The Junior League Of Boca Raton Celebrates 20 Years Of Community Impact At The Vegso Community Resource Center
The Junior League of Boca Raton (JLBR) celebrated the 20th Anniversary of the Vegso Community Resource Center (VCRC) at the Countess DeHoernle Building on Feb. 13. The Center, which serves as the organization’s headquarters, is a resource for community non-profits to hold meetings.
The VCRC also houses the Newman/Craske Family Foundation Center grant resource library and
is a venue for nonprofit training sessions hosted by the Junior League.
The VCRC serves as a resource for a number of organizations, including Impact 100, Diaper Bank Covering South Florida and Nonprofits First.
“We were delighted to celebrate this milestone,” said Nikki Stelzer, President of the Junior League of Boca Raton.
“The building has been Linda Gunn and Kristen Ross-Majhess
City Of Boca Raton Partners With Terra And Frisbie Group For Transformative Government Campus Initiative
The City of Boca Raton is moving forward with a transformative long-term vision for its Government Campus through a partnership with Boca Raton City Center, LLC, a joint venture between the Miami-based Terra and Palm Beach-based Frisbie Group (Terra & Frisbie Group).
This initiative, which has been years in the making, builds on strategic planning efforts to redevelop the campus into a vibrant civic and community hub. The Boca Raton City Council made the unanimous decision during its February 11th meeting, marking a significant milestone in the process to modernize and revitalize the campus, ensuring that public facilities evolve to meet the needs of the community and enhance the efficiency of city services.
“Boca Raton’s future is brighter than ever,” said Mayor Scott Singer. “This project is more than just a redevelopment; it’s about creating a civic center that better serves our community, provides opportunities for employment and
business and transforms the town square into a destination where residents want to be.”
The selection of Terra & Frisbie Group for this publicprivate partnership (P3) follows an extensive competitive process aimed at identifying the most qualified team to revitalize the Government Campus. The downtown Boca Raton area currently houses City Hall, the police station, a community center, a tennis center and more.
Already considered one of our nation's most beautiful cities, this architectural rendering of downtown Boca Raton's Government Center complex will look like when completed—with City Hall at the upper right—promises an even grander future for residents and visitors.
Boca History Museum To Debut ‘1925!’
Exhibit In Honor Of Centennial
Mark your calendars. Here is an event you will want to look forward to this summer and fall!
As Boca Raton marks its 100th anniversary the Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum will be presenting “1925!”, a
new exhibit that transports visitors back to the year of the city’s incorporation. Running from July 2nd to December 20th, the exhibit will immerse guests in the culture, style and innovations that defined this transformative era in both Florida and American history.
“The year 1925 was pivotal for Boca Raton, setting the stage for the city’s remarkable growth over the last century,” said Mary Csar, Executive Director of the Boca Raton Historical Society. “This exhibit offers a fascinating glimpse into what life was like at the time, showcasing
how history, fashion and innovation converged to shape our community.”
From rising hemlines and rebellious flappers to the Florida land boom that first put Boca Raton on the map, “1925!” explores the everyday lives and pop culture trends that shaped Boca History Museum To Debut ‘1925!’ on page 4
The Junior League Of Boca Raton on page 3
Lisa Bariso, Anne Vegso, Peter Vegso
Dick and Pattie Damron
City Of Boca Raton Partners on page 2
Mayor’s Update: Boca Raton… A City Of Champions
Scott Singer is the 35th Mayor of Boca Raton and was re-elected in 2023.
A South Florida native, attorney, mediator, and small business owner, Scott and his wife Bella live in Broken Sound with their two young children.
Boca Raton is proving itself to be a shining beacon of athletic excellence, with our local teams and athletes bringing home national titles and helping to solidify the city’s reputation as a premier sports hub.
With March Madness on the horizon and memories of Florida Atlantic’s recent exciting Final Four run, it is exciting to recognize all the achievements our city has accomplished in the sports world. This past year has seen victories across multiple disciplines, further showcasing the city’s dedication to fostering talent and athleticism.
Pickleball Dominance: Boca Raton Picklers Shine. In a thrilling showcase of skill and teamwork the Boca Raton Picklers recently captured the National Pickleball League championship, marking a historic achievement for the city. The team, known for its relentless drive and sharp focus, battled through fierce competition to claim the coveted title. This victory also highlights the growing popularity of pickleball in the area. The city recently approved the addition of several new pickleball and padel courts. One project plan turns 28,356 square feet of industrial space on Holland Drive
into eight courts. Another project will bring indoor pickleball courts to North Park. As the sport continues to expand we will be on the lookout to watch the Picklers and other teams.
Lynn University: A Powerhouse in Collegiate Sports. Lynn University has long been known for its academic prowess, but its athletic programs have also been making waves on the national scene. The men’s soccer team recently clinched the national championship, showcasing a blend of skill, discipline and teamwork. The victory marked a significant moment in the program’s history, and the team’s triumph has further solidified Lynn’s reputation as a top-tier athletic institution.
Not to be outdone, the Lynn University women’s volleyball team also delivered an unforgettable performance, securing their own national championship. Their resilience and athleticism were on full display as they outlasted their opponents in an intense final match, bringing home the title in a historic win that will be remembered for years to come.
A City That Supports Its Athletes. What makes these victories even more remarkable is the support and infrastructure that Boca Raton provides to its athletes. With exciting changes coming to our downtown government campus, the city will be looking at ways to enhance its offerings.
While there will be changes in store for where many enjoy playing tennis, softball and skateboarding we are looking at making upgrades to ensure our residents have access to top-notch quality recreation offerings. Our city rallies behind its athletes from the littlest sluggers to the adult leagues. We cheer for sportsmanship and excellence and the City of Boca Raton’s commitment to recreation is clear.
As we look ahead, the future of Boca Raton’s sports scene is brighter than ever. With a combination of rising talent, dedicated athletes and a community that supports them, it’s no wonder that the city continues to shine on and off the field.
In addition to updating government facilities, the mixed-use proposal features enhanced green spaces, community-focused amenities, residential units, a hotel, office and retail space, all designed to enhance the downtown experience. The initiative also aims to capitalize on the proximity to the Brightline Station, providing for improved connectivity and mobility in the city, and for those traveling to and from Boca Raton.
“We are honored to have been unanimously chosen by the Boca Raton City Council to lead the Government Campus Redevelopment,” said Terra CEO David Martin. “Our team is committed to transforming this space into a vibrant, eco-friendly district that blends civic, residential and commercial uses. We look forward to collaborating closely with city officials and the community to bring our shared vision to life, creating a sustainable and connected neighborhood that will serve as a model for future urban development.”
“Boca Raton is an exceptional community that deserves the best,” said Cody Crowell of Frisbie Group. Rob Frisbie, Jr. continued, “We’re committed to listening to residents, businesses and city leaders to ensure we create an exciting project that will enhance the quality of life for all.”
Building on input already gathered from the community, public engagement will continue to be a key component of this initiative, with multiple ways to continue to participate, including attending Council meetings, submitting comments via the Government Campus Feedback Form, learning more on the city’s website and signing up for project alerts. The community was also invited to attend an upcoming Open House on the proposed plan that took place on February 19th, where they viewed renderings, met Terra Frisbie & Group team members and shared their ideas.
Next steps for the project include the following phases:
• Interim Agreement – City staff will work with Terra & Frisbie Group to execute a short-term agreement by March 18th.
• Comprehensive Agreement – Following the interim agreement, the city and Terra & Frisbie Group will negotiate a full agreement. This process will take time, and there will be significant opportunities for public information and input throughout.
• Project Advancement – Once the comprehensive agreement is finalized, the project will move into the next phase, including detailed design, permitting, and construction. The city will continue to provide ongoing updates to ensure transparency and public engagement.
Discussions about revitalizing the Government Campus began in 2017 and have been a key component of the city’s strategic planning to redevelop the area. To support this initiative, the city partnered with CBRE, Inc., a firm with extensive experience in managing P3s, who continues to provide guidance throughout the process.
For more information and continued updates visit the Government Campus webpage, and follow the city on social media.
City Of Boca Raton Partners from page 1
such an incredible asset over the years to both the league and other nonprofits in the community.
Anne and Peter Vegso were honored at the event for having named the building. Pattie Damron was recognized for chairing Funding the Future, a capital campaign for the VCRC. Event co-chairs were Nicole Mugavero and Lisa Warren.
Many members of the Junior League and the community at large have contributed over the years to
the building’s maintenance through the Junior League of Boca Raton Endowment.
“Maintaining this community resource over the years has been our mission,” said Lisa Bariso, Endowment Board President. “We were so delighted to celebrate 20 years of making a difference in the community.”
About The Junior League Of Boca Raton
Throughout the year, JLBR members contribute more than 35,000 volunteer hours and donate more than $250,000 to support the organization’s mission of advancing women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training. The Junior League currently focuses on two community issues, child welfare and nonprofit support.
To learn more about the JLBR,
The Junior League Of Boca Raton from page 1
Junior League President Elect Victoria Matthews, President Nikki Stelzer
Junior League Members
Anne and Peter Vegso
Nancy Dockerty, Lisa Mulhall, Lynn Lawless Vegso Community Resource Center
Boca History Museum To Debut ‘1925!’ from page 1 the Roaring Twenties. Through a carefully curated collection of historic images and artifacts, visitors will discover:
• The bold fashions of the era, from beaded dresses to boater hats;
• Elegant interior design trends that ushered in the modern age
• The evolution of automobiles and their impact on daily life;
• The rise of modern conveniences, such as indoor plumbing and electricity;
• The booming popularity of sports, including baseball and golf;
• The Florida real estate frenzy, which sparked both prosperity and bust, and
• The iconic flapper lifestyle that redefined social norms for women.
The “1925!” exhibit will be on display at the Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum, located at Town Hall, 71 N. Federal Highway. For more information call (561) 395-6766 or visit www.BocaHistory.org.
About The Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum
The Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum is the home of the Boca Raton Historical Society, whose mission is to collect, preserve, and present information and artifacts relevant to the past and evolving history of Boca Raton and to maintain a visible
role in the education and the advocacy of historic preservation in the community. Now open to the public Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the museum is in historic Town Hall at 71 N. Federal Highway (33432). For more information, please call (561) 395-6766 or visit www.BocaHistory.org.
Scott Cohen is Here to Help!
Healthy Answers – A Guide To Healthy Living: ‘An Obsession You’ve Never Heard Of... But May Have Seen Before!’
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 self-improvement 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 healthrelated 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.
We all want to be healthy and know how important it is to eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. This is nothing new. You hear it from your doctor; read about it in magazines and listen to it on TV. I have long been an advocate for making healthier lifestyle choices, including the foods you eat. As much as it seems simple, for some people it may be harder than you think.
Eating disorders are on the rise, reflected by the staggering statistic that approximately 29 million Americans will have an eating disorder in their lifetime. You might be familiar with the most common ones, such as anorexia, bulimia or binge eating. When working as a gymnastic coach in a previous chapter of my life I saw first-hand what an eating disorder looked like and it wasn’t pretty! Food for these young athletes became an enemy. Their only course of action for staying lithe and fit was
to deprive themselves of proper nourishment to the extent that it became life threatening.
Now there’s a new eating disorder to add to the mix. It’s called orthorexia. And yes, it’s another obsession that individuals place upon themselves with good intentions. Except, like any obsession, things lead to overkill and become a problem more than a solution. In this disorder the main focus is on consuming foods that are classified as “pure” or “clean.” Their main objective is to choose foods that are healthier and improve their chance to live longer.
So, you ask yourself, “What’s wrong with that”?
Nothing is wrong…until it turns into an all-consuming preoccupation with what’s “healthy” and the avoidance of foods they deem “unhealthy.” This obsession interferes with their ability to put the importance of food in perspective to other parts of their life. When that happens they begin to stress over how to make the “right” choice of when and what to eat. In time this fixation may result in psychological problems with social consequences.
Some examples of orthorexia disorder might be:
Fixation over quality of food: They may fear falling ill if they consume foods that are unsanitary or unclean. As a result they find ways to excuse themselves from going out socially or sit at the table claiming to have just eaten. If given the option of eating something they deem unhealthy they would rather not eat.
Inflexible eating pattern: They become very inflexible about eating and may refuse to eat anything that might be on the menu or banquet table. In extreme cases they may skip social events due to the fear of the food being served. They may use a common avoidance technique and isolate themselves, which may lead to depression and loneliness.
Constant worry about sickness or disease: Feelings of distress, shame or guilt if they stray from their rigid eating pattern. They deem some foods as “bad” and
believe if eaten will cause disease and consider these foods to be poison. They may feel uncomfortable and leave the room to avoid looking at certain foods being consumed by others.
Cutting out entire food groups: A common occurrence for this population is to completely eliminate processed foods, sugar, meat, dairy products, carbs and/ or gluten.
Orthorexia comes in various degrees, like many disorders. But extreme behavior may reach a point where the quality of life is jeopardized. The fear is that food not deemed as “clean” must be “unclean.” This conjures up a nasty image of what you put in your mouth, thereby limiting your food choices. Clean eating advises choosing only food as close to its natural form as possible, such as organic, uncured and unprocessed. As much as this seems sensible, it can get way out of hand.
The function of healthy eating is choosing foods that are best for you and that support overall wellbeing. It may seem so basic that you might not need instructions. Yet, based on the current trends it might be a good time to rethink your approach to everyday eating habits. Dietary guidelines recommend that 85% of the food you eat should nourish your body, leaving the rest for foods you find fun and indulgent.
“There is a time and a place for French fries and pizza and a piece of cake.” Dining is meant to be enjoyable and important to many cultural and social events. Sharing a meal with family and/or friends is one of the many joys in life. Enjoy the company you’re with, along with the freedom to choose foods that are both satisfying and nourishing. If you or someone you know shows signs of, or needs help with, an eating disorder, please consult your health care professional for guidance or recommend someone to do so.
Heart Transplant Gets Physician Cyclist Back On The Trails After Years Of Progressive Heart Failure
Jaime Rodriguez, M.D., a maternal-fetal medicine specialist at a healthcare system in South Florida, has dedicated his career to taking care of others. But when he was the one who needed help, his colleagues in medicine were there for him.
In 2007 Dr. Rodriguez, a former competitive cyclist, was out on one of his regular early morning bike rides when he collapsed on the road. He required cardiac resuscitation on the scene and was rushed to Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital where his cardiologist, Howard Bush, M.D., performed a coronary catheterization that revealed a blocking of the stents he had received six years earlier. An intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) was implanted, and he was rushed to the operating room where he underwent quadruple coronary bypass surgery. He had suffered a massive heart attack on that ride, which severely damaged his heart.
One year after his heart transplant, Jaime Rodriguez, M.D., (center) was back to working full-time, walking, running and cycling.
Dr. Rodriguez, who was 50 at the time, had been dealing with coronary artery disease since he was 43 years old. “I had gone back to cycling and riding my bike at a competitive level to improve my heart health,” he says. But his predisposition to heart disease was strong – both his father and his grandfather had died from it, at 52 and 53 years old, respectively.
Dr. Rodriguez’s health remained stable for several years after the biking incident. The damage to his heart, however, slowly progressed to heart failure and malignant arrhythmia, requiring the implantation of a cardioverterdefibrillator and advanced heart failure management under the care of cardiologists at Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital.
“My prognosis was that the damage would worsen with age,” he says. “I had a feeling I was going to end up needing a transplant – it was always in the back of my mind. But I was doing well, still able to ride a bike, work and live a happy life. So, I thought, ‘Let’s not think about the transplant now.’”
By May of 2020, Dr. Rodriguez had been dealing with worsening episodes of arrhythmia and had been hospitalized frequently over six months until one night, which he described as a “nightmare,” when he had eight episodes of arrhythmia. He’d had enough. His wife called 911 and he was taken to Weston Hospital.
“I am very grateful to the organization and the transplant care doctors – they have become my friends and partners in this ride of a lifetime.”
Dr. Rodriguez’s heart muscle had deteriorated to the point where a transplant was the only solution. He was admitted to the ICU, where he was intubated for a few days and then required an IABP support to stabilize his condition while he waited for a donor heart that would be compatible for him.
“I had suffered so much that I was welcoming the idea by then,” Dr. Rodriguez says of overcoming his fear of the transplant. “I knew I had no choice – it was this or I wouldn’t make it.”
A suitable donor heart become available 10 days after he was admitted to the ICU. “It’s hard to describe how it felt to get that news,” Dr. Rodriguez says. “I realized how lucky I was.”
Nicolas Brozzi, M.D., and Cedric Sheffield, M.D, performed a complex cardiac reoperation to replace his worn-out native heart with a healthy donor heart. Dr. Rodriguez’s recovery was gradual, but steady, and he was discharged from the hospital within two weeks.
“He was determined to get through this operation and move on with life, back to his family and his work,” says Dr. Brozzi.
One year after his transplant, Dr. Rodriguez was back to working full-time, walking, running and cycling. He says exercising is easier now than before and he can do at least as much as, if not more, than anyone else his age.
Dr. Rodriguez has become very fond of his care team at Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital and looks forward to seeing them at his follow-ups.
“The cardiac transplant team provides very personalized care,” he says. “They make you feel special. I am very grateful to the organization and the transplant care doctors – they have become my friends and partners in this ride of a lifetime.”
The Transplant Center at Cleveland Clinic in Florida builds upon the longstanding success of the worldrenowned Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. Patients receive the highest-level medical care from top experts in organ transplantation. Visit ClevelandClinicFlorida.org/ Transplant to learn more.
Boca Raton Police Foundation Starts 2025 Strong
At its first meeting of 2025, The Boca Raton Police Foundation (BRPF) elected four officers and welcomed five members to its Board of Trustees.
• Kevin Day, director of security and life safety, CP Group, which manages BRiC
• Bob Keating, director of security, GEO Group
• Rich Mattessich, chief legal officer, Celsius
• Tim Frost, owner, Frost Security
• Chief Sean Brammer, FAU Police Department
Each joins several other trustees in fulfilling the foundation’s mission of supporting the Boca Raton Police Department to help keep citizens safe.
Elected Foundation Chair is Alan Rose who agreed to serve until 2026 and then be replaced by Chair Elect Nicole Flier. Serving as secretary is Jeff Hollander and Craig Ehrnst is treasurer.
“I am delighted to lead the foundation during the Police Department’s centennial year,” said Rose. “We are fundraising around this major milestone to help build the police force of the next century and have already engaged with many organizations and individuals wanting to contribute.”
Contributions to the foundation last year resulted in the purchase of a Training Ammunition Combat (TAC) House for the department. Costing over $200,000, it was the foundation’s largest investment in its twelve-year history.
“We are appreciative of this generous gift which will be installed soon within our training facility on Congress Avenue,” said Chief Michele Miuccio. “Once operational, officers will practice skills on how to better protect themselves and others during potentially dangerous situations.”
The foundation’s ambassador group, The True Blue Society, will have its next event, “Thirsty Thursday” at Crazy Uncle Mike’s on March 27.
About BRPF
The BRPF is a charitable organization supporting the Boca Raton Police Department. Since its inception in 2013, BRPF has raised and donated over $2.5 million to acquire equipment, technology and training for the department. More details are at bocarationpolicedepartment.org or contact Bob Tucker, BRPF executive director at (561) 289-0436.
From The Desk Of Commissioner Marci Woodward: A Message From Marci
Commissioner Woodward, a 20-year resident of Boca Raton, was elected in November 2023 as Palm Beach County District 4 Commissioner. She serves on the following boards 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.
Last November I attended the Joint Annual Conference between the Treasure Coast and South Florida Regional Planning Councils at FAU, where the topic was “The Silver Tsunami.” One of the speakers, Angela Antonelli, executive director of the Center for Retirement Initiatives at Georgetown University, spoke on the work being done around the country for employees of small businesses to have access to retirement plans.
Although the conference focused on senior citizens’ struggles, it was important to bring attention to the need to help current workers better prepare for retirement. It was a fascinating discussion I could not shake from my mind. I contacted Angela afterward and we discussed ways to bring this initiative to Palm Beach County. She invited me to be a panelist at the 2025 Annual Conference of State-Facilitated Retirement Savings Program in
The Singles Scene Column©
Real Talk: Your Love Life
By Kelly Leary, M.S. & Miranda Capparelli
(The Award-Winning Matchmakers)
“To truly change the way we approach love, we have to go to the source of everything we do: our minds.” — Todd Perelmuter Romance has arrived and you have front row seats. Cupid’s arrow is aimed, and couples are falling in love all over town, thanks to us. February is all about LOVE. Whether you’re actively looking for it or quietly wishing for it, LOVE is on everyone’s mind this month. You can run, but you can’t hide from the magic of Valentine’s Day. So, how is your love life? (Take a moment to think about it). Do you need a little extra help from our sweet, professional cupids this month? Well, good news—we’re right here in your local area, ready to help! As always, don’t forget to share this valuable info with your single family and friends—especially during this inspiring month. They might just be more motivated to take action than they think.
The Power of a Two-Some Countless studies have shown that we’re at our best when we’re in a healthy relationship. It’s not money, fame, or beauty that brings true happiness—it’s togetherness. We ask people of all ages—from 20 to 80-plus—what their happiest moments have been, and the overwhelming answer is always the same: “The best time of my life was when I was in a loving, committed relationship.”
It Makes Perfect Sense
When you’re in a relationship, you have someone to share life’s joys with, and someone to lean on during the tough times. You have a partner to help you plan your future, and a person who becomes your rock, your sounding board, and your biggest cheerleader. Two beats one, any day of the week. Not only does this connection improve your emotional health, but it’s also essential for your physical well-being. A supportive relationship gives you something to look forward to every day, and that’s crucial for mental and physical wellness.
Taking Responsibility for Your Love Life
Deep down, no one wants to be single forever. Yet, many will be alone this February—and possibly longer— because they’re not owning their love life. They’re too comfy in their comfort zones, waiting for something to happen instead of making it happen. Some people blame others (or even an ex) for their single status, but here’s the truth: you are responsible for your relationship status.
Facing the Truth
In the world of dating, it’s easy to get stuck in patterns of blaming external factors rather than reflecting on our own actions, dating style, or mindset. Taking ownership of your love life requires self-awareness, self-improvement, and a willingness to face the discomfort of stepping outside of your comfort zone.
Fear of rejection, getting hurt, or losing freedom often holds people back, but this is precisely what keeps them from finding happiness. Online dating is a risky platform, and we get that. This is why we’re here! Unlike online dating, we vet every single candidate and connect with them personally. We act as cheerleaders, and sometimes we hold up a mirror when we see our clients standing in their own way. Tough love leads to success, and we’re fortunate that most of our clients listen to us.
Taking Control Leads to Growth
Taking responsibility for your love life is a mindset that opens the door to personal growth and increases your chances of finding your grand finale relationship. Dating isn’t
for the faint of heart—it’s a combat sport. You will take a few hits along the way, but you must keep going if you want to score the touchdown.
Know Your League
It’s crucial to understand what “league” you should be dating in. You can’t be a third-string player on a community football team and expect to date the head cheerleader of an NFL team. If you have incredibly high standards, make sure your attributes match what you’re looking for in a partner. Ask a brutally honest friend or, better yet, ask your matchmaker. We’ll give you the truth (while your friends might sugarcoat it). Most of our clients appreciate this transparency.
Optimism and Open-mindedness
Remember, there is a pot for every lid. Don’t let low self-esteem hold you back from believing in love. If you find yourself thinking, “No one will ever love me,” STOP. You are lovable, and you deserve the best partner in the world. Start telling yourself: “I am lovable, and love is on its way.” Stay optimistic, and get off that negative train—it’s headed nowhere. Is that really where you want to go?
More Amazing Singles Than Ever
We’re excited to report that we’re meeting more incredible, like-minded singles than at any other time in our history. Nationwide exposure and a recent article in The Shiny Sheet have been an astronomical experience for the club and its members. Times have changed, and so has our matchmaking style. New candidates for men and women are walking through our doors every day. Our database is growing and ever-changing, and the quality of matches pack a powerful punch.
The Right People Are Out There
We feel so fortunate to work with such attractive, successful, and positive clients. Our clients are too wise and too busy for the bar scene or online dating. They want quality, and they deserve it too.
In honor of love month, here’s one final piece of advice. “Treat yourself the way you want to be treated by others. Love yourself, and you will be loved.” Love the world, and it will love you back. It’s the LOVE MOVEMENT. Join us and enroll today--before we book solid!
Happy Valentine’s Day Wishes and Caviar Dreams to all of you! May you find love in 2025—with yourself and with others. We are obsessed with 2025 and can’t wait to make this year even better—together!
Thank you for sharing your time with us today. We appreciate all of you.
Xoxo – Kelly & Miranda
#34YearsOfExperience #WhyWaitJustDate #LoveOffline #MatchmakingRoyalty #TellYourFriends #ComeAliveIn2025
Nashville at the end of January. The conference brought together state leaders from around the nation to discuss improving retirement readiness for small businesses and their employees.
I was fortunate to have Sherry Howard, division director for Palm Beach County Housing & Economic Development, and Tammy Fields, assistant county administrator, join me to make sure we could absorb all the valuable information from this trip. Their expertise and participation were invaluable, not only in expanding our network but also in gathering data to support our county’s business community.
The best way to move this process forward is to begin with the backing of local business and economic development stakeholders. The second takeaway is the need to have this taken up as legislation at the state level. There are more than 20 states that have either passed or are in the process of implementing legislation for statefacilitated plans. Much of the hard work has been done, and the conference in Nashville proffered several individuals and organizations ready to help us in Florida.
As a county commissioner I do not make policy at the state level, but I recently hosted a meeting with many community stakeholders at the Canyon Branch Library to discuss an important idea for Florida. Angela Antonelli spoke on this issue and Nathan Glassey, Director of Federal and State Legislative Affairs at the American Retirement Association, was also in attendance. During the meeting they shared their findings and highlighted the urgent need to address the retirement savings gap within our workforce. An alarming 56 million U.S. workers, representing over 60% of the private sector, currently lack access to employer-sponsored retirement benefits.
During this discussion representatives asked hard questions, rigorously dissecting the proposed program to understand how it could successfully work for our county. They dug into the details, showing they’re serious about finding a solution that works.
Small businesses, which form the backbone of Florida’s economy, face unique challenges in providing retirement options. Many find it cost-prohibitive or too burdensome to “shop” plans for themselves and their employees. Many business owners work as many if not more hours than their employees and simply do not have the time to tackle one more thing. In fact, 73% of employees in small businesses with fewer than 50 employees lack access to retirement savings plans through their jobs.
Here in Palm Beach County we have a total of 72,146 businesses, with a staggering 97%, or 69,885 businesses employing fewer than 50 people. These small businesses are the lifeblood of our local economy, employing almost half the workforce. However, a significant portion of these employees, approximately 305,218 individuals, lack access to retirement plans.
The state-facilitated programs, often utilizing an Auto-IRA model, allow businesses to automatically enroll employees in retirement savings accounts with minimal administrative burden and no direct cost to employers beyond payroll deductions. Employees retain the flexibility to opt-out at any time. The plan is also extremely portable in that it easily follows the employee if they change jobs within the state.
Kelly Leary© 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 members are pre-screened in person, including background checks. Professional photos are taken by the staff. Revolution Dating is NOT online dating or blind dating. In addition to providing matchmaking services that make singles “UN-single” through their exclusive club memberships, Kelly and her Team also provide feedback from your 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 add-on to some memberships. *All inquiries are confidential *Specializing in representing jet-setting clients with a second home in the Northeast/Tri-State Area. Call the central hotline at 561-630-9696 (XOXO) or scan the QR code below to hold your place in the club.
I am encouraging our business community to actively advocate for a state-facilitated retirement savings program in Tallahassee. The benefits are clear and compelling. By establishing such a program we can significantly improve the financial security of our workforce, reduce reliance on public assistance and alleviate pressure on programs like Social Security.
This is a strategic investment that will benefit employers, employees and taxpayers alike. If you’d like to learn more about this or offer your help, please contact us. It’s time to get some traction in Tallahassee on this important issue.
A big thank you to Angela Antonelli and Nathan Glassey for taking the time to speak with our business community. I’m excited to see where this conversation will take us and to get the ball rolling!
New Agenda Items. Each month, the Board of County Commissioners approves a wide range of important agenda items that impact areas such as engineering, facilities, housing, airports and more. Here are some key items approved this month:
Increase the Agricultural Enhancement Council (AEC) from 9 to 11 members and remove term limits. New members will include a representative from small farms (under 50 acres, outside the Everglades Agricultural Area
From The Desk Of on page 8
Applications Deadline For ‘Men Giving Back’s 2025 Golden Grant Awards’ Is April 1
Men Giving Back of South Palm Beach County, the Boca Raton-based membership organization that collectively supports a variety of non-profits throughout South Palm Beach County, is now accepting applications for its 2025 Golden Grant Awards program. The deadline to submit applications is April 1, 2025.
Men Giving Back awards several grants annually in support of organizations based in South Palm Beach County that focus on one of its four core mission objectives: Children, Education, Mental Health and Food Security.
Since the organization’s inception in 2020, Men Giving Back has awarded nearly $2 million in grants to a number of local nonprofits. Last year alone, over half a million dollars was awarded to 25 charities at the organization’s Golden Grants Evening in November.
“Seeing how much Men Giving Back has been able to grow over the past half-decade has been some of the most impactful work of my life,” said Dr. Nathan Nachles. “I can’t wait to see what amazing organizations we’ll get a chance to support this year.”
and Agricultural Reserve) and one from agri-tourism, recommended by the Palm Beach County Farm Bureau.
Clerk Joseph Abruzzo announced a record-breaking investment income of $230 million, surpassing last year’s previous high of $173 million. He projects returning over $1 billion to taxpayers during his eight-year term.
The following companies by a 6-1 vote to provide EMS services in Palm Beach County from February 11th to June 30, 2027: MCT Express, Inc. (All County Ambulance), National Health Transport, Inc., Positive Mobility Inc. (Elite Medical Response), and E-Care Ambulance, Inc. Palms West Hospital (HCA Florida Palms West) is limited to transporting patients between the hospital and other facilities.
A contract for the operation and maintenance of the baggage handling systems at Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) has been extended for an additional year. The amendment increases the contract amount and allocates funds for the replacement of two more baggage claim carousel units.
The Florida Inland Navigation District (FIND) Project Agreement provides up to $917,950 for the design, permitting, construction and monitoring of the South Lake Worth Inlet Sand Trap and Boat Channel Dredging Project, effective upon signing and ending by September 30, 2026. Additionally, a transfer of $2,191,391 will bring the total funding to $3,109,341.
Safe Street Summit. I was thrilled to be part of this year’s Safe Street Summit, organized by the Palm Beach Transportation Planning Agency. The event kicked off with the New District & Urban Connections Tour, where we got an inside look at Nora – downtown West Palm Beach’s vibrant new adaptive reuse and development district.
The following day, we dove into discussions on best practices and infrastructure improvements that can make a real impact in our communities. It was also a proud moment for Palm Beach County, as we were honored with the Community Award. A big congratulations to Mayor Michael Napoleone on receiving the Complete Streets Champion Award!
Art in Motion. Michael Woodward and I had an amazing time attending a preview of the 2025 International Kinetic Art Experience with the City of Boynton Beach. The event brought together creativity and engineering in a truly inspiring way. A huge thank you to Catering Solutions for generously providing a delicious
All eligible charities and organizations are encouraged to apply. For more information or to apply, visit: https:// www.mengivingback. org/eligibility-criteria
About Men Giving Back of South Palm Beach County : Men Giving Back of South Palm Beach County was conceived in February 2020 by a small group of motivated men from business, finance, health care, hospitality and law backgrounds. Fueled by the love for their community, the organization provides several South Palm Beach County non-profits with grants. Nearly 100% of Men Giving Back member contributions go directly to the
non-profits they support. For more information, visit www. mengivingback.org. Follow the socials: IG @mengiving back; FB @mengivingbackpbc; LinkedIn.com/company/ men-giving-back.
breakfast to kick off the day and to everyone involved in bringing this incredible experience to life. Over the weekend more than 30 artists from around the globe displayed their innovative works, highlighting various styles and dynamic movements. The event also featured artist talks, family-friendly art activities, live music by the Valerie Tyson Band, food trucks, and much more.
BDB Luncheon. The entire board was in attendance at the BDB luncheon, where we had the privilege of hearing from Armando Pimentel, president and CEO of Florida Power & Light (FPL). He shared insights on how FPL has been a driving force in building strong communities for nearly a century.
I had the opportunity to meet four amazing companies that have expanded or relocated to Palm Beach County, creating hundreds of jobs and contributing millions in capital investment. These companies include Bee Access, HOERBIGER, Celebree School, and BAC Fabrication LLC & BAC Consulting. Their growth is a major boost to our local economy.
The Hands and Feet is a local nonprofit that serves as a vital resource for children and families navigating the complexities of the child welfare system. Acting as a sort of “DoorDash for foster care,” they swiftly deliver essential items, from clothing and diapers to car seats and comfort items, addressing immediate needs and offering crucial support.
More than just providing tangible goods, The Hands and Feet extends a lifeline of hope and community, ensuring that vulnerable children and families know they
are not alone. Their dedication to filling the gaps and providing for those in crisis makes a tangible difference in the lives of many within our community.
Palm Beach County has a Home Rule Charter? As a resident of Palm Beach County, you might have heard the term “Home Rule Charter” but may not fully understand what it means or how it affects you. Let’s break it down in a simple way!
The Home Rule Charter is like the “Constitution” of our county. It sets the framework for how our local government operates. Essentially, it outlines how decisions are made, how elected officials do their jobs and how we, the people, are represented.
This governing document gives Palm Beach County the authority to govern ourselves without needing approval from the state for many local matters. It helps us tailor our government to fit the unique needs of our community. By establishing clear rules for governing, it ensures transparency, fairness and accountability.
Here are key elements:
Government Structure: The local Constitution outlines how the county is governed, including the roles of the Board of County Commissioners and the county administrator. We elect commissioners to make decisions on our behalf and the administrator is responsible for running day-to-day operations.
Elected Officials’ Responsibilities: It explains what each elected official, including the commissioners, can and cannot do, and the procedures for how we vote on county matters.
Several previous grant winners.
inSIGHT Through Education – 15 Years Of Inspiring Change In Palm Beach County
Celebrating its 15th anniversary, inSIGHT Through Education is a nonsectarian, nonprofit organization committed to inspiring and educating individuals through the lessons of the Holocaust and other genocides. With a mission to combat prejudice and foster respect and acceptance, inSIGHT empowers students, educators, and communities to build a more inclusive world.
Since its founding in 2010, inSIGHT has been the primary funder of Holocaust education in the Palm Beach County School District, one of the nation’s largest. In the 2023/24 academic year alone, the organization reached 40,000 students and trained more than 400 educators, equipping them with the tools to teach history with meaning and impact. inSIGHT has provided $1.9 million in educational programs over the past 14 years, underscoring its commitment to fostering kindness, acceptance, and respect among students.
Looking ahead, inSIGHT aims to expand its reach to 75,000 students and educators in the 2024/25 academic year, striving to bring Holocaust education to every student, every year, across over 180 schools and nearly 200,000 students in Palm Beach County.
Join Us For inSIGHT OUT – A Day Of Inspiration And Impact
To support its initiatives, inSIGHT Through Education is hosting “inSIGHT OUT,” a signature fundraising event
on Monday, March 17, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Palm Beach County Convention Center.
This dynamic, full day of engaging activities will bring together like-minded women from across the community for thought-provoking conversations, an exclusive shopping boutique, a luncheon, and card play. The event will feature keynote speakers Lizzy Savetsky and Tanya Zuckerbrot, two extraordinary women who use their platforms to drive meaningful change and inspire action. Tickets are priced at $250 per person.
To purchase tickets for the inSIGHT OUT event, please visit insightthrougheducation.org/insightout. Early registration is encouraged, as demand for this event is expected to be high!
By attending inSIGHT OUT and supporting inSIGHT Through Education, you are investing in the power of education to combat hate, promote understanding, and create a future rooted in respect and acceptance.
Learn more at insightthrougheducation.org.
Council Corner: Introducing “Kayakleaning”
By Andy Thomson,
who was re-elected to the City Council at the last election after having previously served from 2018-2022. He has lived in South Florida his entire life, except for four college years in Atlanta. Andy resolves business disputes for a living. He is also an adjunct professor at FAU, where he teaches local and state government. Andy and his wife, Joanna, have five young children.
Back in 2021 we started the RunTheCity initiative, where we resolved to run every mile of every street in Boca Raton—all 475 miles of them—while cleaning up trash. We accomplished that goal and kept going. We’re now on round 2 around the City of Boca Raton and still working to make our streets safer and cleaner.
A few months ago, we decided to add to that another ambitious mission: to kayak and clean up trash from all 77 miles of waterways in the City of Boca Raton over the course of a year. We have done ten “kayakleanups” so far. My son Henry points out trash and fish (and is crushing it) while I paddle and clean. So far we’ve covered 15.78 miles, cleaned up 46.4 pounds of trash and identified two waterway improvements, so we’re off to a great start. Henry has also
caught 16 fish—some snook, catfish, cichlid and pufferfish. It’s a great way to see a different side of our city. If you want to participate (by kayak, paddleboard or boat) to help keep Boca Raton’s waterways clean, we would love to have you! Please reach out to us at (561) 221-4675 or Thomson@myboca.us. And we hope to roll out some related initiatives over the next few months, so stay tuned!
COLON CANCER OUTSMART
Holocaust Survivor speaks with Palm Beach County school students – courtesy photo
Book Review
The Backyard Book Chronicles
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.
It was a wonderful surprise—and coincidence— when a copy of this book arrived at my home one Monday as a gift from my two daughters, Brett and Hillary. Just a day earlier I had noted The Backyard Book Chronicles at the top of the Sunday New York Times nonfiction bestseller list, and Barnes & Noble bookseller chain’s naming it as their “Book of the Year.”
Such success is not new to author Amy Tan, whose ten earlier books include the novel, The Joy Luck Club, which became an international bestseller and the inspiration for the hit motion picture of the same title.
After learning of the book, I had immediately decided to schedule it for review in my column, thanks to my daughters’ thoughtfulness, a clear indication that they are very much tuned in to my reading tastes, this very special book was already in my hands. And now, as I have just turned the last page I am in awe of every aspect of this remarkable work:
• the very concept of the book—a day by day dated journal of the author’s experiences watching and inter-acting with the natural lives of the wide variety of bird species that visit her home’s backyard in the San Francisco Bay area;
• the author’s writing skills that reflect the wide range of emotions she (and we) feel through her experiences; the more than 130 drawings, sketches and color illustrations Tan herself learned to create that include many which compare favorably to the iconic Audubon paintings,
• and even the splendid presentation of this initial edition from the publisher, Knopf, with a hardcover binding that is slightly flexible and the book’s overall stunning design.
In 2016, unhappy and uncomfortable with the national and international news swirling around her and everyone else—and having always been aware of what she refers to as her lifelong “obsession” with birds —Amy Tan decided to focus inward, studying the natural life within her own backyard, and to keep a personal journal of that experience. She took drawing lessons to brush up on the art skills she had already demonstrated at a very young age.
After an excellent and informative foreword by renowned ornithologist David Allen Sibley, who explains why birdwatching has become such a popular activity throughout the U.S., followed by the author’s preface in which she describes a childhood and personal life interests that have led to this new book, the first entry in the Chronicles is dated Sept. 16, 2017; the last is dated Dec. 15, 2022.
That is a period of just over five years in which Amy Tan, and we readers along with her, learn so much and feel so much as she not only watches the many species of birds that visit her backyard, but often becomes a part of their lives—feeding them, sometimes holding them, protecting them whenever possible from predators, trying to outsmart the agile and determined squirrels who want their portions of the seeds meant for the birds—and each day learning something wonderfully new which she shares with us: their individual personalities, her avian friends’ food likes and dislikes, fears or willingness to be approached, mating habits, parenting skills, dominance traits, aggression or shyness— and so much more.
Throughout the period covered in these pages Tan learned to identify 62 different kinds of birds that visited her backyard and lists them at the back of the book in such categories as: corvids, doves and pigeons, finches, nuthatches, raptors, sparrows (which alone covers 10 species), thrushes, warblers, woodpeckers and other songbirds.
Some visit her regularly throughout the year. Others obey their ancient instincts and migrate thousands of miles around the globe as the seasons change, returning the same time each year to a warm welcome at Tan’s backyard.
We learn about them not only through her Chronicle’s fascinating and informative text but also from some of the intentionally rough drawings accompanied by handwritten notes that are equally interesting and which point out unusual facts worth knowing that she has either sketched, or less often photographed then sketched, while observing the birds’ actions.
The range of emotions engendered by these experiences is exemplified by two examples that I will touch on very briefly here. Most of the text has been omitted for lack of space and replaced with ellipses (…). Here is the first, dated Sept. 26, 2021, a situation in which a young, inexperienced Cooper’s Hawk flying over Tan’s backyard had spotted three cage feeders and done a fast dive intending to pluck a songbird from its perch as an easy meal, not realizing that the birds were safe inside the metal feeders. It crashed into one of the feeders, injured a wing and Amy Tan, after frantic efforts to free and release her, rushed the hawk to a wildlife center to try to have the bird healed.
“She received a total of three months of incredible care. But she was still not flying symmetrically. A few days after that report, I received a voicemail message from the medical director, asking that I return her call. I knew by her soft, consoling tone that the news would not be good. I spared her the difficulty of telling me and left a voicemail message, saying I appreciated all that they had done. I knew that if (the hawk) could not fly well enough to find food, she would slowly starve in the wild … I understood why it was more humane to euthanize her, and I was grateful that they would do it in the kindest way possible.
“After I left the message, I cried. I tried to draw her portrait. But I could not capture her spirit. I could not capture the way she must have felt within I briefly held her in my arms and told her I was sorry.”
A month later, on Oct. 24, 2021, a bomb cyclone arrived in the Bay Area. As Amy Tan notes—here again I am quoting just brief excerpts from her wonderful description of the event:
“It hurled serial storms and produced an atmospheric river that dropped a thirty-minute deluge. We, the denizens who had been saving shower water to wash bird poop off the porch were happy to be waterlogged … But as I watched the large limbs or our oak trees swaying, I imagined the birds in those trees being whipsawed and flung into the storm. Where do they go to stay dry when the rain is blasting sideways?
“As if in answer, two pygmy nuthatches flew into the covered porch off my office, shook themselves off, and sat on top of a cage feeder a couple of inches apart. Most people would agree that the pygmy nuthatch is one of the cutest birds on earth. They look and sound like squeaky toys. I assumed they would eat a few suet balls for fortitude and head for a heavily leafed hiding spot. But after five minutes, they were still there …
“They did not go into the feeders to eat. They simply watched the rain from their spectator seats. The smaller nuthatch scooted closer to the bigger one. The bigger one then allopreened the smaller one, poking and picking at its feathers. I assumed they were adults, a mated pair, since the season for fledglings was long over. For thirty minutes the two nuthatches sat close together like lovers on a porch swing, watching the rain as I watched them.”
These offer just a bare hint of the information and experiences awaiting you in the almost 300 pages of this book, so deserving of its recent honors. Experience it for yourself.
Tylenol, Ulcers And GI Bleeding, Another Myth Bites The Dust
By Steven E. Reznick, MD, FACP – Boca Raton
Acetaminophen is the generic chemical name of Tylenol. For decades physicians have been told it is safer and with little risk of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding and/ or ulcers than aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen and diclofenac nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. In addition to being kinder to the stomach and having a low risk of contributing to gastric ulcers, it is supposed to have a low risk of causing bleeding spontaneously in the skull and brain and systemically. Doctors and patients recognize that it is very good in lowering an elevated temperature but really
provides far less pain relief from headaches as well as aches and pains than the other products.
J. Kaur, Ph.D., MPH, and associates at the University of Nottingham in England, published an article in Arthritis Care and Research questioning the safety of acetaminophen. They used data from the British National Health Service Data Bank to examine acetaminophen usage and complications in 180,483 users and 402,478 non-users of acetaminophen after two prescriptions for acetaminophen were used. The patients were senior citizens with the mean age of 75 years old. Sixty percent were women.
They found that the risk for peptic ulcers, bleeding from ulcers and any other type of GI bleeding was increased in the acetaminophen users the from 20 to 36 percent compared to the non-users. They also found increased rates of overall health problems including heart failure, chronic kidney disease and high blood pressure.
There is no free lunch. Every chemical put into our bodies for the right reason has the possibility of causing adverse events.
If the study was conducted on younger individuals would the same adverse events and risks of bleeding and ulceration be found? That type of study needs to be conducted needs to take a look at the pre acetaminophen health of the participants.
A mathematical technique known as propensity matching is supposed to level the playing field, but the researchers admitted that the acetaminophen group “took opioids, NSAIDs, aspirin and other medications at a much higher rate than non-acetaminophen users. They were more likely to be overweight or obese and to be current or former smokers.”
The conclusion is that acetaminophen is a weak pain reliever which in senior citizens can cause ulcers, GI bleeding and other health problems. It is sold without a prescription in the USA so senior citizens need to consider the implications fully.
Steven E. Reznick, M.D., FACP, is board certified in internal medicine with added qualifications in geriatrics. He has practiced in the Boca Raton area since 1979 and is currently accepting a limited number of new patients. To request a complimentary meeting with Dr. Reznick to discuss your health needs and learn about his concierge medicine practice, call (561) 368-0191 or visit www. bocaconciergedoc.com.
Dining Out: A Confusing Name… But Don’t Let That Scare You Away!
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.
CVI.CHE 105
Town Center Mall
6000 Glades Rd #1230
Boca Raton, FL 33431
(561) 221-0940
ceviche.105.squarespace.com
Food for Thought: Peruvian food? I know it’s outside of your comfort zone. But for me it ranks in the top five culinary destinations. If you have ever been to Peru you probably understand why. A few years ago, Hungry D and I spent a week touring this country and our biggest takeaway was that Peru was a “living” culture. The indigenous people of the country are still true to their roots, and so is its cuisine.
These folks still dress in colorful cultural garments, shop in small local markets, bike or walk to get where they need to go, grow their own produce and still loom their Alpaca sweaters by hand. As for their cuisine, many of their recipes date back centuries and have been passed along through generations of family.
I’ve been all over the world and have yet to see the variety of vegetables and potatoes as I did in Peru. Add to that the local spices and original cooking techniques and you’ll discover a unique formula for redefining the word “gourmet.”
That being said, it was hard to resist our desire to test the kitchen of this newcomer to the Boca Raton dining scene. CVI.CHE 105 is located in the town center mall and as you may know from my past reviews of mall restaurants, some have not been very favorable. This might prove that general impression to be wrong! And if the name is confusing, just call it CVS like I do!
First Impressions: CVI.CHE is a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors created by chef owner Juan Cipoco. The restaurant group has already opened five locations across Miami, gaining popularity as they go. Believe me, I read the reviews and they are good ones! As for the decor, it was exceptionally designed with a flare of South Beach and Inca history all wrapped up into a vibrant environment. It is a true metamorphosis from the previous California Pizza that was there before.
There is DJ music playing during dinner time, which I had thought might be a distraction from dinner conversation but the playlist was actually good. The menu may be a little difficult to understand at first mainly because the titles of the dishes are in Spanish but the explanations are well defined.
Prime Your Taste Buds! If there’s one thing Peru is noted for it would be their Ceviche. The icy water currents that flow from the Pacific Ocean just off Peru’s coast support one of the world’s most plentiful sources of seafood. This dish is typically made from raw fish that’s naturally cured from the acidity found in citrus juices (lime and lemon). To add more flavors it’s usually spiced with red onion and Aji peppers.
Here you’ll find an array of Ceviche choices ($24). The seafood are in various preparations of shrimp, octopus, calamari, white fish, tuna and salmon. The dishes are not only complex but perfectly executed.
As for the other starters of the night, there are so many to select from it reminded me of a Greek diner’s menu. As for us, we decided on a few familiar picks. We started with Papas A La Huancaína ($13). These native sliced potatoes are first well-chilled and then bathed in an Andean yellow pepper cream with pieces of Pria Cheese. It really doesn’t get any better than this!
For those of you who need a Sushi fix at every restaurant you go to, CVI.CHE has one with a fantastic menu offering something you don’t normally see at a Sushi restaurant. Chef Chipoco definitely comes up with a few extra twists to his rolls.
Straight From The Kitchen: If you think the appetizer menu made decisions difficult, wait until you get hold of the entree side of this restaurant. Maybe 105 indicates the number of items?? The Hungry Squad decided on three choices. And thankfully it was a smart idea. The portions here were humongous. Hungry S motivated us to select the Mi Favorito Iy Lo Dice Juani ($30). This consisted of pounded and breaded beef tenderloin accompanied by a linguine in a Peruvian basil pesto sauce. It was topped with fried egg as is the custom with many Peruvian dishes. Wait until they see the price of eggs!
Hungry D wanted a fish entrée, so we jointly selected the Pescado A Lo Macho ($39) with Mahi Mahi. All I can say is, this dish was not only delicious but beautiful to look at. You almost didn’t want touch it. Masterfully cooked and plated, it came with littleneck clams on one side of the shell and scallops on the other. The sauce was fantastic.
Hungry Al wanted to stay traditional. My selection was the El Arroz Con Pollo De Mis Recerdos ($26). To me this was the unexpected “hit” of the night. Who knew rice could be that irresistible. The juicy chicken was good but was overwhelmed by the tasty rice. Don’t miss this one!
From The Dessert Tray: Even with our stomachs showing their bulge we couldn’t walk without at least one sample of CVI.CHE desserts. We ended up with a special dessert suggested by our excellent waiter Santiago
it is called Budín de pan…a simple peasant dessert but one that tasted like it should be for Kings. It’s delicious and easy to make with crusty bread, whole milk, eggs, raisins and berries. You have to try it.
There are several mainstays on this dessert menu, including: Pie De Limon (key lime), Coconut flan, Suspiro Limeno, and a delicious Torta De Chocolate ($14) a spongy chocolate cake filled with Dulce de Leche.
Check Please: I hope after reading this review that you, too, might just want to deviate from the normal steakhouses, chains and Italian restaurants that oversaturate our community. We sometimes just reach a point of boredom. Really, how much grilled steak and salmon can you eat?
Think about it. When was the last time you went to an Indian restaurant? Or, even better, branched out to an African or Jamaican eatery? There are so many different types of cuisines now available within our city borders that there is no excuse for not eating outside-the-box. Please give CVI.CHE 105 a try and you’ll realize that there’s more to Peru than Machu Picchu.
The Hungry Squad would walk the Inca Trail for more of what CVI.
CHE has to offer, so we are giving this hard-working Peruvian restaurateur four golden Alpacas!
Note: Mystery solved!
• CVI: The name “CVI” is a nod to the Incas and their land.
• CHE: “CHE” represents the gold of the Incas.
• 105: The number “105” may represent the many cities and lands of the Incas, such as Machu Picchu.
Tax Talk
Dear Friends: Is spring in the air? With a somewhat chilly winter in South Florida, perhaps the springtime weather is right around the corner, and that means outdoor gardening is in full swing. While I tend to my outdoor garden throughout the year, this time of year is about planting and fertilizing. But be careful, it is important to know your soil before you plant as you want to ensure the right soil will help your plants grow and remain healthy. There are many different types and combinations of fertilizer on the market so you need to know what your soil needs before you decide to incorporate nutrients into the ground. A soil testing kit is a good start and I recommend visiting Mounts Botanical Garden’s website for helpful gardening tips at www.mounts.org/gardening-tips. Good luck with your spring gardening and enjoy the fruits of your labor throughout the year.
Anne M. Gannon, Constitutional Tax Collector, Serving Palm Beach County
New Homestead Adjustment
2025, and will begin with the upcoming 2025 tax year assessment. Amendment 5 requires the value of the second, or additional, homestead exemption to be adjusted for annual inflation. If inflation goes up, your second exemption will also go up, and you could pay less in property taxes as a result.
To learn more about homestead exemptions, visit the Property Appraiser’s website at www.pbcpao.gov.
Before You Go, You Should Know …
If your 2025 travel plans include taking a flight domestically and/ or internationally, please be sure to take note of new travel requirements going into place.
On May 7, 2025, all U.S. travelers must be Real ID compliant to board domestic flights. If you have a gold star on your driver license/state identification card, you are compliant. If not, be sure to make a reservation at www.pbctax.gov/reservations to obtain your Real ID. Check the website for the required documentation you will need to bring to your reservation. Don’t delay, reservation lead time is approximately 4 to 6 weeks.
Drop It!
We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional service to all of our clients throughout Palm Beach County. We serve you online, in-person, by kiosk and also by drop box. Did you know we have drop boxes located at each of our six service center locations? The drop box allows you to drop off payments for property tax, business tax, tangible personal property tax, and motor vehicle registration. You can also surrender your license plate. Using the drop box is twice as fast as mail and is checked multiple times per day!
To use the drop box, you will need to visit one of our service centers during our business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m.), check in with our team at the reception desk to ensure you have what you need and then you are good to go – no reservation required! For more information about the services that are drop box eligible, visit www.pbctax.gov/resources/payment-options/.
If you are a permanent Florida resident, you may be eligible for a homestead exemption, as determined by the Palm Beach County Property Appraiser. A homestead exemption lowers your property’s assessed value and caps its increase, meaning you pay less in property taxes.
In last November’s general election, Florida voters approved Amendment 5, which took effect on Jan. 1,
Planning a trip the United Kingdom? U.S. citizens traveling to the U.K. for short visits, tourism or business, including just passing through U.K. airports, will need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). This applies to all parts of the U.K., including Northern Ireland. The ETA is modeled after the U.S. Electronic System for Travel Authorization and acts as a pre-clearance for travel to reduce security risks and make border entry more efficient. The ETA is $12.75 and takes approximately three working days to process. It is required for travelers of all ages and valid for two years. Visit www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronictravel-authorisation-eta to apply and happy travels!
Palm Beach County Property Appraiser’s Office
Dear Taxpayer:
One of the most underrated aspects of the homestead exemption is that it doesn’t just reduce the taxable assessment of your home, it also caps its annual valuation. The Save Our Homes cap limits any increase to the assessed value of a homestead exempt property to a maximum of 3 percent each year or the change in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), whichever is lower. Over time, the cap can provide substantial tax bill savings.
Business Tangible Personal Property
Tangible personal property is equipment used in a business and includes furniture, fixtures, machinery, tools, appliances, signs, leasehold improvements, supplies, leased equipment, and other assets. It is taxed at the same rate as real property.
All tangible personal property must be reported. Florida law allows an exemption up to $25,000 for business tangible assets. Businesses with tangible personal property assets valued at more than $25,000 are subject to ad valorem taxes, and those with less than $25,000 in assets are exempt from ad valorem taxes.
All businesses must file an initial Tangible Personal Property Tax Return (DR-405) their first year of operation. Afterwards, all businesses are required to file a Tangible Personal Property Tax Return (e-file or Form DR-405) annually unless the value of the personal property was
Property Appraiser’s Office Annual Scholarship Awards Program
The 32nd Annual Palm Beach County Property Appraiser’s Scholarship program is now accepting applications. Six college scholarships of $1,500 each will be awarded to graduating high school seniors who plan to attend a higher education institution full-time, regardless of interest or major. The deadline to apply is March 31.
To be eligible for a scholarship award, a student must be a resident of Palm Beach County, have a minimum
under $25,000 and they received a yellow postcard from our office that the requirement to file has been waived. If a business purchases additional assets that increase the total value of the assets over $25,000, they are required to file a return.
The statutory deadline to file a return without an extension is April 1. All extension requests must be received by 5 p.m. on March 31 to be considered for approval. Failure to file will result in the loss of the exemption and the assessment of penalties per Florida Statutes, Sections 193.072 and 193.073. Our office will not waive penalties for any returns filed after the extended deadline of May 15.
Save time, paper, and postage by e-filing. If you need a paper form, you can download the DR-405 on our website. If you have any questions about reporting personal property, tangible e-filing, or the $25,000 tangible exemption, please call our office at (561) 355-2896 or email mytpp@pbcpao.gov.
of 3.0 GPA, and plan to attend an accredited highereducation institution (college or community college).
In addition to receiving a scholarship, each recipient will be offered an opportunity for a paid summer internship in the Property Appraiser’s Office.
Since 1994, the Palm Beach County Property Appraiser’s Office has awarded $179,000 in college scholarships. The program is particularly special to the Property Appraiser’s Office because the scholarships are completely funded by employee donations.
For more information, call (561) 355-3230 or visit https://pbcpao.gov/scholarship-awards.htm.
For 2025, the maximum increase will be 2.9 percent, as that was the change in CPI from December 2023 to December 2024. This slowed increase in CPI reflects plateauing inflation over the past year across dozens of consumer categories including shelter, food, transportation, and energy.
While the change in the CPI follows many markets, Florida law requires my office to value property based on the status of the real estate market in Palm Beach County. My office will determine a total market value for every home as of Jan. 1, taking into consideration the price fluctuations reflected in the sales of residential properties. But if your property is homesteaded, the taxable assessed value will not increase more than 2.9 percent.
If you already have a homestead exemption on your property, you do not need to reapply. There are several additional property tax exemptions, including those for widows/widowers, veterans, and those with disabilities. For more information, visit pbcpao.gov or call Exemption Services at (561) 355-2866.
In this month’s newsletter, a reminder to all business owners in Palm Beach County about filing for a Tangible Personal Property Tax Return for 2025 and my office’s annual college scholarship application process is now open. Enjoy reading and enjoy your spring.
Respectfully, Dorothy Jacks, CFA, FIAAO, AAS, Palm Beach County Property Appraiser
The 2024 scholarship awardees with the Property Appraiser’s Office Scholarship Committee
Office staff at the Florida Chapter of the International Association of Assessing Officers 2024 Tangible Personal Property conference: from left, Kathy Rhodes, CFE, Manager; Trina Morrison-Nash, CFE, Personal Property Appraisal Department Manager; Tara McCoy, CFE, TPP Appraiser I; Kevin M. Bradley, PPS, CFE, Senior TPP Appraiser
