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The colors of life: Deborah LaFogg Docherty

A “colorist,” her professors in college had called Deborah LaFogg Docherty.  She is a colorist with talent for color, which is why she likes pastels.  LaFogg’s compositions are saturated in detail, and beneath the layering,  the surface of sanded pastel is full of pigments with little binder.  LaFogg brings the colors in life forward and into this month’s focus.

“It has to have motion, color, and contrast—oh man, there is always something to learn,” explained LaFogg. “The right textures and, most importantly, it is the composition that has to be right.”

Toy in the Attic (38″ x 28″). LaFogg’s first exhibition was at the Yale University Art Gallery in her senior year of college. “Toy in the Attic,” an oil painting on gessoed board, was exhibited there; it is of LaFogg’s Raggedy Ann doll that she found in the attic.

LaFogg, who grew up on a farm in Connecticut, was inspired by her mother at a young age to pursue art. One could say the “writings were on the wall”—when LaFogg was only 4 or 5 years old, she did a full mural of dogs, cats, trees, and birds on the wall of the hallway. Of course, her parents thought it better to give her coloring books, paints, and crayons instead, for her to continue on. And she did just that.

LaFogg, having graduated with honors in illustration and commercial art from Paire College, later relocated to South Florida, where she worked in illustration, cartooning, and as a designer for the Sun Sentinel for several years of her life. There, she did a plethora of work in the artistic field, including prepress, editorial, and advertising. She was a Special Sections designer in Deerfield Beach, and it helped her to further develop her skills in compositional strength throughout the experience.

Commissions. During and after her Sun Sentinel career, LaFogg has continued to do commissions for art lovers. Her commissions range from portraits to animals, in extensive use of detail, and even with an Impressionistic piece. She has illustrated a couple of books, including “Rosie’s Song” and “Woodrat Jill,” in themes about conservancy and nature. While LaFogg is naturally drawn to pastels due to her talent for color, her works are shaped from oils and even acrylics. Her tendency to equip detail is apparent, while maintaining balance between her softened backgrounds to pronounce the foregrounds of the composition’s focus. This cute little fur ball (pictured) is a recent commission, 11″ x 14″ oil on canvas.

Wildlife. LaFogg lives in Boynton Beach, where she works from her studio. Her property is in fact a wildlife habitat. Known well for her wildlife works, LaFogg’s achievements in wildlife conservation efforts cannot go unnoted. Winning first place in fine art in the Endangered Art4Apes International Exhibition, fourth place and honorable mention in the wildlife/animal category of the Pastel Journals International Pastel 100 Competition, and honorable mention in the International Artists Magazine Wildlife Challenge, these are just a few of many of her achievements. Her work is often featured in the NYC Salmagundi Club shows, and she’s been published in the International Artist Magazine, the Pastel Journal, and the WildScape literary journal.

LaFogg’s wildlife paintings cannot be missed. Since 2018, after she became a part of an artists group to visit Kenya for conservation efforts to bring the Northern White Rhino back from the brink of extinction, she continues creating paintings for the National Parks Trust and strives to raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation.

Among some of the animals painted are the wolf, the cougar, the black bear, and many more. However, her favorites are the birds, LaFogg’s main subject. She loves how they symbolize freedom and beauty, a topic very important to her.

“Frost,” an 11″ x 14″ pastel on archival sanded pastel paper, is a testament to that. The lone cardinal is the focal point of the painting, drawing the viewer in by his natural predominance—color, defining the composition by his inherited hierarchy upon the wires. As he looks on, it hints to the viewer a suggestion, perhaps, in hopes for the spring.

LaFogg’s works are spread nationally and internationally, including in China and Spain. In the U.S., a piece well worth mentioning is her real-life cowgirl, whose portrait is a 16″ x 20″ pastel on archival sanded pastel paper, titled “Ready to Ride Out.” The offsets of the composition come into focus by the pronouncing of life to her face, where her position is to skin tones, mellowed by the balance at which it borders by color. It all is complimentary—as the cowgirl looks to the light, the background remains mysterious, leaving the fluidity to the viewer in a pending sense before her journey into the great wide open.

Every little detail to experimental abstracts. After a great year in 2024, LaFogg is currently rebuilding her inventory. Subsequently, recent interests have delved into abstracts. Her “Koi Pond,” a 16″ x 20″ acrylic on canvas, explores her applied techniques into simpler strokes. Form, however, remains defined by color, as the core emphasis is toward the Koi fish. Koi, also known as Nishiikigoi, is a species that originated in China and later were extensively bred and popularized in Japan.

Inspiring others. LaFogg’s aim is to inspire others by doing demos and teaching. Currently, she teaches art at the Boyton Beach Arts & Cultural Center every Wednesday from 1 to 4 p.m. On April 4, 5, and 6, LaFogg will be at the Delray Art Fair. On April 12, she’ll be at the open house of Delray Beach’s Creative Arts School. And on May 3, LaFogg will be painting life at the Palm Beach Zoo.

For more information or to contact Deborah LaFogg Docherty, go to https://lafogg.com.

 

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Music is on the menu with the band Vocal Menu

When somebody loves you
It’s no good unless he loves you
All the way

So begin the lyrics to Frank Sinatra’s classic song “All the Way,” on the 1961 album of the same name, and which he performed virtually with Celine Dion live in 1999 at the Millennium Concert in Montréal, Québec.

A classic love song, spotlighting both singers’ musical styles, it is a favorite to perform for local singers Catalina Prado, 29, and Carlos Iturrieta, 35, both classically trained vocalists and now members of the band Vocal Menu. Other members of the band include Jesús Herrera on guitar, Sandro Montoya on bass, and Oscar Bravo on drums.

“The song is so beautiful—I’m obsessed with it,” says Prado, the lead female vocalist, who admires both Celine Dion and Sandra Brightman.

Prado, a soprano, and Iturrieta, a bass-baritone, met in their native Chile during an audition backstage at the historic and iconic Teatro Municipal de Santiago, where they were asked to perform a duet from Mozart’s comic opera, “The Marriage of Figaro.” Both nervous for the audition, Prado sang the lead female role of Susanna while Iturrieta sang the lead male role of Figaro, two servants who fall in love and eventually marry, despite the obstacles in their way.

Luckily for Prado and Iturrieta, nerves gave way to something more. As Prado remembers, the couple, like their characters, fell in love during that audition, in a case of life imitating art.

And while they are not yet married, since that fateful day in November 2018, the couple has been singing together and two years ago relocated to Boca Raton from Chile, to be near family in Parkland.

Iturrieta studied at the Institute of Musical Arts in Concepción, Chile, under the tutelage of Chilean baritone Pablo Castillo and alongside renowned Chilean pianist Verónica Torres. A four-time scholarship winner, he studied under Chilean opera singers Rodrigo Navarrete, Oscar Quezada, and Christian Senn, as well as Italian baritone Alessandro Corbelli and Chilean soprano Pilar Aguilera.

In 2018, Iturrieta was a semi-finalist in two international competitions—in San Pedro de la Paz, Chile, and in Trujillo, Peru. The following year, he made his opera debut in Puccini’s “Madama Butterfly,” at Chile’s Biobío Regional Theater, in the role of the Imperial Commissioner, conducted by Italian maestro Lorenzo Tazzieri. And In May 2019, he was selected as a semifinalist in Plácido Domingo’s “Centre de Perfeccionament,” in Valencia, Spain.

And while Iturrieta studied opera formally for six years in IDAM, he, like Prado, realized he didn’t want to limit himself to one genre of music and felt that instead of people coming to him to hear him perform, he could bring his music to the people.

One of Iturrieta’s long-term goals is to found a performing arts center where people can come hear him perform. In addition to opera, he enjoys singing ballads, especially American music from the 1950s and ’60s, such as Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, Dean Martin, Andy Williams, and Nat King Cole. “The crooners,” he says.

Other musical influences include American opera singer Samuel Ramey and Russian opera singer Dimitri Hvorostovsky, who passed away in 2017.

Prado has an equally impressive background, beginning her musical journey in 2013 at the Symphonic Choir of the University of Chile, under the baton of conductor Juan Pablo Villarroel, where, at 17, she was the youngest student admitted to the program.

She studied under Chilean soprano Claudia Pereira, later graduating from the Conservatory of Music of the Universidad Mayor, in 2022. In 2018, Prado won the prestigious Amigos del Teatro Municipal de Santiago scholarship, and she performed in many of Chile’s top theaters.

Growing up, Prado attended a Waldorf School where music and the arts were an integral part of the school curriculum. She knew at a young age that she loved to sing, and to sing with others as part of a group. Finding success at an early age, she credits her mother’s prayers as having “something to do with it.”

Not one to leave fate to chance, Prado had a backup plan if her singing career didn’t take off: to become a doctor. “I always have a Plan B,” she says.

With a “strong passion” to heal people, Prado says both physicians and musicians are healing in their own way.

With a far-reaching repertoire, including arias, operettas, chamber music, popular music, and musical theater, Prado is not content to remain in one genre, and she’s looking to find her sound. “I want to explore my own sound without limitations,” she says, noting that to sing opera, one needs to conform to strict vocal techniques and requirements.

“I want more freedom,” she says, finding that freedom in musical theater and contemporary music, especially cross-over music.

“Cross-over music bridges different genres and worlds and is a way to bring people together,” Prado says. “Music is for everyone.”

Her dream, she says, is to be able to create unforgettable musical moments for everyone.

Prado cares for her voice with a healthy lifestyle that includes taking precautions against becoming sick; not eating spicy foods late at night, which can cause reflux and harm the vocal cords; and staying hydrated. She trains her vocal cords with warm-ups and scales every day.

Her dream is to play the role of protagonist Christine Daaé in “The Phantom of the Opera,” live on stage.

While the couple perform numbers from the musical, such as “The Music of the Night,” and others, Prado likes to imagine herself performing on stage in front of a large, enthusiastic audience.

“That would be unbelievable,” she says. She hopes to make professional connections here in South Florida to realize that dream.

The two also hope to make a name for themselves and the Vocal Menu band. Last year, they participated in the city of Parkland’s 60th Anniversary celebration, opened for the band Sugar Ray, performed for Veterans Day celebrations, and performed twice at the Parkland Farmers’ Market at the Equestrian Center, once as a duo and the second last February with the full band.

As recently arrived members of the community, they hope these performances are only the beginning.

“We love what we do,” says Prado. “We get to share special and emotional moments with each other and our audience.

“It’s a unique and beautiful moment,” she says. “Isn’t that what makes us human?”

To learn more, visit vocalmenu.com or go to Vocalmenu on Instagram

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A feast for the senses at farmers market

Are you looking for a large farmers market in Broward County that provides fresh produce from local farms; international foods to purchase from vendors and eat in a tiki-hut pavilion or bring home to cook; and lots of crafts, handmade goods, and clothes to buy from local artists and crafters? Would you like to listen to live music played by talented multicultural musicians while you shop?

Then the Yellow Green Farmers Market in Hollywood is the place for you. This huge, airy marketplace follows the model of a true farmers market where each booth is a separate business. While not all the food is from local farms, there is a bounty of seasonal, fresh foods here, along with a large selection of artisanal goods. Established in 2010, the Yellow Green Market likes to say that it “connects local producers and artisans with the community.” Reportedly the largest farmers market in South Florida, it also resembles a bustling flea market in some sections.

My husband and I went on a recent weekend. The weather was good and we enjoyed walking around and exploring the huge, busy marketplace under blue skies. We took along our own canvas bags to bring our purchases home, and it’s good thing we did, because the walk between the parking lot and the entrance was a long one.

We started with an early lunch at a picnic table in the thatched pavilion. Nearby food stands included aromatic meals from Jamaica, Peru, Argentina, Bahamas, and more. My husband got Thai food, and I had fresh beef from a barbecue place where you can watch the whole savory, steaming process of beef being sliced from slabs hanging there. It smelled magnificent.

We listened to minstrels playing music nearby as we ate our lunch.

Then we headed out to do some shopping. I enjoyed the cacophony of sights and aromas surrounding us. There were merchants set up both inside and outside on the sprawling property. The smells of savory foods, fresh produce, beautiful plants and flowers, and other fragrant products made for a pleasant experience as we strolled along, and the music and festive sounds made it even more fun.

The main market is housed in a 100,000-square-foot converted warehouse; it used to be a sheet metal fabrication site. It is open on the sides, so you still get an airy feel while walking the aisles among the hundreds of vendor booths. I read that this building gets stuffy and uncomfortable on hot days. We went on a day with no humidity and nice breezes, so we were fine there.

We explored all around, appreciating the vast culinary and cultural variety in this place. There were spices from all over the world, French crepes, Turkish coffee and snacks, Louisiana gumbo, tortillas being freshly produced, oysters and lobster rolls, baklava and other delectable ethnic desserts, many kinds of juices, smoothies, and frozen drinks, and a guy cutting off juicy pieces from a whole pineapple for us to sample.

We bought a lot of fresh fruits and some veggies for a salad, and then went to another stall and got a variety of empanadas to heat up later for dinner with my son. We also picked up plump brownies from a dessert stall, and then found a homemade pasta place, where we bought some stuffed raviolis to have for dinner another night.

We explored the lively flea market booths as well, and I got a sundress from a boutique. There was a fragrant stall full of many essential oils, and I bought a couple that smelled great and might be useful (one was “insomnia oil”). There were artisans displaying Argentinian clothing, hats, jewelry, and cork purses from Portugal. Vendors sold crystals, soaps, skincare products, and more. There also was a kids play area, and lots of dogs being walked or pushed in a stroller.

One end of the warehouse has colorful bars and places to sit and drink. Earlier in the day the bar area wasn’t too crowded, but I’m sure as the day goes on, more people come to enjoy libations there.

The one downside: It costs a minimum of $10 to park near this market. The parking lot we used wasn’t even paved, and it was a long walk to get to the venue. Not a good deal.

The Yellow Green Farmers Market is open Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. There is paid parking in three different lots. For more information, go to ygfarmersmarket.com.

 

 

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Autism awareness Understanding the spectrum and the importance of accountability

Autism awareness has grown significantly over the years, but misconceptions persist—misconceptions that often do more harm than good. Many people mistakenly believe that behaviors such as aggression, elopement (running away), or inappropriate touching are inherent to autism. Others believe that children on the spectrum must be shielded from discomfort rather than taught how to handle real-world challenges.

These ideas are not just wrong—they can prevent children from developing the skills they need to succeed. Autism is a spectrum of traits, but it is not an excuse for inappropriate behavior, nor a reason to avoid necessary challenges. The focus should be on teaching, adapting, and reinforcing accountability, not on allowing harmful behaviors or reinforcing sensitivities through over-accommodation.

Misconception 1: Everyone is “somewhere on the spectrum”

Many believe that autism exists on a linear scale, with individuals falling somewhere between “mild” and “severe.” The reality is that autism is a collection of traits that everyone exhibits to varying degrees—but simply having some traits does not mean someone is autistic.

For example, some people—both autistic and neurotypical—may do the following:

  • Struggle with social cues and understanding personal space.
  • Prefer routine and predictability over change.
  • Have sensory sensitivities (e.g., loud noises, strong smells, certain textures).
  • Experience intense focus on specific interests.

The difference is that for individuals diagnosed with autism, these traits become so extreme that they interfere with daily functioning—affecting communication, independence, and relationships. Simply having traits that overlap with autism does not mean that a person is autistic.

This distinction is important because it shifts the focus from labeling individuals as “on” or “off” the spectrum to identifying specific challenges and providing appropriate support.

Misconception 2: Aggression, elopement, and inappropriate touching are part of autism

One of the most damaging myths about autism is that behaviors like aggression, running away (elopement), and inappropriate touching are symptoms of autism itself. This is false.

  • Autism does not cause aggression.
  • Autism does not cause a child to run away.
  • Autism does not cause inappropriate touching.

These behaviors occur because of a lack of boundaries, structure, or consequences, not because of autism. When neurotypical children hit, touch people inappropriately, or run away, they are corrected and disciplined. However, when an autistic child exhibits these behaviors, many parents and educators wrongly excuse it, saying such things as “He can’t help it—he’s autistic”; “She doesn’t understand—she’s on the spectrum”; or “There’s nothing we can do.”

This excuse-based mindset allows these behaviors to continue unchecked. Instead of reinforcing self-regulation, accountability, and appropriate alternatives, it sends the message that autistic children cannot control their actions—which is not true.

Misconception 3: Sensory sensitivities should be avoided, not overcome

Another damaging belief is that children on the spectrum should be shielded from any discomfort rather than taught how to handle real-world challenges. Over-accommodation reinforces sensitivities, rather than helping a child adapt.

Every baby is startled by loud noises and unexpected sounds. A child on the spectrum may have a more extreme reaction, but the brain is capable of desensitization through repeated exposure. The key is gradual, controlled desensitization—not avoidance.

Real-Life Example: Desensitization vs. Accommodation

One child struggled with the loud sounds of a car wash and public restroom toilets. Instead of avoiding those situations:

  • Her mother took her through the car wash repeatedly until she no longer cried.
  • Her father spent hours in public restrooms flushing toilets until she no longer reacted.

Some may view this as punitive, but it was actually a critical step toward her functioning in the real world. Had the parents avoided car washes and public restrooms, she would have continued to experience severe distress whenever faced with those unavoidable noises. Instead, through consistent exposure, her brain adapted.

Why Over-Accommodation Is Harmful

 

Many parents immediately remove the triggers (using noise-canceling headphones, avoiding public places, limiting activities). While this may seem helpful in the short term, it reinforces avoidance behavior and makes the world feel even more overwhelming as the child grows older.

  • If a child is never taught how to handle loud environments, they may struggle with shopping malls, airports, movie theaters, and concerts.
  • If a child is always given special accommodations instead of learning coping strategies, they may struggle with workplace expectations and social relationships in adulthood.

The goal of early intervention should be helping children adjust to the world, not reshaping the world to eliminate every challenge.

The Key to Success: Accountability and Exposure, Not Excuses

Autism affects each individual differently, and some children require extra instruction and reinforcement to develop social and emotional regulation. However, this does not mean they are incapable of following rules or learning to cope with discomfort.

  • Aggression should be addressed through emotional regulation strategies, communication alternatives, and immediate consequences.
  • Elopement should be handled with structured transitions, visual schedules, and direct instruction on safety awareness.
  • Inappropriate touching should be corrected with clear social skills training and reinforcement of personal boundaries.

If a child acts out, the behavior should not be excused—it should be corrected and replaced with an appropriate alternative

Final Thought: The Goal Is Independence, Not Excuses

True autism awareness isn’t about labeling behaviors as part of a diagnosis—it’s about recognizing that every child is capable of learning, growing, and improving when given the right tools.

By shifting the conversation away from excuses and avoidance and toward structured teaching, self-regulation, and accountability, children on the spectrum are given the best chance for success—not just in school, but in life.

Dr. Lance Fein is the executive director of AEF Schools. AEF helps students build the skills they need to thrive academically and in life. With a curriculum designed to enhance cognitive, social, and life skills, AEF goes beyond academics to ensure that each student gains the confidence and independence needed for long-term success. To learn more, visit www.aefschools.com

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Understanding culinary lingo

Braise, broil, poach, simmer: What does it all mean? Following healthful recipes is easier if you understand cooking vocabulary. Whether you are new to the kitchen or just need a refresher, understanding the basics of common cooking techniques will help you navigate through recipes and get healthy meals on the table with ease. From slicing to steaming, here is how to talk the talk in the kitchen.

The Bs, Cs, and Ds of Cooking

  • Bake:type of dry-heat cooking—food is cooked using the hot air surrounding it, usually in an oven
  • Barbecue (grill):type of dry-heat cooking—to roast or broil food over a source of heat like charcoal or hardwood fire
  • Boil:type of moist-heat cooking—a liquid is brought to a boil, and food is cooked in it
  • Braise: to brown, then simmer slowly over low heat in a small amount of liquid in a covered pot, on the stove or in the oven
  • Broil: to cook using a direct heat source, usually under a heating element in the oven, but it also can be done over the flame of a grill
  • Chop:to cut food into smaller pieces of no particular size or shape
  • Deep-fry:type of dry-heat cooking—cooking food by submerging it in hot oil
  • Dice:to cut foods into uniform, square pieces
  • Dry-heat cooking: methods that use hot air, the heat from a pan or grill, or hot fat to cook foods

From G to Ps & Qs

  • Grate:to create small (fine or coarsely shredded) pieces by rubbing food against a serrated surface
  • Mince:to cut food into very small pieces
  • Moist-heat cooking:methods that use water or liquids such as broth to cook foods
  • Panbroil:to cook uncovered in a preheated skillet without added fat or water
  • Poach: type of moist-heat cooking—to cook gently in simmering liquid
  • Quadriller:to make a crisscross pattern on the outside of grilled or broiled food

R to Z

  • Roast:type of dry-heat cooking—to cook uncovered with dry heat in the oven or in a fire
  • Sauté:type of dry-heat cooking—to cook quickly in a small amount of fat
  • Simmer:type of moist-heat cooking—cooking food in a hot liquid that is bubbling but not boiling
  • Slice:to cut through or across into slices, generally of uniform size
  • Steam:type of moist-heat cooking—to cook a food over boiling water with the steam heat, or wrapped in foil or leaf (such as banana leaves) packets over boiling water or on a grill
  • Stew: to cook in a liquid, in a tightly covered pot over low heat
  • Stir-fry:to cook small pieces of food over high heat, stirring continuously—generally with only a small amount of oil
  • Zest:to scrape the outer rind of a piece of citrus fruit for flavoring

Be in the Know

Knowing these culinary techniques can help to bring out the flavor of foods without adding a lot of extra ingredients or calories. The healthiest cooking methods require only a little amount of fat:

  • Sautéing and stir-frying use a small amount of oil, compared with frying or deep-frying.
  • Steaming helps foods retain more nutrients, because they are not soaking in water, as is the case with boiling.
  • Grilling also can influence the flavor of foods, but it’s important to avoid charring them, which occurs when foods turn black.
  • Marinating meats and vegetables prior to grilling can help add flavor and keep them moist.

And remember, cooking all foods at the appropriate internal temperatures is important, regardless of how the food is prepared!

 

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Prom 2025 Bold styles, dazzling trends, and unforgettable moments

Prom season is almost here, and it’s your time to shine! This year’s trends are all about bold fashion choices, eye-catching details, and styles that let your personality take center stage. Whether you’re drawn to classic elegance or a more modern look, there’s something for everyone to help make prom night unforgettable.

For Girls

Vibrant colors. While classic shades like black and navy never go out of style, this year is all about making a statement with bold hues like emerald green, royal blue, and fuchsia pink.

Shimmer and sparkle. Sequins, rhinestones, and glittery fabrics are having a major moment—because what is prom without a little sparkle?

Diverse silhouettes. From ball gowns to mermaid tails to sleek, curve-hugging gowns, this year’s prom fashions have the perfect fit for whatever your style.

Hair trends. According to hair stylists, this year’s prom hair is all about showcasing your personal look. Soft waves with pearl or rhinestone accents, sleek ponytails, and braided details are super in, while bold hair colors and fun accessories such as crystal clips and oversized bows bring a unique twist.

For Guys

Bold suit colors. Prom night is the perfect excuse to step up your style, and according to local tuxedo shops, guys are getting more adventurous with their looks this year. While classic black and navy will always be in, rich and vibrant colors are making a big impact.

Velvet fabrics. Velvet blazers and suits add texture and a high-fashion feel. Whether you go for a full velvet suit or just a statement jacket, this trend is all about effortless sophistication.

Tailored fits. The days of boxy suits are long gone. A sharp, slim-fit suit keeps your look modern and put together, ensuring that you look just as good on the dance floor as you do in pictures.

Finishing touches: belts and shades. For a sharp look, a belt and stylish sunglasses can take you to the next level. A sleek, modern belt—whether a classic leather design or a statement buckle—adds a polished touch. Add a pair of your favorite sunglasses to instantly elevate your style. Aviators and retro-style frames make the perfect choice for a cool, confident vibe.

Picture-Perfect: Photo Trends This Year

Casual and fun poses. Forget the rigid, formal prom portraits. Instead of stiff, overly posed pictures, try capturing more relaxed, natural photos such as laughing, candid moments and group shots that feel authentic. Whether it’s spontaneous group pictures, mid-dance snapshots, or random heartfelt moments with friends, these types of photos truly capture the energy and excitement of prom night.

Polaroids and disposable cameras. Digital is great, but old-school film cameras and Polaroids are trending for capturing the night in a fun, nostalgic way. The instant prints and grainy textures bring a unique, timeless feel to the night.

No matter your style, prom is all about confidence, having fun, and making memories that last a lifetime. So go ahead … dress to impress, strike a pose, dance like nobody’s watching, and make prom night 2025 unforgettable!

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Local Easter brunch and Passover meals

Spring is in full swing, bringing with it festive celebrations and, of course, delicious food! Whether you’re searching for the perfect spot for Easter brunch or for a place that prepares traditional Passover meals, here are some wonderful local dining options to make your holiday celebrations extra special.

Easter Brunch

Tap 42

Known for its lively atmosphere and craft beer selection, Tap 42 serves up a delicious brunch menu featuring favorites like chicken and waffles and truffle-infused mac and cheese.

The Original Pancake House

A go-to spot for breakfast lovers, this classic eatery is famous for its fluffy pancakes and hearty morning staples—perfect for a relaxed Easter brunch.

First Watch

If you’re in the mood for a fresh and health-conscious brunch, First Watch offers a variety of options, from traditional favorites to innovative dishes made with wholesome ingredients.

Farmhouse Kitchen

This cozy farm-to-table eatery specializes in organic, locally sourced brunch dishes, from avocado toast to decadent French toast, making it a great Easter brunch choice. 

Passover Meals

Aroma Kosher

Aroma Kosher offers a delicious selection of Passover meals, featuring traditional favorites like matzo ball soup, tender beef brisket, and crispy potato pancakes. Whether you’re dining at home or hosting guests, their takeout options make celebrating Passover easy and enjoyable.

Ben’s Kosher Delicatessen—Boca Raton

A go-to spot for authentic Jewish cuisine, Ben’s Kosher Delicatessen offers Passover meal packages with all the traditional fixings, making it easy to enjoy the holiday without all the prep work.

Fooderie—Coral Springs

This local kosher grocery store provides a wide variety of Passover essentials. It’s a great option for those looking to prepare their own holiday dishes while ensuring that everything meets kosher-for-Passover standards.

Grove Kosher Market

Grove Kosher Market is a one-stop shop for all your Passover needs, offering a wide selection of kosher-for-Passover groceries, prepared meals, and specialty items. Whether you’re cooking from scratch or looking for ready-to-eat dishes, they provide high-quality options to enhance your holiday celebration.

No matter how you celebrate, there are plenty of great local spots to make your holiday meal feel special. Whether you’re enjoying a festive Easter brunch or a meaningful Passover dinner, you’ll find delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere to share with the people who matter most.

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Gliding through the ‘Venice of the U.S.’

A great way to show visitors the sights of South Florida along the water is to take a scenic boat ride. My twenty-something kids were visiting recently, and we decided to try Fort Lauderdale’s Carrie B Cruises. We are glad we did.

Cruising the area on the largest sightseeing boat in Fort Lauderdale has been a local highlight for residents and visitors for more than 30 years. Carrie B Cruises likes to call it the “Venice of America Tour.” It’s a 90-minute, fully narrated, paddlewheel-propelled boat ride for around $30 a person (or $19 for children). You can buy tickets for one of three time slots: 11 a.m., 1 p.m., or 3 p.m. You get to ride along the historic New River as well as on the Intercoastal Waterway. You can see the impressive Millionaires Row and learn about the mansions of the famous and wealthy. You glide past super yachts and can catch a glimpse of the busy Port Everglades.

For our tour, we bought our tickets in advance online and printed them out. As recommended, we arrived at the downtown waterfront area around 30 minutes early to find parking. The dock is located on New River Drive East, just a block off Las Olas Boulevard. We found street parking a couple blocks away from the dock and paid through one of the parking kiosks nearby. There also are parking garages in the area. After parking, we got to the dock area a little early and sat on benches facing the New River, a nice area with beautiful views of the waterfront.

When it was time for our tour, we showed our ticket printouts and then it was a quick process to board the boat. The lower level is enclosed, with an air-conditioned interior, a full bar, a snack bar, tables to sit at, and restrooms. We headed upstairs for fresh breezes and great views. The upper level is huge and there was plenty of seating to pick from, in rows facing forward, in the shade or in the sun. We ended up moving around this deck during the journey, viewing different sides of the water and getting pictures from various angles. Most people didn’t stay put, roaming around the vessel as needed. It was very casual and fun.
We started our cruise heading out the New River from downtown Fort Lauderdale, passed lots of lovely canals (reminiscent of Venice, Italy, as in the tour’s nickname), and went onto the Intercoastal, heading all the way toward Port Everglades before making the return trip back. Our tour guide was very entertaining and comprehensive and gave us a lot of fun facts about the glitzy mansions and beautifully landscaped properties that we slowly passed by, along with the mega-yachts docked along the way, and other landmarks and points of interest. Occasionally gliding past us in the opposite direction were other fun tourist and party boats.
It’s been said that sightseeing rides like these are the water version of Hollywood, California’s celebrity star tours. For my kids and me, our highlights that day were discovering the variety of large mansions in Millionaires Row and learning their fascinating stories; going out in the wide-open waters toward the colorful, bustling Port Everglades (a very busy cruise-ship port); and gawking at the Bahia Mar Marina displaying a surprising array of massive yachts. We thought that some of the mega-mansions and surrounding scenery were stunning. Our guide gave us a little history about the area, interesting information about the company CEOs and other multimillionaires who owned some of the homes, and some witty anecdotes about these properties.
The Carrie B staff were friendly, and the prices were reasonable, for both the tickets and the refreshments. The ride was smooth, and the boat—which can hold up to 300 passengers although that day was not too crowded—is big enough so that we never really felt any swells. We got to see the sights of this beautiful city and all the water features from a different vantage point than we normally would. What’s not to like?
There are other tour boats you can take for a longer day and for more of a party experience. But for showing family members visiting from out of state all the beauty and opulence of the area in a compact time, the Carrie B provides the perfect excursion!

For more information and tickets, go to carriebcruises.com.

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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 DHA (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 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 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. Some examples:

  • 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, flaxseed, 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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Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse: A historic treasure

One of the brightest lights in the world shines from Hillsboro Inlet—the light beam emanating from the Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse, which can be seen from 28 nautical miles (just over 32 miles) away. Built in 1907, the lighthouse has withstood major hurricanes and fires to guide ships through the shallow waters and coral reefs of Hillsboro Inlet for the past 118 years.

In 1855, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers designated Hillsboro Inlet as hazardous to the safe navigation of ships and recommended that Congress authorize the funding of a lighthouse. However, due to a lack of funds, more than 50 years passed before the approval and construction of the Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse began.

During that time, Hillsboro Inlet continued to challenge ships. In 1900, the SS Copenhagen, a British cargo steamer, sank after striking a reef in 25 feet of water off the coast of Pompano Beach. Finally, in 1901, the United States Lighthouse Board persuaded Congress to authorize the construction of a lighthouse at Hillsboro Inlet. “The sinking of the SS Copenhagen really jumpstarted getting this lighthouse,” says David Velez, a Hillsboro Lighthouse Preservation Society (HLPS) volunteer. The HLPS, a nonprofit organization, works with the U.S. Coast Guard to maintain the lighthouse.

At 147 feet tall at its highest point, the Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse is one of the tallest lighthouses on the East Coast. One hundred and sixty-seven winding steps lead to the watch deck of the lighthouse, which offers sweeping views of the coast and overlooks part of the Florida Reef, where sharks and fish are commonly spotted.

One of the lighthouse’s most unique features is its second-order, bivalve Fresnel Lens, which dates back to 1907 and was the most technologically advanced at the time. “The lens is original from 1907,” says Amber Velez, membership chair of the HLPS, whose grandfather was one of Hillsboro Inlet’s original lighthouse keepers. “Only a few of these lenses are still active, one being ours. Others are on display in museums. Ours is rotating just as it was in 1907.”

The lens comprises 356 glass pieces that form a large diamond. “When it was first put into service, the lighthouse had a vaporized kerosene light visible up to 15 nautical miles out,” explains David Velez. “They created the lens in such a way that no matter where the light was coming from the kerosene flame, it would refract and create a horizontal beam shooting out into the ocean.”

In 1932, the lighthouse went from kerosene to electrical power, and in 2021 it switched to an LED light visible from 28 nautical miles out. “That’s only at 50% brightness,” says David Velez. “If we increased it to maximum brightness, we’d probably get complaints from residents.”

Originally the Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse used a mercury bath to rotate its Fresnel lens, which weighs about 3,500 pounds. Floating the heavy lens on a pool of liquid mercury allowed it to rotate quickly with minimal effort, creating the bright flashing signal that lighthouses are known for. “This was done on mercury because mercury is frictionless,” explains Ralph Krugler, a historian with the HLPS and author of “The (Almost) Complete History of the Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse.”

“Once the lens was floating, with one finger, you could push a giant lens around in circles,” says Krugler.

The lighthouse keepers were responsible for maintaining the mercury bath. When dust, sand, or other impurities built up in the mercury, they had to strain it. “They would drain the mercury and run it through a cheesecloth,” says Krugler. “These guys weren’t wearing gloves and were doing all this by hand.” Sadly, keepers were commonly referred to as “mad hatters,” as constant exposure to the bath often led to mercury poisoning and abnormal behavior.

Throughout the years, several major hurricanes caused some mercury to spill out of the basin. Thankfully in 1998, all mercury was removed from the lighthouse, and the mercury bath was replaced with a ball-bearing system that would rotate the lens. In 1974, the lighthouse became fully automated, meaning keepers were no longer needed.

On Friday, March 14, the HLPS is hosting its annual fundraising gala. Those who attend will be treated to a private tour of the lens room and an up-close look at the original 1907 Fresnel lens, an experience not available on public tours.

Proceeds from the gala—which takes place under the full moon on the lighthouse grounds—will go toward upkeep, repairs, and HLPS’s restoration project.

The million-dollar restoration project involves a complete overhaul of the struts, cables, and turnbuckles, along with the blasting and repainting of the lighthouse to restore it to its original color scheme composed of three black sections and two white.

“It’s a 10-year restoration plan with a 10-year guarantee,” explains Amber Velez. “We’ll have 10 years of guaranteed service, so if anything happens with the paint or rust starts coming back, the restoration company will come back and take care of it.”

Because the lighthouse is located on U.S. Coast Guard grounds and is bordered by the Hillsboro Club, it is only open to the public once a month for public tours. Upcoming tours are scheduled for March 8, April 12, May 10, and June 15. Visitors meet at the Sands Harbor Resort and Marina in Pompano Beach and are transported by boat to the lighthouse grounds.

For more information, visit www.hillsborolighthouse.org.

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Artist John Bowen Celebrating National Vietnam War Veterans Day

John Bowen started with watercolor when his art teacher introduced it to him in high school, and he’s been painting with it ever since.

Art is a “labor of love,” says Bowen, whose extensive artistic career has taken him from artist apprentice right out of high school at an ad agency, and on through to the U.S. Air Force. But it doesn’t stop there. This month we recognize Bowen’s longstanding career as we honor National Vietnam War Veterans Day on Saturday, March 29.

Bowen was hired as the only illustrator (technician), graphically responsible for documenting work for about 200 soldiers in the 834th Air Division Headquarters Unit. Stationed in Tansonhert Airbase during the Vietnam War, near the city of Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh City) in southern Vietnam, Bowen at times was able to go out into the countryside and document the war in sketches. Otherwise, his job was to document actual operations in action on-site. He served eight years in the Air Force, from 1961 to 1969, and in the Vietnam War from 1967 to 1968, using mainly pencil (or pen) on paper as his medium for documentation.

Vietnam experiences. In 2013, Bowen was published by Middle River Press in Oakland Park, which recorded his physical and emotional experiences in the Vietnam War. The book is titled “Eleven Months and Nineteen Days,” and it is complemented with 43 black and white drawings made specifically for the work. The image here is a recreation of Bowen’s experience in one of his instances as he drew then. This time he was drawing from a life model as he recreated the memory. Bowen’s book could’ve been augmented with up to 60 of his original drawings; however, 43 was the magic number where he had chosen to stop. The medium was used for the purpose of keeping its authenticity as he recreated his experiences from the war.

Scratching the surface. Bowen was born in the Bronx and then grew up in Irvington, N.J., during his adolescent years. However, with his family having relocated to South Florida when Bowen left the war in December 1969, he also chose to settle in Florida, where he found a job with the Miami Herald. Some years down the road, he then worked for the Sun Sentinel. Bowen retired in 2009.

The years of painting, however, did not stop before or after the war. His work has been exhibited in major shows and has won several awards over the course of his lifetime. Bowen, from 1988, is a lifetime member of the Gold Coast Watercolor Society. He is a distinguished signature member of the Florida Watercolor Society, and his proudest accomplishment yet has been for him to be honored with signature status from the American Society of Marine Artists, more recently.

Realistic expressionism. Bowen’s creations with watercolor may seem mastered, but according to him, he is always learning and evolving (FYI, they are pretty mastered). However, he is not a purist. He admits to the use of gouache at times, predominantly zinc white, he mentions, in combinational transparency that creates a texture, such as with his trees or foliage. His ability to bring light colors over dark to increment to some extent is an evolution to depth development. He does this by using more paints and little water, which suggests a paste-like medium applied over its primary layer. Bowen’s reversed topical application assigns dualism to his expression by the concept of light.

Viscaya. The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, or simply Vizcaya, is a lovely historic estate in Miami. It was built between 1914 and 1922. Bowen’s beautiful paintings of Viscaya can be found in prints and notecards in its gift shop, while some of his originals can be viewed in the cafe.

Chosen subjects. Bowen’s favorite subjects to paint are old homes, in detail, and of wicker, for example, a theme of one of his favorite artworks on the front porch of an old house. “Dove & Blackbird” (not pictured) is just one of many examples of the fine detail to that of interpretation, which extends from the door, amplifying the presence of that detail. Moreover, there are his “shoots”—what Bowen calls them—as he brings photographs of his subjects back home to his studio, where he then recreates the art. His work, inspired by the historical city of Charleston, S.C., was formed from some of his shoots, as he grasps moments of history and shares them through watercolor by hand.

“Antique Ford” (not pictured) is another exquisite artwork reconstructed from history. The work is of an old-time Ford with old-time luggage sitting in the back of its trunk. This work demonstrates quite vividly Bowen’s use of light and color dynamics as he exerts influence on already visually favorable subjects. He brings not only the past into a unique visual, but also the joy and tranquility of his subjects fluently through his artistic hand to life. They are fun to see.

The Florida Keys. The Keys is where viewers can find those wicker chairs, in his series of the area, ranging from his experiences at the Main Street Kennedy Gallery on Duval Street to those on West Atlantic Avenue.

Every little detail. Bowen’s ability to capture every little detail is indeed impressive, unveiling his acuity to vision. His unique Marine collection is no different. The use of light trickles down right to the most rustic authenticity. Dynamics in visual draws of color highlight each context unsparingly. It is easy to see how much his work exercises his bravery.

Currently, Bowen’s work aspires to the BRiC, Boca Raton’s Innovation Campus, expected to launch in May 2025, where three of his artworks will be able to be viewed. He currently resides in Tamarac. We extend a warm thanks for his service.

For more information or to contact John Bowen, go to johnbowenwatercolorist.com.

 

 

 

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Renaissance fun Local festivalgoers march into the past

The annual Florida Renaissance Festival in Quiet Waters Park kicked off on Feb. 1, and it’s scheduled to conclude on March 23. It is a great opportunity to enjoy a glimpse of what life might have been back in the 16th century.

Renaissance festivals have become more and more popular since first coming onto the U.S. scene 50 years ago. These events went from a small niche in New York and California, growing through the decades, to extravagant festivals in recent years. The festivals typically feature a setting during the English Renaissance period.

These events also serve as an educational tool for many. It inspires a deeper passion for history and the arts, and it showcases fashion and music from a different era. For some, the shows spark a deeper interest to learn more about the 16th century, and how the Renaissance period impacted the world.

The modern Renaissance festival was started in California in 1963 by Phyllis Patterson, a schoolteacher. It was initially created as a fundraiser for a radio station, with the vision of blending historical reenactment with performative art. For Patterson, there was a local talent pool of performers that she was able to draw upon in the Hollywood Hills community.

Since then, these cultural events have spread across the country. You typically will find both entertainers and attendees in full costume from that time period, along with music and theatrical performance acts of that era. The outfits you see can be simple, or extravagant. Many attendees and performers go out of their way to reenact every element of the outfit to be as realistic as possible.

You also will find vendors selling outfits at the festival, if you want to check them out in person. The Florida Renaissance Festival boasts more than 100 vendors to supply you with provisions. They will also provide you with a wide range of food and beverage—from turkey legs to desserts, and from cold ale to mead.

Nowadays, you will also find a large online community to help with preparing your outfit. A quick search on online store Etsy.com shows many options for historical dresses, gadgets, and accessories, including full sets of plate armor and weapons.

Typically, the festivals will have a theme, and the Florida Renaissance Festival has a theme each weekend. This year the festival is introducing a new concept—the weekend of March 8 and 9 features “Gears and Gadgets–The Lost Inventions of DaVinci,” which celebrates the retro-futuristic subgenre of science fiction. So, expect to see many creations and outfits featuring gears and spectacles if you visit that weekend.

According to one person who attends these festivals, attendees “enjoy the fact it’s historically inspired, and might require a lot of research, and build on year after year.” It’s not like when you are dressing as a character from a book or movie, such as for Comic-Con; for Renaissance festivals, it’s a character you’ve created. This person cherishes the festivals as “a creation of an agreed-upon environment.”

So if you have a weekend free this month, don’t miss out on the final days of the annual Florida Renaissance Festival. It’s on every weekend at Quiet Waters Park. But be warned, expect long lines—the park often reaches capacity by the afternoon—so get there early if you want to partake in the festivities.

 

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