City Commission Message
A
s we welcome the new year, we are excited to share the latest information and updates that will impact our community in 2025.
Many residents provided feedback through our visioning process last year. During our recent strategic planning, we discussed how we will put the “vision into action” by tackling topics of community interest, including enhanced city aesthetics, greater program offerings, strategic economic development, and more. We appreciate the feedback provided by the community during this process and will continue to share updates as we progress.
We sincerely look forward to working with incoming City Manager, Catherine Givens, who led the visioning process in her role as Deputy City Manager and has been an instrumental member of the Coral Springs leadership team since joining the city in 2016. With her extensive background and knowledge of budget, economic development, performance analysis and strategic planning, paired with her passion for the Coral Springs community where she lives and works, we are confident that Catherine will propel the city forward to greater heights in her new role.
Additionally, we want to express our heartfelt appreciation for our outgoing City Manager, Frank Babinec as he prepares to enter retirement. Frank’s steadfast leadership has been an inspiration to us all. His unwavering dedication to our city, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic, set a standard of excellence that will continue to guide us. His vision, compassion, and servant leadership have positioned Coral Springs for a bright and successful future. Thank you, Frank, for your service!
Commission Swearing-In Ceremony
Mayor Scott Brook (Seat 1), Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen (Seat 3) and Commissioner Joe McHugh (Seat 5) took their oaths of office during a Swearing In Ceremony held on November 19 at Coral Springs City Hall Commission Chambers. At the ceremony, Commissioner McHugh shared his vision and goals for the city while Mayor Brook and Vice Mayor Metayer Bowen renewed their unwavering commitment to serve Coral Springs residents to the best of their abilities.
Mayor Brook and Vice Mayor Metayer Bowen were re-elected without opposition, and Commissioner McHugh replaced Commissioner Joy Carter who recently completed ten years of service. McHugh retired from his position as Captain with Coral Springs Police Department (CSPD) after nearly 28 years to serve as a Coral Springs Commissioner.
GET IN TOUCH!
If you would like to schedule an appointment with any member of the Commission, please call 954-344-5911.
The City Commission presented Frank Babinec with the key to the city.
We recently completed our Move with the Mayor series where we had the opportunity to engage with residents at our city parks while taking part in some of our favorite activities like pickleball, soccer, flag football, and more. As we strive to be an active, healthy community, we look forward to continuing this program and interacting with more residents.
LEARN MORE
CoralSprings.gov/Move
Mayor
Scott J. Brook
@CSCommissioner1
Vice Mayor
Nancy Metayer Bowen
@CSCommissioner3
Commissioner
Shawn Cerra
@CSCommissioner2
Commissioner Joshua Simmons
@CSCommissioner4
Commissioner
Joseph McHugh
@CSCommissioner5
Meet Coral Springs City Manager
Catherine Givens
Former Investment Performance Manager, Public Servant, and Soccer Mom to lead the City with Everything Under the Sun
After more than a 10-year career as a finance leader, Catherine Givens felt a calling to return home to her roots in 2016.
The fourth-generation Coral Springs resident, who once managed major financial equity investments in India, England, Poland, and more, shifted to public service nearly a decade ago, and has worked her way into a new leadership roleserving as the first female City Manager for the City of Coral Springs.
“I have always had a servant’s heart and a desire to do transformative and lasting work,” Givens said. “My goal is to pair my passion for community with my global worldview to lead the city where I grew up and where generations of my family have called home.”
Despite starting her career as a global performance analyst and manager at Franklin Templeton Investments, Givens has worked for the City of Coral Springs for the past 10 years, first taking a role as Director of Budget and Strategy before earning a promotion to Assistant City Manager, and, most recently as Deputy City Manager.
It was after learning of the retirement of current City Manager, Frank Babinec, that Givens applied for the role. With her robust financial knowledge, passion for community, and a binder of notes that included a Ted Lasso card from her son depicting Lasso’s famous “Believe” poster, Givens interviewed in front of the City Commission on Wednesday, October 30 and was selected unanimously for the job.
Givens has a proven track record of success with the city.
Last year she led the city’s visioning process which asked residents to share which city focus areas they would like to see prioritized over the next 10
“A vision is why we exist and where we are going,” Givens
“Through the visioning process, we listened to multiple generations of residents and business leaders to learn what they want to see in their hometown.”
Givens says that both her short-and long-term priorities are guided by feedback from residents and businesses along with the Commissionled strategic planning process. Among her primary priorities are advocating for greater sustainability practices, improving city aesthetics, supporting economic growth, maintaining premier public safety and streamlining fiscal spending.
“I consider myself passionate about conservative financial decision making,” Givens said.
In the long term, Givens’ leadership continues to be driven by the city’s vision: To be the premier community in which to live, work and raise a family. She also wants to incorporate more opportunities to allow all generations of residents to share their hopes and desires for the city’s future with city leaders through greater community outreach initiatives.
Looking ahead, Givens plans to maintain Coral Springs’ reputation as a family-friendly community and an active,
My goal is to pair my passion for community with my global worldview to lead the city where I grew up and where generations of my family have called home. “ “
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CATHERINE GIVENS, CORAL SPRINGS CITY MANAGER
healthy community. She looks forward to seeing the Everglades Loop Project to completion. The project will allow fitness and nature enthusiasts alike to enjoy trails and views of the majestic Everglades while preserving our natural environment.
As a parent, Givens has a deep passion for education and already laid the foundation for school success by creating the Education Relationship Manager position and framework in 2023, designating a full-time city employee to facilitate relationships between city schools, our government, and other key stakeholders.
Givens graduated with a bachelor’s degree in finance and a Master of Business Administration in Global Entrepreneurship and Finance from Florida State University. She is also a proud Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School graduate. She credits much of
her success to quality education, a tremendous support system, engaging extracurricular activities such as the Eagle Regiment Marching and Concert Band, and hopes to afford the same opportunities to Coral Springs students.
“Education is the foundation for opportunity. My goal is to ensure every student in Coral Springs has access to the tools and support they need to thrive academically and beyond,” Givens said.
City Manager Givens was recognized with the Community Impact Award for her creation of the School Partnership Framework
soccer player who frequents Coral Springs parks.
Givens has already established her footprint as a notable figure across the South Florida region. She has been active in the Junior League of Greater Fort Lauderdale, Leadership Broward, Florida Sterling Council, Government Officers Finance Association, and the Broward County City Managers Association. She recognizes cohesive relationships with municipal and county leaders are important to the success of Coral Springs.
As far as the gravity of the job, Givens has full support from her parents, who live down the street, her husband, Michael, who is also a public servant and military veteran, and her 15-yearold son T.D. who, an avid
When asked by City Commission in her interview why she should be chosen for the role, without hesitation, Givens boldly stated, “I’m ready.”
OKTOBERFEST • W IENER DOGDASH CONTESTANTS! MEETBAILEY & CHANEL
Lynne Martzall
Assistant Director
Christine Parkinson
Writing/Media Relations
Paula Rubiano • Lindsey Steinberg
Graphic Design
Juliana Newman
Photography
Kafi Marsh • Josh Berlant
Ryan Himmel • Drew Walker
Diego Bermudez/Elevated Studio
Tomás Diniz Santos
OUR COMMUNITY
Meet Broward County Pioneer, Brian Walsh
One Coral Springs resident is nominated annually to serve as the Broward County Pioneer representing the city. Brian Walsh, Sr. was selected as Coral Springs’ Pioneer of the Year for 2024, not only for his role as the proprietor of the popular Wings Plus restaurant, but also for his unwavering dedication to the community. This year, Walsh attended the Broward County Pioneer Day and was honored for his role as a Pioneer. As a retired law enforcement officer, Walsh has carried his commitment to public service into his business endeavors, consistently supporting public safety through numerous fundraisers and activities. His deep-rooted passion for education is evident in his sponsorship of local schools, athletic teams, and religious organizations, showcasing his belief in fostering a strong community foundation. From supporting the annual Holiday Parade to contributing to the Police and Fire Benevolent, enhancing scoreboards at local sports fields, and aiding the Special Olympics of Broward County, Brian Walsh, Sr.’s contributions are a testament to his deep commitment to the betterment of Coral Springs.
CELEBRATING UNIQUE ABILITIES WITH SPECIAL POPULATIONS PROGRAMMING
In Coral Springs, we believe in inclusivity for everyone by offering programs and initiatives that strive to make all community members feel welcome, safe and supported. Learn more about local resources which support those with special needs in our community. Our Boogie Down Dances are offered on select dates from October through June to give individuals with special needs an opportunity to let loose and have fun in a safe space.
MORE INFO
CoralSprings.gov/Inclusion
SUNNY SEEKERS CELEBRATION
We love our neighborhoods! We honored the winners of our firstever Sunny Seekers Scavenger Hunt with a neighborhood pizza party hosted by our Neighborhoods with Integrity team. Congratulations, once again, to the Shadow Wood neighborhood on your outstanding participation in the program!
Learn more about Neighborhoods with Integrity: CoralSprings.gov/NWI
EDUCATION
RIVERSIDE ELEMENTARY RECEIVES NEW MEDIA CENTER STUDENT INVOLVEMENT
MEET OUR YOUTH AMBASSADORS!
After a competitive application process, which included submitting an essay and a one-minute video, the city selected a diverse group of 12 passionate students from each of our area high schools, to serve as part of our first-ever Youth Ambassador program. The students will participate in leadership workshops, service projects, and community events, all while serving as liaisons to address issues affecting both schools and the broader community. The program will not only deepen our ambassador’s sense of civic understanding but also grow them into strong future leaders.
ADVOCATING FOR CORAL SPRINGS SCHOOLS
Did You Know? Our Education Relationship Manager, April Wyche, regularly attends and speaks at Broward County School Board Meetings and Workshops where she advocates for and makes known the priorities of parents and students.
Contact April to share your school priorities awyche@coralsprings.gov
Riverside Elementary School recently received funds from the school district’s SMART Bond program to renovate their media center. New features include aesthetic upgrades like new flooring, new paint, and upgraded restrooms. Additional improvements include the addition of a circulation desk, enhanced lighting, and an interactive white board. The Media Center is a learning hub that encourages meaningful exploration, creation, and collaboration between students, teachers, and the community.
SAT/ACT PREP WORKSHOP JANUARY 25, FEBRUARY 22, MARCH 15 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Northwest Regional Library 3151 N University Drive
Calling all high school students: The City of Coral Springs is offering intensive, one-day Test Prep Workshops for just $20 per student throughout the school year.
REGISTER HERE: CoralSprings.gov/SATPrep
Citywide School Spirit Day
We held our first-ever citywide School Spirit Day in October! All 19 public schools and the city’s Charter School participated in a celebration where students, teachers, and staff were encouraged to wear their school gear and show school pride. To enhance the celebration, the city provided more than 20,000 wristbands to schools for distribution to all students to keep and wear. The bands symbolize the strong bond between our schools and the community, linking our shared values and commitment to education.
SUSTAINABILITY
Coral Springs is proud to offer weekly bulk pickup for single-family homes within the city! Securing and preparing bulk items correctly is important to ensure our community stays safe, clean, and beautiful.
Bulk Guidelines:
• Place bulk at least four feet away from trees, mailboxes, automobiles, or power lines where mechanical truck removal would be restricted.
• Any one item of yard waste and carpet cannot exceed 50 lbs.
• Bulk piles should not exceed 6 cubic yards (about the size of 3 refrigerators.)
• If the pile exceeds 6 cubic yards, it will not be hauled away, and Coastal will tag it with haul away options.
• Only 2 cubic yards of the 6 may be construction debris.
• Small lawn clippings and leaves must be bagged or in a container.
• Any carpet shall be rolled and tied or otherwise bound.
• You can dispose of up to two tires per residence.
• Any one item of yard waste and carpet must not exceed 5 feet in length.
• It is important to notify landscapers, tree trimmers, contractors, etc. that they must haul away their own debris following a job completed at your home.
Avoid areas of restriction:
mailboxes, trees and powerlines restrict pick-up.
50lbs is the maxiumum weight for yard waste
Construction debris should not exceed 2 cubic yards
Bulk piles should not exceed 6 cubic yards
3 refrigerators
Lawn clippings & leaves must be bagged
Notfiy landscapers & contractors:
they MUST haul away their own debris following a job
5 feet is the maximum length for single items
2 small alligators
Coral Springs Completes
Comprehensive Tree Inventory
The City of Coral Springs has completed its first-ever comprehensive tree inventory study, made possible through the Urban and Community Forestry Grant Program. The study, completed throughout 2023 and 2024, was funded in part by a $49,700 matching grant award. These funds were used to hire two consultants who geolocated and assessed the condition of over 23,500 trees on public property owned and/or maintained by the city. Since Coral Springs has grown in population and in business development, the removal and relocation of trees has become a more frequent occurrence. City code mandates the preservation or mitigation of trees, but a deeper
WASTE TRANSFER STATION
evaluation of the city’s trees was deemed necessary to ensure the city can adequately maintain its tree canopy and, ultimately, receive the benefits provided by having enough mature trees. The tree inventory will help city officials make informed decisions regarding new tree installations and maintenance, ensuring a more resilient urban tree forest.
VIEWTHEVIDEO HERE!
MORE INFO CoralSprings.gov/Trees
RECYCLE RIGHT
Coral Springs residents may drop off residential bulk, recycling, and organic materials one time per day. The service is free of charge for Coral Springs residents. Valid I.D. and proof of address must be presented.
Operating Hours:
Saturdays • 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays • 12 to 5 p.m.
Select Fridays January 10 & April 11 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Wednesdays • 4 to 7 p.m. (Recycling Drop Off Only)
Household Hazardous Waste Available the first full weekend of every month.
Special Hazardous Waste drop-off is available several times a year on specific dates. View dates: CoralSprings.gov/hhw
MORE INFO: CoralSprings.gov/wts
Keep it simple: Place clean, empty recyclables directly in your recycling cart (no plastic bags.)
ACCEPTED ITEMS: paper, cardboard, plastic bottles, metal cans, glass
PROHIBITED ITEMS: food waste, plastic bags, or hazardous materials
WORK AROUND TOWN
AQUATIC COMPLEX MAKEOVER
The Coral Springs Aquatic Complex recently completed an ARPA-funded deck renovation and aesthetic enhancement that included major repairs to the pool deck, new starting blocks, diving boards, and shade canopies, and cohesive paint and branding elements throughout the facility.
RECENT PARK IMPROVEMENTS
Swing by Paul Barre Memorial Park and check out the new playground! (4351 N Rock Island Road)
INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENT
The city replaced the existing asphalt sidewalk with concrete and upgraded the ADA ramps at Westview Drive between Riverside Drive and Coral Ridge Drive.
To learn more about projects led by the city or other agencies in Coral Springs, visit CoralSprings.gov/workaroundtown.
READ MORE HERE!
PARKS & RECREATION
OPEN PLAY CHESS: MEET OUR EXPERT
Checkmate! McKhaila
McKenzie, a National Scholastic Chess Foundation Instructor, loves to teach others how to play chess! She attends the city’s Open Play Chess sessions where she offers assistance and advice to chess players of all ages and skill levels. We recently sat down with McKhaila to learn more about her passion for chess.
Q: How long have you been serving as the instructor for Open Play Chess?
A: For one year
Q: How long have you been playing chess?
A: I have been playing chess since I was five years old.
Q: What helps to maintain your love of playing chess?
A: What has helped me continue to fuel my passion for chess is teaching others and
WATCHTHE INTERVIEWHERE
Q: What are some of the benefits of learning chess?
A: Learning chess provides an extracurricular outlet that’s not just athletic, but it’s mental. It can also be another avenue to get scholarship. Plus, it’s a really fun game!
Q: When can Coral Springs chess players learn from you?
A: During Open Play Chess held the first Wednesday of every month at the Coral Springs Gymnasium.
UPCOMING
OPEN PLAY CHESS
JANUARY 15, FEBRUARY 5, FEBRUARY 19, MARCH 5, MARCH 19, APRIL 16
6-8 p.m.
Coral Springs Gymnasium 2501 Coral Springs Drive
The city’s Parks and Recreation Department invites residents to an open play chess program for all ages and abilities. It is free to participate, and registration is not necessary.
JUICE BOX JAM
JANUARY 16, FEBRUARY 20, MARCH 20, APRIL 17, MAY 15
10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Coral Springs Gymnasium 2501 Coral Springs Drive
Let’s jam! Toddlers and their grown-ups can enjoy play, socialization, and music in a safe and engaging open play area designed for kids ages 1 to 4. Registration is not required. Space is limited.
SENIOR CORNER
MEALS ON WHEELS FOR CORAL SPRINGS SENIORS
Delivering more than just a meal! The City of Coral Springs is proud to partner with Meals on Wheels to offer weekly delivery of delicious breakfasts and dinners to seniors (55+) and individuals with special needs. The Meals on Wheels mission is to nourish, support, and connect with homebound seniors in Coral Springs. Volunteers deliver healthy meals, friendly check-ins, and much-needed companionship. The program is funded by a Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG), a grant provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
How it works:
Those who apply will receive a telephone and/or in-home assessment to identify specific needs within the home. Clients will then be offered one of several meal service options including Cost Share, emergency meals, or any additional meal services.
HONORING OUR CENTENARIANS
The City of Coral Springs is proud to honor residents who celebrate their 100th birthday in the city with Everything Under the Sun! Recently, we wished a very happy birthday to Margaret Verrastro who celebrated her 101st birthday!
LEARN MORE: CoralSprings.gov/Centenarian
APPLY ONLINE: CoralSprings.gov/Meals
DANCING WITH THE SENIORS
Congratulations to Rechilda Shurack and Susan Foresta, two members of our senior center, who recently performed in the first-ever Dancing with the Seniors event! Both ladies trained for weeks alongside professional dance instructors to learn their routines and then performed their hearts out in front of a crowd at the Coral Springs Center for the Performing Arts. Bravo!
Protecting Seniors from Scams
The Coral Springs Police Department Economic Crimes Unit has seen a concerning uptick in seniors falling victim to scams. To safeguard our most vulnerable population, we urge residents to stay vigilant and educate their loved ones about common schemes.
Key Reminders to Avoid Scams:
• Banks will NEVER ask you to leave your debit/ credit card under your doormat or taped to your door.
• Avoid clicking on unknown links in emails or text messages; these often aim to access your personal devices.
• If a caller claims a relative is in trouble and urgently needs money, verify the situation with another trusted family member before sending funds.
• Legitimate businesses will NEVER request payment via gift cards, Bitcoin, or other cryptocurrencies.
• Government agencies like the IRS or Social Security will never contact you by phone. Always verify their legitimacy using official contact numbers.
• Ignore pop-up messages claiming to be from anti-virus software; these often aim to infiltrate your computer.
• Law enforcement agencies will NEVER call you about warrants or fines.
• Beware of lottery or sweepstakes scams requiring payment upfront to claim winnings.
If something feels suspicious or too good to be true, don’t hesitate to contact the Coral Springs Police Department or a trusted relative. Together, we can protect our community and keep our seniors safe.
SENIOR BIRTHDAY BASH
DOWNTOWN & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
CITY VILLAGE UPDATE
The vision for a vibrant, walkable downtown is coming to life. The Coral Springs City Commission voted unanimously in November to approve a revised development plan for the first phase of the City Village project.
The project, led by Amera Corporation, aims to develop five acres of the now vacant land on the northwest side of Sample Road, into 300 apartments, 21,000 square feet of commercial space, and a four-story parking garage. Construction is anticipated to begin in late 2025 and be completed in 2027.
A second phase of the project to follow will include demolition of the old shopping plaza currently located on the eight-acre site to the east of the five-acre land included in phase one. The phase two details are still in development; however, initial plans outline a minimum of 65,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space.
Amera Corporation, a commercial real estate development, property management and leasing company based in Coral Springs, is best known for developing The Walk,
LEARN MORE: CoralSprings.gov/Downtown
Renderings shown are subject to change.
DOWNTOWN EVENTS & HAPPENINGS ON THE LAWN
Thanks to support from the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), our lead event sponsor, Downtown Coral Springs has been brought to life with lively, free-to-attend events! The CRA has proudly sponsored annual favorites like Oktoberfest and our Downtown in December events, which includes our Light Up the Lawn tree lighting and Holiday Market. These events help create a sense of community by bringing residents together and activating our downtown with celebrations, music, entertainment, food trucks, and more.
Coming up next:
The City of Coral Springs, in partnership with the CRA, will host a Community Concert on the City Hall Lawn on Saturday, February 8 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. This year, enjoy the sounds of The Landsharks Band, a tribute to the late, great Jimmy Buffett!
PUBLIC SAFETY
Fire Department Leaders Receive Prestigious Awards
The Coral Springs-Parkland Fire Department is proud to celebrate the achievements of two of its exceptional leaders, Division Chief Chris Bator and Division Chief Harold Alcalde, who have recently been honored for their outstanding contributions to the fire service and public safety.
Division Chief Chris Bator received the 2024 Humanitarian Award from the Fire Chiefs Association of Broward County for his unwavering dedication to firefighter safety, health, and wellbeing. Under his leadership, significant strides have been made in cancer prevention, mental health awareness, and first responder wellness. Chief Bator was also awarded the Jean Colker Honorary Chaplain Award for his commitment to providing chaplaincy and mental health resources to first responders at the local, state, and national levels.
LAW ENFORCEMENT EARNS CALEA ACCREDITATION
Last fall, the accreditation teams for law enforcement and 911 communications traveled to Jacksonville, FL, for a reaccreditation hearing before the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA.) We are proud to share that the department has officially received notification of approval for reaccreditation. This achievement reflects the hard work, professionalism, and commitment to excellence demonstrated by our public safety teams.
Division Chief Harold Alcalde was recognized by the Fire Inspectors Association of Broward County as the Fire Marshal of the Year. This award highlights his innovative leadership in fire prevention, including modernizing fire code enforcement through technology and datadriven approaches. Division Chief Alcalde’s proactive efforts have led to a notable reduction in fire-related incidents and enhanced community safety.
Both leaders exemplify the values of dedication, innovation, and service, setting a high standard for the fire service. Their impact has reached far beyond Coral Springs and Parkland, making lasting contributions to the safety and well-being of countless individuals. Congratulations to Chief Bator and Chief Alcalde for these well-deserved honors!
Pictured left to right: Fire Chief John Whalen, Division Chief Harold Alcalde, Deputy Chief Mike Moser
Pictured left to right: City Manager Frank Babinec, Division Chief Chris Bator, Fire Chief John Whalen
BLOOD GAS TESTING EQUIPMENT
The Coral Springs-Parkland Fire Department is proud to announce the addition of a new cutting-edge technology device to its emergency response arsenal: the epoc® Blood Analysis System. This advanced handheld device enables our paramedics to perform comprehensive prehospital blood analysis at a patient’s bedside, delivering lab-quality diagnostic results in under two minutes. By quickly assessing critical parameters such as blood gases, lactate levels, and metabolic profiles, the system empowers our team to make informed, life-saving decisions on the spot.
This revolutionary capability not only enhances patient care by facilitating faster diagnoses for conditions like sepsis, respiratory distress, and diabetic emergencies, but also improves coordination with receiving medical facilities. Certified and monitored through Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments, a federal program that regulates laboratories testing human specimens, this program ensures the highest standards of accuracy and quality.
We are excited to roll out this game-changing technology across our rescue vehicles in early 2025, ensuring our community receives the most advanced care possible when it matters most.
CITY RECEIVES EMMY AWARD
The Coral Springs Police Department (CSPD) in collaboration with the Communications & Marketing Department, received a Suncoast Regional Emmy for the “Traffic Thursdays” series. This innovative series was created to share awareness of traffic laws and roadway safety. View the entire series on the Coral Springs Police YouTube Channel!
HOW FAST CAN YOU COMPLETE THE CORAL SPRINGS OBSTACLE COURSE?
ARTS & CULTURE
CORAL SPRINGS MUSEUM OF ART
CoralSpringsMuseum.org • 954-340-5000
2855A Coral Springs Drive
Latest Exhibit
Tres: Garden of Memories, Lexicon de Plantas, & Water State
Presented by multimedia artist Alejandra Abad
East Gallery on view through March 22
This immersive exhibition spans three gallery spaces and celebrates the interconnected relationships between community, nature, and memory in South Florida. The exhibition’s centerpiece, “Water State” (20242025), is an experimental animation developed with
support from the Artist Support Regional Grant from the Cultural Division. The exhibition also features two complementary installations: “Garden of Memories” (2023), which explores the artist’s connections to her grandfather’s garden in Venezuela through community-sourced stories, and “Lexicon de Plantas” (2024), a largescale audiovisual installation featuring a 1949 typewritten poem by her grandfather, Jose Colmenares, a Venezuelan educator and nature advocate.
SENSORY SENSITIVITY HOUR AT CSMOA
Join us for Sensory Sensitivity Hour at the Coral Springs Museum of Art! Every Monday from 9 to 10 a.m., we create a calm and welcoming environment tailored for visitors with sensory sensitivities. Experience the art in a peaceful, comfortable setting—because we believe art should be accessible to all.
MORE INFO
CoralSprings.gov/Inclusion
PROGRAMS:
ARTventures
JANUARY 18
FEBRUARY 9 • MARCH 8
Ages 2+ | Free Admission Register online | Tickets limited
Families will enhance their education in arts and culture with creative activities such as storytelling, music, and art production. ARTventures starts with a tour of the current exhibit and culminates with a fun and engaging activity for the whole family.
*Dates subject to change.
POP UP EXPERIENCE: PARTNERSHIP WITH THE MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY AND SCIENCE
FEBRUARY 7
Coral Springs Gymnasium Register Online
This unique pop-up planetarium installation transforms our understanding of local ecosystems through stunning animated projections that showcase the diverse wildlife and plant life that make Florida extraordinary by artist Alejandra Abad.
ART & MIMOSAS: A BRUNCH TO BENEFIT THE ARTS
MARCH 2
11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Tickets available online
This brunch offers an unforgettable morning of fine food, drinks, and culture. Enjoy a curated menu of seasonal dishes and refreshing mimosas as you mingle with fellow art enthusiasts, museum patrons, and artists.
CORAL SPRINGS CENTER FOR THE ARTS
The Coral Springs Center for the Arts is a cultural hub dedicated to showcasing performing arts, music, and visual artistry. With its stateof-the-art theater, it hosts an array of events, from concerts and Broadway-style productions to exhibitions and community gatherings. Its commitment to arts education and promotion makes it a focal point for cultural enrichment in the region.
TheCenterCS.com
954-344-5990
2855 Coral Springs Drive
DON’T MISS OUT!
Upcoming shows:
Vitamin String Quartet
January 28
The Music of ABBA ..........................................................................................January 31
Comedian Becky Robinson ........................................................................February 2
Hotel California: The Original Tribute to The Eagles ................. February 13
Elton John & Billy Joel Face to Face: The Tribute Concert...February 20
Absolute Queen .............................................................................................. February 21
Wild Kratts Live 2.0 ...................................................................................... February 23
Forever Donna: Donna Summers Tribute ....................................... February 27
Sleeping Beauty ...................................................................................................... March 5
Stayin’ Alive: Bee Gees Tribute...................................................................... March 12
The Docksiders: Yacht Rock Experience ................................................ March 15
VIEW UPCOMING SHOWS AT: thecentercs.com
EVENTS
FOR EVERYTHING CITY EVENTS, VISIT: CoralSprings.gov/events
MLK ART & LITERARY EXHIBIT
JANUARY 13-16
Coral Springs Center for the Arts 2855 Coral Springs Drive
Stop by the Coral Springs Center for the Arts to view the winning work from Coral Springs students. This year’s MLK Art and Literary project honors MLK with the theme “Footsteps to Freedom: Walking in Peace, Love and Kindness”
COMMUNITY CONCERT • FEBRUARY 8
5:30 - 9:30 p.m. • City Hall Lawn 9500 West Sample Road
The community comes together annually to celebrate the city with live music, food trucks, brews, and activities. This year, enjoy the sounds of The Landsharks Band, a tribute to the late, great Jimmy Buffett.
NEW EVENT!
GLOW IN THE DARK PARTY
FEBRUARY 21
6 - 9 p.m. • Coral Springs Gymnasium 2501 Coral Springs Drive
Wear your neon gear and glow with us as we light up the night with exciting games, dancing, and a whole lot more! Purchase your ticket at CoralSprings.gov/glow.
WATERWAY CLEAN UP • MARCH 1
9 a.m. – 1 p.m. • Riverside Park 205 Coral Ridge Drive
The Broward County Waterway Cleanup, organized by the Marine Industries Association of South Florida, is the county’s largest and longest-running environmental event. More than 1,000 volunteers of all ages by land and boats/personal watercraft volunteer throughout 35 sites across Broward County to remove trash and debris from our inland waterways.
NEW EVENT!
BLARNEY BASH • MARCH 14
5 - 9:30 p.m. • City Hall Lawn 9500 West Sample Road
This first-ever festive celebration of Irish culture will offer a delightful blend of traditional food, drinks, and the joyful spirit of all things “luck of the Irish.” Blarney Bash is free and open to the public. Cost of food and drinks is additional.
CORAL SPRINGS FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS
MARCH 15 - MARCH 16
The Walk at University 2920 N. University Drive
This outdoor festival highlights some of America’s finest artisans and crafters, as well as music, dance, theater and literary presentations.
TEEN POLITICAL FORUM • APRIL 3
6:30 - 8:30 p.m. • Center for the Arts 2855 Coral Springs Drive
High school students are encouraged to participate in Teen Political Forum - an open mic style forum for students to raise questions and converse with state, county and local elected officials about issues that are important to them.
HOPPIN’ INTO SPRINGS • APRIL 12
9 a.m. to 12 p.m. • Sportsplex Park (Baseball Outfield) 2800 Sportsplex Drive
During the free event, egg hunt “eggs-perts” will have the chance to collect colorful, candyfilled plastic eggs that will be scattered across an open field. This family-friendly event will also include music, arts and crafts, a Bunny visit, and more.
EARTHFEST • APRIL 26
9 a.m. - 12 p.m. • Sawgrass Nature Center 3000 Sportsplex Drive
The city will celebrate Earth Day and Arbor Day at an EarthFest celebration. Activities include nature exhibits, community garden information, raffles, information from local vendors, and more.
APRIL POOLS DAY • APRIL 26
10 a.m. – 2 p.m. • Aquatic Complex 12441 Royal Palm Blvd
Join us for an entertaining and educational experience for families of all ages! Participate in water safety activities and wear your swimsuits. Learn about resources to help make your home water safe.
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