Legacy Of Impact Honors Holocaust Survivors, Educators And Students In Powerful Community Celebration
inSIGHT Through Education recently hosted Legacy of Impact, a powerful celebration honoring Holocaust Survivors, dedicated educators, and the next generation of student leaders. The event recognized over 100 students from 12 Palm Beach County schools as inaugural Goldsmith Student Scholars of the
Holocaust. The celebration united past, present, and future voices in a shared commitment to remembrance, truth, and standing against hate.
As a Jewish Foundation for the Righteous (JFR) Center of Excellence, inSIGHT facilitated this partnership to pilot “How Was It Possible? A Holocaust Curriculum For and By Teachers™” online curriculum—an innovative, teacher-driven program. With nearly 500 students completing this prestigious program, the district continues to set the standard for Holocaust education nationwide.
Legacy Of Impact Honors Holocaust Survivors on page 5
Fuller Center’s ‘Think Outside The Blocks’ Corporate Breakfast Builds Community Support, One Brick At A Time
Creative Collaboration, Community Impact And Heartfelt Stories Take Center Stage At Sold-Out Event
Fuller Center hosted a sold-out crowd of corporate leaders, sponsors, and community changemakers at its Think Outside the Blocks Corporate Breakfast—an innovative and energizing event held at the Boca Raton Innovation Campus (BRiC) that celebrated creativity, collaboration, and community impact.
Boca Helping Hands 2025 Monopoly® & Casino Night Was The Cat’s Meow
Boca Helping Hands (BHH) supporters rolled the dice and danced the Charleston at the sold-out 2025 Monopoly® & Casino Night on April 26 at The Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club in Boca Raton. With a Roaring ’20s theme that dazzled from start to finish, guests enjoyed an unforgettable evening of music, auctions, casino games, cocktails, dinner, and the crowning of this year’s Monopoly champion, Mike Wohl. Flapper dresses, feathered headbands, and pinstripe suits added flair to an evening that transported attendees back to the Jazz Age. The ballroom was transformed with Gatsbyinspired glamour and Monopoly-themed décor—including a speakeasy-style casino and vintage board game touches that made for a visually stunning experience.
The event’s roaring success was thanks to an enthusiastic planning committee led by cochairs Yvette and Chris Palermo and Jessica and Alex Price. Committee members included Kathy Adkins, Ronnie Bidder, Yolanda Brennan, Andrea Chang, Robin Deyo, Justin Ely, Binky Fash, Christie Galeano-DeMott, Nikki
“The success of Fuller Center and our life-changing mission of ensuring all children reach their full potential depends on community support. That support was in full bloom as community and business leaders came together to learn more about how Fuller Center supports hardworking families while having fun and showing off their LEGO engineering skills and creativity,” said Fuller Center CEO Eric Roby. “We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support during a time that many families need our programs more than ever.”
Boca Helping Hands 2025
Binky Fash, Andrea Chang, Yoli Bennan, Jessica Price, Alex Price, Chris Palermo, Yvette Palermo, Wendy Sadusky, Andrea Virgin, Trisha Vaca
Annabel Rodriguez, Sophia Unser, Ansleigh Humphrey
Matthew Lane, Palm Beach County School Board member
Boca Helping Hands 2025 Monopoly from page 1
Gentile, Al Goldberg, Jonie Goldberg, Phoebe Kolesar, Mark Malis, Michelle Martin, Wendy Sadusky, Joanna Thomson, Bob Tucker, Trisha Vaca, and Yasmine Zyne-Coleman.
Boca Helping Hands Board President Gary Peters, a two-time National Monopoly Champion, served as the Monopoly tournament mediator and shared his passion for the event’s creative theme. “Combining the timeless excitement of Monopoly with the energy of the Roaring ’20s made for a truly unforgettable evening. Most importantly, every roll of the dice helps support neighbors in need through Boca Helping Hands,” Peters said.
Proceeds from the event will help BHH serve over 35,000 people in the South Florida community through its programs, including hunger relief, job training, healthcare, emergency financial assistance, childcare, and weekend meals for Palm Beach County schoolchildren.
It was truly a Gatsby-worthy night of glitz, glamour, and giving back.
Fuller Center’s ‘Think Outside The Blocks’ from page 1
Fuller Center CEO Eric Roby opened the event with a heartfelt welcome, thanking attendees for their support and highlighting the organization’s comprehensive educational and family programs. He then introduced special guest speaker and Fuller Center alumna Diana Capobianco, now a senior manager and industrial engineer at American Express. Diana shared her family’s powerful story of how the Fuller Center provided the foundation for her future success, empowering her from a young age to pursue educational excellence.
“Fuller Center not only gave my mom and dad the freedom, encouragement and financial relief to both work and save money but also granted them the security of knowing that their children would be fed, educated and cared for while we were provided experiences we otherwise could have never been able to have,” said Capobianco.
Guests then participated in a lively and imaginative LEGO race car challenge, building cars at their tables and testing their designs on a custom-built racing ramp generously provided by FastSigns. Awards were handed out for Fastest Car – Hollywood Ladies of the Lakes, Most Creative Design – American Healthcare Institute, and Best Teamwork – ADT—with winners selected by none other than Fuller Academy students, who proudly served as judges and greeters.
CPG Cares and The Geo Group Foundation were honored as LEGO Sponsors, helping bring the interactive challenge to life. Publix Super Market Charities was recognized as the event’s Breakfast Sponsor. American Healthcare Institute, ADT, Comerica, and The Boca Raton served as Table Sponsors, while Advanced Pediatrics of Boca and the Boca Raton Regional Hospital Foundation were recognized as Supporting Sponsors for their generous Joe
contributions. We were honored to recognize Bank of America as our Neighborhood Builders partner.
The event concluded with an inspiring keynote by Joe Scondotto, mentor and vice president of External Affairs at Comerica Bank, who emphasized the transformative power of mentorship and volunteerism. Joe urged attendees to “step in and show up” for youth in their communities, sharing personal reflections on how small acts of service can create generational impact.
For more information on how to get involved, visit www. fullercenterfl.org
Scondotto, vice president of External Affairs for Comerica – closing remarks
Fuller Academy students: Yairen Abreu, American Healthcare Institute – winner, Most Creative Car; and Eric Roby, CEO, Fuller Center
Chris and Yvette Palermo and Jessica and Alex Price
Jessica Price, Robin Deyo
John and Kaitlyn Hahn
The Singles Scene Column©
No Tariffs On Love
By Kelly Leary, M.S. & Miranda Capparelli
“This unique engine (the heart in love) has always captivated humanity. Indeed, we have often believed that everything is under its command.”~~Pierre Berville
Summer is upon us, and it will go quickly, so let’s consider some fun facts
about the allure of June. Welcome to extra sunshine, beach days, nostalgic rock music, and nights that don’t start until 9:00 p.m. Summer romances can last forever, so swipe left on the fling because we are here for the real thing. Tan lines will fade, but real love will not. Yet, many singles get weighed down by emotional overload, economic woes, and fear of rejection. Singles wonder: Are relationships still worth the cost? At Revolution Dating, our answer is simple: Yes. Because in our community, there are no tariffs on love, only massive returns.
Real love is not subject to market fluctuations. Unlike the swipe-happy online dating addicts, our confidential matchmaking service offers something truly recessionproof~~a priceless genuine connection. A dynamic duo will always live better than a single person. Finding (the right) love interest is and will always be your wisest and most significant investment. You have a financial advisor. Factor in a love advisor and thank us later.
Caveat: Remember to share this with someone you care about, and know that this information suits the SINGLE and the TAKEN, ages 20 to 80.
The Cost of the Modern Dating Dilemma: High Risk. Low Reward.
With 34 years of experience, let us share the hardcore facts. Using online dating apps or rolling the dice in the bar may appear “free” on the surface, but the hidden costs are steep. Take notes on this and bring it up at your next dinner party.
• Time wasted messaging incompatible matches or attempting to vet each candidate with your limited free time.
• Emotional burnout from ghosting, catfishing, or worse … someone in another country trying to gain access to your bank account information. It happens more often than you think but no one will tell you.
• Safety concerns exist, especially for high-net worth professionals and upscale retirees. Do not post your photos on a public forum for all to envy. This can lead to identity theft, fake profiles, or an awkward encounter in your social circle. Many have seen their clients or neighbors on these sites, making both parties incredibly uncomfortable.
• The Inevitable Dating App Fatigue that drains confidence and hope. With social media alone, self-esteem is at an all-time low, so why bother? Technology is for work. Not for love. Nothing beats traditional and oldfashioned introductions.
Online dating platforms can feel like a clearance rack in the back of the store ... i.e., the unwanted and out of style. Discerning singles, C-Suite executives, and entrepreneurs must step it up to meet a good partner. Matchmaking is in, and online dating is out, and this phenomenon has been escalating dramatically over the last ten years. Real people with real success do not use online dating forums.
Enter: Matchmaking Skills.
At Revolution Dating, we know you’ve worked hard to build a quality life, and your love life should mirror your high standards. Modern dating should not feel like a gamble. Curated, confidential connections tailored to your lifestyle, values, and goals trump stranger danger every night of summer. So, quit while you are ahead and focus on your day job while we focus on your love life and coaching (you may need). Chemistry is found in real-life connections. Unlike online platforms that profit from your endless swiping to KEEP YOU SINGLE, we succeed when you stop looking and pair off. This is why we offer unlimited introductions all summer long. We do not want to keep you dating. That is more work for us. We love a one-and-done.
Insurance Policy on Romance?
Get real. Dating is expensive—not just in dollars but in emotional wear and tear. Bad dates, dashed hopes, and wasted weekends add up. Our talent, vast connections, and skillset protect your most valuable assets: your time, energy, money, and heart. Unlike the digital Wild West of online dating, our process is built for discretion. If you are a public
figure, C-suite genius, or someone who values privacy, our matchmaking ensures your personal life stays private. Jet-Set Sans Jet-Lag.
Why does summer lovin’ happen so fast? In a nutshell, people are more open, spontaneous, and relaxed. This is the only time of year that single parents of school-age children get a life, too. CONGRATS, SINGLE PARENTS! Energy is lighter and more playful, making summer the ideal condition for escalating a meaningful relationship. Your summer love story does not require a plane ticket, but an open mindset is mandatory. You can vacation in your backyard with your plusone by your side. Just remember, our flights book quickly, so don’t delay or you may get stranded.
In our 34 years of specializing in representing clients who navigate the entire northeast coast, we have capitalized on our investment in the love movement. When you succeed, we succeed. Whether you are newly single, divorced, or widowed, let this summer bring the change you seek. Now is the perfect time to discover what’s possible when love is handled professionally, not casually. Your new summer hobby awaits. ...
Book your initial interview with us today before we book solid. Clients are pre-booking weeks in advance. Don’t let summer love pass you by. Simply scan the QR code and fill out the form or give us a jingle. LIVE Matchmakers are standing by.
XOXO - Kelly & Miranda #SummerLove25 #LiveOffline #ScreenFreeSummer #DiveIn #TellYourFriends #MatchmakingRoyalty
Kelly Leary, M.S.© is CEO and Founder of Revolution Dating which she launched in 2014. Kelly has 34 years in the dating industry and a master’s degree in clinical psychology. She has been written about in Modern Luxury Magazine Palm Beach and Modern Luxury Manhattan, The Palm Beach Post, The Shiny Sheet, Stuart News, Jupiter Magazine, and many more. Revolution Dating clients are pre-screened in person, including background checks and ID verification. Professional photos are taken by the staff. Revolution Dating is NOT online dating or blind dating. In addition to providing matchmaking services that The Singles Scene Column© on page 4
make singles “UN-single” through their exclusive club memberships, Kelly and Miranda also provide feedback from dates when appropriate. Mock Dates are available by request. Single Coaching Sessions and Evaluations are also available by request for non-members or as an addon to some memberships. *All inquiries are confidential *Specializing in representing jetsetting clients with a second home in the Northeast Area. Do call the central hotline at 561-630-9696 (XOXO) or scan the QR code below to hold your place in the club. Why wait? Just Date!
Behind The Scenes: Sunshine, Sparks, and Soulmates
Successful single, divorced, and widowed clients are ready to live and love offline. Revolution Dating is a full-service matchmaking firm specializing in screening and representing clients from the Northeast to Palm Beach for decades, with a corporate brick-and-mortar office in your backyard in the exclusive PGA Commons business neighborhood. Last month, the team celebrated many of their new success stories that have gone public! Thankfully, they chose to share their love with the community outside of the office and downstairs at Rocco’s Tacos on PGA Boulevard. Revolution Dating invites you to embrace love with them this summer. You belong here. #TellYourFriends #SummerLovin
Stephen Miller • Elizabeth Miller
Tom English • Margo Williams Laura Berrio • Bret McCormick
Miranda Ledbeter • Alyssa Debban
Justein Matthias • Anissa Stender
Production Manager Lee Nostrant
Production Department
Elaine Donholt • Ruth Nekoranec • Katie Heystek
Dianne Strout • Karen Kalisz • Michelle Feeney Andie Reynolds
ARCHIVE GALLERIES
• Oil Paintings
• Oriental Rugs
• Tapestries
• Fine Furniture
• Service Plates
• Sterling Silver
• Objects of Art
• Sculptures
• Bronzes
• Porcelain
• Collectibles
• Fine Crystal
• Orientalia
• Tiffany Items
• Clocks
Meet New Client, Austin! #TallHunkAlert
Bruce & Brenda thank Kelly and Miranda with Beautiful Bouquets. #SpreadTheLove
Legacy Of Impact Honors Holocaust Survivors from page 1
The event was attended by local Holocaust Survivors, students, their families, JFR Executive Vice President Stanlee Stahl, educators, district administrators, and inSIGHT board members. Guests were seated side by side—students with Survivors and teachers—sharing stories and forging intergenerational connections. A solemn candle-lighting ceremony marked Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day.
celebrated the power of memory and education to inspire empathy, critical thinking, and action against hate.
Haller (100-year-old Auschwitz
Special honors were presented to Julie Gates, recipient of the Naftaly Award for Excellence in Holocaust Education, and Randi Posner, recipient of the Salton Spirit of Service Award. Chaired by Betsy Joseph and Carole Newman, Legacy of Impact
“inSIGHT’s vision is to reach every student, every year,” said Kelly Warsaw, inSIGHT president and CEO, “with lessons that open hearts, challenge minds, and strengthen our community.”
inSIGHT Through Education thanks its season sponsors— Morgan Stanley, Palm Beach Daily News, Palm Beach Post , and The Palm Beach Center to Combat Antisemitism and Hatred at the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County— and our exclusive audio visual sponsor Ascension Audio for helping bring this event to life.
inSIGHT Through Education is a nonprofit, nonsectarian organization with a mission to inspire and educate, encouraging kindness, acceptance, and respect for all, using lessons learned from the Holocaust and genocides worldwide, to recognize and oppose antisemitism, hatred, and bigotry. inSIGHT is the backbone of Holocaust education in Palm Beach County Schools, which is mandated in Florida, along with the study of antisemitism. inSIGHT knows that education is the key to change and is committed to opening the hearts and minds of young people, our future leaders.
Learn more about inSIGHT Through Education at insightthrougheducation.org.
Randi Posner, Kelly Warsaw, Julie Gates
Herman
Survivor)
Zenia Roth (Holocaust Survivor)
Kelly Warsaw, Zelda Fuksman (Holocaust Survivor), Kim Coombs
Betsy Jospeh, Kelly Warsaw, Carole Newman
Lawrence Marcus, Angelina Marcus, Stacey Marcus
Sophia Lieberman (student, Spanish River Community High School)
Stanlee Stahl and student, Analise Amaro
From The Desk Of Commissioner Marci Woodward: A Message From Marci
Commissioner Woodward, a 20-year resident of Boca Raton, was elected in November 2022 as Palm Beach County District 4 Commissioner. She serves on the following board of directors as a representative of the county commission: Palm Beach Transportation Planning Agency; South Florida Regional Transportation Authority (TriRail); Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council; CareerSource Palm Beach County; Palm Beach Cultural Council, and Value Adjustment Board. Ms. Woodward graduated from the University of South Carolina-Aiken with a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts.
On May 31st, Palm Beach County will say goodbye to Administrator Verdenia Baker, or as I’ve come to know her, Miss Verdenia. When I stepped into this role twoand-a-half years ago we didn’t know each other. Now, we part as friends.
We didn’t always agree, but we always spoke honestly. As someone who’s never claimed to be a polished politician, I truly appreciated our direct, woman-towoman conversations. She helped me navigate this county with patience, answered all my questions (and there were plenty), and always made sure her team was available when I needed support. My agenda reviews often ran long but she never rushed them and that meant a lot.
Verdenia’s career with Palm Beach County began in 1987 as a budget analyst, and her dedication has only grown since. In 2015 she became County Administrator overseeing 7,100 positions and managing a $9 billion budget. Under her leadership Palm Beach County, Florida’s fourth-largest county with 1.5 million residents, remained one of only four counties in the state and just 58 nationally to hold a AAA bond rating. That kind of financial stability doesn’t happen by accident; it reflects a decade of thoughtful, steady leadership.
I’m still learning in this role, but Administrator Baker’s example has helped shape the commissioner I am today. We’ll do our best to honor the legacy she leaves behind.
I hope she enjoys some well-earned rest, travel and time for herself. And when she’s ready I’ll be there to meet her for lunch and help her pick out her own little Fritz. She will be missed.
County Administrator Task Force. The search for Palm Beach County’s next administrator is progressing. Of the 223 applications received, 96 candidates met the minimum qualifications and advanced past the initial screening.
That list was provided to the County Administrator Candidate Task Force, appointed by the Board of County Commissioners. Each of the seven primary members could nominate two candidates, creating a pool of up to 14 for interviews. At the May 14th meeting the task force narrowed the list to seven finalists in which one withdrew, bringing it down to six.
At the May 20th BCC workshop, following the task force’s work to narrow the candidate pool to seven finalists (one of whom later withdrew), the Board voted to forgo the task force interview process and instead proceed directly with conducting individual interviews. The Board conducted those interviews on June 16th.
Library Advisory Board. We are currently seeking a District 4 resident to serve on the Palm Beach County Library Advisory Board. This volunteer board plays a key role in supporting our Library System by working with the Library Director and providing policy, budget and service recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners.
The Advisory Board typically meets at 1:30 p.m. on the second Monday of each month, with at least nine meetings scheduled annually. If you’re passionate about public libraries and want to help shape their future in Palm Beach County, please contact my office to learn more about the application process.
Battle of the Bands in the Palm Beaches. The Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners has approved an agreement for presenting sponsor rights to bring a major HBCU marching band competition to FAU’s Flagler Credit Union Stadium starting January 17th, 2026, Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
The Battle of the Bands in the Palm Beaches will feature at least six top collegiate bands from Historically
Black Colleges and Universities, with the event returning annually for five years. Popular schools such as Florida A&M, Grambling, and Bethune-Cookman are expected to participate.
In addition to performances, the weekend will include:
• A STEM career fair;
• An Emerging Entrepreneur Experience;
• A Homeless Outreach Program.
Funded by tourist bed taxes, the event aims to uplift the community and spotlight HBCU talent.
Nonprofit Spotlight. The Historical Society of Palm Beach County is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to collect, preserve and share the rich history and cultural heritage of our county. The Society maintains a large archive on the history of Palm Beach County,
Florida, and the Caribbean. Through its archives, which includes four million photographic images plus maps, newspapers, journals, periodicals, architectural drawings and research files, the Society maintains an active research facility and documents the people and events that have shaped our communities.
In addition, the multiple education of building an understanding and appreciation of local history. If you’re interested in exploring their online archives visit https:// pbchistory.org/archives/. I recently had the pleasure of touring the Historical Society of Palm Beach County. Thank you to Jeremy Johnson, President and CEO, for the warm welcome and insightful visit!
If you require assistance, please contact our office at (561) 355-2204 or email Mwoodward@pbcgov.org.
Dining Out: Now That Season Is Gone, It’s Time For Those Happy Hours! Here’s Hungry Al’s Favs!
By Alan Serinsky of Bocaire
Country Club. Hungry Al’s love for food started very young. Never satisfied with his Mom’s dishes, he started to cook his way through her “Betty Crocker Cookbook.”
During the years to follow he spent many hours working in restaurants, both as server and cook, attending cooking classes and traveling the world in an effort to expand his palette. As a professional writer, Hungry Al offers his perspective on current food trends and guides you through your local restaurant options.
Food For Thought: Every time the first of May comes rolling along Hungry D and Hungry Al are kicking in their version of early bird dining. No, we are not looking for those Sunset Dinner specials but we are looking for two open chairs that line the bars offering the best deals on drinks and appetizers. Yes, the infamous Happy Hours that most restaurants resort to in an effort to offset the drop of revenue from seasonal residents. Of course, you’ll need to dine a bit earlier but daylight savings gives you those extra hours to walk off too many wines and appetizers. Then again, we often find ourselves extending the evening a bit with another drink (at normal price) and enjoying the music entertainment or people sightseeing.
In an effort to make your happy hour decisions easier I decided to offer my take on the best Happy Hours in our neighborhood. Hungry Al sets the bar high to reach all the variables that make Hungry Al happy! I have to consider special drinks list, food quality, length of Happy Hour, service and, of course, price. Hopefully, you’ll agree with my choices.
Happy Hour Spot #1. I have a hard time resisting Luigi Di Roma in Deerfield Beach. Located only a short distance from the Boca Raton Federal Hwy. border you’ll feel as if in another country. The laid-back and over-friendly crowd will fill up this bar quickly. Every drink is half price, every appetizer is only $8, the food
is amazingly good (ridiculous portion sizes) and there’s music to even make you happier! I might regret giving this secret away because it will make it harder for Hungry D and me to find a bar stool. Try their Calamari, Eggplant Stack or Chicken Parmigiana Panini.
Happy Hour Spot #2. Motek is new in town, located in what is labeled “restaurant row,” and just the sampling I had from their Happy Hour menu indicates a sure winner! I’m definitely following this one up with a full review. They just revised their time slot for happy hour from 2 to 5 o’clock. I hope they reconsider and give our workingclass heroes another hour to get there in time. Regardless of this time frame, at the crazy price of just $5 per item you get to select wine, cold or hot mezze (appetizer), a Pita stuffed with Chicken Shawarma, Prime Beef or a mini Arayes Burger. And if that is not enough to fill you up definitely try either the Salmon Skewer or Laffa Zaatar (better than a breadbasket).
Happy Hour Spot #3. City Fish Market has been a staple for decades. This expanse of bar gives you a fighting chance to find a bar stool or two. Here the drinks and spirits are in the $7-$9 range and the menu is extensive. Not the typical six-item Happy Hour menu you find in many places. I would suggest you get there early because the seats will fill up fast. Hungry D’s favorite drinks are either the Watermelon or Hawaiian Cocktail.
Happy Hour Spot #4. If you’re in the mood for Greek food I highly suggest you check out Taverna Kyma on Federal Highway. Hungry Al has been going here for years and it never fails, especially at their prices. It’s probably one of the few places you can get a Greek Salad that resembles anything close to what you would expect in any restaurant in Greece. Also, just dip their Pita bread in the bowl of hummus and I bet you can’t stop with just one. My favorite dishes are, of course, the Salad ($7), the Grilled Calamari ($9), Grilled Shrimp ($9) and the Grilled Lamb Chop ($9). Oh, can’t forget the drinks that ring in at the register with the low price of $7 for wine and mixed drinks. I’ll throw a plate or two for this Happy Hour location!
Happy Hour Spot #5. A long-time favorite of mine has always been Seasons 52. I’m sure many of you have probably dined here already. But for us the Happy Hour is high on our list. Interestingly, there’s something about this bar’s vibe and service staff that has us returning often. Seasons 52 is well known for its Flatbreads and for good reason. Yes, it’s cracker thin and the ingredients mounted on top are of high quality. Can’t resist their excellent Roasted Tomato. Here you can combine one appetizer and one sip for just $14. Can’t beat that!
Happy Hour Spot #6. I would be amiss if I didn’t add in at least one true Florida-feeling Happy Hour. By this I mean a tropical setting where the ocean breezes hit your face, boats motor by and reggae music adds to the taste of your Bahama Mama cocktail. Deck 84 in Delray Beach is a perfect spot to start any evening. Plenty of seating at this bar or high tops as you have full view of the Intercoastal. And the drink prices and appetizing offers are a pirate’s treasure chest of choices. Don’t miss the Smoked Brisket tacos ($8), Chicken Empanada ($6), Smoked Fish Dip ($9) and a few Sushi selections.
Happy Hour Last Stop! Now you know where to find Hungry Al before the clock strikes 6 p.m. So, the next time you are not sure where to have dinner, your tongue is flapping with thirst and your stomach is growling, go have some fun at a local Happy Hour. Your comrade and your wallet will appreciate your efforts to try something new and unpredictable. I’m sure the above recommendations all warrant at least four or more golden cocktail glasses of enjoyment!
Grover Corlew Completes $47.5 Million Refinancing Of Palmetto Central Campus In Boca Raton
Refinancing With City National Bank Of Florida Follows Campus Revitalization
Grover Corlew, a leading real estate investment management group focused on acquiring, transforming and managing office, multifamily and retail properties across the southeastern U.S., has completed a $47.5 million refinancing of the company’s fully redeveloped Palmetto Central office campus in Boca Raton. The financing was provided by City National Bank of Florida and is a significant milestone for the company following the successful transformation of the two-building, 170,000-square-foot campus at 1489 and 1499 West Palmetto Park Road.
“Securing financing in today’s challenging office lending environment doesn’t come without challenges,” said Mark Corlew, partner at Grover Corlew. “City National Bank of Florida was aligned with our vision and worked with us to get this deal done. We value strong, long-term relationships with financial partners who recognize the quality of our projects and our ability to execute.”
Both properties were reimagined with over $60 million invested that incorporates contemporary architecture, high-end finishes and leading-edge amenities. 1489 Palmetto Central, now home to UHealth Boca Raton and Venture X, among other prominent companies, features custom-built office suites, expansive patio areas, floorto-ceiling hurricane impact windows, fully renovated common areas and a striking tiered water feature at the main entrance.
1499 Palmetto Central office building was renovated in 2018. The 88,000-squarefoot building features a sleek, modernized lobby, upgraded restrooms and common areas and improved elevator and mechanical systems. Notable tenants include Hair Club, Gilbane Building Company and Texas Instruments. Grover Corlew’s state-of-theart headquarters are also located on-site.
“We’re proud to have transformed Palmetto Central into a vibrant, Class A office destination,” said Anuj Grover, partner at Grover Corlew. “Boca Raton is an exceptional place to live and work, and businesses clearly see the value of this location. The property is accessibility to I-95 and Brightline, is modern in design, and tenants have on-site management. With 1499 at 91 percent occupancy and 1489 already at 80 percent, it’s clear the campus is meeting the market’s demand for high-quality office space.”
Raton,
Palmetto Central’s location, immediately east of I-95, also offers easy access to Boca Raton’s thriving business, academic and residential hubs including Town Center at
and the Brightline station.
The loan was handled by David Lukes, senior vice president at City National Bank of Florida.
Grover Corlew continues to redefine the suburban office landscape across South Florida through highvalue investments, strategic renovations and tenantcentric design approaches. For more information visit grovercorlew.com.
To find out more about Grover Corlew visit grovercorlew.com.
New Technology Helps Chronic Problems
By Steven E. Reznick, M.D., FACP – Boca Raton
Essential tremor is a tremor of a body part that is present with action and rarely present at rest. Asking a patient with essential tremors to perform a mental task such as spelling a word backwards leads to diminution of the tremor. The tremor can begin in a limb but involve the head and neck and other body parts over time. It is significantly different than the tremor at rest seen in Parkinson’s disease.
Essential tremors can get worse over time. That leads to difficulty holding a drink, writing, coloring, painting and embarrassment for some. Treatment involves the use of medications – primarily beta blockers or GABA receptor blockers. These medications may cause other bodily side effects while reducing the tremor. In the recent past, the use of ultrasound directed deep into the brain has shown success in reducing tremors.
Fasaki Technologies developed a wristband that uses artificial intelligence and transcutaneous peripheral nerve stimulation to improve essential tremors. It can be used with medication for essential tremors or may even permit patients to stop the medications or lower the dosage.
Dr. R. Pahwa, M.D., professor of neurology at the University of Kansas School of Medicine and director of their Movement Disorder Program, presented data from the TRANQUIL study at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Neurology showing the wristband’s effectiveness in providing personalized individual
neuromodulation with the product. No two patients will have the same experience with the wristband and the neuromodulation changes moment to moment based on individual needs. The wristband is currently in its final review at the FDA. Fasaki has a website devoted to this product, but as of now, there are no listed prices.
Separately, senior citizens with arthritis, spine disease, diminishing vision are particularly prone to falls and injuries. Fractured hips and pelvis are a common complication seen in the elderly and resulting in potential permanent disability and or death.
Active Products CEO Wamis Singhatgat recently announced FDA approval of a device designed to reduce the risk of fracturing your hip with a fall. The Tango Belt is worn with several inflatable pods. It uses a “fall in progress” algorithm that recognizes when an individual
is about to suffer a fall and releases a cold gas airbag to absorb the impact and reduce the trauma. A small clinical trial found that the Tango Belt reduced hip fractures by over 90 percent.
This device is a prescription item designed for seniors who are high risk for falls and are receiving standard of care fall protection. The belt retails for about $1,500 with replacement airbags costing about $500. The price is high except when compared to the cost of hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, and medications.
Dr. Reznick is board certified in internal medicine with added qualifications in geriatrics. He has practiced in the area since 1979 and is currently accepting a limited number of new patients. To request a complimentary meeting with Dr. Reznick to learn about his concierge medicine practice, call (561) 368-0191, www.bocaconciergedoc.com.
Boca
Mizner Park, Florida Atlantic University, Lynn University
American Humane Society: Prepare Your Pet For The Hurricane Season
The beginning of summer means school vacation, long sunny days, baseball season, outdoor concerts and many more fun activities. However, it’s also when Floridians begin preparing for the upcoming hurricane season, which officially runs June 1st through November 30th.
“Hurricanes continue to become more destructive, and after last year’s deadly storms many families were tragically separated from their beloved pets,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, CEO and President of American Humane Society. “It’s imperative that you plan accordingly to protect your entire family – pets included.”
In addition to marking the start of the Atlantic hurricane season, June is also National Pet Preparedness Month. In an emergency every second counts and it’s critical to prepare to protect the entire family, including pets. American Humane Society offers the following tips for preparing pets for the upcoming season:
Before the Storm
• Microchip pets and/or put a tag on their collar with your name, current address and cellphone number.
• Consult with your vet about things that can help with pets’ stress during storms, like thunder jackets and pheromone sprays.
• Tie down or anchor outside objects that might fly about and injure someone.
• Bring all pets inside and ensure you have emergency supplies – extra pet food, water and a carrier ready that is large enough for your pet to turn around and lie down comfortably.
• Review your evacuation plan and have at the ready a pet disaster preparedness kit including a pet carrier, First Aid supplies, leashes, bowls, sanitation materials, chew toys and
food, meds and water (minimum three days’ worth, but ideally seven to 10 days’ worth).
• Secure exits and cat doors so pets cannot escape into the storm.
• If your family must evacuate, take your pets with you and leave as early as you can. Remember to take your pet disaster preparedness kit.
During the Storm … If You Cannot Evacuate
• Choose a safe room for riding out the storm—an interior room without windows like a basement or storm shelter—and take your entire family there, including your pets.
• Keep your pets close to you during the storm.
• Keep your emergency kit in that room with you (food, water, litter, meds).
• Know your pets’ hiding places. That is where they may run; keep them with you.
• Do not tranquilize your pets. They will need their survival instincts should the storm require that.
After the Storm
• Make sure the storm has fully passed before going outside, and assess damages before allowing animals out.
• Keep dogs on a leash and cats in a carrier. Displaced objects and fallen trees can disorient pets, and sharp debris could harm them.
• Give pets time to become re-oriented. Familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and cause a pet to become confused or lost.
• Keep animals away from downed power lines and water that may be contaminated.
Uncertainty and change in the environment affect animals, too, presenting new stresses and dangers. Your pet’s behavior may change after a crisis, becoming more aggressive or selfprotective. Be sensitive to these changes and keep more room between them, other animals, children or strangers. Animals need comforting, too. Comfort your pet with kind words and lots of pats or hugs. If possible, provide a safe and quiet environment, even if it is not their own home.
Preparing properly for the upcoming tropical storm season ensures that not only will our pets be safer, but also will help ensure the safety of volunteers and first responders helping during these dangerous storms.
About American Humane Society. With offices in Palm Beach and Washington, DC, American Humane Society is the United States’ first national humane organization and the world’s largest certifier of animal welfare, helping to verify the humane treatment of more than one billion animals across the globe each year. Founded in 1877, American Humane Society has been First to Serve™ the cause of animals and for over 145 years has been at the forefront of virtually every major advance in the humane movement. For more information or to support its lifesaving work, visit AmericanHumane.org, and follow on Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube for the latest breaking news and features about the animals with whom we share our Earth.
Council Corner: Boca On The Move…A Vision For Our Future
By Deputy Mayor Fran Nachlas
There’s undeniable energy in Boca Raton right now. As we proudly celebrate our Centennial year our city finds itself at the intersection of honoring our past while moving toward an even stronger future. Visionary planning is bringing new opportunities for civic innovation and Boca Raton is truly on the move. One of the most significant initiatives currently under discussion is the Government Campus initiative. While we are still in the interim design phase this effort represents more than just a modernization of City Hall. It is about creating a forward-thinking, efficient and accessible civic neighborhood district that will serve residents for generations to come. Your City Council is actively reviewing potential space needs, engaging with expert consultants, exploring design options that would integrate seamlessly into the character of Downtown
Boca and improve the way the area surrounding City Hall and our Brightline station work for all of us.
Significant opportunities like this always bring questions and we welcome them. This is a time for thoughtful input, and as always your City Council is committed to ensuring that every decision made is in the best interests of our residents. We are listening carefully because creating something lasting requires doing it together.
As this process continues I also want to recognize the momentum that’s already bringing new livability and quality experiences to the everyday life of our community. Downtown Boca Raton is thriving, with a renewed focus on walkability, placemaking and public spaces. From Sanborn Square to new pedestrian-friendly corridors our downtown is becoming more vibrant, accessible and community-centered than ever before.
These enhancements are not just aesthetic; they’re foundational to the live-work-play lifestyle that makes Boca so special. As someone who loves this city deeply it’s inspiring to see our public spaces, parks, cultural venues and small businesses flourishing together in harmony.
And this isn’t just about addressing bricks and mortar. It’s about people–about you, our families, our neighbors and the
businesses that serve Boca Raton’s needs. It’s about how we gather, how we connect and how we plan for the needs of future generations while preserving what we love most about our city. That’s why I’m committed to ensuring that our city evolves in a way that is smart, sustainable and reflective of our shared values.
Throughout this Centennial year I’ve had the privilege of attending dozens of community events and I continue to be inspired by the spirit of Boca Raton. Whether it’s a library program, a local business ribbon cutting or a student-led community initiative, there’s a clear thread that ties it all together: passion for this place we call home.
As your Deputy Mayor I see my role not just as a policymaker but as a connector–someone who listens, learns and advocates for progress that honors both where we’ve been and where we’re going. It is a role I take to heart.
The road ahead will bring choices. With collaboration, transparency and vision I believe we can continue shaping a city that our children and grandchildren will be proud to inherit.
Boca Raton has always been a special place. And as we look to the next 100 years I’m more optimistic than ever that our best days are still ahead.
Book Review
Papyrus: The Invention Of Books In the Ancient World
By Nils A. Shapiro
Nils began his career as marketing director for a major book publisher. He has since edited the authors’ manuscripts’ for more than 20 published books, written more than 200 book reviews, served as publisher of several million-plus circulation national magazines, created the official yearbooks for teams in Major League Baseball, the National Football League, National Basketball Association and National Hockey League and “retired” as president of a successful telecommunications company.
Readers familiar with this monthly review column will readily understand why I ordered a copy of this book immediately upon learning of its existence and turned to the first page within minutes after its arrival at my front door. The title alone was all it took to arouse my interest. Now that I have turned the last page I can report that for me, and for those who share my passion about books and a general love of learning about certain periods of early history, this book is worth every moment of its 384-page journey—with one caveat , which I will explain later in this review.
Originally published in Spain, author Irene Vallejo’s exquisitely written text has been translated so brilliantly by Charlotte Whittle that she deserves an equal bow, and the 53-page reference section at the end of the book attests to the depth of research that makes possible the many hundreds of new facts you will learn from this international best-seller.
This is a story that spans more than 9,000 years, beginning long before the “invention” of writing. As just one example of the extraordinary amount of surprising information that awaits you here, the ninth century B.C. Greek poet Homer—whose two epic classics, The Iliad and The Odyssey, were considered sacred for centuries— created and performed these two works from memory in the oral tradition of his time, over and over again without ever having once written them down despite the fact that The Iliad is 15,000 lines in length and The Odyssey consists of 12,000 lines!
The alphabet as we know it did not even begin in its first form until the second half of the eighth century B.C.—long after Homer was gone—and was frowned upon by many at the time as a “trick” that would lead to people losing the ability to develop their memory skills.
A major leap from a limited few being able to inscribe official documents on clay tablets to making writing and reading more widely available can be traced to the papyrus plant that grew in vast numbers along the banks of the Nile River in Egypt, when it was discovered that, properly treated, its leaves could be scratched upon and each leaf folded with others to form longer scrolls— documents capable of being stored and copied over and over again by trained scribes.
Later, when Alexander the Great conquered Egypt on his way to conquest of the known world he installed a trusted officer, Ptolemy, to rule over that defeated nation. One of Ptolemy’s first decisions was to build what history has come to revere as the “Great Library of Alexandria,” his plan to house a copy of every book known to exist in the entire world! By “book,” of course, he referred to scroll documents.
In order to accomplish this extraordinary feat Ptolemy had to send emissaries to every corner of the known world, carrying the funds needed to pay for scribes to make the necessary copies, a dangerous mission at a time when murderers and thieves lurked everywhere. But he fulfilled that commitment to achieve what became one of the great Wonders of the Ancient World.
The adventure of that library’s history is a compelling story in itself, but it is only one of many in this author’s narrative that guides us from clay tablets to papyrus leaves … to the slaughter of animals, treating their skins to make sturdier, longerlasting parchment … to the introduction by China of paper … to Gutenberg’s invention of the printing press that made many thousands of scribes of no further use … to the codex binding format first developed in the Roman Empire … to computers and the increasingly popular electronic formats.
Along the way we encounter many hundreds of faces both familiar and new, among them: Plato, Tiberius, Euripides, Oedipus, Orwell, Conrad, Ovid, Petrarch, Poe, Cleopatra, Palladas, Pausanius—the list seems endless. But I was fascinated to learn from this history of books an interesting fact about one particular man as described by the author herself in this brief excerpt from Papyrus :
“On the Anatolian Peninsula, the crossroads of several cultures, a Greek was born with mixed blood and a curious mind who was obsessed with this old conflict. Why were these two worlds—Europe and Asia—enmeshed in a life-and-death struggle? Why had they been at odds since time immemorial? What were they seeking, how did they justify themselves, what were their reasons? Had it always been this way? Would it be this way forever?
“This man who was so fond of questions spent his whole life looking for answers. He wrote a long work of travels and chronicles, titling it Historiai, which in Greek meant “inquiries” or “studies.” We still use the word he redefined when he gave a name to his task, untranslated: “history.” With his work, a new discipline was born, and perhaps a different way of looking at the world. Because the author of The Histories was a person with inexhaustible curiosity, an adventurer, a seeker of wondrous things, a nomad, and one of the first writers able to think on a planetary scale, I might almost say, a precursor of globalization. This is, of course, Herodotus.” So this one man, Herodotus, in the fifth century B.C., gets the credit for why we use the word history to describe the study and writing of past events as we do today. Such information fascinates me, and this book offers that in overflowing portions.
And now for the caveat —albeit a minor one—that I mentioned at the opening of this review: As riveting as is this author’s history of books I found it disconcerting that she interrupted the journey several times to insert brief chapters that are essentially essays describing events unrelated to the book’s overall subject: Peggy Guggenheim’s introduction of modern art to New York in the 1940s; the Elvis Presley-like reaction that greeted the classical music genius Franz Liszt; the romantic interlude of an aging celebrity. I admit to having skipped past these to continue reading the history itself, then after finishing the book went back, read these brief “essays” and found them excellent, but likely more suited to a separate collection by this skilled author.
On a scale of 1 to 10, Papyrus earns 9.5 from me. That should be sufficient recommendation for those of you who share my passion for this subject.
Healthy Answers – A Guide To Healthy Living: ‘Don’t Cry Over Spilled Milk!’
By Dale Brown,
B.S., M.A., C.E.C. Dale is a motivational speaker who has spent many years as a Certified Life Coach and has written numerous articles and e-books relating to selfimprovement and ways to build a high-performance team. She is the author of the book, “Small Steps... Big Changes: The Personal Stories of a Life Coach.” Her education and years of experience in physical fitness and training of elite athletes has enabled her to sharpen her knowledge in many health-related areas. The following introduces a new approach to Ms. Brown’s series of columns devoted to many topics that deal with the mind/ body connection and the importance of living a healthy lifestyle. Dale, a Bocaire resident, can be reached at dalebrown@lovingmondays.com.
Have you ever been the target of someone’s comment and over-reacted in a way that was uncharacteristic? Or have you said something kiddingly to a friend only to get a mouthful of nasty remarks in return? You may wonder, “Was it something I said? I wasn’t serious!”
You may never know what set your friend off, but chances are you “pushed a button” that brought back memories. A teasing comment or mocking tone may have triggered a time in his or her life when bullied, laughed at, excluded or criticized in front of others. It might have unconsciously been a reminder of what it felt like to be embarrassed or powerless as a child.
We all have memories, or things that happened in our lives that elicit certain emotions. Behavior is driven by a mix of internal and external factors that influence how we react. It’s shaped by environment, family upbringing, culture and society. When we become emotional it brings out feelings that can sometimes be confusing, even to ourselves.
For example, as a child my husband was screamed at by his mother whenever he spilled anything. Of course, it was his mess but hers to clean up! Years later when he accidentally spilled milk he over-reacted in anger at himself as if he could still hear his mother’s words in his head. Although the current situation no longer existed the lingering memory triggered his reaction.
The phrase “button pushing” comes from the idea that when you push a button on a machine it starts immediately. So when you push a person’s button you trigger a reaction right away. “Button pushing” comes in many forms and you usually know when you or someone else is doing it. It can be playful, as in teasing, with no real harm intended. Such as, when my brother used to call me a silly nickname I hated (still does), I’d roll my eyes and make a face. Pushing buttons can also be annoying or irritating—for example, when someone you’re playing golf with says, “Don’t hit the ball in the water” right before you swing! This is a deliberate comment meant to rattle you. Another example might be making a snide remark about someone’s weight. “French fries? You’re lucky you don’t have to worry about your weight!” This is a back-handed compliment that touches the person’s insecurity by insinuating she’s too skinny.
“Button pushing” is a technique very often used in relationships of all kinds: couples, friends and parents. The closer you are to someone the better you know which buttons to push and how to get a rise. This is when the trigger turns into hurtful button-pushing. For instance: An ex-partner reminds you of a painful breakup during an argument, to upset you or win the fight. A parent is critical about your life choices, knowing you are already doubtful and unsure. A friend says, “Wow, are you really going to wear that?” to trigger the friend’s lack of self-confidence. Is someone pushing your buttons? In order to “get a grip” on how to handle malicious button pushers you first have to recognize when it’s happening. Usually you feel instant anger, your heart rate jumps up and your face gets flushed. It’s likely the same person is guilty of repeating the things that “get your goat.” They make their move when you’re most vulnerable and expect a reaction.
The timing of the trigger isn’t random. The same person keeps saying or doing the exact kinds of things that set you off. The comments are personal and the intent is to hit exactly where it hurts: insecurities, fears or sensitive memories. For instance, every time you succeed they find a way to downplay it. Or a co-worker points out your mistake openly instead of in private. And oh, by the way, let’s not forget political button pushing! No examples needed. Now that you know, how do you stop it? Here are some suggestions:
• Pause Before Reacting – Take a deep breath. Count to three. Give your brain a chance to catch up with your emotions; even a few seconds helps.
• Remind Yourself What’s Happening –Acknowledge: “They’re trying to push my buttons. I don’t have to react.”
• Detach – Remind yourself the person’s words can’t hurt you. “This is about them, not me.”
• Respond Neutrally (or Not at All) – Calm responses neutralize button-pushers. Example: Them: “Are you really going to wear that?” You: “Yup.” (smile and move on).
• Set Boundaries – No drama. Just directness. Calmly say, “I don’t appreciate comments like that. Please stop.”
• Stay Focused – Protect your peace. “Is getting into an argument worth my energy? “No!
There will always be times in life when you’ll push someone’s buttons or they will push yours. Don’t let simple things get under your skin. Through self-awareness and mindfulness you can break old patterns and adopt new ones. Think of it as a mind shift. “When someone pushes my buttons, they are showing me where I can grow stronger.” Over time, the things that used to trigger you won’t have the same power. That’s real emotional freedom.
Tax Talk
Dear friends:
I am sure you have all heard about AI – Artificial Intelligence, so this month, I thought I would give it a try. Plugging in a few keywords, here is what AI wrote for me for this month’s Tax Talk . What do you think?
Welcome to the June edition of Tax Talk ! With hurricane season kicking off June 1, I want to make sure you are ready. This month, I am sharing helpful information about what to do if your property suffers catastrophic damage – and don’t forget to check out our handy wallet-size hurricane guide, designed to keep key information at your fingertips when you need it most.
My team also had a great time at the Black Gold Jubilee, where we enjoyed meeting many residents celebrating that wonderful local tradition.
As always, my team and I are here to help – stay safe and stay connected! And a special Happy Father’s Day to all of our fathers!
Anne M. Gannon, Constitutional Tax Collector, Serving Palm Beach County
Hurricane Season Is Here
Hurricane season starts June 1, and my office is committed to helping you and your family plan and prepare for any storms that affect Palm Beach County. Our Hurricane Guide is a good place to start.
This pocket-sized guide includes a timeline for preparing for hurricane season, an itemized list for family disaster supply kits, important telephone numbers, and a space to record your important information, so you can find it quickly. The comprehensive guide also includes detailed information about storms, including the difference between a hurricane watch and a hurricane warning. This is a must-have during hurricane season, which runs through Nov. 30.
Visit our website at www.pbctax.gov/hurricane to request your copy today!
Black Gold Jubilee
Each spring, the town of Belle Glade celebrates the end of the harvest season with its annual Black Gold Jubilee. Named for the area’s rich soil, this annual festival celebrates Belle Glade’s unique agricultural heritage.
Each year, we are honored to take part in this familyfocused festival to meet our western Palm Beach County clients. A big thank you to our TCO staff for volunteering their time to be on hand to answer questions about our services and hand out important information.
Florida Homeowner’s Guide
Hurricane season is fast approaching, and it is best to plan ahead and be prepared to protect loved ones and property; however, there are some events that we are not able to prepare for like accidental fires, water damage or even structural damage. We do get questions about scenarios where homes are impacted by catastrophic events (weather related or non-weather related) and the impact they have on property taxes. I want to share some common questions and answers on this topic with you.
My residence was recently destroyed or damaged. Do I have to pay property taxes?
If the residence is uninhabitable for 30 days or longer due to a catastrophic event, you may be eligible for a refund.
My residence was recently destroyed or damaged. Will my property taxes go down?
Property taxes will typically not decrease for the tax year in which the catastrophic event occurred but could decrease for the next tax year.
How do I report destruction or damage to my residence?
Contact the Palm Beach County Property Appraiser’s office at (561) 355-2866 as soon as possible. Reporting damage is important for future valuation and assessment. I have been displaced. How will I receive my property tax notice?
You can view and pay your tax bill online by visiting www.pbctax.gov. You can also update your mailing address by contacting the Palm Beach County Property Appraiser’s office at (561) 355-2866.
For more information about catastrophic damage to your property, visit www.floridarevenue.com.
is Here to Help!
While the Black Gold Jubilee marks the end of our festival season, be sure to look for members of our Community Engagement team at your local HOA meetings and expos!
Boca Celebrates Earth Month 2025: More Than 30 Events, 100 New Trees, 1,800
As the nation marked the 55th consecutive Earth Month in April—a period dedicated to celebrating the planet and taking action to protect it—the City of Boca Raton’s Office of Sustainability capped off a successful Earth Month 2025 with more than 30 sustainability-focused events and programs, engaging residents in environmental action, education and celebration. It was an effort in keeping with this year’s official theme, “Our Power, Our Planet,” emphasizing the collective action needed to transition to renewable energy and achieve a global target to triple clean electricity by 2030.
Mayor’s Update:
Scott Singer is the 35th Mayor of Boca Raton and was re-elected in 2023.
A South Florida native, attorney and small business owner, Scott and his wife Bella live in Broken Sound with their two children.
Pounds Of E-Waste
This year’s Earth Month activities aligned with Boca Raton’s 100th Anniversary and incorporated Centennialthemed programming that honored the city’s past while working towards a more sustainable future. These events, geared for all ages, blended historical reflection with hands-on environmental action, including native tree plantings, dune restorations, Earth Day Storytimes, an Eco-Watch Lecture Series and much more.
The city also celebrated its 45th consecutive year as a Tree City U.S.A. and received a prestigious Growth Award for its continued commitment to urban forestry.
Highlights from Boca Raton’s Earth Month 2025 included:
• Hosted more than 30 events and programs held citywide, from educational workshops and eco-fairs to community cleanups and speaker series.
• Collected 1,800 pounds of electronic waste, allowing residents to responsibly dispose of outdated electronics and reduce environmental harm.
• Planted 40 new trees at Countess de Hoernle Park / Spanish River Athletic Facility, helping grow the city’s urban tree canopy and fight climate change.
• Provided 75 free shade trees delivered to residential homes as part of our Tree Drop-Off Program
“We were proud to integrate our Centennial into this year’s Earth Month celebrations,” said Tina Batoh-Jennings, the City’s Sustainability Manager. “It was a powerful reminder that sustainability is not only about protecting our environment today but about shaping the kind of city we want to be for the next 100 years.”
The Office of Sustainability thanked all residents, volunteers, businesses and community partners for their participation. To learn more about Boca Raton’s sustainability efforts and how to get involved year-round, visit www. myboca.us/sustainability.
The Official Flag Of Boca Raton
As we continue to celebrate Boca Raton’s Centennial this milestone year offers us the opportunity not only to reflect on our city’s remarkable journey but also to recognize the symbols that unite and represent us.
That’s why I’m proud to share that the City Council has officially adopted the Boca Raton flag—the same design that has flown over our city buildings and events for Decades—as the official flag of our city.
used on the city flag. This allows residents and organizations to display the flag in accordance with guidelines while still protecting the integrity of our seal as a symbol of official city representation.
In a time when many cities are working to build stronger connections with their residents I’m proud that
Boca Raton continues to foster a sense of identity rooted in both history and progress. The flag we now officially recognize is more than fabric; it’s a symbol of who we are and what we stand for.
As we look to our next 100 years, may we continue to raise this flag with pride–together.
Paragon Theaters Brings Moviegoing Back To Deerfield Beach
• Be sure to catch the special IMAX Fan First even for F1 (June 23)
• Buy advance tickets online now for Disney/Pixar’s Elio (June 20) and Jurassic World Rebirth (July 2)
You may be surprised to learn that although we’ve used this flag for many years it had never been formally adopted by resolution. This realization came after a discussion I initiated in 2024 about revisiting the city flag and exploring designs in line with modern flag principles and resident feedback. Through historical research in partnership with the Boca Raton Historical Society we uncovered a fascinating story of evolving designs and civic expression–one that stretches back more than 60 years.
Historical records show that the City Council adopted an official flag based on a 1964 design by local resident George Ryan. The flag, pictured in the December 17th, 1964 edition of the Boca Raton News , featured a “stylized version of the city seal” and horizontal bands of green, white, and blue in descending order. The use of that flag was short-lived by the 1990s and more likely even earlier based on available information.
At some point in the 1990s, the City of Boca Raton shifted in design. While it still featured the city seal the order of colors of the horizontal bands shifted to aquamarine blue, white, and Kelly green in descending order. There are no records indicating when the switch in the order of the colored bars took place and whether it was intentional. An Oct. 22nd, 1976 Boca Raton News article attributes Ryan’s choice of blue was representative of the sunny skies, which indicates blue should be placed at the top of the flag. This design has become deeply familiar to residents and businesses and it reflects Boca Raton’s identity today: vibrant, welcoming and strong.
After reviewing resident input and several thoughtful design alternatives, the City Council agreed to officially adopt the flag that has been embraced by our community. Even more importantly, the resolution also encourages residents, civic groups and businesses to display the city flag proudly. It serves as a powerful visual statement of our shared commitment to Boca Raton and everything we value: natural beauty, innovation, safety and community.
To support this civic pride we’ve also continued to authorize the limited reproduction of the City Seal when
After nearly ten years, Paragon Theaters has returned to The Shoppes at Deerfield and it is better than ever! Paragon Theaters Deerfield IMAX (3984 West Hillsboro Boulevard, Deerfield Beach, FL, 33442) is THE place to see this summer’s blockbuster movies, including Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning , How To Train Your Dragon , F1 , Jurassic World Rebirth and many more!
Paragon’s newest location has undergone a complete transformation and now features:
• 8 state-of-the art auditoriums with laser projectors and Dolby audio.
• Lux Box Dine-In Service in all auditoriums –featuring love seat recliners with QR codes on tray tables allowing for ordering food and beverage before and during the movie. Enhancing the experience, is the fact that each loveseat has privacy walls for the ultimate moviegoing experience.
• A 120-seat IMAX—the only IMAX in the area— with Laser Projection and IMAX’s signature sound quality.
• An Axis15 Extreme large format screen auditorium, featuring 4K Laser Projection, tilted screen and Dolby Atmos immersive sound.
• The Director’s Room for intimate, private screenings and curated programming, which can be rented for events such as sports game watches, birthdays and corporate events. It features comfortable rockers with full dine-in service at every seat.
• A full lobby bar and home to MyPi Pizzas –handmade, fresh-to-order personal pizzas served to your seats. The from scratch dough and original recipes make these pizzas a favorite at all Paragon locations. Paragon Theaters Deerfield will show all the major films this summer, even providing early access events and other special film series for their guests:
• Attend a special early access event for Ballerina (June 4), How To Train Your Dragon (June 11), and F1 (June 25)
• Tickets on sale now for Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, Lilos & Stitch, Karate Kid: Legends, Ballerina, How To Train Your Dragon, and many more summer blockbuster titles
Paragon Theaters Deerfield also offers its guests unique programming options this summer, including:
• $5 Ticket Tuesdays (every Tuesday at all Paragon locations)
◦ All shows, all day, all formats (restrictions apply)
• Sensory Friendly Films (monthly)
◦ First-run films
◦ Lights up, sound low, kids are free to get up and go
◦ Discounted Kids Combo Tray for $5
• Kids $2 Summer Movies
◦ Tuesday, Wednesdays and Thursdays
◦ Only $2/Person
◦ Discounted Kids Combo Tray for $5
• Brazilian Soccer Matches Game Watches in early June
• FAU Game Watches (coming this Fall!)
“We are so excited to bring the movies back to Deerfield,” said Michael Wilson (co-CEO of Paragon Theaters). “Paragon is the future of entertainment. Next-level technology, bigger thrills, and an experience you won’t believe—only found at our theater. Couple all our amenities like large format screens and dine-in service, with an IMAX, and our guests will experience the finest moviegoing experience in all of South Florida.”
For more information about Paragon Theaters Deerfield IMAX, as well as showtimes, pricing and ticket availability, please visit www.paragontheaters. com . Get your tickets now for all the summer blockbusters! Visit www.paragontheaters.com for showtimes, tickets and more.
Palm Beach County Property Appraiser’s Office
Dear Taxpayer:
The summer months are a busy time for my office.
Before June 1 , my office submits the estimated taxable property values for 2025 to cities and other authorities who levy taxes because they need these numbers to begin developing their budgets. The taxing authorities review the property values in their jurisdictions and decide on a proposed tax rate.
On July 1 , my office submits a preliminary tax roll to Florida’s Department of Revenue (DOR), the agency that oversees the operations of all property appraisers in the state. The DOR performs a rigorous review and evaluates the tax roll for accuracy.
On August 21 , my office will mail the Truth in Millage, or TRIM Notice, to all property owners. This notice of proposed taxes details the assessed and taxable values of your property, as well as the tax rates submitted by taxing authorities.
As always, I welcome your comments and questions regarding your property value and exemption amounts. Florida law requires my office to value property based on the status of the market as of January 1. Our highlytrained appraisal experts use state-of-the-art technology to continuously process property data from local and industry sources and from field inspections.
Now is a good time to check the mailing address associated with your property at pbcpao.gov. Simply search your property and confirm that your mailing address is correct. If it needs an update, just visit our E Address Change Form.
In this month’s newsletter, a reminder that hurricane season is upon us and a reminder to those residents who
have not yet applied for a homestead exemption on their permanent residence in Palm Beach County. Enjoy reading and stay safe.
Respectfully,
Dorothy Jacks, CFA, FIAAO, AAS, Palm Beach County Property Appraiser
Hurricane Season Begins
June kicks off hurricane season, which runs through Nov. 30. There are provisions in Florida law that pertain to your property tax assessment if your home suffers catastrophic damage by a hurricane.
If your home suffers hurricane damage, our office will work with you through the assessment process. We review insurance claims, photographs, repair estimates and invoices, and any other documentation that would detail damage. For more information, visit our website or contact (561) 355-3230 or PAHurricaneDamage@ pbcpao.gov.
As you plan for the season ahead, Palm Beach County Emergency Management offers essential tips on hurricane preparedness in their Hurricane Planning Guide (PDF).
E-Filing For Homestead Exemption And Portability
A homestead exemption can reduce the assessed value of your property, thereby reducing the amount of property tax you pay. In addition, a homestead exemption limits any increase to your assessed value to a maximum of 3 percent each year or the amount of the change in the Consumer Price Index, whichever is lower. Portability transfers all or a significant portion of your cap savings, up to $500,000, from a home with a homestead exemption to a new home within the state of Florida that qualifies for a homestead exemption. With our homestead exemption e-file, you can e-file the same day you close on a new home, even without the deed. You can even e-file for portability if moving within the state of Florida. Our Exemption Services Department administers all exemptions and portability applications and is available to answer your questions. Contact them at myexemption@ pbcpao.gov or (561) 355-2866.
Office Closed In Honor Of Juneteenth
The Palm Beach County Property Appraiser’s Office (including all of our Service Centers) will be closed in honor of Juneteenth on Thursday, June 19, 2025. Juneteenth National Independence Day commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States.
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