Palms West Journal

In this episode, we sit down with Tareq Salahi to explore his vision for a transformative new polo destination in Palm Beach County—one that aims to reshape how the sport is experienced both on and off the field.Salahi outlines plans for the International Polo Tour Stadium and Cultural Center, a large-scale development that will be located just outside Wellington, with the exact site to be revealed soon. The conversation moves into the broader impact of the project, which is expected to host more than 200 events annually, ranging from polo matches to non-equestrian entertainment. Salahi explains how the venue is being designed not only as a sports facility, but as a year-round destination capable of driving tourism, creating jobs and contributing to the region’s economy. The episode also touches on the project timeline and scale. With an estimated cost of up to $300 million, the stadium is targeting a grand opening on New Year’s Eve 2030. If realized as planned, it would mark a significant evolution for arena polo and a major addition to Palm Beach County’s sports and entertainment landscape.https://www.palmswestjournal.com/post/inside-the-vision-for-a-polo-stadium-and-cultural-center-near-wellington

Manatee Lagoon’s conservation and education manager Rachel Shanker provided an in-depth update on the state of manatees in South Florida.Shanker discussed the devastating unusual mortality event that led to a significant decline in the manatee population in recent years, and their recent recovery. The conversation also explored the leading causes of manatee deaths today. Shanker emphasized actions the community can take to improve conservation efforts.Shanker also shared insights into her career path, beginning as a “Manatee Master” educator and evolving into a leadership role focused on environmental education and outreach. She underscored the importance of public engagement in conservation, noting that education remains one of the most powerful tools in protecting Florida’s ecosystems.visitmanateelagoon.com/manatee-cam/

In this episode, David Abroms discusses the upcoming fundraiser for the Amory Art Center, Art Throwdown, with the center's CEO Jill Brown. Brown described the event as a fast-paced, high-energy experience—“Iron Chef meets the art world”—in which participating artists arrive without knowing what materials they will be given. Each competitor is allowed to bring only one or two supplies, with all remaining tools and materials revealed at the start of the competition.Jill Brown also discusses how the Armory Art Center is increasingly focused on the role of the arts in wellness and community development. Brown highlighted partnerships with organizations such as the Norton Arts Collective and the University of Miami.You can learn more about Art Throwdown and purchase tickets at https://armoryart.org/artistry-main-page/

The Cox Science Center and Aquarium’s signature fundraiser, the Smarty Party, returns to the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts on Jan. 15, bringing together curiosity, community and cutting-edge science for one of the most important nights of the year.David Abroms speaks with co-chair Deborah Norville about the event, including featured speaker Dr. Michael Young and his South Florida upbringing. They also discuss the ongoing renovations at the Cox Science Center and Aquarium, as well as current exhibitions.Learn more at www.coxsciencecenter.org/smarty-party.

When Dr. Brittany Perez opened the doors to AlignLife of Wellington at the end of July, she wasn’t just launching a chiropractic clinic — she was creating a space rooted in education, empowerment and proactive health. Just months in, the practice is gaining momentum, fueled by a clear mission and a hands-on, community-centered approach. That environment is welcoming and personalized. Every patient begins with a comprehensive visit that includes a detailed consultation, posture and balance assessments, 3D foot scans, digital X-rays, body composition analysis, and a review of metabolic health. Perez is certified in functional nutrition, allowing her to integrate bloodwork-based supplementation into individualized care plans.https://alignlife.com/locations/wellington-fl-chiropractor/https://www.palmswestjournal.com/post/wellington-chiropractor-marks-national-awareness-month-with-community-events

Just months after opening her own salon, Parle de Cheveux in Boca Raton, Corina Valdez finds herself at the center of a fast-growing, highly intentional business—one shaped as much by faith as by style. What began as an unexpected opportunity has quickly become a space that clients and employees alike describe as transformative.In this podcast, we explore what inspired her to open the salon, the story behind getting started, and what the first few months in business have been like—including the people she has already been able to impact. We also discuss the products she offers and the aspects of her work that continue to inspire her.

In this episode, I discuss the new season announced by Palm Beach Symphony, as well as the Kokedama workshop at Morikami. Kokedama is often described as “bonsai’s wilder cousin,” and involves sculpting a ball of soil, enveloping it in moss and wrapping it tightly with string.Finally, I discuss some updates to the Palms West Journal website, PalmsWestJournal.com. 

David speaks with president and CEO of the Palm Beach Photographic Centre, Fatima NeJame. They discuss the long history of the center and the 26th annual Members' Best Show which is on display now through Oct. 28 at the center's downtown location in West Palm Beach.This year’s Best in Show was photographed by Linh Trinh of Palm Springs. The piece, “Red Shouldered Hawk,” features a distinguished hawk landing on the median of a pokey spiked fence. Winning pictures can be seen here: https://www.workshop.org/2022-members-exhibition-selections/Check out are Palms West Journal article: https://www.palmswestjournal.com/post/palm-beach-photographic-centre-celebrates-members-best

David talks with Dr. Luis Peña-Hernández, MD, a lung specialist at the Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Disorders Institute of South Florida, with an office in Wellington. We discuss the research trial PCSI is conducting using a new medical device called Sylvee which uses ultrasound technology to better monitor lung function. You can find out more about the study and how to participate by going to:pcsifl.com/localspecialists-now-recruiting-healthy-and-long-covid-syndrome-patients-pulmonary-patients-invited-to-participate-in-key-research-trial/

David and new writer, Mel, discuss the 38th rhinoceros born at Lion Country Safari since its founding and the second of 2021. The safari park has grown its white rhino population to 15, including Josh, born in November, and his 22-year-old mother, Bloom. Josh is particularly special because Bloom’s family line is underrepresented. White rhinoceroses are the most abundant of the remaining rhinos, although their numbers are still small. Since the 1970s, the white rhino population has risen from fewer than 1,000 to approximately 20,000, largely because of conservation efforts in captivity and the wild. Open since 1967, Lion Country Safari is a participant in the White Rhinoceros Species Survival Plan, part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The SSP keeps the white rhino population steady.

The Shining Horse Farm and Sanctuary was created in 2005 by Leanne Witt, after animals in need of assistance kept flooding through her doors. What started as a small rehabilitation journey for a couple of foals, blossomed into a rescue and rehabilitation sanctuary. This summer, the organization plans to host a series of educational programs for people to learn about the animals under their care.Check out our article:https://www.palmswestjournal.com/post/the-shining-horse-farm-and-sanctuary-offers-refuge-to-animals-in-need

David and Mia discuss the new golf cart ordinance that has gone into effect in the Village of Wellington. In recent years golf carts have become extremely common in the village. They are widely used in the equestrian industry, within neighborhoods and when traveling short distances. According to the ordinance, golf carts are allowed on designated village roads and designated multimodal pathways, however under different rules. Check out our latest article about Wellington's new ordinance. https://www.palmswestjournal.com/post/wellington-s-golf-cart-ordinance-takes-effect

In this episode, we discuss the City of Westlake, Palm Beach County’s newest, fastest growing town. In 2016, the five residence that lived on the old citrus grove voted unanimously to incorporate the city as the county’s 39th municipality.A 2012 Florida law that made it easier for cities to incorporate, allowed Minto Communities, a Canadian real estate developer, to avoid the usual rules for a new municipality, including approval from the Legislature and at least 5,000 residents.Westlake has been approved for 4,500 homes and 2 million square feet of commercial space. Check out our article on Westlake:https://www.palmswestjournal.com/post/westlake-palm-beach-s-newest-town-is-growing-fast

Mia and David discuss the new addition to join the family at Lion Country Safari. A male chimpanzee named Tonk was born to mother Irene late last year. Tonk is the first chimp born at Lion Country Safari in more than 16 years. Check out our latest article about Tonk:https://www.palmswestjournal.com/post/tonk-the-chimp-born-at-lion-country-safari

In this episode, Mia and David discuss the water challenges in South Florida and how they are affecting the ecosystem. We discuss the continued decline of the manatee population due to water quality issues, as well as the importance of the Everglades to our water supply. We also discuss an upcoming article about the traveling Smithsonian exhibit now at the Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center called Water/Ways. See our latest articles about the Florida manatees and the Green Cay Nature Center and  Wetlands. https://www.palmswestjournal.com/post/manatee-rescue-measures-are-underwayhttps://www.palmswestjournal.com/post/green-cay-expansion-to-improve-water-management

In this episode, Mia speaks with Nancy Stewart, the executive director of Garlic Fest. They discuss all the trials and tribulations that Garlic Fest has gone through and the new and exciting features of this year's Garlic Fest. They also discuss the roles of their nonprofit partners in making the event a success. Read our full story:https://www.palmswestjournal.com/post/the-south-florida-garlic-fest-the-best-stinkin-party-in-south-florida

In this episode, we hear from Josh Brinzo, one of the owners of Stormhouse Brewing in North Palm Beach. He discusses with Mia all that went into creating this brewpub, from the initial idea to opening amid a pandemic. He talks about what makes Stormhouse unique and what they are doing to help connect the community. Stormhouse Brewing is the new home to Science on Tap, a program sponsored by the Cox Science Center and Aquarium where people can learn about science and technology from local experts.Check out our latest articles on Stormhouse Brewing and Science on Tap:https://www.palmswestjournal.com/post/stormhouse-brewing-the-most-inviting-south-florida-focused-breweryhttps://www.palmswestjournal.com/post/science-on-tap-now-at-stormhouse-brewing

As we look forward to the new year, David takes us through the transition of 2021 and what to look out for in 2022. Palms West Journal has launched our new website, newsletter, and podcast. Please sign up for our newsletter using the link below:https://www.palmswestjournal.com/subscriptionDavid also discusses articles in the latest issue of Palms West Journal. There are a number of great stories featuring the South Florida Fair, the Morikami Museum, and University of Florida's plans to open a campus in West Palm Beach.Palms West Journal has launched a new internship program. If you are interested in signing up or would like more information click the link below:https://www.palmswestjournal.com/internshipFinally, back by popular demand, Mia joins David for a flashback interview from back in September. This interview was from the Delta variant surge. Mia discusses her conversation with Palms West Hospital and the strain this virus has put on our local healthcare workers. 

David and Mia discuss the alarming rise in the number of manatee deaths in South Florida. In addition to boat strikes, polluted waters are wreaking havoc on the manatee food supply. Mia talks to Kimberleigh Dinkins from the Save the Manatee Club about the situation. We discuss efforts underway by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission as well as what we can all do prevent more manatee deaths. You can visit the Save the Manatee Club at savethemanatee.org. Also you can read our latest article at https://www.palmswestjournal.com/post/manatees-next-on-the-endangered-species-list.

David and Mia discuss the green markets that are now open in Palm Beach County. First we discuss the many benefits that green markets provide to local businesses and the community. We highlight four specific markets. Abacoa Green Market and Lantana Green Market just opened this year. We also cover Swank Specialty Produce Market located in Loxahatchee, and JoJo's Farmers Market in Jupiter. Mia shares her personal experiences with green markets. You can read our article in our December issue or online at palmswestjournal.com/post/palm-beach-county-green-markets-are-back-with-two-new-additions

David and Mia discuss the return of Brightline to the transportation scene. The passenger rail line with services from West Palm Beach to Miami has been shuttered since the beginning of the COVID outbreak. We discuss new features Brightline is offering including special pricing, the Polar Express experience, and Brightline+, a new door-to-door service starting in December. 

David speaks with Mia about the rare white rhinoceros born at Lion Country Safari on World Rhinoceros Day. The Loxahatchee drive-through safari park welcomed Aziza, a female southern white rhino calf. The birth contributes to worldwide conservation efforts for rhinoceroses, which are at risk because of a shrinking habitat and poaching. It is estimated that only about 20,000 white rhinos are left in the world.

In the first episode of the Palms West Podcast, David Abroms sits down with Mia Petruccelli to discuss the Covid Memorial Quilt exhibit at the Armory Art Center in West Palm Beach. Mia shares insights from her interview with the quilt creator, 14-year-old Madeleine Fugate and the significance of commemorating each loss with a sewn square. The exhibit will be at the Armory Art Center from September 10th to December 6th 2021. 

Host David Abroms speaks with guests about the latest happenings in the Palms West community. The podcast covers local events, people, and institutions in Wellington, Royal Palm Beach, Loxahatchee Groves, West Palm Beach, and Lake Worth. Together, we explore the stories of these Palm Beach County western communities.