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Rev Up Your New Year With An Off Road Adventure

Terri Marshall
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Rev Up Your New Year With An Off Road Adventure

Travel with Terri

Story by Terri Marshall

It was one of those white-knuckle experiences. I was holding on tight as the Jeep Wrangler we were riding in raced straight up the dusty rock strewn hill slipping and sliding along the way. We were on the way to Diablo Canyon just outside of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Andrew, the owner of Santa Fe Jeep Tours, was behind the wheel. For Andrew, a former stunt man, it was just another day at the office—or on the movie set. For me, it was an adrenaline pumping somewhat terrifying wild ride. And I loved every minute of it.

Off Road Adventures - Travel with Terri
Santa Fe Jeep Tours Photo by Terri Marshall

I’ve always loved a good road trip. But off-roading is something I’d never tried until recently—and if you’re looking to add some adventure to your life in 2018, I highly recommend giving it a try. From wild rides like the one in New Mexico, to Land Rover courses with vehicles price at $75,000 and above, to an ultimate adventure in Formula off-roading with Offroad Iceland, there are plenty of off-road adventure options around the world. Here are a few to check out.

Off Road Adventure - Travel with Terri
A drive into the Rio Grande Photo by Terri Marshall

Tackling Deserts, Canyons and Mountains with Santa Fe Jeep Tours

Our ride to Diablo Canyon with Santa Fe Jeep Tours was just one of the many trails offered. The aptly named Diablo Canyon route starts out on the desert trail and heads across rugged dirt trails toward majestic rock formations. We took a break and hiked into the canyon where we were dwarfed by the towering canyon where enthusiastic (and brave) climbers can often be seen scaling the rocks.

Our hike out brought us face to face with bulls that had managed to escape their ranch—you never know what you’ll run into. But I’ll take bulls over mountain lions any day. Back in the Jeep we headed straight for the Rio Grande…seriously, we drove right into it and into a scene from an Ansell Adams painting.

If movie locations get your blood pumping, try the Bonanza Creek Movie Studio Tour which takes you through the film locations for several films including Silverado, Breaking Bad, Manhattan Project and Young Guns. Trying the 6 to 8 hour Elk Mountain Tour will extend your thrills as you adventure your way into the surrounding mountain ranges.

Off Road Adventures - Travel with Terri
Land Rover Experience Photo Courtesy of Land Rover

Off-Roading in Luxury at Land Rover Training Sites

Set on over 11 square miles of mostly untouched land in the Blue Ridge Mountains outside of Asheville, North Carolina, the Biltmore Estate exudes elegance. Built by George Washington Vanderbilt II between 1889 and 1895, the estate is still owned by the Vanderbilt family and is the largest privately owned house in the US.

But the Biltmore isn’t all about gilded rooms and chandeliers. There’s adrenaline pumping action happening on the grounds of the estate at the Land Rover Training site. Trails vary in degrees of difficulty from easy to those that will test your skills. You’ll learn to handle steep downhill grades and side tilts.

In Vermont’s picturesque Green Mountains, Land Rover’s course is affiliated with the Equinox hotel in Manchester. Off-road challenges here include motoring through snowy terrain, climbing over rock terrain and more steep descents.

Another Land Rover course at Quail Village along California’s northern central coast in Carmel offers the additional challenges of climbing over piles of logs and navigating tight hairpin turns. And if Canada is in your plans, Land Rover’s facility is located at the Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello—the World’s Largest Log Cabin. Here the driving course is on trails carved out of a special 65,000 acres of land that was once part of the Fairmont property. It’s a playground for 4 x 4s.

off road adventures - Travel with Terri
Formula Off-Roading in Iceland Photo by OffRoad Iceland

Meanwhile in Iceland Formula Off-Roading Ups the Adventure Quotient

Formula off-roading isn’t for amateurs. But outside Reykjavik, Iceland you can ride along as a professional driver maneuvers a car with massive tractor wheels at top speeds. Expect to slip and slide on the black sand chasing other drivers. Your goal? Catch the white flags attached to their buggies before they get yours. Offered by Offroad Iceland, this is the ultimate off-road adventure. Your safety is paramount with googles, gloves, jacket and even a neck brace provided. Anything that requires a neck brace is hard core—sign me up!

Are you up for an adventurous 2018?

Art Fest on the Green 2018

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Art Fest on the Green 2018

Art Fest on the Green 2018

12th Annual Juried Fine Art & Fine Craft Show

Saturday, January 27, 2018, 9-5p

Sunday, January 28, 2018, 10-4p

Painting  Sculpture  Ceramics  Jewelry  Mixed Media  Photography and More!

Wellington Amphitheater-Wellington, Florida

Artist demos    Food Trucks   Live Music   Children’s Art Activity Area

The Wellington Art Society will present its 12th Annual Art Fest on the Green at the Wellington Amphitheater at 12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington, FL on Saturday, January 27th from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, January 28th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Art Fest is a celebration of art, life, and bringing art and community together in a beautiful outdoor setting.

     Support from Community Partners and Sponsors helps create a favorite family friendly event everyone looks forward to every year. The juried fine art and fine craft show will feature artists from around the country showing original artwork across multiple mediums, including painting, sculpture, pottery, jewelry, textiles, photography and more. Awards for Excellence will be presented to Artists for Best in Show, 1st,2nd, 3rd Place and Honorable Mentions.

      Art Fest on the Green gives the community an opportunity to interact with the artists, learn more about their creative process, different mediums and techniques, and hear about the artists’ inspiration and accomplishments.

       Children will have a great time creating their own work of art to take home at the Children’s Art Activity Area.

     Live acoustic music will be performed by popular local and regional musicians during Show hours. Food Trucks will be on site offering a variety of delicious food.

      Proceeds from Art Fest on the Green help fund the Wellington Art Society’s long-standing Scholarship Program and other Art Outreach Programs.

   Many artists will be working on site. The 55 fine artists participating in the festival were selected for their creativity, mastery of the technique, and level of excellence.

      Also, this year several artists will be presenting their latest art work exclusively at the Show, offering originals and limited editions for sale.

        Manny Jomok, a plein air watercolorist, will present his recent captivating Palm Beach landscapes painted on site at popular area locations: Society of the Four Arts, Old Key Lime house, Grassy Waters Preserve, Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, Loxahatchee Panorama, Mounts Botanical Gardens.

Many of Manny’s paintings are done with other artists as part of meet-ups

he helps organize with Plein Air Palm Beach. www.PleinAirPalmBeach.com “Painting today’s culture for tomorrow’s history”.

Manny teaches watercolor and exhibits in FL and Maine. His artwork is found in corporate and private collections in the US, Canada, England, and Australia. www.mannyjart.com 

   Sheree Blum, Wellington, FL glass artist, will introduce her latest fabulous Palm Beach inspired glass plates, bowls, and decorative pieces.

Using a glass process that allows her to translate her ideas and designs into vibrant functional pieces she fulfills her need to create. “Why else would a glass artist get up at 4am to check the kiln to see the magic of her design work done 12 hours before? “she asks.

Her glasswork has been featured in Epicurious America’s Best Recipes,2014, “People” magazine 2014 (Jennie Garth Tabletop Décor) “Coastal Living” 201`5, “Southern Lady” 2017.

Sheree’s glass bowls, dessert plates and cake stands have been sold in Anthropologie Stores across the US, the UK and on-line. Sheree participates in many Fine Art and Fine Craft Shows throughout the country and accepts commissions for special edition pieces. www.kickingglassbysheree.com

   Tim Gaydos, top award-winning artist in several mediums, will present his recent paintings of reflections in Nature.

“In recent years I have been moving more and more toward abstracting the landscape by eliminating detail, simplifying shapes, exaggerating colors with the intent of creating stronger composition.”

Tim is a master pastelist of the Pastel Society of America since 1987. He has received over 200 awards, most notably the American Watercolor Society Gold Medal of Honor. He has had many solo exhibitions and his work is in the Public Collections at; Rutgers University, Butler Institute of American Art, Metropolitan Opera, L.L. Bean Corporation and Tides Institute & Museum. www.timgaydos.com  

  Art Fest Co-Chairs Leslie Pfeiffer and Toni Willey and WAS Volunteers will be on hand to assist visitors as they navigate through the fine art selection by professional and emerging artists from across the country displaying their original artwork as well as the Children’s Art Activity Area where art can be created, shared, and taken home. With a wide variety of original art for sale there is something for everyone in the Show. It is a fantastic opportunity to take home an original work of art and a have a great story to share about the artists.  

   The Wellington Art Society, a 501 c 3 charitable organization, has over 100 members -artists and art enthusiasts. W.A.S. provides a platform for artists of all mediums to share their work, learn more about their craft, and serve the community through their art.

                         

www.WellingtonArtSociety.org                             

For more information please contact:

Leslie Pfeiffer,  mysticway1@bellsouth.net , 561-632-3677

Toni Willey, tgwilley@gmail.com , 561-389-4798

Find Your Voice

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Find Your Voice

Find Your Voice

I drag my defeated body out of bed and stare at a blank expression in the mirror.  I have flashbacks of when I was a child in school.  There were times when the teacher would call on me but…

I could not answer.

The words would stick in my chest gripped in a vice of fear.  I recall as a child wishing that I had a voice; a voice to tell people what was in my heart; a voice to show people that I hurt and cried just like everyone else.

Tell me…what gives courage to those who live in the grips of fear on a daily basis?

As the founder of a production company in West Palm Beach, Florida I have seen many clients walk through the door of the studio.  Few have been more eloquent and determined than Jan Killilea founder of The Women’s Empowerment Initiative in Palm Beach County Florida. 

Jan and her initiative represent families who have been negatively impacted by the Florida legal system. Jan has rallied the masses who have found the courage to STAND UP and voice their concerns.  Individuals behind The Women’s Empowerment Initiative have gathered to tell their stories in a performative documentary titled STAND UP. The film was written explicitly to bring awareness to the flaws in our legal system with regards to divorce.  Fascinated by Jan’s mission, we encouraged her to share her story,

PTP:  What is the mission behind The Women’s Empowerment Initiative? 

Jan Killilea: The Women’s Empowerment Initiative, Inc. (WEI) was created to provide education and increase awareness for women regarding economic matters which impact them and their families.

 

PTP:  Why did you want a documentary produced for your cause?

Jan Killilea: After years of collaboration with attorneys, retired judges, legislators and women’s groups, it is clear that women have been negatively impacted by underreported flaws of a system that ignores the human cost of divorce.

 

Through months of collaboration between The Women’s Empowerment Initiative and PlumbTalk Productions, the performative documentary STAND UP, was produced and takes an in depth look at Florida alimony reform through the eyes of a State Representative, Family Law Judge, Marital and Family Law Attorneys, and a representative from the National Organization for Women.  Jan describes the necessity behind her organization’s film,

 

Jan Killilea: We believe that the documentary will not only change the lives of many, but that it will educate the public and empower them to beseech our Governor to appoint a bipartisan task force of experts to explore the complex issue of alimony reform.

 

The film presents the problem surrounding current proposed alimony reform and the direct effect that it will have on individual, family and state economics. In the program, equitable solutions to the controversy that surround reform are presented in the hope that it will move both sides of the dilemma to work towards a fair and unbiased resolution.

Jan Killilea: We encourage everyone to see the film and digest its meaning.  Together we can find the courage to see past the smokescreen, stand up, and unleash a voice that cannot be ignored.  Stand up and join us for the premier of the film STAND UP January 13th, 2018 at 2:00pm.  RSVP at WEIofFlorida@gmail.com.

Gazing at my reflection in the mirror once again today, I catch sight of a glimmer in my eye.  Although we all may have different experiences in our lives, it refreshing to be in the company of a group of individuals who are courageous enough to stand up for what they believe in.  It is clear that when we stand up, stand tall once and for all, fear loses its grip. Only then can our voice be free for all to hear; a beautiful sound that signifies that we believe in who we are.

 

Dr. Shelley Plumb

CEO PlumbTalk Productions

www.plumbtalkproductions.com

 

Merry Christmas And A Happy New Year!

Melanie Lewis
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Merry Christmas And A Happy New Year!

Mommy Moments

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!

By Melanie Lewis

Greetings!

I am happy to report that we are all well.  This year, the parents spent their time accounting, commuting, gardening and hanging out with lots of dogs.  We have a long-term guest, named Mr. Darcy, filling the role of Golden Retriever.  He’s a sweet, loving dog and has fit into the activities as a good camper.  He hikes, walks, swims and plays ball with the entire crew.  He’s also on good terms with Percy the cat.

Bennett and Evan spent another summer at Camp Owatonna.  They excelled in: waterskiing, trips, running 4 on the 4th in Bridgeton (Bennett came in 3rd for his age) archery and camp games.  They played soccer and Evan, cross country.  Both teams did very well and the boys are keeping active biking, sledding and exercising at the local YMCA until spring soccer returns.

We’re very proud of their academic achievements maintaining good grades. They also have been doing various jobs; dog-walking, Bennett’s refereeing younger players and Evan has a small candy business (if he doesn’t eat all the profits). 

We’re grateful for all the good this year and look forward to the next. 

With love, Melanie, Steve, Bennett, Evan, & Percy the cat

For some winter fun…

Drinkable “snow”

Mix ½ of the container in water, or your favorite smoothie.

Often the first step in getting fit is shedding some pounds and Fit3 Active’s unique formula is designed to help promote a healthy weight and support an active lifestyle. Plus, just two shakes a day give you 20 grams of protein from three sources: whey, casein and non-GMO soy. The result? It keeps you full, fuels workouts, boosts energy and helps muscle recovery.  

Powered by LunaRich®, Reliv’s epigenetic superfood, Fit3 Active features cutting-edge ingredients like beet powder and CherryPure® Tart Cherry to improve athletic performance. It’s time to Get Fit, Feel Fit and Stay Fit!

For accelerated results, combine with Burn and Purify

***

Getting Our Kicks on Route 66

I wish I knew what percentage of our time is spent in the car.  If I had the mental lifting power to program my Fitbit, I probably could find out.  On most days it seems like about half. From school to sports and trips we log a few miles. We’ve found a lot of fun things to do in the car and logged quite a few memories.

The earliest memories were of getting the babies to go to sleep when all else failed.  As they got older they were a captive audience.  I could sing songs like; Old MacDonald Had A Farm, B-I-N-G-O-, Baa Baa Blacksheep, Mary Had a Little Lamb and the Itsy Bitsy Spider.  There’s nothing like getting a duet going in the car especially if you get “bridged” on the inter-coastal.

After a few trips to library story time, I discovered a section of CDs.  Our repertoire expanded to all kinds of music.  Here’s a list of our favorites:

The Wiggles

Movie soundtracks, Frozen, Cars, Lilo and Stitch, Moana

Ziggly Marley Family Time

HAPA (A Hawaiian group)

Tom Chapin In My Hometown

A CD compilation hostess gift from a friend’s birthday; “Hot Dog” and “Birdhouse in my Soul” by They Might Be Giants, Dan Crow, Raffi and The B52s.

The Nutcracker Suite

Soon they chirped, “Play the music,” as soon as they got into the car.

In time, I discovered spoken books.  The Barabara Robinson books, “Best Worst School Year”…”Christmas Pageant Ever,” are fabulous entertainment.  As the kids got older, Harry Potter came on the scene.  I enjoyed the books more than the movies.  Lucky for me that I did, we’ve listened to all of the books at least 2 times.

When we tire of the books, we go to the old fall back of games in the car.  Alphabet – finding something that starts with A then B, and so on.  Finding state license plates – Print out a sheet to tick off the list and keep it in the car.  We still haven’t found an Arkansas, but got Alaska and Hawaii without a hitch. The Green Glass Door – A guessing game.  Someone thinks of a word or object that is the same and the other person has to guess the rule that applies.  For example, I would say, “egg and puzzle”.  If you guessed the rule is double consonant then you guessed it, if not I have to come up with another example of the rule until you can.  My son started a game with “Lamborghini and table”.  Can you guess?  No more suspense the answer is “things with wood”.  The Lamborghini part really threw us off the trail!  If you can confirm Lamborghini’s have woods, I’d like to know.

Make your own car memories and may you have miles of smiles!

Why Write?

LoriB
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Why Write?

Cultural Corner

WHY WRITE?

By Lori Hope Baumel

The American Writers Museum, Chicago             Photo Collage: LH Baumel

“Through Innovative and dynamic state-of-the art exhibitions, as well as compelling
programming, the American Writers Museum educates, enriches, provokes and inspires visitors of all ages.” – americanwritersmuseum.org

It’s a new age for literature. Regardless of quality, the average person is consuming more of the written word than ever before. What we read shapes our thoughts, our ideals and priorities. In this digital age, the availability of Twitter, social network feeds and formats like Snapchat and Instagram take up too much of our time. It consumes us, sometimes swallowing us into an abyss of confusion. On the other hand, at least we are reading and encouraging communication.

On a recent trip to Chicago, I discovered The American Writers Museum (AWM), the first of its kind in the nation. The museum opened to the public in May 2017. The mission of the AWM is to engage the public in celebrating American writers and explore their influence on our history, identity, culture, and daily lives. If you are planning a trip to Chicago in the near future, I highly recommend setting aside a day to explore this wonderful place. The presentation and layout is inspiring and the use of the space enriched my appreciation for good writing in many formats. There are opportunities for hands-on activities in the museum, including a room filled with precomputer vintage typewriters. I sat down to an IBM Selectric, circa late ‘70s, and created a poem (included in the photo collage above).

If you are not planning on taking a trip to Chicago soon, I will act as your cultural ambassador and share what I learned from my visit:

Almost every form of spoken and written word that you experience begins with a writer. Songs and poetry are lyrical. Movies, plays and television shows begin with scripts and even opera is based on librettos. Newspapers, magazines and, of course, books, begin with a writer or collaboration of authors. They offer topics of discussion and provoke a dialogue about communities past and present. In the world of fiction, they take us to places writers dream of and are often metaphorical life lessons.

Books, especially, create seeds of interest that bloom into ideas that can generate or change a national perspective. Thomas Paine’s Common Sense and The Rights of Man inspired the birth of America and our right to independence. Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave was one of the most influential texts during the abolitionist movement. Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring discusses environmental justice. Silent Spring helped the modern environmental movement get off the ground and led to the nationwide ban on the pesticide DDT. To this day, it inspires readers to think more seriously about their relationship to the Earth.

Not all literature is inspiring. A great deal of it is trash that damages progressive ideals. But, exposure is the key. First and foremost, we cannot let our children slip through the cracks. They must learn HOW to read. Early childhood education is of the utmost importance. In addition, I am a strong advocate for the use of computer software that enriches a child’s reading experience. My children grew up with Reader Rabbit, Encarta95, and a multitude of math games. There are exceptions, but most school systems introduce a basic curriculum of literature that strives to inspire students to cultivate an interest in reading. The advent of the internet, digital phones and tablets can do more good than harm if approached from an educational standpoint. They have encouraged travel, exploration and the sharing of ideas. More people are reading and, most importantly, more people are listening. If we are educated and exposed to worthy ideas, the more likely our idealistic pendulum will swing towards good. Even in the darkest of political times, the youth of today are the ones who will change the governmental landscape. Diversity, equality, human rights and inclusion are all hot topics right now. The speed in which change occurs, whether it be positive or negative, is beyond comprehension. Insightful writers in all mediums will have a positive effect.

Whether it be an audiobook, a selection on Kindle, a graphic novel or an Around Wellington
article online, the many formats available to readers are encouraging. I have never spent as many hours a day reading as I do now. Good writing is out there and accessible. Choose wisely and make it worth your time. Then, open a dialogue. Like the authors I examined at the American Writers Museum, you too can make a difference in today’s society

Hands on creative exercise at the American Writers Museum:

My contribution…

Top 5 for January 2018

1) Read a New York Times Bestseller:

A collection of seventeen wonderful short stories showing that two-time Oscar winner Tom
Hanks is as talented a writer as he is an actor.

2) Explore, experiment and discover photography at:

The 23rd Annual FOTOFUSION 2018
At
The Palm Beach Photographic Center
415 Clematis St., West Palm Beach, FL
January 23-27, 2018
For events, classes and lectures see:
www.fotofusion.org

3) It’s time for Wellington’s Internationally Renowned:

Winter Equestrian Festival
Beginning January 10 to April 1, 2018
3400 Equestrian Club Drive, Wellington, FL 33414
For event dates and times see:
http://pbiec.coth.com/wp_esp/events/

4) Combine reading with Mother Nature:

Mounts Botanical Garden of Palm Beach County
Invites the Public to Fun and Informative
Horticultural Events in January

The Literary Garden: Book Discussion
Tuesday, January 9 – 2 to 3:30 pm
Clayton Hutcheson Conference Room
FREE

Featured Book: Stir My Broken Brain & the Meals that Brought Me Home by Jessica Fechtor
Few pleasures in life surpass that of reading a good book or cultivating your own garden.
Mounts Botanical Garden is partnering with the Palm Beach County Library System to combine these joys by uniting book lovers and garden enthusiasts with dynamic reading selections, followed by a discussion the grounds of the Garden. A national best-seller and winner of a Living Now Book Award, Stir is an exquisite memoir about how food connects people and lives. (Note: To pre-register, call 561.233.1757.)

Stories in the Garden:
Ants
Friday, January 12 – 10 to 11 am
Mounts – The Pavilion
FREE

Speaker: Stacey Burford, Youth Services Librarian
Celebrate the 13th year of Stories in the Garden by bringing young ones (ages 2-6) to these FREE nature-themed programs co-sponsored by the Palm Beach Library System. They’ll love the interactive stories, songs and learning activities in the Garden. Programs are held rain or shine in the sheltered Pavilion. No reservations required, except for parties of six or more. A craft activity to culminate each day will be reserved for the first 30 registrants. (Note: To pre-register, call Mounts at 561.233.1757.)

5)Take a Writing Class!

The Writers’ Academy at the Kravis Center
JAN 2, 2018, 1:30 PM at the EUNICE AND JULIAN COHEN PAVILION

A seminar for those who are on the cusp of initiation into writing. Learn how to release
your inner writing self. Everyone has the potential to write truly and deeply. Instructor
Julie Gilbert will show you how to unlock your very own muse. This lecture is for the
curious and adventurous. Bring a pencil. Fee: $30

To purchase a seat, go to:

https://max.kravis.org/live/tickets.php?event=2018ARTSKY01&utm_source=(direct)&utm_medium=(none)

Black Cumin Seeds: A New Year’s Resolution

Sabeen Faquir
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Black Cumin Seeds: A New Year’s Resolution

Natural Insight

Black Cumin Seeds: A New Year’s Resolution

By Sabeen Faquir

Black cumin seed oil – one of the many secrets of the ancient Egyptians, was found in King Tut’s tomb dating approximately 3,300 years ago. But why would the ancient Egyptians regard black cumin seeds so? What ARE black cumin seeds?

The scientific name for black cumin seeds, sometimes just named black seeds, is Nigella sativa. It is not to be confused with black cumin, Bunium bulbocastanum. Nigella sativa is native to south and south-east Asia and often used in cooking. But again, why would the ancient Egyptians regard it so highly? Since it could potentially benefit a pharaoh in the afterlife, what does it do for the living?

Most recently, it has been found to have anti-virulence properties for bacteria effecting baby formula. In one study, researchers isolated thymoquinone, the active ingredient of black cumin seeds, and tested it against Cronobacter sakazakii, the bacteria contaminating formula and causing food poisoning. It was found that the black cumin seed constituent inhibited the binding of the pathogen to a cancerous cell line found in the intestines (Shi et al). In addition, black cumin seeds are attributed with having apoptotic effects on some other cancer cell lines like U937 (Arslan et al).

Furthermore, it has also been found to help glucose and serum lipid levels in those suffering from imbalances. In a seven-trial meta-analysis, it was found that N. sativa significantly improved fasting blood sugar by reducing it by 17.84mg/dl on average. It also reduced HbA1c values by 0.71%, total-cholesterol by 22.99mg/dl and LDL-cholesterol by 22.38mg/dl. Because of studies like this, black cumin seeds are considered a healthy supplement for those suffering from type II diabetes (Daryabeygi-Khotbehsara et al).

Considering this recently revealed research, black cumin seeds could have preventative and alternative benefits for you. With the new year, consider some new techniques to support your health. Like always, discuss any supplement regimen with your personal healthcare provider first. 

Disclaimer: The statements in this article are not intended to treat, prevent, diagnose, or cure disease.

Sources:

Shi C, Yan C, Sui Y, Sun Y, Guo D, Chen Y, Jin T, Peng X, Ma L, Xia X. Thymoquinone Inhibits Virulence Related Traits of Cronobacter sakazakii ATCC 29544 and Has Anti-biofilm Formation Potential. Frontiers in Microbiology. Nov 2017 28;8:2220

Arslan BA, Isik FB, Gur H, Ozen F, Catal T. Apoptotic Effect of Nigella sativa on Human Lymphoma U937 Cells. Pharmacognosy Magazine. Oct 2017 13(Suppl 3):S628-S632.

Daryabeygi-Khotbehsara R, Golzarand M, Ghaffari MP, Djafarian K. Nigella sativa improves glucose homeostasis and serum lipids in type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Complementary Therapies in Medicine. Dec 2017 35:6-13.

Postage Due: A Ten-Minute Play

Wendell Abern
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Postage Due: A Ten-Minute Play

Cantankerously Yours

Postage Due: A Ten-Minute Play

(Based on an actual event)

By Wendell Abern

Dear Readers,

SCENE: SMALL OFFICE IN REAR OF LOCAL THEATRE. DESK WITH CHAIR, AND CHAIR FACING IT. BOOKCASES, CABINETS, TABLES AND CHAIRS ARE ALL PILED HIGH WITH MANUSCRIPTS.

MAN, 40ish, ESCORTS WOMAN, 30ish, INTO ROOM.

MAN: Please take a seat, Miss …

WOMAN: Finley. Roberta Finley. Mrs. (SITS DOWN, HE SITS BEHIND DESK.)

MAN: And how can I help you, Mrs. Finley?

WOMAN: Are you the artistic director? Mr. Belmont?

MAN: No, Mr. Belmont is busy, I’m afraid. I’m his assistant. Philip Varon.

ROBERTA: Why are you afraid?

PHILIP: I beg your pardon?

ROBERTA: You said you were afraid.

PHILIP: Um, it was just an expression. Now how can I help you?

ROBERTA: Well, it’s kind of personal.

PHILIP: Kind of personal. Um, can you tell me the subject, in general?

ROBERTA: Well … Mr. Belmont owes me money.

PHILIP: Walter owes you money?

ROBERTA: Very good, Mr. Varon.

PHILIP: May I ask – generally, that is – how much?

ROBERTA: Two dollars and forty cents.

PHILIP: Two dollars and forty cents. Mrs. Finley, is this some kind of joke?

ROBERTA: It’s not a joke to me! I’ve got three kids at home! Two dollars and forty cents is a box of Pampers!

PHILIP: Pampers.

ROBERTA: Excellent, Mr. Varon. Just excellent!

PHILIP: What? What’s excellent?

ROBERTA: The way you repeat things. “Pampers.” That was just plain outstanding, the way you said it. “Pampers.” A cross between concern and conviction, I’d say. Hasn’t anyone ever told you how good you are at repeating things, Mr. Varon?

PHILIP: No. No one has ever … Mrs. Finley, can you tell me how Mr. Belmont incurred this debt?

ROBERTA: (DIGS INTO HANDBAG, PULLS OUT LARGE ENVELOPE) Sure. See, I sent him a play that I wrote. It was called, “Vegetable Bloat.” Do you remember it?

PHILIP: I only read manuscripts when Mr. Belmont wants my opinion.

ROBERTA: Well, I sent in “Vegetable Bloat” in this self-addressed stamped envelope, like you’re told to do if you want the manuscript returned, right? But by the time Mr. Belmont returned it, the postal rates had gone up three times.

PHILIP: Three ti  — (STOPS)

ROBERTA: Wow, nothing gets by you, does it?

PHILIP: Um … when did you send us your play, Mrs. Finley.

ROBERTA: Valentine’s Day! I’ll never forget that. See, “Vegetable Bloat” is a love story: lamb chop lover falls for a vegan vegetarian. Sending it on Valentine’s Day just seemed so appropriate!

PHILIP: But Valentine’s Day was only –-

ROBERTA: Of 2014. Valentine’s Day, 2014. Four years and two months ago. (NO RESPONSE) Shall we call Guinness?

PHILIP: Mrs. Finley …

ROBERTA: See, that’s why I didn’t understand his rejection slip. It said something like my content not being consistent with the broad range of material he’s considering for this season. But I didn’t know if he was talking about 2014 or 2018.

Anyway, when I sent the play, the postage was one dollar and ten cents. Now it has gone up to three dollars and fifty cents. When the mailman delivered the manuscript, he told me that I’d have to give him an additional two dollars and forty cents. Which I did. So I came to see Mr. Belmont. To get reimbursed.

PHILIP: Mrs. Finley, this theatre receives hundreds of manuscripts each year.

ROBERTA: I never bothered you before. I mean, I e-mailed a manuscript just before Albert was born — he’s now nine — but I never received it back. That’s why I sent “Vegetable Bloat” with a stamped return envelope.

PHILIP: Yes, as we grow, we keep getting more and more –

ROBERTA: You see, I was very impressed by what Mr. Belmont said in the Dramatist Guild Quarterly in its millennial edition in 2000: “Any artistic director who does not read every manuscript himself or herself should not be running a theatre.”

PHILIP: Of course, but —

ROBERTA: I did send another play, too. In a stamped, return-address envelope,  In 2009.  Which I did receive two and-a-half years later. By that time, we’d moved from the city to Weston, Gary – my husband – changed jobs, I gave birth to our daughter, the mid-term elections …

PHILIP: Yesyesyes …

ROBERTA: And just last month, Mr. Belmont was quoted as saying, “Manuscripts will be returned in six to twelve months, but please be patient.”

PHILIP: Oh, well that …

ROBERTA: I think it’s wonderful when someone as important as Mr. Belmont encourages people to be patient, don’t you? (REACHES INTO HANDBAG AGAIN AND HAULS OUT SMALL CALCULATOR.)

 So I made some projections, based on my experiences with Mr. Belmont. Anyone who sends a play to Mr. Belmont next week, should expect to be patient until (CLICKING AWAY, THEN LOOKS UP WITH SMILE) September of 2023.

PHILIP: (ANGER GROWING) Mrs. Finley, this theatre is considered one of the most important showcases in the country for new playwrights? Especially female playwrights! How do you think Judith Meriwether got started? Francine Wells? Dorothy Bergman? They all attended our workshops! Our workshops, Mrs. Finley! These playwrights started in our –

ROBERTA: Were they breast-feeding? Were any of them breast-feeding? See, if I could breast-feed in a workshop, I could attend! But I’d have to —

PHILIP: (SHARPLY) Mrs. Finley! (PAUSE) Two dollars and forty cents, right?

ROBERTA: Oh, and here I thought you’d forgotten.

PHILIP: (OPENS TOP DRAWER OF DESK AND REACHES INSIDE CIGAR BOX.) We’ll just pay you out of petty cash. (COUNTS OUT MONEY AND PAYS HER)

ROBERTA:  Well, thank you so much, Mr. Varon. This saves me a painful discussion with Gary.

PHILIP: Glad to help.

ROBERTA: (WALKS TOWARD DOOR, THEN STOPS.) Hey I just had a great idea, Mr. Varon! When I send in my next play, I’ll send it to you personally.

PHILIP: I’m afraid that would be impossible, Mrs. Finley.

ROBERTA: Once again, afraid. Why, Mr. Varon? You said Mr. Belmont does give you some manuscripts to read.

PHILIP: It would be impossible, that’s all. (PAUSE) Last month, Mr. Belmont inaugurated a new policy. (LIGHTS START TO FADE) From now on, the only manuscripts we’re accepting must come from literary or theatrical agents.

PHILIP AND ROBERTA STARE AT EACH OTHER AS STAGE GOES BLACK.

                                                                                    *

Cantankerously Yours,

Wendell Abern

Veterinary Assistant Students Learn Service Dog Training

Barbara Masi
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Veterinary Assistant Students Learn Service Dog Training

Paws-itive Press

Veterinary Assistant Students Learn Service Dog Training

By Barbara Masi

Our local high school students are not all going on to a university.  Some are eager to get to work in a profession – one that does not require additional years of education.  South Tech Academy programs are perfect for these young people; especially the Veterinary Assisting program. 

Excitement occurs when the freshmen enter the classroom full of snakes, birds and dogs.  It is priceless to have the ability to return each year to absorb more and more. The procedures taught are necessary to work with local veterinarians.  This hands-on experience with animals is appreciated by students, along with their coursework.

The retired racing greyhounds benefit the students in an unusual way.  Due to the anatomy of these dogs, learning the skeletal system and the circulatory/cardiovascular system in live specimens is far easier than seeing it in a book.  The gentle nature of these dogs, along with their willingness to be handled by numerous people, make them ideal to work with in this manner.

To top it all off, instructor and department head, Carolee Ellison, is head trainer for Awesome Greyhound Adoptions’ Hounds & Heroes program – where the dogs are trained as service dogs and donated to veterans in need.  Teaching the curriculum, the training of a service dog, and willingness to give back to the community makes this a unique experience for the students.

The greyhounds are extremely tolerant of the students using them. Often, the students identify parts with sticky notes, learn the proper way to pick up a dog for examination and to prepare them for a vet.  Another thing students may learn is how to remove stitches as occasionally, a dog has an injury that needs to be closed with a stitch or two. The dog is returned to the program after the veterinarian has put the stitches in but their thin skin makes them prone to easily get cuts and bruises.

Within the last 10 minutes of classroom instruction, Carolee often gives every two or three students the job of taking one of the service dogs and working with them on commands like “wait,” “come,” “under,” “drop it,” and “leave it,” among many others.  This is all part of teaching the dogs to become service dogs for veterans.  There are over 30 commands that are taught before the dogs are paired with a veteran.

Once the students graduate the program at South Tech, they are ready to go into the world and get a job.  And many do – as seen in the picture of Doctor H. Scott Miller and three of Carolee’s former students who all work in his office in West Palm Beach.  Remarkable enough, Doc Miller is known as the local greyhound doctor – working with many of those still running at the track along with many pet owners who seek his expertise with the breed.

Plaudits to South Tech Academy for their unique dual purpose Veterinary Assisting program and to Carolee Ellison for giving her students this opportunity impacting their future working with animals.  

What Is Home Automation, and How Can It Benefit You?

Jathy Garcia
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What Is Home Automation, and How Can It Benefit You?

Living Green

WHAT IS HOME AUTOMATION, AND HOW CAN IT BENEFIT YOU?

By Jathy Garcia

Home automation is changing the world. Better yet, home automation has changed the world, allowing homeowners to access their home’s control devices from anywhere via their mobile device. So if you live in West Palm Beach, Florida, and you’re vacationing in Europe, you can access your home’s thermostat with a few quick taps on your phone.

WHAT IS HOME AUTOMATION?

Also known as The Internet of Things, home automation seamlessly connects all of your compatible devices onto the same network to offer you greater control over your comfort. When you automate your home, you control how a device should operate, when it should operate and where it should operate. Using an application and a Wi-Fi connection on your mobile device, you set a schedule for your devices. Then, they will automatically adjust to your personal preferences.

Home automation isn’t only about controlling more of your comfort, though. It’s also about keeping your family safe and healthy, helping prevent the worst case scenario. Home automation allows you to receive instant notifications about a possible danger on your property. Whether there’s an intruder or a water leak in your home, the system will alert you immediately. Day or night, you can access your home’s automated network and change its settings instantly.

Home Automation Lets You Control These Devices From Anywhere in the World:

  • Thermostats
  • Sprinkler systems
  • Lights
  • Appliances
  • Electrical outlets
  • HVAC systems
  • Alarm systems
  • Doors, windows and locks
  • Smoke detectors
  • Surveillance cameras

HOW HOME AUTOMATION BENEFITS YOU?

As of 2015, there were more than 4.5 million smart homes in the United States. That number continues to grow as more homeowners realize the benefits of installing a high-quality home automation system in their homes.

Control and Convenience

Technology is allowing homeowners to take more control over their comfort. From changing the TV’s channel while sitting on the couch to dimming the lights while lying underneath a blanket in bed, you’re able to adjust your home’s devices without moving more than a finger. With home automation, the list of devices you can control continues to grow. Whether it’s your home’s temperature or your stereo’s volume, now you can program everything to turn on or off – or go higher or lower or louder or quieter – in an instant. All you need is a mobile device and a Wi-Fi connection.

Health and Safety

While comfort is a top concern, your family’s health and safety are priorities. With home automation, you’ll ensure your home is always under surveillance. When you return home from work, you can set your system to automatically turn the lights on and open the garage door before you pull into the driveway. With a few basic products, you can arm your home and receive alerts if something is amiss. If you forget to lock the door, you can do that from afar, too.

Energy and Cost Savings

The biggest benefit of home automation is that it pays for itself in no time. You don’t have to sacrifice your comfort to save on energy costs. In fact, you can increase your comfort and save even more by zoning your home. From turning off your home’s lights when you’re away to automatically adjusting your thermostat throughout the day, home automation works to maximize your family’s comfort at the lowest price possible. Simply set it, and forget it.

If you’re interested in learning more about home automation and how you can benefit from it, contact Hi-Tech Plumbing & Air at 561-570-4111. With decades of experience delivering 100-percent satisfaction to our customers, you can count on our team to recommend, offer and install the highest quality home automation products on the market.

Image provided by Thinkstock

 
 

To Your Health: FoundCare Inc. Announces 2018 Gala

Jennifer Cope
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To Your Health: FoundCare Inc. Announces 2018 Gala

FoundCare Inc. invites guests to toast À Votre Santé (To Your Health)
Cocktail benefit to honor Mr. and Mrs. James Collins

PALM BEACH, Fla. – FoundCare, Inc., will host its 2018 cocktail benefit reception, À Votre Santé (To Your Health), on Sunday, March 11, at 6 p.m. at Club Colette in Palm Beach. Guests will toast to their health alongside live island music, hors d’oeuvres and a fabulous silent auction, all while supporting the Federally Qualified Health Center. Attendees will include key medical and community leaders who support FoundCare’s mission. Guests are encouraged to dress in tropical resort wear.

Longtime FoundCare supporters Barnette and Ken Druskin are the chairs of this year’s event, and the honorary chairs are Dr. David and Donna Dodson. Committee members include Yolette Bonnet, Peter Cruise, Eric Diaz, Dr. David and Donna Dodson, Ken and Barnette Druskin and Dr. Rik Pavlescak. This year the event will honor Susan and James Collins and Cheryl Gowdy.

“My wife and I believe health and dental care are vitally important to all, regardless of income,” said Mr. Druskin. “This event highlights the need for these services in our community and FoundCare’s commitment to providing services for all. We feel our mission is fulfilled when we walk into FoundCare’s Health Center and see the large number of patients receiving care, and we are gratified to see this event growing.”

“A Votre Sante helps us fund our vital services to the community, and we are so grateful to our supporters and event leadership,” said Yolette Bonnet, CEO of FoundCare. “We invite everyone to join us as we toast to their health on March 11!”

Tickets to the event are $275 each and underwriting opportunities are still available. For information about the event, please call 561-472-9160 x220.

Located in West Palm Beach, FoundCare offers pediatric and adult primary care, chronic disease management, behavioral health services, dentistry, laboratory services and X-rays, all in one location. The nonprofit health center accepts most insurance plans, Medicaid, Medicare and self-pay on a sliding fee scale that is based on family size and income. For more information about FoundCare, please call 561-HEALTHY (561-432-5849) or visit www.foundcare.org.

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