The good news is both your taste buds and your health will likely benefit from the latest trends in eating and cooking.

(BPT) – A new year always brings predictions about what trends will rise to popularity, and when it comes to food, there are plenty of trends already underway that will no doubt continue to surge over the next several months. The good news is both your taste buds and your health will likely benefit from the latest trends in eating and cooking.

1. A celebration of global flavors

2020 is an exciting time to explore new flavors from around the world.

A rich array of tantalizing ingredients and dishes from Latin America, the Mediterranean, Africa, the Middle East and Asia can now be found in restaurants and even grocery stores almost everywhere – and if you can’t find it in store, you can most certainly find what you’re looking for online.

Thanks to the internet, recipes showcasing global cultures are also easy to access. Americans are more interested in expanding their palates than ever before, unveiling a whole new world of culinary experiences at the click of a button.

2. A bumper crop of plant-based food

A growing concern for environmentally sustainable diets – alongside the piqued interest in a healthy approach to eating – has combined to create an increased demand for plant-based foods.

This trend goes beyond traditional salads and fruit into a world of deeply creative cooking, using a wide array of vegetables in all sorts of innovative ways. This also means incorporating more plant-based protein sources like beans and legumes in dishes, using non-dairy milk substitutes like almond and oat milk, finding meatless protein substitutions and cooking with natural plant-based sweeteners like agave syrup.

3. Customization is all the rage

Noodles & Company is a great example of a fast-casual restaurant that showcases all these 2020 food trends, including allowing customers to make personalized substitutions. You can dine in or conveniently order for pickup or delivery via the NoodlesRewards app. Menu options range from classic favorite Wisconsin Mac & Cheese to new global delights like the Grilled Orange Chicken Lo Mein, available in restaurants nationwide beginning January 22. This worldly dish boasts authentic Asian flavors in a slightly sweet and tangy orange sauce, complemented by traditional Lo Mein noodles sauteed with fresh broccoli, carrots, snap peas, Napa and red cabbage, then finished with grilled chicken, green onions, black sesame seeds and cilantro.

You can even customize any dish on the menu to suit your taste or diet. Eating more plant-based foods in 2020? Swap out Lo Mein for zucchini noodles (Zoodles) or the cauliflower-infused Caulifloodles while packing extra veggies and nutrients into your diet. Going vegan? Simply remove the chicken!

No matter how it’s ordered, there are never any artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners or preservatives, so clean eating in the new year is convenient and easily customizable to any dietary preference or need.

4. Conscious eating

Clean eating means eating foods without additives and artificial ingredients. Today’s diners and home cooks demand transparency about ingredients and preparation. People interested in clean eating want to see respect for the ingredients. In other words, they want to be able to recognize everything that’s on the plate. They want their food to be less processed, with as few additives as possible – resulting in big, bold natural flavors.

5. Seasonings with added health benefits

Seeking more flavorful food can also provide health benefits. Certain herbs and spices are trending not just due to their unique, strong flavors, but also because they have been shown to boost the body’s immune system, provide anti-inflammatory effects and contain antioxidants. Ginger, turmeric, garlic, cayenne and cinnamon are just some of the latest spices touted as being especially good for you.

Keep up with the latest food trends and check out all the easy ways to make clean eating easy and delicious at more than 450 Noodles & Company restaurants nationwide at noodles.com.

Fresh off the opening of her second location, which is located in Weston Florida, The pharmacist and juicery owner, Kimmi Stultz, chats with Worthy Magazine about her growing brand.

Inspired by the apothecaries of the 15^th century where someone would prepare medicine that was custom created, Juicery Rx aims to do the same in the culinary word. Each menu item in this ‘farm to pharmacy’ concept is developed with scientific purpose, while never compromising taste, mostly in part due to co-founder Kimmi Stultz being a pharmacist. With their original location in the Parkland/Coral Spring area the popular business held the official grand opening of their second location on Saturday, November 23^rd in Weston. Attendees which included Mayor Daniel J. Stermer enjoyed complimentary ginger shots, tailored herbal elixirs in their cold press juices, and a delectable sampling of healthy bites. For more information visit: http://www.juiceryrx.com.

1. What made you pick Weston as your second location? ​

We choose Weston for our second location because of the culturally enriched communities and economic vitality. Just like our first location in Parkland/Coral Springs, we focused on wanting to be a part of a community that had a strong sense of support for the creation and growth of small businesses. 

1. What do you hope Juicery Rx will add to the community?

We want to be a part of a vibrant hub where we could foster a healthy lifestyle by providing not only a healthy food spot but also education engagement programs. 

1. What makes Juicery Rx more than just a juice bar?

Everything we do and create is with intention, and human health is at the very center and core of our ethos when it comes to our offerings. We know that genetics may account for a small percentage of our health outcomes, while lifestyle and environmental factors can account for the majority. Menu creation is formulated using nutrition science to give your body what it needs to thrive.

1. What is your personal favorite menu item? Why? ​

Our mantra is Food is Information, Eat with Purpose. Breakfast: Supernova Waffle because it contains our JRx protein, which is packed with vitamins, minerals, herbs, and nutrients​. Lunch: Chromosome Power Bowl, which includes ingredients like watercress, wakame, and purple cabbage that are nutrient-dense to keep cellular metabolic function at peak performance. 

1. Any future plans for expansion? ​

Expansion can take on many forms. We hope to have more brick and mortar stores in the future, but we are considering diversifying our channels through online market places as well as growing product and service offerings. 

Prepare your palate because the inaugural Mercedes-Benz and AutoNation SEAGLASS, a Greater Fort Lauderdale Rosé Experience, is coming to town on February 8 – 9, to be held right on the sandy beaches of Fort Lauderdale. 

SEAGLASS will take place from 6 pm – 9 pm on Saturday, and from 2 pm – 5 pm on Sunday, directly across from the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort. The 180-degree Atlantic Ocean views will serve as the perfect backdrop of the first-year event as guests sip and savor the world’s most excellent rosé wines with perfectly paired culinary options throughout the weekend. The Grand Tasting on the sandy beaches will feature nearly 30 different rosé brands, with each one bringing a unique flavor and ambiance for attendees to enjoy. Guests will be given a piece of sea glass each day and invited to vote for their top choice as the fan-favorite. 

Tickets are currently on sale for the all-inclusive Rosé Experience ticket for $150 per day or $200 for both days. Guests can also opt for the luxury VIP Cabana Experience, which is $5,000 per day and includes a dedicated server, lounge chairs, tables, and early-event access for up to ten attendees. Tickets and VIP Experiences can be purchased at https://seaglassexperience.com

A portion of the proceeds will benefit DRV PNK and directed to the Dolphins Cancer Challenge, supporting much-needed cancer research and treatment right here in our local South Florida community.  

“When cancer entered my life, I had decisions to make – fight or ask why me? I chose to fight. That decision bought me time. And I was fortunate to have Mercedes-Benz and AutoNation support SEAGLASS and doubly fortunate to support the Drive Pink and Dolphin Cancer Challenge,” shared Carlos Suarez, co-founder of SEAGLASS.  

True to theme, guests are encouraged to dress in beach chic and their favorite shades of pink and white, paired with comfortable shoes as the event does take place on the sand. 

“We are going to bring our award-winning Channé Rosé and a little bit of Saint Tropez right here in our backyard for guests to enjoy,” shared Kavita Channe, founder of Channé Rosé and one of the participating local brands. 

BPT- This year you might have goals like ramping up your workout routine, increasing your self-care regimen or finding time to de-stress.

The EPA reports we spend 90 percent of our time indoors, but most people feel that spending time in nature has a positive effect on their mental well-being and stress level, according to a recent YouGov study commissioned by Velux. So, if your goal is to de-stress, here are some healthy behaviors and design tips to help you bring nature’s sanctuary indoors.

1) Fill your home with photos of nature

Surrounding yourself with images of nature can have a positive effect on wellness. Try framing some photos of special memories in nature like a hike with your family, beach sunset or mountain view.

2) Let in more fresh air and natural light

Today’s homes are built tighter and more sealed, which means they can trap toxins from daily living – such as cooking, cleaning, pets and more – inside. Adding skylights that can open is a simple home renovation project to improve fresh air flow, helping rid indoor air of pollutants. Additionally, studies show that exposure to natural light helps to sync your circadian rhythm, allowing for better sleep at night.

3) Fill your home with natural scents

Up your chef game by using fresh herbs in your cooking that will fill your kitchen with natural fragrance. Making an indoor herb garden ensures you’ll always have some on hand. You can also incorporate fresh herbs into bouquets or wreaths for a natural air freshener throughout your home.

4) Meditate or do yoga in the morning

Waking up with stretching or meditating is a great way to prepare yourself for a successful day. Open the blinds or curtains on your windows and skylights to let in early morning light and help you feel invigorated and refreshed.

5) Go green with your décor

Reap the benefits of nature by bringing it inside, adding greenery or even fruit into your décor. The possibilities are endless – use a bowl of fresh fruit as a centerpiece or mix different sizes of pots to create a succulent gallery. Little touches of green in each room will go a long way.

6) Use natural cleaning products

Many common cleaning products have harsh chemicals that can be inhaled or absorbed into your skin. Combat the dangers of these toxins by switching to natural cleaning products. You’ll feel safer and more relaxed when your home is chemical-free.

From boosting your home’s natural light to going green and adding plant life, it’s easy to turn your home into a natural oasis with these simple steps. For more information, visit whyskylights.com.

“We’re thrilled to bring our rock star hotspot to the internationally-famous Ocean Drive in South Beach,” Randy Sharpe, chief executive officer of Pink Taco, said. “With our delicious Mexican-style food and drinks, we are pleased to be an icon on the exciting Miami Beach scene.”

The South Beach location held its grand opening on January 14th and Snoop Dogg guest DJ’d at the Mexican fete. Pink Taco’s delectable offerings will be available for lunch, brunch, dinner, along with a late-night menu until 4 a.m.

Nestled in the heart of South Beach on 1200 Ocean Drive, the Miami location of Pink Taco delivers the brand’s iconic dishes and vibrant cocktails for guests to savor and delight with items such as; Lobster Enchiladas topped with jack cheese, brandy-chipotle cream sauce, avocado salsa, pico and Mexican crema ($22), Vegan Taco Bowls with grilled mushrooms, squash & zucchini, cilantro rice, bean salad, salsa verde, pico, and diced avocado ($15), and the namesake Pink Taco filled with achiote chicken, black beans, avocado, arbol salsa, cotija cheese, habanero & pickled onions ($15). 

The menu is expertly executed by Mexican American Executive Chef Erik Conaway, who was born in Puerto Rico. He started as a dishwasher at The Melting Pot, working in numerous positions including prep, line cook, sous chef, and eventually, executive chef. He served as the executive chef at multiple popular restaurants, including The Clevelander Hotel, Morton’s Steak House, and now – Pink Taco. 

Similar to the original concept on the Sunset Strip and its other locations in Boston, Chicago, and Las Vegas, the ambiance is laid-back and unpretentious with their signature Pink Taco sugar skull artwork on the walls. The new venue additionally offers hints of Miami Beach inspiration. 

The venue also has a unique offering of Margaritas on the menu including the Something Pink Margarita with Codigo 1530 Blanco with fresh prickly pear purée, served in a Pink Taco glass to take home ($18), Frozen Strawberry Margarita served in a fresh pineapple, blending Sauza Silver with fresh strawberries and organic Kelvin slush ($15), and the Avocado Chile Margarita Tequila Ocho served with a chile-lime salted rim ($13). All margaritas are concocted with house-made sweet and sour, organic agave and fresh lime.

Photo Credit: Christine Jean Chambers

The voice that greets me when I answer my phone is peacefully melodic. She literally sings her greetings as she mentions her upcoming audition that she woke up running lines for. It’s an inviting tone that she maintains throughout the entire interview that makes it easy for me to ask questions that I am usually afraid to ask most talent that I interview. 

On the cusp of the release, October 4th, of her latest role in  “A Brother’s Honor,”  Celestine Rae speaks of her character “Shana Bradford” with an infatuation that most actresses exude after literally transforming into their character for a little while.  

“I love Shana. She is a quick-witted woman. I love that she is so willing to say what is on her mind.”

 The romantic film, which is based on Brenda Jackson’s romantic novel will be available on Passionflix which is a streaming platform that is turning your favorite romantic novels into movies and series. It will be the first POC lead romantic film for Passionflix. We will see “Shana” stepping in to save a struggling family business that is also dealing with the potential loss of their beloved grandfather. In her role as a focused business savy woman, love still seems to blossom in the midst of business and tragedy. Discussing her latest role offered the most natural opening to a question that I think most people find themselves wondering when watching romantic films that feature our favorite actors who are usually married or involved with someone. How do actors balance their romantic roles with their romantic personal lives?

“That’s a great question,” Celestine said before quietly giggling.  “I think it’s about balance. Make sure you get back to reality quick and spend time with your significant other. You also need to make sure you have a romantic partner who understands your profession. But I am grateful that I have never had any issues with that.” 

Take a look at the trailer for Celestine’s upcoming role. There will be more to read about the actress in our upcoming issue of Worthy Magazine. 

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=480717209172234

By: Aurora Dominguez

Worthy Magazine recently had a chance to visit two Fort Lauderdale restaurants with a view. Below are our thoughts on them.

Bo’s Beach

Diners, rejoice! Fort Lauderdale Beach is now home to Bo’s Beach, a new two-story, casual restaurant and bar operated by former Miami Dolphins Player Kim Bokamper & PDKN Restaurant Group, of which Bokamper is one of four partners. Offering fresh local seafood, a signature wood-fired oven, refreshing cocktails and ocean-inspired classics; Bo’s Beach boasts direct ocean views and tropical breezes. The restaurant features amazing cocktails…we had a frozen margarita and a mojito…as well as delicious oysters which you have to visit to try and amazing fish tacos and a waffle enveloped burger that is just as good for dinner as it would’ve been for breakfast. Make sure to check out this spot, where sea breezes, the service and the environment, as well as their pizza, make you fall in love.

Shooters

Shooters Waterfront has launched a new menu and a new rose. Located at 3033 NE 32nd Ave., Shooters is known for its high quality, yet affordable cuisine and exquisite views of the Intracoastal Waterway. Start your dine with a Shooters Rosé, for $8 a glass and $30 a bottle. Sourced from Vranket Estates in the southern region of Camargue, France, and with a beautiful wooden pink color complemented by subtle notes of small red fruits, Shooters Rosé is perfect for moments of relaxed elegance. Shooters Rosé pairs well with the restaurant’s new food offerings, which include additions to the Raw Bar and Starters menu such as Guacamole and Taro Root Chips, creamy guacamole paired with taro root chips crisped to perfection, and Sautéed Prince Edwards Mussels, prepared with white wine, butter, garlic, shallots and crostini. New entrees include Grilled Lollipop Lamb Chops, tender lamb chops served with mint chimichurri pesto and goat cheese crumbles; Grilled Soy-Ginger Glazed Salmon, fresh salmon cooked in a warm soy, ginger glaze and served with saffron quinoa and kale ribbons; Roasted Bone-in Beef Short Rib, short rib cooked just right and served with creamy mashed potatoes and delicate heirloom carrots drizzled in a port wine demi-glace sauce. This adventure in dining will surely have you wanting to come back for seconds as you take in delicious bites with a view.

(BPT) – Despite being one of the most common genetic disorders in the world, patients with sickle cell disease frequently live their lives in the shadows – their voices going unheard, their condition may often go undertreated or ignored. A new public service announcement (PSA) campaign featuring Grammy®-nominated singer, film and Broadway star, Jordin Sparks, and five people touched by the disease, invites the public to get involved and help patients through understanding and support.

Last year, Sparks helped launch “Generation S” – a national sickle cell disease storytelling project sponsored by Novartis that encourages people touched by the disease to break their silence about the true impact of sickle cell disease. Since then, more than 750 stories about experiencing life with sickle cell disease have been submitted to JoinGenS.com.

Although sickle cell disease affects roughly 100,000 Americans, it has gone unseen by many. The general public may not understand the impact and burden of sickle cell disease. The stigma associated with the disease has left many patients under-treated and lost in the health care system.

Despite their challenges, the PSA highlights the resiliency of people touched by sickle cell disease, who are fighting the disease and starting foundations in honor of family members.

Here are some ways to join Jordin Sparks and the storytellers to help educate those who may interact with people living with sickle cell disease at work or in their personal lives:

Stay informed – What is sickle cell disease?

Sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disorder that affects the shape of red blood cells and makes blood cells stickier than usual. This can cause blockages in blood vessels and when the blood flow slows or gets blocked, there can be more health risks over time, like organ damage and organ failure and other long-term health complications.

It also can impact family and friends of those carrying the disease in profound ways. While one patient describes her condition as feeling like “shattered glass moving through my veins,” others share stories of watching loved ones struggle for years without being able to ease their suffering.

Communicate and interact

By sharing the PSA, you can help the public understand the burden and impact of the condition and the real life stories of those living with sickle cell disease.

The PSA is supported by Sickle Cell Disease Association of America (SCDAA), Sickle Cell 101, Sick Cells, the Sickle Cell Community Consortium (SCCC) and Bold Lips for Sickle Cell – all partners to Novartis’s “Generation S.” Interact with the community and view additional stories featured in the “Generation S” mosaic on the JoinGenS.com website.

Share your story

For Jordin Sparks, sickle cell disease is personal. She lost her young stepsister to the disease in 2018.

“Many people still don’t know the impact sickle cell disease has on people living with it, and their families and friends,” Sparks said. “I hope this PSA will help change our mindset regarding sickle cell and I am proud to lend my voice to shine a light on these stories.”

To learn more and share your story, visit http://www.JoinGenS.com.

Jesse’s charismatic songs have attracted a diverse group of people who continue to seek music from the up-and-coming artist. With tracks smoothly intertwining the deep emotion of jazz with the cool, humble songwriting of American soul, Jesse’sfolk-tinged country melodies in “Come Visit Soon” stand as an impressive addition to a profoundly eloquent musical catalogue. Here is our quick noteworthy exchange with the artist.

Could you finish the statement, I am worthy because

I am.

When and how did you realize that music was your passion?

It’s been a thing I’ve realized over and over again. It started when I was a little girl, about 3 years old. I saw my cousins singing together in our living room at a party and something clicked. I was also an MTV baby, part of a musical family, and extra audio absorbent. I see a similar thing happening with my younger son – he creates and repeats melodies all the time! It’s cool to watch.

You hear so many opinions about making your passion your area of study. Would you encourage others to major in their passion? How was your experience with that?

This is a big question. We’re all unique. The joy I experience making music is in communicating something that’s inside of me, rather than, for instance, playing note-for-note a song someone else wrote. For that reason, and some others, I have never been an enthusiastic formal music student. When trying to explain what I hear in my head to other musicians, the gap in my musical education sometimes creates tension in rehearsal or in the studio. (I remember one bass player who was super chart-reliant, and annoyed that I didn’t create perfect charts.) On the other hand, my lack of formal training has gifted me a fun ignorance to the rules, and that ignorance comes up with some good ideas. It’s worked to have some softness. Life itself is mostly gray area. When we are over-educated in the arts, stuffed full of other people’s ideas, we run the risk of coming up with their ideas, not our own. After the writing stage is complete, I gravitate toward people who are smarter than I am. My friend and sometimes producer Paul Redel is a perfect example of someone who is skilled and knowledgeable, and speaks the technical language, while being simultaneously inventive, tolerating and translating my language (“Can we go more yellow boom here?”). We make a great team. So whether a person hones her craft alone, or with a private instructor, or a mentor, in a field, in a basement, or in a classroom, there’s really no wrong way to eat a Reese’s. Round out your team, and do it your way. Without arrogance, be vigilant about protecting your unique take on this crazy world. That’s the only secret as far as I can tell. No good or bad, just true or false.

How would you describe your sound?

The EP I just released is Americana. The one I’m releasing in the fall or winter is more cinematic, dramatic, grandma’s attic. Lots of strings!