The Atlantic Current - Issue 8

DEC 2013 - JAN 2014 • ISSUE 8

day ide i l o H Gu r a e G Extreme Kayak Fishing

Lacie Flynn

Short Straw Pickers

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welcome

to the atlantic current

Photo: Ben Hicks

In This Issue In this issue of The Atlantic Current Magazine we go from extreme

you learn how the team there is changing the meaning of disability.

to serene, deprivation to inspiration, dropping in to dropping out,

Next, we interview Captain David Ide, a 3rd generation charter boat

fishin’, pickin’, SUP to centerfolds, and vegan to….not so much.

captain who claims that every day on the water is “a perfect day”.

Our holiday issue is filled to the brim with everything that is making

To “V” or not to “V”, that is the question. Check out our feature

South Florida tick. Thanks for joining us.

foods, from vegan to….not vegan. It’s all delicious! If you are seeking serenity join us as we visit Morikami and learn about this

We launch with our holiday gift guide featuring the ultimate in cool

beautiful and historical place right in our backyard. Tom Greene

ditties available here locally or online. Next up we take you on an

dishes out his expert advice on local fishing (it’s sailfish season!),

extreme kayak fishing trip. Catching big fish from a kayak? Think

and we wrap it up with photos from our 1st Anniversary Party

not?? Think again. Lacie Flynn stars in our SUP feature, and then

and Pub Crawl----thanks to all of the supporters and fans who

we take a couple of riders and test drive Drop in Action Sports

turned out. On behalf of The Atlantic Current team of writers,

Complex in Boca. This is a great new venue for action sports

photographers, editors, designers, interns, and sponsors, have a

enthusiasts and props to everyone who made it happen.

happy and safe holiday season!

Next, we’ll take you to a very cool place, a sensory deprivation tank where you can do everything from traveling the depths of your mind

Less than one of 1,000 sea turtle hatchlings will survive to

or simply weightless relaxation. Morgan Maria graces our pages as

become adults. Plastic, pollution, improper use of lighting, and

our centerfold. The Short Straw Pickers land our local band feature

habitat degradation threaten their survival. You can help by

where you can learn all about their brand of jamboogiegrassicana.

visiting places like Gumbo Limbo Nature Center in Boca Raton,

Our feature on the Ann Storck Center will inspire and move you as

FL and supporting their sea turtle conservation efforts.

contents

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22 36 55

27 09 | Holiday Gear Guide Looking for that super cool, eye-popping, over the top holiday gift for that special someone? Maybe for yourself! The Current Crew was turned loose to find the stuff anyone will love.

18 | Extreme Kayak Fishing You are the captain, the navigator, the first mate, and the crew in this increasingly popular action sport

22 | Lacie Flynn Lacie is rocking the SUP world and she shares her experiences on the water. After reading this feature you might want to run out and buy a SUP, just don’t try to compete with Lacie…

27 | Drop In Action Sports Complex A vision was realized when Cindi Shendell, the Palm Beach County Commission, Parks and Rec Department, and the West Boca Community Council joined forces to create this new action sports park. The Atlantic Current thanks and congratulates you!

30 | Sensory Deprivation Experience Wanna get away? We mean mentally get away. Join us as we check out one of the only float tanks in South Florida

32 | Centerfold United States Veteran and stunning model Morgan Maria graces our holiday issue’s centerfold

36 | Short Straw Pickers Music writer Dana Krangel brings us the Short Straw Pickers and their brand of “Jamboogiegrassicana”. You’re going to get the short straw if you don’t listen to these guys…

on the cover

42 | Ann Storck Center Feature writer Cash Lambert discovers the amazing work that is being done at this center with a mission to empower those with disabilities

46 | A Perfect Day on the Lady Pamela 2 A perfect day on the water is a reality with 3rd generation fishing Captain David Ide and his crew

48 | Fishing with Tom Greene South Florida waters are alive this time of year and Tom gives you the best advice around. Plus, Sailfish season is upon us so check our events calendar for the latest tournament information

Photo: Ben Hicks Model: Lacie Flynn

50 | Feature Foods Feast your eyes, then your taste buds on some of our latest and greatest food finds

55 | Morikami Writer Chelsea Todaro takes us a thousand miles away (really, right in our own backyard) for a trip to beautiful, serene, and historical Morikami Japanese Gardens and Museum

theatlanticcurrent

@atlanticcurrent

@the_atlantic_current

the crew Publisher and Editor Dustin Wright

Dustin@theatlanticcurrent.com

CFO (Chief Fun Officer) Danny Floyd

Dan@theatlanticcurrent.com

Special Thanks Ah the holiday season. A time to reflect, and give thanks. Lots of things have happened with The Atlantic Current in our first

Art Director

year. But with all of the ups and downs, we couldn’t be more

Juan Carlos Agosto

excited about what the future holds. There are tons of people we would like to thank for getting us to this point. Here

Ad Design

are just a few of the people who have made this magazine

WM Printing Michael Carriegos

possible.

Staff Photographers Ben Hicks Leon Legot Nathan Hamler

ben@bocaratonphoto.com leon@theatlanticcurrent.com nathan@nathanhamlerphotography.com

Sam Scott, Tom Greene, Patty Wright, Yonilee Miller, Trey Smedley, Juan Carlos Agosto, Audrey Lynn Smith, Ben Hicks, Nathan Hamler, Leon Legot, Cash Lambert, Dana Krangel, Joey D., “Hurley” Burley, D.J.P., Short Straw Pickers, Heath Van

Contributing Photographers

Den Bogaert, Morgan Maria, Isabel Osorio, Carm Mazza, WM

Perrin James Jason Arnold Erin Schueler

Printing Crew, YOU the reader, and most of all our friends,

lastbreathfilm.com jasonarnoldphoto.com

supporters, and sponsors in South Florida who make all of this possible.

Writers Cash W. Lambert Dana Krangel

P.S. Special thanks to our former employee and friend Chris James who took his talents to Mexico for a time. Hasta luego

Copy Editor Chelsea Todaro

Web Master Trey Smedley

Biz Consultant Yonilee Miller

mi amigo!

Join Our Crew The Atlantic Current is now accepting resumes for marketing/client relations, sales/account management, writing, distribution, and intern positions. Send your resume/CV to info@theatlanticcurrent.com, or FAU students can apply through the FAU Career Development Center website.

Advertising Opportunities 561.383.0035 ext 101 • info@theatlanticcurrent.com

© The Atlantic Current, 2012-2013, all rights reserved.

No part of this magazine or any of its contents may be reproduced, copied, modified, or adapted without the express written consent of the Publisher.

current events 1 FAU Men’s B-Ball home vs. Warner Southern

Weekend Art Festival

2 Jay-Z @ BB&T Center

1, 3-8 Radio City Christmas Spectacular starring The Rockettes;

2 FAU Women’s B-Ball home vs. Bethune-Cookman

visit Kravis.org 1-3 Fish Heads of Stuart Sailfish Invitational; visit fishheadsofstuart.com 3 Christmas in Las Olas 4 Alabama Shakes @ The Fillmore, Miami 4 43rd Annual Holiday Parade, Boca @ Mizner 5 Delray’s 100 foot Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony @ Old School Square

January

December

30-1 Downtown Delray Beach 14th Annual Thanksgiving

4 Las Olas Art Fair, visit artfestival.com 4 Gregg Allman @ Kravis Center 7 Billy Joel @ BB&T Center 9-11 Silver Sailfish Derby; westpalmbeachfishingclub.org 10 Blackberry Smoke @ Revolution Live 10-11 Jim Beluschi and the Chicago Board of Comedy @ The Improv Palm Beach; check website for showtimes

5-8 Pirates Cove Sailfish Classic; visit

11 Billy Joel @ BB&T Center (2nd date)

piratescovesailfishclassic.com

11 FAU Women’s B-Ball home vs. Rice

6-8 Palm Beaches Marathon and Run Fest; visit usroadsports.com

11-12 27th Annual Boca Fest @ the Shops @ Boca Center

6-9 Sailfish Kickoff @ Miami Beach; visit sailfishkickoff.com

11 Key Largo Beer on the Bay Beer Festival

6 15th Annual Biker’s Bash @ Seminole Hard Rock

12 ESA Contest #4 in Jupiter. Contact pbc.surfesa.org

6 Chris Duarte @ Funky Biscuit

12 Queensryche @ Culture Room

6 Shemekia Copeland @ Bamboo Room

12-16 42nd Annual Gold Cup Invitational Team Fishing

7 ESA (Eastern Surfing Association) Contest #3 in Jupiter, cash

Tournament; visit sailfishclub.com

prize to winner of Sushi Jo Open SUP Surfing Division 7 Toys for Tots Drive @ Coconut Creek Community Center 7 Jupiter Boat Parade and Celebration @ Jupiter Riverwalk 7 Boca Raton Holiday Boat Parade @ Silver Palm Park 7 Hollywood Beach Candy Cane Parade

15 Chris Botti @ Kravis Center 15 FAU Women’s B-Ball home vs. FIU 15-19 Jupiter Billfish Tournament; visit jupiterbillfishtournament.com

7 Palm Beach Holiday Boat Parade benefiting Toys for Tots

16 Indigo Girls @ Kravis Center

7 Pat Travers Band @ Bamboo Room

16 FAU Men’s B-Ball home vs. East Carolina University

9 Jimmy Eat World @ Culture Room

Pirates

11-15 Operation Sailfish-1st Leg of Quest of the Crest Sailfish

17-30 South Florida Fair in WPB

Series @ Singer Island

18 Rock of Ages @ Kravis Center

13 Uproot Hootenanny @ Guanabanas in Jupiter

18 FAU Men’s B-Ball home vs. Old Dominion

13 Michael McDonald “This Christmas” @ Kravis Center

18 2nd Annual Sunshine Music and Blues Festival

13-17 Palm Beach Food and Wine Festival

@ Mizner

13 43rd Annual Boynton/Delray Beach Boat Parade

18-19 25th Annual Downtown Delray Beach Festival of

13 The Resolvers @ Funky Biscuit 13 John Sebastian @ Bamboo Room 14 Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade 14 Toyland in Delray Holiday Parade @ the Intracoastal Bridge 14 7th Annual No Snow Ball @ Mizner featuring Goo Goo Dolls

the Arts 21 10th Annual Taste of Lighthouse Point @ Yacht and Racquet Club 21 Jerry Seinfeld @ Hard Rock Live

and The Fray

21 FAU Men’s B-Ball home vs. Harvard

14 Motown Holiday Spectacular @ Kaye Auditorium, FAU Campus

24-26 Buccaneer Cup/Fish for Life; visit buccaneercup.com

15 Uproot Hootenanny @ Deck 84

25-26 Deerfield Beach 34th Annual Festival of the Arts

15 South Florida Extreme Fitness Expo @ FAU

25 FAU Women’s B-Ball home vs. North Texas

15 Cheech and Chong @ Hard Rock Live 19 Wynton Marsalis @ Kravis Center 20 Chris Isaak Holiday Show @ Kravis 21 The Heavy Pets @ Culture Room 22 Colors of Christmas @ Kravis Center featuring Peabo Bryson, Melissa Manchester, Ruben Studdard, and CeCe Winans 27 Supervillians @ Culture Room 29 Uproot Hootenanny @ JB’s On The Beach 31 New Year’s Eve Event Show @ Funky Biscuit

Check our events calendar on the website for updated info on New Year’s Eve Parties and Events

2013 Holiday

Gear Guide theatlanticcurrent.com

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1 SMS Sync by 50 $229.95 www.smsby50.com

5

6 Tapewood Gordito Grips $50 www.tapewood.com

2 Fridge Monkey $11.70

7 Suunto Helo2 Dive Computer Available at Force-E Scuba

3 May 28th Watches $39 or $44 for custom www.may28th.me

8 Sioux City Watch Co. $76 - 45mm $89 - 52mm Available @ Rogue Wave Surf Shop

4 Chromecast $35

9 Shwood Canby $147 Available at Rogue Wave Surf Shop

5 Ollo Clip iPhone Lens $69.99 www.olloclip.com

10 Fiik Electric Skateboards $850 w/ Lead Battery Available @ Nomad Surf Shop

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Nomad Surf Shop Custom surfboards shaped by Ron Heavyside since 1968 starting at $599. Any imaginable artwork can be completed for an additional cost.

1 2 3 4 5

7’8” Custom Longboard 6’2” Custom Fish w/ quad setup Nixon Blaster $150 Nixon Baja w/ flashlight $150 Toms Lobamba $139 – Each purchase buys a pair of prescription glasses for middle school students in the United States

2

theatlanticcurrent.com 13

5 6

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10 8

3

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Mora 1 Valley beaded belt $34 2 Beach bum crop top $35 3 Zig zag crochet pants $62 4 Tie die leggings $58 5 Mala beads $38 6 Rasta hoodie $58 7 Inka hat $22 8 Crochet laced boots $62 9 Aztec reversible top and bottom $52 (top) and $62 (bottoms) 10 Handmade Surfboard cover $60

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theatlanticcurrent.com 15

5

2

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2nd St Surf Shop 1 5’11” Squash Tri Fin $499 2 5’10” Diamond Tail w/ convertible setup $539 3 Jacuzzi Joe by Duvin $36 4 Yawn Patrol w/ sunglasses holder by Duvin $28 5 Sealion Crew by Duvin $54

4 1

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Photo: Perrin James

Extreme Kayak Fishing With Joe Hector

By Danny Floyd

I must admit I’d never used the word fishing and kayak in the same sentence before. Kayaking to me was a visual of a serene setting, on a lake or some flat body of water, meandering through trees and creeks, maybe like the Indians did, a hippie-dippy nature- scene with granola in the boat and folk songs (“This land is your land, this land is my land……”) in my ear buds. Peace.

So when I started to hear about this new thing called kayak fishing, I thought “this is a neat idea. As long as you are in some kind of vessel that floats and you know how to fish, why not?” What I didn’t know is just how advanced and popular this sport has become, and even more so, that folks were actually taking kayaks offshore and not only catching a lot of fish, but a lot of BIG fish.

So, with Google to the rescue I found a website called extremekayakfishing.com and luckily, the folks who run it are right here South Florida, Joe and Maria Hector. They are local pioneers of a flavor of kayak fishing known as, you guessed it, extreme kayak fishing. How do you define “extreme?’ According to Joe, it is an angler that goes offshore, had his or her kayak tricked out with all the latest gear (just like a regular fishing boat), and fights winds, current, and the open ocean, and catches really big fish.

As Joe tells me all this, I am getting hooked, err, interested. This is sounding pretty cool, pretty dangerous, sort of like a big Pumphouse swell during the Hurricane Sandy days. A huge fish on small tackle in a little bitty kayak, pulling you around the Atlantic until you can land it? How the hell…..? Visions of Moby Dick!

Ok, so how does one get started? Is this a sport where kayak experts need to learn how to fish, or excellent fishermen who need to learn how to kayak? Joe offered his take.

“When extreme kayak fishing started we had a lot of good kayakers who weren’t good fishermen, so the focus was making these people better at fishing, and now they are catching big fish. It’s very easy to get started. There are a lot of great videos on YouTube and on our website. At first, get a kayak and practice with no gear. Get out in the surf, get used to the conditions, start to go farther and farther out until you get comfortable, and then add your gear”.

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“You are the Captain, the Navigator, the First Mate, and you are in control of yourself. It’s all on you.” — Joe Hector Ok then, sounds simple. But what kind of kayak and related gear does a starter need to get? We learned that any kayak will do, from the paddle variety to those equipped with petals (like a bicycle). Many like to be able to pedal since it frees up arms to fish with, plus it’s easier on the body after a long day on the water.

This enables kayak fishermen of all ages to participate, from kids to seniors. Also, any kayak can be customized, so you can start with a basic kayak and add to, everything from storage, rod holders, live bait well, downriggers, outriggers, even pontoons. Starting to sound like a regular fishing boat, right?

Photo: Jason Arnold

Photo: Perrin James

So now for the “dumb” question. “If you hook a big fish, won’t you simply topple over, since you are in a kayak, not a boat?” I have this visual of absolute chaos, capsizing, being pulled into the depths of the Atlantic, clutching my favorite rod and reel with all my might, trying to decide when to let go. “Actually, the kayaks are very stable, some up to 36” wide so you are usually in good control of the kayak, and they are very buoyant” Joe advised. “The biggest mistake people make is taking their eyes off the horizon, when they catch a fish, or even simply turning around to get some bait. When you hook a big one the kayak will turn, so just keep your eyes on the horizon.

Whew, I feel better.

Finally, and most importantly, Joe offered this up: “When you

Do’s and Don’ts:

go offshore, safety is number 1. You are in big open water with

• Never go offshore alone

currents and conditions. Always have a partner, life vest, and

• Never go out at night

safety flags. Know where your land mass boundaries are and

• Always have a life vest

don’t go outside of them.

• Always put up a safety flag (expect that boats will not see you, and a fast boat and a kayak at water level don’t mix well)

Last but not least. If the fishing isn’t good, find a body of water,

• Know your land mass boundaries and stay within them

hop in your kayak and enjoy your day.

To learn more about kayak and extreme kayak fishing, search out videos on YouTube, and visit www.extremekayakfishing. com for local kayak fishing news and information and upcoming tournaments. Joe recommends Nautical Ventures in Dania Beach for the best kayaking gear and accessories.

Photo: Jason Arnold

theatlanticcurrent.com 21

Standing Up and Standing Out

By Cash W. Lambert

Lacie Flynn is paddling. To her left, the sun begins to punch through the watery horizon in a fiery blaze as she paddles twice on the left side of the paddleboard and twice on the right. Left, right. Left, right. The wind doesn’t resist

“I get to see the most amazing things that most don’t. I don’t have to hear the sound of cars or horns or anything. Its just me and the sea.”

her path, and neither does the glassy Atlantic. Left, right.

Left, right. Suddenly, a familiar sound breaks the morning

A native of West Palm Beach, Flynn embodies the South

silence; a sound that she had been waiting for. Three dolphin

Florida lifestyle. If there’s a wave, she’ll surf. While South

effortlessly breathe for air to her right, just as she sees that

Floridians grumble about grueling flat spells – which have

her halfway point of the 14 mile paddle is in sight: the Lake

been plentiful during this fall - they give Flynn an opportunity

Worth Pier.

to consistently train for stand up paddleboard races.

This is her gym, her routine, and her passion. “I like having

She recently took first place in the women’s division at

the entire ocean to myself in the mornings,” she said,

the New York City Sea paddle, which spanned 26 miles. “I

smiling ear to ear.

wouldn’t have ever dreamt of this,” said the 29 year old, referring to her recent paddles in New York, Minnesota, and Washington D.C. “It’s been something I could have never imagined.”

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Photos: Ben Hicks

One Paddle at a Time Flynn’s journey began in a quiet lifeguard tower in Jupiter, daily clocking time near the water. She grew up swimming and running, and was ingrained with a healthy, competitive lifestyle. After working in Jupiter for 10 years, she wanted a change of pace. San Diego suited her, and her path to paddle success began. “While I was there, I started prone paddleboarding, where you sit on knees, bend over and paddle for long distances,” she said. “I came back to Florida and within 2 years, I had won all the races on the East Coast.” At one of the races, the contest director gave away a standup paddleboard to the first place winner. That was Flynn, and through repetition and desire, she was hooked on the SUP. “Eventually I used the SUP for fun,” she said. “Then I began to train on it. And in my first race, I came in 2nd place.”

Now, with a sponsorship from SUP ATX, she’s been prepping for races potentially in California and Hawaii. Throughout the process, she’s never stopped smiling.

Proving Grounds Without preparation, opportunities can slip through your fingers like water. Flynn knows this well, and knows that her training regimen is vital to her success during 6-10 mile paddle races.

“I do a lot of sport specific cross training in the gym with bands and weights,” she said. “I also run a lot, because if you’re paddleboarding properly, then your legs are burning.”

Flynn still gets in the pool a few times a week. But just like surfing, nothing can replicate the exact movements unless you’re on the water. During her sunrise paddles, she usually “starts at Charlie’s Crab, and I paddle to the Lake Worth pier, which is about 14 miles round trip,” she said.

“And on days when I want to do sprints, I’ll go out to the reef and back 5 or 6 times.” But that’s only half of the training needed to endure hours of paddling.

In terms of the mental preparation, Flynn “prays a lot. I know that I’ve trained for it and I’m ready for it, and that my goal is within reach,” she said. “In the New York race, I thought that it was the toughest conditions I’ve ever paddled in. The guy who ended up winning recently paddled a 32mile race the week before and he even said that the New York conditions were tough. Knowing that there are 100 other paddlers in pain along with you helps keep you going, too. The NYC paddle was also for a charity, so you’re paddling to help people. That drives me, knowing that it’s for the good of others and that I have people supporting me all over the country. “ theatlanticcurrent.com 23

Finding Purpose

always want to be here. That may have had a lot to do with

If you meet Flynn, you’ll see in her hazel eyes and white

me choosing to SUP. Had I been somewhere else, things

smile that she has a purpose for everything that she does.

would probably look different.”

The NYC Sea paddle raised more than 6 figures to help Surfers Environmental Charities.

Despite the fact that Flynn just paddled 14 miles from Charlie’s Crab to the Lake Worth Pier and back, she doesn’t

Despite a heavy travel schedule recently, she hasn’t

look tired. She’s smiling like she always does. She slowly

forgotten where she came from. She knows that she can

paddles in, trying to decide what to do – to her right is Palm

have a positive influence in the lives of others. She can be

Beach’s outer reef, and she thinks she has enough energy to

the one that others look to, which is why she’s a coordinator

do a few sprints out and back. She looks to her left and eyes

for Girls on the Run Palm Beach, a non-profit organization

the light traffic following A1A. Her choice is easy. She begins

that is a running based mentoring program. The organization

paddling. Left, right. Left, right.

“combines training for a 5K running event with lessons that inspire girls to become independent thinkers, enhance their problem solving skills and make healthy decisions.”

Tomorrows Agenda Not only does she want to help the younger generations, she also wants to help women become more recognized in her sport. “That’s been a big goal of mine,” she said.

“Paddleboarding is something that anyone can get into and absolutely love it.”

Flynn is always looking forward - to the finish line, to the next race, to the next charity, to the next way to make an

But for now, she’s training in Palm Beach, and when she’s not traveling to a competition, she plans on staying in South Florida. “Palm Beach has the most beautiful waters and I

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Photo: Ben Hicks

impact through her paddle success.

Photo: Ben Hicks theatlanticcurrent.com 25

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“It’s pretty awesome. Every time I come here I can’t resist. I’ll ride outside until dark and then come back in and keep riding.”

– Brian Fox

Photos: Nathan Hamler

Drop In

South Florida’s Newest Action Sports Complex We first met Cindi Shendell about six months back when she mentioned the plans for an action sports complex in Boca Raton.

Of course we loved the idea, but knew she and her team had a long road ahead. Inspired by her son Matt, an avid action sports fan, a plan was put in place. As our staff knows all too well, action sports can be overlooked by many in South Florida.

The stereotypes that are brought by the uninformed can end projects like this long before they begin. The Drop In team worked in conjunction with Palm Beach Board of County Commissioners, the Palm Beach Parks and Recreation and the West Boca Community Council to make this happen. We applaud these members for giving the youth and action sports community a place to practice their art somewhere off the street. Cindi mentioned “We as parents encourage our children to learn to ride a bike. When our children explore more challenging ways to use their bike, they sometimes get judged in a negative way.” We say turn that bunny hop into a bar spin! Parks like this show progress for action sports, and we are happy to see the result.

To test out the park, we brought in local skater Marcos Montoya and BMX rider Brian Fox. Marcos was featured back in Issue 3 and Brian in Issue 4.

theatlanticcurrent.com 27

Features The skate park is under an open steel structure roof that is fully lit. This includes a plaza, mini with spine, A-frame, stairs, ledges, hips, wave and rails. The inline section features ¼ pipes, ledges, table top and rails. The teaching area features ¼ pipes, rails, “manny” pad, table top and spine.

The outdoor section features the BMX clay jumps for pro, intermediate, and in the process of building a two lane pump track for beginners. This section of the park also includes a 6’ mini, ¼ pipe, pyramid, box jump, hip and rails.

“I saw a need and had a vision for young children and the action sports community to learn, train and hang out in a safe and supervised complex.” – Cindi Shendell

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Future Plans The Drop In team looks forward to developing clinics, classes, and competitions for BMX, skateboarding, inline skating, and scooters. They also offer free admission for military and veterans and encourage the disabled and nonprofit community to use the park. Stay tuned for the latest additions to the complex.

Drop In Action Sports Complex is located at 9858 Clintmoore Rd Suite C-111 #110 Boca Raton, FL 33496 and open daily from 2-8:45 PM Visit their website at www.dropinactionsportscomplex.org and like them on Facebook.

Photos: Nathan Hamler

theatlanticcurrent.com 29

Sensory Deprivation

By Dustin Wright

lbs of Epsom salts are added to 200 gallons of water, creating a 12 inch deep solution. The salt causes you to float when lying in the water, relieving your body of the sense of touching the ground.

Sensory Deprivation: An experimental situation in which all stimulation is cut off from the sensory receptors.

Therefore, all of your muscles are allowed to relax. Further, the

In today’s world, it can be quite difficult to find some peace and

state of relaxation possible.”

water is heated to 95 degrees F, which is the temperature of your skin. Reason being, after you get settled in the tank, you can hardly distinguish where the water ends and the air begins. It is pitch black and total silence. From there, relax and drift into the “deepest

quiet. There always seems to be something distracting us. Whether it’s the ticking of a clock, the dog next door, the feeling of our butt

The floatation tank was developed in 1954 by medical practitioner

in a chair, or the light shining through your window, there’s always

and neuro-psychiatrist, John Lilly. At that time, there were many

something that can take the thoughts away from our primary goals.

questions in the field of neurophysiology regarding the energy sources of the brain. Some thought that those sources depended

Enter sensory deprivation. The one place you can go to relieve

upon the environment, and that if the stimuli are cut off to the

yourself of all senses. Once that happens, it’s just you and your

brain, than the brain would “go to sleep.” To test this, Lilly decided

mind. For some people that can be a scary thought. Not everyone

to create an environment that completely isolated a person from

likes what they see when they take the time to reflect. But for

these external stimuli.

others, this can be an amazing experience. Whether you are an entrepreneur thinking through your next big idea, someone seeking

“What he discovered was that floatation created a state of ultra-

some form of enlightenment, or simply trying to relax, it’s amazing

deep relaxation that ‘resets’ the body’s hormonal and metabolic

what can become clear without the distraction of your senses.

balance, strengthening resistance to and accelerating recovery

To further investigate this growing trend, we visited DU20 Holistic

from the effects of stress, illness, injury or strenuous exercise.” -

Oasis in Delray Beach to check out one of the only Float Tanks in

DU20 Holistic Oasis

South Florida.

Flotation tanks have come a long way since their creation.

The large, square tank sat in a quiet room towards the back. When

People of all kinds are now using them for a variety of reasons.

you open the door, it’s simply a dark tank with plenty of room. 800

Professional athletes, consciousness explorers, psychedelic

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Photos: Nathan Hamler seekers, and average Joe’s are reaping

the tank. Also, you can open the door

the benefits of sensory deprivation.

at any time, or even float with the door

Athletes in particular have found huge

slightly open until you get comfortable.

benefits from visualizing their techniques

In addition, it is quite possible that the

in the tank, especially for sports such as

sensory deprivation tank could relieve

mixed martial arts where you’re learning

your claustrophobic tendencies.

and remembering new techniques on a daily basis. The tank allows athletes

Comedian/podcaster Joe Rogan is a

to practice in their head with zero

huge advocate of the float tanks. He

distractions.

said “Everybody should do the tank. You will learn more about yourself than any

The daily tax of gravity can cause a lot

other way. And if you have an aversion

of stress to one’s body. Floating is pretty

to drugs, which totally makes sense, you

much the only way to relieve yourself of

can have very introspective psychedelic

this stress. For the first time, you don’t

experiences naturally in the tank.

feel the chair, bed, or floor beneath you.

Everybody should be doing it. It’s a f**kin’

To put it simply, you are weightless.

amazing way to think.”

Some of you have questions I’m sure. Are

After floating in the tank, I couldn’t agree

you sure I will float? What if I freak out

more. It seems that others agree as well.

while in the tank? The answers to the first

People are purchasing float tank systems

is simple. YES, you will float. With nearly

for their homes, and centers are popping

a thousand pounds of Epsom salts in the

up throughout the country.

water, it’s impossible not to. For those who are slightly claustrophobic, don’t

To book your float, visit DU20 Holistic Oasis at 103 Northeast 2nd Avenue Suite 103, call 561-455-2147, or go to www.DU20.com.

worry. A standard chamber by Float Labs is 4’ wide, 8’ long, and 7’ high. In other words, you can stand up and walk around

theatlanticcurrent.com 31

Morgan Maria Photo: Ben Hicks • Swimsuit By ConColor Imports

Morgan Maria Favorite part about south Florida?

I love the energy in South Florida. People are great, and there’s a lot of diversity and culture. Favorite destination?

Negril, Jamaica Favorite cartoon?

That’s a tough one. I love anything from Disney, but if I had to pick I’d say WreckIt Ralph. Hobbies? Working out, going to school, and finishing up my bachelors in psychology. One thing people wouldn’t guess about you? I’m a United States Veteran and served in the Air Force Favorite drink? Mojito with a little bit of strawberry Favorite food?

Chocolate Pop-Tarts Goal for near future? To be done with my masters degree Favorite music? Anything I can dance to Favorite tv show?

Survivor Last thing you read?

A psychopathology book Dream car? I have it. My black FJ Cruiser. Celebrity crush? Jake Gyllenhaal Local bar, nightclub, or couch? Couch What’s next for Morgan Maria? Finishing up my degree and start practicing

The Long and the Short Straw of It

By Dana Krangel

Why the Short Straw Pickers go their own way Something is happening in South Florida. In a time when reggae

minute and knows a good thing when he sees it. “It

and jam bands seem to have all the fun, a new genre is picking up

is good to be part of the music scene now, that hasn’t

speed and creating a subculture worthy of the music. The different

always been the way it is,” he told us. “There are a lot of

vibes are coming from a burgeoning bluegrass/folk/Americana scene

bands down here and a lot of places to play. I can remember

which is seeing local breakout bands creating great music, dedicated

10 years ago, the only thing going on was Crazy Fingers

fans following along and a resulting welcome addition to our local

down at the waterfront every Thursday night.”

music scene.

Our local scene has come a long way Leading this finger pickin’ good charge are local favorites like the

since then and Jack has grown with

Short Straw Pickers, Uproot Hootenanny and Bungled & Botched.

it. He used to be in Cypress, a jam

While synergy between these bands is part of why this scene is

band that picked up a big following

already so strong, it’s the Short Straw Pickers who are actively

but was more of a hobby than a

working towards spreading their music far and wide. While their

serious interest. The Short Straw

name is ‘short’, their journey has been long and their goals are tall.

Pickers’ sound is much more structured than anything in the

What is now a self-described ‘jamboogiegrassicana’ three-piece

way of jam, but they still have

band, the Short Straw Pickers originally grew out of the orchestra

their very own flavor. Jack said

program at Boca Raton’s Lynn University. This gave way for the

“We definitely try to bend

high-caliber musicianship that would be eternally correlated with the

the rules of traditional blue

band’s live and recorded offerings. At the heart of the Short Straw

grass,” and blend they do.

Pickers is lead singer and writer Jack Schueler. What began as a sixpiece band at Lynn has seen it’s share of line up changes with Jack

The songs Jack and his

always at the helm as well as original bassist Jeff Adkins.

crew have taken the time to write feature not only

By 2011, it was just the two of them because the original fiddle player

an incredible amount of

decided to leave the band. Jack and Jeff had faith in their sound and

bluegrass musicianship

were ready to charge forward as a two-piece. They wrote some songs

but thought-provoking

together and played a couple gigs before one of those shows led to

lyrics which together

meeting fiddle player Brian Purwin. The next day, they jammed out in

produce the Short Straw

Jack’s garage together and the rest is sweet-sounding history.

sound. “We didn’t just want to be another

Sprinkle in Uproot Hootenanny’s Billy Gilmore (Jack calls him the ‘fifth

string jam band. We

Beatle’) for bigger festival gigs or time in the studio and you have

wanted to be more

yourself quite the band. Jack is happy to finally have it all figured out.

song oriented.” Jack

“It took us a while to get it all situated, but now we have had the

has decided to take

same lineup for about a year and our songs are really tight and we

the Short Straw Pickers

write new stuff all the time,” he said. “It’s the good, healthy working

more seriously than

band that we all wanted. It took a while to get there, but we finally

his Cypress days and

have it.”

hopes to spread their stringy goodness far

Jack is elated to have the Short Straw Pickers where they are today, not just because they made it through Destiny’s Child level lineup changes, but because he’s been in the local music scene for a hot

36 Facebook.com/theatlanticcurrent

and wide.

Photos: Erin Schueler

theatlanticcurrent.com 37

bluegrass genre as a whole but one question rises to the surface: Why now? Why is this eternal type of folky music seeing a resurgence in South Florida? One explanation is because modern pop culture has taken a liking to all things Americana. Bands like Mumford & Sons and The Avett Brothers have done us all a favor by hitting the big time.

“I think when those guys hit mainstream, it did us all a little bit of justice,” said Jack. “Now people are paying attention a little bit more to that kind of instrumentation. They like it.” But there is something so intrinsically American about the folk style that will always have the hearts of music lovers. With things like the government shutdown and Miley Cyrus’ never-ending tongue, it’s nice to reflect on something real and permanent. Jack sees it like this: “People realize that as a lot of America disappears, one piece that people are holding onto is the music.”

The best way to take your music to the masses? Record an album. This past July, the Pickers released their debut album

Now is the perfect timing and cultural environment to set off

Upon That Hill and it proved to be quite the magical moment for

a bluegrass music career and the Short Straw Pickers have a

Jack who overflows with pride when talking about the triumph.

strategy to capitalize on the atmosphere that differs from a lot

“It took me a long time to get that album out. To get the band in

of the bar cover bands we see in South Florida. While we have

the right space, to have the right people. I really never wanted to

plenty of great venues, it takes a plan to build a following in more

make this album until I had that situation going. That’s what we

than one town. Jack would rather play solid gigs throughout the

have now.” Lucky for all of us, the resulting album lives up to the

state than try to play every night close to home.

hype. “When we got into the studio, it was easy. We nailed every track, a lot of first takes.” For Jack, this was an a-ha moment.

“When I finally got that CD in the mail, saw the finished product and popped it in the CD player, I realized that we are doing it.”

Chances are pretty good that Short Straw is coming to your town soon. It’s refreshing to see someone care about their craft as much as Jack who does not want to water down his product. “I don’t want to have to play five nights a week just to say I am a musician for a living. I want to play good gigs and I want the band to grow and I want to get out there in front of as many people as possible and I want it to be special every time we play.”

Now Jack just wants to get the CD to as many ears as possible.

While closing the Upon That Hill recording process and opening

With so many accomplishments behind them and opportunities

their hearts to new fans was a huge step for the Short Straw

in front of them, what’s next for the Short Straw Pickers? While

Pickers, it’s the festival circuit that provides them with the stage

Upon That Hill is their current masterpiece, the creative juices

they need to reach the welcoming masses. The Pickers are

never stop flowing and there are already plans to record a

becoming a standard at local festivals like B.E. Easy and South

follow up release. To go with their wings-spreading attitude,

Florida String Fest and totally digging the like-minded vibes that

Jack is looking to expand their festival presence out of state and

permeate in the festival scene. “Everyone is there for the same

planning a summer tour to do just that.

reason, they love music and want to have a good time.”

But what’s amazing about Jack is that no matter what the next But it’s not just the show-goers that benefit from a solid day or

step is or if he ever reaches it, the dude is fully elated with what

two of live music, Jack sees enormous benefit in playing a fresh

he has accomplished. “It feels so good after you have worked so

stage. “Festivals are actually easier to play than regular gigs.

hard for so many years to finally see things happening that you

Usually you have a great sound guy, everyone is happy to see

have always wanted to happen,” Jack relishes how far he has

you and the people are eager to hear your music. Plus it’s always

come. “There comes a point where you become content and you

great when you go to festivals and see people singing lyrics to

are like ‘anything after this is just gravy.’ We put the album out,

your songs.”

I’ve got a great band I play with. Doesn’t get much better than that.” No arguments here, Jack. We believe in the power of the

All this growth as a band is great to see as well as the local

38 Facebook.com/theatlanticcurrent

Pickers.

theatlanticcurrent.com 39

album review

By Dana Krangel

Stop the Presses - Eskandalo Who knew that Hialeah, FL could produce such tasty ska tunes? Homegrown four-piece band Stop the Presses show big SoFla pride on Eskandalo, their skank-alicious new 7-song EP that was recorded and pressed in their hometown. While lead singer Ali Culotta’s vocals take you back to the days of old school No Doubt, the fat bass lines and mini-improv sessions turn this record into a ska-meets-jam fusion that’s prime for a live show. Songs like Daddy Issues Vol II / Bird or Plane see the Presses take the basic ska song formula and expand it into a head-bopping, jammy good time. Pop-punk fans will take a liking to quasi-ballad New Years where guitarist Danny Portilla switches it up and takes lead vocals. Although they love scurrying all over South Florida, these touring machines have hit everywhere from Atlanta to Austin in their trusty band RV and it’s the polished tunes and energetic live show that make that possible.

Phantomime - The Heist The second release from five-piece Boca Raton band Phantomime takes the listener on a darker, swirling journey through six tracks of ramped up, Panic! At The Disco inspired sound. Opening song Masquerade officially welcomes the listener to The Heist and is also serving as the record’s lead single and Phantomime’s first official music video. Filmed at the wild CD release party, you not only get a taste of the rambunctious live show the band is known for, but the song evokes a sense of something new. Phantomime are creating a special type of music complete with thought-provoking, angsty lyrics like the aptly titled Vanity Affair where lead singer Rico Cruz croons: “I love myself a little too much / But the narcissist is cold to the touch.” Keyboard heavy track Invisible Hand exemplifies the type of fast paced, riff based energy that flows through the entire EP. On The Heist, you can hear that a band recognized for a theatrical live show is also ready to produce studio tracks worth a listen.

Jacuzzi Boys - Jacuzzi Boys The new self-titled full length from these Miami wonderboys has been a long two years in the making for Jacuzzi Boys fans everywhere. Album opener Be My Prism is a bouncy but mellow jam with an infectious drum backbeat and longing lyrics: “I breathe, I wanna see the things you see / Hello, you wake me up with hello.”

This sets the tone for a breezy record that embodies the South Florida vibe; one we can be proud of. Standout tracks include singles Double Vision and Domino, a double dose of the classic Jacuzzi Boys style. Black Gloves serves up a falsetto chorus catchy enough to sing in the shower, but dream big if you think you can hit the high notes. Things slow down on tracks like Ultraglide and Hotline but overall this disc is full of the Jacuzzi Boys sound fans have grown to love. Good news: This record was worth the wait.

40 Facebook.com/theatlanticcurrent

theatlanticcurrent.com 41

Ann Storck Center

By Cash W. Lambert

Even though Ann Storck died in 1975, her legacy is still felt in 2013. Its felt when you step foot inside the Ann Storck Center in Ft. Lauderdale, a facility that houses and empowers those with disabilities. Its felt when you talk to the staff, who genuinely love the residents. And it’s recently been felt by Charlotte Mather-Taylor, the CEO of the Center, especially after two recent powerful moments with two of the residents.

Linda, although described as shy, gave a speech to a crowd of visitors at the Ann Storck Center weeks ago, who came to see the art she painted. Canvases lined the wall with powerful trees and kaleidoscope-colored flowers, and she was smiling as if she’d been picnicking inside the canvases and underneath her neatly painted trees.

Mindy, another resident, recently painted a chef series at the Center.

The canvases quickly transport viewers to Paris, being served brunch by a chef in white attire. She even painted a picture of renown chef Paula Dean, who found out and sent her an autographed copy of her recent book in return.

“Those achievements make them feel empowered,” said Mather-Taylor, after pausing to shake off the emotion.

Painting artwork is just one of the many activities that residents can perform at the Ann Storck Center. The Center, established in 1981, was created by Ann Storck, who saw a need in the South Florida community.

“At that time, those with disabilities were being institutionalized,” said Mather-Taylor. “Therapies were minimal. Storck was an individual who decided to take children with disabilities in the 1950’s into her home, give them therapeutic type care and nurtured them. She wanted those with disabilities to have a better quality of life, believing that they could actually improve. Because at that time, society wasn’t under the premise that a person with mental disabilities could improve.”

Once the foundation for the Center was set, it rapidly blossomed like the flowers in one of Linda’s paintings. It now serves over 300 children with Epilepsy, Cerebral Palsy, Autism, Down syndrome, and intellectual disabilities, and covers 25,000 square feet.

Since it’s inception, the Center’s goal is simple, according to Mather-Taylor:

42 Facebook.com/theatlanticcurrent

“We want our residents to become as independent and self empowered as possible.”

If a young child has the ability to attend a typical classroom, the staff works to try and get he or she integrated into that classroom. “We have found if you have a disability and you’re around other children, that helps someone disabled improve, because he or she is able to see how others move and communicate,” Mather-Taylor said. “And for our young children, if you work with them in their younger years, it helps them a lot.”

The Adult day program focuses on empowering residents with daily living skills. “Some may work for a year on how to use a fork, something that you and I take for granted,” Mather-Taylor said. “That gives them a level of independence. We also give them a joyful activity, such as art, music, or whatever is enjoyable to them and we empower them so that they’re able to use their abilities to make something beautiful, such as a painting.”

The Center revolves around it’s residents creating goals for themselves. Once the goal is set, the staff works with the person to achieve it. And when it’s achieved, such as Linda’s nature scenes or Mindy’s chef series, more goals are set, and more goals are achieved.

Chef series by: Mindy

“You watch them grow and you see them achieve their goals… our staff gets so much satisfaction from that.”

The joy of an achieved goal isn’t only felt by Mather-Taylor. The staff of 350 feels just as much motherly and fatherly emotion as she does. “You watch them grow and you see them achieve their goals… our staff gets so much satisfaction from that,” she said. “They get such joy out of seeing them succeed. That’s the first thing I noticed when I first came here – the love that the staff has for our residents. And that’s what most visitors feel too.”

Once someone becomes a member of the Ann Storck Center family, he or she is always welcome at the table, despite any circumstance. That table, now with hundreds of chairs, is colored with the achievements of each resident and is built upon Ann Storck’s legacy.

Its just another reminder that change begins simply and humbly, with a single person deciding to make a single difference in the world to make it a better place for someone else.

theatlanticcurrent.com 45

local charter

On The Lady Pamela 2, Every Day is a “Perfect Day”

By Danny Floyd

When you talk to a charter boat captain like David Ide, you quickly realize you are talking to someone who has been everywhere and seen it all. From Africa to Kenya to the Cape Verde Islands and everywhere in between, David has fished all over the world. But why wouldn’t he? David’s family has been in the fishing business for generations (3 generations, in fact), and according to him, there was never a doubt what his true calling was. “I’ve been fishing since I was 3, 4 years old.

If I weren’t a charter boat captain, I’d still be on the water; a cruise or container ship, something like that. I’ve been in the charter business since 1974 and had my own boat for 9 years”.

David and his crew fish 5 days a week, every week. A good crew is crucial to a great customer experience for his guests. “The crew is really important and we make sure we have experienced people who not only know how to fish, but know how to make the experience memorable for our customers. And with the internet and social media, it’s even more important to make sure everyone has a good time, because if we don’t, the word spreads fast”.

Part of making sure everyone is satisfied after a day on the water is setting expectations up front. “Every customer is different. A lot of people think we are going to catch a lot of fish regardless and we tell them that may or may not happen. Some of our happiest customers don’t catch a lot of fish, but between myself, the crew, and our customers we have a lot of fun out there. Then there are other times where we catch a lot of fish, and a lot of big fish and still get complaints.”

46 Facebook.com/theatlanticcurrent

While many of us imagine that a charter boat captain and his crew’s life is pretty easy, maybe even a bit glamorous; out on the water all day, gorgeous scenery, fresh fish to cook every night, trolling around until fish are found, but it’s not quite like that. When asked what sport he would compare to charter fishing, he didn’t hesitate. “Football! It’s intense, never know if you are going to “win” or not, 8-foot seas that beat you up some months of the year, rough conditions---it’s hard on the body and most people don’t think about that.”

So what’s next for someone who has pretty much done it all in the world of fishing?

“We will probably expand our charter business to Cabo San Lucas within the next year. We may get into sightseeing and the aquatic side of things.”

David Ide is a great success story. Three generations of fishing. Let the “perfect days” continue.

The Lady Pamela 2 Our sport fishing charter boat is a custom built 41 foot Hatteras that is tournament ready, with cold air conditioning, refrigeration, a clean bathroom for the ladies and comfortable seating in the cabin.

Dave’s advice for his “difficult” customers: “Don’t try to crew the crew.

We fish every day”. When we asked Dave to describe his idea of a perfect day on the water, he said “every day is a perfect day”.

For your next fishing charter contact Dave at 954-761-8045 or visit www.ladypamela2.com theatlanticcurrent.com 47

fishing report

by Tom Greene

We think the swordfish bite in December and January can be the best time of the year.

F

ishing in south Florida in December and January is one of

will pay 100, 200, 300 thousand dollars. A lot of fishermen depend on

my most favorite times of the year. This is the time of year

these tournaments every year and they really look forward to it. Most

when we have all of our sailfish migration come through.

of these fish are caught on live bait; kite fishing, slow trolling…….in the

We see more types of bait, not your mullet but your pilchards, google

early tournaments the sailfish are caught on dead bait trolling, usually

eyes, sardines, that type of bait fish. What this brings is spanish

north in the Palm Beaches, Stuart and Fort Pierce areas and up to St.

mackerel, kingfish, and sailfish. As a matter of fact, just recently in

Augustine, and the live bait tournaments start from Jupiter south. What

Jupiter Inlet I heard from a friend fishing the south jetty and he said,

you’ve got is 2 groups of fishermen; one guy thinks you should catch

“I’m seeing a sight I’ve haven’t seen in 30 years…as far as the eye can

sailfish on dead bait, trolling, the other guy thinks he should catch them

see there is nothing but spanish mackerel jumping and everyone with

on live bait. A lot of the tournaments in south Florida have a live bait

a rod and reel are catching one on every cast.” So, these bait fish are

division and a dead bait division where you get more points for a dead

migrating and it will move along our coast. When this happens we get

bait fish, because it is considered harder to catch them on dead bait.

these large schools of mackerel and bluefish in shallow water, 15-20 feet of water; it’s very common to be out trolling and see the birds

Recently we’ve had a good run on dolphin. A customer recently caught

diving and you see these schools of mackerel or bluefish. A little secret

11 sailfish on Thursday and 20 dolphin on Friday, all of the dolphin were

we use, especially in tournaments, we’ll go in there and catch a bunch,

over 15-20pounds. So, we get a lot of Dolphin this time of year also.

and live bait these spanish mackerel and bluefish and catch 50-60 pound kingfish.

We think the swordfish bite in December and January can be the best time of the year. We have the shrimp run in deep water which we call

Growing up in Boca Raton, a friend Jim Smith and I once caught 10

the pink shrimp, and the swordfish gorge themselves on them, and

kingfish over 50 pounds each on live bluefish. We have done this

we call these swordfish pumpkin swordfish or pink swordfish. They

forever with blue runners and goggle eyes but when these large

eat more shrimp and more squid and therefore the meat that time of

schools of fish school up along the beach, spawning, feeding or

year is more pink and orange in color, which is by far the best eating

whatever these big fish move in on them, just like the tarpon do with

swordfish of all. If you ever go to a restaurant or fish market and see

the mullet schools on the beach.

pink or orange swordfish, buy it---it’s worth the double price. It is the chicken of the sea! My own son said, “Dad, I don’t see why anyone

Another thing we are seeing is our annual sailfish run---it’s that time

would cook this, it’s too good raw!” We eat a lot of sushi swordfish

of year. We will have sailfish starting to show up now; they start in

with the pink and orange color, it’s that good.

St. Augustine then come down through Jupiter and right down to the Florida Keys, then down to Mexico. This time of year you will have over 100 sailfish tournaments spread out over the entire coast; some of them are small boat weekend tournaments and some are very large boat tournaments with very large prize funds. It’s very common to find a tournament with 20-30 boats with a low end entry fee that will pay 4, 5, 6, 7 thousand dollars or you will have larger tournaments that

48 Facebook.com/theatlanticcurrent

The legendary Tom Greene can be found at Custom Rod and Reel in Lighthouse point. Email Tom at anreels@bellsouth.net. Tom and his team at Custom can answer any fishing questions you have. Rumor has it that Tom will be serving up some pink swordfish at his house on Christmas eve……….Visit our events calendar in the magazine or on our website for info on sailfish and other fishing tournaments in the area.

theatlanticcurrent.com 49

Garden of Vegan Located in Downtown Delray, The Garden of Vegan is a unique spot that fits the scene well, and was definitely much needed in the area.

All of their food is non GMO and uses no dairy, wheat, soy, or gluten.

Everything is also natural organic and made fresh.

First up, we tried their Portabella Mushroom burger w/ lettuce, tomato, pickles, & vegenaise on gluten free millet flaxseed bread.

After the first bite of the burger, I could not believe it was vegan and gluten free. It was filling and definitely fed my burger and bread cravings. Their sides included a Chinese Heirloom Black Rice & Brown Rice and a Spinach and Kale Superfood Salad w/ Cherry Tomatoes & Strawberries. The rice was a perfect addition, bringing some carbs to the table as French fries or chips do in other cases. The superfood salad was also super good, balancing out the meal perfectly.

Nabar and Rahein mentioned early on that you don’t have to be vegan to eat vegan food. After dining at their restaurant, I couldn’t agree more. The “full” feeling you have after eating food like this is much different than any other.

Visit The Garden of Vegan at 528 NE 2nd Street Downtown Delray, FL 33483 or call ahead at 561-404-5301

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theatlanticcurrent.com 51

Brew Dogs

Left to right

Steve Brewer, inspired by his Michigan roots, knows plenty

Chicago Dog

about making a good hotdog. While this is one of the many

This dog is served on a toasted poppy seed bun with sport

good items at Brew Dogs, it was only right to sample a few

peppers, onions, tomato, pickle, neon relish, mustard & celery

of the favorite dogs. Tucked in the heart of Deerfield Beach,

salt. The neon relish is super tasty, and the rest of the veggies

this spot has some great comfort food and also serves ice

make this dog somewhat refreshing. Definitely good for a hot

cold beer.

South Florida day.

Visit them at 131 NE 2nd Ave Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

Big Texan

right across from Deerfield Beach City Hall

Bacon? BBQ pork? On a hot dog? Sold! This bacon wrapped dog is made with homemade BBQ pork, jalapenos, & shredded cheese. The BBQ pork is a great addition to this dog and the jalapenos balanced it out quite nicely.

Michigan Coney If you’ve never had a Michigan Coney, than here’s the place for your first. This dog doesn’t need much dressing up. It’s a National Deli hot dog, raw onion, Coney chili and mustard.

Pretzel Dog This one’s pretty simple. Pretzel bun, hot dog, cheese wiz and mustard. The cheese wiz and mustard compliments the pretzel bun quite well and makes for a great blending of flavors.

Photo: Nathan Hamler

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Photo: Nathan Hamler theatlanticcurrent.com 53

54 Facebook.com/theatlanticcurrent

South Florida Meets

By Chelsea Todaro Japanese Culture at

Morikami

At the Morikami Museum, there are six beautiful gardens where you can travel in time back through the history of Japan.

Morikami gives to its visitors, and guides us on what the museum holds. “We want people to have a true cultural experience at the Morikami and learn something new about Japanese culture and its ties to South Florida,” said Levine. The original museum, called the

One of the most peaceful, serene, and beautiful places in all of

Yamato-kan, holds two permanent exhibitions. The first exhibition

south Florida is Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, and it’s

is The “Yamato Colony” which explains the history of what brought

right in our back yard.

George Morikami to South Florida and the history of Japanese immigration to South Florida. The second exhibition is called “Japan

Since 1977, Japanese Culture has been shared and glorified by

Through the Eyes of a Child” which allows elementary school

George Morikami at the Morikami Museum in Delray Beach. This

children to step into the world of Japanese culture and lean their

amazing institution includes a Japanese Museum and six historical

customs. This exhibition offers replicas of Japanese classrooms,

gardens. When you visit Morikami you will leave with a new

households and even market streets to show what living in Japan is

appreciation and wonderment surrounding Japanese culture

really like.

and heritage.

The museum includes galleries and exhibits of Japanese art and artifacts throughout the year showing different aspects of Japan’s rich and diverse culture. This art comes from private Japanese collectors and also other institutions. Morikami’s Marketing Coordinator, Samantha Levine gave us some insight on what

theatlanticcurrent.com 55

The Gardens:

The first garden is called the Shinden Garden. This garden displays

At the Morikami Museum there are six beautiful gardens which

estates of nobility in the capital city of Heian-kuo from the 9th to

take you through time into the history of Japan. All of these gardens

12th century.

are inspired by famous gardens in Japan and are replicas of them.

They each provide historical and aesthetic information to Floridians

The second garden is called the Paradise Garden, which represents

about Japanese culture and its significance. Samantha explains what

a new religious outbreak in Japanese history in the 12th century

the gardens truly represent for Morikami, “Our gardens combine the tropical South Florida environment with a Japanese aesthetic

The third garden is called Early Rock and it represents the history of

sensibility that cannot be experienced anywhere else in the world.

Zen that was created in Japan starting in the 14th century.

When exploring the gardens you can see foliage that is native to this area, but also enjoy our premier bonsai collection or seasonal cherry

The fourth garden is called Late Rock which replicates Zen temples

blossoms.� Each of the gardens has unique scenic views, beautiful

and religious rock gardens in the 15th century.

plants, and magnificent architecture that you definitely cannot find

The fifth garden is called the Flat Garden and it represents the

in your own backyard. Although these gardens are meant to teach

start of a residential-type garden in Japan starting in 17th and 18th

Floridians about Japanese history, they are also used for many

centuries.

venues such as weddings, anniversaries, and parties. This allows newcomers to the Japanese cultural experience to come together

The last garden, called the Modern Romantic Garden, displays the

and share in the beauty of American and Japanese customs. So if you

changes Japanese culture experienced in the 19th and 20th centuries

are ever interested in taking a more scenic day or turning your day

and it uses elements from the West and East as Japan started to

into a true adventure, the Morikami gardens will take you there.

trade with Western countries.

Japan Through the Eyes of a Child: Have you ever wondered what a typical day for a Japanese student is like?

Many of us are not aware that we have a very different culture compared to Japan. Elementary-School children are able to see the Japanese culture for themselves at “Japan, Through the Eyes of a Child” exhibit at Morikami.

This exhibit has many recreated Japanese rooms such as a typical Japanese classroom, a Japanese house, and even Japanese market streets for visitors to see. In the Japanese classroom, American students are taught what typical classroom customs are in Japan such as taking off one’s shoes and keeping the classroom neat and clean. They are shown one-of-a-kind textbooks and book bags that are very different from American customs. In the Japanese house, students are taken into each room of a typical house in Japan and see all the different designs and structure of a kitchen, garden, and bathroom.

The recreated Japanese streets are very lifelike and students feel like they are really walking the streets of Japan. There are store windows, stationary stores with Japanese goods, Japanese garment shops and even Japanese public telephones and mailboxes. There is even a model train station so students can see the main method of transportation for the Japanese. This one-of-a-kind exhibit allows for students to get a first-hand experience of a culture that is unfamiliar and opens their minds to different customs and ways of life. The Morikami Museum accurately displays Japanese customs for everyone to see and enjoy, especially for the American youth.

Yamato Colony: Many people might be wondering, “How did Japanese Culture come to South Florida”? The Yamato Colony exhibit answers this question with four parts of history. Japanese culture in South Florida began with a colony of small Japanese farmers called “Yamato”. A man named Sakai signed an agreement with the Florida East Coast Railway to locate the Yamato colony of Japanese farmers in the Boca Raton area. Eventually this colony grew and the history of the Morikami Museum was born. This exhibit gives four different aspects of history that explains the growth of the Yamato Colony and how more Japanese immigrated to South Florida. Visitors of this exhibit walk into the past and see how the Yamato Colony thrived and spread Japanese culture to the Sunshine State. People are able to see the significance of the Morikami Museum and why Morikami shares Japanese heritage to South Floridians.

All of Morikami’s exhibits, gardens, and festivals make this museum a oneof-a-kind attraction. Morikami is not just a regular, informational museumit’s a scenic and captivating site that really opens your eye to Japanese customs. Those who visit the Morikami Museum will be in awe because all expectations go beyond what anyone would think. It is an unbelievable experience and you will definitely want to come back and share with all South Floridians what Japanese culture is really about.

Take a trip to a different country without leaving town.

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is located at 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach. For information, call 561-495-0233 or visit www.morikami.org

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Happy Holidays from The Atlantic Current Crew Tis the season for a lot of things;home for the holidays, seeing family and friends, celebrating, and simple reflection. It has been a wonderful year at The Atlantic Current and we want to simply say thank you to everyone who has rooted for us along the way. Producing a magazine like this requires a lot of effort and it would not be possible if not for the dedication and support from our staff and readers. We appreciate the opportunity to bring you a quality culture and lifestyle mag, for locals by locals, that is among the best in South Florida.

So, from all of us, to all of you, have a safe and happy holiday season.

Cheers!

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