Pompano Beach Magazine, December 2021

DECEMBER 2021

Dining Out local restaurant options

City Beat Neighborhood

news

rejoice holiday happenings recipes and gifts

Good Libations

A classic martini at Oceanic in Pompano Beach

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contents Pompano!

VOLUME 7 NUMBER 12

Pompano!

December 2021

ABOVE Pompano Beach Commissioner Tom McMahon (left) and Mayor Rex Hardin (center) with Fred Segal (right), President of the Broward County Farm Bureau and Chair of the Soil & Water Conservation District cut the ribbon at the season opening of the Pompano Beach Green Market. Photo by Julieth Mojica

34

44

Yup, folks are out and eager to have some long awaited good times.

The holidays are a fantastic time to make some lasting memories.

Take in a show, or see a production of the Nutcracker. Throw a party, shop for friends and family (buy yourself something too), and take the kids to see a parade by land or sea.

It’s definitely time for some holiday cheer.

With fundraising operations scattered around the country, St. Jude Children’s Research hospital in Tennessee raises billions — many times more than comparable children’s hospitals. St. Jude promises never to bill families. Yet, many depend on GoFundMe campaigns to make ends meet. Others spend nights sleeping in the hospital’s parking lot while St. Jude sits on unspent billions.

Holiday Happenings

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St. Jude Hoards Billions

DRS. JARED & CATHERINE YOUNG

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12

Creatively Speaking

14

Pompano Picks

20

City Beat

30

Pompano Peeps

32

It Dawned on Me

52

Dining Out

64

Last Resort

Parting with a little piece of memorabilia.

Happenings around town.

Marie Puleo keeps you up to date on all the news in Pompano Beach including news about the Isle Casino redevelopment, McNab House, John Knox Village, a real feel-good story from Pompano Beach and more.

People are out and smiling for the camera.

Dawne Richards finds a drawer full of yarmulkes.

When you can’t decide where or what to eat, consult our comprehensive dining guide for ideas.

Explore the Baoase Luxury Resort in Curaçao. .

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content submissions

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Please include the name and location of the event, the names of those pictured and a brief description.

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circulation

Pompano! is published monthly by Point! Publishing and

mailed free of charge to select residents and businesses in Pompano Beach and Hillsboro Mile. Copies of Pompano! are available at Whole Foods Market, UPS, Offerdahl’s Café and at the Pompano Beach Chamber of Commerce.

please contact us Drop us a line and let us know what you’re thinking.

Pompano! magazine is all about community. Your ideas and comments are important to us. All letters to the editor may be edited for grammar and length. Send letters to: Editor, Pompano! magazine, 2436 N. Federal Hwy., #311 Lighthouse Point, FL 33064 or email editor@pointpubs.com.

Deadlines for camera-ready art and prepayment of ads are due on the first day of the preceding month of publication. All ongoing ads must be canceled by the first day of the preceding month of publication. pompanomagazine.com | pointpubs.com Pompano! magazine is owned and published 12 times per year by Lighthouse Point Publishing, LLC. Copyright 2021 by Lighthouse Point Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Lighthouse Point Publishing, LLC. Requests for permission should be directed to: editor@pointpubs.com.

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11

Creatively Speaking

A Collection of Meaningful Memories

BY SUSAN ROSSER My mother was the opposite of a hoarder. She saved nothing.

I mean nada. When she passed away, I looked in her closet for memorabilia to find only a shoebox full of memories. 88 years condensed into a literal shoebox.

At the time, I was ever so grateful for my mother's lean collection of photos and other keepsakes. After all, no one likes to throw this stuff away. I took the box and added it to my own collection.

But there was one more thing my mother saved — yarmulkes.

A yarmulke is a small cap worn during prayer by many Jews. More observant Jews wear them all the time.

Many Jewish people celebrating joyous occasions like weddings and bar mitzvahs, order yarmulkes imprinted with names and dates to commemorate the occasion. Among my mother's collection of yarmulkes was one from my parents' wedding on June 18, 1950.

When my own children became b'nai mitzvot (plural) in 2014, instead of having yarmulkes printed up with my kids' names and the date of the occasion, my mother said we could use her collection to hand out to our guests.

We all thought this would be a terrific and funny way to finally say goodbye to my mother's collection.

So on the big day, we arranged the yarmulkes on a table at the synagogue, and people used them — just like we had planned.

And then, realizing that the yarmulkes had sentimental value, our guests put them back!

ABOVE My mother’s yarmulke collection

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Since then, my mother has passed away, and now I am in possession of her yarmulke collection.

I cannot bring myself to part with them.

Of course, I will save the one from my parents' wedding, but some of the others hold no particular meaning to me. There are plenty where I don't even know the people whose names appear on the yarmulkes.

But these were important to my mom. These were worth saving to a woman who really didn't value any sort of traditional memorabilia. The idea of saving a ticket stub or a child's drawing seemed ludicrous to her.

By my calculations, my mother moved at least eight times while she was married, shlepping those yarmulkes with each relocation.

Clearly, she valued them.

After my mother died, my older sister Debbie wrote a short tribute to my mother. In it, she wrote, "My mother built her life around four guideposts — home, children, Judaism and humor."

I think those yarmulkes printed in honor of joyous family occasions served as some sort of a tangible reminder of what was truly important to my mom — families gathering to celebrate joyous milestones grounded in Judaism. Those yarmulkes were the one thing she couldn't bring herself to toss because they represented the very essence of what she valued in her life. And she passed those values on to her children and grandchildren.

Of course, I am her daughter, and I'm nothing if not practical. So I can't see myself hanging onto her collection indefinitely. My plan is to artfully photograph the yarmulkes and make a photobook. I will print copies for the people who loved her most. She would like that idea. Y

For another yarmulke collection story, see Dawne Richard’s column on page 32.

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13

Pompano Picks Happening around town

Old Town Untapped WHEN: Friday, Dec. 3, 6-10pm WHERE: Downtown Pompano Beach on

NE First Street and N. Flagler Avenue near Bailey Contemporary Arts Center.

COST: Free WHAT: Experience a night filled with live music by local bands and a local DJ, art gallery openings at Bailey Contemporary Arts Center, craft beer, food trucks, and artist vendors selling unique and artistic merchandise. Old Town Untapped takes place on first Friday of the month from 6-10 pm and is free for all ages to attend.

Openings at the Pompano Beach Fishing Village Cannoli Kitchen, serving a variety of pizzas and Italian favorites, is now open in the Pompano Beach Fishing Village.

Located across the street from the Beach House and Oceanic restaurants, Cannoli Kitchen shares a building with BurgerFi and Kilwins, which opened their doors earlier this year. The only businesses in the Fishing Village that still need to be completed are Baresco, a Mexican restaurant that will be built by the owners of the Beach House on a vacant parcel at 225 N. Pompano Beach Blvd., and the retail spaces on the ground floor of the Pier Parking Garage, which have not yet been leased. A dual-branded Hilton hotel opened this June, Alvin’s Island and Lucky Fish Beach Bar and Grill opened last year, the Oceanic in 2019 and Beach House in 2018. Cannoli Kitchen, located at 255 N. Pompano Beach Blvd., is open every day from 11am to 10pm.

—Marie Puleo

Rejoice

If you are looking for holiday events and performances, see our holiday extravaganza feature on page 70.

Music Under the Stars

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 11, 7-8pm Music under the Stars will be held the second Friday of every month. This event will be held on Saturday, Dec.11 due to the Boat Parade on Dec. 10.

WHERE: The Great Lawn, the intersection of Atlantic and Pompano Beach Boulevards, Pompano Beach COST: Free WHAT: Head to the beach for an evening of music and entertainment for Music under the Stars. Speaker Box, a finely tuned band of professionals, will be performing on Dec. 11. They know what it takes to keep an event ablaze with a groove. They are a powerhouse band with dynamic vocals that are at the top of their game and make every event unforgettable. They will take you on a musical journey with the magical Motown sound, to 80s classics, and then onto today’s most popular artists. For more information, please call 954.786.4111

Pompano Picks contains information originating from other organizations. While every attempt is made to ensure all information is accurate, schedules do change. We recommend confirming events prior to setting out on your adventure.

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Pompano Picks Paddle Tour: 10,000 Island Experience WHEN: Monday, Jan. 17-Saturday, Jan. 22, 2022 WHERE: Base Camp: Collier Seminole State Park COST: $525/Adults, $500/Seniors (65+) and college students

Full trip fees include camping, meals, river maps, a tee-shirt, water bottle and evening programs. Registration deadline is Jan. 3, 2022, or when the trip capacity of 50 paddlers is reached.

WHAT: Total Distance: 30-55 miles over five days. From basecamp at the boat basin at Collier-Seminole State Park, paddlers will have easy access to explore the Blackwater River and paddle the 13.5-mile Collier-Seminole State Park Loop. The launches for the East River, Turner River, and coastal paddles to White Horse Key and Cape Romano are a 15 to 30-minute drive from the park. Parking at Collier-Seminole State Park will be provided. Sign-up for the paddles will be the night before, and group sizes will vary depending on capacity (parking etc.). The locations the paddlers will visit are weather and tide-dependent and launch times will vary depending on conditions.

The paddle choices shown below will also include a more extended option on the Turner River to Chokoloskee with a visit to the Havana Café and the Smallwood Store. And a shorter paddle from the Gulf Coast Visitor’s Center in Everglades City to Chokoloskee with an exploration of the Halfway Creek Paddling Trail.

Evening programs will include presentations from authors, historians, environmental experts, and one night of live music.

Dance-An Esther Rolle Inspired Exhibition

WHEN: Through Feb. 9, 2022 WHERE: Ali Cultural Arts Center, 353 Dr. Martin

Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Pompano Beach WHAT: Ali Cultural Arts Center is honoring the dance career of iconic actress and “Good Times” star Esther Rolle with a new juried exhibition.

While living in New York City, the celebrated Pompano Beach-born actress was a member of the Shogola Oloba dance troupe, created and led by master Asadata Dafora, and became its director in 1960. Paying homage to this aspect of her career, artists nationwide submitted works that reflect the spirit of the legendary star.

“The City of Pompano Beach feels a deep connection to Esther Rolle. The incredible success she achieved and her love for this city make her a revered figure in our community. We are honored to celebrate her dance legacy with this vibrant new exhibition,” said Phyllis Korab, director of the cultural affairs department.

Audacy Beach Festival WHEN: Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 4-5 WHERE: Fort Lauderdale Beach COST: $75-$329 WHAT: As the sounds of the Atlantic Ocean crash onto

the shores of the sunny south Florida beach, vibe with alternative’s best and brightest this winter.

The band lineup includes: SATURDAY Twenty One Pilots, The Lumineers, Glass Animals, Modest Mouse, Bleachers, Steve Aoki, Milky Chance, Willow, Beabadoobee, Cannons, The Regrettes.

SUNDAY Swedish House Mafia, Lil Nas X, Weezer, AJR, Bastille, All Time Low, Yungblud, Walk the Moon, Cold War Kids, Tai Verdes, Mod Sun, Girl in Red, Nessa Barrett.

Pompano Picks contains information originating from other organizations. While every attempt is made to ensure all information is accurate, schedules do change. We recommend confirming events prior to setting out on your adventure.

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Pompano Picks Exit 36 Poetry Slam: Q & A with Special Guest Malcolm-Jamal Warner First, the Exit 36 Poetry Slam is excited to welcome you to Pompano Beach! The event is attracting some of the nation's best spoken word artists to our city, and your participation is ramping this event up to the next level of greatness — so thank you.

Everyone knows you from "Cosby" and the hit TV show "The Resident," but you also have a strong following in the poetry community. You have addressed that your family nurtured your love of poetry, but what elements of poetry and spoken word touched you in a way that encouraged you to adopt it as one of your forms of artistic expression?

Well, first off, my dad went to Lincoln University with Gil Scott Heron and Brian Jackson. He was actually their dorm resident advisor. So I was pretty much

listening to Gil and The Last Poets from the womb. And my dad went to Lincoln because Langston went there. So I'm not sure if I adopted poetry or it adopted me. Poetry has always been in my life and part of my expression. Like most teens, I fancied myself as a rapper for some time, but ultimately gravitated more to poetry because it was less rigid regarding timing, cadence, and subject matter. During my early to mid 20s, just before poetry became the cool thing again, I was very active in LA's underground spoken word scene. Writing and going out to poetry spots became a necessity for me because it was an avenue of creativity, allowing me to express myself in ways I couldn't do as an actor or director.

As the celebrity judge of Exit 36, what are you most looking forward to?

Judging slams is always strange and, at times uncomfortable for me. For WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 9, 6pm; Saturday, Dec. 11, 11pm one, when slams began to WHERE: Pompano Beach Cultural Center, gain popularity, I recall how 50 W. Atlantic Blvd., Pompano Beach they also started to skew COST: $15/daily pass, $30/festival pass poets' approach to writing.

WHAT: Malcolm-Jamal Warner is joining the fourth The focus became time annual Exit 36 Slam Poetry Festival as a celebrity judge. limit, speed, cadence, and He will also be performing his poetry at the festival and writing to appeal to judges. sharing thoughts about his career during a talk. Exit 36 And then that style and Slam Poetry Festival is a three-day, in-person poetry energy became so prevalent festival, with the that poetry and slam poetry opportunity to attend virtually are often conflated. The as well, that other thing I get caught up seeks to serve on as a judge is how do I the community put a number on someone's through self expression? I can be educational, pretty hard on poetry, but theatrical, if something doesn't move and literary me personally, it doesn't performances. necessarily mean that it's The festival includes writing workshops, artists’ talks, not good. I respect slams and the Slam Poetry competition. In its fourth year, the as an art form unto itself.

Exit 36 objectives remain the same — to pay homage to poetry, spoken word, literacy, community engagement, I admire and respect slam and to celebrate the arts. poets who are good at it. It's been several years since I

Exit 36 Poetry Slam

last judged a slam, so I am looking forward to the vibe and energy.

Part of this festival focuses on encouraging young people to express their emotions positively. What words of wisdom would you give to young creatives who are inspired by this event and want to give writing poetry and spoken word a chance?

So I believe that there is a river of creativity that flows and is available for every human being. Playing with, listening to, or watching our 4 year-old daughter reminds me of this every day. But for many people, life circumstances block the pathway to that river. So I consider it a blessing and honor to have access to several creative avenues of expression. I find it crucial to my happiness. And I don't mean that figuratively. There is a definite connection between my disposition and stress level and my creative practices. Life is better for me and everyone around me when I'm engaged in my creative practices. I call it creative practice because, like yoga, meditation, gardening, sports, medicine, law, it requires continually honing your skill and improving, which requires constant studying and application.

I've been acting all of my life. I'm on the fifth season of my tenth television series, and I'm still a student of acting. So with regard to wanting to give poetry and spoken word a chance, it's never too late.

But if you are going to begin writing poetry, I strongly suggest also putting yourself in situations where you are performing or at least reading your poems aloud in front of others. Writing poetry can be a beautiful experience on its own, but verbally expressing your poetry completes a beautiful circle. Y

Pompano Picks contains information originating from other organizations. While every attempt is made to ensure all information is accurate, schedules do change. We recommend confirming events prior to setting out on your adventure.

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City Beat

BY MARIE PULEO

Isle Casino Redevelopment: Site Plan for E-Commerce Distribution Center Is Under Review SPA Properties, LLC has submitted an application to the City seeking site plan approval to build an e-commerce distribution center on the Isle Casino property, which is located on the southeast corner of Powerline Road and SW Third Street (Racetrack Road).

The distribution center will be part of Live! Resorts Pompano – a project that will transform the Isle Casino Racing Pompano Park into an entertainment, hotel, dining, retail, residential and office hub.

The e-commerce facility wasn’t in the original plans, but last year the City Commission approved adding it at the request of The Cordish Companies, the developer of the project site.

In order to accommodate the e-commerce facility, the Commission approved a land use plan amendment that decreased the

property’s 2,000,000 square feet of office use to 1,350,000 square feet, and added 1,500,000 square feet of industrial use. The Commission also approved a rezoning amendment to allow the industrial use.

The revised plans were a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to David Cordish, Chairman of The Cordish Companies. Cordish told the Commission that with more people working remotely, less office space is “more fitting,” and the e-commerce facility will “jump start” the Live!

Resorts Pompano project in a difficult economic environment.

Cordish said the e-commerce distribution and logistics firm is

ABOVE Rendering of Live! Resorts Pompano

“world-renowned,” but the name currently cannot be disclosed.

Cordish said everything else promised in the original plans will be delivered, including over 4,000 residential units, neighborhood retail, an entertainment district, a maximum of 950 hotel rooms, an expanded casino and a lake surrounded by a park. >>>

Annie Adderly Gillis Park is Undergoing a Makeover Annie Adderly Gillis Park, located at 601 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr Blvd., in the heart of Pompano Beach’s northwest community, is undergoing redevelopment to better serve the community. The renovation, which is being funded by the Pompano Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), will cost approximately $1.4 million and is expected to be completed in Spring 2022.

The design includes interconnected concrete walkways that can also be used as an active trail, landscaping, shade structures for performances and movies, sidewalks, exercise equipment and food truck accessibility. The new design will address security concerns with additional lighting and the implementation of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles in conjunction with the City’s installed security cameras. The park’s layout, which is a little under an acre, will also include a designated location for the annual “Light Up MLK” holiday event. Y

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21

City Beat

BY MARIE PULEO

Isle Casino Redevelopment <<<

Many residents in the Cypress Bend community south of the project site, and in the Palm Aire neighborhood to the west, were against adding the industrial use to the project, mainly due to concerns over the truck traffic that would be generated by the e-commerce distribution center.

The proposed distribution center consists of an approximately 520,000-square-foot sortation facility and an approximately 142,000-square-foot delivery station that will operate 24/7.

The distribution center will occupy roughly 90 acres on the east side of the 232-acre Isle Casino property.

Approximately 170 trailer trucks (18 wheelers) and 75 box trucks would access the sortation facility

CONTINUED

be used to create charging stations for electrical vehicles. The charging stations are anticipated to be fully operational two years after the opening.

The sortation facility is expected to create about 1,000 jobs, and the delivery station about 140 jobs, which is a primary reason the City Commission was in favor of adding the e-commerce component to the Live! Resorts Pompano project.

Currently, the City is also reviewing a site plan for another component of Live! Resorts Pompano – the Pompano Live!

Venue. It consists of a two-story Live! Building with entertainment spaces, lounges and restaurants; a one-story retail building; four retail pavilions; and an event lawn and stage for outdoor entertainment. Y

daily to drop off and pick up sorted packages. It is anticipated approximately 21 line-haul trucks will deliver packages to the delivery station each day, primarily from 10pm to 8am.

Trucks for both the delivery station and sortation facility will enter and exit the site through a restricted access point, using Racetrack Road from the east. Truck movement will be prohibited west on Racetrack Road and through the property onto Powerline Road.

To protect the neighbors to the south of the e-commerce facility, the plans include a large buffer area, a landscaped berm and a sound barrier wall.

The e-commerce distribution center would include five miles of underground conduits that would

City of Pompano Beach Employees Donate Funds to Replace Colleague’s Stolen Scooter After Derick Gassett, a City of Pompano Beach Parks and Recreation employee, had his personal motor scooter stolen from the Emma Lou Olson Civic Center while he was working the Boo Bash event this Halloween, his co-workers wasted no time in raising the funds to buy him a new one just a few days later.

Through a GoFundMe page started by a fellow Parks and Recreation employee, $3,000 was raised, which included donations from City Manager Greg Harrison, all three assistant city managers, the fire chief and other city workers.

When City Commissioner Tom McMahon of District 3 found out that Gassett’s scooter had been stolen, he wanted to help out.

McMahon, who owns Power & Play Motorsports in Old Pompano,

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POINT! PUBLISHING

pledged that if the funds were raised, he would provide a new scooter at dealer cost. McMahon also contributed $250 to the cause.

Several of Gassett’s co-workers surprised him with the scooter by getting him to go to the scooter store on the pretext it was for a work reason. When they brought him inside the store, they told him to pick the scooter of his choice from among several different colors. He was shocked, and then had tears in his eyes when he realized what his co-workers had done for him.

“We are indeed a family at the City

ABOVE Pompano Beach employees present new scooter to coworker at Power & Play Motorsports in Old Pompano

of Pompano Beach,” said Pompano Beach spokesperson Sandra King.

“This is just a reminder that there is still human kindness, love and caring in this world. I believe the employees that donated got just as much out of this as Derick.” Y

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City Beat

BY MARIE PULEO

McNab House & Botanical Gardens Project Continues to Make Progress The McNab House and Botanical Gardens project at McNab Park continues to move forward.

Recent key milestones include waterproofing the home’s foundation and then lowering the structure onto its permanent foundation, which includes a basement for a wine cellar. To make way for the botanical gardens, and allow for the full vision of the area, the former Chamber of Commerce building at the northwest corner of the site was acquired by the Pompano Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) and then demolished.

Currently, repairs are being made to beams and rods of the McNab House, built in 1926, and the basement walls are being waterproofed.

In March 2020, the Pompano Beach CRA, with the support of the Pompano Beach Historical Society, relocated the historic McNab House and detached garage from 1736 E. Atlantic Blvd. to McNab Park, just five blocks east, with the vision of transforming the structures into a new restaurant facility and the surrounding park into a public botanical garden.

A master plan conceptual design for the McNab House and Botanical Gardens project was unveiled last May during a virtual community stakeholder meeting held by the architects of the McNab House and Botanical Gardens project, Bermello Ajamil & Partners (BA). The master plan design was based on feedback from an initial community stakeholder meeting held in December 2020.

As per the master plan, once the house becomes a restaurant, it will have several areas for outdoor

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POINT! PUBLISHING

dining, all focused on a lake feature that will have a large existing ficus tree at its center. The garage will become a bar, and a kitchen facility will be constructed directly behind the house, which sits at the site’s northeast corner The gardens will also include an event pavilion and an event lawn overlooking the lake, a small performance plaza, a garden pavilion situated on an upper terrace lake, and a stream with a footbridge that connects to the larger lake. At the northwest corner of the site will be a children’s garden with a playground, a classroom facility where children can learn about plants, and adjacent restrooms for visitors to the park.

Public art will be incorporated throughout the gardens, which could include both permanent and temporary art installations around the large lake or even in the lake.

The botanical gardens will be a public park with fencing around the

TOP Rendering of McNab House & Botanical Gardens and Pavilion

BOTTOM Rendering of Mcnab House & Botanical GardensRestaurant and Bar

perimeter. During the day, it will be open to the community free of charge.

The BA design team has been developing the building concepts for the event pavilion, the garden pavilion, kitchen annex and other structures that will occupy the site.

Several illustrations were presented to the East CRA Advisory Committee in November.

“We are thrilled by the progress we have made during these past months,” said CRA Director Nguyen Tran. “There were many structural elements that required completion before moving to the next phase.”

The next steps in the project will be to secure a restaurant operator, finalize the botanical gardens’ configuration, and address parking accommodations.

The McNab House and Botanical Gardens project was recently named the 2021 winner of the “Out of the Box” category in the annual Florida Redevelopment Association Awards.

“We are honored to have received this prestigious recognition,” said Tran. “The McNab House and Botanical Gardens is an innovative mix of historic preservation and future visioning.

The entire team is delighted that our project was selected by this esteemed redevelopment organization that has more than 300 members.” Y

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City Beat

BY MARIE PULEO

John Knox Village Transformation to Continue with Revenue Bonds from the City The City Commission, at its Nov. 9 meeting, approved the issuance of tax-exempt revenue bonds not to exceed $160 million, the proceeds of which will be loaned to John Knox Village of Florida, Inc. to finance the expansion of the John Knox Village campus, located at 651 SW Sixth Street in Pompano Beach.

The entire 70-acre campus of the retirement community, home to more than 900 residents, is being updated in phases in order to “change the culture of the campus from a sedentary lifestyle to one of engaged growth throughout the life process,” according to a bond issuance request letter submitted to the City by John Knox Village.

Under a long-range master plan developed over the past four years, there will be nine phases of development. Westlake at John Knox Village, a Phase 2 project, is currently underway. It includes a new pavilion that will feature a 400-seat performing arts center, two restaurants with indoor and lakeside dining, a nautically themed bar and a pre- and postperformance gathering space for Village residents, as well as the public for certain programmed events. Located along the soon-tobe reconfigured waterfront at John Knox Village, the pavilion is slated for completion in early 2022.

The Westlake project will also include 146 state-of-the-art, independent living apartments in two new towers adjacent to the pavilion – The Vue (15 stories) and The Terrace (11 stories) – with dining and activity spaces, and a parking garage for residents.

Currently, John Knox Village, which has been operating as a senior living community since 1967, has a mix of garden villas, four

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apartment buildings and three continuum of care residences for assisted living and skilled nursing.

Some of the components of the John Knox Village master plan have already been completed. Earlier this year, a new Welcome and Innovation Center opened, as well as a new Aquatic Complex with a resort-style pool, a four-lane lap pool, two bocce ball courts, two pickleball courts, a jacuzzi, fire pit, Stryker’s Poolside Sports Pub and the Glades Grill.

Future phases of the master plan include updated villas, the John Knox Village Professional Center, and a mixed-use building along Dixie Highway comprised of 48 garden apartments and commercial uses.

According to the master plan narrative, the goal is for the John Knox Village campus to become “one of the most comprehensive, inclusive, active and architecturally

ABOVE Rendering of John Knox Village after the master plan is fully built out (view from northeast)

attractive retirement communities in South Florida.”

The City of Pompano Beach can serve as a “conduit” for the issuance of revenue bonds, lending its tax-exempt status for a project that either benefits the public or a segment of the population, as in the case of John Knox Village. The conduit financing will not affect the City’s credit, and the responsibility for paying back the bond debt, which will have a 35-year maturity, lies solely with John Knox Village.

The City currently has approximately $104 million in outstanding conduit debt with John Knox Village from financing deals completed in 2014 and 2020, according to the City’s finance director, Andrew Jean-Pierre. In the past, the City has acted as a conduit for the issuance of revenue bonds for other entities as well. Y

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City Beat

BY MARIE PULEO

Old Town Square Breaks Ground in Pompano Beach

Old Town Square, a 10-story mixed-use development slated to have 281 residential units and over 5,000 square feet of ground-floor commercial space, broke ground last month in Pompano Beach. It will be the first development in Pompano’s up-and-coming Old Town arts and entertainment district to offer market-rate residential units.

Studios and one- and two-bedroom units will have rents ranging from approximately $1,400 to $2,400 per month, according to the developer, Adam Adache, managing partner of Cavache Properties.

The Old Town Square project

received a $7.8 million tax increment financing (TIF) incentive under the Real Estate Development Accelerator program of the Pompano Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) as a way to accelerate the successful redevelopment of the area, which lies within the Northwest CRA district. The $72 million project is being built on approximately 1.9 acres of land located at 200 NE First Ave. Amenities include a resort-style swimming pool and sun deck, stateof-the-art gym, business center, parking garage and a self-service grab-and-go retail market. Y

Pompano Beach Fire Rescue Hosts Tri-Rail Derailment Training Exercise Last month, Pompano Beach Fire Rescue hosted a mass casualty incident (MCI) training exercise involving a simulated derailment of a Tri-Rail passenger train that had struck a car along the train tracks at Andrews Avenue and MLK Boulevard in Pompano Beach.

Read the full story on pointpubs.com

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ABOVE Old Town groundbreaking BELOW Rendering of 400 E. Atlantic Blvd.

Planning and Zoning Board Green Lights Mixed-Use Development on Atlantic Boulevard The Pompano Beach Planning and Zoning Board recently approved the site plan for a mixed-use project at 400 E. Atlantic Blvd., just west of Koi Residences and Marina. The 8-story development will include 204 market-rate rental apartments and 2,723 square feet of groundfloor retail use fronting Atlantic Boulevard. Amenities include a pool deck along the Pompano Canal, at the south side of the development.

A prominent feature of the building

will be a large-scale mural that screens the west side of the parking garage.

The project was designed

by Arquitectonica, the same architectural firm that designed Solemar, a 20-story luxury condominium at 1116 N. Ocean Boulevard in Pompano Beach that broke ground earlier this year, and a 21-story luxury condominium planned for 900 N. Ocean Blvd. in Pompano Beach. The building planned for 400 E. Atlantic Blvd., inspired by ocean waves, includes a rooftop pop-up waveform and creates visual undulation by using different types of glass. Y

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It Dawned on Me

A Drawer Full of Yarmulkes

BY DAWNE RICHARDS

THERE THEY WERE, SPILLED OUT ONTO THE FLOOR, IN AN ACCUSATORY PILE. THE YARMULKES WERE JOINED BY WHAT LOOKED LIKE A PRAYER SHAWL, A WOODBLOCK CARVING WITH a Hebrew name (made in 1993 by an eight-year-old) and several glossy mini booklets. Some of the booklets were published by Maxwell House and some by Publix; all were titled "The Passover Haggadah." The Haggadah is "the text recited at the Seder on the first two nights of the Jewish Passover, including a narrative of the Exodus" (per Oxford Languages).

I learned that in 2005 anyway, "Maxwell House has a [Passover] coffee for every taste." The 2007 Publix brochure was in English and Hebrew. Whether or not either company still does this, I don't know, but I was fascinated.

Rounding out the collection were several typed copies of the Passover home service. It felt like I was intruding on the family's religious history.

By now, you're probably wondering why and how I came upon this collection; it's what fell out when the movers removed the drawers to the absurdly large wall unit that I bought on, yes, a whim.

"Normal" people (no judgement!) who don't "need" a wall unit don't buy one on a whim.

Backstory: My adult daughter needed a sectional; I spotted one that looked perfect in an estate sale ad. I hightailed it to the wilds of West Broward. It was indeed perfect, but it's difficult to throw a sectional on the car roof and drive off (I've tried). Luckily, I got ahold of a great mover I've used before who was available the next day.

While waiting to confirm the details, I perused the rest of the beautiful home. Oh my, the stuff! Rooms and rooms of lovely things, showcasing a lifetime of collecting.

Then, I saw it. The 10-foot-long, "the 70s are back, baby!" wall unit. And it was for sale! For a price I couldn't resist.

I warned the movers that they'd be moving it up my sadistically narrow staircase and assumed the seller had emptied it first. As a veteran thrifter, I usually go through every nook and cranny to

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ensure nothing got left behind. For some reason, this time, I didn't.

When the movers began the tortuous ascent up my stairs (a story for another day), they removed the drawers, and their contents spilled out, which is how they came to be on my dining room floor, staring accusingly up at me.

I contacted the seller; they didn't want the items, and I couldn't bear to toss them. I headed to the Salvation Army, hoping to make someone's next Passover season a little brighter. The wall unit turned out to be perfect for my bedroom, replacing three mismatched dressers/bookshelves.

Anyway, Passover won't be here again until April 2022, but it is the season of Chanukah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, and probably other holidays that I've missed. So, whatever you celebrate, here's hoping you and yours have a happy and healthy December. Y

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lights

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shows

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parades

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It’s the right time of the year to... ...

Many organizations and municipalities continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation in our immediate area.

Event dates and times are subject to change.

34 pointpubs.com •

POINT! PUBLISHING

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35

Families Just Wanna Have Fun Drive-Thru Poinsettia

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WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 12, 3pm WHERE: Ali Cultural Arts Center,

353 Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd., Pompano Beach COST: Free Start your holiday season by picking up a free poinsettia at the Ali Cultural Arts Center. This event is free and open to everyone but is first-come, first-serve while supplies last! Your poinsettia will be placed in the trunk of your car. And to top off the day, Santa will be there to wave at you when you drive in!

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1, 6:30-8:30pm

WHERE: Frank McDonough

Park, 3500 NE 27th Ave., Lighthouse Point COST: Free WHAT: Lighthouse A'Glow is an annual favorite in Lighthouse Point. There's always plenty of fun activities for kids and performances by local youth. Kids can visit with Santa, and of course, you don't want to miss the tree lighting with the lighthouse on top!

Virtual Chanukah Celebration: Bohemian Maccabee Rhapsody

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 3, 6:30pm WHERE: Online on Temple Beth El of Boca Raton’s YouTube channel

or livestream at tbeboca.org.

COST: Free WHAT: Celebrate Chanukah online with Temple Beth El of Boca Raton at their livestreamed Bohemian Rhapsodythemed service. Oh mama mia, mama mia, mama mia, let me celebrate!

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Chanukah begins Sunday, Nov. 28, and ends Monday, Dec 6, 2021

Holiday Fantasy of Lights

WHEN: Through Jan. 1, 2022 WHERE: Tradewinds Park North, 3600 W.

Sample Rd, Coconut Creek, COST: $20/per car, $2/per pair of specialeffect glasses, $40/12+ vehicle/bus WHAT: Tradewinds Park is once again a fantasy of color, lights and design this holiday season. The Holiday Fantasy of Lights, Broward County’s spectacular drivethru holiday lighting event is returning.

Holiday Movie in the Park

WHEN: Saturday, Dec 18, 7-10pm WHERE: Pompano Community Park, 1700 NE

Eighth St. Pompano Beach

COST: Free, refreshments available for

purchase

WHAT: Bring the whole family for a night

of fun! Don’t forget your lawn chairs and blankets so you can enjoy the featured holiday movie on the green of “Jingle Jangle.”

Kwanzaa begins Sunday, Dec. 26, 2021 and ends Saturday, Jan. 6, 2022

DECEMBER 2021 • pointpubs.com

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Holiday Performances

A Very Countess Christmas

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 26, 8pm WHERE: The Parker, 707 NE Eighth St.,

Fort Lauderdale COST: $43-$148 WHAT: For all of you closeted Bravoholics, here is your chance to see Countess Luann, an original cast member of “The Real Housewives of New York City.” The Countess will perform her holiday cabaret show right here in Florida. And as fans of the show know, Luann has quite a history with the Sunshine State. Luann de Lesseps (a.k.a. Countess Luann) is a reality television star, author, actress, singer and mother.

Elf The Musical

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 10, 7:30pm; Saturday, Dec. 11, 2pm and 7:30pm WHERE: Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave, Fort Lauderdale COST: $20 WHAT: This production highlights the talents of both teens and the adult actors who mentor them. Elf The Musical is a modern-day holiday classic sure to make everyone embrace their inner elf. Based on the cherished 2003 movie hit, Elf features songs by Tony Award nominees Matthew Sklar (The Wedding Singer) and Chad Beguelin (Disney’s Aladdin on Broadway), with a book by Tony Award winners, Thomas Meehan (Annie, The Producers, Hairspray) and Bob Martin (The Drowsy Chaperone).

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Bee Gees Tribute Christmas

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 22, 8pm WHERE: The Parker, 707 NE Eighth St., Fort Lauderdale COST: $39.50-$67.50 WHAT: Deck the halls with disco balls this year with a Bee Gees

Christmas.

This tribute will definitely get you in the holiday spirit with beautiful stage settings and backdrops that will put you in the holiday mood.

Bee Gees Christmas will take you on a masterful musical journey that mixes in the Bee Gees songbook and some of your favorite holiday hits to make this Christmas one to remember.

Close your eyes, and you will imagine the real Gibb Brothers are singing.

Christmas fever is here — and you should be dancin’ — yeah!

When the Boat Parade Passes by

Pompano Boat Parade

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 10, 7pm WHERE: Intracoastal Waterway in

Pompano Beach, Lighthouse Point and Deerfield Beach COST: Contact Connie Davis, Director of Events to enter your boat for free.

WHAT: Who doesn’t love a good boat parade? Get in on the fun at the Chaos Fishing 59th Annual Greater Pompano Beach Holiday Boat Parade. The magic happens when over 50 boats, glowing with colorful lights, holiday decorations, music and merriment, begin their parade up the Intracoastal Waterway! Community spirit is alive with exuberant spectators enjoying the parade from decorated homes, hotel rooms and parks.

Fort Lauderdale Boat Parade Party Central at the Riverside Hotel

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 11, 5:30-8:30pm WHERE: Riverside Hotel Fort Lauderdale, 620

East Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale COST: 85/per person WHAT: If you are looking for a more uptown way to view the Fort Lauderdale Boat Parade, the Riverside Hotel is a great choice. Enjoy the up close and personal view from the New River patio, poolside, boathouse or dock areas. There is standing room only with an open bar — wristband pickup at the Riverside Hotel sales office at 600 Sagamore Road. Must present a valid printed ticket Monday, Dec. 6 through Friday, Dec. 10 from 10am to 4pm to receive wristbands. Tickets are available on Saturday, Dec. 11 at will-call (Sagamore Room) beginning at 2pm

DECEMBER 2021 • pointpubs.com

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Nutcracker Performances Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida: The Nutcracker

VLADIMIR ISSAEV, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR WHEN: Friday, Dec. 17, 7:30pm; Saturday, Dec. 18, 7pm; Sunday, Dec. 19, 3pm WHERE: The Parker, 707 NE Eighth St., Fort Lauderdale COST: $26.75-$46.75 WHAT: Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida presents the classic ballet “The Nutcracker” to Tchaikovsky’s famous score based on the tale of Ernest Hoffman. The critically acclaimed performance is choreographed and directed by renowned Ballet Master Vladimir Issaev. This awarded professional company features their own ballet stars performing the principal roles and a community cast made up of local character artists and children.

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The Chocolate Nutcracker

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 4, 1-3pm WHERE: Pompano Beach Cultural Center,

50 W. Atlantic Blvd., Pompano Beach COST: $5/youth, $10/adults WHAT: The Ashanti Dance Group presents their spin on “The Chocolate Nutcracker.” The Chocolate Nutcracker stays faithful to the original in its delightful story of a little girl who receives a doll as a holiday gift which magically comes to life. This production takes audiences on a trip to Africa. Set in early 1950s Harlem, the score mixes classical and jazz. The story is told through various dance styles, including African, hip-hop, Indian, classical and modern.

The Chocolate Nutcracker is presented in a celebration of Christmas, Kwanza, Chanukah and childhood.

Miami City Ballet: George Balanchine’s Nutcracker

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 10, 7pm; Saturday, Dec. 11, 2pm and 7pm WHERE: Au-Rene Theater at Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave, Fort Lauderdale COST: $34-$145 WHAT: Miami City Ballet’s production of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker is a fantastic way to celebrate the holidays with friends and family — and get a little culture while you’re at it.

All Sorts of Fun Ocean Way Holiday WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 4, 5-9pm WHERE: Main Beach Parking Lot, 149 SE Second Ave.,

Deerfield Beach COST: Free, but must pay to park WHAT: Head over to the beach for Deerfield’s annual holiday parade. We’re guessing Santa might be there too! We just hope he remembers his sunscreen.

Yuletide on Atlantic

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 2, 6:30-7:30pm WHERE: Atlantic Boulevard, Pompano Beach COST: Free WHAT: Ring in another holiday season with the City of Pompano Beach’s

Yuletide on Atlantic Parade. The parade will begin at 6:30pm starting from Riverside Drive, heading west on Atlantic Boulevard.

Yuletide on Atlantic will feature fun floats, marching bands, dancers, and a variety of other amazing entertainment, including Santa himself!

Santa Baby!

Breakfast with Santa

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 11, 9-10am WHERE: Emma Lou Olson Civic Center, 1801

NE Sixth St., Pompano Beach COST: $7/per person WHAT: Enjoy games, breakfast and more with the big guy in red!

Letters to Santa from the kids of Pompano

Have you been naughty or nice this year?

Why not write the Big Guy himself and tell. Through Dec. 10, a form will be made available at www.pompanobeachfl.gov/ programs to fill out your questions for your child to receive a letter in the mail from Santa himself. The North Pole will be sending Santa’s letters back out to all his good girls and boys beginning Dec. 13.

DECEMBER 2021 • pointpubs.com

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Gift Idea

Ft. Lauderdale Faves Bonnet House Holiday Magic Soirée WHEN: Friday, Dec., 3,

7-10pm

Brew-Ho-Ho-Ho A bottle of wine is a classic host or hostess gift. This year, why not surprise your favorite lager-loving friend with the gift of hops. Dangerous Minds over in Pompano Cite Centre brews their own beers. No matter the style of beer you seek, they most likely have a great option. The choices are impressive and well crafted, from German pilsners to hefeweizens, ales, lagers, stouts, and more. All the beers are available in 32-ounce growlers — an excellent gift for fabulous friends and family.

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WHERE: The Bonnet House, 900 N. Birch Road, Fort Lauderdale COST: 85/general admission, 7-10pm; $125/VIP, 6-10pm WHAT: The Bonnet House’s holiday celebration kicks off with the annual Holiday Magic Soirée. The house and grounds are lit up and sparkling during this Holiday Soirée with live music by Alejandro Rowinsky, acoustic guitarist, a full bar, and catered dining by A Alexander Events.

All trees, wreaths, and centerpieces will be lit and designed to delight and for sale. Soirée attendees have the opportunity to view and purchase these pieces first.

child ages 13-17; $5/child ages 6-12; free/children 5 and under (If tickets are still available at the time of the event, there will be an additional charge of $5/per ticket at the door.)

The Whimsical Wonderland is an evening for the entire family. Join the Bonnet House for a night of live entertainment, a scavenger hunt, interactive activities, and plenty of opportunities to capture holiday family portraits. They are featuring fantastical characters brought to life from the new book POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstanc.

Bonnet House Holiday Evening Experiences

WHEN: Dec. 4, 8, 9 and 10 WHERE: The Bonnet House,

900 N Birch Road, Fort

offer Evening Experiences with something exciting every night; from Santa and his elves to Christmas storytelling to strolling carolers and much more.

Get a healthy dose of holiday cheer during each evening tour which includes general admission to the house and two drink tickets.

Performance schedule is as follows: • Broward Center Spotlights – Dec. 4, 6:15-6:45pm and 7:15-7:45pm around the fountain in the courtyard.

• Gin & Jazz featuring Davis & Dow Jazz Duo – Dec. 8, 6:30-7pm and 7:15-7:45pm • The Yuletide Carolers – Dec. 9, 6:30-7:30pm • Tropical Wave ensemble from the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida, Dec. 10, 6:30-7pm and 7:15-7:45pm Buy tickets at https://www. bonnethouse.org/event/ holiday-magic-soiree/

Stranahan House Victorian Christmas Tours

WHEN: Dec. 18-23 WHERE: Stranahan House,

Bonnet House Whimsical Wonderland

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 4, 5:30-8pm WHERE: The Bonnet House, 900 N Birch Road, Fort Lauderdale COST: Pre-registration is required. $30/general admission adult (includes two drink tickets): $15/

Lauderdale COST: Pre-registration is required. $30/general admission adult (includes two drink tickets): $15/ child ages 13-17; $5/child ages 6-12; free/children 5 and under (If tickets are still available at the time of the event, there will be an additional charge of $5/per ticket at the door.)

Bonnet House will also

335 SE Sixth Ave., Fort Lauderdale COST: 25/members, 30/ non-members, must purchase tickets in advance WHAT: Enjoy a tour of the historic Stranahan House by costumed docents who take you back in time to the Victorian era in the beautifully decorated Stranahan House Museum.

Learn how many holiday traditions started and how the pioneers celebrated Christmas in the early days of Fort Lauderdale. Shop for your entire list in the Stranahan’s fabulous gift shop!

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43

St. Jude Hoards Billions While Many of Its Families Drain Their Savings

BY DAVID ARMSTRONG AND RYAN GABRIELSON, ProPublica

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital promises not to bill families. But the cost of having a child at the hospital for cancer care leaves some families so strapped for money that parents share tips on spending nights in the parking lot.

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series of sharp knocks on his driver’s side window startled Jason Burt awake.

It was the middle of the night on a Saturday in 2016. Burt was sleeping in his pickup truck in the parking lot of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in downtown Memphis, Tennessee, where his 5-year-old daughter was being treated for brain cancer. He’d driven more than 500 miles from his home in Central Texas to visit her.

A St. Jude security guard peered into the truck and asked Burt what he was doing. Burt explained that his daughter and her mother, his ex-girlfriend, were staying in the hospital’s free patient housing. But St. Jude provides housing for only one parent. Burt, a school bus driver making $20,000 a year, told the guard he couldn’t afford a hotel. The guard let the exhausted father go back to sleep.

St. Jude would do no more to find him a place to stay.

“They were aware of the situation,” Burt said. “I didn’t push anything. I was just grateful she was getting treated and I was doing what I needed to do.”

St. Jude is the largest and most highly regarded health care charity in the country. Each year, the Memphis hospital’s fundraisers send out hundreds of millions of letters, many with heart-wrenching photographs of children left bald from battling cancer.

Celebrities like Jennifer Aniston and Sofia Vergara sing the hospital’s praises in televised advertisements.

This year, St. Jude’s fundraising reached outer space.

The SpaceX Inspiration4 mission in September included a former St. Jude patient as a crew member.

Last year, St. Jude raised a record $2 billion. U.S. News & World Report ranked it the country’s 10th-best children’s cancer hospital, and St. Jude raised roughly as much as the nine hospitals ahead of it put together. It currently has $5.2 billion in reserves, a sum large enough to run the institution at current levels for the next four and a half years without a single additional donation.

St. Jude makes a unique promise as part of its fundraising: “Families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treat-

ment, travel, housing or food — because all a family should worry about is helping their child live.”

But for many families, treatment at St. Jude does not relieve all the financial burdens they incur in getting care for their children, including housing, travel and food costs that fall outside the hospital’s strict limits, a ProPublica investigation has found.

While families may not receive a bill from St. Jude, the hospital doesn’t cover what’s usually the biggest source of financial stress associated with childhood cancer: the loss of income as parents quit or take leave from jobs to be with their child during treatment. For many families, the consequence is missed payments for cars, utilities and cellphones. Others face eviction or foreclosure because they can’t keep up with rent and mortgage payments.

Parents at St. Jude have exhausted savings and retirement accounts, borrowed from family and friends or asked other charities for aid. ProPublica identified more than 100 St. Jude families seeking financial help through the online fundraiser GoFundMe, with half of the campaigns started in the past two years. We counted scores of other events like concerts and yard sales organized to help St. Jude families in need.

One family relied on a mixed martial arts fighter to help

Only about half of the $7.3 billion St. Jude has received in contributions in the past five fiscal years went to the hospital’s research and caring for patients, according to its financial filings with the Internal Revenue Service. About 30% covered the cost of its fundraising operations, and the remaining 20%, or $1 of every $5 donated, increased its reserve fund. raise money for expenses like car repairs and cellphone bills, items that St. Jude would not cover. Another spent $10,000, originally saved to purchase a home, on costs related to treatment at St. Jude.

Only about half of the $7.3 billion St. Jude has received in contributions in the past five fiscal years went to the hospital’s research and caring for patients, according to its financial filings DECEMBER 2021 • pointpubs.com

45

with the Internal Revenue Service. About 30% covered the cost of its fundraising operations, and the remaining 20%, or $1 of every $5 donated, increased its reserve fund.

Further, ProPublica found, a substantial portion of the cost for treatment is paid not by St. Jude but by families’ private insurance or by Medicaid, the government insurance program for low-income families. About 90% of patients are insured, bringing in more than $100 million in reimbursements for treatment a year. If a family shows up at St. Jude without insurance, a company hired by the charity helps them find it. St. Jude does cover copays and deductibles, an unusual benefit.

St. Jude spends about $500 million a year on patient services — a figure that includes all medical care and other assistance. Very little of what St. Jude raises from the public goes to pay for food, travel and housing for families, the investigation found. Last year, it was 2% of the money raised, or nearly $40 million.

In written responses to ProPublica, lawyers for St. Jude and its fundraising arm, the American Lebanese Syrian Associated Charities, or ALSAC, emphasized that countless families have benefited from the charity provided since the hospital opened its doors in 1962.

“ProPublica should be celebrating St. Jude and ALSAC for their commitment to finding cures, saving children’s lives, and optimizing patient outcomes,” one of their letters said.

It is unquestioned that St. Jude has helped thousands of children and their families over the decades. Patients have offered scores of testimonials about the hospital’s generosity and care.

“This often comes as a huge relief to families who often expect to sell all their belongings just so their children can get the medical care and treatment they need to save their lives,” the hospital’s lawyers wrote. “St. Jude and ALSAC understand that this arrangement cannot cover all financial obligations of all families, nor can St. Jude or ALSAC shield families from all the financial and emotional effects” of a child’s illness.

St. Jude said it discloses the limits of its aid to families on its website and in material provided to those whose children are admitted to the hospital. That includes the rule Burt ran into, that the hospital covers the travel and housing costs of only one caregiver and one patient. For many families, the daily food budget is capped at $50. In some cases, hotel stays en route are provided only if families travel more than 500 miles to get to St. Jude.

St. Jude said its assistance is “based on guidelines to ensure fairness and responsible use of donor funds” and on remaining compliant with a federal anti-kickback statute that makes it a criminal offense to offer something of value to induce a medical referral. St. Jude declined to explain how the law affects the amount or type of financial assistance it provides to families.

“St. Jude has never promised anyone — neither patients nor the public in general — that it can solve all financial problems,” the letter said.

When parents need additional financial help, St. Jude’s social workers often send them to smaller charities or in some cases suggest that they apply for government aid.

They refer many to the Andrew McDonough B+

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Today, St. Jude is a specialty treatment and research center with about 5,700 employees and 73 beds. Other top children’s hospitals have more staff and beds, and they also treat more conditions.

Foundation, which gives more than $2.5 million a year in grants to thousands of families of pediatric cancer patients at hospitals across the country to help cover rent, utilities and other urgent expenses.

Joe McDonough, the foundation’s founder and president, said St. Jude families have the same money problems as families of patients at other children’s hospitals, even though he said St. Jude’s marketing creates the public perception that it alleviates these burdens.

“People say to me, ‘Why are you helping St. Jude families?’”

McDonough said. “Well, what happens when a family lives in Augusta, Georgia, and they’re being treated at St. Jude?

They still have to pay the rent on their apartment back in Augusta, Georgia. They still have to make their car payment.

And it’s not my position to say whether St. Jude should be paying for all those expenses or not. I’m just explaining that it’s not a totally free ride.”

The help St. Jude provides to families may soon be increasing.

After ProPublica provided St. Jude with the findings of its reporting, the hospital informed families of a dramatic expansion in the assistance it will give to parents and other relatives during their kids’ treatment in Memphis.

Among the most significant changes are increasing travel benefits to two parents instead of one and covering regular trips to Memphis for siblings and other loved ones. St. Jude’s letter to parents said the changes take effect Nov. 15.

That would’ve made a big difference for Burt.

Burt’s daughter, whom ProPublica is not identifying at her mother’s request, was originally diagnosed with cancer in early 2015, when doctors discovered a tumor pressing against her brain stem. She had successful emergency surgery to remove the mass at Dell Children’s Medical Center in Austin, Texas. Medicaid and Dell Children’s covered the bill, but the family was still faced with the cost of her ongoing treatment.

“At that point I’m thinking: ‘What am I going to do? I guess I’m selling my house, whatever it takes,’” Burt recalled. “Honestly, that was probably a big deciding factor for St. Jude.”

St. Jude accepted Burt’s daughter into a clinical trial, and the family moved to the hospital’s patient housing in Memphis for several months. Both parents stopped working for a time, and people in their hometown raised cash to pay their bills.

Her cancer relapsed the following year with several new, inoperable brain tumors. Burt and his daughter’s mom broke up during that round of treatment, and financial problems piled up.

Burt said his credit score dropped so low that utility companies refused to set up service unless he first paid a deposit.

One of the family’s cars was repossessed, he said. Burt’s 2005 Chevrolet Colorado pickup has 300,000 miles on it, many of them logged on trips from Texas to Memphis. When Burt’s daughter was at St. Jude for treatment or exams, he’d work all week, then visit on many weekends where he would spend Saturday night sleeping in the hospital parking lot.

He asked hospital officials if he could sleep in St. Jude’s housing, but they turned him down, he said.

Burt said he was happy with the care St. Jude provided.

His daughter’s health is stable, he said, and brain scans taken during her September exam confirmed her two remaining tumors haven’t grown. But he’s still trying to recover financially.

“It’s five years now,” Burt said, “and I’m not completely caught up yet.”

A Fundraising Giant

St. Jude began with a fledgling entertainer praying for a career break.

When Danny Thomas, a comic and actor best known for the TV sitcom “Make Room for Daddy,” was struggling to earn a living in the late 1930s, the devout Roman Catholic went to church and asked for help from the patron saint of desperate cases, St. Jude Thaddeus. If he made it big, Thomas promised to build “a shrine where the poor and the helpless and the hopeless may come for comfort and aid,” according to a history published by ALSAC. Within five years, Thomas became a star and worked to fulfill his promise by building a children’s hospital named after St. Jude and a fundraising organization to support it. Thomas, whose parents were Lebanese immigrants, recruited others who shared his Middle Eastern roots to help.

He used his fame to raise the hospital’s profile, appearing in ads for St. Jude and hosting fundraising events starring the likes of Elvis Presley and Sammy Davis Jr. Thomas’ daughter Marlo, herself a TV star, succeeded him in championing St. Jude.

Today, St. Jude is a specialty treatment and research center with about 5,700 employees and 73 beds. Other top children’s hospitals have more staff and beds, and they also treat more conditions.

Though St. Jude raises money across the world, most of its patients come from Tennessee and surrounding states. Patients from elsewhere are usually enrolled in clinical trials.

ALSAC, which handles St. Jude’s fundraising and investments, has 2,188 employees in Memphis and in 36 regional offices across the country. More than 400 of the fundraising arm’s employees are paid over $100,000, according to IRS filings. The charity takes in so much money each year that it regularly steers hundreds of millions of dollars in donations to reserve accounts, the filings show.

BELOW Screenshots from StJude.org. Nearly all St. Jude solicitations feature the hospital’s patients — the children usually smiling and bald from treatment — along with the familiar promise that it never sends families a bill.

Overall, St. Jude’s reserve has grown by 58% over the past five fiscal years, during which it has added $1.9 billion to its investment accounts and shifted its portfolio toward financial products designed to generate bigger returns than stocks, bonds and mutual funds traditionally deliver. The charity stowed more than a third of the new surplus, $688 million, in riskier private equity investments.

IRS rules do not limit the size of a nonprofit’s reserves, and experts on charitable finance differ on best practices.

St. Jude meets Better Business Bureau guidelines, which call for charities to maintain reserves of less than three times total expenses, but other experts expressed alarm that the hospital had accumulated such a large sum of money.

The size of the St. Jude reserve is “staggering,” said Laura Otten, the director of LaSalle University’s master program in nonprofit leadership. She said a typical reserve for a nonprofit the size of St. Jude is one to two years of expenses.

Donors generally want to know their dollars are being put to work, she said.

The hospital said it needs a large reserve because its unique operating model relies on donations to fund annual operating costs. “[W]e are highly donor-dependent and subject to the economic driven vagaries of charitable giving,” the hospital said in a written response to ProPublica questions.

But the hospital’s reserve is already more than large enough to buffer against recessions and potential drops in donations, said Ge Bai, a professor of accounting and health policy at Johns Hopkins University. “They should be spending the money as aggressively as they raise it, but they seem to be hoarding,” Bai said.

The hospital said it is also raising billions to fund the construction of new housing and research space, although its plans do not currently include spending any of the reserve on new facilities.

St. Jude’s reserves have ballooned at a time when researchers, oncologists, advocates and families complain about a dearth of funding for pediatric cancer studies nationally.

Dozens of other children’s hospitals across the country have research divisions devoted to pediatric cancer and enroll their patients in clinical trials for new drugs and procedures. They pay for research staff and studies in part with donations from their local communities, often competing directly against St. Jude.

ALSAC has regional offices in several U.S. cities with elite pediatric cancer centers of their own, including Atlanta, Chicago, Denver and Seattle.

Coury Shadyac, an ALSAC vice president and daughter of the organization’s CEO, Richard Shadyac Jr., oversees a team of 45 fundraisers along the West Coast “raising $300 million annually” for St. Jude, according to her LinkedIn profile.

That’s $100 million more in donations than either Children’s Hospital Los Angeles or Seattle Children’s Hospital, two of the nation’s leading pediatric cancer institutions, received in fiscal year 2019, IRS disclosures show. But it’s only a small DECEMBER 2021 • pointpubs.com

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part of St. Jude’s fundraising haul.

ALSAC’s ubiquitous fundraising has led to concerns that it undercuts other hospitals’ campaigns. Some doctors interviewed by ProPublica said they have encouraged donors to give their money to hospitals closer to home.

David Clark, a pediatrician and former longtime chairperson of pediatrics at Albany Medical Center in New York, said St. Jude raises tens of thousands of dollars in his region that does little to benefit the children with cancer in his area since almost all are treated locally. ALSAC has a fundraising office located a few miles from Albany Medical.

“They think of every way they can to make money and the least amount of ways to spend it,” Clark said. “They deceive people into supporting something that is totally dishonest.”

Nearly all St. Jude solicitations feature the hospital’s patients — the children usually smiling and bald from treatment — along with the familiar promise that it never sends families a bill.

It’s a message that ALSAC has tested and researched to maximize donations. Donors appreciate the promise to never bill families, said Mary Kate Tolan, an ALSAC executive, in a podcast last year. She added that no parent should have to take out a second mortgage or lose their job because their child is being treated at St. Jude.

Alternative messaging to the no-bills promise did not “perform as well,” said Tolan, who develops emerging technologies for ALSAC. Tolan did not return requests for comment.

“Borrowing and Begging”

Catherine Rainey thought she would be free of financial worry when her 2-year-old daughter Harlee was admitted to St. Jude last year.

“The first thing my dad said was: ‘Catherine, you have nothing to worry about. They raise billions of dollars.

Anytime you have a problem, you tell them and they will take care of it,’” she said.

But like many families, the Raineys discovered that St. Jude’s charity came with limits on payments for expenses such as travel that could be bewildering.

Harlee ended up at St. Jude after first going to nearby Niswonger Children’s Hospital in Johnson City, Tennessee, in October 2020. The doctors there discovered a cancerous mass attached to her right kidney. The hospital is a St. Jude affiliate, and the doctors recommended the toddler be treated in Memphis.

Rainey, a single mother of two young girls, had to leave her job as a nurse for months to be with Harlee at St. Jude.

The loss of income quickly created problems. “My family, we don’t come from money,” she said. “We are not doctors and billionaires. We make it. That is it.”

St. Jude did provide food and housing on campus. But the hospital said it couldn’t help with the items that were causing Rainey to worry, including car payments, insurance and cellphone bills.

Rainey’s boss set up a GoFundMe account to help make up some of her lost income. A small local charity, Kari’s Heart Foundation, also helped out by paying about $3,000 worth of phone bills and car payments, staving off repossession.

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“It was just a bunch of borrowing and begging,” Rainey said of her experience while her daughter was treated in Memphis.

“They acted like it was coming out of their own pocket.”

Harlee has checkups at St. Jude every three months that last about four days. The costs of travel to and from St. Jude put an additional strain on Rainey and Harlee. St. Jude is an eight-hour ride, without stops, from Rainey’s home in Appalachia, Virginia, a town of 1,432 people near the Kentucky border.

ALSAC, which handles St. Jude’s fundraising and investments, has 2,188 employees in Memphis and in 36 regional offices across the country. More than 400 of the fundraising arm’s employees are paid over $100,000, according to IRS filings.

Rainey said her daughter generally can make it about two-thirds of the way, with frequent stops, before she has had enough. “When she is done, she is really done,” Rainey said. “She will scream, cry and kick.”

In July, in advance of an August trip to Memphis, Rainey called the patient services department at St. Jude to see whether they could help pay for a hotel to break up the travel day — an expense Rainey said she could not afford.

To qualify for a hotel reimbursement, Rainey said, St. Jude told her she had to live more than 500 miles from Memphis. The ride from her home to the hospital is 530 miles (a measurement ProPublica confirmed with mapping tools).

However, Rainey said, St. Jude told her it measured the trip from city limit to city limit and came up with a distance of 491 miles. Even using that metric, the distance is still more than 500 miles, ProPublica found.

When she challenged the hospital’s stance, Rainey said she was berated by a patient services representative.

“I was feeling pissed off, and I was crying,” Rainey said of the interaction. “You give up your whole life for your child, and they tell you don’t worry about anything, we will cover this and then they tell you to just push through the drive.”

Rainey did what she could to make the trip go smoothly: She configured a small table to extend across her daughter’s car seat, so Harlee could play with the coloring books, markers and Play-Doh bought for the ride. She packed snacks and a cooler full of drinks. Since Harlee was still potty training, she brought extra towels and clothes for accidents. The final step was handing Harlee her Baby Yoda doll once she settled into her car seat. Rainey had sewed a port in the doll’s chest to mirror the one Harlee has in hers.

About three hours from Memphis, Harlee was crying inconsolably. Rainey pulled off the interstate and stopped at the first hotel she could find. She later learned it had been

described in online reviews as “awful,” a “nightmare,” “disgusting” and “horrible.”

“I didn’t know the area,” she said. “The hotel was garbage.

It just made it worse.”

The drive home also required a hotel stop, but this time Rainey was able to find one that was cleaner. A $100 donation from a local charity helped to offset the cost.

Among the changes St. Jude is making is to reimburse families like Rainey’s, who live more than 400 miles from the hospital, for an overnight stay at a hotel when making the trip to Memphis.

Rainey said she was called by a St. Jude representative after ProPublica asked about her situation and was told the hospital would pay for her past hotel stays when traveling back and forth to St. Jude. The representative, Rainey said, also told her the hospital discovered the way it had been measuring mileage was inaccurate.

“I am not the only one,” Rainey said. “There are others.

They should reimburse all the families.”

The anxiety of unpaid bills piling up, combined with caring for a child undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, takes a severe toll on parents and guardians, said Christopher Hope, a UPS driver who started a Memphis-based foundation after meeting St. Jude parents who were in financial crisis.

Hope’s small charity spent $12,000 last year to help families. Parents in St. Jude social media groups often refer families in need to it. The charity has helped families cover mortgage and car payments.

“I never knew anything about this until hearing about it from families,” Hope said. “All we hear is about kids and treatment, not the other side of it.”

Even parents with stable jobs and private health insurance often take on debt and need outside help.

When Taylr and Treg Murphy’s 17-year-old son Peyton was diagnosed with cancer and needed monthslong treatment at St. Jude in 2017, the entire family — mom, dad, sister and brother — went with him, traveling from their home in Lafayette, Louisiana, to Memphis. Treg took a leave from his job at an oil mining company and Taylr, who works at her mother’s bakery, did the same.

“We knew that it was going to be a collective team effort,” Treg said. “Without even a discussion, we figured that if Peyton’s got to go for the surgery, we’re all going.”

Peyton had an enormous tumor that had grown out of his right femur and was crowding his knee. Rounds of chemotherapy appeared to have killed osteosarcoma cells elsewhere in his body. But he needed to undergo a procedure called limb-sparing surgery that would require weeks of recovery time at the hospital.

The hospital agreed to allow all five family members to stay for free at St. Jude if they bunked together in a single room. It assigned them a spot in Tri Delta Place, its hotel-like short-term patient residence on the campus. Tri Delta is set up for visits of up to seven days, according to the hospital’s guide for volunteers, but the Murphys were there for almost 50.

Taylr said the unit at Tri Delta had no oven or stove and St. Jude provided no grocery money, instead allotting them a

“It’s Not Free”

In addition to charities like Hope’s, St. Jude families have repeatedly turned to fundraising sites and networks of their relatives, friends and neighbors to help cover basic expenses while unable to work during their children’s treatment.

Parents’ requests on fundraising sites are sometimes desperate pleas.

In January 2017, one father in North Carolina said he’d had to abandon a business venture to take time for his son to receive care at St. Jude. His income had plummeted. He asked friends to give as little as $10 to “at least make it possible to survive.”

This year, a mother in Memphis whose 1-year-old son receives care at St. Jude for sickle cell disorder ran out of medical leave and couldn’t work her shifts at a clothing distribution center. After the child had a flare up in July requiring several days of treatment at the hospital, she said she returned home to find her power shut off. Sitting in a dark apartment, unable to pay her utility bills, she set up a GoFundMe campaign. She received less than $20 through the site; her relatives eventually pooled $350 to get her electricity restored.

$50-per-day credit at the hospital cafeteria, Kay Kafe — not enough to feed the family of five. As the weeks wore on, the Murphys split grilled cheese sandwiches and paid for food out of pocket.

After ProPublica asked about the hospital’s food allowances, St. Jude said it would increase them as part of the changes scheduled to go into effect this month. The hospital switched from a $50-a-day cap per family to providing $25 a day to each family member. For a family of four, that would double the food benefit. A weekly stipend given to families in long-term housing was increased to $150 from $125.

For the Murphys, it was the loss of their work income, more than out-of-pocket expenses, that put them into a fiDECEMBER 2021 • pointpubs.com

49

nancial hole as Peyton’s treatment went on. Treg’s employer couldn’t pay him during his long absences.

Fearful of being evicted or having their car repossessed, Taylr said she asked a St. Jude social worker for assistance.

The social worker helped her apply for grants from other charities. Taylr said the B+ Foundation paid their rent one month, which ensured they’d have a home to return to.

In the years since his initial treatment, Peyton has gone back to St. Jude repeatedly for exams and surgeries to remove malignant growths in his lungs. Taylr and Treg have missed more work to bring Peyton to Memphis, costing them thousands of dollars more in income.

By the start of this year, Taylr and Treg said they were about $20,000 in debt and panicking. Dustin Poirier, a former UFC champion from their hometown, heard from a friend about Peyton and the family’s financial trouble. He donated $10,000 to them from his personal charity and in May hosted a local fundraiser that collected enough to pay off their credit cards.

St. Jude families sometimes commiserate about money problems with each other, Taylr said, but few are aware of the extent of the hospital’s unspent resources. The Murphys said they didn’t know St. Jude has more than $5 billion in reserve or that it continues to raise hundreds of millions of dollars in surplus donations each year.

“That’s just insane,” Taylr said. “That just blows my mind.

When we first started getting treated, people would be like, ‘Oh, St. Jude covers everything, that’s awesome.’ That’s not how it works. People don’t understand that. I truly didn’t understand before I got into St. Jude.”

Taylr and Treg said the doctors at St. Jude are “amazing” and they’re grateful for their son’s care. But they bristled at the assumption that it was covered by the hospital’s charity. The family’s insurance paid a substantial part of the bills.

“It’s not free,” Taylr said. “My husband works very hard for the insurance we have — and they are billed.” The Murphys pay $12,000 in health insurance premiums each year.

Their struggle continues. Peyton’s cancer has relapsed, and he’s making regular trips with his mom or dad back to St. Jude for chemotherapy. The family is again applying for help from other charities.

Wiped Out Savings

The costs associated with care at St. Jude caused at least one family to stop going to Memphis altogether.

Last winter, Kelly Edwards was excitedly searching through Tulsa real estate listings after years of diligently saving $10,000 for a down payment on a house. She craved a permanent home for herself and the two young brothers she had taken in five years earlier at the behest of a family friend. She hoped to adopt the boys, now 13 and 9, who call her mom.

In February, the older boy, DJ, was lethargic and uninterested in his schoolwork. After several doctor visits, he was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia at a Tulsa hospital. The cancer, referred to as ALL, is the most common type among children, with survival rates that exceed 90%.

A day after his diagnosis, DJ and Edwards were driving six

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hours to Memphis for treatment at St. Jude, which is affiliated with the Oklahoma hospital.

The pair stayed for free at an independently operated Ronald McDonald House near St. Jude, and a weekly stipend from the hospital helped to pay for meals — aid that Edwards said was a blessing. DJ had health insurance through the Oklahoma Medicaid program.

But as with the Murphys, lost income soon put Edwards’ family into financial jeopardy. She works as a supervisor for a company that delivers packages for Amazon. After she used up two weeks of paid time off, she stopped getting paychecks. The bills, however, kept coming: rent, car payments, utilities. To that was added the $250 a week she paid a friend to stay with DJ’s younger brother and her two dogs in Tulsa.

Within four months, her house savings were wiped out.

Edwards said she told her St. Jude social worker about her financial woes but got no additional help.

One of Edwards’ adult daughters started a GoFundMe campaign to help, bringing in just over $3,000. Edwards said she appreciated the aid but believes donations were kept low by the widespread perception that St. Jude families don’t have financial problems.

“Everyone hears that everything is taken care of by St. Jude,” she said. “That is not true, but everyone has that mentality.” She said someone she knew asked her “what is that money going for if St. Jude’s is paying for everything?”

DJ was scheduled to go back to St. Jude for three weeks of treatment in August, but Edwards decided she simply couldn’t afford it. “I don’t have the money to go back and forth,” she said. She worked with DJ’s local doctors and found that the hospital near her home in Tulsa could provide the same treatment he was scheduled to get in Tennessee.

The local treatment allowed her to continue working some shifts and to be at home with both of her boys. DJ is also happier when he is home, Edwards said.

Edwards and the boys are now living in a small house her brother owns just outside Tulsa. Late on a recent weekday afternoon, DJ slowly shuffled into the living room, exhausted from a day of chemotherapy treatment.

He is in the midst of a 20-week regimen where he receives the cancer-killing drugs every other day, just one phase of a nearly three-year treatment plan. He wore an orange knit hat, T-shirt and shorts. He rubbed his eyes before asking a visitor, “How is your day going?” He smiled at the positive response. When he heard the family was eating steak for dinner, he eagerly jumped up to start helping in the kitchen.

After they moved in, Edwards hung family portraits on the walls to make it feel homier. She doesn’t expect they will be moving again any time soon.

The dream of buying a home of their own is gone. Y ProPublica is continuing to report on the finances, fundraising and operations of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Do you know something about this charity? Please reach out to journalists David Armstrong, who can be contacted by phone or Signal at 917-455-1713, or Ryan Gabrielson, who can be contacted by phone or Signal at 718-710-9494.

Call: 954-319-9848 Call: 954-319-9848

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dining out IN THE NORTH BROWARD BEACHES

Email us with any additions, closings, or corrections at editor@ pointpubs. com. We try to be accurate, but it’s always a good idea to call first before heading out on your dining adventure.

KEY $ Inexpensive (under $20) $$ Moderate ($21-$40) $$$ Expensive ($41-$65) $$$$ Pricey (over $65)

POMPANO BEACH And Fish Kitchen + Bar. SEAFOOD Located at the Marriott Pompano Beach Resort & Spa, enjoy a modern take on fresh seafood. The restaurant has recently been renovated and now sports a contemporary and breezy ambiance. 1200 N. Ocean Blvd., 954782-0100 $$

Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza. ITALIAN • PIZZA • WINGS You can credit this place with bringing the whole “coal-fired pizza craze” to South Florida. Pizza and chicken wings — do you need any more?

Try the cauliflower pizza — good and good for you. 1203 S. Federal Highway, 954-942-5550 $$ The Beach Grille. AMERICAN Delicious eats near the beach with

the capability to order online. 3414 E Atlantic Blvd., 954-946-6000

$

Beach House. AMERICAN • CRAFT COCKTAILS This is the perfect place to take out-of-town guests. Snag one of the stadium seating style booths overlooking the Atlantic. Enjoy the casual and relaxed ambiance with a rooftop deck on the second floor. 270 N Pompano Beach Blvd. 954-607-6530 $$ Bella Roma Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria. ITALIAN • PIZZA

Tasty dishes large portions,. Delivery is available. 40 SW 15th St., 954-784-3696 $$

Bobby Rubino’s. BARBECUE • AMERICAN Specials and coupons are posted daily, and catering is available. The restaurant also has a large bar room where you can dine at the bar or booths. This place is a Pompano Beach icon. 2501 N. Federal Highway, 954-7817550 $$ Brew Fish. BAR AND GRILL Dine outside in the tiki hut overlooking a canal right in Pompano Beach. Comprehensive menu and attentive staff. 200 E. McNab Rd., 954-440-3347 $$ Briny Irish Pub. IRISH • BAR FOOD At the end of East Atlantic Boulevard, steps from the ocean, is Briny Irish Pub. There is a large beer selection plus the regular and, dare we say, unique mixed drinks. The kitchen offers an array of bar food as well as some classics like bangers and mash and fish-n-chips. The casual atmosphere is created by an immense array of nautical artifacts and oddities that fill every inch of the pub. Music plays constantly, often live with a dance floor if one is inclined. 3440 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-942-3159 $ Bru’s Room Sports Grill. AMERICAN This spot is home to the

Florida State Booster Club of Broward County. Wings and plenty of bar food is available. 235 S. Federal Highway, 954-785-2227 $

Calypso Restaurant and Raw Bar. CARIBBEAN Since they

opened their doors in 1990, Calypso has been a local favorite.

This gem of a restaurant is known for its fresh, wild caught fish, Bahamian conch dishes, Jamaican jerk and American favorites all served with an island flair. On any given day, look around and you’ll see fellow diners devouring their house special cut-

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WITH MRS. KOSSENFLOFFER

ter (sandwich) — sautéed shrimp with garlic butter, mushrooms and cheddar all stuffed into a hollowed-out kaiser roll. Check out the special board for a variety of locally caught fish with everything from grouper to snapper to wahoo among others. Plenty of land-lubber options are also available including filet mignon. For island comfort food, don’t miss one of their curries or rotis. Fresh oysters and clams are also available. Wash it all down with a draft beer, a glass of wine or choose from over 40 different bottled beers. So, if you are in search of high-quality ingredients, inventive cooking and a very welcoming staff, head over to Calypso. 460 S. Cypress Road, 954-942-1633 $$

Casareccio Trattoria Italiana. ITALIAN Wow! What a find.

This small but impressive Italian eatery is delightful. We can’t really tell you what to try because the menu changes daily. However, we are willing to bet you will fall in love with this place which feels like it just plopped into Pompano straight from the hills of Tuscany. Reservations are highly recommended. Also, call ahead to see what they are serving. 1386 S.Federal Highway, 954-9983642 $$$-$$$$

Checkers Old Munchen. GERMAN For a traditional German

meal, try the wiener schnitzel — it’s divine — a lightly breaded veal cutlet sautéed in lemon butter and topped with homemade brown gravy. The spaetzle (German noodles) are a real homemade treat and not to be missed — throw a little of that brown gravy on them and they could be a meal unto themselves. As you look around, you can’t help but get the feeling that most of the patrons are returning customers. 2209 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-7857565 $$

Chef Dee’s. SUSHI • SEAFOOD A small neighborhood place with plenty of charm. Impressive sushi rolls and a varied menu with something for everyone. 3919 N. Federal Highway., 954-582-4444 $$

Dangerous Minds Brewing Co., BREWERY • ARTISANAL PIZZA

Dangerous Minds is more than just a brewery. This spot at Pompano Citi Centre offers artisanal pizzas made from scratch using double-zero Italian flour. Their specialty is a Scotch egg which is a soft boiled egg wrapped in homemade sausage and then fried until crispy on the outside. But back to the brewery — all the beers are brewed on-site and owners Adam and Andre hale from Germany and England — two countries steeped in beer tradition. 1901 N Federal Highway, 954-657-8676 $-$$

Darrel & Oliver’s Cafe Maxx. INTERNATIONAL This restaurant is an anchor of the South Florida fine dining scene. 2601 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-782-0606 $$$$

Deep Oceanfront Dining & Bar. AMERICAN Beach front dining

at the Beachcomber Resort — go for the view. Open for breakfast lunch and dinner. 1200 S. Ocean Blvd. 954-941-7830 $$$

Deccan Spice. INDIAN Take your pick from classic dishes like chicken tikka and all sorts of biryani and curry dishes to some Indo-Chinese twists like crunchy stir-fried noodles. There are plenty of vegetarian options on this menu to choose from too, and of

Dining Out course, many variations on naan — Indian flatbread. 1149 S.Federal Highway, 954-366-1847 $$

Di Farina Pasta Factory & Restaurant. ITALIAN We all know

that fresh cut pasta is superior to the dried variety we have become accustomed to. But making pasta from scratch is a process.

But what if you could just pick it up nearby or even have it delivered. Dreams do come true. Di Farina offers a variety of freshly made pasta to go. And if you can’t even be bothered to make a sauce, they’ve got 19 from which to choose. The restaurant also has a full menu of Italian favorites. 1915 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-9536771 $$

Dos Amigos. MEXICAN When you feel the hankering for a fajita, this Pompano Beach spot fits the bill. Try the margaritas too. 1308 N. Federal Highway 954-781-1955 $$ Flanigan’s Seafood Bar & Grill. SEAFOOD • AMERICAN Enjoy

a deal every day. 2500 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-943-3762 $$

The Foundry. AMERICAN • CONTINENTAL Seating options galore, from bar seating to lounge seating and old-fashioned casual dining seating. 2781 E. Atlantic Blvd., 754-205-6977 $$ Galuppi’s. AMERICAN What could be more entertaining than watching golfers swing and blimps ascend as you sip a drink at an outdoor bar? 1103 N. Federal Highway, 954-785-0226 $ Gianni’s Italian Restaurant. ITALIAN Enjoy traditional Italian

fare at this family-owned and operated establishment, serving everything from pasta to gourmet specialties like Chicken Gianni’s and fresh seafood. Don’t skip the romaine salad with the blue cheese. Pair your dish with a bottle of wine or cocktail from their full bar. They also offer daily lunch specials Monday – Friday.

1601 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-942-1733 $$

Great Indian Grill. INDIAN If you like Indian food, this place should go on your “must-try” list. Everything we sampled (and we ate quite a bit) was packed with tantalizing Indian spices and flavors representing the many different regional styles of Indian cooking.. 2692 E Atlantic Blvd., 954-532-7872 $$

The Gyro Joint. MIDDLE EASTERN Eat in or carry out. It’s all Greek to me. 165 S. Cypress Road, 954-946-9199 $

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www.Le-val-de-loire.com 54 pointpubs.com •

POINT! PUBLISHING

Houston’s. AMERICAN Enjoy this contemporary eatery for lunch or dinner. Outdoor bar and seating on the Intracoastal available.

2821 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-783-9499 $$$

J Mark’s. AMERICAN A relaxing, modern restaurant and bar with food and service to match. 1490 NE 23rd St., 954-782-7000 $$$

Kabuki. JAPANESE • THAI Kabuki offers a full menu of Thai and Japanese entrées plus classic and specialty sushi rolls all in a hip and modern setting. 2515 E Atlantic Blvd., 954-951-6077 $$ Kin Asian Street Food. ASIAN • SUSHI Enjoy everything from inventive takes on ramen soups with pork belly and a jammy egg to original the rice bowls. The small bite options were some of our favorites. We swooned over the shiitake buns, mushrooms with pickled sour mustard, ground peanuts and cilantro all on a steamed rice bun. The gyoza was also a star — the dough was light and tender with a flavorful pork and vegetable filling. The restaurant has a comprehensive sushi menu, but this is definitely a place to order outside of your comfort zone. After all, isn’t sushi the new pizza? 143 SW Sixth St., 954-532-4567 $$ La Perla Di Pompano. ITALIAN This small and intimate Italian eatery offers a wide selection of Italian dishes including four different risotto dishes alone. 420 N Federal Highway, 754-222-9174

$$$-$$$$

La Veranda. ITALIAN The atmosphere is elegant, yet comfort-

cludes traditional, vegetarian and vegan choices. 900 E Atlantic Blvd., 954-317-1371 $$

able and warm. Inside or out, one can enjoy a truly special evening in the Tuscany-inspired surroundings. Be it drinks from their full bar, a bottle from the copious wine selection or naturally the Italian food, everything is served perfectly. Expect to be delighted. There is a big selection of pasta, entrées and traditional dishes, with new favorites to be discovered that the wait staff will happily explain. You can taste the love in their homemade desserts. If you’re looking to celebrate or simply treat yourself to an evening of wonderful dining, La Veranda is an excellent choice.

Reservations are suggested. 2121 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-943-7390

Mora Grill. MEDITERRANEAN This cozy yet modern spot is open for lunch and dinner. The menu includes a range of Mediterranean favorites from kebobs to gyros and more. They offer lunch specials ranging in price form $9-11 and family-style platters for six people served with appetizers, salads, kebobs, rice and vegetables for $115. 3428 E. Atlantic Blvd, 954-933-2003 $$ Nikki’s Greek Kitchen. CONTINENTAL Enjoy salads and entrées all with a slight Mediterranean influence including housemade hummus and tzatsiki, gyros, spinach pie and more. Have dinner and take a stroll — it’s why we live here, people. 1 N. Ocean Blvd., Ste. 102, (on the northwest corner of Atlantic Boulevard and A1A on the ground floor of the Oceanside One building) 954-4013131 $$-$$$

$$$

Legends Tavern and Grille. AMERICAN Enjoy gastropub fare including sandwiches, burgers, wings, salads and a huge choice of appetizers. 10 SW Sixth St.$-$$ Lucky Fish Beach Bar + Grill. AMERICAN It’s places like Lucky’s that make you happy you live in South Florida. This tiki bar by the sea (just south of the pier) offers simple eats, some top-notch people watching all with an ocean view. A meal or drink at Lucky’s is a laid back dining experience — which might just be what the doctor ordered. The menu includes classic snack foods like coconut shrimp and fish dip to tuna poke nachos. There’s also salads, sandwiches and smash burgers. You can also order to go for a picnic on the beach. 222 N Pompano Beach Blvd. $

Oceanic. AMERICAN • SEAFOOD Along with stunning ocean

views, the restaurant offers a comprehensive menu with an emphasis on seafood. If you are looking for a standout salad, the watermelon arugula salad with grilled shrimp is a perfect choice.

The restaurant boasts dazzling architecture inspired by ocean liners of years past. And with sweeping views of the Atlantic, dining at Oceanic is almost like a mini stay-cation. 250 N. Pompano Beach Blvd., 954-366-3768

Miami Masala. INDIAN Enjoy classic Indian dishes as well as a few more modern ones with an Indian twist. The stuffed Hungarian peppers appetizer, while not being a classic Indian dish, had all the flavors fans of the cuisine crave. Great service by a friendly staff. Try the Indian crepe — crazy good. A daily lunch buffet in-

Pho Lavie. VIETNAMESE If you have never had Vietnamese food, you are missing out. This spot will delight you. Everything is so fresh. Go and have some pho (Vietnamese noodle soup), you’ll thank us. 3321 N. Federal Highway, 954-941-4155 $$

Just like grandma’s recipe COME TO OUR RESTAURANT OR VISIT OUR PASTA FACTORY TO COOK IT YOURSELF.

You will be amazed Join us for patio seating with live music Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights!

Monday Wine Day, bottles

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Open for Lunch Monday to Saturday 11am-3pm $9.95

includes soup or salad with maind course of short or long fresh pasta.

NOW open Sunday 3:00pm to 9:00 pm

www.difarinapasta.com | (954) 953-6771

1915 E. Atlantic Blvd., Pompano Beach DECEMBER 2021 • pointpubs.com

55

SNOW TIME • Authentic Bubble Tea (Boba Tea) fresh brewed daily • Naturally favored paper-thin shaven ice cream • Unique Eastern Asian Snacks • Created with only quality ingredients

Dining Out Ruby’s by the Sea. ITALIAN Tucked away in a small strip mall near the Hillsboro inlet is Ruby’s serving classic Italian fare. 2608 N. Ocean Blvd., 954-785-7700 $$ Rusty Hook Tavern. AMERICAN Located on the Pompano In-

tracoastal, sit inside or outside, just keep in mind that the word tavern means a local place to gather around the table. 125 N. Riverside Drive, 954-941-2499 $$

Saito Japanese Steakhouse. JAPANESE With seven locations

in South Florida, the long-awaited opening of Saito has finally happened. This Japanese steakhouse offers a wide variety of entrees including teriyaki dishes, tempura and sushi. Diners can choose to sit at the sushi bar or they can enjoy hibachi style dining. The restaurant has a comprehensive cocktail menu as well with 20 different kinds of martinis. 2101 N Federal Highway, suite 208, 954-945-8888 $$

Sands Harbor Patio Restaurant. AMERICAN Located in the

Now available in Lighthouse Point!

Bubble Tea (Boba Tea)

A tea-based drink created in Taiwan and gaining popularity throughout the world.

In the Shoppes at Beacon Light 2482 N. Federal Hwy., Lighthouse Point • 954-597-6269 snowtime_cream

Sands Harbor Hotel and Marina on the intracoastal, you can dine poolside or waterside, either way, you better know how to swim.

125 N. Riverside Drive, 954-942-9100 $$

Seaside Grill. SEAFOOD • AMERICAN Enjoy a view of the Atlantic while enjoying fresh seafood and an iced cold cocktail. Don’t worry if you’re not a fish lover — there are plenty of entrée choices from the land. Located at Lighthouse Cove Resort on the ocean.

1406 N. Ocean Blvd., 954-783-3193 $$ Shishka Lebanese Grill. MIDDLE EASTERN It’s not easy to make a good falafel (chick peas, fava beans garlic and cilantro seasoned and deep fried, served with tahini sauce) but the ones at Shishka are worth every single calorie. There are plenty of other choices too from the classic hummus to baba ghanouj to chicken and meat shawarma. 1901 N. Federal Highway, 954-943-2999 $$

Family Owned & Operated

Spanx the Hog BBQ. BARBECUE Spanx uses natural ingredients and offers dine in, take out, and custom catering. 147 S. Cypress Road. 954-590-8342 $

SINCE 1989

Sunset Catch. ITALIAN • SEAFOOD Seafood, steaks and Italian favorites are served daily, and they even have their very own “wine doctor.” 101 N. Riverside Drive, 954-545-0901 $$ Table 2201. MEDITERRANEAN Everything at Table 2201 is made

on the premises — even the desserts. Start with the pygros, a tower of eggplant, potatoes and ground beef topped with a cool yogurt sauce. 2201 E. Atlantic Blvd., 718-600-2236 $$

Take Sushi. JAPANESE • SUSHI Fresh, authentic Japanese fair

delivered to your door? Yes, please. 2714 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954785-2442 $$

Trattoria Novello. ITALIAN This intimate Italian eatery on Atlantic Boulevard features homemade lasagna, ravioli, cannelloni and a Bolognese ragu that cooks for eight hours on the stove. 2665 East Atlantic Blvd., 954-876-1915 $$$ Umberto’s of Long Island. ITALIAN • PIZZA When a pizza is

OUTDOOR DINING & TAKE-OUT AVAILABLE 1601 E. Atlantic Blvd., Pompano Beach (954) 942-1733 • giannisitalianrestaurant.com MON-THURS 11am-3pm & 4-9pm FRI 11am-3pm & 4-9:30pm SAT 4-9:30pm SUN 4-9pm 56 pointpubs.com •

POINT! PUBLISHING

named Grandma’s Pizza — you must order it. And trust us, you won’t regret it. There is family tradition baked into every bite. But, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention that Umberto’s offers all the Italian standards. 2780 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-784-7110 $$

Valentino’s Italian Cuisine. ITALIAN • PIZZA An abundance of Italian fare served for lunch or dinner. If you can’t make it over to dine in, fret not, they offer free delivery. 427 S. Federal Highway, 954-545-4881 $$

Wings N’ Things. WINGS • BARBECUE It doesn’t look like much

from the outside but it’s worth trying. 150 S. Sixth St., 954-7819464 $

Zuccarelli. ITALIAN • PIZZA This place is more than just a pizza joint. From eggplant Parmesan to shrimp fra diavolo, you will leave quite satisfied. The portions are generous and come with a fresh house salad. Bring your breath mints because their warm garlic rolls are on point. 1340 N. Federal Highway, 954-941-1261 $

LIGHTHOUSE POINT Bonefish Mac’s Sports Grill. AMERICAN Bar food and wide

array of televised sports games with a game room for kids. 2002 E Sample Road, 954-781-6227 $

Cap’s Place. SEAFOOD Lighthouse Point’s own hidden seafood joint dating back to prohibition. Take the short boat ride over to the restaurant. 2765 NE 28th Court, 954-941-0418 $$$ Fetta Republic. GREEK Traditional Greek offerings close to home. 2420 N. Federal Highway, 954-933-2394 $-$$

Fish Shack. SEAFOOD This restaurant used to be a “best kept secret.” But now that they have moved into the Shoppes at Beacon Light, word is out. The fish shack keeps it simple, serving fresh fish prepared several ways. There is more to the menu but it is called The Fish Shack. 2460 N. Federal Highway, 954-586-4105 $$

Le Bistro. CONTINENTAL Professional chef, Andy Trousdale

serves up both classics and inventive new dishes at this little neighborhood gem. Fresh and local produce is always used and vegetarian, dairy free and gluten free menu items are available.

And here’s a note to the wise; the porcini mushroom soup is worth every calorie. The restaurant also offers cooking classes and wine tasting dinners. 4626 N. Federal Highway, 954-946-9240 $$$

Legends Tavern and Grille. AMERICAN Enjoy gastropub fare including sandwiches, burgers, wings, salads and a huge choice of appetizers. 3128 N Federal Highway, 754-220-8932 The Nauti Dawg Marina Café. AMERICAN Nestled in at the

Lighthouse Point Marina, the Nauti Dawg is a local favorite. Start with the tuna wontons—crispy fried wonton wrappers topped with tuna tartare, seaweed salad, red pepper mayo, wasabi and a hit of sriracha. You can’t go wrong with the fresh fish sandwich—ask what the catch of the day is. They are a dog-friendly restaurant. 2830 NE 29th Ave. (at the Lighthouse Point Marina), 954-941-0246 $$

Papa’s Raw Bar. SUSHI • SEAFOOD While the fresh food is the real star, the Keys-inspired decor certainly accounts for part of their charm. The menu goes way beyond typical raw bar offerings with inventive tacos and sliders. Try the Donoghue — made of lump crab meat with spicy mayo and eel sauce and served with taro chips. And to wash it all down, they have about a zillion craft beer options and a good wine list too. 4610 N. Federal Highway, 754-307-5034 $$-$$$ Rocca Trattoria. ITALIAN A small and intimate neighborhood place. Watch owner and chef Lucy prepare your favorite dishes in the open kitchen. 2014 E Sample Road, 954-876-1733 $$

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DECEMBER 2021 • pointpubs.com

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Dining Out New Yo r Thin C k Style rust Piz za Dine In • Take Out • Delivery* *(Minimum Delivery $10.00)

We cater ALL occasions Open Daily Monday-Saturday: 11am - 10pm Sunday: 4pm - 10pm

954-941-0550 • LittleItalianPizza.net 448 S. Cypress Road, Pompano Beach

DEERFIELD BEACH Baja Cafe. MEXICAN A long established local favorite for an authentic Mexican dinner or just drinks. They are known for their margarita’s as well as entrées including their bandito honey bean burritos and their many taco options. You’ll also enjoy their fresh endless chips served with two types of salsa. 1310 S. Federal Highway, 954-596-1304 $$ Barracuda Seafood Bar & Grill. SEAFOOD • BRAZILIAN This spot by the sea serves seafood with a touch of Brazilian flare.

1965 NE Second St., 954-531-1290 $$ Café Med. ITALIAN Authentic Italian restaurant right on the

ocean with an Italian chef from Rome. Excellent service, coupled with carefully prepared dishes just across from the ocean always provides for a lovely dinner. Live music nightly. Breakfast and dinner available daily. 2096 NE Second St. (at the Wyndham Hotel), 954-596-5840 $$$

Casa Maya. MEXICAN Start with a margarita and it only gets better from there. This is not your typical Mexican joint — it’s better. Try gobernador tacos: a combination of shrimp with diced poblanos, onions, tomatoes and cilantro on a crispy corn tortilla topped with melted cheese. See, we told you it’s not ordinary. 301 SE 15th Terrace, 954-570-6101 $$ Deer Creek Grille. AMERICAN Enjoy the club atmosphere with

gorgeous views of the plush gardens and waterfall. The restaurant offers daily lunch and dinner specials, a Sunday breakfast buffet and covered patio dining so you can dine al fresco. 2801 Deer Creek Country Club Blvd., 954-421-5553 $$

Le Val de Loire Restaurant. FRENCH • STEAKHOUSE The menu at this cozy bistro includes many of the classics. So next time you crave sole meunière, filet mignon au poivre or beef bourguignon, you don’t have to go any further than the Cove.

The steakhouse menu includes a New York strip and a rib eye, among other cuts. Yet, Le Val de Loire is a French restaurant, so they offer three sauces with the steaks — including a mushroom cream sauce. Classic steakhouse-sides like creamed spinach are also available. 1576 SE Third Court, 954-427-5354 $$$ Little Havana. CUBAN Little Havana has fantastic lunch spe-

cials and most of their dinner plates will feed two. Their masas de puerco frita and their Little Havana steak are two of the standout menu items. 721 N. Federal Highway, 954-427-6000 $$

Patio Bar & Grill. CONTINENTAL Enjoy cocktails just feet from the sandy beaches of Deerfield. This casual spot at the Wyndham serves casual fare. You can stick to the classics like wings or a shrimp cocktail. Or be more adventurous and enjoy an order of volcano spring rolls stuffed with crab and served with sriracha mayo and wakame slaw. They also serve a wide variety of burgers and plenty of fresh salads and savory entrees. There is often live music contributing to the energetic vibe. 2096 NE Second St., (at the Wyndham Deerfield Beach Resort) 954-596-8618 $$ Taj. INDIAN This unassuming eatery in the Cove Shopping center

has been quietly chugging along for years. The restaurant serves various Indian favorites, including tandoori breads, biryani, lamb specialties, and plenty of vegetarian options. 201 SE 15th Terrace, 954-427-0423 $$

Tijuana Taxi Co. MEXICAN The atmosphere is friendly and fun all around. There is outdoor patio seating available and a large U-shaped bar inside. 1015 S. Federal Highway, 954-708-2775 $$ Whales’ Rib. SEAFOOD Locals know it well and tourists know it from “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.” Whatever you do, don’t skip the whale fries. 2031 NE Second St., 954-421-8880 $$

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Fast & Casual

Borogodo Brazilian Grill. BRAZILIAN Open for lunch Monday-Friday 11am-4:30pm; Saturday 11am-5:30pm. 7 SE 22nd Ave., 954-782-8040 $

Anne Marie’s Pizza and Wine Co. ITALIAN Enjoy a cheesy

deli sandwiches, subs, wraps homemade soups, breakfast, bagels and homemade baked knishes. Open for breakfast and lunch Monday-Saturday, 8:30am-4pm. 2657 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954816-9649 $

POMPANO BEACH Fast & Casual slice of New York style pizza, bruschetta or classic chicken Francese. 2313 N. Federal Highway, Pompano Beach 954-590-2100. $-$$

Broad Street Deli. BREAKFAST • DELICATESSEN Jewish style

Asian Deluxe Cuisine. ASIAN A new and convenient spot for

Cafe Brie. SANDWICHES • SALADS A little gem of a place that serves fantastic sandwiches, salads, quiche and desserts. 2765 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-532-7800 $

Bakery Fusion. Cafe Bakery This spot at Pompano Citi Centre is a handy spot to grab a coffee and a fresh-baked good. The menu also includes many different sandwiches, soups, salads and smoothies. You can also find fresh bread such as baguettes, ciabatta and other daily selections. There is also a wide selection of coffee drinks, from cappuccino to an affogato (espresso with vanilla ice cream). 1901 N. Federal Highway (Pompano Citi Centre), 954-532-7383 $

Cafe Sportivo. CAFE Cash only, but don’t let that stop you. They are family owned and operated with a variety of espresso drinks.

2219 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-782-6672 $

some grab and go favorites. From small bites like crab Rangoon and goyza to a variety of curry and noodle dishes. 2608 N Ocean Blvd., 954-960-5060 $$

Bella Monte Italian Deli. SANDWICHES 2688 E. Atlantic Blvd.,

954-946-0333 $

Brendans. BAR AND GRILL Burgers, wings and more — you get the picture. 868 N. Federal Highway, 954-786-0033 $ Big Louie’s. ITALIAN • PIZZA A South Florida chain offering classic Italian dishes. 2190 N. Federal Highway, 954-942-5510 $

Cannoli Kitchen. ITALIAN , The Cannoli Kitchen, has been a

staple for fast-casual Italian fare in Boca Raton since 1996. Now, lucky for the folks in Pompano, they are open at a new location in the Pompano Beach Fishing Village. Their offerings go way beyond just pizza — try one of their many pasta dishes, calzones, subs, stromboli and other Italian classics like shrimp fra diabolo, chicken or veal marsala, and so many more. And of course, finish your meal with homemade cannoli. If you’re having a party or family gathering, the Cannoli Kitchen is a great option to cater your affair. You can order online or call the number listed or here.

255 N. Pompano Beach Blvd., 954-737-3737 $$

SEASIDE AND GRILL Casual restaurant offering beachside dining, delicious seafood and steaks.

Takeout Available!

Order on www.seasidegrill.com 954.783.3193 1406 N. Ocean Boulevard, Pompano Beach DECEMBER 2021 • pointpubs.com

59

Sweet Gifts

for the Holidays!

Dining Out Carlucci’s Brick Oven Trattoria & Pizzeria. ITALIAN Ital-

Treat your friends, family, clients & staff to the gift they’ll never return!

ian favorites and brick oven pizza at the beach. Open lunch and dinner Monday-Thursday 11am-10pm, Friday-Saturday 11am-11pm, Sunday 12-10pm. 3420 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-946-3150 $$

Let us customize a gift basket, gift tin, or ready-to-ship gift box! We can even include your marketing materials.

Chez Cafe. COFFEE • BAKERY A warm and cozy place to grab breakfast, lunch or a latte. 1631 S. Cypress Road, 954-933-3453 $

NOW OPEN IN POMPANO BEACH

Coldfish. PAN-ASIAN Sushi drive-thru? We’re in! Coldfish, serves

Pan-Asian cuisine in fun and colorful atmosphere. 1750 N. Federal Highway, contact@coldfish.com

Dandee Donut Factory. BAKERY • PASTRIES From the classic old fashioned sour cream to Boston cream, these babies are just begging to be dunked. Bagels, breakfast and lunch also available.

1900 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-785-1461 $

Five Girls. BURGERS • PIZZA Check out this cozy, neighborhood joint. Five Girls offers all the classics you crave including burgers, hand cut fries and the owner’s favorite Philadelphia cheesesteaks. 2659 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-783-8889 $

Kilwins Lauderdale by the Sea - by 117the Commercial Blvd, Kilwins Lauderdale Sea LBTS, 33308 954-267-8991 117 Commercial Blvd, LBTS, 33308 Kilwins Pompano Beach - 265 N Pompano Beach Blvd, 954-267-8991 Pompano Beach, 33062 - 954-876-1863

Bakery Fusion Café. BAKERY AND CAFE Bakery Fusion Café of-

Kilwins Pompano Beach 265 N Pompano Beach Blvd, Pompano Beach, 33062 954-876-1863

La Rachetta at Whole Foods Market. PIZZA AND WINE BAR

10% OFF ALL BASKETS ORDERED BY DECEMBER 15TH

fers artisan breads, ice cream, pastries and other desserts. Grab a coffee and a pastry and enjoy a beautiful Florida day or dine inside in their newly renovated elegant space. 1901 N. Federal Highway, Suite #112; 954-532-7383

Enjoy weekly deals with plenty of beers on tap and wines by the glass. For something different, try the sweet southern swine pizza — a light and crispy pizza topped with pork belly, arugula and cheese. They have daily specials served with a draft beer for $8.

And the truffle fries are great with anything. 2411 N. Federal Highway, 954-786-3535 $

Jet’s Pizza. PIZZA Try one of the specialty pizzas such as Philly

cheese steak with Alfredo sauce or the BLT. 437 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-782-5387 $

Jukebox Diner. DINER Bright, classic seating, jukeboxes, and that old-school diner feel. 2773 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-960-5882 $ Lester’s Diner. DINER American comfort fare in a retro setting.

1924 E. Atlantic Blvd., 954-783-2109 $ Lighthouse Cove Tiki Bar. AMERICAN Seaside eats and happy hours. 1406 N. Ocean Blvd., 954-784-2804 $$ Little Italian. PIZZA Little Italian Pizza is the best kind of Italian restaurant — the kind that feels like a hole-in-the-wall, but quickly grows vibrant as the large, steaming plates of homestyle Italian dishes come barreling out of the kitchen. The restaurant has a huge menu with stromboli, calzone, soups, salads, subs, 26 kinds of specialty pizzas, baked pasta dishes, chicken and veal entrées and all your traditional pasta dishes and desserts. 448 S. Cypress Road, 954-941-0550 $-$$ Mini Pita. MEDITERRANEAN The comprehensive menu includes

plenty of salads, pita melts, sandwiches, gyros, shawarma, kebabs, falafel and a choice of entrees that includes lamb chops and mousaka. 2555 E Atlantic Blvd. 954-532-9595 $$

Nelson’s Diner. DINER Nelson’s diner, which was just purchased

by the owners of Galuppi’s, is a cute, hole-in-the-wall 50s diner with Elvis memorabilia on the walls, baseball flags on the ceiling, friendly servers and classic red vinyl booths. 438 S Cypress Road, 954-785-3646 $

Snow Time. This spot for treats features bubble tea (boba) in about a zillion flavors. If you are looking for a something new, different and delicious, get thee some bubble tea. Other sweet treats available are paper thin shaven ice cream and authentic

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Asian snacks. 2482 N. Federal Highway in the Shoppes at Beacon Light, 954-59-6269 $

Stingers Pizza. PIZZA • AMERICAN Dine in or order delivery.

They will bring your pizza to the Beach—a million minds making the world a better place. 1201 S. Ocean Blvd., 954-782-2344 $

Sunshine Bagel. BAGELS • DELI Serving up bagels and sandwiches in a friendly atmosphere. 260 N. Ocean Blvd., 954-788-7498 $

The Chicken Box & More. • SOUTHERN This small spot with

just a couple of tables serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and does a robust take-out business. The shrimp and grits with scrambled eggs are a top-notch breakfast or a perfect “breakfast-for-dinner” option. The fried pork chops were delicately coated and crispy. We tried them with a classic potato salad and collard greens. The greens were stellar — they were juicy and perfectly seasoned with bits of pork supplying a pleasing heft.

And who doesn’t love a marvelous fried chicken wing? If you are searching for a solidly authentic taste of comfort, the meatloaf is a must. 204 N Flagler Avenue, 954-781-7400

The Poké Company. • POKÉ If you haven’t tried a poke bowl,

now is your big chance. Build your own bowl by choosing a base of rice or greens, then add a protein such as ahi tuna or steamed shrimp, then go to town with the mix-ins and sauces. Then top your bowl with everything from pickled ginger to tempura flakes.

There are an infinite amount of choices. If bowls aren’t your thing, you can build your own poké burrito. 1154 N. Federal Highway, 754-220-8933

Tortillería Mexicana. MEXICAN Looking for a taco that goes beyond ground beef and toppings? Not only will they supply you with fresh, unique tacos, but the corn tortillas are made from scratch daily. Who does that? 1614 E. Sample Rd., 954-943-0057 $

LIGHTHOUSE POINT Fast & Casual Burger Fi. BURGERS Everything at Burger Fi is cooked to order.

Don’t miss the fries and the larger-than-life onion rings. The breakfast all day burger is topped with a fried egg. 3150 N. Federal Highway, 954-933-7120 $ Legends Tavern and Grille. AMERICAN With three locations,

they must be doing something right. 3128 N Federal Highway, 754220-8932 $-$$

Red Fox Diner. DINER Treat yourself to one of the daily specials at the Red Fox and you just might be able to skip dinner. But if you are in the mood for some comforting diner food, Red Fox never disappoints. Breakfast and lunch served daily. 2041 NE 36th St., (Sample Road) 954-783-7714 $ Packy’s Sports Pub. SPORTS BAR If you are looking for a local spot to watch the game, Packy’s always seems to pack them in.

4480 N. Federal Highway, 954-657-8423 $

Expires 1/31/22. Participating locations only.

Extra toppings chicken, meatballs & steak substitutions, extra dipping sauces and dressings, tax and delivery additional. Must present coupon. Cannot be combined with any other coupon! Prices subject to change without notice.

Nutrition information available at JetsPizza.com/Nutrition

DEERFIELD BEACH Fast & Casual Biondo’s Pizza. PIZZA • SUBS Dine-in or take-out available. For

something other than pizza, try the stromboli or the wings. 606 S. Federal Highway, 954-427-7754 $-$$

Bob’s Pizza. PIZZA • ITALIAN Pizza served remarkably close to the Beach — as if pizza could be get any better. 2076 NE Second St., 954-426-1030 $ DECEMBER 2021 • pointpubs.com

61

AUTO CRITIC

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Charlie’s Fish Fry. SEAFOOD Hey, it’s not quite Martha’s Vineyard but Charlies is a great spot to satisfy a craving for fish and chips. There are plenty of other options — it’s almost like a quick trip to a New England clam bar — almost. 1200 E. Hillsboro Blvd., 954-573-7198 $$ Charm City. BURGERS Try the emperor — an American kobe beef patty with aged Swiss, truffled aioli and sautéed mushrooms — a burger fit for a king. 1136 E. Hillsboro Blvd., 954-531-0300 $$ El Jefe. MEXICAN For a truly inventive take on Mexican street food, this small yet bright and cheery taco joint is full of surprises. 27 N. Federal Highway, 954-246-5333 $ Gelateria. GELATO Offering more than 26 flavors of gelato. Open daily. 2096 NE Second St. (at the Wyndham Hotel), 694-428-2850 $

Michael’s Pizzeria. PIZZA Closed Mondays 1645 SE Third Court, Deerfield Beach, 954-426-1515 $ Nick’s Pizza. PIZZA Nick’s family moved from the Bronx to Deerfield Beach 13 years ago and opened Nick’s Pizza. The restaurant offers an extensive Italian catering menu, delivery and New York Style pizza. 137 NE Second Ave., 954-421-6700. $-$$ The Pickle Barrel. DELICATESSEN Get in touch with your inner

New Yorker at this old style deli complete with friendly guys behind the counter filling your sandwich with enough pastrami to feed a family. 33 E. Hillsboro Blvd., 954-427-0650 $

Olympia Flame. DINER With a traditionally huge diner menu,

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you can’t go wrong at the Olympia Flame. For a real treat, try the turkey pot pie. The friendly staff makes you feel like a regular — even if you aren’t — but you should be. 80 S. Federal Highway, 954-480-8402 $

Pizza Piez. ITALIAN Yes, they have pizza plus salads, chicken tenders and more. 614 SE 10th St., 754-212-2396 $

The Sticky Bun. DELI • BAKERY • Brunch Everyone will find

something to munch on, whether it be their flourless chocolate cake or a short rib panini with fontina cheese and pickled red onions… yum. We’re still dreaming about the BLT. 1619 SE Third Court, 754-212-5569 $

Tropical Grill Island Cuisine. CARIBBEAN Don’t be fooled by

954-942-5959 550 N. Flagler Ave., Pompano Beach Powerandplaymotorsports.com

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POINT! PUBLISHING

the counter service at this beachside eatery where the offerings range from escovitch snapper to shrimp curry. Grab a table outside for people watching. Meal prices range from $11-$25. 241 N. Ocean Drive, 754-227-5055. $$

Umberto’s. PIZZA Family tradition baked into every bite. Try Grandma’s pizza, square pizza with fresh tomato and basil and of course, mozzarella. 233 N. 21st Ave., 954-421-7200 $-$$

Email us with any additions, closings, or corrections at editor@pointpubs.com. We try to be accurate, but it’s always a good idea to call first before heading out on your dining adventure.

MEDICARE QUESTIONS?

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63

Last Resort

Romantic Getway

BAOASE LUXURY RESORT, CURAÇAO Suppose you are looking for a romantic getaway, or you are in desperate need of some deep relaxation (who isn't?). In that case, the Baoase Luxury Resort in Curaçao is the destination you seek. This boutique resort offers only 23 units, including nine private villas. The property is situated around a private lagoon with staff available to cater to all of your beach-going needs.

Naturally, dining is a crucial element in any vacation. The Boaose culinary team offers fine

dining and themed nights, including Saturday barbecue and Asian night on Sunday, among others. Or simply enjoy breakfast on the beach.

Curaçao is part of the Dutch West Indies and is still pretty Dutch-like. Many local menus feature both Dutch classics and Caribbean favorites. The architecture in the capital city of Willemstad is reminiscent of Amsterdam. So, while the island is located between Aruba and Bonaire and only a boat ride away from Venezuela, you could imagine you're in a quaint European town. Y

For more about Insider Excursions and media travel visit insiderexcursions.com.

64 pointpubs.com •

POINT! PUBLISHING

WILLIAM

LEONEM.D.

Superior Results for Hip and Knee Surgery Our Caring, Patient-Centered Practice My practice combines world-class orthopaedic care in a warm and welcoming environment where every patient is treated with respect, the way I would want my family to be cared for. From the rst phone call, you will nd my team 100 percent engaged in addressing your needs.

I care for people in their 80s and 90s who refuse to relinquish their independence and opt for surgery to regain an active lifestyle. I also treat patients in their 20s and 30s who desire an improved quality of life and want to feel “normal” again.

Safely Going Home the Day of Surgery My emphasis on preempting and preventing pain after surgery has been a game changer. Patients walk the day of surgery and the vast majority of my patients go straight home the afternoon of their hip or knee replacement surgery. This requires coordinated pre-operative planning and detailed communication between my staff and the patient.

“Dr. Leone is the best. I had my left hip done using the SPAIRE technique and the recovery was so incredible I decided to have my right hip done.” ~Bettina Kapp

“I went to three orthopedic surgeons and Dr. Leone was the only one who discovered the underlying cause of my knee pain. Four days after my knee revision surgery I was walking eight miles.” ~Dan Bell

CONTACT

The Leone Center for Orthopedic Care at Holy Cross Health 954-489-4575 | leonecenter@holy-cross.com 1000 NE 56th Street | Fort Lauderdale holycrossleonecenter.com

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