Tag: community

Posted on

Judge says principal fired over Holocaust email should be rehired

In our August edition, freelance journalist Jan Engoren wrote about new state legislation mandating the school curriculum about both the Holocaust and the little-known 1920 race riot in Ocoee, Florida. The law, H.B.1213, co-sponsored by state Senator Lauren Book (D-Plantation), was spawned in part by an April 2018 incident in which a Boca Raton high school principal emailed a parent: “Not everyone believes the Holocaust happened.”

William Latson, then principal at Spanish River Community High School, was fired from the post he had held since 2011. Shortly after the Parklander began circulating through Broward and Palm Beach counties, however, on August 13, Florida Administrative Law Judge Robert S. Cohen ruled Latson should be reinstated. So, while it may be old news by the time you read this, in the interest of fairness, we felt it necessary to follow up with the judge’s ruling.

Judge Cohen ruled that Latson should be rehired and reassigned to a post in the district “commensurate with his qualifications.” The judge’s written ruling also recommended that Latson receive back wages.

The Palm Beach County school district “failed to prove that Latson engaged in misconduct in office, incompetence, or gross insubordination by a preponderance of the evidence. No just cause for his suspension or termination exists, but a reprimand and reassignment are warranted,” the judge wrote.

 

By Richard Battin

Posted on

Couple apologizes for taking in school shooter

James and Kimberly Snead, the Parkland couple that took in Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooter Nikolas Cruz, issued a written apology for their actions at the end of July.

The apology is part of a legal agreement settling negligence suits against the couple as a result of the 2018 tragedy in which 17 people were killed.

“The settlement also calls for them to pay $1 to the victims and forbids them or their lawyer from speaking of or profiting from the story of the massacre.” The South Florida Sun-Sentinel reported.

The text of their apology follows:

We, JAMES and KIMBERLY SNEAD, will forever regret taking NIKOLAS CRUZ into our home. We did so believing we were helping a troubled young man who needed help. We are profoundly sorry for the actions and inactions which may have contributed to Nikolas Cruz’s ability to carry out the murders on February 14, 2018.

Despite warnings from Rocxanne Deschamps, his prior caretaker, and Kathy Blaine, a relative of Nikolas Cruz, we allowed Nikolas Cruz to move in with us.

Ms. Deschamps informed us of warning signs of his behavior, which occurred in her home, and that he had chosen to keep his rifle over continuing to live with her.

Kathy Blaine informed us that Nikolas Cruz was violent, dangerous, infatuated with guns and knives, untrustworthy, and threatened to kill people on Instagram, among other things.

We thought we could handle this troubled young man, unfortunately, we were wrong.

We were particularly wrong to allow him to store his firearms in our house, including the AR-15 used in this tragedy. We believed the firearms were secured in a gun safe under lock and key. We believed we had the only key, yet, somehow Nikolas Cruz was able to access the AR-15 before he attacked Stoneman Douglas.

We want people to learn from our mistakes and experience. Before considering bringing a troubled young person (particularly a teen) into your home, you should consider your safety, the safety of your family, and the safety of the community at large. You are assuming this danger.

If they have a history or exhibit any warning signs, you must immediately get him or her the professional help they need, and contact law enforcement. Don’t just naively think that you can handle it yourself.

And make sure you securely lock any and all firearms, and also make sure you keep any and all keys in your sole control. Don’t just think you have custody of the key. Know it.

And review the person’s social media, regularly. Troubled persons so often foretell the violence that they’re going to commit on social media.

Lastly, when you see something, say something to the law enforcement, to mental-health professionals, to everyone.

Sincerely,
James and Kimberly Snead

Posted on

SoFlo Gardening: September 2020

What to Plant

Annuals/Bedding plants: Try ageratum, celosia, zinnia, and wax begonia for color in the fall.

Bulbs: Add color, texture, and patterns to the garden with the many varieties of elephant’s ear (Alocasia spp.), calla, narcissus, and zephyr lily.

Herbs: Plant Mexican tarragon, mint, rosemary, and basil.

Fruits & Vegetables: It is time to establish strawberry plants. Veggies to plant now are broccoli, carrots, cabbage, collards, and many others.

What to Do

Lawns: Continue to monitor the lawn for signs of insect damage. Fall armyworms, chinch bugs, mole crickets, and sod webworms are still active this month.

Fertilizer Bans: Numerous municipalities in South Florida prohibit the application of fertilizer to lawns and/or landscape plants during the summer rainy season (June–September). See if such an ordinance exists in your area.

Vegetable gardens: Prepare the fall vegetable garden if not done in August. Using transplants from your local garden center will get the garden off to a fast start, but seeds provide a wider variety from which to choose.

Perennials and bulbs: Divide and replant perennials and bulbs that have grown too large or need rejuvenation. Add organic matter to planting beds and monitor water needs during establishment.

Irrigation: Check that irrigation systems are providing good coverage and operating properly before summer rains taper off.

Citrus: Fertilize citrus with a balanced fertilizer either this month or in October. Use controlled-release nitrogen because rain will not leach it from the soil too quickly.

Source: University of Florida IFAS Extension

Posted on

Parkland Mayor: Christine Hunschofsky

By the end of August, every homeowner should have received their TRIM (Truth in
Millage) notice which comes from the Broward County Property Appraiser. This notice can also be found online at bcpa.net. The TRIM notice details home market value and assessed value in addition to exemptions. It also shows the various taxing authorities (Broward County, Broward County Public Schools, South Florida Water Management District, North Broward Hospital District, Children’s Services Council, City of Parkland, etc) that make up your entire tax bill, what their current millage (property tax) rate is and what their highest proposed millage rate may be. Additionally, you will find all the times, dates, and locations of all the public budget hearings for every taxing authority. PLEASE take a close look at your TRIM notice this year so that you know how much each taxing authority is proposing to tax you and where you can go to give your input on their budgets.

Assessments are also listed on your TRIM notice separate from the property taxes. These include the Waste Management assessment for services, which is a direct pass-through amount from Waste Management for solid waste and recycling services, and the Parkland fire services fee. Additionally, some residents will have various water control assessments from North Springs
Improvement District, Parkland Water Control, Coconut Creek Utilities or Pinetree Water Control depending where their home is located in the city.

On a separate note, life has not been the way we expected it to be over these past few months. With the health and economic effects of COVID-19 as well
as schools starting the year off virtually, many are understandably stressed and anxious. Eagles’ Haven Wellness Center offers free virtual wellness classes and also has trained clinicians on staff to help. For more
information, visit their website at eagleshaven.org. Additionally dialing 211 in Broward County can connect you with a whole range of services from mental health and behavioral health to senior check-ins. Visit their website at 211-Broward.org to see the whole range of services they can connect you to.

The best way to keep up to date on what’s going on in our city is to visit the city website, follow the city on Facebook at facebook.com/copfl or on Twitter at @CityParklandFL, subscribe to the city’s e-blast “Parkland on Tap” at cityofparkland.org/notifyme and download the MyParkland app. As always, I enjoy hearing from our residents, so please reach out to me at chunschofsky@cityofparkland.org.

Posted on

The Fish Joint offers great seafood in Coconut Creek

The Fish Joint on the corner of Wiles & Lyons roads in Coconut Creek features an all-star menu of your favorite seafood options. They are open for takeout and have plenty of space for socially-distanced dining and outdoor seating.

Quality, fresh fish is the key to any great seafood place. The Fish Joint is no exception. Walking up to the counter, you’ll find fresh catches from local fishermen on display.

The special of the day was the lobster roll. They offer both hot and cold options. I had the hot option, which was a classic roll filled to the brim with delicious lobster meat. The owner, Brian, said they use the highest grade lobster meat for their rolls, and these have been a popular item.

On the menu is another of my favorites, conch fritters. I fell in love with queen conch meat when I was in Turks and Caicos. Queen conch, which used to be found in high quantities in the Florida Keys until the 70s, are often sourced from the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos. The Fish Joint orders large quantities when they are in season, and the fritters provide a delightful crunch.

The seafood platter I ordered consisting of mahi-mahi, diver scallops, and shrimp was delicious and cooked to perfection. The locally sourced mahi-mahi was tender and not dry. The blackened shrimp and scallops had the perfect amount of spices, so as not to overpower the delicate flavors.

All the food came in takeout boxes, because of the new normal. The box is specially designed to allow for steam to escape and minimize humidity and condensation for the trip home. It made it easy to take the leftovers home, with all the food staying fresh until reheated the next day. It’s good to see The Fish Joint taking the extra effort to ensure a great experience for takeout customers.

The menu also contained other items like the crab boil and fish tacos, and for landlubbers, a great burger and grilled cheese. So if you are looking for incredible, local seafood at reasonable prices, check out The Fish Joint, you won’t be disappointed.

 

By Curiously Hungry

Posted on

Ask Dr. Renae: Household chore discord

Dear Dr. Renae,

I am constantly in trouble for not completing my chores at the exact time my mom wants them done. For example, I like to relax after dinner and take care of the dishes later. My mother yells at me for not doing them immediately after dinner. The same goes for taking out the garbage, making my bed, taking care of my laundry and hanging up my clothes. I get it all done, just not in the time frame my mother unfairly demands. I am called disrespectful and inconsiderate, neither of which are true. This is ruining our relationship as I do not want to spend time with my mother or even talk to her when she is always angry with me. I would like to be able to relax and have peace in my home. Please help!

14-year-old Daughter

Dear 14-year-old Daughter,

I procrastinate too. I find that it is best to complete my chores right away, so that you don’t have to worry about it later. Relaxing after chores will be much more rewarding that way. I suggest completing your chores on time and see if your mother continues to bother you. Mothers often take on domestic duties on top of being a caregiver and having a job, which is all incredibly stressful. She may be stressed about other things and misdirecting her anger on to you. Sit down with your mother and tell her that you value your relationship with her, but that it has been strained due to arguments over chores.

High School Sophomore

Dear 14-year-old Daughter,

I completely understand what you mean. Just try to understand your mom just wants you to adapt to doing chores on your own accord, as opposed to her having to tell you to do it. If you do it immediately, it saves both you and her unnecessary stress and strain on the relationship. If it’s an imperative problem, simply talk to your mother about how you feel.

Your Friend

Dear 14-year-old Daughter,

I feel you. As the daughter of a strict mother myself, I understand the struggle. In most cases parents tend to want things done their way in a timely and efficient manner. Anything otherwise would be considered procrastination and laziness, right? I’d recommend trying to communicate compromises with your mother and share your thoughts with her. A strong and positive relationship is all we ask for from our mothers and vice versa. Try to compromise on a time frame in which chores or other responsibilities should be completed that comply with both of you. Be realistic and consistent. Ensure that your chores are completed when you say they will be on your agreed terms. Build trust between both of you. You are responsible and respectful, make sure she grows to notice that. You’ve got this!

A 17-year-old Peer

Dear 14-year-old Daughter,

I totally feel you. The best advice I can give you is to start by doing your tasks when she tells you to do them. Now hear me out. Talking with a parent can be difficult if they are angry. If you do your chores on time for a couple of days, your mom will be satisfied with your efforts of listening to her. Her being in a happy state is the perfect time to communicate how being called disrespectful and inconsiderate is harsh when you do get your work done. She will be more understanding of how you feel. You can also try to sort out a time frame of when to do chores. Maybe you can rest 15 minutes and then get to doing your work. Just remember, there’s a better chance your mom will listen to you if she sees you putting in an effort to satisfy her.

Been There

Dear 14-year-old Daughter,

Your mom is trying to raise you to take care of your responsibilities and sounds frustrated in her efforts. Adults suffer consequences for not adhering to deadlines, such as late fees for paying bills past the due date, and accounts canceled. The consequences in those adult situations are applied without argument or discussion, just like your grade in the class automatically going down when you are late in handing in assignments. Some chores need to be done within a very specific time frame in order for the household to remain hygienic, clean, peaceful, and calm. For example, dishes need to be washed before food cakes on or insects crawl around. Garbage needs to be emptied before it overflows or smells. You might want to request a swap for chores that can be done in a less pressured time frame, such as once a day or twice a week whenever you wish, such as vacuuming or laundry. If that does not appeal to you and your mom, and you decide to keep the same chores, you can establish a written contract with the time/day each chore is to be completed. For example – dinner dishes within fifteen minutes after dinner time or garbage to be brought to curb by 6:00 am on garbage days. If you and your mom have previously discussed consequences, that should eliminate the need to argue. You will automatically lose a privilege for not complying, similar to school and adult life. You might find that you are awarded more privileges such as a later curfew and learning to drive when your mom sees you being more responsible for doing your chores without reminders.

Dr. Renae

 

 

Posted on

CORAL SPRINGS COMMISSION

It has been six months since Florida had its first official reported case of COVID-19 and since then we have seen cases increase to over half a million. As summer comes to a close, we look towards the remaining months of 2020 and are hopeful that through science, medicine, and proper hygiene we will soon resume some sense of normalcy.

We recognize that during times of great adversity, it is imperative to reflect on the past to realize that this too will pass. September serves as a historic reminder of hope. As a nation, we have overcome challenges by leaning on personal responsibility, unity, and hard work. We must apply these qualities to solve and overcome our current hardships.

Personal responsibility. We must emphasize the power in personal responsibility as this is the most critical action taken to overcome the difficulties we are faced with today. The responsibility you have to ensure your safety, health, and wellbeing are actions that will protect you and your loved ones. In addition, it will help protect doctors, nurses, first responders, essential workers, all others on the frontlines, and local businesses. Do your part, wear your mask when in public, and practice safe social distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Unity. Nineteen years ago, unity was essential after our nation and its people were attacked on September 11, 2001. We must honor, remember, and never forget the lives we lost on that day, as well as the families they held dear. As one American family, we must come together in service and remembrance that we must never let others divide our nation. The city will host its annual 9/11 Memorial Ceremony, albeit virtually, at the September 11th Memorial located at the Northwest Regional Library. Details for times and speakers will be located on our website, coralsprings.org.

Hard work. On September 7th we honor and recognize the hard work and contributions of laborers across our country as we celebrate Labor Day. The COVID-19 crisis has made us truly recognize the value of hard-working Americans. We honor, thank, and appreciate every hard-working woman and man that make Coral Springs, the best city to live, work, and raise a family.

On September 15th we celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, a month that pays tribute to the positive influences, achievements, and contributions of Hispanic Americans. Their history, culture, and successes undeniably enrich our nation and society. Make sure to commemorate this national month by thanking and appreciating Hispanic Americans in our city. We will be featuring city staff and sharing their stories of Hispanic pride on our social media platforms.

Stay tuned and up to date by visiting coralsprings.org, following our social media accounts, and texting the keyword CORALSPRINGS to 888-777 for important updates.

Posted on

Commissioner Michael Udine (3rd District, Broward County)

Summer is officially over, and we are heading into a fall season unlike any before. Broward County has many services available for residents during these uncertain times. Utilize the virtual library or classes through Broward County Libraries, enjoy the outdoors at our Broward County Parks or check out the online events hosted by Broward County’s Cultural Division. Resources are available today for you! In September there are several important deadlines to keep in mind.

The deadlines to complete the 2020 Census and register to vote in the general election are as follows:
Census: September 30th
Register to Vote: October 5th

Being counted in the Census is important to District 3, and your local community. Federal funding for hospitals, schools, infrastructure, and many other services are all determined by the Census. It is quick, safe, easy to fill out, and can be done by visiting Census.gov or calling 844-330-2020. Likewise, registering to vote is the only way you can participate fully in our democracy, and in the upcoming General Election in November. Check out BrowardSOE.org for more information. No matter who or what you support, everyone should have their voices heard on the issues important to you!

Do you have a small business in need of a CARES Act loan? The South Florida Regional Planning Council is administering over $5,000,000 in Economic Development Administration CARES Act Recovery Assistance. Applicants can apply at CARESActRLF. org, and check out information as it comes available. Small businesses, Sole-Proprietors, and 501(c)(3) organizations located within Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade, or Monroe County are eligible.

During September we recognize National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Mental health conditions can affect anyone and too often those who are struggling do not receive the support they need. If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out to Broward County’s suicide prevention helpline by dialing 211. Counselors are available 24 hours a day, and getting assistance is always confidential. During these trying times, #Let’sTalk and continue to break down the stigma surrounding mental health. It’s important to know you are supported by our community, and we are here for you no matter what.

Finally, I would like to wish everyone a safe and happy Labor Day. Additionally, for all who celebrate, I would like to wish you and your family a happy Rosh Hashanah and blessed Yom Kippur. While we may not be able to gather with family, friends, and our community like in previous years, I hope that you have a special holiday.

• Email: mudine@broward.org
• Phone: (954)357-7003
• Facebook: @CommissionerMichaelUdine
• Twitter and Instagram: @MichaelUdine

Posted on

SoFlo BUZZ: September 2020

Children’s Harbor offering free in-home counseling for Broward County families

Families and children continue to struggle during this difficult time. The “new normal” has left them feeling anxious, stressed, and helpless and many are in crisis.

Children’s Harbor is committed to helping families and children in Broward County through their challenges with the launch of free in-home counseling, in collaboration with the Children’s Services Council of Broward County.

“We understand that the struggle faced by some families is very real,” said Tiffani Dhooge, president and CEO of Children’s Harbor. “We can help. Our Family Support Counselors provide intensive in-home services, counseling, and case management to strengthen family relationships. They can provide the tools, resources, and support to help families heal.”

Counselors from Children’s Harbor will cover improving communication, child/teen behavioral problems, attachment and bonding, co-parenting, grief and loss, adjustment difficulties, and economic hardships.

Available to Broward County residents, Children’s Harbor’s counseling services are available at no cost and completely confidential. Insurance is not required. Children’s Harbor family support counselors will make home visits and will follow all safety guidelines, including wearing masks and social distancing, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control, Department of Health, and local and state government officials. Spanish speaking counselors are available.

To complete an application, families can call 954-252-3072, ext. 203 or email FSadmin@childrensharbor.org.

Correction: In our August issue the Parklander ran a release from Children’s Harbor that its annual gala had been rescheduled for September. In fact, the gala has been canceled because of COVID-19.

Alzheimer’s Association announces Southeast Florida leadership changes

The Southeast Florida Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association recently welcomed Tracey Wekar-Paige of Pompano Beach as its new executive director. Wekar-Paige brings extensive nonprofit
experience to the role.

“I am thrilled to join the Southeast Florida Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association,” Wekar-Paige said. “The collective work and passion of the volunteers and staff is inspiring. Together, we will continue to work as hard as we can each and every day to fulfill the vision of the organization – a world without Alzheimer’s disease.”

In her previous position, Wekar-Paige had served as market director for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation since 2016. Prior to that, she spent five years at the American Cancer Society in hospital systems and other leadership roles. Wekar-Paige also worked as a group manager at Bloomingdale’s and as a marketing director for Fortunoff. She holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the Fashion Institute of Technology.

In addition to Wekar-Paige, the association announced the selection of three new board members: Precise Care Services CEO, Rebecca
Jacques, of Port St. Lucie, Yeager Sherburne CPA President John Yeager, of Miami, and WPBF 25 Meteorologist, Cris Martinez, of West Palm Beach.

Currently, there are more than 5 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease, the Alzheimer’s Association reports, including 580,000 Floridians.

Dixie Longate’s ‘Happy Hour’ comes to Fort Lauderdale museum

A sneak preview of Dixie Longate’s latest stage adventure will take place live on September 8 and 9, at Fort Lauderdale’s Museum of Discovery and Science. The shows benefits the museum and Island City Stage.

Dixie Longate is the drag persona of American actor, writer, and comedian, Kris Andersson, who has been performing the solo act Dixie’s Tupperware Party in five countries. The show has become one of the longest-running off-Broadway
tours in history. Since the COVID-19 pandemic sidelined her current stage production (Dixie’s Never Wear a Tube Top While Riding a Mechanical Bull),
she is back with a new show (Dixie’s Happy Hour); sharing some smiles and stories about how her life has been carrying on through quarantine, home-
schooling, craft-making, and a very full tumbler to keep her sane.

“Dixie’s performance shows that laughter is the best medicine during this time,” said Martin Childers, managing director of Island City Stage. “She tells
outrageously funny tales and heart-rendering accounts, including audience participation, a little bit of empowerment, and homespun wisdom.”

“We’re excited to feature this two-night sneak preview of Dixie’s Happy Hour that explores diversity through mixology to the Fort Lauderdale Dixie Longate’s ‘Happy Hour’ comes to Fort Lauderdale museum community at the Museum of Discovery and Science’s safe and clean theater,” commented
Joseph P. Cox, president, and CEO of the museum. “Dixie’s message of encouragement and kindness make her and the experience so special!”

For tickets, please visit islandcitystage.org or call 954.928.9800. Tickets must be pre-purchased. The limited capacity 300-seat AutoNation IMAX theater
at the museum will be capped at 100 tickets per performance to ensure appropriate social distancing. In addition, the theater undergoes electrostatic
sanitation prior to every show.

Posted on

Congressman Ted Deutch (D-FL, 22nd District)

Dear Friends!
As we enter the most active part of the hurricane season, I urge everyone to be prepared. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has predicted an above-average storm season with nearly twice as many named storms as previous seasons.

While our state continues to deal with the impacts of COVID- 19, please take the steps now to ensure your family’s safety. Review your emergency plans and storm evacuation zones and learn what needs to be done in case of an emergency. To find hurricane preparation resources such as emergency numbers, hurricane shelters, and more, please visit Deutch. House.Gov/Hurricane.

The ‘‘Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-Taking Accountability Act” is a bipartisan bill I introduced with Reps. Joe Wilson (SC-02), Ted Lieu (CA-33), and Michael Waltz (FL-06). The bill would strengthen the United States
government recovery efforts of American hostages abroad.

I joined Rep. David Trone (MD-06) in reintroducing the National Criminal Justice Commission Act, legislation that would assemble a commission of experts with experience in law enforcement, court administration, victims’ rights, civil rights, and social services to conduct a complete review of all facets of our criminal justice system. The bill comes after the House passed the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act in July, which included unprecedented reforms to transform the culture of policing by curbing police brutality, ending racial profiling, and increasing transparency and accountability.

Our community has been met with many challenges this
year, but together we will be able to get through them. As
always, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office if we
can be of any assistance.

Posted on

Wine Watch: Boutique Cabs offer plenty of body

August 29 is officially National Cabernet Sauvignon day. With that monumental announcement out of the way, let’s look into some above- average cabs. Dotted all over northern California.

Dotted all over northern California there are vineyards.Some small, some large and all of them producing wine. We do know about the “big boys” but what about some of the smaller “Mom and Pop” operations also known as boutique wineries. These smaller producers have hung on throughout all forms of privation from drought, to flood, to freezes, to intensive governmental interference. They have hung on because inside each and every bottle that they produce rests their hearts along with a commitment to produce the best wine possible from the best grapes available.

These wines go far beyond the mass- produced examples of the variety so common in today’s marketplace. In respect for the day, I would like to introduce you to some excellent cabs from wineries you may never have heard of and who produce wines that you will never forget.

All cabs, from the cheapest to the dearest, present the same basic flavors and aromas associated with Cabernet Sauvignon. But the TLC of boutique wineries makes a big difference. The wines I present here all have one facet that more commercial cabs often do not have: body. If you have never tried a wine with body you will be in for an enlightening and very pleasant experience.

Priest Ranch 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon ($50)

The grapes were sourced from the Somerston Estate that produces unique fruit requiring minimal processing. The winemaker allows the grapes to do their thing with little intervention, resulting in a wine that almost made itself and is a pure delight. priestranchwines.com/Shop/Cabernet- Sauvignon

Justin 2017 Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon ($28)

This very fine wine exhibits all of the aroma and flavors that are possible for a Cabernet Sauvignon and does so in almost obscene amounts. Regardless of the price, this is a very fine enjoyable wine. justinwine. com

Mi Sueño 2016 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($75)

Mi Sueño translates as “my dream”, and that is certainly what this wine is, “a dream of a Cab.” Full bodied, full flavored, and made in the old world tradition. This wine, too, covers the entire gamut of possible flavors and aromas all ending in an expansive and definitely memorable finish. misuenowinery. com

Sullivan 2016 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon ($110)

The fruit was sourced from a 26-acre estate This wine strikes the perfect balance between power and elegance. This is a wine that should be sipped slowly to extend the enjoyment of a very fine wine. This is the most complex of all the cabs I sampled. sullivanwine.com

Dry Creek Valley Iron Slopes Terroir Series ($65)

I must admit that, as is usual, I was impressed by this wine. I must also add that a Dry Creek Valley wine has never disappointed me. This wine is so good that I believe it should be classified as the “Ideal California Cab.” drycreekvineyard.com

Dry Creek Valley 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon ($30)

 

Another gem from Dry Creek Valley Vineyards. This wine is simply the same song performed by a different singer. The wine displays cranberry as the main flavor and aroma followed by a host of other dark summer fruits and berries in the background. This wine is a fine and affordable introduction to the variety and the producer. drycreekvineyard.com

Gamble Family Vineyards 2016 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($60)

Third- generation Napa farmer, Tom Gamble farms approximately 175 acres of vineyards so he has complete control of the grapes. This wine has been made from grapes selected from Tom Gamble’s favorite sites. This is an incredibly enjoyable wine that displays a full spectrum of flavors and aromas as though it should be presented in a golden goblet. I will add that this was the first time that I have sampled a wine from the Gamble Family vineyards, and I can assure you that it will not be my last. gamblefamilyvineyards.com.

 

By Bennet Bodenstein

Posted on

Horse camp lives on

My first time on a horse was in Tradewinds Park in Coconut Creek when I was three. The first time I climbed up onto the giant animal was exhilarating, although it was hard, at first, to entrust my wellbeing to this animal.

Fast forward to 2018. I started to go to horse camp at Malachi Acres in Parkland, thanks to a recommendation from the Parklander. It’s something I have looked forward to each summer since.

When COVID-19 shut down my school, I began to worry there would be no horse camp this summer. I missed seeing all my friends, but somehow, I knew I would see my friends from Malachi.

When they reopened the camp, I was delighted. New protocols are in place, mask-wearing when necessary, constant cleaning, not standing too close to each other, and not sharing food have become our “new normal.”

All the horses at the barn are great for different reasons, but Cosmo is my absolute favorite because she listened to me immediately. My favorite parts of camp are seeing my friends, feeding after camp, being in control of a thousand-pound animal, and just having fun.

Coronavirus may have shut down other camps but at Malachi — as long as we are on our p’s and q’s — camp lives on, and I hope to be able to attend horse camp next summer!

By Madeline Bernstein

Proudly powered by WordPress