Category: Lifestyle

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Alice’s Teapot Cafe

A feast for the eyes as well as the stomach

My friend Susan and I recently stepped into a rabbit hole. I mean, an “Alice in Wonderland”–inspired café of whimsy and enchantment!

Part “Alice” fairy tale, part “Enchanted Forest,” and part High Tea destination, Alice’s Teapot Cafe in Delray Beach is a delight. “Welcome to the immersive world of Alice’s Teapot Cafe, where reality disappears and every tea tells a story.” Their quote is a good introduction to this cute café/bakery/tea-and-coffee shop, located in a large shopping center near the bustling, noisy intersection of Atlantic Avenue and Military Trail. But once you get inside this cozy venue, it’s an entirely different environment. Beautifully decorated from floor to ceiling—and be sure to look up at the gorgeous ceiling art!—it’s a sight for sore eyes.

The whimsically themed backdrops at Alice’s Teapot Cafe make you feel as if you’ve stepped into a lushly illustrated storybook. And it is more than just a charming restaurant—it’s billed as an immersive dining and entertainment experience. Alongside its signature high tea and brunch that’s served all day, this unusual eatery offers visitors a magical ambiance filled with madcap décor, regal seating, interactive moments, and musical waitstaff.

“Our restaurant is meant to be a respite from the outside world. To take the bricks off your shoulders and help you escape from reality,” says Christine Prestininzi, founder of Alice’s Teapot Cafe, a family-run business. “If I can help one person, I’m happy to do it.”

“The heart behind Alice’s Teapot Cafe has always been simple—to offer a gentle escape from a world that can often feel harsh, judgmental, and unkind,” according to Prestininzi’s daughter, Alice (and, yes, that’s her name). “We set out to create a retreat from reality.”

Soothing “Bridgerton”-style music played in the background at lunchtime while Susan and I sipped on our chai tea and nibbled on finger sandwiches, melt-in-your mouth scones with berry preserves, and a delicious assortment of desserts. The hot tea was served in individual colorful teapots, and the savories and sweets were artfully arranged on an elegant, three-tiered service tray. Our servers were warm and accommodating.

After we’d been there a little while, the live entertainment began. The hostess came out and spoke to us all about Alice’s Teapot, then broke into song—“Heaven, I’m in heaven, and my heart beats so that I can hardly speak…”—sounding very good.

On a table near the front was a lovely display of handmade frosted cookies for sale, created in a tea-party theme by an art teacher at Riverglades Elementary School in Parkland. Her business is called Icing Meets Cookie. Also, along a wall by the entrance was a colorful assortment of fancy lady’s hats and fascinators. If you’d like to dress up but didn’t bring anything, you are welcome to borrow a hat or other prop for your special time there. It also makes for some fantastic photos.

In the evening, you can expect Broadway-style serenades, themed dinners, sing-alongs, and guests joining in the fun—“because here, dinner is part theater, part tea party, and completely unforgettable,” as they advertise. This venue is available for event space rentals, making it a great spot for special gatherings. While we were there, two separate parties of women were celebrating someone’s birthday, and in quite a festive mood.

Other activities at Alice’s Teapot Cafe include creative events and workshops such as art classes, “Alice in Wonderland” glow-in-the-dark painting, watercolor classes, “Dinner and Decoupage,” parents’ night out, sip and paint, adult crafts, and a flower social club.

Whether you’re planning a fun ladies’ night out, looking to dress in your finest for high tea, wanting to partake in the arts, putting together a little girl’s birthday bash, or just looking for something different and adorable for your Instagram, this is the place to be. Maybe you’ll meet the Mad Hatter!

For more information, go to www.aliceteapot.com. Photography by Susan Tutwiler.

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Feeding your body, feeding your brain

Being healthy means taking care of your brain as well as your body. This is especially important as we age because the risk of dementia increases over time. While Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia for adults, affecting more than 6 million Americans ages 65 and older, it isn’t the only type.

Other illnesses and conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease, alcoholism, stroke, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and traumatic head injury, also can cause dementia. Additionally, diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease can increase the risk of dementia, so managing these conditions is important.

Making healthful lifestyle choices—including getting regular physical activity, socializing, limiting alcohol intake, and not smoking—can help to reduce your risk for dementia. Scientific evidence has shown that eating patterns such as the Mediterranean diet and the MIND diet may be beneficial to your body as well as your brain, helping to protect against cognitive decline. Certain nutrients are especially important for brain health and may help maintain and improve cognitive function. These include the following:

Omega-3 Fatty Acids. About 60% of the brain is composed of polyunsaturated fatty acids. The most abundant type is docosahexaenoic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid. Some research suggests that diets rich in omega-3s, combined with a low saturated-fat intake, may lower the risk of cognitive decline.

B Vitamins. B vitamins, including B6, B12, and folate, are known for their role in metabolizing homocysteine, one of the amino acids in protein. High levels of this amino acid are considered a risk factor for cognitive impairment, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. B vitamins are involved in many other aspects of brain function, and deficiencies may affect mental health and lead to cognitive decline. However, research on B vitamin supplementation and cognitive function remains unclear.

Antioxidants and Phytonutrients. The brain is particularly susceptible to damage caused by free radicals, which are substances that attack healthy cells. Vitamins C and E, as well as the mineral selenium and phytonutrients such as lycopene, are antioxidants and are known to help minimize the damage caused by chronic stress and free radicals. Other well-known phytonutrients—such as anthocyanins, which give certain fruits and vegetables their color—are thought to have a positive effect on brain function.

Vitamin D. Vitamin D is found in nearly every cell in the body, so it’s no surprise that this vitamin is present in brain cells. Vitamin D is believed to have protective effects against cognitive decline, and research has suggested that low blood levels of vitamin D may affect brain health.

Choline. Choline is an essential nutrient required for fat transport and metabolism. It is necessary for normal brain and nervous system function, muscle control, and other functions.

Focusing on an overall healthy eating pattern that includes these nutrients from foods is important for good health. You can get these nutrients from a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein foods, and healthy fats:

  • Berries, including strawberries and blueberries, citrus fruits, grapes, and watermelon
  • Dark, leafy greens such as spinach, kale, collard greens, and broccoli
  • Whole-wheat bread, oats, quinoa, and other whole grains
  • Seafood, including shellfish and fish such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, sardines, and herring
  • Nuts and seeds such as chia, flaxseeds, walnuts, and almonds
  • Beans and lentils, including chickpeas, black beans, and lima beans
  • Whole eggs, skinless chicken, and turkey
  • Sources of unsaturated fat such as avocados and olive oil

Remember: While making healthful food choices is a vital part of a healthy lifestyle, other important factors that contribute to overall health include getting enough sleep, managing stress, staying hydrated, and adding regular physical activity to your daily routine.

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Stroke risk may be stalking you …even if you are young and feel healthy

May is Stroke Awareness Month, and for many of us, the illness is seen as a consequence of vascular wear and tear, and usually of old age. That is a misconception that can be fatal for unsuspecting and often younger sufferers. It’s important to be aware of the warning signs and risks—even if you are young and healthy—of this devastating medical event.

Vanessa Perez, 35, of Plantation, first experienced something strange on Veterans Day last year. Her hands were tingling, and that tingling expanded to her entire left side of the body by the evening. The next morning, Perez continued to feel unwell, and she started to experience balance issues. After dropping off her 3-year-old daughter, she went to an urgent care clinic. They checked her vitals, which were OK, but couldn’t rule out a stroke because they don’t have the equipment.

After still not feeling well despite some resting, Perez decided to go to the emergency room (ER). Initially, she had difficulties convincing ER staff that something serious was happening. A CT scan didn’t yield anything concrete, and finally an MRI was ordered. While waiting for the MRI results, Perez tried to walk to the bathroom, but had difficulties. Luckily, that’s when the MRI results came back, and doctors realized she was suffering a dangerous stroke. She was immediately admitted into the ICU.

After transferring to another hospital with a stroke specialist unit, the doctors were able to stabilize her, and they confirmed she had cavernoma, a condition that can cause strokes. Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs), also known as cavernomas, are clusters of abnormal capillaries lacking intervening brain tissue. They can be asymptomatic, or they can cause seizures, headaches, and/or strokes. CCMs can be sporadic, or in 20% of cases, they have a familial inheritance pattern.

While strokes still mostly affect the elderly, who often have more cardiovascular risks, there is an alarming trend of rising incidents of stroke among younger adults, those under age 45. In a recent study by Dr. Aaron Shoskes, a neurologist from the University of Utah, his team found that strokes in younger adults have been rising in recent years. Researchers reported a rise of as high as 15.7% for adults in the 18–44 and 45–64 age brackets.

There are a myriad of factors being examined as possible contributors to this increase. Traditional cardiovascular risk factors—high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, and smoking history—are increasingly found more common in the younger population, according to Dr. Shoskes. Caffeine, vaping, energy drinks, and ADHD meds have also contributed to increased risks. These stimulants spike your blood pressure and/or affect your heart rhythms, which may add to your overall risk of stroke.

For younger adults, women are found to be more likely to suffer from strokes than men, whereas the opposite is true for those over 45. One American Heart Association study hypothesized that estrogen helps protect women from cardiovascular events, but it increases risks for strokes.

For Perez, her stroke was in the brain stem area, affecting almost everything, including her balance, breathing, and vision. When she finally left the hospital, she still had a long road to recovery, like many stroke patients. Her daughter was disappointed she couldn’t play with her mom, but according to Perez, otherwise she handled the situation well. Perez started physical and occupational therapy, and she was initially feeling overwhelmed. Luckily for her, she had a good support system of friends and family to help her through those difficult early recovery stages.

After five months of recovery, Perez was finally able to go back to work. Her advice: If you are not feeling well, go to the hospital. For stroke victims, the speed of diagnosis and treatment has a profound link to the prognosis. Stroke symptoms are often dismissed as stress, migraine, or even a hangover. Delayed medical treatment significantly increases the damage that a stroke does to your brain.

Some of the symptoms to look for:

  • One side of face drooping, or one side of body numb/tingling
  • Sudden, severe headache, often described as “worst headache of my life”
  • Loss of balance or coordination, dizziness, trouble walking
  • Blurred or double vision, loss of sight in one or both eyes
  • Confusion, difficulty understanding speech, disorientation

Stroke symptoms almost always appear suddenly, and even if they seem to resolve quickly (a transient ischemic attack or TIA, often called “mini-stroke”), they require emergency medical attention. The damage to brain tissue is time-sensitive, and every minute matters to reduce the greater risk of permanent brain damage.

Prevention is also important, as many of the risk factors are silent. Because many young adults feel healthy, and may not have a primary care physician, their risk factors go unnoticed. A routine checkup can reveal some important risk factors:

  • Blood pressure
  • Blood sugar
  • Cholesterol
  • Weight
  • Family history of strokes

Early awareness of these risk factors can help a clinician provide a management plan.

The face of stroke is not just the elderly. Stress, high-powered energy drinks, and underlying health risks all contribute to a yet incomplete picture of why younger adults are having more strokes. Regardless of the causes, it is now equally important for those who otherwise feel healthy to be aware of stroke symptoms and risk factors, and to have a discussion with their family doctor. When you are experiencing stroke symptoms, don’t hesitate, and go to the emergency room—it may save your life.

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The quiet evolution of Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day doesn’t look the same for everyone. For some moms, the day starts early with little feet running into the room, handmade cards in hand, and the kind of excitement that can’t be planned. There might be breakfast in bed, even if it is slightly messy, and a full day built around celebrating Mom.

For others, the day is quieter. It might be a phone call in between classes, a text sent during a work break, or plans that have to fit into already busy schedules. And sometimes it is not a full day at all, but a few moments carved out of a busy schedule. Neither version is better than the other. They simply reflect different stages of the same role.

When kids are little, motherhood fills up everything. It’s the school drop-offs, the packed lunches, the practices and games, the constant reminders, the routines you repeat every day without thinking about it. It’s hard to miss, and Mother’s Day in those years usually carries that same kind of energy.

As children grow, life naturally shifts. They begin to build their own schedules, their own responsibilities, and their own lives outside the home. Time together is no longer automatic. It becomes something that has to be planned, or at least intentionally chosen. Because of that, Mother’s Day begins to change too.

For many moms, it becomes less about big gestures and more about effort. It’s rarely about gifts or anything elaborate. Instead, it is about whether someone took the time to think ahead. Whether the call feels rushed or if it lasts a little longer than usual. Whether there is a moment where everyone is fully present.

A short message that feels thoughtful can mean more than something expensive. A visit, even if brief, can matter more than a perfectly planned day that feels forced. It’s not about how much is done, but how intentional it feels. Across all stages of motherhood, that need to feel seen and appreciated does not go away—only the way that it shows up changes.

For some, that might bring a sense of pride. Watching children grow into independent people is the goal, after all. At the same time, it can also come with a quiet awareness that the closeness of earlier years does not exist in quite the same way anymore.

Not worse. Just different.

And that’s really what Mother’s Day reflects. It isn’t about perfection or scale. It’s not about creating a picture-perfect moment that looks a certain way. It’s about acknowledgment. About taking a pause, no matter how brief, to recognize everything that this role has required over the years.

Whether that comes in the form of a crayon card, a last-minute phone call, or a simple “Thinking of you,” the meaning behind it stays the same. It doesn’t have to be big. It just has to be thoughtful. Because in every stage of motherhood, being remembered is what matters most.

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Reset and recharge

Local wellness and recovery therapy

Spring often brings a feeling of renewal, and across South Florida that sense of refreshment is showing up in the growing popularity of wellness and recovery therapies. From Coral Springs to Boca Raton and Fort Lauderdale, studios and wellness centers are introducing new treatments designed to help people relax, recover, and recharge, whether from demanding schedules, workouts, or everyday stress.

One treatment gaining attention locally is intravenous (IV) drip therapy, now offered at several wellness clinics around town. The therapy delivers vitamins and hydration directly through an IV line, and many people turn to it when they feel run down, dehydrated, or simply in need of an energy boost.

Several other therapies focus on deep relaxation and sensory experiences. Float therapy, available at centers in nearby Fort Lauderdale and Delray Beach, allows you to float effortlessly in warm saltwater inside a quiet, low-stimulus environment. Many people describe the experience as calming and restorative.

Salt rooms offer a similar sense of relaxation. Found in wellness studios across Broward and Palm Beach counties, these rooms circulate microscopic salt particles through the air while visitors sit quietly in a peaceful setting designed to promote relaxation.

Technology is also playing a growing role in the wellness space. LED light therapy has become common at local spas and wellness studios, where it’s often used for skin care and recovery. Another option, pulsed electromagnetic field therapy, uses gentle electromagnetic pulses that are believed to support circulation and the body’s natural healing processes.

Many recovery studios are also offering contrast therapy, a treatment that alternates between heat (often in a sauna) and cold plunges. The hot-and-cold cycle has become popular among athletes and fitness enthusiasts, who say it helps with muscle recovery and leaves them feeling refreshed.

Closer to home, Hopson Health Wellness Center in Coral Springs offers a wide range of these therapies in one place, including red light therapy, hyperbaric oxygen chambers, infrared saunas, cryotherapy, salt therapy, and compression therapy—all designed to support recovery and overall well-being.

Even gyms are joining the trend. At Planet Fitness in Coral Springs, the Relax Space Wellness Pod gives members a place to unwind after a workout with guided relaxation, gentle massage, and immersive audio designed to reduce stress.

While some of these treatments may sound high-tech, their appeal is simple. More people are looking for ways to slow down, recover, and feel better. Whether it’s floating in a sensory tank, trying a robotic massage, or sitting quietly in a salt room, South Florida residents are embracing new ways to recharge as part of their wellness routines.

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DELICIOUS DINING

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

Brunch spots to brighten up your weekend

When the weekend rolls around and the Florida sun shines, there’s no better excuse to gather your family and friends for brunch. From fluffy pancakes and perfectly poached eggs to bottomless mimosas or a waterfront bite, we have no shortage of standout spots all around town. If you’re looking for ocean views, bold flavors, or a cozy café vibe, there is something close by for every brunch lover. So grab your people, make a reservation, and turn your weekend into a delicious tradition.

Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant

At Cooper’s Hawk in Coconut Creek, brunch meets sophistication. Known for its award-winning wines, this spot pairs classic brunch favorites with signature wine selections and handcrafted cocktails. Think indulgent entrées, shareable starters, and elegant desserts—all in a polished yet welcoming setting. Whether you’re celebrating something big or just treating yourself to a leisurely Sunday meal, Cooper’s Hawk makes brunch feel like an occasion.

Revelry – Burlesque Brunch

If you’re looking to turn brunch into an experience, Revelry in Pompano Beach delivers something completely unforgettable. Its Burlesque Brunch blends high-energy performances, bold cocktails, and a lively atmosphere that feels more like a show than a simple meal. Expect creative brunch plates, craft drinks, and entertainment that keeps the energy up from the first mimosa to the final curtain call. It’s the perfect spot for birthdays, girls’ brunches, or anyone who believes brunch should come with a little drama and sparkle.

Dear Olivia

If you want to stay close to home, Dear Olivia in Parkland offers a cozy yet elevated brunch experience. With its bright, welcoming interior and beautifully plated dishes, it’s ideal for a relaxed catch-up with friends or a family weekend outing. From fresh pastries and specialty coffees to thoughtfully crafted brunch classics, every dish feels both comforting and refined. It’s proof that you don’t have to leave Parkland to enjoy a brunch that feels special.

Sixty Vines

For a bright and airy brunch vibe, Sixty Vines in Boca Raton offers a fresh take on weekend dining. With a menu focused on seasonal ingredients and shareable plates, it’s ideal for groups who love sampling a little bit of everything. Its wine-on-tap concept adds a fun and modern twist, while dishes balance indulgence and freshness beautifully. It’s the kind of place where you can linger a little longer, sip slowly, and soak up the weekend atmosphere.

Sea Watch on the Ocean

Perched directly on the sand in Fort Lauderdale, Sea Watch on the Ocean offers one of the most scenic brunch settings in South Florida. Known for its panoramic ocean views and relaxed coastal atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to enjoy brunch with the sound of waves in the background. The menu highlights fresh seafood alongside brunch favorites, from lobster benedict and fresh-caught fish to classic eggs and mimosas. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a sunny weekend morning, Sea Watch delivers a brunch experience that feels both elegant and effortlessly coastal.

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An AI dog?

All of the love, none of the responsibility

Artificial intelligence (AI) is the hot phrase this year. Everything AI is being discussed, from saving humanity to being demonized as taking all the jobs. There is one job that AI may be taking over sooner rather than later—that of the family pet.

It is not the first time a robot has been introduced as a replacement for Fido, but the economics of a robot pet are more compelling than ever. The modern AI is a lot more sophisticated than the ones powering Teddy Ruxpin of the 1980s, or the virtual pet phase that was kicked off with Neopets in 1999. Let’s call our new super-electronic pet “Gadget,” and see what he can do.

Potentially powered by an advanced Nvidia with its Blackwell architecture, your new Gadgetwill come pretrained to be your loyal companion. It will be powered by a rechargeable lithium battery pack, and it will have its own kennel that will charge it when entering.

Forget about vet bills—your new Gadget would come with a warranty, hermetically sealed and waterproof. So no more need to pick up your pet’s poop when you take it on a walk. Of course, Gadget can walk, run, and sit, just like a puppy. All this is completely flexible—Gadget will adjust its speed to match yours and will be as active, or a couch potato, as you wish.

The built-in AI processor will learn from your engagement with Gadget, so it will continue to learn and customize its programming to match your needs. “Fetch your drink” mode comes standard.

All this technology is contained in a soft, nonallergenic faux fur, custom designed to your specifications. It is machine washable for easy cleaning, and stain resistant, so it can go anywhere you want. It also has an electric heater, so on those cooler nights, it can keep you warm.

Just imagine, when the weather is great, your Gadget will come to remind you to go on a walk. When the weather is poor, it will snuggle with you and provide you with a warm companion. All this, and with the ability to adjust its personality as you desire! No more feeling guilty that you didn’t walk your dog enough, or that you left your pet for the day when you were busy.

The future is ready to come to you. With Gadget,you will get calibrated and consistent affection, with low maintenance needs—no special dietary requirements, no escalating vet bills. With proper care, your Gadget will have a longer lifespan than you, so you don’t have to worry about saying goodbye to your beloved pet.

So if your family is not yet ready for the full responsibility of a biological pet, or you don’t trust your kids to be able to take care of a dog that they’re demanding, consider Gadget. Coming soon, the “AttackMode” software upgrade, where it will become an automated guard dog on demand. Available with a subscription pack, your friendly Gadget can be trained to become a security asset for your home.

If this vision of the future sounds great, or dystopian, feel free to send us a message at editor@theparklander.com. We would love to hear from you, and to publish your responses.

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How RDNs help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities

Intellectual and developmental disabilities, or IDDs, are lifelong disabilities that begin during childhood. These conditions include mental and/or physical impairments that may impact a person’s mobility and the ability to perform certain basic activities of daily living without assistance. IDDs may affect learning, comprehension, and language skills.

Maintaining good nutritional health can be challenging for individuals with IDDs. For instance, genetic disorders, such as Prader-Willi Syndrome, may lead to weight gain and obesity. In contrast, individuals with cystic fibrosis may struggle to maintain a normal body weight.

There also may be limitations during mealtime for both children and adults. Vision problems and difficulty holding utensils can affect the ability of individuals with IDDs to feed themselves. Swallowing problems, digestion problems, food allergies, and medications also can impair nutritional status. Oral health problems—such as dry mouth, cavities, gum infections, and oral hygiene—can contribute to feeding difficulties.

Some people with IDDs may have a partial or total need for nutrition support. These individuals may receive nutrition through a tube inserted into their stomach or abdomen, or a vein in an arm.

How a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Can Help

As part of the health-care team, registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) with special training provide patient-centered, culturally competent nutrition counseling in a range of settings. RDNs identify strategies for mealtime support and create menus of acceptable food options to meet special nutritional needs.

Individuals with IDDs may struggle with other health conditions such as diabetes and obesity. RDNs are skilled in educating patients, family members, and caregivers on nutrition needs for these conditions too.

As RDNs work closely with other members of the medical team, they can be tremendous patient advocates. RDNs can connect patients or their family members and caregivers with community resources to help meet food and nutrition needs.

What to Expect When You Meet with an RDN

The RDN may start by assessing the individual’s overall health status. During this appointment, the RDN reviews the patient’s medical history, including the following:

  • Diagnoses
  • Lab test results
  • Medicines and supplements
  • Height and weight

The RDN may ask about other things:

  • Eating patterns
  • Food preferences
  • Feeding skills
  • Functional abilities
  • Social factors
  • Cultural and religious customs
  • Barriers to buying food
  • Activity level

Many RDNs perform a nutrition-focused physical exam, which helps them assess the person’s nutritional status and risk for malnutrition. During this exam, the RDN looks for physical signs of nutrient deficiencies.

RDNs may consult other members of the health-care team too. For example, speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists can help determine the need for modifying the texture of foods, special feeding positions, and the pace of feeding and will discuss ways a caregiver can provide encouragement.

Based on the findings of the assessment, the RDN will work closely with patients and their caregivers to create a nutrition care plan. The plan may provide recommendations on what, when, and how to eat to meet individual nutrition needs. Vitamin and mineral supplements may be recommended to help correct nutrient deficiencies, and tips for meeting weekly activity goals may be discussed.

RDNs also can provide training on food selection and meal prep for people with IDDs and their caregivers.

Find an RDN

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ Find a Nutrition Expert online directory lets you search for a registered dietitian nutritionist in your community or one who offers services via telehealth.

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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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Celebrating National Nutrition Month

Ice speed: fueling strategies for high school hockey

March is National Nutrition Month, which is a nutrition education and information campaign sponsored annually by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. National Nutrition Month focuses attention on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits. The academy’s National Nutrition Month press releases feature information for the media on activities and messages that the academy highlights every March.

National Nutrition Month started in 1973 as National Nutrition Week, and it became a monthlong observance in 1980 in response to growing interest in nutrition.

When it comes to fueling the body, the demands of high school ice hockey players are high. Speeding explosively across the ice requires muscle strength, endurance, and superior skating skills. Consuming optimal foods and fluids, both on and off the ice, is essential to sustain energy levels throughout the school day, during practice, and in preparation for competition.

Hockey training, muscle building, and growth require plenty of calories—most of which come from carbohydrates. That’s because both on-ice and weight-room workouts are predominantly fueled by muscle carbohydrate, or glycogen, which needs to be replenished between daily training sessions. For optimal recovery, include healthful sources of carbohydrates such as whole grains, low-fat or fat-free milk and yogurt, fruits, and vegetables. Try adding whole-grain cereals, breads and pasta, potatoes, and winter squash to meals. Low-fat yogurt cups and fruit are quick and easy snack choices.

Daily protein requirements can easily be met from a well-balanced eating plan that includes adequate amounts of poultry, fish, lean red meat, low-fat cheese, milk and yogurt, and plant-based protein such as beans. But to maximize muscle building and recovery, consider the specific nutrient-timed choices outlined below:

  • Aim for a snack that provides 15 to 20 grams of high-quality protein plus 25 grams of carbohydrate one hour before resistance training. For example, this could come from 2 cups of low-fat milk. Add another 25 grams of carbohydrate, such as a large banana, if the weight training session is followed by ice-time practice. Prehydrate with 16 to 24 ounces of fluid, which may include the milk.
  • After weight training, rehydrate with 20 ounces of fluid for every pound of weight lost during practice. Replenish after your workout with a snack that provides 20 grams of high-quality protein and at least 50 grams of carbohydrate, such as a high-protein smoothie or a sports bar.
  • Follow practice or a game with a meal about two hours later. Aim for a meal with about a quarter of your plate coming from protein foods and half your plate made up of whole-grain carbohydrates such as whole-grain pasta or brown rice. The remaining quarter of your plate should be filled with vegetables or fruit.

Protein foods to choose before and after weight training may include low-fat or fat-free yogurt, cottage cheese, plain milk or fortified soy milk, cooked chicken, eggs, lean red meat, peanut butter, tuna, tofu, and tempeh. High-protein energy bars are easy to pack and convenient when other foods aren’t available. Read labels—look for products that provide 10 grams of protein, and avoid those containing high amounts of saturated fat or added sugars.

Hydration on the ice also is essential to minimize the performance-draining effects of dehydration. For workouts lasting more than 75 minutes, consume a sports drink at the rate of 5 to 10 fluid ounces every 15 to 20 minutes.

For individualized nutrition guidance, consult a registered dietitian nutritionist who specializes in sports nutrition.

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Dubai chocolate: the new kid on the block

As Valentine’s Day approaches, chocolates are always a go-to treat or gift. For those who want to try something different from the classic chocolates, Dubai chocolate is a a newcomer to the scene.

Dubai chocolate is a chocolate bar filled with filo pastry and a pistachio-tahini cream. For those not familiar, tahini is a ground sesame seed cream popular in the Middle Eastern region. The cream provides Dubai chocolate filling with yellow and green coloring.

This creation was a recent invention, credited to Sara Hamouda, who was a British-Egyptian engineer living in Dubai in 2021. While pregnant, she had cravings for chocolate, pistachio, tahini, and knafeh (a Middle Eastern pastry dessert). Thus, the idea of Dubai chocolate was created.

Dubai, a trade-hub, was already a hub for gourmet chocolate, as part of its luxury branding efforts. Hamouda was able to find and collaborate with a Filipino pastry chef, Nouel Catis Omamalin, who helped to perfect the new style of chocolate bar. Omamalin felt that knafeh would provide the chocolate bar with a satisfying crunch, like many successful chocolate bars that came before it, and he was right.

Initially made by hand, producing 25 bars a day, Dubai chocolate sold for $19.72 in 2023. With viral marketing online, it quickly gained popularity by 2024. In 2025, a U.K. supermarket chain had to impose a limit of two per customer for its Dubai chocolate bar. Recently, a Dubai chocolate cookie has gained popularity in South Korea. Made viral by a K-pop band, the new cookie started to take off last fall, and it saw supply falling short to demand.

The popularity of this new style of chocolate bar quickly drew the attention of major manufacturers. Lindt, the Swiss chocolate maker, created its own version. This caused legal controversy, as it was not produced in Dubai. Since then, Dubai-style chocolate creations have become more common than the original ones made by Hamouda and Omamalin’s Fix Dessert Chocolatier.

Traditionally made with dark chocolate, you can now find them in other styles, like milk chocolate. Given the popularity, many chocolatiers created new Dubai-style variants. New chocolates were mixed with other sweets, like dates, cotton candy, or dusted with gold. Pairings that go well with Dubai chocolate, like high-quality coffee or tea, have been introduced as gift packs.

All this demand for Dubai-style chocolate is putting strains on one of the key ingredients—pistachios. Already an addictive snack across the world, the extra demand is causing a shortage of pistachios worldwide.

This year, it shouldn’t be difficult to find Dubai-style chocolate. The local Costco carries a variant that is made by Bouchard in Belgium (not Dubai). You will also find many online purveyors selling Dubai chocolate, calling to its marketing roots with online influencers. Prices will vary, depending on the quality of the ingredients, or if it’s handmade. The typical handmade bar by a chocolatier will cost around $25 a bar.

So this Valentine’s Day, if you have one of these chocolate bars from your favorite chocolatier, give thanks to Hamouda and her pregnancy cravings, for creating a new addition to the chocolate confection family.

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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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