Selected Feature Stories
Travel
Lighthouse Point from above
Features
Road Trip
Southern BY SUSAN ROSSER
Hospitality living the highlife
in the low country
I
must have lived in the South in a previous life because as soon as I see my first moss covered oak tree, I feel like I’m home. And yet, I’ve never actually lived in the south. (South Florida doesn’t count.) Oh, and don’t even get me started on southern food. Well, not too far from South Florida (about a six hour drive) you can find St. Simons Island, Georgia, an incredibly quaint and small barrier island known for its expansive beaches. As soon as you begin your journey over the five-mile causeway to the island, you begin to relax. You will see endless vistas spanning across rivers, vast salt marshes and of course the Atlantic Ocean. Once on the
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AROUND
THE POINT NEWS & TID BITS
HAPPY SN APS
PHO TOS FRO M ARO UND TOW N
ROAD TRI
ST. SIMONSP ISLAND
Girl POWE
JANUARY 2014
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STARS OF THE LHP GIRLS 10-15 SOCCER LEAGUE
Taste Lighthouseof Point YOUR GUIDE TO THE 1OTH ANNUAL
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The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort 201 Arnold Road • St. Simons Island, Georgia 31522 Phone: 912/638-3631 Reservations: 800/342-0212
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Road Trip right Ocean front villa below The Delegal Room. Opposite Top The lighthouse opposite Bot tom One of the resort’s five pools
Island, you will find, quiet ocean-side streets lined with mom and pop shops and restaurants with the occasional proverbial t-shirt store. The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort is the epitome of southern charm. What can I say, they had me at “ya’ll.” The staff are full of authentic warm hospitality for which South is famous . Take a short walk from your room and stroll along the miles and miles of beautiful beach, enjoy ocean front dining at the King’s Tavern (don’t skip the shrimp and grits-see sidebar) or poolside at Ocean Terrace Grille, or take a dip in one of the resort’s five sparkling blue pools. continued on next page
PIT STOP Climbing St. Augustine Lighthouse
Six hours in a car can be a challenge. On the way, stop off and climb the 219 steps of the St. Augustine Lighthouse to the observation deck for a 360-degree view of the historic city and the Atlantic Ocean. An active navigational aid, the lighthouse was built in the early 1870s and may be the most picturesque of the state’s 30 beacons, not all of which are operational (of course, we can think of one lighthouse we like better.) Tickets are $3 to $7.50, depending on your age and whether you’ll make the trip up to the top. For more information call 904-829-0745 or visit www.staugustinelighthouse.com.
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The Resort Located directly on the Atlantic Ocean beaches of St. Simons Island, Georgia, the resort is on the National Register of Historic Places and is a member of Historic Hotels of America. The Resort is 60 miles north of Jacksonville and 65 miles south Savannah. • Ocean front dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner • Five pools, including an outdoor children’s pool and an indoor heated pool with hot tub • The Royal Treatment Cottage specializes in massage therapies and treatments • 10, 000 sq. ft. of ocean front meeting, conference and function space • Award-winning golf at the newly restored and renamed King and Prince Golf Course, Home of the Hampton Club • Exercise facility • Har-Tru tennis courts • Complimentary Wi-Fi access in all guest rooms, villas, private homes and lobby areas • Complimentary Business Center
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St. Simons stuff to do
A trip to St. Simons is really all about relaxing, but if you must do something here is a list that should help the more restless travelers in your party: Ghost Tours Join a Ghost Tour by Lighthouse Trolleys (www.lighthousetrolleys.com/) in spooky St. Simons, the perfect after dinner evening entertainment! Visit several sites of authentic island history and learn all the ghostly tales behind them. The tours are one of the most sought after evening activities for| all ages. Southeast Adventure Outfitters If you really overdid it on the shrimp and grits you may need to go kayaking in addition to a bike ride. There are plenty of experienced local guides at Southeast Adventure Outfitters. Discover the many rivers, creeks and marshes while kayaking St. Simons and Sea Islands and the Brunswick area. The guides teach the skills needed to safely enjoy the sport. Tours include two-hour trips through the Marshes of Glynn, a three-hour trip around St. Simons, and full day trips on the Altamaha and Satilla Rivers.
Shrimpin’ aboard the “Lady Jane” with Captain Larry Credle Traveling through the Marshes of Glynn south of St. Simons Sound you will see all sorts of wildlife including dolphin, seagulls, and pelicans. You will not only see tons of different sea creatures the crew brings up, but you also get to touch the catch of the day which may include; sharks and crab. And the friendly crew even boils shrimp for you to taste. Two hour tours depart daily from the Brunswick docks less than a mile from the St. Simons causeway. Jekyll Island Fun Tours Tour the maritime forest on the south end of beautiful Jekyll Island while guiding along on an eco-friendly Segway® Personal Transporter (PT). To take part in the Jekyll Island Fun Tours on Segway® PTs, please contact the tour guide in advance for availability and tour times. You must be a minimum of 16 years of age and weigh between 100-250 pounds to participate in a tour. Tour guests under 18 years of age should be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Call 912-635-9704 for information.
Teen Meet and Greet Trolley Teens meet and connect on a one hour trip with Lighthouse Trolleys. This evening trip features music, karaoke, and other fun that allows teens to connect with locals and visitors. What parent wouldn’t like to pawn their teen off for some supervised fun? www.lighthousetrolleys.com Bike Trails Burn off all the calories from the shrimp and grits with a ride on a paved network of winding bike paths (ideal for walking and jogging, too). You can get to most anywhere on St. Simons Island on a bike. Bike rentals are available at Ocean Motion Surf Shop (just around the corner from the Resort) and elsewhere on the island. Infant seats and Trail-a-bikes available as well. Rent by 1/2 day, full day, or for your entire stay. Call 912-638-5225 for more information. Bike rentals are also available at Wheel Fun Rentals. They have many unique bikes including surreys that hold up to nine adults. Call 912-635-9801.
A little bit of history The King and Prince Club opened as a seaside dance club in 1935. Six years later, on July 2, 1941, the main hotel building opened to the public as the King and Prince Hotel and was immediately praised for its modern features and magnificent ocean views. During World War II, the hotel served as a naval coast-watching and training facility. In 1947 the hotel reopened to resume its popularity as a favorite island resort. In 1972 and again in 1983, the hotel underwent extensive renovation and expansions becoming a member of the prestigious Historic Hotels of America in 1996. In 2003, the Resort’s historic main building underwent a stunning restoration and enhancement project, adding 57 new guest rooms. In 2005, the Resort was named to the National Register of Historic Places. Throughout the many changes over the hotel’s 76 years of service, one thing has remained the same: guests enjoy that famous Southern hospitality. source:www.kingandprince.com
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opposite The Lady Jane Shrimp Boat this page top Golf at the Resort middle Classic low country boil Bot tom The Ocean Terrace Grille
Georgia Low Country Shrimp and Grits (Recipe courtesy of the King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort) ‘Shrimp and Grits’ is popular dish in the south. It started as a breakfast meal for coastal sailors, fishermen and their families. Now it is served at all meals from casual to fine dining restaurants and there are as many different versions as there are southerners. Here is the secret to the resort’s famous shrimp and grits. Ingredients 1 pint Logan Turnpike or Quaker Instant Grits 1 pint heavy cream 1 quart water ½ lb unsalted butter salt, to taste 2 lbs chorizo or andouille or smoked sausage 1 lb white corn (roasted) 1 Vidalia onion (chopped) 1 green pepper (diced) 1 red pepper (diced) 1 pint smoked cheddar cheese (shredded) 1 cup mix of fresh cilantro, flat leaf parsley and chives (all chopped) 5-6 lbs Georgia Wild Shrimp, peeled and deveined (16-20 shrimp / pound if possible - about 5-6 / person) white wine, to taste 1 pint crème fraiche 2 bundles green onions (chopped) Directions In a 4-quart sauce pan, place the cream, water, butter and salt (to taste, keep in mind cheese and chorizo added later will make this dish saltier) and bring to a boil. When liquid comes to a boil, stir in grits and whisk until starting to thicken. Turn off heat, cover with lid and let set about 20 minutes to bloom. While grits are blooming, sauté the chorizo, onions, peppers and roasted corn until nice and colored. Then, fold that mixture along with the chopped herb mix and smoked cheddar, then put in a warm area to serve. If grits are a little stiff, just add a little more cream and gently heat over the stove top. In a sauté pan, heat a little oil to smoking hot. Season the shrimp and sauté on high for about one minute on each side, then add just a little white wine or shrimp stock or even just a little more butter to pan and let rest in pan while plating grits. Top grits with shrimp, add a dollop of crème fraiche and garnish with green onions. January 2014 | l i ghthou se point
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The
Jewels of the
West Coast
Fort Myers • Sanibel • Captiva By Ellen Schulman Is the stress of life too much? Try heading west on I-75 and discover a world where natural beauty, tranquility and charm are just what the doctor ordered. My twin 14-year-old daughters, Leah and Carly, and I jumped in the car after school on a recent Friday afternoon to check out the other end of Alligator Alley. What I had always thought was the ‘tween spot between Naples and Sarasota actually is a magnificent community with offerings for the whole family.
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PHONE INV
Random looks at ASION your last photos
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Taste of LHP, Y SNAPS Keeper Days and more!
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MARCH 2014
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Retiring Mayor Fred Schorr sha of the past and res his hopes for the his view future. By Earl Mau cker
Road Trip Go West to the Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel By Ellen Schulma
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After a little more than a two-hour trek from our Lighthouse Point home to exit 136 in Fort Myers, we crashed at the sparkling clean and comfy Hampton Inn. General Manager and Owner Jeff Webb greeted us at the front desk, along with an exuberant front desk staffer named Vanessa. The scent of fresh baked cookies also confirmed that we made the right lodging decision. Our spacious suite included a kitchen area complete with microwave, refrigerator, sink and coffee maker. My girls plopped on the two double beds immediately leaving a full pullout couch, desk and armchair and ottoman all to myself. We were so comfortable we simply ordered delivery pizza for dinner and spent a quiet evening in. The alarm sounded early the next morning as we traveled north for about an hour to board Captiva Cruises’ Lady Chadwick for lunch on Cabbage Key. Although quite lengthy for my antsy girls, the 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. excursion is a fun day for people of all ages. Electronic diversions for the younger ones, cameras and binoculars are highly recommended. The company offers a variety of full and half- day adventures to Cabbage Key as well as the private island of Useppa, Cayo Costa State Park and Boca Grande. Private cruises are available, as are sunset sightseeing and dolphin adventures. We had our own dolphin adventure, however, as several of the entertaining mammals put on a captivating show for most of the trip. Cruise director Eric, and his colleague, Skip, offered a plethora of inside stories about this nature
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show. They pointed out the dancing dolphin constantly and explained – with a chuckle -- that these smart animals find humans on a boat entertaining spectacles much like our fascination with animals in a zoo. We also passed a giant osprey nest perched atop a water marker where mom and dad were protecting their new eggs. Skip said this same nest had been there for years, growing wider and taller each season as the mates-for-life created their family. The male osprey works hard for at least two months to feed the entire family, including the young chicks, who eat up to two pounds of fish a day. Our nature lesson concluded as we arrived at the doorstep of the famous Cabbage Key Inn, believed to be the inspiration of Jimmy Buffet’s “Cheeseburger in Paradise.” The girls and I chose to start our exploration of the 100-acre island with a climb up the 41 steps of the island’s all wooden water tower built in the mid 1930s. It’s the only water tower not to be destroyed by hurricanes, although it did sustain heavy damage during Hurricane Charley in 2004. The nature trail, although a bit muddy from frequent rains, was a peaceful precursor to our lunch. Native plants are marked by fact-filled plaques along the path, which brought us full circle back to the Inn. We, of course, couldn’t resist following tradition by adding our own dollar bill to the more than $70,000 plastered on the walls. The practice started when a thirsty, but sometimes broke, fisherman, left his autographed bill taped to the wall
WHERE TO STAY The Hampton Inn & Suites (Hilton property)*
Fort Myers-Colonial Boulevard 4350 Executive Circle Fort Myers, FL 33916 Owner:
Jefferson Webb
Manager: Landon Sturm
239-931-5300 www.fortmyerscolonialsuites. www.hamptoninn.com *sign up to become a HiltonHonors member for reward points and perks
of the bar, ensuring funds for a cold drink on his next trip even if his net came up empty. Since the walls can’t hold the signed bucks from every visitor, the money that falls to the floor is collected by the staff and donated to local charities, to the tune of as much as $15,000 a year. Lunch at the famous Inn included a cheeseburger with a side of black beans and rice, capped by their highly touted frozen key lime pie, as recommended by the Captiva crew. The 100 percent Angus beef burger and saffron rice and beans were outstanding, but the pie tasted more like a lime Popsicle than the creamy desert us South Floridians love. The bill for the three of us was around $46, not including tip. Don’t expect french fries to go with that burger, however, as there’s no place to properly dispose of grease on this tiny island. We tried desert again just a few blocks outside the gates of South Seas Plantation at a quaint and colorful spot called “The Bubble Room.” The whimsical cottage looks more like Santa’s workshop than a restaurant, but once inside guests are
made to feel like they are in a perpetual Christmas palace. Vintage toys, holiday displays and traditional “bubble lights” adore every corner inside and out. Most staff members wear scout uniforms, as according to Bubble Room Manager and mother of three Rachel Peach, the first employee hired was asked to come to work in something creative. She was a scout leader and dressed accordingly. Thirty-five years later, it’s the standard dress code. Most famous for its large and irresistible homemade slices of cake, this popular attraction features full lunch and dinner menus with such signature items as a 34-ounce prime rib, Bubble Bread and Socra cheese. We chose the unique orange crunch (yellow cake filled with brown sugar and almond slices), red velvet and chocolate tort. The cake is so moist and delicious it alone is worth the trek to Captiva. Rachel says that during the height of the tourist season (mid-February through March) as many as 700 cakes are sold a day and the wait can be as long as 90 minutes, starting at 4:30 p.m.
Opposite The Sanibel Lighthouse Top left dessert at the Bubble Room, right The bubble Room, bot tom cash on the walls at Cabbage Key
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Must-see Destinations Fort Myers
Edison & Ford Winter Estates The tour features Edison’s 1886, 14-acre riverfront estate, laboratory and experimental gardens, as well as a display of Henry Ford’s three-acre estate and vehicles dating back to 1914. 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, 33901, 239-3347419, www.edisonfordwinterestates.org Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve This mile-long boardwalk offers a free view of a pristine wildlife corridor 7751 Penzance Boulevard, Fort Myers, 239-533-7554 www.leeparks.org/sixmile
Downtown Fort Myers Recent redevelopment and revitalization projects have turned the Fort Myers Downtown River District into a mecca of shopping, dining, art and events. Visit www.myriverdistrict.com for a complete listing of year-round events and listings of shops, restaurants and unique places to tour.
Sanibel
J. N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge
USA Today has ranked the refuge among the top bird watching destinations in North America. Approximately 250 species of birds have been spotted there. 1 Wildlife Drive Sanibel, FL 33957 Phone: 239-472-1100 Fax: 239-472-4061, www.fws.gov/dingdarling/ This refuge is part of the largest undeveloped mangrove ecosystem in the United States. It is world famous for its spectacular migratory bird populations. Tram Ride Tarpon Bay Explorers (www.tarponbayexplorers.com) is the concessionaire to the refuge, offering narrated tram and boat tours, along with guided kayak tours. 60
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Shelling The beaches of Fort Myers and Sanibel yield some 400 species of multi-colored seashells. For information on the types of shells found on the area beaches and how to identify visit www.fortmyerssanibel.com/discover/on-water/shelling. The best shelling beaches are: Lovers Key State Park, and North Captiva and Cayo Costa islands (known for their starfish, conch and sand dollars).For a list of shelling charters and tours, visit www.FortMyersSanibel.com.
Captiva
Captiva Cruises Leave from South Seas Island Resort or McCarthy’s Marina $5 parking fee at South Seas 239-472-5300 www.captivacruises.com Bubble Room 15001 Captiva Drive, Captiva Island, FL 33924, 239-472-5558, www.bubbleroomrestaurant.com Mucky Duck This English-style pub and restaurant offers a front seat view of a beach sunset. 2014 The Mucky Duck, 11546 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva Island, FL 33924, Phone 239-472-3434 | Fax 239-472-2388
We also spent a few minutes strolling the neighborhood surrounding the Bubble Room, where more quaint restaurants, luxury rental homes and the beach side Mucky Duck tavern, known as a perfect spot to shell and watch the sunset, are within a few blocks. The day ended too quickly as we headed back to home base at the Hamptons, passing a number of sites on our “wish list” for next time, including the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum (www.shellmuseum.org) and Doc Ford’s Sanibel Rum Bar & Grille. The restaurant is themed after local author, Randy Wayne White, who writes in his novels about marine biologist Doc Ford. The Fort Myers-Sanibel/Captiva area is chalked full of activities for families and visitors of all ages. Just leave enough time to enjoy what the community has to offer. For more details on even more attractions, visit fortmyers-sanibel.com.
Opposite Nature Trail above Cabbage Key right Cabbage Key Water Tower May 2014 | l i ghthou se point
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Hometown Sweethearts
TTIE McNEIL JACKIE AND SCO g story of
A weddin mitment true love and com
THE PARK NT ROCKIN’HTIN HO USE POI LIG
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SNAPS HAPPYLIFE AND MOR E! REL AY FOR
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The Eighteenth hole and clubhouse on Pete Dye’s Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, site of the 1991 Ryder Cup and 2012 PGA Championship
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G o n e to
Carolina a multi-family vacation to kiawah island
B
ack in 2009, my sister and I decided to plan a family vacation somewhere on the East Coast. Our requirements were simple—our destination had to be driving distance from both of us (she and her family live in New Jersey and we of course live in Lighthouse Point.) My sister is the type who gets stuff done. She met with a travel agent (yes, they still exist) who recommended we rent a home on Kiawah Island. Kiawah is a barrier island off the coast of South Carolina. We picked a house and made the reservations during the kids’ Thanksgiving break. By Lupe Somerset
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It’s about a 10-hour drive to Kiawah. After that long in the car with two kids and both of my parents, I was ready for “big-gulp” size glass of Malbec. I don’t think I will ever forget the moment our car first entered onto the Island. We were all worn out from the trip and yet everyone of us gasped at the sheer natural beauty of this paradise. That may sound corny and exaggerated, but it is the absolute truth. The island was developed in the 1970s with a keen sense of maintaining the natural landscape. As the road curved around the island, it was hard to imagine how they had built all of these houses among the huge trees. The architecture is strictly coastal— with plenty of front porches and tin roofs. The home we rented was simply lovely. All the houses are raised up about one story, so you always enter on the second floor. The ground level is usually reserved for a garage and maybe a bedroom or two. Ours was very spacious and furnished beautifully—a true seaside retreat. Many homes have gorgeous views of the marshes (or the ocean if you are a big spender.) We have rented three homes on the island over the past few years and each one surpassed our expectations— which is probably why we’ve been back a few times. The winter rates for home rentals are much more reasonable than summertime. But since it is summer in Florida all year long, it’s a great idea to take advantage of this paradise during the winter months‚ which are never too cold in the low country. That first year we decided to celebrate Thanksgiving at the
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Plan your trip Developed on a barrier island of coastal South Carolina only 21 miles from historic Charleston, Kiawah Island Golf Resort lies along ten miles of one of America’s top beaches, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean. This 10,000 acre island is a haven for a variety of wildlife including egrets, loggerhead turtles and alligators. The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort is a 255 room, ultra luxury oceanfront hotel and spa (AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five Star) The Villas at Kiawah Island Golf Resort 500 charming villas available for great vacations Private luxury homes are also available for rental and are great for larger groups like family reunions. Golf Courses Five championship courses designed by the world’s leading golf course architects: The Ocean Course by Pete Dye, home of the 1991 Ryder Cup, the 1997 and 2003 World Cups, the 2007 Senior PGAand 2012 PGA Championships; Osprey Point by Tom Fazio. (renovated during the summer of 2014); Turtle Point by Jack Nicklaus; Cougar Point by Gary Player; and Oak Point by Clyde Johnston. Tennis Facilities Two world class tennis clubs, which have hosted such prestigious events as the ’98 FED CUP and the ’90 US Men’s Clay Court Championship. Together, the facilities include 19 clay courts and five hard courts, and an innovative practice court with an automatic retrieval ball machine. The resort offers an array of clinics and camps and has been rated as the No. 1 Tennis Resort in the world by TennisResortsOnline (www. tennisresortsonline.com) for seven of the last eight years.
Restaurants:
Spa
The Ocean Room at The Sanctuary is the resort’s signature steakhouse with a menu specializing in exceptional handselected cuts of beef and chops as well as other signature dishes.
At The Sanctuary: A Forbes Five - Star, 12 - room garden - themed spa featuring treatments based upon the ocean, forest and botanical gardens. There is also a sauna, steam room and whirlpool.
Sushi Lounge at The Ocean Room is adjacent to The Ocean Room.
Nature Programs:
East meets south as traditional sushi dishes are served along with “sushi southern style.”
A nature center with on - staff naturalists for viewing local snakes, lizards, turtles and a young alligator. There are also walking tours and workshops that teach about indigenous island wildlife in their natural habitats. For outdoor adventure the resort offers marsh creek canoeing, ocean kayaking, back - river excursions and biking. Family Activities: Year - round activities include oyster roasts, ice cream socials, festivals, arts and crafts, productions and holiday events – such as Easter egg hunts, 4th of July fireworks and holiday tree lightings.
Jasmine Porch, also at The Sanctuary, has a stunning ocean view and offers casual and traditional Low country favorites. Loggerhead Bar & Grill is located poolside at The Sanctuary and serves classic American fare and frozen drinks. The Osprey Point Cherrywood BBQ & Ale House, offers southern
Bar-B-Que at its best. Tomasso at Turtle Point Clubhouse is an authentic
Italian gathering place specializing in classic cuisine from all regions of Italy. Located in The Ocean Course clubhouse, The Atlantic Room is the resort’s premier seafood restaurant” featuring modern American twists on seasonal seafood selections . Southern Kitchen, our low country classickitchen in The Straw Market in West Beach serving breakfast and lunch. The Night Heron Poolside Grill & Bar features appetizers, salads, local
seafood, sandwiches and burgers. The West Beach Market has wine, beer, snacks, and gifts; also The Market at Town Center has a fully stocked deli with groceries, logo apparel, and newspapers.
Recreation Services The 21 - acre Heron Park, bicycle rentals, three swimming pool complexes, beach services, a game room, children’s camp (ages 3 -11) and a fitness center. Rates Villas (1 - 4 bedrooms): $120 to $1,130 per night; $650 to $6,225 weekly Luxury homes: $185 to $3,915 per night; $1,015 to $21,535 weekly The Sanctuary: $270 to $825 per night; $585 - $4,700 for suites nightly For more information call 843-768-2121 or 800-654-2924 or visit kiawahresort.com.
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Road Trip Sanctuary Resort on the Island. As you enter this grand old southern style building, you half expect Rhett Butler to be holding the door open for you. There are grand staircases in the lobby going up to the second floor and you get the sense that some young teenage girl is up there preparing for her “coming out ball.” I was pleasantly surprised to learn that coastal South Carolina is known for its seafood. It was Thanksgiving, but who wants turkey when there is what seems to be an infinite supply of oysters on the half shell, shrimp the size of canoes, crabs, clams—well, you get the point. Kiawah is a place to unwind and relax. There is plenty of golf, tennis and nature activities (see sidebar) but this is a place where you can sit on a porch and simply enjoy the time
passing by. A few years later we returned at Christmas time for another vacation. We decided to tour a tea plantation. My husband decided to stay behind. He said we would just be looking at a bunch of bushes. Well, he was right. They do drive you around on a quaint trolley, but basically you are looking at bushes—some are little, some are big, but it’s all just tea. We were all hysterically laughing on the trolley, thinking about what my husband had told us. The other passengers couldn’t imagine why we thought tea bushes were so funny. There are some more interesting old plantations to tour where you really see how they lived back in those days. (see sidebar) We may not have had such a great time at the tea plantation, but years later, we are still joking about it.
When in Rome... It would be a shame to take a trip to Kiawah and not make some time to tour an an old Southern plantation. Boone Hall Plantation The approach to the estate is lined with centuries old live oaks and is an image you won’t soon forget. In 1681, Englishman Major John Boone came to Charleston and established a lucrative plantation and stately home on the banks of Wampacheone Creek. The McRae Family purchased the plantation in 1955 and it was Mrs. McRae who furnished the house with antiques and began giving tours. Currently, you can tour the property and learn about the plantation’s 330 years of history. boonehallplantation.com Magnolia Plantation and Gardens Founded in 1676 by the Drayton family, Magnolia Plantation has survived the centuries It is the oldest public tourist site in the Low Country, and the oldest public gardens in America, opening its doors to visitors in 1870 to view the thousands of beautiful flowers and plants in its famous gardens. magnoliaplantation.com
Charleston Hot Spots This gem of a southern city has a food scene that is worthy of a much larger metro area. Husk Located in historic downtown Charleston, Husk, offers the essence of Southern food with a modern touch using local ingredients. huskrestaurant.com The Pavilion Bar Everyone loves a hotel bar and the Pavilion Bar at the Market Pavilion Hotel is a rooftop gem, complete with views of historic Charleston, a cascading pool and original cocktails. marketpavilion.com. The Ordinary They call themselves a Southern seafood hall and oyster bar. The restaurant is located in a renovated old Charleston bank. If you want to try some of 70
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that famous area seafood, this is a great place to do so. eattheordinary.com The Glass Onion Their menu changes on a regular basis but their emphasis is on old southern comfort food. ilovetheglassonion.com Hominy Grill This gem serves southern classics with their own touch. Special mention must be made of the chocolate pudding. Pudding sounds pedestrian, plain and simple, but theirs is nothing like that goop they sell in the grocery store. This was rich and velvety and the chocolate flavor was the star of this ramekin. This pudding is worth a 10 hour drive to Charleston. hominy grill.com
top A luxury kitchen in one of the nearly 90 private homes available for vacation rentals through Kiawah Island Golf Resort bottom Turtle Point Golf Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort
JUNE 2014
SPECIAL
SUMMER ADVENTURE
ISSUE
Diving the SS Copenhagen Trekking into Africa Kayak Fishing Max the to Building a Coral Reef Monster Swordfishing
Traveling with Kids
RE TIPS FOR A MO CATION PEACEFUL VA
Jack Weiss
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Zambezi Queen
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Everything seems impossible until it’s done! Nelson Mandela
Into Africa story and photos By Judy and bill Sullivan
E
veryone has some kind of “bucket list.” Lists vary from person to person and center on as many different things as there are people who make
them. Mine deals with travel. It seems however that as soon as I cross off one item another appears…..the list never gets shorter. South Africa has been a staple for many years so this trip was a milestone of sorts. Our travel lately has been small ship cruises. These ply the smaller rivers and can reach areas that the larger cruise ships cannot, allowing passengers to disembark frequently, reaching the shore without the use of smaller boats. Our South Africa trip was land based as well as having a small portion of the trip on the water. That was the “hook,” my reason for the selection of the company used for the trip. I was hoping that we would be afforded the opportunity to see as much wildlife and bird life from the water as the land. June 2014 | l i ghthou se point
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Tips if you go Memorize your passport number and expiration date. You will write it frequently. Dollars are welcome almost everywhere. Credit cards are accepted in major shopping areas, but few accept American Express. Small bills are handy for tips. Check for inoculation, passport and visa requirements. Some countries require a visa. Many are available at border crossings, but some must be purchased in advance. Many require multiple empty passport pages. Laundry service is available and free at most lodges and for a charge at hotels. There are lodges and camps in all price ranges and formats. Be aware that in the southern hemisphere, the seasons are reversed from ours. They experience winter June to August with their summer in December through February. Intra-country travel is mostly via South African Air. (They still serve food on every flight no matter the duration.) Most planes are for the most part small aircraft. Be sure to check flight days and times as well as baggage weights and size requirements.
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Traveling with AMA Waterways our 16day trip included four countries: South Africa, Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe. We began as 26 intrepid travelers and at the mid-point, we split with half going on to East Africa and the rest remaining in the south. AMA has a reputation for first class small-group travel which is aptly deserved. The hotels were all five star with delicious, beautifully presented food and a never-ending supply of the famous South African wines. Our guide, Kirstin, was a remarkable young man. He grew up in Cape Town and had a vast knowledge of astronomy as well as the flora and fauna of the area–especially birds. He spoke Afrikaans, English, French, Spanish and Italian fluently and a few of the African languages as well….including Zulu. He admitted to just a working knowledge of German. He had worked as a horseback and white water guide, loved surfing and was working on completing his Masters in business administration! The company also sent two delightful young ladies. The company policy that “It’s easier to sell what you’ve seen” means their agents are sent on a tour once a year. They were friendly, helpful and completely professional all the while having a great time. Hats off to AMA for going out of their way to help four Mexican Senoras in our group who were unable to get a visa for Zimbabwe. The company arranged for them to see Victoria Falls from the Zambia side making all of the arrangements for their flights and hotel, even sending one of the girls (who spoke fluent Spanish) with them for this two day portion of the trip.
South Africa: population 43 million Cape Town: has a population of four million. It is often referred to as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, a designation well earned. Founded as a port for the East Indian Co., it is located in a spectacular natural setting at the foot of the 3,000 foot Table Mountain. Although the capital of South Africa is Pretoria, Cape Town houses the parliament and Johannesburg the stock exchange. Cape Town is relatively crimefree and safe with most of the crime petty and non-violent. The beautiful Cape Grace Hotel, our home for three nights, sits on the Victoria and Alfred waterfront, the cultural heart of the city, crammed with restaurants, shopping, outdoor entertainment, theatres and a huge Ferris wheel. The dock area houses colorful fishing boats and is home to a colony of playful fur seals. The Cape Flats, however, are a dismal township, which is home to the majority of the population and is notoriously dangerous. Barren and flat, it lies in the industrial southeast of the city and is often referred to as the apartheid dumping grounds. It is a grim reminder of the relocation of the non-white and colored population of the 1950s. (see sidebar on apartheid) Iconic Table Mountain, soaring 3,000 feet above the city is certainly the focal point of the city. Although frequently shrouded in clouds, it affords spectacular views. Robben Island, the prison where Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners were held, lies three miles offshore to the north. To the south are Lion’s head, Devil’s Rock, the
Twelve Apostle Cliffs and Signal Hill and below, the city bowl. Originally, a canon was fired from Signal Hill each day at 11:00 to allow for the setting of sextants. It is now fired each day (except Sunday) at noon. The mountain is home to many species of birds and small animals, including the tiny dassies, distant relatives to the elephant! A rotating cable car takes you to the top of Table Mountain in seven minutes.
opposite fisherman pole the Chobe River. This page Top lighthouse at Cape of Good Hope Middle Cape of Good Hope bottom penguin colony at Foly Beach
Cape Peninsula We began our trip to the Cape Peninsula traveling on two of the most famous highways in the region. The NE Drive is a scenic feast of mountain slopes, soaring cliffs, turquoise bay waters and lagoons. On one side is the Atlantic, the other the Indian Ocean. Inviting as it looks; swimming can be hazardous with strong currents, cold water and Great White Sharks. Despite this, it remains a surfer’s paradise. The Peninsula Road hugs the shore and the dramatic Chapman’s Peak Drive, cut into the rock face, is one of the region’s most dramatic mountain drives. We passed through several small towns including Simonstown the headquarters of the SA Navy. It was bustling that day due to the Navy Days Holiday when the base is open to visitors. At the Southernmost point is Cape of Good Hope so named by John II of Portugal. It is popularly perceived as the junction of the Indian and Atlantic oceans. There is a small still-used lighthouse and a short funicular ride takes you to a vantage point high above the sea. Baboons run freely and will gladly take any food right out of your hands. Failure to secure the doors on our bus during our absence resulted in Baboons coming aboard, ransacking purses and bags and leaving behind a “present” on one of the seats! Nestled in a cove nearby is a thriving breeding colony of African Penguins. Actually in the midst of a residential area, there is a long boardwalk at Foxy Bay for close-range viewing. The birds wander freely around and under it in a protected natural environment. These penguins have often been called Jackass Penguins due to their braying call similar to that of a donkey.
Western Cape This is the home to the wine lands Stellenbosch and Franschoek. The route from Cape Town turns inland passing through rugged mountain scenery and wine estates, even some Ostrich farms. We paid a visit to the Babylonstoren Vineyard, one of the oldest in the area surrounded by the June 2014 | l i ghthou se point
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mountains of the Drakenstein Valley. Parts of the farm date back to 1690. The buildings are in the beautiful Cape Dutch architecture like that seen throughout South Africa…painted white with a steep reed-thatched roof, gables at the front and each end and dormer windows. Like many in the area it is not only a working winery but also a small hotel and restaurant. After a tour of the extensive gardens we enjoyed lunch under the trees and a tasting of several superb wines. South Africa has long enjoyed an enviable reputation for excellent wines and it did not disappoint.
Johannesburg Popularly called J’burg or Jo’burg, it is one of the only cities in the world of its size that does not have a major port. It owes its existence to the discovery of gold in the area and is economic and commercial metropolis of South Africa. Sadly, an unemployment rate of nearly 35 percent probably contributes to its high
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crime rate. Violent crime is rampant throughout the city and private security personnel are the largest employed group. There are more private security personnel than members of the entire J’burg Police force. Downtown is home to museums and the famous Mandela Square, but it is safe to visit only with a trusted guide and taking great care of your personal safety. It appears to have good infrastructure; highways and rail system but the high crime rate drives businesses to the suburbs. We stayed in a beautiful boutique hotel and were asked not to leave the hotel without an escort. At the Fairlawns, each suite is decorated in a different style named for cities around the world. Originally a part of a large estate owned by members of a diamond family, it has a park like setting with sweeping green lawns, croquet courts, trees and flowers, pool, several wings, and a separate dining and meeting center. Our speaker for
the evening was a well-known South African best-selling author. He had a tremendous knowledge of the history, from all viewpoints, and an obvious deep abiding love for his country.
Zambezi Queen The Queen actually explores only 13 miles of the Chobe River. A floating fivestar hotel, she is an eco-ship with only 14 suites. A water jet propulsion system replaces a propeller causing no damage to the riverbed. Hot water is provided by solar panels, all cleaning materials are biodegradable and sewage is processed onboard. Efficient generators provide power during the day but the entire boat operates on battery power during the night. All staff are recruited from local villages and are trained by the owners. It has been said “if you want to fill your passport, come to Africa.” Never was this truer than our experience here. Following a short flight from Cape Town we arrived at the airport in Kasene, Botswana. The Zambezi Queen is moored across the Chobe River in Namibia on the Caprivi Strip since Botswana allows no houseboats on the river (an anti-poaching protection due to its border with Chobe National Park). Here, we boarded small tender boats and traveled down the river where we beached and immigrated into Namibia. The immigration office is a tiny cement block building containing a chair and desk. We then re-boarded the boats and continued down the river to the Zambezi Queen. The following day, for our game drive through the park, we repeated the process in reverse…..going and again returning. Close by are the four countries of Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia and Zambia—all meet forming the “four
opposite left vineyard buildings opposite right Fairlawns Hotel, Johannesburg opposite bottom The Johannesburg Skyline left Victoria Falls below zebra mom and her baby
corners”. It is the only place in the world where four countries touch each other. We enjoyed a BOMA (British Overseas Military Administration) dinner ashore. A BOMA is an enclosure or stockade for animals. It is the South African style barbecue with local dishes prepared on the beach in a traditional manner. It is lighted by lanterns with a central fire and dancing and traditional songs are performed. Our river game drives, by small open boats provided us with close up views of crocodiles and hippos as well as some of the 250 species of water birds. The birds are so vibrantly colored, they seem like a Disney Cartoon. Many have fanciful names given by the locals: go away bird because of his high warning call at danger and the flying banana for the yellow billed hornbill. The shores, a few yards away, showed us herds of elephant, zebra, and giraffe attracted by the sweet grass along the wide banks. Large pods of hippos cropped up in the shallow parts of the river and several large crocodiles were seen sunning along the bank. We caught a glimpse of three female lions stalking a herd of elephant and buffalo and watched for several minutes as they moved closer and closer sending the herds into an anxious and restless state. Thankfully we left the area before the kill, but evidence was there the next morning. Along the river, poling fishermen propelled the waterways in dugout canoes or mokoros fashioned from a single log. They set their nets early in the morning, returning at dusk for their catch. Watching the magnificent sunsets over the Chobe River each night is a
veritable feast for the eyes. Chobe National Park is about the size of Connecticut and is home to over 120,000 elephants (we were told, too many for the good of the environment) as well as thousands of impala, hippo, giraffe, zebra, and Cape buffalo. On a Visit to local Kasenu Village by boat, we were entertained by villagers and shopped for handmade crafts. The Village Chief is very proud of his new house where he had fashioned his door from parts of his old canoe and used flipflops for the hinges. Tigerfish and bream fishing were available for those who wanted to try their hands at it.
Victoria Falls: Zimbabwe Political mismanagement in the past decade plunged the country of Zimbabwe into economic catastrophe, turning a once rich country into a desperate one. Many, including our local guide, lost ranches, plantations and farms that had been in their families for generations. Purchases were made with wheelbarrows full of currency. It was not unusual to find note denominations in the billions! Things improved in 2009 when the US Dollar replaced the local Zimbabwe
Dollar. Today, no US notes previous to 2001 are accepted there due to counterfeiting issues. One of the seven natural wonders of the world, Victoria Falls is called Mosioa-Tunya by the Kololo or Tonga peoples meaning “smoke that thunders.” At one mile wide and 360 feet high, it is neither the highest nor widest but does boast the largest sheet of falling water in the world. The source begins in Angola, travels through Botswana where it meets the Zambezi and crashes over Victoria Falls finally reaching the Indian Ocean. The first European to see the falls was Scottish explorer and missionary Dr. David Livingstone naming it for Queen Victoria. He was a staunch slave abolitionist and became so beloved by the natives that when he died of malaria his heart was removed and buried under a Mvula tree near where he died. His body was carried, enclosed in bark and wrapped in sailcloth from Chief Chitambo’s village in Zambia all the way to the coast, a distance of over one thousand miles. From here, it was returned to England for burial in Westminster. Much lore regarding the falls and
apartheid In South Africa racial classification was the foundation of all apartheid laws. It placed individuals in one of four groups: native, colored, Asian or white. Colored is a term of mixed racial heritage. The colored community is an ethnic group making up nine percent of the country’s population. During apartheid, racial identity was reinforced among coloreds, blacks and whites with geographic segregation. The colored community was forced to live separately from black and white African groups and most still do. They speak Afrikaans as their mother-tongue, a language similar to Dutch and dissimilar to indigenous African languages. The rest of the population is designated black, white or Asian. About 60 percent of the white population is Afrikaner and the rest of British decent. JUne 2014 | l i ghthou se point
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the river still exists with the local Tonga people. The spirit Nyami Nyami, known as the Zambezi River God, is one of the most important. He is believed to reside in the Zambezi River and to protect the Tonga people, controlling the life in and on the river and giving sustenance in difficult times. He is regularly depicted as a male having the body of snake and the head of a fish. The Tonga people believe the building of the Kariba Dam deeply offended Nyami Nyami by separating him from his wife. The regular flooding and many deaths during the dam’s construction were attributed to his wrath. Replicas can be found as pendants, on jewelry, usually carved out of wood, stone or bone. Each guest received a small pendant to protect him during our trip. Following a paved track around the falls are several viewpoints. Despite the issued ponchos, the spray from the falls is a literal head to shoe soaking. The
huge amount of water crashing over the falls frequently makes viewing the gorge impossible though it does provide beautiful rainbows. The gorge is best viewed later from or near the bridge. The historic Victoria Falls Hotel was built in 1904 in the typical British Colonial style. Its original purpose was to accommodate passengers on the newly built railway, part of the planned Cape to Cairo Railway. Later it became a staging post for the BOAC flying service between Southampton and South Africa. The luxury trains Pride of Africa and Blue Train still stop adjacent to the hotel. It enjoys a view of the falls as well as the Zambezi or Victoria Falls Bridge connecting Zimbabwe with Zambia. The bridge across the Victoria Falls gorge was built by the British in 1904 and carries pedestrian, rail and vehicular traffic. Bungi jumping and zip-lining both take place in the center of the bridge. One can obtain a bridge-pass
at the immigration office in Zimbabwe to walk over the bridge to the Zambia side. Passing completely into Zambia is not suggested as a return to Zimbabwe from Zambia requires a yellow Fever inoculation. The walk to the center of the bridge is a long one through the so called “no- man’s land” riddled with hawkers. Many are selling old Zimbabwean bank notes with amounts as high as 100 billion! They love to engage you in conversation calling the USA “Obamaland” and most want to know about Jimmy Carter, George Bush, and Bill Clinton. “His wife is going to be your next president, isn’t she?” Wild Horizons Wildlife Trust is based at Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, and is dedicated to protecting the area’s unique indigenous fauna and flora. Projects include rehabilitation of injured or orphaned wildlife, especially elephants, anti- poaching and wildlife veterinary assistance where required. It is one of Top left The Victoria Falls Hotel Top right Tintswalo Lodge left a cheetah at the Elephant trust opposite The authors’ driver and
ranger, Erik
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1 REASONS 2 YOU SHOULD
Break Away
to The Breakers Palm Beach ...So close, yet a world away
The rich history, breathtaking grandeur and the impeccable luxury of The Breakers compelled me to write in clear terms why one should consider spending some quality time at this glorious hotel. BY SUSAN ROSSER
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The puffy bed The bed here is just the most luxurious you’ll ever enjoy. It’s like lying on a cloud of cotton candy without the stickiness.
HOW IT ALL BEGAN
South Florida was pretty much an isolated peninsula until Henry Flagler, the Standard Oil Company magnate, built and acquired railroads along the state’s East coast. So now, the region could be reached easily by rail. In 1894 he built The Royal Poinciana Hotel at Lake Worth. His hotel drew guests from the American elite and quickly became a top notch destination in Palm Beach. In 1896, he built a second hotel called the Palm Beach Inn on the beach of the Royal Poinciana. Well, who doesn’t want a room by the beach? Pretty soon, hotel guests started requesting “rooms over by the breakers.” So, what ‘s a developer to do? Flagler added on to the hotel and renamed it The Breakers. Unfortunately, during another expansion project, the hotel burned down on June 9, 1903. Thankfully, they rebuilt quickly and a brand new hotel opened on February 1, 1904. During those years the hotel hosted the rich and famous—the Rockefellers, Vanderbilts, Astors, Andrew Carnegie and J.P. Morgan all vacationed at The Breakers along with United States presidents and European nobility. Not a shabby crowd. But tragedy struck again in 1925. Another fire burned down the wooden building. Henry Flagler had died, but his heirs had the vision to build one of the finest resorts in the world modeled after the Villa Medici in Rome, Italy. 75 Italian artisans were brought over to paint the ceilings in the grand lobby of the hotel. The Breakers lobby still draws gasps from guests today.
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HMF
Wagyu Beef Sliders
The newly renovated dining area named after The Breakers’ founder, Henry Morrison Flagler, is an explosion of contemporary sites, sounds and tastes along with the feel of elegant times past. It’s rare that the marketing hype you read after you visit a place matches the experience you had already. The grandeur of the venerable Florentine dining room was updated by the famous Adam Tihany and without knowing all this we set about to enjoy an evening there. Richard was enthralled with the place. The lighting was perfect, the staff was impeccable, the cocktails were superb but he stopped our waitress Jessica to tell her the best part of the restaurant . . . was the soundtrack. Indeed, the music was all around you, setting a Las-Vegas-50’s-Rat-Pack-meetsmodern-New-York-City-meets-20’s Speakeasy. You felt like you were in a movie with the sound playing around you. Jessica responds to this assertion with a cheerful, “I’ll bring the DJ over so you can meet him” which was stunning since this was dinner at 7:30pm on a Monday night. He shared that music was so important to HMF that playlists are posted on the website blog (www. hmfpalmbeach.com) and as the evening progressed he adjusted the music to the mood of the room. The small plates of amazing dishes include some updated basics like spectacular sushi and Wagyu Beef Sliders (with smoked bacon and antique cheddar) from the “Food Truck” section of the menu. They also offer more daring dishes like orecchiette with Tuscan duck sausage and wild mushrooms (which is even better when paired with a pinot noir that Jessica scurried over to the master sommelier for a recommendation.) We’ve experienced what we consider the pinnacle hotel experience for the really young, trendy and obscenely wealthy; The Fontainebleu. But The Breakers smacks them for being silly and amateurish. If you really want to impress someone for a big date, birthday or anniversary, please take our recommendation that HMF will surely impress.
THE ART AND ARCHITECTURE The ceiling in The Circle dining room was painted by 73 artists shipped over from Italy after finishing the refurbishing of the Sistine Chapel. The architecture in the main lobby will cause your jaw to drop.
THE STAFF Their commitment to excellence is always on display. Steve, our waiter at the fantasticallyrefurbished Flagler Steakhouse epitomized this attitude with his statement, “If you want me to guide you through dinner - you are in good hands” then proceeded to bring drinks and food that was truly sensational. He seemed to have fun doing it. We spoke to a few staff there as interns from college hospitality management programs. The details are too lengthly to share, but the best of America’s future elite hotel managers seem to learn their craft at The Breakers while we gain from their superb service.
The Main Lobby
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STUFF TO DO
On the history tour, we learned of Henry Flagler’s passion for having activities for the hotel guests. Clearly, that passion is still strong with the hotel’s leadership. Golf, tennis, and water sports lead the busy schedule for adults and children but the investment in an oceanfront, full-service spa and fitness facility with six pools and a private beach is above the premium standard for hotel amenities. Bicycle tours of Palm Beach, Saturday night cinema and the “glow-in-the-dark scavenger hunt are just a few of the long list of fun things to do at the hotel. The Ocean Course
The History It’s everywhere. You can’t escape knowing that presidents, royalty, and celebrities over the last 118 years have sat in the room you are now in or walked the same halls. We recommend the history tour with 97-year-old, former assistant director of the property Jim Ponce. When he describes the gasps from the guests the day Lady Dianna and Prince Charles enter the Mediterranean Ballroom, your mind plays the scene in your head while you marvel at being at that exact place with a man who was there when it happened. We chatted with a bartender who discussed many celebrities including Dan Akroyd who was surely a blast to hang out with . . . at the bar where we enjoyed cocktails too. But all this history does not mean old. The hotel rooms are modern and about as perfect has you can create. The poolside restroom is as nice a restroom as we have ever visited. Their reservation and billing systems are state-of-the-art.
The
Kenan
Family
The owners, the Kenan’s are descendants of founder and have houses on the hotel grounds even now. They have a long-view of the business and invest $20 to $30 million each year in renovations and improvements. We are not experts on the inner-workings but you get the feeling that all the staff know they are part of a family business. The staff are always polite, friendly and exceedingly helpful. The grounds are immaculate. The rooms are pristine. No detail seems to be overlooked. The culture of The Breakers which was set in motion by Henry Flagler, appears to be alive and well-entrenched today thanks to the Kenans.
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The Reef
Not often does a luxury hotel have a large, vibrant tropical reef, literally, directly behind it. Just a few feet into the ocean behind the hotel Richard saw huge barracuda, tarpon, jacks and all the pretty reef fish on the coral-encrusted remnants of the old pier that used to welcome guests arriving by ship. That pier was destroyed by a hurricane and the airplane started bringing northern guests down so the ruins became the reef that is enjoyed today.
The Feeling Sure, this is a tough one to describe but you feel special at The Breakers. The eye is treated to beautiful and lavish landscaping, upholstery and architecture. Even the lamps are amazing works of art. The body is treated to soft beds, decadent food and soothing pools. The music (see #2) sets the tone at other dining facilities and the pools. The guests are from all over the world; each with fascinating stories. Just sipping a coffee by the immaculate croquet lawn is a treat. Mr. Flagler would be proud.
GIANDUJA CHOCOLATE TORTE WITH CARAMEL SEA SALT GELATO OK, so we have already told you about our dinner at HMF — what we didn’t tell you is about our dessert. Everything we tried— from the cocktails to the wine to the small plates were simply outstanding so that when it came time for dessert, we knew we should indulge. We asked our server, Jessica, to surprise us and she seemed to relish the idea. We figured, it’s dessert, we will certainly love anything she chooses. Well, when she appeared with the Gianduja chocolate torte with caramel sea salt gelato, I thought she was clairvoyent. This dessert is my kind of dessert—chocolate. But, what really put me over the edge was the garnish: candied
YES, THAT’S RIGHT, I AM SAYING THAT THIS DESSERT IS AS A GOOD A REASON AS ANY TO VISIT THE BREAKERS. orange peel. OK, not everyone is fan, but if you are, you know it’s not everywhere, so it’s a real treat. Not to mention, the peel is the perfect compliment to the dish. The torte is sort of a cross between a brownie and a flourless cake—rich and warm, the gelato is packed with flavor, both salty, smokey and sweet and the orange peel is the perfect compliment—sweet with just a touch of bitter—really perks up those taste buds. Plus, there is a crunchy topping so the mix of textures only enhanced the whole taste experience. Yes, that’s right, I am saying that this dessert is as a good a reason as any to visit The Breakers.
Pompano Beach Fishing Rodeo
Festival and Activities Features
THE POINT AROUNDTID BITS NEWS &
RTY CH PA LAUN H STY LE UNV EIL WIT
ITION COLLEGE TU ING GAMES SCHOOLS PLAY
WE
FEBRUARY 2014
Beach Breakfast Bonanza
MEAL MOST IMPORTANT LE A GUIDE TO THE TH FLORIDA STY OF THE DAY– SOU
A GUIDE TO THE
2014
Keeper Days
FEBRUARY 7-9 M
WWW.LHPMAG.CO
This year, the city is going a little bit country. So dust off your cowboy boots, don your 10-gallon hat and enjoy the festivities. We’re fixin’ to have a real good time.
The 14 Annual City of Lighthouse Point th
Keeper Days PHOTOS BY DEBRA TODD
February 7-9
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2014 Keeper Days Honorees For each of the 14 years of Keeper Days, honorees or “Keepers” are selected with a theme. This years’ honorees are all original and continuous sponsors of Keeper Days.
Doreen Gauthier contributed to this story
Mike and Tory Anderson;
have lived in LHP since 1968 and are now living in their third house which was the first of the Key West-style homes. Tory was born in Fort Lauderdale. Mike moved there in 1954. They have two grown sons that live in Tampa and London and four grandchildren. Mike’s business is construction and realty management with Biltmore Realty. Tory has served on the Library Board and Friends of the Library Board for many years. Mike likes to races Porsches.
Chris and Maura Ema;
have lived in LHP since early 80s. They have four children. Chris is the first graduate of Leadership Pompano and past Pompano Seafood Festival Chairman. Professionally, Chris is an attorney with MacLean & Ema where he serves as the firm’s director of the real property practices group. All the Ema children were involved in LHP youth sports over the years. Maura is an accomplished tennis player and active community volunteer.
Fred & Sherry MacLean;
have lived in LHP since 1969. Both are practicing attorneys - with numerous degrees and professional affiliations. Together with their son Fred, Jr., they founded Heritage Investment Group. They have three children and five grandchildren. Both are active on community boards and generous wit their time and talent including extensive work with Broward Community Foundation and the Woodhouse Foundation.
Tom & Cathy Sheehan;
have lived in LHP since 1983. They are the second generation to run the Sheehan Autoplex which will be celebrating their 50th anniversary next year. They have one son, JT, who like all the children of this year’s honorees, were involved in Lighthouse Point youth sports leagues. Tom has served on a number of city boards. Interestingly, Tom and Cathy bought copy number one of the History of Lighthouse Point, The First 50 Years—at an auction for $1,000 when it was first published.
John and Kathy Tight; perhaps best known for
their six athletically-gifted children, the Tights are actually brilliant engineers: John with his civil engineering degree from Georgia Tech and Kathy with her Electrical Engineering degree from the University of Florida. John is a partner in Campbell & Rosemurgy who was also the founding sponsor of LHP A’Glow 12 years ago. Kathy runs the Keeper Day family sports day (with Kelly Krittenberger) each year. The Tights just finished many years of hosting a semi-famous, annual pumpkin carving contest. John’s intense involvement in the LHP community is reported to be directly attributed to his father, Dr. Alvin “Bud” Tight, who was a prominent orthodontist and civic leader in Fort Lauderdale for decades. The Tights have two children currently at Georgia Tech and a third one was just accepted.
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Schedule of Events “Denim and Diamonds” Keeper Days Kickoff Dinner Friday, February 7 6:00pm Lighthouse Point Yacht Club Country/Western Attire $50 per person Contact John Trudel 954-784-3439 or jtrudel@lighthousepoint.com for tickets This year’s “Keepers” are Mr. & Mrs. Mike Anderson, Mr. & Mrs. Chris Ema, Mr. & Mrs. Fred MacLean, Mr. & Mrs. Tom Sheehan and Mr. & Mrs. John Tight. Mr. Bill Sullivan will serve as emcee.
Keeper Days parade Saturday, February 8 10:00am Begins at Dan Witt Park (4521 N 22nd Ave.) and travels south to Frank McDonough Park. Parade entrants need to contact John Trudel (954784-3439 or jtrudel@lighthousepoint.com) to register for the parade. Civic and youth groups should not walk. Commercial vehicles must utilize or be part of entries displaying creative uses of the Keeper Days theme.
Keeper Days activities 11:00am-3:00pm Frank McDonough Park • Car show/entertainment (Contact Eugene Reidy for car show entry information. 954-410-5536. He is particularly interested in any vehicles that would compliment the country/western theme.) • Lighthouse Point Chamber of Commerce business expo (contact lhpchamberoffice@gmail. com to participate.) • Children’s Petting Zoo (only at Frank McDonough Park during the daytime events) • Children’s Pet Show Registration begins at noon, show starts at 2:00pm Prizes awards for: Big dogs Little dogs Cats Open (turtles, birds, monitor lizards, velociraptors, etc.) Best of Show (best use of the Keeper Days theme) • Country games and rides Bungy jump, rock climb, mechanical bull, Inflatable “Pony Derby,” Fun Bus, Lagoon of Doom log rolling contest and more.
Evening Games, Concert and Fireworks Saturday, February 8 6:00pm-9:00pm Fireworks at 9:00pm Dan Witt Park Bring a lawn chair and have some fun with the entire family. Put on some country/western wear to get into the spirit. Most of the daytime games will be moved to Dan Witt Park for the evening event. Food available from Chick-fil-a, Dominoes, Sno-Cones and others. Concert by the Rodeo Clowns Band from Davie.
Family Sports Day Sunday, February 9 1:00pm-4:30pm Frank McDonough Park No charge Ages 3 to 12 are welcome. Kids are placed in age groups with teenage chaperones for the day’s competitions. Local coaching legend Kelly Krittenberger leads the games while Kathy Tight organizes the event for this annual day of youth sports fun and zaniness. Competitions include: Softball toss, obstacle course, 40-yard dash, sack races, basketball throw and the famous whipped-cream relay-race finale. All participants receive a tee-shirt, drinks and pizza courtesy of the sponsor, Campbell & Rosemurgy Realty For more information about Keeper Days contact John Trudel at 954-784-3439 or jtrudel@lighthousepoint.com or Jane McLaughlin at ndmac@aol.com
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Seaside The 30th Annual Pompano Beach Seafood Festival When
Where
Friday, April 25 5pm-10pm; Pompano Beach, just north of Atlantic Blvd., Saturday, April 26 10amaround the fishing pier. 10pm; Sunday, April 27 11am-8pm
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Tickets
Admission is $15. Kids under 12 free. No pre-sale. Buy your tickets at the door. The festival does not offer multi-day tickets.
Fun
Pompano Beach Seafood Festival PHOTOS BY DAVid WATSON
Imagine yourself sitting on your couch, drinking your Saturday morning cup of coffee all the while feeling a small pang of guilt you aren’t out enjoying all South Florida has to offer. Or, maybe you are the active type and on any given weekend morning you are out golfing or boating or fishing. Well, then maybe you are just looking to change up your routine. Either way—whether you are a couch potato, an avid outdoors person or somewhere in between, why not shake up your weekend routine and visit the Annual Pompano Beach Seafood Festival? The Festival, now in its 30th year is three days of seaside fun with plenty of live entertainment, arts and crafts, “Pompano Jack’s Fun Zone,” local food, hot sun, cold drinks and of course, the seafood for which South Florida known. This year, the festival has a new layout at the beach which allows for more beach seating at the main stage area. This year’s headline band on Saturday night is Grand Funk Railroad, (see sidebar on next page) a classic rock and roll favorite. Walk along the festival’s boardwalk bazaar for a selection of unique, local arts and crafts. And they don’t call it the seafood festival for nothing. The event features just about all imaginable fish and shellfish prepared in almost anyway possible. May 2014 | l i ghthou se point
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They’re an American Band
GRAND FUNK RAILROAD SATURDAY NIGHT APRIL 26, 2014 Originating from Flint, Michigan in 1969 and known as “The American Band,” the high-energy five-piece group includes original founding members Don Brewer (vocals and drums, writer and singer of the multi-million selling hit, We’re An American Band) and bassist Mel Schacher, “The God Of Thunder.” Joining Don and Mel are true “All Stars.”. Singer Max Carl is a rock veteran from 38 Special. Max penned and sang 38’s biggest hit “Second Chance” and was cofounder of California’s legendary Jack Mack and the Heart Attack. Don refers to Max as “the best blue-eyed soul singer on the planet. Lead guitarist Bruce Kulick is best known for his 12 years with KISS and also has credits with Michael Bolton, Meatloaf and Billy Squier. (KISS members Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley were influenced early on by Grand Funk.) Keyboardist Tim Cashion has a master’s degree in music from the University of Miami. Affectionately called “Dr. Tim,” his credits include stints with Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band and English soul man Robert Palmer.
“You cannot talk about rock in the 1970s without talking about Grand Funk Railroad!” David Fricke, Rolling Stone,
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WHAT HAPPENS TO THE REVENUES FROM THE FESTIVAL?
Entertainment Schedule
The Seafood Festival is a not-for-profit benefiting a wide variety of charities and civic organizations. It is one of the things that make the festival so unique. This is a largely volunteer driven event. Groups like Pompano Beach High School, the Boy Scouts, Blanche Ely High School, Exchange Club, Pompano Proud and civic groups like the Greater Pompano Beach Chamber of Commerce, the Pompano Beach Fishing Rodeo, Women in Financial Services, Kiwanis, Rotary, Soroptimist, and others supply volunteers and benefit from the profits. Over the years hundreds of thousands of dollars have been raised for all these groups.
Friday April 25, 2014 6:00–8:00pm Weedline Band Cool Buffety Beach Music 8:30–9:45pm The Long Run Eagles Tribute Band Saturday April 26, 2014 11:30am–12:45pm Caribbean Flavor Island Steel Band 1:15–2:30pm Andrew Morris Band Pure Country 3:00–4:15pm Fleetwoods Southern Rock 4:45–6:00pm The Resolvers 9 Piece Reggae Band 6:30–7:45pm Blue Fire With Randi Hi Power Rock ‘N Roll 8:30–9:45pm Grand Funk Railroad A True American Band Sunday April 27, 2014d 11:00am–12:00pm Caribbean Flavor Island Steel Band 2:15–3:30pm Valerie Tyson Band South Florida’s Queen Of Rhythm & Blues 4:00–5:15pm Iron Butterfly’s Mike Pinera And Blues Image Featuring Miami Sound Machine’s Wesley Wright 5:30–7:45pm Wolfepak Band Featuring Dana Paul
11 Local Teenagers Explore the Wreck of the SS Copenhagen off Pompano Beach
prepare to
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JUNE 2014
SPECIAL
SUMMER ADVENTURE ISSUE
Diving the SS Copenhagen Trekking into Africa Kayak Fishing to the Max Building a Coral Reef
Traveling with Kids
TIPS FOR A MO RE PEACEFUL VA CATIO
Happy Sn
Monster Swordfishing
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MEMORABLE aps AROUND THE MOMENTS POINT
Jack Weiss
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ess than a mile offshore from the venerable Sea Watch restaurant in Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, lies the wreck of the SS Copenhagen which sank in 1900. Eleven local teenagers went to explore it and the surrounding reef to show that remarkable adventures are just a few minutes away and quite affordable. We gathered at the Pompano Dive Center around 8:30am for the 30-minute scoot past the Hillsboro Lighthouse and down the beach to the wreck. For about $40, snorkelers get the boat ride, good-quality rental gear, snacks, sodas, fresh water showers (very nice) and a pass on trailering or cleaning up the boat. This is a great snorkeling trip and a beginner scuba trip for the area. The depths range from 15 to 30 feet which
makes the reef one of the most accessible for snorkelers coming from the Lighthouse Point area. Scuba divers have many more options in the region. The SS Copenhagen shipwreck site was selected in 1994 as the fifth of now 11 underwater archeological preserves established by the State of Florida. The “Lofthus” shipwreck preserve is off the coast from Boynton Beach and the “Half Moon” off Key Biscayne are the nearest two preserves to the SS Copenhagen. The SS Copenhagen last sailed from Philadelphia with 4,940 tons of coal. It was headed for Cuba. It burned coal to create steam for propulsion but it had masts and sails in case of engine failure. The 325-foot, steel-hulled vessel passed the Jupiter lighthouse with Captain William S. Jones May 2014 | l i ghthou se point
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About the SS Copenhagen
The SS Copenhagen made its first Atlantic crossing in 1898 and met an early demise two years later. The ship sank in 1990 on a trip from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Havana, Cuba. It ran aground and got stuck on a reef. The ship was carrying coal. Efforts to release the ship from the reef were unsuccessful. It remained above water for many years and was even used by the Navy for target practice during World War II. The ship now lies in 16-31 feet of water and has become an artificial reef.
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giving the order to sail South-South-East as he retired for the night. The ship’s distance from shore was miscalculated and it hit the reef at full speed. Intensive efforts to dislodge the vessel were unsuccessful so the crew of 26 worked for days to unload the cargo of coal. Eventually the $250,000 ship was called a complete loss. During World War II, U.S. Navy fighter planes stationed at Fort Lauderdale used the rusted hull for target practice. During our little trek, a 50-caliber bullet was found on the sea bed; a rare find but certainly part of the known history surrounding the wreck. The dive center pairs the Copenhagen dive with a spot at “The Nursery” reef just north of the wreck. The water is more
shallow and provides for good reef diving and snorkeling with an abundance of marine life. The boat was immediately swarmed by hundreds of fish eager for an easy meal courtesy of frequent divers and fisherman that moor at the reef. No need to use anchors as the reef is dotted with large floating mooring balls to which boats attach easily without disturbing the reef below. Our trip was aboard the Sea Siren which was comfortable, clean and spacious. The captain and crew were adamant about safety first with mandatory role calls before leaving each dive spot. It was clear they took that task very seriously. The scuba divers entered the water first and my intrepid crew of teenagers jumped in from all parts of the boat.
top Jesse Monserrat, Conrad Schlegal, Alexandra Gonzalez, Tara Shulman,
Jacob Rhinehardt, Zack Pomeroy, Jack Weiss and Darcy Haughey bottom Tara Shulman opposite Jesse takes the plunge.
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The wreck is scattered and is more the idea of a wreck and than the awe inspiring spectacle that newer wrecks can be. The short travel time and affordable cost make it worth the effort for beginning divers and especially children. An out-oftown guest from New York can be surrounded by marine life in warm ocean water just a few hours after landing at a local airport – for $40 plus the cost of sun screen which is strongly advised (especially on backs as they are above the surface for the four hour trip. The original anchor is the highlight of the dive but a bit deeper than most could dive. Another prominent feature of the dive is the large plaque erected on the bottom to mark and commemorate the historic site. This dive can be accomplished on private boats or accessed directly from the beach. Boats can reach the shipwreck from mooring balls three or four (counting from the south). From the beach, it’s a solid 30-minute swim to the dive site which only strong swimmers should consider. There are a couple excellent videos of the dives on You Tube. The best one was made by Pompano Dive Center which lead me to contact them about the trip. opposite Ashley Nouss Top Jacob Rhinehardt Right Jack Weiss
Special thanks to Pompano Dive Center. 954-788-0208 or pompano divecenter.com May 2014 | l i ghthou se point
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THE POINT AROUNDTID BITS NEWS &
RTY CH PA LAUN H STY LE UNV EIL WIT
ITION COLLEGE TU ING GAMES SCHOOLS PLAY
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FEBRUARY 2014
Beach Breakfast Bonanza
MEAL MOST IMPORTANT LE A GUIDE TO THE TH FLORIDA STY OF THE DAY– SOU
A GUIDE TO THE
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BE ACH
Breakfast BONANZA
Photos and story by Susie Jet ta, William Waddington and Susan Rosser
I love to cook—but not breakfast. Breakfast is a whole other ballgame. It’s all about timing. Put the toast down too early and it’s cold before the eggs are ready. If you start cooking the bacon too late, you risk inedible flimsy, greasy strips that can’t be served when your eggs are ready. (As much as we all love bacon, it’s not a great dessert). Conversely, start too early and you’ve got yourself some petrified pork that once resembled a smoked delicacy. And one must perform all of these calculations and preparations before being properly caffeinated. All of this planning for the simplest of meals—eggs and bacon. Pancakes and French toast only complicate things further and don’t even get me started on poaching. • Even if you get all of this right; even if your toast pops up at the precise moment you are lifting the bacon from the pan, it can all be ruined by ice cold, rock-hard “unspreadable” butter. This is why going out for breakfast is so popular. At a restaurant, there is a magical breakfast genie in an unseen kitchen completing all of this mind-bending timing and cooking—all while nice people in uniforms bring you juice and coffee. You might say, there is no better way to start the day—but there is. • We are lucky enough to live in South Florida where the water is never too far. So next time you think about cooking a special breakfast, scrap that idea and head out for a seaside treat. Here we highlight just a few of the local options on the water to enjoy a great breakfast. —Susan Rosser Opposite Cafe Med at the Wyndham May 2014 | l i ghthou se point
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Cafe Med I consider myself a “gifted” orderer so I do not typically ask for recommendations from a waiter or waitress. For some reason (probably a caffeine deficiency) the day I was at the Wyndham, I couldn’t decide if I wanted sweet or savory. Luckily,I was with my standard dining partner in crime who agreed to share with me. So we ordered the stuffed french toast and the classic eggs benedict (both recommended by our waitress.) I have to say, for me, eggs benedict is all about poaching those eggs just the right amount. Too long— and you’ve got a hard blob on your English muffin. Too short—and well, that’s just gross. These eggs were right where they needed to be. The whites were firm and the yolks were just runny enough. This may sound basic, but it’s harder than it looks. The hollandaise was a beautiful golden yellow and not too goopy. The sauce was well seasoned so these eggs didn’t need any salting, the sauce was doing all the work. The canadian bacon added some salt too and of course the English muffin is the perfect vehicle to mop up all that buttery, saucy, goodness. The stuffed French Toast is two pieces of French toast filled with what should be an illegal amount of lightly sweetened cream cheese and topped with fresh cut strawberries and bananas. We topped ours with a just a touch of maple syrup. It didn’t need too much, there’s a lot of flavor here. Naturally, all this eating was done with a great view of the Atlantic, which happened to be super rough the day we were there. Eating breakfast in a place like this reminds you why you live here in the first place. So don’t take coastal living for granted. Get out of bed and have breakfast by the sea.—Susan Rosser
Cafe Med (at the Wyndham) 2096 Northeast 2nd Street (on N. Ocean Way, across from the beach in the Wyndham Deerfield Beach Resort ) Deerfield Beach 954-596-8618 www.deerfieldpatiobar.com
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Cafe Med
The Village Grille The dusty construction on the waterfront here down by Commercial Avenue is finally finished and it is a beautiful thing. The new waterfront square offers water views, open spaces, and baby palm trees lining the streets, soon to blossom into a tropical and colorful avenue. Walking up to the hostess desk at the Village Grille was a challenge, that’s how busy it was. Finding out about their 45 minute wait for a water view was a surprise, but we knew that had to be a good sign. We opted to wait, and was it worth it. Their juices are fresh squeezed, the bloody mary’s are zesty (and reasonable at $6.50), and the service is prompt. I recommend their fresh fruit plate at any breakfast endeavor you might find yourself in at the Village Grille. 5 or 6 different fruits, all hand sliced and arranged in a way that the freshness is undeniable. Their bacon is hickory smoked and peppercorn encrusted. The banana walnut pancakes are fluffy and sweet and the home fries are made in house (ask for them well done) and their portions are liberal. Fair prices, delicious food, speedy, non-intrusive, courteous service and an ocean view. And as beautiful as all of these non expensive spots are, we believe we found the “best bang for your buck”, and felt good and cheerful, after the buck was banged. —William Waddington The Village Grille, 4404 El Mar Dr., Lauderdale-by-the-Sea 954-776-5092 www.villagegrille.com
The Nauti Dawg Marina Cafe I know, it’s not on the beach. But hey, it’s close enough. After I woke from my deep slumber on Sunday morning, the only thing on my mind was an ice cold glass of fresh orange juice (we are in Florida), some hash browns and a cool breeze. The Nauti Dawg is located in the quaintest of neighborhoods, well off the Main road, US-1, and directly on the cusp of the serene Lighthouse Point Marina. We had to wait 15 minutes at 11:00am for a table along the outside deck, lined with slow spinning fans for a comfortable breeze no matter which way the wind is blowing. The service is prompt, friendly and polite. They serve beer, saki and Champagne (no liquor.) I ordered a “Hair of the Dog”, which is their version of a bloody mary, made with Saki. I was skeptical at first, but quickly became a believer. The food is straightforward, but it was most definitely delicious. The veggie omelet is filled to the max—a great way to get in a serving of vegetables at breakfast. The potatoes were also a hit. The world of breakfast potatoes can be unpredictable. Sometimes you get a bland pile of tan cubes—these potatoes were seasoned perfectly and nice and crispy on the outside. But, alas, I must admit, the folks at the Nauti Dawg could have served me a par-boiled shoe, and I’d be hard-pressed to walk away from my lovely seat along the marina. —William Waddington
The Nauti Dawg Marina Cafe 2841 Marina Circle Lighthouse Point http://www.nautidawg.com 954-941-0246
OCEAN 2000 Starting your day with breakfast at the Pelican Grand Beach Resort is like taking a tiny “staycation.” The resort is reminiscent of old Florida—you sort of expect Henry Flagler to sit down and join you. So, if you are looking for something with a little bit more style on the beach, head south to the Ocean2000 in the Pelican Grand Beach Resort. You can dine al fresco on their porch overlooking the Atlantic. OK, gulf shrimp hash ($21) isn’t the sort of thing you see on your ordinary breakfast menu. It’s served with a cilantro hollandaise—really. • There is also a little old fashioned ice cream shop in the hotel. You can buy an ice cream cone and sit out on the veranda in one of the hotel’s rocking chairs and admire the ocean view. Who says you can’t have ice cream after breakfast. You’re on a staycation, indulge. OCEAN2000 at the Pelican Grand Beach Resort, 2000 North Ocean Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, 954-568-9431 www.pelicanbeach.com/ocean2000.aspx May 2014 | l i ghthou se point
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Deerfield Beach Cafe Roll out bed, throw on shorts, a tee-shirt and some flip-flops and you will feel right at ease at the Deerfield Beach Cafe. Located adjacent to the Deerfield Beach International Fishing Pier, the Deerfield Beach Cafe is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They serve a wide variety of breakfast dishes from the Breakfast Burrito to Eggs Benedict to Beach French Toast —three thick slices of French brioche bread served with maple syprup. Located directly on the water, the outside patio butts right up to the sea grape hedge along the beach and the Atlantic is just beyond that. This spot is open 24 hours a day, so it can be the perfect place for a late night breakfast or to enjoy a fresh omelet as you watch the sunrise. This is also a handy spot for breakfast before a day at the beach (or if you’re a late riser, you can order to go and have brunch or lunch right on a blanket on the beach.) You really can’t get much closer to the ocean so enjoy a cup of joe as the sun rises over the ocean, and the waves crash just beyond. —William Waddington
Deerfield Beach Cafe
OK, we realize we are writing about going out for breakfast. More often than not, that means heading out to your favorite mom and pop place to start your day. Lucky for us, we have several great options close to home.
202 NE 21st Ave. Deerfield Beach 954-426-0500 http://deerfieldbeachcafe.
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Breakfast by Land Olympia Flame Diner 80 S Federal Hwy. Deerfield Beach 954-480-8402 www.olympiaflamediner.com Try the Greek omelet with feta, tomato, onion and gyro. Hey, when in Rome...And of course a plethora of standard options is served by some of the friendliest waitresses in town.
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Red Fox Diner 3640 N Federal Hwy. Lighthouse Point 954-783-7714 www.redfoxdiner.com The Red Fox is like “Cheers” without the beer. ”Where everybody knows your name...” If you squint, sometimes you can see Norm at the counter.
Cove Bagel & Deli 1634 SE 3rd Ct. Deerfield Beach 954-481-8600 When you’re in a New York state of mind, this is the place to go for the classic lox and bagel.
Offerdahl’s Café Grill 2400 N Federal Hwy, Lighthouse Point 954-788-3464 www.offerdahls.com Known for their fresh bagels, but they serve a full breakfast. The muffins are the size of a linebacker.
The Pajama Game
Sometimes going out for breakfast just isn’t in the cards. We all have days when getting out of your P.J.s is a monumental challenge. Pancakes at home is fun but nobody likes pancakes that have been sitting around. So, someone becomes the designated pancake flipper. Unfortunately, that person never gets to sit down and enjoy breakfast. Below is a recipe for an oven pancake that serves three to four people. Mix up your batter, throw it the oven and 12 minutes later, everyone is eating simultaneously. (If you need to double the recipe, use two separate dishes—as a giant pancake can be cumbersome.) Enjoy.
Oven Pancake serves 2-3 (maybe 4 with a lot of toppings)
Ingredients
8 tlb (1 stick) unsalted butter
fresh lemon juice to taste
1/2 cup milk
confectioners’ sugar for dusting
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Fresh berries (optional)
2 eggs directions Place butter in a casserole dish. Put dish in an oven set to 475 degrees. While the dish and butter are heating up, mix the milk, flour and eggs to make a batter. (don’t over mix it.) Once the butter has melted, take the dish out of the oven and pour in the batter. Return to oven and bake for 12 minutes. The batter will rise up the edges and form a bowl. If using berries, fill the “bowl” with the fruit and top with a squeeze of lemon and a dusting of confectioners’ sugar. (you can really top this with anything: try cooked sausage links, brown sugar and of course the classic maple syrup works well too.)
Weekend Brunch Options JB’s on the Beach 300 N Ocean Way Deerfield Beach 954-571-5220 www.jbsonthebeach.com Breakfast served Saturday from 11:00am until 2:00pm and Sunday from 10:00am until 2:00pm While not technically a breakfast place, the restaurant serves “breakfast at lunch” on the weekends. Oceans234 234 North Ocean Boulevard DeerField Beach 954-428-2539 www.oceans234.com Sunday brunch only SAQUELLA cafe 410 Via De Palmas (in Royal Palm Plaza) Boca Raton 561-338-8840 www.saquellacafe.com Their cappucinos are so pretty it’s almost a shame to drink them. Enjoy one with a chocolate criossant
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