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Palms West Monthly • May 2021 • Page 1
WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • WEST PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE GROVES • THE ACREAGE Volume 11, Number 5
South Florida Fair returns to the Fairgrounds PAGE 11
PalmsWestMonthly.com
FREE • May 2021
The history of our Palms West communities
Palm Beach SuperCar Week Atlantic awards displays automotive scholarships technology and
Palm Beach Atlantic University design has awarded four of its seniors SuperCar Week, rescheduled the school’s annual Women from January due to COVID, of Distinction scholarships, displays speedofand includingautomotive Maria Landron design at SuperCar Sunday in Royal Palm Beach. West PAGEPalm 5 Beach.
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Photo by Village of Wellington
Aerial view from 1975 of the 150-acre Lake Wellington development and surrounding residential neighborhoods. By CLARA JENNISON Palms West Monthly
Dramaworks Dinosaur Revolution announces comes to the ‘Young South Playwrights’ Florida Science Center winners The summer exhibit, Dinosaur
Revolution into the South Palm Beachroars Dramaworks has Florida Science Center. Findof the announced its 10 winners out howPlaywrights to “live large” at this Young 10-Minute 2,500 square-foot exhibit inplay the Play Contest. Each winning Center’s main hall. will be read byexhibit a professional actor on12 March 24. PAGE
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If you live west of West Palm Beach, it’s not hard to recognize how new it all is. Fresh paint, unworn infrastructure, and well-kept lawns are all part of the present landscape. We usually get caught up in the day-to-day and don’t look back at what we came from. We overlook what got us here. Today we’re going to take a break from the present and go on a ride through our local history.
Before the Railroad, 1853
If you went back in time to 1860, you wouldn’t find much in Palm Beach County. Left mostly untouched by the Spanish, Palm Beach didn’t have much besides fruit farms and untouched wilderness. In 1853, the Jupiter Lighthouse was commissioned by Congress and assigned to Lt. George Meade of the U.S. Army Corp
Lesly S. Smith Pet Volunteers help Adoption distributeCenter PPE to opens new facility area non-profits
Peggy Animal Rescue ClinicsAdams Can Help and United League opens new Pet Adoption Way joined forces with dozens Center with a ribbon cutting of area volunteers recently to celebration. Learn more about give away $350,000 worth of this state-of-the-art facility. personal protective equipment.
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Industrialist Henry M. Flagler
Photo by Getty Images
of Engineers. The designated 61.5-acre site was strategically located at the junction of the Indian River and Jupiter Inlet. The project was finally completed in 1860 by civilian Edward Yorke. But during the Civil War, Confederate sympathizers extinguished the light, which remained dark throughout the war. The lighthouse was relit in 1866 and has been used ever since.
Henry M. Flagler, 1892
In comes Henry M. Flagler and his railroad adventures. Flagler was an industrialist and most known for his role as partner in Standard Oil, along with John D. Rockefeller and Samuel Andrews. In hopes that the warm Florida air would help his ailing wife, Flagler first traveled to Northern Florida in 1881. After his first wife died, Flagler remarried and moved to St. Augustine. From there he decided to continue the construction of his railroad southward. The State of Florida provided Flagler 3,840 acres per mile to develop his railroad from St. Augustine to West Palm Beach. Once he arrived in what is today Palm Beach County, Flagler built the Royal Poinciana Hotel in Lake Worth and the Palm Beach Inn (The Breakers today) in West Palm Beach. Flagler intended for West Palm Beach to be the end of the line for his Florida East Coast Railway but there was a cold snap in the 1894-1895 winter. The freezing temperatures brought havoc on farming, so Flagler considered moving his terminus further south. Landowners along the 60-mile route further incentivized him with land to use for his track. In 1896, Flagler eventually made it to Biscayne Bay. Eventually, Flagler finished the project by extending it all the way down to Key West. Flagler ended up spending about $50 million on his railroads and hotels. In doing so, Flagler and his Florida East Coast Railway forever changed the landscape of Palm Beach County and the State of Florida.
Western Communities Established, 1902
As Palm Beach and West Palm Beach started to boom and expand, burn down a bit, rebuild, and expand some more, the western communities did something entirely different. They wouldn’t “boom” for many years. So, what happened between then and now? Loxahatchee Groves is the oldest of the western Palm Beach County communities.
Photo By Getty Images
Jupiter Lighthouse at the junction of the Indian River and the Jupiter Inlet
This community was part of a two million acres land purchase by Southern States Land and Timber Company in 1902. At that time, they paid only 25 cents per acre. Once this company controlled the 3,125 square miles of land, they needed a plan. George F. Bensel, the manager and later president of the company, liked the idea of developing a farming community. He set the idea to the company’s engineer, T.G. Thorgesen. Together they spent the next three years developing, and eventually producing, the first map ever of Loxahatchee Groves. HISTORY OF PALMS WEST / PAGE 5
Page 2 • Palms West Monthly • May 2021
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FACES & PLACES
Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League opens new pet adoption center Charity Navigator and is the first animal shelter in South Florida accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association. Peggy Adams is an independent, nonprofit animal rescue organization operating continuously since 1925. For more information, visit PeggyAdams.org.
“Each day, when I see how many lives are being saved by Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League, I am reminded of how important this organization is to our community. “ - Lesly S. Smith
Photo by Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League Ribbon cutting ceremony, March 29, 2021, at the Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League to dedicate the newly constructed, state-of-the-art, Lesly S. Smith Pet Adoption Center. From left to right: Pauline Pitt, George E. Summers, Laurie Raber Gottlieb, Christina Dennis, Daniel Hanley, Nellie Benoit, Sam Hunt, Lesly S. Smith, Jack Flagg, Vicky Hunt, Daniel E. Ponton, James D. Berwind.
By MIKKE ROYCE Palm West Monthly A new, 28,000 square-foot, stateof-the-art Pet Adoption Center for the Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League was quietly celebrated with a small, private ribbon cutting ceremony on March 29, 2021. Open to the public on April 1, 2021, the new Lesly S. Smith Pet Adoption Center, named after the Chair of the Board of Directors, enables Peggy Adams to save thousands more dogs, cats, puppies and kittens. “I am incredibly proud to be involved with Peggy Adams and I am even more proud of the many residents of Palm Beach and the wider Palm Beach County area who have so generously supported this important project,” said Lesly Smith. The Lesly S. Smith Adoption Center is designed to provide the best environment for the animals and a welcoming experience to the public. It features one Cat Wing, complete with cat apartments
and catios to access an outdoor area facing a butterfly garden, and three Dog Wings, each of which has access to an outdoor play yard. These spacious yards are covered and have large fans to keep the dogs cool during the long summers. There is also a veterinarian office, grooming room, photography studio and other conference and staff rooms. The Cat Café offers visitors a cup of tea while playing with the cats and kittens from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis. The Adoption Center also has Humane Feature conference rooms which will be used to help the organization further its advocacy through new educational programs. Commemorative bricks will be laid in the entryway to the Adoption Center as well as the outdoor terraces, while trees and benches honoring special pets and family members are featured throughout the grounds and visitors areas. Naming opportunities are still available. To
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see all of the innovative features inside and out, tours of the new Center are available upon request. The mission of the Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League is to provide shelter to lost, homeless and unwanted animals. Photo by Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League They also offer spay and neuter services Christina Dennis and Daniel Ponton, members and advocate for animal welfare within of the Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League the community. Peggy Adams Animal Executive Committee Rescue League has a 4-star rating from
Page 4 • Palms West Monthly • May 2021
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SCENE FROM WEST PALM by Aaron Wormus | awormus@palmswestmonthly.com
Fine Art Meets Automotive Art in West Palm Beach We’re still a month away from the first official day of summer, but you wouldn’t have guessed it on the third weekend of April as temperatures peaked at a near-record 92 degrees. In a year when large scale events have been few and far between, this weekend brought two fantastic events to downtown West Palm Beach. Hundreds of visitors flocked downtown, still wearing masks, but happy to be out enjoying art and energy in the sun. The fun started at the 11th Annual Downtown West Palm Beach Art Show in Rosemary Square on Saturday. This art fair has become a local tradition. Rosemary Ave. is shut down to cars from Okeechobee to Fern Street, and becomes the showcase for over 100 artists from around the country who exhibit their work in the shade of their tents. Covid safety measures were in place—masks were mandatory, “artfully distancing” policies were enacted, and access to artist booths was limited to one group at a time. The two-day event was a feast of fine art, photography, wood turning, sculptures, unique jewelry, ceramics, beautiful photography, and much more. Small paintings as well as larger-than-life pieces were there for enjoyment and pur-
Photo by Aaron Wormus The Burn Up Company, a local motorcycle shop in West Palm Beach, shows their Burn-1 Skycycle at the Palm Beach SuperCar Week chase. Restaurants in Rosemary Square were open, including the brand new Planta by Chef David Lee, which opened just days earlier in the space formerly home to Panera Bread. After enjoying the art show, crowds headed down Clematis to the waterfront to enjoy SuperCar Sunday. SuperCar Week is usually held in January, and this county-wide eight-day automotive extravaganza puts Palm Beach County in the headlights of
auto-enthusiasts around the country. This year the grand finale SuperCar Sunday was moved to April. Stepping onto the Great Lawn, the first thing you see is a 1968 UH-IH Huey on display. The helicopter, often seen in parades, is owned by Project 425, a local organization founded to keep alive the memory of aircrew servicemen in Vietnam. Parents and kids spoke with the volunteering veterans who took pictures inside the helicopter and other military vehicles.
Among the hundreds of cars on display were four Corvettes valued at over $200,000 from the legendary Peter Max “Lost Corvette” collection. The mix of classic cars, supercars, and other vehicles made it a good time for all car enthusiasts. Covid restrictions were in place on the waterfront as well. The show had a vendor who could supply instant covid tests for guests who wanted them. Local motorcycle shop Burn Up Company had a prominent spot on Flagler. Along with their lineup of restored vintage motorcycles, they displayed the Burn-1 Skycycle. A homage to Evil Knievel’s X-1, the Burn-1 is built from the belly tank of an F-86 Sabre fighter jet and powered by a 43-hp CB450 engine. Not the type of thing you see every day. A DJ on the main waterfront stage cranked out tunes to keep the party going. Further down Flagler a half-pipe was set up, on which a troupe of BMX riders displayed their gravitydefying stunts. Food trucks were on standby
and hungry motorheads had their choice of arepas, BBQ, Carribean food, wings, and more. The big winner was Giovanni’s Gourmet Italian Ice. Who wouldn’t want a chilly treat to cool you down in this heat? I took a break under Scott Shrader’s large white tent on the Great Lawn and we talked about cars. Scott, President of Vault Wealth Management and a sponsor of SuperCar Week, brought six cars to the event. His favorite car is his 1994 red 348 Spider Ferrari. “It’s very reminiscent of the Testarossa. It’s more of an ‘80s car than a ‘90s car, even though they were
built in the ‘90s. It’s the end of the Miami Vice era,” he said. “The SuperCar show is great for downtown. This is a very different kind of show. Usually you come to a car show and it’s all car guys. This is a community event where you see families. You have great machinery on the lawn, and people from all different areas can appreciate it. The best thing about it is the kids. We put the kids in the cars when they come over, and we like seeing them have a good time. We’re building the next generation of enthusiasts.” Susan Landeryou, a resident of Waterfront Condos, was also enjoying the car show. “I come to the car show every year. The weather is phenomenal, the crowds are gorgeous, the cars are fantastical. And it turns downtown West Palm Beach into a bevy of activity.” Yes, it was a good day to be out and about and see so much activity in our beautiful downtown. I hope you get to enjoy it again!
Photo by Aaron Wormus
Aaron Wormus, the “guy” behind West Palm Beach’s popular aGuyonClematis Twitter account and blog, reports on news and happenings in and around West Palm Beach. Follow Aaron on Twitter for up-to-the-minute news throughout the month.
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Palms West Monthly • May 2021 • Page 5
The early days of the western communities PALMS WEST HISTORY / FROM PAGE 1
Not long after, they left Southern States Land and Timber Company and formed their own, better-named group called the Palm Beach Loxahatchee Company. This newly-formed company purchased Loxahatchee Farms, which includes 6,500 acres of farmland where Loxahatchee Groves sits today. By 1924, the Loxahatchee Groves community was thriving. It was connected to West Palm Beach by a road along the West Palm Beach Canal, which today is called Southern Boulevard. Palm Beach Loxahatchee Company built almost 30 miles of parallel canals, established the Loxahatchee Groves Drainage District and built much other necessary infrastructure. By 1925, Bensel had helped open a
combined grocery, gas station and post office.
Okeechobee Hurricane, 1928
You may have heard of the Okeechobee hurricane of 1928, also known as the San Felipe Segundo hurricane, that made landfall on September 17. The city of West Palm Beach lost 1,711 homes within hours. By today’s standards, that may not seem like many homes, but given the area’s population at the time, it was devastating. The storm, which landed as a category 4, leveled all the towns and settlements surrounding Lake Okeechobee. The water took over the small dike and swept houses, buildings, livestock, and people into the Everglades. Reading the reports of damage and people’s stories reminds you of those impacted by natural
Photo by Town of Loxahatchee Groves
Picture of early settlers in Palm Beach County
Photo by Town of Loxahatchee Groves
Aerial view of farms and houses in the Town of Loxahatchee Groves disasters today. If a storm like that had hit the same areas today, the damage would have amounted to many billions of dollars. Much has changed since those early days. In the aftermath of the storm, the state improved building codes, because they noticed that houses with shutters had very little damage to windows and interiors. Any buildings made of brick, concrete, steel, or stone were almost impervious to the high winds. Flood control was subsequently implemented, too.
After President Herbert Hoover came to see the damage himself, the Army Corps of Engineers developed a plan to build a system to prevent history from repeating itself. Today there are floodway channels, control gates, and prominent levees all along the shores of Lake Okeechobee. The Herbert Hoover Dike cost around $165 million to construct and still stands about 30 feet high.
Loxahatchee Groves, 1958
As the region recovered, agriculture did better than ever. The community planted over 56,000 citrus trees after Bensel’s
younger brother, Thomas K. Bensel, introduced the idea. Water came to the area, and electricity closely followed. Along with everything George Bensel built, he was also instrumental in opening Loxahatchee Baptist Church in 1949. Loxahatchee Groves was known as “Florida’s Last Frontier.” In 1958, Loxahatchee Groves was sold to Loxahatchee Investments. As the surrounding neighborhoods of Wellington, Royal Palm Beach and The Acreage were being CONTINUE NEXT PAGE
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The Villages of Wellington and Royal Palm Beach are established developed all around, the community looked to incorporation. The Loxahatchee Groves Landowner Association motto is “Love it and leave it alone,” and that’s exactly what they did. In November of 2006, the community officially became the Town of Loxahatchee Groves, Palm Beach County’s 38th municipality. It held its first municipal elections in March of 2007. Now Loxahatchee Groves can leave it however they like.
Royal Palm Beach, 1959
The beginning of this wellloved village started with a lot of land sales. First, Samuel Nathan Friedland purchased 65,000 acres in Palm Beach County for a whopping $19 an acre. He then sold about 4,000 acres to Arthur Desser, founder and president of Lefcourt Realty Corp out of Miami. In 1959, Desser started a massive land drainage project and built new roads and waterways. Later in 1959, they incorporated the Village of Royal Palm Beach and continued development. At first, the village council was appointed by developers, but in 1964 the council became popularly elected. When Royal Palm Beach was incorporated in 1959, a ceremony was held where the Seminole Chief, Billy Bowlegs renounced any claim his tribe had on these old hunting
Photo by Palms West Monthly
Sun setting behind a welcome sign to the Village of Royal Palm Beach grounds and Lefcourt set plans for building the water and road infrastructure. However, there was a snag. In 1961, Lefcourt declared bankruptcy, and Friedland, a grocery store magnate, started the
Royal Palm Beach Colony, Inc. to continue the development of Royal Palm Beach. Friedland had no experience with land development, but he built a great team and hired Herbert Kaplan as the CEO of
the company. By the time 1967 rolled around, they had a lake, golf course, paved roads and had begun developing single family homes. The village grew slowly, but the pace of growth picked up as the Willows and
LaMancha subdivisions were built. By the ‘80s it was one of the fastest-growing towns in the nation, and in 1986 both Palms West Hospital and Wellington Regional Medical Center opened. CONTINUE NEXT PAGE
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From the swamps of Flying Cow Ranch to the boomtown of Wellington Today the area is a bird sanctuary and is credited with the title of Tree City, USA by the National Arbor Day Foundation. As of today, there have been a total of 15 mayors throughout the history of Royal Palm Beach. The current Mayor is Fred Pinto who was elected in 2016.
Wellington, 1996
Rewind to the 1950s, and Wellington was a swampland. Without the massive purchase by Charles Oliver Wellington (1886-1959) of 18,000 acres, it could still be. He named the land “Flying Cow Ranch” after his initials, spelling the word COW and showing his love for aviation. In 1953, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers built a levee south of the property to protect it from Everglade floodwater. The Acme Drainage District was established by the State of Florida to develop the land so it would be suitable for agriculture. Wellington was the first chairman of the district. He hired Bink Glisson to manage the ranch, and Glisson eventually served as the general manager of the Acme Drainage District. Wellington died in 1959 and was succeeded by his son Roger, who was a Harvard-
Photo by Village of Wellington
Charles Oliver Wellington
educated accountant like his father. Parts of the original ranch were sold or leased to other farmers, in part to help the family pay the estate tax after Wellington’s death. In 1970, Roger left his accounting practice and became heavily
involved in managing the family property. At one point, the Flying Cow Ranch had about 2,000 acres of strawberries, which was thought to be the largest strawberry patch in the world. Throughout the 1970s, there was an incredible amount of development in the area. Wellington sold many acres to developers, including in 1972, when Roger Wellington sold 7,200 acres to Jim Nall of Fort Lauderdale. The Palm Beach Board of Commissioners approved this area to become a planned unit development. The first development included the 150-acre Lake Wellington, along with a golf course, country club and residential neighborhoods. Soon after, the International Polo Club Palm Beach was built by Gould Florida Inc. The Wellington Club and Aero Club were also constructed in this period. The 70s were boom time. On November 7, 1995, the citizens of the Village of Wellington voted to approve the incorporation of the village, however, it was an incredibly tight vote, with the winning side only having a 138-vote margin of victory. Wellington officially became the Village of Wellington on December 31, 1995 and the first elections were held in March of 1996. The current Mayor is Anne Gerwig who was elected in 2016 after serving on town council for six years. She is the 6th mayor of the village. The Village of Wellington is the largest village in the state of Florida with an estimated population of 65,000. The growth of Wellington has been incredible. The village had only 4,600 people in 1980 and grew to 21,000 in 1990, just five years before incorporation. Wellington is now over three times that size. Wellington is known across the country and the world for its equestrian events, including the Winter Equestrian Festival, which is the longest-running horse show in the world. It has even hosted the Polo World Cup.
Photo by Village of Wellington
Wellington employees standing infront of a welcome sign to the newly established Village of Wellington
Our History
In this age of online connection, revolutionary technology, and unprecedented events, we are constantly bombarded with new information about what is coming and why we need to
• • • • • • • • • •
Athletics Arts & Crafts Animal Exhibits Entertainment Field Trips Magicians Movies Rock Wall Sporting Events Wellington Pool
s
As the world-altering Covid19 pandemic begins to fade away, and as life begins to return to some sort of normalcy, don’t forget that you are living through history, too.
Photo by Village of Wellington
Recent aerial picture of Lake Wellington and surrounding neighborhoods
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Page 8 • Palms West Monthly • May 2021
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PALMS WEST MONTHLY SPECIAL
The fascinating world of Polo By Bonnie Conrad The sport of polo has been around for thousands of years, but even today this fascinating sport continues to gain new adherents. This unique sport offers a great combination of strategy, speed and endurance, along with plenty of incredible athletes – both human and equine. This unique combination of exciting elements makes polo a great game for spectators, and spectators from Dubai and India to the wealthy enclaves of West Palm Beach and Beverly Hills have been flocking to their local polo clubs to watch this ancient game come to life in the modern world. The History of Polo Like many modern sports, the exact origins of polo are hard to pin down, but many historians feel that this unique equestrian activity traces its history back several thousands of years. The first polo matches were a world away from the refined sport we know today. These early matches were most likely enjoyed by nomadic tribes of warriors, possibly as a way to hone their equestrian skills for the next mounted battle. In fact the sport of polo has a long history with the military, and the game was used to train calvary riders in the middle ages. From modern day Istanbul (then known as Constantipole) to the palaces of the Far East, games like polo were used to teach both horsemanship skills and military strategy. The first formal game of polo took place way back in 600 B.C. between the Turkomans and the Persians, with the Turkomans emerging as the victors. The Persians in particular really took to the game, and when the Persians and Moguls conquered the land that is now modern day India they brought the game of polo along with them. In fact the oldest polo clubs in the world are located in India, a fitting tribute to the importance of the country in the history of polo.
Photo by Getty Images The Rules of the Game The object of the sport is deceptively simple, but there is a lot of strategy, training and athleticism under the surface. The object of the game of polo is to move the ball down the field, with the ultimate aim of hitting the polo ball through the goal posts. When the ball is hit through those goal posts a score is recorded. After each goal the two teams then change directions and each team attempts to score another goal. Changing sides after each goal helps to compensate for wind conditions and other incnsistnecies, ensuring that each team has an equal shot at scoring. The polo team consists of four players and their polo ponies, and the action all takes place on a field which measures 300 yards in length and 160 yards wide. A typical polo match takes about half an hour to play. The match is divided into four timed periods known as chukkers, with each chukker being seven minutes in length. The game begins when the polo ball is thrown onto
Photo by Getty Images
the field by the umpire. The umpire also throws the ball onto the field at the beginning of each chukker and after each goal is scored. In order to reduce the demands on the horses used in the sport players are required to change horses at the conclusion of each chukker. The sport is very demanding of both its human and its equine athletes, and both humans and horses are well conditioned and equistiely trained for the sport. The highly trained equestrian athletes who compete in this sport can be worth in excess of $100,000, and these expensive animals generally receive the best of care. A number of different breeds are used in the sport, but a good number of polo ponies are retired thoroughbred racehorses whose speed and agility is highly sought after in this demanding and fast paced sport.
These mounted umpires perform the majority of officiating duties, but a referee located at the middle of the field has the final say when disputes arise. When fouls do take place the referee can give the fouled team a penalty shot. The modern sport of polo is played throughout the world, but it is especially popular in the United Kingdom, the Middle Eastern kingdom of Dubai and of course in India where the sport has such a rich and storied history. The sport is of course known for attracting well heeled enthusiasts, and the
match the excitement and athleticism of the sport of polo. By combining the speed and agility of the polo pony with the intelligence and savvy of human players, polo offers something extra special. And no matter how good those human players may be, they are nothing without their equine partners. That is why so much time, care and training goes into creating and maintaining these remarkable four legged athletes. There are many important elements polo enthusiasts look for when choosing a mount, including speed, agility and athleticism. Polo ponies need to be be able to sprint from one end of the field to the other, stop on a dime and turn just as quickly. Polo ponies also need to get along well with both players and horses, so a good temperament is a must. Many different breeds are used in the sport of polo – the most important thing is that they be trained properly and well conditioned for the sport. Before polo training can begin the horse must be well broke and easy to ride. After the horse has an understanding of basic gaits and commands it is time to start the training. One of the most important elements of training is simply introducing the horses to the equipment used in the game. Many horses are fearful of polo mallets and other things swinging around their faces, so it is important for players to care-
Traditions and Rankings Unlike other sports, where the spectators are strictly forbidden to enter the field of play, polo enthusiasts are actually encouraged to get in on the action. During the halftime break at a polo match spectators are encouraged to enjoy the tradition of “divot stomping”. This helps to flatten out the divots and uneven surfaces created by the hooves of the polo ponies during the rough play. This important part of the game helps keep the field safe for play and helps to prevent injuries for both humans and horses. The sport of polo uses a handicapping system, with each player ranked both by the United States Polo Association (USPA) and their peers using a scale of 2 through 10 goals. These rankings are used to handicap teams on the basis of playing ability. In addition to the players on the field the game also uses two umpires on horseback.
Photo by Getty Images sport of polo is typically associated with the wealthy and the famous. In fact some of the biggest celebrities in the history of Hollywood and the movies have also been avid polo fans and players. Spencer Tracy famously loved the game, and he used to play a match every week. These days celebrities still enjoy the sport of polo, and star watchers often descend on the polo fields of Los Angeles and West Palm Beach hoping for a glimpse of their favorite celebrity athletes. The Equine Athletes Who Make the Game So Special There are many exciting sports out there, but few can
fully desensitize their mounts. Approaching the horse slowly and allowing it to sniff the polo mallet is a good way to desensitize the horse, but it is important to proceed with caution. After the mallet has been accepted polo players may rub it on the horse to further desensitize it. Only after the mallet has been completely accepted will the rider mount up and swing the mallet as he will during the game. Once the horse has accepted the polo mallet and the rest of the equipment it is time to mount up and ride. A good polo pony is the most essential piece of equipment a player can have, and it is these remarkable athletes that make the sport of
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Palms West Monthly • May 2021 • Page 9
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
On Broadway series returns to Kravis Center By MIKKI ROYCE Palms West Monthly
Those who frequent the theatre and have suffered the void of 2020 have reason to rejoice! The 2021–2022 theatre season at the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts will reopen the doors for its On Broadway series beginning November 16. Seven award-winning, live Broadway productions will take to the Kravis Center stage in West Palm Beach. All performances will take place in the 2,200-seat Dreyfus Hall theatre. In order to assure a worry-free experience, the venue will use extensive sanitation protocols and require everyone entering the grounds to use a mask. “Anyone who loves the theatre knows the joy that comes from experiencing a live Broadway show. With this upcoming season of awardwinning musicals, we couldn’t be more excited to share that joy with our community,” said Terrence Dwyer, Kravis Center CEO. “And as we get ready to raise the curtain on our line-up of Broadway hits, we’re also focused on ensuring the health,
Photo by the Kravis Center
Scene from My Fair Lady
turbulent day, these planes were diverted to Gander’s air strip. Despite language barriers and cultural differences, the village came together for the stranded travelers, offering music, an open bar, and open hearts.
safety, and comfort of our audiences through superior air filtering systems and state of the art cleaning and sanitizing procedures.” To learn more about those health and safety protocols, visit kravis.org/healthsafety. The lineup of shows is impressive, starting off with the season’s first offering and Best Musical winner, Come From Away, directed by Tony Award–winning Best Director Christopher Ashley (November 16–21, 2021). It’s based on the true story of when the isolated community of Gander, Newfoundland, hosted 38 international planes on September 11, 2001. While carrying seven thousand passengers on this
Photo by the Kravis Center
The second presentation is six-time Tony Award winner Dear Evan Hansen, directed by four-time Tony Award nominee Michael Greif (December 15–19, 2021). The musical is a deeply personal, “fish out of water” story and a contemporary tale about fitting in, life, and the way we live it. The third production is in the birthday month of its subject, the electric Summer: The Donna Summer Musical (January 5–9, 2022). A biographical musical, this show chronicles the barrier-breaking achievements of music diva Donna Summer. The production tells the story of her journey from a gospel choir to winning numerous Grammy
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awards. She was a trailblazer in disco music and the voice of a generation. In February what’s old is new again with the fourth show and new production of the Andrew Lloyd Webber’s 7 Tony Award–winning musical, Cats, under the direction of Trevor Nunn (February 8–13, 2022). It’s a blockbuster fantasy about one magical night with a tribe of cats at their annual ball. The fifth offering is the highly romantic, lushly orchestrated Anastasia, directed by Tony Award winner Darko Tresnjak (March 9–13, 2022). This adventure tells the story of a brave young Russian woman who sets out to discover her family and the mystery of her past. The sixth presentation is from the acclaimed Lincoln Center Theater—Lerner and Loewe’s My Fair Lady (April 19–24, 2022), which Entertainment Weekly described as “a sumptuous new production of the most perfect musical of all time… ” Director Bartlett Sher’s glowing production is “thrilling, glorious and better than it ever was” (New York Times). “Every so often, a revival comes along that reminds you how indispensable great theater can be.” In this contemporary retelling of Pygmalion, Eliza Doolittle, a young Cockney flower seller, meets Henry Higgins, a linguistics professor who is determined to transform her into his idea of a proper lady. As events play out, the professor too is transformed.
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The last production is the classic love story, An Officer and a Gentleman, directed by multiple Tony Award nominee Dick Scanlan (May 3–8, 2022). Based on the Oscar-winning film starring Richard Gere, it is a breathtaking production that celebrates triumph over adversity. In the story, a Navy pilot learns the importance of love and friendship and finds the courage to be his best self.
Kravis On Broadway subscriptions will go on sale to the general public in June. The best place to get information on tickets is through the Kravis Center’s official website at kravis. org/broadway. Subscribers for this season will automatically be offered the opportunity to renew their seats for the ‘22-23 season, which will include the Broadway smash hit, Wicked. For additional information about purchasing a subscription to On Broadway, contact the Kravis Center Box Office by emailing boxoffice@kravis.org. You can also reach the box office directly by calling 561-832-7469, Monday–Friday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Kravis On Broadway subscriptions will go on sale to the general public in June. The best place to get information on tickets is through the Kravis Center’s official website at kravis. org/broadway. Subscribers for this season will automatically be offered the opportunity to renew their seats for the ‘22-‘23 season which will include the Broadway smash, WICKED. For additional information about purchasing a subscription to Kravis On Broadway contact the Kravis Center Box Office by emailing boxoffice@kravis. org. You can also reach the Box Office directly by calling 561.832.7469, Monday – Friday 10 am to 2 pm.
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WHO WE ARE: Publisher: David Abroms Editors: Clara Jennison, McKay AhPing Graphic Designer: Molly Wooten Distribution: Barbara Turner Writers: Leah Sankley, Jaqueline Dufault, Mikki Royce, Clara Jennison, Aaron Wormus Views and opinions that are expressed in articles and columns are those of the author, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the publisher. All rights reserved.
Page 10 • Palms West Monthly • May 2021
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LOCAL HAPPENINGS
Comprehensive guide to Palm Beaches MOSAIC 2021 By LEAH SANKLEY Palm West Monthly After a year (or a hundred, since time means nothing anymore) of COVID and counting, the Palm Beach Cultural Council invites you to “restart with the arts.” Figuratively speaking, of course, since none of the exhibitions include a memoryerasing neuralizer. But despite the lack of sci-fi devices, art can help us heal and make sense of the world. The essential role of art has been amplified during these difficult times, offering us diverse perspectives and inspiring connection when we need it most. As Picasso once said, “Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” MOSAIC is a month of shows for the entire month of May and includes art, culture and ideas. Read on for information on the best deals, events, and cultural offerings to check out during MOSAIC. Sunday, May 2 Let the Trumpets Sound Marriott Boca Raton Led by Principal Conductor Maestro Alastair Willis, this event will include a 60-minute performance (without intermission) featuring soloist Jeffrey Kaye, Principal Trumpet. Tickets are $75 and can be purchased by calling 561-376-3848.
seats. Saturday, May 8 Express Yourself Fashion Art Ball Arts Warehouse The Art Ball will be held in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month. It will encompass the visual arts on multiple levels, including an art exhibition and fashion show. The ball will draw attention to mental health and the importance of openness and representation of various mental health issues. For more information, visit deoncjefferson.com.
Photo by Mounts Botanical Garden
Catwalk Student Fashion Show at Mounts Botanical Garden
Wednesday, May 5 Lighthouse Moonrise and Sunset Tours Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum Get a spectacular view of the sunset or moonrise from the top of the Jupiter Lighthouse. Tickets are $25 a person and can be purchased at jupiterlighthouse.org/calendar.
Friday, May 7 An Evening with Kevin Smith Old Square Pavilion Kevin Smith is known for movies like Clerks, Mallrats, Chasing Amy, Dogma, Jay & Silent Bob Strike Back, and most recently, Red State. Tickets to this standup special can be purchased on Eventbrite and cost between $75–$300. Tickets are priced per pod and include four
Tuesday, May 11 to May 25 Debut Author Series Virtual Events presented by the Mandel Jewish Community Center Hear emerging artists talk about their work and the experiences that inspired them. The events are for members only. To become a member, visit pbg. jcconline.com. Thursday, May 13 Swings for Strings Wellington National Golf Club Spend an afternoon playing golf to benefit the Palm Beach Symphony. Rates are $250 per player and $900 per foursome. Special foursome pricing available until April 30. The event includes a buffet lunch. To register, call 561-281-0145. Tuesday, May 18 Jazz on J Street Jam Session Spandgg Art Gallery Wine & Beer Bar Now in its fifth year, Jazz on J Street Professional JAM Session features seasoned, internationally acclaimed, and rising Jazz musicians and draws audiences of all walks of life with its community vibe. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the door. Friday, May 21 St. Paul & The Broken Bones Old School Square Pavilion St. Paul & The Broken Bones formed in 2012, releasing their debut album Half the City in 2014 and its follow up, Sea of Noise, to much acclaim. Their strong debut propelled them to the national scene, and the band worked hard to prove they were no ordinary retrosoul band. They have toured around the globe and were even selected to open for The Rolling Stones. Tickets cost $120–$300 per pod and can be purchased via phone at 561243-7922 or on Eventbrite. Thursday, May 27 Martin Sexton Old School Square Pavilion Martin Sexton launched his own label, KTR, in 2002. Since then he has infiltrated many musical worlds, performing at concerts ranging from pop (collaborating with John Mayer) to classic rock (collaborating with Peter Frampton) and from the New Orleans Jazz Fest to a performance at Carnegie Hall. Tickets are $120–$280 per
pod and can be purchased by calling 561-243-7922 or on Eventbrite. Friday, May 28 I Want my 90s Back Old School Square Pavilion Experience nostalgia with your favorite ‘90s artists. I Want My 90s Back features Vanilla Ice w/ DJ Johnny Quest, Stevie B, 2 Live Crew, and DJ Laz. Pods are $120–$280 and can be purchased by calling 561-243-7922 or on Eventbrite. MOSAIC Deals Mounts Botanical Garden Take in the vibrant colors of spring at the majestic Mounts Botanical Garden. The 14-acre living museum includes 23 gardens, a butterfly garden, and over 2,000 species of native Florida flora. Tickets are buy one, get one free throughout the month of May. Loggerhead Marinelife Center As one of Florida’s most visited nonprofit scientific locations, the Loggerhead Marinelife Center focuses on ocean and sea turtle rehabilitation. Visitors can take tours of the sea turtle hospital and visit its sea turtle patients. MOSAIC visitors receive 50% off public guided tours. Benzaiten Center for Creative Arts Create unique art during the immersive glassblowing, fusing, or flameworking classes at the Benzaiten Center. You and a loved one can take a glassblowing class for two at the reduced price of $130 during May. Arts Garage Check out a diverse array of artists, from Grammy winners to emerging talents, at Arts Garage. You can save $10 on May concert tickets by entering the coupon code MOSAIC2021. South Florida Science Center & Aquarium The South Florida Science Center & Aquarium is sure to delight all the little scientists in your family. Play some mini golf, discover aquatic creatures at their large aquarium, and expand your minds at their Journey Through the Human Brain exhibit. Through the month of May, MOSAIC visitors can get one free child ticket with the purchase of an adult ticket. Hotel Deals Whether you’re visiting or treating yourself to a staycation, escaping the day-to-day is always sweeter when you snag a deal. Visit thepalmbeaches. com/palm-beaches-savings to find a list of hotel packages and special offers.
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Palms West Monthly • May 2021 • Page 11
LOCAL &HAPPENINGS FACES PLACES
South Florida Fair returns to West Palm Beach fairgrounds By JAQUELINE DUFAULT Palms West Monthly The South Florida Fair is a momentous annual event dating all the way back to 1912. Now taking place on its own South Florida Fairgrounds in West Palm Beach, this giant fair spans 100 acres and is filled with incredible food, exhibits, shows, livestock, competitions, and much more. The event is usually held the last two weeks of January and brings in about 500,000 attendees, but this year things are being planned a little differently. The theme this year is titled “An Earthly A-fair” to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. “Every year we look to implement new changes to ‘green’ our fair and facility,” said South Florida Fair President & CEO Vicki Chouris. “We are looking forward to working with various organizations to bring more awareness to our planet and its
environmental concerns, starting with Earth Day.” Chouris stated that last year the fair took steps toward a more green-focused event by working with vendors to recycle all cardboard and eliminate single use plastics. They also worked with Tellus Products, a local company out of Belle Glade which converts leftover sugarcane fiber into disposable tableware. The theme this year is also meant to highlight the agricultural industry in Florida, putting an emphasis on local vendors. “Our diversified agricultural production feeds people nationwide. We are proud to display and showcase the name aspects of that important industry to the citizens of South Florida,” said Dennis Grady, who has been elected chairman of the South Florida Fair’s Board of Trustees and Directors. South Florida Fair has made it known that everything will be based around the Earth Day theme. It will include interactive
Photo by South Florida Fair
All Photos by South Florida Fair
and educational exhibits about climate change, recycling, green initiatives, endangered species, protection of the environment, clean air, water conservation, the importance of agriculture, and more. National Geographic will host an augmented reality exhibit called Visit the Air, Land & Sea, which will give visitors the chance to travel through locations from Africa to the Arctic. Participants will be given the opportunity to meet animals as they interact with the environment around them. Local artists will display
UPCOMING EVENTS
5PM-9PM
sculptures of endangered species made from upcycled materials sourced from beach pollution, recycling facilities, and landfills. Their displays will educate visitors on how to help wildlife in our area thrive. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration will provide an exhibit to teach us about our planet and the part we play in its health. Learn about carbon monoxide levels, cropland intensity, surface temperature, and global vegetation in a way you’ve never seen before. The Waters Extreme Journey will show visitors the importance and challenges of preserving clean water, our direct impact and involvement on the watershed, and how our daily decisions can play a part in helping the environment. Waters Extreme Journey allows you to transform into a drop of water with the goal of staying clean and reaching a healthy ocean. The South Florida Fair is the perfect family event with activities for visitors of all ages. There will be several attractions for kids, including Earth-themed activities. Between Yesteryear Village and The Sundy Fresh Market
will join Brad for an educational and interactive environmental magic show. Brad will demonstrate recycling, reducing, and reusing, and will share knowledge about farming and agriculture. The Cowboy Circus is a musical comedy show that combines cowboy and circus tricks. Kids and adults alike will have a blast learning how to lasso, ride rocking horses, and watch some fun, over-the-top cowboy tricks! The Show-Me Swine Racers are a South Florida Fair classic! Watching this pig race is a crowd favorite each year. Enjoy watching the racers get speedy for a treat at the end of the finish line! It’s sure to be entertaining and adorable! Let some of the fun come to you! The South Florida Fair will be filled with entertainers roaming around the fairgrounds. Make sure you stop to watch some of the strolling entertainment and acts such as: The South Florida Fair Marching Band; The Street Drum Corps, a high energy drum and percussion show; The Fritters, a pair of furry characters that roam around the fairgrounds excited to entertain; CONTINUE NEXT PAGE
We will be following CDC guidelines and keeping social distancing at our events
January - 8 Movie Series
SECRET LIFE OF PETS 2 January - 15
March - 12
April - 9
Concert Series
Concert Series
Concert Series
THE SPAZMATICS (80s Party) February - 19 Movie Series
Concert Series
TWIN MCGRAW January - 22
STAR WARS RISE OF SKYWALKER February - 26
Movie Series
Concert Series
SONIC
BLUES BROTHERS AND TINA TURNER
January - 29 Concert Series
TRUE RUMOURS (Fleetwood Mac) February - 5 Movie Series
February - 12
March - 5 Movie Series
ALADDIN
COMPLETELY UNCHAINED (Van Halen)
ANDREW MORRIS BAND April - 16
March - 19
Concert Series
Movie Series
BANDS TBD
March - 26
Concert Series
JUMANJI: NEXT LEVEL Concert Series
THE LONG RUN (Eagles)
I have ANSWERS to your questions on Love, Career and Happiness. We reunite lost love relationships and Soul Mate Unions.
April - 23 GREGGIE AND THE JETS (Elton John) April - 30
April - 2 Movie Series
THE ANGRY BIRDS MOVIE 2
Concert Series
BANDS TBD
GEMINI MAN 11600 POINCIANA BLVD, ROYAL PALM BEACH, FLORIDA 33411
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.ROYALPALMBEACH.COM Royal Palm Beach Movies are rated G to PG-13 and are subject to change. Snacks will be provided on site. Please bring your own seating!
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Page 12 • Palms West Monthly • May 2021
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LOCAL HAPPENINGS and the Recycle Cycle, a goofy, mobile act that rides around in a cycle made of fully-recycled and reused material. The Recycle Cycle encourages kids to play along with juggling, balancing, and humor-filled stunts! We can’t forget to mention all of the carnival rides for visitors of all ages! From the BerryGo-Round to the Sizzler and Superslide, this is a part of the main event that you simply cannot miss! Don’t forget to stop at the Midway Sky Eye to get an incredible view of the fairgrounds from the top of this ferris wheel! A list of all the ride information is available on the South Florida Fair website. Show up to the fair hungry and ready to try some awesome food! The fair is known for the amazing food and the range of options. With selections such as barbeque, street corn, turkey legs, elephant ears, and corn dogs, you’ll find exactly what
you want! Leave the coolers at home because you’re not able to bring in any beverages or food into the fair with you. Bottled water, lemonade, and CocaCola products are available for purchase with your food. Also take the time to visit the Lift Your Spirits Beer & Wine Garden for some adult beverages and live entertainment in a super fun atmosphere! The South Florida Fair runs from May 7–23 this year. Admission is free for children under 10. Visitors over 11 years old will be $10 for advanced one-day tickets on the South Florida Fair website for any day admission. If you purchase at the gate, it will be $10 Monday– Friday and $20 Saturday and Sunday. Ride vouchers and gold passes are also available for advance purchase online. Keeping visitors and staff healthy is the main priority this
year at The South Florida Fair. All information is available and being updated on The South Florida Fair website. Over 800 volunteers join the staff of The South Florida Fair each year to help make the event as incredible as ever! You must be 18 years or older to apply to be a volunteer and pass a background check. You can apply directly on The South Florida Fair website. With over 500,000 guests in attendance each year over the 17 day span, this fair is the perfect way to get attention to your local business! There are plenty of ways to market your brand at the South Florida Fair, such as onsite display, sampling, signage, exhibits, and broadcast, print and digital marketing. Call Theresa Agricola at 561-790-5233 or visit the South Florida Fair website for more information.
Photo by South Florida Fair
Dinosaur Revolution comes to the South Florida Science Center
Dinosaur Revolution, the summer exhibition at the South Florida Science Center, thunders into town. The Center is located at 4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach, FL 33405. Beginning April 24, the exhibit will last until November 28. Dinosaur Revolution takes a fresh look at the prehistoric giants of the earth, including why dinosaurs are one of the best survivors. The summer exhibition is presented by Minotaur Mazes, the same company that brought you Rainforest Adventures in 2019. The exhibit includes over 2,500-square-feet of activities in the Center’s main exhibit hall. Dino hunters can participate in reptilian role play, wear life size dinosaur feet and dig for fossils through time periods. Admission to the Center during Dinosaur Revolution is $17.95 for adults, $13.95 for children ages 3 to 12 and $15.95 for seniors aged 60 and older. Science Center members and children under 3 are free. For more information on Dinosaur Revolution or other Science Center programming, call 561-832-1988 or visit www.sfsciencecenter.org.
Mounts Botanical Gardens will be hosting 27 outdoor events
Throughout the month of May, in honor of National Public Gardens Week, Friends of the Mounts Botanical Garden are hosting May’s activities as part of a month-long membership campaign offering two complimentary event passes with every new membership card. All classes will take place in one of the acclaimed collection of 25 unique garden areas containing more than 2,000 species of tropical and subtropical plants and members get a substantial discount on all classes. To nurture the spirit, there will be four part classes in Qi Gong, Gentle Yoga, and a Guided Mediation Walk, as well as a Mommy and Me Nature Walk. There’s even a Mother’s Day and Dog’s Day in the Garden! Last, but not least, is the Backyard Gardener Tour, Friends and Family Day, and the Gift Shop Members Sale. For a complete, detailed list of each event, dates, costs, and to register visit https://www.mounts. org/events/.
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Palms West Monthly • May 2021 • Page 13
Health Matters
If you are a health professional who would like to submit an article to Health Matters, please send an e-mail to newsdesk@PalmsWestMonthly.com for details.
U.S. lifts pause, allowing J&J COVID-19 vaccine to resume By LAURAN NEERGAARD and MIKE STOBBE Associated Press
U.S. health officials have lifted an 11-day pause on Johnson & Johnson vaccinations following a recommendation by an expert panel. Advisers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Friday the benefits of the single-dose COVID-19 shot outweigh a rare risk of blood clots. Panel members said it’s critical that younger women be told about that risk so they can decide if they’d rather choose another vaccine. The CDC and Food and Drug Administration agreed. European regulators earlier this week made a similar decision, deciding the clot risk was small enough to allow the rollout of J&J’s shot. U.S. health advisers on Friday urged resuming COVID19 vaccinations with Johnson & Johnson’s single-dose shot, saying its benefits outweigh a rare risk of blood clots _ in line with Europe’s rollout. Federal health officials uncovered 15 vaccine recipi-
Photo by AP/ Mark Lennihan A vial of the J&J COVID-19 vaccine is displayed at South Shore University Hospital in Bay Shore, N.Y. ents who developed a highly unusual kind of blood clot, out of nearly 8 million people given the J&J shot. All were women, most under age 50. Three died, and seven remain hospitalized. Advisers to the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention said while J&J’s vaccine is important for fighting the pandemic, it’s also critical that younger women be told about that risk in clear, understandable terms _ so they can decide if they’d rather
choose an alternate vaccine instead. The panel voted 10-4 to lift an 11-day pause in use of the J&J shot while adding warnings that women and health workers would see in leaflets at vaccination clinics. The group debated but ultimately steered clear of outright age restrictions. ``This is an age group that is most at risk (of the clotting) that is getting vaccine predominately to save other peoples’ lives and morbidity, not their own. And I think we have a responsibility to be certain that they know this,`` said Dr. Sarah Long of Drexel University College of Medicine, who voted against the proposal because she felt it did not go far enough in warning women. The CDC and Food and Drug Administration will weigh Friday’s recommendation in deciding whether to end the pause; the CDC typically follows the guidance of its advisers and CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky has promised swift action. The committee members all agreed the J&J vaccine ``should be put back into circulation,’’ panel chairman Dr. Jose Romero, Arkansas’ health secretary, said in an interview after the vote. ``The difference was how you convey the risk ... It does not absolve us from making sure that people who receive this vaccine, if they are in the risk group, that we inform them of that.’’ European regulators earlier this week made a similar decision, deciding the clot risk was small enough to allow the rollout of J&J’s shot. But how Americans ultimately handle J&J’s vaccine will influence other countries that don’t have as much access to other vaccination options. Dr. Paul Stoffels, J&J’s chief scientific officer, pledged that the company would work with U.S. and global authorities ``to ensure this very rare event can be identified early and treated effectively.’’ J&J already was working with the FDA on a warning label for the shot. At issue is a weird kind of
blood clot that forms in unusual places, such as veins that drain blood from the brain, and in patients with abnormally low levels of the platelets that form clots. Symptoms of the unusual clots, dubbed ``thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome,’’ include severe headaches a week or two after the J&J vaccination _ not right away _ as well as abdominal pain, nausea. The government initially spotted six cases of the rare clots, with nine more cases coming to light in the last week or so. But even the first needle-in-a-haystack reports raised alarm because European regulators already had uncovered similar rare clots among recipients of another COVID-19 vaccine, from AstraZeneca. The AstraZeneca and J&J shots, while not identical, are made with the same technology. European scientists found clues that an abnormal platelet-harming immune response to AstraZeneca’s vaccine might be to blame -- and if so, then doctors should avoid the most common clot treatment, a blood thinner called heparin. That added to U.S. authorities’ urgency in pausing J&J vaccinations so they could tell doctors how to diagnose and treat these rare clots. Six patients were treated with heparin before anyone realized that might harm instead of help. Dr. Jesse Goodman of Georgetown University closely watched Friday’s deliberations and said people should be made aware of the clotting risk but that it shouldn’t overshadow the benefits of COVID-19 protection. ``We need to treat people as adults, tell them what the information is and give them these choices,’’ said Goodman, a former vaccine specialist at the FDA. Two-dose vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna, which are made differently and haven’t been linked to clot risks, are the mainstay of the U.S. vaccination effort. But many states had been counting on the easier-to-store, one-and-done option to also help protect hard-to-reach populations including people who are homeless or disabled. The CDC’s advisers struggled to put the rare clot cases into perspective. COVID-19 itself can cause a different type of blood clots. So can everyday medications, such as birth control pills. The side effect debate isn’t the only hurdle facing J&J. The FDA separately uncovered manufacturing violations at a Baltimore factory the company had hired to help brew the vaccine. No shots made by Emergent BioSciences have been used _ J&J’s production so far has come from Europe. But it’s unclear how the idled factory will impact J&J’s pledge to provide 100 million U.S. vaccine doses by the end of May and 1 billion doses globally this year.
Page 14 • Palms West Monthly • May 2021
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THE VILLAGE NATURE CALLSIDIOT by Jim Mullen
Equine first aid kit essentials
One for you, One for me
Photo by Ghetty Images By SAMUEL MAINA Palms West Monthly When it comes to horses, you need to keep two things in mind: ‘Anything that can go wrong will go wrong’, and ‘left to themselves, things tend to go from bad to worse.’ Horses are very accident-prone, and if you do not have an equine first aid kit handy, you could end up with a crippled or dead animal on your hands. You should store an equine first aid kit in a convenient location for fast access. Hunting around for a kit is the last thing you want to do in an emergency where you’re pressed for time. Another reason you should keep your kit in an easy-to-find spot is because you may not be around during an emergency, and you may have to direct someone else to its location over the phone, for example. Storing a kit in a convenient location also makes it easier to check and update it something you should do regularly to avoid nasty surprises. You can purchase a purposebuilt receptacle for storing first-aid supplies or repurpose a tight-sealing plastic container, a small tool box or a fishing tackle box. Whatever you choose, ensure it is portable, clean, airtight and waterproof. If you’re using a repurposed container, ensure it is divided into appropriately sized compartments to facilitate storage, organization and retrieval. Of course, an equine first aid kit is only as good as what it contains, so let’s see some of the essentials: 1. Medical Equipment and Supplies This is a no-brainer - your equine first aid kit should have a rectal thermometer, preferably a digital one because of its better ruggedness and easyto-read display. Try to get a thermometer with a string and a clip to stop it getting lost in your horse’s innards. Your kit should also include a stethoscope for checking your horse’s heart rate and gut sounds. Surgical latex gloves are another equine first aid kit essential; they’ll help you prevent contamination when you’re checking wounds. Other equine first aid kit medical essentials include antiseptic wound cleaners such as chlorhexidine, povidone iodine and hydrogen peroxide; zinc oxide cream for soothing and protecting sunburned noses,
helping clear up grease heel, and promoting the healing of minor wounds; cotton gauze for padding wounds; and selfsticking bandages for keeping the gauze in place. You’ll also need chemical cold packs for reducing swelling, 10-cc syringes and hypodermic needles for administering injections, 60-cc syringes with a catheter tip for oral medications, and an equine first aid book. Include a small bottle of saline solution for cleaning sensitive wounds, such as near eyes. If you have contact lens solution, that will work as well. If you have experience giving equine medications, consider including pain relievers - flunixin meglumine and phenylbutazone are good options because they’re orally administered - and mild sedatives in your kit. You can also include electrolyte paste in your kit; this supplement is used to induce horses to drink. 2. Nonmedical Equipment and Supplies Some nonmedical equipment and supplies that you should include in your equine first aid kit include flashlights, in case you have to care for a horse in a dim environment, a small jar of Vaseline or any other lubricant to help insert thermometers, and a roll of duct tape for wrapping a limb. Don’t forget to include a pair or two of scissors in your first aid kit. You’ll need them when cutting away bandages. To avoid injuring your horse, buy scissors with rounded tips. Get a pair of wire cutters and at least one sharp knife as well, in case you have to free a horse from a fence, cross ties or a hay net. Tweezers are another item you should include in your kit; they will come in handy when you to remove a splinter or an insect. Also keep a large, clean towel nearby for compressing large wounds or spreading out some tools. An equine first aid kit is a stable essential. Inspect it at least once a month and throw away anything that’s expired, and replace anything you’ve used as quickly as possible. However, no matter how well-equipped your kit is, it should never be treated as an alternative for a veterinarian in an emergency. Call your vet, even if you do not think you have a crisis in your hands. They will be able to tell you if it’s something you can handle on your own - or not - as you describe your horse’s symptoms.
Photo by Getty Images
Keep your dogs safe this summer while eating and visiting with friends and family By DR. KARINA SALVO AcuVetDoc Palms West Monthly Summer is here and the BBQs are smoking. There will be many exciting outdoor activities: beach parties, block parties, parades, celebrations, and so on. Many of us have family pets that enjoy the excitement and company as much as we do. As the aroma of steak and burgers fills the air, your canine’s eyes and nose are on high alert for anything that may drop to the floor. Kids are usually the dog’s best friend for a reason—they have the most leftovers and love to share. Then there’s the allure of the trash can, which can be a great find for the cleverest of canines. The anticipated family outing can be a great time, especially after all of us have been cooped up. But we have to be aware of our dogs. Eating table food for many of them can be disastrous. Their gastrointestinal systems are simpler than ours and are not accustomed
to the various spices and ingredients in human food. Eating these foods can lead to gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting, diarrhea, and potentially pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration and anorexia. The pancreas is responsible for producing hormones that facilitate digestion as well as produce insulin to maintain proper glucose levels. When the pancreas is inflamed, many of its normal activity is disrupted, including the ability to facilitate digestion and control the body’s sugar levels. Having worked in an animal ER for many years, I have seen quite a few of these cases come through the doors. Common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and anorexia—often after the dog gets into the trash at a local gathering. Many of these pets can be treated outpatient, while others aren’t so lucky and have to be treated in a hospital. Uncontrolled vomiting may
lead the veterinarian to take X-rays. Be vigilant in avoiding aluminum foil, bones, utensils, paper, overeating, and especially corn cobs! Dogs love to chew on corn cobs. One swallow... gone! The entire thing. Many times, these dogs end up in surgery to have them removed. As we all enjoy the summer months with the events and celebrations, don’t forget to remind your guests to avoid feeding the dog. Every dog is different. Some can handle small amounts of table food, but many can’t. I prefer to err on the side of caution and avoid any chance of table food ingestion or trash can snooping. Make sure the dog is out of harm’s way and the trash can is secure. Enjoy your summer with your friends, family, and pets, but avoid the late night trip to the animal ER by keeping man and woman’s best friend safe! Questions, comments and suggestions are welcome at AcuVetDoc@gmail.com.
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