The Norton Museum in West Palm Beach, FL, a great place to see Chinese porcelain ceramics
China has a long history of producing ceramics, dating back over ten thousand years. It began as pottery, the process by which the artisan transformed ordinary material like clay into something beautiful. From pottery came the art of porcelain. Many are familiar with the saying “fine china”, a direct reference to the fine ceramics of China exported to the Western hemisphere between the Song dynasty (960 –1279) and the Ming dynasty (1368 –1644).
One of China’s most used and improved materials is porcelain. Artisans used the earliest form of this material during the Shang Dynasty (1600-1046 BCE), otherwise known as the beginning of the Bronze Era in China. This prototype, called proto-celadon, gave off a blue-grey appearance compared to today’s porcelain. The porcelain we know was made with kaolin or kaolinite as the primary ingredient. This ingredient is the material that gives porcelain its white and translucent appearance.
The classic look of many of these porcelain ceramics is the white base with the blue glaze. There is Famille Rose, which has a white base with pink floral designs. Next, there is Famille Verte, which is mainly green with blue and orange highlights. The next look is called Canton, which is decorated with human figures, birds, and insects in color palettes of green and pink, then blue and gold. Other kinds of looks created with developed techniques give ceramics an all-black look or a cobalt blue with gold highlights.
By the eighth century, China began exporting its porcelain ceramics, starting with the Islamic world and moving to the rest of Asia. Then, by the thirteenth century, production of the finest porcelain was centered in a city called Jingdezhen, where kaolin deposits were plentiful compared to others. These were specifically made for the imperial court’s use. By the sixteenth century, China began trade with Europe, where these porcelain ceramics became immensely popular. The most common pieces traded were the classic blue and white look with river scenes or pieces decorated with Famille Rose or Verte color palettes.
Since inland access was limited, the Europeans attempted to reproduce the body and decoration on Chinese ceramics. They used soft paste porcelains such as bone china to mimic the look of genuine porcelain. Because soft paste porcelain was not fired at high temperatures, the way true porcelain was, the colors were less clear, and the glaze did not hold. It wasn’t until the eighteenth century, in Messein, that a recipe consisting of kaolin and alabaster, which emulated true porcelain, was created.
Porcelain was the fruit of China’s working class, and to this day, it is still being treasured by the rest of the world. Not only is it a work of art, but it also played a huge part in China’s trade with the outside world, changing the lives of others culturally and economically. One of the best places to visit to see these ceramics is the Norton Museum of Art. There are two separate exhibits showcasing Chinese art, including porcelain ceramics. So, take a family member or friend who might be interested in these works and take a chance to admire the long-deceased artisans’ masterpieces.
Life on the road sounds like a dream—until you add a furry companion into the mix. Suddenly, your days of breezing through airport security and crashing in any hostel that’ll have you are over. You now travel with a heartbeat that relies on you for food, comfort, and security, even when you’re juggling client calls in three time zones. But here’s the thing: living as a digital nomad with a pet isn’t just doable—it can be deeply rewarding if you approach it with a little grit, flexibility, and planning.
Choose Your Base With Both of You in Mind
It’s tempting to chase cheap rent and sunny skies, but not every paradise is pet-friendly. Some countries have strict quarantine rules, breed bans, or housing regulations that could throw a wrench into your plans fast. If your dog needs daily runs or your cat hates noise, you’ll want to look beyond Wi-Fi speeds and local coworking spaces when picking your next stop. Always think in terms of walkability, vet access, and how welcome pets are in everyday life, from cafes to public transport.
Prioritize Routine, Even When the Scenery Changes
The backbone of your pet’s well-being is consistency, which can be tricky when you’re switching time zones like underwear. Still, feeding, walking, and downtime should happen around the same hours every day, even if you’re setting up camp in a new Airbnb every other week. You don’t need a rigid clock, but some rhythm helps your pet feel secure—especially when they’re navigating unfamiliar environments right along with you. It’s about grounding them with little signals that say, “You’re safe. This is home, even for now.”
Invest in Reliable Tech and Backups
Your remote career keeps the wheels turning, so your tech can’t be sketchy—especially when a barking dog or meowing cat might already throw your Zoom call into chaos. Have a solid laptop, noise-canceling headphones, a strong hotspot plan, and backup chargers always ready. Consider using a VPN, too, especially in countries where Wi-Fi networks aren’t always secure. The smoother your workflow, the more present and relaxed you’ll be during those crucial hours your pet needs attention and care.
Pursue Online Education
If you’re trying to level up your career while traveling, pursuing a degree can be a smart long-term move that adds real weight to your resume. For digital nomads, online degree programs offer the flexibility to study from anywhere, allowing you to keep moving without putting your education on hold. An IT degree, in particular, can help you build practical skills in areas like cybersecurity, networking, and software systems—so if you’re eyeing a future-proof path, this is worth a look.
Rethink Accommodations and Book With Intention
The days of couchsurfing or splitting a 12-bunk dorm are gone. Now, you need places that welcome pets, have a bit of space, and preferably don’t come with white rugs or fragile décor. Look for extended-stay rentals with kitchens and nearby green spaces, and don’t be afraid to reach out directly to hosts—even if their listing says “no pets.” Many are flexible once they know your pet is well-behaved and you’re a responsible guest. Be ready to pay a bit more, and factor that into your budgeting early on.
Understand Travel Logistics Before You Depart
Getting from one country to another with a pet can involve paperwork rabbit holes you didn’t even know existed. Some places require microchipping, specific vaccinations, health certificates, or lengthy quarantine stays. Airlines have wildly different policies, too—some allow small pets in the cabin, others don’t allow animals at all during extreme temperatures. If you’re hopping borders regularly, get comfortable with embassy websites and pet travel forums. And always, always double-check requirements weeks in advance, not days before your flight.
Build a Local Support System Wherever You Land
Being a digital nomad doesn’t mean you have to be a lone wolf. Seek out local pet sitters, dog walkers, and expat communities early on, especially if you ever need a last-minute vet or someone to watch your animal during a work sprint. Apps like TrustedHousesitters or Facebook expat groups can be gold mines. Knowing you’ve got backup helps take the edge off when life throws curveballs—whether it’s a late client meeting or a medical emergency.
Pack for Them Like You Pack for You
You’ve got packing cubes, a minimalist wardrobe, and your travel-size French press—but what about your pet? Bring essentials they rely on: collapsible bowls, familiar toys, their preferred food (or know where to find it locally), a comfy travel carrier, and medical records stored digitally and printed. Don’t underestimate the power of smell or texture for pets—those small comforts from home can ease anxiety in transit. And don’t forget grooming tools, especially if you’re headed somewhere humid or dusty.
Being a digital nomad with a pet means you’re no longer traveling solo—you’re building a life that moves together. The freedom you chase isn’t just yours; it extends to them, too. With smart planning, empathy, and a willingness to adapt, you can both thrive. Your pet may not care about new cultures or time zone hacks, but they’ll know when they’re loved—and that’s the kind of success you won’t find in any guidebook.
Discover the vibrant community of Wellington with Around Wellington – your go-to source for engaging stories, local events, and expert insights that keep you connected and informed!
As the calendar transitions into summer, Floridian families are making the trek north to Georgia where the state parks have diverse outdoor recreation opportunities, on-site restaurants, and modern housing options which often include cabins, a lodge, and camp sites. It’s worth noting that a handful of the state parks have golf courses, all of which are part of the Georgia Golf Trail.
While some state parks may be off the beaten path, so to speak, they are worth making the effort to visit in order to play golf, unwind, and truly enjoy the Great Outdoors, especially with your friends and family.
“The golf courses within Georgia’s state parks are fairly priced first-class golf destinations in a relaxing family friendly environment,” said Doug Hollandsworth, Founder, Georgia Golf Trail. “The vast majority of visitors to our state park courses make plans to return to play again.”
Let’s begin the journey.
Highland Walk 17th hole, signature hole
HIGHLAND WALK GC
Rural Gem. There are many uphill and downhill tee shots at the Highland Walk Golf Course (706-245-6770) at Victoria Bryant State Park in Royston. The easiest downhill tee shot is at the par-four 1st hole, but the most memorable tee shot is at the 7th where a well-struck tee ball will soar forever in the Georgia sky. The number-one photo opportunity is the tee shot at the 17th, which is the signature hole at Highland Walk.
Arrowhead Pointe Golf Course overlooking Lake Russell
ARROWHEAD POINTE GC
Lakeside Layout. In Elberton, there’s the Richard B. Russell State Park — home of the Arrowhead Pointe Golf Course (706-283-6000). At this golf course, considered the ‘Crown Jewel’ of Georgia’s state park golf courses, the water views are simply stunning — with 10 of the 18 holes skirting Lake Richard B. Russell. Arrowhead Pointe GC is consistent with the state park golf course theme of “no crowds, no houses, no noise.”
THE CREEK GC
Scenic & Serene. In Social Circle, Georgia, the Creek Golf Course (706-557-3006) at Hard Labor Creek State Park provides great value, as Golf Digest Frugal Golfer has listed The Creek as the “4th sweetest deal in the USA.” One of the Creek’s memorable holes is its signature hole – the 5th. Here, a water wheel and bridge are located behind the green, creating a peaceful and picturesque backdrop. Here, the setting for golf can best be described as ‘tranquil.’ While on the golf course, the atmosphere is truly scenic and serene.
BRAZELL’S CREEK GC
Country Cool. The Brazell’s Creek Golf Course (912-577-7745) at Jack Hill State Park in Reidsville is an exceptional par-71 layout. Georgia’s own Denis Griffiths designed this golf course. At Brazell’s Creek, a 1,500-foot wooden bridge winds its way through a canopy of trees, connecting the front nine with the back nine. The back nine was built on a windswept open landscape which has a links-style look to it. The front nine is tree-lined and the greens have creative contours.
The Lakes Golf Course 18th hole, signature hole
THE LAKES GC
Southern Sensation. The Lakes Golf Course (912-285-6154) at Laura S. Walker Park in Waycross is the southern-most golf course on the Georgia Golf Trail. The fairways and landing areas are defined with gentle, links-style mounds that accent the course’s three large lakes while the greens are large and undulating. Loblolly pines, just like the ones you see at the Augusta National GC, line the fairways at The Lakes.
Little Ocmulgee Loblloy Pines Border Fairway
WALLACE ADAMS GC
‘Little’ Augusta National. While standing on the tees at the Wallace Adams Golf Course (229-868-7474) at the Little Ocmulgee State Park in McRae, the views remind you of the Augusta National GC. The only things missing are the CBS cameras, the Masters’ patrons, and a large manual scoreboard. The greens are perfect, pure, and true. Even the pine straw appears to be maintained as it’s done at the Masters. The Wallace Adams GC is nicknamed Little O and is often referred to Augusta National’s ‘cousin.’
Brasstown Valley Golf Course
BRASSTOWN VALLEY GC
Headin’ for the Hills. Nestled among the mountains of North Georgia, Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa (706-379-4613) is the quintessential mountain golf getaway – located in Young Harris. Even though Brasstown Valley is located in the mountains, the golf course was built in a valley, which justifies its moniker – Brasstown Valley. Here, the atmosphere is refreshing, relaxing, and re-energizing. The golf course is very well maintained, cleverly designed, and entertaining to play. It’s the real deal.
GEORGIA VETERANS MEMORIAL GC
A Georgia ‘Peach.’ The Georgia Veterans Memorial Golf Course (800-459-1230), located on the premises of the Lake Blackshear Resort & State Park in Cordele, is a par-72 layout. It has 130 sand traps, four sets of tees, and at least one grey fox! The key to playing this course well is to focus your attention on these six holes: 1st, 7th, 11th, 13th, 15th, and 18th.
MEADOW LINKS GC
Links-Like Look. The Meadow Links Golf Course (229-768-3714) is affiliated with the George T. Bagby State Park located near Fort Gaines. When Meadow Links opened in 1998, Golf Digest ranked it as “the nation’s sixth best new affordable public course.” It remains one of the nation’s top most affordable public golf courses. It’s worth noting that the George T. Bagby State Park has been labeled as “The Best Kept Secret in Southwest Georgia.”
For more information about Georgia’s state park golf courses along Georgia Golf Trail, access www.GeorgiaGolfandTravel.com.
Kids hate reading, empty nest syndrome is real and other myths.
We all know the popular urban myths: Step on a line, break your fathers spine. Step on a crack, break your momma’s back. How many lines and cracks have we stepped on over the years and everyone’s fine? I’m here to add a few new myths to that list. How many times have I heard over the course of my kids academic career “I just can’t get little Johnny/Susie to read?” Or, as a mom, thought about smacking my head against the wall while trying to get my math/science minded child to read a flipping book? Struggle is real but…
When my son was three I was distressed that he wasn’t fully potty trained. A friend at the playground reminded me that he wasn’t going to go to college in diapers… to just relax and it would happen. She was right. He’s going to college and guess what? He’s not in diapers (Thank you, Jesus).
And it’s the same thing with kids and reading. It’s not that they don’t like to read, it’s that they haven’t found the right book. That’s really the key. It could also be that reading is forced down their throats in school. It becomes something they have to do, instead of something they want to do. It’s our jobs as guardians/guides to set up positive experiences that remind them that reading, and writing, is a friend.
When my daughter was in elementary school she loved a book called Eight Keys by Suzanne LaFleur. The author took the time to talk to her and ask her questions. My daughter had her own questions for this author and I think she was taken back by them. She has always had a love for reading but this experience, I think, solidified it.
We all have that one book or experience that changed things for us. My book was The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis. It was a game changer for me. I can still see the pictures it created in my mind. Like I said, kids or people love to read, if they say they don’t, they just haven’t found the right book.
On to the second urban myth I’d like to debunk: Empty nest syndrome is real. Nope. No it’s not. Here’s my argument for why it’s an urban myth. The kids leave and the parents slowly come out of their shells and GO CRAZY! Ha ha.. they are never home… they have money for other things… they can do whatever they want now. Can I take a dance class? Yes, I can. Can I practice drumming in my kids room? Yes, I can. Can I stay up till the wee hours of the morning writing my next masterpiece or organizing a book festival?? YES, I CAN!! This last one hits close to home. I realized that for the past eight years I have been preparing for the day my kids would leave the nest. I knew that if I didn’t have some things in place that I would honestly fall apart. I love my kids and I have loved being their mom but I have other things that fill my life. Will I miss them when they leave? Absolutely, 100%… truth be told, I’ll cry after I finish writing this. My life is so blessed and full… what else could I ask for? I’ll tell you what else… Part II.
What does Part II look like for me? Well, I’ve already laid the foundation. I have three collections of short stories that have been published AND I’m in the fourth year of Read It Write It Book and Writing Festival (shameless plug) happening at the Wellington Green Mall on Saturday, June 14, 2025 from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. Admission is FREE and there will be FORTY independent authors there just waiting to interact with you or your kids. This is a passion project. If you know me, you know that I want a large book festival that is accessible to everyone here in Palm Beach County and I think it should be free because reading is for everyone… not just those who can afford to spend $75 a day (I’m looking at you Palm Beach Book Festival).
First, I implore you to come out to Read It Write It this year. It’s such a fun day. Panel discussions and workshops are all FREE. Who knows… maybe you or your kids will find “their book” or have a life changing experience that shapes how they feel about reading or writing… or about anything. (Also, editor’s note: AroundWellington.com will have a table at Read It Write It this year, so stop by and say “hello!”).
Second, whatever stage of parenting you are in? I challenge you to find your Part II. What is it that lights your soul on fire? Start doing more of that and you too can debunk the empty nest syndrome.
Congratulations to the Class of 2025! Reach for the stars… (you too parents!)
Jeannine Carr, Krista Martinelli (Editor of AroundWellington.com) and Heidi Hess (Mommy Moments writer) at the 2025 Graduation of Park Vista Community High School. Congratulations to Jason, Paul and Ryan and the rest of the graduating class!
to Expand Access to Animal-Assisted Therapy in Florida
Jackie Ducci
WELLINGTON, FL. (May 29, 2025) — In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, The Human-Animal Alliance (H-AA) has awarded $43,700 in grants to three Florida-based nonprofit organizations using therapy animals to support emotional well-being and trauma recovery. The funding will expand access to canine- and equine-assisted services for children and adults in crisis—especially those who face financial barriers to care.
The Human-Animal Alliance is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the healing power of the human-animal connection. Through direct grantmaking, public education, and policy advocacy, H-AA helps ensure that people and animals can form and maintain meaningful relationships—particularly during times of trauma, hardship, or crisis.
“As mental health challenges rise nationwide, so does the need for creative, compassionate support systems,” said Jackie Ducci, Founder of the Human-Animal Alliance. “Animals provide unconditional love, grounding, and comfort—especially for people who are struggling. We’re proud to support these organizations that are doing incredible work, and to help make these healing connections more accessible to those who need them most.”
Grants were awarded to the following organizations:
Funding will support five certified therapy dog and handler teams who will deliver emotional support in hospitals, schools, behavioral health facilities, and more.
Scholarship funds will allow youth—many of whom are on Medicaid and lack access to therapy—to participate in equine-assisted services.
These new awards bring H-AA’s total giving to nearly 300,000 since its founding in 2022. An additional $100,000 in grants is anticipated by year-end, as the organization scales its national impact.
H-AA ensures 100% of public donations go directly to programming. Founder Jackie Ducci personally covers all overhead expenses—a rare distinction in philanthropy. “Donors deserve to know where their money is going,” said Ducci. “At H-AA, every dollar makes a difference—and every grant supports human-animal connection in a life-changing way.”
About the Human-Animal Alliance
The Human-Animal Alliance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded by entrepreneur and equestrian Jackie Ducci to support and expand access to therapeutic human-animal connections. With a focus on three pillars—preserving existing connections, creating new ones, and advocating for public recognition of their value—H-AA identifies and funds exceptional programs across the country that use animals to support mental health, emotional recovery, and social well-being.
About Jackie Ducci Jackie Ducci is the founder of The Human-Animal Alliance (H-AA), a nonprofit dedicated to advocating for human-animal connections that heal and uplift. Since its launch in 2022, H-AA has awarded nearly $300,000 in grants to grassroots programs supporting people and animals through trauma and crisis. Jackie personally covers all overhead expenses, ensuring that every dollar donated directly funds impactful work. Under her leadership, H-AA empowers exceptional programs and raises societal awareness for the vital role of animals in human well-being.
Located at Palm Beach State College was a success!!
Carrie Bradburn/CAPEHART
West Palm Beach, FL—(Friday, May 23, 2025)—Nonprofits First proudly hosted its inaugural AI Summit at Palm Beach State College on May 12, 2025. The event brought together nonprofit leaders, AI experts, and community members to explore artificial intelligence’s transformative impact on the nonprofit sector.
Speakers included Philip Di Como, a renowned expert in nonprofit law with Nason Yeager Gerson Harris & Fumero; Javier Sanchez, Technical Solutions Architect at BillulloNex; Alex Oliveira, a marketing strategist with Prediq; Cailen Macias, an AI consultant and founder of BotQueen; and Josh Hirsch, a digital fundraising expert with Fundraise Up.
The AI Summit had seventy-three nonprofit organizations in attendance, representing over one hundred twenty. The summit featured a series of insightful presentations and discussions on topics for nonprofit organizations to implement within their organization, such as developing AI usage policies, ethical considerations in AI implementation, leveraging AI for enhanced fundraising efforts, and emerging AI technologies. Attendees gained valuable knowledge on how AI can protect sensitive data, engage donors through predictive analytics, and personalize communication strategies.
“We are thrilled with the success of our first AI Summit,” said Trudy Crowetz, CEO of Nonprofits First. “The discussions and insights shared will undoubtedly help nonprofits harness the power of AI to better serve their communities. Nonprofits First looks forward to continuing this important conversation and supporting nonprofits in their journey towards AI integration.”
Nonprofits First remains focused on educational and professional development opportunities for its members regarding AI. The next topics will be related to Funding for AI Implementation and Best practices for implementing a nonprofit AI usage policy.
For more information about Nonprofits First and future events, please visit www.nonprofitsfirst.org.
About Nonprofits First: Since 2005, Nonprofits First, Inc. has been the leading resource for strengthening the administrative and operational capacity of nonprofit organizations in the community. Comprised of experienced professionals, consultants, and volunteers, Nonprofits First’s vision is a community in which all nonprofits achieve their highest level of desired impact. For more information, visit www.nonprofitsfirst.org.
Palm Beach County – On Tuesday, April 29, the Wisdom Warrior Challenge—a Florida-based nonprofit focused on age-inclusive track events—held its final race of the season at The Vi at Lakeside Village Senior Living in Lantana, FL. Before the event began, Dr. Jonathan Shaw, a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon from Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute, demonstrated safe warm-up stretches for participating seniors, focusing on joint health and mobility.
As a joint replacement specialist, Dr. Shaw focues on minimally invasive hip and knee replacements, robotic-assisted surgery, revision procedures, and nonoperative treatments for arthritis. He completed advanced training at the internationally recognized Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush and is an active member of both the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons. Committed to helping people protect their joints and perform at their highest level, Dr. Shaw led participants through hip and knee stretches, which are easy to perform in the aging population, before the final race. His visit reinforced the Wisdom Warrior Challenge’s commitment to inclusive fitness by showing how gentle and safe stretching can support joint health and make physical activity safer for participants of all ability levels.
“I’m grateful to the Wisdom Warrior Challenge for inviting me to be part of such a meaningful event,” said Dr. Jonathan Shaw, Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute. “It was a pleasure to connect with participants and share ways to keep their joints healthy and strong. Staying active is one of the best things we can do for our long-term mobility, and it was inspiring to see so many older adults embracing that.”
Since 2019, The Wisdom Warrior Challenge offers 21 events for adults aged 50 every year. With races ranging from 50 to 1600 meters, the Challenge encourages seniors to stay active, socialize, celebrate their vitality, and challenge the common myth that aging means slowing down into a sedentary lifestyle. To ensure that everyone can join, the Challenge is designed with inclusivity in mind, welcoming seniors of all capabilities to take part. Participants rage from different categories such as: Independent Living Communities, 55+ Communities, Assisted Living Communities, and one open to the general public.
“I want to thank Dr. Shaw for coming out to help these older athletes warm-up was truly remarkable,” said non-profit founder Linda Borgmeyer. “Everyone of all capabilities was eager to ask questions and learn about the different ways to nurture their hip and knee health, and for that we are so thankful!”
For more information about Dr. Shaw and the Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute, visit https://www.pboi.com.
Jurassic Summer Camp atThe Palm Beach Museum of Natural History
WELLINGTON, FL – Who wants to pet a real dinosaur? Starting June 23 through August 8, curious kids of all ages (5+) are invited to become junior paleontologists, geologists, and archaeologists and step back in time at Jurassic Summer Camp hosted by The Palm Beach Museum of Natural History.
Tucked inside The Mall at Wellington Green, kids enjoy hands-on, STEAM-based multidisciplinary learning, games, and activities, from identifying Ice Age fossils and Native American artifacts, to taking selfies with “Cheryll,” the museum’s 68-million-year-old Triceratops (and the only actual dinosaur skeleton in South Florida).
Kids also take field trips around the mall, from technology workshops at Apple, cuddly bear customization at Build-A-Bear Workshop, cooking classes at California Pizza Kitchen, and more.
Three sessions are available on June 23-27, July 21-25, and August 4-8, from 9am to 3pm. Before and after-care is available from 8am to 5pm.
Non-refundable camp registration is $50. Weekly fees are $250/week per person or $50/day per camper. Pre-registration is required.
For more information, call Kirsten Smith, Program Coordinator, at (218) 398-7191, email: ksmith@pbmnh.org, or visit pbmnh.org.
Museum hours of operation are Monday through Thursday, 12 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The Mall at Wellington Green is located at 10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington, FL. For more information, call (561) 227-6900 or visit shopwellingtongreen.com.
About The Palm Beach Museum of Natural History
The Palm Beach Museum of Natural History offers engaging exhibits and educational programs that bring science to life. Featuring real fossils, artifacts, and interactive learning, the museum inspires visitors of all ages to explore the natural world. For more information, visit pbmnh.org.
About The Mall at Wellington Green
The Mall at Wellington Green in Wellington, FL is a 1.2-million-square-foot, two-level regional shopping destination, and it features over 160 stores. Retailers include Macy’s, Dillard’s, Apple, Brighton, Chico’s, Francesca’s, H&M, Tommy Bahama, City Furniture, The Palm Beach Museum of Natural History, CMX Wellington, and more. For information, visit shopwellingtongreen.com.
Community Partners of South Florida CEO Kelly Powell
WELLINGTON, FL – Community Partners of South Florida is thrilled to announce that its Chief Executive Officer, Kelly Powell, has been honored with the 2025 Palm Beach County Behavioral Health Coalition Champion for Business Leadership award. The award recognizes Kelly’s exceptional dedication and impact on behavioral health within the Palm Beach County community.
In addition to this prestigious recognition, Tracy Speranza, Director of Supportive Housing at Community Partners of South Florida, was also recognized as a nominee for her outstanding contributions.
The Palm Beach County Behavioral Health Coalition’s annual awards celebrate exceptional community leaders and organizations that work tirelessly to support behavioral health awareness, education, and transformation. The event highlights the critical importance of advocacy, empowerment, and innovative solutions in building a healthier Palm Beach County.
“It is truly an honor to receive this recognition from the Palm Beach County Behavioral Health Coalition,” said Kelly Powell. “I am also incredibly proud of Tracy for her nomination and admire all the nominees and winners for their commitment. Working together, we are making Palm Beach County a better place for children and families to thrive.”
Community Partners of South Florida extends its heartfelt congratulations to Kelly Powell, Tracy Speranza, and all the nominees and winners for their vital work in advancing behavioral health in our community.
About Community Partners of South Florida
Community Partners of South Florida is a $19 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.
Honored During theGirl Scouts of Southeast Florida Emerald Awards – Palm Beach
Nancy Brinker honored with Lifetime Achievement Award for Philanthropy
Girl Scout Emma Smith with Emerald Honoree Chair and sponsor Lois Pope
Palm Beach, Florida (May 7, 2025) – An inspiring afternoon of celebration and philanthropy took center stage at the Four Seasons Resort in Palm Beach as Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida hosted the distinguished Emerald Awards Palm Beach luncheon, raising more than $170,000. The funds raised will help the organization continue to empower girls to grow into leaders who make a difference in their communities and beyond.
More than 300 guests and sponsors attended the annual Emerald Awards Palm Beach luncheon honoring Lifetime Achievement Award for Philanthropy honoree and Palm Beach resident Nancy Brinker, Founder of Susan G. Komen for the Cure and Promise Fund of Florida, in recognition of her extraordinary impact and enduring commitment to women’s health. The event also honored four exceptional women for their professional achievements and community service that distinguish them as leaders and role models for young women. The 2025 Emerald Awards honorees were Christine DelVecchio, Senior Vice President and Private Client Manager at Bank of America Private Bank; Sophia Eccleston, Director of Origination for NextEra Energy Marti LaTour, Director of Marketing for The A.I.D Group; Wendy Sartory Link, Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections.
Nancy Brinker, Lisa Johnson, Jill Mondo, Nancy Proffitt
Nancy Brinker
Brinker is a three-time Ambassador and New York Times best-selling author and leader of the global breast cancer movement. Her journey began with a promise to her dying sister, Susan G. Komen, to end the shame, fear, and hopelessness caused by this disease. In one generation, the organization that bears Susan’s name has changed the world. In 2009, President Barack Obama honored Brinker with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, for this work. She was also named Goodwill Ambassador for Cancer Control for the United Nations’ World Health Organization, where she continues to prioritize cancer prevention globally.
Christine DelVecchio
DelVecchio is Senior Vice President and Private Client Manager at Bank of America Private Bank in Palm Beach. Active in Bank of America’s Mentorship Program, DelVecchio imparts her years of experience to help young professionals grow and strive in their careers and is deeply committed to philanthropy. She co-chairs and is President of Impact the Palm Beaches, leading a group of 400 women in awarding $100,000 in grants to local non-profits, helping to make a significant impact on the community.
Sophia Eccleston
Eccleston, is Director of Origination for NextEra Energy and a leader in community service, where she serves as an Executive Board Member for CareerSource Florida, a commissioner, and past Chair of the Florida Commission on the Status of Women, and a board member of Boca Raton Regional Hospital. Her leadership has earned her multiple accolades, including the 2023 Minority Community Leader Award from Keiser University and the 2023 Women in Leadership Award from the Executive Women of the Palm Beaches Foundation.
Marti LaTour
LaTour is Director of Marketing for The A.I.D Group. LaTour has served as Chairman of the Board of the Palm Beach County Food Bank for the past six years. She is Vice Chairman of the Board at Benzaiten Center for Creative Arts, a Board Member of the Community Foundation of Palm Beach County, FAU Tech Runway, Lois Pope’s LIFE Foundation, the Economic Council of Palm Beach County, the Palm Beach Round Table and is active in numerous other organizations.
Wendy Sartory Link
Link is the Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections. Throughout her career, Link has been dedicated to mentoring and nurturing the next generation of leaders. She takes pride in her role as a mentor and has made significant contributions to the development of young women and men across Palm Beach County, inspiring them to reach their full potential.
Guests at the luncheon enjoyed a silent auction, honoree recognition ceremony and a keynote address from Mary Kissel, a distinguished geopolitical expert, executive and former journalist with a dynamic career spanning three continents.
The Emerald Awards Palm Beach was chaired by Virginia Spencer. Geri Emmett, Donna Mulholland and Lois Pope served as honorary event chairs. Host committee members were Priya Deshmukh, Andrea Fogarty, Kathryn Gillespie, Jackie Halderman, Kathleen Hillman, Lynn Kirker, Robin Mason, Melissa Mulvaney, Gail O’Donnell, Suzi Redland, Ofelia Utset and Marcia Wolf.
Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida also presented honorary event chair, longtime Girl Scout volunteer, and previous Emerald Award honoree Donna Mulholland with a Lifetime Service Award at this year’s event. Since the award’s inception in 2014, it has recognized extraordinary, sustained volunteer service that has helped shape the organization and impact generations of young women.
“Each year, the Emerald Awards shine a light on outstanding women whose passion, perseverance and leadership help shape stronger communities,” said Lisa Johnson, CEO of Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida. “Their stories inspire our girls to dream bigger and lead with courage, confidence and character.”
Ruby Sponsors of the 2025 Emerald Award Palm Beach were Publix Super Market Charities and Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office; Award Sponsors were Amazon, Comcast, Florida Power & Light, HCA Florida Healthcare, and Lois Pope; Sapphire Sponsors were Duffy’s Foundation and Fiserv; Illustrated Properties was the Valet Sponsor; PNC Bank was the Décor Sponsor; Opal Sponsors were Bank of America, LaCroix Sparkling Water and Sandy James Fine Food and Productions; and Pearl Sponsor was Virginia and Perry Spencer. Friends of Girl Scouts Sponsors were Israel, Israel and Associates, Linda Strutt Consulting, Inc., Munyon’s Paw-Paw, Lauren Sterlacci, TD Bank and Velocity Community Credit Union. Table Sponsors were Palm Beach State College, Christine Seal, UBS Financial Services, Inc. and Valley National Bank.
About Girl Scouts
We are the preeminent leadership development organization for girls who believe that every girl can be a go-getter, innovator, risk-taker, and leader with the power to change the world. More than any other organization in our community, Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida empowers girls ages 5 to 17 with vision and voice—girls who command their future, engage their communities, and inspire others. We offer every girl a chance to practice a lifetime of leadership, adventure, and success. Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida serves more than 6,900 girls in Broward, Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee Counties. To explore opportunities to volunteer or partner with Girl Scouts, call 561-427-0177 or visit www.gssef.org.
