Sunday, June 29, 2025
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Happy 2025!

By Savannah Hess

4th of July Fireworks @ Aaron Lurie, VMA Studio

Hello everyone. And of course happy new year! With the coming year, we are also halfway through the 2020s. How can that be? I don’t know (please note my sarcasm here). New Years has to be one of my favorite holidays. I always enjoy hanging out with my family, staying up until midnight, watching New Year’s rockin ‘Eve, and singing the song no one remembers the title of (it’s auld lang syne, which before a few weeks ago I never knew). The only context I’ve ever heard is in the Christmas/New Years’ masterpiece, Same Old Lang Syne by Dan Fogelberg. 

How did we get here? What is the history behind New Years’? Well, that’s what we’ll be discussing today. Alrighty, let’s go!

According to my research, we’ll be taking the time machine first back to ancient Babylon. Over 4,000 years ago. The Babylonians used to celebrate new years on the first new moon after the vernal equinox- which was a day in late March with the same amount of light and dark. During this holiday, the Babylonians held a religious festival called an Akitu, which meant a different ritual on each of the 11 days it was held. During this time a new king was crowned too, so the significance for the people of Babylon can’t be overstated. 

Going a little further in time, Julius Caesar adopted the Julian calendar, and also decreed the first day of the year as January 1st. 

In the middle ages, my personal favorite time period, the church would often replace January 1st with Christmas or other important Christian holidays of the time. It wasn’t until 1582 A.D that Pope Gregory XIII reestablished the first day of the year as being in January. 

It wasn’t until about 1800 when people followed the classic tradition of staying up until midnight, according to www.dailyhistory.org. It became popular to hold parties with family and friends to see the New Year, and these parties often involved alcohol. Particularly in the early years of the 19th century. In the Victorian era, circa 1878, new bells were installed to St. Paul’s Cathedral. Crowds gathered to hear the ringing of the bells for the first time ever. Over time this became more of a tradition for the English, and every year the bells are rung on New Years Eve. The origin of Same Auld Lang Syne can be traced back to this time period, in Scotland, when Robert Burns translated the 18th century poem into the well-known song. However the song really gained popularity on December 31st of 1929, when it was played on the radio in the United States. The New York Times began the tradition of a New Years Eve party in 1904, which New York City eventually adopted as its official celebration. Just a few years later in 1907, New York City would ban fireworks. Instead of fireworks, an electrician came up with the idea of a 700 pound illuminated ball which would drop at midnight. Who knew? 

Anyway, that’s all I have for you guys. Have a happy 2025 everyone!!

Flight Attendants, their Brilliant Advice and Beth Dutton

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By Heidi Hess

The bench at the Orlando International Airport I was sitting on wasn’t entirely comfortable. The plastic slats were digging into the back of my legs, and the position of the seat that “supported” my back was such that if I leaned into it, it made my belly stick out. Not a flattering pose, but I wasn’t concerned with that right now. I sat back, pushed my dark sunglasses up the bridge of my nose, and closed my eyes. Just sitting in one spot for longer than 10 minutes was heaven. It was safe to say that life had me running at a furious pace. Was it self-imposed? A little. I mean, we are all out here trying to make things happen, trying to meet our goals. Add the extra responsibility of having a family to look after, and you have a recipe for an epic breakdown, a la Beth Dutton style. No one wants that. 

I’m reminded of the flight attendants going over the emergency procedures. In the event that the cabin has lost pressure and you are unable to breathe, masks will fall from the ceiling to provide oxygen. Are you traveling with children? Make sure to put your mask on first and then assist other passengers. This scenario got it right. We need to put our masks on before we help anyone else. If we can’t breathe, what good are we to our loved ones? You’ll sit there and say these are extreme cases but shouldn’t we do this everyday? So, in the spirit of the New Year and all of the resolution garbage, maybe we should resolve to prioritize ourselves a few times a day. Here are ten ideas to help you recharge your battery or be that life-saving oxygen we moms need to keep going. 

Start Your Morning with 10 Minutes of “Me Time”
Whether it’s journaling, stretching, or sipping coffee in silence—start the day with YOU.

Schedule a Monthly “Mom Day Out”
Plan one day a month just for yourself: a movie, shopping, or a café break.

Create a Daily Gratitude List
Jot down 3 things you’re thankful for before bed—it’s a mood booster.

Read for 10 Minutes a Day
Whether it’s a novel, magazine, or inspirational book, carve out time to get lost in words.

Invest in a Skincare Ritual
A simple 5- or 10-minute morning or evening routine feels indulgent but manageable.

Take a Weekly Walk Alone
Fresh air and quiet time can do wonders for your mind and energy.

Practice Saying “No” Without Guilt
Set boundaries when you’re feeling stretched thin. No requires no explanation. 

Listen to an Audiobook or Podcast
While driving, folding laundry, or during downtime, enjoy content that inspires or entertains you.

Put Your Phone on Airplane Mode for an Hour
Disconnect to recharge—focus on something that brings you joy.

Buy Yourself Flowers
A small act that brightens your space and mood.

These are just a few random ideas to get you thinking. My hope for the New Year is that we moms take better care of ourselves. Our kids need to see us doing this. They mirror our actions and will, I hope, give themselves permission to prioritize their needs. 

I think I’ll start right now. Or maybe right after this nap on the bench in the airport. After all, no one wants to see me in “Beth Dutton” mode. 

 Happy New Year! 

5 Ways Polo Players Can Prevent Shoulder Injury with Expert Insights from Dr. John Hinson   

By Devi Khanna Ramprasad

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 shoulder injuries is essential for optimal performance and enjoyment on the field. Below, we’ve outlined key tips to help prevent and manage shoulder injuries, along with expert advice from renowned local orthopedic surgeon, Dr. John Hinson.

Dr. John Hinson
  1. 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.

  • 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.
Photo by Alan Fabricant

2. Aquatic Therapy or Pool Exercises

Just like ballet has been known to aid football players, swimming can also help polo players improve their performance. Whether you are using an Olympic or home pool, the effects are notable. “The buoyancy of water reduces stress on joints while activating key muscle groups, which is crucial for recovering from injuries and maintaining peak physical performance in such a demanding sport,” said Dr. John Hinson.

  • Swimming: This water activity is used worldwide to strengthen the shoulders. Specifically, backstrokes have been linked to improved shoulder mobility. However, what is notable about this practice is that it does not put excessive pressure on the joints, providing just enough resistance but counteracting it with the water’s buoyancy—reducing the risk of strain. 
  • Water Resistance Exercises: For those who enjoy the water but are looking for a bit more of a challenge, try adding shoulder exercises like overhead presses and lateral raises with water weights. This practice is also known for strengthening shoulders without being as stressful on the joint as lifting in a brick-and-mortar gym.

3. 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! 

4. Proprioceptive Training

“Proprioceptive training is crucial for polo players 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, players can react more effectively and maintain stability during high-intensity matches,” said Dr. John Hinson.

  • Balance Training: Using a stability ball or BOSU ball trains cognitive skills that aid in better control of your joint movements. Overall, this practice has been known to reduce the risk of injury by making players more mindful of their movements. Examples of exercises: 
  • Shoulder Taps on Stability Ball: Use one hand to perform planks or push-ups on a stability ball while tapping the other shoulder. As a result, the shoulders are forced to stabilize in changing circumstances.
  • Balance Board or BOSU Ball Push-ups: Push-ups on a balance board or BOSU ball help strengthen and stabilize the joint by activating the shoulder stabilizers.

5. 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. John Hinson encourages 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, visit https://www.pboi.com/john-hinson

National Pet Travel Safety Day

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A Reminder to Keep Pets Safe on the Go

PALM BEACH, FL ­– As families gear up for road trips and vacations in the new year, National Pet Travel Safety Day, observed annually on January 2, serves as a timely reminder to prioritize the safety and comfort of our furry companions during ​their outward bound adventures.

Pets are beloved members of the family, and just like humans, they need proper protection when traveling. According to recent studies, unrestrained pets in vehicles can lead to distractions and increase the risk of accidents. National Pet Travel Safety Day emphasizes the importance of using safety measures to ensure a smooth and secure journey for pets and their handlers.

Here are five important travel tips to keep your furry friends safe​ from the American Humane Society:

Use a Pet Restraint System

Whether it’s a pet seat belt, harness, or secured crate, restraining pets properly prevents injuries in case of sudden stops or accidents.

Avoid Letting Pets Roam Freely

Allowing pets to move around the vehicle can cause distractions and pose serious risks to both the pet and the driver.

Never Leave Pets Unattended

Temperatures inside a parked car can rise or drop rapidly, endangering your pet’s health.

Plan for Breaks

During long trips, schedule stops for pets to stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves.

Pack Pet Essentials

Bring along food, water, medication, and comfort items like a favorite toy or blanket.

“Our beloved pets rely on us for their safety, whether they’re snuggled up at home or joining us on adventures,” says Dr. Robin Ganzert, president and CEO of American Humane Society. “National Pet Travel Safety Day is a special occasion to remind ourselves of our responsibility to their well-being when we travel together.”

For more information on the American Humane Society, visit americanhumane.org.

About American Humane Society

With offices in Palm Beach, FL and Washington, DC, American Humane Society is the United States’ first national humane organization and the world’s largest certifier of animal welfare, helping to verify the humane treatment of more than one billion animals across the globe each year. Founded in 1877, American Humane Society has been First to Serve™ the cause of animals and for over 145 years has been at the forefront of virtually every major advance in the humane movement. For more information or to support our lifesaving work, please visit AmericanHumane.org, and follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube for the latest breaking news and features about the animals with whom we share our Earth.

DENNIS WITKOWSKI:  A SLAM-DUNKING RESTAURANTEUR

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By Mike May

If you were one of the thousands of people lined up along Wellington’s Forest Hill Boulevard during the 2024 Wellington Holiday Parade on Sunday, December 8, you probably saw the red convertible with the parade’s Grand Marshall sitting on the back seat.  That tall, distinguished gentleman was former, 40-year Wellington resident Dennis Witkowski.  He was the perfect choice as the Grand Marshall since it was the 40th edition of the Wellington Holiday Parade, which is an event that he founded, directed, and organized for its first 35 years.

Witkowski and his wife Maureen now live in Palm Beach Gardens in order to be closer to their grandchildren.  But, part of their hearts and souls remain in Wellington.

Outside of being a parade organizer, Witkowski is well known in two other different pursuits:  basketball and restaurants.

Back in the late 1960s, Witkowski was a college student at Fordham University in New York.  In addition to studying for a degree, Witkowski used his 6’ 8” frame to play for Fordham’s men’s basketball team.  He was a tall, strong and talented player.  He’s still tall and strong, but probably not as talented, by his own admission.  In college, Witkowski played in a number of big games against strong teams in well-known arenas around the country.  As a junior and as a senior, he played in the NIT (National Invitation Tournament) at Madison Square Garden when it was a rival to the NCAA Tournament.

As a sophomore, Witkowski and his Ram teammates traveled to Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts to play the 10th-ranked Eagles from Boston College, where they defeated the Eagles, 85-81.  In that same year, Fordham took a road trip to Greensboro, North Carolina to play North Carolina State University.  Fordham prevailed, 65-63.  And, on two occasions in his sophomore year, Fordham played Army and, unfortunately, lost both games.  Army’s head coach at the time was future coaching legend Bobby Knight and Army’s point guard in those games was future collegiate and U.S. Olympic basketball coaching legend, Mike Krzyzewski, aka, Coach K, who led Duke University to five NCAA national championships during his long and decorated coaching career.

As a junior, Witkowski’s most vivid memory took place on March 19, 1968.

“We played the University of Dayton, led by Hall of Fame head coach Don Donoher, in the quarterfinals of the NIT in Madison Square Garden,” recalls Witkowski.  “We had defeated Duquesne two days prior in the first round of the NIT and our team was on a five-game winning streak, but we lost a heartbreaker to the Flyers, 61-60.  Their best player was All-American Donnie May.  They eventually won the NIT, beating JoJo White and the Kansas Jayhawks in the final.  JoJo later had a long career with the NBA’s Boston Celtics.”

In his senior year at Fordham, the Rams had a number of big-time wins – defeating Syracuse, Seton Hall, Connecticut, George Washington, and Pittsburgh.  Another satisfying win came against Army on February 4, 1969 when Witkowski and his fellow Rams defeated the Cadets, 52-42, which were led, again, by Coach Knight and senior point guard Krzyzewski.  Witkowski’s senior year came to an end at Madison Square Garden in the first round of the NIT when they lost to Louisville, 73-70.  Not many people can say that their last college basketball game was played in Madison Square Garden, but, Dennis Witkowski, now 77, certainly can.  

After graduating from Fordham in 1969, the most memorable part of his basketball career was on the horizon.  In 1970 and 1971, he was a member of the Washington Generals (aka, New Jersey Reds, Chicago Demons, and the United States All Stars), the regular ‘opponent’ for the Harlem Globetrotters. Witkowski played against Frederick ‘Curly’ Neal and Meadowlark Lemon, two of the greatest Harlem Globetrotters of all time.  He quickly became great friends with both Neal and Lemon, as they traveled, played, ate, and partied together.

Harlem Globetrotters International, Inc. (PRNewsFoto/Harlem Globetrotters)

“Being with the Globetrotters was like being a part of one big family,” recalled Witkowski, whose nickname was Wit.  “There was a closeness to our group which included both teams, our referees, the public address announcer, and others.”

As a member of the Generals, he lived a ‘jet-set’ existence.

“In two years, I played in 500 basketball games in 45 states and 15 countries. We often played seven days a week and sometimes two games on a Sunday,” recalled Witkowski.

He will never forget the summer of 1970 which was spent playing basketball in western Europe.  The tour included a memorable week in England.

“We played 10 games in seven days at the Wembley Arena in London,” recalled Witkowski. “Two of our games were broadcast ‘live’ on the BBC.  People thought that we were the second-best basketball team in the world.”

On that same European tour, he’ll never forget the trip to Rome.

“In Rome, we played in an open-air arena under the stars in an old ancient Roman coliseum where the court was surrounded by statues of great Roman athletes,” said Witkowski.  “The Italians love basketball.  And, they loved the Globetrotters.”

After two years on the road, Witkowski came home to play more basketball.

He signed a contract with the Pittsburgh Pipers of the old American Basketball Association (ABA).  That didn’t last long as the Pipers soon folded.  Then, he found another basketball playing opportunity in the old Eastern League.

After retiring from playing basketball, Witkowski transitioned into the restaurant business.  His restaurant career has been longer and more profitable than his basketball-playing career.  He got his start as a singing waiter at The Red Onion in Manhattan.  Years later, his restaurant career brought him to Wellington where he was the original owner of Cobblestones. 

Currently, he’s retired from a full-time restaurant career.  He and Maureen are returning to gyms in Palm Beach County, as they now spend time watching their grandchildren play basketball games.  Those venues remind him of his days playing against the Harlem Globetrotters as he whistles to the tunes of “Sweet Georgia Brown,” the theme song of the Harlem Globetrotters.  But, don’t ask him to sing it! 

For Witkowski, he’s still in the restaurant business as he maintains a controlling interest in the Stadium Grill in Jupiter.

Without a doubt, two of the most famous people that he met while playing basketball and owning restaurants were Wilt Chamberlain and actor Paul Newman.

“While I was playing against the Globetrotters, Wilt Chamberlain, who used to play for the Globetrotters, would stop by to play cards with us in the locker room.  Wilt was my favorite basketball player,” recalled Witkowski.  “And, when I owned Cobblestones, Paul Newman walked in with friends to eat one day.  His closing comments to me were “Good chow, good chow.”

Thinking ahead, Witkowski would be the perfect choice as the Grand Marshall for the 41st edition of the Wellington Holiday Parade in December 2025, with a basketball and restaurant menu in hand.

Team Photo: United States All Stars.

Bringing Hope and Health In The New Year

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By Jaime Joshi Elder

Andrew Shapiro, MD

Curiosity and the desire to push the limits of knowledge further are the bedrock of medical advancement. 

Hair-growth treatment Minoxidil started as a drug created to help reduce high blood pressure, Valium originated in the Victorian-era as a fabric dye and most recently, Ozempic which was initially approved for Type 2 diabetes is now being used for weight loss. 

Wellington-based medical practice Advanced Surgical Physicians launched a weight loss program in June 2024 and it has blossomed into a successful program which is changing lives for Palm Beach County residents. 

“I started the program because of my own experience with compounded Tirzepatide,” said Ilene Shapiro, office manager at Advanced Surgical Physicians. 

Tirzepatide, commonly known by the brand names Mounjaro and ZepBound, is a GLP-1 receptor agonist known for its effectiveness in weight management and improving related health conditions. 

“I’ve used Tirzepatide and the results have been amazing,” Ilene said. “It’s not just about the weight loss—my inflammation markers improved, and many symptoms of my autoimmune disorder disappeared.”

Seeing these results, practice partner Andrew Shapiro, MD started to research and discovered the medication could also help his breast cancer patients struggling with the side effects of hormonal therapy. 

In addition to weight gain, side effects also include fatigue, joint pain and difficulty maintaining weight loss despite lifestyle changes. 

“We wanted to ensure our patients could access the benefits of GLP-1 medications, receive proper support, and trust the quality of their prescriptions,” Ilene says.

“It is magical,” said program participant Emily (not her real name), a breast cancer survivor on hormonal therapy for nine years who has been on the program for about three months. “I have started to feel normal again”

The ASP weight loss program isn’t just for patients of the practice and is open to anyone without a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or personal history of gastroparesis. 

“Our initial goal was to enroll 20 patients by the end of 2024,” Ilene said. “We surpassed that goal and now have 51 patients enrolled and thriving!”

The program has been particularly beneficial for breast cancer patients dealing with weight-related issues caused by hormonal therapy. “This medication and program give patients a way to regain control of their health,” Ilene emphasizes.

By partnering with a trusted pharmacy for compounded Tirzepatide, the Advanced Surgical Physicians program ensures patients receive effective, high-quality treatment. The program’s comprehensive support is designed to help patients succeed in their weight loss journey while improving their overall well-being.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to connect with Advanced Surgical Physicians by calling (561) 333-1335 or via their website: https://www.toplinemd.com/advanced-surgical-physicians/

2024 Boca Bowl

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Photos and Story by Alan Fabricant

Sun Belt Conference winners, James Madison University played Western Kentucky University of Conference USA in the 11th Annual Boca Raton Bowl.

In what was a very close first half of play WKU led 14-7.

The second half was a different story with JMU taking charge and winning 27-17.

JMU’s tough defense led to three turnovers which resulted in two scores for JMU which was the big difference.

The victory marked a milestone for JMU under first year head coach Bob Chesney.

Not only was this their first bowl game victory, but it was accomplished only two years after their transition to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS).

WKU was just the first team to play (2016, 2021 and 2024) in three Boca Bowls.

Rat Pack Trivia Night

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Legends Radio Morning Queens

ANGELA MANFREDI & TONI MAY

Team with Master Showman ROB RUSSELL

For RAT PACK TRIVIA NIGHT At The Ben

Wednesday, January 8, 5:30 to 7:30 pm

A Portion of Proceeds will Benefit the Historical Society of Palm Beach County

(West Palm Beach, FL – December 23, 2024) For all Frank Sinatra fans looking for a ring-a-ding-ding good time packed with scooby-doobie-doo delights, Rat Pack Trivia Night at The Ben is the perfect, tune-packed place to be. The super fun event will be held on Wednesday, January 8, 5:30 to 7:30 pm, at The Ben, the luxurious hotel located at 251 N. Narcissus Avenue in downtown West Palm Beach.

Sponsored by Legends Radio and hosted by the station’s popular morning queens Angela Manfredi and Toni May, Rat Pack Trivia Night At The Ben will also featureMaster Showman Rob Russell, who is widely recognized as “Mr. Palm Beach” and will sing much-loved songs from the Rat Pack period, accompanied by Ike Reeves.

All participants—from “Just Friends” to “Strangers in the Night”—are encouraged to test their trivia knowledge while enjoying two complimentary drinks (wine, beer, or soft drinks) and delectable small bites. A cash bar will be available for additional drink purchases.

General admission tickets are only $55, plus sales tax, and are available for purchase online at: https://www.thebenevents.com/event-details/trivia-night-at-the-ben-5.

About Manfredi & May:

The fun and informative duo can be heard live on Legends Mornings at 100.3 FM Monday-Friday from 6 am to 10 am—four hours of laughter, chat, and special guests, along with audience-favorite music from the Great American Song Book.

+ Angela Manfredi was an entertainment correspondent covering red carpet events in Los Angeles before coming to Legends Radio. In addition to her on-air work and social media presence, she is the media ambassador for Dress for Success of the Palm Beaches and her hobby is ballroom dancing which includes performances on WXEL – PBS for South Florida on Dick Robinson’s “Music by the Sea.”  

+ Toni May is the Emmy Award-winning television journalist who spent three decades in the broadcast industry working in Los Angeles, for ABC News, and as a member of several local news departments. She spent 15 years as producer and host of lifestyle shows on WXEL-TV winning a regional Emmy Award, a Society of Professional Journalist award, an Associated Press award for best public affairs show in the state, and a prestigious NETA Award as best public affairs show in the nation.

About Rob Russell:

For several years now, Rob has headlined a monthly Open Mic series at Café Centro in West Palm Beach, where he introduces music numbers from talented people in the audience including occasional surprise celebrity pals such as Tony® and Grammy® award winners and his all-star cabaret chums. He spent nearly two decades as producer and emcee of the world-famous Royal Room Cabaret at The Colony Hotel before launching his own career as a singer, recording artist (his popular CD Hello Again), and—after graduating top in his class at the Connecticut School of Broadcasting—as Dick Robinson’s fill-in tune-spinner on Legends Radio 100.3 FM

About Legends 100.3FM:

Legends 100.3 is a full power, live and local FM radio station based in Florida’s beautiful Palm Beaches, playing the music of the Great American Songbook with artists including Frank Sinatra, Michael Bublé, Ella Fitzgerald, Diana Krall, Harry Connick, Jr., Vic Damone, Sammy Davis Jr., Jack Jones, Rod Stewart, Tony Bennett, Lady Gaga and many more. For more information, please visit www.legendsradio.com.

5 New Year’s Resolutions for You and Your Pup

By Hannah Deadman-Arnst with Photos by Ryan Arnst

It’s easy enough to think of new year’s resolutions for ourselves, but what about resolutions for our furry friend? In this month’s article, I outline five new year’s resolutions for you and your dog—from more movement to even more snuggles.

1. More exercise!

Let’s be honest, we could all use a little more fresh air, movement and time away from our desks or couches. And no matter the breed, dogs need daily exercise to keep them happy, healthy, and out of trouble. In fact, pets who exercise regularly are less prone to obesity, injuries, and destructive behavior. Plus, physical activity is good for us! So, make the time to get outside. You can even break away from the usual routine and try a pet-friendly hike or new route through town. While we’re talking about it, can I add something here? Get off your phone during your walks! Your dog looks forward to going outside with you—so stop texting and make a commitment to be fully present with them.

2. More socialization

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve walked Buddy and Sapphire past another dog that randomly starts barking at us. While occasional barking and vocal sounds are normal, having a reactive or unsocialized dog is another story. And while this is a complex issue, being able to play and get along well with others is crucial. By introducing your pet to others, you help them build confidence as they acclimate to new sights, scents, and sounds. They also learn how to behave better. There are many ways to socialize your pup, no matter their age. You can bring them to a dog park or try 1-2 times a week at daycare. Plus, all that playtime with other pups will tucker them out. A tired dog is a happy dog!

3. Less table scrap, more healthy snacks

It’s tempting to treat our pups to a few bites of turkey or steak during the holidays or a sampling of ice cream. Still, human food isn’t good for pets. In addition to upsetting their stomachs, it can lead to weight gain and bad behavior, like begging or eating a piece of food on the ground that they shouldn’t. Too many scraps can also make a dog’s teeth, gums, and breath worse. So, instead of reaching for a piece of deli meat or giving them a lick of gravy as a special treat, give your dog a couple of carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or blueberries! You can even make homemade frozen treats at home every once in a while. “Bone” appétit!

4. More time together

Our dog may only be a part of our lives, but we are our dog’s entire world. Let’s collectively make a resolution to spend less time on our devices and more time with our pups. Whether it’s an extra five minutes of snuggle time in the morning or an after-work fetch or dog park session, let’s spend more time hanging with our pets. After all, they love us with their whole hearts. Since we love them just as much, it’s only fitting that we show them how much we love them—by spending quality time together.

5. Taking the dog with us

Why should humans get to have all the fun? Most dogs love car rides, so why not bring Fido with you on your next adventure? New sights, smells, and sounds are good for their mental stimulation. And in today’s world, outdoor dining and dog-friendly experiences abound, especially thanks to South Florida’s year-round beautiful weather. Check out a local brewery (here’s a list of some pet-friendly ones in Palm Beach County) or a dog beach for some swimming, running, or fetch. You can even bring them to the sporting goods store or Home Depot next time you need a new tool for your home improvement project. Or, take your dog to dinner—many restaurants allow pets on their outdoor patios. Just call ahead to confirm.

For even more inspiration, check out this list of dog-friendly experiences in The Palm Beaches.

Wellington Art Society Announces an Artists’ Reception

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🎉 New Year’s Celebration ~ Ring in the New!🎉

The Wellington Art Society is pleased to present an ARTISTS’ RECEPTION AND SALE at the Wellington Community Center, located at 12150 Forest Hill Blvd, Wellington on Tuesday, January 7, 2024, 5-7pm. Additional artwork will be featured at City Hall the same night. The event is FREE and open to the public!  Artwork may also be seen currently at both venues daily at the Wellington Community Center and City Hall.

                                            Celebrate Creativity!

Meet the Artists – People’s Choice Awards – Refreshments- Door Prizes

Appreciate and support our amazing group of Local Artists

Enjoy lively conversation with the 26 artists whose work expresses mastery and originality in painting, drawing, photography, mixed media, and more.

Featured artists:

Halyna Albanese – Emily Bergstrom – Heather Bergstrom – Michael Bergstrom – Betty Brodie

Diane Colvard – Sofia Gangale – Cynthia George – Jan Gmitter – Garrett Jay – Erica Kyle

Lou Ann LaBohn – Linda Landers – Joe Marcou – Dinah L Mirson – Astrid Mora – Susan Mosely

Charles E Moses – Susan Oakes – Juan Plaza – Cliff Powell – Marion Roberts – Vasantha Siva

Raymonde Talleyrand – Cindi Taylor – Maya White

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The Wellington Art Society is a non-profit charitable organization in its 43rd year.  It is open to artists of all mediums and patrons of the arts, allowing both local and regional artists to display their artwork in local galleries, interact with other artists and serve the community through their art. 

For further information about the Wellington Art Society, please visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org.