Under the Sun Summer 2013

SUMMER 2013 SPECIAL EDITION

UNDER THE SUN THE MAGAZINE FOR THE CITY WITH EVERYTHING

Coral Springs marks 50th Anniversary with new look

Celebrating 50 Years: 1963 to 2013 Fourth of July Birthday Block Party Campapalooza

Your Coral Springs City Commission and Charter Officers

John J. Hearn

Dan Daley

Larry Vignola

Vincent M. Boccard

Claudette Bruck

Tom Powers

Erdal Dönmez

City Attorney

Commissioner

Commissioner

Mayor

Commissioner

Vice Mayor

City Manager

A Shiny New Look!

With the City’s new brand, comes a redesign of our City magazine. Under The Sun will continue to bring residents news and features about Coral Springs – the premier community in which to live, work and raise a family.

The first City newspaper was distributed to 23,000 households free of charge in the winter of 1990. The newsletter was changed to a bimonthly magazine, Citizen, in the spring of 1997. In Fall 2001, it became a quarterly publication and doubled in page size for a total of 16 pages. The last revamp was in Summer 2006, when the name was changed to Coral Springs and its look changed to keep up with the times. Today, the City’s publication is mailed to almost 50,000 homes and businesses and features the latest news from the City of Coral Springs.

This magazine features a new name and fresh look that ties in with the City’s new brand, Everything Under the Sun. It will continue to be sent three times each year - Summer, Fall and Spring – plus the annual State of the City report.

SUMMER 2013 SPECIAL EDITION

UNDER THE SUN

The Magazine for the Premier Community

in Which to Live, Work and Raise a Family

Summer 2006

THE MAGAZINE THING FOR THE CITY WITH EVERY

Coral Springs marks 50th Anniversary with new look

Celebrating 50 Years: 1963 to 2013 Fourth of July Birthday Block Party Campapalooza

Under the Sun • Summer 2013

new fields for year-round soccer

citizen survey results downtown webcam public art

Ramblewood Elementary honored drowning prevention backyard habitats and more inside...

The first issue of The Coral Springs Citizen, Winter 1990

To view issues from 1999 to the present, visit CoralSprings.org/ publications.

formerly magazine

Coral Springs, Summer 2006

Magazine format, Spring 1997

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE CITY WITH EVERYTHING

SUMMER 2013

HIGHLIGHTS A Historic Journey: 50 Years 1963-2013......................................................... Page 2 What’s in a brand?..................................................................................................................... Page 3 Birthday Block Party July 10......................................................................................... Page 4 Fourth of July in Mullins Park..................................................................................... Page 5 HOT TOPICS Panel of experts suggests Downtown strategies............................... Page 7 Prepare in the event of a hurricane..................................................................... Page 8 City restructures Code Compliance Division............................................ Page 9 LOCAL SPOTLIGHT “Look Before You Lock” campaign..................................................................... Page 10 BUSINESS CLIMATE Visit new Work Coral Springs web site.......................................................... Page 11 ENVIRONMENTAL SPOTS Tours available of City’s environmental parks.................................... Page 12 CULTURAL ENERGY Museum offers free admission for military............................................. Page 13 FUN UNDER THE SUN City names pool after Coach Michael Lohberg.................................. Page 14 Half-Marathon & 5K: Running for a cause................................................ Page 16

City of Coral Springs, Florida 9551 West Sample Road Coral Springs, Florida 33065 CoralSprings.org Main 954-344-1000 Citizen Services 954-344-1001 TTY 954-344-1022 CityTV: Advanced Cable 25 or AT&T U-verse 99 CoralSprings.org/citytv CityRadio 1670am facebook.com/CityofCoralSprings twitter.com/CoralSpringsFL

Under the Sun is produced by the City of Coral Springs Communications and Marketing Department. editor@coralsprings.org • 954-344-1197 Director of Budget, Strategy, and Communication Robert Goehrig Communications and Marketing Manager Liz Kolodney Creative Services Coordinator Christine Parkinson Jahrsdoerfer Writer/Media Relations Coordinator Maria Fuentes-Archilla Photography Howard Lewis Christine Parkinson Jahrsdoerfer Alex Rodriguez Paula Rubiano This magazine is printed on paper that comes from responsible sources.

On the cover: SUMMER 2013 SPECIAL EDITION

UNDER THE SUN THE MAGAZINE FOR THE CITY WITH EVERYTHING

Coral Springs marks 50th Anniversary with new look

Celebrating 50 Years: 1963 to 2013 Fourth of July Birthday Block Party Campapalooza

Coral Springs resident Jaiden welcomes the summer sun.

Summer 2013 • Under the Sun • 1

highlights

A Historic Journey

1980s

Fifty years ago, Coral Springs was just acres of bean fields.

It took a man with a vision to turn marsh into a master planned community. In 1961, James S. Hunt, the City’s founder, was looking for enough land to develop an entire municipality.

Hunt’s vision included broad boulevards with trees, curved roads to discourage speeding, and generous landscaping.

It was that vision that gave Coral Springs its uniquely consistent quality.

When you come here, you know you have arrived someplace special. Let’s take a look back through five decades of growth in our great City.

To entice people to a land sale and barbecue in “wild” Coral Springs, on March 21, 1965 a “new, young face” in television was hired to be master of ceremonies – Johnny Carson. More than 15,000 people came.

1970s The extension of Sample Road to Route 441 on May 27, 1970 allowed access to the City from more than just Wiles Road.

Lions Park was dedicated on June 6, 1970, making it the first of more than 50 local and regional parks within Coral Springs.

Coral Ridge Properties moved to the Bank of Coral Springs Building in 1976, allowing their headquarters to become the new home to City Hall, on the northeast corner of Sample Road and Coral Hills Drive.

Our Town, then held in Mullins Park, began in October 1979 to assist merchants along Sample Road who were impacted by the construction to widen the thoroughfare.

According the Guinness Book of Records, Coral Springs grilled the world’s largest hamburger and stirred up the largest milkshake as part of its weeklong 25th Anniversary Celebration in 1988.

Sportsplex began in 1990 and now is a 180-acre complex that includes the world-class Coral Springs Aquatic Complex, Tennis Center of Coral Springs, a triple-rink ice skating arena, dog park, jogging paths, two schools, a special event field and the Sawgrass Nature Center.

One hundred years ago, most of the property that became Coral Springs was part of the largest green bean farm in the United States.

Coral Ridge Properties bought 38 acres of farmland from Lena Lyons in northwest Broward County for $1,000,000 and the state legislature chartered the property as Coral Springs on July 10, 1963.

After appealing to the State about the need for a hospital in the growing City, North Broward Hospital District opened Coral Springs Medical Center on June 27, 1987.

1990s

Early Years

1960s

Coral Square Mall opened on October 3, 1984 with original anchor stores Lord and Taylor’s, Jordan Marsh, J.C. Penney’s, and Burdines.

During the mid-1990s, Coral Springs was the ninth fastest growing city in the nation with a population reaching 117,549 as of April 1, 2000.

The City embarked on a “quality journey” to develop a performance excellence standard on par with well-run corporations. As a result, the Florida Governor’s Sterling Award was presented to Coral Springs, the first city government in the State to be recognized, in 1997. The City’s quality initiative was also rewarded with another Sterling Award in 2003, and then again in 2007 with the Presidential Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award.

2000s On May 14, 2001, the City opened Coral Springs Gymnasium, on the perimeter of Mullins Park, which hosts numerous recreational programs for all ages.

The City marked its 40th Anniversary in 2003, which included a Guinness World Record attempt for the World’s Largest Iced Tea Party, and culminated with an Elvis and The Beatles tribute concert.

In 2011, the City began to prepare for its 50th Anniversary through a beautification initiative to revive its parks, medians, entranceways and other City facilities.

In May 2013, the City of Coral Springs adopted a new logo and tagline as it looks toward the next 50 years as the premier community in which to live, work and raise a family.

Visit CoralSprings50.org for more City history and our Facebook page for an interactive timeline and photos.

2 • Under the Sun • Summer 2013

Coral Springs was so remote in the early 1960s that all sales literature included a map with directions. James Hunt had a graceful vision for his “City in the Country” and Coral Ridge Properties was the first developer bringing his vision to life.

Coral Ridge Property’s favored moniker for Coral Springs at the time: “One of the last pieces of gold on the Gold Coast.”

What’s in a brand?

A common misconception is that a branding initiative is all about creating a catchy slogan.

The City’s new tagline is a small piece of a much larger marketing effort. This branding initiative is an investment in the future of Coral Springs. Our goal is to have businesses, residents, families, event planners, athletes, and sports promoters re-discover Coral Springs. A tagline and a logo alone cannot create this type of energy. Instead, the City must craft a brand strategy that is an expression of a compelling, unique experience that Coral Springs offers. The branding strategy is based on a set of attributes and characteristics that distinguish Coral Springs from its competitors. In other words, Coral Springs must “stand out to stand apart.”

The City’s new tagline and logo are the visible manifestation of extensive research conducted by North Star Destination Strategies. The comprehensive nature of the investigation was impressive. To paint a realistic portrait of what we think about ourselves and, just as importantly, what others are saying about us, North Star reviewed existing plans and strategies; conducted a community survey, as well as a perception survey of folks living in the tri-county area; conducted focus groups; assessed the economic development efforts of our competitors; evaluated the web sites of surrounding communities; and completed media and communication audits.

During the 1980s, Coral Springs was one of the fastest growing cities in the nation. A Coral Ridge Properties sales brochure from that time emphasizes the natural look of the Coral Springs, particularly the “green canopy of tropical plants and trees.” The text goes on to point out that “this is not ‘by chance’” but rather planned every step of the way. Billboards just outside the city limits proclaimed, “If it Has Everything, It Must be Coral Springs!”

Then, in the 1990s, the City began using the “Suntree” logo, an abstract representation featuring the outlines of a yellow sun and a green tree.

After receiving the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award in 2007, Coral Springs became known as a Community of Excellence.

City officials decided that the golden anniversary would be a perfect time to launch a new brand and celebrate the community we have all come to love. Branding a city not only helps to create a sense of pride, but also has a potential impact on the economic stability of the residential and business communities.

After more than a year of research and brainstorming, the City has a new logo and tagline: “Coral Springs: Everything Under the Sun.”

Insights developed from North Star’s research will be used for much more than a tagline and logo. The City will receive a final report containing all of the research data and marketing and implementation recommendations.

So, keep an eye out as we roll out this new look for Coral Springs.

Coral Springs is proactively becoming a destination of choice for businesses, visitors and families. The logo is a fresh take on some of the consistent themes that appeared in our previous brand themes and logos. While the look might be more modern, the concept is tried and true.

Summer 2013 • Under the Sun • 3

highlights

Evolution of our logo

highlights

See you Downtown on July 10!

50th Anniversary Celebration in high gear

The City is hosting a huge downtown Birthday Block Party on Wednesday, July 10, featuring music, food, refreshments and plenty of cake! The community is invited to join the celebration from 5 to 10 p.m. in Downtown Coral Springs, just east of City Hall South, 9530 W. Sample Road.

The event features live bands on two stages, including The Bluefire Band, The Blues Brothers Soul Band, Wonderama, and Never Stop Believin’: The Ultimate Journey Tribute Band.

Radio Disney will entertain the kids with music, games and prizes. There will also be High-Energy Techno DJ Area by Loop, mobile video gaming and free birthday cake and Blue Bell Ice Cream.

Local restaurants will serve up tasty samples and sell food and refreshments. Several community groups, including the Coral Springs Historical Advisory Committee and Coral Springs Community Redevelopment Agency, will host booths with fun activities and giveaways.

The event and nearby parking is free. For details and a map, visit our web site.

The past few months have been full of exciting events highlighting the City’s 50th Anniversary. In March, students came together and sang to popular tunes of each era in the musical parody, “Once Upon a Dream: The Musical.” The City Commission also participated in this memorable event.

Then, the Coral Springs Festival of the Arts had a special birthday cake and served it as part of festivities. In honor of Coral Springs’ 50th birthday celebration, the ARC Broward Culinary Institute cake’s theme was “50 Years and Still There’s No Place Like Home.”

Whole Foods Market® Coral Springs was a sponsor of the Coral Springs Festival of the Arts, and also showed their baking and decorating talents with an incredible technique cake, as well as the popular tuxedo fudge cake. Both cakes were presented to the City Commission and City Manager, who sang “Happy Birthday” to the City before cutting the edible art.

To celebrate Earth Day, the City also hosted its annual EarthFest celebration on Saturday, April 14 at Sandy Ridge Sanctuary.

The event featured wildlife exhibits, guided tours of Sandy Ridge, plant giveaways for Coral Springs residents, children’s activities and refreshments. Al Hendrickson Toyota displayed an energy-saving hybrid Prius and Coral Springs Charter School Student Fabricio Taracinales designed the award-winning commemorative t-shirt.

4 • Under the Sun • Summer 2013

CoralSprings50.org 954-344-1111

Get involved!

Residents can still share their old photos or stories about life in Coral Springs at CoralSprings50.org.

Stories and photos may be featured in various media throughout the 50th Anniversary, including this magazine and online. The anniversary web site also features the City’s history, a list of all upcoming events and volunteer opportunities.

This golden anniversary is a great time to come together as a community and celebrate the place we love to call home. More exciting events are planned for the remainder of 2013, including a Fall concert and the Holiday Parade in December.

The City’s Fourth of July celebration will light up Mullins Park, for an evening of dazzling fireworks and entertainment for the entire family.

Residents are encouraged to come out and celebrate on Thursday, July 4. Starting at 6 p.m., families are invited to come and enjoy games, bounce houses, food and entertainment. The fireworks display will begin promptly at 9 p.m. The event is free, but there will be fees for food, bounce houses and games. Parking will be available for $3 fee at the Coral Springs Gymnasium for early arrivers, and also at the main Mullins Park/Center for the Arts parking lot. No pets or alcoholic beverages are allowed in the park. Personal fireworks will be confiscated by Coral Springs Police.

Coral Springs Police remind residents that setting off illegal fireworks could result in criminal charges against the user. Any fireworks that explode or fly in the air are illegal. Airborne fireworks run the risk of damaging property or causing serious injury to users.

As for legal fireworks, follow these tips to ensure safety: • Light fireworks only on non-flammable paved surfaces on your own property.

• Do not wear loose clothing and keep hair pulled back while using fireworks.

• Stand several feet away from lighted fireworks.

• If fireworks do not go off, do not stand over them.

• Always have a bucket of water or fire extinguisher nearby.

• Supervise children around fireworks at all times.

CoralSprings50.org 954-345-2200 Mullins Park, 10150 Ben Geiger Dr.

Upcoming Partner & Sanctioned Events September 11th Remembrance & 5K (page 6) International Day of Peace • September 21 (page 6) Great Art Affair • September 26

Silver Presenting Sponsor

International Dinner Dance • September 28 (page 14) Fall Family Concert & Movie in the Park (dates TBD) Halloween Haunted House • October 25-26

At Campapalooza, campers will attempt to break the Guinness World Book of Records featuring more than 1,000 campers participating in Zumbatomic for kids ages 5 to 15. This fun event will take place on Wednesday, July 10 at 11 a.m. at the Coral Springs Gymnasium. Camps interested in participating must register in advance at CoralSprings50.org. Due to limited capacity, this event will not be open to the general public but will be documented for the World Record Attempt and shared later with residents via our web site and CityTV.

Bronze Community Partner

Media Partners

Sawgrass Stars

Hometown Hero

Summer 2013 • Under the Sun • 5

highlights

Celebrate Fourth of July at Mullins Park

hot topics

City honors International Day of Peace Join us as the City gets ready to celebrate peace and understanding at the annual International Day of Peace, which will be honored with a host of events over the weekend of September 21.

The City has hosts a beautiful early morning celebration at the International Peace Garden. Local talent from our schools and community enhance this celebration through music, skits, poems and “Pinwheels for Peace.”

The Multi-Cultural Advisory Committee, in a partnership effort with One Planet United, is planning to bring the event to a higher level this year by adding new dimensions to the peace celebration. More event details, including dates, times and locations will be available online.

The events are free and families are encouraged to attend.

CoralSprings.org/events

Host your next sporting event in Coral Springs Coral Springs is known for its sporting venues and attractions. From ice skating to a state-of-the-art aquatic center, Coral Springs has something for everyone. Both residents and out-of-state teams looking for a place to host their next sporting event will have to look no further than Coral Springs.

“Because of the first class athletic facilities we have here in Coral Springs, we have been able to host a large number of statewide and national sporting events,” Sportsplex Executive Director Tom Messenheimer said. “These events allow us to highlight the community and bring a positive economic impact to our local businesses.”

South Florida is a hot spot destination for tourism and we pride ourselves in our sporting venues. Sports events funding is also available for a limited number of events on an annual basis. If you plan to host your event in Coral Springs, make sure to contact the Coral Springs Sports Commission.

Deadline for applications is August 20, 2013 and funding is usually made available by November. If interested in this opportunity, call 954-344-1841.

Visit our new facility web site to find out more.

Register for September 11th 5K Remembrance Each year, the City remembers the victims and honors the heroes of September 11, 2001. On Wednesday, September 11 at 6 p.m., the City will honor the victims by laying a wreath at the September 11th Memorial at the Northwest Regional Library. There will also be a tribute to Police, Fire and the Armed Forces.

Then, on Sunday, September 15 at 7:30 a.m. the City’s annual “September 11th 5K Remembrance” will take place.

The certified course follows flat roads through the heart of Coral Springs, starting and finishing at the September 11th Memorial located in front of the Northwest Regional Library.

The 5K will be professionally timed and an Awards Ceremony, complete with medals, will follow the end of the race.

Children’s activities will be available provided by Fitwize4Kids of Coral Springs. No bikes, skates or pets are permitted.

Adult registration is $25 and $20 for children under 18 years old. (NOTE: the print version of this magazine stated the price and start time incorrectly.) All proceeds will go toward future September 11th Memorial services and toward maintenance of the Memorial site. Volunteers and sponsors are needed. th

CoralSprings.org/5k 954-344-1147 Northwest Regional Library, 3151 N. University Dr.

PlayCoralSprings.org 6 • Under the Sun • Summer 2013

954-344-1063

Happy Anniversary!

City to help celebrate your major milestones The City of Coral Springs would like to help residents celebrate major milestones by providing an official birthday or anniversary card.

“The City of Coral Springs is always looking for ways to celebrate its residents, so, we have established a new program to do exactly that,” Commissioner Claudette Bruck said.

If you or any resident you know is celebrating a birthday over the age of 80 or a 50th wedding anniversary, visit our web site and fill out the form online.

Once the City receives the information, residents will receive a card in the mail congratulating them on their special occasion.

CoralSprings.org/celebrate

Become a valued City volunteer Since 1994, our volunteers have been an essential part of our organization. Thanks to our volunteers, the City saves more than $788,000 annually. In the last fiscal year alone, an average of 492 volunteers gave close to 39,000 hours of service.

The City of Coral Springs is always looking for dedicated volunteers to participate on boards and committees. There are current vacancies and opportunities in the Affordable Housing Committee, Board of Adjustment, Construction Review Committee, MultiCultural Advisory Committee, Planning and Zoning Board, Public Art Committee, Unsafe Structures Board and Senior Advisory Committee.

“Volunteers not only help to improve the quality of service we provide, they also help build a stronger community,” Volunteer Coordinator Kim Sanecki said.

“Through volunteering, these residents become an integral part of our team.”

If you are a Coral Springs resident and are interested in volunteering on a committee, call the Office of the City Clerk at 954-344-1065. Anyone interested in volunteering in other capacities, please call Volunteer Coordinator Kim Sanecki at 954-346-4430.

hot topics

Happy Birthday!

Panel of experts suggest development strategies for Downtown, new City Center A panel of experts from the Urban Land Institute (ULI) visited Coral Springs in May and suggested development strategies for Downtown and the new City Center Complex. The public was also invited to share their ideas with the panel at the first session held in the Coral Springs Charter School Auditorium.

The panel also met with the City Commission and the Coral Springs Community Redevelopment Agency’s Board of Directors and later presented a summary of their findings the following day.

“We are focused on the next 50 years of our City’s history and we are fortunate that the Urban Land Institute has convened this impressive panel of real estate, planning, development, design and marketing experts to provide us unbiased advice on improving our Downtown and creating a dynamic City Center for our residents to enjoy long into the future,” City Manager Erdal Donmez said.

ULI is a non-profit education and research institute supported by its members. Its mission is to provide leadership in the responsible use of land, and in creating and sustaining thriving communities worldwide. Established in 1936, ULI has nearly 30,000 members worldwide representing all aspects of land use and development disciplines. For more information, visit uli.org.

CoralSprings.org/volunteer

Summer 2013 • Under the Sun • 7

hot topics

Prepare in the event of a hurricane After Hurricane Wilma in October 2005, the City implemented new process improvements should a storm like that occur again. City staff works year-round to ensure that all departments are prepared in the event of a storm. The Police Department’s Public Safety Building is the City’s dedicated Emergency Operations Center, allowing the City to provide quicker, more efficient responses should a disaster hit.

“The more we as a community preplan and communicate before an emergency, the better equipped we are to respond and restore after a critical event,” Emergency Management Facilitator Karla Hines advised.

While the City and its staff are better equipped, it’s important that residents are equally prepared. While Coral Springs has been lucky the past eight years, it is important to always have a family plan and supplies on hand.

The City offers many resources for residents to use in the event of a storm.

City media provide extensive coverage of hurricanerelated information before, during and after a storm. Visit CoralSprings.org for the latest updates, and be sure to tune into CityRadio 1670am for up-to-date emergency information.

CityTV 25 on Advanced Cable or Channel 99 on AT&T U-Verse will also broadcast emergency information.

After a storm hits, the City opens its Hurricane Call Center, with City staff answering specific questions. In the event of a hurricane, the number to reach the Call Center is 954-3441001.

Broward County also provides valuable hurricane safety information, including tools to create a family plan that establishes an out-of-town emergency contact, tips for

stocking up on food, supplies and medicines for your family and pets, and details on securing your home and property.

CoralSprings.org/hurricane Broward.org/hurricane Sign up for CodeRED Whether you are a resident or a business, register for the City’s CodeRED service to stay informed on the latest hurricane information before, during and after a storm, tornado warnings, boil water alerts, evacuation orders, missing people and local criminal activity.

CodeRED is a free, automated voice messaging service that delivers the information right to your home, business or cellular phone. You must have a Coral Springs address to sign up, but can register several different numbers, including an out-of-town contact person.

The system dials each number in its database three times and leaves a message should no one pick up. All information is stored on a secure database that is filtered directly to the Coral Springs Police Department, which is responsible for administering CodeRED.

Light out?

Report it to FPL If you notice a street light outage in your residential area, make sure to report it to Florida Power and Light. In order to receive prompt service, you must have the 10-digit light number (located on the pole just above eye level) available. You can also fill out a form online. For outages along major roadways, please contact Public Works by calling 954344-1165. fpl.com/customer/report_trouble.shtml 1-800-4OUTAGE 8 • Under the Sun • Summer 2013

CoralSprings.org/codered

Better way to help Panhandling has become a problem throughout the country. The City of Coral Springs is working hard to deter panhandling in our City and drivers can help by making a lasting impact.

Giving directly to panhandlers can lead to serious problems, including drug and alcohol abuse, violent crime, harassment and distracted drivers at dangerous intersections.

A more efficient way to help those in need would be to give to charitable causes, such as the Broward Partnership for the Homeless, Inc. or 2-1-1 Broward.

For details on these and other ways you can make a difference, visit www.fortlauderdale.gov/give.

The City of Coral Springs is working hard with residents, property owners and businesses to bring properties up to code. This new focus on compliance rather than enforcement has begun with the renaming of the Code Enforcement Division to Code Compliance. The move is a strategic effort to enhance its approach to focus on voluntary compliance, while improving customer service.

Based on the feedback from the community, two code officers were added to the budget and began patrolling in June. These new officers along with current staff provide coverage citywide seven days a week. The additional coverage on weekends allows officers to meet with residents, address commercial and recreational vehicles parked incorrectly, snipe signs, as well as other common violations.

Fifteen volunteer Code Rangers also provide extra resources needed in the community. The Code Rangers are an important and expanding force that works closely with the Code Compliance staff to gain voluntary compliance in neighborhoods.

In addition, Code Compliance now offers residents the convenience of reporting issues and code violations with a photo and GPS location using the myCoralSprings app. Requests are automatically routed to the Code Compliance office and are looked at by the Code Officer or Ranger within 48 hours. Residents can opt to receive notifications when the issue has been corrected. The app is available for both Apple and Android devices, including phones and tablets.

“We’re working hard to be more responsive, to improve communications with residents and business owners and gain compliance to help maintain our neighborhoods,” Code Compliance Manager Jaci Foster said. “We are also always looking for Rangers to add to our valuable team.”

CoralSprings.org/code

hot topics

Coral Springs restructures Code Compliance Division to better serve the community

The myCoralSprings app is a useful tool for residents, who can use it to submit possible code violations and other issues on-the-go.

954-344-5964

Building Division offers customer service enhancements The Building Division is offering a program to help educate homeowners who make building improvements to their homes. Homeowners are often inexperienced in construction and may not be aware of their responsibilities and liabilities during the building process.

All residential owners and builders will be offered a presubmittal meeting with staff specific to the work involved, which will allow them to understand the processes, proce-

dures, and expectations of their project.

“Our goal is to give our residents a positive and informative permitting experience,” Development Services Administrator Cleveland Bain said. “This initiative will allow us to help homeowners that are new or haven’t had much exposure to the building permitting process.”

CoralSprings.org/building 954-344-1025

Waste Station open Labor Day The Waste Transfer Station will be open on Monday, September 2 for any resident who wants to drop off bulk trash, including appliances, furniture, carpeting, and any recyclable materials.

No commercial waste or raw garbage is accepted at this station. This service is free and available to Coral Springs resi-

dents only. Please remember that two forms of identification are required for proof of residency.

The Waste Transfer Station is open weekends from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is located on Wiles Road at N.W. 126th Avenue.

CoralSprings.org/publicworks Summer 2013 • Under the Sun • 9

local spotlight

“Look Before You Lock” Campaign wants to keep children safe in and around vehicles Broward County, Children’s Services Council and Early Learning Coalition Board are launching a “Look Before You Lock” campaign aimed at ensuring that no children die or are injured as a result of being left in hot vehicles. This campaign comes about as Broward County is set to enact a recently passed child care ordinance requiring all child care centers and family child care homes to install safety alarms in vehicles carrying six or more passengers.

Heatstroke in vehicles is the leading cause of all non-crashrelated fatalities involving children 14 years old and younger.

Especially vulnerable are children 4 and under because their bodies overheat more quickly. Florida ranks fourth in the United States in the number of hyperthermia deaths of children in vehicles. Even with a window rolled down a few inches, if the outside temperature is in the low 80s, the temperature inside a vehicle can reach deadly levels in as little as 10 minutes.

To help child care providers defray some of the costs of installing the alarms, Broward County Children’s Services Administration, the Children’s Services Council and the Early Learning Coalition have set aside a one-time only reimbursement fund to help qualified child care providers offset the cost of the installation(s). To be eligible for reimbursement, the purchase and installation of the alarm must occur or have occurred between December 11, 2012, when the ordinance was passed, and June 30, 2013.

For more information on the Vehicle Alarm Ordinance and on the “Look Before You Lock” campaign, call 2-1-1 or visit cscbroward.org.

Veterans invited to start a club All local Veterans are invited to start a club at Sartory Senior Center. The primary purposes are to support and honor the United States military services, perpetuate the honor and memory of those fallen and provide a social outlet for the members and their companions.

Dates and times will be determined among interested participants. For more information or to register, please e-mail Bill Vasquez at vasquezw@bellsouth.net.

Sartory Senior Center is located at 10000 Ben Geiger Dr., within Mullins Park.

CoralSprings.org/seniorprograms 10 • Under the Sun

business climate

Looking for a job?

Check WorkCoralSprings.org Whether you are looking for a job or a business owner looking to recruit new talent, sign up for the City’s free employment database.

The City, together with a group of dedicated student volunteers, launched a database to help pair job seekers with local businesses looking for new talent. What started off as the Career Outreach Project is now known as Work Coral Springs.

“WorkCoralSprings.org is a tremendous opportunity to partner local business owners with local jobseekers. It’s getting residents back to work, supporting local business, and showing outside businesses the workforce we have to offer in Coral Springs,” Commissioner Dan Daley said.

Anyone looking for a job can create an account and upload their resume, customize job alerts and much more. Employers can now create a company profile, track applications, email resume alerts and search for local talent to find a prospective match.

To sign up for free, visit WorkCoralSprings.org.

What’s Going Up? Two large national retailers to open in Coral Springs Dick’s Sporting Goods and BJ’s Warehouse have plans to open new stores in Coral Springs sometime next year. On April 17, the City Commission approved a request from Woolbright Coral Springs II, LLC to proceed with a $35 million project located at the northwest corner of Riverside Drive at Atlantic Boulevard. The company expects demolition of the existing structure should begin soon. BJ’s Wholesale Club plans an 86,678 square foot building and Dick’s Sporting Goods will be 54,000 square feet.

“These projects are a welcome addition to the City of Coral Springs. Retailers recognize that Coral Springs is an excellent place to do business and this project adjacent to the Coral Square Mall will offer shoppers more variety to better meet their needs,” said Paul Cawley, Director of the Coral Springs Economic Development Foundation.

Coral Springs Mayor Vince Boccard remarked that “over the past two years, the City has attracted many national retailers such as, Aldi, Allpets Emporium, Kohl’s, Marshalls, Sports Authority, and other others. This is a testament to Coral Springs as a thriving business community, committed to working hard to attract businesses and helping them succeed.”

“This additional retail project – along with new residential development at Daniela Springs, the former Broken Woods golf course, new industrial projects and downtown redevelopment – shows that Coral Springs continues to be a destination of choice for families and businesses, plus demonstrates our commitment to invest in our community,” City Manager Erdal Dönmez added.

CoralSprings.org/business Summer 2013 • Under the Sun • 11

culture & environment

City receives NatureScape Broward Emerald Award The City of Coral Springs has been awarded the annual Naturescape Emerald Award under the Government/ School/Municipality category by Broward County. This award recognizes Coral Springs for its Street Tree Subsidy Program, which was established in 2006 to help reach a 30 percent average tree canopy coverage citywide by 2020. The program allowed eligible property owners to plant appropriate, code required shade trees as street trees and receive up to $200 in subsidy per required tree. This program was later expanded to include multifamily and commercial properties and it resulted in over 4,000 street trees being planted citywide in 2012.

Throughout this program, the City also developed a “Homeowners Tree Care and Ownership” guide to educate homeowners on tree quality, proper planting and long term proper care of trees.

CoralSprings.org/trees.cfm

Tours available of City’s environmental parks City has new temporary art piece on display

The Coral Springs Parks and Recreation Department is offering free tours of the City’s Environmentally Sensitive Land areas. The Sandy Ridge Sanctuary is located at 8501 N.W. 40th Street (between University Drive and Riverside Drive). The Red Lichen Sanctuary is located at 8095 Wiles Road, next to Whispering Woods Park, which is located at 7701 Wiles Road.

Parking for the Red Lichen Sanctuary is at Whispering Woods Park. Tours at Sandy Ridge Sanctuary are offered the first Saturday of each month starting at 9 a.m. Tours of Red Lichen Sanctuary and Whispering Woods Park are the third Saturday of each month starting at 9 a.m. Reservations are not required. For additional information, please call 954-345-2112.

The City’s Public Art Committee selected “Rock-et Man” by Craig Berube-Gray as its latest installation on Sample Road.

The installation was completed on March 8 and will be on temporary display at the southeast corner of Sample Road and Coral Hills Drive until March 2014.

“On behalf of the City and the Public Art Committee, we would like to welcome this new piece of artwork to the City and look forward to having it on display in the upcoming year,” said Chief Planner Jim Hickey.

In November 2003, Coral Springs was the first South Florida city in many years to pass a public art program and join the more than 350 governments nationwide. Since the Coral Springs initiative, the nearby cities of Tamarac, Delray Beach and Boynton Beach have created programs. The funding from the sculptures results from arts fees paid by developers that choose not to install artwork at their new buildings.

No ad valorem tax dollars are used to fund public art through the City of Coral Springs Public Art Program. Funds are collected through an impact fee on new development or redevelopment within the City.

CoralSprings.org/environment

CoralSprings.org/publicart 12 • Under the Sun • Summer 2013

The Coral Springs Museum of Art has offering a new class titled Photoshop, joined Blue Star Museums, a collaboPhotography, Passion for Fashion and ration among the National Endowment Fashion Couture. for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the The Museum offers lunchtime superDepartment of Defense, and more than vision for those attending both sessions 1,800 museums across America to offer for a fee of $10 per week, and children free admission to all active duty military must bring lunch. Museum members personnel and their families from save $15 per ArtShops, and the Museum Memorial Day through Labor Day 2013. offers a sibling discount. Classes offered “Blue Star Museums is a collaboration include painting, sculpture, art advenbetween the arts and military comtures, green art, papier-mâché, ceramic munities,” said NEA Acting Chairman handbuilding, comic book design and Joan Shigekawa. “Our work with Blue more. Special pricing is available for the Star Families and with more than 1,800 week of Fourth of July. museums ensures that we can reach out to military families and thank them Family Funday for their service and sacrifice.”

Bring your kids to the Museum the “We are proud to participate as a second Saturday of the month at 3 p.m.

Blue Star Museum. As we build partto participate in Family Funday. Each nerships and collaborations within our month a different art project will be community, we need to remember created. This is a great activity for kids Harmonius Dance, David Schluss our active service members, and their ages 3 and up. Children will work on families, by inviting them to participate in our creative world Optical Art on July 13. here at home. We can offer them a place and activities to take their minds off of their duty in order to connect with Annual Kilwin’s Sundae on Saturday their families in our greater community,” said Bryan Knicely, Beat the heat and create ice cream art from a variety of Executive Director of the Coral Springs Museum of Art. edible media. Kids can stretch their imaginations and make three-dimensional sundaes, mosaics, collages and more.

Summer Exhibits When completed, children will enjoy making ice cream This summer, stop by the Museum as they introduce a sundaes courtesy of Kilwin’s of Coral Springs. Admission is new exhibition created by contemporary Israeli artists. David $4 per person. The activity is appropriate for children ages Schluss, an Isreali artist who has a studio in Coral Springs, 3 and up with a parent or guardian. Sundae on Saturday is brings together 11 other Israeli artists who are sculptors and scheduled for Saturday, August 10 at 3 p.m. painters. These talented artists each has their own distinctive CSMART.org 954-340-5000 style, which allows the visitor to explore abstract, realism, collage and sculpture with riotous color, humor and mean2855 Coral Springs Drive ingful messages.

Sid Kweller: The Odd-U-Bon Society will also be on display in the East Gallery. Adults and children alike will enjoy the humorous adaptations of our fine feathered friends. Both exhibits will be on display thru August 24.

cultural energy

Museum offers free admission to active duty military through Labor Day

Summer Art Classes Through mid-August, Summer Camp ArtShops are available for children ages six to 16. ArtShops are weekly three-hour sessions meeting either in the morning from 9 a.m. to noon or 1:15 to 4:15 p.m. Participants may attend one or both sessions and sign up for multiple weeks. Professional artists teach all the ArtShops, which are divided by age and subject. This year, ArtShop is

Summer 2013 • Under the Sun • 13

fun under the sun

Aquatic Complex pool named after Coach Michael Lohberg In honor of Coral Springs Swim Head Coach Michael Lohberg’s life and amazing coaching abilities, the City of Coral Springs named the 50-meter pool at the Aquatic Complex in remembrance of him. A dedication ceremony was held back in April at the Aquatic Complex revealing the new name, “Michael Lohberg Pool of Champions.”

Lohberg, a native German, was six-time Olympian Dara Torres’ coach and confidant. They trained at the Aquatic

Save the date: International Dinner Dance September 28

Complex for the 2008 Beijing Olympics. He coached at six Olympic Games having qualified swimmers for every Olympics from 1984 to 2008. He had an incredible eight swimmers make the 2008 Beijing Olympics, including Torres.

“We wanted to name part of the facility in memory of Michael because he was a large part of our success,” Director of Aquatic Services Mike McGoun said. “We were fortunate to have someone of his caliber at our facility.”

This popular event features food, dancing and live entertainment, all with an international twist. This year’s event will focuses on Peruvian culture while showcasing the diverse ethnic groups that abound in our community. The 2013 event is set for Saturday, September 28 at the Coral Springs Marriott at Heron Bay, 11775 Heron Bay Blvd. Cocktail hour begins at 7 p.m. followed by dinner at 8 p.m. Tickets are $50 each, and cultural dress is encouraged.

CoralSprings.org/events 954-344-1063 14 • Under the Sun • Summer 2013

AquaticComplex.com

Stop by the City’s next Trash to Treasure Garage Sale on Saturday, November 9, from 8 to 11 a.m. at Mullins Park.

Registration begins July 15 and cost $25 on or before October 13, $35 from October 14 through the 27, or $45 thereafter. Spaces are offered on a first-come, first- served basis. An additional $30-per-space deposit is required and will be returned after the event if the space is clean. The additional deposit must be made by separate check.

There will be no refunds for any fees if a vendor cancels their space after payment.

Vendors can reserve spaces for the Garage Sale at the Coral Springs Gymnasium, located at 2501 Coral Springs Drive. The Gymnasium is open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

Mullins Park is located at 10000 Ben Geiger Drive (N.W. 29th St.), between Sample Road and Royal Palm Boulevard, just east of Coral Springs Drive.

CoralSprings.org/events

954-345-2204

Become empowered at self-defense course The Coral Springs Police Department is offering two more sessions this year of its Rape Aggression Defense program. Participants will learn to be empowered in the event they are faced with a potentially dangerous situation. The program is for woman ages 13 and older.

RAD focuses on repetition, practice and muscle memory to help women survive during a struggle.

Participants have a chance to practice what they learn during live scenarios.

RAD meets on four consecutive Tuesdays, and the next session begins Tuesday, August 6 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Public Safety Building. The course is physically involved, but no prior self-defense experience is required. Another session is scheduled to begin on October 1.

Participants must register in advance for a $25 refundable fee. After completing all four classes, payment will be refunded. Otherwise, payment will be withheld.

CoralSprings.org/police/safe.cfm 2801 Coral Springs Drive

Center for the Arts offers Broadway camp The Coral Springs Institute for the Performing Arts offers local youth a chance to express their creative sides at Next Stop Broadway camps throughout the summer. Next Stop Broadway camps offer participants real-life training and expertise. The sessions take place in the Coral Springs Center for the Arts, a professional theater with experienced actors and technical staff. Participants learn much more than acting skills, including openness, confidence and self-esteem.

Youth Camp for ages 6 to 13 (first through eighth grades) has hours of 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in two remaining multi-week sessions.

• Session 2 (4 weeks): July 1–July 26; Toy Story: The Musical • Session 3 (3 weeks): July 29–August 16; Shrek: The Musical Teen Summer Theatre begins July 1 and is for ages 14 and up.

The session begins July and runs for six weeks until August 9. The performance will be Shrek: The Musical and will be held Monday through Friday from 1 to 6 p.m. the first five weeks. The last week, participants will meet from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pre-care and After-care are also available for an additional fee.

Cost varies per session so visit the web site for more details.

CoralSpringsCenterForTheArts.com 2855 Coral Springs Drive

954-344-5999

Fall Fun Guide available in September Summer may be in full swing, but the City is already planning activities for your child to participate in this Fall. Starting in September, grab a copy of the 2013 Fall Fun Guide, which lists a variety of after school and weekend activities available for children of all ages. Activities range from artistic to athletic, and much more.

The guide is available at City Hall, 9551 W. Sample Road; the Coral Springs Gymnasium, 2501 Coral Springs Drive; City Hall in the Mall, located within Coral Square Mall; the Coral Springs Aquatic Complex and Tennis Center of Coral Springs, 2575 Sportsplex Drive; and the Cypress Park Tennis Center, 1301 Coral Springs Drive.

To view and download the Fall Fun Guide, visit the City’s web site in September. For remaining availability in summer programs, visit CoralSprings.org/summerfun.

CoralSprings.org/fallfun

954-346-1227

954-345-2200

Summer 2013 • Under the Sun • 15

fun under the sun

Sell household items at next garage sale

fun under the sun hot topics

Half Marathon & 5K: Running for a cause Hundreds of runners and walkers were part of the Coral Springs Half Century Celebration and the Broward Health Coral Springs’ 8th Annual Race for Women’s Wellness in March.

Both races were part of the City’s 50th Anniversary events and benefited the Lisa Boccard Breast Cancer Fund.

The Lisa Boccard Fund provides breast care to women in the community who financially cannot afford screening mammograms and biopsies.

“Each year the race has grown, which has allowed us to raise substantial funds to continue screening women within our community and Broward County. To date, the fund has screened over 1,000 women, of which 54 women were diagnosed with breast cancer as a result,” Lisa Boccard said. “On this

day, we honored and celebrated women who have survived breast cancer or who are no longer here because of breast cancer. Whatever the reason, the goal was to bring together as many people as possible to save more lives.”

Longtime resident and race veteran Jill Aiello was one of the hundreds running for a cause. She ran in the half marathon this year and crossed the finish line proud to call Coral Springs home.

“I loved the race. I liked how the course was planned out, using a big chunk of Coral Springs,” Aiello said.

Both the 5K and the half marathon will become an annual event. To view photos from the event, visit CoralSpringsPhotos.org or see page 17.

Flood safety information available to residents

Flood safety is very important. Residents are encouraged to prepare an inventory of personal property in the case of a flood event. The inventory should include descriptions and photos of the items. In addition, residents should be prepared with additional drinking water, portable radios and flashlights with extra batteries, and a complete first aid kit. Though not likely, if an evacuation order is given, residents should remember to turn off their gas and electric utilities at the source.

City’s flood protection practices save money The National Flood Insurance Rating Program’s community rating system gives the City of Coral Springs high marks for its flood protection activities, which translates into a 10 percent discount for residents on new or renewed flood insurance policies.

With more than 90 percent of the City in a Special Flood Hazard Area, all residents are encouraged to know flood safety and preparation skills. The City, Broward Office of Emergency Management and National Weather Service issue information about weather conditions and flooding through local media, including CityTV and CityRadio 1670am.

City regulations prevent or regulate construction that could divert floodwater from one area to another or increase erosion. Regulations also are in place concerning filling, grading and dredging. Permits are necessary before starting any construction, so contact the Building Department at 954-344-1025. Note that the City requires elevation certificates on homes built after 1991 as part of the permitting process for newly constructed or substantially improved buildings.

Various drainage districts are responsible for the canals.

Visit CoralSprings.org/publicworks/waterservice.cfm for a list of drainage districts and contact numbers.

The City utilizes drainage catch basins that the Public Works Department maintains. To report a street drainage problem, call Public Works at 954-345-2210.

The Northwest Regional Library, 3151 N. University Drive, has flood protection information, copies of flood insurance rate maps, and flood zone explanations. Information is also available at CoralSprings.org/floodinformation.

16 • Under the Sun • Summer 2013

In the case of a flood event, Coral Springs residents should take into consideration the following tips and guidelines: • Do not walk through water unless absolutely necessary.

• Flowing water can be deceptive and can be dangerous.

• Do not drive through flood waters. Roads may be washed away and are not visible when underwater.

• Keep a look out for downed power lines and stay away!

• To create a disaster preparedness plan, visit the Florida Division of Emergency Management’s web site at floridadisaster.org.

To protect your property in the case of a flood event, a few simple steps can be taken: • Board up or shutter your windows and doors • Relocate vehicles to higher ground • Raise furniture off the floor or relocate the furniture to upper levels of your property.

• Keep materials like tarps, sandbags, and plywood on hand to make quick repairs following a storm event.

• Retrofitting of your property is a way to reduce flooding impacts prior to a storm. For information regarding retrofitting, please visit fema.gov.

city sights

City Sights

Coral Springs Half Marathon and Broward Health Race for Women’s Wellness 5K

Visit CoralSpringsPhotos.org to view more event pictures!

National Day of Prayer

Memorial Day Ceremony

CommuniTea

Summer 2013 • Under the Sun • 17

IX

Presorted Standard US Postage PAID

9551 W. Sample Road Coral Springs, FL 33065

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Presented By

Mullins Park • Thursday, July 4 Entertainment at 6 p.m. • Fireworks at 9 p.m.

10000 Ben Geiger Drive (N.W. 29 St.) Free admission • $3 Parking Fee Kids’ Activities for Fee • Music No personal fireworks, sparklers, pets or alcoholic beverages

Bronze Community Partner

Wednesday, July 10 Silver Presenting Sponsor

5 to 10Media p.m.

Partners

Downtown Coral Springs

SawgrassWest Stars Sample Road Just east of City Hall South, 9530

Free Admission •Hometown FreeHeroParking

September 11th Memorial & Remembrance 5K Memorial: Wednesday, September 11 • 6 p.m.

5K: Sunday, September 15 • 7 a.m.

See page 6 for details.

Halloween Haunted House Friday, October 25 and Saturday, October 26 Coral Springs Gymnasium • 2501 Coral Springs Drive CoralSprings.org/events • 954-345-2200

International Day of Peace Weekend of September 21 See page 6 for details.

Family Concert & Movie in the Park Fall concert & movie in the park dates to be announced CoralSprings.org/events

International Dinner Dance Saturday, September 28 • 7 p.m.

See page 14 for details.

Holiday Parade 2013 Wednesday, December 11 • 7 p.m.

Along Sample Road • CoralSprings50.org

Always visit CoralSprings.org/events for the latest updates and additions.