Sponsors Make The Magic Happen

Sponsors Make The Magic Happen
The International Gay Polo League Relies On Sponsor Support To Impact Change

By Jennifer Martinez

In a world of philanthropy and impactful work, sponsors are vital in supporting change. No organization recognizes this as well as the Gay Polo League, which annually hosts the Lexus International Gay Polo Tournament, presented by Douglas Elliman Real Estate, in Wellington. Sponsors have helped to grow the event in attendance size, notoriety and dollars raised to make an impact for the LGBTQ+ community.

In 2022, the organization, thanks in large part to the generosity of sponsors, was able to make its largest donation to date — $135,000 to the onePULSE Foundation. It was that day that the bar was set for 2023.

Stepping up once again as title sponsor is Lexus. Lexus’ passion for brave design, imaginative technology and exhilarating performance matches the work being done by the Gay Polo League, both on and off the field. The company, and the nonprofit, embrace the luxury lifestyle to create amazing experiences with a slate of international events happening throughout the year.

Returning as presenting sponsor is Douglas Elliman Real Estate. Douglas Elliman brings more than a century’s worth of insight, experience and knowledge to deliver unparalleled experiences for every real estate need. And whether you are looking in Wellington, or across the pond, there is a team ready to assist you.

A name synonymous for quality and achievement, Cherry Knoll Farm, will return as the VIP tent sponsor and as a team sponsor. Cherry Knoll Farm, led by Margaret Duprey, competes at the highest levels of competition both in North America and Europe. The three additional team sponsors for the 2023 event will be Greenberg Traurig, Woodford Reserve and McKenney Media. U.S. Polo Assn. will serve as the team jersey sponsor.

Grand sponsors include the Baptist Health Foundation, 3 Graces Dressage and Equity Performance Equine. J. Pacetti Precious Jewels is the jewelry sponsor, with RBC Wealth Management serving as sponsor of the VIP reception.

Additional sponsors for the upcoming event include: the Palm Beach County Sports Commission, Discover the Palm Beaches, Emerald Elite Senior Home Care, Churchill Downs, Nomad Sean Rush, Palm City Polo, Passport Magazine, Casablanca, Wellington The Magazine and the Village of Wellington.

The Village of Wellington’s sponsorship includes an exciting donation of signage around town to let residents and visitors know about the upcoming festivities.

“We are honored and excited to welcome our new and returning sponsors for the 2023 event,” said Chip McKenney, GPL’s founder and president. “Each and every sponsor is an ally and a partner in moving the needle forward for equality. We are very much looking forward to the event so we can join together to celebrate change!”

Learn more about the sponsors at www.gaypolo.com/our-sponsors.

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Everybody Is Welcome At The GPL

Everybody Is Welcome At The GPL The Stars Are Aligning For The Gay Polo League’s Tournament Set For April 6-9

By Jennifer Martinez

If you have ever attended the Lexus International Gay Polo Tournament, presented by Douglas Elliman Real Estate, you know it is equal parts celebration and serious competitive play. Both will be on full display when the tournament returns to the National Polo Center-Wellington on April 6-9.

Chip McKenney, founder and president of the Gay Polo League (GPL), and his team recognize all the facets that come together to give polo and the tournament its mystique and appeal.

“It’s a historic sport, it’s a traditional sport, it’s a sexy sport and it’s a global sport,” he said.

According to McKenney, it is also a welcoming sport. He credits polo for embracing the LGBTQ+ community and the tournament he first brought to Wellington in 2010, drawing player and ally celebrities from near and far.

Leading American polo player Nic Roldan participated in the tournament in its early years, immediately bringing star status to GPL. No. 1 world player Adolfo Cambiaso and his wife María Vázquez have cheered on the players.

Polo professionals Joey Casey and Hector Galindo, both Polo Hall of Fame inductees, have competed in numerous GPL tournaments. And Argentinian pro Nacho Figueras has attended and expressed his support for the league, as have numerous 10-goalers and other top professionals who have watched the matches.

They are more than spectators to McKenney. Their support as allies has enhanced the league’s credibility.

“If gay people say it’s important, that’s one thing,” McKenney said. “If an ally says it’s important, it seems to be louder, to hold more value.”

When McKenney thinks about the value that the players bring to the field — gay and non-gay — one word comes to mind: courage. “People who are comfortable enough in their own skin who are not gay and want to play in a gay polo league are powerful and brave,” he said. “It also takes bravery for someone who is LGBTQ+ to play as an openly gay athlete.”

This year’s tournament will feature a majority of LGBTQ+ players, including an entire team from France. Other players hail from Argentina, Germany, the Netherlands, Peru, Spain, California and New York. McKenney meets many of the players during GPL’s international events in Argentina, England and France. With members in 15 countries, the league is looking forward to fielding a GPL team to compete in the 10th Luxembourg Polo International Tournament this summer and will produce an International Gay Polo Tournament in London this September.

However, Wellington holds the title of GPL’s flagship tournament. The play on the field is as unique as the league itself. It will be the first time any of the players have come together as a team. None will play on their own horses, and they will have only one day of practice before competing. McKenney credits Joey Casey with sourcing the ponies, matching them to the skill levels of the players, and putting the four teams together for the tournament. Four polo pros will also donate their time to make the tournament the best it can be.

“People are incredibly generous with their time and knowledge,” McKenney said.

GPL has opened the door for a diverse collection of people to come together. Players and allies from all over the world descend upon Wellington each year from all circles, including gay and non-gay, celebrity players and novices, international polo aficionados and local entertainment-seekers, all looking for a highly engaging multi-day event where everyone is welcome.

“We celebrate the best of our community by encouraging creativity, energy and positivity for everybody, whether they are playing on our teams, or spectating and building incredible tailgates,” McKenney said.

And the tailgates are incredible. They are a visual component of what is unique and joyful about the GPL. Field-side tent décor has ranged from Alice in Wonderland to Brunch at Tiffany’s, with prizes awarded for best theme and best food.

The tournament’s Polotini Wigstock kickoff party the Friday night before the tournament, billed as a “hair-raising extravaganza,” has also developed a following. As the event has grown, so have the wigs, becoming more elaborate and colorful every year. “When somebody puts on a wig, they’re already starting the party,” McKenney said. “They arrive ready to rock and roll. It’s great fun.”

The joy of the evening has poured over into generosity from those who attend. Last year, Wigstock raised $135,000 for charity partner the onePULSE Foundation, the cause that has been selected again for 2023.

No matter what part of the five-day tournament someone attends, no matter how many years in a row they’ve participated, McKenney guarantees that it will be better than the last. He credits his production team with challenging themselves to reinvent the experience every year.

“I want people who come year after year to leave thinking that it was unlike any event they’ve ever been to — including ours,” he said. “Our goal isn’t to be the biggest. It’s to be the best.”

Learn more about the Gay Polo League at www.gaypolo.com.

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New Logo, Same Mission

New Logo, Same Mission Rebranding Symbolizes The Union Of The Central Palm Beach County Chamber And The Hispanic
Chamber Of Commerce Of Palm Beach County

 

The Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County recently held a launch party at the Wellington International showgrounds to celebrate the unveiling of new logos and branding for the jointly run organizations.

The new logo outlines a white palm tree in blue, green and gold colors. Mary Lou Bedford, CEO of the Central Palm Beach County Chamber, said that the goal of the rebranding is to solidify the message of the union between the two previously separate organizations as one.

“In the summer of 2020, the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce expressed interest to join with our organization as its area encompassed a large portion of the Hispanic businesses, and our missions were aligned,” Bedford explained. “During the pandemic, we saw a trend across the nation’s chamber organizations, partnering to give a stronger, more collective voice to the business community.”

The Central Chamber’s board of directors voted to move forward with the Hispanic Chamber as part of a unified organization.

“However, after almost a year and a half of the partnership, the message still wasn’t clear that we are one organization with two entities within it,” Bedford said. “If you are a member of one, you are a member of both. It’s important for our members to realize that the Central Chamber remains focused on economic sustainability, development and advocacy for our businesses, but now we had an additional opportunity with the Hispanic Chamber as part of the organization to serve a larger demographic of businesses countywide. It gives members of both chambers a broader networking pool.”

In 2022, at the suggestion of current board chair Pam Tahan, CEO of Wellington Regional Medical Center, they put together a focus group of members from both organizations.

“During the focus group sessions, it was determined that a rebranding of the chambers would be effective with our new strategy as an organization,” Bedford said.

Maria S. Antuña has been the CEO of the Hispanic Chamber for eight years and continues in that role, in charge of business development/Hispanic affairs for the unified chamber group.

“The decision to join the two chambers brings combined efforts in the areas of economic impact, marketing opportunities, workforce development strategies and a stronger combined effort in the advocacy area,” said Antuña, noting that the Hispanic Chamber has been around since 1996. “The Hispanic Chamber and Central Palm Beach County Chamber overlapped in pockets of the county. With the Hispanic Chamber covering all of Palm Beach County, it made sense to join forces, and both chambers benefit from creating a solid, strong partnership.”

She believes that the rebranding effort will create clarity and a strong perception of a unified organization. The new logo better represents the joining of the two chambers, Antuña said.

Krissy Robbs, marketing manager for both chambers, was involved in planning the Rebranding Launch Party held in February at the Wellington International showgrounds.

“The Village of Wellington partnered with the chambers for this event,” Robbs said. “The main objective for having the Rebranding Launch Party at Wellington International during the Great Charity Challenge was to increase awareness of the partnership of the two chambers.”

Chamber Vice Chair Michael Stone, president of Wellington International, led the invitation-only event and revealed the new logo to the board of directors, members and guests.

“Guests mingled and watched the equestrian activities while enjoying dinner,” Robbs said. “The Village of Wellington’s council members and Mayor Anne Gerwig made a proclamation at the event honoring the equestrian season. Guests were gifted favor bags as a token of appreciation from the chambers. ProForma Turnkey Marketing donated the bags and the items inside. Inside the bags were bamboo water bottles, a notepad and pen, and hand sanitizer — all with the new branding of the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce and the Hispanic Chamber of Palm Beach County.”

Stone was excited about how the rebranding has been received. “The rebranding was essential to show how the Hispanic Chamber and the Central Chamber are clearly working together to help businesses both large and small in Palm Beach County,” he said.

“We saw the event as a great opportunity to showcase how our organizations work together, as well as a celebration to thank Mary Lou and Maria for their all they do for our organizations,” Tahan added.

Bedford noted that the unified chamber, which operates out of an office in Wellington, represents not only a huge coverage area, but also a large slice of local history.

“The Central Palm Beach County Chamber, formerly known as the Palms West Chamber, is celebrating 40 years this year,” she said. “We became the Central Palm Beach County Chamber in 2012, after a merger with the Lake Worth Chamber, expanding our footprint to one-third of the county. The Lake Worth Chamber of Commerce had been in existence for more than 100 years at that time, so there’s a lot of history in this organization.”

Bedford believes that the recent rebranding will help unify the local business community. “It will bring a more unified business community, that has a strong, diversified representation of business leaders and organizations in all industries,” she said. “It’s an opportunity to support initiatives that impact a larger demographic of the business community. Our organization will continue to be a voice for advocacy in all areas of industry, throughout Palm Beach County, to ensure a healthy business climate for all.”

Antuña believes that the future is strong for the Hispanic Chamber.

“With the help of our newly formed diversified Hispanic Advisory Council, the Hispanic Chamber will continue providing a platform for the Hispanic community, serve as a voice for the Hispanic community, and provide opportunities for businesses to contribute to the economic growth in Palm Beach County,” she said. “Both the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Central Palm Beach County Chamber are proud in serving all of the county, contributing to the economic growth of the area while representing and supporting diversity and inclusion.”

For more information about the two chambers, visit www.cpbchamber.com and www.hispanicchamberpbc.com.

 

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Helping Horses In Need

Helping Horses In Need
Storeybrook Farm Sanctuary Advocates For America’s Forgotten Horses

By Sydney Jones

You don’t have to be a large-scale operation to make a difference, you just have to be passionate enough to facilitate change. Olivia Alcorta, founder and owner of Storeybrook Farm Sanctuary Inc., works to do just that every day.

The nonprofit horse rescue is dedicated to protecting horses in need by providing sanctuary and driving awareness to end the export and inhumane slaughter of American horses. By focusing on three main initiatives — rescue, advocacy and rehabilitation — the small, nine-stall farm has saved more than 275 horses in just over two years and has no plans of slowing down.

Nestled on an 18-acre plot that was purchased by Alcorta and her husband, Storeybrook Farm Sanctuary opened in early 2021 to save lives and promote equine welfare. The organization actively rescues horses from inhumane situations all across the United States, providing them with a safe place to live in peace.

They also use their voice to help horses, spreading knowledge and support for animals that have been mistreated. Most importantly, the organization aids in the animals’ recovery efforts, no matter what the outcome looks like. Returning to competition is oftentimes the utmost priority for injured or neglected horses, but for Storeybrook Farm Sanctuary, a happy and healthy animal is always the end goal.

During her personal riding career, Alcorta frequented the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington. Year after year, she would make the trip south to compete in different amateur jumper divisions throughout the circuit. Her competitive career ultimately fostered a love for horses that became the driving force behind Storeybrook Farm Sanctuary.

Not every horse is meant to be a show jumper, but every horse is meant to be treated with the love and care they deserve.

“I rescued our first horse, Abe, from a kill pen in July 2020. Everyone told me I was crazy and that all the horses in those pens were in there for a reason and were dangerous. I was terrified for Abe to arrive, but the moment he got off the trailer, he buried his head into my body and has wanted to be there ever since. He is gentleness personified and one of the most special horses I’ve ever known,” Alcorta said. “After saving and getting to know him, I knew I had to help more horses like Abe. From there, a mission was born and is fueled every day by his presence and all the other souls we’ve been fortunate enough to save.”

Taking care of neglected and abused horses isn’t a one-woman show. Alcorta relies on a dedicated group of individuals to help bring her vision to life. The daily undertaking they have to shoulder to give these animals the life they deserve is extensive, and the nonprofit appreciates any and all volunteers.

“Our day starts with giving all of the horses their breakfast. We do a mixture of triple crown grain, shredded beetroot, horse guard supplements and whatever individual medicine they require,” Alcorta said. “The horses are then moved to their respective paddocks, and we start with morning chores. As the morning wraps up, we will tend to any medical needs that the horses require, as we typically always have a medically intensive case here at the sanctuary. We will then do some training with the orphan foals or ride the horses. We usually take a midday rest before it is time for evening chores, and I will do a night check as well.”

However, the conversation doesn’t end with Storeybrook Farm Sanctuary. As a sanctuary with limited space, there is always something more that the horse world can be doing to support these animals.

“I think the best way to advocate for abused and neglected horses is to shed as much light on the issue as possible,” Alcorta said. “Share on social media pages, talk about it with people who may not be aware, and generally just get this issue in front of as many eyes as possible. Ignorance is bliss, but change happens when we bring this darkness into the light.”

What started as a scary idea for Alcorta has developed into an operation that is more than she could’ve ever dreamed of. For future endeavors, she hopes to acquire more land to be able to save and care for more of America’s forgotten horses.

“I think every horse that comes here is a success story for us,” she said. “Each horse that our mission gets to touch and change is a major victory. Every day that we are still operating and giving them the care and life they deserve is the ultimate success for me.

Learn more about Storeybrook Farm at www.storeybrookfarmsanctuary.com.

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Seen Through Horses

Seen Through Horses Horses For Mental Health’s 2023 Campaign Will Coincide With Mental Health Awareness Month In May

By Jillian Eberlein and Sydney Jones

Horses have been an essential part of human life for thousands of years and continue to be beneficial beyond the show rings. In recent years, horses have proven to be an integral part in making a difference for individuals facing mental health challenges.

Due to their size and presence, horses provide an engaging and emotionally safe way to understand ourselves and make healthy changes with the support of treatment professionals. As prey animals, horses are highly sensitive to nonverbal messages and intentions, which can provide valuable feedback that leads to healing. The relationship between humans and horses provides a safe, dynamic environment where peace and healing coexist.

Horses for Mental Health, a nonprofit organization, was founded in 2021 to increase awareness, public engagement, funds and access to programs incorporating horses for mental health and personal growth. Through these objectives, the goal of the organization is to uplift nonprofit programs that provide these services through funding support and by spreading awareness globally that incorporating horses for mental health treatment and personal development is an accessible and effective option.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, one in five people will be affected by mental illness in their life, and depression is the No. 1 cause of disability worldwide, however only 46 percent of adults receive treatment.

Horses for Mental Health is led by Lynn Thomas, co-founder and president, who has been a leading force for change in the conversation surrounding mental health through several ventures, including Eagala and Arenas for Change, where she has served as co-founder and CEO.

Thomas is a licensed clinical social worker and received her master’s degree in social work from the University of Utah in 1995. She first developed a program integrating horses as a primary treatment component while serving as executive director of a residential boarding school for troubled adolescents. From Thomas’s experience, passion and knowledge regarding how horses impact the well-being of humans, Horses for Mental Health was born.

The 2023 Seen Through Horses Campaign is a peer-to-peer campaign that partners with nonprofit organizations, philanthropists, celebrities, influencers and companies to improve access to programs that incorporate horses for mental health and personal growth. The campaign will run from May 1 through May 31 to coincide with Mental Health Awareness Month. On the heels of a successful 2022 campaign, this year’s event collaborates with 12 leading organizations in the sector and benefits more than 65 nonprofit charity partners. The campaign is made possible by Zoetis, Horses for Mental Health, Arenas for Change and Equine Network.

In 2022, Seen Through Horses achieved impressive results — $60,991 was raised in donations by 46 nonprofits; more than 12,168,990 people were reached through social media, print ads, media releases, video views, e-mails and podcasts; there were 661,000 video views across four videos sharing stories of transformation through horses; and six celebrities along with 15 influencers engaged in promotional content.

“With the lessons learned in the first campaign, and the proof of what can be achieved to share with other supporters, we are excited to continue the momentum as an annual campaign,” Thomas said. “Historically, these types of campaigns take about three years to really gain traction, so the vision for this campaign is to continue expanding both in program involvement, sponsor and celebrity support, and raising funds for services.”

Mental health does not discriminate. To learn more, or get involved with the campaign, reach out to Horses for Mental Health at info@horsesformentalhealth.org or visit www.horsesformentalhealth.org/campaign.

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Fine Dining At Your Home

Fine Dining At Your Home Bring Home The Secret Ingredient With A Meal Catered By Duo Cucina Chef

By Callie Sharkey

Imagine the opportunity to have amazing fine dining without leaving your home. The care and precision of a personal chef at your table is within reach thanks to Duo Cucina Chef. Professional chef Rosana Pacino, owner of Duo Cucina Chef, has built a business out of her passion for cooking — and she quite literally brings it to your home.

Clients can enjoy a wide array of Italian dishes, both traditional favorites like fettuccine and bruschetta, but also try something new. And if you have a sweet tooth, they have you covered as well.

“In my opinion, the most delicious dish we make is the massini dessert. It’s two layers of a light and fluffy cake, with three different creams — a whipped cream, a caramel cream and an egg cream on top,” she said.

Other homemade desserts on the menu are tiramisu, flan, lemon pie or a fresh brownie with vanilla ice cream.

When catering services are designed for large venues and bigger crowds, it can lead to the flavor profiles being more generic. Pacino wants to avoid that by connecting with her clients in a personal way.

“First, we come to your house to see the kitchen layout, then we have an interview with the client to see what they would like served at the dinner or lunch, whatever the event. Then, we ask if there is anyone who is allergic to certain foods or eats gluten-free. We have a flexible menu for vegans or vegetarians. The menu is very personalized — it’s what we do. We try to make it as exclusive as possible for each client,” Pacino explained.

A Duo Cucina Chef experience is approximately three hours, beginning with appetizers and fresh, made-from-scratch soups and salads to follow.

Pasta dishes of gnocchi, fettuccine or ravioli paired with alfredo, Bolognese or marinara sauces, bring the comfort of classic Italian cuisine to the meal. Even the ravioli flavors can be tailored with spinach or squash and ricotta cheese.

Popular main dishes are filet mignon in a red wine reduction or a delectable salmon with lemon caper sauce, both served with fingerling potatoes and an arugula salad. After dessert, finish off a great Italian meal with coffee and a treat, like little brownies with sweet caramel and meringue.

Meals are prepared by hand and tableside, so guests see the magic happen up close. “I love making the pasta, kneading the dough, and the whole process feels like making art,” Pacino said. “To go along with the different kinds of pasta, I like to make a squash-filled ravioli, but my favorite things to make are the desserts.”

More than 20 years ago, Pacino came to Wellington with her husband, Alejandro, and a young daughter in search of growth and opportunity. They both found it in the equestrian community, where her husband is a trainer, and she began cooking for local families. Her family continued to grow with the birth of her son, and even with roots in South America, she sees Wellington as her home.

In Argentina, she grew up with Italian-Spanish grandparents, including a grandmother who taught her to bring love into her food.

“My grandmother was the one who taught me all the tricks and secrets to the cooking side of everything,” Pacino said. “We still have family get-togethers every Sunday, and I always make a pasta dish. It all ties back to just being together as a family and staying together.”

Family gatherings are how she found that cooking alongside her cousin, Ariel Cerezo, worked well. Five years ago, the duo came together in the kitchen as a team and haven’t looked back.

“We cook everything with love and really put a lot of effort into each meal because we want it to be perfect for everyone,” Pacino said.

Reservations for Duo Cucina Chef require a $500 deposit, which goes directly toward the final cost of the dinner. For a meal designed for four people, the fee is a flat $1,000 and includes everything except drinks. Want more people included? There is a $210 charge for each extra person up to a group of 20. While most groups range from four to 20 people, Duo Cucina is happy to serve larger events with about two weeks’ advance booking. Otherwise, reservations must be made at least five days in advance.

The best way to reach chef Rosana Pacino is by e-mail to duocucinachef@gmail.com or by text to (561) 951-1730. For more information, and to explore the menu, visit www.duocucinachef.com.

 

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Ear, Nose And Throat Expert

Ear, Nose And Throat
Expert Dr. Deborah Loney Brings A Lifetime Of Experience To Her Local ENT Practice

By Mike May

For Dr. Deborah Loney, there’s no normal day in the office. Based on the campus of Palms West Hospital, Loney practices otolaryngology, which is more commonly known as an ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor.

“For me, no two days are the same,” said Loney, who lives in Wellington with her husband, Gerry Brown, a retired U.S. Air Force colonel, who now teaches geometry at John I. Leonard High School in Greenacres. “I have office hours where I see patients on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. I conduct surgeries on Wednesdays and Fridays at Palms West Hospital, Wellington Regional Medical Center and the Palms West Surgicenter.”

For Loney, the diversity of her ENT practice and client base can only be matched by the diversity of her background and her many life experiences that have shaped her approach to practicing medicine.

Loney was born and raised in New York, the middle child of five children. Her parents — both of whom have graduate degrees — are from Trinidad. For college, Loney enrolled at Columbia University to pursue a degree in chemical engineering before realizing that was not the best choice for her.

“Growing up, I liked math and the sciences, especially physics, but in college, I quickly realized that the life of an engineer was not for me,” Loney said.

So, she left Columbia, switched majors to chemistry/pre-med, and enrolled at Queens College in New York City. For medical school, she moved west to Palo Alto, California, where she attended Stanford University’s School of Medicine. There, she spent five years studying and doing medical research, and along the way realized that she wanted to be an ENT.

“I loved the anatomy of the ears, nose and throat,” Loney said. “The head and neck are the Park Avenue of the body. This is where you have the critical functions of life, which are to taste, smell, talk and see.”

After graduating from Stanford, Loney headed to the University of Iowa in Iowa City for her residency, which gave her the chance to work under the legendary head-and-neck specialist Dr. Brian McCabe.

“It was a fantastic learning opportunity. My boyfriend [now spouse] supported my decision 100 percent, although it meant we would be apart,” Loney recalled. “He told me to go where I would learn the most, so I did.”

While Loney chose Iowa, the U.S. Air Force assigned Brown to South Korea.

“In our first year of marriage, my husband was in South Korea, and I was in Iowa,” Loney said. “I went to see him twice, and he came to see me twice in that first year.”

After a five-year residency in Iowa, Loney excelled at her boards. With her husband in the midst of a successful military career, Loney practiced wherever her husband was stationed. Initially, that meant working in Virginia, just outside Washington, D.C., as he was stationed at the Pentagon.

While in Virginia, Loney spent six months working as an ENT and gained great experience as a locum tenens physician, which meant she traveled around the country as a fill-in for ENT doctors in their practices while they were away for an extended period of time. “That was an invaluable experience,” she said.

Later, Loney and her husband moved to other places around the nation, such as Nevada, California and Iowa. During these years of moving around the country, they had two sons, now in their 20s. This military lifestyle also included an assignment in England. Another interesting twist in Loney’s career was her decision to stop working full time and dedicate six years to homeschooling her sons.

Despite the day-to-day absence from the profession during those years, she was able to transition back into the ENT field.

“We had two and half years in Bury St. Edmonds in England, where Gerry was stationed at the Mildenhall Air Force Base,” Loney said. “I volunteered as an ENT, as needed on the base. That kept my skills sharp.”

That experience of living overseas enabled Loney and her family to travel throughout Europe frequently. She loves travel and plans to keep traveling for the rest of her life.

Four years after returning to the U.S. from England, her husband retired from the military. They moved to Palm Beach County to be near her aging parents.

When she currently works as an ENT, Loney utilizes the skills of a detective, as well as a doctor.

“If a patient is having trouble breathing, it could be due to a vocal cord mass or paralysis, nasal obstruction, lung problem, neck mass, sinusitis or even heart failure,” Loney said. “With each patient, I have to look closely, listen carefully, complete a head and neck exam, and then integrate it all to arrive at a diagnosis and treatment plan.”

There are occasions where she diagnoses an ailment with a patient serendipitously.

“A husband came along with his wife for her routine ear appointments,” Loney recalled. “I noticed that he was persistently hoarse. I examined his vocal cords, and I found a mass that turned out to be cancerous.”

Being overweight is an issue that often impacts health.

“Obesity is a big issue, especially as it often correlates with obstructive sleep apnea,” Loney said. “Roughly 70 percent of sleep apnea patients are obese — and 40 percent of obese people suffer from sleep apnea. Sleep apnea can cause headaches, irritability, hypertension, daytime fatigue, predisposition to diabetes and cardiovascular disease, diminished libido and decreased attentiveness.”

Loney spends a great deal of time encouraging her patients to lead healthier lifestyles.

“Watch what you eat, moderation is key. No. 1 is don’t smoke,” Loney said. “I also tell people, especially younger people, to not listen to loud music.”

When Loney is not working as an ENT, she loves exercising.

“I like running, bicycling, kayaking, tennis and snorkeling,” she said. “I stay healthy with exercise.”

Loney complements her exercise with a largely healthy diet, which she encourages her patients to adopt.

As for her long-term future, retirement is not a goal. Instead, she’d like to mix business with pleasure as she ages.

“My goal is to travel and to work as an ENT in underserved areas, where I can help others,” Loney said. “In the end, I want to leave the world in better shape.”

When she reflects upon her life, filled with marriage, children and travel, she wants other women to realize that they can enjoy the same lifestyle, even while working in the medical field.

“A career in medicine doesn’t mean you can’t have a life,” Loney said. “We need more women in the medical fields, surgical subspecialties in particular. They shouldn’t assume you have to forego marriage and family life in order to pursue your passion.”

Dr. Deborah Loney practices as part of the ENT and Allergy Associates of Florida. Her office is on the campus of Palms West Hospital at 12959 Palms West Drive, Suite 220. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call (561) 793-5077.

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Scenic Equestrian Facility Near Showgrounds

Scenic Equestrian Facility Near Showgrounds Pristine 10 Acres On Stables Way Is Located Close To The New Back Gate Of The Wellington International Showgrounds

Photos Courtesy Martha Jolicoeur/Douglas Elliman

One of the most scenic and sought-after equestrian training facilities in Wellington is on the market. This pristine, 10-acre farm features a 16-s.tall barn, a top-of-the-line Bermuda grass Grand Prix field, a four-horse walker, a round pen and five large paddocks. A sophisticated, four-bedroom, five-bath, custom-built staff home overlooks a scenic pond. A three-bedroom, 2.5-bath pool home with a garage complete the excellent amenities. There is plenty of room to build a covered arena. The property is ideally located close to the Wellington International dressage and show jumping facilities.

Stables Way Property Presented by Martha W. Jolicoeur

Meet Martha W. Jolicoeur
Buying or selling a property with Martha Wachtel Jolicoeur assures the highest level of professional real estate consultation in the Wellington community. Jolicoeur understands the importance of customer excellence and prides herself on honesty and fairness while creating relationships with her customers that continue far beyond a transaction.

Jolicoeur first established herself in Wellington as a world-class show jumping competitor. Since then, she has combined her passion for horses with her career as one of the area’s top-ranked real estate agents catering to equestrian clientele. Committed to supporting her community, Jolicoeur presented the Leading Lady Rider Award at the Winter Equestrian Festival for 12 years.

A member of the elite Douglas Elliman Real Estate Sports and Entertainment Division, Jolicoeur serves her clients by guiding them to make the right real estate choices. Whether you are searching for the ideal family home or the equestrian estate of your dreams, Martha Jolicoeur makes it happen.

Learn more about Martha Jolicoeur at www.marthasproperties.com


Martha W. Jolicoeur
Broker, Associate
martha@marthasproperties.com
O: (561) 653-6195
C: (561) 797-8040

13501 South Shore Blvd., Suite 102,
Wellington, FL 33414

 

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Investing In Your  Health

Investing In Your  Health Wellington Has Programs To Support The Physical And Mental Health Of Residents And Staff

By Jim Barnes, Wellington Village Manager

One of Wellington’s hallmarks is our exceptional quality of life. We are a safe, resilient and inclusive community with an outstanding environment for all to thrive — physically, mentally, socially and emotionally. Health and wellness are essential aspects of our community’s overall vibrancy and are among our top priorities.

Promoting Health & Well-Being
Our residents share these values. In a survey conducted as part of our parks and recreation planning process, respondents said that promoting health and well-being should be a high priority for the village. Your Wellington Village Council is committed to continuing to invest in these areas to ensure that everyone who lives and works in Wellington has the opportunity to thrive, now and in the future.

Bell Seal For Workplace Mental Health
As evidence of our commitment to health and wellness, the Village of Wellington was recently awarded a platinum-level certification by Mental Health America. The Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health is a national certification program that recognizes employers committed to creating mentally healthy workplaces. This was the second time that the village achieved the platinum level, which is the highest honor.

Workplace Health Achievement
Additionally, Wellington has been recognized by the American Heart Association with a bronze level Workplace Health Achievement. This award recognizes employers who demonstrate a commitment to employee wellness through comprehensive worksite health promotion and programs by utilizing a workforce well-being scorecard designed to help employers evaluate the culture of health and well-being within their workforces. The program also identifies gaps and determines how our progress stacks up to peer organizations. In addition to providing wellness programs for our workplace, we also offer a vast array of fitness activities through our Parks & Recreation Department.

Bike-Friendly Community
As another indicator of our commitment, we have initiated the installation of high-visibility green pavement in bicycle lanes to increase visibility of bicycle lanes, identify areas of potential conflict and promote a clearer understanding of the lanes’ purpose. This improvement recognizes our commitment to improving bicycling conditions through investments in infrastructure and pro-bike policies. Wellington has partnered with schools and various civic groups to ensure that we have a safe, bike-friendly community that offers accessibility and recreation for all. With those partnerships and more than 45 miles of bike lanes, 208 miles of sidewalks and 40 miles of multipurpose pathways, Wellington makes it clear that connectivity is a community priority.

Healthcare Providers
Healthcare is also an important amenity for residents and a vital component of our business community, with Wellington Regional Medical Center continuing to provide expert care in our community, the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Health Specialty Center offering comprehensive and convenient children’s medical services, Baptist Health South Florida offering specialized services in multiple locations and Cleveland Clinic offering services in several medical specialties locally. These four healthcare providers join dozens of other healthcare-related businesses making Wellington an elite hub for the medical sector.

Mental Health Support
We also know that mental health is an important facet of our community’s overall wellness, and we work with experts to engage community members so we can connect people with the right resources. Through partnerships with local hospitals, schools and our growing medical community, Wellington provides a multitude of options to support the mental and behavioral well-being of all. We are proud to work with local partners to end the stigma around mental health, and we continue to provide outlets for those in need.

Parks & Recreation Master Plan
While Wellington has much to be proud of in terms of health and wellness, we are always looking to innovate and improve. Among our many efforts to keep moving forward, we recently updated our Parks & Recreation Master Plan. This included analyzing our existing park system and providing recommendations for new amenities. It builds off the existing facilities plans developed since Wellington’s incorporation and will set the framework for planning, maintenance, development and rehabilitation of our parks, open spaces, recreation facilities and programming for a 10-year horizon. We will continue to partner with our local medical community as well, in order to assess and address our community health needs.
As 2023 hits its stride, I hope you are, too. Whether you’re walking, jogging or biking on our extensive shared use paths, enjoying a swim at the Wellington Aquatics Complex, or finding respite in our 12 community parks and memorials, 24 neighborhood parks, or three preserves and sanctuaries, please know that your village is invested in your well-being and dedicated to making Wellington an even happier, healthier place to call home.

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Keep South Florida Pests Under Control

Keep South Florida Pests Under Control Locally Based Armand Platinum Pest Control Services Brings Decades Of Experience To Residents And Businesses

Story by Mike May  |  Photos by Abner Pedraza

Veteran pest control specialists Scott Armand and Jim Bartley at Armand Platinum Pest Control Services have the experience, expertise and know how to protect your home and business. They have many years of experience providing pest control services across all necessary locations, including your lawn, flower beds, garage and more.

In early January, Armand and his wife Mair, along with Bartley and his wife Shilla, merged their two pest control firms to create a new company, Armand Platinum Pest Control Services, which is based in the western communities.

With a new company name and logo, Armand and Bartley may have a new corporate image, but their professional skills remain tried, tested and, most importantly, trusted.

“We are owner-operated, we have every license possible in the pest control industry, and our staff has more than 100 years of combined experience in this business,” said Armand, who has been working in the pest control industry in Palm Beach County since 1983.

Armand Platinum Pest Control Services serves clients here in the western communities and beyond.

“The new company will cover all of South Florida, providing all facets of pest, lawn and termite control to both residential and commercial properties with the same reliable, guaranteed and professional services that South Florida has come to expect from Scott and I,” said Bartley, whose professional career as a pest control specialist started in Palm Beach County in 1985.

Armand and Bartley have seen it all when it comes to South Florida pests.

“In Florida, it’s always a season for some type of pest,” Bartley said. “There are so many things in the pest control business that you have to know so much about. Frankly, I’m a bug nerd, and bugs fascinate me.”

If you have an issue with palmetto bugs, cockroaches, spiders, silver fish, termites, ants, rats, mice, fleas, bees, ticks, and even wildlife such as raccoons, squirrels and porcupines, Armand Platinum Pest Control Services will come to your rescue.

“We are a boutique pest control firm that provides specific services that best meet the needs of our clients,” Armand said. “Our pest control products are applied pinpoint and not broadcast.”

They aim to solve the problem without harming your landscape.

“We do pay special attention to lawns, ornamental plants and trees,” Bartley said.

While any business can proclaim to have the finest products and services, Armand and Bartley are both proud of their customer service record, which has generated many strong testimonials.

“Scott brings professionalism to this industry and customer service at the highest level,” Lisa Marder said.

“Armand Platinum Pest Control Services is second-to-none,” added attorney Mickey Smith of Lesser, Lesser, Landy and Smith. “The entire team is knowledgeable, professional and extremely responsive. I am very particular when it comes to my home, and that is why I would trust no one else to protect it. Armand Platinum also services our law firm’s offices. We could not be happier with the service we receive.”

“I’m confident those who hire Scott and his team will conclude that the quality of work he provides is absolutely second to no other,” Dennis Ewing said.

In addition to running the business, Armand and Bartley also find time to mix and mingle with other local business leaders. Armand is the president-elect of the Wellington Rotary Club and is a member of the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce, while Bartley is the current president of the Certified Pest Control Operators of Florida. Meanwhile, Armand’s wife Mair leads the Women of the Western Communities, while Bartley’s wife Shilla will also represent the company from time to time.

Right now, the client base for Armand Platinum Pest Control Services is in the vicinity of 200 customers. While the majority of its clients are based in the western communities, they are regularly sending crews as far north as Stuart in Martin County and to parts of northern Broward County to deliver pest control services.

While Armand Platinum Pest Control Services is staffed by a veteran crew of experienced pest control specialists, the company is technologically trendy and is in touch with its clients and prospective clients through multiple social media channels.

“We have a presence on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter,” Armand said. “Our web site, found at www.armandpest.com, is also worth reviewing.”

The team at Armand Platinum Pest Control Services is excited to further serve South Florida residents and businesses delivering quality, personalized pest control services.

To learn more, contact Scott Armand at scott@armandpest.com or (561) 789-8777, or Jim Bartley at jim@armandpest.com or (561) 440-4567. Learn more at www.armandpest.com.

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