News Archive - Page 34 of 40 - The Wellington Edit

Wellington Native Fundraises for Cancer Research by Running the Boston Marathon

A decade ago, I heard three words that changed my life: You have cancer.

2015-2016 was a paradox full of fear and hope. I was lucky because I was treated with an innovative protocol: my boarderline mucinous ovarian cancer cells of the intestinal type responded to the traditional colon cancer chemotherapy rather than the traditional ovarian cancer chemotherapy. Five surgeries and six chemo rounds later, my cancer hasn’t returned. Instead, I have gotten stronger, braver. And, now I have the opportunity to run the Boston Marathon to raise funds that will save the lives cancer patients like me. This is a result of cancer research.

Sometimes I ponder the sheer impact cancer research has, extending far beyond giving the patient hope and survival. Because of cancer research, I am alive. And because I am alive, I have educated over 1,500 students in Palm Beach County public schools. I have assisted hundreds of students with their college essays, helping them earn admission into their dream university. I have volunteered hundreds of hours and fundraised thousands of dollars for the Junior League of Palm Beaches, focusing on improving the lives of foster children, increasing literacy, and creating period supply pantries. Cancer research permeates far beyond the obvious. And I am most excited to give back to an organization that has given me the gift of life so that I can continue to positively impact others throughout the community.

This April, I, along with hundreds of Dana-Farber runners, will take to the streets to participate in the 130th Boston Marathon® presented by Bank of America. The Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge team runs and raises funds with thousands of special people in mind. From Hopkinton to Boston, we carry thoughts of those people every step of the way.

One hundred percent of every dollar raised by the DFMC team supports the Claudia Adams Barr Program in Innovative Basic Cancer Research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. These funds are fueling some of today’s most promising basic cancer research.

Thank you for your support! Together, we’re helping Dana-Farber defy cancer, 26.2 miles at a time.

Donations can be made by visiting http://danafarber.jimmyfund.org/goto/JenRunsBoston

Meet Johnny Meier: Entrepreneur, Veteran, and Wellington Councilman

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Wellington, FL – Longtime Wellington resident, U.S. Air Force veteran, and successful entrepreneur Johnny Meier has officially announced his candidacy for Wellington Village Council Seat 2 in the upcoming 2026 municipal election.

With a career spanning over two decades of military, business, and civic leadership, Meier brings a unique blend of public service and private sector experience to his campaign — grounded in integrity, innovation, and a deep commitment to the Wellington community.

Meier’s leadership journey began in 1996 when he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force through the Delayed Entry Program. Demonstrating natural leadership from day one, he served as a platoon leader in basic training, later transitioning to the reserves in 2004, and ultimately receiving an Honorable Discharge in 2012.

In 2001, while still in uniform, Johnny launched his first business — a Cingular Wireless store in Oklahoma City. A decade later, he and his wife, Meroe, relocated to Wellington and opened My Community Pharmacy in 2008. With a mission to provide extraordinary, patient-first care, the pharmacy quickly became a household name, famously promoted through local TV spots featuring their daughter, Shaida, and known as “Your Free Delivery Pharmacy.”

His entrepreneurial spirit continued with the launch of PharmaCanna in 2016, a Wellington-based professional-grade CBD brand now sold in over 3,000 pharmacies and healthcare offices nationwide.

Johnny’s service to the community has been equally impactful. A Past -President and Trustee of the Greater Wellington Chamber of Commerce and a dedicated Wellington Rotary Club member, as well as an active member of American Legion Post 390 in Wellington, Johnny has long supported local nonprofits, youth programs, and civic initiatives.

Now, Johnny is ready to bring his experience and leadership to the Wellington Village Council.

“This community has given so much to my family,” said Meier. “Now more than ever, Wellington needs steady, experienced leadership that protects what makes our village special while planning smartly for the future.”

If elected, Meier’s top priorities include:

Keeping taxes low by eliminating wasteful spending and streamlining government
Supporting world-class public safety and first responders
Preserving Wellington’s hometown charm by investing in parks, recreation, and youth programming
Standing with local businesses, ensuring they have the freedom and support to grow and thrive
Improving traffic flow through innovative and safety-focused infrastructure solutions
Wellington has long been a place where families grow, thrive, and stay — and that includes the many vibrant seniors who raised their children here and continue to call our village home. Johnny is committed to keeping Wellington accessible, engaging, and supportive for every generation — especially the seniors who helped build the strong community we enjoy today.

Johnny Meier represents a clear, forward-thinking choice for Wellington — a candidate with a proven record of service, a deep love for the community, and a strong vision for the future.

Children’s Harbor Presents REVVED: A Car Show for a Cause on November 15

Children’s Harbor is proud to present REVVED—a car show for a cause—on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 11 a.m., bringing together car enthusiasts, families, and the community for a high-octane day of fun and fundraising. Set to take place at Children’s Harbor’s main campus, 19410 SW 58th Place in Pembroke Pines, REVVED will showcase everything from classic cars to custom builds, muscle to luxury, with all makes and models welcome. The event will feature exciting prizes, food trucks, and family-friendly entertainment, all in support of Children’s Harbor, a nationally accredited nonprofit agency dedicated to strengthening families in crisis and providing safe, supportive care for teens in foster care so they can grow into healthy, educated, productive adults.

“Whether you’re showcasing your vehicle, attending with family, or supporting as a sponsor, REVVED is a powerful way to drive change for our teens in foster care,” said Tiffani Dhooge, Children’s Harbor CEO & President. “Every car, contribution, and connection made at this event helps us continue our mission to build brighter, more stable futures for the youth we serve.”

Children’s Harbor is currently welcoming sponsors and participants for REVVED. From classic cruisers to modern marvels, all makes and models are invited to be part of this impactful event. Sponsorship opportunities are available for local businesses and community partners looking to support a great cause while gaining visibility among auto lovers, families, and supporters of Children’s Harbor’s mission.

Tickets for this event are required, and general admission is free. For car showcasing, it is $10 for event participation and $25 for VIP participation. To register your car, become a sponsor, or grab a ticket, visit https://app.betterunite.com/childrensharbor-revved. For those who are unable to attend but still wish to support the cause, Children’s Harbor is gratefully accepting additional donations to continue strengthening its mission.

Every rev and ride will fuel hope for the teens and families Children’s Harbor serves. The event kicks off at 11 a.m. with the National Anthem, immediately followed by a powerful 15-second REVVing of the engines. This symbolic start to the day is dedicated to driving impact and igniting change in the community.

For more information about Children’s Harbor and details for this event, visit childrensharbor.org or contact info@childrensharbor.org.

Hanley Foundation to Transform Resource Center Into Public Community Hub for Healing and Connection

The new community hub marks Hanley Foundation’s first step in its multimillion-dollar campaign to expand its campus and build new facilities for specialized programs.

West Palm Beach, Fla. (October 8, 2025) ─ Leading a new era in recovery, Hanley Foundation has begun transforming its Resource Center into a public hub for community connection and support. Slated to open in the fall of 2026, the revitalized center will feature a coffee shop, a recovery bookstore, and a versatile meeting space. It will be open to individuals aged 18 and older, offering educational programs, peer support, job training, and services for long-term recovery.

“To truly heal, people need more than treatment, they need a lifelong lifeline of care, belonging, and support,” said Dr. Rachel Docekal, CEO of Hanley Foundation. “Our reimagined Resource Center will ensure a public space to foster healing, deep connections, and long-term success.”

The renovated community hub is the first stage of Hanley Foundation’s multimillion-dollar capital campaign to transform recovery. Hanley is also revitalizing its main campus with the addition of outdoor meditation areas, shared community spaces, gardens, and green zones, along with a new road that will connect the campus to its community hub.

The next stage of Hanley’s capital campaign is to build new specialized facilities that will expand life-changing programs for pregnant women, young children, veterans, and first responders, including:

Mothers and Babies Pavilion: A residential treatment facility that will provide comprehensive substance use disorder care for pregnant women and postpartum mothers to help break the generational cycle of addiction and provide a pathway to recovery.

Early Learning Center: A center that will focus on children exposed to substances in utero, offering specialized interventions that optimize each child’s health and learning potential.

Patriots Pavilion: Designed for veterans, first responders, and their families, this residential treatment center will provide support tailored to those who have bravely served our country.

Family Healing Center: This space will be dedicated to helping families heal from behavioral health challenges.

For more information about Hanley’s capital campaign, visit hanleyfoundation.org/get-involved/campaign-for-recovery.

Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach to Host “Believing in Girls Empowerment Luncheon” Presented by Palm Harbor Marina, The Palm Beaches, Florida, on November 13, 2025

Celebrate girls and young women in Palm Beach County, tomorrow’s leaders and changemakers.

West Palm Beach, FL (October 8, 2025) – The community is invited to attend the Believing in Girls Empowerment Luncheon, presented by Palm Harbor Marina, The Palm Beaches, FL at Kravis Center for the Performing Arts–Cohen Pavilion, located at 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach, on Thursday, November 13, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Hosted by Pace Center for Girls, Nikita Ramos of WPBF 25 will emcee the uplifting event, and will feature powerful stories from Pace girls whose lives have been positively impacted by the programs the second-chance school offers. The luncheon will also honor a local philanthropist for her outstanding dedication to empowering young women and making a difference in the community.

Pace believes that ‘Every Girl Deserves’ a future filled with opportunities, respect, and agency to pursue her dreams. The event serves as a reminder of the progress achieved as a community while also urging us to envision the next phase of this critical mission. The girls and young women Pace supports receive academic instruction and work closely with counselors and therapists trained in girl-centered and trauma-based therapy. They also receive life coaching to learn basic life skills, such as personal hygiene, grocery shopping, and how to secure their first job. These resources are made available to girls at no cost to them.

“Please join us in celebration of our girls who have overcome tremendous obstacles, but see themselves as we see them — as strong, beautiful, intellectual women that will be successful as they grow into their young adulthood,” said Mindy Hanken, Executive Director of Pace Palm Beach. “We are incredibly grateful for the support of our community and sponsors who help make events like these possible.”

Since its founding in 1985, Pace Palm Beach has seen transformational improvements among girls personally and professionally. To date, more than 2000 girls in Palm Beach County have been served. Program highlights from fiscal year 2024 include:

9 out of 10 girls have experienced overall academic improvement.

8 out of 10 girls improved healthy social relationships with peers and family members

The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts is a premier cultural venue in South Florida, consistently recognized for its excellence, including accolades from Palm Beach Illustrated’s “Best of the Palm Beaches,” South Florida Parenting Magazine, and the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award. The community is encouraged to share their support while enjoying a flavorful day. Current sponsors include Palm Harbor Marina, The Palm Beaches, FL, Regions Bank, JSR Design Group, Coach Roux, LLC, Comcast, Florida Power & Light, HCA Florida Healthcare, Kandace Kichler, Keely Gideon-Taylor, LaBovick Law Group, Reisen Construction, Searcy Denney Scarola Barnhart & Shipley, and Smith, Ball, Daez Injury Lawyers.

Tickets are required and are $125 per person, which includes a 3-course meal consisting of a salad, main entree, and dessert. Sponsorships are available. To learn more about sponsorship opportunities or to purchase a ticket, visit https://www.pacecenter.org/locations/florida/palm-beach/believing-in-girls-empowerment-luncheon/ or contact Chrissy Rinehart, Development Manager at christina.rinehart@pacecenter.org. To learn more about how Pace is finding the great in every girl, visit www.pacecenter.org.

South Florida PBS Announces Twenty-One 2025 Suncoast Emmy® Nominations

MIAMI, FL — South Florida PBS (WPBT, WXEL, and Health Channel) is honored to announce twenty-one 2025 National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Suncoast Chapter Regional EMMY® Award nominations for programs produced by South Florida PBS staff and partners. Winners will be announced at the Annual Suncoast Regional EMMY® Awards Gala on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at The Diplomat Beach Resort in Hollywood, FL.

“We are incredibly proud of our talented team and creative partners who continue to produce meaningful and inspiring content for our community” stated South Florida PBS President & CEO Dolores Fernandez Alonso. “These nominations are a testament to the dedication and passion that drive our mission to educate, engage, and inspire viewers across South Florida.”

The Suncoast Chapter of The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences is the standard-bearer for excellence in the television industry and the gatekeeper of the prestigious regional EMMY® Awards in the Suncoast Region. The Suncoast Chapter represents the best and brightest television and media professionals from all disciplines of the industry and from all the Suncoast region’s television markets.

Nominations for South Florida PBS Original Productions:

DOCUMENTARY – TOPICAL
From Fear to Hope: The HIV & AIDS Journey
Penelope Douglas, Donna Rowlinson, Brian Zeikowitz, Evan Flores

ENVIRONMENT/SCIENCE – LONG FORM CONTENT
Changing Seas “Mystery of the Spinning Fish”
Alexa Elliott, Javier Castro, Luis Marrou, Sean Hickey, Jacquelyn Hurtado

Changing Seas “Elephant Seals of Año Nuevo”
Liz Smith, Javier Castro, Sean Hickey

Changing Seas “Costa Rica’s Surfing Paradise”
Liz Smith, Javier Castro, Hope Smith, Norman Silva, Sean Hickey

Changing Seas “Whales in a Plastic Ocean”
Alexa Elliott, Javier Castro, Sean Hickey

Changing Seas “California Sea Otters: Ecosystem Engineers”
Alexa Elliott, Norman Silva, Luis Marrou, Sean Hickey

HISTORICAL/CULTURAL – LONG FORM CONTENT
Your South Florida “Meet the Miccosukee”
Nicole Borrero, Pam Giganti Bunge, Nicole Malanga, Jacquelyn Hurtado, Christopher Albert, Sergio Figuera

Nominations for South Florida PBS Partner Productions:

MAGAZINE PROGRAM – SINGLE PROGRAM
Dock & Dine #102
Ko-Mar Productions
Amanda Prince, Todd Kolich, Jim Gallagher, Jason Pereira, Jose Flores

SPECIAL EVENT COVERAGE – EDITED
Beethoven’s 9th – Ode to Joy
Frost School of Music
Paula Schwendener, Gerard Schwarz, Shelton Berg, Andrew Mayatskiy, Yun Xuan Cao, Dana Salminen

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT – LONG FORM CONTENT
George V
Dennis Scholl, Ed Talavera, Dia Kontaxis

DIVERSITY/EQUITY/INCLUSION – LONG FORM CONTENT
Open Dialogues: Gen Queer Z
Art and Culture Center/Hollywood
Jeff Rusnak, Joy Satterlee, Freddy Rodriguez, Tom Lander

ENVIRONMENT/SCIENCE – LONG FORM CONTENT
Garden of the Glades
National Wildlife Refuge Association
Vincent Marcucci

HEALTH/MEDICAL – LONG FORM CONTENT
Labors of Love “Full Moon, Full House”
Beber Silverstein Group
Joe Perz, David A. Vargas

Labors of Love “Tricks of the Trade”
Beber Silverstein Group
Joe Perz, David A. Vargas

DIRECTOR – LONG FORM CONTENT
Descent
WPBT
Rory Fielding

GRAPHICS
Las Luces
Imaginex Movies
Fernanda Lamuño, Miguel Echeverri

AUDIO – LIVE OR POST PRODUCTION
The Carnival of MORE Animals
Palm Beach Symphony
Carlos Lopez

Beethoven’s 9th – Ode to Joy
South Florida PBS
Carlos Fernando Lopez

Descent
WPBT
Renee Sunbird, Christophe Chagnard

MUSICAL COMPOSITION/ARRANGEMENT
The Carnival of More Animals
Palm Beach Symphony
Gerard Schwarz

Descent
WPBT
Renee Sunbird, Christophe Chagnard

Lauren Brody Announces Candidacy for Wellington Village Council

WELLINGTON, FL — Local Realtor, equestrian, and community advocate Lauren Brody today announced her candidacy for Wellington Village Council, pledging to fight overdevelopment, protect the village’s equestrian character, and restore accountability in local government.

Brody, a full-time Wellington resident and mother of three, entered public life after seeing developers push projects through with little community input. “I got involved because I saw how decisions were being made behind closed doors, favoring developers over residents. I knew our village deserved better,” Brody said. Watch Brody’s campaign launch video here.

A top-producing Realtor with a background in business and healthcare management, Brody has built her career on problem-solving and fiscal discipline. She has pledged to bring those skills to the Village Council to ensure Wellington’s equestrian preserve is protected, community spaces like the Wellington Mall are revitalized, and residents’ tax dollars are spent wisely.

“As I’ve said from the start, this is about leadership, not surrender. It’s about fighting for the people who live here, not the ones who just want to cash in. Wellington is worth protecting, and I’ll work every day to make sure our families, seniors, and horses come first, not last,” Brody said.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County Announces Date for its 38th Annual Wellington Dinner Dance

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County proudly announced that its 38th Annual Wellington Dinner Dance will be held on Friday January 9th, 2026. The Black and White Soiree theme dinner will be held at the prestigious Wycliffe Golf and Country Club from 6:30pm to 11:00pm. Proceeds from the event will directly benefit Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Clubs of Wellington.

Guests are encouraged to embrace the theme and black and white attire is required. The evening promises a night of elegance, entertainment, and philanthropy. Attendees will be able to bid on an array of exclusive items to benefit a great cause, dance the night away to a mix of classic and contemporary hits provided by the incredible DJ, and capture timeless memories in their state-of-the-art photo booth.

“This iconic event gets bigger and better each year. Thank you to the amazing Wellington community for supporting this event for nearly 40 years. The support from fundraisers like this allow us to provide the vital programs and services that empower the youth in our communities to achieve great futures,” said Jaene Miranda, President and CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County.

This year’s event is co-chaired by Julie and John Kime, Dr. John Hinson and Dr. Jonathan Shaw of Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute, and Dr. Andrew Shapiro, Dr. Kyle Eldredge, and Dr. Michael Shockley of Advanced Surgical Physicians. Sponsors include Julie and John Kime, Advanced Surgical Physicians, Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute, Wellington Florist, The Wellington Agency, Pyra Promotions, Laura Hanson, and Dr. Martin and Heidi Harland.

Alongside the event’s co-chairs and sponsors, a distinguished committee of community leaders is lending its support to ensure the success of this year’s celebration.

The event is supported by committee members April Berube, Lily Berube, Maddie Binford Wiggins, Kristi Fioravanti, Shanell Foster, Kathleen Gannon, Dr. Elizabeth Gonzales Bruno, Katya Kariman, Devi Khanna Ramprasad, Julie Khanna, Jason L. Kimbrell, Julie Kime, Melissa Lawler, Luc M. Limbourg, Moira MacLean, Sonali Mendiratta, Tonya Notaro, Kayla Roderman, Candice Shaw, Nataliya Stepanets, and Marta Weinstein.

The Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Clubs of Wellington provides a safe and nurturing environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. With a focus on academic success, good character, and healthy lifestyles, the Club’s programs and services inspire and empower young people to reach their full potential.

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are still available. For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit www.bgcpbc.org or contact Mary Coleman at 561-706-3357 or mary.coleman@bgcpbc.org.

The Wellington Advisory Board for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County Photo credit: Tracey Benson Photography

Celebrity-Led ‘The FiiXX Foundation’ VIP Night Draws Attention of Wellington’s Philanthropic International Polo Tour

As South Florida’s art and philanthropy crowd gathered at the Palm Beach Art, Antique & Design Showroom for the unveiling of actor and producer Bruce ‘Busta’ Soscia’s new nonprofit The FiiXX Foundation, Wellington’s the International Polo Tour IPT), led by Chairman and Team Captain Tareq Salahi (also Founder/Chairman of Hotels at Sea Luxury Cruises), proudly embraced the night’s devotion to philanthropy and global culture.

“When we heard about Soscia’s organization and the work he was doing to uplift nonprofits across our community, our hearts were absolutely warmed,” said Salahi. “We knew we wanted to be a part of this wonderful night, one generating powerful connections with people forwarding change and hope globally.”

Salahi, alongside the IPT, are no strangers to the world of philanthropy- just last month, the IPT held its annual Sunset Polo™ in support of long-time 501(c)3 organization We Will Survive Cancer (WWSC), an event that not only generated significant funds for WWSC’s work, but honored more than a decade of mutual support. The night highlighted polo’s historic culture as well as spotlighted technological innovation crafted by Web3 and digital asset platform FAIM.WORLD (a key part of the night’s first-ever International Polo Tour Crypto Cup).

“As a team, spreading positivity and strength have been one of our priorities for ages,” added Salahi. “We are honored we could offer some of that same support for those who made The FiiXX Foundation’s launch possible, and we are excited at the possibility of what our new connections may bring.”

Photo Credit: Amy Rios

Soscia’s VIP night began with a powerful veteran tribute created in association with DDS4Vets, The Hero Foundation, and other veteran-owned organizations honoring Six-time Purple Heart recipient Thomas Matteo, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and former Chief of Police of Miami. Matteo was presented with a custom sculpture crafted by renowned artist Yaacov Heller before a special presentation of a 4 1⁄2-minute video featuring a Marine injured at Abbey Gate during the Afghanistan exit, showcasing his recovery and the life-saving role of his service dog.

Guests also after had the opportunity to listen to a speech by keynote speaker Dr. Phil Defina dedicated to raising awareness of brain health, as well as connected with nonprofit leaders including Food For The Poor, DDS4Vets, The Hero Foundation, and the International Brain Research Foundation (IBRF).

Adding to the celebration’s devotion to innovation and creativity was a technological display by Altitude Water, developers of the incredible Disaster Relief Trailer (DRT) that provided essential support during Hurricane Helene recovery in both Florida and South Carolina. Alongside nonprofit partner Good Vibrations Music Co., the team held a live demonstration immersing attendees in the power of clean water tech alongside a unique sound listening station full of therapeutic Frequency Infused Music® (FIM).

Palm Beach Art, Antique & Design Showroom throughout the event displayed dynamic, colorful works of art, including those by young artists Bodhi + Sky Schneider, ages 6 and 9, who recently returned home following their New York City Chelsea gallery debut.

Bruce Soscia has worked in films across from legendary actors such as Liam Neeson (Absolution), youngest Academy award winner, Adrien Brody (Clean), iconic actor, and Rob Lowe (Dog Gone). He founded The FiiXX Foundation to expand access to clean water, food, education, and healthcare.

The FiXX Foundation extends its deepest appreciation to partners and sponsors, including: Ave Management Inc., Palm Speech Consulting INC., impressive Consulting LLC, PaaL Pay, Student ACES, Building Good Habits (BGH), Token X, Liquid Rights, Billy’s Tequila (pouring Billy’s Anejo Cristalino Tequila), Diamond Brew Coffee, Muscle Vodka, Noxx & Dunn rum, Olympia at Zuccarelli’s Italian Restaurant in West Palm Beach, Children’s Home Society, Palm Beach Equity Partners, Dreamlux Productions, DDL Advertising, Perry CPA Group, SG INK, TransMedia Group, Palm Beach State Student Photographers Amy Rios, Santiago Arias and Abram Sutton, The Keyes Company; Yaneth Wiser, Sociable Mortgage; Andres Chevasco, Multi Service Drone Enterprise; Wilson Velandia, LeashFree; Sean P. Dana, 33 Contemporary Gallery; Sergio Gomez.

The International Polo Tour recently announced a new partnership with the Royal Thai Embassy and His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Suriya Chindawongse ahead of next year’s Sunset Polo™, which will honor the U.S. and Thailand’s relationship as well as America’s 250th Anniversary, a milestone in friendship, freedom, and international collaboration. The team is currently preparing for its next major game here in Wellington taking place January 30th at 6pm.

Wellington Regional Medical Center Breaks Ground on New ER at Hypoluxo Expanding Access to Emergency Care in Southern Palm Beach County

Lantana, FL — October 1, 2025 — Wellington Regional Medical Center proudly announces the groundbreaking of its newest Emergency Room at Hypoluxo, an Extension of Wellington Regional Medical Center. The ER at Hypoluxo will be a freestanding facility designed to bring high-quality emergency care closer to residents in southern Palm Beach County.

The ER at Hypoluxo will offer 24/7 emergency services, staffed by board-certified emergency medicine physicians and supported by advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies. This expansion reflects Wellington Regional’s ongoing commitment to meeting the growing healthcare needs of the community with accessible, patient-centered care.

“We are excited to bring this new emergency facility to Hypoluxo,” said Pam Tahan, Chief Executive Officer of Wellington Regional Medical Center. “This project is a testament to our mission of delivering exceptional care where and when our community needs it most.”

The groundbreaking ceremony included remarks from hospital leadership, local officials, and community partners, celebrating the beginning of a project that will enhance emergency care access and reduce travel time for patients in need.

Key Features of the ER at Hypoluxo:

• 24/7 emergency care

• Board-certified emergency physicians

• On-site imaging and laboratory services

• Modern, patient-friendly design

• Seamless integration with Wellington Regional Medical Center

The facility is expected to open in Fall of 2026 and will serve as a vital extension of Wellington Regional’s comprehensive healthcare services.

Over 25 Attendees Join Pace Palm Beach’s Quarterly “Open Doors, Open Hearts”

The gathering aimed to raise awareness about the only gender-responsive school in our county.

Palm Springs, FL – Over 25 attendees filled the room at Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, to learn more about the second-chance, gender-responsive school for girls and young women while also showing communal support for a great mission. 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 featured exclusive tours of the different classrooms and the new spaces it offers to its enrolled girls.

During the day, the girls shared with the 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 therapists trained in girl-centered and trauma-based therapy. Pace’s “Reach Program” allows any qualified girls in the county to receive therapy services, and the licensed clinician travels to where they feel most comfortable. They are provided with leadership and community service opportunities, life skill development, career readiness, and individual goal planning, including high school diploma tracks, credit recovery tracks, and GED graduation tracks. These resources are made available to girls at no cost to them.

“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 over 150 girls served annually in Palm Beach County. Girls at Pace Palm Beach also receive life coaching to learn essential life skills, such as personal hygiene, grocery shopping, and landing their first job. Pace Palm Beach also offers therapy and counseling services for teenage girls throughout Palm Beach County at schools, homes, and locations throughout the community. These resources are made available to girls at no cost.

Open Doors, Open Hearts attendees included the President of the Rotary Club of Palm Beach, Susy Diaz, Mayor of Greenacres, Vivian Rodriguez, Chief of Staff, Greenacres City Council, Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, and representation from community allies like Booked & Connected, Lucy Match, Annual Giving Manager, Path to College, and more.

To learn more about how to support Pace, or open enrollment, visit www.pacecenter.org.

The Great Charity Challenge: How Wellington’s Equestrian Community Gives Back

Galloping into its 17th edition, the Great Charity Challenge (GCC) has left a lasting mark on Palm Beach County’s nonprofit community. Thanks to the generosity of donors, the event has served as a true catalyst for change, blending equestrian sport and philanthropy to distribute more than $24 million to 370 local charities over the past 16 years.

Originally founded by father-daughter team Mark and Paige Bellissimo, the GCC has grown from distributing $500,000 in its inaugural year to raising and distributing over $1 million every edition since. With another ambitious goal of $2 million in 2026, the event will once again return to Wellington International, home of the Winter Equestrian Festival, on Saturday, January 31, 2026.

The electrifying evening will feature showjumping paired with the unstoppable spirit of giving! Participating non-profits are guaranteed a minimum of $15,000, while the winning team will take home $100,000 for their paired organization.

Following the application and vetting process, all qualified charities will be assigned a “lottery ball” and entered into a raffle drum, with selections taking place during the month of December 2025. In keeping with tradition, the drawing will remain 100% random and will be live-streamed via the event’s social media channels. Additional smaller grants, ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, will also be awarded through a random draw among vetted nonprofits.

To be eligible, applicants must, at a minimum:

Be a registered 501(c)(3) organization
Serve residents of Palm Beach County
Have a physical presence in the County
Commit to spending at least 75% of funding received locally
Have a non-discrimination statement and/or policy
If you know of a deserving Palm Beach County charity, please encourage them to apply at www.greatcharitychallenge.com/2026-gcc. The application process is open from September 29, 2025, through 5:00 PM on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.

“We cannot thank our generous donors enough for making this event continue to grow and thrive,” comments Anne Caroline Valtin, Executive Director of the GCC. “Looking back on the last 16 years and the tie this event has created between Palm Beach County and the equestrian community, we see the growing need to support our neighbors. We urge organizations to apply for the chance to access unrestricted funding during these challenging times.”

Introducing this year’s theme: Rhyme Without Reason – promising a night filled with imagination, color, and creativity as equestrian teams bring whimsical pairings to life in support of our community. Beyond the costumes, this year’s theme captures the heart of what the GCC is all about: creating impact through unique and unexpected pairings. Just as a bee, a ski, and brie might rhyme without reason, the event unites sponsors, nonprofits, and equestrians in powerful ways that defy expectation—but deliver extraordinary results. Together, we’ll cheer, celebrate, and honor the spirit of teamwork while supporting dozens of Palm Beach County charities making a difference in the lives of thousands.

For additional event information, including information about the application process, donations, and sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.greatcharitychallenge.com. We also invite you to join us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date with our latest news and happenings.