BONJOUR WORLD: Madeira Island; a remote paradise in the Atlantic

  Madeira Island, Portugal has been called the “Island of Eternal Spring”, and it’s an appropriate moniker. A lush volcanic island in the Atlantic, it’s closer in proximity to Morocco (only 320 miles away) than to its country’s mainland, which is 600 miles away.

TASTE: Sustainably sourced staples for family favorites

FEATURE IMPACT – Living sustainably might include habits like recycling or composting, but you can go above and beyond by using food ingredients that are environmentally friendly.

TASTE: Say ‘yes, please’ to the grilled cheese of the year – gooey goodness with a protein punch!

FEATURE IMPACT – A grilled cheese sandwich isn’t just a lunchtime staple; it’s a beloved cultural icon. There is a universal magic in the combination of ooey-gooey cheese, golden bread and a little butter – but in 2026, this comfort food classic is getting a functional upgrade.

BONJOUR WORLD: Feeling the pulse of the European heart on the Viking Var from Budapest to Regensburg

 The pulse of the European heart is often found on the rivers that run throughout that continent.Let’s take for example the Viking Var from Budapest, Hungary to Regensburg, Germany on the Danube.I did the journey in May, a stunning time to be in Europe.

TASTE: Mix a little luck into your big game menu

FAMILY FEATURES – Picture this: Your team is down three points, but the taste of victory is just one field goal away. Sometimes, all you need is a little luck and a whole lot of guac.

TASTE: Pair simplicity and flavor with seafood pasta

FAMILY FEATURES – Simplifying family dinners after the holiday season starts with easy recipes that don’t sacrifice flavor. To save time heading into the new year, add a recipe like Shrimp Spaghetti to your repertoire.

TASTE: Easy bites for the big game

FAMILY FEATURES – Whether you’re tailgating with friends or hosting a watch party at home, every football fan needs a game plan to crunch, dip and cheer their way through opening kickoff, halftime and right down to the final play of the game.

PET TALK: Otitis Media and Interna

 When I look at Duke, who is patiently waiting for his forever home at the City of Lancaster Animal Services, I notice his adorable ears. I’m not sure if Duke will grow into those ears, but since he is three months old, a distinct possibility. Please adopt this cute little bugger!

“Sinners” the big winner in six categories at this year’s North Texas Film Critics Association awards

 DALLAS – And the winners…The North Texas Film Critics Association (NTFCA) announced this year’s winners today in each of the organization’s 13 voting categories.NTFCA announced the nominations in each category last week with membership then voting for one final winner in each of the categories.

PET TALK: The gold standard of pet care

 It’s a frustrating reality in veterinary medicine and me personally: pet owners sometimes prioritize advice from non-professionals over the expertise of their veterinarian or those who had dedicated 37 years in the vet field.