The League of Women Voters of Broward County is organizing a discussion on the the realities of Health Care Reform. The event will be at 12:30 p.m. on Nov. 17, at Northwest Regional Library, 3151 University Drive in Coral Springs. Registration and coffee will begin at noon.

Speakers include Dr. Arthur Palamara, a noted vascular surgeon and past president of the Broward County Medical Association; Jack McRay, advocacy manager for state and federal policy for Florida AARP, and Charlotte Mather, vice president for government relations, and community affairs for Broward Health/Coral Springs Medical Center.

The speakers will discuss the current legislation and the effects of passage on doctors, hospitals, and the general population. Refreshments will be provided by The Lenox on the Lake, Assisted Living and Memory Care Residence.

Call 954-341-9221 or e-mail cssmith@att.net.

> Discuss this entry

Want a better insight into the life of Haitians in the community and their contributions to South Florida?

At 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 17 at Cypress Hall in Cypress Hammock Park, Tekla Nicholas will present The Haitains Among Us, a program based on her experiences with the Haitians residing in the region. The event is organized as part of the monthly general membership meeting of the Coral Springs Woman's Club.

Nicholas is a published author on this topic and volunteers within the Haitian community. She is presently an adjunct professor at Florida International University, where she teaches anthropology and is completing her doctorate.

This program is open to all women in the community. Call Dee at 954-968-8567 or e-mail deesachar@bellsouth.net. Cypress Hammock Park is at 1300 Coral Springs Drive in Coral Springs.

> Discuss this entry

The reward for the arrest of the individual responsible for vandalizing the Soref Jewish Center in Coral Springs with Swastika symbols and hateful words directed against the Jewish faith has gone up to $2,500.

The Anti Defamation League is offering $1,000, Coral Springs Police Department is offering $500 and Crime Stoppers is offering up to $1,000 for the arrest of the suspect.

The anti-semitic messages were found by authorities Monday. The center is at 5601 Coral Ridge Drive.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS or Det. Edward DeRosa of the Coral Springs Police Department at 954-346-1214.

> Discuss this entry

The Coral Springs Police Department is investigating hateful symbols and words that where spray painted on a Jewish Community Center wall.

At approximately 8:30 a.m. Monday, police were called to the Soref Jewish Community Center, 5601 Coral Ridge Drive, in reference to vandalism that occurred overnight. The vandalism consists of Swastika symbols and hateful words directed against the Jewish faith.

Anyone with information should call Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS or detective Edward DeRosa of the Coral Springs Police Department at 954-346-1214.

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs officials, spurred into action by a group of high school students who are discussing possible ways to stop texting while driving, are contemplating bringing in an ordinance to deal with the issue.

Mayor Scott Brook said he would like the city to do something by January as the state laws may not pass until July. “[An ordinance] might help the movement [for a ban on texting while driving] across the state. I had brought up this issue a year ago. I am hopeful that we will have support.”

Earlier, Laura Glicksman, a member of the city’s high school student advisory committee, informed city officials the group wanted to create awareness among people in the community about the dangers of texting.

“Texting while driving is a great concern among many people in the community," Glicksman said. “It is one of the main reasons for accidents. People aren’t aware how dangerous it is. Teens do it more than anyone else. We want to focus on them. We have plans to have presentations on the subject at all the high schools in the city.”

Nedra Lyons, city parks and recreation coordinator, said the students on the committee had discussed doing something similar to Hands Across America to focus attention on the issue. “They talked about doing it around Coral Springs, but that was not feasible. They want to do something like that in high schools.”

Parkland recently passed an ordinance banning texting while driving within the city. Broward Sheriff's Office, however, can only warn erring drivers because the city is yet to get the Attorney General’s opinion on the issue.

> Discuss this entry

Distraught over the recent stabbing death of a local teenager by his older brother, Coral Springs Mayor Scott Brook made an emotionally-charged plea to other city officials to support his idea for a community forum to discuss teen violence in the community.

There wasn’t much support coming his way.

Brook wanted the city to organize a community forum or a town hall meeting “as soon as possible,” preferably in November. “Addressing mental health issues will be helpful to combat teen violence,’ he said.

“I want to see what we can do as a community to address the issue. We can invite students, leaders in the community and guidance counselors to the meeting. I spoke with Shawn Cerra, J.P. Taravella High School principal, and he would also like to do something,” the mayor added.

The city should “let some healing occur” before it did anything, said Commissioner Tom Powers. “This is a tragedy. Tragedies are first dealt with emotionally. We should let the emotional side of it to take its course. Let us let some healing occur. When we have data, let us see how we can address it. We have the potential to do more harm than good by not letting the healing take place.”

Commissioner Claudette Bruck said there wasn’t much city officials or the city could offer. “We are ill equipped to address the situation. Therapists have talents; we certainly do not. I have a hard time understanding what we have to offer in terms of telling parents how to look after their children.”

Brook is going ahead with his plans to talk to the community on teen violence and ways to address it. He has invited residents to come to his Coffee with the Mayor event from 8:30 to 10 a.m. on Nov. 2 at Cafe Creme Brulee, 1263 University Drive.

> Discuss this entry

Business owners in Coral Springs have generally given the city a high customer satisfaction rating but there are at least a few among them who feel the city’s sign code is adding to their woes, even as they try to cope with the ongoing recession.

Two business owners came to the City Commission meeting last week and complained of being warned by city code enforcement as they tried to promote their businesses. Unless the city toned down its rules on signage, businesses would continue to suffer, they said.

Aman Sappal, who has owned Sheridan Eye Care in the city since June 2008, said he was recently reprimanded for hiring a street advertiser to hold up a sign promoting his business. He said the city’s code was “draconian” and “antiquated” and sought a moratorium of six months on enforcing signage rules.

Susanne Wolfe, who owns Nordic Interiors in the city, said she was cited by code enforcement when she tried to draw customers in by putting a piece of furniture in front of her shop.

“My business is located on Wiles and University and you can’t see it because of the landscaping,” Wolfe said. “Business owners feel they are not being seen or heard. There are ways of having nice signs that are not tacky.”

While Mayor Scott Brook was in favor of finding out if another round of signage reforms or tweaking of existing laws were needed, other city officials and City Manager Mike Levinson said the city’s rules contributed much in making the city different from others. The city is planning to organize a meeting, in the next few weeks, to hear all sides of the issue.

> Discuss this entry

BJ’s Wholesale Club in Parkland is asking residents of Parkland and nearby cities to donate groceries for hunger relief.

In celebration of its 25th anniversary, the store wants Parkland, Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, and Margate residents to collect non-perishable food items to help meet its nationwide goal of 25 tons of groceries. Groceries can be donated until Nov. 8. They should be placed in the “25-Ton Challenge” bins in front of the club at 5901 Hillsboro Blvd. in Parkland.

In turn, BJ’s Charitable Foundation will donate the financial equivalent of one million meals to local network partners of Feeding America’s Food Bank. In Broward, he collected food items will be donated to the Daily Bread Food Bank. A fire recently destroyed much of the food bank's stored food.

Contact Tricia Maddrey Baker at pbaker1@bjs.com or 954-249-7979.

> Discuss this entry

The Coral Springs Police Department is investigating the stabbing death of a 14-year-old boy that occurred in the 1700 block of Nothwest 92nd Way at approximately 3:30 p.m. Monday.

Matthew Gorzynski, 14, and William Gorzynski, 15, were having an argument over the sound of the speakers on the computer when it escalated into a physical altercation. William armed himself with a kitchen knife and stabbed his brother Matthew in the chest.

Matthew was air lifted to Broward General Medical Center where he was pronounced dead at 4:34 p.m. William was arrested and charged with second degree murder. He was later transported to the Juvenile Assessment Center.

“Although this is the second violent incident that we have had recently between teenagers, this appears to be a isolated domestic violence altercation and it is completely unrelated to any other incident,” said Police Chief Duncan Foster.

> Discuss this entry

The Coral Springs 2009 Fall Fun Guide, which has information on dance, etiquette, sport and special needs camps to swimming and tennis programs, is now available.

The Fall Fun Guide and applications are available at the Coral Springs Gymnasium, 2501 Coral Springs Drive; City Hall in the Mall, Coral Square Mall; the Coral Springs Aquatic Complex, Tennis Center of Coral Springs, and the Cypress Park Tennis Center, 1301 Coral Springs Drive. Guides are also available at City Hall, 9551 W. Sample Road.

To view and download the Fall Fun Guide, visit www.CoralSprings.org/fallfun. Call 954-345-2200.

> Discuss this entry

The Coral Springs Fire Academy is on its way to becoming a world-renowned facility.

Last year, six members of the Jamaica Fire Brigade trained at the facility. They plan to come back next year. Another batch of six brigade instructors will participate in a weeklong training in January 2010.

Deputy Commissioner of the Jamaica Fire Brigade Errol Mowatt met with Fire Chief Mark Curran, City Manager Michael S. Levinson and Vice Mayor Vince Boccard recently to explore a partnership in the near future.

Since last year, the brigade instructors who trained at the Coral Springs facility have worked toward implementing some of the academy’s best practices, and Mowatt was excited about the positive attitude his instructors brought back to the island.

North Lauderdale Firefighter/Paramedic Owen Wallace, who graduated from the Coral Springs Fire Academy, wanted to bring some of the skills he learned back to Jamaica and was instrumental in creating this partnership. North Lauderdale and Margate have also provided training to the members of the brigade.

Coral Springs officials are excited to explore the possibility of a partnership. “The brigade is fairly young and it has reached a stage where they want to move the next level,” Chief Robert Bertone said. “Fire services traditionally help one another and it’s our responsibility to share our knowledge and learn from each other.”

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs has asked residents to become park moms, thereby helping the city ensure the safety and overall enjoyment of its parks.

Saundra Tanne initiated the program in 2007 with hopes of getting one volunteer mother, father or grandparent for each of the city’s 48 parks. The city is encouraging residents to join this effort as many parks are still awaiting a park mom.

Volunteers are required to visit a park twice a week and attend two meetings a year at the Coral Springs Gymnasium. While at a park, volunteers will scope the area for any apparent necessary repairs, graffiti or other issues. All volunteers will receive training on what to look for on playground equipment and toddler play areas.

To become a park mom, call 954-345-2200. Betti Stradling Park is at 10301 Wiles Road.

> Discuss this entry

The Coral Springs Sports Commission is now accepting applications for 2010 events funding.

The commission was established by the City Commission to identify, attract and retain quality sporting events, which will have a substantial positive economic impact on the community. A selection committee will review the applications and make recommendations to the Sports Commission, and the City Commission will make the final decision for events to be funded in November.

Sports Commission Event Funding applications may be obtained at the Tennis Center, 2575 Sportsplex Drive; City Hall, 9551 W. Sample Road; City Hall in the Mall, at the Coral Square Mall; or at www.coralsprings.org.

For more information, call 954-344-1841. The deadline for submitting applications is 5 p.m. Oct. 16.

> Discuss this entry

Random tests by narcotic detection canines in local high schools, more public awareness through public safety announcements and addition of material on prescription drug abuse education in the GRADE program for schools, local media coverage - the Coral Springs police department is planning to pull out all stops to prevent the illegal use and distribution of prescription narcotics within the community.

Police Chief Duncan Foster recently told city officials his department had already stepped up enforcement efforts over the last few months. Since June, the department has made 14 arrests - 13 of them related to trafficking of prescription narcotics.

“We have been very busy since June,” Foster said. “Illegal prescription narcotics are some of the most abused drugs in the nation. We are dealing with a substance that is legal by itself. It is the use that makes it illegal. It is very hard to get off the pill; it really is an issue.”

As part of its enforcement efforts, the police department will gather intelligence on possible problem areas within the city, and advertise tip line for residents. It will also build relationships with local pharmacies and certify that they are complying with legal procedures that are in place to combat abuse of prescription narcotics.

“We have three officers doing narcotics enforcement; they work with federal agencies like the FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation) and JTTF (Joint Terrorism Task Force),” said Foster. “We intend to have parents who have lost their loved ones through illegal use of prescription drugs speak in local high schools; the issue will also be raised at the principal education committee meeting.”

“We also plan to organize two drug destruction day events in the community in the coming year where old and unused prescription drugs will be destroyed,” the police chief said. “Enforcement efforts to stop illegal distribution of prescription drugs will continue.”

Mayor Scott Brook said teens had too easy access to illegal drugs. “The city manager and I had a discussion with a federal officer recently on the issue. That led to a discussion of children misusing prescription drugs. It is important to get the word out to parents. They should be told not to leave pills in medicine cabinets. I am glad this is one of our initiatives.”

> Discuss this entry

The Coral Springs Woman's Club will be participating in the city’s annual Mullins Park garage sale Oct. 3 from 8 to 11 a.m.

Items being offered for sale at the club’s booth will be home goods only. All donations raised will be donated to charity. The club is looking for women in the community to assist it as volunteers at the event.

Those who are interested should e-mail deesachar@bellsouth.net or attend the club’s monthly meeting on the third Tuesday of each month at Cypress Hammock Park, 1300 Coral Springs Drive in Coral Springs.

> Discuss this entry

If you are a student at a high school in Coral Springs or at Marjorie Stoneman Douglas, you are invited to join the city's Teen Car Club. Project CS was created in 2007 and since then, students have revamped two vehicles and hosted annual car shows.

If this sounds like something you might be into, the kick-off meeting at Coral Springs Gymnasium is definitely where you should be on Sept. 23 at 4 p.m.

The club is all about whatever the members want, from choosing out of about seven cars to remodel, the new paint design of the vehicle, how you want it hooked up inside, all the way to what you want to do with it when it's finished. With the help of some local mechanics and businesses, the finished products are entirely your decision. This club needs more than just car enthusiasts, we need people interested in business, mechanics, art, and advertising.

Joining the club is free. The Coral Springs Gymnasium is at 2501 Coral Springs Drive, near the intersection of Royal Palm Boulevard and Coral Springs Drive. For more information, call 954-345-2204.

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs residents interested in joining forces with United Way of Broward County's Building Generations should attend a coalition meeting from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 1 at Family Success Center, 10077 NW 29th St.

In November 2008, the board of directors of United Way of Broward County unanimously decided to fund ARC Broward’s proposal, “Building Generations,” to address the financial stability of low-income families and seniors in Coral Springs.

“The program was well presented, strongly collaborative and has the potential to be replicated throughout our community,” O’Flannery Anderson said.

In June this year, the Building Generations initiative held its first community wide event—a free Financial Literacy Fair for Coral Springs residents. The event provided quality financial information and education in a fun environment and increased awareness of financial issues and supportive services for Coral Springs residents.

Administered by ARC Broward, Building Generations is a major impact initiative of the United Way of Broward County. Other community partners of the Building Generations initiative include The City of Coral Springs, CareSource, FLIPANY, Minority Development and Empowerment, Inc., RESBEAT, Senior Volunteer Services and Broward County. Teen service hour opportunities and job placement are also available.

Visit www.buildinggenerations.info or call 954-746-9400.

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs police are investigating a stabbing that occurred last week at the 10100 block of Northwest 17th Street. Police is charging one of the juveniles involved in the incident with attempted first degree murder.

A juvenile suffered at least one stab wound with a kitchen knife to the upper back as result of an altercation he had with another juvenile; both of them are Coral Springs residents. The second juvenile also suffered a stab wound to the stomach that appears to be self-inflicted, according to witness information.

Both of them attend a middle school in the city where they have been having disputes recently. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Ken Johnson of the Coral Springs police department at 954-346-1223.

> Discuss this entry

The Board of St. Andrews Towers in Coral Springs recently recognized Officer Paul Kempinski for his dedication and service to the citizens of the city. It also presented a check for $350 to the Coral Springs Fraternal Order of Police.

Kempinski was shot in the line of duty this past May during an armed robbery pursuit. Thus far, he has made a wonderful recovery.

“The residents at St. Andrews Towers are great and I’ve had the pleasure of working with them at sometimes the best and worst of times, including a large fire last year,” Kempinski said. “Thank you for your generosity. I don’t have words enough to thank you.”

In another development, city commissioners proclaimed September as National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month. During this month, the city wants to remind residents that recovery is possible. Officials also commended those who have faced these struggles and succeeded, and encouraged others to start treatment.

“One of the things that we find in the criminal justice system is that so many problems can be attributed to a drug and alcohol problem and if we can get the folks the necessary help, we know that, many times, they’re not going to end up in the criminal justice system," police chief Duncan Foster said. "Our prisons are full of people that have problems with narcotics and it really does start prior to entering the criminal justice system, so I think this is important and it will go a long way for our community.”

> Discuss this entry

A Coral Springs resident who is running for the post of city commissioner wants the city to make use of a county program that provides bike parking facilities free of cost.

Mark Gendal, an optometrist by profession, brought the issue up before the City Commission last week. “Bike racks are very important. It will encourage people to ride their bikes,” he said. “When gas goes up again, more people can save money by riding their bikes. These bike racks are free, functional and beautiful; all you need to do is install and take care of them.”

The bike racks project will provide bicycle parking facilities to commercial property owners, local governments and businesses within Broward. Implemented by the Broward Metropolitan Planning Organization, the program will be funded through the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality program of the Transportation Efficiency Act for the 21st Century.

“The objective is to get cars off the road,” Gendal said. “They want to encourage the use of bicycles for personal transportation as an alternative to motor vehicles. That will improve the air quality and reduce air pollution. We can use the program to make the city better.”

Mayor Scott Brook wanted the city to find out more about the project. “We will take a look at it and see if we can have a discussion in two weeks,” he said. “I brought up the idea of adding more bike racks a few months ago. I am all for more bike racks. I will push for an ordinance that requires new buildings in the city to install bike racks.”

> Discuss this entry

The Northwest Regional Library in Coral Springs, which suffered last year due to budget cuts imposed by the county following a sharp decline in property tax revenue, is set to take another hit this year.

The library, the only one in the city, now opened seven days a week is likely to change to a six-day schedule on Oct. 1. Sometime during the next few weeks, the County Commission will decide on a cost-cutting proposal to keep 11 larger libraries, including the one in Coral Springs, closed on Sundays. The library is now open from 1 to 5 p.m. on Sundays.

“It all depends on what the county commission decides,” said Mimi Hershenson, regional library manager. “It’s another tough year; libraries are funded primarily from dollars that the county receives from property tax. We expect them to accept the proposal, but it is not a done deal yet.”

“Sunday is a busy day,” Hershenson said. “We get more people per hour on Sunday than on other days. Closing on Sundays might make our Saturdays busier.”

The issue came up for discussion at the city commission meeting recently. Mayor Scott Brook said he had heard from Northwest Regional librarian Ken Engel that people in the community are opposed to the library being closed on Sundays. “Sunday is a day available for all residents,” Brook said.

City Manager Mike Levinson said the city needed to be careful in dealing with the issue. “The library is next to the charter school; the students use the resources. The library needs to be open Monday to Friday. Let us look at the numbers and see what’s a better day.”

> Discuss this entry

The Rotary Club of Coral Springs, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, will support a hospital in Cali, Colombia, in association with the Rotary Club of Cali.

The club will be assisting the hospital in development of their services, said Paul Alcock, club president. “We have established a close relationship with the club in Cali.We will help the hospital through the year and will raise money for that. Our initial target is $11,000.”

The club will also help a school in Colombia, said Ralph Abrahamson, club secretary and its student exchange program chairman. “We are excited about helping out the school; that is the other project we are doing in partnership with the Rotary Club of Cali. The club is also participating in a polio eradication project; that is a Rotary and Bill Gates Foundation joint project.”

The club is also looking for members from the international community to increase diversity among its members, Alcock said. “We have 24 members now and we obviously want more. The more members we have, the more our links will be with the community. When we are looking for community projects to support, we often identify them due to our members’ work in the community.”

The club meets every Thursday at 12.15 p.m., at Carrabba’s Italian Grill, 2501 N. University Drive in Coral Springs. Visit www.coralspringsrotaryclub.org or contact Paul Alcock at 954-736-7114.

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs will hold its first 2010 budget hearing at 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 14, in the Commission Chambers at City Hall, 9551 W. Sample Road. The hearing also will be televised on CityTV Channel 25 on Advanced Cable Communications and Channel 99 on AT&T’s U-Verse.

The purpose of the meeting is to review the city’s fiscal year 2010 budget. At the business plan workshop held on July 28, the city manager presented a financial strategy focused on combating the effects of the global recession while maintaining current service levels and ensuring the community’s continued long-term financial stability.

The city’s strategy for the next fiscal year centers on a three-pronged approach to cutting a $10.5 million deficit while still maintaining high-quality service delivery. The strategy includes a one-year wage freeze for all city employees; judicious use of $14.5 million from unrestricted reserve funds during the next three years; and adoption of a portion of the property tax rolled-back rate pursuant to State Statutes.

A second budget hearing is tentatively scheduled for at 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 21 in the Commission Chambers at City Hall. The adopted millage and assessment rates will be confirmed at this time.

To view the city’s adopted fiscal year 2009 business plan, visit www.coralsprings.org/publications.

> Discuss this entry

Parents of students in three Coral Springs elementary schools have joined hands to make life a little bit easier for students and teachers in the schools.

“Ten for Ten,” a joint fundraiser between the PTO and PTA Boards at Riverside Elementary, Eagle Ridge Elementary and Coral Park Elementary, is aimed at providing supplies or new technology to classrooms. The idea is to ask parents to donate up to $10 per child for 10 months; all the money raised will go directly into the classroom.

Elisa Wolfe, Riverside Elementary Parent Teacher Organization vice president, is hoping the fundraiser gets good support from parents. “Schools have had to cut money for supplies and technology to save jobs. Teachers spend a lot of their own money on supplies for the classroom. We don’t want that happening. Teachers this time are not getting raises like they did in previous years.”

The idea of joining hands came up when the budget cuts came through, Wolfe said. “Each school is losing about half a million dollars. This fundraiser is a direct response to budget cuts. The principals in all three schools have approved the idea. The donation is completely voluntary. We are well aware of economic restraints and don’t want anyone to donate if they don’t have the money.”

Money collected in a school will stay within the school, said Melissa Reid, Coral Park Elementary Parent Teacher Association corresponding secretary. “We are trying to do this as a community. The situation has never been this bad.”

Contact Elisa Wolfe at 954-701-5312, Denise Straus at 954-899-1680, or Melissa Reid at 954-254-1188.

> Discuss this entry

Temple Beth Orr in Coral Springs has opened a baby room, for babies from 3 months to 15 months, at its nationally accredited Kuhn Early Childhood Center.

The school’s experts know activities to improve listening, spark curiosity, and increase awareness for building the complex circuitry in little ones’ brains will remain with them the rest of their lives.

The infant class at Temple Beth Orr has a 1 to 3 ratio with qualified staff that encourages babies to play and learn. Hours are Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. with options for two, three, or five days a week.

Temple Beth Orr, which welcomes singles, seniors and families of all ages, including interfaith families, is in Coral Springs at 2151 Riverside Drive. E-mail info@templebethorr.org, or call 954-753-3232. Visit www.templebethorr.org.

> Discuss this entry

Buoyed by the relocation of Vutec Corporation to the city but not losing sight of the fact that commercial, retail, and industrial vacancy rates in the city have more than doubled in 2009, the Coral Springs Economic Development Foundation is gearing up to create focus groups to tackle issues specific to each sector.

“Vacancies are the issue,” said Paul Cawley, foundation executive director. “Vutec is a great company; it is exactly the kind of company we were looking for. It’s really good for us that they are coming, but much more needs to be done. In 2010, we are going to get much more aggressive in our efforts.”

“We are going to break the city down into sectors,” Cawley said. “We will have focus groups for industrial, retail, and commercial sectors. We need them as the problems in each field are different. The focus groups will be able to tell us what we need to do.”

The vacancy rate in the commercial sector is anywhere between 30 to 40 percent, said Cawley. “It’s a little better in the industrial sector. In the Corporate Park, the rate has come down to the mid twenties due to the Vutec purchase.”

“The economy has never been like this; the vacancy rate was 15 to 18 percent a year ago,” said Cawley. “It was 5 to 6 percent in good times, in the 1993-1995 period. We were in the single digits as recently as in 2007.”

The city will continue to pursue “good and solid companies” that are looking for a Coral Springs address, City Manager Mike Levinson said. “We have had a number of high profile companies come in the last few years. Vutec is an excellent company; they bring 32 years of experience and corporate culture into the city. I give all the credit to Paul and the EDF.”

> Discuss this entry

The Coral Springs City Commission has approved land development code amendments that would revise certain aspects of the city’s corporate park code.

The amendments, which were initially reviewed at a commission workshop on April 27, are to encourage sustainable development of vacant and underutilized parcels within the corporate park. The park currently includes about 345 businesses with active licenses.

The proposed amendments focus primarily on permitted and conditional uses. A Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)-based zoning incentive was created to encourage redevelopment by allowing higher density in exchange for development that is designed to achieve LEED Silver certification and thus promote sustainability.

The city collaborated with the Property Owners Association of the corporate park on the new land development regulation to improve the look, function and marketability of the park. Service-based uses will be allowed along the perimeter of the park to add amenities that will meet park employers’ and employees’ needs. Other changes include allowing hotels to increase the maximum height from 50feet to 75 feet for flexibility in design and limiting new self-storage development to the interior of the park.

“The owners like the new flexibility in uses and the option to achieve a higher lot coverage, which translates to more square footage,” Commissioner Roy Gold said. “In return the city gets a more sustainable development that will also enhance our tax base.”

> Discuss this entry

Indians in South Florida and Indophiles in the region are expected to come together in big numbers this Saturday at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts to celebrate Indian Independence Day.

The event, organized by Association of Indians in America with the support of other Indian organizations in the region, is being held exactly a week after Indian Independence Day. Entry is free; there will be different varieties of Indian food for sale.

The event will be a celebration of Indian heritage, customs and arts, said Amita Singh, event chairwoman. “We have a nice variety of cultural programs; there will be Rajasthani, Punjabi, Telugu, Tamil and Marathi dance performances. We also have singers and of course, good Indian food.”

“We will also have a 15-minute fashion show that will be based on the theme – traditions of India. It is not just for youngsters; we even have a seventy plus woman taking part. We have a few surprises in store as well. Nirvana, the organization of Indian students in Florida Atlantic University, is helping us in a big way this time,” Singh said.

Karan Munuswamy, association president, said he was excited by the opportunity to be a part of the event that highlighted the unique qualities of the largest democracy in the world. “Preparations are going on well; there is a lot of energy. All the programs will obviously have patriotism as the theme. We expect a good turnout; we have flyers in Indian stores and other places.”

The event will be from noon to 3 p.m. on Aug. 22 at 2855 Coral Springs Drive in Coral Springs. Admission is free.

> Discuss this entry

Vutec Corporation, a leading international manufacturer of video projection screens and lighting industry products, has relocated it headquarters to Coral Springs. Vutec brings a 32-year record of growth and industry accomplishments to the city.

Vutec, currently in Pompano Beach, will occupy a 102,195-square-foot facility in the Coral Springs Corporate Park at 11711 W. Sample Road. The new facility will house the company’s offices and its vertically integrated manufacturing operations. Vutec’s complete line of state-of-the-art, award-winning video projection screens and accessories will be manufactured there.

“We are pleased to welcome a global technology leader to Coral Springs and continue the planned expansion of the Corporate Park,” Ralph Merritt, chairman of the Coral Springs Economic Development Foundation, and Mayor Scott Brook said in a joint statement.

To help facilitate the company’s relocation, the City Commission approved the issuance of Industrial Development Revenue Bonds in the amount of $4.2 million to help finance the cost of this project. IDB’s provide a source of long-term, below-market-rate financing of capital requirements for new or expanding manufacturing facilities. The bonds will not constitute a debt or financial obligation on the part of the city.

> Discuss this entry

Organizers for the 2009 Coral Springs Festival of the Arts are calling for artists to submit works for consideration to be the signature artist for the annual event. The event will on March 21 and March 22, 2010, at The Walk on University Drive in Coral Springs.

Each year, a piece of art is chosen to be showcased on festival posters, t-shirts, in event advertising, and at the event before an expected crowd of 50,000 people. The deadline for submission is Sept. 30.

The chosen artist will receive a $500 stipend, a complimentary festival booth, and a virtual gallery on the festival’s website. The piece submitted should represent the South Florida area, and special consideration will be given to any work depicting Coral Springs.

The Coral Springs Festival of the Arts, now in its sixth year, is produced by Howard Alan Events. The event features more than 250 art and craft booths, live musical and performing arts entertainment throughout the weekend and literary workshops.

Contact Gisele Rahael at 954-340-5930 or d-mail grahael@csfoa.org.

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs will focus its efforts and sharply-limited resources in three priority areas: aesthetics, public safety and education.

At a fiscal year 2010 business planning workshop and special City Commission meeting held recently, City Manager Mike Levinson and city staff presented city officials with an outline of nearly 40 potential new business plan initiatives.

Among the proposed initiatives are implementation of phase II of the Neighborhood Stabilization Program which offers foreclosure assistance to low and middle income people, continuation of the city’s CSBizAssist program, a business tax amnesty that will enable first-time applicants to avoid penalties for operating businesses prior to Oct. 1 this year, and a code enforcement lien reduction initiative.

To improve public safety, the city will implement a red light and security camera pilot which will ensure increased safety at major intersections by using red light cameras for law enforcement and traffic management purposes. The safe driving initiative will promote overall safe driving habits and reducing the speed of vehicles on major roads and neighborhood streets, while an educational campaign to prevent prescription drug abuse will target the dangers of illicit prescription drugs.

Additional city initiatives for the next fiscal year will focus on continued improvement of city workforce productivity and continued investment in capital improvements. Visit www.coralsprings.org.

> Discuss this entry

Luis Miguel will know in a couple of weeks if he has done enough to become an Eagle Scout, but the Coconut Creek resident believes he has already been rewarded for the work he did to be in contention for scouting’s highest honor.

Miguel, who is a member of scout troop 372, recently presented 26 needy residents of St. Andrews Towers in Coral Springs with emergency preparedness kits. Their response, he said, warmed his heart.

“I’m very proud of the job I’ve done,” Miguel said. “It was very rewarding to see the people who we were able to help. They were very thankful; seeing how grateful they were made me feel happy. Some of the residents who got the kits had not been able to get ready for the hurricane season. Now, they will feel better.”

“We were able to give the residents quite a lot of food, fruit juice, milk and water,” Miguel said. “We were able to make it happen with the help we got from local organizations. The Coral Springs Parkland Rotary Club, American Legion Post 178, Coral Spring CERT, and CVS Pharmacy helped us achieve our goal.”

St. Andrews Towers, a government subsidized housing facility for senior citizens who are 62 and older, has 432 units and more than 400 residents. Many of the residents are on fixed, limited income and are recipients of the meals on wheels program, said Tracy Ansonia, social worker at the housing facility.

> Discuss this entry

The organization he founded has donated 13,000 pounds of food to hungry people in Broward in just two years ago, but James Flaig is not about to rest on his laurels.

“This is the time to do as much as we can,” said Flaig, who is Joey to his friends. “Because of the economy being the way it is, the number of people needing help is increasing by the day. Quite a few of my friends have parents who have lost their jobs due to the recession. Food banks are taking a hit too. They are not getting as much donations as they used to.”

Can-Teens, which is dedicated to providing hunger relief by supporting food banks in Broward, wants to donate 20,000 pounds of food this year, said Flaig, a Coral Springs resident. “There is no reason anyone should go hungry. Luckily, there are many people and organizations trying to help people in need. I believe Can-Teens plays a big role; we are a big part of the answer.”

The organization currently has 50 members. “The number has steadily increased in the last few months. We support the Cooperative Feeding Program, Broward Outreach, Pantry of Broward, Jubilee Center, and the City of Sunrise Food Pantry. We are also involved with Volunteer Broward’s “Field the Food Program.”

After making Can-Teens work in his school, American Heritage School in Plantation, Flaig has now set his eyes on expanding the program all over Florida. “My goal this year is to find a way for every high school in the State to adopt a food bank. I have spoken to State Rep. Ari Porth and we intend to make it happen.”

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs Medical Center is the first and only hospital in Broward, and among the few in the nation, to acquire the da Vinci surgical system.

The state-of-the-art robotic platform, designed to enhance the capabilities of surgeons, provides a new, minimally invasive approach to a series of complex surgeries, including hysterectomies and myomectomies, prostate and other urologic procedures; as well as cardiothoracic, colorectal, bariatric surgeries.

The robotic arms have been engineered to precisely mimic the movement of the surgeon’s fingers, wrists and hands and can only operate when commanded by the surgeon.

Benefits to patients typically include less blood loss, less chance of infection, a shorter hospital stay, less pain, less scarring and faster recovery. The first surgery at the hospital using the robotic platform was a laparoscopic hysterectomy performed by Boniface Ndubisi.

The system, which was recently featured on ABC’s Good Morning America, is the latest addition to the da Vinci Surgical System product line by Intuitive Surgical, Inc.

> Discuss this entry

To help make sure all children are prepared for success, Coral Springs is collecting school supplies for economically disadvantaged children in the community.

At the end of last school year, there were 113 homeless students in Coral Springs, and the School Board predicts that number could rise in light of the faltering economy. The city is working with the Broward County School’s Homeless Education staff to target Coral Springs students in need of supplies.

Some of the items needed include: pens, pencils, crayons, double pocket folders, composition books, backpacks, tissues, hand sanitizer, rulers, scissors, glue, and loose leaf paper.

Donations can be dropped off at Volunteer Services inside Mullins Park, 10000 NW 29th St. or Citizens Services inside City Hall, 9551 W. Sample Road. Cash donations also are accepted toward supplies and uniforms. Call 954-346-4430.

> Discuss this entry

The Sawgrass Nature Center and Wildlife Hospital at Sportsplex Park in Coral Springs is seeking adult volunteers, 18 and older, to help with planning, decorating and collecting items to be auctioned off at the 12th annual Evening in Paradise fundraiser for the center.

The center is also looking for donations for the raffle and auction, and ads for the souvenir journal. Sponsorships and underwriting opportunities are also available. The event, to be held Nov. 7 the La Quinta Inn, will feature dinner, drinks, special entertainment by The Resolvers.

The center cares for injured, sick and orphaned wild birds, mammals and reptiles and provides environmental education for children and adults. Call the center at 954-752-9453 or send an e-mail to sncvolunteers @gmail.com.

> Discuss this entry

The Coral Springs Police Department is offering a self-defense program for women over the age of 13. Rape Agression Defense classes are free and are offered at the Northwest Regional Library , 3151 N. University Drive. Upcoming classes will be held for four consecutive Tuesdays from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. starting Sept. 15.

RAD is a nationally-recognized program designed to teach realistic self-defense techniques to women. The classes build educational and physical skills, which can be used in the practice of self-defense, through emphasis on simple strikes, kicks, blocks, and defensive posture.

The instructional objective of RAD is to develop and enhance the options of self-defense, so they may become viable considerations of the woman who is attacked. This 12-hour comprehensive program seeks to empower women to be able to reduce their likelihood of becoming a victim, while teaching them the skills to survive should they be caught in such a situation.

Space is limited to 20 participants per course. To register, call 954-346-1227 or e-mail pdjl@coralsprings.org.

> Discuss this entry

The Coral Springs Multi-Cultural Advisory Committee is havings its annual International Dinner Dance at 7 p.m. on Sept. 26 at the Coral Springs Marriott at Heron Bay, 11775 Heron Bay Blvd.

“This is one of our most popular community events,” Community Relations Manager Joyce Campos said. “It gives people a chance to have fun and enjoy each other while learning about different cultures and cuisines at the same time.”

The theme this year is European Rendezvous, and cultural dress is encouraged. The event features dinner, dancing and entertainment - all with a multi-cultural flair. Tickets are $50 per person. Cocktails and a cash bar start at 7 p.m., followed at 8 p.m. by dinner, live entertainment and a silent auction. Dinner is served with complimentary wine.

Tickets can be purchased at City Hall, 9551 W. Sample Road, or City Hall in the Mall, 9239 W. Atlantic Blvd. For details, or to learn about sponsorship opportunities, call Lydia Cutz at 954-344-1063 or Gladys Castro at 954-802-3125.

> Discuss this entry

The Coral Springs City Commission recently recognized members of the city’s green study circles planning committee. As a sub-committee of the Customer-Involved Government Committee, green study circles participants looked at best practices to guide the city toward becoming even more eco-friendly.

Committee members recognized included chairwoman Lorraine Campbell; vice chairman Zen Belmond; vice chairman Gordon Boast; Cyndi Amaya; Hilda Fiammetta; John Faiella; Rebecca Gervasi; Dae Gilmer; Gerald Modell; Stephen Oyer-Owens; and Linda Vercillo.

At the meeting, commissioners proclaimed July 22 as Dave Aizer Day in Coral Springs. Aizer, a long-time Coral Springs resident, hosts the WSFL-TV show SouthFlorida.com Live and covers issues pertinent to the city.

“Dave is homegrown in Coral Springs, and if you haven’t seen Dave, he is the main guy, he is the superstar on SouthFlorida.com Live,” Mayor Scott Brook said. “He’s been very helpful to the city, especially connecting us with other citizens on Facebook.”

> Discuss this entry

A Coral Springs resident recently appeared before the City Commission to suggest a way to help people in the community battle the ongoing recession.

Nora Ayala believes a community garden will help the city’s struggling residents.

“A vegetable garden is not only profitable, but it will help during this difficult economic time,” Ayala said. "This will provide residents with work and food." She also referred to First Lady Michelle Obama’s vegetable garden at the White House.

City commissioners said they liked the idea and will look into adding citizen gardens for growing vegetables or flowers.

“It’s a great idea and people can have their individual plots,” said City Commissioner Roy Gold. “It’s a great way to build the community.”

The city will bring the idea to the Neighborhood Environment Committee.

> Discuss this entry

Parkland’s second annual Environmental Fair will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Aug. 22 at the Parkland Municipal Complex, 6600 University Drive.

Participants will gain information on the effects of energy saving programs, and goods and services that reduce energy consumption and emissions. Residents will be provided with ideas on how to create Florida-friendly, water conservation minded, landscapes and how to establish more sustainable urban ecosystems by using landscaping best management practices to meet their needs.

Florida Power and Light representatives will be on hand to demonstrate the easiest and most effective ways to conserve energy and learn about common causes for high bills and solutions to help you control your energy usage and lower bills. Waste Management will answer questions on garbage and recycling.

With South Florida in the middle of very serious drought conditions, the South Florida Water Management District will also be on hand to express why every resident and business needs to do their part to conserve water now and in the future. There will also be environmental and energy educational activities and programs for kids of all ages.

Contact Brian Archer at 954 757-4153 or barcher@cityofparkland.org for information.

> Discuss this entry

The last date to apply for neighborhood matching grant funding from Coral Springs is July 31.

The city will provide matching funds up to $5,000 for single-family neighborhoods and up to $2,000 for townhouse/condominium neighborhoods. A limited amount of funding is available citywide. Priority for funding will be given to projects within the Community Development Bloc Grant target area, but neighborhoods that meet the program criteria can also apply.

The city has completed 100 formal partnerships during the past 13 years, and recipients have made various improvements such as: enhanced lighting, neighborhood signage, landscaping and improving neighborhoods parks. All projects must be visible from the public roadway or benefit all residents in the city.

To be eligible, neighborhoods must have either a homeowner's association or neighborhood association, be established as a nonprofit corporation pursuant to Florida Statute, Chapter 617.301-312, complete the neighborhood registration form online at www.CoralSprings.org/community and submit a completed Matching Grant application.

Applications may be obtained at City Hall, 9551 W. Sample Road, at City Hall in the Mall, at Coral Square Mall, or online. Contact the community development department at 954-344-1114 or visit www.CoralSprings.org/partnerships.

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs' first business planning workshop will be at 4 p.m. July 21, prior to the regularly scheduled City Commission meeting. There will be a special City Commission meeting on July 28 at 5 p.m., which will include a presentation of the Business Plan.

On June 16, the city presented a financial plan for Fiscal Year 2010 as part of a public Financial Strategy Forum. This is the first time the city held such an event as part of its fiscal year financial planning cycle. The workshop dates were adjusted to accommodate this extra session and resulting public feedback.

Following the business planning workshops, the city will hold two public budget hearings in September. Check www.coralsprings.org for details on both the business planning workshops and public hearings.

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs has won another award for performance.

The International City/County Management Association recently honored the city with its Certificate of Excellence for superior performance measurement programs and results. Only 14 jurisdictions received the certificate of excellence, the highest level of recognition from the ICMA Center for Performance Measurement.

To earn a certificate of excellence, an organization has to demonstrate exceptional practices in several areas, including reporting of performance data; conducting resident and employee surveys; using performance data in strategic planning and decision making; and tracking and reporting key outcome measures.

This is the first year the center has offered a platinum-level certificate of excellence. In the past, Coral Springs has earned the gold-level certificate of distinction, previously the center’s highest honor.

“We are honored that our data-driven, results-oriented organization has been recognized with the Certificate of Excellence,” City Manager Michael S. Levinson said. “This award is a reflection of the business model of our municipal corporation, which focuses on achieving high levels of customer satisfaction in the most responsive and fiscally responsible manner.”

Since 1993, Coral Springs has used a business model to run the city, taking customer input and data analysis into consideration during the formulation of both the strategic and business plans. Top-level priorities the city focuses on are identified through customer survey data, an environmental scan and the performance measures.

Communities report data for 15 local government services (e.g. police, fire/EMS, road maintenance, park, code enforcement). Data are then used to identify management practices that contribute to high performance so that local governments can learn from each other in a process of continuous improvement.

For more on the center and certificates, visit www.ICMA.org/performance.

> Discuss this entry

The First United Methodist Church of Coral Springs, 8650 W. Sample Road, is organizing Summer Serenade Orchestra. The program will be at 2 p.m. on July 25 in the sanctuary.

Summer Serenade is the collaboration of dedicated musicians in the South Florida area for the continued study and performance of ensemble music outside the regular concert season.

Tickets are $10 per person and are available for purchase at the church during regular business hours or at the door the day of the event.

Nursery services for children, ages birth to 3, will be available. Contact Keith Miller or visit their www.newriverorchestra.org.

> Discuss this entry

Donating money to The Pantry of Broward can now be done at the touch of a button.

The public can now text a flat $5 donation on their cell phone to help feed Broward County's seniors in need by texting the word FOOD to 20222. A one-time donation of $5 is added to the mobile phone bill or deducted from the prepaid balance. Up to five, $5 donations can be made in any one month.

"We are trying to think outside the box when it comes to raising support for The Pantry of Broward," said Bruce Harris, the agency's director of development.

The Pantry of Broward, which serves seniors in need on low, fixed incomes and grandparents raising grandchildren throughout Broward County, has been hit by a shortfall in food donations this summer and so has turned to technology for help.

"We hope that young people who text all the time will take a couple of seconds to help feed the estimated 30,000 seniors in need in Broward County."

Visit www.thepantryofbroward.org or call (954) 358-1481 ext 114.

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs Medical Center’s recruitment and retention committee has embarked on a nurse mentoring program for newly-hired nurses with the goal of increasing nurse retention while improving patient care.

The NMP provides new nurses with a one-on-one nurse mentor. Each mentor meets with their mentee once a month. “This is in hopes to help reduce the mentee’s anxiety of starting a new nursing position, and the overwhelming nature of working in a large healthcare system,” said Kyndall Pritchard, RN, BSN, CSMC’s Stroke Program Coordinator/Risk Management Specialist and committee chair.

“By having a mentor to guide them through their first year of employment, these feelings can be alleviated. Mentees receive career guidance and assistance with interpersonal challenges they may experience. They gain confidence and proficiency, as well as meet new people to make their work environment more enjoyable,” said Pritchard.

According to The Future of the Nursing Workforce in the United States: Data, Trends and Implications, the demand for RN’s is expected to increase by 2-3% every year. With this staggering figure, CSMC began its nurse retention initiative in June 2008 in an effort to take a lead role in a competitive market of increasing and sustaining nurse longevity.

The NMP is a win-win for both mentor and mentee, said CSMC Recruiter, Karen Esposito-Sherman. "The program will improve the leadership skills of existing nurses (mentors) by providing counsel and guidance to mentees. Nurses who become mentors will take ownership of and be actively contributing to an improved workplace environment. This will increase their self esteem and feelings of importance within the workplace. Increased confidence and lower stress levels will decrease staff turnover rates, which will benefit all nurses.”

> Discuss this entry

Not too long ago, people in Ile De La Gonave, a tiny island off Haiti, dreaded even the thought of falling ill.

For people in the island, being sick meant walking miles and then going by boat to Haiti before they could get medical help. Thanks to the combined efforts of a nonprofit organization and a group of business people in Coral Springs and surrounding communities, life is easier now.

A medical clinic opened in the island recently with the help of money raised by Legacy Projects International (FL 154), a leadership group, and Vision International Missions, the non profit organization. The response from residents was immediate; the clinic served more than three hundred people in just the first three days of operation.

Jason Graham, a member of the leadership group and a Coral Springs resident, said he was glad to be part of an effort to make live easier for people in need. “Haiti is suffering. This island is even more in need of help. People there have gone through much in recent years. We initially thought of building a small school but the place was more in need of a clinic.”

The fundraising efforts have so far yielded $18,000; the third of the events was recently held at the Country Club of Coral Springs. “We need to raise more money; we plan to organize more fundraisers. The clinic is our legacy; we want to ensure it has what it needs.”

Ken Whitten of International Missions remembers the first time he visited the island which is a two-hour boat ride off Haiti. “There are no tarred roads; all you have are dirt paths. You travel at 5 mph most of the time. I saw some people carrying a pregnant woman on a bed; I later learned that they were taking her to a hospital in Haiti. It would have taken her days to get there.”

“We have a full time nurse at the clinic; we also have a part time pharmacist and a functional pharmacy,” said Whitten, who is in charge of operations in the island. “The clinic has three beds for overnight patients, a waiting room and an examination room. There are other clinics in the island but they are unmanned and have no medicine to speak of.”

> Discuss this entry

A Coral Springs resident who lost his left eye in an attack late last year recently appeared before the City Commission seeking permission to work from home until his health improves.

There were lots of compassion and sympathy coming Sheik Afzal Ahmadi’s way, but the commission decided against changing the code to help him. Providing special exemption to Ahmadi would leave the city vulnerable to similar requests from other businesses, city officials and staff said.

Good news, however, was in store for Ahmadi. After coming to know his story, Linda Dickens, a Parkland resident, got in touch with him and offered him the chance to work from her family’s warehouse in the Coral Springs Corporate Park. Ahmadi, who owns R&R Inflatables International, makes a living by designing and repairing inflatable balloons and bounce houses sent from different parts of the country.

“I’m overwhelmed," Ahmadi said. "Linda is like a guardian angel for me. Her offer gives me a chance to make a living and pay my bills. She let me use the warehouse, for free, for four months. If I do some renovations to the place, I can have it for the next six months.”

Dickens, a former Coral Springs resident, said she was glad that she was able to help Ahmadi. “The space was empty. We usually use it for storage. He didn’t need a lot of space. What happened to him is terrible. I don’t think what we did is a big deal. The important thing is that he can work and earn a living.”

Earlier, City Attorney Sam Goren said Ahmadi’s business violated the city code.

“There is a current code in place; it does not permit outside activities. The testing of the inflatables has expanded outside his property. He was not given a citation but a warning notice…,” Goren said.

> Discuss this entry

The award-winning Tennis Center of Coral Springs' weekly camp sessions will continue through Aug. 21.

Camp sessions are for boys and girls, ages 5 to 16, of all skill and ability levels. Half-day programs last from 9 a.m. to noon, while full-day camp sessions are from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Campers attending the full day have an optional recreational swim at noon each day. Attendees can bring their own lunch or purchase food at the tennis center.

For the more advanced students, another camp is being offered from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday at the center. The camp is geared toward those in junior academy levels one and two. All participants will be evaluated before attending this camp.

Players in junior academy level three can attend a camp at Cypress Park. For dates and rates of the Cypress Park camp, call Nick Rybakov of Rybakov Tennis Academy at 954-295-3565.

A United States Professional Tennis Association-certified instructor leads each camp. Weekly and daily rates are available. Call 954-344-1840. The center is located inside the Sportsplex, 2757 Sportsplex Drive.

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs' three-pronged financial strategy to deal with its budget deficit was largely welcomed by city residents but the adoption of the property tax rolled-back rate and the subsequent 16 percent increase in the operating millage rate decision did not go down well with a few.

George Rahael, founder and CEO of Amera Companies, wondered if homeowners and business owners would be able to afford the tax increase. “There are people out there hurting; there are people out there who have lost jobs. The tax increase will affect residents who have been here for a long time. For some, it will be an increase of $90; for some, it will be more.”

This may pose additional hardships to some people,” he said.

“Businesses will be affected too,’ Rahael said. “We have lost quite a few businesses; many can’t even pay rent. A 16 percent added tax on businesses might cause additional hardships.”

Dave Hulett, resident, sought the enhancement of community policing activities in the city and supported the city’s decision to adopt the property tax rolled-back rate. “We are talking about $90; that would be about $7.50 per month. You don’t even get a meal at Wendy’s for that. I live in Coral Springs because of the quality of life. We can’t let that deteriorate.”

Coral Springs plans to adopt a property tax rolled-back rate that will allow it to collect the same property tax revenue next fiscal year as the current one, freeze wages of all city employees for a year, and strategically deploy $14 million of reserve funds over the next three years.

> Discuss this entry

Sawgrass Springs Middle School, 12500 W. Sample Road in Coral Springs, will be open for new student registration for the 2009 - 2010 school year, beginning in July.

The school will be open for registration, from 8 a.m. to noon, and from 2 to 4 p.m., from July 29 through Aug. 14. The school will be closed July 31, Aug. 7, and Aug. 14. Registration will be open from Aug. 17 through Aug. 21 as well. The timings are from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., and 1 to 3 p.m.

Parents are advised to call the Broward County Schools office of pupil placement at 754-321- 3035 to validate the proper school to attend. Registration requirements can be found at www.browardschools.com by clicking on the parent Information link and opening the “How to register” link. The information is also available on the school website, www.ssms.org, by clicking on the Guidance link and then registration requirements.

The school year for students begins Aug. 24. Call the school at 754-322-4500.

> Discuss this entry

Rescued a dog? It's time to be rewarded.

To promote animal rescue, Whole Foods Market of Coral Springs is offering anyone who adopts a dog from an animal shelter a complimentary “Rescue Me Doggy Bag” full of pet products. The offer will stand till supplies last.

Each bag includes an organic cotton dog collar, one-pound bag of wild salmon dog food, sample sizes of dog treats, herbal pet shampoo and herbal healing salve in addition to a $5 coupon valid towards the $25 purchase of any pet products available at the store, 810 University Drive.

Customers should show written proof of dog adoption dated June 15, 2009 or later to the store’s customer service desk to redeem their free gift. There is a limit of one Rescue Me Doggy Bag per household.

Contact Jonny Rose at jonny.rose@wholefoods.com or call 954-753-8000 ext. 241.

> Discuss this entry

The Broward County Property Appraiser's Office will organize a series of community outreach events in July throughout Broward, including two in Coral Springs.

The first event in Coral Springs will be held from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. on July 8 at the Northwest Regional Library, 3151 University Drive in Coral Springs. The second one will be held from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at Sartory Hall, 10000 NW 29th St. in Coral Springs.

Deputy Appraisers will be available to assist with homestead, senior and other property tax exemption applications, as well as answer questions on property taxes. Applications for portability will be accepted too. All outreach events are open to the public.

Documents required to file a homestead exemption include a current Florida driver's license or Florida identification card, and a current voter registration card or declaration of domicile. Non-US citizens must also provide proof of permanent residency.

Qualified residents 65 years of age or older as of Jan. 1, 2009 can apply for additional senior exemption. Eligible seniors must have a total household adjusted gross income not to exceed $25,873. Documents required for senior exemption include a 2008 income tax return or, if one does not file income taxes, a copy of the 2008 Social Security 1099 Form.

Contact community outreach coordinator Kelly Brown at 954-35706035 or by e-mail at kbrown@bcpa.net.

> Discuss this entry

Daniel Stern, who has muscular dystrophy and is confined to a wheel chair, thought the worst was behind him after he had scoliosis surgery in November last year.

After a month spent in the intensive care unit, Stern came back home and began working hard to make up for the days he had missed at school. He was getting back on track when fate threw him another wicked curveball.

There is unmistakable pride in Gloria Stern’s voice as she talks about her son’s never-say-die attitude. “He was doing well when on Feb. 8, his lungs suddenly collapsed. We rushed him to the Coral Springs Medical Center from where he was taken to Broward General Medical Center. He was there for nearly two months. But not once did I hear him complain. My son is a fighter.”

On June 1, Stern received a standing ovation as he graduated, among friends and other students at J.P. Taravella High School. “That will be one of the enduring memories of my life,” Gloria said. “To miss so many months of school and still be an honor student is amazing. The applause that he received made me realize just how popular my son is among his peers.”

Stern is busy these days getting ready to move to Tallahassee where he will attend Florida State University. “I will miss my family and friends. The whole lifestyle will be different, but I am excited. I will be taking political science as my major. As for the future, I haven’t focused yet on what I want to do.”

> Discuss this entry

Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland and J.P. Taravella High School in Coral Springs have been recognized by Newsweek magazine among the top high schools in the nation for the second year in a row.

Marjory Stoneman Douglas High is ranked the highest among the high schools in Broward. The school is ranked 38th in Florida and 208th among schools in the nation. J.P. Taravella High was ranked 108th in the state and 861th in the country. Of the 133 high schools recognized in the state, ten are Broward county public schools. One charter high school in the county also made it to the list.

Both schools are ranked lower than they were last year. While the Parkland school has seen its ranking come down 68 spots, Taravella High slipped down the list more than 180 spots, having been ranked 673 last year. This year’s list is based on data from the 2007/08 school year.

Newsweek came up with rankings after adding up the number of Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate or Cambridge tests taken by students at a school and dividing it by the number of seniors graduating the same year. All of the schools on the list are in the top six percent of public schools in the country.

Shawn Cerra, J.P. Taravella High School principal, said he was proud of the school’s achievement. “This is the second consecutive year that we have been ranked among the best. We have great staff, wonderful students and we get tremendous amount of support from the community. When that happens, you get results. Being on the list helps with how we are perceived by the general public.”

> Discuss this entry

If you are a Coral Springs resident and were worried about service cuts, here is the good news -all the services you enjoy today will be there next fiscal year as well.

At a financial strategy forum organized by the city Tuesday evening, city staff presented a three-pronged approach to cutting the $10.5 million budget deficit while retaining services at the current level. The city will cut the deficit through a one-year wage freeze for all city employees, strategic deployment of $14 million of reserve funds over the next three years, and the adoption of a rolled-back property tax rate .

Adopting the property tax rolled-back rate will allow the city to collect the same property tax revenue next fiscal year as this fiscal year; the operating millage will be back to roughly the 2007 rate. Many residents will however actually pay less than in the previous year because their property values will have decreased. Even by adopting the rolled-back rate, which will result in a 16 percent increase in the operating millage rate, the city will still have the lowest operating millage rate among surrounding municipalities with greater than 70,000 residents.

“The city took this good faith preventive measure to maintain municipal service levels for our customers during these trying times. A long-term view has always been at the core of the city’s financial planning process. We are acting today to ensure continued financial viability, helping us to sustain high levels of service to our community well into the future,” City Manager Mike Levinson said.

The city will hold its first business planning workshop on June 23, and a second business planning workshop on July 28. These will be followed by two public budget hearings on Sept. 14 and Sept. 21. Visit www.coralsprings.org for more information.

> Discuss this entry

Christopher Pilotte thought his dream of becoming a homeowner was on the verge of fruition when he got a letter saying he had been approved for Coral Springs’ neighborhood stabilization program.

After putting offers on four foreclosed homes and seeing all of them go to investors who have reappeared on the scene in the last few months, he is not so sure.

“I saw one single-family home between Riverside and Woodside Drive. The asking price was $89,000,” Pilotte said. “I offered $110,000. I thought I had a good shot at it. Two days later, my real estate agent tells me the house has been sold.”

Coral Springs received $3,378,142 from the union department of housing and urban development (HUD) for purchase and rehabilitation of foreclosed and abandoned properties. The program is being implemented in areas that fall within the 33065 zip code as the area has the maximum number of foreclosed homes. The deadline for completion of the program is September 2010.

“I qualified for full assistance. I will get $25,000 for purchase of the house and $25,000 for repairs,” Pilotte said. “I’ve been looking at homes just about every day. I would love to get a single family home, but a town home would also be good.”

Pilotte is not the only one facing such a situation. Coral Springs, through Community Redevelopment Associates of Florida Inc. (CRA), has identified 51 prospective homeowners who would get financial assistance as part of the program; none of them have been successful in closing a home.

“We have 51 applicants that are actively looking for homes,” said Susan Hess, Coral Springs director of community development. “Some of them have found houses they like, but the next thing they know, the house has been sold. We hope to help 60 families as part of the program.”

> Discuss this entry

As part of Coral Springs' Buy Coral Springs initiative, the city is encouraging local businesses to be part of a citywide retail sidewalk sale on June 27.

Businesses do not have to be participating retailers in the Buy Coral Springs program to take advantage of this opportunity. Retailers who do not wish to be part of the sidewalk sale can still offer residents special discounts inside the store on the day.

Interested businesses should sign up by visiting www.buycs.org and filling out a brief form. The list of participants and their discounts offered will then be available on the web site for shoppers to see in advance of the event. Registration deadline is June 26 by noon. Businesses must continue to comply with the city’s codes and sign ordinances during this special event.

Buy Coral Springs, which is Mayor Scott Brook's brainchild, is a partnership between the city and the Coral Springs Chamber of Commerce that encourages residents to keep their dollars local by shopping at Coral Springs businesses.

Local businesses interested in offering discounts on an ongoing basis can still sign up by visiting www.buycs.org and clicking on “Register Your Business.” Once registered, participating retailers can also download 'Buy Coral Springs' materials that will help them get started in the program.

> Discuss this entry

If you think the lack of activity until now is a sure sign of a smooth hurricane season, think again.

“People are commenting about the lack of activity,” said Max Mayfield, WPLG-TV hurricane specialist and former director of the National Hurricane Center at the Coral Springs hurricane expo organized last weekend. “Don’t get too comfortable with that. In 2004; we didn’t get our first hurricane until August. Hurricane Katrina happened on Aug. 27, 2005.”

“Peak of the hurricane season is mid August to end of October,” Mayfield said. “That is when we have most of the activity. We have got plenty of time to prepare but we cannot afford to wait till the last minute to get prepared.”

“We are lucky in Broward and Miami Dade that the building codes are as good as they are,” Mayfield said. “The building really makes a difference. If it is a well-built home, you should be fine. Coral Springs is a low-risk area but it would still be a good idea to have flood insurance.”

The event, organized by Coral Springs and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, attracted a sizable crowd from the city and surrounding areas. The exhibits at the expo included the Red Cross, CERT, and the Broward county health department.

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs officials and staff want input from residents as they go about trying to maintain service levels even as the current economic recession continues to take its toll on local bodies. .

The city will hold a public "financial strategy forum" and special meeting at 6:30 p.m.on Tuesday, June 16, at Parkside Elementary School, 10257 NW 29th Street. The forum, which replaces the regularly scheduled City Commission meeting, will give residents a chance to provide input that will be taken into account as the city prepares its budget for fiscal year 2010.

This is the first year that the city is having such an event. Like most other cities, Coral Springs normally organizes two business planning workshops in June and July and two public budget hearings in September.

“The city is developing a financial strategy to counter the impact of this recession on our business plan and budgets for the next fiscal year. Our main objective is to preserve service levels throughout our community during the remainder of this recession while ensuring continued long-term financial solvency for the benefit of our residents and businesses,” Mayor Scott J. Brook said.

Recent data from the Broward County Property Appraiser’s Office about 2009 home sales and title transfers to date—including a record number of local foreclosures and short sales—indicate the slump in real estate values will continue this year and will also contribute to a significant additional tax roll decline next year.

Following the event on June 16, the city will hold its first business planning workshop on Tuesday, June 23. The second one will be held July 21. These will be followed by two public budget hearings in Sept.

Residents can visit www.coralsprings.org for more details.

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs police officer Paul Kempinski is recovering well from multiple surgeries he had after being shot multiple times by a robber with an assault rifle, but the incident has left its scars, and not just on the officer’s body.

Kempinski is the first Coral Springs police officer to be shot and wounded by a suspect; residents and city officials nurse the fear he might not be the last. At a recent City Commission meeting, city officials and residents talked about growing crime in South Florida and the key role played by the Broward Sheriff’s Office in ensuring public safety in the county.

Brian Walsh, who recently had a fundraiser for Kempinski, said the response from Broward Sheriff's Office when Kempinski was shot was “unbelievable.” “Paul was shot four times. We are so very fortunate to have him around now....If we don’t have [Broward Sheriff's Office], who will we call on? The City Commission should send a letter thanking the County Commission."

With the Broward County Commission asking Broward Sheriff's Office to cut its budget, there is concern that public safety in cities within the county could be compromised. The city should send a letter to the county asking them not to cut back on public safety, said Vice Mayor Vince Boccard.

"In times when the economy is down, crime goes up, and this is not the time to cut the budget on public safety. We need outside agencies to help us in times of need. Every city in Broward needs [Broward Sheriff's Office],” Boccard said.

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs is on Facebook.

After receiving parameters in an opinion from State Attorney General Bill McCollum, the city launched a Facebook page on Monday. Staff will post press releases, events, photos, and general information about city business on the page daily.

The primary objective of the page is to provide information and real-time updates about the city. Posts will be allowed for a trial period for 30 days. The city will rely on Facebook’s content policy as it applies to user comments.

Mayor Scott Brook, whose idea it is, hopes residents will react positively. "I hope we get tremendous feedback from our citizens and really elevate the interaction between us to help us do business that much more efficiently. I’m very excited about the opportunity to engage with citizens, especially our young people, through this method. I think we’ll be able to build on the 25 other modes of communication that we currently have with citizens, and this additional tool will help us greatly.”

To view the page, users must have a Facebook account and search for “City of Coral Springs.” Once the page has been accessed and a friend request submitted, users will receive updates and wall feeds from the city.

> Discuss this entry

One Planet United will observe national Flag Day with an event in Coral Springs that will discuss the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the qualities that make the United States the country that it is.

What makes America, America is part of the organization’s “dialogue in diversity” series. Speakers at the event are expected to talk about how important it is to respect the rights, individuals and minorities.

Frank Shooster, civil rights lawyer and business executive, is looking forward to what he hopes is a lively interaction between the speakers and the audience. “Diversity is one of our great strengths,” said Shooster, who is also executive director for Global Impact Volunteer Expeditions (GIVE), an organization dedicated to helping children living in poverty.

“America is the ultimate melting pot; this is a nation where ethnicity and heritage don’t matter. It is significant that the meeting is to be held in Broward [since] there are more minorities in the county than there is a majority,” Shooster said.

Everyone benefits from diversity, said Laura Finley, of the Center for Living and Teaching Peace. “When we are with people who are different from us, we tend to learn from them. It is great to live in a diverse community. Among the things we will talk at the meeting is how we can balance our personal freedom with the collective good of society,” Finley said.

The dialogue in diversity series has been going on for three years now, said Piero Falci, One Planet United program director. “We discuss various topics that are important to everyone. People like the fact that there is an opportunity to listen to issues that are important for the community.”

The event will be from 2:30 to 4 p.m. June 14 at Northwest Regional Library, 3151 University Drive in Coral Springs. Admission is free. Visit www.opunited.org or e-mail piero@opunited.org.

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs is set to implement a two-year pilot program that will reduce cost of grand-opening ground signs and give new businesses a chance to have the signs up for a longer period of time.

According to the decision made at a recent City Commission meeting, new businesses will also be allowed to put up grand opening signs, for a maximum period of 30 days, at any time until six months of obtaining a license. Earlier, the window of opportunity for businesses was 60 days.

The city decided on implementing the program by itself after the Coral Springs Chamber of Commerce sought a reduction in costs from the $1,290 each that new businesses had to pay for putting up a grand-opening sign. The program will reduce the cost to $800 for 14 days, $1,000 for 21 days and $1,200 for 30 days.

Under the new arrangement, businesses will contact the city’s community development department. The department will then work with the city’s communication division for the design and production of the signs. Public works will install the signs and remove them. The signs will be put up within seven days from approval.

Bruce Weinberg, Coral Springs Chamber of Commerce co-chair of government affairs, said the chamber approved the city’s decision. “We are very much in favor. The fee schedule is very fair and will also help the city recover its costs.”

> Discuss this entry

The First United Methodist Church of Coral Springs is looking for vendors to participate in its mission team craft fair. The church’s 35th annual event will take place from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Oct. 23, and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Oct. 24. The church is at 8650 W. Sample Road in Coral Springs.

The mission team is seeking vendors for candles, woodworking, quilts, and other handcrafted items. The products should be handmade and not commercially mass produced. Booths will be located on the grounds as well as inside church buildings.

Space fees vary according to location. Net proceeds are used to support charitable organizations and causes in Broward County and for several efforts overseas. Call Cheryl Price at 954/752-0333 or e-mail craftfair09@msn.com.

> Discuss this entry

Can-Teens, a Coral Springs-based student service organization, has partnered with Million Meals Committee to help struggling low-income Broward residents and to help raise awareness of the resources available to those who are in need of food assistance.

The Broward County Commission has proclaimed June 1 to 7 Broward Hunger Awareness Week. According to the Children’s Services Council of Broward’s communications specialist Andrew Leone, recent statistics show that one in six Broward residents are food insecure and go hungry every day.

Can-Teens is asking residents to skip one meal for the week to better understand the plight of those in need and the discomfort of hunger. The organization is also asking residents to donate $5, the average amount of money spent on that “skipped meal,” to help people who need food. Hundred percent of all money raised will go buying food for Broward food banks and pantries.

Go to www.browardhungerawareness.com or www.millionmeals.org.

> Discuss this entry

City officials recently decided, after hearing from a Riverside Elementary School parent representative, that it wouldn’t be wise to go with staff’s recommendation to have the field at Riverside Park that is near the school. The city will now look at the possibility of having a field at Corporate Park even though it is not now zoned for such kind of activities.

The meeting was held two days after Paul Kempinski, a Coral Springs police officer, was shot while he tried to stop a robbery suspect who was wielding an AK-47. The incident seemed to weigh on Mayor Scott Brook’s mind.

"I would love to have a paintball field somewhere in the city,” Brook said. “The timing of a park opening in the near future would be awkward for me, if not inappropriate for the community. We have one of our own down by a gun, for the first time in our city," he said.

City staff zeroed in on Riverside Park after considering various other sites in the city like Sportsplex, north of the dog park parking lot, the southwest lot at Sportsplex, and Broken Woods. A public hearing on the proposal to have the field at Riverside Park was held April 2. Sixty to 70 people attended; 23 people were in favor of the park, while 10 were against it.

Riverside Park may not be the ultimate site, but this “is the best we have to offer,” said Rick Engle, director of parks.

“We have looked everywhere; we have exhausted our search,” said City Manager Mike Levinson. "It is far from ideal, but Riverside Park is the best site available.”

> Discuss this entry

How many writers would deliberately include grammatical errors in a book and have an extremely skinny and conscientious person, one who even thinks of turning his back on life, as the hero?

Not many, but Coral Springs resident William J Brower Jr. did not lose much sleep thinking about that as he wrote "Chronicles of the Dragons Bane." The first volume in the series came out recently and judging from the feedback that he has received, his readers are not complaining. The writer is currently in talks with a local animator for an animated series based on the book.

“I have been a busy person this year,” Brower said. “'Chronicles of the Dragons Bane' is my attempt at writing an epic poem. The first volume in the series came out this year. 'The Essays and Wit of W E Brower Jr.' came out in February. 'The Artwork and Origins of the Dragons Bane' series came out recently. It was written and published in three weeks.”

Brower started the "Chronicles of Dragons Bane" 20 years ago when he was a student at J.P. Taravella High School. “Many classmates and teachers supported and motivated me to write it.

“Dragons Bane is for young adults,” Brower said. “There are a lot of grammatical errors in the book. You can discuss the subject matter within the book as well as break it down into a grammar lesson. It's a formula I developed while running the lecture circuits among various schools. I want students to read the book and show me where the "mistakes" were made. I don’t think any other book has been done this way.”

> Discuss this entry

Want to learn swimming from some of the best?

Children, ages 8 to 15, will have the opportunity to do just that at the at the Coral Springs Swim Club camp at the Coral Springs aquatic complex. The camp will be from June 8 through July 10, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Camp director Josh Laban is a two-time Olympian for the US Virgin Islands. Five-time Olympic superstar Dara Torres, two-time Olympian and World Champion Vlad Polyakov and six-time Olympic Coach Michael Lohberg will be available for questions. They will also serve as speakers and be available for photos.

Cost per week is $400. The cost for the five-week session is $2,000. Lunch is available for an additional $30 a week. Participants will receive a personal CD with above and underwater video, a cap, and camp T-shirt.

Space is limited to 30 campers per week. Swimmers may choose a specific week to perfect a particular stroke or attend all five weeks. Swimmers must be able to swim the stroke for the week they sign up for as they will be learning to perfect these strokes.

Call 954-340-5032 or visit www.csscswim.com. To sign up, download the 2009 camp registration available at that site. The Coral Springs Aquatic Complex is at 12441 Royal Palm Blvd.

> Discuss this entry

Whole Foods Market of Coral Springs is now accepting applications for its next 5 Percent Day, a community event that provides 5 percent of the store’s net sales to one nonprofit organization on a designated date.

To be considered, each group must complete an application and provide the store marketing and community relations specialist a copy of their 501(c)(3) letter verifying tax exempt status by June 7.

The store is at 810 University Drive in Coral Springs. To request an application, e-mail Jonny Rose at jonny.rose@wholefoods.com or call 954-753-8000 ext. 241.

> Discuss this entry

People in Coral Springs and Parkland have a chance to nominate a local military hometown hero through country singer Laura Bryna's Web site, www.laurabyrna.com. The contest runs through June 15 with winners announced on July 4.

By logging on to www.southernbeautymag.com or www.laurabryna.com, men and women, 21 and older, can nominate the hero of their choice by filling out a brief questionnaire or creating a short video that can be uploaded to a central site where fans can weigh in with their own comments.

Five winners will receive a roundtrip flight to L.A. along with hotel accommodations and invitation to a special ‘Hometown Heroes’ event and Laura Bryna concert Aug. 10 at the famous House of Blues in Hollywood.

Call Mickey Figueroa at 954-918-3033.

> Discuss this entry

The Coral Springs building division has enlisted eight volunteers consisting of local architects, contractors and developers who currently do business with the city for participation in a building focus group. The process began in March this year.

The group of volunteers provides the building division with input to help improve the way it does business, including permitting, plan review and the inspections process. The building department has already begun to implement recommendations of the focus group.

The building department has conducted multiple workshops, surveys, and participated in Slice of the Springs meetings in an effort to receive feedback from customers, said development services director Larry Staneart. The building focus group is another great way to stay customer focused and continually improve services, he added.

Commercial builders planning to build in Coral Springs are encouraged to contact the building division and set up a meeting so staff can review the building division requirements and set expectations concerning their project ahead of time. Call 954-344-1025 or visit www.CoralSprings.org/building.

> Discuss this entry

Two Coral Springs High School students were among the 11 students from Broward County Public Schools who won Silver Knight Awards, presented by the Miami Herald and El Nuevo Herald. Award winners are selected for their excellence in academics and contributions to the community.

Sarah Benckenstein won in the athletics category, while Megan Barron was picked in the general scholarship category. Steven Ira Lerner of Coral Springs Charter High School won an honorable mention honor in the business category, and Beatriz Oliveira of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School won an honorable mention in the foreign language category. In the speech category, Brian Zakarin of J.P. Taravella High School won an honorable mention.

District students also earned 30 of 45 honorable mention recognitions, claiming 41 of 60 awards overall. Last year, district students had earned top recognition in 10 Silver Knight categories and received 30 honorable mention honors. Over the past four years, district students have combined to win 42 Silver Knight awards and 122 honorable mentions.

> Discuss this entry

Stacy Kagan, an Allstate agency owner, believes there is one statistic that every teenager who drives a car should be aware of.

“Five thousand teens are killed on the road every year in the U.S.,” Kagan said. “Vehicle accidents are the number one cause of teen deaths here. As many as 300,000 kids are severely injured in car crashes every year. It is sad, because accidents are very preventable.”

Kagan, who has spoken at local high schools and appeared on news channels advocating safe driving by teens, will appear in a program on the topic for “Designing Spaces,” a television show that is to be aired on the Learning Channel. Shooting took place recently at her office in Coral Springs. The program will be aired sometime during summer.

“It was a great experience, probably one of the best experiences of my life. I had earlier done two commercials for Allstate on safe driving. I was selected based on that,” the Coral Springs resident said. “More importantly, it is on a very important issue. I am a big advocate of safe driving and this program will help me reach out to more people. This is something I am very passionate about.”

“It is not just speeding. Accidents happen due to a combination of many things,” Kagan said. “Teens text, talk on the cell phone and sometimes don’t wear the seatbelt. According to a recent survey, 55 percent of teens said they go 10 mph over the speed limit. Twenty-seven percent said they speed 20 mph over the limit. That needs to stop.”

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs, the first city in Florida to ask the State Attorney’s opinion about joining Facebook, is set to join the growing list of cities in the country that have joined the social networking site to better communicate with residents.

City staff hope to have the Facebook page up and running by next Monday. Commissioners will become fans but won’t post comments as doing that would amount to violation of the state’s Sunshine Law. There will be a one-month trial period; the city commission will take a final decision on the issue after seeing the kind of response the page gets from residents.

The city will use the page as another tool in its communications toolbox to publicize events, activities and important issues. It would allow wall posts for up to two weeks on hot topics. All posts will remain on the page for a minimum period of 30 days after the two-week period to comply with the state’s public records retention law.

All comments – positive or negative – will remain on the page as the city as decided to stay away from censorship and let the site decide on “inappropriate” comments.

His fellow commissioners were not as enthusiastic as he was, but Mayor Scott Brook, who championed the idea, succeeded in winning them over. “Forty two percent of our population are 25 and under. A great percentage of our population; we are missing. Young people in the city want us to communicate with them; this is how they love communicating, through Facebook,” he said at a recent workshop.

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs wants its residents to provide input on programming ideas for CityTV Channel 25, on Advanced Cable Communications.

CityTV currently offers a variety of programming, including a monthly news show called In the Loop, a more in-depth news program titled Get Connected, live Commission Meetings, live broadcasts and rebroadcasts of events and other educational programs.

To submit ideas, send an e-mail to citytv25@coralsprings.org. There is no guarantee that ideas will be accepted or produced, but all suggestions will be taken into consideration.

To see all of the programming available on CityTV, check out www.coralsprings.org/vod.

> Discuss this entry

Finance expert Marc Ellis,associate finance professionals, and First Church United Methodist of Coral Springs will organize a “Save our Homes" workshop in Coral Springs this Tuesday.

Ellis will lead an open discussion about ways to proactively avoid foreclosure in many instances. He is expected to talk about practical experiences of some people and will also offer tips on how to negotiate with lenders and credit card companies to get payment plans modified. Tips, techniques, checklists and examples of hardship letters and other correspondence will also be made available.

The mortgage loan modification and credit information workshop is free and open to the public. it will be held from 7 to 8 p.m. on May 19 at First Church United Methodist of Coral Springs, 8650 W. Sample Road, Coral Springs.

Those who are interested can reserve seats by calling Wil Malara toll free at 877-752-4715.

> Discuss this entry

Burger King is poised to join the list of businesses in Coral Springs that have gone green.

At a recent City Commission meeting, officials approved a petition for Burger King Corp. to build its first LEED certified restaurant in the city. Located at the intersection of Sample Road and Coral Springs Drive, the Burger King was built in 1977. The existing building will be demolished and a smaller and ‘greener’ restaurant will come up in it place.

The proposed Burger King drive-thru restaurant will be approximately 2,700 square feet. The existing one is more than 3,000 square feet.

> Discuss this entry

For J.P. Taravella High School band captain, Ethan Morrison, the enduring memory of Barack Obama’s presidential inauguration is that of first lady Michelle Obama dancing as the band performed the Stevie Wonder song “You are the Sunshine of my Life.”

“We were like 25 feet away from Obama and his family,” Morrison said. “Both Obama and his wife are big Stevie Wonder fans. He is their favorite entertainer. It was awesome to see her dancing; Obama was waving all the time.”

Kristen Albert, junior at the school and among the 172 band members that took part in the inauguration, still remembers the moment the enormity and significance of the occasion hit her.

“It was about 6:15 p.m. when we marched, and it was really dark,” Albert said. “As we turned the corner to where the reviewing stand was, it was so bright that it looked like it was still day. There was such a big contingent of photographers and television crew waiting there. I got chills; that is one moment that will stay with me for the rest of my life.”

For drum major Yeji Kim, the day didn’t look anything near perfect until the band started marching.

“It was really cold; I was frozen for much of the parade,” Kim said. “We had frozen bread with stuffed cheese for lunch; I didn’t feel too good going into the parade. But all that changed when we marched past Obama with the light shining down on us. I like him; I made up my mind after I saw some of the debates. He inspires me.”

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs Commissioner Roy Gold has announced his candidacy for mayor, nearly 18 months before the elections. He hopes to replace Scott Brook, who will be termed out.

Gold, who currently occupies seat number 3, turned his papers and later addressed a small but enthusiastic group of supporters that included family members and friends.

“It is a little bit away,” Gold said. “ When I ran for the post of commissioner in 2004, I signed up in October of 2002. I’m giving myself an extra month this time as I am running for mayor. I want to win. I want to win bad.”

Mark Gendal, who has announced he wants to run for the post of commissioner, wished Gold luck. “I’m new to politic. He is a great role model for someone like me. I’m sure he will serve the city well if he is elected mayor.”

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs is set to amend some of its corporate park rules to attract new investment and to encourage sustainable redevelopment of vacant and underutilized parcels within the park. The 450-acre park currently has 345 businesses with active licenses.

The idea is to give property owners incentives to go for development that is designed to achieve LEED certification. The city won’t insist on the certification but the zoning incentives would be subject to third party review, at the developer’s expense, by a LEED professional designated by the city. The incentives will allow developers to maximize square footage and make their projects economically viable.

The changes, made after many rounds of discussions with park property owners, include allowing hotels to increase the maximum height from 50 feet to 75 feet; limiting new self-storage development to the interior of the park and grandfathering existing development, and identifying specific employee-based offices in the code. Service-based uses like beauty shop, barber shop, nail salon, printing/copying, courier service, dry cleaning/laundry, florist, and book store have also been proposed along the perimeter of the park. The park has 88 vacant acres.

Developers who go for LEED-silver designed buildings will be given reductions in setbacks and landscaping. The front building setback for LEED buildings will be reducing from 50 to 25 feet for properties fronting on streets that have a width of 60’ or less. There is no minimum required percentage for landscape area for such buildings, compared to the 30 percent requirement for non-LEED buildings.

> Discuss this entry

Three seventh grade students from Coral Springs Middle School received an Innovation, Originality and Creativity criteria award in this year’s national eCYBERMISSION competition. Each team member will receive a $2,000 U.S. EE Savings Bond and a certificate of recognition from the U.S. Army.

The Electros team, comprised of students Carlos Tallard, Ancil Ganishlal and George Zhuang, was led by team adviser Kim Norton. It was recognized by judges for its investigation into alternative energy sources. The team conducted various experiments with solar panels, fuel cell chambers, windmills and other alternative energy options using a small model home.

eCYBERMISSION is a U.S. Army-sponsored, free, web-based science, math and technology competition that allows students in grades six through nine to compete for regional and national awards while working to solve problems in their communities. In the past seven years, Coral Springs Middle School has won $69,000 in U.S. EE Savings Bonds by students competing in eCYBERMISSION.

“We are extremely proud of these Coral Springs Middle School winners for their use of outstanding research, experimentation and analysis during this year’s eCYBERMISSION competition,” said Mike Doyle, U.S. Army eCYBERMISSION program manager. “These students were selected out of thousands of their peers, not only for their potential as future leaders in science, math and technology, but for their work to make their communities a better place to live.”

This year, more than 12,000 students registered for eCYBERMISSION and 2,005 teams submitted their research for scoring. Since its inception seven years ago, more than 58,000 students from across the country, in U.S. territories and Department of Defense Education Activity schools worldwide have participated in the competition.

Registration for next year’s competition opens Aug. 1. For a complete listing of the 2008-2009 winners or for more information, please visit www.ecybermission.com.

> Discuss this entry

It's a win-win situation when local businesses work with local schools. And that has been the case for Westchester Elementary School in Coral Springs, which has reaped benefits from its business relationships in a program called Partners in Education.

Annie's Pizza, a local pizza restaurant, is one of the businesses helping the school. Through the school year, students are encouraged to order from the pizza joint on what is known as Annie's Pizza Night. For every $10 order, $1 is given back to Westchester Elementary at the end of the school year. Plus, each month, the class that orders the most on Annie's Pizza nights wins a pizza party.

This year, the money from Annie's Pizza was used by the kindergarten team to purchase computer software that focuses on reading skills.

The school, at 12405 Royal Palm Blvd. in Coral Springs, is a winner of the Five Star School Award, and is FCAT "A" rated. Contact the school at 754-322-8900.

> Discuss this entry

The Coral Springs Police Department is currently accepting applications for its Leadership Mentoring Program, which will have four separate sessions this summer. The group is for high school students.

The first session will be from 8 a.m. to noon., June 29 through July 2. The other sessions run from Monday through Thursday starting July 13, July 20 or Aug. 10. This program is for high school students who live in Coral Springs.

The program will facilitate community service worksites that will enhance the leadership skills of students through mentoring and community projects. Acceptance to the program is based on the students’ application, academics and school behavior. Students will receive a program certificate with the number of community hours earned.

Applications are available at www.coralsprings.org/police/programs.cfm. Call Youth Services Coordinator Jenny Rebour at 954-346-1289.

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs City Manager Michael S. Levinson was recently recognized by the League of Women Voters at the league’s annual meeting. President Marcia Barham presented Levinson with the Civics in Action Award for enacting best practices within local government.

“The League of Women Voters couldn’t think of another city more worthy, and Michael Levinson is truly the architect behind the city’s success,” said Madeline Urbanski, vice president of programming for the League of Women Voters.

Levinson shared five of the city’s key strategies, which include employing powerful models for maximum efficiency; running government like a business; using “innovative imagination” to unlock radically new creativity; creating networks with residents, civic leaders and businesses; and rewarding residents’ feedback with highly effective attention.

"I accept this recognition on behalf of our community of excellence. Special thanks to our City Commission members, past and present, our employees and corporate council for their support in turning our dream of reinventing government into a reality for the betterment of our community," Levinson said.

Levinson is serving in his 14th year as Coral Springs city manager. In 2007, th city became the first local government to be awarded the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, the nation’s most prestigious award for performance excellence.

> Discuss this entry

Carrie Greenspan has been appointed chief of staff of Coral Springs Medical Center. She is the first female physician to serve as chief of one of Broward Health’s four hospitals.

During her two-year term, Greenspan will take on the responsibilities of chairing the medical council meetings, handling quality issues with physicians, and working with CSMC’s administration to improve hospital facilities and services.

Board certified by both the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the National Board of Medical Examiners, the Coral Springs resident received her medical degree from Northwestern University School of Medicine in Chicago, Illinois. She completed her residency at Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, holding the position of chief resident and instructor her final year.

> Discuss this entry

The Broward County Property Appraiser's Office will organize a series of community outreach events throughout the county in May, including two in Coral Springs.

The first meeting in Coral Springs will be from 3 to 5 p.m. on May 13 at the Northwest Regional Library, 3151 University Drive in Coral Springs. The second one will be from 4:30 to 6 p.m. on May 28 at Sartory Hall, 10000 NW 29 St.

Deputy appraisers will assist with homestead, senior and other property tax exemption applications, as well as answer questions on property taxes. Applications for portability will also be accepted. All outreach events are open to the public.

Documents required to file a homestead exemption include a current Florida driver's license or Florida identification card, and a current voter registration card or declaration of domicile. Non-US citizens must also provide proof of permanent residency.

Qualified residents 65 years of age or older as of Jan. 1, 2009 can apply for the additional senior exemption.

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs will soon have another park.

The city will have the ribbon cutting ceremony at at 5:15 p.m. May 19 at Whispering Woods Park.

The park includes two walking/jogging paths, one of which meets the standards of the Americans With Disabilities Act and another that’s made from a softer material ideal for joggers and runners. There is a fitness playground and exercise equipment inside the park, allowing parents and children to exercise together. Residents can also make use of two pavilions, one of which will be used as an interpretive learning classroom.

The 10 acres of land was initially slated for commercial development, but the city, with assistance from Whispering Woods Homeowners Association, went about preserving the land.

Visit www.coralsprings.org/parks or call 954-345-2200.

> Discuss this entry

Is Coral Springs’ sign code a little too strict?

George Chandras, a resident who owns a mobile advertising business, believes it is. Chandras appeared before city officials last week to complain that one of his vehicles had been unfairly pulled over by city staff for violating the sign code. That, he said, amounted to infringing upon his “inherent legal right” to operate vehicles on state roads.

“We understand code and the city’s perspective,” said Chandras, owner of FlexAdz. “But we want to offer our services to businesses in Coral Springs. Our vehicles keep moving. It won’t be an eyesore.”

“We want to operate like any other normal business. We feel discriminated against,” the Coral Springs resident said. “Bus lines and taxi cabs carry ads for other entities. They are not restricted. We are not breaking any traffic law. It’s a legal business. In Broward, there are four companies operating six or seven such trucks.”

Mayor Scott Brook wanted the commission to discuss the issue at a workshop. “What you are asking for is a law change,” he told Chandras. “We are in a different economy than we were two years ago. We are committed to small businesses, but we have a strong sign code.”

> Discuss this entry

The cultural and ethnic diversity of Coral Springs will be on display at the Sportsplex this Saturday at the third annual WorldFest, a festival that is expected to feature a rich variety of entertainment, cuisine and culture.

Former City Commissioner Ted Mena, who heads the festival organizing committee, is hoping for a large turnout. “Normally, we get about 5,000 to 6,000 people. This year, we are hoping to have more.”

“We have an array of entertainers,” Mena said. “It’s a family event, with something in it for everybody. There will be live music, arts and crafts, educational activities, and activities for children. Coral Springs has a diverse population and we want to showcase it.”

The event will feature an hour-long Paso Fino horse exhibition at 1 p.m. “It’s the first time we are having something like that. I’m sure people are going to love what they see.”

Worldfest will take place from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. May 2 at the Sportsplex, 2575 Sportsplex Drive. Admission is free, but there will be a parking fee of $3 per car. Call Joyce Campos at 954-344-1005.

> Discuss this entry

Al Hendrickson Sr. of Al Hendrickson Toyota has won the Coral Springs Chamber of Commerce’s coveted Covered Bridge award.

The award was presented at the chamber’s 2009 Coral Springs awards luncheon April 24. The event was presented by Broward Health Coral Springs Medical Center. Forum Publishing Group was one of the three platinum sponsors, the others being Al Hendrickson Toyota and Enterprise Coral Springs Partners. The gold sponsors were the city of Coral Springs, Walmart, and Lawrence of Florida Entertainment and Events.

Connie Carberg of Al Hendrickson Toyota won the Corporate Chamber Leader award while Ron Daratany of DMR Global was selected for the Small Business Leader award. The Rookie Small Business Leader award went to Eric Johnson of Century Badge and Engraving.

Travis Nelson of Coral Springs High School, Syed Raza of Coral Glades High School, Steven Learner of Coral Springs Charter School, Lindsay Wuest of Taravella High School, and Scott Schwartz of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School won the Bridge to Leadership awards.

> Discuss this entry

For 15 months since she sustained a severe traumatic brain injury while driving a car in September 2007, Alicia Fallon remained in coma, oblivious to the world around her.

Doctors told Donna Fallon her daughter would remain in a vegetative state for the rest of her life. “They told me that I should put her in a nursing home. How could I do that? I lived with her in the hospital for 10 months. I kept hoping and praying,” she said.

Over the last three months, Alicia has defied her original prognosis, giving her mother, as well as the rest of her family and friends, reasons to believe a miracle might be down the road. She cannot talk or walk, but the former Coral Springs High School student can use head movements to respond to questions.

On May 3, the Fabulons will lend Donna a helping hand in her quest to raise money for Alicia’s treatment and therapies. The fundraiser, to benefit the Alicia Fallon T.B.I. (Traumatic Brain Injury) Fund, will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Coral Springs High School auditorium.

“I take her for eye therapy two times a week,” Donna said. “She also has speech occupational therapy and physical therapy three days a week. She needs hyperbaric oxygen therapy now. It helps blood flow through the brain. It’s expensive. She will need 40 sessions."

Tickets are $10 per person and will be on sale at the Coral Springs High School auditorium’s box office. Tickets can also be purchased at Laspada’s Original Hoagies, 7893 W. Sample Road. Contributions can be made to the Alicia Fallon T.B.I. Fund by visiting www.aliciafallontbifund.com or at any Bank of America location. Contact Donna Fallon at 954-205-9981.

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs is looking for ways to go more green.

The city now wants to hear from residents and businesses about what they have been doing to protect the environment. The green study circle that the Customer Involved Government Committee (CIGC) has formed will meet in May to seek inputs from the community on environmentally friendly habits.

Lorraine Campbell, chairperson of the CIGC green sub-committee, is hoping to get enthusiastic support from the community. “This is not just for residents and businesses; it is also for people who work within the city. We need everyone to work together to create a much more greener environment for our children and grandchildren.”

“We are in partnership with boys scouts and girl scouts in Coral Springs,” Campbell said. “High school students taking part in the study circle will get community service hours. This is a chance for residents to impact the city they live in. You don’t get such an opportunity everywhere.”

About 50 residents have signed up to take part in the study circle, said Pat Mirabello, who is helping to organize the meetings. “We would like to have more. We want their input on what they think is important. We will first have small groups meet and then have one large session to prioritize the ideas that come up at the meetings. We will then present the top three to five ideas to the City Commission.”

> Discuss this entry

Sawgrass Springs Middle School in Coral Springs has taken yet another step toward its goal of making environmentally-friendly activities part of its students’ daily lives.

The green team at the environmental science magnet school has implemented an initiative called “Green Days,” intended to teach environmental issues, not just to students interested in them, but campus-wide. The program, which began April 14, concludes May 8.

All the activities on a green day will be centered on major environmental issues impacting the nation, said JoAnn Cantlupe, environmental science magnet coordinator at the school. “We were already doing this on a smaller scale, but the green team, which is a collaborative group of teachers, wanted to offer the opportunity to all kids. The lessons are fun and hands on. All the activities have an environmental message.”

The school is a pilot for the school district’s “Go Green” initiative, Cantlupe said. “The school board has entered into a partnership with the Broward county environmental protection department; they are looking at how they can use the open green spaces left in school campuses to create habitat spaces. In October last year, 100 native trees were planted on our campus. Our school was selected as we already have so many gardens.”

> Discuss this entry

The Coral Springs Police Department is offering free advanced self defense classes. Women, ages 13 and older, interested in developing the strength, mental focus, and physical skills to help them survive a criminal attack should attend the Rape Aggression Defense classes.

The RAD System is a national program that teaches women empowering skills to avoid becoming a target and to fend off an attacker. Through repetition and practice, this course promotes muscle memory, and helps women to train in a realistic environment so they learn to survive a struggle.

The RAD System is taught in four classes over the course of one month on either a weeknight or a Saturday. Each class is three hours, and the final class includes a physically active, hands-on scenario and graduation ceremony.

Class sessions are from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Northwest Regional Library, at the southeast corner of University Drive and Sample Road, 3151 N. University Drive.

While the course will be physically involved, no prior self defense training is necessary. Women must register in advance, and be able to attend each of the four sessions. The next sessions are scheduled to begin in June and September.

A release form must also be filled out and submitted prior to taking the first class. To download the course forms, visit www.coralsprings.org/police/safe.cfm. Call 954-346-1227 or e-mail pdjil@coralsprings.org.

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs and the city’s customer-involved government committee will honor three local volunteers in June for their committed efforts to enriching the city.

Volunteers and residents are encouraged to fill out a nomination form, available at www.coralsprings.org. The submission deadline is April 30. Volunteers will help the city bridge the gap by providing important services and programs that might not normally receive funding.

The Coral Springs Bridging the Gap awards will be presented to volunteers in the following categories: work with senior citizens, work with youth, and work with mentoring.

Call 954-344-1148.

> Discuss this entry

The Sawgrass Nature Center & Wildlife Hospital’s Camp Wild, for children from ages 6 to 12, will be held in June and July.

The camp runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with extended hours available if needed. The cost is $200 a week or $180 for center members. The cost includes all activities, supplies and a T-shirt.

Children will have the opportunity to interact with many live animals, explore a wetland, do science experiments, gardening projects, nature crafts and participate in many hands on activities at the nature center and wildlife hospital located at Sportsplex Park in Coral Springs.

Call the Sawgrass Nature Center at 954-752-9453.

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs commissioners want city residents to lose those extra pounds.

City officials recently proclaimed Coral Springs a Commit 2B Fit community, encouraging the entire family to get healthy through exercise and smart eating habits. Close on the heels of that, the officials are now encouraging residents to join the national 50 Million Pound Challenge.

“The 50 Million Pound Challenge is one way that we can join together to be a healthy community,” Mayor Scott Brook said. “ I am imploring all community organizations to join our lead and challenge our citizens to lose weight and get fit.”

According to nationwide statistics, two out of every three adults are considered to be overweight or obese. Seventeen percent of all children in the U.S. are overweight. By joining this challenge for free, residents can commit to leading healthier lifestyles and update their weight loss progress online, record their daily activities, and view a list of healthier meals.

To sign up for the challenge, visit www.50millionpounds.com.

> Discuss this entry

Did you know that if every household in the U.S. replaced just one roll of virgin fiber paper towels with a 100 percent recycled roll, it could save 544,000 trees every year?

Coral Springs is giving residents an opportunity to bring green initiative ideas to an open forum discussion starting in May.

If you are a resident and have innovative ideas and are looking for a place to discuss environmental solutions with your neighbors, bring them to the city’s upcoming open forums sponsored and hosted by the Coral Springs Customer Involved Government Committee (CIGC). These forums will give Coral Springs’ residents and business owners a chance to discuss action strategies for developing more environmentally friendly habits.

For more information or to sign up, visit www.coralsprings.org/gogreen or call Toni Hawkins at 954-344-1148.

> Discuss this entry

If you are a Coral Springs resident, learn how to jumpstart a healthier lifestyle for you and your family by taking part in the Commit 2B Fit kickoff event on April 25 at Coral Springs High School, 7201 W. Sample Road.

Come out to the track field from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and enjoy fun-filled activities and music from Kiss FM. Raffle participants may win a bike, a gym membership, signed Panthers memorabilia and more.

Coral Springs residents are invited to bring their bicycles to register them with the city's police department. Members of the city’s bike unit will be handing out cycling safety information, as well as rewarding youth 16 and under "caught" wearing helmets with a free lunch to Chick-fil-A.

Commit 2B fit is a nonprofit organization offering youth education programs in elementary schools in Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties. City Commissioners recently proclaimed Coral Springs a Commit 2B Fit community, encouraging the entire family to get healthy through exercise and smart eating habits.

The event will be held in the Coral Springs High School gymnasium in case of inclement weather. For more information, call 954-344-1147 or visit www.icommit2bfit.com.

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs is encouraging residents to take part in two local mentoring programs – Take Stock in Children and 100 Black Men.

Take Stock in Children is a nonprofit organization that pairs low-income middle and high school students with caring adults who serve as guides. By mentoring them, these students will receive a college scholarship to a Florida state school. Mentors are asked to only donate 30 minutes a week.

The 100 Black Men of America, Inc. also offer a program called Mentoring the 100 Way, which addresses the social, emotional and cultural needs of children between the ages of 8 and 18. Participants will be trained and certified as mentors.

To find out more about these programs, stop by the west wing conference room at City Hall, 9551 W. Sample Road, on Friday, May 15 at 11 a.m. Interested residents may also call Jenny Rebour at 954-346-1289.

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs residents interested in seeking guidance in a complicated job market should attend the Coral Springs’ free Career Counseling Seminar from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on April 29 at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts, Room E, 2855 Coral Springs Drive.

The workshop is free to city residents, but interested participants must register in advance.

Ron Daratany, president and founder of DMR Global, Inc., will provide tips on how to create an impressive resume, how to handle an interview and more. Daratany is an executive career consultant and is recognized as an expert in the employment industry.

This is the latest in the list of initiatives the city has taken to help the community and small businesses. The city, together with the Economic Development Foundation, recently launched CSBizAssist.org to support local businesses and also kicked off the Buy Coral Springs campaign to encourage local spending with help from the Chamber of Commerce.

For information or to sign up, call 954-344-1148.

> Discuss this entry

RuthAnn Gillooly, a cancer survivor, is expecting to see hundreds of people at the Coral Springs Relay for Life later this month.

“There is no one that has not been touched by cancer in some form or the other,” Gillooly said.

Gillooly said she knows there will be a good turn out for the event's 25th year.

Though they are looking for all types of participants, Gillooly said they are especially seeking cancer survivors. "We want to honor them at the event," she said. "We will celebrate their courage, remember those who we have lost, and fight back against the disease.”

Teresa Basilone, a Coral Springs resident and office manager at Silver Lakes Middle School, has not missed a Relay for Life event in the last six years. “It’s a wonderful event. Everyone has a good time for a great cause. I got involved after the disease affected a friend’s granddaughter. My husband has cancer now. I hope we will find a cure soon.”

Coral Springs' Relay for Life will be from 6 p.m. April 17 to 10 a.m. April 18 at Coral Springs High School, 7201 W. Sample Road. Visit www.relayforlife.org/coralspringsfl .

> Discuss this entry

The Covered Bridge, a home with a natural coral fence, the iron walking bridge, the fire academy. These are just a few things Coral Springs has to offer, and city officials are urging residents to explore them all.

The Coral Springs Experience, a program that grew out of an idea mooted by City Commissioner Roy Gold, is an attempt by the city to makes its residents aware of its riches.

Residents can take part in the program by visiting www.CSExperience.org to download the tour brochure or by obtaining one at City Hall in the Mall in Coral Square Mall. The brochure lists the number of locations a resident should visit in each category. Once participants have visited the required locales, they have to write a 200-word essay and submit three photos - one of them framed by the front doors of City Hall.

Gold is hoping the program will help residents build a strong sense of community. “It will also increase their knowledge of what is available in Coral Springs. It’s an opportunity to have a new civic engagement within the city. I think it will work for people of all ages.”

> Discuss this entry

Coral Springs residents can take advantage of local discounts by picking up “Buy Coral Springs” coupons at City Hall and City Hall in the Mall. Residents can also print out coupons at www.buycs.org.

Buy Coral Springs is a partnership between the city and the Coral Springs Chamber of Commerce that encourages residents to keep their dollars local by shopping at Coral Springs businesses.

It was Mayor Scott Brook who initiated the program.

By presenting the coupon at participating retailers, residents will enjoy a variety of discounts. A list of participating retailers with existing discounts is available on this site and at www.cschamber.com. Local businesses interested in participating can also sign up by visiting www.buycs.org.

Participating retailers will receive Buy Coral Springs kits, when available, to help businesses get started in the program.

> Discuss this entry

The Coral Springs City Commission recently recognized Lt. Joseph Russoniello for his selection as 2008 Firefighter of the Year by the fire department. Carol Kalin was named 2008 Civilian Employee of the Year, and assistant chief Eduardo Lopez was awarded 2008 Supervisor of the Year.

The commission also recognized Coral Springs police detective Brad McKeone as 2008 Officer of the Year. Joann Brown was named 2008 Supervisor of the Year, and Tony Minutoli was awarded 2008 Civilian Employee of the Year.

Autoworks Collision and Paint was recognized by the commission for its continued support of Project CS Teen Car Club and for helping the teens finish the Blazer in time for the Teen Car Show in February.

> Discuss this entry

Jack O’Connell knew he was taking a big chance when he opened Runyon’s Restaurant in Coral Springs on October 1984.

“Back then, the city did not look anything like it does now. We are talking of a time when Sample Road was just two lanes,” Connell said. “The city had a population of about 30,000. There were no fine dining restaurants in the city. All we had were pizza joints. I did not know if we would succeed, but I sure hoped we would.”

After 25 years of seeing Runyon's grow with the city, O'Connell says he is happy with the way things have turned out. “We took it from a nothing place to a $4 million a year business. We never advertised. It was always word of mouth. One thing we get to hear often is how consistent the quality of food is.”

O'Connell attributes much of the success of the restaurant to the fact that many of the staff members have been working at the restaurant for more than two decades.

“We had the same chef for 21 years. He moved to Indiana, but that did not affect us as he had trained the chef we now have,” he said. “The bartender who opened the bar all those years ago, he is still with us. We have original waitresses, original dishwashers. It’s a very close-knit group. It’s a kind of a unique place. ”

Visit www.runyonsofcoralsprings.com to try out the restaurant's 25th anniversary special menu.

> Discuss this entry

Broward County Mayor Stacy Ritter has appointed Coral Springs City Historian Wendy Wangberg to the County Historical Commission.

The commission’s mission is to recognize, protect and support the historical interests of the county and to serve as the advisory board to the County Commissioners.

In 2004, Wangberg was awarded the Broward County Historian’s Award, and in 2005, she was presented with the Judge L. Clayton Vance Memorial Award for the Museum of Coral Springs History.

> Discuss this entry