A Brush with History - City of Coral Springs
A Brush with History - City of Coral Springs
A Brush with History - City of Coral Springs
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The Magazine for the Premier Community in Which to Live, Work and Raise a Family<br />
A <strong>Brush</strong><br />
<strong>with</strong> <strong>History</strong><br />
Covered Bridge remodeling<br />
features new paintings<br />
100 Best Communities for Young People<br />
A Day in the Life <strong>of</strong> a humane <strong>of</strong>ficer One Charter Place<br />
Hurricane season tips Great Art Affair<br />
and more inside...<br />
Spring 2007
Your <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong><br />
<strong>City</strong> Commission and Charter Officers<br />
Samuel S. Vincent M. Roy<br />
Scott J. Claudette<br />
Ted<br />
Michael S.<br />
Goren<br />
Boccard<br />
Gold<br />
Brook<br />
Bruck<br />
Mena<br />
Levinson<br />
<strong>City</strong> Attorney Commissioner Vice Mayor Mayor Commissioner Commissioner <strong>City</strong> Manager<br />
The <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> was one <strong>of</strong> only two non-pr<strong>of</strong>it<br />
organizations in the nation to receive a site visit last October<br />
from Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award examiners.<br />
A team <strong>of</strong> examiners visited <strong>City</strong> Hall, interviewed<br />
employees, observed operations and examined documents<br />
to evaluate the <strong>City</strong>’s level <strong>of</strong> performance excellence.<br />
Some <strong>of</strong> the <strong>City</strong>’s strengths were the organization’s vision<br />
and values; environment fostering legal and ethical behavior;<br />
organizational sustainability; long-range planning and fiscal<br />
responsibility; open communication; empowered employees;<br />
emergency preparedness; and full compliance <strong>with</strong> federal,<br />
state and county requirements.<br />
According to the MBNQA Feedback Report, <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong><br />
uses multiple mechanisms for listening, learning and<br />
responding to customer inquiries. The data gathered help<br />
the <strong>City</strong> plan for new or improved services and demonstrates<br />
Contact your Commissioners<br />
The Mayor and Commissioners <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> have <strong>of</strong>fice hours throughout the year on a regular basis to give <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong><br />
residents the opportunity to meet <strong>with</strong> them one-on-one to discuss their concerns and <strong>City</strong>-related issues.<br />
To view the Commission’s current <strong>of</strong>fice hours, please visit coralsprings.org/events.<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> receives feedback<br />
from Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Program<br />
the <strong>City</strong>’s commitment to let customer feedback drive quality<br />
improvements.<br />
Opportunities for growth were volunteer training,<br />
succession planning and identifying improvement targets.<br />
The examiners found that volunteers are clearly valued here<br />
at the <strong>City</strong> but felt that development <strong>of</strong> training may improve<br />
the benefits the <strong>City</strong> gains from this resource.<br />
“It is rewarding to have received a site visit from the<br />
Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, but we recognize<br />
that our journey to performance excellence is one that never<br />
ends,” <strong>City</strong> Manager Michael Levinson said. “There is always<br />
room for improvement.”<br />
This program is the highest level <strong>of</strong> recognition for<br />
corporate excellence in the nation, and the <strong>City</strong> will use<br />
this feedback to apply again this year when non-pr<strong>of</strong>its are<br />
eligible for the award.<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> • Spring 2007 Visit coralsprings.org
features<br />
city<br />
business<br />
The Magazine for the Premier Community in Which to Live, Work and Raise a Family<br />
A Day in the Life <strong>of</strong> a <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> humane <strong>of</strong>ficer ....................Page 2<br />
A <strong>Brush</strong> <strong>with</strong> <strong>History</strong>: Covered Bridge remodeling .......................Page 4<br />
Building Customer Care Center .............................................................................Page 4<br />
Support Our Troops event ...........................................................................................Page 5<br />
Fire Chief Donald A Haupt, Jr. Retires ............................................................Page 6<br />
Police Department cracks down on graffiti ............................................Page 7<br />
Code Enforcement has new citation guidelines ...............................Page 7<br />
Want to know more<br />
about <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong>?<br />
Visit our website at coralsprings.org<br />
Call Citizens’ Services at 954-344-1001.<br />
TTY for the hearing impaired: 954-344-1022.<br />
Watch In the Loop on <strong>City</strong>TV Channel 25<br />
at 7am and 7pm daily, and visit<br />
coralsprings.org/citytv25 to view<br />
the program guide and to link to streaming<br />
video and podcasts <strong>of</strong> the channel.<br />
Register at coralsprings.org<br />
for the e-News monthly newsletter.<br />
community<br />
is produced quarterly by the <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong><br />
Communications and Marketing Department.<br />
If you have questions or comments regarding this publication,<br />
e-mail editor@coralsprings.org, call 954-344-1197, or write to<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Magazine at the address to the left.<br />
Communications & Marketing Director<br />
Kevin Knutson<br />
Publications Coordinator<br />
Christine Parkinson Jahrsdoerfer<br />
Writer/Media Relations Coordinator<br />
Maria Fuentes-Archilla<br />
Writer<br />
Staci Zavattaro<br />
Photography<br />
Maria Fuentes-Archilla • Kevin Knutson<br />
George Miller • Christine Parkinson Jahrsdoerfer<br />
Spring 2007<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> named Best Community for young people ....Page 8<br />
Waste Management will enforce 32-gallon trash cans.............Page 8<br />
Remembering Dr. Steven G. Paul ........................................................................Page 9<br />
Guide to Doing Business ............................................................................................. Page 11<br />
What’s Going Up? ................................................................................................................. Page 11<br />
Museum <strong>of</strong> Art<br />
to host Great<br />
Art Affair<br />
Page 12<br />
environment<br />
Our water: How<br />
can you help the<br />
environment?<br />
Page 13<br />
What’s<br />
Happening?<br />
Page 17<br />
Around<br />
the Town<br />
Page 17<br />
recreation<br />
culture One Charter Place to open soon ....................................................................... Page 11<br />
<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong><br />
9551 West Sample Road<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong>, Florida 33065<br />
954-344-1000<br />
Learn to<br />
Defend Yourself<br />
Page 14<br />
On the cover:<br />
Local artist Valmiro Tascon<br />
works on the new paintings<br />
for the sides <strong>of</strong> the renovated<br />
Covered Bridge.<br />
See page 4.<br />
Watch <strong>City</strong>TV Channel 25 Spring 2007 • <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> • 1
features<br />
The Humane Unit<br />
deals <strong>with</strong> all types<br />
<strong>of</strong> animals, such as<br />
this raccoon that was<br />
found <strong>with</strong> his head<br />
stuck in a peanut<br />
butter jar. After<br />
sedating the raccoon,<br />
the jar was cut free.<br />
Humane Officer Ed Mancini<br />
(above) cares for Max, a German<br />
Shepherd who was picked up by<br />
the Humane Unit after he got<br />
loose in the <strong>City</strong>. Happily, Max<br />
was found <strong>with</strong> a collar and ID tag<br />
and was soon reunited <strong>with</strong> his<br />
owner, Manny Pelaez (left).<br />
Animals found in the <strong>City</strong><br />
are transported to a holding<br />
facility, where the work <strong>of</strong><br />
tracking down their owner<br />
begins. Officers photograph<br />
lost pets and post them at<br />
coralsprings.org/lostpets, and<br />
try to find homes for each<br />
animal before turning them<br />
over to Broward County.<br />
A Day<br />
in theLife<br />
The work <strong>of</strong> a humane <strong>of</strong>ficer<br />
is never dull – or done<br />
Ed<br />
Mancini worked the streets <strong>of</strong> New York <strong>City</strong><br />
as a police <strong>of</strong>ficer for 17 years, when the animal<br />
lover finally decided it was time for a change <strong>of</strong><br />
pace.<br />
When he moved to Florida in 1998, he started working in<br />
dispatch for the <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong>. A year later, Mancini<br />
became a humane <strong>of</strong>ficer for the Police Department’s<br />
Humane Unit, and nine years later, he’s still there.<br />
Mancini clocks in at 7am. He checks through his messages<br />
to see if there are any calls he should attend to, whether it be<br />
a lost dog, neighbor complaints or injured wildlife.<br />
On this particular morning, a raccoon was found <strong>with</strong><br />
his head stuck in a peanut butter jar he must have found<br />
rummaging through someone’s garbage. Mancini and his<br />
co-worker, Officer Lisa Freed, sedate the animal and try to<br />
free the little rascal by lubricating his neck, but there’s no use.<br />
After a couple <strong>of</strong> tries, Mancini goes for the pliers and cuts<br />
the jar enough to free the raccoon.<br />
“We work very closely <strong>with</strong> the Sawgrass Nature Center,<br />
but in this case, we’ll release the raccoon once he wakes up,”<br />
Mancini said.<br />
The day before, the Unit found and picked up Max, a 5-year<br />
old German shepherd. His owner, Manny Pelaez, is on his way<br />
to get him. “We just got a new puppy, and he’s been driving<br />
Max nuts,” Pelaez said. “He’s a good dog. He’s just having some<br />
issues dealing <strong>with</strong> the new member <strong>of</strong> the family.” Max is a<br />
“repeat <strong>of</strong>fender” and because it’s the second time he has<br />
escaped, the owner will have to pay a $125 fine.<br />
“We highly recommend microchipping your pets, but it’s<br />
very important that owners register their microchips so that<br />
the pet could be traced back to the owner and not to the pet<br />
store,” Mancini said. In Max’s case, the <strong>of</strong>ficers recognized him<br />
and were able to pull up his records in the system. If it would<br />
have been a first-time <strong>of</strong>fender, a humane <strong>of</strong>ficer would have<br />
photographed the dog and posted it under the Lost Pets<br />
section on the <strong>City</strong> website, as well as other pet finder sites.<br />
At 9:20am, Mancini gets a call from dispatch about a dog<br />
attack. He hops in his truck and hits the road. Freckles was<br />
hanging out in his yard, <strong>of</strong>f the leash, while his owner, Vicente<br />
2 • <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> • Spring 2007 Visit coralsprings.org
Garcia, worked nearby.<br />
When he saw his buddy<br />
across the street, Freckles, a<br />
Shih Tzu, strolled over only<br />
to be pounced on by two<br />
bull terriers. Garcia ran over<br />
to help his pup and was<br />
able to loosen their grip,<br />
but Freckles was already<br />
wounded. Mancini talks to the owners <strong>of</strong> the terriers and tells<br />
them they will be fined $250 for the dog bites, but Garcia<br />
is also charged $50 for not having Freckles on a leash. The<br />
neighbors discuss the situation and the owner <strong>of</strong> the terriers<br />
also agrees to pay for Freckles’ hospital bills.<br />
“A big issue right now is dog bite prevention both to<br />
humans and other dogs,” Mancini said. Contrary to popular<br />
belief, 60 percent <strong>of</strong> bites are to family members, not<br />
strangers.<br />
When Mancini returns to the <strong>of</strong>fice, he finds Gabby, the<br />
Unit’s black cat, asleep on his co-workers desk. The cat has<br />
been <strong>with</strong> them since the day after Hurricane Wilma hit.<br />
Gabby was found under a shed, and it took weeks for him to<br />
recover. He’s been there ever since.<br />
“It’s hard sometimes because you fall in love <strong>with</strong> these<br />
animals and you just want them to find a good home,”<br />
Mancini said. He once got so attached to a pup, he took it<br />
home.<br />
By this time, the raccoon’s drugs have worn <strong>of</strong>f, and it can<br />
be released back into the wild. Later, Mancini takes the time<br />
to type up the report for the dog bite and enters it into the<br />
department’s tracking system.<br />
While Mancini types up the report, Officer Freed receives<br />
some great news. A bull terrier that was abandoned after<br />
giving birth to<br />
pups now has<br />
a bright future<br />
ahead <strong>of</strong> her.<br />
After spending<br />
a couple <strong>of</strong><br />
days in the<br />
Unit, she was<br />
rescued by Bull<br />
Terrier Rescue<br />
<strong>of</strong> Florida, who<br />
took her in,<br />
spayed her and<br />
found her a new<br />
home in Ocala.<br />
Officer Freed is dedicated to the cause and works diligently<br />
to find rescue groups for abandoned dogs.<br />
“We try our best to find a rescue group for these pets<br />
because if not, they’ll get sent to the Broward Animal Control<br />
where they are put down after five days,” Freed said. “We try to<br />
avoid that as much as possible.”<br />
Dog bite prevention<br />
Residents can take the following precautions to prevent<br />
dogs from attacking:<br />
• Teach your children how to deal <strong>with</strong> animals and do not<br />
let them near dogs while they are eating.<br />
• Never scream and run.<br />
• Remain motionless, hands at your sides, and avoid eye<br />
contact <strong>with</strong> the dog.<br />
• Once the dog loses interest in you, slowly back away until<br />
he is out <strong>of</strong> sight.<br />
• If the dog does attack, "feed" him your jacket, purse,<br />
bicycle, or anything that you can put between yourself and<br />
the dog.<br />
• If you fall or are knocked to the ground, curl into a ball<br />
<strong>with</strong> your hands over your ears and remain motionless.<br />
To prevent your dog from biting, it’s important to socialize<br />
your dog <strong>with</strong> as many people as possible and introduce him<br />
to different situations so that he doesn’t become frightened.<br />
If you’ve been bitten, call the Police non-emergency line at<br />
954-344-1800 or the Humane Office at 954-346-4422, or in an<br />
emergency, dial 911.<br />
Clean up after your pets<br />
Pet owners can be fined for breaking any <strong>of</strong> the <strong>City</strong>’s<br />
codes dealing <strong>with</strong> pets. According to code 4-5 (b), it is illegal<br />
for any person who owns or has control <strong>of</strong> any animal to let<br />
the animal excrete on any area other than those designed<br />
for that purpose. It is also illegal for them to defecate on any<br />
private property not belonging to the owner <strong>of</strong> the animal.<br />
Owners in charge <strong>of</strong> the animals can be fined up to $250<br />
unless they have the tools to remove the feces immediately<br />
from these locations. Different fines relating to animal<br />
excrement include:<br />
• Animal excrement (except in <strong>City</strong> Parks), $125<br />
• Excrement in <strong>City</strong> park, $75<br />
• No tool for removal (pooper scoopers, plastic bags), $125<br />
• No tool for removal in a <strong>City</strong> park, $75<br />
• Inappropriate disposal, $75<br />
Dogs are not allowed in <strong>City</strong> parks, except for <strong>with</strong>in the<br />
fenced areas <strong>of</strong> the Dr. Steven G. Paul Dog Park in Sportsplex.<br />
The fine for bringing a dog into a <strong>City</strong> park is $75.<br />
These code and regulations are here to keep the <strong>City</strong> clean<br />
and healthy. Animal excrement, including dog droppings,<br />
attracts flies, spreads disease and contributes significant<br />
pollution to the <strong>City</strong>’s waterways. If you have any questions,<br />
call the Humane Unit at 954-346-4422.<br />
Lost your pet?<br />
Photos <strong>of</strong> animals found in the <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> are<br />
posted at coralsprings.org/lostpets, along <strong>with</strong> details <strong>of</strong><br />
where the animal was found. Anyone recognizing a lost pet<br />
is asked to call the Humane Unit at 954-346-4422. Remember<br />
to always keep your pet on a leash when outdoors.<br />
Watch <strong>City</strong>TV Channel 25 Spring 2007 • <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> •<br />
features
features<br />
A<br />
<strong>Brush</strong><br />
<strong>History</strong><br />
<strong>with</strong><br />
The <strong>City</strong>’s historical Covered Bridge has<br />
undergone a complete makeover to repair the<br />
damage done by time, sun and rain, as well<br />
as Hurricane Wilma. The <strong>City</strong> is committed to<br />
preserving and maintaining the historical feel <strong>of</strong><br />
the Covered Bridge, which was one <strong>of</strong> the first<br />
structures in <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> in 1964.<br />
ABC Ro<strong>of</strong>ing donated labor, materials and<br />
installation <strong>of</strong> the bridge’s ro<strong>of</strong>, helping to lower the repair<br />
cost. The <strong>City</strong>’s Public Works Department has assisted on the<br />
planning side, and local artist Valmiro Tascon has colorfully<br />
recreated the original tobacco advertising murals to preserve<br />
their historic significance. The “Bull <strong>of</strong> the Woods” logo, first<br />
used in 1876, is now repainted on the east side, and the<br />
“Peach Sweet Snuff” logo, created in 1950 to appeal to the<br />
ladies, is now on the west side <strong>of</strong> the bridge.<br />
The bridge’s grand re-opening will be Saturday, April 14 at<br />
3pm. Residents are encouraged to stop by the bridge, which is<br />
located south <strong>of</strong> Wiles Road and just west <strong>of</strong> University Drive,<br />
to see where the <strong>City</strong>’s history began.<br />
Caring for our<br />
Customers<br />
Building call center fields<br />
hundreds <strong>of</strong> calls each day<br />
Trying to have a conversation in this crevice <strong>of</strong> the Building<br />
Department is nearly impossible because <strong>of</strong> the constant<br />
talking.<br />
Patricia Cummings, Sheryl-Ann Delinois and Joan Dowling<br />
field more than 350 calls to the Building Department each<br />
day. This is their full-time job in the department’s Customer<br />
Care Center – helping answer questions from residents<br />
and contractors about anything and everything related to<br />
permitting and building.<br />
On a daily basis, the center will tell callers what inspections<br />
are needed, the status <strong>of</strong> a permit, the cost for a door frame<br />
permit, the steps to obtain a permit, and much more.<br />
ABC Ro<strong>of</strong>ing owner John<br />
Famularo (left), Project<br />
Manager Gina Orlando, <strong>City</strong><br />
Historian Wendy Wangberg,<br />
and artist Valmiro Tascon have<br />
been working to renovate the<br />
historic Covered Bridge.<br />
Development Services Administrator Maryellen Serra<br />
said the Building Department began the Customer Care<br />
Center this fiscal year after the need for permits increased<br />
dramatically after Hurricane Wilma.<br />
With the Customer Care Center, the Building Department<br />
strives to always provide a person to talk to, avoid transferring<br />
calls to give the caller immediate feedback, answer general<br />
questions, schedule inspections, and educate people about<br />
the Web site features, such as permit tracking. Last quarter,<br />
the Care Center’s first three months <strong>of</strong> operation, the three<br />
women answered more than 23,000 phone calls.<br />
Before the Care Center, one person was responsible for<br />
answering the phones, sometimes fielding more than 500<br />
calls per day. Hiring two more full-time employees eased the<br />
load on the entire department, allowing individuals to focus<br />
on their tasks and quickly complete permits.<br />
“I like it when the people in town get to know how we<br />
work,” Cummings said. “We’re protecting them to make sure<br />
the work is done correctly and up to code.”<br />
Residents and contractors can contact the Building<br />
Department’s Customer Care Center at 954-344-1025 or visit<br />
coralsprings.org/building.<br />
• <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> • Spring 2007 Visit coralsprings.org
Support Our Troops event honors local members <strong>of</strong> the military<br />
As a loving mother posts a<br />
photograph <strong>of</strong> her son, Joe Langlois,<br />
on a <strong>City</strong>’s bulletin board, she smiles<br />
<strong>with</strong> pride. Carole Langlois wishes<br />
her son was by her side, but said she<br />
and her husband support our troops<br />
because they realize their country<br />
needs them.<br />
In March, <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong>’ residents<br />
came together at the <strong>City</strong>’s Support<br />
Our Troops ceremony to show their<br />
appreciation for men and women<br />
currently serving in the U.S. military and military veterans.<br />
All five divisions <strong>of</strong> the U.S. military, which includes the<br />
Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, were<br />
represented and recognized.<br />
<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong>ficials expressed their gratitude for those men and<br />
women serving our country and to their families and friends<br />
who took time out <strong>of</strong> their day to honor and represent them.<br />
To salute those men and women, the <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Charter<br />
School Chorus sang the national anthem and ‘God Bless<br />
America.’ Afterwards, Mayor Scott Brook acknowledged active<br />
military members present, as well as those who have family<br />
members in the service, and they were given the opportunity<br />
to speak.<br />
When Janice and Pete Minchenberg, <strong>of</strong> Coconut Creek,<br />
won a trip to the Dominican Republic, they were elated. But<br />
their joy quickly turned into frustration when they found out<br />
that anyone flying between the United States and Canada,<br />
Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean or<br />
Bermuda is now required to present a valid passport.<br />
To make matters worse, their local post <strong>of</strong>fice doesn’t<br />
<strong>of</strong>fer passport services and<br />
Coconut Creek’s <strong>City</strong> Hall is<br />
closed on Fridays. Luckily,<br />
Janice and Pete were able<br />
to take care <strong>of</strong> business at<br />
<strong>City</strong> Hall in the Mall in <strong>Coral</strong><br />
<strong>Springs</strong>.<br />
“The new law caused me<br />
to stress out and rush to<br />
take care <strong>of</strong> our passport<br />
situation, but I’m glad we<br />
can do it here all in one<br />
shot,” Janice Minchenberg<br />
said <strong>of</strong> the services <strong>of</strong>fered<br />
at <strong>City</strong> Hall in the Mall.<br />
Since the beginning <strong>of</strong><br />
the new year, staff at <strong>City</strong><br />
Hall in the Mall has noticed a<br />
Vicki DuVal, a <strong>City</strong> employee whose<br />
son is serving in Iraq, has helped<br />
coordinate the past two events. Her<br />
son, Lance Corporal Troy DuVal <strong>of</strong> the<br />
United States Marine Corps, is serving<br />
his second deployment.<br />
“Regardless <strong>of</strong> whether you<br />
support the war or not, these men<br />
and women are putting their lives at<br />
stake, and as a community it’s nice<br />
to come together and show our<br />
support,” DuVal said.<br />
Be sure to visit the <strong>City</strong>’s Web site at coralsprings.org/<br />
militaryfamilies to access resources, to view photos <strong>of</strong> the<br />
event, and to submit “Soldier’s Stories” <strong>of</strong> local military troops.<br />
Memorial Day ceremony<br />
The <strong>City</strong> will once again host its annual Memorial Day<br />
ceremony at 9am Monday, May 28 at Veterans Park, 8601<br />
Royal Palm Boulevard. During this ceremony, the <strong>City</strong> honors<br />
area veterans for their commitment and service to their<br />
country. Also visit the <strong>City</strong>’s online community calendar<br />
at coralsprings.org/events for information about the Flag<br />
Day celebration on June 14 as the date nears. For more<br />
information, call 954-345-2200.<br />
<strong>City</strong> passport processing available as new laws take effect<br />
When applying for a U.S. Passport,<br />
you must bring the following items:<br />
• Pro<strong>of</strong> <strong>of</strong> U.S. citizenship, such as an original certified birth<br />
certificate, Original Naturalization Certificate or expired U.S. Passport.<br />
• Pro<strong>of</strong> <strong>of</strong> Identity – Current photo ID such as a valid driver’s license<br />
or State Identification Card.<br />
• Two recent, identical, color photographs.<br />
Please keep in mind that the State Department is taking from 10 to<br />
12 weeks to process applications due to influx. You may expedite the<br />
process for an additional $60. For an adult passport (16 years or older)<br />
the total fee is $97 payable in two separate checks or money orders.<br />
The first check for $67 must be made out to the U.S. Department <strong>of</strong><br />
State, and the second check for $30 must be made out to the <strong>City</strong><br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong>. For children 15 or younger, the fee is $82 payable in<br />
two separate checks or money orders. The first check for $52 must be<br />
made out to the U.S. Department <strong>of</strong> State, and the second check for<br />
$30 must be made out to the <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong>.<br />
For renewals, you may download the form at travel.state.gov and<br />
send it via mail. The renewal fee is $67.<br />
major rush in passport applications due to this policy change.<br />
“Our <strong>of</strong>fice has been extremely busy because people<br />
love our hours and the convenience <strong>of</strong> being able to take<br />
their photos here and apply for their passports,” Community<br />
Relations Coordinator Marie Giacalone said.<br />
So if you plan on traveling this summer, stop by <strong>City</strong><br />
Hall in the Mall, located inside <strong>Coral</strong> Square Mall at 9239<br />
W. Atlantic Boulevard.<br />
Passport service hours<br />
are Monday through<br />
Friday, 10am to 6pm, and<br />
Saturday from 10am to 4pm.<br />
Passport photos are also<br />
available for $8. For more<br />
information, call 954-344-<br />
1828.<br />
Passport applications<br />
may also be turned in at<br />
Citizens’ Service in <strong>City</strong><br />
Hall, 9551 W. Sample<br />
Road, weekdays from 8am<br />
to noon and 2 to 4pm.<br />
This location does not<br />
take passport photos. For<br />
details, call 954-344-1001.<br />
Watch <strong>City</strong>TV Channel 25 Spring 2007 • <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> • 5<br />
features
city<br />
Fire Department leads by example as County is ‘abuzz’<br />
Recent bee attacks in Broward County<br />
can be traced back more than half a<br />
century to biologist Warwick Kerr, who took<br />
African bees to Brazil in 1956 and crossbred<br />
them <strong>with</strong> European honeybees. A year<br />
later, they were released into the wild and<br />
began swiftly spreading northward. U.S.<br />
<strong>of</strong>ficials tried to barricade the bees along<br />
the Panama Canal, but some got through<br />
and reached Texas in 1990. Because it<br />
would be impossible to eliminate them, our<br />
emergency response <strong>of</strong>ficials have no other<br />
choice but to learn to live <strong>with</strong> them.<br />
The December attack in Fort Lauderdale<br />
was confirmed work <strong>of</strong> Africanized<br />
honeybees, also known as killer bees. While these bees<br />
have been found before in Broward County, this is the first<br />
known incident in which they have stung. Luckily, everyone<br />
recovered, including a dog.<br />
The State Department <strong>of</strong> Agriculture stated that 14 out <strong>of</strong><br />
22 counties in South Florida have had sightings, and our Fire<br />
Department’s standard operating procedure to combat them<br />
is considered a best practice.<br />
“The only thing we needed to add to our repertoire <strong>of</strong><br />
equipment was a honeybee net to cover the firefighters’<br />
faces,” Chief Training Officer Bob Bertone said. Firefighters also<br />
use the same foam that is commonly used to extinguish fires<br />
to suffocate the killer bees in 60 seconds.<br />
Our firefighters have responded to at least two Africanized<br />
honeybee calls a week for the past couple <strong>of</strong> months, <strong>with</strong><br />
one successful intervention near an elementary school.<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Fire Chief Donald A. Haupt,<br />
Jr. will be truly missed as he retires on April<br />
30 after serving our community for 61/2 years.<br />
Chief Haupt came to <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> in August<br />
2000 from Norfolk, Virginia, where he had been<br />
the Fire Chief for many years. He has had a<br />
long and distinguished career, including the<br />
honor <strong>of</strong> becoming the first person certified<br />
as a paramedic in the State <strong>of</strong> Virginia in<br />
1979. One <strong>of</strong> Haupt’s first challenges upon<br />
arriving in <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> was transitioning the<br />
department from a mostly volunteer force to a<br />
paid department, growing from 66 employees<br />
to 172. He also established more demanding<br />
minimum firefighter standards, mandated the use <strong>of</strong> GPS<br />
technology on fire equipment, expanded the <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong><br />
Fire Academy, and helped to create the <strong>City</strong>’s Community<br />
Emergency Response Team.<br />
Recently, the <strong>City</strong> opened the new Public Safety Training<br />
Firefighter/Paramedic Jesse Kautz is<br />
surrounded by bees at a recent sighting<br />
in <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong>. Firefighters used foam<br />
to suffocate the swarm <strong>of</strong> bees.<br />
Experts expect these honeybees to be<br />
found soon throughout the state since their<br />
arrival five years ago. Although the sting <strong>of</strong><br />
an Africanized bee is no more dangerous<br />
than that <strong>of</strong> an ordinary bee, they are far<br />
more aggressive in attacking people near<br />
their nests and seizing territory from other<br />
bees.<br />
If a resident finds a hive in an unusual,<br />
low location, it’s likely to be the home<br />
<strong>of</strong> Africanized honeybees. In this case,<br />
residents should call an approved pest<br />
control specialist to remove the hive. If<br />
someone is being attacked, please call 911<br />
and dispatch will send someone to assist<br />
you. Do not squash the bees, as they will release a chemical<br />
that will attract more bees to the area. Keep in mind that<br />
even if firefighters have a successful intervention, a pest<br />
control specialist must still come out and remove the hive or<br />
the bees may return.<br />
Chief Bertone said all you can do is run far and run fast.<br />
Your best bet is to get inside your home or car, and lock the<br />
door behind you. Africanized honeybees will chase someone<br />
up to a quarter or half a mile, and jumping into a pool won’t<br />
help. “Diving into a pool or canal will not save the victim<br />
because the bees will hover above a lot longer than you can<br />
hold your breath,” Bertone said. “The best thing you can do is<br />
avoid them.”<br />
Although there have been no reports <strong>of</strong> a stinging in <strong>Coral</strong><br />
<strong>Springs</strong> so far, rest assured that our Fire Department is trained<br />
and ready.<br />
Retiring Fire Chief led department to new heights<br />
& Technology Center, a project that Chief Haupt<br />
championed from early on. The facility, located<br />
in the industrial park, houses the <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong><br />
Fire Academy, a regional program recognized<br />
as one <strong>of</strong> the state’s best.<br />
“Thank you for the opportunity to serve the<br />
citizens <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> and Parkland,” Haupt<br />
said. “It’s been the best part <strong>of</strong> my 36 years in<br />
the fire service.” In his letter to <strong>City</strong> Manager<br />
Michael Levinson, Haupt said he is retiring due<br />
to a medical illness.<br />
Haupt is well respected by his staff and<br />
co-workers.<br />
“Chief Haupt is a very dedicated and hard<br />
working person,” Assistant Chief John Whalen said. “He was a<br />
pleasure to work <strong>with</strong> and we are very sorry to see him go,”<br />
Whalen added.<br />
“Chief Haupt will be sorely missed,” Levinson said. “He has<br />
created one <strong>of</strong> the finest agencies in the country.”<br />
• <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> • Spring 2007 Visit coralsprings.org
Code Enforcement has new citation guidelines<br />
The <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> might be one <strong>of</strong> the cities <strong>with</strong><br />
the most codes and courtesies, but it’s what keeps our <strong>City</strong><br />
clean and beautiful.<br />
When code violations occur, the Code Enforcement<br />
Division has several actions it may take and as <strong>of</strong> April 1, code<br />
<strong>of</strong>ficers will follow new administrative citation guidelines,<br />
which allow certain violations to be taken to a special<br />
magistrate at <strong>City</strong> Hall rather than a county court.<br />
“This new program is intended to encourage a faster<br />
voluntary compliance,” Chief Code Enforcement Officer Ken<br />
Maroney said.<br />
If a code <strong>of</strong>ficer finds a violation, the first step <strong>of</strong> action<br />
will be a warning notice <strong>with</strong> a time to comply. If you receive<br />
such a notice, it is important that you contact the <strong>of</strong>ficer<br />
Volunteer<br />
Spotlight<br />
She’s the Fire Department’s<br />
favorite baker, and the staff<br />
always looks forward to her<br />
unexpected visits and her<br />
exquisite angel food cakes and<br />
snickerdoodle cookies.<br />
“After the attacks on<br />
September 11, I started baking<br />
for all <strong>of</strong> the fire stations and<br />
dispatch,” volunteer Lynne<br />
Johnson said. When a local<br />
Publix found out what she was<br />
doing, they were kind enough<br />
to donate the cake covers. “I live near Station 64, and I always<br />
tell the firefighters this is in case you carry me out and I can’t<br />
say thank you.”<br />
Johnson, 83, has been volunteering <strong>with</strong> the <strong>City</strong> since<br />
January 1998, and she drives proudly <strong>with</strong> a bumper sticker<br />
that says “I love my career. I’m a volunteer.”<br />
A native from Ohio, Johnson moved from South<br />
Carolina to Florida in 1996 to be closer to her daughter and<br />
grandchildren. To make friends, she decided to get involved<br />
in local groups, such as Seniors and Law Enforcement<br />
Together. That’s when she met <strong>City</strong> staff and soon got<br />
involved <strong>with</strong> Safety Town. Since then, she has volunteered<br />
for nearly every <strong>City</strong> department, putting in at least 40 hours<br />
a month. She has a deep love for reading and music, but<br />
enjoys getting out and volunteering.<br />
“I plan to volunteer until I can’t anymore,” Johnson said. She<br />
proudly wears her <strong>City</strong> badge and when people ask where<br />
she works, she smiles and tells them, “I volunteer for the <strong>City</strong><br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong>.”<br />
For more information on volunteer opportunities, contact<br />
Volunteer Coordinator Kim Sanecki at 954-346-4430.<br />
to find out what you need to do to reach compliance. The<br />
code <strong>of</strong>ficer will then show up to reinspect the property and<br />
determine if the violation has been corrected.<br />
If the property still does not meet compliance, Code<br />
Enforcement will take the person to a special magistrate,<br />
who will determine a fine for each day the property is not in<br />
compliance.<br />
Depending on the severity <strong>of</strong> the violation, code <strong>of</strong>ficers<br />
will now have the authority to determine if the hearing<br />
should be conducted at the county court.<br />
For more information on violations and fines, please visit<br />
coralsprings.org/code or call 954-344-5964. Business owners<br />
and residents may report potential code issues by visiting<br />
coralsprings.org/servicerequest or by calling 954-344-1017.<br />
Police Department cracks<br />
down on graffiti<br />
The <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Police Department launched a<br />
proactive initiative this fiscal year to help combat graffiti in<br />
the <strong>City</strong>.<br />
Each member <strong>of</strong> the Department’s patrol unit has graffiti<br />
tracking forms to fill out when they spot graffiti, which<br />
could be anything from a painting on a building to small<br />
writing on a Florida Power and Light box. The form includes<br />
information about where and when the <strong>of</strong>ficer saw the<br />
graffiti, along <strong>with</strong> the property owner’s name.<br />
According to <strong>City</strong> Ordinance 8-24, property owners then<br />
have 120 hours to remove the graffiti, be it by cleaning<br />
or painting. Capt. Rich Nicorvo said the patrol <strong>of</strong>ficer who<br />
reports the graffiti is responsible for ensuring property<br />
owner compliance.<br />
“We want to make sure the graffiti is cleaned up as soon<br />
as possible,” Nicorvo said. “Studies show that the sooner<br />
you clean up graffiti, the less <strong>of</strong> a chance there is for repeat<br />
occurrences.”<br />
<strong>City</strong> ordinance defines graffiti as “any writing, drawing,<br />
painting, inscription, figure, or mark <strong>of</strong> any type on any<br />
structure, public or private, or any other property, real or<br />
personal, that has been made <strong>with</strong>out the consent <strong>of</strong> the<br />
owner <strong>of</strong> the property.”<br />
Since January 1, patrol <strong>of</strong>ficers turned in almost 50<br />
graffiti tracking forms. But Nicorvo said that does not mean<br />
there are that many large murals; it ranges from unlawfully<br />
painted walls to illegal writing on poles or benches.<br />
The Police Department began the initiative after <strong>of</strong>ficers<br />
noticed an increase <strong>of</strong> graffiti along Sample Road. This<br />
tracking system is meant to help property owners and<br />
deter <strong>of</strong>fenders, who, if caught, could face state first degree<br />
misdemeanor charges that carry punishment <strong>of</strong> up to one<br />
year in jail and a maximum fine <strong>of</strong> $1,000.<br />
Watch <strong>City</strong>TV Channel 25 Spring 2007 • <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> • 7<br />
city
community<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong><br />
named one <strong>of</strong><br />
Best Communities<br />
for Young People<br />
Ask your neighbors why they chose to live in <strong>Coral</strong><br />
<strong>Springs</strong>, and most <strong>of</strong> them will tell you that it’s a great<br />
place to raise their children. Well, they’re not exaggerating.<br />
In January, America’s Promise named our <strong>City</strong> one <strong>of</strong> the<br />
100 Best Communities for Young People for the second<br />
consecutive year. Former Secretary <strong>of</strong> State Colin Powell<br />
founded America’s Promise in 2005 to increase the health<br />
and success <strong>of</strong> young people from birth to 21 years <strong>of</strong> age.<br />
More than 750 applicant cities were judged on criteria<br />
regarding the community’s commitment to fulfill five<br />
essential promises critical to the well-being <strong>of</strong> young<br />
people: caring adults who are actively involved in their<br />
lives; safe places in which to learn and grow; a healthy<br />
start toward adulthood; an effective education that builds<br />
marketable skills; and opportunities to help others.<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> was selected for many attributes, including<br />
youth leadership opportunities through the Student<br />
Advisory Council (SAC), a “junior commission” that meets<br />
to discuss issues affecting the entire community. Other<br />
<strong>City</strong> programs that distinguished <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> are Digital<br />
Divide, which provides online access to disadvantaged<br />
young people; and our Study Circles, which allowed focus<br />
groups to brainstorm on how the <strong>City</strong> could get youth to<br />
become more involved.<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Mayor Scott Brook said he was<br />
extremely proud to be a repeat winner. “Our <strong>City</strong> remains<br />
extraordinarily committed to our youth and provides them<br />
<strong>with</strong> numerous opportunities for growth. As the Mayor, I<br />
am grateful to our employees and countless volunteers<br />
who contribute so much to our community’s future. As a<br />
father <strong>of</strong> five, there is nowhere else I would want to raise my<br />
children.”<br />
A Waste Management employee was recently injured while<br />
lifting a 50-gallon trash can. As a result, Waste Management<br />
will enforce the 32-gallon trash can requirement in single<br />
family, duplex, triplex, and those multi-family buildings <strong>with</strong><br />
can service. Although 32-gallon containers have always been<br />
the requirement, Waste Management was kind enough to<br />
collect residents’ trash even if it exceeded the limit.<br />
As <strong>of</strong> April 1, Waste Management will no longer pick up<br />
residents’ trash if it is not in the right size container.<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> <strong>of</strong>fers the highest service level for waste<br />
<strong>City</strong> working <strong>with</strong> neighboring<br />
governments to evaluate<br />
casino expansion proposal<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> is cooperating <strong>with</strong> neighboring cities and<br />
Broward County to evaluate the potential regional impact<br />
<strong>of</strong> a proposed Seminole tribe casino expansion in Coconut<br />
Creek.<br />
The <strong>City</strong> is working <strong>with</strong> Margate, Coconut Creek, Parkland<br />
and the County to determine the effects <strong>of</strong> the casino<br />
expansion project, which, upon approval from the governor’s<br />
<strong>of</strong>fice, would include Las Vegas-style gaming, retail space, a<br />
6,500-vehicle parking garage, and a 1,000-room hotel.<br />
A casino <strong>with</strong> category 2-type gaming already exists in<br />
Coconut Creek along State Road 7 and Sample Road, directly<br />
east <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong>. The proposed Seminole expansion<br />
seeks to make 53 acres <strong>of</strong> land sovereign – immune to United<br />
States laws – upon which the tribe wants to install category<br />
3, Vegas-style gaming that Gov. Charlie Crist must approve.<br />
Category 3 gaming already exists in Broward County,<br />
including at Pompano Park.<br />
Assistant <strong>City</strong> Manager Erdal Dönmez said the <strong>City</strong> wanted<br />
to have a unified stand <strong>with</strong> Margate, Coconut Creek and<br />
Parkland when asking the Seminole tribe for resources to<br />
help mitigate additional impacts on the cities, including more<br />
public service personnel and infrastructure improvements.<br />
Further, the South Florida Regional Planning Council is<br />
applying its comprehensive development impact model to<br />
the preliminary casino plans to assess the direct impact <strong>of</strong><br />
this major development on the surrounding communities.<br />
The cities plan to present their recommendations to<br />
the governor’s <strong>of</strong>fice so he can take those into account<br />
when signing legislation to make the land tribal. Even if the<br />
governor does not approve a conversion to sovereign land<br />
and Category 3 gaming, the Seminole tribe already owns the<br />
property and can develop it in any other way they see fit.<br />
Donmez emphasized that <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> is not attempting<br />
to halt the project; rather the <strong>City</strong>, he said, wants to make sure<br />
“any and all potential negative impact is being identified and<br />
properly mitigated.”<br />
Waste Management will now enforce 2-gallon trash cans<br />
collection at the lowest rate <strong>of</strong> any city in Broward County.<br />
Side door service is included in residents’ solid waste fee, and<br />
residents are entitled have two garbage cans collected per<br />
pickup. Anything in excess <strong>of</strong> two cans should be taken out<br />
to the curb. Waste Management also <strong>of</strong>fers bulk pickup twice<br />
a week on regular collection days for those residents <strong>with</strong><br />
side yard or curbside pickup.<br />
For more information on proper disposal, visit coralsprings.<br />
org and click the ‘Garbage and Recycling Guide for Residents’<br />
under the ‘Publications’ Section.<br />
• <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> • Spring 2007 Visit coralsprings.org
Dr. Paul’s memory lives on at<br />
dog park named in his honor<br />
Local veterinarian Dr. Steven<br />
G. Paul, who was a lifelong<br />
non-smoker, succumbed to an<br />
aggressive form <strong>of</strong> lung cancer at<br />
the early age <strong>of</strong> 50. In remembrance<br />
<strong>of</strong> him and all his love and<br />
dedication to pets, the <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong><br />
<strong>Springs</strong> gave a special proclamation<br />
the day before Dr. Paul passed<br />
away renaming the dog park as<br />
Dr. Steven G. Paul Dog Park.<br />
At age 10, he knew he wanted<br />
to become a veterinarian, but little<br />
did he know that he would become<br />
such an asset to his community. To<br />
Dr. Steven G. Paul<br />
and family at the<br />
2005 Dog Day Run<br />
the <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong>, he was a collaborator and a good<br />
friend. Even during his battle against cancer, he attended<br />
commission meetings and fought for what he believed.<br />
“We love you and appreciate everything you’ve done,”<br />
Mayor Brook said to Dr. Paul, as he and his family watched the<br />
commission meeting from his hospital room at <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong><br />
Medical Center.<br />
Dr. Paul founded the state’s first dog park in 1997 right here<br />
at Sportsplex. He was also involved <strong>with</strong> the <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong><br />
Police and Fire Departments, leading pet CPR training and<br />
providing pet oxygen masks for every transport vehicle in our<br />
<strong>City</strong> and Parkland.<br />
“Dr. Paul was a valuable asset to our <strong>City</strong>,” Fire Department<br />
Public Information Officer Mike Moser said. “The <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong><br />
<strong>Springs</strong> has lost a dear friend.”<br />
Years ago, Dr. Paul served as an active member <strong>of</strong> the Civic<br />
Culture and Education Cultural Foundation, which was the<br />
predecessor <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Museum <strong>of</strong> Art Board <strong>of</strong><br />
Directors. He also participated in Vision 20/20 and served<br />
for the <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Chamber <strong>of</strong> Commerce and the <strong>Coral</strong><br />
<strong>Springs</strong> Economic Development Council.<br />
“He has helped plow the way for much <strong>of</strong> what we have<br />
been able to accomplish in recent years, and for that we are<br />
eternally grateful,” <strong>City</strong> Manager Michael Levinson said.<br />
Dr. Paul is survived by his loving wife Jill, his sons Jordan<br />
and Kevin, and his golden retriever and best friend, Parker.<br />
Visit peoplehelpingpets.org for details on how you can<br />
honor Dr. Paul’s legacy by helping local pet charities.<br />
My<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong><br />
Photos submitted by our readers<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> is inviting residents to submit their best<br />
photos <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong>. Submitted photos may be<br />
featured in an upcoming issue <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Magazine,<br />
on <strong>City</strong>TV 25 or on the <strong>City</strong>’s website. Please e-mail your<br />
full-resolution photographs to editor@coralsprings.org.<br />
Don’t forget to include your name, description <strong>of</strong> the<br />
people or places pictured, as well as why your photo<br />
signifies what <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> means to you.<br />
Congratulations to<br />
members <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong><br />
<strong>Springs</strong> Girl Scout<br />
Troop 842, who<br />
collected the most<br />
donations for the<br />
“Feeding Broward<br />
Together” annual<br />
food drive.<br />
Pictured left to right<br />
are: top row – Marni<br />
Shabash, E’lan Cole,<br />
Arianna Ruiz, Florida<br />
Panthers mascot<br />
Stanley C. Panther;<br />
standing – Chelsie Hall, Amanda Van Wettering,<br />
Samantha Moroney, Aviva Edrich, Samantha Rabucha,<br />
Kayla Wymann; and bottom row – Jordan Roimi,<br />
Jenna Cohen, Gaby Roimi, Bailey Moroney.<br />
<strong>City</strong> is ready to go green<br />
Climate change is a major concern and greenhouse<br />
gases, resulting from human activity, are accumulating at an<br />
unprecedented rate. Research has shown that Florida releases<br />
the most <strong>of</strong> these gases in the nation.<br />
The <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> has been involved in initiatives<br />
to reduce our local impact on climate change. Our <strong>City</strong> also<br />
passed a resolution in January to support the U.S. Conference<br />
<strong>of</strong> Mayors’ Climate Protection Agreement, and as a result, the<br />
<strong>City</strong> plans to develop policies for Green building and Green<br />
maintenance. Currently, the <strong>City</strong> has nine hybrid vehicles and<br />
uses biodiesel fuels for all trucks, back hoes and lawn mowers,<br />
as they are cleaner than gas and diesel.<br />
In the future, Downtown <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> will create a more<br />
pedestrian-friendly place for living, in hopes <strong>of</strong> decreasing<br />
the use <strong>of</strong> vehicles. By 2014, <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> also plans<br />
to reach a citywide 30 percent tree canopy increase to<br />
reduce carbon dioxide and the urban heat island effect, in<br />
which a metropolitan area is significantly warmer than its<br />
surroundings.<br />
For more information on how you can help, visit epa.gov.<br />
Watch <strong>City</strong>TV Channel 25 Spring 2007 • <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> •<br />
community
community<br />
Be prepared for hurricanes Hurricane Preparedness Tips<br />
Even though Florida escaped a direct hit during last year’s<br />
hurricane season, residents should be vigilant and prepare for<br />
this year. A good first step to getting ready is to stock up on<br />
enough supplies to last at least three days.<br />
With only two months before the start <strong>of</strong> hurricane season,<br />
the <strong>City</strong> also is alerting residents to the myriad programs and<br />
special services <strong>of</strong>fered before, during and after a hurricane or<br />
other emergency.<br />
The <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Hurricane Call Center will be<br />
available to assist residents <strong>with</strong> vital information before and<br />
after a storm. Residents can reach the call center at 954-344-<br />
1001. Staff at the Call Center are available to answer questions<br />
about <strong>City</strong>-related issues and not concerns such as canals,<br />
cable television or electricity.<br />
<strong>City</strong> TV 25, on Advanced Cable Communications, will air<br />
the latest community updates, including curfew information,<br />
business openings and closings, debris removal and other<br />
emergency preparedness instructions.<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> residents will soon be able to tune their<br />
dials to 1670-AM as the <strong>City</strong> prepares to launch its own<br />
radio station. <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> <strong>City</strong>Radio will deliver information<br />
about <strong>City</strong> services, upcoming events, weather updates, and<br />
emergency bulletins when necessary.<br />
The <strong>City</strong>’s Web site, coralsprings.org, will be constantly<br />
updated <strong>with</strong> detailed information. Before the storm,<br />
residents can register for several e-newsletters designed to<br />
give not only storm information but regular notices from the<br />
<strong>City</strong> as well. Go to coralsprings.org and scroll to the E-<strong>Coral</strong><br />
<strong>Springs</strong> Section where you can click on “Sign up for e-News”<br />
to register. Residents also have the option <strong>of</strong> signing up for a<br />
Community Awareness e-mail, which provides information<br />
about domestic security and tropical updates. To be<br />
included on the list, send an e-mail to csdomesticsecurity@<br />
coralsprings.org.<br />
Monarch High School, 5050 Wiles Road in Coconut Creek,<br />
serves as <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong>’ primary shelter. The American Red<br />
Cross is responsible for opening this and other shelters as<br />
need demands. The media and various alter programs will<br />
announce shelter openings. It is important to note that <strong>Coral</strong><br />
<strong>Springs</strong> is not considered an evacuation area.<br />
Help for Seniors<br />
The <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> has a program to assist the<br />
<strong>City</strong>’s senior and physically challenged communities. The<br />
Fire Department maintains a database to alert fire rescue<br />
personnel <strong>of</strong> any special needs required by a senior or<br />
disabled resident during an emergency. Visit coralsprings.<br />
org/assistance to register your information <strong>with</strong> the Fire<br />
Department. Those needing to go to a Broward County<br />
Special Needs or Red Cross shelter during an emergency<br />
must pre-register <strong>with</strong> Broward County Elderly and Veterans<br />
Services Division’s Evacuation Transportation Assistance<br />
Program. Transportation to the shelter also is available. To<br />
For more hurricane preparedness tips or information<br />
during a storm, call the Broward County Hurricane Hotline<br />
at 954-831-4000 or visit the following Web sites:<br />
coralsprings.org/hurricane • Broward.org/disaster<br />
Floridadisaster.org • Mysafeflorida.org • Ready.gov<br />
receive more information or to register, call 954-537-2888.<br />
CodeRED<br />
Residents and business owners alike are encouraged to<br />
sign up for CodeRED, a voice messaging system used to alert<br />
residents about events or concerns in their area including:<br />
local criminal activity, weather emergencies, missing persons,<br />
evacuation orders and other situations requiring immediate<br />
attention. Those who sign up can enter multiple phone<br />
numbers, including cell phones and non-local numbers as<br />
long as a <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> address is registered to the number.<br />
To register or obtain more information, visit coralsprings.org/<br />
police/codered.cfm.<br />
SavingMinutes<br />
The <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Fire Department recently launched<br />
SavingMinutes, a program that allows <strong>City</strong> residents to enter<br />
critical information about their home that first responders<br />
can use during an emergency to help save minutes.<br />
Residents can fill out on online form <strong>with</strong> the information<br />
feeding directly and securely to the Fire Department. Sign<br />
up by going to coralsprings.org/savingminutes. For help or<br />
further information, e-mail savingminutes@coralsprings.org<br />
or call 954-344-5934.<br />
Join the CERT team<br />
The Community Emergency Response Team is made<br />
up <strong>of</strong> residents like you specially trained in emergency<br />
response procedures. Those taking part in the 25-hour CERT<br />
course receive training in disaster preparedness, basic fire<br />
suppression, medical treatment strategies for life-threatening<br />
conditions, search-and-rescue techniques, and coping <strong>with</strong><br />
post-disaster stress. CERT members are called upon to help<br />
the community during many types <strong>of</strong> events. No previous<br />
experience or training is necessary. Interested participants<br />
must be at least 16 years old. For more information call<br />
954-346-1774 or visit coralsprings.org/cert, where those<br />
interested also can download an application.<br />
Hurricane Pet Shelter<br />
In case <strong>of</strong> an evacuation order in Broward County, residents<br />
<strong>with</strong> pets have the option <strong>of</strong> going to a pet-friendly hurricane<br />
shelter. The nearest pet-friendly shelter is Millennium Middle<br />
School, 5803 N.W. 94th Ave., in Tamarac. Those wanting to use<br />
the shelter during an emergency must pre-register because<br />
<strong>of</strong> space limitations. Owners are required to show pro<strong>of</strong> that<br />
they reside in a County evacuation zone and that their pets<br />
have up-to-date vaccinations, including a rabies shot.<br />
10 • <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> • Spring 2007 Visit coralsprings.org
Guide to Doing Business<br />
Are you doing business or want to do business in <strong>Coral</strong><br />
<strong>Springs</strong>? Our <strong>City</strong> is a vibrant community <strong>with</strong> a diverse<br />
population <strong>with</strong> growing retail and commercial needs. Of<br />
course, there are <strong>City</strong> policies, procedures and regulations<br />
that affect your business. Check out our Guide to Doing<br />
Business in <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong>, an easy-to-understand handbook<br />
that answers some <strong>of</strong> the most frequently asked questions<br />
about the <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Community Development,<br />
Building, Licensing, Code and Fire Inspection procedures, as<br />
well as our Land Development Code and Municipal Code.<br />
In this guide, you will find important information on how to<br />
make doing business in our <strong>City</strong> a pleasant experience. To<br />
view the guide online, visit coralsprings.org/business and<br />
click on ‘Guide to Doing Business,’ or pick up a copy at the<br />
Building Department, 9530 West Sample Road.<br />
What’s Going Up?<br />
Two more Publix Supermarkets are springing up in <strong>Coral</strong><br />
<strong>Springs</strong>. One store, which will open soon, is located on the<br />
corner <strong>of</strong> Sample Road and <strong>Coral</strong> Ridge Drive. That store,<br />
said Stephen Brandon <strong>of</strong> Brandon Partners, is approximately<br />
35,000 square feet, making it a mid-size Publix. Publix stores,<br />
he said, range anywhere from 28,000 square feet to 62,000<br />
square feet.<br />
“It’s their newest prototype,” Brandon said about the <strong>Coral</strong><br />
Ridge store.<br />
Another Publix is under construction on the opposite side<br />
<strong>of</strong> the <strong>City</strong> on Sample Road close to Turtle Run Boulevard<br />
near Target. When the two sites are complete, that will bring<br />
the total numbers <strong>of</strong> Publix stores in <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> to eight.<br />
There are approximately 50 development areas in <strong>Coral</strong><br />
<strong>Springs</strong>. To view the list, visit coralsprings.org/goingup.<br />
One Charter Place to open soon<br />
What was once an empty parking lot will soon become<br />
a vibrant pedestrian downtown. Downtown <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong>,<br />
located in the heart <strong>of</strong> the <strong>City</strong>, will become a reality when<br />
it opens this Spring.<br />
Back in 2004, more than 100 residents gathered at a<br />
Visioning Summit to discuss where they saw the <strong>City</strong><br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> in the next 10 years, and a thriving<br />
downtown was one <strong>of</strong> their top priorities.<br />
After years <strong>of</strong> planning and construction, One Charter<br />
Place is now a $26 million <strong>of</strong>fice and retail center set on a<br />
3.9-acre site at the southeast corner <strong>of</strong> Sample Road and<br />
University Drive. The distinctive buildings curve around<br />
the intersection and include approximately 96,000 square<br />
feet <strong>of</strong> commercial <strong>of</strong>fice and retail space, and a 423-space<br />
multi-purpose parking garage.<br />
While most <strong>of</strong> the <strong>City</strong>’s shopping plazas have parking<br />
lots in front <strong>of</strong> the buildings, One Charter Place is the exact<br />
opposite <strong>with</strong> no visible parking lots.<br />
The <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Charter School’s faculty and staff<br />
will have access to the top floor <strong>of</strong> the parking garage<br />
and an exclusive elevator. Amera Corp., the developer <strong>of</strong><br />
Downtown and The Walk, has also enhanced the school’s<br />
parking lot <strong>with</strong> landscaping.<br />
In February, the school broke ground for its new Fine<br />
Arts Wing, which should be completed by next school<br />
year. The <strong>City</strong> contributed more than $1.5 million <strong>of</strong> the<br />
proceeds <strong>of</strong> the sale <strong>of</strong> the downtown project site toward<br />
this educational enhancement.<br />
The Fine Arts Wing will include a band room, practice<br />
rooms, vocal room, and a small auditorium <strong>with</strong> a capacity<br />
<strong>of</strong> 300.<br />
“This Wing will truly enhance the quality <strong>of</strong> education we<br />
provide our students, and we’re very thankful to the <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong>,” Principal Billie Miller said.<br />
Confirmed One Charter Place tenants include a regional<br />
State Farm <strong>of</strong>fice, Merrill Lynch, SouthTrust Bank, Wachovia<br />
Bank, GMAC Realty and Starbucks, among others.<br />
“This corner gives residents a flavor <strong>of</strong> urban<br />
architecture,” Assistant <strong>City</strong> Manager Erdal Dönmez said.<br />
The other quadrants will have the same urban feel, and<br />
some will include residential units. Negotiations are still<br />
pending, but Amera is ready to move on any <strong>of</strong> the three<br />
remaining corners.<br />
Watch <strong>City</strong>TV Channel 25 Spring 2007 • <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> • 11<br />
business
culture<br />
Ryan Mash<br />
4th grade<br />
Country Hills<br />
Elementary<br />
Holes by Louis Sachar<br />
“My favorite part is when<br />
the warden makes the boys<br />
spend all day, every day, digging holes. I<br />
thought the book was better than the<br />
movie because it had more details.”<br />
Museum <strong>of</strong> Art to host Great Art Affair<br />
The <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Museum <strong>of</strong> Art will host The<br />
Great Art Affair: An Evening <strong>of</strong> Art and Fantasy,<br />
on Friday, April 20 at 7pm. This event brings people<br />
to the Museum for an evening <strong>of</strong> art, food and<br />
entertainment.<br />
Patrons will also participate in a live<br />
auction <strong>of</strong> original art by Romero Britto,<br />
Royo and other art notables, plus a sevenday<br />
Caribbean cruise for two from Royal<br />
Caribbean Cruise lines and airfare for two<br />
on Spirit Airlines. Original ceramic art plates and<br />
vessels will be bid on during the silent auction.<br />
A Chinese auction <strong>of</strong> small artworks, gift<br />
certificates and services from local businesses<br />
will take place early in the evening, along <strong>with</strong><br />
food sampling and wine tasting.<br />
Matilda Hippo<br />
This year’s special highlights will be celebrity artist by Pablo Cano<br />
Pablo Cano and a concert by Work Release, a local<br />
rock and roll band. This major fundraiser helps the Museum<br />
support exhibitions and educational programs throughout<br />
the year.<br />
All original pieces donated by the artists will be on display<br />
during the Great Art Exhibition April 9 through April 20,<br />
Monday through Saturday from 10am to 5pm. The artwork will<br />
then be available for purchase by silent auction the evening<br />
<strong>of</strong> The Great Art Affair.<br />
Great Art Affair tickets are $75 per person and space is<br />
limited. The Museum would like to thank its event sponsors<br />
Hertz Jewelers, CHCS Services, Parkland Life Magazine,<br />
Bacardi, Trinchero Estates, WXEL, WLRN, Our Town News,<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Nursery and Hearts & Flowers Florist. For more<br />
information or to purchase tickets, please call the Museum at<br />
954-340-5000.<br />
Current exhibits<br />
Experience Marionettes as Sculpture, a collection<br />
<strong>of</strong> Pablo Cano’s artwork. His exhibit will be on display<br />
What are you reading?<br />
Elizabeth<br />
Whitton<br />
10th grade<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong><br />
Charter School<br />
Flowers for Algernon<br />
by Daniel Keyes<br />
“It’s a psychological book about an<br />
experiment in which a man’s IQ dramatically<br />
improves. The author did an amazing job<br />
in narrating the story because it’s written<br />
though the eyes <strong>of</strong> the main character.”<br />
through Saturday, May 19. Since his childhood,<br />
marionettes have always fascinated Cano, and<br />
he creates them using debris from everyday<br />
life, including signs and violins. Cano, born<br />
in Havana, Cuba, incorporates his family’s<br />
culture and traditions, along <strong>with</strong> his own<br />
American childhood. Aside from being a<br />
puppeteer, Cano is a painter, sculptor, and<br />
set designer.<br />
Cano will perform <strong>with</strong> his musical<br />
marionettes at Family Funday at the <strong>Coral</strong><br />
<strong>Springs</strong> Museum <strong>of</strong> Art on Saturday, May 12 at<br />
3pm. Admission is $3 per person, but moms are<br />
free. An art project <strong>of</strong> Pretty Puppets will follow the<br />
performance.<br />
Sculpture: Then and Now will also be on display<br />
until Saturday, May 19. Sig Lichterman’s sculptures<br />
are created from laminated wood and Shelley Parriott<br />
will feature an installation <strong>of</strong> powder coated mesh called<br />
“Color Fields.”<br />
Summer camps<br />
The <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Museum <strong>of</strong> Art is <strong>of</strong>fering Art Camp for<br />
children and teens ages 6 to 15. Art Camp begins June 4<br />
and runs 10 weeks. Children may sign up by the week. The<br />
camp consists <strong>of</strong> either a morning or afternoon session. The<br />
morning sessions run from 9am to noon and the afternoon<br />
session runs from 1 to 4pm. Children may attend both<br />
sessions. The Museum <strong>of</strong>fers lunchtime supervision for $5 a<br />
day, but attendees must bring their own lunch.<br />
Art Camp Workshops fees are $110 and up. Workshops are<br />
by age groups and media, and some workshops <strong>of</strong>fered are<br />
Ceramic Hand-building, Exploring Sculpture, Comic Book<br />
Design, Drawing, Acrylic Painting, Cartooning, Papiér Mache,<br />
and much more. Classes are taught by pr<strong>of</strong>essional artists and<br />
class size is limited. Call the Museum at 954-340-5000 or visit<br />
csmart.org for more information.<br />
Kilee Machado<br />
12th grade<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong><br />
Charter School<br />
Crazy for You<br />
by Jennifer Crusie<br />
“This book is about a woman who realizes<br />
she’s living a life she doesn’t want to live,<br />
and she wants to change that, but her exboyfriend<br />
turns psychotic because he is<br />
literally crazy for her.”<br />
12 • <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> • Spring 2007 Visit coralsprings.org
Our Water<br />
How can you<br />
help the environment?<br />
S ay goodbye to watering your lawns<br />
every other day, and don’t forget<br />
to close your faucet while brushing your<br />
teeth – at least for a while, until the<br />
water restrictions simmer down.<br />
The South Florida Water Management District has set limits<br />
on how much water municipal utilities can draw out <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Biscayne Aquifer, and Broward and Palm Beach Counties are<br />
feeling the pressure.<br />
The SFWMD hopes to reduce water consumption by 15<br />
percent. As <strong>of</strong> March 22, lawn watering and car washing<br />
has been limited to only three times a week from 4 to 8am.<br />
Odd addresses can only water Monday, Wednesday and<br />
Saturday. Even addresses can water Tuesday, Thursday and<br />
Sunday. You can also wash your car on water days from 5 to<br />
7pm. No watering is permitted Fridays. The <strong>City</strong> will oversee<br />
these restrictions, and violators may be fined up to $500 or<br />
sentenced to six months in jail.<br />
While Broward County’s average water use is about 150<br />
gallons per person, per day, <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> <strong>of</strong>ficials<br />
estimate that our residents use about 123 gallons. The<br />
anticipated increase <strong>of</strong> new residents in South Florida means<br />
more water and more money needed to cover the demand.<br />
As a result, the <strong>City</strong> has made water conservation a priority in<br />
this year’s Business Plan.<br />
“The <strong>City</strong> is working to establish demand management<br />
and efficient use <strong>of</strong> water,” Utilities Superintendent Dave<br />
Moore said. “By developing water conservation measures,<br />
programs and incentives, we hope to avoid wasting water<br />
and promote the reasonable and efficient use <strong>of</strong> our available<br />
supplies.”<br />
The South Florida Water Management District also <strong>of</strong>fers<br />
many water conservation tips anyone can follow, including:<br />
• Not overwatering lawns and watering them during early<br />
morning hours when wind speeds are calmer;<br />
• Taking less time in the shower;<br />
• Operating dishwashers and clothes washers at full<br />
capacity; and,<br />
• Checking your water meter to determine if there are leaks<br />
in the home.<br />
Due to the lack <strong>of</strong> rainfall in 2006, the water level in Lake<br />
Okeechobee is about 3.5 feet below its historical average. A<br />
low water level in Lake Okeechobee is a concern because<br />
the lake serves as the main back-up water supply for<br />
customers in the Lower East Coast region, which stretches<br />
from Palm Beach to Monroe Counties. Lower water levels in<br />
the Everglades also damages animal habitat, drying out the<br />
swamp and making it more susceptible to catching fire.<br />
There are many advantages to conserving water. Not<br />
only will it save residents money, but it has the potential <strong>of</strong><br />
extending the life <strong>of</strong> the Biscayne aquifer and help protect<br />
the environment.<br />
For more information, residents are encouraged to call the<br />
SFWMD’s Water Conservation Hotline at 1-800-662-8876 or<br />
visit the District’s Web site at sfwmd.gov.<br />
This article is the third in a series about our water.<br />
Hundreds volunteer at annual Waterway Cleanup<br />
For the 12th year, the <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> site <strong>of</strong> the Broward<br />
Waterway Cleanup was a huge success. Volunteer turnout at<br />
the site was again the highest in the County, <strong>with</strong> more than<br />
450 people registering to help. Those volunteers retrieved an<br />
entire waste bin worth <strong>of</strong> trash from waterways in the <strong>City</strong>.<br />
Items ranged from old tires and lawn chairs to shopping<br />
carts and portable toilets, and hundreds <strong>of</strong> pieces <strong>of</strong> trash.<br />
“It’s great to be part <strong>of</strong> the single largest volunteer event<br />
in the <strong>City</strong>,” Vice Mayor Roy Gold, who leads the <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong><br />
site along <strong>with</strong> the Adopt-a-Mile organization, said. “I am so<br />
grateful to all the dedicated volunteers who participated.”<br />
The site organizers would like to thank the <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong><br />
<strong>Springs</strong>, Adopt-a-Mile, Broward Beautiful, the <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong><br />
Improvement District, Target, Lowe’s and Kilwin’s for their<br />
support and donations to this annual effort.<br />
Report canal dumping<br />
To report illegal dumping in a canal, call Code Enforcement<br />
at 954-344-5964 or the Police Department at 954-344-1800.<br />
To view the <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Canal District Drainage Map, visit<br />
coralsprings.org/publicworks/canals.cfm.<br />
For problems, questions or information regarding canal<br />
maintenance, improvements <strong>with</strong>in and regulations for<br />
these local Drainage Districts: North <strong>Springs</strong> Improvement,<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Improvement, Sunshine Water Control, Turtle<br />
Run Improvement District, and the Pine Tree Water Control<br />
District, call 954-753-0380. Residents <strong>of</strong> the Crossings<br />
Drainage District should call 954-846-7545.<br />
Watch <strong>City</strong>TV Channel 25 Spring 2007 • <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> • 1<br />
environment
ecreation<br />
Learning to<br />
Defend<br />
Yourself<br />
I t’s dark. The parking lot is empty, except for<br />
one flickering light. You walk quickly toward<br />
your car. Are those footsteps you hear over<br />
your pounding heart? Is someone else here?<br />
Suddenly, a figure rushes behind you. Now what?<br />
The <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Police Department <strong>of</strong>fers a Rape<br />
Aggression Defense class that teaches women how to answer<br />
that question while empowering them to avoid becoming a<br />
target <strong>of</strong> violence.<br />
Officers began teaching the RAD curriculum two years<br />
ago after people who participated in the Department’s<br />
successful SAFE defense program wanted additional training.<br />
Five <strong>of</strong>ficers are certified RAD instructors, <strong>with</strong> three more<br />
expected to join the team.<br />
“It really is about empowering women to use their body as<br />
a tool to survive an attack,” Training Officer Karla Hines said.<br />
The Department <strong>of</strong>fers the program free, which is unusual,<br />
because Police Chief Duncan Foster champions the course<br />
and what it teaches female <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> residents. Women<br />
must be 12 or older to participate.<br />
Courses are <strong>of</strong>fered in four-week sessions from 5:30 to<br />
8:30pm at the Northwest Regional Library, 3151 N. University<br />
Drive, as follows: April 3, 10, 17 and 24; June 5, 12, 19, and 26;<br />
and August 7, 14, 21 and 28.<br />
Families <strong>with</strong> younger children are encouraged to travel to<br />
Parkland for the Broward Sheriff’s Office-sponsored RAD Kids<br />
program. For information, call 954-753-5050.<br />
Even though the RAD course <strong>of</strong>fers many opportunities<br />
for hands-on training, no previous self-defense experience<br />
is required. Courses are tailored to meet each individual<br />
participant’s needs and fitness level.<br />
For more information, visit coralsprings.org/police/rad.cfm,<br />
or call 954-346-1227. Pre-registration is required.<br />
Experience EarthFest at Sandy Ridge Sanctuary<br />
Come experience one <strong>of</strong> the <strong>City</strong>’s hidden treasures<br />
firsthand during this year’s EarthFest. Each year, <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong><br />
celebrates Earth Day by hosting EarthFest, a community<br />
event putting residents in touch <strong>with</strong> the nature at Sandy<br />
Ridge Sanctuary, 8501 N.W. 40 Street, which is just east <strong>of</strong><br />
University Drive between Sample and Wiles roads.<br />
EarthFest features wildlife exhibits, guided tours <strong>of</strong> the<br />
sanctuary, plant giveaways and refreshments. Also returning<br />
this year is Master Falconer Ray Pena. Pena runs Flight <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Raptor, a private organization that strives to raise awareness<br />
about birds <strong>of</strong> prey in our environment. Pena will bring birds<br />
for a demonstration, as well as <strong>of</strong>fer educational information<br />
about the birds’ history, nesting habits, wildlife adaptations<br />
and more. The program kicks <strong>of</strong>f at 9am April 21 at Sandy<br />
Ridge and lasts until 1pm. For more details, call 954-344-1117.<br />
1 • <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> • Spring 2007 Visit coralsprings.org
The Unitown experience<br />
Jessica Klein’s best friend just moved away and she had<br />
never felt so alone, but after attending Unitown, she now has<br />
made some great new friends.<br />
In February, more than 50 high school students decided<br />
to go along for the ride, but Unitown turned out to be<br />
more than just a weekend getaway. Now that it is over, they<br />
wish they could go back because they all feel it was a lifechanging<br />
experience.<br />
All <strong>of</strong> them admit that during the bus ride to the camp,<br />
each high school stuck together and thought there would be<br />
conflict. Within two hours, the students quickly got to know<br />
each other. Now, they are inseparable.<br />
“I would have never talked to some <strong>of</strong> these people, but<br />
we turned into a family,” Matthew Lumpkins, a junior at Nova<br />
High School, said.<br />
At Unitown, the teens participated in bonding exercises to<br />
help them open up to one another, share their experiences<br />
and discuss diversity. The teens came clean and admitted<br />
that they used to laugh at discriminating jokes and gossiped<br />
about their classmates, but now they are more open-minded.<br />
“We may not share the color <strong>of</strong> our skin, but now I look at<br />
the inside and I don’t judge people automatically,” Cassandra<br />
Booker, a junior at J.P. Taravella High School, said.<br />
Unitown also changed their perspective on their parents.<br />
“I have so much more respect for my parents because if it<br />
wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be here,” Saul Sanchez, a freshman<br />
at <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Charter School, said.<br />
At a Unitown reunion, the teens jumped into each other’s<br />
arms and said a heartfelt “I’ve missed you,” although they all<br />
keep in touch through MySpace.com.<br />
They all can’t wait for next year and this time they’re telling<br />
everyone they know that they shouldn’t miss it.<br />
“I thought it was going to be some boring weekend, but<br />
it turned out to be more than I expected,” Gardimy “Dimy”<br />
Jospitre, a sophomore at Stoneman Douglas High, said.<br />
The Multi-Cultural Advisory Committee sponsors the<br />
program, which is available to local high school students and<br />
other participating schools from Lauderhill. <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> is<br />
the only city in Broward that hosts this event and <strong>of</strong>fers it at<br />
no cost to the students. Keep your ears open for details on<br />
next year’s Unitown.<br />
Keep your family safe this<br />
upcoming Fourth <strong>of</strong> July<br />
The personal use <strong>of</strong> fireworks in our neighborhoods<br />
has prompted the <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Police Department<br />
to take a firmer stance in addressing illegal fireworks.<br />
Last year alone, fireworks caused four brush fires and one<br />
injury in <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong>. Anyone caught possessing illegal<br />
fireworks will have them confiscated. Setting <strong>of</strong>f illegal<br />
fireworks could result in criminal charges against the user.<br />
Please keep in mind that any firework that explodes<br />
or flies in the air is illegal. As for the legal fireworks,<br />
please follow these tips to ensure the safety <strong>of</strong> your<br />
loved ones:<br />
• Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass.<br />
• Always have a bucket <strong>of</strong> water or fire extinguisher<br />
nearby.<br />
• Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks.<br />
• Stand several feet away from lighted fireworks.<br />
• If fireworks do not go <strong>of</strong>f, do not stand over them.<br />
• Supervise children around fireworks at all times.<br />
Police recommend attending a pr<strong>of</strong>essional fireworks<br />
display instead, such as the one scheduled at the Fourth<br />
<strong>of</strong> July Celebration at the Sportsplex Athletic Complex. For<br />
details as the event nears, visit coralsprings.org/events.<br />
Ready to Rock?<br />
The <strong>City</strong> is looking for performers to showcase at<br />
upcoming teen concerts. All genres are welcome. Show us<br />
what you’ve got! Send your demo to: Jacqueline Gouge,<br />
Parks and Recreation, 2501 <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Drive, <strong>Coral</strong><br />
<strong>Springs</strong>, Florida 33065.<br />
Get wild this summer<br />
at Sawgrass Nature Center<br />
The Sawgrass Nature Center is sponsoring its Camp<br />
Wild summer program focusing on science, nature and<br />
the environment. The camp, for children ages 6 to 12,<br />
provides a hands-on learning experience where campers<br />
interact <strong>with</strong> plants and animals, while also participating in<br />
outdoor exploration and nature craft projects.<br />
Camp sessions are in June and July and cost $200<br />
per week or $180 per week for Sawgrass Nature Center<br />
members. Camp fees include all activities and supplies.<br />
Certified science teachers and environmental educators<br />
make up the camp’s staff.<br />
For registration or further information, call the Center<br />
at 954-752-WILD or visit the new Sawgrass Nature Center<br />
and Wildlife Hospital in the Sportsplex, at 3000 Sportsplex<br />
Drive. Space is limited.<br />
Watch <strong>City</strong>TV Channel 25 Spring 2007 • <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> • 15<br />
recreation
ecreation<br />
Now is the time to register<br />
for summer programs<br />
The <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> <strong>of</strong>fers an abundance <strong>of</strong><br />
exciting adventures for campers. Many programs break<br />
away from traditional summer camps by taking kids on<br />
journeys they’ll treasure forever. Sign up now for one <strong>of</strong><br />
the many camps available, including Kamp Kool, dance,<br />
etiquette, sport, or special needs camps. Make a splash<br />
in the aquatics, learn to swim, or even take a swing at<br />
tennis. The <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong>fers something for everyone, including<br />
extended hours camps.<br />
Get your 2007 Summer Fun Guide and applications at<br />
the <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Gymnasium, 2501 <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Drive;<br />
<strong>City</strong> Hall in the Mall, <strong>Coral</strong> Square Mall; the <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong><br />
Aquatic Complex and Tennis Center <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong>, 2575<br />
Sportsplex Drive; and the Cypress Park Tennis Center, 1301<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Drive. Guides are also available at <strong>City</strong> Hall,<br />
located at 9551 W. Sample Road.<br />
To view and download the Summer Fun Guide and<br />
application forms, visit coralsprings.org/summerfun. For<br />
more details, call 954-345-2200.<br />
Safety Town teaches<br />
children valuable skills<br />
More than 1,600 kindergarten students in <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong><br />
participate in Safety Town each year, and the chance is<br />
coming up again soon to have your child learn valuable<br />
safety skills that will remain <strong>with</strong> them and your family for<br />
a lifetime.<br />
In a hands-on learning environment, children will<br />
discuss a variety <strong>of</strong> topics including stranger danger and<br />
fire, water, bicycle and traffic safety.<br />
Celebrating 21 years in <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong>, Safety Town caters<br />
to children between the ages <strong>of</strong> 4 ½ and 6 ½. Registration<br />
for upcoming programs is Saturday, April 28 from 9am to<br />
1pm at Kiwanis Park, 520 Ramblewood Drive just north <strong>of</strong><br />
Ramblewood Middle School.<br />
The coast is $45, and participants must be 4 years old by<br />
December 31, 2006. Pro<strong>of</strong> <strong>of</strong> age such as a birth certificate<br />
or passport is required at the time <strong>of</strong> registration.<br />
Upcoming Safety Town sessions are as follows:<br />
• June 4 to 15: 9:30 to 11:30am<br />
• June 4 to 15: 12:30 to 2:30pm<br />
• June 18 to 29: 9:30 to 11:30am<br />
• June 18 to 29: 12:30 to 2:30pm<br />
• July 23 to August 3: 9:30 to 11:30am<br />
Parents must register their own children. No more than<br />
two children, either siblings or friends, can enroll as a<br />
group. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.<br />
For more information, call 954-344-1811.<br />
Child drownings:<br />
What you can do to prevent them<br />
It takes an instant and just several inches <strong>of</strong> water to drown<br />
a child younger than one. Any amount <strong>of</strong> water that can<br />
cover their mouth and nose is potentially dangerous, be it in<br />
a bucket, bathtub or toilet.<br />
Toddlers are also <strong>of</strong>ten at risk as they follow their natural<br />
curiosity and can be out the door and in the pool <strong>with</strong>in<br />
minutes.<br />
Sixty-nine percent <strong>of</strong> the time, one or both parents are<br />
in the immediate area. And in more than 77 percent <strong>of</strong><br />
drowning deaths, the child had been seen five minutes or<br />
less before being missed and found in the pool. If your child<br />
is missing, check the pool immediately.<br />
“Drowning is not caused by a lack <strong>of</strong> supervision, but by a<br />
lapse in supervision,” <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Aquatic Services Director<br />
Mike McGoun said.<br />
Pool safety seems obvious but is <strong>of</strong>ten neglected. Aside<br />
from alarms, fences, pool covers, etc., the best security is<br />
constant adult supervision. Be sure your children know how<br />
to swim and, as a parent, learn CPR.<br />
The <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong><br />
Medical Center, the<br />
<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong><br />
and the American Red<br />
Cross have also joined<br />
together as the Pediatric<br />
Drowning Prevention Task Force to help prevent pediatric<br />
drowning. The <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Fire Department regularly <strong>of</strong>fers<br />
CPR classes. To sign up for the <strong>City</strong>’s CPR classes, please call<br />
954-346-1774.<br />
Also this month, don’t miss<br />
April Pool’s Day on Sunday,<br />
April 15, from noon to 4pm<br />
at the <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Medical<br />
Center. The hospital will be<br />
celebrating its 20th birthday, and the Fire Department will<br />
<strong>of</strong>fer drowning prevention demonstrations.<br />
For more information, visit watersafekids.org.<br />
Register for Learn to Swim Classes Beginning May 5<br />
Registration for summer Learn to Swim classes will begin<br />
on Saturday, May 5 from 7:30am to 5pm at the <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong><br />
Aquatic Complex, located at 12441 Royal Palm Blvd. As <strong>of</strong><br />
May 6, registration will be taken at the respective pools where<br />
classes will be <strong>of</strong>fered. The Cypress Park Pool is located at<br />
1300 <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Drive, and Mullins Park Pool is located at<br />
10180 N.W. 29th Street.<br />
Most summer class sessions consist <strong>of</strong> eight, 45-minute<br />
classes and cost $45. Weekday and weekend classes are<br />
available. For more information, visit coralsprings.org/<br />
summerfun, get a copy <strong>of</strong> the Summer Fun Guide at any <strong>City</strong><br />
recreation facility or call Aquatic Services at 954-345-2121.<br />
1 • <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> • Spring 2007 Visit coralsprings.org
WorldFest 2007<br />
What’s<br />
Happening?<br />
Hoppin’ Into Spring<br />
Saturday, April 7 • 9am to noon<br />
$5 per child • Sportsplex Athletic Field • 954-345-2200<br />
Police Motorcycle Rodeo<br />
Saturday, April 14 • 8am to 4pm<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> Square Mall • southeastpolice.com<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Police Car Show<br />
Sunday, April 15 • Noon to 4pm<br />
$12 • <strong>Coral</strong> Square Mall • 954-344-1833<br />
Free Family Concert featuring the Bulldogs<br />
Saturday, April 21 • 7pm<br />
Betti Stradling Park, 10301 Wiles Road • 954-345-2200<br />
Around<br />
theTown<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Charter School Fine Arts Wing<br />
ground breaking<br />
Martin Luther<br />
King, Jr.<br />
Celebration<br />
Waterway<br />
Cleanup<br />
Festival<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Arts<br />
Always visit coralsprings.org/events for the latest<br />
updates and additions to this list <strong>of</strong> events happening<br />
in <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> in the coming months.<br />
Unity in the Community<br />
Sunday, April 29 • 4pm • $8 admission<br />
opunited.org • Center for the Arts • 954-340-2115<br />
National Day <strong>of</strong> Prayer<br />
Thursday, May 3 • 7pm • <strong>City</strong> Hall, 9551 W. Sample Road<br />
Free and open to all faiths • 954-344-1063<br />
Masters Basketball National Championship<br />
Sunday, May 13 to Saturday, May 19 • 954-345-2200<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Gymnasium, 2501 <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Drive<br />
Visit mastersbasketball.org for game schedules<br />
Memorial Day<br />
Monday, May 28 • 9am • Free<br />
Veterans Park, 8601 Royal Palm Blvd. • 954-345-2200<br />
around the town<br />
New Fire Engine Ceremonial Hose-down<br />
Watch <strong>City</strong>TV Channel 25 Spring 2007 • <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> • 17<br />
calendar
Spend the summer at the<br />
Center for the Arts’ theater camp<br />
The <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Institute for the Performing Arts is<br />
currently accepting registrations for the exciting 2007<br />
Summer Session <strong>of</strong> Next Stop Broadway Summer Camp.<br />
Our first-rate youth theater program has its permanent<br />
home at one <strong>of</strong> South Florida’s finest performing arts centers<br />
– the <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Center for the Arts.<br />
Campers attend a variety <strong>of</strong> classes including acting,<br />
music, dance, and stagecraft. All staff members are selected<br />
for their talent and experience and ability to teach <strong>with</strong><br />
compassion and patience.<br />
CITy OF CORAL SPRINGS<br />
9551 West Sample Road<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong>, Florida 33065<br />
youth Camp (ages 6–13)<br />
Session 1: June 4–22 • Once Upon A Mattress • $595<br />
Session 2: June 25–July 20 • High School Musical • $900<br />
Session 3: July 23–August 17 • Grease is the Word • $780<br />
Teen Camp (ages 14 & up)<br />
Session 1: June 25–August 3 • High School Musical • $1170<br />
Session prices include: tuition, 2 tickets to the show,<br />
1 DVD <strong>of</strong> the performance, costume fee, pizza party.<br />
<strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Center for the Arts<br />
2855 <strong>Coral</strong> <strong>Springs</strong> Drive<br />
www.coralspringscenterforthearts.com<br />
For more information<br />
call the Box Office<br />
at 954-344-5990.<br />
PRSRT STD<br />
ECR<br />
U.S. POSTAGE<br />
P A I D<br />
So. Florida, FL<br />
PERMIT #1401