Coral Gables marked its 100th anniversary with a centennial flag-raising ceremony at City Hall on April 29. The event honored the city’s founding on April 29, 1925, by visionary developer George Merrick. The ceremony featured a tribute to Merrick’s legacy and celebratory cupcakes to honor a century of community, innovation, and growth.
Rabbi Jonathan Fisch of Temple Judea delivered the invocation, reflecting on the city’s journey and its future. “A hundred years behind us and an open road ahead of us,” Fisch remarked.
The city’s police and fire honor guard presented the colors, and the Centennial Flag was raised in a solemn ceremony. Jet Warwick, a student from Crystal Academy, led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Alicia Fajardo, a student from Coral Gables Senior High School, read her winning essay titled “How GM’s Vision Shaped Coral Gables,” reflecting on the enduring impact of George Merrick’s vision on the city’s development.
Several prominent dignitaries attended the ceremony, including four former mayors of Coral Gables: Dorothy Thomson, Don Slesnick, Jim Carson and Raúl Valdés-Fauli.
Following the ceremony, attendees enjoyed cupcakes and coffee in celebration of the milestone. The event was part of a series of centennial celebrations throughout the year, including the premiere of the play “Greetings From Paradise” at the Miracle Theatre, which brings to life the early history of Coral Gables and its founder, George Merrick.
