Our City Coral Springs: September 2023

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PUBLISHERS

Christy & Terry Jaillet publisher@ourcitymedia.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Christy Jaillet

ART DIRECTOR

Tom Rowe

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Alana Brodie

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER

Nancy Koval nancy@ourcitymedia.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

John Brodie, Denise Caligiuri, Adrienne Collins, Mariem Garcia, Chris Koval Kenny Rodgers, Silvia Silva

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Terry Jaillet, Jon Duka, Christine Hunschofsky, Mayor Rich Walker, Todd Delmay

Edward Otto Zielke, Mitchell Zahn

PHOTOGRAPHER

Tom Dean moonwalkphotography.com

ADVERTISING INFO sales@ourcitymedia.com

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Celebrate Local Culture

Ponce de Leon, the famed explorer, laid claim to Florida for Spain when he discovered it in 1513. Even after five centuries, Florida continues to be a home for settlers from Spanish-speaking nations. Broward County’s population is nearly 30% Hispanic, and in Miami Dade, the figure rises to almost 70%. This significant Hispanic presence lends a special resonance to National Hispanic Heritage Month in South Florida.

Observed from September 15th to October 15th, is a festive occasion that honors the history, culture, and contributions of American citizens with roots in Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. The month is filled with various events and celebrations, such as the Festival de la Salsa 3 at Miramar Regional Park on September 9th, and the Hispanic Heritage Month Festival at the Pembroke Pines Branch Library on October 6th. These events will feature food, music, crafts, and storytelling, reflecting the rich cultural heritage.

For those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture, Our City magazine’s calendar section is an invaluable resource. Each month, the magazine includes a handpicked list of diverse community activities and events that cater to a broad spectrum of tastes and interests. By engaging with these events, you can truly experience the unique cultural offerings of the region.

Christy & Terry Jaillet

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Wed - Mon 4:30pm - 9:00pm Closed Tuesday

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SEPTEMBER 5

U.S. Citizenship & Naturalization Class

Prepare to take the next step toward becoming a U.S. Citizen. Experts will help you: practice for the interview (speaking and comprehension); review the 100 civic questions (history and government); and practice your reading and writing. Registration is required.

5:00 - 6:00 pm at the Northwest Regional Library, 3151 N University Dr, Coral Springs. Scan the QR code to register.

SEPTEMBER 2

Midnight Margaritas

A Practically Magical Psychic Fair

Put on your best Stevie Nicks outfit, sip complimentary margaritas, get a reading or two, and shop Corellia and other local vendors! A variety of psychic offerings will be available, including tarot readings, drum clerking, scrying, chakra clearing and more. Corellia Gifts & Goods is hosting the event from 9:00 pm till 1:00 am at their location, 10269 W Sample Rd.

SEPTEMBER 8

Fluffy's Foodie Food Truck Friday

This neighborhood event will bring all the foodies together! Embark on a culinary adventure with a dynamic lineup of gourmet food trucks that will leave your taste buds begging for more. From savory to sweet, from traditional to exotic, the curated selection of mobile kitchens will cater to every palate. 5:30 pm - 9:00 pm at the Coconut Creek Community Center 1100 Lyons Road. For more info email je@gourmettruckexpo.com.

SEPTEMBER 9

Coral Springs Museum of Art Fall Open House

Meet the Museum staff, and art instructors and learn about our class and camp offerings, Artist Guild, and much more. You’ll get a chance to see our studios, art demos, and gallery exhibition. There will be giveaways, lite bites, and discounts on memberships, classes, and camps if you purchase on-site. This is a free open house for all ages. Children must be accompanied by adults. 10:00 am - 1:00 pm @ 2855 Coral Springs Drive, Coral Springs. For more info, visit www.coralspringsmuseum.org.

SEPTEMBER 4 Labor Day

Labor Day is a commemoration of the American labor movement and the invaluable contributions made by laborers to the growth and success of the United States. Back in 1894, President Grover Cleveland officially established this holiday by signing it into law. It serves as a significant milestone, signaling the end of summer and the start of the new school year. In South Florida, where the weather becomes more temperate, Labor Day offers a wonderful opportunity to gather with loved ones and friends, making it a perfect time for bonding and enjoying each other's company.

SEPTEMBER 9

Back to School Splash Bash

Come on out and join the City of Parkland at the Back to School Splash Bash located at the Equestrian Center. There will be music, games, food, crafts and a lot of water slides. Don’t forget to wear your bathing suit and all ages are welcome. 9:00 am - 12:00 pm at the Parkland Equestrian Center, 8350 Ranch Road, Parkland.

September 2023 Calendar

SEPTEMBER 13

Coffee with the Mayor & Veterans

Coral Springs Mayor Scott Brook invites veterans to join him for coffee during his office hours at Coral Springs City Hall. Appointments are not necessary but preferred. 9:00 - 10:30 am at City Hall, 9500 W Sample Road, Coral Springs. Call 954344-5911 to make an appointment.

SEPTEMBER 9

Family Fun Day @ Coral Springs Museum

Get ready for an ARTrageous time! Enhance your family’s education in arts and culture with creative activities related to the exhibits at the museum. ARTventures starts with a tour of the current exhibit and culminates with a fun and engaging activity for the whole family. Art activities change each month to provide variety in materials and themes of the exhibits. 2:00-3:00 pm at the Coral Springs Museum of Art. Scan the QR code for info.

SEPTEMBER 14

The Garden Club of Coral Springs

Join The Garden Club of Coral Springs to hear a Forest Ranger talk about the Florida Forest and Seed Exchange. The Garden Club of Coral Springs was formed in October 1999 by a handful of home gardeners who had learned through trial and error how to grow and maintain beautiful landscapes and gardens. 11:30 am - 1:30 pm. Hosted at the Northwest Regional Library. For more info, scan the QR code.

SEPTEMBER 16

Dale Elliott Jr.

The comedian is taking his talents from screen to stage with his standup comedy debut, Problem Child: Bad Pickney Tour. Before his breakout in the award-winning 2020 coming-of-age film, "Sprinter," Dale's hilarious & relatable sketches about growing up Jamaican on social media platforms like Vine and Instagram made him a household name. Watch the energetic and playful recounting of his epic childhood trauma that promises non-stop laughter. 7:00 pm at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts. Scan QR code for tickets & info.

SEPTEMBER 11

Patriot Day / Remembrance Day

Join people around the nation in honoring and remembering the victims, their families, first responders, and rescue and recovery workers who answered the call in the aftermath of the attacks of 9/11. We will never forget!

SEPTEMBER 22

Friday Night Lights High School Football

The Eagles from Monarch High School will take on the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Eagles at Douglas High School. Turn out to watch the local rivals battle it out. The game starts at 7:00 pm, at 5901 Pine Island Road. For more info visit www.msdfootball.com.

SHOEBOXES OF HOPE:

South Florida’s Back-to-School Mission for the World

As the school year approaches, shoebox packers are making use of backto-school prices to purchase gifts and essential items for children in need around the world. Residents in Weston are collecting school supplies, along with personal care items and fun toys, to pack in shoeboxes. Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan’s Purse, will deliver these gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 100 countries.

For many children, access to these simple items is essential to an education. This was the case for Justin Thomas, a shoebox recipient in Southeast Asia whose parents could not afford the supplies needed for school. Thomas remembers the specific day he received a gift-filled shoebox from Operation Christmas Child and found it filled with toys and most exciting to him—school supplies!

Growing up with hand-me-down clothes and used items, Thomas used to write with a pencil so short that he held it using a pen cap. Having an entire packet of new pencils and a pencil sharpener all his own was a treasure to him. This simple gift made a life-changing impact for Thomas because it opened the doors for him to receive an education.

For more information, visit samaritanspurse.org/occ. National Collection Week is Nov. 13-20. Participants can donate $10 per shoebox gift online through “Follow Your Box” and receive a tracking label to discover its destination. Those who prefer the convenience of online shopping can browse samaritanspurse.org/buildonline to select gifts matched to a child’s specific age and gender, then finish packing the virtual shoebox by adding a photo and personal note of encouragement.

Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan's Purse, seeks to demonstrate God’s love in a tangible way to children in need around the world and, together with the local church worldwide, to share the Good News of Jesus Christ. Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected and delivered more than 209 million giftfilled shoeboxes to children in more than 170 countries and territories. This year, Operation Christmas Child will celebrate its 30th year of ministry!

Commuting to Miami is as Easy as 1–2–3

South Florida Express Coach Offers Daily, Direct Service to Downtown 1 2 3

Getting to and from Miami is easy with the South Florida Express Coach. The service offers direct travel from the FLA Live Arena Park-and-Ride and Davie Park-and-Ride to Downtown Miami and the Miami Medical District (Civic Center). South Florida Express Coach is funded by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), is operated by Broward County Transit, and continually receives rave reviews.

Fast, Comfortable, and Convenient

The Express Coaches are used primarily by riders who own their own cars but welcome the convenience, comfort, and cost savings of commuting in coach-style buses. One-way fares are as little as $2.25. The coaches over free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, charging stations, and comfortable seating. The coaches travel in the express lanes for faster, more reliable travel times. And park-and-ride parking is FREE!

Commuters can also take comfort in knowing that life’s little emergencies are not an issue, thanks to FDOT’s Guaranteed Ride Home program. This government-funded program will cover the cost of an Uber, Lyft, or taxi ride if the Express Coach is unavailable, and you need to either leave work early for an emergency or have to stay late for unscheduled overtime.

A Better Way to Commute

This premium transit service is designed to get commuters from Western Broward County to their places of employment in Miami-Dade County quickly and reliably. The coaches have two service times: in the morning, to get to work and in the evening to get back home. Morning service starts as early as 5:00am, and afternoon service runs from 3:00pm to 9:00pm.

The Express Coach system is a core component of the express lanes along I-95, I-595, and I-75 (I-75 is coming soon). The

express lanes are multi-modal facilities designed to reduce traffic congestion and promote choices in how and when residents commute. Instead of paying high tolls, Express Coaches allow riders to now enjoy the time-saving benefits of the express lanes for low cost of the Express Coach fare.

Try It FREE For a Week!

Scan the QR code below or visit ExpressCoach.org

HIT THE PAVEMENT FOR A GOOD CAUSE AT THE PARKLAND DASH

Get ready to lace up your running shoes for Parkland's yearly celebration of community and athleticism: The Parkland Dash! With choices of a 5K, 5-mile, or a 1-mile run, there's an option for everyone, whether you're a seasoned runner or simply eager to join in the fun.

With your participation, you're contributing to SOS Children's Villages, a local nonprofit beacon of hope for children in South Florida who have experienced abuse or neglect. Through providing safety, stability, and nurturing support, SOS Children's Villages empowers these young souls, enriching their lives emotionally, academically, and socially.

As part of the global family of SOS Children's Villages, the largest organization committed to ensuring children without parental care (or at risk of losing it) thrive and grow into their fullest

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Mark your calendars for October 8, 2023, and join us at Parkland's scenic Pine Trails Park. Early registration for the Parkland Dash is just $40 for the 5K and 5-mile runs and $20 for the 1-mile run or walk. And remember, your participation directly supports Eagles' Haven.

All race participants will receive a specially designed race t-shirt and finisher medal as tokens of their accomplishment. And there's more! Awards will grace the top three male and overall female finishers in the 5K and 5-mile races, celebrating their dedication and success.

With a race time set for the crisp morning hour of 7:15 am, be prepared

for a festive post-race celebration at the park. It's more than just a race; it's a jubilant gathering of friends, families, and neighbors, united in wellness and goodwill.

Join us in this joyful community tradition, where every step is a stride towards a brighter future for our children. See you at the Parkland Dash!

REGISTER TODAY!

Making Waves:

Coral Springs Aquatic Complex’s Journey to a Brighter Future

Kicked off on July 22, this comprehensive six-month project will be a flurry of activity from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days a week. It's not just a facelift; it's a rejuvenation aimed at enhancing and preserving the complex for generations to come.

According to Coral Springs Parks and Recreation Director, Rob Hunter, it was critical to start this project now due to safety concerns and to correlate with the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics training schedule.

“A 2022 study performed by an outside consultant revealed that our deck was shifting and leaking, so it was imperative that we start this project now,” Hunter said. “We are also proud that our facility is often used as a training site for Olympic-level swimmers, and we want to ensure our pools are primed and ready for them to use.”

FINA designated pool, separate diving well with platforms at varying heights, a 7,500 square foot fitness center, Swim Shop, and so much more.

Its reputation as a top-tier national and international training site is well-earned, with success stories like Olympic swimmer Bruno Fratus, who trained at the complex and went on to win a bronze medal at the 2020 Summer Olympics in July 2021. During the construction, the Aquatic Complex pools will be closed for use. Below is a list of updates for members and groups who currently use the facility:

• Swim lessons and classes will be accommodated at Cypress Pool and Mullins Pool.

• Public swim with an altered schedule will be available at Mullins Pool and Cypress Pool.

Dive into the future of aquatic excellence at the Coral Springs Aquatic Complex on Royal Palm Blvd! With the support of an American Rescue Plan (ARPA)-funded renovation, this hub for water enthusiasts of all kinds—from local swim teams to aspiring Olympians—is embarking on an exciting transformation slated to start this summer.

Critical infrastructure repairs will mend the cracked and shifting deck, ensuring safety and performance. Once completed, swimmers can look forward to the addition of modern amenities like permanent shading canopies, cutting-edge starting blocks, and dynamic diving boards.

The Coral Springs Aquatic Complex is more than a swimming facility; it's a symbol of community excellence and ambition. Originally completed in 1990 and dedicated in 1991, this Olympic-style swimming and training facility boasts features such as a 50-meter competition pool, 25-meter

• Fitness Center members will still have full access to the Aquatic Complex Fitness Center. Note: One week of Fitness Center floor repairs will occur at a future date, and members will be notified once this temporary closure is scheduled.

• Local high school swim teams will be accommodated at Mullins Pool.

• Members of contracted swim groups (Synchronized Swimming, Coral Springs Swim Club, Dive Team, etc.) are encouraged to contact their group leader for further instructions.

In a field where primary care providers often offer a wide range of services, Common Health stands out by concentrating on senior care and providing a more personalized approach. With seven locations across Broward County, Common Health is committed to ensuring the holistic well-being of their senior patients. Raul, the Sales and Marketing Director and patient advocate, shares the company's unique philosophy and dedication to providing high-quality healthcare services with a personal touch.

A Personal Connection:

Raul's strong connection to seniors fostered through his close relationship with his grandparents, led him to choose a career path dedicated to their well-being. Having experienced firsthand the challenges faced by the elderly, Raul made it his mission to provide seniors with the resources, healthcare options, and support that he wished he had available during his formative years.

Proactive Care and Listening:

What sets Common Health apart is their emphasis on taking a hands-on, proactive approach to senior care. Instead of offering additional, non-essential services like nail and hair salons, Common Health focuses on what truly matters to seniors: their health and well-being. By scheduling more frequent visits and actively listening to their health concerns, Common Health ensures that seniors receive comprehensive care that extends beyond conventional medical treatments.

Putting Seniors First with Proactive Care & Dedicated Support

Guidance for a Better Quality of Life:

Recognizing the importance of a healthy lifestyle, Common Health goes beyond just treating medical conditions. They provide guidance to seniors, promoting a better quality of life through personalized care plans and resources. Medicare 101 classes empower seniors to make informed decisions about their healthcare, while also offering assistance with Medicare Advantage insurance plans. Seniors can rely on Common Health to help navigate and maximize their healthcare benefits.

Compassionate Assistance and Resources:

Common Health understands that healthcare needs often extend beyond medical appointments. Raul and his team actively seek out and provide resources to address a range of senior needs, such as food insecurities, access to medical equipment, housing, transportation, and more. Seniors can trust that they are not alone on their healthcare journey, with Raul making himself available to them even outside typical office hours.

Adapting to the Modern World:

In the midst of advancing technology, Common Health goes the extra mile to ensure accessibility for their senior patients.

Beyond in-person visits, they offer telehealth services, allowing patients to consult with their providers remotely. Additionally, for emergencies or when transportation is a barrier, Common Health provides transportation services to ensure their seniors can attend appointments or receive immediate care.

With their unwavering commitment to seniors, proactive care approach, and comprehensive support, Common Health exemplifies a value-based primary care provider. Raul and his team at Common Health prioritize the well-being and quality of life of their senior patients, bringing a personal touch to every step of their healthcare journey. Whether it's providing resources, guidance, or compassionate assistance, Common Health is redefining what it means to truly care for seniors in Broward County.

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ArtServe's Tribute to Veterans: An

Exhibit Rooted in History and Heroism

the Tuskeegee Airman Major Leo Gray and shared various artifacts illustrating the heroic contributions of Gray’s fellow African American military bomber pilots and airmen who fought in World War II.

With an Honor Guard welcome by the Fort Lauderdale Navy League Sea Cadets who in turn were saluted by a standing-roomonly crowd in attendance, ArtServe opened its new art show on July 21, 2023 titled “Veterans’ Exhibit—a Family Perspective,” featuring over 50 artworks by distinguished local artists like George Gadson and Marilyn Johansen.

The evening coincided with the 93rd Anniversary of the creation of the U.S. Department of Veterans Administration, an act that forever changed how Americans cared for our veterans after their active service was completed. The ArtServe exhibit’s theme of caring for veterans also underscored imperatives in the June 9, 2023 presidential executive order on “Advancing Economic Security for Military and Veteran Spouses, Military Caregivers, and Survivors.”

The “Veterans’ Exhibit” opening night reception began with a panel discussion on veterans’ challenges as they transition back into civilian life. Speakers included VIP military veterans Brig. Gen. Richard Dix; Mission United co-founder Stephen Moss, a Vietnam veteran; Broward County Veterans Services Director Owen Walker; and foreign affairs advisor Duilia Turner, a former Air Force Lieutenant Colonel who served as Chief of Women, Peace, and Security at U.S. Southern Command. Moderated by Mission United director James Heaton, each panelist discussed his or her own transition from military life.

Along with the panel, the evening featured several presentations, including:

Retired U.S. Army lieutenant colonel Thaddeus Hamilton, who talked about

Artist George Gadson, who focuses his work on restoring the forgotten history found in many communities and capturing their civic memories through creative design works for public spaces, presented his sculpture of a Buffalo Soldier, which is on loan to ArtServe throughout the Veterans’ exhibit.

“Buffalo Soldiers” were formerly enslaved African-American United States Army regiments formed during the 19th century to serve on the American frontier. Because they often wore buffalo skins to stay warm, they became known as “Buffalo Soldiers.”

Artist Marilyn Johansen presented her portrait of Ed Morse—a decorated lieutenant and aviator in World War II who founded the now-national Ed Morse Automotive Group in 1946—to his grandson, Teddy, who was in attendance.

“Veterans’ Exhibition: A Family Perspective” is now open to the public from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays until Monday, September 11. Admission is always free. ArtServe is located at 1350 E. Sunrise Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale.

ArtServe inspires, supports and advances its diverse members, artists and the community by promoting artistic development, education and prosperity through the exploration and presentation of the visual and performing arts.

Fort Lauderdale-based ArtServe is an award-winning arts incubator that is advancing the arts for social good as a creative laboratory and hub for experimental artists committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. Now in its 35th year, ArtServe has won several awards for innovation in the arts and is supported in part by the Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward Cultural Council and Florida’s Department of State and the Division of Cultural Affairs.

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DEDICATE SEPTEMBER TO REFLECTION AND RAISING AWARENESS OF SUICIDE PREVENTION

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and September 10 – 16, 2023 is National Suicide Prevention Week. Did you know… Suicide ranks as the 10th leading cause of death and is the second leading cause of death among adolescents and young adults aged 15-24. This is all in the face of increased attempts to die by suicide, incidents of self-harm, and increased levels of depression and anxiety. The impact of a death by suicide affects more than the individual who tragically dies including the family, friends, and even the first responders who respond to these calls.

When a person is experiencing challenges to their mental health, it is important they have the help, resources, and support necessary to guide them through. Please take a moment to reflect and know the warning signs of suicide. These signs include feelings of despair, hopelessness, loss of interest in things that used to give them joy, excessive drug/alcohol use, becomes withdrawn or isolates themselves, or recently experienced or sustained traumatic life events. The best way to find out if someone is experiencing suicidal thoughts is to ask them directly.

Mental health challenges can affect a person’s moods, behaviors, and even their cognitive functioning. The norm in some cultures may be to avoid talking about problems, feelings, or mental health concerns. While some individuals can have healthy coping mechanisms, many people often struggle to find proactive methods for their emotional turmoil or unresolved trauma. For any stressful situation, talk about the feelings you have, provide an open dialogue, and promote the fact that it is OK to talk about feelings of stress, isolation, and anxiety. Help is here! United Way of Broward County partnered with the Broward Behavioral Health Coalition, and the Department of Children and Families to prioritize mental health struggles in its county-wide “It’s OK to not be OK” initiative and the 9-8-8 hotline. The goal

is to provide an outlet of support to the community facing challenges with mental health, or any feelings of stress, isolation, and anxiety.

Call the 9-8-8 hotline for support! Trained counselors provide each caller with guidance and free resources that will help in most situations.

Suicide Prevention Resources:

• Dial 9-8-8 if you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts.

• The 211 Broward Crisis and Suicide Care Support – www.211-broward.org/ crisis-and-suicide-care

• United Way of Broward County’s Commission on Behavioral Health & Drug Prevention’s website, drugfreebroward.org, also provides a support and prevention resource center with tool kits that provide support for mental and behavioral health issues.

• Postvention Support for Suicide Survivors is available through the Local Outreach for Suicide Survivors (LOSS) Team and provides survivor support groups and a Purple Packet Resource Guide. For more information, please feel free to call: 954.746.2055 X134 or email LOSS@mhasefl.org

Among the many pandemic-time hardships, forming meaningful connections was a challenge many faced.

Yet Coral Springs-based Girl Scout Troop 10883 creatively utilized a Coral Springs Park as a safe place to meet face-to-face, and laid the groundwork for an unexpected encounter that would result in a lifelong connection.

While holding open-air meetings at Orchid Park in Coral Springs in 2020, Troop 10883 became curious about an older gentleman who regularly visited one of the park’s memorial trees; the memorial was for a woman named RuthAnn Gillooly.

The gentleman - John Gillooly – RuthAnn’s husband – was kind and patient with the girls, sharing that his wife was a former teacher.

Inspired by his kindness, the troop chose to install a Little Free Library at the park in honor of RuthAnn next to her tree. Little Free Libraries are nationally known pop-up library installations where readers

are encouraged to ‘Take a Book. Share a Book’ for free.

Sadly, in the months that it took to install the library formally, John passed away. Kelli and the other parents tried to locate other family members hoping to include them in the official unveiling of the Little Free Library, but never found them.

On Saturday, March 4, 2023, with all the logistics finally in place – and the Little Library appropriately renamed to honor both RuthAnn and John Gillooly – the girls arrived at Orchid Park to unveil their project officially.

During the unveiling, they noticed another visitor at the memorial – and it was who they had been searching for all along – Kathleen Schaffer, the adult daughter of John and RuthAnn. Kathleen, along with her husband, made a spur-of-the-moment decision to visit Orchid Park that morning.

“Chills went up my back.” It was the craziest thing,” Kelli said.

The troop unveiled the new Little Library to an emotional Kathleen who shared just how much the Girl Scout Troop had meant to her dad during the last days of his life.

“He talked about them almost every day; he referred to them as “His” Girl Scouts,” Kathleen said. “As they grow, and when they go their own way, I hope they remember what a difference they can make; you never know who is sitting next to you.”

CORAL SPRINGS COMMISSION SEPTEMBER MESSAGE

As summer winds down and we look ahead to fall, we are thankful for the many upcoming events, meetings and activities that allow us to engage with residents and businesses.

To pay tribute to the victims and fallen heroes who tragically lost their lives on September 11, 2001, residents are invited to visit the September 11th Memorial located at the Northwest Regional Library (3151 N. University Drive.) A 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony will be held on Monday, September 11 at 8:30 a.m. for those who would like to attend. We will never forget the tragic events that took place and their lasting impact on our community and our country.

Commissioner Joy Carter will host Move with the Mayor this month, inviting residents to enjoy a game of Pickleball on Saturday, September 23 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The game will take place at Cypress Park Courts 1 and 2 (1301 Coral Springs Drive.) Participants are encouraged to bring their own racket, water, and a towel.

Keeping the youngest children in our community safe is a top priority. The Coral Springs-Parkland Fire Department will hold a Car Seat Installation event on Saturday, September 30 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the City Hall Parking Garage (9500 W. Sample Road.) Certified car seat installers will be on-hand to answer questions and to properly install new or existing car seats. Residents are encouraged to bring their car seat(s) and keep the installation area clear.

The First Budget Hearing for FY2024 will take place on Wednesday, September 13 at 5:15 p.m. The final adoption of the budget will occur on Wednesday, September 20 at 6 p.m. This hearing will be followed by a regular Commission meeting starting at 6:30 p.m. As always, the public is invited to attend or view Budget Hearings and Commission meetings. The meetings are aired on CityTV, Blue Stream Channels 25, 25.7, 725, and on AT&T U-Verse channel 99. Meetings are also live streamed at CoralSprings.gov/CityTV.

Finally, September is Suicide Awareness Month, a month when mental health organizations and individuals, both domestically and internationally, raise awareness about suicide prevention. Those who need help are encouraged to dial 9-8-8. The 988 Lifeline is now active across the United States and provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress.

▸ If you would like to schedule an appointment with any of your City Officials, please call 954-344-5911. Make sure to follow Coral Springs on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. Mayor Scott Brook @CSCommissioner1, Vice Mayor Shawn Cerra @CSCommissioner2, Commissioner Nancy Metayer Bowen @CSCommissioner3, Commissioner Joshua Simmons @CSCommissioner4, and Commissioner Joy Carter @CSCommissioner5

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By Mayor Rich Walker

September is typically a month for settling back into more stringent routines. Free time becomes less available, school-age children are back in school, travel teams are revving up, and the rhythm of our days and weeks becomes more rigid as we enter the fall months.

The shift in the demand for our time and energy often precedes a change in how we react to more robust schedules and the overall transition. And sometimes these small shifts in our lives can add up to create heavier burdens that seem insurmountable.

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2855 N. University Drive, Suite 110, Coral Springs, FL 33065

September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. It offers us a time and space to check in with our mental health and that of family and friends. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. In 2021, 48,000 people died by suicide, which was one of the top nine leading causes of death for people ages 10-64. Sadly, I have firsthand knowledge of the way it can have lasting harmful effects on individuals, families, and communities, as I had a brother who committed suicide.

This serious public health problem should be addressed, not quietly avoided. It is also preventable. The CDC Strategies for Action include the following community strategies that focus on preventing the risk of suicide before it occurs and reducing the immediate and long-term harms of suicidal behavior for individuals, families, communities, and society:

• Strengthen economic supports

• Create protective environments

• Improve access and delivery of suicide care

• Promote healthy connections

• Teach coping and problem-solving skills

• Identify and support people at risk

• Lessen harms and prevent future risk

When we take a moment to acknowledge our stressors as a community and as individuals, we have better control of how we respond to the twists and turns of life.

This fall, as you ease into the new routine, know that while some days will be harder than others, we do not have to go it alone. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call 988—the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also use your smartphone to scan the following QR code, which will take you to the City of Parkland’s Mental Wellness page that provides a number of mental health resources.

If you would like to share your thoughts on Suicide Prevention Awareness or Mental Health Awareness, I would love to hear from you. I can be reached via e-mail at rwalker@ cityofparkland.org or via cell phone at (973) 390-1453. Of course, I am frequently available monthly at Parkland businesses and love to talk with residents there. I encourage you to visit the City’s website cityofparkland. org and click on the social media icon that you prefer, to ensure that you stay informed on events and helpful information.

Pet of the Month

MSD & Coral Springs Welcome NEW FOOTBALL COACHES

Local football fans always have one date on the calendar circled at the start of the high school football season. The annual Pig Bowl game pits the Marjory Stoneman Douglas (MSD) Eagles against the Colts from Coral Springs High School.

While the uniforms will remain the same, this year’s game will have a very different look than years past. Both schools are welcoming new head football coaches. Eddie Brown will take over coaching duties at Coral Springs, while Keith Hindsley will lead the Eagles.

Hindsley takes over coaching MSD coaching duties from Quentin Short, who left to become the head coach at Piper High School.

A native of South Florida, Hindsley played college football at the University of Louisiana Monroe before getting into coaching at 26 and taking American Heritage in Delray to the State Championship in 2015.

“I think it was a community base in Parkland that I enjoyed,” Hindsley said. “The consistency of the kids is what really put me interested and getting back on the map. The past head coach did such a good job of keeping it together. I’m really excited to get rolling.”

Meet Lulu. She is the smartest, chillest, sweetest Cockapoo. She loves snack, playing dress up and long walks where she can look for bunnies and friends to play with. Lulu decided her own bed time and will consistently put herself to bed at 9:30pm. She loves snuggles and belly rubs.

ENTER TODAY AND MAKE YOUR PET FAMOUS!

Your Pet Could Be Our Pet of the Month!

Every month OUR CITY MEDIA randomly picks a pet of the month winner.

Send Pet’s: Best Picture, Name and about fifty words describing why they’re so special! Include: Your Name, Email, Phone, and City of Residence.

Email entries to: anna@ourcitymedia.com GOOD LUCK!

Hindsley takes over a program that has seen some of its best seasons over the past four years, culminating with the Eagle’s first playoff victory in 14 years, while Brown will set out to rebuild the Colts football program, which has not had a winning season since 2017.

Brown, who is the father of NFL superstar, Antonio Brown, has a long football career. He played college football at Louisiana Tech and became a star in the Arena Football league with the Albany/ Indiana Firebirds. He was named MVP in 1994 and then won a championship in 1996 before getting into coaching and has spent most of the past decade coaching at Boyd Anderson High School.

“I am very excited to have the opportunity to become the head coach here at Coral Springs,” Eddie said.

Meet The Winners

The winners of the 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards came together at Tavolino Della Notte Restaurant to commemorate their achievements. During the celebration, the winners relished in the delightful dishes prepared by Chef Bruno while graciously accepting their well-deserved awards. Visit these exceptional establishments soon to experience the excellence they have to offer!

BROWARD HEALTH

CORAL TINT

BMW SURGEONS

DR. WILLIAM FORERO DMD

DYAN'S COUNTRY KITCHEN

BAGEL DEPOT

EYE CONTACT WEST

CARAN ART & FRAME

INCOGNITO SALON

POOL CENTER USA

FLORIDA HEAT PUMP

THE B12 STORE

THE WALK

SCHOOL OF ROCK

AUTO WORKS

FRENCHIE'S BICYCLE SUPERSTORE

PAUL KAVANAGH

KILWINS CORAL SPRINGS

LAURA'S ULTIMATE PILATES

THE RED APRON BY CHEF DAN

LA BAMBA MEXICAN & SPANISH RESTAURANT

SCENTABILITY CANDLES

CRAFTY CRAB SEAFOOD

M&L INSURANCE

PIZZA BREW

LITTLE HAVANA BAR & GRILL

TALKIN TACOS

DR. BRAKES AUTO CARE

ALLBRITE POOL SUPPLIES

SZIRO JEWELRY DESIGN

FELLOWSHIP RECOVERY

MALACHI ACRES

MONA'S CLOTHING

RED GINGER

MONA'S CLOTHING

KOUYOU SUSHI & BUFFET

PEPPERONI GRILL

TAVOLINO DELLA NOTTE