Archives: June 2005
Thu Jun 30, 2005
Davie Police Department wins accreditation
I was honored to attend the accreditation interview and award ceremony for the Davie Police Department. The Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation gave me a few minutes to offer some words of support for our Police Department at the ceremony in Jacksonville. The Davie Police Department was praised for it's level of professionalism by the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation. We could not have received a better evaluation. Congratulations to the Davie PD!!
Photo: Davie Police Chief John George is in the center holding the certificate in the large frame. To the left of Chief George are three members of his Police accreditation team. On the far left is the Chairman of the State accreditation commission. That's Mayor Truex and Vice-Mayor Hubert on the right of Chief George. Town Administrator Chris Kovanes is on the far right of the photo. [*click* photo to enlarge]
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Wed Jun 29, 2005
Mayor Truex attends ceremony for the Davie Police Department to receive accreditation from the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation
I'm in Jacksonville today as the Davie Police Department receives official accreditation from the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation.
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Tue Jun 28, 2005
Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting for Broward Candy
Yes, attending ribbon cutting ceremonies and grand openings really is part of the Mayor's job. I enjoy these occasions. Being a small business owner myself, I think it is important to encourage and support our local businesses.
Photo: Mayor Truex at the ribbon cutting ceremony at the Grand Opening ceremony for Broward Candy, on University Drive in Davie. The two lovely owners of the business are in the center, holding the oversized scissors. Lourdes Perez, President of the Davie-Cooper City Chamber of Commerce is in front, on the left. [*click* photo to enlarge]
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Mon Jun 27, 2005
Harry and Cheryl Salem at Abundant Living Ministries.
My family were guests at the Sunday morning worship service at Abundant Living Ministries. Harry and Cheryl Salem were the special speakers. ALM has a lively, spirited worship service. I'd recommend them to anyone looking for a church home in this area.
Photo: Abundant Living Ministries in Pembroke Pines, just south of Southwest Ranches. [*click* photo to see their web site]
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Sat Jun 25, 2005
Archive Photo of The Week: Yellow Cactus Bloom
Not being an expert on cacti, I can't tell you for sure what the name of this cactus is. As best as I can tell, it is a Beavertail Cactus , possibly of the species, Opuntia. I found a piece of this plant, broken off from a larger cactus in the Florida Keys. The lobes on this plant are the size and shape of large dinner plates, and are one of the easiest plants to grow. Just put a of piece of the plant in the dirt, supported by a stick and it will be growing in no time. In fact, if you just threw a piece of this cactus in the dirt, I think it would take root and grow. I never tested this idea, but now that I've thought of it, I'll have to give it a try.
Photo: Another cactus bloom in the Mayor's back yard. I couldn't identify this species with certainty. It looks like a "Beavertail Cactus." [*click* photo to enlarge]
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Fri Jun 24, 2005
Open house for new facility for Firewall Ministries
Vice-Mayor, Lisa Hubert, and Councilman, Mike Crowley, joined me at the open house for the new classroom building of Firewall Ministries in Palma Nova Mobile Home Park. The new building, as well as considerable other support for this ministry, was supplied by Austin Foreman. Firewall Ministries reaches out to teenagers on a number of levels: through tutoring, mentoring and a youth program in the mobile home park. Firewall Ministries is making an important difference in the community. The teenagers and parents connected with the program are taking a big step toward improving their lives and their community.
Photo: Pastor Andy Fernandez makes a point during the open house for Firewall Ministries. [*click* photo to enlarge]
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Thu Jun 23, 2005
Davie's Budget Process for 2005-2006 is Under Way
I met with the Town Administrator and Finance Director yesterday to discuss the Town's ongoing Budget process for fiscal year 2005-2006. The Budget process is never an easy task. Any government which can plan a budget without making any difficult choices is most likely taxing it's citizens too greatly. That bit of philosophy aside, this year's budget promises to be especially challenging.
As in last year's budget, most of the decisions driving the whole process have already been made, before we hold the first budget meeting. In particular the single largest category of cost increases are for public safety personnel. Those costs were largely anticipated, although there are some unknowns, due to market performance and interest, which in turn impact such things as the Town's pension costs.
Your Town Council has consistantly said that public safety is our number one goal. Police and Fire-Rescue services are expensive.
As in years past, I will fight for a high level of services to residents at a low cost to taxpayers.
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Wed Jun 22, 2005
Mayor Truex attends Davie Merchant and Industrial Association Meeting
Last night I attended the monthly dinner meeting of the Davie Merchant and Industrial Association (DMIA), with a handful of Davie business owners and retired business people. I wish the organization well under their new leadership.
Photo: Mayor Tom Truex with a Davie institution, Edna Moore. "Though we frequently disagree in our views of appropriate business development, I feel fortunate to call Mrs. Moore my friend. She is a pleasant and caring person. You would be hard pressed to find a more committed advocate for her point of view. She's been a voice in the business community for years, including a long stint as the editor of the DMIA newsletter. She was also a candidate for Davie Town Council in years past." [*click* photo to enlarge]
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Tue Jun 21, 2005
Linear Park: Another Davie Treasure
Davie's web site says Linear Park runs from U.S. 441 to Flamingo Road, along Orange Drive. In practice, the bike path actually extends past Vista View Park, on Boy Scout Road (148th Avenue). Janet and I biked almost the whole length--and back again (that's our double bike in the foreground of the photo). It's a very enjoyable bike ride. Although, if you bring the kids, exercise caution. Some of the major intersections are a real hazard to navigate. Biking up to the top of the old landfill mount at Vista View Park is a challenge, but well worth the effort. It gives you a good view for miles around. It is the tallest piece of land in Davie.
Photo: Looking West from the shelter near Hiatus Road on Linear Park. [*click* photo to enlarge]
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Mon Jun 20, 2005
Davie-Cooper City Chamber of Commerce, June Breakfast Meeting.
The monthly breakfast meeting of the Davie-Cooper City Chamber of Commerce has been at Rolling Hills (first the Country Club, then the Hotel) since I first attended in the mid 1980's. That long run came to an end last month. The meetings will continue, but the location has changed!
The monthly breakfast meeting is a good chance to meet with other local business people. There is always a good program and good breakfast, as well. Call 954-581-0790 or email
dcch@davie-coopercity.org for more information.
Photo: Davie-Cooper City Chamber of Commerce--June Breakfast meeting at Pine Island Ridge Country Club. [*click* photo to enlarge]
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Sat Jun 18, 2005
Archive Photo of the Week: Heliconia in the Mayor's Back Yard
This is one of several types of heliconia we have had over the years. Heliconia are usually brightly colored plants. They grow in warm climates. Once established they are very hardy and don't require much work, other than to periodically cut them back. I've seen lots of different species. You could easily devote a whole garden to them if you wanted to.
My in-laws periodically mow over a large clump of heliconia, which always grow back as good as new.
Photo: Heliconia (Heliconia caribaea x H. bihai 'Jacquinii') in the Mayor's back yard. These plants are about ten or fifteen feet tall. I took this photo about a week ago. [*click* photo to enlarge]
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Fri Jun 17, 2005
Jamaican Diaspora Day, Celebrated at Nova Southeastern University
I represented the Town of Davie at the opening reception for the celebration of Jamaican Diaspora Day, held at Nova Southeastern University. This day represents the continuation of efforts to deepen the relationship between Jamaicans at home and abroad.
Graphic: Jamaican Flag. The Jamaican flag is symbolized by the motto: 'Hardships there are but the land is green and the sun shineth'. The black triangles represent the adversity Jamaica has overcome and for hardships it may have in the future. The green triangles represent hope and agriculture and the golden saltire (diagonal cross) stands for the mineral wealth of Jamaica and sunlight.
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Thu Jun 16, 2005
Davie Town Council Meeting on Jun 15, 2005
Davie Town Council met on Jun 15, 2005. Among the items decided...
1. A resolution was approved clarifying Davie's position that police cars are not considered "commercial vehicles" under Davie Town Code. This resolution does not necessarily resolve any issue with particular homeowner associations, which may have more restrictive rules regulating vehicles.
2. The Capital Budget (Agenda item 6.1) was approved, largely intact. A few items which had "dropped" off from prior capital budgets, such as some park items, were reinstated in the Capital Budget. Individual items on the Capital Budget will still need approval before money can be spent.
3. We affirmed the Community Redevelopment Agency’s Selection of Chair and Vice-Chair (Chair - Mark Engel; Vice-Chair - Neal Kalis). Congratulations!
4. We discussed in general terms the prospect of looking foward at the idea of building a new Town Hall. Note that this item was removed from previous capital projects. The price tag at the time was around $10 to $12 Million. I opposed spending that amount of money at the time. However, we should prepare for the long term future of all Town assets, including Town Hall. The general consensus seemed to be a preference to keep Town Hall in the traditional "downtown" area, near or on Davie Road, north of Orange Drive. The Community Redevelopment Agency is coordinating a planning meeting for August to discuss the matter and get input from residents, other stakeholders and consultants.
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Wed Jun 15, 2005
Davie Town Council and Davie Economic Development Council Hold a Joint Workshop
Recently the Davie Town Council met with the Davie Economic Development Council (DEDC) in a joint workshop meeting. We discussed some of the challeges facing Davie in maintaining an appropriate business climate and tax base in the future.
Everyone--Town Council Members and DEDC members alike--seemed to agree with the premise that Davie needs a diverse tax base if we are going to maintain our quality of life into the future The premise is easy enough to articulate as an abstract concept in a room full of business minded people. The premise is somewhat more challenging to apply in the real world.
The DEDC discussed their evolving goal to improve the community. Community education will be an important priorty to help Davie residents appreciate the dynamics of the Town's operations and fiscal needs. The DEDC members even discussed changing their name to the Community Development Council. Overall the meeting was enlightening and productive. We agreed to meet more often in the future.
Photo: Members of the Davie Economic Development Council preparing for the recent joint workshop with the Davie Town Council. Former Town Administrator, Dr. Irv Rosenbaum, is Chairman of the Davie Economic Development Council. He's seated at the table, second from the left. [*click* photo to enlarge]
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Tue Jun 14, 2005
Town Council Agenda Online
The Davie Town Council Meets at Davie Town Hall for our regular meeting on Wednesday, June 15, 2005. The Agenda is online.
Note the following items:
3. PRESENTATIONS
3.1. Legislative Update - Senator Nan Rich
3.2. Robert Schweitzer
3.3. Tom Brady Photo Shoot - Photographer Donation
3.4. Miami Dolphins/Guns & Hoses Tournament
3.5. Indian Ridge Middle School PTA
3.6. Liberty Christian Church’s Mission Week
3.7. Community Redevelopment Agency
SW 70th Avenue Road Closure - Closing for five weeks of 70th Avenue between Stirling and Griffen for road repairs/construction. Emergency access only.
6.1 CAPITAL PROJECTS. Adoption of a new five year Capital Project Program for the Town of Davie, for Fiscal Years 2006-2010.
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Mon Jun 13, 2005
Mayor Truex speaks to Chamber of Commerce Committee
Recently I was the guest speaker for the Government Affairs committee of the Davie-Cooper City Chamber of Commerce. Our Chamber of Commerce was founded in 1937. I'm a Chamber member and first joined in the mid 1980's. I highly recommend our Chamber of Commerce to all Davie-Cooper City business owners. Call me if you would like to be sponsored to join!
Among the benefits...
NETWORKING
* Monthly Business After Hours / Business Mixers
* Monthly Breakfast Meetings
* Chamber Networking Groups
* Committee Involvement
* Special Events
PROMOTIONAL & ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES
* Annual Membership Business Directory & Community Guide
* Business Card & Brochure Display Racks in Chamber Office
* Business Expo
* New Member Welcome
* Member Mailing Labels Available at Chamber Office
* Grand Opening / Ribbon-Cutting for New Businesses (great for new businesses)
* Monthly Newsletter - Chamber Chronicle
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Sat Jun 11, 2005
Archive Photo of the Week: Peruvian Cactus in Bloom
Here's a picture of a cactus plant in our front yard. I've heard it called a Peruvian Cactus . However, it may be more accurately called Apple Cactus, Peruvian Apple (Cereus peruvianus) Our plant is about 30 feet tall. It is trying to grow out the top of a Live Oak tree, which also provides support for the Cactus. These blooms show up several times a year, generally after a lot of rain. The flowers open for a single night, and close up when the sun rises. The fruit is a red bulb (hence the name, "Apple Cactus," I'm guessing).
This cactus looks similar to the "night blooming cactus" in our back yard. But--NOT quite. The shape of the cactus and color of the bloom is different.
Photo: Apple Cactus, Peruvian Apple (Cereus peruvianus) in the Mayor's front yard. [*click* photo to enlarge]
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Fri Jun 10, 2005
Mayors' Breakfast at the meeting of the Commercial-Industrial Real Estate Brokers Association and Society of Commercial Realtors
I represented the Town of Davie at the Mayors' Breakfast at the meeting of the Commercial-Industrial Real Estate Brokers Association and Society of Commercial Realtors of Greater Fort Lauderdale. The Mayors from Coral Springs, Ft. Lauderdale, Oakland Park and Plantation joined me to discuss commercial real estate in each of our cities.
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Thu Jun 09, 2005
Florida Attorney General Charlie Crist visits Broward County
Florida Attorney General Charlie Crist was in town last week. He was talking about public service, protecting our children from predators, education and his job as Attorney General. And also his campaign to be Florida's next Governor.
Photo: Attorney General Charlie Crist with Mayor Tom Truex.
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Wed Jun 08, 2005
Ralph Hammer: December 4, 1910 to May 19, 2005
Yesterday, we gathered to remember a giant among our pioneering families, Ralph Hammer. Mr. Hammer died on May 19, 2005, at the age of 94. A large gathering of family and friends met at the memorial service for the honest, gentle man who has had such a profound, long lasting impact on our community. Anna Griffin Hammer, his wife of 69 years, died in 2003.
Mr. Hammer served in the Florida National Guard from 1929 to 1935; he was a Davie businessman from 1935 to 1982. Ralph Hammer and his brother, Ed Hammer, cultivated the first St. Augustine Bitter Blue Sod in Broward County. He was a charter member of the Davie Chamber of Commerce and he served two terms on the Napoleon B. Broward Drainage District.
Photo: Ralph and Anna Hammer [*click* photo to enlarge]
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Tue Jun 07, 2005
Mayor Truex Chatting with Sun-Sentinel Writer, Buddy Nevins
Well, you never know who you might run into. HERE IS direct photographic evidence of that principle. In this case, it is a respected columnist with the Sun-Sentinel, Buddy Nevins. He's a great writer and good sport to pose for this photo.
Photo: Sun-Sentinel columnist, Buddy Nevins, with Mayor Tom Truex [*click* photo to enlarge]
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Mon Jun 06, 2005
Southwest Ranches Founders' Day Parade
My family represented the Town of Davie on our float in the Southwest Ranches Founders' Day parade this past weekend. The Town of Southwest Ranches celebrated it's fifth birthday with a parade and party at Town Hall.
Photo: Mayor Truex and Family on the Town of Davie Float in Southwest Ranches' Founders' Day Parade [*click* photo to enlarge]
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Sat Jun 04, 2005
Archive Photo of the Week: Aloe Plant with a Pink Bloom
The Aloe plant is as beautiful as it is useful. The cactus like leaves have a gooey sap that's good when applied to minor burns. Commercially it's used in lots of stuff. It's another low maintanance plant that seems to always be in bloom.
Photo: Flower from an Aloe plant in the Mayor's back yard. [*click* photo to enlarge]
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Fri Jun 03, 2005
Mayors' Breakfast with Realtors
I was honored to represent the Town of Davie at the annual Mayor's Breakfast, hosted by the Realtor's Association of Greater Ft. Lauderdale.
One of the hottest topics during the Question and Answer session was "Affordable Housing." I saw the discussion as a very positive sign that elected officials, countywide, are thinking about the problem. Unfortunatley, I didn't hear anything that sounded remotely like a solution to the problem. Some of the ideas vented were bandaids, at best. Others sounded as though they would, as likely as not, spawn more problems than they would resolve.
Photo: [*click* Logo for link to Realtor Web Site]
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Thu Jun 02, 2005
Town Council Meeting on Wednesday, June 1, 2005
Last night the Davie Town Council approved a Special Permit for Horse Gate Equestrian Center, a ministry which helps foster children and other children with special challenges. They use an equestian program as a tool to help children. The Special Use permit approved a barn and equestrian facility on 82nd Avenue, North of Stirling Road.
Another, different matter, arose from the open public hearing. We acknowledged the Town Attorney's advice that our Town Code does not consider a police car to be a "commercial vehicle." The question arose in connection with a homeowner association attempt to ban a police car from being parked in front of the police officer's home. Ordinarily I don't think the Town should get involved in homeowner association disputes. However, I feel differently in cases involving public safety. In particular, police officers need to be able to quickly respond (even from home) if called upon to do so.
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Wed Jun 01, 2005
Davie's Memorial Day Ceremony in the Rodeo Arena
I participated in Davie's annual Memorial Day Ceremony in the rodeo arena on Monday. Setting a day aside each year to remember the lives of soldiers who have died in service of America is an important occasion.
Veterans from every branch of service, and from many of the major military conflicts, beginning with World War II, attended. Many scouts and other Davie residents also took part in this memorial event.
Photo: Memorial Day Ceremony, Davie Rodeo Arena, May 30, 2005 [*click* photo to enlarge]
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