WEST PALM BEACH, FL. (June 3, 2025) – The West Palm Beach Library Foundation Board of Directors elected four community leaders to the Board on Thursday, May 15, 2025: Stephanie Gates, Trey Mahoney, Tina Munro, and Adrienne Raptis.
Margaret Moraskie, Board Chair of The West Palm Beach Library (WPBLF) said “I’m truly delighted to welcome these four outstanding leaders to our board. Each has already made a meaningful impact on our foundation and the community we serve. Their wisdom, generosity, and unwavering commitment to service are deeply inspiring, and I’m grateful they’ve chosen to share their time and talents with us as we look ahead to our next chapter.”
Dean Dimke, Chief Executive Officer of the Library Foundation, shared, “One of the driving forces behind our Foundation’s success and growth over the past five years has been the leadership and support of our Board of Directors. With the addition of these four exemplary community leaders, we have increased our ability to raise the funds needed to ensure that the life-changing programs, services, and resources offered through the Mandel Public Library stay free and accessible to everyone in our community.”
Stephanie Gates. Carrie Bradburn/CAPEHART
Stephanie Gates is a multifaceted leader with expertise in journalism, media, philanthropy, and sport, with degrees in Psychology and Journalism. She is the founder and head of a family foundation focused on impactful causes including the arts, women’s health, and animal welfare. Stephanie combines cultural fluency and elite sport experience with advisory roles at leading art institutions and a background in luxury lifestyle publishing.
Trey Mahoney
Trey Mahoney is a Managing Director and Portfolio Manager with UBS Private Wealth Management. His dedication to his clients has been repeatedly recognized with accolades from Forbes and was recently named as one of Financial Planning Magazine’s Top 40 under 40. On the weekends, he has a number of hobbies: you can often find him photographing wildlife in remote locations, paddleboarding or advancing his skills as a pilot.
Tina Munroe
Tina Munroe is Vice President and Relationship Manager at Key Private Bank, serving high-net-worth individuals and families across South Florida with tailored banking and wealth management solutions. She gained over 20 years of industry experience from Truist Wealth and Wells Fargo before joining KeyBank in 2022 and holds FINRA Series 7 and 66 licenses. Tina is actively involved in the community, volunteering with children’s programs at Christ Fellowship Church and the Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County.
Adrienne Raptis
Adrienne Raptis is Owner of Raptis Rare Books and Via Roma Café in Palm Beach and The Harcourt Bindery in Boston, with over 20 years of entrepreneurial experience blending business acumen and cultural preservation. She holds a Master of Public Health from Yale University and is the author of You Are a Wonder Woman, a book that empowers women to embrace their identity and purpose. Passionate about restoration, hope, and resilience, Adrienne focuses on education, mentorship, and spiritual growth while advocating for the transformative power of libraries in communities.
About the West Palm Beach Library Foundation
The West Palm Beach Library Foundation raises funds for the Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach to provide free quality programs, services, and resources that enrich and strengthen its diverse community. The Foundation hopes to create an inspired community where children excel, and adults thrive. Gifts to the Foundation support popular library programs including afterschool homework centers, summer learning programs, reading programs, teen college prep, job readiness, and adult programs in art, technology, education, culture, and entertainment.
Local Full-Service Fitness Clubs Host Open House Events on June 15
WHAT: It’s not a Dad bod, it’s a Father figure!
Retro Fitness, the leading high-value, low-price fitness club, is hosting special Open House events on Father’s Day—Sunday, June 15. In celebration of the strong father figures in our lives, community members and their Dads are invited to work out for free and experience everything Retro Fitness has to offer, from state-of-the-art strength training equipment to post-workout recovery and wellness amenities.
At the Retro Fitness in Wellington, attendees can enjoy:
· Group fitness classes including boutique-style HIIT, cycling, and strength training
· “Zen Den” relaxation with deluxe massage chairs for ultimate recovery
· Smoothie Bar samples with protein-packed, nutritious blends to refuel after workouts
With a commitment to exercise, health and fitness, Retro Fitness is offering a limited-time $0 enrollment promotion on an Ultimate Membershipfor new members using promo code FIRST10. Additionally, Retro Fitness offers the Core and Flex membership options—allowing members to choose the plan that best fits their goals, lifestyle and budget.
WHY: This one-day event is part of the Retro Fitness mission to help communities move better, fuel smarter, and thrive in a space built on motivation and empowerment. By opening its doors on Father’s Day, the brand is honoring the role Dads play in their families and our fitness communities. It’s our way of giving back—supporting not just physical health, but the connections that strengthen our neighborhoods.
WHO: Everyone is invited to visit the participating Retro Fitness locations for an energizing workout, recovery or relaxation.
· For media, interviews will be available with Retro Fitness club owners and personal trainers.
WHERE: Retro Fitness of Wellington, 816 S State Rd 7, Wellington, FL 33414, and select locations across in PA, FL, NJ, TX, NY
For 20 years, Retro Fitness has been a leader in the High-Value, Low-Price (HVLP) fitness space, helping members live their best lives on their terms. With over 200 clubs open or in development, it is one of the nation’s fastest-growing fitness club franchises. Retro Fitness is redefining the gym experience with state-of-the-art equipment, expert personal training, a nutrient-focused Smoothie Bar, and the mindfulness-driven Zen Den—delivering a holistic approach to fitness at an unmatched value.
WEST PALM BEACH, FL (June 4, 2025) — Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League is celebrating a century of compassion and lifesaving work for animals across Palm Beach County with their exciting summer adoption event, “Summer Lovin’”. The event will take place on Saturday, June 14, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Peggy Adams, located at 3200 N. Military Trail, West Palm Beach.
This one-day event offers FREE adoptions for all cats, dogs, puppies, and kittens in the League’s care, thanks to generous sponsors. (Please note: a $20 rabies tag fee applies to Palm Beach County residents.) With over 400 animals currently in the care of Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League, the event aims to find loving homes for as many pets as possible. Their goal is to adopt out over 100 pets in just one day!
Visitors can enjoy a festive atmosphere and family-friendly fun including: games, giveaways, food vendors, a photobooth, and even live watercolor pet portraits of their newly adopted pet.
“This event is one of our favorite days of the year,” said Sue Berry, CEO, Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League. “It’s a celebration of community, compassion, and second chances for pets who deserve loving homes.”
The event is made possible by the support of generous sponsors, including Hill’s Pet Nutrition, MetLife Pet Insurance, Nozzle Nolen, VCA Palm Beach Veterinary Specialists, Scenthound, and TD Bank.
Whether you’re looking for a playful pup or a cuddly kitten, your new best friend is waiting at Peggy Adams. Help us clear the kennels and make room to save more lives!
For more information, visit www.peggyadams.org or follow us on social media.
About Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League:
Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League is an independent nonprofit organization, operating continuously since 1925. Peggy Adams provides critical services to more than 35,000 animals each year and collaborates with local area organizations to expand the lifesaving work in Palm Beach County.
Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest independent charity evaluator. For more information and to donate, please visit PeggyAdams.org.
The public can vote for their favorite artist in the People’s Choice Award now through June 13
June 4, 2025 (Lake Worth Beach, Fla.) — Three talented Palm Beach County-based artists received cash prizes for their dynamic works in the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County’s “Biennial 2025” exhibition—on display for just a few more weeks.
Painter Yvonne Fok-Gundersen took home Best of Show; mixed media artist Mark Forman received Second Place; and painter and illustrator Irina Grimaldi earned Third Place. The winners were announced during the exhibition’s opening reception.
Visitors can still cast their votes for the People’s Choice Award piece once a day, every day through Friday, June 13 at 3 p.m. at the Council’s headquarters.The Council will conduct a final tally of the votes and announce the winner live on Instagram (on @palmbeachculture) on Monday, June 16 at 3 p.m.
Cultural Council Biennial 2025_ Yvonne Fok-Gundersen_Credit Premier PhotoCultural Council Biennial 2025_Mark Forman_Credit Premier PhotoCultural Council Biennial 2025_ Irina Grimaldi_Credit Premier Photo
About the Recipients and Winning Artworks
Yvonne Fok-Gundersen: Hailing from Palm Beach Gardens, Fok-Gundersen creates gilded paintings in the style of 14th century illuminated manuscripts. Two paintings in her Zodiac series, “Libra” and “Taurus”, pay homage to works by Francisco Goya, Eugène Delacroix, and Aubrey Beardsley.
Mark Forman: A Delray Beach-based mixed media artist, Forman focuses on both 2D and 3D works. “STIMULATING THOUGHTS, INTERPRETATIONS AND RESPONSES” is an in-progress series that reflects the artist’s viewpoint and feelings about today’s ever-changing political and social landscapes.
Irina Grimaldi: Based in Boynton Beach, Grimaldi is a botanical artist specializing in watercolor. She aims to translate the beauty of plants to paper. Her “Cogshall Mango” and “Simmonds Avocado and Brogdan Avocado” pieces are vibrant renderings that showcase the lush beauty and realism of South Florida’s tropical bounty.
This year, the Cultural Council received over 550 submissions for the exhibition from 152 professional artists across the county. Submissions were juried by Tim Hawkinson, a Los Angeles-based gallerist and curator.
“Biennial 2025” is sponsoredby the Merrill G. & Emita Hastings Foundation, Ellen Liman, Florida Weekly, Palm Beach Media Group, WLRN, ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival, and PureHoney Magazine.
The exhibition runs through Friday, June 20. It is free and open to the public during the summer Tuesdays through Fridays; noon to 5 p.m. (601 Lake Ave., Lake Worth Beach, 33460). To learn more, visit palmbeachculture.com/biennial.
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About the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County
The Cultural Council for Palm Beach County is the official support agency for arts and culture in The Palm Beaches, Florida’s Cultural Capital®. Headquartered in the historic Robert M. Montgomery, Jr. building in Downtown Lake Worth Beach, the Council presents exciting year-round exhibitions and performances featuring artists who live or work in Palm Beach County. The Council features spectacular work by Palm Beach County-based professional artisans in its Roe Green Uniquely Palm Beach Store and offers complimentary resources for visitors in its Jean S. and Frederic A. Sharf Visitor Information Center. The Council is open to the public during the summer Tuesdays through Fridays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information and a comprehensive calendar of cultural events in The Palm Beaches, visit palmbeachculture.com.
Who hasn’t embarked on a journey to the mountains of North Carolina during the fall season? The experience of inhaling the refreshing autumn air and capturing numerous photographs of the stunning gold, orange, and red hues adorning the trees is unparalleled.
Beech Mountain is one of the charming communities in this beautiful region. Residents and business owners eagerly anticipate the fall season as visitors come to experience the magic that defines their town’s reputation. But in late September 2024, the unthinkable happened. Beech Mountain was caught in the winds of the infamous Hurricane Helene.
Although Beech Mountain experienced damage, it was mercifully spared from the worst impact of the deadly storm. This resilient community is also fortunate to have committed construction crews, firefighters, town employees, and volunteers who worked tirelessly to help it bounce back. While the North Carolina mountains face years of rebuilding, the spirit of its people cannot be broken. And, in Beech Mountain, those spirited residents want you to know their mountains are open and ready to welcome you back!
Celebrate Summer at Blackberry Jam
While fall typically attracts the largest groups of tourists to the North Carolina mountains, there’s much to experience in the summer months. This is especially true in 2025 as Beech Mountain is re-packaging July and August into a vibrant summer celebration, deliciously named Blackberry Jam! The celebration combines the town’s lively music scene, cool mountain temperatures, abundant outdoor adventures, and the sweet tradition of blackberry picking. With live performances, blackberry-themed treats from local restaurants, and monthly farmers’ markets, Blackberry Jam offers a fresh take on summer fun.
Summer Concert Highlights
Blackberry Jam’s music offerings include both free and ticketed concerts:
Beech Mountain Resort Summer Music Series – Featuring nationally acclaimed headliners such as Red Clay Strays, Jason Isbell, Lake Street Dive, Charley Crockett, 49 Winchester and many more. More than 20 artists are set to perform in the famed series, which draws visitors from across the country.
Additional Weekend Music Across Town:
Fridays – Free live music at Famous Brick Oven Pizzeria
Saturdays – Scenic lift rides at Beech Mountain Resort to enjoy live music at 5506’ Skybar
Sundays – Free sunset concerts at Fred’s General Mercantile Gazebo and Concerts on the Lawn at Top of the Beech Inn
A Perfect Summer Playlist with Blackberry Flavor
Blackberry Jam coincides with Beech Mountain’s ripe blackberry season, and local businesses are joining the celebration by offering mouthwatering themed specials. From desserts to drinks, these seasonal treats add a delicious twist to the summer experience.
Blackberry Specials – Available July and August:
Beech Alpen Inn – Rotating blackberry dessert specials
First Chair Coffee Shop – Blackberry drink special
Free Monthly Farmers’ Markets – Fresh and Local
Beech Mountain’s monthly Farmers’ Markets will also offer the perfect chance to savor the flavors of blackberry season. From June through October, on the first Friday of each month, the market pops up in town from 2 to 6 p.m., featuring fresh, locally grown produce, blackberry-infused goodies, artisan goods, and more.
Plan Your Stay
With abundant music, blackberry delights, outdoor recreation, scenic vistas, and crisp mountain air, Beech Mountain offers the perfect summer getaway. Go for the rhythm, savor the sweetness, and experience summer at 5,506 feet like never before.
Our AW networking group in May, 2025. We meet the 2nd Monday of every month.The 52nd Annual Urban League of Palm Beach County’s Annual Equal Opportunity Day Awards was held on Friday, May 9, at the Palm Beach County Convention Center in West Palm Beach. Photo by Carol Porter.The 15th Annual GPL (Gay Polo League) polo tournament sponsored by Lexus was held at the Patagones Polo Club from April 24-26, 2025. Photo by Alan Fabricant.The 2025 Palm Beach County Black Elected Officials Scholarship Luncheon was held at the West Palm Beach Marriott on Saturday, May 10. Photo by Carol Porter.
Ground turkey stands in for ground beef or the more traditional lamb in this simple version of shepherd’s pie. Frozen vegetables make assembly simple; you can even use instant mashed potatoes instead of making your own to cut down on preparation time. Serves 6.
Ingredients
cooking spray
1 ½ pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 1/2-inch thick slices
6 tablespoons butter, cut into pieces
1 cup milk
salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 pound ground turkey
1 medium onion, chopped
2 (1 ounce) packages instant chicken gravy mix
1 cup water
1 (16 ounce) package frozen peas and carrots, thawed
2 cups shredded cheese of choice
Directions
Preheat an oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish.
Cover potatoes with water in a saucepan and boil for 20 to 30 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and beat until smooth with an electric mixer. Add butter, milk, and salt and pepper to taste; beat to desired consistency.
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Cook and stir turkey and onion until turkey is fully cooked. Add gravy mix and water; stir often, until gravy is thick and bubbly. Season with salt and pepper.
Add turkey mixture to the baking dish. Next, layer the peas and carrots, and top with the mashed potatoes. Top with a layer of shredded cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and the potatoes are golden on the top.
When you think of exercising, most people’s minds go straight to the gym—barbells, heavy machines, and real hardcore workouts. But here’s the thing: heavy lifting is not the only way to get stronger or healthier. Whether you’re at home, in the office, or in a gym, resistance training is one of the simplest and most effective ways to boost your physical health. It doesn’t have to be complicated or intimidating. In fact, it’s a small investment for a big return, and the benefits go far beyond just building muscle.
As we get older, staying active becomes even more important. It helps fight off illness, keeps our minds clear, and supports the kind of strength we need just to move through daily life with ease. That is where resistance training really shines. Also known as strength training, it is all about using forces like your bodyweight, gravity, resistance bands, or even light weights to challenge your muscles. According to the CDC, this kind of movement can boost your metabolism, which helps with weight control, strengthen your bones to ward off osteoporosis, and improve your heart health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol. Not bad, right?
What makes resistance training doable is how accessible it is. You don’t need a ton of equipment or even a gym membership to get started. You can add bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, or planks to your routine anytime and anywhere. If you want to take things up a notch, grab some resistance bands or ankle weights. You can find them on Amazon or at most stores, and they are inexpensive, lightweight, and surprisingly powerful. You would be amazed at how much more intense a set of leg lifts or glute bridges feels when you throw on a pair of ankle weights. These tools are especially helpful for building strength in your glutes, legs, and core without putting a lot of stress on your body.
Also, you do not have to train every day to see results. In fact, you shouldn’t. Your muscles need time to recover, so giving each group at least a day of rest is key. That means hitting those muscle groups two to three times a week is plenty to build strength and feel a difference.
Whether you are at home or in the gym, adding resistance is way easier than most people think. If you are already doing bodyweight squats, try looping a mini band around your thighs to fire up your glutes. Even something simple like a plank becomes way more intense if you add a slow leg lift or place a light object on your back. These small tweaks make a big impact, increasing the load on your muscles, which is exactly what helps you get stronger over time.
At the end of the day, it is not about how much weight you are lifting. It is about challenging your muscles in a way that supports your life and your health. Whether you are using a resistance band, your own bodyweight, or a bag full of books, what really matters is showing up consistently and moving with intention. Because when you train with resistance, you are building more than muscle. You are building resilience, confidence, and long-term wellness.
So the next time you think strength training means hitting the gym and lifting heavy, just remember: you are your own gym. And you’ve already got everything you need to start today.
Sources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Strength Training for Older Adults.” www.cdc.gov
American College of Sports Medicine. “ACSM Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription,” 11th Edition.
Mayo Clinic Staff. “Strength Training: Get Stronger, Leaner, Healthier.” www.mayoclinic.org
Momma, H., et al. (2022). British Journal of Sports Medicine. “Muscle-strengthening activities and risk of mortality: A systematic review and meta-analysis.”
With expert insights from Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. John Hinson
By Gianna Picard
Polo season may have ended, but here in Wellington, Florida—known as the Equestrian Capital of the World— it’s a year-round commitment for dedicated athletes. Polo is an intense, physically demanding sport that involves powerful swings and quick maneuvers on horseback, placing significant strain on the shoulder and elbow joints. This high-stakes sport requires stamina, bursts of speed and impact, balance, flexibility, and strength. Dr. John Hinson, a local orthopedic surgeon at Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute specializing in shoulder and elbow care, shares tips on how athletes can optimize their recovery while training ahead for the next season.
Have your shoulder health assessed– If lingering pain persists!
Polo places a high-load demand on your dominant arm. Microtrauma from repeated swinging motions can build up with or without symptoms, and you won’t even know until it becomes a problem. Sometimes microtrauma presents as stiffness, limited range of motion, catching, or a locking sensation. “Athletes should check in with their nearby orthopedic specialist for any pain that lingers,” said Dr. Hinson. An ultrasound or other diagnostic tests may be necessary for further evaluation. The goal is to catch minor injuries before a full-blown impingement, labral tear, or more serious injury.
2. Address imbalances between arms
The shoulder and elbow joints rely on the surrounding muscles for strength and stability, helping to support the bones and reduce the risk of sprains and injuries. That’s why it’s essential to keep these muscles strong and well-balanced. Polo’s one-sided nature puts the non-dominant arm and shoulder at risk of underdevelopment and joint injury. “Polo players should engage in strength training like dumbbell or band work with their non-dominant arm to maintain symmetry in the shoulder girdle, strength, and posture,” said Dr. Hinson. Beneficial exercises include reverse flys, rows, and rotator cuff stabilization. “As always, you’ll want to see your physician if you discover any pain or discomfort while exercising.”
3. Reduce inflammation the correct way
Inflammation is a natural response to the physical stress polo places on the body, especially after a demanding season. Addressing it properly is key to recovery and long-term joint health. “Players should take time to actively deload the shoulder and elbow,” said Dr. Hinson. “This includes 1-2 weeks of light mobility work, icing sore areas to reduce swelling, and avoiding overuse unless medically advised. Anti-inflammatory medications are an option to help reduce inflammation and joint symptoms. However, if symptoms persist after more than 1-2 weeks of use, a physician should be consulted for further evaluation.” Inflammation isn’t always a sign of damage, as it can be part of the repair process. Rest, ice, and controlled movement are often more effective than total immobility unless a confirmed injury occurs. When in doubt, consult with your orthopedic specialist.
4. Evaluate elbow strain or grip fatigue
The elbow joint often takes on more stress than expected, particularly in polo, where grip tension and repetitive mallet swings are constant. Over time, this can lead to fatigue or strain that originates not from the elbow but from improper grip mechanics or wrist overuse. Players should check for tenderness along the inside and outside of the elbow to properly monitor joint health. Light sensitivity in these areas may indicate an early sign of strain. Addressing it early can prevent potential chronic issues like tendinopathy from developing. Strengthening the wrist and forearm, while practicing a looser, more efficient grip, can ease the load on the elbow over time. “Overlooking minor aches or tenderness can lead to more serious injuries that may affect an athlete’s performance down the line.”
5. Consider a prehab plan, not just rehab
Injury prevention starts long before the first match of the season. Building shoulder stability, core strength, and balanced posture during the off-season can help polo players stay ahead of potential injuries. “Athletes who actively maintain shoulder function during the off-season tend to experience fewer issues when the season starts,” said Dr. Hinson. A consistent prehab routine–just 10 to 15 minutes, two to three times a week– can reinforce key areas like scapular control, rotator cuff strength, and core engagement. Rest days are just as important and should be built into the athlete’s schedule to allow the body time to recover and adapt. “Proper conditioning, recovery, and injury prevention are all part of being a year-round athlete.”
6. Strengthen smarter, not just harder
Building strength is essential for polo performance, but how you train matters just as much as how hard you train. Overloading the shoulder with traditional heavy lifts can sometimes do more harm than good. “Heavy overhead presses or dips aren’t always the best choice for shoulder health, particularly in the post-season,” said Dr. Hinson. “It’s athlete-specific, but heavier weights could prove harmful in some instances.” A smarter approach focuses on strengthening the smaller stabilizing muscles that support shoulder mechanics and mallet control. Targeted exercises such as incline push-ups, resistance band external rotations, and eccentric loading work can improve endurance and joint integrity. “Athletes should prioritize movements that build durability, not just power,” Dr. Hinson added. Developing strength with intention–through control, balance, and correct technique–helps reduce the risk of injury and supports long-term performance in the athlete.
Overall, polo athletes can keep their shoulders and elbows healthy in the off-season and perform at their best by following these expert tips from Dr. Hinson. Remember, maintaining joint health is an ongoing commitment. Beyond polo season, athletes should continue to focus on injury prevention, strengthening, and recovery when engaging in sports training and in the sport itself. Dr. Hinson advises all athletes to be mindful of their bodies, and if engaging in the sport or athletic training exercises causes pain, stop immediately and consult with a provider.
