Rotary Club of Palm Beach: Lori Beth Long Speaks to Members on Understanding Bipolar Disorder

Palm Beach, FL — On Thursday, October 1, South Florida psychotherapist, licensed mental health counselor, corporate trainer and author Lori Beth Long spoke to members of the Rotary Club of Palm Beach during its weekly luncheon to kick off the month of October. Long shared personal and professional insights from her book, Bipolarized, which was inspired by her experience as the mother of a son living with bipolar disorder.

During her presentation, Long educated Rotary members about common signs and behaviors that may indicate someone is experiencing bipolar disorder, while emphasizing the importance of compassion, understanding and healthy communication. She discussed how families, friends and loved ones can maintain stable relationships with individuals living with bipolar disorder and, most importantly, how to love and support them in the ways they need. 

Long’s presentation deeply resonated with members, sparking meaningful conversation and discussion following her remarks. Her combination of personal experience and professional expertise offered attendees a thoughtful perspective on the realities of living alongside someone with bipolar disorder and the importance of approaching mental health with greater awareness and empathy. 

“I was honored to have the opportunity to speak with Rotary Club of Palm Beach and share the story behind Bipolarized,” said Lori Beth Long, psychotherapist, author and licensed mental health counselor. “My hope is that by increasing understanding of bipolar disorder, we can help families and loved ones recognize the signs, communicate more effectively and create relationships built on compassion, stability and acceptance.”

Lori earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Writing and Philosphy from the University of Tampa and her Master of Education in Counseling Psychology from the University of Virginia. In addition to Bipolarized, her first full-length book, she is also the author of Borderline, a work of fiction addressing borderline personality disorder. She maintains a private practice in South Florida, where she serves a diverse range of clients. 

As a clinical hypnotherapist, Long helps clients access their subconscious minds to make positive changes, manage anxiety and depression, and overcome trauma. She is also the founder of Comprehensive Offender Rehab & Re-Entry, Inc., a nonprofit providing counseling, psychotherapy and re-entry services to individuals during incarceration and following their release, with the goal of helping reduce recidivism through access to housing, employment and support. 

Bipolarized is available on Amazon. 

The Rotary Club of Palm Beach, led by Club President Nick Amato, has a long-standing dedication to “service above self,” bringing together business, professional and community leaders to address challenges with compassion, vision and purpose. Long’s presentation reflected the club’s commitment to creating opportunities for members to learn, engage in meaningful conversations and better understand issues affecting individuals, families and the broader community. 

For more information about Lori Beth Long and her work, visit www.loribethlong.com. To purchase Bipolarized, visit www.amazon.com/dp/B0G2GFCLK9.

To learn more about the Rotary Club of Palm Beach, visit www.palmbeachrotary.org.

###  

The Junior League of Boca Raton Hosts “Anchored in Wellness,” A Community Conversation on Breast Cancer During Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Kimberley Trombly-Burmeister, Julie Ott, Melody Cobbe, Mark Larkin

The Junior League of Boca Raton (JLBR) will host “Anchored in Wellness,” a powerful community conversation on breast cancer awareness, prevention, and early detection, at Lynn’s Women’s Institute, Boca Raton Regional Hospital, 690 Meadows Road, Boca Raton on Wednesday, October 14 from 5:30 -8:30 P.M. The event is complimentary and the community is invited.

The event is presented by the Junior League of Boca Raton, in collaboration with Lynn Women’s Health & Wellness Institute at Boca Raton Regional Hospital and Florida Atlantic University Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine.

The featured speaker is Cheryl Moss-Mellman, MD, Breast Health Specialist, followed by a question-and-answer session.  Light bites will be provided.

“This engaging evening will provide an opportunity for the community to learn more about breast health, understand the importance of early detection, and gain practical knowledge to take a proactive approach to your health,” said Melody E. Cobbe, President of the Junior League of Boca Raton. “This event is designed to educate, empower, and inspire action.”

Please RSVP using this link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/anchored-in-wellness-breast-cancer-awareness-tickets-1999422294907?aff=oddtdtcreator

For more information about the event, contact 561-620-2553.

For more information about the Junior League of Boca Raton, contact vpmembership@jlbr.org.

Celebrate National Vodka Day at Amrit Ocean Resort and The Mall at Wellington Green on October 4

Will & Grace’s Karen Walker may have said it best (“You say potato, I say vodka”) when describing the art of cocktailing. Whether it’s happy hour elixirs or vacation-inspired mixtures, there’s plenty to opine on National Vodka Day in Palm Beach County.

LaLa Lobby Bar & Lounge and Tula

For a glamorous night out, snag a seat at LaLa Lobby Bar & Lounge or Tula and toast to good health with a creamy Lychee Green Teani ($22 regular or $11 during Harmony Hour). Handcrafted with Belvedere Organic Vodka, green matcha, and a lychee garnish, it pairs perfectly with great conversation and Amrit Ocean Resort’s idyllic ocean views.

LaLa Lobby Bar & Lounge and Tula are located at Amrit Ocean Resort at 3100 N. Ocean Drive, Riviera Beach. For more information, call 561-694-8300 or visit amritocean.com.

Lemongrass Asian Bistro

Lemongrass Asian Bistro at The Mall at Wellington Green has endless options when it comes to party-centric potions. The popular happy hour, offered daily from 3–6 p.m. at tables and 3–7 p.m. at the bar, features discounted sips like the Japanese White Peach and Pomegranate Ginger Snap. The Tropical Typhoon, made with mango vodka, lime juice, pineapple juice, and an orange slice, is a hurricane-free getaway in a glass.

Lemongrass Asian Bistro is located at The Mall at Wellington Green at 10312 Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington. For more information, call 561-459-1598 or visit lemongrassasianbistrowellington.com.

Arcade Time

On October 4, take a break from video game domination at Arcade Time The Mall at Wellington Green and select from a boozy quartet handcrafted for holiday imbibing. Instagrammable options include Don’t Call Me Shirley, with vodka, grenadine, and Sprite, and Pop Fizz, with a mix of vodka, triple sec, Sprite, cherry, and Pop Rocks, to a Tappers Mule with vodka, ginger beer, lime, and mint or the dessert-centric S’mores Martini loaded with Baileys, vodka, chocolate, cream, and garnished with a toasted marshmallow.

Arcade Time is located at The Mall at Wellington Green at 10312 Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington. For more information, call 561-247-8463 or visit arcadetimeusa.com.

Promise Fund Hosting Free Mammography Screening Days in Palm Beach County

Promise Fund Navigators with Mammogram Machine

Promise Fund, a South Florida-based nonprofit dedicated to increasing survivorship from breast and cervical cancer, will host free Mammography Screening Days on the following dates:

“The Promise Fund is here to make screenings accessible for everyone, especially those who might otherwise go without care,” said Lissette Lahoz, Promise Fund’s Palm Beach  County Navigator. “Early detection can make a real difference. Treatment is often easier to manage, and people are able to focus more on their health, their families, and their everyday lives.”

While Promise Fund’s program reaches women across Palm Beach, Broward, and Martin counties, it currently operates four co-located screening programs within partner sites in Palm Beach and Broward, and is actively working to secure funding to establish a co-located program in Martin County.

Appointments are required. To register, call 877-427-7664.

Promise Fund reaches tens of thousands of women in Palm Beach, Broward and Martin Counties who are uninsured, under insured or have limited or no access to healthcare. The organization, founded in 2018 by Ambassador Nancy G. Brinker, is dedicated to increasing survivorship from cervical cancer and breast cancer by providing guided support and access to screenings, as well as early detection, treatment, and beyond.

 

To date, Promise Fund has reached more than 145,000 women in South Florida through education and advocacy, and has impacted the lives of over 27,000 women through access to screenings, diagnostics, and care and Promise Fund has helped 286 women who were diagnosed with cancer navigate getting treatment.

Beyond the Season: Wellington’s Growing Year-Round Appeal

Darlene Streit Realty

For many years, Wellington’s calendar has revolved around a familiar rhythm for residents and visitors alike. Winter brought the international equestrian community, full restaurants, busy roads and an energy unlike anywhere else. Spring brought a quieter pace as seasonal residents departed. That rhythm still exists, but as you’ve probably noticed, Wellington is steadily becoming much more than a winter destination.

As a real estate broker and Wellington resident, I see the change in the questions buyers ask about purchasing a property here. They still want to know about proximity to the showgrounds, but they are also asking about schools, restaurants, recreation, cultural activities and everyday quality of life. Many are no longer looking only for a seasonal residence. They are considering Wellington as a place to live throughout the year.

A Broader Definition of Wellington Living

Equestrian sport will always be central to Wellington’s identity. It gives our community an international profile, generates substantial economic activity and also creates an atmosphere that residents value, whether or not they own horses.

Yet Wellington’s appeal extends well beyond the equestrian world. Families are drawn to its established neighborhoods, beautiful parks and quality schools. Luxury buyers appreciate more space and privacy, larger properties and lots, and outdoor living. Others choose Wellington because it offers a quieter setting while keeping Palm Beach, West Palm Beach, the airport and the ocean within convenient reach.

That combination is difficult to duplicate. Wellington provides room to live, while residents stay easily connected to the cultural, recreational and business opportunities of Palm Beach County.

New Amenities for a Changing Community

Several major projects are expected to broaden that appeal. Among them is The Wellington, a planned 400-acre residential club community with 253 residences, golf, equestrian facilities, dining and hospitality. Village Landing is expected to bring restaurants, retail, offices, a hotel and gathering spaces to a walkable town-center setting.

These developments suggest something important about Wellington’s future. The community is not abandoning its identity. It is adding the amenities that can make year-round living even more enjoyable.

For existing residents, that could mean more choices close to home and less need to travel east for dining, shopping or entertainment. Within the real estate market, it may introduce Wellington to future residents who admire its privacy and natural beauty, but previously viewed it primarily as a seasonal equestrian destination.

Growing Without Losing What Matters

Growth always brings questions, particularly in a community where open space and a distinctive sense of place matter so deeply. The challenge will be in welcoming thoughtful improvements while protecting the qualities that have made Wellington special: its equestrian heritage, green space, neighborhoods and relaxed pace.

That balance is also one of Wellington’s strengths. This is a community that knows what it values.

I still look forward to the unmistakable excitement of the winter season. But I also appreciate Wellington in the quieter months, when residents enjoy its parks, outdoor spaces and sense of community at a different pace.

The rest of the country may be starting to notice Wellington, but those of us who live here already understand its appeal. Season brings the world to Wellington. Increasingly, the Wellington lifestyle is giving people compelling reasons to remain here all year.

Boca Helping Hands Needs Community’s Help Feeding 4,000 Families for Thanksgiving

Boca Helping Hands volunteers hold turkeys to be given out in 2025

Boca Helping Hands is seeking community support to provide Thanksgiving meals to local families. Its 22nd annual Thanksgiving Box Brigade program, which provides a turkey, and a box filled with everything a family needs to prepare a holiday meal, will feed approximately 24,000 people.

 

Boca Helping Hands volunteers load Thanksgiving meals into cars in 2025
Boca Helping Hands volunteers load Thanksgiving meals into cars 

Members of the community can get involved by donating the cost of a box for $29.72 at bocahelpinghands.org/thanksgiving . Boca Helping Hands primarily serves the working poor and seniors who can’t make ends meet.

One in eight people in Palm Beach County are struggling to put food on the table. Rising food costs, housing expenses, and stagnant wages have only intensified the need for food assistance programs in Palm Beach County.

 

Community members can also pick up five or more boxes from Boca Helping Hands and fill them with Thanksgiving foods. Here’s a list of what goes into each box. These boxes must be delivered to Boca Helping Hands by Monday, November 16.

 

Thanksgiving Box Brigade supporters include the Overall Sponsor, Dalfen Industrial; East Boca Sponsor, Bob and Anita Kriensky; West Boca Sponsor, Polyglass USA, Inc.; Boynton Beach Sponsor, Purity Wholesale Grocers Inc.; Delray Beach Sponsor, Vertical Bridge; Lake Worth Sponsor, Vivmark Residential; and Holiday Hero, Levine Family Foundation.

Boca Helping Hands will distribute the turkeys and Thanksgiving meal boxes to current Pantry Bag Program clients the weekend before Thanksgiving at its five drive-thru distribution locations in east Boca Raton, West Boca, Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, and Lake Worth.

4 Boca helping Hands volunteers hold boxes with "all the fixin's" for a Thanksgiving meal
4 Boca helping Hands volunteers hold boxes with “all the fixin’s” for a Thanksgiving meal

“Thank you in advance to the community! By running food drives in their neighborhoods or at their places of work, filling Thanksgiving boxes or donating the cost of a box, it will make all the difference,” said BHH CEO Andrew Hagen. “Thanks to them, families who might not have had enough money to afford to celebrate can now share a holiday meal together.”

Although there has been strong community support for the Thanksgiving Box Brigade program, food insecurity remains a problem year-round – especially now with reductions in funding for food.

Any contributions that exceed Thanksgiving expenses will be used toward the organization’s food programs throughout the year, helping to support the 200,000 families in Palm Beach County facing food insecurity.

Le Colonial Delray Beach Debuts Violet Moon Mocktail During Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Violet Moon Mocktail, Credit Duc Hoang

Le Colonial, the acclaimed French-Vietnamese restaurant located at 601 E. Atlantic Ave. in downtown Delray Beach, will commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness Month with a special mocktail that will benefit Promise Fund.

The Violet Moon Mocktail, in shades  of pink with a purpose, is available starting October 1 and featured throughout the month.  The Violet Moon, a zero proof offering, combines ube syrup, coconut purée and Q Soda ($14), with a give back to Promise Fund with each pour.

“We are so appreciative of the gracious support Le Colonial is providing to us,” said Promise Fund Executive Director Jacqueline Marsan.   “The funds raised will help us provide access to mammograms for women without health insurance.”

Le Colonial is open Sunday through Wednesday from 4–9 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday from 4–9:30 p.m.

Is It Too Late to Start a Podcast?

Khanna House Studios

Every day, someone asks if it’s too late to start a podcast.

Starting a podcast without a strategy was always a recipe for disaster, even before the current market positioning.

Starting a podcast today with a solid strategy for engagement and targeted goals is still a win.

Podcasting has grown considerably from the days when simply buying a microphone, uploading an episode, and waiting for an audience could qualify as a content plan. Before I opened Khanan House Studios in 2024, we all podcasted from our living rooms using the tools we had on hand.

Don’t get me wrong, there’s still nothing wrong with podcasting from your living room. Not everyone needs a full production studio like ours, but whether you’re DIYing or hiring a team, you’ll need to make sure your production quality is top-tier, and your strategy is well thought out.

Today, there are more voices, more platforms, and more competition for attention, but more people are consuming podcasts than ever before.

According to Edison Research’s 2026 Infinite Dial, 58% of Americans age 12 and older consumed a podcast in the previous month, while 45% did so in the previous week. Even more telling, 57% of Americans have now both listened to and watched a podcast, with watched being the operative word here.

The Podcast Isn’t Just an Audio Podcast Anymore

The biggest change we’re seeing is that podcasting has evolved into a much larger content ecosystem.

A professionally produced conversation can become a full YouTube show, Spotify video podcast, traditional audio podcast, Instagram Reels, TikToks, YouTube Shorts, LinkedIn content, website articles, quotes, and even material for media pitches.

That dissemination makes the ROI very different from looking at downloads alone.

In 2025, YouTube announced that podcast content had surpassed one billion monthly active viewers on its platform. By May 2026, Spotify reported that more than 500 million of its users had streamed a video podcast, an increase of nearly 50% year over year.

The audience isn’t disappearing. The way they discover and consume shows is changing.

Positioning Matters More Than Timing

The better question isn’t, “Am I too late?”

It’s finding the answer to “Why would someone choose to listen to me?”

Before launching a show, you should be able to define your position in the market clearly. Who is the show for? What perspective, access, or expertise do you bring that is hard to find elsewhere? And maybe that’s your personality; it doesn’t need to be full expertise in a niche, but listeners should know what they will consistently get when they press play.

A financial advisor probably doesn’t need another podcast called Money Talk. A financial advisor specializing in helping women navigate wealth after divorce has a much clearer lane.

A physician doesn’t necessarily need a general health podcast. A physician who breaks down longevity trends and separates legitimate science from wellness hype has a point of view.

Clear expectations are what create differentiation.

For Business Owners, the Audience Isn’t the Only Asset

As a publicist and the owner of Khanna Connections, I also look at podcasts through a public relations lens.

We always ask what a potential client, journalist, donor, investor, or strategic partner will find when they research you online.

Long-form content gives people an opportunity to hear how you think, understand your expertise, and build familiarity with you before you’ve ever met. A strong podcast can establish thought leadership, provide searchable content around your expertise, and create a library of materials that keeps working long after an episode is recorded.

At Khanna House Studios, we encourage clients to think less about “becoming a podcaster” and more about building an authority platform.

You don’t need millions of listeners.

You need the right people to find you, understand what you know, and remember your name.

So, is it too late to start a podcast?

Not even close.

But the era of podcasting simply for the sake of having a podcast may be ending, and strategically produced, well-positioned content is becoming far more valuable.

New Businesses in Wellington Florida (A Quarterly Report)

Wellington continues to grow as a premier destination for dining, entertainment, and lifestyle experiences. Quarter 3 of 2026 brings an exciting buzz of grand openings, major expansions, and highly anticipated debuts across the village.

Molé Cantina  molelogo

A longtime Wellington staple for authentic Mexican cuisine is stepping into an exciting new era under new owners, Sia Hemmati and Chef Daryn Garcia, following the retirement of its founder, Nick Cervera. 

To mark the occasion, Molé Cantina invites longtime locals and first-time guests to a high-energy evening featuring DJ Babalu of Power 96 & 102 JAMZ spinning Hip Hop, R&B, Pop and Latin beats, alongside 2-for-1 Margaritas all night and complimentary passed bites from the refreshed Happy Hour menu.

What: Meet Us at Molé: Same Table, New Familia

Date: Tuesday, October 6, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Address: 2557 S. State Road 7, Suite 150, Wellington, FL 33414

 

La Coppetta Matta  lacopamatta

Bringing a rich NYC family cafe tradition down to Wellington, sisters Laura and Patricia Generoso have officially opened La Coppetta Matta. This Italian-focused gelato and frozen dessert shop uses high-quality ingredients sourced directly from Italy.

Visitors can explore a case packed with over 24 artisanal gelato flavors, Italian ices, gelato pops, affogato, and cappuccino granita. Alongside traditional Italian offerings, kid-friendly favorites like cotton candy and bubble gum make it a sweet stop for families during the late-summer transition into fall. 

Address: 10660 Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 150, Wellington, FL 33414

Kids Empire kidsempire

Families gained a new indoor destination for play and adventure with the opening of Kids Empire at The Mall at Wellington Green. The massive, 15,000-square-foot massive indoor playground is designed for children ages 1–12 and features a multi-level maze, winding slides, climbing structures, ball pits, obstacle-style play areas, a dance floor, and a dedicated toddler zone.

The all-day admission model allows families to leave and return the same day, while the venue also offers birthday parties, group outings, and other events. With Wellington’s summer heat and frequent rain, the climate-controlled space adds another year-round option for active family entertainment.

Address: 10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 268, Wellington, FL 33414

Palm Beach Improv  palmbeachimprovlogo

Comedy has found a new home in Wellington with the September opening of Palm Beach Improv at the Wellington Green Mall. The long-time South Florida comedy club officially opened its new location over Labor Day weekend, launching with headliner Nate Jackson’s Big Dog Comedy Tour. 

Palm Beach Improv will host a steady lineup of national touring comedians, local performers, open-mic nights, and special events. The venue shares its new space with sister concept Copper Blues Rock Pub & Kitchen, creating a larger entertainment destination within the mall.

Address: 10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington, FL 33414

Arcade Time Entertainment arcadelogo

Arcade Time has significantly upgraded its presence inside The Mall at Wellington Green. Relocating from the second floor to a massive 13,000-square-foot flagship space on the first floor, the venue has transformed into a full-scale dining and entertainment destination featuring a modern and retro arcade, pinball alley, and billiards.   

Address: 10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 122, Wellington, FL 33414

Hours: 10:00 AM to 3:00 AM

Diadem Pickleball Complex diadempickleballcomplex

Wellington’s growing recreational scene is also preparing for a major addition with the anticipated arrival of the Diadem Pickleball Complex. The indoor facility is planned to feature climate-controlled pickleball courts, a pro shop, golf and pickleball simulators, and space for tournaments, corporate events, and other gatherings.

The complex will also include Cat 5, an on-site restaurant and bar serving pizza, salads, beer, and wine. Designed to serve both dedicated players and newcomers to the sport, the facility is expected to offer opportunities for play, instruction, leagues, tournaments, and social events. An opening was originally targeted for September, although a confirmed opening date had not been announced as of publication.

Address: 10570 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington, FL 33414

If you’re a new business in Wellington, email your information to news@thewellingtonedit.com for possible inclusion in the next business roundup!

Photo by DΛVΞ GΛRCIΛ: https://www.pexels.com/photo/tranquil-university-campus-with-palm-trees-and-fountain-31039056/

Sold-Out Inaugural Carnaval Palm Beaches Celebrates Hispanic Business, Culture and Leadership

More than 300 business leaders, elected officials, entrepreneurs and community partners came together in lively celebration for the sold-out inaugural Carnaval Palm Beaches, a new signature event from the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches.  Presented by The BrandX Company, Carnaval was created to celebrate Hispanic business excellence, cultural influence, and economic leadership across Palm Beach County.

Held Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026, at Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach, a highlight of the evening was the presentation of the inaugural Avanza Business Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations making an impact through business, service and community leadership.

The 2026 award recipients:

  • Avanza Business of the Year: Designs To Go, Inc. – A family-owned Palm Beach County business that has spent more than 37 years helping organizations bring their brands to life through custom signage, vehicle wraps, printing, promotional products and branding solutions.
  • Avanza Health & Human Services Organization of the Year: Hispanic Human Resources Center – Palm Beach County’s longest-serving Hispanic nonprofit, celebrating 50 years of educating young children and empowering families with resources, education and workforce support to build stability and independence.
  • Avanza Community Impact Leader of the Year: Armando Fana – Recognized for decades of leadership and public service focused on strengthening communities, expanding opportunity and helping shape the future of West Palm Beach.

“We created Carnaval Palm Beaches because the contributions of our Hispanic business community deserved to be recognized on this scale,” said Michael Zeff, President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches. “The overwhelming response made one thing clear: Hispanic business leaders have a home in The Chamber and an important role in shaping the future of Palm Beach County. This was not only a sold-out celebration, it was the beginning of a new tradition for our entire business community.”

For more than a century, the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches has connected businesses and leaders around a shared commitment to economic opportunity and a thriving Palm Beach County. Carnaval Palm Beaches builds upon the momentum of Avanza Palm Beaches, the Chamber’s initiative dedicated to connecting, supporting, and advancing the County’s Hispanic business community.

Proceeds from the evening will benefit the Chamber’s Innovation Hub, helping cultivate entrepreneurship and equip emerging business leaders with the education, connections, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed.

For more information about the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches and upcoming events, visit palmbeaches.org.

International Polo Tour Honors America’s 250th & U.S.-Thailand Relations Through Victorious Sunset Polo™ Evening

IPT Sunset Polo™ White Lotus 250th Anniversary Polo Cup Photo Credit: IPT/Dina Martucci

Under beautiful sunny skies at Morven Park International Equestrian Center, the International Polo Tour® welcomed guests for an extraordinary afternoon and evening celebrating global sport, Thai culture, celebrity competition, entertainment, and philanthropy in support of nonprofit partner We Will Survive Cancer (WWSC).

 

The celebration featured three polo matches, traditional Thai cultural performances, live and silent auctions, an LED drone show, and even an official rooftop after-party at Hotel Burg. A centerpiece of the occasion was a special White House letter from President Donald J. Trump, dated September 19, 2026, recognizing America’s 250th anniversary, the friendship shared by the United States and Thailand, the event’s charitable mission, and the night’s Ambassadors Cup.

 

President Trump sent his best wishes to Team USA as it prepared to face Team Thailand, writing: “good luck, fight hard, and make our country proud!” The President’s message was shared during the evening before Team USA took the field for what would become one of the most dramatic matches of the celebration.

 

“We are truly honored and thankful for those who made this amazing event possible,” expressed IPT Founder and Team Captain Tareq Salahi. “As we conclude this year’s season in Virginia, we are preparing for what’s next, and we look forward to sharing our upcoming ventures with our amazing supporters.”

 

This year’s IPT Sunset Polo™ White Lotus 250th Anniversary Polo Cup also welcomed Miss Global Thailand Saffron Maya Snook, Mrs. Virginia America 2026 Ruth Castro, Mrs. Maryland America 2026 Angela Salvino, Mrs. Hispano America 2026 Gabby Guerro, and Mrs. District of Columbia 2026 Melanie Dua, who joined the festivities and participated in the trophy presentations while colorful Thai cultural performances brought the traditions and spirit of Thailand to the polo grounds.

 

The afternoon’s competition opened with the IPT Celebrity Cup, which featured NFL Alumni All-Stars like Tim Johnson against entertainment stars. The NFL Alumni prevailed 5–2, led by Johnson who delivered one of the game’s biggest moments with a spectacular two-point goal. Johnson was subsequently presented with Most Valuable Player honors.

 

The second match brought IPT Team USA® and Team Thailand onto the field for the Ambassadors Cup. Team USA was presented by AmaWaterways Luxury River Cruises and Hotels at Sea®, while Team Thailand competed under the banner of famous international brand Singha. Thailand came out firing, dominating the opening chukker and building a commanding 7–0 lead over Team USA. However, the latter fought their way back into victory, with Team USA Captain Tareq Salahi delivering three consecutive goals during the comeback as the Americans erased the deficit, overtook Thailand, and ultimately captured the Ambassadors Cup by two goals. Salahi was named MVP of the match, with the White House letter’s words of “fight hard, and make our country proud!” being incorporated into the post-match presentation.

 

The evening’s main feature brought PR Polo and Arctic Wolf Polo together for another highly competitive match, with PR Polo prevailing 8–6 to capture the feature-game victory. The evening also included the presentation of the AmaWaterways Best Playing Pony Award, recognizing outstanding equine performance during the competition.

 

As daylight faded, the celebration expanded beyond the polo field. Beautiful Thai cultural performances celebrated the friendship between the United States and Thailand, followed by a spectacular LED drone show illuminating the evening sky.

 

Philanthropy remained at the heart of the event, with proceeds benefiting WWSC and its work supporting cancer patients, survivors and their families. Following the final festivities at Morven Park, guests continued to the Hotel Burg rooftop for the official after-party.

 

We Will Survive Cancer Founder and Chair Gayela Bynum described the celebration as “The most amazing charitable event I’ve ever been part of.”

 

The night was supported in part by partners including SINGHA, Notorious, Royal Thai Embassy, Thai-American Association, AmaWaterways Luxury River Cruises, Hotels at Sea® Luxury Cruises, Resorts at Sea®, U.S. Polo ASSN., International Polo Tour Stadium, PR Polo, Arctic Wolf, Head Impact Prevention, Stryk Global Diplomacy, Hotel Burg, FAIMzone, Equine Sports Marketing, OUI Producciones, Valdez Management, Legacy Luxe, Polo Room by Nacho Figueras, along with the many additional sponsors and partners who helped bring the celebration to life.

 

In the coming months, the International Polo Tour® and Hotels at Sea® will continue the White Lotus Asia experience in Thailand, extending the U.S.–Thailand celebration from the polo fields of Virginia to Bangkok. The IPT will return to Thailand December 10–14, 2026, with another visit planned for January 16, 2027.

 

During the Thailand program, IPT Team USA® will face Team Thailand at the Siam Polo Club in Bangkok, continuing the international polo rivalry and friendship celebrated during the Ambassadors Cup in Virginia. Miss Global Thailand 2026 Saffron Maya Suook has also been invited to participate in the upcoming Thailand festivities.

Delray Beach’s Community Classroom Project To Host the Annual “Something Scary” Halloween Block Party and Haunted House on October 30

Photo Credits: Greater Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce

Community Classroom Project (CCP),  a nonprofit creative community centered on the Space of Mind campus, will host “Something Scary,”  an annual Halloween block party and haunted house.  The event will be held on Friday, October 30 from 6 to 10 p.m. at The Hub at Space of Mind, 101 NW 1st Avenue, Delray Beach. This year’s theme is Error 404: Humanity Not Found.

 

The evening will raise funds for Community Classroom Project and will include great food  prepared by Community Classroom Kitchen, live music, and a student-designed haunted house.

“This is always one of the most fun events of the year!” said Ali Kaufman, founder of Space of Mind and Community Classroom Project. “We encourage everyone in the community to join us for this spooky evening!”

Tickets can be purchased at https://somethingscary2026.eventbrite.com

 

The event is part of the Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce Do Good Delray and the for profit partner is Paws Veterinary Clinic.