News Archive - Page 20 of 40 - The Wellington Edit

Wellington Bay Residents Donate Nearly 80 Teddy Bears to Wellington Regional Neonatal Unit

WELLINGTON, FLA – Luxury senior living community Wellington Bay hosted its inaugural Teddy Bear Drive on Friday, Mar 20, 2026

Residents and staff collected teddy bears from March 1st through March 18th and gathered nearly 80 teddy bears to benefit the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Wellington Regional Medical Center.

The drive followed a special presentation held at the community on March 18th by guest speaker Annette Isaacs, who shared the moving life story of Margaret Steiff, the creator of the world-renowned Steiff teddy bear.

The spirit of giving was amplified by Wellington Bay resident Patty Raff. In celebration of her 80th birthday, Raff requested that her guests donate teddy bears in lieu of traditional birthday gifts.

“When my son Kenny was born, he weighed just three pounds and spent over a month in the NICU at Mount Sinai in New York City,” Raff said. “I have everything I want and this year, I wanted to do something to help, so I told all my friends to bring a teddy bear to my birthday party. One of my friends asked if he could just give me a check instead of a bear and I told him, ‘No bear, no food!’”

Thanks to Raff’s selfless gesture and the overwhelming participation of residents and employees, the community exceeded its donation goal and Raff plans on hosting the drive again next year.

Representatives from Wellington Bay visited Wellington Regional to deliver the donations. The bears were received by Kimberley Masterson, NICU Director, alongside siblings of NICU patients who were among the first to receive the cuddly toys.

“The two youngest brothers grabbed the two biggest bears,” Raff said with a laugh.

Through this initiative and the generosity of its residents, Wellington Bay continues to foster a culture of compassion and community connection. By turning a milestone birthday into a tangible gift for local families, the residents have ensured that the smallest patients at Wellington Regional Medical Center feel the embrace of a supportive community.

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Wellington Bay is a rental retirement community featuring luxury apartments and a place for seniors to enjoy life. With something for everyone, Wellington Bay offers independent living that supports a vibrant lifestyle for active aging and also provides assisted living support, respite care, and advanced, cutting-edge memory care at Lisbet Health Center, located onsite in Wellington, Florida. Named by Money Magazine as one of the “Best Places to Retire,” Wellington is known for its golf courses, thriving equestrian community, and lovely homes.

Wellington Bay and Lisbet Health Center is owned and operated by Liberty Senior Living, LLC, a Liberty Healthcare Management division specializing in senior living and retirement communities. To learn more about Wellington Bay, visit www.wellingtonbayfl.com.

To learn more about Liberty Senior Living and the communities they offer, please visit www.LibertySeniorLiving.com.

Gastroenterologist Vikram Tarugu, M.D., Returns to Wellington, Expands Care After Serving Okeechobee

WELLINGTON, FLA – A familiar and trusted name in health care is returning to Wellington following his departure in 2013 to help address a critical shortage of gastroenterology care in Okeechobee County.

Vikram Tarugu, M.D., a board-certified and fellowship-trained gastroenterologist, spent three years serving the Wellington community before leaving to open a practice in Okeechobee, where there was no local gastroenterologist. Now, he is establishing Wellington Digestive Institute, located at 1447 Medical Park Blvd. Suite 405 in Wellington, Florida.

59597008 5A68 4865 AA36 930133A4A153 — Dr. Vikram Taruga

After successfully establishing a presence in Okeechobee and improving access to specialty care there, Dr. Tarugu is now expanding his practice back into Wellington, where he will continue serving patients while maintaining care in both communities.

“Wellington has always felt like home,” he said. “After establishing strong access to care in Okeechobee, I’m proud to expand back into Wellington and continue serving both communities.”

Dr. Tarugu is double board-certified in gastroenterology and internal medicine and completed a gastroenterology fellowship with a specialty in endoscopic ultrasound. He completed advanced training in the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital, home to the largest hospital-based research program in the world, as well as advanced training in inflammatory bowel disease and endoscopic ultrasound at the University of Montreal.

He is a member of the American Medical Association, American College of Gastroenterology, the American Gastroenterological Association, and the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Dr. Tarugu is a former faculty member at Marshall University and East Tennessee State University in the gastroenterology department.

The practice offers a comprehensive range of in-office endoscopic and gastrointestinal procedures, including colonoscopies, upper endoscopies (EGD), flexible sigmoidoscopies, esophageal dilation, and video capsule endoscopy — many of which are minimally invasive and require little to no anesthesia. They also provide advanced liver diagnostics, including liver ultrasound and FibroScan technology.

Wellington Digestive Institute is located at 1447 Medical Park Blvd. Suite 405 in Wellington, Florida, and is now accepting new and returning patients.

Dr. Tarugu is affiliated with Wellington Regional Hospital. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Wellington Digestive Institute at (561) 767-8342.

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Wellington Digestive Institute is located at 1447 Medical Park Blvd. Suite 405 in Wellington, Florida, and is now accepting new and returning patients.

The practice offers a comprehensive range of in-office endoscopic and gastrointestinal procedures, including colonoscopies, upper endoscopies (EGD), flexible sigmoidoscopies, esophageal dilation, video capsule endoscopy, and hemorrhoid banding — many of which are minimally invasive and require little to no anesthesia. They also provide advanced liver diagnostics, including liver ultrasound and FibroScan technology. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Wellington Digestive Institute at (561) 767-8342.

Wellington Bay and Lisbet Health Center Secure Top Honors in 2026 Palm Beach County Community’s Choice Awards

Gita Anderson - Lisbet at Wellington Bay

WELLINGTON, FLA – Wellington Bay and Lisbet at Wellington Bay are proud to announce their prestigious recognition in the 2026 Palm Beach County Community’s Choice Awards.

The community emerged as a leader across three major senior living categories, celebrating these achievements at the awards gala held on March 12, 2026 at the Palm Beach County Convention Center.

The community secured the following honors:

Winner (First Place): Memory Care – Lisbet at Wellington Bay
Winner (First Place): Assisted/Senior Living – Lisbet at Wellington Bay
Finalist: Retirement/55+ – Wellington Bay

The Palm Beach County Community’s Choice Awards is a community-driven program that recognizes excellence in over 170 categories. With more than 500 businesses participating, the awards serve as a trusted guide for residents seeking the highest quality services in the region. Winning or placing as a finalist is a significant milestone, reflecting a company’s deep-rooted commitment to the community it serves.

“Receiving these honors is humbling because they come directly from the community we care for,” said Jay Mikosch, Executive Campus Director. “To me, this recognition simply highlights the dedication and heart our staff pours into their work every day; I am so grateful to stand alongside a team that cares so deeply. Above all, I want to thank our residents and their families. We never take for granted the trust you place in us to look after your loved ones. It is your presence and your high standards that truly make Wellington Bay and Lisbet at Wellington Bay a place we are proud to call home.”

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Wellington Bay and Lisbet at Wellington Bay is owned and operated by Liberty Senior Living, LLC, a Liberty Healthcare Management division specializing in senior living and retirement communities. To learn more about Wellington Bay, visit www.wellingtonbayfl.com.

To learn more about Liberty Senior Living and the communities they offer, please visit www.LibertySeniorLiving.com.

Satori, Beachway’s Holistic Wellness Center, Opened Today in Downtown West Palm Beach

Carrie Carlton, Paritosh Nath, Pamela Egan, Rachael Bass

West Palm Beach, Fla. (March 19, 2026)— Beachway Therapy Center unveiled a major addition to its award-winning recovery and treatment facility located in downtown West Palm Beach: a newly constructed wellness building and grounds designed to enhance trauma-informed, whole-person care for individuals in recovery. The new ‘Beachway Holistic Wellness Center’ will mark a meaningful evolution in integrative behavioral health treatment.

An open house to unveil the new facilities was held on Thursday, March 19 and included a wellness tea bar, intention card station, walkthroughs of the new space, guided meditations and sound healing, breathwork and sound bowls, wellness bites and a clinician Q & A. Beachway is located at 1700 N. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach, FL, 33401.

Unlike traditional treatment environments, the standalone wellness building and Zen-inspired garden spaces were intentionally designed to support nervous system regulation, emotional safety, and connection. It will serve as a dedicated space for holistic programming and therapeutic groups within a calm, restorative setting.

Key features include:

A dedicated massage therapy suite
Meditation and mindfulness space
An on-site salon supporting dignity and self-care
Purpose-built areas for experiential and integrative therapies

“Beachway Holistic Wellness Center will support nervous system regulation by helping clients develop greater awareness of their physiological state. Through our resilience groups, clients learn to reduce chronic muscle tension and shift out of survival-based responses. Cultivating a relaxed muscle body becomes a foundational skill that supports emotional regulation, improved stress tolerance, and sustained recovery,” said Carrie Carlton, Beachway’s Chief Clinical Officer.

Beachway will also introduce or expand wellness initiatives within the space, which include sound healing, body-based trauma therapies, mindfulness practices, and other experiential modalities. Beachway Holistic Wellness Center reflects a growing demand among patients and families for environments that feel restorative rather than clinical; spaces that actively support healing beyond traditional therapy rooms.

Global Humane Opens Applications for Fifth Annual Wolfgang Kiessling International Prize for Species Conservation Applications for the Prestigious Award and Corresponding Grant Close June 1, 2026

Photo credit: American Humane Society | Professor Theo Pagel holds the Kiessling Prize Award with Robin Ganzert, American Humane president and CEO

PALM BEACH, FL – Global Humane Society opened applications for the prestigious Wolfgang Kiessling International Prize for Species Conservation, now for a landmark fifth year, dedicated to protecting and preserving the remarkable animals of the world.

The Kiessling Prize recognizes scientists and leaders whose work has produced measurable, lasting impact on species and biodiversity. Named in honor of visionary conservationist Wolfgang F. Kiessling, recipients are awarded a grant to continue their work to advance species conservation.

At a critical time when Earth is in the midst of a sixth mass extinction, and up to 1 million species are at risk, wildlife conservation is more important than ever.

“We look forward to receiving submissions for the next recipient of the Wolfgang Kiessling International Prize for Species Conservation and to continuing to honor Wolfgang Kiessling’s extraordinary legacy through this award,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of Global Humane Society. “This prize celebrates the inspiring conservationists whose courage, compassion, and unwavering dedication are protecting endangered species and ensuring that the beauty and wonder of our natural world endure for generations to come.”

The president of Loro Parque, Wolfgang Kiessling, stated that “the opening of this fifth edition represents a source of deep satisfaction for me and, above all, an enormous responsibility. Over the years, we have had the honor of recognizing exceptional professionals whose dedication demonstrates that international cooperation and research are fundamental tools for halting the loss of biodiversity. At Loro Parque and the Loro Parque Foundation, we remain fully committed to conservation, science and animal welfare.”

The Kiessling Prize selection committee is led by Dr. Robin Ganzert, Brad Andrews, Christoph Kiessling, Cybell Kiessling, and Dr. Jon Paul Rodríguez. The committee will review applications and ultimately select one recipient of the top prize and a grant to help further their significant contributions to the practical application, research and theory of species protection.

This past year, the committee awarded Dr. Kathleen Dudzinski, Director and Founder of the Dolphin Communication Project and Managing Editor of Aquatic Mammals journal, with the 2025 Wolfgang Kiessling International Prize for Species Conservation.

Dr. Dudzinski has spent over 30 years advancing the study and conservation of cetaceans. Through pioneering research, innovative underwater technologies and international outreach, she has deepened scientific understanding and promoted global efforts to protect marine life.

The Kiessling Prize has recognized other outstanding leaders in global species conservation over the past five years. In 2024, the committee awarded Dr. Arnaud Desbiez, President and Founder of the Wild Animal Conservation Institute (ICAS) in Brazil. In 2023, the Kiessling Prize was awarded to Professor Theo B. Pagel, CEO of the Cologne Zoo in Germany. The inaugural Kiessling Prize, awarded in 2022, honored Dr. Jon Paul Rodríguez, former Chair of the IUCN Species Survival Commission.

The application period for the 2026 Kiessling Prize will close on June 1, 2026. Applicants can learn more about the prize and submit their credentials here.

About Global Humane Society

Global Humane Society is the international brand of American Humane Society, which is the United States’ first national humane organization and the world’s largest certifier of animal welfare, helping to verify the humane treatment of more than one billion animals across the globe each year. American Humane Society has been at the forefront of virtually every major advancement in the humane movement to rescue, care for and protect animals. For more information or to support our lifesaving work, please visit AmericanHumane.org, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram and subscribe to our channel on YouTube for the latest breaking news and features about the animals with whom we share our Earth.

Palm Health Foundation Convenes Global Brain Health Leaders to Launch Inaugural Brain Coast Advisory Council

Steve Carnevale, Dr. Paul Evans, Dr. Randy Blakely, and Patrick McNamara

West Palm Beach, Fla.– Leaders in brain science, philanthropy, neuroarts, and community health from across the U.S. and abroad converged in Palm Beach County March 2–4, 2026, for the Brain Coast Advisory Council launch convened by Palm Health Foundation. The gathering marked a pivotal moment in South Florida’s emergence as a nationally recognized brain-forward ecosystem, linking the region’s world-renowned brain science institutions, community assets, and innovation to improve brain health and resilience.

South Florida’s Brain Coast has been identified as one of four regions central to an emerging U.S. brain economy strategy—alongside Houston, California, and Pennsylvania—with its unique differentiator being the ability to unite cutting-edge neuroscience research with community-centered action. That vision drew Council leaders to the table, united by a shared conviction cited by the recent McKinsey Health Institute report, The Human Advantage: Stronger Brains in the Age of AI: “Stronger brains strengthen resilience, productivity, and shared prosperity. It is time to invest accordingly.”

The Council explored three interlocking pillars of the Brain Coast vision: deepening brain science, education, and resiliency through research; engaging community to foster brain health across all ages and backgrounds; and spurring innovation to develop novel interventions for mental health illnesses and neurodegenerative diseases. Participants from the Brain Economy Hub, Marcus Neuroscience Institute at Baptist Health South Florida, Johns Hopkins University’s NeuroArts Blueprint Initiative, the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, the Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology, the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, FAU’s Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute, Brain Health Network UK, and the Milken Institute’s SPARC initiative, among others, brought local, national, and global perspective to the Brain Coast’s distinctive role across the emerging brain health landscape.

“The opportunity is now,” said Palm Health Foundation President and CEO Patrick McNamara. “Our esteemed Council members see the potential to make Palm Beach County and the greater South Florida region a place where brain health is intentionally integrated and prioritized across science, care, education, civic life, and economic development. We invite others to join us in what is one of the most meaningful investments we can make in human potential for our region, and as a model for the nation.”

McNamara cites several converging forces that make the moment particularly urgent:

Nearly everyone is affected. About 8 in 10 Americans say they or someone close to them has experienced a brain health condition, making brain health a universal issue.
The burden on daily life is massive. Brain conditions drive a large share of disability worldwide, limiting people’s ability to learn, work, care for others, and live independently.
Brain health drives economic resilience. Healthy brains are core economic assets. Underinvesting in brain health undermines future innovation, productivity, and community prosperity.

Palm Health Foundation has already invested meaningfully to build the region’s brain health ecosystem, committing $500,000 toward the launch of the Center for the Resilient Mind at Florida Atlantic University’s Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute, and another $1 million to support the institute’s Program in Computational Brain Science and Health. The foundation has also invested more than $500,000 to launch one of the country’s first named NeuroArts Coalitions, and another $500,000 in community-identified mini-grants to support brain health and well-being.

The Brain Coast reflects Palm Health Foundation’s role not only as a funder, but also as a strategic partner helping to bring together the people, institutions, and philanthropy needed to move the work forward. Early support from the Stiles-Nicholson Foundation and the David Minkin Foundation, along with a recent grant from the Carl A. DeSantis Foundation, is helping to build momentum and attract national attention.

“The science is accelerating, the need is undeniable, and South Florida has the institutions, the community, and the will to lead,” McNamara said. “The brain health choices we make as a region, in how we design our schools, our neighborhoods, our healthcare, and our civic life, will determine the cognitive and emotional health of generations to come. That is an incredible responsibility, and an incredible opportunity.”

Wellington Hosts Exclusive Premiere of ‘Unspoken Bond’ Documentary

Photos: Courtesy of Valentin Garcia (VG Creations)

Excitement filled The Wanderers Club on Monday evening as Wellington’s renowned equestrian and philanthropist, Jackie Ducci, and director Don Hardy took center stage to host the first exclusive premiere of the documentary, Unspoken Bond.

The special event brought together the film’s creative team, cast, and supporters to celebrate not only the documentary’s debut, but also the powerful connection between humans and animals that define its story.

Ducci and Hardy were joined by the film’s featured subjects, such as combat veteran Jason Gaver, Wellington’s dressage rider Shannon Dueck, and Nicole Navarro, founder of Pawsitive Beginnings Fox Sanctuary. The group took the time to greet guests, pose for photos, and share insight into their personal journeys, as well as what audiences could expect before watching the movie.

Before the film started, Ducci and Hardy thanked the audience for their support and emphasized the beauty and significance between the human and animal bond, highlighting how it can shape lives for the better. Ducci stated, “I’m a huge believer in the power animals have to make our lives better. They can change lives and they can save lives. This is something that not only I have experienced, but I’ve witnessed countless other people experience the same. These bonds are very real, deep, and meaningful.”

Hardy expressed his pride in the film and how it was created with a lot of heart. Together, their words set the tone for a film that is both emotional and inspiring.

As the lights dimmed, the audience embarked on a journey through the perspectives of Jason Gaver, Nicole Navarro, and Shannon Dueck. Their experiences illustrate how the human-animal bond can shape, heal, and transform the lives for both humans and the animals. The film highlights the power of healing, resilience, and companionship from the human-animal bond. For each individual, animals played a pivotal role during times of hardship.

In Navarro’s segment, she opens up about facing her own personal struggles, and how she found healing from caring for animals during a difficult time. She highlighted how the bonds she made with the animals gave her a purpose, which ultimately led her to open a fox sanctuary called Pawsitive Beginnings.

Gaver took the audience through his journey with his service dog, Woodrow. Their story illustrates how Woodrow provides Gaver mental and emotional support, as well as a renewed sense of purpose. Gaver was transparent about how Woodrow helps him cope with lasting effects of military service, as well as reclaiming his role as a father. From watching Gaver’s segment, it is evident that their bond provides stability and a sense of connection.

Viewers also got to experience how dressage rider, Shannon Dueck’s bond with her Grand Prix horse, Angelika, went beyond partnership in her sport. Together, they shared a love for one another and relied on each other’s presence and trust. Dueck explains how she and Angelika mirrored each other. They knew how to tend to one another during times of joy, fear, and sadness. The film captured the heartbreak of Angelika’s passing and how Dueck was able to navigate through the loss, while keeping her companion’s memory alive.

There was a mix of tears, laughter, and smiles throughout the theater. The crowd was visibly moved by the raw experiences shared in the film. At the same time, they were overcome with joy and hope. It was truly inspiring to see how Gaver, Navarro, and Dueck overcame their challenges through their own strength, and with the love and connection given to them by their animals.

The movie was a true testament of how the human-animal connection is just as important as the human connection. The film gives validation for anyone who has a bond with an animal, whether it be a pet or animals they work with. Anyone who may not have a personal bond with an animal, will definitely want to experience it after watching Unspoken Bond. Animals provide a unique yet special kind of love. They don’t judge. They just love you unconditionally no matter who you are, where you come from, and what you have been through.

To learn more about the missions featured in the film, visit www.pawsitivebeginnings.org to learn about Navarro’s organization and www.paws4people.org for Gaver and Woodrow’s journey.

WBC Productions Wellington FL — Educational Documentary Storytelling

By any measure, Now We Know! arrives at exactly the right moment. In a media landscape saturated with fast content, algorithmic noise, and surface-level explanations, the series offers something increasingly rare: thoughtful, curiosity-driven storytelling that gives audiences real insights into the organizations shaping the world around them.

At the helm is Will Barnes, Executive Producer and founder of WBC Productions, whose passion for educational storytelling spans more than two decades. With Now We Know!, Barnes set out to create a series that informs without condescension, engages without gimmicks, and elevates both the subject matter and the people behind it.

Will Barnes, Founder & Owner of WBC Productions

“The idea was to create a format that serves everyone involved,” Barnes explains. “The organizations, the audience, and the story itself.” Having seen firsthand how powerful educational storytelling can be when it’s done well, Barnes envisioned a platform that allows organizations to share what they do—and why it matters—in a way that feels credible, meaningful, and accessible.

That philosophy sits squarely at the core of WBC Productions. Known for its narrative craftsman and high production standards, the company has built a reputation for making people feel comfortable on camera which is an essential ingredient for authentic storytelling. “We firmly believe that when people feel at ease, the message comes through more clearly,” Barnes says. “That’s when real connection happens.”

*On set with WBC Productions; Filming* “Now We Know!”

It was also a response to what Barnes saw as a gap in the marketplace. “We’ve seen some low quality projects on television,” he notes. “We knew that exceptional quality could raise the bar in this space — and that felt like our responsibility.”

A key element in bringing Now We Know! to life was finding the right host, someone capable of connecting with audiences across backgrounds and interests. The choice, Barnes says, was obvious.

“When we were looking for a host who could connect with everybody, we instantly thought of Steve Guttenberg.” The legendary actor brings a unique blend of warmth, charisma, and genuine curiosity to the program. “He is also just an exceptional human being,” Barnes adds. “Seeing how he stepped up during the Palisades fires in California really reinforced that. His sincerity comes through in every episode. Everybody loves Steve!”

For first-time viewers, the goal of Now We Know! is simple but ambitious: education, first and foremost. Each episode introduces new topics in an engaging, approachable way, offering viewers a deeper understanding of industries and organizations that quietly influence everyday life. “Our world is constantly changing,” Barnes says, “and organizations are shaping that change. It’s important for the public to understand these topics beyond the small glimpses they get on social media.”

That depth is precisely why the show is resonating so strongly right now. As Barnes sees it, audiences are craving authenticity. “In a landscape dominated by AI and algorithm-driven content, it’s become harder to hear directly from real experts,” he explains. Now We Know! creates space for industry leaders to speak in their own words, without filters—and that direct connection is powerful.

The audience response has exceeded expectations. Barnes admits he’s been overwhelmed by how well the series has been received, particularly given past attempts by other programs to tackle similar concepts. “What’s been most rewarding is the level of engagement from both viewers and participants,” he says. “There’s real enthusiasm and growing demand for this kind of content.”

For Barnes, the success of Now We Know! is also deeply personal. Educational storytelling has been a through-line since his first documentary over 20 years ago, and the series reflects a broader vision shaped by years of experience. “I’ve gained insight into how many industries quietly shape our everyday lives,” he says. “I’ve been fortunate to have that perspective, and this show is about sharing it with a wider audience in a compelling, approachable way.”

Bringing the series to life wasn’t without challenges. Barnes notes that the industry can carry misconceptions, with high-quality productions sometimes unfairly grouped alongside less credible projects. “We’re a team of seasoned creative producers with decades of experience,” he says. “These projects deliver real value, but because the quality and reach are so strong, some organizations initially think it sounds too good to be true.” The lesson, he adds, has been the importance of transparency, trust, and long-term partnership.

What truly sets Now We Know! apart is WBC Productions’ end-to-end involvement. From production through distribution, the team maintains full oversight, ensuring both quality and reach. The relationships don’t end when filming wraps. “Many of our partnerships are long-term,” Barnes says. “We take pride in growing alongside the organizations we work with.”

As for what’s next, the momentum shows no signs of slowing. Demand for Now We Know! currently exceeds capacity, which is a challenge Barnes embraces with careful optimism. “We’re focused on scaling thoughtfully,” he says, “so we can tell more stories without compromising quality.”

In an era hungry for substance, Now We Know! stands as a reminder that education, when paired with authenticity and craftsmanship, doesn’t just inform—it inspires. And for Will Barnes and WBC Productions, that’s exactly the point.

Savor the Flavor: Taste of Wellington Returns April 24

Photos: Courtesy of The Village of Wellington

Are you in the mood for good food? The Village of Wellington is proud to announce the return of its annual community event, Taste of Wellington.

This fun-filled event will take place on April 24, 2026, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., and is located at Town Center Promenade (12150 Forest Hill Boulevard Wellington, FL 33414). Grab your family and friends, and enjoy an evening filled with all the best food, beverages, and entertainment.

Taste of Wellington started last year with the intention of giving residents the opportunity to discover new restaurants while enjoying their longtime favorites. Restaurant owners will be able interact with their loyal customers and potential new customers that may not have been to their restaurant before.

Attendees can expect to taste all the delicious signature dishes and refreshing beverages, while enjoying live music and entertainment throughout the night.

The fun does not stop there! Kids can enjoy bounce houses and face painting, making this the perfect family outing.

“I really believe this is a way for attendees to be able to interact with all of the local restaurants, get to know them, maybe find your new favorite spot to eat…while engaging with the community. We do have a lot of offerings for our families such as bounce houses and henna.” Community Services Director Jenifer Brito said. “I think for the restaurants, it really does give them an opportunity to engage with the community in one place.

There is a wide variety of restaurants participating in this year’s event, from your favorite franchises to your local family-owned restaurants. These food-spots fill your palette with all the best flavors from sweet, savory, spicy, and more.

Taste of Wellington is the event you want to add to your Spring bucket list. Whether you come with friends, family, or on your own, just make sure you bring your appetite. You will have the opportunity to connect with your community while savoring Wellington’s finest meals. Enjoy the live music, entertainment, and the scenic view walking along the water of Wellington’s beautiful promenade. While you’re here, you might just find your new favorite restaurant.

Don’t miss out! Go buy your tickets. Tickets cost $40 for general admission, $10 for children 4 to 11, and free for children 3 and under.

If you are a restaurant looking to participate in Taste of Wellington, contact Senior Program Coordinator, Heather Navarro at 561-753-5262 or hnavarro@wellingtonfl.gov to get involved.

Gastroenterologist Vikram Tarugu, M.D., Returns to Wellington, Expands Care After Serving Okeechobee

“Wellington has always felt like home,” he said. “After establishing strong access to care in Okeechobee, I’m proud to expand back into Wellington and continue serving both communities.”

Wellington Digestive Institute is located at 1447 Medical Park Blvd. Suite 405 in Wellington, Florida, and is now accepting new and returning patients.

Dr. Tarugu is affiliated with Wellington Regional Hospital. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Wellington Digestive Institute at (561) 767-8342.

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Wellington Digestive Institute is located at 1447 Medical Park Blvd. Suite 405 in Wellington, Florida, and is now accepting new and returning patients.

The practice offers a comprehensive range of in-office endoscopic and gastrointestinal procedures, including colonoscopies, upper endoscopies (EGD), flexible sigmoidoscopies, esophageal dilation, video capsule endoscopy, and hemorrhoid banding — many of which are minimally invasive and require little to no anesthesia. They also provide advanced liver diagnostics, including liver ultrasound and FibroScan technology. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Wellington Digestive Institute at (561) 767-8342.

Strategic Partnerships Drive Resilience: CPSFL Recognizes Sponsors at Milestone 40th Anniversary Event

Community Partners of South Florida (CPSFL) is proud to announce its 40th Anniversary Celebration Luncheon, taking place on Friday, April 10, 2026, at The Belgrove Resort & Spa.

This milestone event marks four decades of CPSFL’s service as a nonprofit pioneer, providing integrated housing, mental health, and community-based services that strengthen families and neighborhoods across Palm Beach County.

Since its inception in 1986, CPSFL has evolved into a “one-stop shop” for holistic support, serving more than 8,000 individuals annually. This mission is made possible through the unwavering support of corporate and community partners who share a vision for a thriving Palm Beach County.

Mira Zhivkova (Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer – CPSFL), Kendra James (Bank of America), Stephanie Glavin Deltondo (Bank of America) and Kelly Powell (CEO – CPSFL). Photo by Tracey Benson Photography.

“We are grateful to our sponsors for their generosity and commitment,” said CEO Kelly Powell. “Real strength lives within our communities and the partners who stand with us in creating solutions are doing more than just funding programs – they are creating waves of hope, resilience, and possibility that will last for generations. While we celebrate our past, I am even more excited to share our vision for the future as we continue to build a sustainable, thriving community together.”

CPSFL is honored to recognize the following partners whose support drives our mission forward:

Heir’s Property Partner: JPMorgan Chase
Neighborhood Builders Partner: Bank of America
Community Engagement Expo Presenter: FPL
Media Partners: The Palm Beach Post, Hubbard South Florida, and 25-WPBF (Exclusive TV Sponsor)
Community Sponsors:
- Cohen Norris Wolmer Ray Telepman Berkowitz and Cohen
- Marc Scott
- Marsh McLellan Agency
- Valley Bank
- W Insurance

CPSFL invites community leaders and supporters to join in this commemorative program, which will highlight the organization’s long-standing impact and its roadmap for future growth.

Date: Friday, April 10, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM EST
Location: The Belgrove Resort & Spa, 2020 Banyan Resort Wy, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Program: Pre-reception and welcome toast, silent auction, luncheon, and commemorative presentation.

To purchase tickets or tables, please visit: CPSFL Anniversary Tickets

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About Community Partners of South Florida

Community Partners of South Florida is a $15 million comprehensive community development nonprofit agency headquartered in Riviera Beach that provides services to families facing social, emotional, and financial adversity. By using a unique, breakthrough approach integrating housing and financial empowerment, child and family mental health, and community services, Community Partners of South Florida creates self-sustaining families and communities and serves as a driver for growing its local economy. For more information about Community Partners of South Florida, visit www.cpsfl.org. Community Partners of South Florida is a proud chartered affiliate of NeighborWorks America, a national, nonpartisan nonprofit striving to make every community a place of opportunity.

For more information, please contact: Jaime Elder at jaime@khannaconnections.com

IPT Hotels at Sea Polo Team Officially Advances to April 3rd USPA Masters Cup Arena Polo Money Tournament Finals

Photo Credit: Courtesy of International Polo Tour®

Wellington, Florida (March 11, 2026)- This weekend, the International Polo Tour® (IPT) Hotels at Sea polo team took new steps towards a legendary first, becoming finalists for the upcoming USPA Masters Cup Arena Polo Money Tournament Finals set for April 3rd at 6pm. The event will mark the first USPA affiliated professional arena money tournament in Florida since the gladiators games, marking a historic evening that the IPT Hotels at Sea is an official sponsor of.

Scoring 18 goals the IPT Hotels at Sea Team fought valiantly, putting their teamwork and strength at the forefront to move to the next stage. Team Captain Tareq Salahi scored 5 goals (4 standard, 1 penalty), while MVP Hardy Pemberton scored 6 goals and Marcos Bignoli another 6 (with two being double pointers). Against a fan filled stadium, the squad celebrated their victory, remaining undefeated across several matches.

“The stage is set for an incredible final, and we’re ready to give the fans a championship match they’ll never forget,” said Salahi.

With eyes set on winning the prestigious USPA Masters Cup title and trophy, the IPT’s attendance is a game-changer for the Sunshine State. Previously, Florida’s only professional arena polo money tournament was the iconic ‘Gladiator Games’ at the former International Polo Club, now known as the National Polo Center. The April 3rd game will signify the tournament’s power as well as uplift the IPT’s role in Florida’s polo culture as it gets closer to the opening of the IPT full time professional arena Stadium in 2030.

Salahi added, “We are committed to empowering the sport of polo, growing its audience while fighting for its rich history. We are absolutely honored to be part of the finals in this USPA Tournament!”

The IPT’s Florida legacy only continues to become further established, as the team completes initial planning stages for a highly-anticipated Arena Polo Stadium slated for 2030.

To learn more about the International Polo Tour®, visit:

https://internationalpolotour.com