West Palm Beach, FL – Cholo Soy Cocina, the acclaimed street food restaurant based in West Palm Beach, FL., is psyched to announce the national release of its signature Cholo Sauce. After years of legendary status as the house hot sauce that turns first-time guests into devoted regulars, Cholo Sauce is now available for purchase across the United States via Amazon and in the restaurant.
Photo Courtesy of Cholo Soy Cocina
Born in the vibrant kitchens of Cholo Soy Cocina in West Palm Beach, Cholo Sauce was developed with the same culinary philosophy that defines the restaurant’s menu — bold flavor, fresh ingredients, and unapologetic authenticity. Crafted from roasted red peppers, sweet pineapple, and authentic habanero heat, Cholo Sauce offers a balanced, layered flavor profile that elevates tacos, grilled meats, seafood, and more.Each 8oz bottle is $8.99.
Located on South Dixie Highway in West Palm Beach, Florida, Cholo Soy Cocina blends Latin-American street food offering handcrafted tacos, fresh tortillas, house-smoked meats, and sauces created in-house. Led by Chef Clayton Charles Carnes, winner of Food Network’s Cutthroat Kitchen, and inspired by regional Latin flavors, Cholo Soy Cocina is as much a culinary destination as it is a community favorite.
Pop in any day of the week for eats or visit on Friday and Saturday night for music and fun.For more info, follow @cholosoycocina or visit cholosoycocina.com.
West Palm Beach, FL (February 18, 2026) – Seventeen year-old Wellington resident Dariyan Younessi is showing that the leaders of tomorrow are not waiting to make a difference, they’re revving up change today.
Driven by the Promise Founding Members
Through his student-led philanthropic initiative, Driven by the Promise, Younessi is inspiring his peers, and the broader community, to join him in raising funds for Promise Fund, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing survivorship from breast and cervical cancer in South Florida by providing guided support and access to screenings, early detection, treatment, and beyond for all women, with a focus on those who are uninsured, underinsured, or have limited access to healthcare.
Through a special auction partnership with Heritage Auctions, Driven by the Promise arranged for an extraordinary piece of memorabilia – Serial No. 1 of the Harley-Davidson CVO Road Glide RR – to raise funds for this critical cause. One of only 131 of this race-inspired CVO model ever created, the motorcycle was donated by the Younessi family, with 100% of proceeds from the sale of this iconic motorcycle to help ensure more women have access to lifesaving resources. The auction is now open on HA.com/5580, with bidding closing on February 24 as part of a live auction event to be held in Dallas, Texas.
“I never had the chance to meet my grandmother because she passed away from breast cancer, and I don’t want anyone else to have to experience that kind of loss,” said Dariyan Younessi. “My family has been personally affected by cancer and Driven by the Promise was created to turn that experience into action. I believe young people don’t have to wait to lead, raise awareness, and make an impact.”
Founded to engage the next generation in philanthropy and community leadership, Driven by the Promise reflects Younessi’s belief that young people can and should take an active role in addressing critical issues affecting their communities.
“What an opportunity for Promise Fund to accelerate our mission and generate critical funds for the women we serve,” said Nancy G. Brinker, co-founder of Promise Fund. “We are profoundly grateful to the Younessi family for their generosity and honored to channel the spirit of this iconic machine into driving lifesaving impact for women throughout our community.”
Beyond its philanthropic impact, the rarity and legacy of Serial No. 1. represents a historic opportunity for collectors.
“Serial No. 1 is the crown jewel of a collection that defines the entire series,” said Sebastian Clarke, Director of Business Development, Florida, Heritage Auctions. “Its symbolic significance elevates it far beyond a motorcycle, it represents a generational piece of Harley-Davidson history.”
Danielle Moore and Nancy G. Brinker
Founded in 2018 by Ambassador Nancy G. Brinker, Promise Fund reaches tens of thousands of women in Palm Beach, Broward, and Martin counties. To date, the organization has reached more than 125,000 individuals through outreach and education, impacted the lives of more than 20,000 women through screenings and diagnostic access, and helped 271 women diagnosed with cancer navigate treatment.
Through Driven by the Promise, Younessi hopes this auction will not only generate critical funding but also inspire other young leaders to step forward, engage in philanthropy, and use their platforms for meaningful impact. By using Driven by the Promise, Younessi wants the auction to not only raise vital funds but also to motivate and engage other young leaders to participate in philanthropy and make a positive difference.
Heritage is the world’s largest collectibles auctioneer and the largest fine art auction house founded in the United States. With offices across the globe, Heritage employs more than 125 internationally recognized specialists in over 50 categories including coins, comics, sports, historical, jewelry, luxury accessories, and more. Our team provides complete support, from consignments and appraisals to trusts & estates and museum services.
Wellington, FL –Spring into fun at The Mall at Wellington Green this March! Wellington’s premier shopping destination will host a series of inviting community events throughout the month.
Wine Tasting Experience
Tuesday, March 3
7-9pm
$107
Lifetime Kitchen
Enjoy an educational and interactive wine workshop led by a Riedel Crystal Brand ambassador, exploring how glass shape affects wine taste. Guests will try four wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Oaked Chardonnay and Unoaked Sauvignon Blanc. Plus, each attendee will take home a special set of Riedel glasses (valued at $179.99). For more information, visit lifetime-kitchen.com.
Spirits Glass Seminar
Wednesday, March 4
7-8:30pm
$107.00
Lifetime Kitchen
Enjoy an educational and interactive wine workshop led by a Riedel Crystal Brand ambassador, exploring how glass shape affects the taste of fine spirits. Guests will try Reposado Tequila, Islay Region Single Malt Scotch and Bourbon. Plus, each attendee will take home a set of four spirit glasses. For more information, visit lifetime-kitchen.com.
Spring into Wellness Health Expo
Saturday, March 7
11am-2pm
FREE
District Court and Studio
The Mall at Wellington Green invites the community to its Health Expo, a fun, feel-good afternoon focused on total well-being. Attendees will have the chance to participate in five, 30- minute fitness classes, including Pilates with Club Pilates Wellington (11:15-11:45am), Belly Dancing (11:45am-12:15pm), Zumba with Jaime (12:15-12:45pm), Line Dancing with Starpoint Dance Sport, (12:45-1:15pm) and Yoga with Brie Mazin (1:15-1:45pm). Select mall tenants and community partners will also be showcasing wellness offerings.
Pop-Up Yoga Class
Sunday, March 9
3-4pm
FREE
District Studio
March’s pop-up yoga class will focus on chakra meditation and sound healing. This immersive experience is designed to cleanse the mind, body and spirit, leaving students feeling restored, refreshed and aligned. All experience levels are welcome. Interested parties can reserve spots HERE.
Spring Break Staycation
Monday, March 16- Friday, March 20
FREE
Locations vary
The Mall at Wellington Green invites children of the local community to celebrate spring break in style. The Mall will host unique events daily:
Monday: Magic show in the District Court, 11am-1pm.
Tuesday: Arts & Crafts Fair in the District Court, 11am-1pm.
Wednesday: Reptile Show in the District Court, 11am-1pm.
Thursday: Movie Day at CMX theaters, 11am. RSVP is required, visit shopwellingtongreen.com to reserve.
Friday: Bunny Bubble Party, welcoming the Easter Bunny at the District Court, 11am-1pm.
Zumba Dance Party with Jaime
Every Saturday
10-11am
FREE
The District at Wellington Green
Livin’ La Vida Zumba! Enjoy The Mall at Wellington Green’s fun, dance fitness party program that combines high- and low-intensity Latin dance moves designed to burn calories and boost cardio endurance. All ages and levels are welcome.
The Mall at Wellington Green is located at 10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington. For more information, call (561) 227-6900 or visit shopwellingtongreen.com.
Boca Raton, FL (February 18, 2026) — As Random Acts of Kindness Week takes place, the Publix Super Markets 2026 Good Together Hunger Register Campaign will run February 18–March 1, supporting Feeding America partner food banks across Publix’s operating areas, including Boca Helping Hands, a local recipient of the campaign.
During this special 12-day effort, customers are invited to shop with a purpose by donating any amount, up to $1,000, at checkout. Funds raised through the register campaign help food banks across Publix’s operating areas supplement the fresh produce Publix regularly provides with critically needed nonperishable items.
As a local Feeding America partner food bank, Boca Helping Hands (BHH) is among the organizations that receive support through the campaign. Contributions made at participating Publix stores help advance Boca Helping Hands’ mission of providing hot meals, groceries, and essential services to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity. Last year alone, Boca Helping Hands served nearly 4 million meals to the community.
Publix has been a longstanding supporter of Boca Helping Hands, serving as the organization’s largest retail grocery supporter for decades.
“We are so grateful to Publix for their continued partnership in our community and the 2026 Good Together Hunger Register Campaign, and we’re thrilled to see the kind contributions from shoppers,” said Boca Helping Hands Executive Director, Dr. Andrew Hagen.
Wellington, FL – Wellington Regional Medical Center is proud to announce the arrival of the da Vinci 5 Surgical System (DV5), one of the most advanced robotic-assisted technologies available today. Wellington Regional is the first hospital in the western communities to offer this next-generation surgical innovation, underscoring its commitment to providing leading-edge care close to home.
To celebrate the launch, community members, physicians and media are invited to join us for an exclusive open house and hands-on demonstration event.
Guests will have the opportunity to:
Experience the new da Vinci 5 firsthand
Participate in interactive demonstrations
Meet surgical specialists and clinical leaders
Learn how robotic-assisted surgery enhances precision, safety, and patient outcomes
WHEN: February 26, 4:30-6:30
WHERE: Wellington Regional Medical Center
10101 Forest Hill Boulevard, Wellington, FL 33414
Media Invitation: Members of the media are invited to attend this special event. Please RSVP to Pamela.Rada@uhsinc.com
West Palm Beach, Fl. (Feb. 18, 2026) – Palm Beach State College (PBSC) announced more than $2 million in new federal funding today to support the creation of the Quantum Innovation Center, a transformative hub for education, research, and industry collaboration that will be located in the College’s Historic Building in downtown West Palm Beach.
The funding, secured through a Community Project Funding request by U.S. Representative Lois Frankel, was unveiled during a press conference held at the Historic Building. The new funds build upon $4.95 million from the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund, awarded by Governor Ron DeSantis last week, bringing total public investment in the project to nearly $7 million.
PBSC’s Quantum Innovation Center, developed in partnership with the Business Development Board (BDB) of Palm Beach County, will serve as a regional hub for research and workforce training in quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and related high-tech fields. The BDB also received $1.03 million in companion funding to develop the Center’s entrepreneurial and programming initiatives.
“Technology is changing faster than ever,” said Congresswoman Lois Frankel. “Employers across the country are searching for workers skilled in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing—fields that will shape our economy, national security, and daily lives for years to come.”
PBSC President Ava L. Parker, J.D. emphasized the power of collaboration behind the project. “This partnership demonstrates what is possible when education, government, and business align around a shared vision,” Parker said. “Together, we’re preparing students and residents for high-wage, high-demand jobs that will make Palm Beach County a leader in innovation.”
The Quantum Innovation Center will feature advanced laboratory and co-working spaces designed to host start-ups, train students, and attract emerging technology companies to the region. PBSC will also be developing Florida’s first public Quantum Systems Certification Program, positioning PBSC as a statewide leader in developing a quantum-ready workforce.
Kelly Smallridge, president and CEO of the BDB, called the award “the largest funding the organization has ever received,” crediting collaborators Hillary Matchett and Matt Cimaglia, cofounders of Quantum Coast Capital, for introducing the board to the field’s commercial potential. “We realized Palm Beach County could not only pursue quantum computing but apply it to existing strengths in aerospace, life sciences, and medical technology,” she said. “Our vision is to take it out of the lab and into the marketplace.”
PBSC Associate Dean of Computer Science Dr. Luis Pentzke, whose vision helped launch the initiative, presented the college’s Quantum Lab Workforce plan during the event. He told the attendees that the funding will help PBSC acquire quantum computer hardware, control systems, and measurement equipment to train students on next-generation technologies.
“Quantum computing is progressing incredibly fast,” Pentzke said. “Each week brings new breakthroughs from major companies. Our job at Palm Beach State is to ensure our students and workforce training programs are keeping pace with that progress.”
When completed, the Quantum Innovation Center will anchor the next phase of Palm Beach County’s leadership in technology and education—linking academia, business, and government in creating opportunities at the heart of Florida’s Quantum Coast.
LAKE WORTH, FL—Adopt-A-Family of the Palm Beaches is honored to announce it has received a $1 million grant from The Jim Moran Foundation to establish an endowment designated for the maintenance and renovation expenses for the agency’s 112 units of affordable housing. The Jim Moran Foundation made the generous gift as part of its 25th Anniversary grantmaking.
The Jim Moran Foundation Endowment Fund marks a significant milestone for Adopt-A-Family, following several years of strategic expansion to serve the increasing number of families experiencing homelessness and instability in Palm Beach County. Annually, the agency will be able to use a portion of the investment earnings to offset the cost of apartment renovations and repairs. Endowment management falls under the purview of Adopt-A-Family’s Board of Directors and a newly established Investment Committee comprising several board members with extensive experience in the financial sector.
“This grant addresses one of the most significant challenges of operating truly affordable housing – sustainability,” said CEO Matt Constantine. “Overnight, one gift has helped shape our future while strengthening our commitment to the children and families we serve in Palm Beach County. The generous grant from The Jim Moran Foundation, in conjunction with their expert guidance and insight, made this moment possible.”
As housing costs continue to rise across the county – fair market rent for a two-bedroom unit went up 16% from 2023 to 2025 – families face mounting financial insecurity. According to Palm Beach County’s 2025 Point-in-Time count, family homelessness increased by 9% from 2024 to 2025.
With The Jim Moran Foundation Endowment Fund serving as a permanent funding source dedicated to preserving the quality and affordability of the agency’s housing stock, Adopt-A-Family will be able to invest more directly in its mission to strengthen families with children in their efforts to achieve stability and self-sufficiency. Since its founding in 1983, Adopt-A-Family has served over 60,000 families.
Recognizing The Jim Moran Foundation’s history of investment in critical community issues, Constantine shared, “The launch of the Jim Moran Foundation Endowment Fund is a huge win for families who need safe, affordable housing now and for generations to come. We are deeply grateful for the Foundation’s longstanding partnership and its unwavering commitment to supporting Florida’s youth and families.” In addition to this anniversary grant, The Jim Moran Foundation has provided ardent support for the agency’s efforts to address family homelessness for many years.
To recognize its 25th Anniversary, The Jim Moran Foundation awarded special grants currently totaling more than $20 million. Final anniversary grants will be announced in early 2026.
For more information about the endowment, please contact Adopt-A-Family CEO Matt Constantine at mconstantine@aafpbc.org. To learn more about Adopt-A-Family’s work in Palm Beach County, please visit https://www.aafpbc.org or call (561) 253-1361.
The gathering aimed to raise awareness about the only gender-responsive school in Palm Beach County.
Palm Springs, FL – Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach hosted its quarterly Open Doors, Open Hearts event on Thursday, February 19, to share more about Palm Beach County’s only gender-responsive and second-chance school for girls and young women. The year-round, tuition-free school is a strength-based program, meaning they understand each girl’s unique challenges and strengths, offering guidance that empowers students to succeed. The event included a presentation by Mindy Hanken, Executive Director at Pace Palm Beach. It also featured exclusive tours of the different classrooms, creative areas, and new spaces Pace offers to its enrolled girls, with goals to help them thrive and succeed.
During the day, the girls shared with visitors about recent field trips they’ve taken, favorite subjects to study, and how Pace makes them feel supported. Pace Palm Beach provides academic and behavioral support to middle and high school girls ages 11-17 across the Palm Beach County School District. The girls at Pace receive year-round academic instruction in small class sizes for individualized attention and work closely with counselors and trained therapists specializing in girl-centered, trauma-based therapy. Girls and young women at Pace Palm Beach are provided with leadership and community service opportunities, life skills development, career readiness, and individual goal planning. Additionally, Pace Palm Beach teaches girls about essential life skills, such as personal hygiene, grocery shopping, and how to land their first job.
Pace Open Doors, Open Hearts attendees
“I appreciate everyone who came to Open Doors, Open Hearts to learn more about Pace, our mission, and how we can continue supporting girls in Palm Beach County,” said Mindy Hanken, Executive Director of Pace Palm Beach. “Seeing their eagerness to support our girls was moving, and I am excited to see the collaborations that come from this.”
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, where the therapist will travel to wherever the girl feels comfortable and safe. These resources are made available to girls at no cost.
To learn more about how to support Pace Palm Beach or its open enrollment, 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 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.
Lisbet at Wellington Bay was filled with music, movement, and a sea of purple on Friday, February 20 as residents and staff gathered early to participate in a vibrant “mini-walk” to raise awareness for Alzheimer’s Disease.
The event served as a powerful show of solidarity for those affected by the disease, blending a professional commitment to memory care with a warm, celebratory community spirit.
Clad in signature purple t-shirts, residents arrived with high energy to support the mission of the Alzheimer’s Association. To kick off the festivities, Wellness Director Melissa Clark kept the crowd’s spirits high, leading a lively dance session to pop classics, including a spirited routine to Katrina and the Waves’ “Walking on Sunshine.”
The event featured a poignant tribute involving colored flowers, each representing a different connection to the cause. Nina Sharpe, Walk to End Alzheimer’s Manager for Palm Beach & Treasure Coast, explained the profound significance behind the tradition:
“Part of our ceremony at the walk is talking about where people are in the journey and the colors represent where you are in that journey,” said Sharpe. “Orange is to support the walk. Blue is for someone that currently has Alzheimer’s and is living with the disease. Yellow is for the caregivers—all the amazing people and staff and family that really do a lot to care for everyone. Purple means you’re walking for someone that has passed away, unfortunately, from Alzheimer’s.”
For the leadership at Lisbet, the walk is an extension of the daily dedication found within their specialized memory care neighborhood. Gita Anderson, Executive Director of Lisbet, emphasized the community’s philosophy on dignified care:
“Lisbet is designed not just to provide care but to foster an environment of love, dignity, and respect for our residents who are living with memory care challenges,” Anderson said. “We recognize that each individual has a unique story filled with experience and memories. Our goal is to spark joy and engagement while helping to preserve connections to the past through personalized activities like art therapy and music sessions.”
The morning’s success serves as a precursor to even larger efforts. Wellington Bay residents and staff are already looking forward to participating in the official, large-scale Alzheimer’s Walk scheduled for later this year in November.
“It was a special morning for our residents, families, and team members, and we’re grateful for your support in sharing the spirit and energy of the event,” said Dana Ray, Business Development Director at Wellington Bay. “The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is so close to many hearts.”
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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.
Wellington, FL – Entrepreneur, media personality, and podcast host Julie Khanna welcomed philanthropist and television personality Gale Brophy to her hit show, We Just Met Podcast, for a dynamic and candid conversation filmed at Khanna House Studios–the creative production space founded and owned by Khanna.
Brophy, known for her guest-starring role on the hit streaming series Members Only Palm Beach, dives deep into the show’s buzzworthy premiere and the evolving friendships that have captivated audiences. The series, which debuted on December 30 and is currently streaming on Netflix, dives into the complex dynamics of Palm Beach’s most exclusive social circles. Brophy encourages viewers to watch every episode to fully experience the unfolding storylines, which include reconciliations and heartfelt moments, such as her memorable exchange with Ro-Mina at Hillary’s party.
During the episode, Brophy reflects on her philanthropic mission and commitment to community impact. A dedicated supporter of Feeding the Hungry, she has helped raise funds to provide meals for more than 700 families. She also shared details about fundraisers she’s held, underscoring her ongoing commitment to giving back and uplifting families in need.
The conversation also highlights Brophy’s deep roots in Palm Beach and her impressive professional journey. As the owner of Gale Brophy Estates, she has built a successful career in a traditionally male-dominated industry. A passionate equestrian, Brophy also shared that she is a horse owner with a past Kentucky Derby winner to her name, which further solidifies her legacy in elite sporting and social circles.
Julie Khanna, Owner/Founder of Khanna House Studios & Khanna Connections, with Gale Brophy
True to form, the episode balances glamour with authenticity. Brophy shared behind-the-scenes stories from filming, including humorous on-set moments. Her warmth, humor, and genuine affection for the producers and the Netflix team shine throughout the interview. Brophy encourages everyone to watch the season, as the production team did an amazing job putting it together.
With insightful storytelling, laughter, and meaningful reflection, Khanna’s interview with Brophy offers listeners an intimate look at the woman behind the television persona, highlighting resilience, philanthropy, and the power of evolving relationships.
The full episode of “We Just Met Podcast” featuring Gale Brophy is available through streaming on YouTube at www.youtube.com/@WeJustMetPodcast. To learn more about Gale Brophy, visit her Instagram at @gale_brophy.
For more updates on upcoming events and news, join the Khanna House Studios newsletter at www.khannahousestudios.com or join the text list by texting “Invite” to (855) 734-3960.
In a little over 100 days, the World Cup comes to the Americas and there is a solid possibility that I will have to apologize to my friends and family for the person I am about to become.
Football (not soccer, never soccer) does things to a girl.
I’m an England fan. I always have been – I mean, one of my core memories is sitting in my living room and watching Gazza weep in the semi-finals against West Germany.
Yes, West Germany.
I am older than dirt.
Despite being an England fan, I didn’t grow up with a Premier League club.
I grew up in Southall, England – a decidedly South Asian enclave in West London – and our local club, Southall FC is currently valiantly clinging to the bottom rung of the English football league system.
(They’re currently 17th in the Isthmian League so unless Kumail Nanjiani, Kunal Nayyar and Kal Penn wanna pull a Ryan and Rob, I get the feeling promotion won’t be in the future).
Besides, cricket was more my family’s game. My dad, uncles and grandparents would watch this interminably long and boring game with the kind of intensity which made you wonder if someone was going to get shot at the end of a match.
Other than my grandfather doing the pools every week, football didn’t really factor into my life except once every two years during the Euro and World Cups.
And then, my son was born.
Childbirth and motherhood reconfigure your entire existence. The things that used to matter become irrelevant and you find yourself obsessed with things like fruit purees and researching gifted programs at Palm Beach County public schools…even though your son is only two months old and has no concept of object permanence yet.
During those early days and sleepless nights, there was this persistent itch in the back of my brain – Will needed a club.
Almost in the same way he needed $50 baby formula for his milk protein allergy.
Silly, really. I mean, he’s an American born in Florida. It would make more sense to indoctrinate him into the world of long-suffering Miami Dolphins fandom, but for some reason that I can’t even explain, this really mattered to me.
My son needed a club. He needed a home.
But where does an England fan who doesn’t have a Premier League home go?
She goes searching.
I started with the players I liked watching.
Michael Owen, for example. He looked a little like Scott Wolf and my God, that goal against Argentina in ’98 was pure cinema but Liverpool? Not a chance. I grew up in London and my club had to be based there.
That left me with seven options:
Brentford – Four miles down the road from where I grew up but nothing about the club excited me.
Chelsea – I don’t like Frank Lampard.
Crystal Palace – Meh. It’s a South London club that I had no connection to.
Fulham – Meh. It’s a South London club that I had no connection to.
Tottenham Hotspurs – Just because I watched Gazza cry doesn’t mean I have to support his former club. Also, I don’t really like Gazza.
West Ham – I don’t like Frank Lampard.
And then, there was Arsenal.
I don’t have any connection to North London, but I liked Ashley Cole (I learned better later), I liked “Uncle” Ian Wright’s infectious enthusiasm as a commentator and I loved Bukayo Saka. He went to Greenford High School – the school I would have gone to if I hadn’t moved to the States – and my heart wept for him when he missed that penalty during the 2020 World Cup.
Arsenal felt different and after about five minutes on the internet, I learned that Arsenal was different.
It was a club for us – all of us.
Arsenal was the first to have 11 non-English players start for them and on September 28, 2002, Arsenal FC were the first club to have nine Black players in a starting XI.
If you are Brown or Black, Arsenal feels welcoming. Arsenal feels like home.
I started watching matches at home, baby and bottle in arm, cooing the players names to my sleeping son – “We have three Gabbys – one, two, three…”
Two years ago, I learned that the local chapter of Arsenal supporters – The Palm Beach Invincibles – were starting up at The Irishmen Pub in Boca Raton so I threw on my Declan Rice jersey, wrangled Will into his Saka jersey and headed over.
Palm Beach Invincibles gather at The Irishment
Barely four at the time, Will started an “Arsenal” chant during the match and in that moment, I knew we were home.
Will and Palm Beach Invincible Carlos
This year, I’ll watch the World Cup as I do every four years and I don’t know with any certainty if it’s coming home, but I do know that I’ve found a home – in Boca Raton, in North London and everywhere they wear red and white with a cannon on their chest.
Pace Palm Beach girls and staff members traveled to Tallahassee for a 2-day trip at the Florida Capitol
Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach visited the Florida Capitol in Tallahassee for the annual Pace Day at the Capitol, where Pace girls enjoyed two days focused on leadership, advocacy, and civic engagement. Four Pace girls and three staff members participated in this year’s event. The goal of this field trip was for Pace girls to learn more about the importance of advocacy and share the many ways Pace Palm Beach is creating a lasting impact on our future by empowering girls to reach their full potential.
Pace Palm Beach provides academic and behavioral support to middle and high school girls ages 11-17 across Palm Beach County. Pace offers a safe and supportive environment for more than 150 girls served annually in Palm Beach County. The girls and young women supported by Pace Palm Beach receive academic instruction and work closely with counselors and therapists trained in trauma-informed practices. They also receive life coaching to learn essential life skills, such as personal hygiene, grocery shopping, and preparing for employment. These resources are made available to girls at no cost.
Daryana G., Nicole R., Mindy Hanken, Executive Director Pace Palm Beach, Yesinya E., and Zion T.
Throughout the two-day event, Pace girls engaged in policy discussions, advocacy training, and hands-on legislative experiences. Pace girls from the Palm Beach County campus in Palm Springs met with members of the Florida House and Senate, sharing their lived experiences and highlighting the impact of Pace in their lives and communities. For many, it was their first time speaking directly with policymakers and provided them with a meaningful opportunity to see how their voices can inform decisions that shape their futures.
Pace Palm Beach girls, Zion T., Yesinya E., Nicole R., Daryana G. in front of Florida Supreme Court
The highlight of the trip was exposing Pace girls to the political work that gets done in Tallahassee, the Women in Politics panel discussion, and hearing from Matt Walsh, Secretary of the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice. These experiences provided valuable insight into public service, leadership pathways, and the importance of civic engagement.
Pace girls with Representative Debra Tendrich – including staff Kira and Monique
On the second day, Pace Palm Beach met with legislators, including:
Lori Berman
Kelly Skidmore
Debra Tendrich
Rob Long
Anne Gerwig
Tae Edmonds
Pace girls with Department of Juvenile Justice Secretary Matt WalshPace girls with Anne GerwigPace girls with Senator Lori Berman
During each meeting, Pace girls shared why they came to Pace Center for Girls and discussed the positive impact the program has had on their academic progress, confidence, and future goals. Pace Palm Beach leadership thanked each legislator for their time and ongoing support of programs that strengthen opportunities for girls and young women.
“Pace Day at the Capitol provides our girls with a powerful opportunity to build confidence and practice leadership in a real-world setting,” said Mindy Hanken, Executive Director of Pace Palm Beach. “We are incredibly proud of how our girls represented Palm Beach County and shared their stories with courage and maturity. I also want to thank each legislator for warmly welcoming us.”
Through its comprehensive services, Pace helps improve academic outcomes, strengthen healthy relationships, and foster long-term success for girls and their families. By creating a ripple effect of positive change, Pace strengthens the community by cultivating confident, educated, and engaged young women who are prepared to contribute meaningfully to society.
Since its founding in 1996, Pace Palm Beach has successfully grown its program and impact on girls and the local community. More than 3,048 girls in Palm Beach County have been served, with 9 out of 10 girls having experienced overall academic improvement and 8 out of 10 girls reporting improved healthy social relationships with peers and family members.
Enrollment is now open at Pace Palm Beach. To learn more about how Pace is finding the great in every girl, 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.
