Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce president Mark Trowbridge was honored with the job of the very first coin toss for the Miami Inferno’s first home game ever at BankUnited Center on Sunday, May 25.
The new indoor football franchise, led by Coach Pete Taylor, routed the Missouri Voodoo but, despite a lopsided game, the crowd had a great time. Cheerleaders, canon firing goodies, T-shirt tosses, and even a kids race in a big bubble down field and back. All provided laughs and lots of excitement. Kudos to Chad Dittman and his staff for bringing football lovers an affordable option during the NFL’s off season.
On May 20, new members of the Coral Gables Museum Board of Directors were voted in at the organization’s annual meeting. The catered event featured music by Jordan Couceyro, welcome remarks by Chip Withers and a performance by the Greater Miami Youth Symphony. Museum executive director Christine Rupp joined Withers with introductions and an overview of the museum’s accomplishments.
Those retiring board members, Arva Moore Parks and Laura Russo, were thanked for their service. Carrying on the 2014-15 board of directors include members John Allen, Ajit Asrani, Lynn Bauer, Ramona Busot, Lyan Fernandez, Joe Jackson, Doug Jolly, Tracy Kerdyk, Zak Mann, Cristina Mas, Albert Menendez, James Murphy, Doug Parker, Aura Reinhardt, Venny Torre, Marie Vacca and Chip Withers.
The women of the GFWC Coral Gables Woman’s Club once again hosted the Tucker Elementary Graduation party on May 19. Education chair Susie Tilson orchestrated the event with several other volunteers from the club including Barbara Lapsley, Dr. Iris Torres Rivera, MaryAnn Etkin, Vicki McGroarty, Ana Lam, Linda Hartwell and club president, Mayra Dominguez.
The students enjoyed lunch, dancing and presented the club with artwork they created which will be framed and hung in the club’s May Van Sickle Children’s Dental Clinic.
These women continued their outreach efforts with several members helping NPH USA with a big luncheon fundraiser on May 20, and then a social working fun night on May 21 when 16 members came to help make Florida souvenirs for the International Convention to be held in Arizona. Our very own Debi Van Stone was chosen as the Florida Leads winner and she will bring the souvenirs representing Florida.
Among the many helping with that project with this writer were Kate Swain, Nancy Desmangles, MaryAnn Etkin, Linda Hartwell, Patricia Hendon, Mitzy Jenner, Barbara Lapsley, Ruth Martinez, Maria Mendez, Margie Shanti, Kate Swain, Iris Torres-Rivera, Claire Frances Whitehurst, and Andy Young.
On June 26, Coral Gables Rotarians will be honoring their Coral Gables Citizen of the Year at the Courtyard Marriott during their luncheon. Look for an announcement in the next issue for the winner of this year’s prestigious award.
Finally, mark your calendars for the annual “Scoops of Hope” Breakfast at the Westin Colonnade on July 23 to benefit Give Kids the World. Charities interested in participating may sell tickets and keep half of the proceeds for their non-profit programs. Chef Thomas Russo always provides an incredibly yummy buffet topped off with ice cream for dessert, a meal that is completely underwritten by the Westin Colonnade. This is a great way for groups to raise funds with no risk. Tickets are $10.
For more information on how your organization may participate, call 305-968-3090.
Until next time, keep making each day count.
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