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Free Adoptions at Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League this Weekend
Sponsored by Cognizant Classic
Tournament makes donation to waive adoption fees and raise awareness
West Palm Beach, FL– (January 13, 2026) The Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches is partnering with Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League to help cats and dogs find their forever homes by waiving all adoption fees for large adult dogs and adult cats from Friday, January 16 through Sunday, January 18, 2026. This special adoption event not only gives the Palm Beach community the chance to adopt a new best friend for free, but it will also get everyone in the spirit for South Florida’s hometown event, with all adopted dogs receiving a custom bandana featuring the tournament’s fresh look and vibrant Palm Beach-inspired design.
Adoption fees will be waived for adult large dogs (6 months and older, 25 lbs and up) and adult cats (6 months and older). Adoptions will be available at the Lesly S. Smith Pet Adoption Center from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.
“We’re thrilled that the Cognizant Classic is sponsoring adoption specials for our animals this weekend. This is our first fee-waived adoption special of 2026 and helps us kick off our year with a heartfelt reminder of the difference we can make when we collaborate,” said Sue Berry, CEO of Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League. “Together, we’re driving home the message that every adoption changes lives, bringing love and happy tails into homes across Palm Beach County.”
This event is just one example of the Cognizant Classic’s commitment to supporting local causes and bringing the Palm Beach community together. As one of the region’s foremost charitable contributors, the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches has contributed more than $75 million since its inception in 1972.
About the Cognizant Classic
The Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches returns to PGA National from February 25–March 1, 2026. To purchase tickets and support the charitable mission of the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches or to explore volunteer opportunities, please visit: https://thecognizantclassic.com/
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.
Nashville Songwriters Night – to benefit Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center
Nashville Songwriters Night Returns to Vinceremos Arena for an Unforgettable Evening of Music, Community, and Impact
On Sunday, March 8, 2026, the heart of Nashville will meet the soul of South Florida as Nashville Songwriters Night returns to the iconic Vinceremos Arena in Loxahatchee for an intimate, one-night-only charity concert experience .
Set beneath the covered arena at Vinceremos Therapeutic Horsemanship Center, this special evening blends chart-topping songwriting, Southern hospitality, and meaningful philanthropy—all in support of a mission that has been changing lives for more than four decades.
A Night Where Stories, Songs, and Purpose Collide
Unlike a traditional concert, Nashville Songwriters Night invites guests behind the music. As the writers take the stage, they’ll share the personal stories, inspirations, and moments behind some of country music’s most beloved hits—creating a rare, authentic connection between artist and audience .
This year’s lineup features an extraordinary group of hitmakers:
- Marv Green, Grammy-nominated songwriter behind legendary songs recorded by George Strait, Carrie Underwood, Tim McGraw, Lonestar, Eric Church, and more—including the record-breaking #1 hit “Amazed” .
- Dean Alexander, Grammy-nominated Americana songwriter whose raw, roots-driven work has been featured alongside artists like Sheryl Crow, Jason Isbell, and on the hit TV series NASHVILLE .
- Terry McBride, Texas and Nashville music icon, frontman of McBride & The Ride, and 2024 Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee, whose four-decade career includes multiple #1 hits and timeless country classics .
Together, these artists promise a powerful, unforgettable two-hour performance that feels more like a living room jam session than a stadium show.
An Elevated Experience From the Moment You Arrive
Guests will enjoy an open bar, family-style dinner service, and the opportunity to visit the stable.
- VIP ticket holders and sponsors are welcomed early at 5:30 PM with an exclusive cocktail reception and raffle preview.
- General Admission doors open at 6:30 PM, with dinner service and open bar included.
- The concert begins promptly at 8:00 PM, under the lights of the arena—boots and flats encouraged for this relaxed, elegant country evening .
Supporting a Mission That Changes Lives
All proceeds from Nashville Songwriters Night directly benefit Vinceremos Therapeutic Horsemanship Center, a nonprofit that has provided equine-assisted services to individuals with physical, cognitive, and emotional disabilities since 1982.
Located on 15 acres in Loxahatchee and home to 20 remarkable therapy horses, Vinceremos serves up to 250 clients each week during peak season—helping individuals conquer challenges, build confidence, and experience freedom through the power of the horse .
A Unique Opportunity for Sponsors
For businesses and community partners, Nashville Songwriters Night offers more than visibility—it offers meaningful alignment with a respected nonprofit and a highly engaged audience. Sponsorship opportunities range from presenting and dinner sponsors to bar, valet, and table sponsorships, each offering premium seating, brand recognition, and exclusive meet-and-greet access with the songwriters .
Sponsors enjoy year-round recognition within the Vinceremos Arena, as well as prominent exposure through marketing, social media, and event-night signage—making this an ideal platform for brands that value community impact, storytelling, and authentic experiences.
Reserve Your Seat for a Night That Matters
With limited seating and an atmosphere unlike any other, Nashville Songwriters Night is expected to sell out. Whether you’re a country music fan, a supporter of Vinceremos, or a business looking to make a meaningful difference, this is an evening not to miss.
Tickets, VIP tables, and sponsorship opportunities are available now.
Come for the music.
Stay for the stories.
Leave knowing you helped change a life.
TO PURCHASE TICKETS: https://nashvillesongwritersnightforvinceremos.eventbrite.com
SPONSOR PACKET: Nashville Songwriters 2026 Sponsorship Packet
Social Media:
Nashville Songwriters Night: FACEBOOK
Nashville Songwriters Night: INSTAGRAM
ALTBEV EXPO COMES TO WEST PALM BEACH
Experience the Future of Drinking February 27-28, 2026, at the Palm Beach County Convention Center
West Palm Beach, Fla. — AltBev Expo, the next-generation beverage convention spotlighting the evolution of alternative, functional and non-alcoholic drinks, will take over the Palm Beach County Convention Center Feb. 27–28, 2026. The two-day event brings together the brands, creators and cultural drivers shaping how people drink today, and what they’ll be drinking next.
Designed for both industry professionals and curious consumers, AltBev Expo offers a high-energy show floor featuring emerging and established brands, live sampling, mixology demonstrations, educational panels, workshops and networking events. Educational programming dives into how alt-beverage founders scale responsibly without losing their identity, how THC, mushrooms and other functional ingredients are reshaping social and wellness-driven drinking, and how brands are fighting for shelf space in an increasingly competitive convenience and grocery landscape.
AltBev Expo leans into lifestyle and community with experiential activations designed to reflect how people actually live and recharge. Programming includes a 5K run hosted in partnership with Celis Juice Bar, guided fitness classes and yoga sessions, and recovery-focused experiences like cold plunges and sauna activations—underscoring the event’s focus on wellness, balance and modern routines. The program culminates in after-hours mixers and awards celebrating innovation across the alternative beverage space.
As consumers increasingly rethink their relationship with alcohol, the beverage landscape is undergoing a major shift. From functional ingredients and low-dose social tonics to plant-based and zero-proof options, drinking has become less about intoxication and more about intention, experience and connection. AltBev Expo sits at the center of this cultural moment, offering a firsthand look at how mindful drinking is moving from niche to mainstream.
Beyond alcohol alternatives, AltBev Expo highlights the growing interest in cognitive wellness and energy without burnout. Nootropic-infused beverages, adaptogenic blends, and coffee alternatives made with functional mushrooms, botanicals and plant-based caffeine sources are increasingly shaping how consumers start their mornings, power through workdays and transition into social settings. These products reflect a broader demand for focus, clarity and sustained energy and represent one of the fastest-growing segments in the alternative beverage space.
“People aren’t walking away from drinking, they’re evolving it,” said Muscle and Fitness magazine’s Executive Director, Jenny De Souza. “AltBev Expo highlights how performance, wellness, and social experiences can coexist in a rapidly evolving market. We’re all in the business for an attainable health oriented lifestyle. This is exactly where we come to find it and implement them in our routines.”
The decision to host AltBev Expo in West Palm Beach reflects the city’s growing role as a hub for wellness, hospitality and lifestyle innovation. With its health-minded community, vibrant dining scene and position as a gateway between major markets, Palm Beach County has emerged as a natural testing ground for what’s next in beverage culture.
For tickets, exhibitor information and the full schedule of events, visit the official AltBev Expo website.
WHEN:
February 27-28, 2026
WHERE:
Palm Beach County Convention Center
650 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
TICKETS:
www.eventeny.com/events/altbevexpo-20250/
MORE INFO:
Garden Club to Hold “The Shredding Event” Fundraiser
Wellington Garden Club (WGC) will hold a document shredding fundraising event on Saturday, January 24, 2026 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM at Wellington Village Hall, 12300 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington.
The shredding of documents will be performed for a per-box donation of $5 for a box no larger than 15 inches by 12 inches by 10 inches, or $10 for a box no larger than 24 inches by 15 inches by 10 inches. Payment is by cash or check. Garden Club volunteers will be on hand to assist with unloading boxes. Confidential materials will be shredded right in front of you.
Net proceeds will support the club’s college scholarships for high school and college students focusing on environmental studies; for summer camp scholarships for youth attending Wekiva Youth Camp; for Junior Garden Club programs and for a wide variety of the club’s community beautification projects.
Wellington Garden Club, founded in 1981, is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization dedicated to educating its members and the public in the fields of gardening, horticulture, floral design, and landscape design; and to promoting conservation of natural resources, civic beautification and youth education. For more information: www.wellingtongardenclub.org or call 215-630-5095.
Boca West Country Club to Open New Employee Experience Center
BOCA RATON, FL (January 6, 2026) — Boca West Country Club is constructing a new Employee Experience Center to accommodate and support its more than 1,200 employees. The building will be a two-story Center, intentionally designed to elevate workplace culture, foster professional growth, and reinforce the Club’s deep commitment to its team.
Inspired by the vibrancy of a university student union, the facility will include dynamic gathering spaces including a contemporary dining venue, social lounges, iPad-powered learning labs, and flexible meeting rooms. The Center will also enhance the Club’s talent and culture office. This expansion reflects Boca West’s commitment to nurturing talent, investing in career growth, and creating an environment where every team member feels empowered, connected, and valued. The building is expected to open this year.
To support the increased delivery of supplies to the Club’s restaurants and the purchasing and receiving areas, the main Country Club kitchen and loading dock will be expanded. These essential “back-of-the-house” enhancements were designed to ensure that the Club efficiently manages the growing volume of member activity while continuing to provide exceptional service.
“Our most valuable asset is our staff. With approximately 750 year-round and over 450 seasonal team members, our existing staff facilities were no longer fitting our current cultural requirements to accommodate the anticipated growth in demand,” said Matthew Linderman, CCM, President and COO of Boca West Country Club. “We are committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment for our team, the Boca West family, and these added resources and space will add to their job satisfaction.”
The new building is a result of a Club Capital Improvement Program, overwhelmingly approved by the Club’s membership earlier this year. The Program will feature many areas of member experience enhancements, amenity additions, and expansion throughout the club for enhanced performance, efficiencies, and employee benefits.
About Boca West Country Club
Located in the heart of Boca Raton, Florida, in Palm Beach County, Boca West Country Club is a private, resident-only, luxury country club community. With four championship golf courses, an award-winning USTA tennis facility, a luxurious spa, six renowned restaurants, and an active social community – all surrounded by 1,400 acres of lush, tropical landscaping – Boca West offers an incomparable lifestyle and impeccable service. Coming soon is the completion of a $45 million Club Expansion Program that includes a seismic 96,000 square foot Aquatics Center with five pools and a new restaurant bar, as well as a full-scale renovation of the two-story Sports Center Complex that will include for spin, aerobics, Pilates, and core training. A serene spa relaxation courtyard will be added with an outdoor wet area as well as an outdoor rooftop bar and terrace overlooking the magnificent Palmer Golf Course.
Boca West is honored to be a Platinum ClubsÒ of the World since 2017 currently ranked 4th out of 100 by Club Leaders Forum, has received a 5-Star Private Club ranking by Platinum Clubs of America since 1997; has been recognized since 2013 as an Elite Distinguished World Club by BoardRoom magazine; is a 2013 USTA Outstanding Facility Award winner; and was honored with the 2019, 2020, 2021 2022, 2023, and 2024 AGM Platinum Award by the Association of Golf Merchandisers.
For more information, visit bocawestcc.org. To inquire about club membership, call (561) 488-6934.
“Iron Chef” for Artists: Armory Art Center Fundraiser Turns Up the Heat
Art Throwdown will feature friendly competition among local artists
Jan. 7, 2025 (WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.) — Put away your tux and gown. The Armory Art Center’s annual fundraiser, Art Throwdown, will be one of Palm Beach County’s liveliest parties of the year. The event takes place on Feb. 6, 2026 from 6 to 9:30 p.m.
Part performance and part art sale, five artists will go head-to-head to produce creative and compelling artwork within a 90-minute challenge. The event is chaired by Linda Silpe and Lynn Feld.
The competition involves a shared supply table and a “mystery box” of unusual materials—forcing artists to be resourceful and innovative as the clock ticks. Guests can mix and mingle while enjoying delicious sips, hearty bites, live entertainment, and a silent auction during the competition. Attendees will also have the chance to vote for the winner by applause.
After the Throwdown, all artworks will go up for live auction, and the winning artist will receive a solo exhibition at the Armory.
“Art Throwdown is like Iron Chef, but for artists,” said Jill Brown, Armory Art Center CEO. “This event is a fun way to support the Armory’s work in art education and celebrate working artists.”
Attendees can also view the Annual Instructor and Student Exhibition and Art Sale on display Jan. 12 – March 6, 2026. The exhibition celebrates works created throughout the year by the organization’s prestigious instructors and student artists.
Art Throwdown tickets are $250 per person. Advance purchase recommended; limited tickets at the door. Proceeds support the Armory’s art classes and workshops, youth art programs, and art exhibitions.
Sponsorships are also still available. To apply or become a sponsor, visit armoryart.org.
If You Go (Calendar Item)
Who: Armory Art Center
What: Art Throwdown
When: Friday, February 6, 2026 (6-9:30 p.m.)
Where: Armory Art Center (811 Park Place, West Palm Beach, Fla., 33401)
Tickets: $250/person advance (portion of the ticket is tax deductible)
Attire: Put your gown and tux away; come casual and ready to have fun
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About the Armory Art Center
Having served the community since 1986, the Armory Art Center’s art school, galleries, and events provide creative opportunities for artists and art enthusiasts to enhance their lives. The mission of the Armory Art Center is to inspire the creation and experience of art and its vision is to be the leading community resource for arts education. Serving over 12,000 visitors and about 3,000 students annually, the Armory Art Center offers 160 courses per term in six terms throughout the year to students of all ages and skill levels, with flexible class times and sessions that work for any schedule. Classes in drawing, painting, photography, jewelry, fiber & textiles, ceramics, sculpture, and welding are held in 12 state-of-the-art studios. The Armory hosts up to eight annual exhibitions in three galleries. Exhibitions and special events are open to the public.
The Armory is a proud recipient of several awards in recent years, including the Best of Florida Awards (2025 Regional Art Classes & Workshops), The Palm Beach Post’s Best of Palm Beach County (2022 Best Art Gallery), Chamber of Commerce of The Palm Beaches (2021 Nonprofit of the Year), The Flamingos: Florida Weekly’s Best Awards (2021 Best Place to Create Art), the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County’s Muse Awards (2020 Legacy Award) and more.For information, visit armoryart.org or call (561) 832-1776. The Armory Art Center is located at 811 Park Place, West Palm Beach, Fla., 33401.
WPB Library Foundation Food for Thought Raises Half-Million Dollars!
Melissa Sullivan Receives Benjamin Franklin Award
WEST PALM BEACH, FLA. (January 6, 2026) – The West Palm Beach Library Foundation raises a half-million dollars at annual Food for Thought Dinner!
More than 210 donors and supporters of the West Palm Beach Library Foundation enjoyed an elegant, entertaining evening at the annual Food for Thought Dinner, held November 8 at The Beach Club, Palm Beach. “For the past five years, Food for Thought has continued generating increased revenue – a significant accomplishment that represents our commitment to the Mandel Public Library to provide the resources that keep the life-changing programs and services free and accessible to everyone,” stated Dean Dimke, Chief Executive Officer.
Board Chair Margaret Moraskie stated that “It was my privilege to present the West Palm Beach Library Foundation’s most prestigious recognition, the Benjamin Franklin Award for Excellence, for only the second time in the Foundation’s history, to Melissa Sullivan. Melissa is living proof that the very best things often come in small packages. She is a force: quiet when she chooses to be, unstoppable when she needs to be. Her strength, her energy, her smile and her heart fill every room she enters. Her exceptional leadership, personal generosity, enduring impact, and personal character are just a few of the traits foremost in her selection.”
“I absolutely love the Mandel Public Library and believe it is vital for everyone in the community to have access to the programs provided for all ages,” stated Melissa Sullivan, in her third year of serving as the event chair, “but especially for the children, since reading is essential.”
The evening’s guests were enchanted with the banter between the Foundation’s special guest speaker, Daniel Silva, in conversation with his wife Jamie Gangel, a CNN special correspondent, as they chatted about Daniel’s approach to writing a remarkable 28 New York Times best-selling books in his illustrious career. He is best known for his Gabriel Allon series. Silva’s books are critically acclaimed and have been translated into more than thirty languages. His most recent work, An Inside Job, was released this summer and, once again, was an instant #1 bestseller.
Sponsors of the evening included: Melissa Sullivan, Platinum Benefactor; Grand Benefactors included The Honorable Ann W. Brown, Levenger, and Yvel; Benefactors were Jody Gill and Beverly Myers; Honorary Co-Chairs were Abe & Dianne Bernstein, Carrie & David Edwards, and Roger & Myrna Landay. Daniel Silva was underwritten by Leo and Kathryn Vecellio and Howard and Julie Rudolph.
Publisher-Level Sponsors included Josephine Bayard, The Eric Friedheim Foundation, Frances & Jeffrey Fisher, and Trey & Lindsay Mahoney. Author-Level Sponsors were Ricky & Lisette Wade, Brain & Spine Center of South Florida, and Related Ross. Palm Beach Illustrated was our Media Sponsor.
The event also featured a spirited Silent Auction during the reception, and a Live Auction led by renowned auctioneer Jay Zeager, with all proceeds directly benefiting the Mandel Public Library programs – from afterschool homework help and summer learning for youth, to job readiness and adult education.
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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.
About the Benjamin Franklin Award
In colonial America, books were rare and expensive. But Benjamin Franklin had an idea. He envisioned a library supported by its members, accessible to all. In 1731, he founded the Library Company of Philadelphia, creating the first lending library in the colonies. That spirit of innovation, community, and lifelong learning, along with Franklin’s enduring belief that knowledge is the key to progress, is why we named our highest honor after him. It is presented only when an individual’s dedication and contributions rise to a level truly deserving of this distinction.
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How Polo Players Can Prevent Hip and Shoulder Injuries
with Expert Insights from Dr. John Hinson and Dr. Jonathan Shaw of Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute
By Gianna Picard
Polo is often described as a majestic partnership between the player and their trusted horse – a bond that requires strength, skill, and harmony. While much attention is given to the care of these incredible animals, it’s equally important to prioritize the well-being of their human counterparts. This season, protecting yourself from common issues like hip and shoulder-related injuries is essential for optimal performance and enjoyment on the field. Below, we’ve outlined key tips to help manage shoulder and hip injuries, along with advice from local experts, orthopedic surgeons, Dr. John Hinson, and Dr. Jonathan Shaw.
- Stretching and Warmups
The most important part of this routine starts before you even get on the horse- stretching. It is important to alleviate any tightness in the muscles to ensure mobility and flexibility when swinging for the ball. “Stretching before sports is critical because it helps to increase blood flow to the muscles, improve flexibility, and prepare the body for the demands of physical activity. It significantly reduces the risk of injuries, such as strains or sprains, by ensuring your muscles and joints are ready to perform at their best,” added Dr. John Hinson, Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute.
- Dynamic Stretches: These stretches put players through a full range of motion to ensure full movement in their swings. Exercises like arm circles, shoulder rolls, high pulls, and torso twists are essential practices to improve player coordination and activate muscles.
- Rotator Cuff Activation: When warming up, it is important to add resistance and not only body weight warm-ups to ensure readiness of the muscles. Exercises like band pull-aparts, external and internal rotations (including resistance bands), and overhead presses are all key to maintaining shoulder stability in games.
- Shoulder Mobility Exercises: Shoulder mobility exercises can be done on the go as well! You can maintain shoulder flexibility with nothing more than a wall and a bath towel. Wall slides and shoulder dislocations are great exercises to work on your joints.
2. Cryotherapy to Alleviate Inflammation
“Cryotherapy is an effective method for managing inflammation, making it especially beneficial for polo players who often face intense physical strain and repetitive stress on their joints and muscles. Reducing swelling and accelerating recovery times helps athletes stay at peak performance while minimizing the long-term risks of overuse injuries,” added Dr. Hinson.
- Cold Water Immersion: After an intensive game of polo, players need to alleviate their soreness to ensure an effective recovery. Ice baths (also known as cold water immersion) can reduce inflammation in the shoulder joints and prevent chronic soreness.
- Localized Cryotherapy: This practice can also be targeted to just the shoulder region with a localized cryo session using a specific device known to reduce inflammation and improve players’ circulation, ensuring their next hits are even better than the last!
3. Polo and Hips
Polo has several common hip-and-knee-related injuries, largely because it combines high-speed riding, rapid directional changes, and repetitive swinging motions while mounted. Since Polo places the hips in prolonged flexion and abduction, players are encouraged to incorporate daily stretching of the hip flexors, adductors, and deep external rotators to counteract the repetitive postural load of riding. A structured warm-up routine with advice from a physician can help decrease the risk of soft-tissue tightness by improving blood flow and neuromuscular readiness.
Recommended lower-body stretches include:
Seated figure-four stretches to open the hips and glutes.
Standing quadriceps stretches to relieve thigh tension.
Supported hamstring stretches to maintain mobility for walking and bending.
Dr. Shaw advises players to monitor for early signs of stiffness or reduced range of motion; addressing these symptoms promptly with stretching, manual therapy, or activity modification can help prevent progression to chronic hip tightness. If pain is consistent during physical activity, the athlete needs to stop immediately and seek medical attention.
“A few minutes of safe stretching can help improve flexibility and daily movement,” says Dr. Shaw, Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute. “It can enhance balance and help to prevent feelings of tightness that can develop from sitting for long periods.”
4. Injury Prevention
“It’s crucial to listen to your body and recognize the early signs of discomfort or strain. Overlooking minor aches can lead to serious injuries that may hinder your performance in the long term. Prioritize rest, recovery, and proper conditioning to keep your body in top shape for the demands of the sport,” added Dr. Hinson.
Here are some essential tips to note before your next match to stop an injury from happening before it does:
- Cross-Training: Exercises such as yoga, Pilates, or swimming can help you retain shoulder health by increasing your body’s flexibility and endurance.
- Use Proper Equipment: Improperly fitted equipment might lead to shoulder injury. Be sure the saddle and polo mallet are the right size and fit for your body.
- Listen to Your Body: Instead of forcing through shoulder pain or discomfort, take some time to rest and recover. Disregarding injury symptoms early on can cause more serious issues down the road.
Dr. Shaw summarizes, “Stretching is a simple, preventive measure that benefits everyone. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing stiffness, or simply aiming to stay active.” Dr. Shaw adds, “If you are recovering from an injury, it’s important to consult with your local specialist on how to stretch safely.” Dr. John Hinson and Dr. Jonathan Shaw encourage players to listen to what their body needs, and if performing any of these practices causes any pain, stop and consult with a doctor immediately. To learn more about Dr. Hinson and Dr. Shaw, visit https://www.pboi.com/
One Sure Thing
By Heidi Hess
We were hiding in a dark crevice. Our pursuers were hot on our heels. We held our breath and hugged the cold stone as they ran by us… not realizing we were just inches away. And now, we had the advantage. Now the pursued were the pursuers. We rushed up to them and as soon as they realized it was us, they bolted. Sprinting through dark tunnels to escape us. Ha. It was a furious game of tag, designed to feel a little dangerous. Let’s face it, its good to get that blood pumping again. Nothing like a good shot of adrenaline, especially when you know you are safe.
This is how my family and I remember Tom Sawyer’s Island at Magic Kingdom. It was a little mini land just off the coast of Big Thunder Mountain railroad. We spent several hours there, exploring the hiking trails, bobbing across the barrel bridges and yes, chasing each other through the caves. Those dark caves became a source of adventure. It was an adventure within an adventure, but things change.
As I’m sure you know, Tom Sawyer Island has been demolished and that lovely waterway has been filled in. Looks like “Cars Land” is going in there. We were all sad to hear that Disney was changing things. Surely, we weren’t the only ones that really enjoyed Tom Sawyer’s Island? Besides, could “Cars” be that popular? Now that I think about it, it’s probably more popular than Tom Sawyer. Ha. Just the idea that I had to think about whether Cars was more popular than Tom Sawyer makes me old.
What can I say? I’m old. The difference between me and other people that are the same age is that I am not resistant to change. Change is the only certain thing in life and I became comfortable with it a long time ago. So, as sad as I am about the island closing, I’m excited about the possibility of something new. This is Disney, so you know it’s going to be good.
Thinking about all of the new things kinda makes me excited. How long has it been since Magic Kingdom had a good overhaul? Maybe it was time for a change. I’ve been trying to get the kids to see it this way too. Let’s face it, we have about as much control over what happens at Disney as we do over the weather. Becoming comfortable with change eases stress, opens us up to new ideas, new opportunities.
Twenty-twenty six should have more than a few new things opening at Disney. I, for one, am looking forward to it. As I am looking forward to all changes this coming year. Happy New Year! Here’s to change, growth and new opportunities!