Jeannine Carr, Heidi Hess of “Mommy Moments” and Krista Martinelli, Editor
So, it’s March, which features St. Patty’s Day and all of the good luck & green beer that goes along with that tradition. But did you know March is also Women’s History Month? And National Reading Month?
Check out “Wild Succulent Books” by writer Heidi Hess this month in “Mommy Moments.” She highlights books by women authors in honor of both Women’s History Month and National Reading Month.
March is a busy month and it’s also Athletic Training Month. See “Dr. Hinson’s 8 Tips for Athletic Training Month” in “Health & Fitness” by Gianna Picard. From warming up properly to rest and recovery, there are some basic steps that will help your body in any workout routine.
In “Ask the Docs,” Jaime Joshi Elder gives a perspective from Dr. Kyle Eldredge on screening for colon cancer with “Five Things I Would Never Do as a Colorectal Surgeon.” Check yourself and make sure you are not doing these “must not do” steps!
In “Teen Talk” this month, our wonderful intern from Wellington High School Madi Mangoni explores the critical question “Should Students Have Limited Access to the Internet?” This is a great analysis and takes a look at both sides of the issue.
Welcome to our newest sponsor, Chakalaka Hot Sauce! Check out their hot sauce as well as their Garlic Vinaigrette!
As always, this is just the tip of the iceberg! Please do explore our many articles this month, as well as our new photo galleries and new events happening around Wellington. Thanks and have a wonderful month!
The Internet has become an essential aspect of modern life, transforming how we get information, interact, and study. It provides students with an abundance of tools, including access to educational resources. However, the Internet also provides various distractions and possible hazards.
Restricting students’ Internet access is crucial to protect them from dangerous content, cyberbullying, and online predators. The Internet is full of improper content, including violence and hate speech, which can harm children’s development and well-being.
Another reason for limiting students’ Internet access is because it might be a significant distraction from their academics. The Internet provides an abundance of entertainment options, including social media, video games, and streaming sites, which may quickly take up hours of a student’s time. This can result in procrastination, reduced attention, and, eventually, poor academic achievement. By limiting Internet access, students might be encouraged to devote more time to their academics, resulting in higher grades and a more pleasant educational experience.
Excessive Internet use has been related to eye strain, obesity, and sleep deprivation. In addition, social isolation, anxiety, and depression have all been connected to excessive Internet use. Students can be encouraged to participate in healthier activities like exercise, socializing with friends and family, and taking up hobbies by restricting their access to the Internet.
Although on the other hand, numerous educational resources, such as search engines, tutorials, and online courses, are accessible through the Internet. These tools can be used by students to improve their education outside of the classroom, pursue new interests, and acquire useful skills. Additionally, the Internet makes it easier for students to collaborate and communicate, connecting them with classmates. Restricting students’ access to the Internet may deny them these chances and affect their development both academically and personally.
Students’ freedom of expression and access to information may be restricted if Internet access is limited. The Internet provides a platform for exchanging thoughts, opinions, and ideas. Restricting access could discourage students’ curiosity and inventiveness and keep them from interacting with the world around them.
Additionally, the Internet is a great place to learn about a variety of subjects, including the latest news. Restricting access could interfere with students’ ability to stay informed and develop their critical thinking skills.
Both sides of limiting access to the Internet and not limiting access to the Internet have valid arguments, so to ensure responsible and efficient use, a balanced strategy is necessary. To keep students safe and make sure they aren’t neglecting their schoolwork, some limitations could be enforced. Although, it is just as important to recognize the educational and social aspects the Internet has to offer. Putting appropriate age limitations and parental controls in place is one potential solution. While older students can be granted more freedom as they get older and develop good Internet habits, younger children might need more restrictions.
So, to answer the question: “Should Students have limited access to the Internet?”, students should have limited access to the Internet but should still be able to freely express themselves and communicate with people.
He was fifty feet tall, portraying icons like Black Panther – a fictional hero made flesh or Jackie Robinson and Thurgood Marshall – flesh and blood heroes who walked among us.
No-one knew that Chadwick Boseman, barely in his 40s, was battling colon cancer and when he succumbed to the disease in 2020, shockwaves of grief ripped through Hollywood and the world at large.
He was so young. He seemed so strong. He was in the prime of his life. He seemed undefeatable and then, he was gone.
According to the National Cancer Institute, new cases of colorectal cancer in people under the age of 50 have been rising over the past several decades.
Kyle Eldredge, D.O.
“Colon cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed each year in both men and women,” said Wellington-based colorectal surgeon and partner at Advanced Surgical Physicians Kyle Eldredge, D.O. “In people over 50 years old, the overall incidence of colorectal cancer has actually been dropping over the last three decades due to increased screening. However, in people younger than 50, the numbers are increasing by 1-2% per year since the 1990s and by 2030, early-onset colorectal cancer is expected to become the leading cancer related cause of death for people aged 20-to-49.”
He encourages people to be actively engaged in their health and wellness and has created a list of five things he would never do as a colorectal surgeon.
Ignore your family history.
While age is the most important risk factor for the development of colorectal cancer with over 90% of colorectal cancers diagnosed in men and women over the age of 45, family history is also important when it comes to diagnosis and prevention.
“Having a single first degree relative with colorectal cancer can increase your risk 2-3 fold,” said Dr. Eldredge.
Skip screenings.
Simply put, screenings save lives and Dr. Eldredge says screenings should start at the age of 45 for people without risk factors like a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps.
“Most early-stage colorectal cancers do not produce symptoms – they start as noncancerous
Polyps,” he said. “Through screening and removal of polyps, the risk of colorectal cancer can be reduced by as much as 75-85%.”
Underestimate your symptoms
Maintaining good health requires vigilance and knowing your body. Most colon and rectal cancers do not cause symptoms in the early stages but it is vital that people are aware of the warning signs so they can know when to solicit the advice of a medical professional.
“Symptoms include abdominal pain, bloody stool, fatigue, anemia due to blood loss and a change in bowel habits,” said Dr. Eldredge. “Symptoms vary from person to person which can make diagnosis challenging but if you notice you’re experiencing these symptoms, talk to your doctor.”
Refuse to modify your lifestyle.
The way you live your life has a huge impact on your health and Dr. Eldredge echoes advice dispensed by former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy – alcohol consumption is the third leading preventable cause of cancer in the United States.
“Alcohol use has been linked to several different types of cancer, including colon cancer,” Dr. Eldredge said. “Ethanol, the type of alcohol found in commonly consumed drinks such as beer, wine and hard liquor acts as an irritant to mucosal linings of the GI tract, including the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and small and large intestine.”
He recommends that in addition to drinking less and quitting smoking, people should eat less red meat and processed foods, add more fruits, vegetables and whole grains to their diets and get moving – walking, working out or any kind of exercise that gets you off the couch.
Refuse to talk about your bowel movements to your physician.
It might be an uncomfortable conversation but ultimately, it could be a conversation that saves your life. People might not like talking about it because they feel awkward or they don’t want to make a fuss – attributing changes in bowel movements to bad shrimp cocktail or indulging in too much spicy food – but it’s worth having the conversation if you have any concerns.
“If you have constipation or new-onset diarrhea, changes in the frequency, size or caliber of your bowel movements, your bowel doesn’t seem to empty completely or you have narrow stools – as thin as a pen, for example – and it lasts for several days, you should talk to your doctor,” said Dr. Eldredge. “If you’re experiencing abdominal pain which you think could be due to a bowel blockage, contact your doctor. If you have blood in your stool, talk to your doctor.”
Open and honest communication between yourself and your medical professional can make all the difference in an early diagnosis.
Orthopedic Advice for Athletes Training for Sports
By Gianna Picard
In honor of March’s Athletic Training Month, it’s important to focus on the health and longevity of two of the most important joints for athletes: the shoulders and elbows. Regardless of which sport you play, whether it involves lifting, throwing, or engaging in endurance, keeping these joints strong and free of injury is crucial. Below, we’ve outlined 8 tips to help maintain healthy shoulders and elbows during athletic training routines, along with expert advice from the well-known local orthopedic surgeon, Dr. John Hinson.
Warm-Up Properly to Prevent Strain
Warming up your shoulder and elbow muscles is important before engaging in physical activity. Warming up can reduce the risk of injury by increasing the blood flow to the joints. Dr. Hinson suggests that the best warm-up exercises include: arm circles, shoulder rolls, and resistance band exercises. “Stretching before engaging in sports is crucial, as it helps to increase blood flow to the muscles,” said Dr. John Hinson. “When done properly, warming up 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.
2. Incorporate Strengthening Exercises into Athletic Training
The shoulder and elbow joints are supported by the strong muscles surrounding them. These muscles reduce the potential occurrence of sprain and injury, which is why it’s important to ensure they are not weak. Including exercises such as shoulder presses, lateral raises, and rotator cuff in strengthening routines can help avoid possible injuries to the shoulder joints. For elbows, bicep curls and triceps extensions strengthen the muscles surrounding the joint. This will allow the elbow to feel stabilized during physical activity. “Proprioceptive training is crucial for field athletes as it enhances their balance, coordination, and spatial awareness—all essential for managing rapid movements and preventing injuries on the field. By improving the body’s ability to sense and adapt to changes in position, athletes can react more effectively and maintain stability during high-intensity matches,” said Dr. John Hinson.
3. Focus on Rotator Cuff Health
For shoulder stability and overall function, the health of your rotator cuff is vital especially when engaging in activities such as swimming, baseball, and weightlifting. Rotator cuff strengthening exercises can be done by incorporating light resistance exercises into your training routine. For example, external rotations or scapular squeezes can help improve the stability and mobility of the shoulder joint.
4. Pay Attention to Your Form During Activity
To prevent shoulder and elbow injuries, you must engage in the proper technique when playing or training for a sport. Dr. Hinson stresses the importance of staying mindful of your form to avoid unnecessary stress on the athlete’s joints. Common mistakes include overextending the joints, which can cause conditions such as tendinitis or bursitis. “Overlooking minor aches can lead to serious injuries that may hinder your performance in the long term. This is why it’s important to listen to your body and recognize possible signs of discomfort and strain,” said Dr. John Hinson.
5. Rest and Recovery to Avoid Overuse
Another common cause of injury in the shoulder and elbow is overtraining. Sports that involve repetitive motions are at higher risk for the development of overuse injuries. This includes tennis, baseball, pickleball, weightlifting, and football. Dr. Hinson advises athletes to incorporate rest days into their routine, especially when recovering from an injury. This can be done by alternating training sessions to avoid overuse. “I encourage all athletes to prioritize their rest, recovery, and proper conditioning to keep their body in top shape for the demands of the sport,” added Dr. Hinson.
6. Include Flexibility and Mobility Exercises
To help maintain a full range of motion and prevent stiffness in the athlete, Dr. Hinson encourages the implementation of basic stretching and mobility exercises to avoid injury in the shoulders and elbows. Stiff muscles may lead to athletic injury if they are not being stretched properly. Some exercises include doorway chest stretches for increased shoulder mobility and wrist flexor stretches for elbows. Incorporating both mobility and flexibility stretches in an athletic training routine will lessen the likelihood of being injured.
7. Be Mindful of Pain in the Shoulder and Elbow
If an athlete experiences any discomfort in their shoulders or elbows, Dr. Hinson suggests not to push through the exercise training. In general, pain is a signal that something is not right in the body. To avoid more serious injuries, early intervention measures will help. Dr. Hinson advises the athlete to consult with an orthopedic specialist, like himself, if persistent pain or swelling is present. An expert will be able to give the athlete advice on the proper treatment or rehabilitation options when it applies.
8. Invest in Proper Equipment for Athletic Training
Investing in the proper gear for athletic training can significantly reduce stress on the athlete’s joints. From wearing an elbow sleeve during swinging or throwing sports to using the correct equipment during weight training, proper equipment can help lower the chances of injury during athletic training. Additionally, a high-quality support brace and properly fitting sports equipment can protect against impact injuries and strains.Overall, athletes can keep their shoulders and elbows healthy and performing at their best by following these expert tips from Dr. Hinson. Remember, maintaining joint health is an ongoing commitment. Beyond March’s Athletic Training Month, athletes should continue to focus on injury prevention, strengthening, and recovery when engaging in sports training and in the sport itself. Dr. Hinson encourages all athletes to be mindful of their bodies, and if engaging in sports or athletic training exercises causes pain, stop immediately and consult with a physician. To learn more about Dr. Hinson and the Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute, visit https://www.pboi.com/john-hinson.
It was Galentine’s Day, and instead of flowers for my closest lady friends, I bought them small succulents and decorated them with small hearts and googly eyes on the leaves. Of all the plants I could have picked, I chose these two. Why? The author and artist SARK wrote a book I enjoyed reading at the tender age of twenty. My copy of Wild Succulent Women sits on my bookshelf next to my other prized, favorite books. To say it was formative and inspiring is an understatement. I distinctly remember reading each section about the women in SARK’s life, how they met, and how they knew they would always be friends. She relished in seeing these women – her succulent wild women. They lifted one another, validated and helped each other become better versions of themselves. When I was finished reading that book, I hugged it to my chest and looked forward to one day having my own band of Succulent Wild Women. And now I do.
March is Women’s History Month and also National Reading Month. See where I’m going with this? Take a moment and think about the books you’ve read that inspired you or helped you during a rough time. Books have been so many things to me: entertainment, comfort, help, and encouragement. Are we sharing those books with the next generation? We should at least try. I’m not sure my daughter would enjoy the playfulness of Succulent Wild Women, but I’m pretty sure Maya Angelou’s “Phenomenal Woman” (another formative piece of literature) would strike a chord in her, especially right now. A Woman’s Worth by Marianne Williamson would be an excellent choice as well.
And it’s not just women’s studies that get all of my attention, although I do enjoy empowering books. What kind of a writer would I be if I hadn’t read Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, any Judy Bloom book, or Swampland by Katherine Russell? These women and their books shifted my history and made me want to write. Can an author ask for more? Is there a greater compliment? Nope.
This March, I challenge you to think about your top ten formative books. What books shaped you personally and professionally? Share those with your kids. Bonus points if they are women authors… because… well… we’re phenomenal. At least, that’s what Maya Angelou told us, and she’s right.
Place shrimp in a bowl. You may either coarsely chop the shrimp, or leave them whole, depending on your preference. Add lemon juice, covering shrimp completely. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes, or until opaque and slightly firm.
Add onions, tomato, cucumber, radishes, and garlic; toss to combine. Gradually add jalapeño and cilantro to desired taste (jalapeño will grow stronger while marinating).
Stir in tomato and clam juice cocktail to desired consistency.
Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour. Serve chilled with tortilla chips.
The CV Whitney Cup. Photo by Alan Fabricant.$500,000 FEI5* Lugano Grand Prix. Photo by Alan Fabricant.The Lake Worth Street Painting Festival. Photo by Alan Fabricant.Celebrating 19 years of Aroundwellington.com at Village Music in Feb. 2025
Join the excitement of the Nations Cup, a family-friendly event featuring thrilling showjumping, live music, delicious food, and entertainment for all ages!
Wellington, FL – The highly anticipated Nations Cup competition is returning to Wellington International this Saturday, March 1, 2025, as part of the Saturday Night Lights series at the Winter Equestrian Festival. This premier event invites fans to cheer for their favorite country as international teams battle it out in a breathtaking showjumping competition.
Nations Cup is an iconic event where top showjumping teams from around the world compete for national pride and victory. This year, expect an electrifying atmosphere, with teams representing Ireland, Brazil, Great Britain, the USA, Israel, Canada, Mexico, Belgium, and Venezuela taking the reins. The competition will be fierce, and the energy will be off the charts! Fans are encouraged to bring their country flags, join in the celebration, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Saturday Night Lights event. General admission is free, making it a perfect outing for the whole family. This year’s festival promises an unforgettable experience with an array of exciting activities, including:
Delicious food from an updated Tiki Hut menu and new food vendors
Live music and entertainment with magicians, stilt walkers, and more
Fun-filled attractions like a carousel, bounce houses, pony rides, a petting zoo, and face painting
High-level showjumping featuring some of the world’s best riders
For those looking to elevate their experience, exclusive hospitality options are available, such as the Tiki Hut and the Blue Ribbon Club, offering gourmet buffets, open bars, and stunning views of the action.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, March 1, 2025
Event: $150,000 CSIO4* Nations Cup presented by Florida Coast Equipment
Round 1: Starts at 4:30 PM
Round 2: Starts at 7:30 PM
General Admission: FREE
Parking: $22 per car (On-site parking)
Free Parking & Shuttles: Available from Equestrian Village, 13500 South Shore Blvd, Wellington, FL 33414
In 2024, the Nations Cup saw Ireland take first place, followed by Canada in second and the United States in third. Who will take home the trophy this year? Come out and see for yourself!
