On February 7th, Coral Gables Rotarians finished their veterans outreach project that included completely furnishing 5 apartments from kitchen needs to furniture and bedding.
The last apartment was in Homestead where Rotarians, under the direction of Community Service Chair Lorraine Sheldon, of Quetzal Design, helped give another previously homeless veterans a place to call home. This was certainly one of the most gratifying projects the club has done this year for many. Among those finishing up this project with Lorraine that day were Rotarians Frank Sexton, Heather Shatzel, and Christopher Cross. Gables Rotarians are especially dedicated to programs helping veterans and, under the leadership of Past President Yolanda Woodbridge, visit the VA Hospital once a month to organize bingo with food and prizes as well. Gables Rotarian Fred Baddour, of CRB Geological, and Yoli are among the many individuals and businesses instrumental in helping fund this ongoing project.
Pinecrest –Dadeland and Coral Gables Rotarians also joined forces for the Rotary Golf Classic on February 6, at The Biltmore. Golf was followed by an awards luncheon and drawings all to benefit and awards was followed by a Golf Ball Drop. Look for more on this in the next issue.
On the education front, students and parents are encouraged to attend the Miami National College Fair. The event will be held Sunday, February 22, 2015, noon to 4 p.m., at the Double Tree by Hilton Miami Airport. Admission is free and promises to be a great way to check out options after graduation.
The first ever Jr. Orange Bowl Gala is only weeks away scheduled for February 28, at the Westin Colonnade. Event Chair Michelle Benitez-Bermudez has a great evening planned and sponsorships. Tickets and sponsorships are still available. For information, call 305 6621210.
This time of year, there are no shortage of fun events to attend. On March 7th, the GFWC Coral Gables Woman’s Club’s Casino Night is certainly to best deal in town for a great evening of fun, games, music, food , silent auction and more. Tickets are $50 and include entertainment, gaming, one drink (cash bar as well) , hors d’oeuvres and silent auction all for a great cause. Fun begins at in the CGWC’s beautiful clubhouse at 1009 East Ponce de Leon Blvd.
Every weekend, walkers and runners can find a walk but one close to this writer’s heart is the March 14th 5K Walk at Amelia Earhart Park for A Safe Haven for Newborns, an organization that recently saved its 219th newborn.
Save the date, Sunday, April 26th, when Paws 4 You will hold its 5K run/walk hoping to replicate last year’s success that saved countless dogs from euthanasia at Miami-Dade Animal Services. Changing it up a bit, this year’s event will be held early evening at Killian Greens Golf Club and will feature an officially timed race on a certified course for our more serious runners, with a celebration to follow. All are encourage to attend, bring your friends, families, and dogs! Those interested n supporting the events and receive more information may call Cindy at 305-332-9022 or email events@paws4you.org for booth and sponsorship opportunities.
Finally, Coral Gables Farmers Market a 24 year old community tradition returns Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. , through March 29. Check out the European-style green market held in front of City Hall offering farm-fresh produce, baked goods, juices, honey, herbs, jams and jellies, gourmet specialty foods, and a variety of plants for the home or garden. Music, Tai Chi classes, gardening workshops and cooking demonstrations are all part of the free activities for all ages.
Until next time, keep making each day count.
If you would like to submit information for this column, please send your news via e-mail to gloriagalburns@aol.com.
