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Local scam that’s all too common these days

This spring, a local Parkland resident found herself in front of a Coinhub ATM ready to follow the instructions of a Captain Brian Smith, badge #1074, to deposit funds to resolve an alleged court order. Just before she deposited the cash, which she had to take a cash advance for, her husband, with the help of local police, got a hold of her and advised that it was a scam.

This is an ordeal that is all too common these days, and luckily this scam didn’t succeed, due to the help of family and police.

The scam started with a call on April 23, 2026, to our victim by a person going by the name of Brian Smith, who claimed to be a captain of the local sheriff’s department. He even provided a badge number, 1074, to sound official.

After confirming some personal details, the fake sheriff captain claimed our victim failed to appear for a court date, and that two warrants had been issued. The scammer explained that, due to its legal sensitivity, the victim shouldn’t discuss the issue with anyone until it was cleared up, and he could help with that.

This is where our fake captain started the next phase of the scam. He asked our victim to provide a bond of $3,250. Then to keep the pressure on and to monitor her, he asked her to update him on her mileage and estimated time of arrival, supposedly to help with the reimbursement of mileage and gas. He directed her to a Coral Springs Coinhub ATM.

Coinhub ATMs are legitimate and follow existing regulations. Due to the nature of bitcoins, which the ATMs use, this is also employed by scammers to trick people into depositing and transferring money to pay scammers.

Our fake sheriff captain guided our victim through setting up an account and demanded that she send the bond payment to a digital wallet. Sensing success, the scammer then requested more funds, which he said was due to another violation for contempt from a U.S. district judge.

Luckily for our victim, she did tell her family, and while this was happening, her husband and daughter were warning her that it sounded like a scam. Like most of us, brought up trusting law enforcement, our victim continued to the ATM that the scammer requested her to go to. Luckily her husband got the police involved, and finally, with real police reassuring that it was a scam, our victim broke off contact.

Even after the scam was uncovered, the fake sheriff captain continued to try to call an additional 10 times, to resurrect the same ploy. At that point, our victim was already in touch with both the Fort Lauderdale and Broward sheriff’s departments and the Parkland police to file reports. After she contacted her bank, froze her credit report, and made a report to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the scammer gave up.

According to the FTC, $3.5 billion was lost to scammers in 2025, a 3-times increase since just 2020. Victims are lured via text, phone, email, social media, and even search engine results. Some of the costliest scams involve criminals impersonating officials, including bank authorities.

As opposed to our victim’s story, where scammers tried to convince her that her personal freedom was at stake, fake bank scams try to convince victims that their bank accounts are compromised. Once the victim is successfully convinced, the criminals will try to move all available funds to their control.

The FTC has brought legal action against various imposter scheme companies, but so far, it’s only obtained $70 million in redress for consumers.

“The government will never demand money, make threats, tell you to transfer money or withdraw cash,” according to our federal government. “If you’ve been targeted by a scam like this, report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.”

For more information:

  • pfs2.acl.gov/strapib/Lies_Govt_Imposters_Tell_Infographic_508_ef756beebb.pdf
  • pfs2.acl.gov/strapib/Imposter_Scams_Infographic_508_48f1d37cd7.pdf
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Building new pathways for students with dyslexia

For many students with dyslexia, the hardest part of school isn’t reading—it’s believing they can succeed.

“They struggle with confidence,” says Dr. Irene Arshad, founder of Wise Owl Tutoring. “They’re terrified of being called on to read out loud because they know they’re going to struggle, and that embarrassment can stay with them.”

Dyslexia is a learning disability that affects how the brain processes written language, making reading, spelling, and writing more difficult. It’s not related to intelligence. “It’s a language processing and sequencing issue,” explains Arshad. “It’s not that they can’t read. It’s that they’re not processing it. They’re not remembering it.”

According to Arshad, dyslexia is more common than many parents realize. She often identifies signs of the learning disability within minutes of meeting a new student—including adults who were never diagnosed as children.

Some early warning signs include difficulty remembering the alphabet, confusing similar letters, avoiding reading or writing, and struggling to recall events in the order they happened. Younger children may also have trouble with fine motor skills, such as tying their shoes.

In the classroom, those challenges often extend far beyond reading.

“I have students that, when they come to me, have never passed any required state exams or college entrance exams,” Arshad says. “They’re required to pass these tests to graduate, and that becomes incredibly discouraging.”

As an educator with a Ph.D. in educational technology, Arshad has spent years studying not only how students learn, but how technology can help them learn differently.

The first step is evidence-based reading intervention. Certified in both the Orton-Gillingham and Wilson reading intervention methods, Arshad focuses first on building foundational reading skills before introducing engaging learning activities. She compares the process to traveling to the grocery store.

“For most people, there’s one straight road to get where they’re going,” Arshad says. “For students with dyslexia, that road is closed. Reading intervention builds a new road—a new neural pathway—so they can still reach the same destination.”

That concept is rooted in neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form new connections through learning and practice.

To strengthen those new pathways, Arshad combines reading intervention with technology she designs herself. One of her most popular creations is an Alice in Wonderland–themed digital escape room that transforms reading practice into an interactive adventure.

“We have so many learning platforms out there, but nothing really caters to students with dyslexia,” she says.

Students advance through colorful animated scenes by answering reading questions correctly and unlocking new levels. Along the way, built-in accessibility features—including dyslexia-friendly fonts, animated line readers, syllable breakdown tools, and digital annotation features—allow students to interact with text in ways that support how their brains process language.

The games continue to evolve with student feedback. In fact, the Alice in Wonderland theme came from one teenager who said it was her favorite story.

That same student had never passed a standardized test and was at risk of not graduating high school. After receiving reading intervention and working through the interactive lessons, she not only passed her required exam, but went on to excel on additional college entrance tests.

“She looked at me and said, ‘This is actually so easy. I just didn’t know how. Now my brain has a structure,’” Arshad recalls.

For Arshad, technology isn’t replacing great teaching—it’s amplifying it. By combining research-backed reading intervention with thoughtfully designed digital learning experiences, she’s helping students discover that dyslexia isn’t a limitation. Sometimes, all they need is a different path to learning.

For more information, visit wiseowltutoring.org.

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DELICIOUS DINING

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

Good deals for kids at some local restaurants

Back-to-school season can be exciting, but it can also be stressful for younger kids adjusting to new teachers, routines, and homework. A family dinner out is an easy way to unwind, talk about the day, and enjoy time together. These local restaurants make it even better by offering free kids’ meals on select days, helping families save a little money along the way.

Lefty’s Tavern & Grille – Coral Springs

Lefty’s Tavern & Grille has the comfortable feel of a neighborhood restaurant, along with a game room that kids will love. On Wednesdays, children eat free all day with the purchase of an adult meal priced at $9.99 or more. The menu includes burgers, wings, sandwiches, pasta, and other American favorites, making it a fun and affordable choice for a midweek family dinner.

Miller’s Ale House – Coral Springs

Tuesday can become family dinner night at Miller’s Ale House. With the purchase of a food item costing at least $10, families receive one free kids’ meal, with a limit of two complimentary kids’ meals per table. The offer is available for dine-in guests. With a broad menu featuring burgers, chicken, seafood, salads, and its well-known Zingers, Miller’s makes it easy for adults and children to find something they enjoy. Its energetic, sports-themed atmosphere also creates a casual setting where families can unwind after school and work.

Outback Steakhouse – Coral Springs

Outback Steakhouse is making Mondays more appealing for families. With the purchase of a full-price adult entrée, guests receive one free kids’ meal from the Joey Menu. From grilled cheese and chicken fingers to burgers and steak, the Joey Menu offers several familiar choices for young diners. Beginning the school week with dinner already handled may be exactly the break that busy parents and children need.

Moe’s Southwest Grill – Coral Springs

For families looking for a casual way to close out the weekend, Moe’s Southwest Grill offer a free kids’ meal with the purchase of an adult entrée on Sundays. Children can create their own tacos, burritos, or quesadillas by choosing the ingredients they enjoy, making Moe’s a convenient option for families with selective eaters. Parents can customize their meals as well, while the complimentary chips and salsa add something for the entire table to share.

Chili’s – Coral Springs and West Boca

Chili’s takes a slightly different approach by offering free kids’ meals periodically through its My Chili’s Rewards program, which is free to join. When the promotion appears in a member’s account, children ages 12 and younger can select a meal from the Pepper Pals menu with the purchase of a qualifying full-price adult entrée. Because the offer is delivered through the Chili’s app, email, or text rather than being tied to one particular night, parents should watch their rewards account and redeem it when it becomes available. Pepper Pals choices include favorites such as cheeseburger bites, chicken tenders, pizza, pasta, macaroni and cheese, and quesadillas.

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‘Back to school’ isn’t just for the kids

The start of a new school year feels like a reset for the whole family. For students, it means new teachers, fresh school supplies, and seeing friends again. For parents, it means earlier alarms, school traffic, packing lunches, and of course … “the car lines.” After a summer of later mornings and flexible schedules, getting back into a routine can feel both welcome and overwhelming.

Once the children are dropped off, parents move on to the next part of their day. Some head to work, while others return home to work remotely, run errands, or catch up on things that were harder to manage over the summer. Back-to-school season also gives many parents a chance to return to their own routines. Local gyms get busier, morning fitness classes fill up, and exercise after drop-off becomes part of the day again.

For some parents, a workout, a walk with friends, or even a quiet cup of coffee is a welcome break. It gives them a little time to focus on themselves before the afternoon rush begins. That time can feel especially valuable after a summer spent working around camps, vacations, and children at home. But of course, the quiet usually does not last very long.

By mid-afternoon, the busy part of the day begins again. School dismissal is followed by carpools, snacks, homework, tutoring, and sports practices, dance, or other activities. Some families leave school and go straight to a practice or their activity, squeezing in dinner whenever they can. Parents spend the afternoon driving, helping with homework, and cheering from the sidelines.

Keeping up with everything can be difficult. Shared calendars help, but last-minute schedule changes or school reminders can still be missed. Parents are also juggling work, meals, appointments, household responsibilities, and trying to find some time for themselves. Some days go smoothly, while others involve a forgotten uniform or an assignment that is suddenly due the next morning.

A successful back-to-school routine does not have to be perfect. Preparing lunches the night before, keeping extra snacks in the car, or setting aside time for exercise can make the week easier. Before long, the early alarms, afternoon carpools, and busy evenings begin to feel normal again. Somewhere between drop-offs, work, practices, and rushed dinners, families find their rhythm and settle into the new school year.

Wishing all of our local families and teachers a happy, healthy, and successful 2026–27 school year!

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Should the mockingbird keep its perch?

For a century, the Northern Mockingbird has been the official state bird of Florida. The avian symbol of Florida was designated in 1927. The decision was based on the songster’s prolific voice and its tenacious nature in defense of its home, traits that state leaders at the time felt represented the spirit of Floridians.

Florida is not the only state that championed the mockingbird as its symbolic bird. Four other states share the same connection to the iconic bird—Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Texas.

Adopting the mockingbird as the state bird in 1927, the Florida legislature praised its ability to mimic songs of nature: The typical male mockingbird has 200 songs in his repertoire, including songs of other species, and even human-made sounds like car alarms. The mockingbird’s prowess as a songbird almost led to its extinction, as the birds were heavily captured and sold as pets from the 1700s to the early 1900s, until laws were passed to protect songbirds.

Bravery is another trait associated with the mockingbird. It is well documented that mockingbirds are fearless in defending their territory against much larger perceived foes. When feeling that its territory is being encroached, the mockingbird will attack hawks, dogs, and even humans to protect its home—Florida’s original “Stand Your Ground” homeowner.

Mockingbirds are also keen observers and have a good memory. They will recognize individual human neighbors, and they’ll respond differently to different people. Those who were seen as threatening to their nests in the past will often face a diving attack.

In recent years, there has been a persistent effort, especially from the South Florida tourism industry, to dethrone the state bird and crown another symbol of Florida—the flamingo.

The American flamingo was hunted to near extinction by the early 1900s. There were no reported sightings for a decade by the mid-1900s. The Flamingo Hotel, a popular destination in the 1920s, was famous for its captive flamingos used in marketing, along with many flamingo souvenirs. This made the flamingo a popular symbol for South Florida.

In recent decades, escapees from Hialeah Park, and ones blown in from Caribbean islands, started to increase the local flamingo population. Until 2018, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission listed the population as a nonnative species. In 1980, a study declared these flamingos native and asked for their protection as a threatened species. Caribbean flamingos are seeing a resurgence, and more are likely to migrate to Florida in the future to beef up the local numbers.

The naturalization of this new generation of flamingos, coupled with the marketing that puts the flamingo on our lottery tickets as well as on hotel signs, has led to a strong effort to replace the current state bird of Florida with the flamingo.

Flamingos’ striking appearance, and social nature, seems to be a fit for tourist-friendly Florida. They are known to form lasting friendships within their large flocks. The proponents of the change compare that to the aggressive mockingbird, and its tendency to dive-bomb you when you are walking your pet. Perhaps it is a change of the character of Florida, from the hardy, adaptable, boisterous, and stand-my-ground style of the mockingbird, to the beautiful recent arrival, with Hollywood-level marketability, of the flamingo. There hasn’t been a big-budget movie with a mockingbird since “To Kill a Mockingbird” in 1962, long before “Miami Vice” or the new “Toy Story 5,” with its Garden Gnome and Inflatable Flamingo.

The Florida legislature has been looking at replacing the mockingbird for the last few years, but so far the bird has kept its precarious perch at the top of the pecking order in Florida. Each attempt has gathered media attention in support of the more glamorous flamingo. The momentum may continue, as more retirees flock to Florida, often first discovering the great state through a tourist visit.

For almost 100 years, the mockingbird has symbolized the spirit of Florida. People from across the states and the world have come to Florida and called it home, and created a melting pot of cultures and languages, just like the mockingbird forms its songs from bits and pieces of other sounds. Now state politicians will be continually pressed to move from that history and embrace the always bankable flamingo, which is more likely to draw bigger crowds and will likely garner more souvenir sales.

Many of us are watching this mostly as a sideshow for more pertinent issues facing the state government, but these symbolic battles do have an impact on the future identity of the state. For bird lovers, both are symbols of resilience, and they have a long history in the state and each will have its fans.

Some decisions of the past can be lost in the fog of history, and the symbolism of the mockingbird is often forgotten when you hear their 24-hour chirp outside your window or you’re getting dive-bombed by an overprotective parent. It’s a metaphor for a typical Floridian—fighting for a spot on the highway, yet happy to sing a song in your preferred language. It is that innocent courage that is embodied by the songbird. As Harper Lee wrote, “Mockingbirds don’t do one thing but make music for us to enjoy…. That’s why it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird.”

The flamingo is a grand bird, as eye-catching and majestic as the new skyscraper along the coast, and a resilient return resident of Florida, but the mockingbird represents an aspect of Florida that has always been here, tenacious and loud. It has been a deserving holder of the symbolic avian crown of Florida; it will be left to the next legislature to decide its fate.

Mockingbird Facts

Scientific Name:  Mimus polyglottos

Diet:  Insects, berries

Behavior:  Fearless, territorial, mimics sounds, sings at night

Status:  Official state bird of Florida, Texas, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Tennessee

Lifespan:  Typically 8 years in the wild, and up to 20 years in captivity

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Just may be the ‘Lunatics’ you’re looking for…

Billy Joel famously sings, “It just may be a lunatic you’re looking for.” Well, if you’re looking for a talented rock band that covers classics from the ’70s through the ’90s—one that does an incredible rendition of Fleetwood Mac’s “The Chain”—it’s The Lunatics you’re looking for. And yes, they perform Billy Joel’s “You May Be Right” with a cheeky lyric substitution reminding audiences of that.

The Lunatics are composed of four pillars of solid talent: lead singer “Jess,” drummer “Marlee,” bassist David Carrey, and guitarist Anthony Angelone.

The group was originally formed by sisters Jess and Marlee, who’ve had a passion for performance and rock music since they were kids. “Both of us have been listening to rock music our entire lives, and that’s been a passion of ours. We’ve always wanted to do this,” says Jess of starting a band. “We really enjoy that type of music, so we got into playing it,” adds Marlee.

Marlee and Jess met Carrey and Angelone through Pro Jam nights at Cheers Restaurant and Bar in Fort Lauderdale and Pipers Pub in Pompano Beach. “Pro Jams are events where you can get up and play with professional musicians. You just sign up, almost like karaoke,” explains Jess, who used to sign up as a vocalist. “It’s a great opportunity to meet other local musicians.”

“A lot of times the people who sign up for these jam nights are looking for other musicians to form a band,” adds Marlee.

“Dave was the house bassist at Cheers, and we went to Cheers multiple weeks in a row and we ended up forming the band with him,” recalls Jess. “And then we met Anthony at the Pipers Pro Jam.”

The band’s name also came together naturally. Jess and Marlee were drawn to the word “Luna,” while bassist Carrey—better known onstage as “Crazy Dave”—inspired the other half. Together, they landed on The Lunatics. Today, each member embraces the nickname onstage, becoming Crazy Jess, Crazy Marlee, Crazy Dave, and Crazy Anthony.

Between them, these four musicians have plenty of talent and experience under their belts. Jess, who has a classical background, has been singing since she was 6 years old. She has performed with the Miami Ballet and sung backup vocals for Josh Groban. “I was previously a classical vocalist and switched over to rock so I could form a band with Marlee,” says Jess.

Marlee has been playing drums since she was 9, and she’s well known in the local music scene for her timing and groove. “Some of her fans call her ‘Pocket’ for that reason,” says Jess.

Dave is a veteran musician in South Florida and has toured the country with successful tribute bands. Anthony is also well known in the local music scene, having played in many tribute and cover bands.

Once the lineup was complete, the band’s first performance was a showcase at Cheers. “They have a band that they feature for a 30- to 45-minute set,” explains Jess. “We did that first. That was our coming out.”

Since that showcase, the band has seen plenty of positive momentum.

They’ve only been together for one year, and in that time they’ve built a seven-hour set list that includes hits from artists like Tom Petty, The Beatles, The Police, No Doubt, Paramore, 3 Doors Down, Rush, Prince, Heart, Bruno Mars, Black Sabbath, Linkin Park, Evanescence, and Fleetwood Mac.

“In the majority of our songs, we have three-part harmonies going, and all four of us sing full backup vocals and leads. We like to switch off,” says Jess. Marlee drums and sings lead on Aretha Franklin. Dave takes the lead on artists like Cake, Sublime, and 3 Doors Down.

“You get a much richer sound when you have multiple members harmonizing on everything,” says Jess.

One thing that makes the group unique is some of their song selections. “There’s some unexpected choices that the crowd might be excited to hear,” says Marlee. Some of those include “Rapture” by Blondie, “Never There” by Cake, “Psycho Killer” by Duran Duran, and “The Ocean” by Led Zeppelin.

They’ve also become regulars at diverse venues, from Cafe 27 in Weston to Throw Social in Delray Beach, as well as Marina 84, Cheers, Margaritaville Restaurant, and the Hollywood Bandshell. “We’ve played a lot of amazing venues that we feel lucky to be at,” says Jess. The Bandshell is a favorite of the group. “That’s when we get to just let it rip. We can bring all our passion and our energy.”

The group is strategic about choosing songs for different venues. At Cheers, they lean more toward classic rock. For biker bars, they turn up the harder rock. At Throw Social, they cater to a younger audience with more modern music and a stronger pop influence rather than a purely rock set.

Their performances deliver plenty of skill and energy. At a recent performance at Cheers, Marlee—who is only 18 years old—nailed the opening drum solo to Van Halen’s “Hot for Teacher.” Lead singer Jess delivered powerful vocals with impressive range. Bass player Dave never stopped moving and even launched into a spontaneous high kick during Paramore’s “Misery Business.”

At just one year together, The Lunatics are already making a name for themselves on South Florida stages, and it’s easy to imagine their live performances becoming even more engaging as they continue to grow together.

The Lunatics’ upcoming performances include Thursday, Aug. 6, at Cafe 27 in Weston; Friday, Aug. 7, at Skipper’s Cove in Fort Pierce; and Friday, Aug. 21, at O’Shea’s Irish Pub in West Palm Beach. For more information, visit Facebook and search for The Lunatics.

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Emerging Raw Talent: Jihanna Bresset.

Sketches from Book #6 (2026). Bresset, J. Pencil on paper, paint pens on paper. 9” x 6”.

“Less is more” is one of those profound truths that reveals itself only to people who know how to look. Jihanna Bresset, just 15, is one of them. On a family trip to St. Augustine, a town that seems to curate itself through understatement and intentional simplicity, she recognized this familiar rhythm. It is this way of seeing that defines J. Bresset’s movement through the world. She observes, distills, and removes the unnecessary. In her art, simplicity becomes a discipline. Yet, the surprising part is that the work it produces often appears anything but simple. Her choices, rather, feel intentional, grounded in a sensitivity that exceeds her years, revealing an artist who understands that restraint can be its own form of power.

J. Bresset has always been a natural observer. Her instinct for noticing detail has shaped not only her talent but the way she communicates. Entirely self‑taught, she continues to expand her range, her work becoming more dynamic as she stretches into new subjects. This natural creativity has also influenced her academic life as she enters the 10th grade, where her excellence positions her to graduate among others at the top of her class.

A Parkland native, J. Bresset currently attends Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. Her first exhibition took place at the ArtServe Impact Awards in Fort Lauderdale this past April, where she donated two recent works: Perspective, created with a piece of charred wood from a campfire, and Unfinished, a contrasting work that questions whether anything is ever truly complete. The reception to her work revealed something important: viewers responded not only to her technique but to the emotional intelligence embedded in her choices. Her ability to communicate feelings through material suggests an artist already thinking beyond the surface.

Her artistic integrity, however, has been with her since kindergarten. She began by drawing only people, and by fourth or fifth grade, her attention shifted toward anime. By middle school, that phase dissolved as she stepped away from any single influence, choosing instead to explore a style that felt entirely her own. Today, she is immersed in mythological figures—studying classical statues, comparing interpretations, and reading multiple versions of Homer’s Iliad to form her own point of view on ancient narratives. Her curiosity is not passive; she actively interrogates how stories evolve across time and why certain themes endure, developing a personal visual language rooted in both research and intuition.

Her sketchbooks—volumes #1 through #6—read like a visual autobiography. Each marks a distinct chapter in her development, and together they reveal the arc of an artist growing in real time. They show how her simple approach has unfolded into a more layered, complex visual language without losing its essential directness. Even her earliest pages show a sensitivity to proportion and expression that now feels like a signature. These books also reveal her discipline; page after page of studies, experiments, and revisions that demonstrate a young artist already committed to refining her craft.

Though she favors the basic pencil and paper, J. Bresset does not limit herself. She has explored acrylics, watercolors, oils, charcoals, paint pens, ceramics, and even digital art on the iPad. Her willingness to experiment suggests a creative maturity that will only deepen as she continues to pursue her artistic development.

Windy. (April 2, 2026). Bresset, J. Acrylic on canvas. 10” x 8”.

In Windy, J. Bresset’s technique shows her command of gesture and constraint, using long, wind‑swept strokes to anchor the figure while lighter marks drift across the surface with atmospheric ease. She creates depth through contrast using transparent washes beside opaque gestures, allowing the composition to feel dimensional without becoming heavy. The quick‑drying acrylic preserves the immediacy of her confidence. The visible brush drag, directional movement, and subtle irregularities animate the portrait. True to her minimalist instinct, J. Bresset achieves layered emotional complexity with remarkably few marks, letting simplicity open into something richer and more alive.

III. (est. summer 2025). Bresset, J. Mixed media, watercolor marker and acrylic. 12” x 9.5”.

IIIbrings a fictional portrait to life, infused with a sense of ease as J. Bresset shapes the figure through sweeping, multicolored passages that feel almost buoyant. The subject’s gentle expression, eyes at rest, conveys quiet optimism, as though wrapped in a moment of inner brightness. Around them, the hair unfurls in vibrant ribbons of color that guide the viewer inward, centering the face as the heart of the composition. Floating, confetti‑like tones reinforce the uplifting mood, allowing the piece to emanate emotional warmth and openheartedness. Softly washed areas enhance the facial features, creating contrast that lets the surrounding space breathe, while textured strokes across the shirt introduce a tactile counterpoint—an implied environment that curves around her before dissolving— as if suggesting the character exists within her own imagined “safe space.”

Diana. (est. January 2026). Bresset, J. Oil and paint markers. 14” x 11”.

This work is an instant reminder of J. Bresset’s unwavering commitment to figurative discipline and her emerging sense of narrative. Through assertive linework and vibrant, directional strokes, the figure appears in confident contours that define posture and intent. Behind her, saturated colors rise like ascending steps into an imaginative atmosphere. The scene feels playful yet boldly expressive. Cool complementary blues soften depth while outlining scale, sharpening the character’s purpose and guiding the viewer’s eye along her stance and gesture. The result is a composition of fluidity in a graceful sweep of narrative whim, reinforcing the presence of a guardian rendered with both elegance and story‑driven intention.

“If it happens, it happens,” J. Bresset explained of her process. “You can’t really make a mistake.” Her strength in figures makes drawing animals and other subjects feel effortless. In August of 2025, after injuring her shoulder, her first question was, “When will I be able to draw again?” That devotion speaks for itself—and hints at what her talent may become.

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New museum takes visitors into the world of jellyfish

The Jellyfish Museum is the first of its kind in the U.S.—a museum dedicated solely to showcasing the world of jellyfish, with more than 20 species from seas and oceans around the world on display.

The museum was founded by Yana Yanovska and Alex Yanovskyi and is their second museum dedicated to jellyfish. They established the first in Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital city, in 2018. When the Russian-Ukraine War forced them out, they recreated their dream in Pompano Beach.

Walking into the museum is an experience in itself. Between the dark walls and colored lighting, the entryway feels like it’s leading you into a nightclub. But once inside, the glowing displays and immersive light projections will have you feeling like you’re in an ethereal underwater wonderland.

There are 21 tanks on the main level of the museum, illuminated by neon-esque shades of pink and turquoise. “Some of the jellyfish are so clear, you can’t see them, so we have to put lighting behind them,” explains Jessica Eisenbarth, community relations manager.

While the showcasing of these unusual creatures is stunning—there’s even a heart-shaped tank filled with moon jellyfish that has a hole in the middle where you can stick your head for a photo surrounded by jellyfish—the tanks require careful, 24-7 monitoring to ensure that the jellyfish survive. “The currents in their tanks, the water pH, and salinity all have to mirror their ocean environment,” explains Eisenbarth.

The Jellyfish Museum offers a meditative experience if you let it. One of the rooms is outfitted with bean bag chairs where you can sit and observe the jellyfish, a surprisingly relaxing experience. They have a slow, fluid way of moving, similar to the colored blobs in a lava lamp, only much more fascinating. “We want people to slow down,” says Eisenbarth. “There’s a calmness and an immersive experience that we hope everyone feels when they’re here.”

There’s also a lot to learn about jellyfish, both through watching them and through the educational and scientific displays the museum offers. “They have no brain, eyes, or central nervous system,” says Eisenbarth. And while most people associate them with being underwater nuisances that sting, jellyfish have a significant impact on the environment. “When you find large blooms of jellyfish, it’s actually an indicator that there’s changes in the ecosystem like water temperatures rising and lower oxygen levels,” explains Eisenbarth. “When you find it, it’s very important for scientists to take a look at why it’s happening.”

Because jellyfish have short lifespans of between 3 months and 1 year, depending on the species, the museum updates the ones on display every few months. When jellyfish first arrive at the museum, they go into quarantine in the laboratory on the second floor. Some, like the Japanese Sea Nettle, have been flown in from the far reaches of the Pacific.

One of the newest additions to the museum is the Fried Egg Jellyfish (aptly named, as it resembles a fried egg), which spent about a month in quarantine before going on display. These unique creatures are primarily found in the Mediterranean, Adriatic, and Aegean seas.

Also on display right now are the Upside Down Jellyfish, which are found in South Florida. These creatures spend most of their time on their back (hence the name). They need ultraviolet (UV) light to survive because they have an algae that grows inside of them, and the jellyfish need the algae to survive. This partnership works through mutualistic symbiosis, where both organisms thrive together. The algae provide almost all of the jellyfish’s nutritional needs, which is why they rest upside down to soak up the sun. At night, the team turns down the UV lights to mimic the natural rhythm of nature. These jellyfish are a favorite meal for sea turtles, which can eat their weight in jellyfish on a daily basis.

While a stunning visual display, the museum’s primary focus is education, especially for school groups. “We work very hard to make this an educational facility so that you learn about the biology, the anatomy, how they affect our oceans, how they affect us, and how they contribute to science,” says Eisenbarth. She emphasizes that while jellyfish are over 500 million years old and have survived four mass extinctions, we still don’t know that much about them.

The museum is working with scientists from the Smithsonian to help generate a curriculum that can be distributed to teachers after school-group visits. It also collaborates with researchers. One of those researchers is biochemist Dr. Angel Yanagihara, who developed “Sting No More,” a patented zinc gluconate–based formula that neutralizes box-jellyfish venom. “It works on all jellyfish stings that have been tested,” says Eisenbarth. The museum plans on carrying this jellyfish-sting antidote in its gift shop. “It works on fire-ant stings as well,” she adds.

Since opening in late March, the Jellyfish Museum has welcomed plenty of visitors and plans on expanding its reach through new social events, including magic shows, romantic evenings, and wellness events, such as sound healing. The 20,000-square-foot space is also available for private events.

The Jellyfish Museum is open seven days a week between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. It offers discounted admission for Florida residents, senior citizens, children, active-duty military and veterans, first responders, medical personnel, and educators.

For more information, visit www.jellyfish-museum.com.

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The Spice & Tea Exchange

A Pinch of Spice & A Whole Lot of Family

While variety may be the spice of life, for the Nachio family of Parkland, spice is the variety of life.

Last December, they opened The Spice & Tea Exchange at 520 East Atlantic Ave., in Delray Beach, directly across from the historic Colony Hotel. Even before you open the door, the aroma of spices greets you and entices you in.

The shop is family‑run by Joey and Diana Nachio and their two grown children, Joanne, a practicing civil defense attorney and Joseph (Joe), who holds an MBA from Notre Dame.

“We’ve been warmly welcomed by the City of Delray Beach, the Downtown Development Authority and all the other local businesses,” says Joanne Nachio.  “They’ve been very inviting.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Tea & Spice Exchange to the downtown district,” says Laura Simon, executive director of the Delray Beach Downtown Development Authority. “Small businesses are the heart of our downtown, creating the energy, character and sense of place that make this community so special.”

She says that locally owned businesses add to the character of the city and is something both residents and visitors value.

Headquartered in St. Augustine, the franchise offers teas, spices, exclusive hand-mixed blends, naturally flavored sugars, gift sets, accessories and an array of salts from around the world geared mainly to home cooks, chefs and lovers of tea. 

With more than 100 custom blends and seasonings — harissa, Malaysian ginger curry, Mexican mole, Korean BBQ, herbes de Provence, Chinese five‑spice, there is just about every combination you can imagine.

Joey Nachio opens a large, marigold-colored jar of paprika from the shelf and a bright, pungent aroma erupts.

“Smell this,” he says, explaining that fresh seasonings are nothing like what most people buy at a supermarket. “Most people know the orange color of paprika, but they don’t realize how intense the fragrance can be,” he says.

The shop also sells a wide variety of peppers and chiles.  A sampling of the basics they carry include black and green peppercorns, habanero, jalapeño, Mexican red and green chiles, Hungarian sweet and smoked paprika, Szechuan peppercorns and chipotle.

All seasonings and blends are mixed and packaged in‑house – something Joey Nachio takes great pride in. Spices such as allspice, anise, butterfly pea flower powder, cardamom seed, cinnamon stick, coriander, cumin, ginger, and lemongrass are just a sampling of the extensive list.

One of their most popular blends is Florida Sunshine, made from lemon, garlic, and peppers. Joey Nachio peels the lemons by hand to create a fresh zest, which is dehydrated and added to the mixture along with ginger, rose petals and green peppercorn. “It’s so flavorful,” he says. “It’s great on scallops, tuna, or other seafood.”

They source their products from more than 40 countries, including Japan, China, India, South Africa, and Sri Lanka and have developed relationships with tea farmers in Kyoto, Japan, from where they buy their ceremonial grade matcha tea.

The shop also carries an extensive selection of loose teas, including the Japanese matcha, pu‑erh specialty teas plus Joe Nachios’s favorite — a banana nut muffin tea made with African honeybush, marigolds, cocoa nibs, chestnuts and bananas. There’s even a tea called Ginseng Hippie and another coffee-flavored tea called Roasted Coffee – a gentle way to wean off coffee and transition to tea.

Joe Nachio draws a comparison between tea to wine. “The world of tea is as large as the world of wine,” he says.

Shopping in the store was Delray Beach resident Nina Liebson, 66, a retired financial advisor.  She was browsing the shelves looking for spices “with a kick.”

“The Spice & Tea Exchange is unique to the Avenue,” she says. “It’s fun to come in, smell all the fragrances and browse the shelves.” She previously purchased a tea infuser and left this day with hot peppers for cooking and mushroom tea to help her relax.

Joe Nachio, a longtime fan of the Food Network who grew up watching Alton Brown and Emeril Lagasse, says fresh spices can transform home cooking. “With our freshly dried spices, you’re only a couple of shakes away from a chef‑curated meal,” he says. “When spices and peppers are fresh, they make all the difference.”

He loves sparking that passion in others. Visitors are encouraged to browse freely and open jars to smell the contents.

For the Nachio family, running the shop together is a joy.

Joey Nachio paraphrases an old Arab proverb about the stages of raising children.  After playing with them when they are young, teaching them as they grow, the last stage of relationship is friendship between parents and children.

And while variety may be the spice of life, for the Nachios, the best spice is family.

“Working together is like working with our best friends,” he says. “We wouldn’t have it any other way.”

The Spice & Tea Exchange is located at 520 East Atlantic Ave., in Delray Beach.  Tel:  (561) 266-3338. 

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Rescued baby boar finds new, not-so-wild life in Coconut Creek

To say Tina had a rough start to life is an understatement. Before she even entered the world, she lost her entire family.

When a group of men went out hunting, they killed several wild boars, including a pregnant female. Miraculously, Tina was the only piglet to survive, but her troubles were far from over. The men sold Tina for drugs to an individual who practiced Santería—a religion that sometimes includes ritual animal sacrifice.

But when Tina wandered into the neighbor’s yard, her life took a turn for the better. The neighbor, who saw that Tina’s umbilical cord was still attached, called the Broward Sheriff’s Office. At just 2 days old and weighing less than 1 pound, Tina was picked up and taken to the Lucky Horse Sanctuary in Coconut Creek, a therapeutic farm where rescued animals rescue people.

“Her story is nothing short of miraculous,” says Dr. Blair Barone, founder of the Lucky Horse Sanctuary and a licensed clinical psychologist. “We’re so grateful her story didn’t end the way it could have.”

Tina’s arrival at the sanctuary marked the beginning of an entirely new life.

Before permanently relocating to the sanctuary, Tina spent a month living with a friend of Barone’s—a time during which she came to identify more with being a human than a boar. “I have videos of them lying in the sun together, on the recliner. It’s hilarious,” recalls Barone. “She really thinks she’s human.”

Far from the wild, Tina is now house-trained and accustomed to riding in cars. She even has her own wardrobe, complete with dresses and swimsuits. But more importantly, Tina found a new career.

“Tina is the therapist no one saw coming,” says Barone. “The clients are crazy about her. We take her everywhere. And it’s turned out to be amazing.”

At the Lucky Horse Sanctuary, rescued animals help guide individuals suffering from traumatic mental health symptoms and disorders through the journey of recovery, healing, and acceptance.

“Tina is amazing with the clients. Just incredible. We take her to hospitals,” enthuses Barone, who has found deeper meaning in Tina’s connection with those in animal therapy. “People can identify with her. Like the wild boar in the Chinese zodiac, many of our clients embody wisdom gained through experience, resilience through hardship, and the ability to keep moving forward despite life’s challenges. The boar symbolizes strength, perseverance, and ultimately enjoying the rewards of hard work—a beautiful reflection of the healing journeys we witness every day here at the Lucky Horse Sanctuary.”

Next up for Tina is a talk button—a form of animal training that teaches animals to communicate by pressing recordable buttons programmed with words. When the animal presses a button with their paw or nose, it plays a human word, allowing them to express requests, needs, or feelings.

“Pigs are really good with it,” says Barone.

For more information, visit theluckyhorsesanctuary.org.

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Meet the all-female band rocking South Florida

When Astrid Voxx was a kid, she wanted to play the drums. But she was told, “Girls don’t play the drums.” Today, not only does she play the drums, she also leads an all-female rock tribute band that proves women can do much more than just keep time—they can own the stage.

For Voxx, one of the biggest thrills still happens before a show.

“When I come in hauling the drums, and the men see me, they’re like, who’s that for?” says Voxx. But once the entire band has assembled, realization dawns. “Then they realize we’re not the girlfriends, we’re the band. For me, that’s a thrill. I love it.”

The Bango Bango’s was formed in 2016 with a mission that remains at the heart of the group today: celebrating women in rock music. Named after two of the most iconic all-female bands of all time, the Bangles and the Go-Go’s, the group was inspired by a Go-Go’s concert attended by Voxx’s daughter, Alexi.

After the show, Alexi was so excited that Voxx asked if she would ever want to be part of something similar. She said yes. Voxx began building the band, fulfilling a lifelong dream in the process. After turning 21, Alexi Go-Go officially joined the group.

Today, the Bango Bango’s features drummer Voxx, lead singer Go-Go, guitarist Lana Wise, and bassist Lenore Goldman. Together, they bring decades of musical experience and a diverse range of talents to the stage.

Voxx also plays guitar, has been singing since she was 5 years old, and toured with Jimmy Buffett. Wise is a sound technician who also plays piano and violin. Goldman began playing piano and drums in fourth grade before eventually picking up the bass.

Offstage, the women have developed a bond that feels more like family than coworkers. “They’re the sisters I never wanted,” jokes Wise. That camaraderie translates into an energetic stage presence that has become one of the band’s trademarks.

The Bango Bango’s perform an 80-song repertoire spanning female rock hits from the 1960s to today. While Go-Go serves as the primary lead vocalist, each member takes center stage throughout the performance, allowing audiences to experience the full range of talent within the group.

Voxx’s expressive vocals shine through songs by Tina Turner, Four Non Blondes, the Cranberries, Sheryl Crow, and Fleetwood Mac. Go-Go takes the lead on favorites by No Doubt, the Go-Go’s, the B-52s, and Cyndi Lauper. Wise’s powerful, rock-forward voice is featured on songs by Pink, Joan Jett, Carrie Underwood, Avril Lavigne, and the Bangles. Goldman leads a crowd-pleasing rendition of Nancy Sinatra’s classic “These Boots Are Made for Walkin’.”

The result is a high-energy show that pays tribute to generations of female artists while keeping audiences singing and dancing from start to finish.

“We always have fun,” says Voxx, a statement that becomes obvious within minutes of watching the band perform.

“No matter how tired or sick we may be, when we get up on that stage, it all goes away and we manage to have fun,” adds Go-Go.

Part of that fun comes from the band’s willingness to bring the show directly to the audience. Thanks to wireless equipment, members often leave the stage mid-song and weave through the crowd, instruments in hand, turning spectators into participants.

Their engaging performances have landed them at a wide variety of venues, including country clubs, bars, theaters, festivals, and community events throughout Florida. The band currently performs between four and six shows each month and has appeared at the Wellington Amphitheater, the Miami-Dade Youth Fair, Galuppi’s, the Ritz Theater in Sanford, and Marina 84 in Fort Lauderdale.

“Marina 84 is one of the first venues that saw our potential,” says Voxx. “They gave us a shot, and we proved that we can do it.”

As one of the few all-female bands in the region, the Bango Bango’s have also been invited to perform at events that carry a deeper sense of purpose, including a fundraiser for Leap for Ladies, a Miami-based nonprofit dedicated to helping incarcerated women rebuild their lives.

“It was very emotional listening to their speeches,” says Go-Go. “We got to listen to all the women talk about how their lives were changed for the better.” Those experiences—ranging from packed bars and festivals to meaningful community events—reflect the band’s wide-ranging spirit both on and off stage.

Their unofficial motto, coined by Goldman, perfectly captures the energy of the band: “Any excuse for a party.”

Whether they’re performing during the NBA Finals, the World Cup, Father’s Day, a birthday celebration, or a holiday weekend, the Bango Bango’s find a way to turn every event into a celebration.

For Voxx, however, the band’s mission extends beyond entertainment. “Having an all-female band is very dear to my heart,” she says. “There’s not too many of us.”

“I’ve seen a few other all-female bands, but we’re the only ones who pay tribute to women in music,” says Wise. “Our primary focus is women in rock.”

“It’s a platform for women to hear their voices, and to know that little girls can play instruments,” says Voxx. “And be rock stars,” adds Go-Go.

The group takes particular pride in the example it sets for younger audiences.

“We’re role models,” says Voxx. “When we play up in Wellington, it’s a thrill for all of us to see the little girls wide-eyed actually seeing we’re playing instruments.”

“For me, the most touching part is when I see little boys enjoying our performance,” says Go-Go. “It teaches boys to be respectful and recognize that women can do everything they can do.”

Behind the scenes, the band members credit much of their success to the support systems that make their busy schedules possible.

“We’re very lucky that we have very supportive spouses,” says Voxx of herself, Wise, and Goldman. “That’s very important and makes or breaks a band.”

Wise’s husband, who is also a musician, serves as the band’s sound technician and is a familiar face at performances, cheering them on while capturing photos and videos.

Looking ahead, Voxx is writing original material she hopes to eventually incorporate into the band’s performances. The group would also like to expand into larger venues and new markets, including Orlando and Florida’s west coast. Still, Voxx believes the tribute aspect of the band remains essential.

“As a fan, as an audience member, I always wanted to see this,” says Voxx. “Female musicians doing a tribute to our voices and our inspirations.”

The Bango Bango’s upcoming shows include July 11 at Luv’n Oven in Sunrise, July 1 at Packy’s Sports Pub in Lighthouse Point, and July 31 at Marina 84 in Fort Lauderdale. For more information, visit thebangobangos.com.

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Food tips for summer travel with kids

Long-anticipated summer travel is not without its nutritional challenges, and adding young children to the mix multiplies those challenges. There’s more to consider than packing a few extra snacks and baby wipes. Follow these tips for a healthy, happy, and nourishing vacation with kids.

Road Trips

Logging a lot of miles in the car may have your kids asking for snacks to ease the boredom. Anticipate this, and be prepared. Work with your kids on a list of boredom-busting activities, such as games, music, videos, and coloring books. Before starting the car, review the day’s schedule. Explain when and where you’ll eat, and make a strong effort to stick to your normal eating schedule.

Pack some of these travel-friendly foods for children over the age of 4, as some may pose a choking risk for younger children. If your child is at risk for choking, enjoy your food at a rest stop so you can supervise while eating. Keep perishable items in a cooler with ice to reduce your chances of foodborne illness when on vacation.

  • Sliced bell peppers, cucumbers, or other easy-to-eat veggies
  • Applesauce
  • Dried and fresh fruit
  • Popcorn
  • Trail mix
  • Peanut butter sandwiches
  • Whole-grain crackers
  • Low-fat milk boxes
  • 100% fruit or vegetable juice
  • Low-fat yogurt
  • Cheese sticks
  • Cottage cheese

If your kids don’t eat dairy products, learn more about nourishing plant-based foods that you can pack. Don’t forget portable eating utensils, and plenty of napkins and wipes. 

Have your kids come up with fun meal ideas where they can combine their favorite snack with another item you purchase at a restaurant. Kids can combine different lean proteins with whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to build a balanced meal or snack that’s part retail, part from home. In the end you will save money and eat healthier. Water, milk, or a fortified milk alternative are good beverage choices, and even restaurant meals should include fruits and vegetables. If the restaurant doesn’t offer good options, fill in with the supply in your cooler.

A Stay at the Beach

Whether you’re hitting the beach for a day or staying for a week, the same guidelines apply. Try to stick as closely to your normal eating schedule as possible. Bring a cooler with some of the foods listed above and plenty of ice. Pack ample water and encourage frequent sipping. The hot sun can be dehydrating, and the cool ocean water and tons of fun can distract kids from drinking fluids.

Cruising Along

Food is present constantly on cruise ships—and in big, showy ways. Remind children that just because food is available doesn’t mean the family needs to eat it. Be a role model to your kids and encourage them to eat mindfully when they are hungry.

Travel Abroad

If you are traveling far or to places with new types of cultures, work with your family on planning where to eat in advance of your trip. Most restaurants around the world provide nutrition information online, so you can plan on choosing the nutritious items that you have researched. Being in a new culture also is a great time to get your family to try new foods.

Visiting Family or Friends

Whether you’re traveling with others or staying in their homes, you may run into well-meaning food pushers. Give relatives and friends a kind heads-up to your expectations when it comes to offering food to your children. Help them find other ways to express love and warmth, such as reading a story or taking your child on a special outing.

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