New Coral Springs Mayor, Commissioners Elected
Transcription
New Coral Springs Mayor, Commissioners Elected
CitizenSpring2004-Quark6.qxd 3/31/04 4:44 PM Page a CitizenSpring2004-Quark6.qxd 3/31/04 4:44 PM Page b New Coral Springs Mayor, Commissioners Elected Left to right: Commissioner Scott Brook, Commissioner Roy Gold, Mayor Rhon Ernest-Jones, Vice Mayor Rhonda Calhoun and Commissioner Ted Mena. Newly-elected Mayor Rhon ErnestJones and Commissioners Roy Gold and Ted Mena were sworn into office on March 12 at City Hall before a crowd of supporters and City employees. The commission voted on March 16 to appoint Rhonda Calhoun to a one-year term as Vice Mayor. “I am pleased with the collegiate team atmosphere being established from the beginning. I am very optimistic that together we can achieve great things,” Ernest-Jones said. The City had the highest voter turnout in its 40-year history. The March 9 election drew a 15 percent turnout, which was more than double that of the previous election. The City made special efforts, including a student poster contest and high-visibility street banners, to increase voter turnout. Visit the Commission section at www.coralsprings.org for more details. City Celebrates Opening of Red Lichen Sanctuary Public tours are now available at Red Lichen Sanctuary, which was officially opened on February 19 with a ribbon cutting ceremony and educational tour. This area, the City’s newest environmentally-sensitive land, is located on the northeast corner of Wiles Road and Riverside Drive. Red Lichen is a 14-acre remnant of a 280-acre area known as the Leitner Tract. Historically, this area was dominated by pine flatwoods with Cypress and wetland features interspersed. The Sanctuary includes all of these components, with pine flatwoods dominating the western half, a remnant Cypress dome in the center and a newly-created wetland to the east. The wetland was created in 2002 in an area that was primarily open field. As part of the creation process, over 14,000 wetland and upland plants were planted. Today, the Red Lichen Sanctuary is a refuge for numerous wildlife species including Osprey, Wood Ducks, Pileated Woodpeckers, Raccoons, Opossum and even Red Shouldered Hawks. “The wetland fluctuates seasonally as it should, becoming drier in the winter,” CITIZEN Members of the Neighborhood and Environmental Committee were on hand to celebrate the official opening of Red Lichen Sanctuary, the City’s newest environmentally-sensitive land. Environmental Coordinator and City Forester Mark Westfall said. To keep the area from drying out and destroying natural vegetation, a solar-powered pump brings water from a nearby canal to maintain a minimal hydration level. Voters approved a $7.5 million bond issue to purchase environmentally sensitive land in the March 1994 election. Red Lichen Sanctuary was purchased for $1.4 million, $500,000 of which Broward County contributed from their 1989 environmental bond issue, making the sanctuary a collaborative effort between the County and the City. The Sanctuary will serve as a valuable educational tool for local schools, groups and Eagle Scouts. The Scouts have already contributed to the Sanctuary, providing interpretive signage of trees and various types of wildlife, in addition to nesting boxes and a Purple Martin house. Benches have been added to allow bird watchers Visit www.coralsprings.org • Watch CityTV Channel 25 See Red Lichen on page 4 Spring 2004 CitizenSpring2004-Quark6.qxd 3/31/04 4:44 PM Page 1 on the cover inside this issue Tree Trimming The Coral Springs Aquatic Complex is the training home of diver Angelique Rodriguez and swimmer Vlad Polyakov. Both athletes will be participating in the 2004 Summer Olympics. CITIZEN Proper tree care is vital to maintaining property values and keeping up to City codes. Page 6 Police ‘Storm’ the Ice for Charity The Police Department Hockey Team’s “Face Off Against Cancer” raised more than $5,000 for the Relay for Life. Mayor Rhon Ernest-Jones Vice Mayor Rhonda Calhoun City Commissioners Scott Brook Roy Gold Ted Mena Page 10 City Manager Michael S. Levinson Summer Camp Information Available The Coral Springs Citizen is produced quarterly by the City of Coral Springs Communications and Marketing Department. If you have questions or comments regarding this publication, call 954-344-1197 or write to us at City Hall, 9551 West Sample Rd., Coral Springs, FL 33065. Send your e-mail to: [email protected] Communications and Marketing Director Sheri Chadwick Publications Coordinator Christine Parkinson Contributing Writer Katherine C. Connell Photographers Sheri Chadwick • Liz Kolodney George Miller • Christine Parkinson Questions about Coral Springs? Call Citizen’s Services at 954-344-1001. TTY for the hearing impaired: 954-344-1022. Spring 2004 The 2004 Summer Fun Guide contains information about summer camps, classes and programs. Page 13 contents Water Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Building Department . . . . . . . 5 Slice of the Springs . . . . . . . .7 Police and Fire News . . . . . . .8 Veterans & Memorial Day . .11 Parks and Recreation . . . . . .12 Tennis Center . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Museum of Art . . . . . . . . . . .14 Multicultural Events . . . . . . .16 Flood Information . . . . . . . . .17 Visit www.coralsprings.org • Watch CityTV Channel 25 CITIZEN • 1 CitizenSpring2004-Quark6.qxd 3/31/04 4:44 PM Page 2 National Champion Swimmer Begins Training for Olympics With a spectacular performance, Coral Springs Swim Club swimmer Vlad Polyakov won his first U.S. National Championship in the 200m breaststroke in 2:14.36 (50m course). His victory took first place at the U.S. Spring Senior National Championships, recently held in Orlando.Competition was intense among a field of the nation’s top contenders. Polyakov posted a 2:16.10 in the prelims, which was the fastest time of all swimmers in the morning. In the finals, Polyakov took the lead from the start. At the 100m he turned at 1:04.18 with a slight lead. On the third lap he extended his lead to about 1 second over the rest of the field, which he held through the final lap. With a time of 2:14.36 he shaved off 1.5 second of his previous best time of 2:15.88. He also won the 100 breaststroke. “I always knew that I could swim this fast, but I had never done it before. So it was a wonderful feeling to look to Vlad Polyakov and Coach Michael Lohberg are busy preparing for the Summer Olympics. the scoreboard after the race and finally see a 2:14 behind my name. That it was fast enough to win makes it even sweeter,” Polyakov said after his race. Last week the Olympic Committee of Kazakhstan officially nominated Polyakov, who is a citizen of Kazakhstan, to the 2004 Olympic Games. Polyakov has trained at the Coral Springs Aquatics Complex for the past four years. Polyakov’s coach, Michael Lohberg, five-time Olympic Coach and Head Coach of Coral Springs Swim Club, said, “This was the breakthrough swim that we had hoped for, and Vlad has gained the confidence to prepare for the Olympics. Not only is he an exceptional athlete, but mentally, he is extremely tough and very determined.” “We are extremely proud of Vlad’s achievement, and are happy to have our first ever National Champion for the Coral Springs Swim Club. The Coral Springs Aquatic Complex was developed as a competitive training facility to cultivate exactly this caliber of swimmer,” said Mike McGoun, Director of the Coral Springs Aquatics Complex. For more information on the Coral Springs Swim Club, or the Coral Springs Aquatic Complex, call 954345-2122 or visit www.csscswim.com. Diver Qualifies for Second Olympics When Angelique Rodriguez was a child growing up in Puerto Rico, she was, in her words, “a hyper kid.” When she was seven years old, her parents placed her in a gymnastics class, which she enjoyed for eight years. After that, her parents encouraged Angelique to dance. At the age of 19, she set her sights on diving, and now, at 28, Angelique is training for the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, Greece. “It feels like a relief to have qualified for the Olympics, because it takes a lot of sacrifice and determination,” Rodriguez said. Each day, Rodriguez is in the water for five hours, and she lifts weights or practices yoga six days a week. She admits that qualifying for the Olympics this time around – Rodriguez went to Sydney four years ago – was much more emotional for her. It was the death of her father approximately five months ago that put her true emotions to the test. “Training through that was hard,” she said. “Qualifying was beyond emotional. For several months I have held it all inside, but then I had to keep going.” 2 • CITIZEN Rodriguez says her positive experience at the Coral Springs Aquatic Complex greatly contributes to her overall performance. “I love diving outdoors and I love that in the mornings, I have the individual attention from my coach. In the afternoon I have the kids and other divers around me, so I’m not always by myself. I have the best of both worlds.” Dave Burgering, head diving coach at the Aquatic Complex, was a 1980 Olympian and is proud to work with divers of all ages and skill levels. He feels the diving staff at the Aquatic Complex is one of the strongest in the country. “I think the diving program is unique in that it offers something for everyone, from the beginner who has never stepped onto a diving board, to the Olympic athlete. We have a knowledgeable staff that can handle every level athlete,” he said. In addition to Burgering, other diving coaches include Jim Fisher, an NCAA All-American diver, who was a member of the U.S. National Team; Andrea Bieger, an Exercise Specialist who was a two-time Olympic gymnast for Germany, and Osvaldo Alberty, an Angelique Rodriguez trains for five hours each day with her coach, Osvaldo Alberty. Olympic diving coach for Puerto Rico. Although she is representing Puerto Rico in this summer’s games, Rodriguez still serves as a positive female role model for young budding athletes in Coral Springs. “So many times people told me I couldn’t become what I wanted, that I was too old to qualify for the Olympics,” she said. “I tell young girls, whether she’s a diver or any other athlete, not to listen to people who tell them they can’t do it. If she really has it in herself, if she has a passion, she should just try it. You never know where it will take you.” For more information on the diving programs at the Aquatic Complex, call 954-345-2121. Visit www.coralsprings.org • Watch CityTV Channel 25 Spring 2004 CitizenSpring2004-Quark6.qxd 3/31/04 4:44 PM Page 3 Have Fun at Free April Pool’s Water Safety Day Bring the entire family for April Pool’s Water Safety Day on Saturday, April 24 at Cypress Park Pool, which is located at 1300 Coral Springs Drive. The event will be held in two block sessions, from 10 a.m. to noon, or from noon to 2 p.m. April Pool’s Day will include water safety demonstrations provided by volunteers from Coral Springs Medical Center, City lifeguards and paramedics. The demonstrations will feature five stations, all designed to guide adults and children through the basic steps to water safety. Participants will learn about various safety and flotation devices, an aquatic rescue session called “Reach or Throw, Don’t Go,” and home aquatic safety. This free event is sponsored by the Pediatric Drowning Prevention Task Force, which was formed in January 2003 in an effort to educate the public about water safety and to reduce the number of drowning accidents in and around Coral Springs. The Task Force is a collaborative effort of the Coral Springs Medical Center, the City of Coral Springs and the Broward County Chapter of the American Red Cross. “With a 100 percent increase in child drowning and near drowning in 2002 at Coral Springs Medical Center, we know first hand the importance of educating parents on water safety,” said Deborah Mulvihill, CEO of Coral Springs Medical Center. “Drowning is preventable and the Task Force is leading the way by educating the public on water safety and most importantly parental supervision.” April P l's Family Water Safety Day According to the Task Force, approximately 300 children under the age of five drown each year in swimming pools, usually their own. In Florida, drowning is the leading cause of death for children under the age of five. Because of these alarming statistics, the Task Force’s mission is to reverse these trends by providing education to the residents in an effort to protect children from drowning. “April Pool's Day is a wonderful community event for families to learn about being safe when in and around water. Safeguarding our children from the devastating effects of drowning and near-drowning disabilities requires a community effort,” said Linda Olson, Director of Health, Safety and Community Services for the American Red Cross Broward County Chapter. In addition to free admission, residents will also be treated to music and entertainment, including appearances by the Miami HEAT’S Burnie (10:4511:15 a.m.) and Xtreme Team (1:151:45 p.m.), as well as a visit from Lucky the Dolphin. Refreshments will be available for purchase. The Pediatric Drowning Prevention Task Force also provides water safety resource guides and speakers on water safety. For more information on April Pool’s Day, call 954-344-3344 or visit www.watersafekids.org. Cypress Park Pool is the perfect place to have fun while learning about water safety. Summer Learn to Swim Classes Begin Registration May 8 Registration for summer Learn to Swim classes will begin on Saturday, May 8 from 7:30 a.m. to noon at the Coral Springs Aquatic Complex, located at 12441 Royal Palm Boulevard. After 1:30 p.m., registrations will be taken at each pool for the classes offered at that location. The Cypress Park Pool is located at 1300 Coral Springs Drive, and Mullins Park Pool is located in Mullins Park at 10180 NW 29 Street. Most summer class sessions consist Spring 2004 of eight 45-minute classes, and cost $40. Weekday and weekend classes are available. For more information, visit www.coralsprings.org/summerfun, get a copy of the Summer Fun Guide at any City recreation facility or call Aquatic Services at 954-345-2121. WSI CLASS OFFERED IN MAY Mullins Park Pool offers classes periodically for lifeguarding, CPR, and other water safety classes. The next Water Safety Instructor (WSI) class is scheduled for May 4-27. The class will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-10 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Participants must be at least 17 years old. The course provides certification in Fundamentals of Instructor Training in addition to WSI. Call 954-345-2121 for the latest information. Mullins Park Pool is located at 10180 NW 29 Street in Mullins Park. Visit www.coralsprings.org • Watch CityTV Channel 25 CITIZEN • 3 CitizenSpring2004-Quark6.qxd 3/31/04 4:44 PM Sterling Notes Visioning Summit Aims to Gather Citizen Insight for the Future The City of Coral Springs “Reaching New Heights” Visioning Summit will be held April 15-17 at the Marriott at Heron Bay. A Summit Steering Committee selected representatives from every facet of the community, who will come together for discussions and forums to develop a proposed longrange direction for the City. The visioning process will also provide information on trends and technologies that will affect residents and business owners in Coral Springs over the coming years. Visit www.coralsprings.org in the coming months for details on the topics and results of the Coral Springs Visioning Summit. Page 4 City Manager Michael S. Levinson Named President Emeritus of Florida Sterling Council The Florida Sterling Council recently honored City Manager Michael S. Levinson by naming him to the newly-created position of President Emeritus. In this role, he will serve as a special advisor to the Executive Board, to enhance Florida’s competitive edge through promotion, assessment and recognition of corporate excellence across all sectors of Florida’s economy. Established in 1992, the Florida Sterling Council is a public/private, not-for-profit corporation supported by the Executive Office of the Governor. “Mike deserves the recognition as President Emeritus,” said Governor Jeb Bush. “He’s contributed so much to the Florida Sterling Council and the public and private partnership to help make Florida a better place to live and work.” John Pieno, Chairman of the Florida Sterling Council said, “Mike has been active in the Sterling process since the beginning. He is a role model for corporate leadership and a great ambassador for the Sterling Council. Mike is leading the way for all communities to pursue performance excellence. The City of Coral Springs is a two-time winner of the Governor’s Sterling Award for Performance Excellence, and is a role model for all other municipalities throughout Florida and the nation.” “I’m honored to receive this esteemed recognition from the Florida Sterling Council,” said Levinson. “I accept this honorarium on behalf of the employees of the City of Coral Springs. Their demonstrated devotion to performance excellence is world class. They, above all, are the true Sterling role models.” Levinson has been City Manager of Coral Springs for nearly nine years. He serves on numerous boards and committees, and volunteers as an adjunct lecturer at Florida International University. Red Lichen, continued from inside front cover a place to observe the species of birds that make the Sanctuary their home. Former Mayor John Sommerer and Vice Mayor Rhonda Calhoun were present at the ceremony, and Sommerer provided a brief history of the Red Lichen project, which coincided with his first term as Mayor ten years ago. “I think the opening of this natural environment is important because it’s a teaching environment,” Sommerer said. “The opening of this particular site to me means we have at least made a good faith effort to save as much of our natural environment as was feasible starting ten years ago.” “The future generations will see how Florida really looked and lived without having to travel a long way to do it. It’s just beautiful out here,” Sommerer added. Special recognition was given to members of the Neighborhood and Environmental Committee, namely newly-elected Commissioner Roy Gold, Joan Kohl, Rhea Moss and Lynn Sweetay. Broward County Commissioner Ben Graber and Gil 4 • CITIZEN Macadam, who is the Environmental Administrator in the Broward County Parks and Recreation Department, praised the project. Nesting boxes throughout Red Lichen encourage many species of birds to make the Sanctuary their home. “At the county level, it’s our pleasure to work in harmony with the cities, especially on issues such as the environment,” Graber said. “The City of Coral Springs has been very good about development and planning, and they have been in the forefront in doing these kinds of projects.” Macadam, who oversees the management and public use access for natural areas that fall under Broward County jurisdiction, explained the partnership as a free exchange of tactics and information about exotic pest plant removal, rewatering and working with any aspect of management of county parks given to local cities. “Exotic plants are being controlled, and the native community is standing tall and free,” Macadam said. The Red Lichen Sanctuary offers park tours to the public every third Saturday of the month at 9 a.m. The Sandy Ridge Sanctuary, located at 8501 NW 40 Street, offers park tours every first Saturday of the month at 9 a.m. Weekday tours for both sanctuaries are available by appointment. For more information, call 954-344-1117. Visit www.coralsprings.org • Watch CityTV Channel 25 Spring 2004 CitizenSpring2004-Quark6.qxd 3/31/04 4:44 PM Page 5 Building, Licensing and Code Lobby Receives User-Friendly Facelift The lobby that serves the Building Division, Occupational Licensing, and Code Enforcement in City Hall South recently received a new look, with the goal of making the busy area more user-friendly. Residents are also encouraged to use the Building Services Online features at www.coralsprings.org to schedule inspections and check permit status. Call 954-344-1025 to reach the Building Division’s main line. WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF BUILDING CODES AND PERMITS? The purpose of building codes is to give reasonable assurance that a home is durable and safe from structural failure, electrical shock, fire hazards and health risks. The permit provides a permanent record of the work and inspections completed. WHEN IS A BUILDING PERMIT REQUIRED? A building permit is required for: • Any new construction, • Alterations to your home or business, • All repairs due to fire, • Any equipment repair or Building Department information can be accessed online or by visiting City Hall South. replacement on the following list also requires a permit, even if the value of the job is under $1,500: Major repairs or equipment replacements such as air conditioners; water heaters; heat pumps or recovery units; an exterior door, window or skylight; a tub or shower pan; or an electrical service repair or replacement. Most minor repairs under $1,500 in total do not require a permit. If you have any questions, call 954-344-1025. EarthFest 2004 Visit Sandy Ridge Sanctuary for EarthFest In celebration of Earth Day and Arbor Day, the City of Coral Springs is hosting EarthFest 2004 on Saturday, April 24 at Sandy Ridge Sanctuary from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. EarthFest features wildlife exhibits, guided tours, plant giveaways and refreshments. Sandy Ridge Sanctuary is located east of Spring 2004 University Drive between Sample and Wiles Roads at 8501 NW 40 Street. Regular park tours are offered every first Saturday of the month at 9 a.m., and weekday tours are available by appointment. For more information, call 954-344-1117. TIPS FOR HIRING A CONTRACTOR: Always hired a licensed and insured contractor, and make sure the contractor pulls the proper permits. Before issuing a permit, the Building Division verifies that the contractor’s license allows the contractor to do that type of work and that their required insurance is current. HOW CAN YOU TELL IF YOU ARE DEALING WITH A LICENSED CONTRACTOR? Homeowners and contractors are required to apply for, and post a permit card, as described in situations above. If you are dealing with a contractor, be sure to check the name on the posted permit card. This name should match the name of your contractor’s company. If not, you may be dealing with an unlicensed contractor who is being aided by a licensed contractor. WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO USE A LICENSED CONTRACTOR? Using a licensed contractor means the company has the proper insurance should there be an injury on the job or as a result of the job. It also helps ensure that the job is completed safely, and to your satisfaction. Prior to making your final payment to the contractor, ask to see proof that all inspections have passed and make sure that you are satisfied with the work. You can do this by checking on the permit status line at 954-344-1049. Visit www.coralsprings.org • Watch CityTV Channel 25 CITIZEN • 5 CitizenSpring2004-Quark6.qxd 3/31/04 4:44 PM Page 6 Proper Trimming, Care Ensures Healthy Trees Year After Year There’s no question that trees provide beauty to our landscape. Trees also add to the ambiance of our City and help keep our property values intact. Residents should be aware that the City of Coral Springs, in conjunction with Broward County, has in place specific codes when it comes to tree care. Daniel Sanchez, a code officer for the City of Coral Springs, provides simple rules for keeping trees healthy and viable year after year. The City recommends trimming trees once a year or so, before the summer comes and before hurricane season starts. “Trim in the winter time, when the weather is calm and there are no storms,” Sanchez said. The most important aspect of tree care frequently neglected is the regular “cleaning” of the tree crown. The removal of dead, dying and diseased branches and twigs reduces the dead weight in the crown and minimizes the potential hazard for falling branches. According to the Department of Planning and Environmental Protection in Broward County, pruning of tree limbs on a regularly scheduled basis will improve tree health, control growth and enhance fruiting, flowering and appearance. Starting young trees with a regular pruning program will help to give the tree good, sound structure while it is still manageable, and it will decrease the amount of pruning needed in the future. Sanchez provided a few tips for proper pruning. “When you go to trim your tree, leave it the same shape. Branches to be removed should be evenly distributed throughout the tree. If it is trimmed improperly, it won’t be as strong as before.” According to Code Enforcement, no more than 25 percent of the tree’s total canopy should be removed in a one-year period. Removing too much canopy at once stresses the tree and makes it susceptible to disease 6 • CITIZEN Professional tree trimmers must have a Broward County license like the one above, and should be insured for property damage, personal liability and worker’s compensation. agents and insects. When it comes to hiring a professional service to prune trees, Sanchez says it is imperative to find a reputable company that is licensed to do so. “Make sure you ask them to show you they are a licensed tree trimmer in Broward County,” he said. The County’s Department of Planning says that tree care professionals should also be insured for property damage, personal liability and worker’s compensation. Requiring the company to show you their license up front is the best way to ensure this. A number of common pruning practices are detrimental to a tree’s longterm health and can result in potential safety hazards. Among the most common of these practices is topping or “hatracking.” A tree is considered “topped” when the canopy of a tree is removed, leaving branch stubs. Topping promotes decay in the trunk and branches and attracts wood-boring insects. Even though the tree may eventually sprout new leaves, it is weaker as a result of this action. The new twigs which sprout from a stub cut are weakly attached, which can lead to them breaking off more readily during a storm. Topping a tree is considered a violation in both Broward County and Coral Springs. There are other forms of tree abuse that people need to be aware of, according to Sanchez. Nailing signs to trees, or attaching swings from tree branches also constitute abuse. “Anything you attach to a tree can cause some damage,” he said. Vines that climb up a tree’s trunk can suffocate the tree, which can also contribute to decay. Excessive lifting is also a form of tree abuse. Lifting occurs when the bottom branches of a tree are removed, leaving excess growth at the top of the tree. This practice increases the chance of branches breaking, makes the tree top-heavy and disfigures the natural form of the tree, according to the County’s Department of Environmental Protection. All forms of tree abuse are subject to a fine by the City of Coral Springs. The ordinances, which are part of the Land Development Code, are strictly enforced. In addition to the inconvenience of a fine, if a tree is continuously abused or trimmed infrequently or improperly, it will eventually die. “If a tree dies, the City will require its removal, which costs the resident extra time and money,” he said. Trees that are not pruned properly can also be a safety hazard. When hurricane season is upon us, a tree may not be able to withstand high winds, as improper pruning leads to weaker trees. For tips on proper tree pruning and current City ordinances, visit www.coralsprings.org/trees.htm. Residents can download pertinent information about tree care, in addition to a list of approved trees that can be added to a landscape. Brochures on proper tree pruning and palm tree care are available at the Community Development Office, located at 9530 West Sample Road. Visit www.coralsprings.org • Watch CityTV Channel 25 Spring 2004 CitizenSpring2004-Quark6.qxd 3/31/04 4:44 PM Page 7 Slice of the Springs Meetings Provide City Information at One Place, One Time Police Chief Roy Arigo is one of many City officials who provide important information and answers to questions, directly to residents. Each year, the City hosts six district “Slice of Springs” neighborhood meetings, of which two remain for the 2003-2004 series. Residents in the Northside section have already been notified by mail of their April 15 meeting at Coral Park Elementary, and those in the Northeast area will receive notices soon of the May 13 meeting at Park Springs Elementary. Notices include a survey card that can be filled out with any issues citizens would like addressed at their meeting. At each meeting, residents receive an overview of specific neighborhood issues. City staff from Community Development, Code, Fire, Police, Parks and Public Works are on hand to meet with residents and answer questions. Information including the number of code violations, cleared code cases, and the types and location of EMS calls and fires, are just some of the facts detailed at each meeting. The number of accidents, area crime rates, planned traffic improvements and parks and public works initiatives are also provided. Residents are encouraged to participate in neighborhood partnerships with the City as well. Meeting results and answers to frequently-asked survey questions are posted in the Neighborhoods section of www.coralsprings.org. Meeting attendees also receive City publications, informational fact sheets, and giveaways. Post-meeting surveys have shown that more than 96 percent of all attendees found the meetings to be productive. Slice of the Springs Neighborhood Meetings each begin at 7 p.m. and are held each fall and spring. For more information, call Community Development at 954-344-1114 or visit www.coralsprings.org. Know the Code: Fences, Walls & Hedges The continuous maintenance of fences, walls and hedges is the responsibility of the property owner. This includes repairs, cleaning, painting or the use of stains on wooden fences. The installation of shrubs is required along the perimeter of a fence or wall that abuts a waterway (i.e., a lake or canal) or a street right-of-way. The maximum spacing between each shrub must be 31/2 feet on center. Shrubs and other landscaping must also be maintained in a healthy, neat and orderly condition, which includes mowing, watering, trimming, weeding Spring 2004 and fertilizing. Hedges should be well-trimmed and not exceed four feet in the front yard (or six feet for estate-size lots), 10 feet in the rear yard and interior side yards, and for corner lots, no more than six feet in the side street yard. Lawns must be irrigated and be kept trimmed to less than eight inches in height. For more information about City codes, call 954-344-5964. To report a possible code violation, leave a message at 954-344-1017, or click on “Comments & Complaints” at www.coralsprings.org. Web Notes Recycle Your Phone Books Through May 31 Single family residents can recycle their old phone books curbside through May 31 by placing them on top of their newspapers or other recycling material. Multi-family residents should place phone books in their newspaper recycling cart. Businesses, and others who do not have access to phone book recycling, may drop off used directories through May 31 at the City recycling drop off in the parking lot behind City Hall South, 9530 West Sample Road. Waste Transfer Station Open May 31 The Waste Transfer Station, located at Wiles Road and NW 126th Avenue, will be open on Memorial Day, Monday, May 31, in addition to its regular Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. schedule. The station is available free of charge to City residents only. Proof of residency, such as a driver license or electric or water bill, is required. Materials should be brought in an automobile or average sized pick-up truck. Commercial vehicles, vans larger than seven persons, pick up trucks with beds larger that 4x8 feet or trailers with beds larger than 4x8x3 feet may not access the transfer station. Commercial waste, hazardous materials and raw garbage are not accepted. Median Update: Improvements Continue As part of our multi-year median improvement plan, all major roads have received median improvements. Currently, Royal Palm between University Drive and Margate is receiving landscaping and irrigation; and the City is working to get permits from the County to begin work on Sample Road from the Sawgrass Expressway to Coral Springs Drive and on Atlantic Blvd. from Riverside Drive east to the Margate border. Visit www.coralsprings.org • Watch CityTV Channel 25 CITIZEN • 7 CitizenSpring2004-Quark6.qxd 3/31/04 4:44 PM Page 8 New Public Safety Training and Technology Center Underway In order to provide adequate space and equipment for the combined training programs of both the Fire and Police Departments, a Public Safety Training and Technology Center is being built on a four-acre site at NW 120 Avenue, between NW 41 and 42 Streets. This facility will allow for enhanced training opportunities for our own staff, and further enhance our regional training center capabilities as well. The Coral Springs Fire Department Training Division provides State of Florida Minimum Standards Firefighting, Emergency Medical Technician and Paramedic training for both our own Fire Department and members of other agencies. The Coral Springs Police Department also provides extensive training for our officers. Phase I of this project began in 2003 with the acquisition of the site, and Phase I is continuing into Fiscal Year 2004 with the design and construction of a 30,000 square-foot building that will house multi-purpose classrooms, fire and police administrative space for instructors, fire apparatus training bays and storage for the Police Emergency Mobile Command Unit. As funding becomes available, construction of a fire training tower is also planned for Phase II. Once completed, the Training and Technology Center will expand the capabilities of the Police and Fire Department training programs. Coral Springs Fire Academy Becomes EMS Certified The City of Coral Springs Fire Training Academy is now certified as an EMS training facility by the State of Florida. Firefighter recruits attend the Academy to learn the state-required skills to become employed by Florida fire departments. The Academy has set some of the highest standards in the state, including a 91 percent passing rate on the Florida certification test. Since opening in 2001, the Academy has graduated more then 500 students. In February 2004, the Academy started an EMT-b program. It is the only municipal, fire department-based EMS training program in the State of Florida. The 256-hour class trains students to become skilled in carrying out emergency measures to save lives and reduce injury. Every year, hundreds of applications are received for the 360 available spots in eight Minimum Standards classes. The 450-hour course is offered as a full-time day class or a part-time night class, four times a year. The new Training and Technology Center will allow the Academy to offer more Minimum Standards and EMT-b classes, along with new courses such as EVOC, Fire Officer I and II, Rope Rescue I and II, and Confined Space. For more information about the Coral Springs Fire Training Academy, visit www.coralspringsfireacademy.org or call 954-346-1774. Protect Yourself from an Auto Burglary These practices may deter a burglar from breaking into your vehicle: 1. Close all windows, lock all the doors, activate any anti-theft devices and take the keys with you. 2. Never hide a second set of keys anywhere on your vehicle. 3. Never leave your vehicle unattended with the engine running. 4. DO NOT leave valuables in plain view inside your vehicle, especially wallets and purses. 5. Do not leave anything of value in the trunk, unless you deactivate the interior trunk release button. Also, place your items in the trunk before you arrive at your destination. 6. Park in well-lit areas. Avoid parking next to vans or larger vehicles which could easily conceal 8 • CITIZEN a criminal’s presence. 8. Don’t leave your original registration in the vehicle. File it in your wallet. If there is more than one driver, make a copy for each driver to keep in his or her wallet. Never leave the car’s title inside your vehicle. If your vehicle is burglarized, do not touch or go through the vehicle. Contact the police as soon as possible. Be sure to notify the appropriate credit card agencies and banks if credit cards, checks, or bank cards are stolen. If a cell phone is stolen, notify the billing company and have the phone number deactivated. For more information about crime prevention, contact the Police Community Involvement Unit at 954-344-1833. Safety Notes Remember: ‘It’s Our Town, Slow It Down’ Speeding reduction remains a priority for the Coral Springs Police Department. Since implementing the “It’s Our Town, Slow It Down” initiative, the number of roadway accidents in 2003 has decreased to 2,856, which is down from 2,995 in 2002. Also, traffic-related citations were up slightly to 35,629 in 2003, compared to 35,133 in 2002. Drivers are reminded to maintain a safe, legal speed on City streets. Visit the Neighborhoods section at www.coralsprings.org and print, sign and return the pledge not to speed, and receive a free “It’s Our Town, Slow It Down” bumper sticker. Visit www.coralsprings.org • Watch CityTV Channel 25 Spring 2004 CitizenSpring2004-Quark6.qxd 3/31/04 4:44 PM Page 9 Police, Fire Departments Honor Employees of the Year The Coral Springs Police and Fire Departments honored their employees of the year at recent City Commission meetings. ALDEN PRINCE, FIREFIGHTER/PARAMEDIC OF THE YEAR Firefighter/Paramedic Alden Prince has been a member of the Coral Springs Fire Department for five years. Prince actively volunteers for tasks and committees that he knows will have an impact on his department and the community. He also saved the Department money by enlisting his grandmother as a volunteer seamstress to repair several Broselow Pediatric Bags. The bags contain emergency equipment for pediatric patients, and would have cost thousands of dollars to replace. Prince has also updated the forms used by the Department for daily operations. Prince has consistently excelled in all aspects of his career, and has worked numerous hours both on and off duty to accomplish his goals. GERMAN ARISTEGUI, VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR Firefighter German Aristegui has been a member of the Coral Springs Fire Department since May 2002. Aristegui dedicates his time between Fire Suppression and Fire Prevention when he is not working for American German Aristgui (second from left) and Alden Prince (fourth from left) received Firefighter of the Year awards due to their hard work and efforts for the Department in 2003. Express or spending time with his family. His work ethic and attitude are exemplary, and his dedication to the Department is unsurpassed. Aristegui is a hard worker, a team player and a true asset to the Coral Springs community. INVESTIGATOR KIM EVEKER, OFFICER OF THE YEAR Investigator Kim Eveker investigates sexual and child abuse cases. She is a dedicated and compassionate officer, who provides excellent investigative services to the children of Coral Springs. Eveker consistently goes beyond what is required of a police officer by participating in extra duties, including S.R.T. scenarios, charity fundraisers and the Citizen’s Police Academy, and by encouraging fellow employees to Investigator Kim Eveker and Traffic Accident Investigator Stephen Wilke were recognized as Police Employees of the Year by Chief Roy Arigo (left) and Mayor Rhon Ernest-Jones (right). Spring 2004 participate in wellness programs. Eveker has received compliments from victims, victims’ family members and other department members about her outstanding interpersonal and investigative skills. In addition, Eveker is in charge of coordinating the sexual offender and predator sweeps, which the Child Abuse/Sex Crimes Unit completes every quarter. She has received letters of commendation from other law enforcement agencies and praise from other employees regarding assistance she rendered during cases. TRAFFIC ACCIDENT INVESTIGATOR STEPHEN WILKE, CIVILIAN OF THE YEAR Traffic Accident Investigator Stephen Wilke has been a dedicated member of the Coral Springs Police Department since October 2000. Wilke handled a large volume of calls during the year, and numerous hours of overtime and off duty hours were necessary for him to perform thorough investigations involving serious bodily injuries, fatalities and DUI accidents. Wilke also has the responsibility of processing crime scenes, and has recovered suspect fingerprints from a burglarized vehicle, which led to their arrest. He has participated in many child safety seat checkpoints and continues to work on joint projects with Coral Springs police substations. Wilke has received numerous compliments from department members and the public and for his efforts and excellent customer service. Visit www.coralsprings.org • Watch CityTV Channel 25 CITIZEN • 9 CitizenSpring2004-Quark6.qxd 3/31/04 4:44 PM Page 10 Police ‘Storm’ the Ice for Charity Safety Notes Call the Police Tipline at 227-COPS to report Call 954-227-COPS (2677) to leave an anonymous, non-emergency message relating to crime, traffic, narcotics, gangs or graffiti. Police Department Offers Self Defense Classes Each Month The Coral Springs Police Department offers free victimization prevention SAFE self defense classes on a monthly basis. Women over age 13 can develop the strength, mental focus, and physical skills to help survive a criminal attack. Classes are held in Mullins Park at the Sartory Senior Center, 10150 NW 29 Street, on Thursdays from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Upcoming classes will be held May 6, June 3 and July 1; register by calling 954-346-1227. Registration for Safety Town Summer Sessions Begins May 8 Celebrating 18 years in Coral Springs, Safety Town is a comprehensive early childhood, hands-on safety education program designed to introduce all types of safety situations to children between the ages of 41/2 to and 61/2 years old. Registration is Saturday, May 8 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Kiwanis Park, which is located at 520 Ramblewood Drive. The park is north of Ramblewood Middle School and the Fire Station. The cost is $42, and scholarships are available. Children born between September 1, 1997 and January 1, 2000 are eligible, and proof of age is required at registration. Parents must register their own child(ren). Registration is on a firstcome, first-served basis, with limited class sizes. Program dates are available for June 14-25, July 12-23, and July 26-August 6. For more information, call 954-344-1811. 10 • CITIZEN “Storm,” the Coral Springs Police Department Hockey Team, defeated the Fort Lauderdale Police team, “Force,” by a score of 8-2 in front of a crowd of hundreds on March 19 at Incredible Ice in the Sportsplex. The event raised more than $5,000 for the Coral Springs Relay for Life, which benefits the American Cancer Society. Appearances by Florida Panthers players and auctions featuring autographed items highlighted the event. Relay for Life organizers have had a record-breaking year — they exceeded their goal of having $55,000 in raised Former Florida Panther Paul Laus, Coral Springs Police Officer Joe Gavita, NHL Linesman Pierre Racicut, Panthers Strength Coach Chris Reichart, and Coral Springs Police Officer Alan Brodsky (above, left to right) and the entire “Storm” team (top) lent a helping hand to raise funds for Relay for Life. funds in the bank before the main charity event, which was held March 26-27 at Coral Springs High School. Volunteer Spotlight Harris Moyer retired as a Metallurgical Engineer in 1980 and has kept busy since then playing golf, tennis and bike riding. In 1987, Harris and his wife wanted to move closer to their daughters and grandchildren who live in Broward County, so they moved from Clearwater and settled in Coral Springs. Harris says the key to a long, healthy life is to keep moving and at 90 years young, he does just that. A valued volunteer in the Records Unit of the Police Department, Harris volunteers an average of 35 hours each month answering the requests for copies of crash reports, shredding of confidential information, maintenance and preparation for filing of Officer’s Daily Logs, etc. Records supervisor Loretta Cedola said, “he provides the happy smile and energetic sense of humor, that makes us laugh. He is a great inspiration and role model for us to look up to.” Harris Moyer Between his tennis games, fitness center workouts and biking, he not only volunteers for the Police Department but also finds time to volunteer for Vitas Hospice as a payback for the compassionate care they gave to Betty, his wife of 66 years, before her death in 2002. For more information on volunteering with the City of Coral Springs, contact Volunteer Coordinator Kim Sanecki, at 954-346-4430. Visit www.coralsprings.org • Watch CityTV Channel 25 Spring 2004 CitizenSpring2004-Quark6.qxd 3/31/04 4:44 PM Page 11 Local Veteran to be Honored at National Memorial The City of Coral Springs recently commemorated the contribution and patriotism of local veteran Joseph Fennimore. An American flag created by Fennimore during World War II is currently on display at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, and is one of four that will be included in a special display titled, “So Proudly We Hail,” from May 25 to September 6. Fennimore has also been invited to be present at the dedication of the new National World War II Memorial on the National Mall in Washington D.C., on May 29. In addition to the dedication, a fourday “Tribute to a Generation” celebration will honor the sacrifices and dedication of America’s World War II generation. The Museum of American History exhibit will bring together four historic flags for the first time: the flag raised at Iwo Jima, the first American flag to enter Berlin, the flag aboard the USS Missouri when Japan formally surren- Retired Corporal Joseph Fennimore (center) received a standing ovation at a recent City Commission meeting, pictured with fellow members of American Legion Post 178, retired Col. John Smiley and retired Lieutenant Colonel Dr. Robert B. Jones. dered to the United States, and an American flag comprised of pieces of a Nazi flag, made by Fennimore. Using a captured Nazi flag, a blue dress uniform, and some salvaged red fabric, Fennimore stitched together an American flag for his company command post during World War II. Fennimore was a scout with the Eighth Regiment of the Fourth Infantry Division, one of the first Allied units to hit the beach at Normandy on D day, June 6, 1944. World War II Veteran and Coral Springs resident Joseph Fennimore (holding the top corner of the flag, second from left) made an American flag out of scrap material, including a captured Nazi flag, which will be on display with three other important historical flags at the National Musuem of American History this summer. Spring 2004 After helping to liberate Paris in August 1944, the Fourth Division moved on into Belgium and Luxembourg and eventually spearheaded the Allied invasion of Germany in early 1945. At his daughter’s urging in 1986, Fennimore donated his flag to the Smithsonian, along with a photograph of his squad proudly posing with the banner on May 7, 1945, the day Germany surrendered unconditionally to the Allies. He is one of many local veterans who deserve special recognition for their service to our country. FLAG DAY, JUNE 14, 2004 IS JOSEPH FENNIMORE DAY Flag Day, June 14, 2004 has been proclaimed as Joseph Fennimore Day in Coral Springs in order to commemorate his contribution and patriotism during World War II. Check the Events Calendar at www.coralsprings.org for information about the Flag Day Ceremony as the date nears. MAY 31 MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY PLANNED The City will be holding a Memorial Day ceremony on Monday, May 31 at 9 a.m. at the Monument to the Forgotten Americans in Mullins Park, 10000 NW 29 Street. For more information, call 954-345-2200. Visit www.coralsprings.org • Watch CityTV Channel 25 CITIZEN • 11 CitizenSpring2004-Quark6.qxd 3/31/04 4:44 PM Classes Continue Through Summer at Gymnasium Tennis Notes Men’s Masters Basketball Returns to Gymnasium in May The 20th Annual Men’s Masters Basketball National Championships will be held at the Coral Springs Gymnasium from May 16-22. The tournament draws both national and international teams in age divisions ranging from age 40 to over 70 years old. The Men’s Masters Basketball Tournament is a unique event, and participants are former high school, college and professional players. Some individuals and teams have participated in every tournament since 1985. Teams from Chicago, Detroit, New York, St. Louis, California and Indiana as well as from Florida have been long time participants. Play begins Monday, May 17 and continues through Saturday, May 22, with game times throughout each day. Admission to the tournament is free. The public is welcome to stop by the Coral Springs Gymnasium at 2501 Coral Springs Drive to watch the tournament, including the championship games from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, May 22. For more information about this event or for details about how to get involved, call Committee Chair Dave Hulett at 954-753-7485 or visit the Men’s Masters Basketball website at www.mastersbasketball.org. July 4th Fireworks This year, there will be a Fourth of July fireworks show, beginning promptly at 9 p.m., at the Sportsplex. However, due to construction of the new Coral Glades High School, there will not be any entertainment prior to the show. Residents will be able to park at either end of Sportsplex Drive to view the show. 12 • CITIZEN Page 12 In addition to camp programs, many classes are offered during the summer at the Coral Springs Gymnasium, 2501 Coral Springs Drive, such as: KID’S CUISINE Children ages 6-11 can learn the basics of microwave cooking and how to make healthy snacks in Kid’s Cuisine classes. A four-week session is $25, plus a $10 supply fee paid to the instructor at the first class. Classes are held on Saturdays from 9-10 a.m. Upcoming sessions begin May 1, June 5, and July 10. HIGH TOUCH-HIGH TECH Children in grades kindergarten through fifth can participate in handson science experiments during the afterschool High Touch-High Tech program on Wednesdays from 3:304:30 p.m. The next four-week session begins May 5, and costs $60, plus a $15 supply fee, paid to the instructor at the first class. ONLINE REGISTRATION Web users can browse the catalog of classes by visiting the Recreation Online section at www.coralsprings.org: In order to complete registrations and pay for classes online, you must first download an application at www.coralsprings.org/registration.pdf and mail or fax it back, or stop by the gymnasium to establish a user account for Recreation Online. For more information, call 954-345-2200. Skateboard Facility, Park Upgrades Underway There are a number of new projects underway in the Parks and Recreation Department, just in time for summer. Equipment for the new Skateboard Park in Betti Stradling Park is currently being installed, and the area is expected to open in April. The Coral Springs Gymnasium has been open for more than three years, and programming levels are at capacity, with classes for all ages. A new 2,000 square-foot addition to the gym for additional class space is planned for next year using Community Development Block Grant funds. Improvements to Veterans Park landscaping and irrigation are being worked on, as well as the addition of two picnic pavilions and flag poles. Eleven acres of land for a park near Whispering Woods on Wiles Road has been acquired with the help of a $2 million grant from Broward County. Conceptual designs include a jogging and bike path, and the park will provide additional parking for the neighboring Red Lichen Sanctuary. Cypress Park has received a new pavilion and bridge, as well as a new boardwalk made out of recycled materials. Riverside Park renovations are complete — this $500,000 project was mostly funded through a $425,000 reimbursement grant from the County. For more details on these and other upcoming recreation projects, visit the Sports and Recreation section at www.coralsprings.org. Senior Health Programs, Bus Service Available Coral Springs residents age 62 and older may participate in any programs offered by the Sartory Senior Center, 10150 NW 29 Street, in Mullins Park. A monthly calendar is mailed to all regular visitors to the center, and www.sartoryseniorcenter.com is updated regularly with current class information. FREE NUTRITION CLASSES Senior nutrition classes are offered free at the Sartory Senior Center. The next class will be offered April 18 at 11:30 a.m. The topic covered will be herbal cures for colds and the flu. To register, call 954-345-2209. SENIOR PRIDE BUS SERVICE The Senior Pride Bus Service offers on-demand transportation to shopping facilities. Priority is afforded to those in the greatest economic and social need, with little family or community support. The annual fee is $20. Call 954-344-1837 to apply for this service. Visit www.coralsprings.org • Watch CityTV Channel 25 Spring 2004 CitizenSpring2004-Quark6.qxd 3/31/04 4:44 PM Page 13 New Summer Camp Guide Available The City of Coral Springs offers an abundance of exciting adventures for campers. Many programs break away from traditional summer camps by taking kids on journeys they’ll treasure forever. Sign up now for Kamp Kool, dance camps, etiquette camps, sports camps, or special needs camps. Make a splash in an aquatics program, learn to swim, or even take a swing at tennis. The City offers something for everyone, including extended hours camps. Get your 2004 Summer Fun Guide and applications at the Coral Springs Gymnasium, 2501 Coral Springs Drive; City Hall in the Mall, Coral Square Mall; the Coral Springs Aquatic Complex and Tennis Center of Coral Springs, 2575 Sportsplex Drive; and the Cypress Park Tennis Center, 1301 Coral Springs Drive. Guides are also available at City Hall, 9551 West Sample Road. Or if you chose, visit www.coralsprings.org/summerfun to view the Summer Fun Guide and applicable forms. For more information, call 954-345-2200. Tennis Center Offers Free Clinics in April The Tennis Center of Coral Springs will conduct three free one-hour clinics in April for adults, ages 16 and older. The clinics are geared toward people who have never played tennis or who have not played in a long time. The clinics are free, but players must register in advance by calling the Tennis Center at 954-344-1840 to participate, so that the appropriate number of instructors will be on hand. Clinics will be offered on Monday, April 19 at 10 a.m. (register by April 16), Monday, April 19 at 7:30 p.m. (register by April 16), and Saturday, April 24 at 11 a.m. (register by April 21). All clinics and lessons are conducted by USPTA-Certified professionals. NATIONAL TENNIS CENTER DATABASE AVAILABLE The Tennis Center has joined “TennisWelcomeCenter.com.” This national program encourages the development of new tennis players and allows players who are on the road or new to an area to type in the zip code of their location to find a tennis center. The site also offers tips for new learners and information on the health benefits of playing tennis. Visit www.tenniswelcomecenter.com to find out more. Community Bus Service Runs Monday to Saturday The City of Coral Springs Community Bus Service continues to provide transportation throughout the City, and riders of all ages are encouraged to use this fee program. conditions may cause the community bus to arrive slightly early or late. The community buses are all wheelchair accessible. OPERATING TIMES The Community Bus Service operates Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5:55 p.m. and on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4:55 p.m. There is no service on Sundays and on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. The Community Bus Service works in conjunction with connections to BCT Routes 2, 34, 62, 83 and 88. There is no fare for the community bus within the City of Coral Springs. Riders making the connection with BCT will need to pay the appropriate fares. The buses operate as close to schedule as possible, although traffic Spring 2004 WHERE DOES THE BUS GO? The Green Route Bus, which runs in the north side of Coral Springs, and the Blue Route Bus, which runs in the south side of the City, both make stops at Sample Road and University Drive on the hour, allowing riders to change routes. There are several stops along each route, including shopping centers, parks and some City facilities. The community buses are white with green or blue striping to indicate the route color. For a detailed map of bus stops and a time schedule, visit City Hall, City Hall in the Mall, the Coral Springs Gymnasium, or the Neighborhoods section at www.coralsprings.org. Recreation Notes Find Treasures at Garage Sale on May 1 The City of Coral Springs Parks and Recreation Department is sponsoring its annual spring Garage Sale at Mullins Park on Saturday, May 1 from 8 to 11 a.m. Bargain hunters won’t be disappointed at the huge selection of clothing, household goods, and other treasures offered by dozens of vendors in Mullins Park, which is located at 10000 NW 29th Street. Vendor spaces cost $15, plus a separate deposit check for $15 which will be returned after the event if the space is clean. Deposits and reservations must be made in advance at the Coral Springs Gymnasium, 2501 Coral Springs Drive, from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. Space is limited, so vendors should register early. For more information, call 954-345-2200 or 954-345-2209. City Seeks Details on Past Park Dedications The City plans to place markers at all parks and fields that, over the years, have been dedicated to or named after residents and other individuals. Information is still needed on Three Friends Park, MacElderry Field, and the following people: Paul Barre, Sal Bosco, Bill Collins, John Demming, Pat Finney, and Hugh Murphy. Call 954-344-1121 if you have any information that will assist with this project. Visit www.coralsprings.org • Watch CityTV Channel 25 CITIZEN • 13 CitizenSpring2004-Quark6.qxd 3/31/04 4:44 PM Page 14 Great Art Plate Affair, New Exhibits Highlight Museum Offerings On Friday, April 23 at 7 p.m., the Coral Springs Museum of Art will host the 5th Annual Great Art Plate Affair — Taste of Tuscany. Guests will enjoy an evening of delectable food, wine, music and bid on original, affordable art. Artists graciously donate original ceramic art pieces and paintings for the spirited silent and live auctions. All auction items will be on exhibit in the Museum April 12 through April 23. A special bonus this year is a travel drawing for a Harvest Festival & Grape Stomp with weekend accommodations in St. Augustine August 28 and 29, 2004. For event tickets and travel drawing tickets, call 954-340-5000. FAMILY FUNDAYS Bring the entire family to the Coral Springs Museum of Art on the second Saturday of every month at 3:30 p.m. to enjoy Family Funday. Parents and children ages 3 and up will enjoy creating art using the current Museum exhibition as an inspiration. Funday projects include: Stained Glass on April 10, Mobiles on May 8, Paper Designs on June 12, and Foil Etching on July 10. The fee is $3 per person, per session. Participants are asked to reserve their art space by calling 954-340-5000. EXHIBITION SCHEDULE An exhibition by Joan Brechin Sonnenberg with etchings and mixed media pieces continues through June 19. Robert Corredera and Olga The Great Art Plate Affair will raise funds for exhibitions and programs through a silent and live auction of original, affordable art on April 23. Dueñas will exhibit in the East Gallery April 16 through May 22. From June 5 through August 21, Laurence Gartel will exhibit Digital Old and New. Tools as Art: the Hechinger Collection opens on July 9. Artists will host scheduled Walk and Talks — call 954-340-5000 for dates and times. WINE TASTING On Tuesday, June 8, the public is invited to the Third Annual Wine Tasting at The Fresh Market, located at 4633 University Drive, in the Pine Ridge Plaza. For the past two years, the Fresh Market has sponsored this popular fundraising event. Proceeds directly benefit the Museum. Participants can sample wines from around the world, which can be purchased during the tasting for a 10 percent discount. Tickets are available at both The Fresh Market and the Museum, or can be purchased at the door the night of the event. Camp Workshops, which begin Monday, June 14 and run through August 6. Young artists may sign up for one or more weeks. Morning and afternoon workshops are from 9 a.m. to noon and 1-4 p.m., fees begin at $75. All supplies are included. Art Camp Workshops include: Ceramics, Art of the Animal, Drawing for the Young, Exploring Sculpture, Acrylic Painting, Cartooning, Techniques of Drawing, Art Sampler and Papiér Mache. Call 954-340-5000 for more information. OPEN JURIED ART SHOW The Coral Springs Artist Guild will be hosting an Open Juried Art Show titled “The Mixed Palette” in the Lobby Gallery of the Coral Springs Museum of Art from April 7 through May 2. An awards reception will be held on April 14, 2004 at 6:30 p.m. For more information, call 954-753-5533. SUMMER ART CAMP Children and teens ages 6 to 15 can explore creativity and fun during Art CORAL SPRINGS MUSEUM OF ART Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Adults $4, Seniors & Students $3 Museum Members FREE Under 18 FREE Wednesday FREE for all Suspended by ... • Robert S. Corredera 14 • CITIZEN 2855 Coral Springs Drive Phone: 954 340 5000 Visit www.coralsprings.org • Watch CityTV Channel 25 Ancient Tree • Olga Dueñas Spring 2004 CitizenSpring2004-Quark6.qxd 3/31/04 4:44 PM Page 15 Artists in Residence Complete Tile Everglades Mural Artists in Residence Jan Kolenda and John Foster recently completed work on The Everglades ... a Relief Ceramic Tile Mural after more than a year of hard work. Each of the 7,000 tiles on the 54-foot by 17-foot mural was handmade by Kolenda, Foster, and a team of 30 adult and children volunteers. The entire production process was observed by museum guests, and the finished work can now be viewed day or night by the public on the east wall of the Coral Springs Musuem of Art, located at 2855 Coral Springs Drive. The tile Everglades mural on the Museum wall is complemented by a landscaped walkway. Coral Springs Coloring Book Brings City History to Life for Children “A Colorful History of Coral Springs” features images of City landmarks, including the Covered Bridge, as well as puzzles and games for children. The Coral Springs Historical Advisory Committee has produced a coloring book, “A Colorful History of Coral Springs,” which will be used to give local children a perspective of how the City grew from its humble beginnings into the City it is today. The book shows how the first three commercial structures in town came into being: the Covered Bridge and the Coral Ridge Properties Real Estate Sales Office and administration building, which now serves as City Hall. The book follows the adventure of the little sales office as it became the police department, a fire department training facility and finally a museum. The illustrations throughout the book also show how City Hall was designed after Thomas Jefferson’s University of Virginia. To see the resemblance, visit the “Historical Coral Springs” display in the Coral Springs Center for the Arts lobby, located at 2855 Coral Springs Drive. The display includes architectural plans, drawn by Jefferson, and pictures of his master plan and drafting tools. There is also a model of City Hall as it was originally built in 1966 and the original building permit, blueprints and a construction photo. “A Colorful History of Coral Springs” books are available free of charge at City Hall and City Hall in the Mall, or visit the City History section at www.coralsprings.org to download and print coloring pages from the book. For information on historical preservation in the City of Coral Springs, call 954-344-1121. Volunteers Make Waterway Cleanup a Success On March 6, a record 273 volunteers gathered at Riverside Park to participate in the annual Broward Waterway Cleanup. Newly-elected Commissioner Roy Gold, who has coordinated this effort for the past nine years, said, “Coral Springs again has done a tremendous job on the Waterway Cleanup. Our site again had the largest number of volunteers countywide, and the largest number of volunteers in the history of the Coral Springs site.” “The good news is that we collected less trash overall, which means people are getting the message about not polluting our waterways,” he added. Spring 2004 “This is what distinguishes this great City — our volunteers,” said Mayor Rhon Ernest-Jones. Volunteers never know what items they will collect from the waterways. This year, along with the usual litter, they removed a car door, an engine block, six bicycles, eight shopping carts, an iron garden bench, a birdcage, six car batteries, six propane tanks, a BBQ grill, a water heater, a stove, cans of paint and three Christmas trees. Hundreds of student and adult volunteers scoured Coral Springs canals and lakes in the annual Broward Waterway Cleanup. Visit www.coralsprings.org • Watch CityTV Channel 25 CITIZEN • 15 CitizenSpring2004-Quark6.qxd 3/31/04 4:44 PM Page 16 Celebrate Fiesta Coral Springs May 1 at NW Regional Library Join the City of Coral Springs for “Fiesta Coral Springs” which will take place on Saturday, May 1 from noon to 9 p.m. at the Northwest Regional Library parking lot in Coral Springs. Fiesta Coral Springs will replace the former Cinco de Mayo Festival and is designed to appeal to all our Latin groups in Coral Springs and surrounding areas. The event will feature a variety of food, entertainment, and cultural items for display or sale as well as educational activities of interest to the children. The event is hosted by the Coral Springs Multi-Cultural Advisory Committee, in cooperation with the Northwest Regional Library. For more information, or to become a vendor or to provide entertainment, call 954-344-1005. Student Exchange With Paraiso, Costa Rica Finishes Second Year Exchange students from Paraiso, Costa Rica recently completed their three-week visit to Coral Springs. Andrea Arce Torres and Juan Eliseo Hernandez stayed with the families of Coral Springs High School student Christine Brady and J. P. Taravella High School student Tyler Raszick in January. Both Brady and Raszick visited Paraiso last summer. The exchange student program, organized by Coral Springs International Partnerships, Inc., is looking forward to its third year. Applications are currently being accepted for the program. For more information, call 954-344-1005. Costa Rican exchange students Andrea Arce Torres and Juan Eliseo Hernandez were recognized at a recent Commission meeting. National Day of Prayer Gathering May 6 Community Notes May is Asian-Pacific Heritage Month Residents are invited to celebrate Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month at the Northwest Regional Library on Saturday, May 15 from 2-4 p.m. “Freedom For All, A Nation We Call Our Own” will feature dancing, music and refreshments. This event is sponsored by the Organization of Chinese Americans South Florida Chapter, the Coral Springs Chinese Culture Association, the Coral Springs Multi-Cultural Advisory Committee, and the Broward County Northwest Regional Library. Network Group for the Disabled Available The Disability, Advocacy and Access Network is available to assist disabled persons residing in the Northwest Broward area. The group helps disabled citizens with information & referrals, a website, monthly meetings, a newsletter and a hotline for disability-related issues. For more information, call 954-663-ABLE (954-663-2253). 16 • CITIZEN Residents are invited for an interfaith evening of “Faith, Hope and Togetherness” at a community prayer gathering and candlelight ceremony in observance of National Day of Prayer on Thursday, May 6 at 7 p.m. in front of City Hall, 9551 West Sample Road. This annual commemoration of our country’s rich religious heritage, brings community leaders, residents, youth groups and representatives of various faiths together for a candlelight ceremony and to pray for our City and nation, followed by community fellowship and light refreshments. For more information, call 954-344-1063. Visit www.coralsprings.org • Watch CityTV Channel 25 Spring 2004 CitizenSpring2004-Quark6.qxd 3/31/04 4:44 PM Page 17 National Flood Insurance Program Grants Discount to Coral Springs Residents The NFIP’s Community Rating System gives Coral Springs a very good rating for its flood protection activities, which includes publishing flood information at www.coralsprings.org and in print publications twice a year. Our residents receive a 10 percent discount on NFIP insurance as a result of our good rating. Flood Warnings Flood Insurance The City and Broward County have warning systems and severe weather emergency operating plans. When severe weather threatens, warnings will be issued on radio and television, including CityTV Channel 25. Homeowner insurance policies do not cover loss due to flooding. Coral Springs participates in the National Flood Insurance Program, which makes coverage available to everyone in the City. The City urges residents and business owners to buy flood insurance to protect against potential devastating loss. Property owners may insure buildings and contents; renters may insure their possessions. Just because you haven’t been flooded doesn’t mean you won’t be. Call your insurance agent today. Flood Safety Even if your area is not directly hit by heavy winds, flooding is a potential threat. Knowing what to do to minimize your loss is the first step to storm survival. 1. Turn off electricity and natural gas. 2. Have a battery-powered radio or television to monitor flood warning information. 3. Heed warnings from officials and evacuate when orders are given, usually over radio and television. 4. Know your evacuation zone and route to a shelter. It may be difficult to distinguish between roads and canals during severe flooding. 5. Be particularly careful when moving about at night. Floodplain Development Permits All development, including new construction, repair/ replacement work and additions, signs, fences, fill and tree removal requires a permit. Contact the Building Department at 954-344-1025. Storm Drain Maintenance The City has a system of drainage catch basins for storm water management that is maintained on a regular basis by the Public Works Department. Basins drain into canals that are maintained by specific drainage districts. State law prohibits dumping in waterways. Violations should be reported to Citizen’s Services, 954-344-1001; or the Police Department, 954-344-1800. Take Measures to Protect Your Property From a Storm 1. Check everything outside your home that could blow away or be blown against the house. Garbage cans, gardening tools, toys, lawn furniture, awnings and the like can become deadly missiles in hurricane-force winds. Carefully secure objects that cannot be taken inside. 2. Park your car on high ground, preferably inside a garage or other shelter and set the parking brake. Fill the gas tank and make sure your windshield wipers are in working order in case you must evacuate later. 3. Cut down loose tree limbs and palm fronds. If you have a swimming pool, drain half of the water to prevent the pool from overflowing. 4. Move furniture to the second floor or at least elevate expensive items on concrete blocks. Put electronic devices and other easily damaged items inside plastic bags and place on high shelves. Sandbag around doors and other openings to minimize flood damage. 5. Put up storm shutters or boards and tape windows and other openings. Tape may not keep a window from breaking but it can minimize damage from flying glass. 6. Small boats should be pulled from the water and secured. Filling the boat with water may keep it from being blown away. For trailered boats, strip them of accessories, let the air out of the tires and last down the boat and trailer. 7. Severe storms may cause prolonged power or water failure. Keep emergency supplies on hand, including several flashlights, candles, a camp store or canned heat, a battery-powered radio and prescription medicines. 8. Stock food that requires no refrigeration and little preparation. Be sure you have plenty of water for drinking and fill the bathtub to ensure water is available for washing and flushing the toilet. The Northwest Regional Library, located at 3151 University Drive, has flood protection information, copies of flood insurance rate maps and flood zone explanations. More than 90 percent of Coral Springs is located within a Special Flood Hazard Area, which means your home could be prone to flooding. For information about your property, call the Engineering Division at 954-344-1170. Spring 2004 Visit www.coralsprings.org • Watch CityTV Channel 25 CITIZEN • 17 CitizenSpring2004-Quark6.qxd 3/31/04 CITY OF CORAL SPRINGS Communications and Marketing 9551 West Sample Road Coral Springs, FL 33065 www.coralsprings.org 4:44 PM Page d PRESORT STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID LCS DIRECT MAIL ADVERTISING