News Archive - Page 10 of 28 - The Wellington Edit

International Polo Tour® & Hotels at Sea® Rally for Children’s Cancer at Iconic National Polo Center Match

Photo Credit: The International Polo Tour®

Wellington, Florida (March 4, 2026) — In an electrifying evening of world-class polo and philanthropy, the International Polo Tour® (IPT) Hotels at Sea® Polo Team took Field 1 on February 27 at the prestigious National Polo Center in Wellington, turning elite sport into a powerful platform in the fight against children’s cancer. Set against the legendary backdrop of U.S. Polo ASSN Field 1 is one of the most coveted stages in the sport where fewer than one percent of polo players ever compete, the match delivered the drama and excitement polo fans expect from the game’s highest level.

The night opened in spectacular fashion as IPT Founder and Team Captain Tareq Salahi electrified the crowd, scoring the first goal just 60 seconds into play, setting the tone for a fast-paced battle between two highly competitive sides.

Salahi was joined by an exceptional lineup of talent representing the Hotels at Sea Polo Team, including Nic Roldan, one of America’s highest-rated polo players at 9 goals, Lerin Zubiaurre, rated 6 goals, and Brendan Stenzel, rated 3 goals. Together, the squad showcased remarkable speed, precision, and teamwork against a formidable rival lineup.

What followed was a thrilling back-and-forth contest of speed, strategy, and horsemanship that kept spectators on the edge of their seats until the final chukker.

When the dust settled, the teams finished in a hard-fought 3–3 tie, showcasing the remarkable skill, sportsmanship, and intensity that defines championship-level polo.

“In the world of sport, one of the greatest victories is the cause you’re playing for,” said Salahi. “A tie on the scoreboard tonight felt like a win for everyone involved- our players, our guests, and most importantly the families struggling with cancer and the financial burdens it brings whom we are supporting through this event.”

Funds generated from the event will support the organization’s mission of providing vital resources and care for children battling cancer and their families. Since its founding, Polo for Life has raised more than $3.8 million to support pediatric cancer programs.

“Playing on Field 1 is one of the greatest honors in polo,” Salahi added. “But what makes nights like this truly meaningful is knowing that through sport we can help change lives. Supporting charities like Polo for Life has become a central mission of the International Polo Tour and Hotels at Sea.”

The event highlighted how polo continues to evolve beyond the sport itself- bringing together athletes, philanthropists, and global audiences to create impact both on and off the field.

For more information about the International Polo Tour®, visit:
https://internationalpolotour.com

$100,000 Charity Hunter Class at Wellington International Benefits Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club of Wellington

Wellington, FL. (March 2, 2026)— The $100,000 Charity Hunter Class was an unforgettable evening of sport and philanthropy when the riders took center stage at Wellington International to benefit the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club of Wellington. This annual event brought together top hunter riders in a thrilling team competition, all in support of local youth.

Because of the passion and dedication of the esteemed co-chairs, HRH Princess Margarita de Bourbon de Parme and Jenny Oz LeRoy, this event delivered an inspiring evening, showcasing hunter talent and reinforcing the mission of the Boys & Girls Club of Palm Beach County.

“This incredible event perfectly melded a night of stunning athletic talent with crucial fundraising that will help us continue the programs in Wellington that will enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. And special thanks to Wellington International for their valued partnership and for providing the opportunity to host this premier charitable competition in Wellington’s International Arena,” said Jaene Miranda, President and CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County.

A total of thirteen teams, each comprised of a professional, amateur, and junior rider, competed in a relay-format exhibition. In this relay-style format, competitors navigated sections of a 20-fence course, with scores averaged across three judging panels.

The highlights included:

· Rising to the top were Brianne Goutal-Marteau (Royal Palm Beach, FL), Irene Neuwirth (Culver City, CA), and Lilly Herzog (Pepper Pike, OH), who claimed the team title with standout performances.

· Junior rider Lilly Herzog earned the highest score of the night, a 90 aboard Tiebreaker, while Irene Neuwirth secured an 89 riding Holland Park, solidifying their team’s victory.

· The winning team also featured professional Brianne Goutal-Marteau aboard Scout’s Honor, who has supported the class since its inaugural year and praised both the innovative format and the impact of the Boys & Girls Club within the Wellington community.

· Finishing second were Julie Hogan aboard Quixotic, Zara Humayun aboard Cardinal, and Sarah Duhon aboard Sugarland.

· Finishing third were Michael Britt-Leon aboard True Casini, Kelly Sims aboard Simply Spectacular, and Marlene Holland aboard Edesa’s Donovan.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County would also like to thank its sponsors for making this prestigious event happen:

· Title Sponsor: Schumacher Automotive Group

· Grand Champion Benefactor: Georgina Bloomberg and Sebilion

· Junior Hunter Benefactor: Walkenbach Equestrian

· Patron Sponsors: Selma Garber, Fangxian Liu and Cisy Zhou and Perfect Equine Products

· Media Partner: Wellington Quarterly Magazine

· And special thanks to Perfect Equine Products for providing the Grooms Award.

“The $100,000 Charity Hunter Class continues to serve as both a premier competitive showcase and a powerful platform for giving back—uniting sport, community, and philanthropy under the lights in Wellington,” said co-chair Jenny Oz LeRoy.

Palm Beach State College Awarded Nearly $5 Million from Florida Job Growth Grant Fund to Develop the State’s First Quantum Workforce Training Center

Lake Worth, Fla. (Feb. 12, 2026) – Palm Beach State College (PBSC) has been awarded $4.95 million through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund, announced today by Governor Ron DeSantis. The funding will support the creation of a new workforce training program in computing and emerging quantum technologies, designed to strengthen Florida’s talent pipeline in national defense, cybersecurity, and financial services sectors.

As the largest workforce educator in Palm Beach County, Palm Beach State College will lead the development of Florida’s first structured, public-access Quantum Systems Certification Program.

“On behalf of our entire Palm Beach State community, we are honored to be selected as a partner with the State of Florida to build the quantum ecosystem and create a one-of-a-kind program that makes this emerging technology accessible to our students and local Palm Beach County community,” said Ava L. Parker, JD, President of Palm Beach State College. “We are deeply grateful to Governor DeSantis and Florida Commerce Secretary Alex Kelly for their confidence in Palm Beach State College and recognizing the vital role we play in preparing Florida’s workforce for future technologies in rapidly evolving quantum computing industries that are critical to our nation’s security and economic growth.”

“Today’s investments will support high demand regional and statewide needs, including talent development needs in communities that are supporting high impact industries that align with many of Florida’s greatest pillars of investment,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “Communities such as Brevard and Palm Beach counties are critical for leading industry clusters in aerospace and aviation, military and defense, cybersecurity, financial services, and the investment in Broward College is focused on accelerated pathways to further support aviation workforce needs.”

“Today’s investments are further examples of Governor DeSantis’ focus on targeted, catalytic investments that matter, especially for our national security,” said Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly. “These three investments support the foundations of workforce readiness for our aviators, cybersecurity, cryptography, secure communications and data.”

The $4.9 million Florida Commerce allocation to PBSC represents the largest single investment among the three recipients, which also include Melbourne Orlando International Airport ($2.5 million) and Broward College (more than $900,000), for a total of more than $8 million statewide.

“Quantum and AI are the industries of the future, and Palm Beach State College is helping ensure that future is built right here in Palm Beach County,” said Kelly Smallridge, president and CEO of the Business Development Board of Palm Beach County. “We commend the Governor and Florida Commerce Secretary Kelly for their leadership and commitment to building a high-tech, high-wage economy for our region and the entire state.”

“Every major technology shift creates two gaps: a skills gap and a timing gap,” said Matt Cimaglia, Founder & Managing Partner of Quantum Coast Capital and founding member of Florida Quantum. “Training a workforce in quantum-era security and computing today ensures our economy adapts smoothly rather than reactively.”

The funding from the Florida Job Growth Act builds upon President Parker’s October 2025 announcement of plans to establish a Quantum Innovation Center at PBSC’s Historic Building in downtown West Palm Beach. Palm Beach State College is developing this program in close collaboration with the Business Development Board of Palm Beach County, which has been instrumental in aligning the Quantum Innovation Center with regional economic development priorities and the needs of high-tech employers. Quantum Coast Capital is another key partner helping to shape the vision for a world-class quantum ecosystem in Palm Beach County.

The nearly 100-year-old Historic Building will be undergoing a full modernization to support next-generation technology companies. The center is intended to attract startups and incubate emerging companies working in advanced computing, security and related industries, reinforcing the region’s growing role in the national technology economy.

Since 2019, the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund has contributed more than $305 million to support public infrastructure and workforce education, creating over 41,000 new jobs and 32,000 new training opportunities throughout the state.

Advanced Surgical Physicians Presents $6,000 to Sojourners With Healing Hearts to Bolster Local Health Equity Initiatives

Local advocates, healthcare providers, and community leaders gathered tonight at Space Connect to celebrate a significant boost in the fight for health equity. The evening’s highlights centered on a $6,000 check presentation from Advanced Surgical Physicians (ASP), naming Sojourners With Healing Hearts as the official beneficiary of the 2025 ASP 5K obstacle course race.

The funds from Advanced Surgical Physicians will directly support Sojourners With Healing Hearts’ mission to provide free screenings, education, and financial assistance to those who need it most.

“We chose Sojourners with Healing Hearts as the beneficiary for our 5k obstacle course this year, because of the important, amazing work that they do in the community,” said Andrew Shapiro, MD of Advanced Surgical Physicians. “Like bringing a mobile mammogram van to the community to provide screening to folks who may not be able to get to an imaging center. Early detection is the key to survival. And if we can have patients screened and identify these breast cancers at their earliest and smallest stage, they’re going to have a much better chance of survival.”

In addition to the 5K proceeds, Sojourners With Healing Hearts officially received a $5,000 micro-grant from the United Way of Broward County. This funding is earmarked for the launch of a new media campaign aimed at saving the lives of women of color by dismantling systemic barriers and addressing alarming rates of delayed breast cancer diagnoses.

Attendees at the event were given an exclusive first look at the health equity media campaign, produced by Khanna House Studios, which leverages local media assets to reach thousands of residents, ensuring that geography or socioeconomic status no longer dictates a patient’s survival rate.

“Health equity is so important,” said Sojourners With Healing Hearts board member Taraneisha Burgess. “It can help with early detection and allocating funds to the community can help with education and resources.”

Fellow board member Jeanette Gordon emphasized the strategic importance of the new campaign: “The reason why this grant was so important to us is because we’re using education as a tool to shrink the gap and give individuals an opportunity to learn about what’s happening. We felt like this was the best way to expand on the great work that Sojourners is already doing in this community.”

Local Doctor, John Hinson, M.D., Speaks to Padel Club Palm Beach Members on Playing the Sport Safely

West Palm Beach, FL – Dr. John Hinson, M.D., a Palm Beach-based orthopedic surgeon at Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute specializing in shoulder and elbow care, spoke to members at Padel Club Palm Beach about how to play the sport safely and injury prevention.

The speaking was held at Padel Club Palm Beach and brought together members to learn about the common injuries associated with the sport and how to prevent them from occuring. The speaking featured a powerpoint presentation by Dr. Hinson, giving members visuals of common injuries, prevention, and tips on what to do if injury or chronic pain occurs. Dr. Hinson shared his clinical insights and best practices drawn from his extensive experience treating both traumatic and degenerative shoulder conditions.

With a focus on shoulder and elbow care, Dr. Hinson specializes in arthroscopic surgery, rotator cuff repair, shoulder instability procedures, shoulder replacement, including reverse total shoulder treatment, and the care of throwing athletes and golfers. He graduated with honors from the Medical College of Georgia in 2004 and served as President of the Georgia Elbow and Shoulder Society from 2013 to 2015. Dr. Hinson has been a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons since 2014.

Committed to helping patients protect their joints and perform at their best, Dr. Hinson continues to serve the Palm Beach community with expertise and compassion through his work at Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute.

For more information about Dr. John Hinson, M.D., and Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute, visit www.pboi.com.

To learn more about Padel Club Palm Beach, visit www.padelclub.us.

The Carlisle Palm Beach Announces Appointment of Sharron Empson and Michael Halpner as Executive Directors of Assisted Living and Independent Living

Lantana, FL – The Carlisle Palm Beach, a resort-style senior living community operated by Liberty Senior Living, proudly announces the appointment of Sharron Empson as Executive Director of Assisted Living and Michael Halpner as Executive Director of Independent Living. Together, they bring decades of leadership experience spanning senior living, hospitality, finance, and community operations, which further strengthens the community’s commitment to excellence and elevated resident experiences.

Sharron Empson brings a diverse and distinguished background to her role overseeing Assisted Living. Born and raised in England and educated in France, Sharron earned degrees in business and finance from the University of Sheffield. She began her career as a financial advisor and bank manager before serving as a police detective, developing a strong foundation in leadership, problem-solving, and advocacy.

For the past several years, Sharron has served as executive director of senior living communities in Florida and New England, with experience in Continuing Care Retirement Communities, independent living, assisted living, memory care, and nursing. Her comprehensive understanding of senior living operations, combined with her financial expertise and personal real estate experience, allows her to guide families through important life transitions with clarity and compassion. Fluent in French, Spanish, Italian, Russian, and sign language, Sharron is known for her inclusive, resident-centered approach and her ability to build meaningful connections across diverse communities.

Michael Halpner

Michael Halpner assumes leadership of Independent Living, bringing with him a distinguished hospitality career rooted in service excellence. He began his career at some of New York City’s most iconic hotels, including the Essex House, the Royalton, and the Paramount, before transitioning into corporate hospitality leadership roles in Atlanta with Wyndham Hotel Group and Radisson Hotel Group. In 2019, Michael brought his passion for service into senior living, joining Atria Senior Living and later leading the renovation and repositioning of a South Florida community for Discovery Senior Living, followed by leadership experience with Allegro Senior Living.

Michael joined Liberty Senior Living to lead the reimagining of Independent Living at The Carlisle Palm Beach, applying his expertise in hospitality, operations, and resident engagement to create a lively, service-driven environment. His background uniquely positions him to deliver a refined experience grounded in warmth, attentiveness, and operational excellence.

Reimagined by Liberty Senior Living, The Carlisle Palm Beach is a modern coastal community offering independent and assisted living in a refined, resort-style setting. The community features contemporary residences, personalized hospitality, wellness-focused amenities, expert care, chef-curated dining, and a full calendar of engaging experiences designed to support an active, connected lifestyle.

The appointments of Sharron Empson and Michael Halpner reinforce The Carlisle Palm Beach’s ongoing dedication to leadership, excellence, personalized service, and whole-person care. For more information about The Carlisle Palm Beach, visit www.carlislepalmbeach.com.

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About The Carlisle Palm Beach:

Newly reimagined in 2025 by Liberty Senior Living, The Carlisle Palm Beach is a resort-style senior living community offering independent, assisted living, and memory care in an elevated, resort-style environment. Located between the Intracoastal and the Atlantic Ocean, The Carlisle Palm Beach blends contemporary residences with personalized hospitality, wellness-focused amenities, expert-level care, and a lifestyle built around ease and social connection. With lifestyle living options to choose from, residents are encouraged to live fully with chef-curated dining and a full calendar of experiences. To learn more, visit www.carlislepalmbeach.com.

Cholo Soy Cocina Launches Cholo Sauce From Local Favorite to National Hot Sauce Sensation

West Palm Beach, FL – Cholo Soy Cocina, the acclaimed street food restaurant based in West Palm Beach, FL., is psyched to announce the national release of its signature Cholo Sauce. After years of legendary status as the house hot sauce that turns first-time guests into devoted regulars, Cholo Sauce is now available for purchase across the United States via Amazon and in the restaurant.

Born in the vibrant kitchens of Cholo Soy Cocina in West Palm Beach, Cholo Sauce was developed with the same culinary philosophy that defines the restaurant’s menu — bold flavor, fresh ingredients, and unapologetic authenticity. Crafted from roasted red peppers, sweet pineapple, and authentic habanero heat, Cholo Sauce offers a balanced, layered flavor profile that elevates tacos, grilled meats, seafood, and more. Each 8oz bottle is $8.99.

Located on South Dixie Highway in West Palm Beach, Florida, Cholo Soy Cocina blends Latin-American street food offering handcrafted tacos, fresh tortillas, house-smoked meats, and sauces created in-house. Led by Chef Clayton Charles Carnes, winner of Food Network’s Cutthroat Kitchen, and inspired by regional Latin flavors, Cholo Soy Cocina is as much a culinary destination as it is a community favorite.

Pop in any day of the week for eats or visit on Friday and Saturday night for music and fun. For more info, follow @cholosoycocina or visit cholosoycocina.com.

Serial No. 1 Harley-Davidson Auctioned by Wellington Teen to Fuel Lifesaving Cancer Resources

West Palm Beach, FL (February 18, 2026) – Seventeen year-old Wellington resident Dariyan Younessi is showing that the leaders of tomorrow are not waiting to make a difference, they’re revving up change today.

Through his student-led philanthropic initiative, Driven by the Promise, Younessi is inspiring his peers, and the broader community, to join him in raising funds for Promise Fund, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing survivorship from breast and cervical cancer in South Florida by providing guided support and access to screenings, early detection, treatment, and beyond for all women, with a focus on those who are uninsured, underinsured, or have limited access to healthcare.

Through a special auction partnership with Heritage Auctions, Driven by the Promise arranged for an extraordinary piece of memorabilia – Serial No. 1 of the Harley-Davidson CVO Road Glide RR – to raise funds for this critical cause. One of only 131 of this race-inspired CVO model ever created, the motorcycle was donated by the Younessi family, with 100% of proceeds from the sale of this iconic motorcycle to help ensure more women have access to lifesaving resources. The auction is now open on HA.com/5580, with bidding closing on February 24 as part of a live auction event to be held in Dallas, Texas.

“I never had the chance to meet my grandmother because she passed away from breast cancer, and I don’t want anyone else to have to experience that kind of loss,” said Dariyan Younessi. “My family has been personally affected by cancer and Driven by the Promise was created to turn that experience into action. I believe young people don’t have to wait to lead, raise awareness, and make an impact.”

Founded to engage the next generation in philanthropy and community leadership, Driven by the Promise reflects Younessi’s belief that young people can and should take an active role in addressing critical issues affecting their communities.

“What an opportunity for Promise Fund to accelerate our mission and generate critical funds for the women we serve,” said Nancy G. Brinker, co-founder of Promise Fund. “We are profoundly grateful to the Younessi family for their generosity and honored to channel the spirit of this iconic machine into driving lifesaving impact for women throughout our community.”

Beyond its philanthropic impact, the rarity and legacy of Serial No. 1. represents a historic opportunity for collectors.

“Serial No. 1 is the crown jewel of a collection that defines the entire series,” said Sebastian Clarke, Director of Business Development, Florida, Heritage Auctions. “Its symbolic significance elevates it far beyond a motorcycle, it represents a generational piece of Harley-Davidson history.”

Founded in 2018 by Ambassador Nancy G. Brinker, Promise Fund reaches tens of thousands of women in Palm Beach, Broward, and Martin counties. To date, the organization has reached more than 125,000 individuals through outreach and education, impacted the lives of more than 20,000 women through screenings and diagnostic access, and helped 271 women diagnosed with cancer navigate treatment.

Through Driven by the Promise, Younessi hopes this auction will not only generate critical funding but also inspire other young leaders to step forward, engage in philanthropy, and use their platforms for meaningful impact. By using Driven by the Promise, Younessi wants the auction to not only raise vital funds but also to motivate and engage other young leaders to participate in philanthropy and make a positive difference.

Heritage is the world’s largest collectibles auctioneer and the largest fine art auction house founded in the United States. With offices across the globe, Heritage employs more than 125 internationally recognized specialists in over 50 categories including coins, comics, sports, historical, jewelry, luxury accessories, and more. Our team provides complete support, from consignments and appraisals to trusts & estates and museum services.

To learn more about Driven by the Promise or Promise Fund, visit www.thepromisefund.org. Follow on Instagram @thepromisefund and @drivenbythepromise.

March Moments at The Mall at Wellington Green

Wellington, FL –Spring into fun at The Mall at Wellington Green this March! Wellington’s premier shopping destination will host a series of inviting community events throughout the month.

Wine Tasting Experience

Tuesday, March 3

7-9pm

$107

Lifetime Kitchen

Enjoy an educational and interactive wine workshop led by a Riedel Crystal Brand ambassador, exploring how glass shape affects wine taste. Guests will try four wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Oaked Chardonnay and Unoaked Sauvignon Blanc. Plus, each attendee will take home a special set of Riedel glasses (valued at $179.99). For more information, visit lifetime-kitchen.com.

Spirits Glass Seminar

Wednesday, March 4

7-8:30pm

$107.00

Lifetime Kitchen

Enjoy an educational and interactive wine workshop led by a Riedel Crystal Brand ambassador, exploring how glass shape affects the taste of fine spirits. Guests will try Reposado Tequila, Islay Region Single Malt Scotch and Bourbon. Plus, each attendee will take home a set of four spirit glasses. For more information, visit lifetime-kitchen.com.

Spring into Wellness Health Expo

Saturday, March 7

11am-2pm

FREE

District Court and Studio

The Mall at Wellington Green invites the community to its Health Expo, a fun, feel-good afternoon focused on total well-being. Attendees will have the chance to participate in five, 30- minute fitness classes, including Pilates with Club Pilates Wellington (11:15-11:45am), Belly Dancing (11:45am-12:15pm), Zumba with Jaime (12:15-12:45pm), Line Dancing with Starpoint Dance Sport, (12:45-1:15pm) and Yoga with Brie Mazin (1:15-1:45pm). Select mall tenants and community partners will also be showcasing wellness offerings.

Pop-Up Yoga Class

Sunday, March 9

3-4pm

FREE

District Studio

March’s pop-up yoga class will focus on chakra meditation and sound healing. This immersive experience is designed to cleanse the mind, body and spirit, leaving students feeling restored, refreshed and aligned. All experience levels are welcome. Interested parties can reserve spots HERE.

Spring Break Staycation

Monday, March 16- Friday, March 20

FREE

Locations vary

The Mall at Wellington Green invites children of the local community to celebrate spring break in style. The Mall will host unique events daily:

Monday: Magic show in the District Court, 11am-1pm.

Tuesday: Arts & Crafts Fair in the District Court, 11am-1pm.

Wednesday: Reptile Show in the District Court, 11am-1pm.

Thursday: Movie Day at CMX theaters, 11am. RSVP is required, visit shopwellingtongreen.com to reserve.

Friday: Bunny Bubble Party, welcoming the Easter Bunny at the District Court, 11am-1pm.

Zumba Dance Party with Jaime

Every Saturday

10-11am

FREE

The District at Wellington Green

Livin’ La Vida Zumba! Enjoy The Mall at Wellington Green’s fun, dance fitness party program that combines high- and low-intensity Latin dance moves designed to burn calories and boost cardio endurance. All ages and levels are welcome.

The Mall at Wellington Green is located at 10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington. For more information, call (561) 227-6900 or visit shopwellingtongreen.com.

Boca Helping Hands Receives Support Through Publix’s 2026 Good Together Hunger Campaign

Boca Raton, FL (February 18, 2026) — As Random Acts of Kindness Week takes place, the Publix Super Markets 2026 Good Together Hunger Register Campaign will run February 18–March 1, supporting Feeding America partner food banks across Publix’s operating areas, including Boca Helping Hands, a local recipient of the campaign.

During this special 12-day effort, customers are invited to shop with a purpose by donating any amount, up to $1,000, at checkout. Funds raised through the register campaign help food banks across Publix’s operating areas supplement the fresh produce Publix regularly provides with critically needed nonperishable items.

As a local Feeding America partner food bank, Boca Helping Hands (BHH) is among the organizations that receive support through the campaign. Contributions made at participating Publix stores help advance Boca Helping Hands’ mission of providing hot meals, groceries, and essential services to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity. Last year alone, Boca Helping Hands served nearly 4 million meals to the community.

Publix has been a longstanding supporter of Boca Helping Hands, serving as the organization’s largest retail grocery supporter for decades.

“We are so grateful to Publix for their continued partnership in our community and the 2026 Good Together Hunger Register Campaign, and we’re thrilled to see the kind contributions from shoppers,” said Boca Helping Hands Executive Director, Dr. Andrew Hagen.

Wellington Regional Medical Center Introduces the New da Vinci 5 Surgical Robot

Photo Courtesy of Upper Cumberland Business Journal

Wellington, FL – Wellington Regional Medical Center is proud to announce the arrival of the da Vinci 5 Surgical System (DV5), one of the most advanced robotic-assisted technologies available today. Wellington Regional is the first hospital in the western communities to offer this next-generation surgical innovation, underscoring its commitment to providing leading-edge care close to home.

To celebrate the launch, community members, physicians and media are invited to join us for an exclusive open house and hands-on demonstration event.

Guests will have the opportunity to:

Experience the new da Vinci 5 firsthand
Participate in interactive demonstrations
Meet surgical specialists and clinical leaders
Learn how robotic-assisted surgery enhances precision, safety, and patient outcomes

WHEN: February 26, 4:30-6:30

WHERE: Wellington Regional Medical Center

10101 Forest Hill Boulevard, Wellington, FL 33414

Media Invitation: Members of the media are invited to attend this special event. Please RSVP to Pamela.Rada@uhsinc.com

Palm Beach State College Receives $2 Million in Federal Funding to Advance New Quantum Innovation Center

West Palm Beach, Fl. (Feb. 18, 2026) – Palm Beach State College (PBSC) announced more than $2 million in new federal funding today to support the creation of the Quantum Innovation Center, a transformative hub for education, research, and industry collaboration that will be located in the College’s Historic Building in downtown West Palm Beach.

The funding, secured through a Community Project Funding request by U.S. Representative Lois Frankel, was unveiled during a press conference held at the Historic Building. The new funds build upon $4.95 million from the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund, awarded by Governor Ron DeSantis last week, bringing total public investment in the project to nearly $7 million.

PBSC’s Quantum Innovation Center, developed in partnership with the Business Development Board (BDB) of Palm Beach County, will serve as a regional hub for research and workforce training in quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and related high-tech fields. The BDB also received $1.03 million in companion funding to develop the Center’s entrepreneurial and programming initiatives.

“Technology is changing faster than ever,” said Congresswoman Lois Frankel. “Employers across the country are searching for workers skilled in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing—fields that will shape our economy, national security, and daily lives for years to come.”

PBSC President Ava L. Parker, J.D. emphasized the power of collaboration behind the project. “This partnership demonstrates what is possible when education, government, and business align around a shared vision,” Parker said. “Together, we’re preparing students and residents for high-wage, high-demand jobs that will make Palm Beach County a leader in innovation.”

The Quantum Innovation Center will feature advanced laboratory and co-working spaces designed to host start-ups, train students, and attract emerging technology companies to the region. PBSC will also be developing Florida’s first public Quantum Systems Certification Program, positioning PBSC as a statewide leader in developing a quantum-ready workforce.

Kelly Smallridge, president and CEO of the BDB, called the award “the largest funding the organization has ever received,” crediting collaborators Hillary Matchett and Matt Cimaglia, cofounders of Quantum Coast Capital, for introducing the board to the field’s commercial potential. “We realized Palm Beach County could not only pursue quantum computing but apply it to existing strengths in aerospace, life sciences, and medical technology,” she said. “Our vision is to take it out of the lab and into the marketplace.”

PBSC Associate Dean of Computer Science Dr. Luis Pentzke, whose vision helped launch the initiative, presented the college’s Quantum Lab Workforce plan during the event. He told the attendees that the funding will help PBSC acquire quantum computer hardware, control systems, and measurement equipment to train students on next-generation technologies.

“Quantum computing is progressing incredibly fast,” Pentzke said. “Each week brings new breakthroughs from major companies. Our job at Palm Beach State is to ensure our students and workforce training programs are keeping pace with that progress.”

When completed, the Quantum Innovation Center will anchor the next phase of Palm Beach County’s leadership in technology and education—linking academia, business, and government in creating opportunities at the heart of Florida’s Quantum Coast.