The 29th annual Giraffe Awards, honoring women who stick their necks out in our community, was held on Wednesday, March 19, at the Kravis Center. The annual event to recognize strong women was sponsored by the Women’s Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County. The event recognized the Business of the Year and other women, including honorees in the categories of Rising Star, Community Impact, Marvelous Mentor and Wonder Woman. The event was held in honor of Women’s History month which is in March. For more information about the Women’s Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County, check out their website at www.WomensChamber.biz or call them at 561-659-0285.
For immediate release – Wellington, Fl – On March 29, the 2025 Winter Equestrian Festival will host the final “Saturday Night Lights” at Wellington International- set to be the most spectacular event of the season.
For the first time in history, the US Equestrian Open will be held as part of the $750,000 Rolex Grand Finale 5 Star Series. The US Equestrian Open Series is revolutionizing equestrian sport and serves as a preliminary for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. Many of the world’s top-ranked riders will compete for the grand prize including Kent Farrington (USA), McLain Ward (USA), Laura Kraut (USA) and #1 World show jumper Henrik von Eckeran (Sweden).
During the 12 week WEF Season, Saturday Night Lights has become a premier weekend destination with entertainment for everyone, including a petting zoo, merry-go-round, musicians, tons of shopping and lots of great food options. This SNL will feature a special “Sip & Shop” where regular priced and discounted WEF attire will be available in the International Club Lobby from 6:00 PM-7:30 PM.
The $750,000 Rolex US Equestrian Open Grand Final starts at 7:30 with gates open at 5:00 PM. Admission if free there is just a $25 parking fee per carload. There are upgraded VIP seating options available at www.wellingtoninternational.com
IF YOU GO : Wellington International is located at 3400 Equestrian Club Dr, Wellington, FL
Gates open 5:00PM show starts 7:30 PM. Free Parking is available at the Equestrian Village (13500 South Shore Blvd. Come early to get a good seat and to enjoy shopping and dining before the big show.
What is it about April that insists on hosting a holiday to trick people? Could it be that it is technically Spring and people are feeling extra feisty? Maybe they have extra pep in their step, or perhaps the sap in the ol tree is flowing again after a long Floridian winter? Whatever the reason, April Fools is here, and let’s face it, everyone could use a good laugh.
Honestly, I have never been a fan of April Fools’ jokes. I find a lot of them cruel and just down right mean. Tricking someone into thinking you are pregnant or dead is just not nice. Fear not, here is a list of fun things to do to your spouse or kids that might make them chuckle:
Silly Food Pranks
Salt-Swap Surprise – Replace the sugar with salt in your morning coffee (but have the real sugar nearby for a quick fix).
Color-Changing Milk – Add a few drops of food coloring to the milk carton so it pours out in a wild color.
Jelly Juice – Pour Jell-O into a glass and let it set, so when a parent tries to drink it, nothing happens!
Bathroom & Morning Mischief
Soap That Won’t Lather – Coat a bar of soap with clear nail polish so it won’t lather when used.
Backwards Clothes Day – Sneak into a parent’s room and flip all their clothes inside out.
Nozzle Attack – Put a rubber band around the sink’s spray nozzle so it sprays water when they turn it on.
Tech & Gadget Giggles
Language Swap – Change the phone or tablet language settings to something different (but make sure they can switch it back!).
Volume Surprise – Turn the volume on their alarm clock or phone way down so they barely hear it—or way up for a wake-up shock!
Mouse Malfunction – Tape a small piece of paper over the bottom sensor of the computer mouse so it won’t work.
Random Household Hijinks
Upside-Down House – Flip picture frames, turn chairs around at the table, or switch small decorations in funny places.
Remote Confusion – Cover the TV remote’s sensor with a small piece of tape so it won’t work.
Parent Costume Fun
Funny Outfit Swap – Lay out a totally mismatched outfit for your parent to wear (bonus points if they actually put it on).
Shoe Stuffing – Stuff tissues or cotton balls in the toes of their shoes so they feel too small when they try to put them on.
Surprise Notes & Signs
Sticky Note Takeover – Cover a mirror, laptop, or even the fridge with sticky notes saying funny things.
Voice-Activated Everything – Put a sign on a lamp or door saying “Now Voice Activated” and watch them try to talk to it!
In front of a standing room only audience, Park Place and Coca Cola played in the finals to determine the winner of the USPA Gold Cup.
Coca Cola jumped out to a 3-1 lead to close out the first chukka. Five unanswered goals then gave Park Place Park Place a 6-3 lead.
At half-time Park Place led 7-5.
The second half went back and forth with Coca Cola tying the score 9-9 with under a minute to go.
With 5:52 left in OT 10-goaler Hilario Ulloa converted a 30-yard penalty shot to give the win to Park Place 10-9.
Park Place was represented by Ulloa, Andrey Borodin, Peke Gonzalez and the game’s MVP Louis Hine, a 19 year old British 5-goaler.
Coca Cola was led by Patron Jillian Johnson, Julian de Lusarreta, Lorenzo Chavanne ad 9-goaler Polito Pieres.
This game was dedicated to Rufino Laulhe, a 15-year-old, who was going to play his first season in Wellington with Park Place who unfortunately lost his life in a car crash in January in Argentina.
In addition, to honor him Park Place had a sticker with “Rufo” on the team’s jerseys.
WEST PALM BEACH, FL-(March 24, 2025) Impact the Palm Beaches will present FPL Women in Philanthropy on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 5:30 pm at Manatee Lagoon in West Palm Beach. This event will recognize five NextEra Energy/Florida Power & Light Company leaders for their philanthropic work in Arts & Culture, Environment, Family, Health & Wellness, and Education.
“This event is particularly special to us because it highlights our commitment to the communities we serve, especially here in Palm Beach County, which we call home,” said Grace Kurian, 2025 co-president of Impact the Palm Beaches and FPL vice president of information technology. “We are thrilled to honor these remarkable women for their outstanding philanthropic contributions and their dedication to making a positive impact in their communities. Their efforts exemplify our core values and our commitment to community service.”
Impact the Palm Beaches will celebrate Vernique Williams, Kathleen Fitzgerald, Erin Westberg, Jennifer Herron, and Natasha Zbib, who continually give their time, talent, and treasure in order to make a positive impact on the lives of others in our community.
“FPL is dedicated to the well-being of this community, as is Impact the Palm Beaches,” said Lisa Johnson, 2025 co-president of Impact the Palm Beaches. “We are honored to have FPL’s continued support and look forward to celebrating just a few of the exceptional women of NextEra Energy/FPL who exemplify giving back.”
This special evening will also be an opportunity for Impact the Palm Beaches to announce the local nonprofit finalists for the $100,000 Impact Grants to be awarded at the 10th Annual Impact Awards Celebration on April 30, along with its final grant pool amounts and membership roster.
For more information about Impact the Palm Beaches, events, and how to become a member, visit Impactpalmbeaches.org or email [email protected].
Impact 100 is a worldwide organization with more than 70 chapters and steadily growing. Their motto is “One Woman, One Meeting, One Vote.” It is designed for women who wish to find an efficient and collaborative means of creating transformational change in their community. Women can become as involved as they want to in the process.
The Town of Palm Beach United Way is the fiscal agent of Impact the Palm Beaches.
Impact the Palm Beaches will host its 10th Annual Impact Awards Celebration on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at the Cohen Pavilion, Kravis Center in West Palm Beach. To learn more, visit Impactpalmbeaches.org.
Celebrate girls and young women in Palm Beach County, tomorrow’s leaders and changemakers
Palm Beach Gardens, FL (March 24, 2025) – The community is invited to enjoy a curated 4-course Italian dinner at Carmine’s La Trattoria, located at 2401 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens, on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. The event features dessert, an exciting silent auction, and exquisite courses perfectly paired with fine Italian wines — all while supporting the Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach. Pace believes that ‘Every Girl Deserves’ a future filled with opportunities, respect, and agency to pursue her dreams. The event serves as a reminder of the progress achieved as a community while also urging us to envision the next phase of this critical mission.
The girls and young women Pace supports receive academic instruction and work closely with counselors and therapists trained in girl-centered and trauma-based therapy. They also receive life coaching to learn basic life skills, such as personal hygiene, shopping for groceries, and how to land their first job. These resources are made available to girls at no cost to them.
“Our girls have overcome tremendous obstacles, but they see themselves as we see them — as strong, beautiful, intellectual women that will be successful as they grow into their young adulthood,” said Mindy Hanken, Executive Director of Pace Palm Beach. “As our programming expands to provide more girls with social and academic services, we are incredibly grateful for the support of our community.”
Since its founding in 1985, Pace Palm Beachhas seen transformational improvements among girls personally and professionally. To date, more than 1,310 girls in Palm Beach County have been served. Program highlights from fiscal year 2024 include:
9 out of 10 girls have experienced overall academic improvement.
8 out of 10 girls improved healthy social relationships with peers and family members
Carmine’s La Trattoria was voted Best Italian Restaurant in Palm Beach Post “Best of the Best” Community Choice Awards for 2019, Reader’s Choice Awards, Boca Life Magazine and Open Table Diner’s Choice Award, Wine Spectator Award of Excellence 2022. The community is encouraged to share their support while enjoying a flavorful evening. Sponsors include Carmines La Tratorria, Chase, FPL, LaBovick Law Group, PB Post, and Treecyle.
About Pace Center for Girls Pace provides free year-round middle and high school academics, case management, counseling, and life skills development in a safe and supportive environment that recognizes and deals with past trauma and builds upon girls’ individual strengths. Dedicated to meeting the social, emotional, and education needs of girls, Pace has a successful and proven program model that has changed the life trajectory of more than 40,000 girls and is recognized as one of the nation’s leading advocates for girls in need. For more information on Pace Center for Girls, visit www.pacecenter.org.
Start by roasting the beets. Cut off the stems (you can cook those as you would cook any other greens later, if you’d like). Scrub and wash the beets. Wrap each beet loosely in aluminum foil and roast in a 400 degree oven for approximately 90 minutes.
Meanwhile, you can toast the walnuts on medium heat in a lightly greased frying pan. Add a light amount of salt and pepper to the walnuts and continually stir. Add a bit of honey (which I prefer) or a dash of sugar. Toast until walnuts become medium brown in color.
Let beets and walnuts cool.
Chop up beets and green apple into bite size pieces.
Assemble salad. Put Arugula into a salad bowl. Add beets and green apple. Crumble honey goat cheese onto salad. Sprinkle in walnuts. Add a bit of salt and pepper.
In a small bowl, combine equal parts of olive oil and fresh lemon juice, enough to cover the salad. Add a teaspoon of honey. Mix.
March 21, 2025 (WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.) — The Armory Art Center is pleased to announce its latest exhibition, “Life or Something Like It”,featuring works by Colombian artist Hermes Berrío. The solo show runs now through Friday, May 9, 2025. It is free and open to the public.
“Life or Something Like It” explores the fluid boundaries between reality and perception, memory and reinvention. Berrío’s large-scale works, which will be situated throughout all three galleries at the Armory, bring an expansive exploration of identity and transformation, elevating everyday moments into monumental narratives.
Through painting and mixed media, he blends the mundane with the extraordinary, inviting viewers to reconsider how personal history, cultural symbolism, and imagination intersect. Berrío draws from street culture, social media symbolism, and personal history to examine the ways we construct identity through memory and material culture.
“In my paintings, personal memories intertwine with dreams, creating layered compositions that reflect both intimate experiences and broader social themes,” says Berrío’s artist statement. “Using acrylics, aerosol, textiles, and gold leaf, I capture the vibrancy and complexity of life as it unfolds, sometimes fragmented, sometimes exaggerated, always in flux. By repurposing materials, I challenge notions of value and permanence, emphasizing reinvention as a means of survival.”
Born in Colombia and based in Miami, Berrío has participated in group and solo exhibitions for galleries and institutions in the United States, Latin America, Europe, and Australia. He’s also completed several murals, with the most recent installations throughout Miami. His dedication doesn’t stop there. In 2021, he rode his bicycle all the way from Miami to West Palm Beach to view his sister’s (María Berrío) exhibition at the Norton Museum of Art.
“We look forward to welcoming the community to see ‘Life or Something Like It’ at our historic West Palm Beach campus this spring,” says Jill Brown, Armory Art Center CEO. “This exhibition invites viewers to reflect on the nature of experience and how we navigate, adapt, and transform the symbols that shape our lives.”
“Life or Something Like It” is free and will run through May 9, 2025 at the Armory Art Center in West Palm Beach.
The Armory will host an opening reception to celebrate Berrío and his exhibition on Thursday, April 3, 2025 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. There will also be a special “Walk and Talk and Q+A” led by the artist on Thursday, April 24, 2025 (6:30-7:30 p.m.) Both events are free and open to the public.
For more information about “Life or Something Like It”, visit armoryart.org.
Calendar Items:
Life or Something Like It
Solo exhibition by Hermes Berrío
March 17 – May 9, 2025 Free and open to the public (Mondays – Saturdays)
Armory Art Center (811 Park Place, West Palm Beach, Fla., 33401)
Special Events: Opening Reception with HermesBerrío: Thursday, April 3, 2025 (5:30-7:30 p.m.)
Walk and Talk and Q+A led by Hermes Berrío: Thursday, April 24, 2025 (6:30-7:30 p.m.)
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About the Armory Art Center:
Having served the community for over 30 years, the Armory Art Center’s art school and galleries provide creative opportunities to enhance your life. The mission of the Armory Art Center is to inspire the creation and experience of art and the Armory’s vision is to be the leading community resource for arts education. Serving over 3,000 students annually, the Armory Art Center offers 160 courses per term in six terms throughout the year to students ranging in age from pre-school to retiree. Classes in drawing, painting, photography, jewelry, ceramics and sculpture are held in twelve state-of-the-art studios. Twelve exhibitions are hosted annually in three galleries. The Armory’s exhibitions, lectures and special events are open to the public.
The Armory is proud to have been the recipient of several awards in recent years, including The Palm Beach Post’s Best of Palm Beach County (2022 Best Art Gallery), Chamber of Commerce of The Palm Beaches (2021 Nonprofit of the Year), The Flamingos: Florida Weekly’s Best Awards (2021 Best Place to Create Art), the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County’s Muse Awards (2020 Legacy Award) and more.
For information, visit www.armoryart.org or call (561) 832-1776. The Armory Art Center is located at 811 Park Place, West Palm Beach, Fla., 33401.
from Dr. Jonathan Shaw, Expert Hip and Knee Surgeon at the Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute
As the Palm Beach International Boat Show wraps up, many people are eager to get out on the water. Dr. Jonathan Shaw, a well-trusted and local hip and knee orthopedic surgeon at the Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute, is sharing five essential tips for safe boating and injury prevention. Boating is responsible for a significant number of orthopedic surgeries, particularly during activities like docking, undocking, embarking, and boat maintenance – a common issue in South Florida. Dr. Shaw is offering valuable advice on how to avoid these injuries, recognize their symptoms, and know when to seek medical help.
Use Proper Body Mechanics During Docking and Undocking
Boating often involves lifting, twisting, and bending during the docking and undocking processes. If not done properly, these movements can strain the hips and knees which may lead to injuries if not treated. To reduce the risk of joint strain, Dr. Shaw advises to always use your legs to lift and support your weight rather than relying on your back or knees. When maneuvering the boat, Dr. Shaw suggests keeping your knees slightly bent to absorb impact and avoid putting excessive pressure on the hip and knee joints.
Practice Safe Boarding and Debarking Techniques
Getting in and out of a boat can be difficult, especially for individuals with pre-existing hip or knee conditions. To prevent falls and joint injuries, Dr. Shaw advises the individual to always face the boat and use a stable surface when stepping in or out. “If you need assistance, use handrails or other support systems available to help steady yourself,” said Dr. Shaw. “ You want to avoid twisting motions that can stress the hip and knee joints, as these movements are common causes of injuries,” added Dr. Shaw.
Stretch Before and After Boating
To prepare your muscles and joints for physical activity involved in boating, perform gentle stretches focusing on the hips, knees, and lower back. “Stretching helps to improve flexibility and reduce the risk of strains or sprains,” Dr. Shaw teaches. “After a boating session, spend a few minutes stretching to keep joints limber and prevent stiffness, particularly if you’ve been seated for long periods,” added Dr. Shaw.
Beware of Slippery Surfaces
Wet, slippery surfaces can contribute to falls, which are often linked to hip and knee injuries. “I highly recommend wearing non-slip shoes with good traction when on the boat,” advises Dr. Shaw. “Take extra caution when walking on wet decks, pay attention to your surroundings, and avoid rushing or making sudden movements that could lead to a loss of balance and injury,” warns Dr. Shaw. Being mindful of your surroundings on a boat can ultimately help save you from damaging joints.
Seek Medical Help If You Experience Pain or Swelling
If pain, swelling, or difficulty moving your hip or knee is experienced after boating activities, it’s important to address the issue early. These symptoms may be an indicator of a strain, sprain, or even a more serious injury like a tear or fracture. Dr. Shaw strongly recommends seeing an orthopedic specialist if symptoms persist, as prompt treatment can prevent further damage and improve recovery outcomes.
Dr. Shaw stresses the importance of safe boating and prioritizing one’s health, especially when engaging in physical activities. By following these key tips and listening to your body, taking Dr. Shaw’s advice can help boaters enjoy their time on the water while minimizing the risk of hip and knee injuries. Stay safe and be proactive about your joint health!
LAKE WORTH BEACH, FL (March 21, 2025) – The power of women united for a cause was on full display as Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County (Habitat GPBC) hosted its annual WOMEN BUILD fundraiser on March 6th and 7th. Held during Women’s History Month, the sold-out event co-chaired by Julie Peyton and Mary Allen Saunders, brought hundreds of women (and men) together to raise over $600,000 to help build safe, affordable homes for local families.
Over two days, volunteers rolled up their sleeves to put roofs on two new homes, revitalize three existing homes, and complete a community clean up. More than just a fundraiser, Women Build is a movement that empowers women to take an active role in addressing the affordable housing crisis in their community.
“Each year, Women Build reaches new heights, bringing together an unstoppable force of dedicated women who are committed to making a lasting impact,” said Jennifer Thomason, President/CEO of Habitat GPBC. “This event is about more than building homes—it’s about building strength, hope, and opportunity. Through their passion and determination, our women builders are creating transformational change, ensuring more families have the stability and foundation they need to thrive.”
During the lunch program, attendees were deeply moved by the inspiring stories of Judy Noel-Jeune and Tangie Guillaume, two local mothers partnering with Habitat to build a better future for their families. Event co-chairs Julie Peyton and Mary Allen Saunders followed with heartfelt remarks, sharing how their involvement in Women Build has strengthened their commitment to addressing the urgent need for affordable housing.
In addition, the program featured remarks from Sarah Malega of the City of Lake Worth Beach and Palm Beach County Commissioner Christina Lambert, who emphasized the vital role of community support in creating lasting change. Joan Oliva, Executive Director of the Lake Worth Beach CRA, also addressed participants, highlighting the CRA’s commitment to expanding affordable homeownership. Their generous donation of land for these homes is a key part of the partnership that makes events like Women Build possible.
The Women Build 2025 committee was comprised of outstanding community leaders dedicated to making a positive impact in our community. The Co-Chairs are Julie Peyton and Mary Allen Saunders, and the Honorary Chairs are Aimee Craig Carlson and Camille Murphy Kubicek. Legacy Committee Members are Beverly Raphael-Altman, Clara Bennett, Kerry Colvett, Robyn Raphael-Dynan, Sophia Eccleston, Danielle Rosse, and Kelly Smallridge. Committee Members include Tiffany Beekhuysen, Renay Chung, Krysta Fuoco, Andrea Gassner, Lucy Joseph, Erika London, Cristina Marulanda, Christy Maasbach, Tonya Notaro, Kerry O’Neill, Laureen Pannullo, Noelle Tantillo, Teawanna Teal, JP Varvarigos, Varito Vasquez, Mandy Warren, and Lauren Zinn.
Women Build 2025 Sponsors include: BETR Project and Vertical Bridge (Foundation Builder Sponsors); Carrier (Rosie the ReStore Truck Sponsor); Lake Worth Beach CRA (Land Donor); The Seagate (Kick-off Party Sponsor); WPBF 25 (News Media Sponsor); Gator Gypsum and RCC Associates (Hard Hat Sponsors); SFBW (Annual Magazine Sponsor); Akel Homes, Florida Peninsula Insurance Company, Moraca Builders, Suffolk, and United Way Palm Beach County (Home Builder Sponsors); Boca Raton Airport Authority (Refreshment Sponsor); Campany Roofing (R & R Tent Sponsor); LocaliQ (Media Sponsor); Wellington Florist (Annual Florals Sponsor); The Colony Hotel (Spotlight Sponsor); Gunster, JMorton Planning & Landscape Architecture, Palm Beach Fancy, Pioneer Linens, PulteGroup, and The Hesse Family (Community Builder Sponsors); Periwinkle, Morley, and Coco & Co (Fashion Show Sponsor); Padel Club (Rosé & Play Sponsor); First Female (Annual Artist Sponsor); Barel of Monks Brewing and Notorious Wines (Cheers and Spirits Sponsors); Grimes Events and Party Tents, Hedrick Brothers Construction, Humana, James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational, Oceans234, Plastridge Insurance, Seacoast Bank, The YMCA of South Palm Beach County, and The Scout Guide Palm Beach (Hope Builder Sponsors); PYRA Promotions (Apparel Sponsor); Magen Protective Services (Annual Security Sponsor); WLRN (Media Partner); and Chick-Fill-A The Mall at Wellington Green and Chick-Fill-A Royal Palm Beach (Gift Card Sponsors).
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County:
