your passenger windows are closed and all doors are locked.

• If you are using an enclosed ATM, be sure the door completely closes and locks behind you. Do not allow anyone to enter while you are making your transaction. Authorized bank customers will have their own access (not holding the door for someone entering a secure area is not rude; it is safe).

• When entering your Personal Identification Number (PIN), use your hand or body to shield the screen or keypad. Never give your PIN to another; this is the leading cause of theft.

• When your transaction is finished, be sure you put your card, cash and receipt away before leaving the area.

• Do not display or count large amounts of cash in front of the ATM. Count your cash in the safety of your home or locked vehicle .

• If you are threatened for your money or your card by a thief, do not fight. Cash and cards are replaceable; your life is not.

• If at any time you need emergency assistance, do not hesitate to call 911.

While we all enjoy the convenience of today’s technology, these conveniences can come at a price.

When you’re out getting cash this summer, Broward Sheriff’s Office reminds you to always be alert, be cautious, and follow these tips to stay safe.

Sheriff Al Lamberti

Comedian Clayton Fletcher performs

Friday, July 20 – 9 p.m.

Saturday, July 21 – 7:30, 9:30 p.m.

New York Comedy Club New location: Deerfield Country Club 50 Fairway Dr., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Info: 561-470-6887.

“Fire & Ice Art & Jewels Event”

Friday July 20 and Saturday, July 21 – 7 p.m.

Karen Ledbetter International Galleries 760 NE 44 St., Oakland Park, FL 33334

Food, wine and more. New jewelry and art! 954-822-2922. www.yessy.com/karenledbetter

FREE tree giveaway

Saturday, July 21 – 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Pompano Beach Nursery 1000 NE 3 Ave., Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Two trees per residence. First come, first served. Must live within city limits and provide ID, such as driver’s license or water bill to verify your residency. Trees available: Mahogany, Live Oak, Jacaranda, Royal Poinciana, White Geiger, Crape M y r t l e , G u m b o Limbo, Foxtail Palm and Triangle Palm. 954-786-4527.

Old-fashioned Republican political jamboree

Saturday, July 21, noon to 4 p.m.

South County Civic Center (Lawton Chiles Memorial Pavilion) 16700 Jog Rd., Delray Beach, FL 33446

Great food, music, family entertainment with the New Young Patriots, face painting, souvenirs. $20. Children under 8 – FREE. For information, call 561-997-9381.

About Boating Safely

Saturday, July 21, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Imperial Point Medical Center Auditorium 6401 N. Federal Hwy., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33308

Offered by U. S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Pompano Beach. Cost: $50 per person (includes materials & lunch). 954-942-8108 for registration and information.

Fruitful Field workday

Saturday, July 21, 9 a.m. to noon

Parkway United Methodist Church 100 NE 44 St., Pompano Beach, FL 33064

Move dirt, mulch trees, plant papayas. Snacks and light garden lunch, cold water, lemongrass tea available. Bring work gloves, sun protector, hat, closed-toe shoes. Info: www.thefruitfulfield.org.

Card party

Tuesday, July 24 – 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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

Open to the public. Bring your table of friends or group. $4, includes dessert, coffee or tea. 561-479-2002 for reservations.

North Broward Democratic Club meets

Wednesday, July 25 – 7:30pm

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

Speaker: Vice Mayor Kristin Jacobs, Broward County Commission, District 2.

Happy Birthday to Our Constitutional Republic

Dear Editor:

[On July 4 ] we come together as Americans to celebrate the day on which we declared our independence from Great Britain. Fifty-six rebels came together 236 years ago in the heat of a Philadelphia summer to write a declaration the likes of which had never occurred in recorded history.

As lawyers, merchants, farmers and land owners, they had plenty to lose. But as revolutionaries, fighting against an imperial, despotic ruler, they had everything to gain. Their goal was to establish a new form of government, which derived its power from the individual and not from the monarch. Our Founders shared a unified vision for our nation. They understood this unity of the many was necessary to uphold the sovereignty of the individual, and the fundamental rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

Then, they took to the battlefield to secure this liberty. And since the founding of our nation, we have taken to the battlefield on numerous occasions to defend our freedoms and our way of life. We remember the men who laid down their lives at Lexington and Concord, Bunker Hill, Valley Forge and Yorktown to secure our freedom, and all service members who paid the ultimate sacrifice in all battles throughout our nation’s history to preserve our cherished freedoms.

Founding Father John Adams wrote his wife, Abigail, regarding the signing of the Declaration of Independence “I believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival … It ought to be celebrated by pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other…”

From sea to shining sea, we light up the skies with fireworks in a celebration of the longest enduring Constitutional Republic, and in remembrance of the men who mutually pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor to create the United States of America.

U.S. Rep. Allen West, District 22

RE: Collection bins

Dear Editor:

A charity should not advocate their cause to the detriment of another charity. Who is ultimately damaged by the dispute? Children.

Our Shoe Bin initiative is one of many fundraising projects which allow us to make our donations and contributions. Not only does it help children financially, it enhances awareness about recycling and encourages citizens to “think green.”

For the record, permission was requested and given for every shoe bin placed public and private. Accusations of favoritism because one of our members sits on the city commission is without basis and denigrates the hard work, dedication and service of all Kiwanians.

With all due respect for what the Salvation Army represents and accomplishes, Kiwanis funds stay within this community, the city of Deerfield Beach.

Before passing judgment and denigrating our local Kiwanis and its members, I invite you [the writer of the first Letter to the Editor, 7-5-Observer] and any other interested person to attend one of our weekly meetings and find out what service to one’s community truly means.

Last year alone, we donated over $42,000 in scholarships, dictionaries to all third-grade students, Horses and the Handicapped, SOS Children’s Village, NE Focal Point, the BSO PAL program, Deerfield Beach Historical Society and many more.

Not one penny of our funds raised, whether through the Shoe Bin program, Golf Tournament, Bus Bench Advertisings, Christmas Tree Sales goes to administration.

We meet every Thursday at noon at the Deerfield Beach Country Club.

Henry Gould

Kiwanis Club of Deerfield Beach

Past President 2010-2011

Open House at McNab Park

Friday, July 13 – 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.

McNab Park

2250 E. Atlantic Blvd.

Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Public invited to 60th anniversary dedication of McNab Park to Pompano Beach in 1952. Also will showcase “Public Art in the Park” with artwork by Pat Anderson and certification of park as National Wildlife Habitat. Call 954-786-4111 for info.

Splash Ahoy

Friday, July 13 – 6 to 10 p.m.Quiet Waters Park

401 S. Powerline Rd.

Deerfield Beach 33442

Pirate-themed fun. Movie, pirate games, bounce house and splash time at Splash Adventure water park. $6 admission does not include refreshments. Space limited. Advance tickets required. Children 1 year-old and under FREE. 954-357-5100. www.broward.org/parks.

Sushi & Stroll Summer Walk Series

Friday, July 13 – 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens

4000 Morikami Park Rd.

Delray Beach, FL 33446

Stroll through peaceful gardens, indulge in shopping, excite your palate, enjoy Taiko performance. $7 adults, $5 children. (Members and children 3 and under are free); $2 for taiko performance (optional). For more information visit www.morikami.org.

DJ Big Smile Fun and Games Dance Party

Friday, July 13

Boca Raton Children’s Museum

498 Crawford Blvd.

Boca Raton, FL 33432

Call for times and details. $5 per person. Includes museum admission & fun! Details: 561-368-6875. www.cmboca.org

Annual “Hidden Treasures” Indoor Rummage Sale

Saturday July 14 – 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.,

and Sunday July 15 – 9 a.m. to noon

Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church

5201 Military Tr.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Hundreds of items! Jewelry, furniture, housewares, toys, accessories, books, baked goods

Ladies indoor clothing sale

Saturday, July 14 – 7 a.m. to noon

Crystal Lake Golf Villas Clubhouse

4791 NW 18 Ave.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33064

Gently-used high quality ladies clothing and accessories. Proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society Relay For Life. Rain or shine. Clothing donations accepted prior to the sale by appointment only. Call or text 954-818-2051or 954-263-7324.

Boca Burger Battle, A Grilling Affair!

Saturday, July 14 – 7 to 10 p.m.

Sanborn Square

NE 1 Ave. & Boca Raton Rd.

Boca Raton, FL 33432

South Florida’s top chefs grill it up in their burger battle for the best in show. Enjoy craft beers, wine, spirits and live entertainment. Also shop at the retail bazaar and garden market. Details: http://www.bocaburgerbattle.com/.

Nature Tots

Sunday, July 15 – 10 to 11 a.m.

Fern Forest Nature Center

201 Lyons Rd. South

Coconut Creek, FL 33063

One-hour program, for ages 2 to 4 accompanied by an adult. This month’s theme is “Shells”. Usually includes stories, songs, or arts and crafts, and short nature walk. $5 per child. Pre-registration required. 954-357-5198.

Israel in prophecy

Sunday, July 15 – 10:45 a.m.

First Christian Church of Pompano Beach

1860 NE 39 St.

Pompano Beach, FL 33064

Chosen People Ministries, which has a mission to bring the Gospel message of salvation to Jesus to the Jew first than to the gentile, will be speaking. Love offering will be received. 954-942-2515.

Zonta Club meets

Tuesday, July 17 – 11:45 a.m. to 1:15p.m.

Duffy’s

401 N. Federal Hwy.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Meetings 3rd Tuesday of month. Guest speaker: Kathleen Ryan, Development Director PACE Center for Girls, Broward County. For more information, call 561-368-6875.

Democratic Women’s Club of Northeast Broward meets

Wednesday, July 18 – 7 p.m.

Emma Lou Olson Civic Center

1801 NE 6 St.

Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Speaker: Corinne Miller, League of Women Voters. RE: Constitutional amendments on the November 2012ballot and retention vote for three Florida Supreme Court Justices 954-942-8711.

Pompano Beach Budget Presentation and Workshop

Wednesday, July 18 – 9 a.m.

City Commission Chambers

100 W. Atlantic Blvd.

Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Budget Presentation, public input and discussion.954-786-4527.

Collection bins

Dear Editor:

I am a fan of the Salvation Army. The Salvation Army is one of the few charities that uses most of their money for their clients, not administration. They do good work and a lot of it.

So, six months ago, when one of their hard-working volunteers showed up at the Deerfield Beach commission meeting and asked permission to place bins for clothing donations, I was all for it. I was shocked to hear the commission turn them down, citing a regulation against outdoor storage.

Look around the city and you will see many clothing donation bins. How do those people get away with it? That is what I asked the commission. Shortly after my question, there was a flurry of activity by code enforcement, which had some property owners receiving warnings about the bins, and some bins being removed, and I am told, just as quickly replaced. Someone is making money off of used clothing most people think is going to charity.

The local Kiwanis Club (which has at least one Deerfield Beach commissioner as a member) has placed quite a number of shoe collection bins around the city. They have not been removed. Would this be selective enforcement, the city seems to be winking at this violation?

So what? Well, it is not right that for-profit companies and a favored charity should get away with having bins, and another charity, that takes the legal route of asking permission, should not.

Deerfield Beach commission did agree to work on an ordinance that would allow charity bins to be placed on the property of not-for-profit organizations, and they agreed to enforce the ordinance against the placement of the bogus bins. Let’s see how that has worked out.

The city is still winking at the Kiwanis shoe collection bins, the bogus bin collection people are still plunking down bins around town, we have no new ordinance to allow charity bins, and the mayor e-mailed me that: “The city does not have staff to go out and pick them up or the money. Trust me, they are showing up everywhere.”

The city should do what the law says and get rid of the violating bins — or, they could just allow all bins everywhere with the property owner’s permission, why not? That is what is happening now and there is no great unsightly mess as feared by those who have banned the bins. The commission needs to decide, but the Kiwanis Club should not get preferred treatment that the Salvation Army is not getting. Property owners should be notified and cited if they allow the bins. I am getting tired of hearing how hard it is to police and how hard it is to remove the bins. If it is a law, ENFORCE IT, quit the hypocrisy. And, it is time for the city commission to insist that the clothing bin ordinance be eliminated – or revised, and passed.

Bett Willett

Deerfield Beach

RE: Collection bins

16 donation bins were removed after the city notified the property owner that removal was their right and responsibility. Two bins (at 3701 W. Hillsboro Blvd. and at 3313 W. Hillsboro Blvd.) remain out of compliance. In the case of the latter, a different bin at this location had been removed in March. The property owner will be responsible for removal of this new one, as well.

An ordinance has been drafted, which would prohibit donation bins except at properties owned and operated by a permission granting non-profit entity. However, staff is concerned about the bureaucratic details of implementing and enforcing a permitting process for donation bins. Before deciding whether to present the ordinance for consideration, staff was monitoring the results of the outreach and enforcement effort, which was initiated earlier this year.

The city had one commercial property owner inquire whether they could lease space to the bin provider for a percentage of the proceeds the bin provider received. The city replied that it was open to discussing a site plan amendment to allow it. However, the property owner decided on their own not to pursue it after weighing the pros (revenues, good cause) and cons (maintenance, access, security, liability and aesthetics).

Code Enforcement’s efforts in this regard have been very successful. However, the initial effort was focused on larger containers, not the shoe donation containers. Our efforts to ensure that these smaller shoe containers comply with City Code have recently been initiated. These shoe donation containers are located at several places in the city, but you will soon see them being removed, as well.

Keven Klopp

Assistant City Manager & CRA Director

Deerfield Beach

Jesus Christ Superstar

Thursday, July 5 to Sunday, July 15

Count de Hoernle Theatre

7901 N. Federal Hwy., Boca Raton, FL 33487

Tickets: $25-reserved seating, $15-groups/children under 12, $10 student rush (with ID) at door, day of show. For tickets call: 877-710-7779.

Friday Fun Days

Friday, July 6 – 1 p.m.

Boca Raton Children’s Museum, Rickards House

498 Crawford Blvd., Boca Raton, FL 33432

On Friday enjoy family fun! Kids will enjoy interactive shows, filled with fun, games, music and dance. Find out details on what is happening each day by calling 561- 368-6875. Drop-in or register ahead. $5 per person, includes museum admission.

FAU 2012 Art Festival-Call to Artists

Application deadline: July 6

All media. First come-first served basis. Application and info. available at www.fau.edu/VAAH or email: art@fau.edu. Art Festival dates: Saturday, Nov. 3 to Sunday, Nov. 4.

Yappy Yard Sale

Saturday, July 7 from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Bow-Wow Resorts

4100 N. Powerline Rd., Ste. G-3

Pompano Beach, FL 33073

Features donated yard sale items, a 50 percent off sale in the Bow-Wow Resort store, gourmet barbecue and dogs will be at event and available for adoption. Benefits Shepherd Help and Rescue Effort and promotes local dog adoptions. Information: 561-305-1001 or amanda@bowwowresorts. com. Visit www.shepherdhelp.org.

Pancake Breakfast

Sunday July 8 – 9 a.m. to noon

Elks Lodge

700 NE 10 St., Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Hosted by Benevolent Patriotic Order of DOES-Drove 142. Cost: Adults-$5/Children- $2.50. Open to public. Information, call 954-587-1121.

Deerfield Beach Democratic Club meets

Monday, July 9 – noon

Century Village – Le Club

3501 W. Dr., Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

Speakers: Robin Bartleman and Franklin Sands, who are running for the School Board. Candidates will be given time to introduce themselves and say a few words. Lunch served to all members.

Harmony in the Streets

Monday, July 9 to Friday, July 13 – 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Pompano Beach Middle School

310 NE 6 St., Pompano Beach, FL 33060

Founded by nonprofit Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches. Includes outdoor activities and self-esteem builders. Emphasizes healthy relationships with law enforcement. For more information, visit www.youthranches.org.

Gold Coast Toastmasters Club

Monday, July 9 – 7 to 9 p.m.

Denny’s

3151 NW 9 Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309

Next meetings: July 16, August 13, 20. Visitors welcome! Members from both Broward & Palm Beach Counties. Have fun improving speaking and listening skills. Information: 954-782-9951.

SHINE

Monday, July 9 – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

NE Focal Point Senior Center

227 NW 2 St., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

FREE. SHINE stands for Serving the Health and Insurance Needs of Elders. Do you need information, counseling or assistance with Health Insurance claims and appeals, Medicare eligibility, enrollment and coverage issues, Medicare health plan choices, Medicare appeal rights, Medigap (Medicare Supplemental) policies, Prescription Plan comparisons, Long-Term Care options or planning/organizing paperwork? Let a SHINE volunteer help you. Counseling services are provided free of charge by volunteers who uphold client confidentiality and provide information and unbiased advice. Appointment required. Call 954-480-4449 to schedule.

DBES PTA spirit & uniform shirts pre-sale

Tuesday, July 10 – 8 a.m. to noon, 6 to 8 p.m.

Thursday, July 12 – noon to 4:30 p.m.

Deerfield Beach Elementary School

650 SW 3rd Ave., Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Selling a logo’d light blue all cotton collared shirt for $7 (3 for $20) over the summer and in the new school year. Updated uniform rules – Tops: Collared 3-button T-shirts should be red, white or blue, no green or yellow. Bottoms: Shorts to the bottom of fingertip length or longer shorts, skorts and pants in khaki, navy or black may be worn. Shoes: Closed toe sneakers or shoes must be worn. Fridays, children may wear the regular school uniform or a school spirit T-shirt with the uniform bottoms, which will also be sold by the PTA for $7 a shirt.

DB Chamber Lead$ Group meets

Wednesday, July 11 – 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Deerfield Beach Chamber

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

Meets first and third Wednesday of each month at the Chamber offices. Membership is business-to-business focused with only one member per business category allowed, so there is no intra-group competition for business building leads. Info: 954-427-1050 or director@deerfieldchamber.com.

BSO Checkpoint

Thursday, June 28 – 6 to 10 p.m.

1300 block S. Dixie Highway, Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

BSO will be conducting a checkpoint inspecting vehicles for defective safety equipment, drivers’ licenses, registration and proof of insurance.

Upscale yard sale & boutique

Saturday, June 30 – 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

St. Paul the Apostle Church, 2700 NE 36 St., Lighthouse Point, FL 33064

New and gently-used items, chic assortment of clothing for adults & children, jewelry, paintings, books, etc. Benefits Chrysalis Healthcare, Inc. 954-943-9154.

About Boating Safety Course

Saturday, June 30 – 8 a.m.

Dixon Ahl Recreation Center, 2200 NE 38 St., Lighthouse Point, FL 33064

Held by United Coast Guard Aux. Flotilla 3-7. $45 includes material and lunch. Meets requirements for the Florida’s Boater Education Identification and Card, required for all boaters born after Jan. 1, 1998. Info: 954- 557-0582.

Bill Elliott Birthday Celebration

Saturday, June 30 – 5-11 p.m.

304 NE 1 St., Pompano Beach, FL 33060

LIVE music, raffle and prizes. Proceeds benefit The William Elliott Education Fund and provide travel expense for the Elliott family while honoring him at The Fallen Firefighter Memorial in Colorado Springs, CO. Contact: rohm003@comcast.net.

Percy White Book Nook: 14 Days of Freedom

Monday, July 2 to Monday, July 16 – library hours

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

Buy one item, get a second item of equal or lesser value free! All books, DVD, VHS, Children’s, audiobooks, jewelry and misc. 954-360-1380

4th of July Fun!

Pompano Beach

Beach Bash & Fireworks Extravaganza

Wednesday, July 4, 10 a.m. beach bash begins

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

Fireworks Extravaganza Begins at 9 p.m. Watermelon eating contest, relay races, arts and crafts projects, airbrush and glitter tattoos, bounce houses and LIVE entertainment! For more information, call 954-786-4111.

Boca Raton

Fabulous 4th at FAU

Wednesday, July 4 – 6:30 p.m. start

Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Rd., Boca Raton, FL 33431

Festivities (including kids activities and games) begin at 6:30 p.m., “Boogie Brothers Band” at 7:30 p.m. and fireworks at 9 p.m. For more information, call 561- 393-7806, #2.

West Boca Raton

July 4th Celebration

Wednesday, July 4, 6:30 p.m.

Sunset Cove Amphitheater, 12551 Glades Rd., Boca Raton, FL 33498

Free concert by Whitestone Band with hits from 50s-70s. Fireworks by Zambelli. Picnic baskets and lawn chairs permitted. No pets, BBQs or personal fireworks.

Rash of truck thefts

Dear Editor:

I would like to reach out to all the residents in the area and let them be aware of the rash of auto thefts that have been occurring in the immediate vicinity. Two of my neighbors on opposite corners had their pick-up trucks stolen within weeks of one another and, last night, I became the latest victim of auto theft right from my own driveway.

I not only lost my work vehicle, but also the tools with which I make my living. The officer answering the call was polite and professional, letting me know that basically, there isn’t much they can do and the possibility of me recovering my truck and tools is slim to none.

I read the publication each issue [of the Observer] and enjoy all the information and recommendations your newspaper provides.

I believe you ran an article about how we can better protect ourselves in our own homes. Maybe you could re-issue a short reminder, as we head into the summer months, when many residents head out-of-town on vacation.

Let us all continue to look out for each other as a community. Even when we are home, we need to stay vigilant. Please remember to lock your doors and keep valuables out of sight. Always lock your vehicle and report any suspicious activity to the local police.

Dan O’Brien

Lighthouse Point

Enclave at Hillsboro Beach – request for support

Dear Editor:

Since 1923, Hillsboro Beach has hosted one of the nation’s premier private clubs with a location, facilities and membership of the highest caliber.

Currently, there is an opportunity for Hillsboro Beach to add another jewel in its crown, burnishing the town’s reputation as the prestigious and selective oasis of tranquility in South Florida.

An ultra-luxury destination boutique hotel and spa of the likes of a Ritz Carlton, Four Seasons, Waldorf-Astoria or Shangri-La strives for and maintains a low-impact serene and sophisticated presence. Focused on the majestic Atlantic Ocean, guests can enjoy seclusion, serenity and rejuvenation throughout the property, including its lush landscaping, pools and spa.

The property consists of 11.212 acres, stretching from the Intracoastal Waterway on the west, to the Atlantic Ocean on the east, with S.R. A-1-A approximately bisecting the property. Current zoning is RM-16. Applicant/property owner is requesting approval for up to 358 hotel rooms/suites.

In order to build and operate such an attractive complex, it would be necessary for the destination resort operation to have access to unrestricted water resources for the extremely lush and beautiful landscaping and green area required for such a project.

Therefore, it is proposed that the project would build, at no cost to the town, a desalination water plant designed for double the capacity of the existing town water plant. It is expected that because the source of this water is the Atlantic Ocean, an unlimited resource, that normal water restrictions which affect the rest of South Florida would not be applicable to the Town of Hillsboro Beach or its residents, resulting in a “Green Hillsboro” instead of a “Brown Hillsboro.” The project would contract to supply water to the town for 15 years without water rate increases, which the residents have been experiencing over the past few years.

It is proposed that this could be built behind the existing police dept. building, paying de-minimus rent, freeing up the existing town-owned water plant facility and saving the town the expense of further upgrades and replacements of that facility and the major water pipes running along Sample Road and under the Intracoastal. At the end of the 15-year contracted period, the desalination plant would be transferred to the town for free.

In addition, the project would guarantee to replace any utility supply lines required to be repaired or upgraded within the town during the life of the operation of the desalination plant at a savings to the town of at least 30 percent less than any other bidder, and would also install conduit for FPL electric lines to be buried at the time of any such repair or replacement (reducing problems of overhead electrical wire damage during storms).

John Kennelly

Hillsboro Beach

Greater Deerfield Beach Democratic Club meets

Thursday, June 21 – 7:30 p.m.

Bakery 2000, 2100 SW 10 St., Deerfield Beach, 33442

Meet each of the Circuit Court Judicial Candidates, ask questions. Appetizers and drinks provided. For more information, 954-632-6704.

After Hours N’ Deerfield

Thursday, June 21 – 5:30 p.m.

Indoor Sports Complex, 3650 SW 10 St., Deerfield Beach, 33442

Network with Deerfield Chamber members. 954-427- 1050. www.mysportscomplex.com.

Beach Sounds: The Resolvers

Friday, June 22, 7 p.m.

Main Beach Parking Lot Between SE 1 St. & SE 2 St. on Ocean Way, Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Reggae music. Refreshments available. For more information, call 954-480-4429. w w w . d e e r f i e l d – beach.com.

3rd annual Spare Lives & Strike Out Cancer

Friday, June 22 – 5:30 p.m. (check-in), 6 p.m. (start)

Strikes @ Boca, 21046 Commercial Trail, Boca Raton, 33486

$25 per person (6 people per lane), includes bowling shoes, 3 hours of bowling, large cheese pizza, pitcher of soda, 25 wings. 50/50, gift baskets & more. Benefits American Cancer Society. 561-368-2177.

An Evening with the stars

Friday, June 22 – 7 to 9 p.m.

Fern Forest Nature Center, 201 Lyons Rd., Coconut Creek, 33063

South Florida Amateur Astronomers Association (SFAAA) hosts the quarterly program where speakers cover basic telescope techniques and general astronomy information. FREE and for all ages. Call the center the day of the event to check nightly weather conditions. 954-357-5198.

Great American Camp-out

Friday, June 22 to Sunday, June 24

• Deerfield Island Park, 1720 Deerfield Island Park, Deerfield Beach, 33441

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

Cost: $55 per campsite Broward Co. residents/$65 non-tricounty residents. Preregistration required. For information, call 954-357-5100 or visit www.nwf.org.

Game Day: Unplugged

Saturday, June 23 – 10 a.m. to noon

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

Play games that don’t require electricity or batteries! The games will inspire creativity, problem solving and add to physical fitness. Bring a snack or picnic lunch. Visit the museum too! Drop in or register ahead at 561-368-6875.

“Meet to Beat the Heat!”

Saturday, June 23 – 6 to 8 p.m.

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

Complimentary: Pizza, soda, snow cones. Christian music and uplifting message. “Veggie” tales. Surprise Disney character appearance. Beach casual attire. 954-427-0222. www.communitych.org.

Card Party

Tuesday, June 26 – 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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

Held by the Benevolent Patriotic Order of Does, Drove 142. Open to the public. Bring table of friends or group. $4, includes dessert, coffee or tea. 561-479-2002 for reservations.

Greater Pompano Beach Senior Citizens Club meets

Wednesday, June 27 – 10 a.m.

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

Activities focus on general welfare, health, education and security of senior citizens. All ages welcome. Fun trips and outings offered. Call 954-943-7787 for information.

Young Friends of the Boca Raton Children’s Museum

Wednesday, June 27 – 5:30 to 8 p.m.

The Dubliner Irish Pub, 435 Plaza Real, Boca Raton, 33432

For young professionals in their 20s to 40s who are interested in community involvement mixed with fun. Promotes the exhibits, events and educational programs at the museum. Free for members ($100 to join). Advance reservations: $15 per person, $20 at door. For more information, contact Gabrielle at 561-368-6875 or gabrielle@cmboca.org.

About Boating Safety Course

Saturday, June 30 – 8 a.m.

Dixon Ahl Recreation Center, 2200 NE 38 St., Lighthouse Point, 33064

Held by United Coast Guard Aux. Flotilla 3-7. $45 includes material and lunch. Meets requirements for the Florida’s Boater Education Identification and Card, which is required for all boaters born after Jan. 1, 1998. Information: 954-557-0582.

Bill Elliott Birthday Celebration

Saturday, June 30, 5-11 p.m.

304 NE 1 St., Pompano Beach, 33060

LIVE music, raffle and prizes. Proceeds benefit The William Elliott Education Fund and provide travel expenses for the Elliott family while honoring him at The Fallen Firefighter Memorial and Colorado Springs, CO. Contact: rohm003@comcast.net.

Graduation ceremonies not what they used to be

Dear Editor:

I think these are sad times we live in when kids graduate and you, as a proud parent or close family, cannot cheer for your loved ones. I’ve read or heard a lot of stories this week about parents or even the graduate themselves getting in trouble for cheering too loud.

I even heard about one woman who was arrested!

I wasn’t there, but it seems a little over the top. Even [members of] the Naval Academy still can throw their hats, a long-time tradition, but that’s our downfall.

All the good traditions are fading, but what the heck? Instead of church Sunday morning let’s all go for a drink at 8 a.m. at the beach so the restaurants don’t go out of business.

Steven J. Fabrizio

Deerfield Beach