Oasis Compassion Agency’s 12th Annual Women’s Luncheon “Follow Your Dreams”
Boynton Beach – April 18, 2013
Please join Oasis Compassion Agency for their 12th Annual Women’s Luncheon “Follow Your Dreams” on April 18th, 2015 from 11:00-2:00 at Indian Springs Country Club.
The co-chairs of this year’s event are Jessica Gregoire and Carol Everest.
The event will feature a lunch, live testimonies, and a quarter auction. Guest Speaker Lisa Treu of the Treu Reality Group will tell you how to dream big and align your life to reach it.
Oasis Compassion Agency offers a hand up not a handout. It’s a non-profit 501 (C)(3) organization, which helps over 800 families in the community with food and clothing, while empowering them through many of the classes offered at its center in Greenacres including job counseling, resume writing, computer skills, life skills, and much more.
Tickets are $60.00 per person and available at www.oasiscompassion.org or by calling 561-967-4066.
Wellington FL, local 14 year old to hold event for
Global Youth Service Day, April 18th, 2015
“If I can do it, you can do it”
Wellington FL, – On, April 18th Hygiene for the Hopeful, a local Wellington charity started by 14 year old Abbey W. three years ago. Will be hosting an event at Wellington Library from 2-5 pm. The event is to not only promote GYSD but hopes to inspire local youth to start their own service project or join a volunteer program. Abbey and Hygiene for the Hopeful will join millions of others around the globe who are celebrating Global Youth Service Day during the weekend of April 17, 18, and 19. Editor’s note: Media are invited to attend Hygiene for the Hopeful Global Youth Service Day activities. Interviews and photos are available upon request.
Hygiene for the Hopeful was started September 1st 2012 solely by Abbey who was 11 years old at the time. At first she donated only to a local children’s shelter “Place of Hope” Since then, the program has donated 1000s of all types of hygiene products to four area shelters in the county she lives in.
The program was started to address the need for hygiene products for children in emergency housing. It quickly grew into hygiene products for all homeless and for people in transitional housing. Food stamps do not buy hygiene products and for many families, this is something they have to go without because of the costs.
Hope in Soap!
###
“When you’re clean you’re confident…and when you’re confident you’re happy…and happiness is all that matters in life.”
Abbey W.
Learn more and browse GYSD activities around the world on the GYSD Map at www.GYSD.org.
Roxanne Jacobs, Grandma Bessie Gordon, Jackie Alvarez and Jim Sackett
As the crowd gathered on the patio of the International Polo Club’s Mallet Grille on Friday, March 13th, they knew they were in for an “Evening of Great Expectations”. Amid much laughter and conversion, competition was fierce as guests outbid each other for some of the amazing silent auction items, including a Return to Tiffany Heart Tag Bracelet, an Emilo Pucci scarf, a $500 Debit Card from Aventura Mall, a $500 Provident Jewelry gift certificate, private wine tastings, a Guy Harvey Limited Edition print, and a plethora of restaurant gift certificates, baskets & foursomes at area golf courses. Informal modeling with provided by Alease Fisher of Palm Beach. When the final bid sheets were collected, guests took their seats for dinner on the patio to enjoy the rest of the evening’s festivities.
Jim Sackett, the recently retired WPTV New Channel 5 Anchor, was the emcee and host for the evening. Jim is a very active community partner and a strong advocate for the children of Palm Beach County. He regaled guests a story of his segment on foster children called Thursday’s Child, which he filmed at Grandma’s Place.
Michele Poole, Treasurer of Grandma’s Place and Reverend Steven Thomas of St. David’s, share some details about their organizations’ programs that support the less fortunate and those in need in our community. Michele thanked all the Host Members, Committee Members, Sponsors, Donors, and attendees. She introduced and thanked Bertram and Diana Firestone, Chairs of the event, and Bessie Gordon, the original Grandma from Grandma’s Place, who is now retired. She then presented Diana and Bessie with roses.
While guest enjoyed their salads, they were entertained by the music of Robb Parisi, of Parisi Events who graciously donated his services for the evening. Jim Accursio, the auctioneer, took the stage to entice the guests with some “once in a lifetime” opportunities up for bid in the live auction. The items ranged from $750 Alease Fisher certificate, one box stall shipment from Wellington to the North East, and the opportunity to be a Fireman for a Day… and the most sought item of the evening… VIP Tickets for the upcoming Jimmy Buffet concert! Many people bid long and high trying to win the auction item of their dreams.
Guests then flocked to the dance floor, lighting it up with the glow necklaces that they received when they arrived. When the final song was played, guests finally called it a night and went home to revel at all the great auction items they won. Everyone said it was the best event ever and they can’t wait for next year! To make sure you get an invitation next year, volunteer to serve on the Committee, or for more information, please call Roxanne Jacobs, Executive Director, at 561-408-3060 or e-mail roxanne@grandmasplacepb.org
New Outdoor Art Beckons to Dilettantes at PGA Commons
Today, the “art” of living is on public display at PGA Commons in Palm Beach Gardens, featuring several new, larger-than-life installations by two influential artists.
Renowned, international artist Steve Zaluski has created aluminum love letters to nature with “The Sphere of Hope” and “Silver Waves.” Each 7-foot sculpture is composed of coated aluminum and depicts characteristics found in both human nature and Mother Nature.
Dual Nature
“The Sphere of Hope represents the community and people working together in love, peace, and harmony,” says Steve. “Silver Waves was inspired by the water. It depicts the strength and energy of the proverbial waves we ride throughout our lives.”
A self-declared dreamer and Long Island resident, Steve attended Stony Brook University where he pursued a degree in art and education. Currently, his work is on display throughout the United States at various top hospitals (Boston Children’s Hospital and St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital), banking institutions (Bank of America), and major corporations (Nike, AT&T, and Pfizer). South Florida fans can view Steve’s art at Onessimo Fine Art.
Argentine-born, American-based artist and sculptor Cecilia Lueza, studied visual arts at the University of La Plata in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Today, she is well known for creating vibrant pieces in a range of mixed media. Her latest artistic offering, “Dual Nature II,” is a vivid, double-sided work of art that delves into the human psyche, with an emphasis on upbeat mysticism and earthliness.
“My work explores different states of mind through transformation, fantasy, and nature. Dual Nature II is a whimsical sculpture that creates the illusion of movement and depth through color and form,” says Cecilia. “In the recurrent and unrestrained usage of primary colors, the result is mixed media that is both complex and visually stimulating. I wanted it to reverberate in the soul without analysis.”
Cecilia’s work has been exhibited at Art Miami, Arteamericas, and SCOPE Miami. Her public art pieces are on display in Washington, D.C., Miami, and Atlanta. South Florida fans can also view Cecilia’s art at Onessimo Fine Art.
Debra Onessimo
“Sculpture adds a living element to a space. It interacts with light and shading, and invites you to touch it,” says Debra Onessimo of Onessimo Fine Art, whose gallery features work by world-renowned artists, including Cecelia Lueza and Steve Zaluski. “Outdoor sculpture does the same, but allows you to add your own expression in juxtaposition to nature.”
About PGA Commons
PGA Commons (pgacommons.com) features an exciting collection of upscale boutiques, fine art galleries, top-tier restaurants, and a wide array of specialty stores and services.
About Onessimo Fine Art
Founded in 2002, Onessimo Fine Art (onessimofineart.com) represents both contemporary and classic, world-renowned living masters. Works featured include originals and limited editions, and an array of indoor and outdoor sculptures of glass, bronze, steel, and aluminum.
What are GMO’s? According to Nongmoproject.org “GMOs, or genetically modified organisms are plants or animals that have been genetically engineered with DNA from bacteria, viruses or other plants and animals.” In other words they are crops that have DNA that has been un-naturally altered and are now resistant to the weed killing chemical Roundup because of this process. According to Naturalnews.com “Many genetically modified crops are engineered to produce their own pesticides and may even be classified as pesticides by the EPA.” Roundup resistant crops are banned in every country except the US and Canada.
The FDA claims that GMO’s are safe but there’s insurmountable evidence to the contrary. According to Responsibletechnology.org “numerous health problems increased after GMOs were introduced in 1996. The percentage of Americans with three or more chronic illnesses jumped from 7% to 13% in just 9 years; food allergies skyrocketed, and disorders such as autism, reproductive disorders, digestive problems, and others are on the rise.” There’s also strong evidence showing GMO crops are more difficult to digest and don’t allow full nutritional absorption. GMO’s have also shown strong evidence that they lower your immune system’s capabilities as well. According to multiple sources, GMO’s have been shown to cause tumors in lab animals as well. The most common crops that are Roundup resistant in the US are corn (over 85% GMO), soy, yellow crookneck squash, zucchini, alfalfa, sugar beets, and milk.
GMO’s are actually very bad for the environment as well. Monsanto is the wealthiest company in the world that produces GMO foods and their way of doing business is threatening the environment. This has become more apparent throughout the years. According to Geneticliteracyproject.org “The controversy began in 1999, when a paper in Nature concluded that pollen from Bt corn—which is genetically modified to carry a Bacillus thuringiensis gene that allows the corn to produce a toxin meant to kill pest insects—could kill monarch butterfly caterpillars.” Now in recent years research has shown that monarch butterflies population has gone down every year. On top of that, Roundup has a chemical called Glyphosate which ends up seeping into aquifers. This leads to serious health effects to us and the environment.
There is a way to avoid GMO’s – buy organic vegetables and fruit. If you’re a meat eater, buy organic meat as well because it’s still dangerous to your health to eat animals that ate GMO foods. So do you still find GMO food appetizing? Please share your thoughts.
Planet Kids of Wellington and TheWellington Preparatory School
By Krista Martinelli
If you’re looking for a preschool and elementary school with experienced teachers, a low ratio of students to teachers and a proven record of excellence in education, check out Planet Kids at Wellington and, on the same campus, The Wellington Preparatory School.
Founder & President Jeffrey Altschuler and Principal Sandy Montoya
The educational advantage these students are getting is shown in the confidence they display as you walk through the beautiful facilities, as well as their test scores. Planet Kids at Wellington celebrates its thirteenth year this September, while the sister elementary school Wellington Prep has been open for three years.
This bar graph shows how Planet Kids VPK students measure up…very well!
Principal of both schools Sandy Montoya says, “We aim for a family atmosphere here. Our priority is to be very nurturing and make sure the students are happy.” She feels that the students have a more stimulating environment at Planet Kids than at your typical preschool, thanks to the iPad lab, the science room, the library and other educational outlets. Jeffrey Altschuler, founder and president, adds, “Even in our preschool, the kids are changing classes for each program.” Located on five acres on Lake Worth Road (near Lyons Road), there’s a college campus feeling with both Planet Kids and Wellington Prep. There’s an art room, a science room, a theater room, a language arts room – the kids are always on the move.
Both schools have received national accreditation. Planet Kids at Wellington has also been rewarded the Florida Gold Seal of Quality designation. “The teachers have been here for years,” says Montoya, “Everyone stays.” Also, she stresses that they make it a priority to get to know each child. Currently there are approximately 300 students at Planet Kids and approximately 50 students at Wellington Prep, which currently goes up to 2nd grade. They are expanding with the groundbreaking of a new building planned for December of this year, which will eventually expand Wellington Preparatory School to 8th grade.
This graph illustrates how the Wellington Preparatory School rates in reading results, compared with national average.
The great programs offered at Planet Kids and Wellington Prep begin with children as young as six weeks old. Their “Beyond Cribs and Rattles” program ranges from 6 weeks to 24 months of age, where they focus on nurturing, art, music and teacher interaction. From 24 months to 4 years of age, students are enrolled in an ABeka phonics program and “Beyond Centers and Circle Time”, a thematic-based curriculum, which incorporates play.
Parents can enroll their children in Planet Kids’ VPK program, just like any other VPK program in Florida, free of charge (for the half day). The School offers three versions of its fulltime VPK program: traditional, accelerated and dual language. The accelerated learning class uses “Everyday Math,” as developed by the University of Chicago and the highly-acclaimed Lucy Calkins writing and reading methods, as developed by Columbia University. The dual language VPK program (Spanish / English) uses “Sonrisas” where students learn a lesson in the morning and then after 12:00 learn the same lesson, taught completely in Spanish. The Wellington Prep Elementary School curriculum continues by using the University of Chicago’s Everyday Math program and the same reading and writing program, developed by Columbia University. All elementary students are enrolled in a violin program, the Spanish dual language program and a Meet the Master’s art program.
The Best in Technology
One of the nice things about the iPad lab, says Jeff Altschuler, is that for the younger children, “No fine motor skills are needed.” Everyone can use an iPad. As the children get older, they have computers in every classroom. They also have Smartboards. These are like interactive white boards, allowing students, for example, to underline all of the nouns in a poem. Having the best of technology at their fingertips is fun for the students and prepares them for using technology in their college years and beyond.
Safety and Security
“We are obsessive about safety here,” says Principal Sandy Montoya. They have locks on all doors and there’s a Raptor security check system in place. This system is a national company that provides immediate confirmation of a person’s background.
Keeping the Arts Alive – Meet the Masters
In kindergarten, the students will be introduced to ten of the Masters of the art world. It’s a “looping curriculum,” explains Altschuler. The students will copy the technique of artists like Van Gogh, Monet, Cassatt and their work will be displayed proudly in the school. Their education about these masters of art will continue each year. “And by the time they graduate from 5th grade, they have a great, classical appreciation of art,” adds Altschuler.
Violin Mastery
As Altschuler and Montoya point out, there’s a close tie between math and music. The more it is researched, the more value is found in the importance of learning an instrument. In particular, says Altschuler, “We have found that learning an unfretted instrument like the violin is the best way for training your ear for music.” See the related video, from Ted Talks, about how playing an instrument benefits your brain.
About Founder and President Jeffrey Altschuler
Jeff originally worked in Chicago advising large companies. He returned to Florida and found that he had an affinity toward education. He invested in The North Broward Preparatory Schools, located just south of Boca Raton, and it grew to its target capacity. Then he was one of the founders of the Meritas school system, a premium K thru 12th grade family of college preparatory schools with locations around the world. Proud of his work with Meritas but wanting to travel less often, he realized there was a need for a high-end school in the Wellington area. He acquired Planet Kids at Wellington and built Wellington Preparatory School next door.
About Principal Sandy Montoya
Sandy worked for several years in the charter school system in Belle Glade. It was an eye-opening and rewarding opportunity. She has been Principal of Planet Kids for almost eight years and has also served as principal of Wellington Preparatory School since its opening. With extensive experience in public schools and charter schools, she holds a bachelor’s degree from Florida International University in Educational Management.
Advantages of Planet Kids & Wellington Prep Students
“We have a solid curriculum and a great faculty,” says Montoya. “We hire very experienced teachers, and most of them have Master’s degrees.” The average class size is 12 students, achieving that desirable low student to teacher ratio. With the violin lessons, the dual language program, the Meet the Masters Art program, a great outdoor playground facility and karate class, there are many “extras” to being a student of one of these two schools. Parents really appreciate the individual planning that goes on for each student. Perhaps that is why they are currently at capacity and getting ready to break ground on a new building.
Another benefit to Wellington Preparatory School is being removed from the highly controversial public school climate of “constant testing” and “teaching to the test,” currently in the form of the FSA tests. Instead Wellington Prep students take the Stanford exam, which is a Pearson developed test that has been normed across the U.S. with 335,000 students. It provides a more meaningful national benchmark. However, the build up and drama that circles around test-taking is not as prevalent at Wellington Prep. “We like to keep it low-key,” says Altschuler.
Instead of depending on book publishers for a great deal of their curriculum, Planet Kids and Wellington Prep rely on University research for their academic programs. “They are not trying to sell anything and provide an unbiased program,” explains Altschuler, who hired an outside consultant who selected the University of Chicago’s math program and Columbia University’s language arts program.
About 80% of the Planet Kids students continue their education at Wellington Preparatory School. Both Altschuler and Montoya are very excited about being able to continue that education up to 8th grade in the near future.
Open Houses
During enrollment season, open houses are offered every couple of months at these two schools. Check their websites or call for more information. Get your child started on the path to success!
Warning: This article contains strongly insightful language!
In life, I find there are two different types of people in this world; stress reducers and stress inducers. “What does this have to do with the arts,” you might ask? Everything, but we’ll get to that later.
Shakespeare said it best:
All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players; they have their exits and their entrances, and one man in his time plays many parts…
As You Like It, Act II, Scene 7
On this stage we call “life,” what part do you actually play? I am not asking what part do you want to play, I am asking what character do you play? What type of effect do you have on the people around you and what type of effect do you have on your own well-being?
I find that people who tend to be “stress reducers” have the following characteristics. They are:
– Problem solvers
– Patient
– Compassionate
– Hard-working
– Gifted with good listening skills
– Wisely proactive
– Generous, but not to a fault
– Unconditionally loving
– Excellent at time management
– Confident
– Maintain a degree of self-respect
Most importantly, they are humble enough to admit to making a mistake. These types of people tend to have hobbies, are constantly learning and are open-minded to new things.
Unfortunately, those who are stress inducers have character flaws that they rarely recognize. They are:
– Jealous
– Bossy
– Critical
– Hurtful or don’t think before they speak
– Disrespectful of one’s space, property and private time
– Liars or cheaters
– Self-absorbed and feel the world should revolve around him/her
– “Dumpers” (they dump their problems on you as if you have none of your own)
Often this type of character has no sense of self-worth and is constantly seeking fulfillment, rarely aware that contentment comes from a sense of completion.
Sometimes, there’s a third party involved. Now think about this SLOWLY: the stress inducers aggravate the stress reducers, who THEN turn to another stress reducer for help. Sounds like an episode of Downton Abbey, right?
Now, don’t get all huffy if you have one or two of the characteristics in both of the inducer/reducer categories. That’s to be expected at times. We are all human beings with instinctual responses. What is most important is to recognize that we are all works in progress and we can hone our personalities. I am often reminded of the scene in the Wizard of Oz… All the cowardly lion needed was a medal for courage and the scarecrow was given a diploma for society to recognize that he was smart.
This is where living a cultural life steps in. YOU can be both the artist and the work of art. YOU can mold or sculpt yourself in any manner you wish. If you are a stress reducer, then you are the kind of person who recognizes that there is always room for improvement. If you are a stress inducer, you have to calm down and take control of your own life. You may very well be hurting those you love most, unintentionally.
A very wise friend, Mr. Johnny Bergstrom, once told me to post the following words on a post-it note in my office:
“I am a work in progress and I’m okay with that.”
Quite frankly, I have found those words to be helpful on many occasions. I try to recognize all the beauty that surrounds me. In addition, in the small amount of spare time I have, I try to learn something new. In turn, I use the techniques learned to be more creative. Being inventive and imaginative is extremely stress reducing.
Make a list. Write down things you would really like to do more of. For example:
– Read books: stop by the library, download some audio books or eBooks
– Paint or draw
– Write poetry or song lyrics
– Shut off the news and listen to music in the car
– Try your hand at photography (most cell phones have great cameras)
– Plant a colorful bed of flowers in your garden
– Take up a craft or hobby like beading jewelry or woodwork
– Appreciate a sunrise or sunset: you have two chances daily
– Look back at some old photos that bring back good memories
– Take a few moments each day to get some fresh air. When you do, observe the beauty around you. Listen to the sounds of nature: the birds, the breeze and the rustle of leaves.
I could go on – but I think you get the message by now. Simply:
Live… Go… Do!
Top 5 for April 2015
April is the tail end of tolerable daytime temperatures in South Florida before the summer begins. Go for a stroll in the beautiful gardens that Palm Beach County has to offer.
1) Visit:
Mounts Botanical Garden
Photo: Courtesy of Mounts Botanical Garden
With a mission to inspire the public, Mounts Botanical Garden is Palm Beach County’s oldest and largest botanical garden, offering gorgeous displays of tropical and sub-tropical plants, plus informative classes, workshops, and other fun-filled events. The Garden contains more than 2,000 species of plants, including Florida native plants, exotic and tropical fruit trees, herbs, palms, bromeliads and more. Mounts Botanical Garden is a facility of the Palm Beach County Extension Service, which is in partnership with the University of Florida and the Friends of Mounts Botanical Garden.
Located at 531 North Military Trail in West Palm Beach, The Mounts Botanical Garden of Palm Beach County is open Monday-Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. The suggested donation for entry to the Garden is $5 per person. For more information, please call 561.233.1757 or visit www.mounts.org.
2) Explore
The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens
This tranquil, lakeside destination offers Japanese tea ceremonies, festivals, classes & a sushi cafe.
4000 Morikami Park Rd,
Delray Beach, FL 33446
(561) 495-0233
For information go to: morikami.org
3) Listen to enriching podcasts or stream free music:
If you have an iPhone, you may not even be aware that you have a Podcast app. If you bring up the app, you can download a variety of interesting and enriching podcasts. Lately, I have been listening to James Altucher, author of the best-selling book Choose Yourself. Amongst his many interviews and titles, he offers a variety of inspiring discussions that are fascinating to listen to.
Spotify and Pandora are free apps that bring me much joy. You can stream music for free (with ads). If you feel you “need a lift,” pick a category of songs with an upbeat tempo. If you want a more meditative sound, choose from a variety of genres that suit your taste.
4) LAUGH!
According to a blog by Leah Rocketto, “Laughter naturally– and legally– reduces stress and makes us feel plain happier. But what isn’t so well known is that giggling like a schoolgirl (or boy) actually increases blood flow throughout the body.”
I find that getting together with friends or relatives who have a great sense of humor to be most relaxing. Depending on your budget, you can picnic or throw a Frisbee around Okeeheelee Park, arrange a night out on the town or just get together and watch some comedy on TV. If it’s a fun night out you choose to share, perhaps pick up tickets to one of these events:
The Kravis Center Presents:
Kathy Griffin Live! Friday, April 24th at 8 PM
(Note: performance contains adult language)
MythBusters Jamie & Adam UNLEASHED! Saturday, April 25 at 8 pm.
Pippin April 28 – May 3 (see website for times)
For tickets and information go to: Kravis.org
On Your Home Screen:
In some cases, due to adult language and subject matter, viewer discretion advised.
Veep (HBO, resumes April 12)
Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt (now on Netflix)
The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore (Comedy Central)
Modern Family (ABC)
Mom (ABC)
Saturday Night Live (NBC – now in its 40th year)
5) Enjoy:
A FREE COMMUNITY DAY ON APRIL 4
AT
THEANN NORTON SCULPTURE GARDENS
Gardens Conservancy to present a special exhibition of
Ann Norton’s drawings: Beyond the Garden Gates
In its second year, the Gardens Conservancy at the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens is hosting a special event for the community, to honor its mission of expanding the visibility and appreciation of artist Ann Norton’s work and legacy.
From April 1-4, the historic home on the grounds of the Sculpture Gardens will host “Beyond the Garden Gates” a very special exhibition of Ann Norton’s charcoal and pastel studies for her iconic gateway structures, Tibetan and bird series. As a way to introduce the Gardens to even more guests, the Gardens Conservancy will open the Gardens to the public on Saturday, April 4 free of charge. “Ann’s drawings are quite revealing,” said Frances Fisher, founding chair for the Gardens Conservancy. “They show her thought process on the way to creating her monuments. Her drawings reflect her impact from an artistic point of view and they continue the process of bringing her story to life. Once you get to know Ann, you can’t help but fall in love with her story, these beautiful gardens, this wonderful and historic home, and her significance as an American artist. We hope guests will continue to get to know Ann Norton through her gift to our community of this very special place.”
The never-before-exhibited works were executed circa 1950s to 1970s. Along with rare personal and archival materials, and maquettes of some of the monuments currently displayed in the Gardens, the exhibition will give the viewer an intimate glimpse of Ann Norton’s creative process and her artistic significance.
For Conservancy membership information or details for the April exhibition at the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, please visit www.ansg.org or call 561-832-5328. The rare palm and sculpture gardens, exhibition galleries and artist studio are located at 2051 South Flagler Drive in West Palm Beach and are currently open to the public Wednesday through Sunday, from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm.
***
Lori Hope Baumel and her husband Eric live in Wellington and have three children.
Their eldest, Sam, 27, is a media producer and conceptual artist who currently resides in (extremely hipster) Brooklyn, NY. Her younger children, Evan and Rachel, wrote the Around Wellington “Teen Talk” column in previous years. Rachel, 24, lives and works in Boston, MA and Evan, 21, is a senior at American University in Washington DC. Eric has practiced radiology in Wellington since 1991. His many talents include artist, cook, photographer and, recently, medical app developer. You can learn more about Lori at www.loribaumel.com or read her blog:www.grownupcamp.tumblr.com
I am writing two nights after this year’s Oscar Show.
I watch this show every year because it helps contribute to my crankiness. I first learned to dislike the Oscars in 1965, when Rod Steiger’s “Pawnbroker,” one of the seminal performances in Hollywood history, lost the best actor award to Rex Harrison’s Professor Higgins (“My Fair Lady).” And yes, Harrison was great. But not in the same league as Steiger.
The following year, my cantankerous disposition was elevated to seething anger when Anthony Quinn’s “Zorba the Greek” lost to Lee Marvin and his horse.
I have never forgiven the Academy. Yet I watch every year, just to deride the entire spectacle. Especially the outrageous fashionista display by actresses stuffed into clinging gowns and mincing along on shoes designed by a stiletto manufacturer. My daughter claims that every year, at 3AM after Oscar night, a methane cloud develops over Hollywood as all the actresses take off their Spanx.
But I must give credit where due: the show has inspired me to dole out my own personal Oscars to those I feel deserve acknowledgement.
1 – Most unself-conscious gambler (name unknown).
I was playing blackjack at the Hard Rock. Some wins. Some losses. The usual ups and downs. The old guy sitting next to me had to be at least ten years my senior. Knew what he was doing. Betting $25 per hand.
He was dealt a pair of eights, split them and doubled his bet. On the first eight, he was given a three, so he doubled down and plunked down another $25 chip. The next card was another eight. Another $25. He now had $100 on the table on this one hand. Before the dealer turned over another card, he said, “Can you hold my place? I have to go change my Depends.”
2 – Best E-mail Joke: my Chicago friend, Larry.
I receive all kinds of gags. Most are not funny. My friend Larry sends only truly funny ones.
The latest (which I’ve had to clean up a bit) involves an old man who comes into a crowded doctor’s office and asks for an appointment.
“What’s the reason you want to see the doctor?” she asks.
“I got a problem with my penis.”
“Please!” the receptionist says. “Keep your voice down. Everyone can hear you!”
“You asked, I told.”
“Okay. But be discreet! Say you’ve got a problem with your ear, or something like that.”
The old guy walks out, comes back in and approaches the receptionist again. Again, the receptionist asks why he wants to see the doctor.
“I got a problem with my ear.”
The receptionist smiles and asks, “And what is that?”
“I can’t pee out of it.”
3 – Most helpful critics: unnamed members of my writers’ group.
I belong to a terrific writers’ group. Everyone is helpful, and all critiques are constructive and contribute to changes and edits.
Each month, I read my column to this august assemblage, and each month their suggestions help improve my efforts. One example: a few months ago, I read to them my column on elderly romance, headlined, “Fifty Shades of Gray Hair.” Their comments:
Writer #1: “Needs more sex.”
Writer #2: “It’s not dirty enough.”
Writer #3: “Get off your namby-pamby ass and get into some good solid bondage.”
I don’t know where I’d be without them.
4 – Most overrated bridge player: unnamed.
Okay, I know most of you don’t play bridge. On the other hand, most of us don’t know anything about sound editing or production design either … but we still watch as those Oscars are awarded.
And you don’t have to know anything about bridge to appreciate what happened to me when I was fixed up with a partner who was supposed to be a fine player.
He seemed all right during the first hand. During the second, I opened the bidding with one no trump, and he said, “Oy vay.” Two hands later, I used a common convention to ask him how many aces he had. He yelled out, “Mayday!”
That’s one afternoon of my life I’ll never get back.
5 – Slickest con artist.
The Ft. Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel newspaper, posing as a competent, literate news source, wins this hands down.
I read the paper daily. Cover to cover. And I find dumb mistakes daily. The latest, from Saturday, February 28, in an article headlined, “Consumers remaining confident:”
“Gas prices has jumped nearly 30 cents in a month to a statewide average of $2.30 a gallon, did that not seem to deflate.”
Wonderful. Okay, no one expects athletes to be able to conjugate a difficult verb like “have,” but in a newspaper? In fact, what is this entire sentence doing in a newspaper?
5 – Most honest waiter.
I’d gone to a restaurant with some friends from my men’s group. Decent place. Nothing great, not expensive. Just a casual neighborhood place. Young man comes over and, while doling out menus, says, “Evening. I’m your server. Name is Hal.”
Roy said, “Hi, Hal. How’s the salmon tonight?”
“Terrible.”
“Excuse me?”
“You don’t want the salmon. Overcooked. Dry.”
We all looked at each other. “Are we on Candid Camera?” I asked.
“Just being honest,” Hal said.
Ed said, “What about the tilapia?”
“Wouldn’t feed it to my cat.”
Rick said, “Well, what would you suggest, Hal?”
“That you go across the street to Charlie’s Grill.”
We decided that either Hal had been fired just before we came in, or he had decided this was his last night as a waiter. In any case, we all ordered cheeseburgers. They were terrific.
*
Can’t wait ‘til next year’s Oscars.
Cantankerously Yours,
Wendell Abern
Wendell Abern can be reached at dendyabern@gmail.com.
The prevailing thought process in little leagues, pee wee football, and high school sports have generally placed a high priority on stretching to reduce injury amongst their athletes. The idea has gone mostly unchallenged by youth sports coaches in the name of “it just makes sense” and “that’s what my coaches have always taught me”.
Truthfully, we didn’t have much reason to doubt that stretching is beneficial for injury prevention. By common knowledge, it did make sense given that stretching will usually leave you feeling good, and it seemed to make sense that having looser muscles would be more advantageous than being tight.
However, with the age of the internet and the virtual freedom of information, we now have better resources to make decisions using research and data from people who study this stuff all of the time. That’s when I stumbled upon this article on Twitter last week.
The article basically took a look at 25 large scale studies that compared the rates of sport-related injury in strength Training, functional exercise programs, and stretching. For most people, the results are pretty surprising:
Strength training and proprioceptive exercise (what most consider functional training) consistently provided a protective effect against injury
Stretching programs showed no effect
The Authors estimate that strength training would reduce sports injury rates by 1/3 and reduce overuse injuries by 1/2
What Does That Mean For My Athletes?
This doesn’t mean that stretching has no benefits what so ever. There is still some evidence that stretching may help with some types of muscle strains. Additionally, flexibility and good range of motion have been well documented as markers of overall health and longevity, especially as we age. If you want a good run down of how to apply stretching in effective ways, I wrote about it a few months ago in my article: Stretching: You’re Doing it Wrong.
The big idea is to de-mythify the idea that lifting weights is bad for the body and leads to injury, when the fact is that stronger muscles are what allows the body to be more resilient!
Of course this doesn’t mean it will make your body bulletproof. Stuff happens, especially in the world of contact sports, where injury for all intents and purposes, is inevitable. We have limited control over our environment, and we have even less control when bad luck happens on the playing field.
What we do have control over is how strong we make our bodies.
“While other professions are concerned with changing the environment to suit the weakened body,chiropractic is concerned with strengthening the body to suit the environment.” – Dr. B.J Palmer
While his quote has nothing to do with exercise, or strength training, Dr. Palmer’s words echo the fundamental philosophy that we have towards patient care. If we can’t change the environment that the body faces day after day, than it’s up to us to make the body more resilient to the environment.
Who Can Benefit the Most?
Athletes of the big sports (football, basketball, baseball) usually have a strength and conditioning program built into their training, so as long as they’re getting good coaching, it’s not really something that needs to be addressed. Most of the time, these programs have dedicated strength coaches, and spend a huge amount of time in the off season in the weight room.
A lot of the smaller sports that don’t get as much attention make up a bulk of the total athletes in the country. Sports like soccer, cross country running, swimming, water polo, gymnastics, cheerleading, lacrosse are sports played by millions of boys and girls around the country.
These sports generally do not get the knowledge resources from high level strength and conditioning coaches. They also have limited time and money resources to work on a strength training program to supplement their regular practice schedules. Generally speaking, these athletes basically spend time practicing their sport day after day. Soccer coaches spend time playing soccer. Cheerleaders practice their routines. Swimmers swim, and cross country runners run This problem is especially prevalent for girls, who have the most to gain from strength training.
If you really want to make a difference for your young athlete, from a performance AND injury prevention stand point, it may be time to ditch the pre-practice stretch, and start looking for a gym and trainer to help them get to the next level. Plus, if they start learning good habits now, they’ll have a better chance of maintaining their weight lifting habits as adults.
Did you like this article? Feel free to share it with the people you care about and see if a Complimentary Consultation is the next step to regain their health.
Dr. Chung is a practicing Structural Chiropractor in the West Palm Beach area. He has been published in peer reviewed scientific journals and is a sought after speaker in health and wellness. Follow his blog at http://chiropractorwellington.com/category/keystone-chiropractic-blog/ or find him on twitter at @drjonathanchung
