News Archive - Page 21 of 40 - The Wellington Edit

International Polo Tour® Announces September 19 Thailand Sunset Polo® White Lotus 250th Anniversary Cup

Leesburg, Virginia (March 11, 2026)- In an unprecedented twist on an annual celebration, one honoring the 250th anniversary of America, the renowned International Polo Tour® (IPT) will be returning to Virginia September 19th for the IPT Sunset Polo® Invitational World Cup. The IPT will face off against long-time ally Thailand in a cinematic White Lotus-themed evening bringing together culture, luxury, global connection, philanthropy, and what it truly means to honor history. These events are presented in part by SINGHA, the Thai American Association, as well as Hotels at Sea Luxury cruises, producing the new White Lotus Asia cruise sailing January 13, 2027.

Set at the award-winning Morven Park International Equestrian Center in Leesburg, Virginia, a powerful venue capable of providing enhanced hospitality experiences as well as premium viewing opportunities, this year’s IPT Sunset Polo® will welcome key ambassadors from Thailand, embracing one of the United States’ longest-lasting allies while inviting attendees to enjoy a luxurious backdrop drawing from Thai culture. Additionally, the evening will spotlight America’s vibrant story, commemorating 250 years of determination by uplifting our nation’s value of unity.

The night’s array of excitement will include a Celebrity All Star Polo Match (NFL & NBC/Bravo All stars), Team USA vs Thailand, and the now-annual International Polo Tour Crypto Cup held in association with FAIM.WORLD, a web3 developer specializing in the creation of digital collectibles for fans to enjoy for life. The final match will also be held in memory of Stuart Allen Weinstein-Bacal, an avid polo supporter as well as friend to the greater DC area who succumbed to cancer in February.

For more than a decade, IPT Sunset Polo® has welcomed thousands of spectators, blending world-class sport and entertainment with philanthropic contributions to long-term partner We Will Survive Cancer (WWSC). Past games have featured top international players and sports luminaries including NFL legend Tim Johnson and NFL star Josh Norman (also an ABC’s Dancing with the Stars finalist). Proceeds directly benefit WWSC’s mission of providing emotional and financial support to families battling cancer, such as covering childcare, transportation, counseling, and household assistance.

“We are incredibly excited to be bringing IPT Sunset Polo® back for yet another incredible night,” said Tareq Salahi, Founder and Team Captain of the International Polo Tour®.

“Each year, this event lights a brilliant spark in our community, bringing everyone together for an unforgettable, adrenaline-fueled celebration. This year, we will hit a new level, one truly fitting for our amazing country’s birthday while continuing to uplift those who have made it all possible. We hope to see all of our loyal fans there!”

Following the night’s matches, IPT Sunset Polo® will conclude with an LED Drone Show followed by Thailand Cultural Fashion Show. Information for the official After-Party will be announced in the near future.

The IPT has also opened the door for new ways to support the event, including tailored activations, sponsorships, New Tailgate Car Spots, Expanded VIP Box Seats, and VIP Early Bird tickets. Each ticket package will provide guests with polo matches, entertainment, premium catering and hospitality.

This year’s Sunset Polo® will be held:

Morven Park International Polo Club, 41580 Sunday Morning Lane, Leesburg, VA
September 19, 4pm to 9pm
For more information & tickets: https://sunsetpolo.tscheckout.com/event/Americas250

To learn more about the International Polo Tour®, visit:
https://internationalpolotour.com

To learn more about the International Polo Tour® White Lotus Cruise, visit:
https://www.hotelsatsea.com/white-lotus-cruise.html

Wellington Regional Medical Center Achieves 2026 Healthgrades Patient Safety Excellence Award

Wellington, FL – March 10, 2026 – Wellington Regional Medical Center announced today that it has achieved the 2026 Patient Safety Excellence Award™ from Healthgrades, the #1 site Americans use to find a doctor or hospital. This award reflects Wellington Regional Medical Center’s commitment to safe, patient-centered care and puts the organization in the top 10% of hospitals nationwide for patient safety the second year in a row (2025-2026).

Pam Tahan, CEO of Wellington Regional Medical Center, expressed her pride in the achievement:

“This recognition is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our team. We are committed to providing our patients with the highest quality care, and this award reinforces our efforts and the positive impact we are making in our community.”

Wellington Regional Medical Center’s achievement is based solely on what matters most: patient outcomes. To determine the national leaders in patient safety, Healthgrades evaluated risk-adjusted complication and mortality rates from approximately 4,500 hospitals nationwide across 13 patient safety indicators (PSIs), with each PSI representing a serious, preventable complication.

Healthgrades’ annual analysis revealed significant performance gaps between the nation’s highest-and lowest-achieving facilities, making it increasingly important for consumers to seek care at a hospital with top safety ratings. During the 2022-2024 study period, 167,228 preventable safety events occurred among Medicare patients at U.S. hospitals, with four PSIs accounting for nearly 78% of all incidents. Patients treated at Wellington Regional Medical Center and other award-winning facilities had a profoundly lower risk of experiencing these leading complications:

In-hospital fall resulting in fracture (52.4% less likely)
Collapsed lung due to a procedure in or around the chest (57.5% less likely)
Catheter-related bloodstream infections acquired in the hospital (67.8% less likely)
Pressure sores or bed sores acquired in the hospital (71.9% less likely)

“The data behind this year’s Patient Safety Excellence Award highlights how measurable improvements in safety can prevent thousands of complications,” said Dr. Alana Biggers, MPH, medical advisor at Healthgrades. “By prioritizing evidence-based safety practices, Wellington Regional Medical Center is achieving better clinical outcomes and cultivating a culture where patients come first.”

Where you’re treated matters, which is why Healthgrades is committed to providing the most scientifically accurate information about doctors and hospitals–with data insights not available anywhere else. For additional guidance on finding safe, high-quality care in 2026, visit healthgrades.com.

*Statistics are calculated from Healthgrades’ Patient Safety Excellence Award Methodology, which is based primarily on AHRQ technical specifications (Version 2025.0.1) to MedPAR data from approximately 4,500 hospitals for years 2022 through 2024 and represent three-year estimates for Medicare patients only.

FIFA World Cup 2026™ Miami Host Committee Launches ONE GAME ONE FUTURE to Expand Youth Soccer and Community Impact at North Trail Park in District 12

Photo Courtesy of FIFA World Cup 2026™ Miami Host Committee

MIAMI, FL, March 9, 2026 – The FIFA World Cup 2026™ Miami Host Committee officially launched ONE GAME ONE FUTURE, its countywide legacy initiative designed to deliver lasting youth development and community impact through soccer, during a March 7 activation at North Trail Park in District 12.

The event featured a Coaches Education Workshop from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM, followed by a Youth Soccer Clinic from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM, focused on developing youth through soccer while equipping local coaches with tools to teach life skills through sport.

“ONE GAME ONE FUTURE reflects our commitment to building a meaningful and lasting legacy across Miami-Dade County,” said Jennifer Roche, Director of Community and Legacy of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Miami Host Committee.“Through coach education, youth engagement, and integrated community resources, we are using soccer as a platform to empower families, strengthen neighborhoods, and create opportunities for the next generation”.

Developing Youth Through Soccer

The March 7 activation marked the beginning of a coordinated series of community-based clinics across Miami-Dade County under the ONE GAME ONE FUTUREplatform.

The event began with a 90-minute Coaches Education Workshop, equipping local coaches and recreation leaders with tools that use soccer as a platform for mentorship, inclusion, and life-skills development. Youth participants later took the field for a free clinic focused on skill-building, teamwork, and positive mentorship, expanding access to structured play opportunities within the community.

Commissioner Juan Carlos “JC” Bermudez of Miami-Dade County District 12 joined Miami Host Committee leadership to underscore the importance of neighborhood-based programming as Miami prepares to welcome the world.

“This initiative reflects our shared commitment to strengthening opportunity at the neighborhood level,” said Commissioner Bermudez. “By combining sport, education, and health resources, we are investing in our families today while preparing for the global spotlight of the FIFA World Cup 2026™.”

The activation was delivered in collaboration with Fútbol Con Corazón, further strengthening community-based engagement across District 12.

“Access to play and the leadership of coaches matter now more than ever,” said Danielle Dubuc Wightman, Executive Director of FCC USA (Fútbol con Corazón). “Through soccer, we create spaces where children experience belonging, mentorship, and joy. Those experiences help shape young people into healthy, engaged, and productive members of their communities.”

Health & Wellness Integration

In partnership with Banyan Community Health, the clinic featured a mobile health unit offering free screenings for youth and families, including depression screenings, BMI measurements, glucose testing, and additional wellness services.

By integrating health services into youth soccer programming, the Host Committee initiative reinforces its commitment to long-term community well-being alongside athletic development.

Community Partnerships Driving Impact

ONE GAME ONE FUTURE is designed to be inclusive and accessible, supporting youth, families, coaches, and community leaders across Miami-Dade County.

Additional announcements regarding community programming and legacy initiatives will be shared in the coming months.

A Legacy for Miami

The ONE GAME ONE FUTURE platform anchors the Miami Host Committee’s legacy strategy under three pillars:

• Access to Soccer

• Sustainability

• Community Impact

Through community clinics, coach education, integrated wellness services, and investments in safe play spaces, the initiative ensures that the benefits of hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026™ extend well beyond the tournament itself, creating lasting opportunities for communities across Miami-Dade County.

Additional ONE GAME ONE FUTURE announcements regarding community and legacy initiatives will be shared in the coming months as the Miami Host Committee continues preparations to welcome the world in 2026.

Palm Beach County Media Professionals Gather For Khanna House Studios’ Media Day In Wellington

WELLINGTON, Fla.— Palm Beach County media professionals gathered March 1 at the National Polo Center in Wellington for Khanna House Studios’ Media Day, hosted by public relations, media marketing, and communications firm Khanna Connections.

Held in a field-side tent during the polo match, the event brought together local media figures, influencers, and communications professionals to network and explore potential paid collaborations while enjoying lunch and drinks.

Field of Greens provided lunch, and the Era Club treated guests to a variety of mocktails. Mixologists from Paradise Palmers Mobile Bartending served libations made with La Marielita Rum and Chrome Horse Tequila. Euphoria Desserts added a personalized touch with custom-printed cookies featuring the media partners attending the event. Palm Beach Special Events managed the event’s planning and design, bringing together staging, centerpieces, and décor to create the overall experience.

Guests also received swag bags filled with products from local collaborators, including vegan, sugar-free cookies from Death 2 Sugar, luxury footwear wipes from Schmutzes, premium equine and pet shampoo from Dapple Up, and nourishing hair masks from ellE Beauty Bar.

With public relations support from Khanna Connections and community amplification from The Wellington Edit, organizers described the event as a celebration of style, sport, and creative partnership within Palm Beach County’s media and influencer community.

Notable attendees included Dylan James (@dylaneatss), Gerry and Pam Barker of North Palm Beach Life, WPEC CBS12 morning news anchors Sam Kerrigan (@samkerrigan) and Paige Meyer (@mymediapaige), Rai Choudhury (@rai.tryna), Devi Khanna Ramprasad (@devi.grwm), Lauren Drexel (@laurendrexel), Rachel Koggan (@racheldallask), Sam Paige (@sampaigeeee), Julie Khanna (@wishmeluck_), Avyana Champan (@goodeatsonlyyy), and Colette Beland (@ColetteBeland).

Julie Khanna, Founder of Khanna Connections and Khanna House Studios

North Palm Beach Life Publishers Pam and Gerry Barker

Media professionals at Khanna House Studios’ Media Day at the National Polo Center in Wellington

Staging for Khanna House Studios provided by Palm Beach Special Events

Community Partners of South Florida Celebrates Amy Brand’s Nomination for the 42nd Annual Women in Leadership Awards

RIVIERA BEACH, FLA — Community Partners of South Florida (CPSFL) is proud to announce that Amy Brand, CFRE, Vice President of Advancement, has been nominated as a nonprofit nominee for the 42nd Annual Women in Leadership Awards, hosted by the Executive Women of the Palm Beaches Foundation.

This prestigious nomination recognizes women who embody Executive Women of the Palm Beaches Foundation’s mission of empowering others to make a positive impact in their workplace and community through leadership development and philanthropic support.

With over 30 years of nonprofit experience, Amy Brand has become a cornerstone of the South Florida philanthropic landscape. Since joining CPSFL, she has utilized her strategic vision to drive the organization’s mission of changing the odds for children and families.

Before her tenure at CPSFL, Amy served as the CEO of Philanthropy Tank, where she mentored the next generation of changemakers. Her transformative leadership was also evident during her time as Chief Development Officer for Habitat for Humanity of Palm Beach County, where she spearheaded strategic partnerships that resulted in a staggering 500% increase in revenue.

“Amy’s nomination is a testament to her tireless dedication to our community and her ability to lead with both heart and strategy,” said Kelly Powell, CEO of Community Partners of South Florida. “She doesn’t just raise funds; she builds the foundations upon which our neighbors can thrive. We are incredibly fortunate to have her expertise on our executive team, and we congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition from the Executive Women of the Palm Beaches.”

A Certified Fund-Raising Executive (CFRE) since 2013, Amy’s academic background includes a bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and a Master’s in Nonprofit Management from Florida Atlantic University.

The 42nd Annual Women in Leadership Awards luncheon will be held on Thursday, April 16, 2026 at 11:30 AM at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach.

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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

Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach Hosts Inspiring Women’s Panel in Celebration of Women’s History Month

Palm Springs, FL – Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach proudly hosted a dynamic Women’s Speaking Panel on Tuesday, March 3, in honor of Women’s History Month. The event, held from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., brought together three accomplished local leaders who shared their professional journeys and personal testimonies of resilience, courage, and determination with Pace girls.

The panel featured Chevelle Young, Real Estate Advisor; Denise Torres, visionary Founder and CEO of Chic Wig Boutique in West Palm Beach; and Julie Khanna, media professional, journalist, educator, and Founder of Khanna House Studios and Khanna Connections.

Facilitated by Pace leadership, the discussion centered on key questions designed to inspire and empower, including why each woman chose her profession, how being a woman has influenced her career path, moments where they had to exhibit courage, and the values that guide their leadership.

Each speaker offered heartfelt reflections on overcoming obstacles and refusing to allow setbacks to define their futures. From navigating relocation and leadership roles in competitive industries, to rebuilding after personal hardships, to forging paths in media and entrepreneurship, the panelists demonstrated what it means to honor the female spirit and exhibit courage.

Chevelle Young shared how her upbringing in Jamaica and her background in finance shaped her path into real estate leadership and entrepreneurship in Palm Beach County. She encouraged the girls to remain adaptable and embrace new opportunities, reminding them that growth often requires stepping outside their comfort zones.

Denise Torres spoke candidly about balancing motherhood, business ownership, and personal challenges–including mental health crises–and how resilience, faith, and emotional grounding helped her rebuild stronger than ever. Her message emphasized confidence, self-worth, and the power of perseverance.

Julie Khanna discussed building a career at the intersection of storytelling, public relations, and community impact. As Editor-in-Chief of Palm Beach County’s largest behavioral health magazine and a communications strategist for mission-driven organizations, she highlighted the importance of using one’s voice to create meaningful change.

“This panel embodied what Women’s History Month represents,” said Mindy Hanken, Executive Director of Pace Palm Beach. “Which is to celebrate the strength, courage, and impact of women who pave the way for the next generation by exposing our girls to diverse career paths and authentic stories of resilience with hopes for them to see what is possible for their own futures.”

Throughout the discussion, the speakers reflected on the evolving opportunities within Palm Beach County, noting growth in entrepreneurship, media, healthcare, real estate, and community-based leadership. They encouraged Pace girls to envision themselves as future leaders, innovators, and changemakers within their own community over the next five to ten years.

Following the panel, the girls joined the speakers for lunch, where conversations continued in a more intimate setting, allowing for mentorship, connection, and encouragement.

To learn more about Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach and how to get involved, visit www.pacecenter.org.

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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 education 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.  

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.