Wednesday, August 22, 2007
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CONTENTS:Carver Middle Is Top School In Florida
Golden Residents Asked To Participate In Gables Art Contest
Commission Chambers To Reveal New Look
Flags On Ponce Give City An International Flair
How Do We Communicate? Please Give Us Your Feedback
Remember To Slow Down On School Speed Zones
Preparing Businesses To Prevent Terrorism
Preventing Stormwater Runoff Pollution
Traffic
Events Roundup
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Carver Middle Is Top School In Florida >>> George Washington Carver Middle School of Coral Gables is the number one-ranked middle school in Florida, according to the Florida Department of Education. Receiving the highest markings among 577 middle schools in Florida, and among 339 middle schools in Miami-Dade County, Carver Middle is no stranger to success. For the last six consecutive years, the academic institution has maintained an “A” school status and students have done extremely well in the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT). Carver Middle School is the only public middle school recognized by the French, German and Spanish governments and accredited by France and Spain. All students study French, German, or Spanish and the respective cultures at in-depth levels. Congratulations to Principal Libia Gonzalez, the staff and students for working hard throughout the school year.
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Golden Residents Asked To Participate In Gables Art Contest >>> Seniors who live in Coral Gables can soon put artistic talents on display at the first ever “Celebration of Talent Art Contest.” Coral Gables golden residents, age 55 or older, are encouraged to submit art work in the following categories: paintings and drawings, photography, hard crafts such as sculpture, ceramics and woodworking and soft crafts such as needlework, quilting and weaving. All entries will be showcased at the Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center and prizes will be awarded in each category and for “Best in Show.” The deadline to submit the entry form is Monday, September 17th but art pieces will not need to be turned in for judging until November, giving participants enough time to create pieces for the show. For more information on the 2007 Celebration of Talent Art Contest, pick up a copy of the latest edition of Golden Gables, a City of Coral Gables publication which focuses on seniors. The newsletter is available at City Hall and the Youth Center, by calling the Office of Public Affairs at 305-460-5392 or by clicking here.
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Commission Chambers To Reveal New Look >>> The next time you step inside the City’s Commission Chambers it may look a little different. During the two-month summer break, crews have been working non-stop to renovate the Chambers on the second floor at City Hall where the City Commission meets on a regular basis. Among the upgrades are a new ADA accessible speaker podium, new carpet and cork flooring refinishing, upgrades in audio and visual technology, including large-sized viewing monitors for the audience. The upgrades, which cost approximately $50,000, are part of an ambitious Capital Improvement Projects that have kept City workers very busy this year. The upgraded Chambers will be unveiled at the City Commission meeting scheduled for Tuesday, August 28th beginning at 9 a.m.
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Flags On Ponce Give City An International Flair >>> From December through June, flags from more than 120 countries are flown along Ponce de Leon Boulevard in a stunning visual display of the international business community. The Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce created the program back in 1993 to recognize the significant number of consulates and multinational businesses that call Coral Gables home. Shortly thereafter, the City of Coral Gables took over the program and expanded it to what it is today. This year the Chamber, through its International Affairs Committee, will again partner with the City of Coral Gables to support the flags on Ponce de Leon Boulevard and celebrate the international spirit of the City Beautiful. A reception will be held this November to focus on all things international. For more information, contact the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce at 305-446-1657.
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How Do We Communicate? Please Give Us Your Feedback >>> How important is it for you to keep up to date on what is happening in the City of Coral Gables? Do you think the City is communicating well with residents? Do you have any suggestions for the website, Coral Gables Television, or e-News? The City of Coral Gables wants to know what you think about its communication program and vehicles. To participate, simply log on to the City’s homepage and complete the on-line survey titled “How Do We Communicate?” The information gathered will help the City evaluate the effectiveness of all external communications. To go directly to the survey, click here.
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Remember To Slow Down On School Speed Zones >>> Thousands of children from Coral Gables are now back in school and the City of Coral Gables wants to remind you to slow down when driving through these School Speed Zones. With the 2007–2008 school year in full swing, all drivers must take notice of those bright white and yellow signs that warn of 15-mile per hour speed limits. These zones are strategically located on streets nearest to public and private schools and those directly bordering it to protect children and parents crossing busy streets. Coral Gables Police will be enforcing the school zones to ensure that drivers follow the rules of the road. If keeping children safe isn’t incentive enough, fines for going over the school speed zone range from $126 to $576, depending on the infraction.
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Preparing Businesses To Prevent Terrorism >>> While the government is doing everything it can to prevent terrorism, business owners and the public in general are being asked to take part to stay safe and alert. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Protective Security Coordination Division (PSCD) and the Private Sector Office came together to offer a Soft Target Terrorism Awareness Course for the public. The course, which was recently offered to the South Florida business and non-profit community, was hosted by Gary Warren, a U.S. Department of Homeland Security Advisor for the Miami region. The course presented a brief analysis of terrorism, historical examples, introduction to surveillance and surveillance detection, and an overview of prevention, response and recovery tactics. Business, schools or other organizations interested in receiving terrorism prevention information can contact Warren by email at gary.warren@dhs.gov or by phone at 305-863-5253. For additional information about preparing your business for any kind of emergency, be it hurricane, utility disruption or man-made disaster, click here.
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Preventing Stormwater Runoff Pollution >>> Rainy days in South Florida are very common during the summer, and if not careful, these downpours can cause stormwater pollution. As stormwater flows over driveways, lawns and sidewalks, water picks up debris, chemicals, dirt and other pollutants. Stormwater can flow into a storm sewer system or directly into a lake, or coastal water. Anything that enters a storm sewer system is discharged untreated into the waterbodies used for swimming, fishing and providing drinking water. Polluted runoff is the nation’s greatest threat to clean water. So what can you do to help? Here are 1o things you can do to prevent stormwater runoff pollution:
1) Use fertilizers sparingly, and sweep driveways, sidewalks and gutters.
2) Never dump anything down storm drains or in streams.
3) Vegetate bare spots in your yard.
4) Compost yard waste.
5) Use least toxic pesticides, follow labels and learn how to prevent pest problems.
6) Direct downspouts away from paved surfaces and consider a rain garden to capture runoff.
7) Take your car to the car wash instead of washing it in the driveway.
8) Check your car for leaks and recycle motor oil.
9) Pick up after your pet.
10) Have your septic tank pumped and system inspected regularly.
Adopt these healthy household habits and help protect lakes and coastal waters.
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Traffic >>> Le Jeune Road between S.W. 16 Street and South Dixie Highway: As this project is being finalized, driver may notice fewer road closures, however intermittent lane closures may be possible daily (8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) at various locations between S.W. 16th Street and S. Dixie Highway/US-1 while workers complete minor roadway improvements that include concrete, signalization and paving work. Lanes on adjacent side streets will also be affected by this work. Please note that at least one lane will remain open at all times. Access to residences and businesses will be maintained and motorists will be allowed to turn left at major intersections. For more information, please contact Carlos Sarmiento at 305-499-2410 or via email at carlos.sarmiento@dot.state.fl.us.
> Hardee Road Traffic Circles: Three traffic circles are being installed on Hardee Road at the intersection of Maynada Street, Granada Boulevard and Riviera Drive. The Granada Boulevard circle is close to completion. Riviera Drive is the next intersection scheduled for construction. Work on the circles will occur Monday through Friday during businesses hours unless otherwise noted. Intermittent lane closures in the area may be necessary in the following weeks. Please plan accordingly.
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Events Roundup >>> Here is a partial list of upcoming cultural events in Coral Gables. Please call ahead to confirm, as dates and times may change. For a complete list of events in Coral Gables, click here.
Ongoing: The historic Merrick House, the family home of Coral Gables founder George Merrick, is open to the public on Wednesdays and Sundays for tours at 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m. The tour of this charming home built of coral rock, still home to the artwork and early possessions of the Merrick family, lasts about 45 minutes. Tickets are $5 for adults; $3 for senior citizens (ages 65+) and students with ID; $1 for children ages 6-12, and free for children ages 5 and under. The Merrick House, a remarkable example of South Florida architecture, is located at 907 Coral Way. For more information, call 305-460-5095.
First Friday of The Month: Art lovers flock to Coral Gables the first Friday of every month for Gallery Night. Boasting dozens of galleries, Coral Gables is the premier destination for art and cultural events. The City offers free trolley service to most of the galleries locations from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Some galleries may feature musicians for your entertainment. For a list of art galleries in Coral Gables, click here.
Mondays, Thursdays & Saturdays: Promote relaxation after a hard days work with the gentle postures and breathing techniques of Yoga. Basic Yoga is offered at the Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center Mondays and Thursdays from 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Create harmony in your body, mind and spirit. Members pay $11 for a single class or $41 for four classes, residents pay $15 per class or $55 for four classes, and non-residents pay $19 per class or $69 for four classes. The Youth Center is located at 405 University Drive. For more information, call 305-460-5600.
Mondays: The Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center has created a special yoga class just for seniors. Yoga for Seniors is meant to build strength, flexibility, balance and coordination in the older generation. The class will be held on Mondays from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. in the classroom next to the Fitness Center. Wear comfortable clothing, don’t eat two hours prior to the class and bring a towel. Registration is required at the front desk before attending the class. The Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center is located at 405 University Drive. Classes cost $11 for members or $41 for a series of four classes. Residents pay $15 per class or $55 for four classes. Non-residents pay $19 a class or $69 for four classes. Call 305-460-5600 for more information.
August 22: The Coral Gables Adult Activity Center at University Baptist Church is
looking for volunteers for many programs. A meeting will be held on Wednesday from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30
p.m. for all those interested in volunteering at the City's new senior center. This
is a great opportunity for seniors to become active, physically and socially, in community. The Adult
Activity Center at University Baptist Church is located at 624 Anastasia Avenue. For more information,
call 305-460-5609.
August 22: Calling all young aspiring actors and actresses, Miami Childrens Theater
is looking for performers ages 10 – 21 to work in the production company's latest play, Snow
White and the Seven Dwarfs. Auditions will be held on Wednesday, August 22 from 6 p.m. to 8
p.m. at the Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center Theater at 405 University Drive. Bring a one-minute
comedic monologue. For more information, call 305-274-3595.
August 23: Author Lesley Arfin is cracking open her diary and letting the world read.
Arfin will be at Books & Books, 265 Aragon Avenue, tomorrow to describe what life was like for her
as a teenager and during her college years. Her book “Dear Diary” contains all the experiences
that make you cringe about adolescence: awkward relationships, social acceptance, sex and drugs. The
presentation starts at 8 p.m. For more information, call Books & Books at 305-442-4408.
August 23: Hop aboard a bus at the Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center bound for
the Jewish Museum of Florida located in Miami Beach. Once there, tour the exhibit “Mosaic: Jewish
Life in Florida” which includes over 500 photographs and artifacts that depict Jewish life in
Florida since 1763. Then tour “The Art of Aging” exhibit which pays tribute
to elders. Featured are works of multi-generational artists from North America, Israel and England in
painting, sculpture, photography, fiber, mixed media and video depicting the complex and diverse aspects
of aging. The bus will depart from the Youth Center, 405 University Drive at 10 a.m. and return at 12:30
p.m. The cost of admission and transportation is $5 for residents and $6.25 for non-residents. Please
register by August 16 by calling 305-460-5609.
August 23 - 25: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden has a wide range of volunteer opportunities
available for the community; from gardening to guiding, office work to special events. On Thursday and
Friday at 9:30 a.m. or Saturday at 10 a.m., learn how your special skills and interests can be implemented
into the programs and activities at Fairchild during the Volunteer Information Days.
The two-day Thursday and Friday session will be held at the Garden House and includes a visit to Fairchild's
Center for Tropical Plant Conservation. The Saturday session will be held at the Corbin Building in
Classroom A. To reserve your seat, call Sandy at 305-667-1651, extension 3324. Fairchild is located
10901 Old Cutler Road.
August 25: The Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce is having a Grand Dinner Dance
Party at the Hyatt Regency, 50 Alhambra Plaza. If you didn't know how to dance before this
event, you will when you leave. Arthur Murray Dance Studios will be providing a dance exhibition followed
by a group dance instruction for everyone. The theme for this dinner party is So You Think You Can
Dance. The event starts with a wine and cheese reception from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., followed by the
dinner dance. The cost for having a great time is $60 which includes dinner and cocktails. Make your
reservations by today by calling the Chamber at 305-446-1657.
August 29: The theme dinners at the Biltmore Hotel continue with a South American
Wine Themed Dinner on Wednesday. The South American feast will be prepared by Chef Phillippe
Ruiz and accompanied by wines from the vast wine-producing regions in the area. The culinary event takes
place at 7 p.m. at Palme d'Or. Cellar Club and Premier members pay $89 while non-members pay $109. To
make your reservations, call 305-913-3203.
August 28 & September 4: Tuesday nights at the Cascade Poolside Bar & Grill are all about unwinding
with the sounds and flavors of Cuba. The Biltmore Hotel presents Havana Nights from
6 p.m. to 10 p.m. right at the edge of the hotel’s famous 700,000 gallon swimming pool. The Biltmore
Hotel is located at 1200 Anastasia Avenue. For more information, call 305-445-1926.
August 30: Trumpeter Jon Faddis is described as a consummate musician, composer, conductor
and educator who posses an unparalleled range and full command of the trumpet, making the impossible
look effortless. Hear for yourself why he is so highly praised. On Thursday at 8 p.m., the Jon Faddis
Quartet takes the stage at the Coral Gables Congregational Church as part of the Summer Concert Series.
Tickets cost $25 if purchased in advance or $30 at the door. For tickets or more information, call 305-448-7421,
extension 33. Coral Gables Congregational Church is located at 3010 De Soto Boulevard.
August 30: Don't miss this opportunity to see some famous Miami landmarks in a very
unique setting. Seniors are invited to take a popular Miami Duck Tour, an amphibious
vehicle which gives an up-close look at the some of the homes of the rich and famous by splashing into
Biscayne Bay. Residents pay $35.95 and non-residents pay $44.95. The fee includes transportation, tickets
and parking. You can enjoy lunch at a local restaurant at your own expense. Please register by August
20th by calling 305-460-5609.
September 6: It's that time of year when the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce presents
the Annual Chairman's Reception. On this night, you not only enjoy the reception, but
you can also sign-up to volunteer on a Chamber Committee and showcase your business or service through
the “Table Top Showcase.” The cost of the reception is $30 for members that register by
August 31 and $40 for non-members. For more information, call 305-446-1657 or send an email to Georgina
Exposito at gexposito@coralgableschamber.org.
September 15: The Coral Gables Police Department Marine Patrol Unit is offering a Boating Safety
Course. Florida State Statue requires persons 21 years of age or younger complete an approved
Boating Safety Course and carry proof of completion of the course when operating a vessel with an engine
greater than 10 horsepower. The course being offered at the Cocoplum Yacht Club located at 6500 Prado
Boulevard will satisfy this requirement. The cost of the course is $10 and checks must be made payable
to Coral Gables Citizens’ Crime Watch. Class starts at 8 a.m. and lunch is included in the price.
Register early for this class by calling 305-460-5401.
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