Neighborhood News February 2009

Last week the City had its most successful strategic planning retreat that I
have ever been a part of. I appreciate the input and diligence of all my
City colleagues. We discussed the economic crisis calmly, our recent survey
results and proposed strategic priorities to carry us forward for the next
two years at least as we weather this economic upheaval. All, thankfully,
is in relatively good shape in our City! We plan to elevate our Buy Coral
Springs campaign and highlight various initiatives for small businesses and
those looking for local employment in the immediate future. Please look at
our website, www.coralsprings.org for details.

One disappointing result from our survey was that under 50% of you view our
website. Commissioner Bruck has suggested we consider contests as a way of
motivating more citizen to learn about our offerings through the website.
While we explore that possibility I urge you to visit the site to learn
about ways we help every segment of our population and to learn about
upcoming events as well as the decisions we are making that affect you.

What are you doing the weekend of March 21 and March 22? I hope you have
already booked your calendar for another fantastic Festival of the Arts at
the Walk from 10 am to 5 pm. I am looking forward to bringing my family yet
again! I hope to see you there.

On a personal note, I have LOVED coaching my son, A.J. and our whole soccer
team along with my good friend, Martin Krost. We have an incredible youth
soccer program and I am grateful to all of the volunteers. It is a joy to
coach so many well-behaved children. A.J., Nick, Alejandro, Marcos, Travis,
Francisco, Yahya, Marcus, Jordan, Anthony, Shy and Eric: You guys are
AWESOME!

High school students looking for help finding a job are sure to get guidance
at the upcoming Business Success Day and Youth Job Fair. Teens ages 14 and
older can attend Business Success Day on Friday, March 27 beginning at 9
a.m. These teens will learn critical job search skills including resume
writing, interview techniques and appropriate interview attire. Business
Success Day helps prepare teens for the Youth Job Fair, scheduled for the
afternoon of the same day. It is suggested that each person dresses in
appropriate business attire. Students can earn volunteer hours for going to
both events. Business Success Day will be held at Sartory Senior Center,
located at 10150 NW 29 Street. Students must sign up no later than March 8
by calling Nedra Lyon at 954-345-2204. Please leave a message with your
first and last names spelled clearly, age, phone number and name of your
school.

Now teens can find out the latest City happenings through CityText. Sign up
by visiting coralsprings.org/citytext and receive texts on upcoming events,
service hour opportunities and more. You must be 18 years old or have
parental consent to sign up. Please keep in mind that if you do not have
unlimited texts, you may be charged an additional fee per text.

As always, please visit coralsprings.org for City news and visit our
Event Calendar to view the Commission's scheduled office hours. Feel free to
email me at sbrook@coralsprings.org if there is anything I can help you
with.

Posted: Thursday, Feb 19, 2009