Cruising the water in a different kind of taxi

How can you tour the Intercoastal Waterway and the New River in Fort Lauderdale but on your own timetable? By buying an all-day pass on the Water Taxi!

I recently did this on a beautiful Saturday with some friends. We started our waterside adventure by parking at 15th Street Fisheries (where we could do valet all day) and having a delicious seafood lunch there, overlooking the sparkling water, fish, and boats of the Intercoastal. Then we walked out on the pier located right there and boarded a yellow water taxi, at the Fort Lauderdale Route’s stop #3.

To get your Water Taxi passes, you go online for pre-purchase and then your ticket barcode appears on your phone; just show the phone to boat staff upon boarding each taxi. The various boats are scheduled to arrive and depart every 3540 minutes (though we never waited that long), between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. It is a great way to see the many nice features and highlights of Fort Lauderdale.

Stops 1 and 2 are along the river: #1 is the Riverside Hotel and Stranahan House, where you can enjoy the picturesque Riverwalk, and #2 is just steps away from the famous Las Olas Boulevard with all its shops, restaurants, and bars. We disembarked there and walked over to have cocktails and window-shop on the boulevard for a bit.

The other locations are on the Intercoastal: You can go to stop #4, for the Hilton Marina and Convention Center (where you also can transfer to the Hollywood Express Route, which goes to Margaritaville Beach Resort and the Hollywood Broadwalk); #5, the south end of Bahia Mar (where you can view marinas of luxury yachts docked); #6, Beach Place and Fort Lauderdale Beach; #7, GalleryOne Double Tree and Galleria Mall; #8, Birch State Park; #9, Shooters Waterfront; and #10, Bokamper’s Sports Bar & Grill.

We spent our afternoon gliding up and down the water throughout the city, seeing celebrities’ mansions and yachts as well as all kinds of other boats, including tour vessels, barges, party boats, a floating tiki bar, and young sailing students soaring by in a line of little boats. We went past “Beer Can Island,” where people frolicked on boats clustered around the sand bars, with many milling around in the shallow water and socializing. It was a gorgeous day, so there was a lot of action on the Intercoastal.

Aboard the taxis were tourists, families, and bar-hopping friends, all seeming to enjoy being out on the water and the ease of the taxi system. There was staff at each stop answering questions and, on board over a microphone, narrating the sights as we went past them, providing some interesting history and funny anecdotes. Be sure to bring some cash for tipping, as they definitely appreciate that and work hard.

Later that afternoon, two of us went ashore for a nice walk alongside A1A and the ocean, at Fort Lauderdale Beach, where we saw large groups having beach parties and barbecues and a wedding getting set up on the sand overlooking the ocean. We went on a walking bridge above A1A to buy drinks from a small market, and then headed back to our water taxi stop. I enjoyed being able to explore the area at our leisure and return when we were ready.

We ended our water tour of Fort Lauderdale by disembarking at the same place where we first got on, at stop #3, and picking up our car at the 15th Street Fisheries valet lot. A very pleasant day!

The Water Taxi all-day pass costs $35 for adults, $30 for seniors and military, $15 for children 5–11, and free for children under 5. Evening-only passes are $20 and start at 5 p.m. You can also buy a month’s unlimited pass for $90. For tickets and information, go to WaterTaxi.com.

Touchdown An Easter message

The team takes the field fired up and ready to go. Their scouts have developed an innovative strategy that exploits the weaknesses of the opposition. Their coach has mapped it out carefully and in full detail. The team has practiced the plays over and over again. Everyone is on the same page, and there is a sense of quiet confidence.

But as the game progresses, nothing seems to be working. Their offense sputters and their defense gives up too many yards. At half-time it looks like they are on their way to a solid defeat. But in the locker room, the coach doesn’t change a thing. He just looks at the players, winded and discouraged, and says, “Trust me.”

 In the middle of the fourth quarter, the tide turns and the critics are silenced. And by the end of the game, what seemed impossible is now a victory.

 This is Easter. So often we get to that special day and forget how bad everything looked before the resurrection. From Adam and Eve’s transgressions to the idolatry of kings, from the opposition of the religious leaders to the faithlessness of the disciples, nothing about God’s plan through Jesus looked promising. Like a fumble on the one-yard line run back for a touchdown, the cross seemed to be the last ... nail … in the coffin.

But the plan was good. It just needed to be trusted. And that Sunday morning almost 2,000 years ago, the sun came up and the referees’ hands signaled “Touchdown.”

 When we celebrate Easter, we are celebrating one incredible truth: In God’s plan, “It’s not over until it’s over.” Go to church. Read the book. Say some prayers. Serve a neighbor. Love your enemies. And when you are winded and discouraged, listen to the words of the coach: “Trust me.”

Andy Hagen is pastor of Advent Life Ministries in Boca Raton.

 

 

 

Be strong and of good courage

Toward the end of the Hebrew Bible, in 1 Chronicles 28:20, we read, “Be strong and of good courage, and do it; do not be afraid or dismayed, for the Lord God my God is with you.” King David spoke these words of advice to his son Solomon. However, the words are equally true for each generation. The Jewish people’s existence is replete with individuals of such courage and faith.

At this time of year, we remember many of our brethren who displayed faith through the generations. We start this month with the celebration of Passover, our annual celebration of our people’s exodus from Egypt and freedom to serve God instead of the pharaoh. We move quickly from Passover to our annual commemoration of those who endured and withstood the horrors of the Shoah, as we mark Yom Ha-Shoah. Finally, we recognize with joy the modern miracle of those who fought for the modern state of Israel’s independence.

Each of these religious and modern observances reminds us to stand firm in the face of danger and remain proud of our heritage. Although antisemitism is on the rise, we still have so much to be grateful for in this country and time. This includes the many opportunities for communal gathering, such as our synagogue seder, Yom Ha-Shoah service, and Israel 75 celebration. Life is uncertain, but as King David said, “Stay strong and be of good courage.” Hope to see you soon.

Celebrate Israel’s 75th anniversary 

Temple Beth Am is throwing a party in honor of Israel’s 75th anniversary and the establishment of the Jewish state in 1948, on Sunday, April 30, at 5:15 p.m. This extravaganza will include a fully catered Glatt kosher Middle Eastern dinner; music by Randy Stevens Entertainment, including Israeli and jazz music, singing, and dancing; and many great raffle prizes and giveaways (see the full-page ad).

If you can only attend one party this year, this is the one you do not want to miss.

For more information, visit www.beth-am.org or call the office at (954) 968-4545, which is open Monday–Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to noon.

Delicious Dining: Get your craft beers here!

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

The South Florida brewery scene has been growing. With dozens of breweries throughout the area, the craft beer scene has never been better. “Hop” on over to one of these local breweries for a fresh and flavorful glass of beer and delicious food.

World of Beer
4437 Lyons Road, Suite 101, Coconut Creek

World of Beer is the premier spot for beer enthusiasts and novices alike. Whether you have a beer cellar at home or hate how beer tastes, their staff will walk you through what’s available and allow you to try them before buying. With 40 craft beers on tap, 250 in the cooler, and a menu of mouthwatering tavern fare crafted to go perfectly with beer, you won’t be disappointed at World of Beer.

Big Bear Brewing Company
1800 N. University Drive, Coral Springs

Beer tastes best when it’s made fresh. Big Bear Brewing Co. beer is made fresh and in-house on a daily basis. They use only the finest ingredients, guaranteeing a fresh and natural glass of beer every time. Paired with their high-quality and creative food menu, you’ll enjoy every bite (and sip) in the warm and friendly atmosphere.

 

BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse
1580 N. University Drive, Coral Springs

Celebrate the joy of craft beer and good food at BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, where they pride themselves in their craft and attention to detail. The innovative and broad menu features delicious entrees and, of course, their very own award-winning handcrafted beers on tap every day. In addition to their 11 signature beers and cider, they offer seasonal and local brews as well.

26º Brewing Co.
2600 E. Atlantic Blvd., Pompano Beach

26º Brewing Co. is a local craft beer brewer and tap room with friendly, helpful staff and fantastic beers. Within the over 21,000-square-foot facility, you’ll find their 4,600-square-foot taproom, which brews some of the best craft beers around. Check out their website and social media to learn about their upcoming events and fun themed nights.

Black Flamingo Brewery
3260 NW 23rd Ave., #400 E, Pompano Beach

Brewing up a wide variety of constantly rotating experimental ales, Black Flamingo Brewery crafts unique and delicious artisan beers that showcase the vibrant and diverse culture of South Florida. The brewery promotes local talent and offers entertaining theme nights and various entertainment throughout the week. Check out their website and social media to learn more.

Fun Facts

  • You can chill a beer in two minutes; just put ice and salt in a bowl and stir.
  • Frosty glasses will cause your beer to foam.
  • The sugar in beer is said to supercharge your plants.
  • You can use beer as a conditioner. Apparently, good-quality brews will leave your locks silky and soft.

If you would like your eatery to be featured in Delicious Dining, please email Local.Features@theparklander.com.

Dealing with dietary restrictions during the holidays

The holiday season is here, and with that come fancy dinners, work parties, potlucks, and family gatherings. Although breaking bread with your favorite people can be one of life’s simple joys, anxiety over what to make when feeding those with special dietary needs can make things feel complicated. Here are nine tips and tricks for hosting a holiday dinner that everyone can enjoy.

  1. Ask for Advice

Who knows best? The person with special dietary needs! Once you have a menu in mind, discuss it with your guests ahead of time and ask how they can best be accommodated.

  1. Read Labels

Dairy, gluten, and non-vegetarian ingredients are found in many packaged foods. If you are not sure whether an ingredient is safe for your party guests, ask the person you’re accommodating or skip it.

  1. Don’t Cross-Contaminate

Use separate tongs when grilling meat and veggie burgers to spare vegetarian foods from meat juices. Don’t bake a nut-free cookie on the same tray you just roasted almonds. Thoroughly wash the strainer in between draining wheat spaghetti noodles and gluten-free ones. Being mindful of opportunities for cross-contamination can lower the risk of serving foods that your guest might not be able to eat.

  1. Make Simple Swaps

Tossing your veggies with olive oil instead of butter means that vegans and those with dairy allergies can enjoy them too. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken or beef stock in the side dishes so that more people can enjoy them.

  1. Leave the Toppings on the Side

Sometimes it’s just one or two ingredients that rule out a dish for those with dietary issues. If you leave the bacon crumble on the side, those who eat meat can still have it, and vegetarians can eat the dish too.

  1. Build a Bowl

Rather than designing a menu with several parts, build a buffet of toppings and let your guests do the rest. From a yogurt parfait brunch to a smoky burrito bowl, there are many options for having a casual meal that is satisfying for everyone. Having a diverse spread of options will allow your guests to create a meal that fits their needs.

  1. Serve Delicious Drinks

Even those not drinking alcohol enjoy fancy mock-tails. Include everyone in the festivities by making a pitcher or two of fruit and herb-infused waters or a dry bar with seltzer, juices, and herbs.

  1. Polish Your Sales Pitch

We tend to be wary of foods we cannot easily identify. To encourage everyone to try different dishes, write the menu on a chalkboard or place a menu card on the table. On your buffet line, label each dish with enticing adjectives and include ingredients. Not only does this encourage a picky eater to try new things, but it also helps guests avoid food allergens.

  1. Have Fun!

Remember: You don’t have to accommodate your guests for every single dish. If your holiday dinner would not be complete without your grandmother’s Yorkshire pudding, include it. Missing your personal favorites might lower your own enjoyment of the occasion. With a well-planned dinner, all of your guests can be happy and well-fed.

The skies of December

Here are the sky highlights this month:

  • 8. Full Moon. This phase occurs at 12:09 a.m. ET. This full moon was known by early Native American tribes as the Cold Moon because this is the time of year when the cold winter air settles in and the nights become long and dark. This moon has also been known as the Long Nights Moon and the Moon Before Yule.
  • 8. Mars at Opposition. The red planet will be at its closest approach to Earth and its face will be fully illuminated by the Sun. It will be brighter than any other time of the year and will be visible all night long. This is the best time to view and photograph Mars. A medium-sized telescope will allow you to see some of the dark details on the planet’s orange surface.
  • 13–14. Geminids Meteor Shower. The Geminids are the king of meteor showers. It is considered by many to be the best shower in the heavens, producing up to 120 multicolored meteors per hour at its peak. It is produced by debris left behind by an asteroid known as 3200 Phaethon, which was discovered in 1982. The shower runs annually from Dec. 7 to Dec. 17. It peaks this year on the night of the 13th and the morning of the 14th. The waning gibbous moon will block many of the fainter meteors this year. But the Geminids are so numerous and bright that this should still be a good show. The best viewing will be from a dark location after midnight. Meteors will radiate from the constellation Gemini but can appear anywhere in the sky.
  • 21. December Solstice. The December solstice occurs at 5:40 p.m. ET. The South Pole of the Earth will be tilted toward the Sun, which will have reached its southernmost position in the sky and will be directly over the Tropic of Capricorn at 23.44 degrees south latitude. This is the first day of winter (winter solstice) in the Northern Hemisphere and the first day of summer (summer solstice) in the Southern Hemisphere.
  • 21. Mercury at Greatest Eastern Elongation. The planet Mercury reaches its greatest eastern elongation of 20.1 degrees from the Sun. This is the best time to view Mercury as it will be at its highest point above the horizon in the evening sky. Look for the planet low in the western sky just after sunset.
  • 21–22. Ursids Meteor Shower. The Ursids is a minor meteor shower producing about 5-10 meteors per hour. It is produced by dust grains left behind by comet Tuttle, which was first discovered in 1790. The shower runs annually from Dec. 17 to Dec. 25. It peaks this year on the night of the 21st and the morning of the 22nd. This year, the nearly new moon will leave dark skies for what should be a really good show. The best viewing will be just after midnight from a dark location far away from city lights. Meteors will radiate from the constellation Ursa Minor but can appear anywhere in the sky.
  • 23. New Moon. This phase occurs at 6:17 a.m. ET. This is the best time of the month to observe faint objects such as galaxies and star clusters because there is no moonlight to interfere.

If you’d like to become more involved with astronomy in South Florida and meet like-minded people, the South Florida Amateur Astronomers Association (www.sfaaa.com) at Markham Park is fantastic, equipped with a state-of-the-art telescope, and the perfect way to take the next step in discovering our celestial sky. Happy exploring!

Meet Virgin Voyages’ chief executive pooch

Chief McAlpin has always been a social dog. Since he was a puppy, Chief has accompanied his parents, longtime Heron Bay residents Tom and Yvonne McAlpin, to play tennis, and he is a popular fixture at the courts.

“He’s part of the family. He’s part of the community. He’s something special,” enthuses Tom McAlpin.

In 2018, after the shooting at Margery Stoneman Douglas High School (MSD), Chief stepped up to show just how special he really is. A trained service dog, Chief became one of the therapy dogs that greeted students and faculty on their first day back after the shooting, and he continued to show up every day to provide emotional support.

“Chief grew up at Stoneman. He was in the yearbook for three years,” confirms McAlpin.

When the program at Margery Stoneman Douglas wrapped up, Chief, who turned 8 in October, was ready for the next opportunity. Landing his next gig—chief executive pooch of Virgin Voyages, Richard Branson’s luxury adults-only cruise line—was easy. After all, his owner, McAlpin, happens to be the company’s CEO.

Recognizing the positive impact that Chief has on people inspired McAlpin to bring him into the office, which he now does about once a week. “I’m always hearing, ‘What day is Chief
coming?’ ” laughs McAlpin. Chief’s popularity even merited his own photo on the staff photo wall. “People like to see him. You don’t usually see dogs in the office,” says McAlpin.

Bringing Chief to the office has also helped McAlpin interact more easily with employees. “It allows me to walk around with him and spend time with people. It’s a little awkward if the CEO walks in and starts talking to you, but having the dog there, people feel more comfortable around me,” he explains.

But the biggest impact that Chief has had is in boosting morale. “He makes people smile,” says McAlpin. “When people see him, they start smiling. That’s why they call them therapy dogs. They make people feel good.”

Virgin Voyages attempts to do the same—make people feel good by offering its own form of therapy, particularly for parents—with a premium, adults-only cruise experience. “Parents need a getaway, especially after COVID with them being schoolteachers, soccer coaches, therapists, and everything in between. Moms and dads need a vacation,” explains McAlpin. “It’s a great way to get away and have a sophisticated experience that’s hard to deliver when you have kids.”

McAlpin, a cruise industry veteran who has been with Virgin Voyages from the beginning, was instrumental in creating this vision for the brand. “Our original concept was to be adult-centric, which means there’s going to be experiences for adults, but there will be kids too and we’ll take care of them,” he says.

But feedback from focus groups primarily composed of mothers who indicated they wanted time away from their kids inspired a change in direction. “It was the toughest decision to make,” recalls McAlpin, who has children of his own. “But if we really wanted to differentiate ourselves, we needed to be adult-only.”

While it was a tough decision, it panned out well for Virgin Voyages. The company is experiencing exponential growth, and it is set to double its fleet in 2023 with the addition of two new ships, Resilient Lady and Brilliant Lady.

Inspired by super-yacht designs, Virgin prides itself on delivering an elite, differentiated experience. Virgin’s initial ship, Scarlet Lady, boasts more five-star ratings than any other ship on Cruise Critic and was also named “Best New Cruise Ship” in 2021 by Cruise Critic editors.

Virgin’s ships feature six different restaurants (all included in the cost of your ticket), including Razzle Dazzle, a vegan-forward restaurant that also has a “naughty” menu for those who want to order meat.

Immersive entertainment options include “Never Sleep Alone,” a late-night cabaret that promises to put you at the helm of your sexual desire, and “Duel Reality,” a Romeo and Juliet retelling with an acrobatic, circus-type twist.

You can also literally “shake for champagne” using the Virgin app, or get a tattoo on board at Squid Ink, the first U.S.-based tattoo parlor at sea. “We’re for the young at heart,” enthuses McAlpin of Virgin’s unique nature.

Right now, Florida residents can get 30% off fares when they book within 45 days of sailing.

For more information, visit VirginVoyages.com.

David Haley, artist of the month

Selected as Parkland Library’s “Artist of the Month” in September, Parkland resident David Haley, 79, had more than 20 of his more recent paintings, many of them award winners, on exhibit.

“We are all enjoying David Haley’s artwork,” says Lenore Russo, program coordinator at the Parkland Library. “Each one of his paintings is mesmerizing and very detailed. His paintings add color and life to our gallery walls.”

The artist who moved to Parkland two years ago from Indiana is a former CEO of two major healthcare management companies, including Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. He worked in all aspects of health care, spending the last 15 years with the largest hospice group in Indiana.

With a family, three kids, enlisting in the Navy, going to graduate school, and running a hospital, Haley had a full life with not much time for extracurricular activities. It wasn’t until he divorced in 2007 that he found he had some time on his hands.

He sold his first painting for $150 in 2011 from the trunk of his car when his now-wife, Rhona, took the car to a car wash and someone spotted the painting in the trunk when she went to get her purse.

Since then, Haley’s work has gone on to win at least eight major art competitions, including First Place in the “Nature 2022” international juried painting competition conducted by Artorful for his painting “Intrepid,” depicting a froth of white water engulfing a lighthouse in a storm; Finalist Award in the 2022 Color International Juried Art Competition for “Wire Fence,” a barbed-wire fence in the foreground of a pink and orange crepuscule sky; and “Enduring,” which won third place out of hundreds of submissions in Artorful’s BlueOrGrey 2022 Art Competition. It now belongs to a collector in Naples.

Other paintings featured in the library’s exhibit included “Blue Cap,” acrylic on canvas, a realistic portrait of a man in cold, snowy weather, with ice crystals on his beard and eyebrows; and “Broken Treaty,” oil on canvas, a portrait depicting an indigenous man realizing his people will have to go to war.

Haley’s works have been exhibited in the South Bend Indiana Art Museum, in Walter Reed Medical Center, in a juried regional gallery in Plymouth, Indiana, and in a pop-up gallery in the Chicago area.

With no formal training or art education, he says about his success, “I can’t believe it. I’m amazed.”

He says, “I paint landscapes, seascapes, animals, or portraits that speak to me. I don’t have a particular style like Van Gogh or Picasso. There is no recognizable Haley style. I try to stretch myself.”

In his artist’s statement, he explains, “I seek to produce emotion in the images I create.”

Haley paints from a studio in his third bedroom in Cascata whenever he has the opportunity. “That’s where all the magic takes place,” he jokes.

With family and seven grandkids nearby, he has other responsibilities and paints when the opportunity strikes, sometimes painting until 4 a.m., although he prefers painting in solitude with the natural light.

Haley’s personal favorite is “Drink a Beer,” an oil-on-canvas painting inspired by Luke Bryan’s song of the same name, which recounts the story of personal loss, sitting at the end of a pier, drinking a beer, and reflecting on life.

In his own life, he credits his stepfather, John Haley, for being a role model.

“He was a big foundation for me,” Haley remembers, growing up with two brothers and a single mom. “He was the most pivotal person in my life. He gave me values, showed me right from wrong, and taught me about hard work.”

Apparently, those values took hold. When asked about the quality he values most in himself, his wife Rhona jumped in: “Integrity,” she said.

With many career highlights, including his work in end-of-life care and being a part of so many touching stories, Haley’s painting brings new highlights.

“I like to watch the reactions of the viewers to my art,” he says. “Each person sees the same image, but each takes away something different.”

With so many accomplishments under his belt, what goals would he still like to achieve? “I’d love to have a solo exhibit and showcase my work at a museum.”

 For more information: www.facebook.com/DavidHaley.Art. www.saatchiart.com/account/artworks/742692.

Grateful for a new home – Local animal rescue stories

This holiday season, as we reflect on all that we are grateful for this year, let’s not forget our wonderful animal companions that are grateful too. These rescue animals came from situations in which they were neglected and/or abused, so finding a furever home where they are loved and appreciated is exactly what they needed and deserved. Check out some of these unfurgettable stories.

Snoopy’s Story

Rescued by Penny & Wild from a hoarding situation in Little Havana, Miami, alongside 36 other rabbits living in horrific conditions, Snoopy, a Dwarf Hotot/Havana rabbit mix, had an infection in his lips from being repeatedly attacked by another rabbit. Penny & Wild took Snoopy to the veterinarian’s office where he underwent surgery, having his lips cleaned out and then stitched back together. Snoopy was then neutered and adopted by the Grossman family, who already had another rabbit named Bluebell who needed a buddy.

“Our vet told us there was a rescue near us in Parkland. We went and took a look and that was it,” recalls Adam Grossman, who has formed a deep bond with this resilient rabbit. “Snoopy is so friendly and personable. He’ll even jump in your lap when you’re watching TV.”

About Penny & Wild: Penny & Wild is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, no-kill, 100% foster-based small-animal rescue specializing in rabbits and guinea pigs. Founded in 2021 by then-18-year-old Parkland resident Dylan Warfel after another rescue dropped its small-animals program, Penny & Wild’s primary goal is to save animals that won’t get a second chance: strays, animals on euthanasia lists, hoarding cases, and medical cases. For more information, visit www.pennyandwild.org.

Pingo’s Story

Pingo was found stuck in a car tire in Coral Springs after a heavy rainfall and brought to the United for Animals Rescue (UFAR) shelter. UFAR examined this kitten and found he was full of worms and fleas, had a hematoma in one leg, and was also sick with a cold. He received veterinary attention and was placed in foster care and nursed back to good health. During that time, Pingo bonded with his foster family, who already had another cat and a dog.

A few weeks later, Pingo was returned to the shelter to be neutered and put up for adoption. His foster family visited him every day. It broke their hearts to see Pingo stuck in a crate, unable to run and play as he had at their house. Even their dog was depressed, as it missed playing with Pingo. Finally, after a week of being without this sweet kitten, his foster family decided to officially make Pingo part of the family.

About United for Animals Rescue: UFAR is a no-kill pet shelter, rescue, and adoption facility located in Margate that provides shelter for abandoned and abused companion animals. For more information, visit www.unitedforanimalsrescue.org.

Lilly’s Story

Lilly was rescued by the South Florida Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) alongside 100 other farm animals from deplorable conditions in Redland. Unclaimed by her mother, the young goat was starving and still had her umbilical cord attached when rescuers arrived. Lilly was immediately bottle-fed by the organization’s vice president, before urinating on her rescuer and then falling asleep.

Christine Scepter, the South Florida SPCA’s executive director, took charge of Lilly’s care, bringing her to and from work every day to keep her on a regular bottle-feeding schedule. “She was never far from where I was,” recalls Scepter. “She thought I was her mommy.” As Lilly grew stronger, she spent time with the rest of the rescued goat herd and formed a bond with another goat named Drama.

Eventually, Scepter decided to adopt both Lilly and Drama. “Having a relationship with her has been filled with wonderful, funny, and endearing moments,” says Scepter. “She knows her name, and she gets jealous if I pay too much attention to Drama when she wants her time.”

About the South Florida SPCA: This SPCA is a charitable organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating horses and other livestock, and then safely rehoming them across the country. The organization does not adopt animals back into the food chain. For more information, visit www.spca-sofla.org.

Biggs’ Story

Biggs, a 5-year-old American Staffordshire terrier, was rescued by “Tails from the Barkside” after a plea from Broward County Animal Care. Biggs was emaciated and anemic, and he could barely walk. Tails from the Barkside immediately took him to the veterinarian’s office where he spent 10 days receiving love, care, and the medical attention he desperately needed. Slowly, Biggs began to trust humans again.

Months later, after proper training and socialization by Tails from the Barkside, Biggs was adopted by a loving family. Unfortunately, four years after being rescued, Biggs was diagnosed with lung cancer and passed last year.

About Tails from the Barkside: This pet rescue is a small, foster-based, and family-run 501(c)(3) organization based in Coral Springs. They work to save abused, neglected, and discarded dogs from the streets and local shelters in Broward and Miami-Dade counties. For more information, visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/TFTBS.

Delicious Dining – Coffee or tea, anyone?

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

Coffee is clearly one of the world’s most popular drinks. A fresh cup is often just what we need to start the day. It wakes us up, gives us that extra jolt we may need in the afternoon, or simply provides a perfect excuse to meet a friend for a latte.

Whether you need a quick morning pick-me-up or a relaxing afternoon cup of tea, here’s where to go for delicious cappuccino, espresso, and more in Parkland or Coral Springs. 

Carmela Coffee Company

7967 N. University Drive, Parkland

Carmela is a coffee/wine bar dedicated to providing you with quality drinks curated in its own family-trade farms. It offers a wholesome, trendy menu including an array of avocado toasts, flatbreads, salads, and sandwiches. 

The Little Coffee Shoppe

10732 Wiles Road, Coral Springs

The Little Coffee Shoppe is a unique spot in west Coral Springs with an eccentric ambiance and a cozy, relaxed vibe. Its wide array of breakfast and lunch options are a perfect match for its many types of coffees, teas, juices, and blended drinks.

Lady and the Mug

3111 N. University Drive, Coral Springs

With a beautiful atmosphere and welcoming environment, Lady and the Mug offers plenty of options of both tea and coffee as well as delicious desserts and savory foods, including vegan and gluten-free options.

 

Fyr & Ice Asian Fusion and Drinks

10371 W. Sample Road, Coral Springs

Boba tea is a drink that includes tapioca or fruit-flavored pearls. Fyr & Ice in Coral Springs offers various flavors of boba milk tea and flavor fruit tea. The Asian restaurant is also known for its modern interpretation of classic dishes and its insistence on only using high-quality, fresh ingredients.

Surprising coffee fact that will perk you up:

Cream makes your coffee stay warm. If you prefer to keep your coffee as hot as possible for a longer time, try adding some cream into your drink. This will make your coffee stay warm for 20% longer.

When brewing coffee at home, save your leftover beans for a do-it-yourself scrub. Coffee grounds are physical exfoliators that can lift off dead skin cells, making skin feel smooth and look brighter.

If you would like your eatery to be featured in “Delicious Dining,” please email EricaLeigh2020@gmail.com.

Relax and take in music, scenery at Jazz Brunch

Next to the banks of the New River in downtown Fort Lauderdale on the first Sunday of each month, you can hear the catchy tunes of live jazz music in a beautiful setting at Esplanade Park. Sunday Jazz Brunch at the Riverwalk provides a free concert series performed by local jazz artists on three different stages from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

There is the large Esplanade Stage for big bands and orchestras, the Connie Hoffmann Stage for more intimate performances in a gazebo, and the Peck Courtyard Stage at the adjacent Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Around the area are park benches, picnic tables, and boat docks on the river, and you can meander all along the scenic, brick-lined walkway by the water and catch some boats gliding by. Some concertgoers set up chairs, tables, and picnic blankets to listen to the music, munching on picnic lunches they bring, or purchasing food from the vendors set up nearby. Local merchants also sell crafts and other wares in a designated area.

I got to experience this relaxing but fun event for the first time in early October with my boyfriend, Art. We didn’t know to bring our lawn chairs but snagged spots on a couple of benches where we could sit. There were almost as many dogs as humans there, it seemed, and we may bring our dogs to a future event. Everybody there was having a great time. We saw several groups camped out with enough food and beverages to feed a tailgate party for a day.

Soon after we arrived, we walked over to a restaurant just past the railroad tracks with outdoor tables overlooking the river for a delicious brunch before returning close to the music. But just walking along by the water and hearing the live music can lift anybody’s mood. There was joyful dancing in a couple of different places, and it was a low-key party atmosphere, with friendly people around us. We saw a woman walking around with shots on a tray, passing them out for free; and a little girl selling lemonade from her small chair and table on the grass facing the walkway.

This peaceful setting by the New River is nice and scenic, but also a great central location to be in. Besides the Broward Center, the area boasts the Museum of Discovery and Science, the Museum of Art, and Huizenga Plaza. There are also water shuttle and water taxi stops, along with the Community Shuttle and Tri-Rail stops. And the city’s Marine Facilities offer four docking stations along the river, all accessible to the jazzy sounds of the live music.

It was my first time at the Riverwalk, which runs from the Sailboat Bend neighborhood to near the Stranahan House. Art and I enjoyed walking back and forth along the pretty walkway near the music, although we didn’t do the full one-mile walk on this day. The Riverwalk has two main streets, Las Olas Boulevard and Himmarshee Street, running through the district. On a future trip there, we plan to take in the full Riverwalk experience.

If you like jazz music, both big bands and small, in a picturesque locale, the Sunday Jazz Brunch is a must-do. I’ll be going back for sure.

The next two Jazz Brunches are on Nov. 6 with entertainment from Davis and Dow, RD Project, and Peter Betan Trio, and Dec. 4 with music by Valerie Tyson Band, Jackson Bunn Group, and Mari Bell Quintet. For more information, go to www.parks.fortlauderdale.gov/special-events.

Scare yourself this Halloween with local author

If you’re looking to scare yourself to sleep this Halloween, curl up with a book by a local South Florida author and international Amazon bestseller, Sara Brooke. Just don’t forget to leave the lights on.…

Brooke, who dreamed of writing horror novels since childhood, has been keeping readers up at night since 2012. Her debut novel, “Still Lake,” a chilling medical thriller, made the Amazon bestseller list and captured the No. 1 spot in Barnes & Noble’s horror genre for two days, which is no easy feat for a new author. Since then, Brooke has written 10 additional horror titles and contributed to four anthologies, often scaring herself in the process.

“Writing ‘Kransen House’ bothered me. It’s a disturbing book. It’s about a very dysfunctional family, and the patriarch is psychologically not right. Writing that, it was a very dark environment and brooding situation that made me uncomfortable,” recalls Brooke. But she isn’t one to shy away from the discomfort.

“I think it’s a good thing because when I’m writing if it takes me to a really dark place in my imagination where I’m kind of looking around and not wanting to think about the story when the lights go out. Hopefully, it does the same for my readers,” enthuses Brooke, who loves being told that her books are demented.

“The best part is having people read my books and tell me how scared they were,” she says. “To know that somebody is fully immersed in something I’ve written—immersed in my twisted little world—that is the biggest reward.”

In addition to writing horror novels, Brooke also conducts paranormal investigations with the Paranormal Existence Research Society, a nonprofit organization that investigates paranormal phenomena across Florida and conducts in-home investigations for those who think their home is haunted. While these investigations would seem the perfect complement to her writing, Brooke rarely draws inspiration from them.

“For me, the investigations are about helping people,” explains Brooke, adding that what happens on a typical investigation is also much milder than what you read in her books. “If I walked into a home and the things that happen in my stories were happening, we would need to call a person of the cloth to help us.”

Brooke is currently working on her 12th novel, “In the Marsh” (a working title that may change), a gothic horror story inspired by a trip to St. Augustine. Though no firm publication date is set, Brooke is confident the book will be released in the first half of 2023.

For some thrills and chills this Halloween, Brooke recommends “Cursed Casino,” a cross between “The Shining” and “The Mist,” which readers have described as “the perfect story for a rainy, stormy, drink-filled Halloween night,” and “Kransen House,” one of her more twisted tales. “‘Kransen House’ is with you after you finish it. You feel like you need to take a shower after that one,” she laughs.

For more information on Brooke and her writing, visit www.sarabrooke.com. Her novels are available on Amazon.