Wellington, FL – April 07, 2025 – Wellington Regional Medical Center is thrilled to announce the successful completion of its 100th Transcarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR) procedure. This milestone highlights the hospital’s dedication to providing advanced, minimally invasive treatments for patients with carotid artery disease.
TCAR is a cutting-edge procedure designed to reduce the risk of stroke during carotid artery surgery. By utilizing a smaller incision and temporarily reversing blood flow, TCAR minimizes the risk of stroke-causing fragments reaching the brain. This innovative approach allows for quicker recovery times and improved patient outcomes.
Pam Tahan, Chief Executive Officer of Wellington Regional Medical Center, expressed her pride in this achievement:
“Reaching our 100th TCAR procedure is a significant milestone for our team and our community. This accomplishment reflects our commitment to adopting the latest medical technologies to enhance patient care. We are proud to offer TCAR as a safer, less invasive option for our patients, helping them return to their daily lives more quickly and with better outcomes.”
Wellington Regional Medical Center continues to lead the way in advanced surgical care, ensuring that patients have access to the most effective and innovative treatments available. This milestone is a testament to the hospital’s ongoing efforts to improve patient health and well-being through state-of-the-art medical procedures.
For more information about Wellington Regional Medical Center and its TCAR program, please visit Wellington Regional Medical Center’s website.
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About Wellington Regional Medical Center
Wellington Regional Medical Center is a 235-bed acute care hospital accredited by The Joint Commission. Celebrating more than 30 years of treating residents in Wellington and the surrounding community, the hospital offers a wide range of services, including comprehensive stroke care, comprehensive lung program, minimally invasive services, cardiac services, a birthing center and level III NICU, comprehensive women’s center, hepatobiliary surgical procedures, intraoperative radiation therapy, interventional procedures and a wellness and weight loss center. To learn more about the hospital, please visit www.wellingtonregional.com.
A free track race dedicated to the active aging 50+
Photos by Artie Lynnworth
Wellington, FL – Luxury senior community Wellington Bay and Lisbet Memory Care buzzed with energy and enthusiasm on April 2, 2025, as residents embraced the spirit of competition and camaraderie at the Wisdom Warrior Challenge. This uplifting event, held at the Wellington Bay campus (2590 Wellington Bay Dr, Wellington, FL 33414), celebrated the vitality and dedication of seniors through friendly, age-inclusive track races.
Participants, ranging in ability and utilizing various mobility aids such as canes, walkers, and motorized wheelchairs, enthusiastically took to the track. Distances ranged from a spirited 50 meters to an inspiring one-mile trek.
The Wisdom Warrior Challenge was designed with inclusivity at its core, offering specific divisions to ensure everyone could participate and experience the joy of movement. The morning commenced with participants gathering at 8:30 a.m. for stretching and preparation, setting a positive and motivated tone for the day.
All participants were celebrated with swag bags, exciting prizes, and a valuable 90-day fitness program designed to encourage continued health and wellness journeys. The sidelines were filled with the encouraging cheers of children, families, and friends.
Among the residents participating were Bob Goldberg, who will celebrate his milestone 100th birthday this summer and recently commemorated his 73rd wedding anniversary, and June Isaacson, a respected former local elementary school teacher. Their participation exemplified the active and engaged lifestyle embraced at Wellington Bay.
The success of the Wisdom Warrior Challenge is a testament to the dedication of its sponsors and the vision of its founder, Linda Borgmeyer MSK, OTR/L. Borgmeyer, an occupational therapist with a master’s in kinesiology specializing in geriatric exercise science and the owner of Novoleo Therapy and Fitness in North Palm Beach, established the nonprofit with a passion for empowering seniors in Florida communities.
“The Wisdom Warrior Challenge is an incredible event that empowers seniors from 50 to 110 years young to experience the joy of movement and celebrate their capabilities,” said Linda Borgmeyer. “Our primary goal is to encourage everyone to embrace an active lifestyle for enhanced health and well-being.”
The event’s commitment to accessibility was made possible through the generous support of sponsors including Healthcare Solutions, Fox Rehab, Liberty Rehab, AARP Florida, Dignity Memorial, Always Best Insurance, Visiting Angels, Trustbridge, Novoleo Therapy and Fitness, Home Suite Home, Social Savvy Seniors, Partnership for Aging, Roaming Medical, and Shoreline Insurance, ensuring the Wisdom Warrior Challenge remained free for all participants,
“We were absolutely thrilled to host the Wisdom Warrior Challenge at Wellington Bay,” said Jay Mikosch, Campus Director of Wellington Bay/Lisbet Memory Care. “Their enthusiasm and commitment to an active lifestyle are truly inspiring and serve as a powerful reminder that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing well-being.”
Situated along the banks of the Tennessee River in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Chattanooga is a Tennessee treasure. It’s not too big, not too small—Chattanooga is just right. It’s also my original hometown, and I couldn’t be more proud of the city’s continuing revitalization.
Chattanooga received noteworthy recognition last week, being designated as the first National Park City in America and one of only three in the world. This title highlights Chattanooga’s scenic views, its abundant opportunities for nature exploration, and the city’s ongoing dedication to preserving and enhancing its natural beauty.
From classic attractions to a blossoming art scene to outdoor adventures, there are plenty of reasons to add America’s First National Park City to your travel plans.
Lookout Mountain’s Classic Attractions
See Rock City—the simple three-word advertisement for Chattanooga’s oldest attraction, which can be seen painted on barns along highways leading to the region. And it’s exactly what it sounds like—a city of rocks high atop Lookout Mountain. Hold your tummy in as you pass through the Eye of the Needle and Fat Man’s Squeeze or head up to Lover’s Leap where (on a clear day) you can see seven states.
Just down the road, Ruby Falls is another Chattanooga classic. A guided tour leads you through the cavern’s amazing rock formations to a stunning 145-foot-tall underground waterfall. There’s more to Ruby Falls than underground waterfalls. Glide through the treetops at Ruby Falls High Point ZIP Adventure, taking in scenic views with a shot of adrenaline. Then conquer the 40-foot climbing tower.
Discover Renaissance Park
Renaissance Park is a 23-acre urban wetlands park that offers an opportunity to observe the natural environment. Visitors can walk along the nature trails, view the native trees and wildflowers, and study the river ecosystems and wetlands area. The park also features an outdoor pavilion, designated picnic areas, and public art installations. Marked areas of historical significance provide insights into the past and the various transformations of the riverfront.
Montague Park Sculpture Fields
Art and nature converge at Montague Park Sculpture Fields where you can immerse yourself in a blend of creativity and natural beauty with Lookout Mountain as the backdrop. Located in Chattanooga’s Southside, this 45-acre public park boasts an impressive array of sculptures from around the world. As the largest sculpture park in the Southeast, it attracts visitors from all over the globe. The park features more than 50 large-scale sculptures placed along winding trails.
Explore the Bluff View Art District
Stretching for one and a half city blocks on East Second Street, the Bluff View Art District is a historic downtown Chattanooga neighborhood. Set high above stone cliffs that afford spectacular views of the Tennessee River, the Walnut Street Bridge, and downtown Chattanooga, the area is full of art galleries, coffee shops, bed and breakfasts, courtyards, and gardens. Stroll through the perfectly manicured grounds of the River Gallery Sculpture Garden, the city’s first outdoor art museum. Don’t miss the Hunter Museum of Art, an antebellum home on one side and a steel sculptural building on the other.
Choose Your Adventure on the Tennessee Riverpark
A 13-mile paved urban greenway, the Tennessee Riverpark connects downtown Chattanooga to Chickamauga Dam. Open to cyclists, runners, skaters, and walkers, the Riverwalk links various neighborhoods and business districts within Chattanooga and Hamilton County.
The Riverpark can be accessed from numerous parking areas and trailheads from Chickamauga Dam to St. Elmo. Additionally, the Riverwalk connects to the South Chickamauga Creek Greenway at Riverpoint off Lost Mound Drive, extending an additional 3 miles out to Sterchi Farm Park.
The Tennessee Riverpark also provides paddle sport enthusiasts and boaters with numerous access points to the Tennessee River Blueway. The park features several fishing piers and overlooks for spotting the river’s diverse wildlife. Popular fishing piers include Chickamauga Dam and the Hubert Fry Center.
Walnut Street Bridge
Cross over the Tennessee River with a walk on the Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge. Take in the stellar views of the Chattanooga skyline and surrounding area. Erected in 1890 and standing 2,376 feet high, the Walnut Street Bridge connects the north shore of the Tennessee River to downtown Chattanooga. It’s one of the longest pedestrian bridges in North America. Time your stroll for sunset when the lights of the city begin to decorate the sky.
Coolidge Park at the foot of the bridge provides an ideal place for an afternoon or evening of picnicking and Frisbee. Central to the park is a restored antique carousel with 52 hand-carved whimsical animals; rides are only $1.
Joining the nationwide Hands Off Protests on April 5, people gathered in front of the Palm Beach County Courthouse in West Palm Beach for a peaceful protest. Over 1,500 protestors made their voices heard. More than 1,200 rallies were held nationwide, including more than 40 in Florida.
Local Full-Service Fitness Clubs Host Open House Events on April 7
WHAT: Retro Fitness, the leading high-value, low-price fitness club, is opening its doors for a special Open House event on April 7 in honor of World Health Day. Community members are invited to work out for free and experience everything Retro Fitness has to offer.
· Group fitness classes including boutique-style HIIT, cycling, and strength training
· “Zen Den” relaxation with deluxe massage chairs for ultimate recovery
· Smoothie Bar with protein-packed, nutritious blends to refuel after workouts
With a commitment to exercise, health and fitness, Retro Fitness is offering a limited-time $0 enrollment promotion for new members using promo code SPRINGFREE. The club offers three flexible membership options—Ultimate, Core, and Flex—allowing members to choose the plan that best fits their goals, lifestyle and budget.
WHY: This one-day event is part of Retro Fitness’ mission to help communities move better, fuel smarter and thrive in an environment built on motivation and self-improvement. It’s an opportunity for people to “Get Real” about their fitness journey.
WHO: Everyone is invited to visit Retro Fitness for an energizing workout, recovery or relaxation. For media, interviews will be available with Retro Fitness club owners and personal trainers.
WHERE: Retro Fitness of Wellington, located at 816 S State Rd 7, Wellington, FL 33414
WHEN: World Health Day, April 7, 2025, from 5 AM – 11 PM
For 20 years, Retro Fitness has been a leader in the High-Value, Low-Price (HVLP) fitness space, helping members live their best lives on their terms. With over 200 clubs open or in development, it is one of the nation’s fastest-growing fitness club franchises. Retro Fitness is redefining the gym experience with state-of-the-art equipment, expert personal training, a nutrient-focused Smoothie Bar, and the mindfulness-driven Zen Den—delivering a holistic approach to fitness at an unmatched value.
See tomorrow’s stars perform live in two can’t-miss spring showcases
Photoscourtesy of Mary Stucchi
Spotlight on Young Musicians 2024
(WEST PALM BEACH) — Two unforgettable nights, hundreds of young performers and one powerful message: the arts change lives. This spring, the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts will present two signature events that showcase the artistic accomplishments of local students. On Thursday, May 1, Dreyfoos Hall will host Spotlight on Young Musicians at 7 p.m., followed by the Dream Awards on Sunday, June 1, at 7 p.m., celebrating excellence in high school musical theater.
“Our stage is a launching pad for so many talented young people in our community,” said Tracy C. Butler, senior director of education at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. “We’re proud to provide opportunities that support their growth as artists and individuals. These programs are more than performances — they are celebrations of creativity, dedication and the power of the arts to transform lives.”
Presented in partnership with the Youth Orchestra of Palm Beach County, the School District of Palm Beach County and the Palm Beach County Music Teachers Association, Spotlight on Young Musicians, sponsored by Helen S. and Merrill L. Bank Foundation, has been a beloved tradition at the Kravis Center since 1992. The program has featured 40,000 student performers over the years, offering an inspiring evening of music and a platform to highlight outstanding school music programs. Tickets for the May 1 event are $12 in advance and $15 at the door.
For the fifth year, the Kravis Center Dream Awards — generously sponsored by Ricki Gail Conway and The Doris & Stanley Tananbaum Foundation — will honor exceptional student performers and designers in musical theater. Held in Dreyfoos Hall, the event culminates with two standout students selected to represent the region at The Jimmy Awards (National High School Musical Theatre Awards) in New York City. Participating schools must select productions from a pre-approved list to be eligible for consideration. Tickets for the June 1 event range from $15 to $25.
The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts is a nonprofit performing arts center located at 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. The Kravis Center provides exceptional cultural experiences that entertain, inspire and educate audiences across the entire community. For general information, visit kravis.org.
To learn more about the Kravis Center’s education programs, visit kravis.org/education-community. To help support the Kravis Center’s education mission, call the development department at 561-651-4320 or visit kravis.org and click on Giving and Support.
(Photo credit: Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County, 2025)
Andrea Weiser, Alexis Krudo, Aly Krauss
BOCA RATON, Fla. (March 31, 2025)– It’s about friends. It’s about fun. And it’s about creating connection with new Jewish peers who happen to be the same age.
On April 9, the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County’s 3049ish Division will host Set the Night to Music: An Evening of Philanthropy and Entertainment, at The Studio at Mizner Park, 201 West Plaza Real, Boca Raton. The event will feature cocktails, dinner and a special Candlelight By Fever. Dietary laws will be observed.
“I am so proud and excited for our upcoming event, which will celebrate a season of friendship and philanthropy,” said Alexis Krudo, 3049ish Committee Chair.
“Set the Night to Music” will transport guests back to the 1990s, with a special Candelight by Fever. Performed by a local string quartet, this unique live musical experience will feature favorites from The Foo Fighters, Nirvana, and No Doubt, all set amidst thousands of glowing candles. Attendees can look forward to an evening of nostalgia, camaraderie and philanthropy.
“Being part of 3049ish isn’t just about attending great events,” said 3049ish Committee member Aly Krauss. “It’s about building community, making an impact and giving back in a meaningful way.”
Whether you’re from the area or a newcomer, Federation’s 3049ish Division offers a welcoming space for those looking to build friendships and make an impact on the local and global Jewish community. 3049ish is the group that connects the next generation of Jewish leaders to what and whom is interesting in South Palm Beach County.
IF YOU GO:
What: Set the Night to Music: An Evening of Philanthropy and Entertainment
Where: Mizner Park, 201 West Plaza Real, Boca Raton
When: 7-10 p.m., Wednesday, April 9, 2025
Cost: Cost is $85 pp. Additionally, a minimum donation of $360 per couple or $180 per individual to the 2025 Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County Annual Campaign is required to attend. Contributions will support essential programs and services benefiting the local and global Jewish community. RSVP at https://jewishboca.org/3049candlelightby April 2, 2025.
3049ish Division sponsors include Kogan & DiSalvo personal injury law, Boca Magazine, Southern Glazers Wine & Spirits, Morgan Stanley, and Boca Treasures.
For more information, contact Allison O’Mara at [email protected]; 561-852-3183.
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About the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County Established in 1979, the JFSPBC is made up of Jewish and social service organizations, synagogues, and schools that provide valued services and programs to recipients in South Palm Beach County, in Israel and around the world. The JFSPBC is also comprised of local residents, including lay leadership, volunteer, donors, professional staff, rabbis, educators, event participants and students. Situated on a 100-acre campus in west Boca Raton – the largest in the nation – the JFSPBC supports more than 70 beneficiaries, engages with more than 5,000 donors, and connects more than 130,000 residents. To learn more about how we contribute to a shared vision for the Jewish community, visit https://jewishboca.org or call 561.852.3100.
Jeff Guggenheim, Arielle Barry Greenstein, Ben Greenstein
Palm Beach Pride 2025, the annual celebration celebrating the LGBTQ+ community and supporters was held on Saturday, March 29 and Sunday, March 30 in Lake Worth. The annual event, sponsored by COMPASS, the LGBTQ+ Community Center, and other supporters, included a parade on Sunday, March 30, and activities in Bryant Park both days. Thousands of people attended the event on both days with the parade going down Lake Worth Avenue and concluding at Bryant Park. For more information about COMPASS and its activities, contact them at https://compasslgbtq.com/
April 3, 2025 – Palm Beach Gardens, FL – Gina Melby, MMM, has been named Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Alan B. Miller Medical Center, the new 156-bed, seven-story acute care hospital currently under construction at 13655 Pasteur Boulevard just off I-95, effective April 1, 2025. The Alan B. Miller Medical Center is expected to open in Spring 2026.
As CEO, Melby will be responsible for all facets of management for the new facility including strategic planning, business development and physician relations, along with overseeing finance, human resources and quality initiatives. Additionally, she will be responsible for the integration of advanced healthcare technologies and the development of community outreach.
“Gina brings a proven track record of delivering continuous success in leading high-performance teams, building strong relationships with physicians, and managing operations in the competitive healthcare sector,” said Ryan Chandler, Regional VP, Acute Care, Universal Health Services (UHS). “She is highly regarded as an exceptionally talented and respected healthcare leader, and we look forward to many years of excellence with her as CEO. We are fortunate to have Gina join our team, leverage her strong relationships with local doctors to establish the hospital’s service lines, and serve as the champion as this new hospital opens and serves the region.”
“I am thrilled to be at the helm of this brand-new hospital. I have always believed that healthcare should be patient-centered and community-focused. I am eager to hire the best in the industry and partner with the region’s physicians,” says Melby. “I look forward to leading the team as we open the new hospital, serve this thriving community that I know so well, and build a lasting reputation for medical excellence and life-saving care.”
For the past 20 years, Melby has served as CEO HCA/JFK Medical Center in Atlantis, FL; and prior to that she served for seven years as CEO, Northwest Medical Center in Margate, FL. Previously she served as Chief Operating Officer of Northwest Medical Center.
Melby is a results-oriented, forward-thinking, strategic leader delivering organizational success in the dynamic multi-system healthcare environment. She is known for driving capital expansion in multiple healthcare service lines, setting high standards of excellence for hospital quality metrics, accreditations and patient safety, and building strong physician relationships.
Her service to the community includes roles on the following Boards: The Business Development Board of Palm Beach County; serving on the executive committee and Chair of the Life Sciences Advisory Council; The Economic Council; Housing Leadership Council; and is a member of the Executive Leadership Team and is chairing Executives with Heart for the American Heart Association for the 2025 Heart Walk.
Melby earned her master’s degree in medical management (MMM) from Nova Southeastern University (Davie, FL) and her bachelor’s degree in physical therapy from the University of Miami.
About the Alan B. Miller Medical Center
The Alan B. Miller Medical Center is named after the Founder and Executive Chairman of parent company Universal Health Services. The 156-bed hospital is on track to open in early 2026 and will offer comprehensive, high-quality healthcare services including emergency medicine, cardiology, orthopedic and general surgery, oncology and neurology services. When fully operational, the Alan B. Miller Medical Center will employ over 800 individuals. In the future, the hospital also has expansion potential with shell space for an additional 150 beds to be added. Learn more: https://abmmedicalcenter.com/
Save with advance-purchase tickets, plus kids FREE all weekend
Meet a variety of plant vendors showcasing their best selections
Special presentations, expert talks, and book signings
Free family-friendly games, arts and crafts – plus Ribbit Exhibit
Live entertainment and food vendors
(West Palm Beach, FL – April 2, 2025) Friends of the Mounts Botanical Garden is hosting its largest Plant Sale and Family Fun Weekend of the year on April 26 and 27, 2025.
Whether you’re an avid gardener or plant curious, the weekend promises to be so much more than just a plant sale. “It’s going to be an entire weekend of fun, entertainment, learning, and family-friendly activities,” says Executive Director James May. “It’s not only the perfect weekend to find beautiful plants for your home and garden, but we are also inviting the community to enjoy a wide variety of free family-fun activities and entertainment, all while making lasting memories and exploring nature’s beauty at Mounts Botanical Garden.”
SCHEDULE:
Saturday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
+ Members only preview 8:00 am to 9:00 am
+ Open to public 9:00 am to 4:00 pm (last entry at 3:30 pm)
Sunday, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
+ Open to public 9:00 am to 3:00 pm (last entry at 2:30 pm)
Funds raised during plant sales allow the non-profit Friends of the Mounts Botanical Garden to maintain the 20-acre tropical oasis and continue offering memorable experiences combining nature’s beauty and education for the community.
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS:
PLANT SALE
70+ highly sought-after top plant growers and artisan vendors.
Shop a wide variety of rare, exotic, and hard-to-find orchids, plants, trees, herbs, ornamentals, succulents, cactus, bonsai, butterfly/native plants, shrubs, and fruit trees, as well as garden accessories, baskets, fine crafts, and more.
Learn about South Florida’s plant culture by speaking directly with growers.
Fun and informative presentations by speakers and authors who are experts in their respective fields.
The Conrad-Sunrise Chapter of the American Hibiscus Society – Hibiscus Show & Sale
Plus, additional horticultural ‘must-haves’ and unique treasures for your home and garden are also available in the Garden’s Gift Shop, Nursery, and Vintage Garden Thrift Shop.
FREE “FROG-TASTIC” FAMILY FUN WEEKEND ACTIVITIES
LawnGames & Reading Nook
Arts & Crafts, including Plant Pals, Nature Wands, Petal Bracelets, Rocking Painting & more! (while supplies last)
Live Entertainment by Marijah & the Reggae All Stars
Food vendors
Ribbit the Exhibit II featuring whimsical human-sized frog sculptures throughout the Garden by artist Andy Cobb
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
Sat., April 26 at 11:00 am
Presentation & Book Signing
With Author & Photographer Kirsten Hines
Award-winning author, wildlife photographer, and conservationist Kirsten Hines will present a captivating presentation that will inspire local naturalists, conservationists, and eco-minded photographers to discover Florida’s hidden wildlife wonders. She will also sign copies of her books, which will be available for purchase, including Birds of Florida (2024), Wild Florida: An Animal Odyssey (2023), and Attracting Birds to South Florida Gardens (2014).
Sat., April 26 at 1:00 pm
Florida Native Plants: Beauty, Benefits, and Where to Find Them
With Palm Beach County Florida Native Plant Society’s Mindi Ogden
Plant Society President d Ecologist Mindi Ogden will introduce South Florida native plants, including their importance, how to choose the right plants for your space, and where to purchase plants. She will also provide examples of easy swaps to make your yard more native and resources for creating specific habitats.
Sun., April 27 at 11:00 am
Turn Off Your Sprinklers – Your Plants Aren’t That Thirsty
With UF Professor Dr. Kimberly Moore
Dr. Kimberly Moore, Ph.D. shares the issue with the overused practice of “set it and forget it” when dealing with sprinkler systems. Her group’s research shows that most established landscapes and grasses do not need the excess irrigation we provide them to remain healthy, which comes at the cost of our rapidly depleting freshwater sources. Moore proves how a seemingly tiny change can add up to tremendous savings for the good of both people and plants.
About Mounts Botanical Garden of Palm Beach County:
With a mission to inspire and educate through nature, Mounts Botanical Garden is Palm Beach County’s oldest and largest botanical garden. Visitors to this 20-acre tropical oasis will see an acclaimed collection of 25 unique garden areas containing more than 7,000 species of tropical and sub-tropical plants, including Florida natives, exotic and tropical fruit trees, herbs, palms, roses, cactus, bromeliads and much more. Mounts Botanical Garden is part of the Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension Department, in partnership with the University of Florida and the non-profit Friends of the Mounts Botanical Garden. This project is sponsored in part by The Board of County Commissioners, the Tourist Development Council, and the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County.
Located at 531 North Military Trail in West Palm Beach, Mounts Botanical Garden is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday from 9 am to 4 pm (with last entry at 3 pm). Admission is $20 for adults; $18 for seniors, college students and military with IDs; $13 for ages 6 to 17; and free for children under age 6, Mounts members, and RAP (reciprocal program) members.
