By Randle Ferrari
Father’s Day is more than a celebration—it’s a call to lead with love, humility, and purpose. As a father to four daughters, with a fifth on the way, I’ve learned that fatherhood is about guiding with heart, and letting the lessons of home ripple into our Parkland community. From a group of North Broward Prep dads grilling at Okeechobee Steakhouse to tending our backyard mango trees or sharing stories by a campfire, these moments shape lives. Research underscores the impact: involved fathers lower their children’s risks of incarceration, teenage pregnancy, and becoming school drop-outs. Yet, men face silent struggles—suicide rates are four times higher than women’s—reminding us of the vital need for connection and community.
In our Parkland backyard, my daughters have grown up planting seeds, harvesting vegetables and fruits, and selling them to neighbors. These experiences teach them the rhythms of nature, the value of hard work, and the joy of community. They’ve cultivated not just crops but a deep-rooted love for Parkland and its people, learning that nurturing the land and relationships go hand in hand.
Six years ago, I lost my father, a man whose love touched countless lives. Soon after, I met Spike, someone he mentored. My dad was Spike’s first boss, and I saw my father’s spirit in him—same phrases, same spark. We became close friends, even crossing paths by chance during a Thanksgiving vacation with our families. Tragically, three years ago, Spike took his own life. I wish he’d had the support I’ve found through the Indian Princesses, a vibrant group of Parkland dads who camp, laugh, and tackle life’s challenges together. This community, rich with diverse perspectives, has been a lifeline, creating cherished memories with our children and reminding us that every step, even a stumble, leads toward a brighter future.
Father’s Day is about steering the raft—staying steady, learning from those who came before, and honoring their light. My great-grandfather Clarence, a WW2 veteran who parachuted on D-Day, was one such guide. He took me to see Saving Private Ryan—a bold choice for a young kid—and his lessons of courage and service endure, though he passed when I was 12. As a Shriners potentate, he sold the most raffle tickets for charity, showing me the power of giving back. The Indian Princesses echoes this truth: collaboration builds something greater than the sum of its parts. Whether we’re camping, grilling, or sharing stories, we forge bonds that strengthen Parkland and make giving to something bigger than ourselves deeply meaningful.
I dream of a thriving, eco-friendly Parkland where families connect and flourish. Let’s replace astroturf with native plants to nurture our environment. I invite you to join the Indian Princesses—men, let’s grow as fathers; women, encourage the fathers in your lives to connect. My wife, daughters, and I—expecting our fifth child—are grateful for this community that lifts us all. Together, we can make Parkland a beacon of health, connection, and sustainability.
This Father’s Day, we honor those who paved the way—my dad, Clarence, Spike. Their wisdom inspires us to lead with heart, build community, and shape a future where every family thrives. Let’s keep the love flowing and the campfires burning. Join me in making Parkland greener, stronger, and more united. Happy Father’s Day—let’s build a town we’re proud to call home.
