Author: Erica Cukierman

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Spring break without the airport

Easy day trips within two hours

When spring break rolls around, it’s easy to assume that you need a plane ticket, a packed suitcase, and a full itinerary to feel like you’ve “went away.” But for locals, adventure is closer than you think. Some of South Florida’s best hidden gems, beach towns, and nature escapes are just a short drive away—perfect for a spontaneous day trip that feels more like a vacation without the stress of travel.

Whether you’re looking for beaches, boutiques, wildlife, or simply a change of scenery, here are a few easy spring break escapes within two hours.

Port St. Lucie: Laid-Back Beaches and Nature

Just over an hour north, Port St. Lucie offers a slower, quieter vibe than Broward’s busy shoreline. Locals love Walton Rocks Beach, where wide stretches of sand make it easy to spread out, walk along the water, or collect shells.

For something more adventurous, head to Savannas Preserve State Park, where winding boardwalks take you through wetlands flanked with birds, turtles, and occasionally alligators. It’s a great option for families, nature lovers, or anyone who wants a peaceful reset from daily life.

Finish the day with a waterfront dinner along the St. Lucie River, a simple, scenic, and perfectly relaxed way to complete the getaway.

Stuart: A Charming Small-Town Escape

If you’re craving a coastal town with personality, Stuart is hard to beat. Known as the “Sailfish Capital of the World,” this historic downtown is filled with colorful murals, boutique shops, and local cafés.

Spend your morning strolling along the riverwalk, browsing vintage stores, or grabbing a coffee at a local bakery. Then drive over to Stuart Beach for soft sand, calm water, and beautiful views of the Atlantic.

For a unique experience, hop on a sunset boat tour or kayak through nearby mangroves … an unforgettable way to see Florida from a different perspective.

Naples: Upscale, But Still Relaxed

A bit farther west and just under two hours, Naples feels like a mini luxury getaway without leaving Florida. The downtown area is polished and picturesque, with palm-lined streets, art galleries, and high-end dining.

Naples Pier is a must-see, especially at sunset, when the sky turns shades of pink and orange over the Gulf. If you prefer nature, Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park offers pristine beaches and clear water perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging.

While Naples has a more sophisticated feel, it’s still welcoming and easy to explore in just one day.

So grab your essentials, hit the road, and see what’s just beyond our city. You may find that adventure is closer than you think!

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DELICIOUS DINING

Our local guide to some of the best specialty foods in our area

Dining al fresco in the spring

This season naturally invites a slower rhythm. Longer dinners, quieter conversations, and evenings that linger under the open sky. With cooler spring breezes in the air, many locals are choosing outdoor dining, seeking settings that feel relaxed and connected to their surroundings. From cozy patios to lively outdoor spaces, these local restaurants offer the perfect backdrop for a memorable night out (and outside).

Tap 42 – Coral Springs
A favorite for its energetic yet comfortable atmosphere, Tap 42 offers one of the best outdoor setups in Coral Springs. The spacious patio, string lights, and open-air feel make it ideal for everything from casual date nights to celebratory dinners. With craft cocktails, elevated comfort food, and a lively crowd, it’s a great place to linger and enjoy the evening.

Sicilian Oven – Coral Springs
Sicilian Oven’s outdoor seating brings a warm, neighborhood feel to its classic Italian menu. With wood-fired pizzas, homemade pastas, and fresh salads, it’s a comfortable spot for those who want great food in a relaxed patio setting. The open-air tables make it easy to enjoy a slow meal while soaking in the evening.

The Cheesecake Factory – Coconut Creek
The Cheesecake Factory’s outdoor seating provides scenic views of the Promenade and a pleasant atmosphere. Whether you’re enjoying a full dinner or sharing one of their famous cheesecakes, the patio setting adds a special touch to any evening out.

Ethos Greek Bistro – Coconut Creek
Ethos brings Mediterranean charm to outdoor dining with its inviting patio and vibrant energy. The fresh Greek dishes, lively ambiance, and warm lighting make it a great pick for those who want something flavorful and slightly different while still feeling romantic and relaxed.

Big Bear Brewing Co. – Coral Springs
For a more casual but still scenic outdoor experience, Big Bear’s patio is a go-to. With craft beers and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s perfect for couples who want to enjoy good food and drinks in a fun, social environment.

No matter the occasion, these outdoor dining spots remind us that some of the best meals are better under the sky, with good company, and great food. Whether you’re celebrating love, enjoying quality family time, or simply savoring the moment, these patios offer a beautiful place to dine beneath the open sky.

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Spring break without the stress

With spring break approaching, travel plans are coming into focus. February is often when families begin paying closer attention to the details that matter, from timing and crowds to overall cost.

For those heading out of town, travel days are part of the conversation. Flights out of Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Palm Beach are filling up, with the most popular departure and return days tending to be the busiest. Some families are adjusting schedules slightly, while others are choosing destinations they can reach by car to keep plans more.

Busy conditions are expected at familiar spring break destinations, especially places like Orlando’s theme parks. Even beach destinations closer to home tend to feel busier this time of year. While some families are booking a few activities ahead of time, others are keeping plans looser. Long, tightly scheduled days don’t always work well during busy travel weeks, particularly for kids.

Cost is another factor that many families are weighing. Beyond flights and hotels, expenses like meals, parking, attractions, and transportation can add up quickly. Thinking through those details ahead of time can help trips feel less stressful once they’re underway.

Not every spring break trip involves a flight. Many families are opting for short road trips to the Keys, Miami Beach, Palm Beach, Tampa, or Orlando. Others are staying closer to home, treating the week as a chance to slow down rather than travel far.

However spring break is spent, flexibility and a lighter schedule can make the week easier to enjoy.

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DELICIOUS DINING

Our local guide to some of the best specialty foods in our area

Sweets for the season!

The holidays are officially here, and that means it’s time for sweets, sugar, and sparkle! Whether you’re hunting for stocking stuffers, gourmet chocolates, or over-the-top milkshakes, our area is full of fun and flavorful spots serving up holiday cheer by the handful. From classic fudge to artisan truffles and build-your-own candy bags, these local sweet shops will make your December deliciously bright.

Norman Love Confections

A chocolate lover’s dream, Norman Love Confections brings true artistry to every bite. Its handcrafted gourmet chocolates are as beautiful as they are delicious, with each piece painted by hand and filled with rich ganache, fruit purées, or caramel. The Boca boutique feels like a mini chocolate gallery, offering elegant holiday collections, truffle boxes, and cocoa-themed gifts that are perfect for anyone on your nice list (or yourself!).

It’Sugar

If candy had a theme park, it would look like It’Sugar. With local locations in Boca Raton and Coconut Creek, this bright, bold candy superstore is packed with giant gummy bears, novelty sweets, and nostalgic favorites. From outrageous chocolate bars to oversized lollipops and candy bundles, it’s the perfect stop for last-minute gifts, stocking stuffers, or just a sweet shopping break. Its festive holiday displays make it nearly impossible to leave empty-handed.

GoYummy Swedish Candy

Just opened in Boca and already a hit, GoYummybrings a modern twist to the classic candy store. Build your own bag from rainbow walls of gummies, sour belts, chocolates, and international sweets, or grab a festive holiday jar to go. It’s bright, colorful, and totally Instagram worthy. Perfect for stocking up on custom mixes or just treating yourself after a long day of shopping.

SugarHi

For those who like their candy with a creative twist, SugarHi takes dessert to the next level. Its cookie-stuffed milkshakes, edible cookie dough cups, and loaded brownies are local Boca legends—and its winter specials, like the Hot Cocoa Bomb and the Peppermint Brownie Shake, are as photogenic as they are delicious. Every visit feels like stepping into dessert heaven.

Sloan’s Ice Cream

Whimsical, pink, and candy-coated, Sloan’s is a must-see for sugar lovers. Alongside its rich, homemade ice cream, you’ll find walls of colorful candies, chocolate-covered pretzels, and gift-worthy sweets. Holiday flavors like Peppermint Stick, Santa’s Cookie Dough, and Gingerbread make this Boca Raton spot a holiday highlight and the perfect place for a post-shopping treat with friends.

SOME SWEET FACTS

  • The average American eats about 22 pounds of candy per year, with December as the peak month!
  • Peppermint and chocolate are the most popular holiday candy flavors.
  • Approximately 150 million chocolate Santas are produced each year.
  • The candy cane is the No. 1–selling non-chocolate candy in December.
  • During Hanukkah, chocolate gelt—foil-wrapped coins—are a traditional treat, symbolizing good fortune and often used when playing Dreidel.

Sources:  The Chocolate Store, “Random Candy Facts” (thechocolatestore.com); FlavorSum, “Candy, Snacks & Flavor Cravings” (flavorsum.com); Food & Wine, “The Most Popular Christmas Candy in Every State” (foodandwine.com); Forbes, “America’s Favorite Holiday Candy by State” (forbes.com); My Jewish Learning, “The Sweet Story of Hanukkah Gelt” (myjewishlearning.com).

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Winter break made easy

Simple trips close to home

As the year winds down and the temperatures dip (well, a little), many local families start dreaming about their winter escape. Whether you’re looking for a cozy cabin, a quick flight to the islands, or a not-too-far road trip, there’s no shortage of ways to make winter break memorable. Here are a few ideas that balance relaxation, adventure, and family fun—all with travel times short enough to keep the stress low.

North Carolina’s Mountain Magic

If trading palm trees for pines sounds tempting, head north to Asheville or Boone, North Carolina. Just a day’s drive from South Florida, the Blue Ridge Mountains offer crisp air, scenic hikes, and plenty of cozy cabins with fireplaces perfect for board games and hot cocoa. Asheville’s Biltmore Estate is especially festive this time of year, with lights and decorations that rival any holiday movie set.

The Bahamas in a Blink

From Fort Lauderdale, you can be in Nassau or Bimini in less than an hour. The turquoise water, beachside breakfasts, and relaxed island energy make it an easy getaway that feels far from home. Family resorts like Atlantis are still a hit, but smaller islands like Harbour Island or Exuma offer quieter, boutique-style stays for those who want to unplug and unwind.

Orlando—but Make It Different

Sure, everyone knows Disney and Universal, but winter break is also a great time to explore Orlando’s hidden gems. Visit Winter Park for its European-style charm, stroll through the botanical gardens at Leu Gardens, or catch a sunset at Lake Eola. If you’re traveling with teens, check out the new escape rooms and virtual reality experiences downtown—far less crowded than the parks but just as entertaining!

Key West Road Trip

Pack some snacks, make a playlist, and hit the highway. The drive alone, with its endless ocean views, is half the adventure! Once you arrive, wander Duval Street, grab key lime pie from Kermit’s, and watch the nightly sunset celebration at Mallory Square. For something off the beaten path, try kayaking through the mangroves or visiting the Hemingway House for a dose of Key West history.

Cozy North Georgia Getaways

If you want crisp air, rolling hills, and a true “winter” vibe without flying far, North Georgia is an easy option. Towns like Helen, Blue Ridge, and Dahlonega offer charming holiday festivals, wine tasting rooms, and cabin rentals with mountain views. Families can hike to waterfalls, shop in Alpine-style villages, or sip hot chocolate on a cabin porch overlooking the Chattahoochee National Forest. It’s a simple road trip with big scenery, and just different enough from Florida to feel like a real getaway.

A Staycation Done Right

Sometimes the best vacation is the one you don’t have to pack for. South Florida is packed with hidden gems close to home—from the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk to the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray. Book a night at a local resort, unplug, and enjoy your own backyard, just like a tourist.

No matter which direction you choose—mountains, islands, small towns, or your own backyard—winter break can be relaxing without being complicated. These easy, close-to-home trips prove that you don’t need to travel far to recharge. Sometimes the simplest plans end up creating the best memories.

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Thanksgiving traditions

Gathering, getting together, and going out

Thanksgiving has always been centered around good food and even better company. For some families, it’s waking up early to start the turkey, passing around recipes that have been in the family for years, and gathering around a crowded dining table. For others, it’s about doing things a little different—trading the kitchen chaos for a reservation and letting others do the work.

More and more locals are choosing to celebrate Thanksgiving out this year, and several nearby restaurants are opening their doors to make the day extra special.

Runyon’s is a local favorite that always feels like home. With its cozy, classic atmosphere and menu full of holiday comfort foods, it’s the perfect place for those who still want that traditional Thanksgiving feel—just without the hours of prep. Nearby, NYY Steak in Seminole Casino Coconut Creek offers a more modern spin, serving perfectly grilled steaks and hearty sides that make any holiday meal feel like an occasion.

With nearby locations in Boca Raton and Sunrise, Seasons 52 is a popular choice for those who love fresh, seasonal ingredients and a lighter touch on classic entrees. And just down the road, Cooper’s Hawk in the Promenade pairs its special Thanksgiving menu with its signature house wines, giving the day a festive twist that feels both upscale yet inviting.

But Thanksgiving isn’t only about where you eat. It’s about how you spend the day. Some families lace up for a local morning Turkey Trot or enjoy a bike ride before the big meal, while others volunteer at local food banks or shelters, helping make the holiday brighter for neighbors in need.

The Perez family of Coral Springs has made their own special routine over the years. “We start the morning with the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade playing in the background while we break out all the old board games,” says Jennifer Perez. “Then in the afternoon, we head out to volunteer at a local food shelter. It’s our way of reminding ourselves what the day is really about.”

For the Stein family of Parkland, Thanksgiving means something a little different, but just as cherished. “Football is a must in our house. We’ve got the game on all day while the turkey cooks, and that smell just fills the whole house. It’s the perfect mix of comfort and tradition!”

Whether you’re hosting at home or raising a glass at your favorite local restaurant, Thanksgiving remains what it’s always been—sharing precious time, a meal, and gratitude with the people who matter most.

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DELICIOUS DINING

Our local guide to some of the best specialty foods in our area

Vegetarian options around town

Creativity with vegetables, bold flavors, and fresh ingredients—that’s what makes a truly great vegetarian meal. Whether you’re craving something spicy, comforting, or nutritious and clean, these local vegetarian-friendly spots deliver satisfying dishes with loads of delicious plant power.

Los Bocados
7031 N. State Road 7, Parkland


Latin inspired with plenty of plant-based choices, this chef-driven spot offers bold flavors and veggie-forward dishes in a casual setting.

Mod Pizza
7171 N. State Road 7, Parkland


Here you can find build-your-own pizzas and salads with endless vegetarian and vegan topping options. It’s a quick, casual meal that can be as light or as hearty as you want.

Honest Indian Vegetarian Restaurant
2238 N. University Drive, Coral Springs


This fully vegetarian Indian restaurant features dishes like paneer tikka, chana masala, and vegetable biryani. The food is authentic, hearty, and full of flavor.

Healthy Delights Café

5781 Coral Ridge Drive, Coral Springs

This bright café specializes in fresh, healthy meals—smoothie bowls, wraps, juices, and plenty of vegetarian-friendly entrées.

3Natives
1213 N. University Drive, Coral Springs


Known for açai bowls, wraps, cold-pressed juices, and poke-style vegetarian bowls, 3Natives is a go-to for clean, energizing food.

Bamboo Healthy Foods

10402 W. Coral Ridge Drive, Coral Springs

This casual spot focuses on wellness with plant-based bowls, smoothies, salads, and wraps. Vegetarian and vegan options are abundant and customizable.

Bolay Fresh Bold Kitchen
9204 Wiles Road, Coral Springs

A local favorite for customizable bowls, here you can choose bases like kale or quinoa, add roasted veggies or balsamic mushrooms, and top with vegan sauces.

Dvash Boca

8208 Glades Road, Boca Raton

This Mediterranean-inspired restaurant focuses on fresh, wholesome ingredients. Vegetarian standouts include falafel, roasted cauliflower, Israeli salads, and hummus platters—perfect for sharing or enjoying as a main meal.

Farmer’s Table Boca
1901 N. Military Trail, Boca Raton


Here you’ll find sustainably sourced dishes like roasted cauliflower steak, superfood salads, and hearty grain bowls. It’s a must for clean, plant-focused dining.

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Holiday card trends

From mailboxes to inboxes

As the holiday season approaches, one tradition still stands strong: sending annual holiday cards. With October here, it’s a good time to start thinking about them—whether that means booking a photo session, picking out a design, or deciding between sending cards online or sending them through the mail. In 2025, families are finding new ways to share winter wishes, balancing the ease of digital with the warmth of something you can hold in your hands.

There’s still something special about opening an envelope, unfolding a card, and putting it on display that a digital message can’t quite replace. Part of the appeal is in the design itself, with industry watchers noting that clean, modern styles, minimalist layouts, and metallic touches are among the most popular choices for 2025. Even traditional cards are evolving with contemporary taste. “For me, it’s about seeing my grandkids’ faces on the fridge all season,” says Parkland resident Susan G.

Digital cards have quickly become part of the tradition. Younger families, or those with relatives spread out across the country, often prefer the speed and creativity that come with going online. An e-card can include animated graphics, short video clips, or even a slideshow of the year’s highlights—things you just can’t do with a printed card. Social media has also made holiday posts another option, though many still lean toward more personal platforms that offer privacy and customization. “We switched to digital because our family is spread across many states and even countries,” explains Coral Springs resident Pamela M.

No matter the format, photography remains the heart of the holiday card. Platforms like Shutterfly and Minted note that families are moving away from stiff studio portraits in matching sweaters and instead choosing lifestyle photos that feel natural and authentic. A beach walk, a stroll on the Loxahatchee levee, or a snapshot from a family trip often feels more personal and memorable than a posed image. Local photographers have even started offering quick holiday mini-sessions at nearby parks and beaches, giving families an easy way to capture seasonal moments.

Looking ahead, holiday cards are starting to take on a more interactive and eco-friendly feel. Plantable-seed paper designs are catching on with environmentally conscious shoppers, especially through sites like Etsy. On the tech side, more cards now include QR codes that link to video messages or family highlight reels, adding a modern twist to the tradition.

In the end, whether tucked inside an envelope or sent with the click of a button, holiday cards are about connection. They offer a chance to pause in the rush of the season and share a piece of ourselves with the people who matter most. The format may change, but the spirit behind the holiday card remains as strong as ever.

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Fall into fun

Halloween events you won’t want to miss

Spooky season is here, and there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate. From haunted ice cream sundaes to pumpkin patches and costume-filled carnivals, fall fun is around every corner. Here’s your guide to the Halloween events you won’t want to miss.

Cherry Smash—Spooktacular Ice Cream Experience

Location: Cherry Smash, 8000 Wiles Road, Coral Springs

If you’re looking for sweets with a side of spooky, then the Cherry Smash ice cream parlor is a must. Every Halloween, this beloved retro-style venue transforms into a haunted wonderland. Expect over-the-top decorations, eerie vibes, and plenty of sweet indulgences throughout the Halloween season.

Thrills & Chills

Date: Saturday, Oct. 18, 3–5 p.m.
Location: Coral Springs Gymnasium

This family-favorite event mixes carnival fun with spooky surprises. Activities include DJ music, carnival games, costumes (encouraged), an inflatable bounce house, maze, and giant slide, a spooky walkthrough (ages 5+), and a sensory-friendly area.

Tickets: Prepurchase online (through Oct. 17): $5 per person (ages 2+). Purchase day-of (online or at the door): $8 per person (ages 2+).

MSD Trunk-or-Treat and Falloween

Date: Saturday, Oct. 25, 5–8 p.m.
Location: Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, 5901 Pine Island Road (enter via Holmberg Road near the gym)

Hosted by the MSD Drama Boosters, this annual event is packed with festive fun. Highlights include children’s activities, a spooky garden walk, live musical performances, and plenty of trunk-or-treating.

Tickets: Kids, $15 (includes 1 free adult); extra adults, $5 each. Available at msddrama.com and at the gate.

Haunted Illusions—Coral Springs Center for the Arts

Date: Saturday, Oct. 25, 7 p.m.

Master illusionist David Caserta brings his nationally acclaimed show, “Haunted Illusions,” to Coral Springs for one night only. Seen on “America’s Got Talent” and “Penn & Teller: Fool Us,” Caserta will wow audiences with levitations, vanishings, comedy, and interactive tricks designed for the whole family. Expect dazzling lights, music, and cutting-edge effects in a Halloween spectacular you won’t forget.

Tickets: Available at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts website.

City of Parkland Pumpkin Patch

Dates: Saturday, Oct. 18, through Thursday, Oct. 23
Weekends, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., weekdays, 5–7:30 p.m.
Location: Equestrian Center

Kick off fall at Parkland’s beloved Pumpkin Patch! Families can pick the perfect pumpkin and enjoy a petting zoo, bounce houses, face painting, food vendors, and fall-themed photo spots. Proceeds benefit the Parkland 17 Memorial Foundation, helping build a lasting memorial. Supplies are limited, so arrive early and make it a festive day at the Equestrian Center.

This year, each pumpkin sale helps support the Parkland 17 Memorial Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to creating an unforgettable and majestic public memorial to honor the 17 lives taken too soon.

City of Parkland Halloween Festival

Date: Friday, Oct. 24, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Location: Equestrian Center

This is Parkland’s most anticipated Halloween bash! The Equestrian Center will be filled with themed decorations, entertainment, and activities for kids of all ages. From hayrides to costume contests, it’s a can’t-miss family evening. There will be characters, stilt walkers, and a Halloween performance on the main stage. See the City of Parkland website for more details or to register your car to be included in the “Trunk-or-Treat Lane.”

Ghosts, goblins, and buckets of candy—what more could you ask for? With pumpkin picking, trunk-or-treating, and a little magic in the mix, this Halloween is shaping up to be one to remember. Grab your costume, bring the family, and get ready for a season that’s all treats and just the right amount of tricks.

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Our local guide to some of the best specialty foods in our area  Sampling savory sushi around town

Sushi lovers, you’ve got plenty to smile about—this town knows its way around a roll. From melt-in-your-mouth sashimi to playful chef specials that go well beyond the basics, these local spots pack real flavor and craft into every bite. Whether you’re loyal to spicy tuna or feeling adventurous, here are the places that always hit the spot.

Bluefin Sushi of Parkland

6694 Parkside Drive, Parkland

Bluefin Sushi brings together Japanese sushi, Thai cuisine, and Chinese dim sum all under one roof. From expertly rolled sushi and flavorful Thai curries to delicate dim sum bites, the menu is diverse. The setting is modern and welcoming, with quaint outdoor seating. The staff is friendly, the service is smooth, and whether you’re stopping in for lunch or settling in for dinner, Bluefin always delivers. It’s great for variety, quality, and a relaxed atmosphere.

 

Saisaki Sushi & Kitchen

6240 Coral Ridge Drive, Coral Springs

Saisaki Sushi & Kitchen brings the same bold flavors as its West Palm Beach original, but with a local vibe. The sushi is consistently fresh, the Thai dishes have real punch, and fusion twists (like the torched salmon roll) keep things fun. The space is clean and casual, with speedy service and bold flavors that don’t miss. Saisaki is simple, solid, and always satisfying.

 

Phat Boy Sushi, Kitchen & Bar

2702 N. University Drive, Coral Springs

Phat Boy Sushi in Coral Springs brings a fun, laid-back vibe with big flavor to match. Known for its over-the-top rolls, crispy appetizers, and buzzing bar scene, it’s a go-to for casual nights out or late-night cravings. The menu covers all the hits—spicy tuna, baked salmon, and fan favorites like the Phat Boy roll—plus playful twists and a strong sake and cocktail lineup. With quick service and a lively crowd, Phat Boy is a spot that always delivers.

Sushiato

7961 N. University Drive, Parkland    

Sushiato in Parkland keeps things simple and solid. The fish is fresh, the rolls are clean and well made, and the vibe is calm and polished without being stuffy. It’s the kind of place you can count on—whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or settling in for a quiet dinner. Favorites like the spicy tuna or yellowtail jalapeño always hit, and the service is steady and professional. Sushiato is a go-to for quality sushi done right.

 

Fuji Mura Buffet & Sushi

1850 N. University Drive, Coral Springs

Fuji Mura Sushi Buffet in Coral Springs is the spot for sushi lovers looking for variety and value. You’ll find plenty of fresh nigiri, creative rolls, and hot dishes—everything from tempura to teriyaki. The lineup moves quickly, which makes it great for a casual, all-you-can-eat night. The atmosphere is lively, the service is efficient, and it’s a solid option when you want to sample a bit of everything without breaking the bank. Fuji Mura is a dependable pick for relaxed, satisfying sushi feasts.

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Back to school without the breakdown: A parent’s guide

Summer flew by in a blur of sunscreen, pool days, and late bedtimes. Now it’s August, and the back-to-school countdown is on. Whether your child is starting kindergarten, heading into middle school, or gearing up for high school, the shift from summer mode to school mode is real. And while the kids are the ones picking out backpacks and supplies, parents are along for every step of the ride.

Before the chaos kicks in, take a moment to breathe. We’ve put together this practical, no-nonsense guide with tips from local parents and teachers who’ve been there. It’s everything you need to start the school year feeling a little more ready—and a lot less stressed.

 

  1. Start Bedtime Boot Camp

As the first day of school gets closer, it helps to gradually shift back to earlier bedtimes and wake-up times. Starting this a week or two in advance can make the transition smoother for everyone. Getting back into a routine now can mean less stress—and fewer struggles—once school mornings begin.

 

  1. Keep the Drop-Off Line Moving

A quick reminder: The car line is meant for drop-offs, not long chats. Staying efficient helps everyone get through the morning smoothly—especially those on a tight schedule.

 

  1. Master the Art of the “Grab-and-Go”
    Breakfast doesn’t need to be fancy—just functional. Think yogurt tubes, banana muffins, overnight oats. Anything they can eat one-handed while looking for a missing shoe.

 

  1. Buy Twice the School Supplies
    Glue sticks vanish. Scissors walk away. Crayons break on impact. Buy extra while it’s cheap and hide a backup stash somewhere safe (a.k.a. where your kids will never look).

 

  1. Establish the After-School Game Plan
    Whether it’s sports, homework, or general decompressing, having a rough routine helps prevent that 3 p.m. chaos from turning into full-blown meltdown hour—for both of you.

 

  1. Set Email Boundaries
    At the elementary school level, you’re going to get emails. Lots of them. From teachers, the PTO, class parents, fundraising committees, and people you didn’t know had your address. Pick a day (or two) to check and respond—it’s the best way to stay in the loop without getting overwhelmed.

 

  1. Stock the Car with Emergency Snacks
    You might think you’re just picking up your child from school, but chances are you’re greeting a very hungry kid who hasn’t eaten since lunch. Keeping a few snacks in the car can make the ride home a lot smoother—for both of you.

 

  1. Don’t Try to Do It All
    You don’t have to sign up for every volunteer slot, bring in themed snacks, or keep track of every spirit day. Focus on what feels manageable for your family, and let the rest go. Most kids won’t remember the little details—but they will remember that you showed up when it counted.

 

  1. Prep for the Sick Day Shuffle.
    It’s coming. Someone will get a mystery fever at the worst possible time. Keep medicine, saltines, and backup child-care plans in place before it hits.

 

  1. Celebrate the Little Wins.
    Lunches packed? That’s a win. Everyone wore shoes to school? Celebrate it. Some days, survival is the victory.

 

Back-to-school is never seamless. There will be forgotten forms, mismatched socks, and days when dinner is just cereal. But there will also be growth, milestones, and the occasional sweet, quiet moment when you realize—you’re doing okay.

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Refreshing summer drinks from local favorites

Summer in South Florida comes with sunshine, sea breezes—and serious heat. When the temperatures climb, there’s nothing better than an iced cold beverage in your hand. Luckily, our local cafes, juice bars, and smoothie shops know exactly how to keep us cool. Whether you’re running errands, heading back from the beach, or just need a midday refresher, here are a few places around town to grab a drink that’ll hit the spot.

The Seed—Boca Raton

This cozy coffee shop is a neighborhood favorite in Boca, known for its friendly vibe and strong cold brew. Try the coconut cream cold brew for something smooth and summery, or go with a simple iced matcha if you want something earthy and refreshing. If you’re steering clear of caffeine, the hibiscus cooler is floral, tangy, and perfect over ice.

Tropical Smoothie Café—multiple locations

This spot always delivers when you’re craving something fruity and refreshing. The Bahama Mama is a classic if you’re in the mood for something sweet and tropical. If you want something on the lighter side, try the Detox Island Green—it’s packed with greens but still tastes delicious.

3Natives—Coral Springs

This Florida-born brand keeps things fresh and fast with smoothies and cold-pressed juices. The Pink Dragon and Berry Natural smoothies are summer favorites—cool, crisp, and with just the right amount of sweetness.

Nekter Juice Bar—Coconut Creek

For something clean, cool, and energizing, Nekter has plenty to choose from. Its Pink Flamingo smoothie (dragon fruit, strawberry, pineapple, and coconut water) is a tropical blast in a cup. Or try the Toxin Flush juice—packed with parsley, spinach, apple, and lemon—for a hydrating reset on a sweltering day.

The Modern Rose—Delray Beach

Every detail here feels intentional—floral drinks, antique mugs, and prime people-watching. The lavender lemonade is light and bright, while the rose milk tea (served iced, of course) is perfect for a slow afternoon near the beach. It’s a bit farther north, but absolutely worth the trip.

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