WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2010

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
To Improve Facilities

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, located in our own backyard, is one of the region’s most popular attractions, delighting visitors with its beautiful scenery, world-art displays, and outstanding exhibits and programs. Originally constructed in 1941, it is embarking on a capital development program designed to enhance the experience for visitors. As part of this initiative, the City Commission approved changes yesterday to the site that will improve the garden’s existing facilities. The Paul and Swanee DiMare Science Village at Fairchild Tropical Garden, referred as the “Science Village,” will undergo additions to its existing building complex, including new additional office space, an expanded café and a plant shade house that replaces existing structures on the southwest corner of the gardens. Fairchild Garden was successful in reaching an agreement with the neighboring Hammocks Oaks Homeowners Association in connection with the construction and expansion of the facilities. This capital improvement project adds 25,633 sq. ft. of new building space at the Science Village complex to the existing 49,690 sq. ft. building. A new screened structure would replace the existing high shade house and the existing maintenance building would be replaced with a one-story office building pavilion (“west wing”) and a new two-story office building (“east wing”). Plans are to expand the existing café, giving visitors one more reason why they should spend a day at this fabulous Coral Gables gardens. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is located at 10901 Old Cutler Road. For more information on its programs and amenities, click here.

City Opposes Change In Share
Of Transportation Surtax

The Coral Gables City Commission unanimously approved a resolution on August 24 to formally initiate conflict resolution procedures to hold Miami-Dade County to its promise that 20 percent of revenue derived from the People’s Transportation Plan, approved by voters in 2002, be limited to municipalities in existence as of November 5, 2002. The county receives the remaining 80 percent of the revenue share. Miami-Dade County is now proposing that new cities created after 2002 share in the pro rata distribution of the 20 percent share currently allotted to the existing cities. The City of Coral Gables objects to the proposed change because it violates an interlocal agreement in effect between the county and the City, and more importantly, because it defies the agreement reached in 2002 between the county and all of the existing cities wherein Miami-Dade County pledged to limit 20 percent of surtax revenue to existing cities in exchange for their assistance in obtaining voter support for the tax increase in 2002. The Coral Gables Trolley program is funded by the half-penny transportation surtax. The cities of Miami, Miami Beach and Hialeah are also objecting to the county’s proposed change.

Senior Fair Is All About Healthy Choices & Programs

Today’s older Americans enjoy longer lives and better health than did previous generations. Coral Gables seniors can learn about healthy choices and programs designed for a long and healthy life, all under one roof, on Monday, September 20, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the War Memorial Youth Center, 405 University Drive. The Senior Health Fair is presented in collaboration with Doctors Hospital and Coral Gables@Home. Participants will receive a series of free services such as screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose and bone density. Seniors will also be treated for a light lunch, while supplies last. For additional information, contact the City of Coral Gables Senior Services Division at 305-460-5609.

Does Your Dog Love SpongeBob Too?

If nautical nonsense is something you wish while your dog likes to drop on the deck and flop like a fish, this event might be just made for you. The Venetian Pool is presenting Paws in the Pool, an event for dog owners and their four-legged companions where they can pretend to be among their animated friends from Bikini Bottom. The pool will open its waters on Sunday, September 26 for two sessions to accommodate both small and large dogs. Small dogs up to 30 pounds can swim or flop like a fish from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Large dogs from 31 pounds and up are welcome from 2-5 p.m. You must bring proof of current rabies vaccination. Only those accompanied by a dog will be permitted to enter the facility. Tickets can be bought at the door for $5 per dog and $2 per person. The Venetian Pool is located at 2701 DeSoto Boulevard. For more information, call 305-460-5306.

Coral Gables Chamber
Is Looking For Corporate Diamonds

If you are part of a local business that sparkles with success, consider applying for the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce’s 2010 Diamond Awards. Presented by Montica Jewelry, the awards recognize excellence in business achievement, corporate citizenship, customer service and workplace environment. Businesses must show a commitment to provide exceptional products and services while also addressing the needs of our community. Applicants must be Coral Gables Chamber members or have their offices located in Coral Gables. Award categories include Hearts on Fire Large Business, Montica Ideal Cut Medium Business, Princess of Hearts Small Business, Diamond in the Rough, Carbon Award for “Excellence in Information Technology,” Ideal Workplace, Minority-Owned Business, Non-Profit Organization and Restaurant/Retailer. Applications are due on October 7. Diamond Award winners will be announced on November 4th at the Hyatt Regency Coral Gables. For more information, contact the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce at 305-446-1657 or click here.