News Archive - Page 16 of 40 - The Wellington Edit

Miami World Cup 2026™: South Florida Investment and Host City Updates

MIAMI, FL (May 12, 2026) — Today, the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Miami Host Committee named the University of Miami as an Official Miami World Cup 2026™ Host City Supporter, reinforcing a shared commitment to lasting community impact as one of the world’s largest sporting events comes to South Florida.

Over the course of seven matches in South Florida, the FIFA World Cup 2026™ is projected to generate up to $1.3 billion in economic impact in Miami, with an estimated one million visitors expected during the summer. The event will place significant demand on city infrastructure and operations while delivering a significant boost to local businesses, hotels, and restaurants.

“The FIFA World Cup 2026 will bring an unprecedented number of visitors to Miami in a short period of time. We are thrilled to collaborate with the Miami Host Committee to support the city as it prepares for that special moment. We also share their commitment to ensure something real is left behind, which is why we are excited to be a part of a new soccer field for Miami youth that the community can use long after the events,” said Tanya Andreadis, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing, Communications, and Digital Officer for the University of Miami.

The University’s strategic relationship includes a community legacy investment aligned with ONE GAME ONE FUTURE, the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Miami Host Committeeoverarching legacy initiative. The University will support the Host Committee’s efforts to prepare for the influx of visitors while also contributing to a community-focused initiative through the development of a new soccer field in an underserved area. The field is intended to provide a lasting resource for local youth and expand access to the sport.

“The University of Miami is deeply woven into the fabric of this community, and its alignment with the Host Committee reflects the very best of what our city represents. I know firsthand the University’s longstanding commitment to education, athletics, innovation, and service — values that mirror the spirit of Miami itself. As we prepare to welcome the world, we are proud to stand alongside an institution whose roots are here at home, yet whose impact reaches across the globe,” said Alina T. Hudak, President & CEO of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Miami Host Committee.

Together, the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Miami Host Committee and the University of Miami aim to support a successful World Cup while ensuring a tangible, lasting benefit for the community.

Seminole Hard Rock Casino Named Official Miami World Cup 2026™ Host City Supporter

@ The Official Website of Greater Beach and Miami Beach

MIAMI, FL (May 7, 2026) — The FIFA World Cup 2026™ Miami Host Committee today announced a landmark collaboration naming Seminole Hard Rock Casino as an Official Miami World Cup 2026™ Host City Supporter, strengthening Miami’s platform as a global destination for sport, culture, and world-class entertainment.

“The FIFA World Cup 2026 unites the world together through sport, and the team at Seminole Hard Rock Casino could not be prouder to welcome fans to Florida as an Official Miami World Cup 2026 Host City Supporter,” said Jim Allen, Chairman of Hard Rock International and CEO of Seminole Gaming, and member of the Miami Host Committee Board of Directors.”With our destination minutes from the local excitement at Miami Stadium, we are uniquely positioned to extend the fandom beyond the pitch and make the experience extraordinary for those traveling to South Florida for the tournament.”

As an Official Miami World Cup 2026 Host City Supporter, Seminole Hard Rock Casino will be present at the FIFA Fan Festival™ Miami at Bayfront Park, hosting an immersive pop-up experience where fans can engage with the brand, sign up for the Unity Rewards program, win prizes, and interact with the Seminole Hard Rock Casino through surprise promotions and live entertainment. The activation will run throughout the FIFA World Cup 2026™ period, from June 13 to July 5, 2026.

By offering a vibrant, high-energy environment that reflects the diversity and international spirit of South Florida, Seminole Hard Rock Casino will contribute to a complete and memorable FIFA World Cup 2026™ experience for visitors and residents alike at its landmark Seminole Hard Rock Casino Hollywood. The award-winning property is internationally recognized for its iconic skyline, expansive gaming floor, award-winning dining concepts, and renowned Hard Rock Live performance venue. The Seminole Hard Rock Casino location will play an active role in supporting the Miami Host Committee’s Mobility Plan, including its expanded shuttle network, to enhance transportation access to the Miami Stadium.

During the FIFA World Cup 2026™, Seminole Hard Rock Casino Hollywood will host a curated lineup of themed events, live entertainment, and fan-focused programming designed to extend the excitement of the tournament beyond the stadium.

In addition, Seminole Hard Rock Casino will feature a branded presence across official FIFA World Cup 2026™ Miami activities through on-site experiences and collaborative initiatives aligned with tournament celebrations.

“Seminole Hard Rock Casino has always been about bringing people together through the power of music, entertainment, and unforgettable experiences,” said Keith Sheldon, President of Entertainment & Brand Management for Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming. “As soccer fans gather in Florida for the FIFA World Cup 2026, we are thrilled to be part of the celebration and to create memorable fan experiences in Miami that capture the energy and global spirit of this historic event.”

“Hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026 is about more than matches, it is about creating a complete destination experience for fans,” said Rodney Barreto, Chairman of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Miami Host Committee. “Seminole Hard Rock Casino’s leadership in hospitality, live entertainment, and gaming will play an important role in energizing the region and extending the celebration throughout South Florida, helping us deliver an unforgettable experience for fans from around the world.”

This collaboration underscores a shared commitment to delivering a dynamic and inclusive tournament atmosphere while generating lasting economic and cultural impact for South Florida. By combining the global stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ in Miami with one of the region’s most iconic entertainment destinations, Miami continues to elevate its role as a Host City unlike any other in the world.

Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach Celebrates Successful “Give & Shop Back” Event at Kendall Scott Palm Beach Gardens Mall

Palm Beach Gardens, FL – Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach is proud to announce the success of its recent “Give & Shop Back” fundraising event, held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Kendall Scott in Palm Beach Gardens Mall. Just in time for Mother’s Day, the event brought together local supporters for an evening of shopping with purpose, raising $837 to benefit local girls and young women in Palm Beach County.

As part of the event, 20% of all proceeds generated during the evening were generously donated back to Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach. Pace extends its sincere gratitude to Kendall Scott for hosting the event and for its commitment to giving back to the community.

Funds raised from the event will directly support Pace Palm Beach’s second-chance school, which serves girls and young women throughout Palm Beach County. These contributions help sustain critical programs and services offered at no cost to participants, including academic education, counseling, life skills training, and advocacy.

“At Pace, we believe every girl deserves the opportunity to reach her full potential,” said Mindy Hanken, Executive Director of Pace Palm Beach. “We are incredibly thankful to Kendall Scott and everyone who participated in this event. Their support helps us continue providing a safe and supportive environment where girls can build brighter futures.”

Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach is dedicated to helping girls and young women overcome challenges and achieve success. Through a holistic and trauma-informed approach that combines education, counseling, training, and advocacy, Pace empowers students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Community partnerships like this “Give & Shop Back” event play a vital role in advancing Pace’s mission and ensuring that its life-changing services remain accessible to those who need them most.

To learn more about Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach, visit www.pacecenter.org. For more information about Kendall Scott at Palm Beach Gardens Mall, visit www.kendallscott/pbgmall.

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About Pace Center for Girls

Pace provides free year-round middle and high school academics, case management, counseling, and life skills development in a safe and supportive environment that recognizes and deals with past trauma and builds upon girls’ individual strengths. Dedicated to meeting the social, emotional, and educational needs of girls, Pace has a successful and proven program model that has changed the life trajectory of more than 40,000 girls and is recognized as one of the nation’s leading advocates for girls in need. For more information on Pace Center for Girls, visit www.pacecenter.org.

Advanced Breast Cancer Care: Dr. Andrew Shapiro Showcases New Techniques at ASBrS 2026

Dr. Andrew Shapiro of Advanced Surgical Physicians recently returned from the American Society of Breast Surgeons (ASBrS) 2026 Annual Meeting, held in Seattle, Washington

As Medical Director of the Comprehensive Breast Center at Wellington Regional Medical Center, Dr. Shapiro joined top surgical oncologists from around the globe to exchange knowledge and master the latest innovations in breast cancer treatment.

The ASBrS Annual Meeting is the premier event for surgeons specializing in breast disease, focusing on the latest clinical research, surgical techniques and technological advancements.

Dr. Shapiro’s participation underscores Advanced Surgical Physicians’ commitment to providing world-class, cutting-edge care to the local community.

During the conference, Dr. Shapiro completed intensive, hands-on training in oncoplastics. This advanced surgical approach combines cancer removal with plastic surgery techniques to prioritize the aesthetic outcome and symmetry of the breast without compromising oncologic safety.

Jessica Maxwell, MD and Andrew Shapiro, MD at the American Society of Breast Surgeons (ASBrS) 2026 Annual Meeting.

The curriculum included a specialized learning lab where Dr. Shapiro utilized simulation models and trainers to refine complex reconstructive patterns.

In addition to oncoplastic surgery, Dr. Shapiro’s clinical focus at the meeting included:

High-Risk Patient Management: Implementing the latest protocols for screening and preventative care for women with genetic predispositions or elevated risk factors.
Advanced Breast Ultrasound: Enhancing the use of point-of-care ultrasound within a breast practice to improve diagnostic accuracy and surgical planning.
Minimally Invasive Innovation: Exploring the emerging roles of endoscopic and robotic nipple-sparing mastectomies, which offer smaller incisions and potentially faster recovery times.

The meeting also served as a vital hub for professional collaboration. Dr. Shapiro engaged with a diverse network of specialists, ranging from fellow surgeons in Palm Beach County to international colleagues from Ireland, as well as practitioners from Ocala, Georgia, Arizona, and Maine. A proponent of medical education, Dr. Shapiro also spent time mentoring the next generation of specialists, including current breast surgery fellows and residents.

By integrating these global perspectives and technical advancements, Dr. Shapiro and Advanced Surgical Physicians continue to set the standard for excellence in breast cancer survivorship and surgical care.

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About Advanced Surgical Physicians: Advanced Surgical Physicians provides expert breast, hernia, gallbladder, and general surgical care. Experience what makes the practice different: an in-house phone line and friendly voice to take your call, self-scheduling available for your convenience, insurance transparency, minimally-invasive options designed with your healing in mind, and physician leaders that hold honorable appointments in their specialty. Advanced Surgical Physicians offers large institute options delivered with a small-town feel. Learn more at www.toplinemd.com/advanced-surgical-physicians or call us at (561) 333-1335.

Golfing Globally From The Village to The Highlands

Known as the “Golf Capital of the World,” Palm Beach County boasts more golf courses than any other county in the United States.

But in 2026, the spotlight has shifted toward Wellington.
The winter equestrian capital of the world, Wellington hosts the Winter Equestrian Festival which is the world’s largest and longest-running equestrian event and attracts elite polo, show jumping, and dressage participants from all over the world.

Now, the Village of Wellington is elevating its reputation for elite sports with the recent approval of “The Wellington”.

The Wellington is a 400-acre residential and private club development with a championship course designed by the legendary David McLay Kidd and scheduled to open in 2028.

This joins established gems like The Wanderers Club and Wellington National, solidifying Wellington as a dual-threat destination for those who desire both world-class stables and world-class fairways.

For those looking to venture beyond the village limits, here is a list of the premier greens across the globe that every Palm Beach County golfer should have on their scorecard.

The American Icons

Bandon Dunes | Bandon, Oregon

Evoking the untamed spirit of Scotland with six distinct courses, Bandon Dunes showcases the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest. In a testament to its design, Golf Magazine named three of its courses among the 50 best built in the last half-century.

Pebble Beach | Pebble Beach, California

Arguably the most beautiful course in existence, Pebble Beach offers sweeping vistas of Carmel Bay. As the number one public course in the U.S. and home to the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, it remains a “must-play” for its dramatic cliffside finishes.

Payne’s Valley | Hollister, Missouri

A heartfelt homage to World Golf Hall of Fame member Payne Stewart, this Ozark masterpiece is the first public-access course designed by Tiger Woods and his firm, TGR Design. It is a striking blend of limestone outcrops and pristine emerald fairways.

Torrey Pines | La Jolla, California

Perched on coastal bluffs with views of the Pacific, Torrey Pines is a titan of the PGA Tour. With its South Course recently remodeled by Rees Jones and boasting the largest pro shop in the West, it’s a required pilgrimage for the serious student of the game.

Pinehurst No. 2 | Pinehurst, North Carolina

Proudly called Donald Ross’s masterpiece, Pinehurst No. 2 has hosted more single golf tournaments than any other course in America. Between the main nine courses and the “Cradle” short course, it is a playground for those who appreciate the history of the links.

The British Isle Legacy

St. Andrews Links | Fife, Scotland

The “Home of Golf” needs no introduction. With a legacy spanning 600 years, this is the sport’s ancestral home. As the largest public golf complex in Europe, walking the Old Course is less of a round of golf and more of a spiritual experience.

Ballybunion Golf Course | Kerry, Ireland

Founded in 1893, Ballybunion is a thrilling challenge set against the staggering Atlantic coastline. It is widely considered one of the finest links courses in the world, where the wind and the dunes dictate every shot.

Royal Birkdale | Southport, England

Experience the classic British links at this storied Open Championship venue. Known for its undulating greens and punishing fairways, Royal Birkdale provides a tactical test that rewards precision over power.

Global Destinations

Casa de Campo (Teeth of the Dog) | La Romana, Dominican Republic

Designed by the legendary Pete Dye, this Caribbean jewel is famous for its “seven holes created by God” along the azure waters. It is consistently ranked as the top course in Latin America.

Quivira Golf Club | Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Jack Nicklaus outdid himself with this dramatic cliffside layout. With holes that seem to hang over the edge of the world, Quivira offers some of the most breathtaking oceanfront photography opportunities in the sport.

Emirates Golf Club | Dubai, UAE

The first grass course in the Middle East, this club is home to the Dubai Desert Classic. Its iconic Bedouin-tent-inspired clubhouse and world-class facilities offer a futuristic, ultra-luxe take on the traditional game.

Editor’s Note: If you’re staying local this weekend, don’t overlook the “Bear Trap” at PGA National in nearby Palm Beach Gardens. It remains one of the most formidable three-hole stretches in professional golf, located just a short drive from the Wellington polo fields.

Pace Palm Beach Hosts Quarterly “Open Doors, Open Hearts,” Announces Walmart Grant to Support Girls’ Success

Palm Springs, FL – Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach welcomed community members on Wednesday, May 6, for its quarterly Open Doors, Open Hearts event, offering an inside look at Palm Beach County’s only gender-responsive, second-chance school for girls and young women. The year-round, tuition-free programs offered at Pace Palm Beach take a strength-based approach, recognizing each student’s unique challenges and abilities while providing the guidance and support needed to help them succeed. The event featured a presentation by Executive Director Mindy Hanken, along with guided tours of classrooms, creative spaces, and newly developed areas designed to help girls thrive. The program concluded with the announcement of a $1,000 grant from Walmart, Inc., and remarks of gratitude from Mindy on behalf of Pace Palm Beach.

Building on the momentum of the day, visitors heard directly from Pace girls, who shared stories about recent field trips, favorite subjects, and the ways Pace has helped them feel seen, supported, and confident. Pace Palm Beach serves middle and high school girls ages 11-17 across the Palm Beach County School District, providing year-round academic instruction in small class settings that allow for individualized attention. Students also work closely with counselors and trained therapists who specialize in girl-centered, trauma-informed care.

Walmart, Inc.’s recent grant plays a meaningful role in sustaining and expanding these efforts–helping Pace continue to see the great in every girl by investing in both academic success and whole-person development. In addition to their studies, girls at Pace participate in leadership and community service opportunities, build life skills, explore career pathways, and engage in individualized goal planning. From learning everyday essentials like personal wellness and grocery shopping to preparing for their first job, Pace equips each girl with the tools and confidence needed to thrive far beyond the classroom.

“I’m truly grateful to everyone who joined us for Open Doors, Open Hearts to learn more about our mission and the work we’re doing to support girls across Palm Beach County,” said Mindy Hanken, Executive Director of Pace Palm Beach. “We’re also deeply appreciative of Walmart, Inc.’s generous donation, which helps us continue investing in the success and potential of every girl we serve.”

Pace is a safe and supportive environment for girls served annually in Palm Beach County. Pace Palm Beach’s Reach Therapy Program provides therapy and counseling services to girls throughout Palm Beach County, with therapists traveling to wherever each girl feels comfortable and safe. These resources are made available to girls at no cost.

To learn more about Pace Palm Beach or how to get involved, visit www.pacecenter.org.

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About Pace Center for Girls

American Humane Society Celebrates ‘Be Kind to Animals Week’ on May 3-9

PALM BEACH, FL – One of the clearest reflections of the human spirit is the compassion we show toward others, especially animals. From May 3–9, American Humane Society will celebrate the 111th annual “Be Kind to Animals Week,” a nationwide initiative dedicated to promoting kindness, education and meaningful action on behalf of animals everywhere.

Since its founding in 1915, “Be Kind to Animals Week” has inspired generations to advocate for the humane treatment of animals. What began during the challenges of World War I has evolved into the longest-running commemorative week in U.S. history.

“When we open young hearts to the needs of animals, we don’t just inspire kindness, we help shape a future where compassion leads the way,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of American Humane Society. “Be Kind to Animals Week is more than a tradition; it’s a heartfelt call to action. Together, we have the power, and the responsibility, to create a safer, more loving world for every living creature, starting now.”

To help celebrate, American Humane Society has created a “Seven Days of Kindness” schedule offering simple, meaningful ways for animal lovers to get involved each day:

Sunday (May 3): Kick off the week with a small act of kindness. Simple gestures, like refilling a bird bath, picking up litter during a walk, or sharing an animal adoption post, can make a meaningful difference. See other ideas here.
Monday (May 4): Support shelters and rescues that provide lifesaving care for animals who have suffered cruelty or neglect. Contributing to an American Humane Society Second Chance Grant is one impactful way to help. Learn more here.
Tuesday (May 5): Make compassion part of your everyday choices by supporting products and services that are American Humane Certified™, helping protect animal welfare, people, and the planet. Look for certifications at grocery stores, zoos, aquariums, and even in film and television. Learn more here.
Wednesday (May 6): Explore ways to provide responsible, compassionate care for your pets. For example, create a pet disaster preparedness kit for emergencies such as hurricanes, floods, or wildfires. See more ideas here.
Thursday (May 7): Take action to safeguard wildlife and their natural habitats. Watch Escape from Extinction Rewilding to learn how innovative conservation efforts are helping restore ecosystems.
Friday (May 8): Celebrate the human-animal bond by honoring inspiring stories of Hero Dogs and other remarkable animals that change lives. Meet the winners of the 15^thAnnual Hero Dog Awards here.
Saturday (May 9): Be a voice for the voiceless. Advocate for animals by contacting your elected officials to support humane legislation or by volunteering at a local shelter. See more ideas here.

For more information on American Humane Society’s programs and how to support these lifesaving efforts, visit AmericanHumane.org.

Alan B. Miller Medical Center Celebrates Ribbon Cutting; Next-Generation Hospital to Open in May 2026

Palm Beach Gardens, FL, April 29, 2026 — Business and community leaders, healthcare professionals and invited guests gathered on April 29 for the ceremonial ribbon-cutting of the Alan B. Miller Medical Center, a transformative new hospital set to open for patient care in May 2026. The ribbon-cutting event marks a significant milestone for the seven-story, 365,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility, representing a nearly $430 million investment in the future of healthcare in Palm Beach County. Situated on a 34-acre campus, the hospital features 156 private patient rooms, including six suites, with capacity for future expansion as the community grows.

“This is an exciting moment for our organization, for our community and for the future of healthcare,” said Gina Melby, CEO of Alan B. Miller Medical Center. “From enhanced surgical capabilities to thoughtfully designed healing spaces, the hospital is setting a new standard for innovation and patient-centered healthcare in South Florida.”

Beyond patient care, the hospital will serve as an anchor for community health and economic development, creating more than 800 jobs and supporting local partnerships.

Named in honor of healthcare pioneer Alan B. Miller, Founder and Executive Chairman of Universal Health Services, Inc. (UHS), the medical center reflects decades of leadership and innovation. Since founding UHS in 1979, Mr. Miller has grown the organization into one of the nation’s leading healthcare providers, with a longstanding presence across Florida.

“The Alan B. Miller Medical Center symbolizes both the personal legacy of my father and a transformative advancement for healthcare,” said Marc D. Miller, President and CEO of UHS. “It represents the realization of his vision – grounded in access, service, resilience and community impact. This hospital will serve as a destination for care, combining state-of-the-art technology, integrated services and a patient-centered environment designed to deliver the kind of care he has always said he would want for his own family.”

Following the ribbon cutting ceremony, attendees toured the new facility, experiencing firsthand the hospital’s advanced technology, thoughtful design and commitment to high-quality patient care.

“This is a remarkable day for me and my family,” said Alan B. Miller. “I got into the hospital business to help people. I never intended to be the biggest; I always wanted to be the best. I want our hospitals to treat patients the way I would want my own family treated – and I am confident the Alan B. Miller Medical Center team will deliver on that promise.”

Additional details regarding services, patient access and opening-day operations will be shared in the coming weeks.

Young Musicians Bring Emotional Healing Through Classical Performance at The Carlisle Palm Beach

LANTANA, Fla. — Student musicians with the nonprofit Music for Mending Minds brought a classical performance to residents at The Carlisle Palm Beach on Friday, April 17, 2026, offering an evening centered on music, connection, and shared experience.

The ensemble of volunteer musicians is made up of local middle and high school students who perform free concerts for children and seniors throughout Palm Beach County. The student-led organization presents classical pieces as a group and also features solo performances.

Music for Mending Minds founder, high school senior Alex Regalado, said the group is focused on sharing the benefits of music while creating a supportive and engaging environment for audiences. Musicians are selected based on their commitment to the art of music, their empathetic nature, and their understanding of music’s positive influence.

Residents at The Carlisle Palm Beach responded enthusiastically to the performance. One long-time resident said the evening featured music she had not heard in years, bringing back meaningful memories.

“Our residents were completely engaged from start to finish,” said Jackie Crawford, senior living sales director at The Carlisle Palm Beach. “The performance created a warm, uplifting atmosphere that truly highlighted the impact music can have on emotional well-being.”

“They were outstanding. I really enjoyed them,” long-time resident Doris S. added. We had the greatest time.”

The Carlisle Palm Beach is a reimagined coastal community offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care in a refined, resort-style setting. To learn more, 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 modern coastal community offering independent and assisted living 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 about The Carlisle Palm Beach, visit www.carlislepalmbeach.com.

Be Kind to Your Mind: Honoring Mental Health Awareness Month

This article was written in collaboration with Marriage and Family Therapist Oscar R. Lora

As we begin the month of May, we also recognize the start of Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and deepening our understanding of mental health in everyday life.

Just like physical health, mental health plays a crucial role in overall wellness. It affects how we think, feel, and interact with the world around us. This month is a reminder to prioritize our mental wellbeing and engage in practices that support a healthy, balanced life.

Understanding Mental Health

According to the CDC, mental health is a component of behavioral health that includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It is a state of well-being that allows us to cope with stress, relate to others, understand our abilities, and make decisions.

Many factors affect mental health. Marriage and Family Therapist Oscar R. Lora explains, “The factors that are currently affecting people’s mental wellbeing are the stressors that come from everyday life.” Those stressors include but are not limited to work, school, finances, relationships (e.g., romantic, familial, and friendships), and major life changes. In many cases, mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, can stem from those daily stressors, as well as trauma from past life experiences.

Social connection also plays a prominent role. “Connectivity is a big factor, and on the opposite side of that is loneliness,” Lora said. “Especially with the rise of social media, it is hard for people to connect in a world where everything is superficial.” He explained that people are lacking that physical human-to-human connection and the intimacy friendships used to have before social media took over. While social media may help people stay connected, Lora highlighted that people need “organic relationships,” where people spend time and connect in-person as well.

Additionally, genetics and family history are contributors to a person’s mental health. Biological factors such as prenatal damage, age, brain chemistry, and serious physical health conditions (e.g., cancer, diabetes, neurological conditions, and autoimmune diseases) play a significant role as well.

Lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, and sleep quality have meaningful impacts that should not be ignored.

Breaking the Stigma

Mental Health Awareness Month is important because the stigma surrounding mental health still exists. Misinformation portrays individuals with mental illness as weak, unstable, or oftentimes dangerous. The misconceptions have made it difficult for people to seek help due to the fear of being misunderstood, discriminated against, or judged.

Mental Health America established May as Mental Health Awareness Month in 1949, with the intention of raising awareness and breaking the stigma.

Society has come a long way in terms of how mental health is understood. Over time, open discussions have become more normalized. It is spoken about more often, rather than being a subject that was once silenced. There are more resources that encourage people to get help, as well as educational resources so people have an accurate understanding of what mental health really means and what the specific conditions are.

Even though progress has been made over generations, there is still work to be done. This month is meant to break the stigma by encouraging more open conversations, educating ourselves and others, and showing compassion to those experiencing mental illness.

Building Awareness Through Education

This time is also an opportunity to learn more and build an accurate understanding of mental health. One way to do so is by exploring reputable online resources. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers free educational programs, evidence-based resources, workshops, and seminars. NAMI also provides advocacy and support for individuals with mental health conditions, as well as their families, friends, and the broader community.

Additionally, Psychology Today provides articles and blogs on a range of topics related to mental health, as well as a directory for therapists in your local area. Filters can be selected to identify providers who accept your insurance, specific concerns, or provide sessions based on your preference (in person, phone, or virtual).

Reading books, watching videos, and listening to podcasts can deepen your understanding as well. Following mental health professionals and advocates on social media is another way to stay informed, as they share tips, information, and resources to promote awareness.

Education plays a key role in breaking the stigma. It reduces the misconceptions by encouraging empathy and understanding.

Be Kind to Your Mind

A healthy mind is the foundation of a fulfilling life. Dedicating time to self-care is essential for maintaining peace of mind. This can include regular exercise, self-reflection, practicing gratitude, getting enough sleep, a healthy diet, and pursuing hobbies that bring joy and relaxation.

Connecting with family, friends, and even an animal can also provide comfort and a meaningful sense of belonging. Talking to a mental health professional offers guidance and valuable insight.

Together, these practices build resilience and foster a healthy, balanced mindset. Prioritizing mental health is not only for the month of May. It is a lifelong practice that deserves care, compassion, and attention every day.

About Oscar

Oscar R. Lora is a Marriage & Family Therapist based in Palm Springs, Florida. He specializes in addiction, anxiety, family and adolescents, and depression. Lora established his own private practice, Center for Holistic Living, where he offers in-person and virtual sessions. Lora is dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for his clients to openly express themselves while working toward their mental health goals. Contact Oscar at CenterForHolisticLiving@gmail.com, (561) 783-5968, or check out his Psychology Today profile below for more information!

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/oscar-r-lora-palm-springs-fl/1161397

Gelato & Co. Lantana, FL — Flavors, Hours & Why It’s Worth the Trip

Photo Credits: Duoright

On Friday, April 24, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Gelato & Co. Lantana celebrated the grand opening of its newest location at 8776 Lantana Rd, Suite A 116, in Lake Worth with an exclusive, invite-only event hosted by owner Giancarlo Triulzi.

The afternoon kicked off with guests arriving at a lively environment filled with local content creators, media representatives, and photographers, all of whom were welcomed with a glass of champagne. As the event got underway, guests mingled and connected, creating a warm, social atmosphere.

The event then transitioned into an interactive experience, featuring a “make your own popsicle” station where attendees could customize their treats. Guests selected their preferred popsicle flavors, dipped them in rich chocolate glaze, and topped them off with a variety of creative and colorful toppings.

“Thank you, Lantana, for being part of our grand opening celebration,” said Giancarlo Triulzi, owner of Gelato & Co. Lantana. “Seeing so many smiling faces, families, friends, and neighbors come together made this day truly special.”

Music played throughout the venue, adding to the celebratory mood, before the official ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the store’s opening. The moment symbolized not only the launch of the new location but also the brand’s continued expansion in the community.

As the event concluded, guests were sent off with thoughtfully prepared goodie bags, which included two special offers: a coupon for a free cone and a buy-one-get-one-free gelato deal, both with applicable expiration dates.

The grand opening successfully blended indulgence, creativity, and community, leaving attendees with both sweet treats and a memorable experience.

Fan favorites at Gelato & Co. include their authentic Pistachio gelato, and classics like Stracciatella, Tiramisù, and Mint Chocolate Chip.

Hours: Monday through Thursday and Sunday 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM, Friday and Saturday 1:00 PM – 10:00 PM

To learn more about Gelato & Co. Lantana, visit www.gelatoeco.com/our-stores/florida/.

See Vision Eye Institute in Wellington Celebrates the Opening of their New Surgery Center

Photos provided by See Vision Eye Institute

Wellington, FL (April 2026) – See Vision Eye Institute proudly announces the opening of its new, state-of-the-art surgery center in Wellington, further advancing access to high-quality ophthalmic care for patients throughout Palm Beach County.

See Vision Eye Institute features fourteen advanced exam lanes, a full range of advanced diagnostic equipment, a cutting-edge laser suite, and an optical department. With the addition of the new surgical center, patients now benefit from the convenience and continuity of receiving comprehensive care, from diagnosis to surgery – all in one location.

This milestone underscores the practice’s ongoing commitment to delivering world-class eyecare in a modern, patient-centered environment.

“This practice began as a vision – my dream to create a space where patients could access the most advanced eye surgery in a setting that reflects precision, efficiency, and care. With the opening of our new building and the launch of our surgery center, that dream is now a reality. We’re proud to support the residents of this community with the sophisticated care they deserve. We have many exciting plans in store for our community.” Jason Gorscak, MD, Founder and Owner.

Jason Gorscak, MD’s training includes undergraduate studies at Johns Hopkins University, medical school at the University of Miami School of Medicine, and residency at the University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey. Inspired by the South Florida community, he established See Vision Eye Institute to provide advanced cataract and refractive surgical solutions with a strong emphasis on personalized patient care.

The new 6 bed surgery center is equipped with 2 operating rooms and a laser suite, designed to provide patients with the latest in ophthalmic technology. It features advanced equipment like – image-guided systems and femtosecond laser-assisted techniques, all designed to enhance surgical precision, safety, and outcomes. The practice offers a full spectrum of premium Intraocular Lenses (IOLs) – including toric, multifocal, and light- adjustable options – enabling customized vision correction and reduced dependence on glasses.

In addition to cataract surgery, See Vision Eye Institute specializes in Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) and Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICLs), providing effective alternatives for patients who may not be candidates for LASIK or who have more complex vision needs.

“Opening our surgery center is more than just growth; it’s the realization of our purpose. From cataract surgery to refractive lens exchange, we deliver solutions that empower people to live their best lives. As we expand, we remain deeply committed to becoming an employer of choice – investing in great people, great outcomes, and a facility where excellence is the standard. This expansion reflects our long-term vision for leading ophthalmic care in Palm Beach County," said Myra Cherchio, CEO.

Patients can expect a streamlined, comfortable surgical experience supported by a highly trained clinical team and a focus on safety, efficiency, and exceptional outcomes.

See Vision Eye Institute welcomes the community to experience a new standard in vision care – one defined by clarity, precision, and compassion.