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Finding the right sound

Music, focus, and auditory processing disorder

“How can you possibly concentrate with that music playing?” Parents and teachers have asked students this question forever. However, many students will tell you that music helps them concentrate. This is actually true for most people. The right sounds can train your brain to focus better and for longer periods of time.

Music or white noise can help students to block out distracting noises, to focus, and to complete tasks in longer sittings.

The important part is finding the right sound. One student might focus best with instrumental music, while another prefers nature sounds or silence. Music with lyrics may help during a repetitive assignment but become distracting during reading or writing. Instead of assuming that music always helps or always hurts, students should notice what actually improves their work.

But what happens when a student cannot decide which sounds receive attention?

Imagine sitting in a classroom and hearing the teacher, the air conditioner, a tapping pencil, a scraping chair, footsteps in the hallway, and another student whispering. Now imagine that your brain treats every sound as equally important.

It is almost as if every sound has been assigned the same volume button. For a student with auditory processing disorder, or APD, this can be an everyday experience. A student may have normal hearing but still struggle with how the brain interprets and organizes sound. 

The student might ask people to repeat themselves, forget verbal directions, mishear similar-sounding words, or struggle to understand a lesson when there is background noise. The truth is, that student may be listening to far too much.

I once worked with a middle school student who could explain complicated ideas beautifully when she had time to process them. In class, however, she struggled to take notes and often missed important information. Her teachers thought she was daydreaming.

When I asked what she heard during class, she said it was so noisy. She kept describing how people are always coughing, tapping pens, or chattering. As someone who has personal experience with APD, I knew the sounds would always feel loud to her. 

Instead, I taught her strategies. She learned to take short notes whenever the teacher spoke to help her focus. She also used a recorder, with permission. At home, she could replay the lesson, pause often, and give herself time to process the information without distractions.

During independent assignments and certain tests, noise-canceling headphones helped quiet the chatter and movement around her. Some teachers allowed it, some did not. However, the goal was not to avoid sound. It was to find the sound environment in which her brain could learn best, because students with APD often excel at listening when they can focus on one sound or voice at a time. 

An evaluation by an audiologist is important because APD can resemble attention, language, or learning difficulties. Support may include auditory training, speech and language intervention, visual directions, repetition, extra processing time, improved classroom acoustics, or assistive technology. Music and rhythm may also be used in activities that strengthen timing, sequencing, sound discrimination, and careful listening.

So, should students listen to music while they study? They should listen to anything that helps them focus.  

For most students, finding the right sound can make learning more comfortable. For a student with auditory processing disorder, it can make learning possible.

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The original Thanksgiving favorite—winter squash

As the daylight shortens, and Thanksgiving comes into focus, we find a range of hard-shelled squashes on the grocery shelves. Unlike their summer cousins, like zucchini, winter squashes have hard shells and come in a vibrant range of colors and a variety of shapes. They were an American native vegetable when the pilgrims first arrived at Plymouth Rock, and were served in the early Thanksgiving dinners across the states.

The squash is part of the traditional Native American “Three Sisters” agriculture methodology, where corn, beans, and squashes were planted together to mutually benefit each other. Squashes with their prickly stems acted as a protector against pest animals for the bean and corn crops. They also provided shade and ground cover to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Corn provided a natural trellis for the beans to climb, and beans improved soil by fixing nitrogen from air, feeding the nutrient-demanding corn. Along with wild fowls, these three crops were featured in the first Thanksgiving dinner in 1621.

Archaeological evidence suggests that the squash was domesticated in the Americas approximately 10,000 years ago. The main food species, Cucurbita pepo, was first domesticated in Mexico, and its descendants are the pumpkins. A second domestication of Cucurbita pepo happened in the American Northeast, which yields the summer squashes—yellow- and-green skinned squashes, such as zucchini and acorn squash. You can still find wild populations of Cucurbita pepo in Texas and Mexico.

When the settlers first arrived in the Americas, the Native Americans shared their knowledge of agriculture with the new arrivals. Squash soon became an indispensable staple of the American diet. Stored in cool cellars, these hard squashes could last through late spring, and they were a key cornerstone to survive the winter. Settlers took the native word for them, askutasquash, and abbreviated it to “squash.”

In the fall, a wide variety of squashes are harvested, and you can typically find them in your grocery store:

  • Butternut squash—sweet and nutty, with a creamy, smooth texture
  • Acorn squash—earthy, with a dense, fibrous texture
  • Spaghetti squash—slightly sweet, with a stringy, noodle-like texture
  • Pumpkin—sweet and slightly spicy, with a dense, moist texture

If you are a fan of squashes, and want to highlight them for your Thanksgiving dinner, here are some ideas:

  • Squash soup—roasted squash, onions, and garlic, served as a first course
  • Mashed squash—cooked squash, butter, and milk, as a side dish
  • Squash casserole—cooked squash, breadcrumbs, and cheese, as a side dish
  • Pumpkin pie—made with cooked pumpkin, sweetened condensed milk, and spices, as a dessert

Considered by Native American cultures as a sacred food, the squash symbolizes abundance and resilience. It is that abundance from the land that we still celebrate and give thanks today at every Thanksgiving.

Smooth butternut squash and carrot soup with cream, pumpkin seeds goji berries.

Here is a popular butternut squash soup recipe:

1½ tablespoons butter

½ onion, sliced

2 cloves garlic

2 sprigs fresh thyme

½ butternut squash—peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes

4 cups chicken broth

½ cube chicken bouillon

1 pinch ground cumin

1 pinch ground allspice

Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

Directions: Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and thyme, and sauté until onion has softened, about 5 minutes. Add squash and chicken broth; bring to a simmer, then cook until squash is tender, 10 to 15 minutes. Crumble bouillon into the soup. Season with cumin, allspice, salt, and pepper, then remove from heat.

Working in batches, pour soup into a blender, filling no more than halfway. Hold the lid in place with a kitchen towel, then carefully start the blender, using a few quick pulses to get the soup moving before leaving it on to purée. Pour soup into a serving bowl.

Source: Allrecipes

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DELICIOUS DINING

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

Where to dine out this Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family and friends, give thanks, and, of course, enjoy a delicious meal. But preparing a holiday feast at home can mean hours of shopping, cooking, and cleaning. Fortunately, there are restaurants that make it easy to celebrate without spending the entire day in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, a flavorful steakhouse experience, or a relaxed meal with family, dining out can be a wonderful way to make the holiday special. Here are some local restaurants to consider when planning your holiday meal.

NYY Steak – Coconut Creek

If you’re looking to make Thanksgiving feel extra special, NYY Steak offers an upscale dining experience that steak lovers will appreciate. Located at Seminole Casino Coconut Creek, this elegant steakhouse is known for its premium, dry-aged USDA Prime steaks, fresh seafood, and sophisticated atmosphere. It’s a wonderful option for families who want to trade the traditional home-cooked meal for a memorable restaurant experience. Check with the restaurant for its 2026 Thanksgiving menu and holiday reservations.

Runyon’s – Coral Springs

A longtime local favorite, Runyon’s is a great choice for those who enjoy classic steakhouse dining and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Past holiday menus have featured roasted turkey breast with gravy, herb stuffing, mashed potatoes, green beans, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. If you prefer a familiar neighborhood restaurant for your holiday gathering, Runyon’s is worth checking out as you make your plans. Call ahead to confirm its Thanksgiving Day hours, menu, and reservation availability.

Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant – Coconut Creek

For a Thanksgiving celebration with a modern twist, Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant combines contemporary American cuisine with an extensive wine selection and a polished dining atmosphere. It’s an appealing option for couples, families, and groups of friends looking to enjoy a leisurely holiday meal together. With a menu featuring a variety of entrees, appetizers, and desserts, guests can enjoy something beyond the traditional turkey dinner. Call ahead for availability.

Sharkey’s Bar & Grill – Coral Springs

If you’re hoping for a more casual Thanksgiving outing, Sharkey’s Bar & Grill in Coral Springs is a familiar neighborhood spot known for its lively atmosphere, extensive menu, and sports-bar setting. With a variety of pub favorites, burgers, seafood, and other crowd-pleasing options, it can be a good alternative for those who want a relaxed meal rather than a formal holiday dinner.

Seasons 52 – Boca Raton and Sunrise

For a seasonal dining experience that blends fresh ingredients with holiday tradition, Seasons 52 is an excellent option to consider. Known for its wood-fired and brick-oven cooking, the restaurant offers an inviting atmosphere for a special family meal. Seasons 52 welcomes guests on Thanksgiving and has offered a traditional holiday dinner featuring roasted turkey, savory gravy, mashed potatoes, herb stuffing, green beans, sweet potatoes, cranberry relish, and a mini pumpkin pie dessert. The restaurant also offers family-sized Thanksgiving meals to go, making it a convenient choice for those who want a prepared feast at home without all the cooking. Call ahead for reservation availability.

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Eight tips for allergy-free holidays

Winter holidays bring cheer and plenty of opportunities for festive eating. While common food allergens lurk in many traditional dishes served at Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa celebrations, a little preparation and planning can help you glide through the holidays safely, whether you are a parent of a child with food allergies or hosting guests who have them.

These tips can help you navigate food allergies safely and healthfully this holiday season.

5 Tips for Avoiding Food Allergens at Home

  • Host at your home. Because you are in control of what is served, this can be the safest option when managing food allergies. You may choose to prepare only “safe” foods and let guests know what they can and cannot bring into the house. If you do have foods containing allergens, designate separate areas for these foods to be served to help prevent cross-contact.
  • Focus on whole, unprocessed foods. While cooking from scratch may seem like more work, it helps ensure that food and prep areas are free from food allergens. You might even find that you save time overall because you do not have to scour every ingredient list.
  • Modify traditional recipes using allergen-free ingredients. Once you know a few simple swaps, you may realize just how easy it is to modify your recipes. Focus on similar items when considering swaps, like nondairy milk for cow’s milk (or vice versa), or naturally gluten-free grains for wheat. Eggs in recipes often can be substituted with ground, rehydrated flax or with chia seeds.
  • Always read all ingredient labels. Even if you think a product is allergen-free, read the label. Food manufacturers change formulas, which may introduce allergens into previously “safe” foods and beverages.
  • Keep it clean. Prevent cross-contact and cross-contamination by encouraging frequent handwashing.

3 Tips for Avoiding Food Allergens Away from Home

  • Offer to help the host. If you help plan the menu or shop for ingredients, you can choose items that you know are safe. If you cook, you can help ensure that dishes are prepared without allergens. And do not hesitate to ask your host to save labels from products to reference and provide you peace of mind.
  • Bring snacks and desserts. If helping ahead of time is out of the question, bring a few allergen-free options. Bring your own allergen-free snacks and desserts, as baked goods feature common allergens such as wheat, dairy, eggs, nuts, and soy. Pack snacks such as fresh fruit with sunflower butter packets, carrots with hummus, popcorn, or homemade trail mix made with rice cereal, seeds, and chocolate chips. For easy, festive desserts, melt chocolate chips as a dip for dried apricots or allergen-free cookies, or bake apples sprinkled with cinnamon and brown sugar and top with an allergen-free whipped topping.
  • Communication is key. If a host is unfamiliar with how to manage food allergies, they might fall victim to the “a little bit won’t hurt” mindset. Communicate at the start that a little bit can hurt, and that you would be more than happy to help with shopping or prep, so the host can feel comfortable and you can feel confident in the foods served.
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Yabusame: The ancient Japanese art of mounted archery in South Florida

On certain Sunday mornings at Malachi Acres in Parkland, visitors can witness Yabusame, a traditional form of Japanese mounted archery with roots stretching back approximately 800 years to the martial and ceremonial traditions of Japan’s samurai.

The arena is set up with traditional targets, and riders carry Japanese bows, known as yumi, which are often over six feet tall and have a grip positioned below the center. Their distinctive asymmetrical shape allows riders to handle these long bows while mounted, an important feature when shooting arrows from horseback.

Riders use traditional Japanese saddles, known as kura, based on designs that have been used for centuries. These saddles consist of four principal hand-carved, wooden components joined together using hemp cord. Their construction allows for flexibility, maintenance, and repair, reflecting the craftsmanship and practicality of traditional Japanese horsemanship.

In Japan, Yabusame is traditionally performed along a straight track, with mounted archers shooting at targets while riding at speed. At Malachi Acres, the smaller arena provides a controlled environment where riders develop their horsemanship, balance, coordination, and archery skills before progressing to more demanding exercises.

The practitioners are Florida-based members of the Ogasawara-ryū America Branch, studying the traditions of one of Japan’s oldest surviving schools of martial etiquette and mounted archery. Ogasawara-ryū has preserved and transmitted traditions of Japanese horsemanship, archery, and ceremonial etiquette for centuries. Its teachings emphasize not only technical ability, but also discipline, correct form, respect, and an understanding of the cultural significance behind each movement.

The Florida training group is coordinated by Jade Fraundorfer, originally from Johannesburg, South Africa, who has practiced traditional Japanese archery since 2007.

The group’s introduction to Japanese mounted archery began through its participation in the Ogasawara-ryū America Branch Gasshuku, intensive traditional training gatherings held annually in California and taught by Kiyomoto Ogasawara Sensei himself, the heir apparent and son of Kiyotada Ogasawara Sensei, the current head of the Ogasawara-ryū school.

These training experiences inspired the members to establish their own practice group in South Florida, allowing them to continue developing their horsemanship and mounted archery skills between annual training gatherings.

“We went to a training camp, and none of us really had much riding experience,” recalls Fraundorfer. “We just got on horses and tried our best.”

After returning to South Florida, the members decided they wanted to continue training locally rather than wait for the next annual gathering. “We decided to organize ourselves as a group, find a suitable place to ride, obtain the necessary traditional equipment, and demonstrate to our seniors and teachers that we were serious about learning and preserving this tradition,” explains Fraundorfer.

Through continued training and their connection with the Ogasawara-ryū America Branch, the Florida practitioners have progressed from learning the fundamentals of mounted archery to being encouraged to participate in international Ogasawara-ryū performances in Japan.

At these traditional events, members are able to serve in various capacities, including essential supporting roles involved in the preparation and execution of the performances, as well as participating as Ite, the mounted archers who perform the traditional shooting. These opportunities represent an important step in their development, allowing them to learn directly through participation while contributing to the continuation of a centuries-old Japanese martial tradition.

While shooting a Japanese bow from horseback may appear to be the greatest challenge, Fraundorfer emphasizes that mastering the horse comes first. “For me personally, the archery is not the hardest part,” he says. “It’s the horsemanship and learning to manage your emotions, particularly fear. You’re working with a large, powerful animal that has a mind of its own, moving at speed, while holding a bow and arrow. It requires trust, confidence, and the ability to remain calm and focused, even when things become unpredictable.”

The five members currently participating in local mounted archery training range in age from 18 to 61. In addition to their monthly Sunday sessions, they take regular riding lessons to develop the balance, confidence, and control required to ride safely while handling a bow.

“A lot of us have fallen quite a number of times,” admits Fraundorfer.

Beyond the physical demands, the practitioners are learning a deeply rooted Japanese cultural tradition with its own techniques, etiquette, equipment, and responsibilities. Their objective is not simply to strike a target while riding a horse, it is to learn and practice the techniques as faithfully as possible, showing respect for the Japanese teachers and generations of practitioners who have maintained these traditions.

That commitment has also taken members beyond South Florida. In October, three members traveled to Japan to participate in Yabusame and Kasagake performances associated with the 31st Himawari no Hanabatake Matsuri (Sunflower Field Festival) in Midori City, Gunma Prefecture. The visit provided an opportunity to deepen their understanding of Japanese mounted archery and experience the tradition in the country where it originated.

Fraundorfer emphasizes that studying Yabusame requires dedication, patience, and cultural understanding. “You have to understand that what you’re learning is deeply cultural and very traditional. And it is very close to the hearts and traditions of the Japanese people. You are not learning just a simple sport. You are involved in something that has been growing for 800 years. There is a lot of pressure on you as a student.”

For those interested in witnessing this rare tradition, the group’s training sessions at Malachi Acres offer a glimpse into an extraordinary aspect of Japanese martial heritage.

Through their dedication, these Florida-based practitioners of the Ogasawara-ryū America Branch are working to develop their skills while honoring a tradition that has been passed down through generations in Japan.

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Fishing precautions before lightning strikes

The dolphin fishing had been slow. So when a school of dolphin weighing 3–5 pounds showed up about eight miles off Deerfield Beach on a hot and humid Saturday, boats swarmed to the area.

As anglers picked at the small schoolies, a cool breeze began blowing and black clouds moved overhead. Within minutes rain started falling and thunder crackled in the distance, a common occurrence this time of year in South Florida.

Judging by the cluster of boats, the fishing must’ve really been tough that morning, because none of them was leaving the schoolies. We didn’t have time to compare notes with the other anglers because we were on our way back to Boca Inlet.

My companions had asked whether I wanted to stay and fish or head home. My response was that I’d rather come back another day than push our luck.

We got to the inlet in the nick of time. Although the rain and lightning were well to the south of us, the wind had increased dramatically and turned the seas in front of the inlet into a sloppy hodgepodge of steep waves. Those who had stayed offshore were going to pay a wet, bumpy price for those schoolies.

It wasn’t until I read the book “Lightning Strikes” by meteorologist Jeff Renner that I learned that I’d employed two of what Renner calls the “four A’s” of thunderstorm safety: Assess and Act.

The four A’s are the crux of Renner’s strategy for safe, enjoyable outdoor experiences. They are Anticipate, which includes checking weather reports on TV, radio, and online before you head outdoors; Assess, which is the constant evaluation of weather conditions, such as cloud formations, while you’re outdoors; Act, which is doing something to avoid getting hit by lightning or tossed by big waves; and Aid, which is how to help those who have been injured in a storm.

Renner’s book goes into detail about the different weather systems that cause lightning. For example, sea breezes lead to many storms in South Florida. As the land heats during the day, the warm air rises and cooler ocean air flows inland—the sea breeze—during the late morning and early afternoon. When the cool air meets the warm air, a thunderstorm usually results. But if a weather system that produces strong winds is present, sea breezes might not develop, which is something you can anticipate.

Having miscalculated the proximity of violent thunderstorms and been forced to wait them out under concrete bridges, thanks to Renner I now know what to do as a thunderstorm approaches.

During a lobster bully netting trip at night in Biscayne Bay, a friend and I could see dark clouds off Miami Beach and hear the rumble of thunder, but it looked like the storm was moving north, away from our flats boat.

An hour later, tied up under a concrete bridge while 30 mph winds pelted us with rain as bolts of lightning boomed around us, we were kicking ourselves for not heading back to the boat ramp when we had the chance.

As Renner explains, if you can see lightning or hear thunder, it’s time to seek shelter. Thunder can be heard six to 10 miles away. Lightning bolts are visible within 15 miles, and the distance between successive strikes can be three to five miles or more. So if you see a bolt five miles away, the next one can hit you.

Lots of anglers I know use the “flash-to-bang” principle for estimating a storm’s distance, and most of them do it incorrectly. Renner says to start timing when you see a flash of lightning. Stop timing when you hear the thunder. Divide the number by 5. A count of 15 means the lightning is three miles away, not 15 miles.

Here’s the science behind the principle: Lightning moves almost at the speed of light. Sound moves at about 1,129 feet per second. In five seconds, the sound of thunder travels 5,645 feet, or a little over a mile.

If you get stuck on the water in a storm, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission offers these suggestions:

Most boats are grounded, so if they get hit by lightning, the charge flows to a grounding plate, which is typically on the underside of the hull, and goes into the water.

If the boat doesn’t have a cabin, boaters caught in a storm should crouch as low as they can, staying below the highest point of the vessel. Don’t stretch out flat, and don’t touch the water. If the boat gets hit, you’ll probably feel kind of tingly or you might get a slight zap, but you’ll be OK.

Take down antennas and turn off your electronics. Do not touch objects that can conduct an electrical charge, such as the handset of a VHF radio, a graphite fishing rod, or a T-top.

If lightning strikes an ungrounded radio antenna, the charge will be carried to the radio. If you’re touching the radio and your feet are on a wet deck, your body could be the best conductor for the charge.

Likewise, if you’re holding a graphite fishing rod and the lightning strikes the rod, the electrical charge will pass through you to the boat and then to the water.

If you’re fishing inshore, take cover under a bridge, most of which are grounded.

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Halloween then and now: From pillowcases to golf carts

There was a time when getting ready for Halloween didn’t mean ordering a costume online or heading to the local seasonal Spirit store. It meant looking through closets, drawers, and old boxes to see what could be turned into a costume.

A white sheet became a ghost. An old jacket, hat, and a little makeup could turn someone into a detective, a scarecrow, or just about anything else a child could dream of. Some parents sewed costumes from scratch, while others worked with whatever they could find around the house.

And then there were the store-bought costumes. Anyone who grew up in the 1970s or ’80s probably remembers the ones that came in a box with a plastic mask and a thin vinyl costume. The mask stayed on with a little elastic string and was usually hot, uncomfortable, and nearly impossible to see out of. But kids loved them anyway. Batman, Strawberry Shortcake, Mickey Mouse, or whoever else you wanted to be was right there in the box.

Today, Halloween looks a little different.

Costumes show up at the front door weeks before Oct. 31. Kids can choose from hundreds of superheroes, movie characters, and whatever happens to be popular that year with just a few clicks. The costumes are more detailed, the accessories match, and there is a pretty good chance that someone else at school ordered the same one.

But costumes are not the only thing that has changed.

Halloween night used to mean grabbing a pillowcase, plastic pumpkin, or even a grocery bag and heading down your street. Kids met up with friends and went from door to door until their bags got too heavy to carry. Everyone knew which house gave out the full-size candy bars, which one gave out something nobody wanted, and which house was scary enough to make you hold your friend’s hand tightly while approaching the door.

Kids still go door to door today, but even neighborhood trick-or-treating has changed.

Parents are much more likely to come along now, not only to keep an eye on the kids, but also to catch up with neighbors along the way. And in many South Florida neighborhoods, golf carts have become part of Halloween night. Families decorate them with spiderwebs, skeletons, lights, and anything else that will stay on. Kids hop on and off as they trick-or-treat, while parents avoid walking several miles in the Florida heat. It’s convenient, it’s fun, and it has become part of Halloween here.

Another change is the popularity of “trunk-or-treat” events.

Instead of walking from house to house, families gather in one place, where decorated cars and SUVs become the stops for collecting candy. Open trunks are filled with pumpkins, jack-o’-lanterns, and all kinds of Halloween decorations.

Parkland has embraced the newer Halloween tradition with its annual Halloween Festival. This year’s event will be held on Friday, Oct. 23, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at the Equestrian Center.

The festival includes a Trunk or Treat Lane, where kids can collect candy from decorated vehicles, along with characters, stilt walkers, and a Halloween performance on the main stage. It gives families another way to celebrate Halloween together without having to go door to door.

Halloween may look a little different today, but the goal is still the same … put on a costume, collect as much candy as possible, and have a lot of fun along the way!

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A healthier take on pumpkin season

Once fall arrives, pumpkin seems to find its way into just about everything. And while we usually think of it as the star of pies and other indulgent treats, canned pumpkin can also be a surprisingly wholesome ingredient. It adds fiber, vitamin A, and plenty of seasonal flavor, while cottage cheese and Greek yogurt bring extra protein and creaminess. Together, they make it easy to give your favorite fall sweets a lighter, more satisfying twist.

These protein-packed recipes are simple, family-friendly, and easy enough to make anytime. Just be sure to use 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.

Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Muffins

Cottage cheese may not be the first ingredient that comes to mind when making pumpkin muffins, but once blended, it creates a smooth batter and adds both moisture and extra protein. The finished muffins are soft, lightly spiced, and perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
  • 1 cup high-protein cottage cheese
  • 2 large eggs
  • ⅓ cup pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1½ cups white whole-wheat flour or all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ⅓ cup mini chocolate chips, optional

(Makes 12 muffins)

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F, and line a 12-cup muffin pan.
  2. Blend the pumpkin, cottage cheese, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla until completely smooth.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, and stir gently until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips, if using.
  5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  6. Let cool slightly before serving.

Easy finishing touch: Add a few mini chocolate chips to the tops before baking for a bakery-style look.

Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Greek Yogurt Cookies

Pumpkin naturally gives cookies a soft, tender texture, and Greek yogurt adds a little protein while keeping them moist. These are more soft and cake-like than crisp, which makes them especially good with a cup of coffee or tea.

Ingredients

  • ½ cup canned pumpkin puree
  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 large egg
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1½ cups all-purpose or white whole-wheat flour
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips

(Makes about 16 cookies)

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F, and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Whisk together the pumpkin, Greek yogurt, egg, brown sugar, and vanilla.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt.
  4. Add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture, and stir until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
  5. Spoon the dough onto the prepared baking sheet and gently flatten each cookie slightly, as pumpkin cookies tend not to spread much.
  6. Bake for 10 to 13 minutes, until the tops are set.
  7. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a rack.

Pumpkin Pie Protein Smoothie

For mornings when you want something quick, this smoothie gives you all the familiar pumpkin-pie flavors in a much lighter form. Greek yogurt makes it creamy and adds protein, while frozen banana provides natural sweetness.

Ingredients

  • ½ cup canned pumpkin puree
  • ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • ½ frozen banana
  • ½ cup milk of choice
  • 1 tablespoon almond butter or peanut butter
  • ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup, optional
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Handful of ice

(Makes 1 large smoothie)

Directions

  1. Add all ingredients to a blender, and blend until smooth and creamy.
  2. Taste before adding the maple syrup, as the banana may provide enough sweetness.
  3. Add a splash of milk for a thinner smoothie or extra ice for a thicker one.
  4. A little cinnamon sprinkled on top makes a simple finishing touch.

Optional add-in: Blend in one or two tablespoons of rolled oats for a little extra staying power.

Recipe Inspiration & Sources

These recipes are original adaptations inspired by established pumpkin recipes using cottage cheese or Greek yogurt.

Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Muffins: The Cooking Foodie, “Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Muffins (High-Protein)”—a pumpkin muffin recipe using blended cottage cheese for added protein and moisture

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies: Kirbie’s Cravings, “Healthier Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies”—using pumpkin puree and Greek yogurt in a soft, pumpkin–chocolate chip cookie

Pumpkin Smoothie: American Heart Association, “Pumpkin Spice Smoothie”—combines canned pumpkin, yogurt, milk, and fall spices, with Greek yogurt suggested as a higher-protein option

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DELICIOUS DINING

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

Dining out in style with your dog

Dining out is always more fun when the whole family can come along, including the four-legged members! Fortunately, we have several local restaurants where you can enjoy a great meal without leaving your pup at home. Because Florida health regulations generally restrict pets from indoor restaurant dining areas (unless they are service animals), these pet-friendly options are all about the patio. So plan on requesting outdoor seating and enjoy some fresh air together. From casual neighborhood favorites to waterfront dining, here are some spots worth checking out.

Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar – Boca Raton

With a name like Lazy Dog, it’s no surprise that this Boca favorite rolls out the welcome mat for pups. Dogs are welcome on the outdoor patio, making it an easy choice for lunch, dinner, or a relaxed weekend meal. It’s especially fun for dog owners because your pup doesn’t have to sit and watch everyone else eat, as Lazy Dog even offers a special dog menu. With a comfortable, casual atmosphere and plenty of choices for the humans, this is one of the area’s most dog-friendly dining experiences.

Nauti Dawg Marina Cafe – Lighthouse Point

It’s a little farther from this side of town, but Nauti Dawg is worth the drive if you’re looking for something different. Located right on the water at the marina in Lighthouse Point, this laid-back restaurant combines waterfront views with a very dog-friendly atmosphere. Bring your leashed pup, grab a table outside, and enjoy the scenery while you eat. Nauti Dawg even has a K-9 menu for its canine guests. Between the boats, water views, and casual South Florida vibe, this one can feel more like a mini-outing than simply going out for lunch or dinner.

Pizza Time Caffè – Parkland

You don’t have to leave Parkland to enjoy dinner with your dog. Pizza Time Caffè offers outdoor seating where pups can join their owners. A longtime neighborhood favorite, it’s an easy option when you’re craving pizza, pasta, or classic Italian food and don’t want to leave your dog behind. Its outdoor dining area makes it particularly convenient for a casual family meal close to home.

Bluefin – Parkland

Another nearby option is Bluefin in Parkland. Its outdoor seating area also allows dogs, making it a great choice when you want to stay local while enjoying a meal with your pup by your side. Sushi lovers can enjoy fresh rolls, sashimi, and other Japanese favorites while relaxing outside with their four-legged dining companion.

Big Bear Brewing Company – Coral Springs

Big Bear Brewing Company is a Coral Springs favorite that also has dog-friendly outdoor seating. The casual setting makes it an easy place to meet friends, enjoy lunch or dinner, and bring your dog along rather than leaving them at home.

A Tip Before You Go:  Call ahead! Outdoor seating availability and individual pet policies can change. Weather, special events, or seasonal changes may also affect patio seating, so a quick phone call before heading out with your pup is always a good idea!

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The art of tarot: Special Halloween edition

“Ace of Cups,” hand-painted and gilded tarot card, circa 1490, Italy. Formerly attributed to Antonio di Ciconagra. Victoria and Albert Museum, London.

Well, with Halloween coming this month, we will be traveling back to the ports of Venice at the height of its 15th-century maritime trade—and why not? After all, it is the All Saints’ Day festivities on Nov. 1, and accordingly, it was here in Venice that the tarot first arrived in Europe.

Venice was a threshold city, where goods, ideas, and symbols passed from east to west. At this age, the city was already a living stage: lanterns flickering on the water, merchants unloading cargo from Alexandria and Constantinople, and, on their day of festivities, costumed processions winding the streets. The tarot, elusive in origin and fluid in meaning, fit perfectly into this type of cultural bloodstream.

Still, the elusivity of the tarot goes even further back to the 12th century—where India and Egypt were traced to be its origins, and Chinese/Korean printmaking was its accents of geography rooting to its production.

The earliest tarot decks were hand‑painted originals, crafted with gesso, gold leaf, and mineral pigments. These cards were, of course, not yet mass-produced. Rather, they were miniature panel paintings. Each one was like a small, handcrafted delicacy. These cards were commissioned by noble families, often as wedding gifts or displays of dynastic prestige. In the courts, tarot was played as a trick‑taking game that was like a contest of hierarchy, where higher cards defeated lower ones. The game itself reflected society at the time of the Renaissance period. Each card was structured, symbolic, and deeply aware of rank.

The imagery of these cards would have been instantly recognizable to their players. Renaissance nobles lived in a world saturated with classical mythology, moral allegory, and heraldic symbolism. A celestial figure like the “Star” echoed the era’s fascination with astronomy and divine order. Her gilded surface would have shimmered in candlelight, turning gameplay into a visual performance. She was not yet a symbol of spiritual guidance at this point, but simply a reflection of Renaissance cosmology, where the heavens were both scientific and sacred.

“Stella” (Star), hand-painted and gilded tarot card, circa 1490, Italy. Museum No. E, 1498–1926. Victoria and Albert Museum, London.

In this time of the world where many were illiterate, these sorts of visual literacy mattered. Color, gesture, and allegory carried moral weight. The tarot’s painted figures became a language of virtue vs. vice, fate vs. folly, and moral lessons shaped by historical classical ideology. The cards were not yet mystical but didactic art, teaching through symbolic expression what text could not always convey.

“The Knave of Coins,” hand-painted and gilded tarot card, circa 1490, Italy. Museum No. E, 1469–1926. Victoria and Albert Museum, London.

“The Knave of Coins” is a prime example of this. The young attendant is caught between the wealth he carries and the hierarchy he represents. His gilded coin is a symbol of economic fate, and of the precarious balance between privilege and dependence during this period. The knave was both subordinate and indispensable. This would have been immediately legible to Renaissance players as a reminder that fortune was relational, negotiated, and never guaranteed.

In fact, the Major Arcana became a gallery of Renaissance ideals: Strength, Fortune, Temperance, and Judgment. These were not abstract concepts, but characters the nobles recognized from frescoes, pageants, and family insignia.

The Minor Arcana were the everyday cards of the deck. In these suit cards, the Ace of Cups, for example, embodies the Renaissance belief that beauty itself was a form of devotion. The cup’s architectural detailing adopts the visual language of Italian churches and civic buildings. It is a reminder that tarot’s earliest imagery was borrowed from the same artistic vocabulary that shaped altarpieces, fresco cycles, and illuminated manuscripts.

It wasn’t until the late 18th century that the cards were considered tools for fortune‑telling. Cartomancy is said to have been first developed by a French artisan named Etteilla, who created the first deck designed specifically for divination. He published instructions, taught the art of reading, and reframed tarot as a metaphysical system. For the first time, the cards were interpreted not just as moral allegories, but as symbolic keys to personal insight.

Etteilla’s work coincided with the Enlightenment’s fascination with hidden knowledge of this time, its secret correspondences, and the idea that symbols could reveal inner truths. Tarot became a bridge between art and esotericism.

By the 19th century, tarot imagery evolved again. Artists and mystics blended Christian iconography, Kabbalah, alchemy, and Egyptian revival aesthetics. The cards became psychological, spiritual, and cosmological. The “trumps” shifted from moral allegories to archetypes of consciousness. The tarot wasn’t just art anymore, but a map of the human psyche.

The “Death” card from the early decks is a reflection of this. Rooted in medieval Christian teachings about mortality, the early versions are not sinister but sobering in their symbolic expressions. Renaissance viewers would have understood it as transformation, inevitability, and the moral reminder that earthly status was temporary. Its skeletal figure, rendered with delicate brushwork and gilded accents, acts as both warning and wisdom.

“Death,” hand-painted and gilded tarot card, circa 1490, Italy. Museum No. E, 1470–1926. Victoria and Albert Museum, London.

In its totality, tarot survives because it is fundamentally visual storytelling. This storytelling has evolved by absorbing myth, religion, psychology, and personal narrative. Today, the art of tarot reflects the human condition found in our ambitions, our anxieties, and our desire to find meaning in symbols.

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Tips for a healthy Halloween party

Halloween is a fun day full of costumes, imagination and, of course, tons of candy. Here are some tips to make your at-home party fun and healthy.

Remember Balance

Keep in mind, Halloween is just one day a year—it’s what kids eat each day that has the most impact on their nutrition and health. Instead of making candy and sweet treats off-limits, serve healthy snacks first, and bring out the sweet treats later when the kids have already filled up on more nutritious foods. One idea is to choose orange foods for the healthy options, such as carrots or baked sweet-potato fries. Try adding green guacamole for a dose of heart-healthy unsaturated fat.

For a heartier choice, try black and orange tortilla roll-ups made by layering lean roast beef and low-fat provolone or mozzarella cheese on a sun-dried tomato tortilla. (For a veggie option, use refried black beans instead of roast beef.)

For those special sweet treats that you do allow, provide small portions. Choose fun-size—instead of full-size—candies, miniature cupcakes or muffins, and smaller cookies and brownies (think 2 inches). Serve each child, rather than leaving treats out on a table, to regulate how many servings each child consumes.

Make Your Own Healthier Treats

Make your own treats that have some nutritional value by including a source of fruits, vegetables, nuts, or whole grains. Try popcorn tossed with cinnamon and sugar or chocolate-covered fresh fruit as healthier alternatives to candy. Go for pumpkin treats, such as fiber-packed, cinnamon-roasted pumpkin seeds or vitamin A–rich, pumpkin–chocolate chip mini muffins.

Consider these other healthy, Halloween-themed snack ideas:

  • Warm apple cider with cinnamon sticks
  • Smoothies made with low-fat vanilla yogurt and canned pumpkin
  • Apple slices with a fruit dip made with yogurt mixed with canned pumpkin and pumpkin-pie spice
  • Date and pumpkin energy balls
  • Pumpkin-pie dip made with low-fat cream cheese, Greek yogurt, roasted pumpkin, and spices
  • Baked apples or pears with cinnamon, nuts, and honey
  • Chocolate-chip pumpkin bars made with half whole-wheat flour

Get Everyone Up and Moving

Make sure that the party isn’t all about the food. Plan fun activities and games to get the kids moving, such as a costume parade or relay race. Try “Monster Tag”—one child is the monster, and whomever he or she tags turns into a zombie.

Limit Leftover Candy

When the fun of Halloween is over and kids are left with lots of candy, encourage mindful enjoyment of the treats without restrictive deprivation. Try putting the candy away in a place that is out of sight, and you may find that the kids forget about it after a few days. You also can mix leftover candy with whole-grain cereal, nuts, and a few pretzels to make a homemade trail mix for snacks.

Make this Halloween an opportunity to teach your child to enjoy special treats, in moderation, as part of an overall healthy diet.

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DELICIOUS DINING

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

Where to go for a great happy hour

Happy hour is the perfect excuse to meet up with friends, unwind after work, or simply enjoy a favorite local restaurant for a little less. From discounted craft cocktails and wine to bar bites and weekday specials, several local restaurants offer deals worth arriving early for. Whether you are looking for an upscale cocktail, a cold beer, or something to share, these local happy hours make an afternoon or early evening out even more appealing.

Tap 42 Craft Kitchen & Bar – Coral Springs

Tap 42 combines a lively, modern atmosphere with a happy hour made for catching up with friends after work. Offered Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. at the bar, happy hour includes discounts on craft beers, spirits, wine, and handcrafted cocktails. Current specials include $2 off craft beers, $4 off spirits, and $3 off wine, along with reduced prices on craft cocktails. Pair a drink with one of Tap 42’s bar bites or shareable dishes for an easy start to the evening.

Runyon’s – Coral Springs

Runyon’s offers happy hour Tuesday through Saturday from 3 to 6 p.m., available at the bar, cocktail tables, and patio tables. Current happy-hour listings feature 50% off qualifying liquor, beer, and wines priced $18 and under, along with a dedicated menu of appetizers and small plates. With its classic steakhouse atmosphere and lively Piano Room, Runyon’s is an appealing spot for an early drink that can easily turn into dinner.

Sharkey’s Bar & Grill – Coral SpringsImageSharkey’s gives happy-hour fans one of the longest windows in the area, running Monday through Friday from noon to 7 p.m. Happy-hour cocktails are $9, hard seltzers and premium beers are $6, and domestic beers are $4. With wings, seafood, burgers, and plenty of other casual favorites on the menu, it is an easy place to settle in for an afternoon. Sharkey’s also regularly features trivia, live entertainment, and additional food specials throughout the week, adding to its neighborhood sports-bar atmosphere.

Sicilian Oven – Coral Springs

Sicilian Oven starts happy hour earlier than most. Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., drink specials are available throughout the restaurant, including $1 off beers, $3 off glasses of wine, $6 well cocktails, and $8 select spirits. From 4 to 7 p.m., guests can also order special bar bites at the bar and high-top tables. Midweek brings even more reasons to stop in: Tuesday features BOGO beers, Wednesday offers 50% off bottles of wine, and Thursday brings $10 specialty cocktails all day. Add a wood-fired pizza or the restaurant’s popular Sicilian salad, and happy hour can easily turn into dinner.

TacoCraft Taqueria & Tequila Bar – Coral Springs

TacoCraft brings a lively atmosphere and plenty of options to happy hour, offered seven days a week from 3 to 6 p.m. and again from 10 p.m. to close, excluding holidays and special events. Drink specials include $8 classic margaritas, $10 specialty margaritas and craft cocktails, $6 wines, $5 bottled beers, and $6 drafts. Tequila and mezcal fans get an especially good deal with 50% off most selections. The happy-hour menu also features $5 tacos as well as various-priced bar bites such as chicken taquitos, street corn, yuca fries, and queso, making it an easy spot to turn drinks with friends into dinner.

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