Palm Beach’s Wildest Night Raised $2.8 Million To Benefit Wildlife And Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society
An African Cape porcupine named Percy rang the dinner bell to welcome 350 guests to Palm Beach’s wildest night of the season, Tropical Safari at Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society. This wildlife-saving evening brought together friends and world-changers to make a difference for conservation and the zoo.
Michele Kessler, chair of the zoo’s Board of Directors, and Jonathan Clay, vice chair of the zoo’s Board of Directors, served as Tropical Safari event chairs on Jan. 30, on the lush, tropical grounds of Palm Beach Zoo. Amy Baier served as honorary chair for the event that raised $2.8 million in support of the organization’s conservation initiatives and expert animal care.
Wildest Night on page 2
Ballet Palm Beach Raises Over $500,000 During ‘Gala By The Sea’ Annual Fundraiser At The Breakers
The ballroom was awash with support during the Ballet Palm Beach (BPB) “Gala by the Sea” annual fundraiser. King Neptune greeted the 200-plus attendees to the premier fete held at The Breakers Palm Beach on Jan. 28. The gala, commemorating philanthropist and “First Lady of Ballet” Anka Palitz, raised a record amount of more than $500,000. Chairpersons Lora Drasner, Robin Fleming, Erin McGould, and Nicole Noonan organized an evening that swam with surprises, including an undersea-themed, enchanting cocktail hour, a sumptuous dinner, live auction, music from the Switzer Sound, dancing, and an original performance by Ballet Palm Beach’s professional company members.
One of the evening’s key highlights was a heartfelt dedication from Palitz’s grandson, Ryan Kriser. He
Get A Taste Of New Orleans At
spoke about her recent $1 million donation to the ballet, emphasizing how her enduring generosity profoundly affects not only those in her immediate circle but also countless aspiring artists who will now have opportunities they once only dreamed of.
“We are so humbled by the outpouring of support from everyone who attended,” said Ballet Palm Beach Founding Artistic and Executive Director Colleen Smith. “These funds are vital for the company and enable us to support our operations, including the development of our original productions, educational outreach programming and impacting our community through the timeless art of ballet.”
The Eighth Annual Cajun Crawfish & Music Festival
On April 11 And 12 In Jupiter
Live Cajun And Zydeco Music, Authentic Cajun Food, And More!
The Eighth Annual Cajun Crawfish & Music Festival sponsored by Good Greek Moving & Storage returns to Abacoa on Saturday, April 11, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday, April 12, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. This premier Cajun Crawfish and Music Festival will celebrate Louisiana’s
culture and traditions through food, music, and dance!
Virginia Sinicki from The KVJ Show on 979WRMF, will serve as the Mistress of Ceremonies throughout the weekend and will bring her personal flair as a local who grew up in New Orleans.
Michele and Howard Kessler
Ballet Palm Beach on page 2
Sandy Kriser, Heather Kriser and Ryan Kriser
Cajun Crawfish & Music Festival on page 4
Whitney and Jonathan Clay Mei Sze and Jeff Greene
Wildest Night from page 1
“At the heart of our zoo’s mission is a powerful belief: Each of us plays a role in saving wildlife in wild places. At Tropical Safari, that belief becomes action,” said Kessler. “We are proud to protect what is rare and irreplaceable.”
Tropical Safari highlighted Palm Beach Zoo’s commitment to big cats as apex (top of the food chain) predators. Connecting with big cats at the zoo inspires action to protect them in the wild, which keeps entire ecosystems in balance.
Tom Quick and Margo McKnight
“Thanks to our amazing Tropical Safari chairs and guests for your support. Your generosity helps protect tigers in Malaysia, jaguars in Belize and panthers in the Everglades while providing meaningful, memorable
Palm Beach from page 1
For more information about the professional company or its school, Ballet Palm Beach Academy, or to support BPB’s outreach efforts call (561) 630-8235 or visit www. balletpalmbeach.org.
experiences that connect our community with wild nature,” said Margo McKnight, president and CEO of Palm Beach Zoo.
Tropical Safari guests were greeted by Hoffman’s twotoed sloth, Fern, and macaws, Crackle, Perus, Jessie, Leo, Coco and Henrietta. Zoologist-guided safari adventure tours provided participants with an insider look at how the zoo is saving wildlife. Jaguar Fiona; Amada, Brazilian rainbow boa; and Hino, a great horned owl, connected with guests along the way.
During the festive cocktail reception, guests met African Cape porcupine, Peter, and were wowed by a flock of Chilean flamingos on the dance floor. Attendees dined on delectable cuisine, enjoyed a video highlighting the zoo’s big cat conservation initiatives narrated by James Patterson and danced into the night all in support of the zoo’s mission of inspiring people to act on behalf of wildlife and the natural world.
Thomas C. Quick conducted the live auction, which included premier exclusive packages. Tropical Safari guests bid on Stan Kaminski custom artwork, entitled Waiting Game , donated by Findlay Galleries, James R.
Borynack and Adolfo Zaralegui; rare vintage wine: six bottles of 1959 Château Haut-Brion donated by Michele and Howard Kessler; a spectacular dinner at the zoo donated by Table 26; the ultimate insider access animal experience at Palm Beach Zoo; a dining experience with Bret Baier donated by Amy and Bret Baier, Michele and Howard Kessler and Nosh Catering & Events; and naming a character in an upcoming book donated by James Patterson. Quick then engaged the room with a call to the heart, raising additional donations that support initiatives like Big Cat Institute, advancements in animal care and well-being at the zoo, and creating experiences that inspire nearly 400,000 guests each year.
Palm Beach Zoo thanks the generous sponsors, underwriters and community partners of Tropical Safari. Gift bag contents were provided by Tammy Fender Holistic Skin Care and Tito’s Handmade Vodka. The parting gifts also contained a tiger plush and return passes to the zoo, where every visit saves wildlife. Guests delighted in a sendoff from Greenbean, the prehensile-tailed skink and Miles, the red-footed tortoise.
To learn more, please visit www.palmbeachzoo.org.
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Robert Burns CFP ®, ChFC ®, CPWA ®, AIF®, CLU® Managing Director Wealth Partner, Portfolio Manager 3825 PGA Blvd, Floor 9 Palm Beach Gardens, Florida 33410 561.694.5666 robert.m.burns@jpmorgan.com jpmorgan.com/burnswm
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Ballet
Lora Drasner, Robin Fleming and Nicole Noonan
Erin McGould, Anka Palitz and Colleen Smith
Eileen Berman, Steven Caras and Diane Quinn
The Singles Scene Column©
SINGLE or TAKEN: Do You Want To Get Lucky?
By Kelly Leary, M.S. & Miranda Capparelli
“May your hands be forever clasped in friendship and your hearts joined forever in love.”~~Irish Blessing
We have recently been asked to compile a list of trending dos and don’ts specific to 2026. Each year, the dating climate changes, and sadly, the longer people stay on their screens (from social media to online dating), the more severe issues become. Luckily, we are here to help. March is about lighthearted thinking, kindness, and hopeful energy. We all want to be lucky, and most of us know that you can create it. This March, people are ready. Ready to move and groove? Ready to meet quality people? Ready to fall in love?
Accelerating this primal desire, the Year of the Fire Horse is riding high, and if you did not take advantage of your resources and gifts in 2025, now is the time to slam dunk your dreams.
At Revolution Dating, we work with incredible singles every day. Our pool is ever-changing and growing astronomically. We relish in actively studying the latest trends and emerging issues in the dating pool, in and out of the club. As we charge into 2026, get intentional and make it happen. There are surefire facts that will diminish your luck in any venue or forum. Follow on if you want to get lucky this year. Do you know someone who needs to read this article? If so, pass it on and share this with a single friend, neighbor, or family member. Thank us later!
Do Have an Open Mind
Too many singles cling to a lengthy, rigid checklist. Chemistry doesn’t follow a spreadsheet. The strongest couples we’ve matched did not initially “fit their mold”. Open-minded people fall in love more often. Period.
Do Focus on the Big Picture, Not the Details Dating is not about dissecting flaws—it’s about recognizing potential. Obsessing over minor details—like whether you like
their outfit or they told one awkward joke—will block you from seeing the whole human in front of you. Great relationships are built on alignment, not perfection. Be accepting of others (and yourself).
Do Positivity & Kindness
Let us be clear: negativity is out. It’s not attractive. It’s not edgy. It’s not for dating or work. Negative people perpetuate negativity. They pass it on. Stay away from this attitude if you suffer from it--and flip your own script. Realize and accept that positivity is magnetic. It’s hot! Kindness is powerful and necessary. When you show up warm, engaged, and gracious, you instantly become more attractive. The energy you bring is the energy you receive--in all aspects of life. Check out Mel Robbin’s Podcast “Steps You Need to Protect Your ENERGY and Create a Positive Life.”
Do Give Grace To Others and Yourself
Everyone is nervous on a first date—even the most confident person in the room. Maybe they stumbled over their words. Maybe they were a little quieter than usual. Maybe they talked too much. Give grace. A first date is not a performance; it’s an introduction. A first date is not a job interview. In 2026, people have become so hard on one another. Let’s stop it.
Do Listen to Others Speak without Interruption
Listening is the opposite of preparing your answer while someone is speaking. When you truly listen, you remember details. You respond thoughtfully. You make your date feel understood. Good verbal communication is the foundation of attraction. Have you ever met someone who was not initially your type? And after a good conversation, you suddenly found them super appealing?
Do Less Judging
You do not know everything--especially not within the first 20 minutes. Let attraction grow. Sometimes depth reveals itself slowly. If you shut down early, you will miss out on the meaningful green lights. You will miss out on a good match because you are too narrow-minded. Let the date unfold before you decide the outcome.
Do Compliment Your Date (Realistically)
A sincere compliment goes a long way. Tell them they chose a great restaurant. Acknowledge their sense of humor. Compliment their style or perspective. Notice the good in the person sitting across from you. Most of all--ask for a second date before the night is over. This is the ultimate compliment!
Simply say: “I’d love to do this again.” It’s direct and refreshing in a world of mixed signals.
Don’t Interrupt Your Date
Cutting someone off mid-sentence signals one thing: “What I’m about to say matters more than you.” It’s dismissive—and deeply unattractive.
Don’t Keep Your Phone Near You
Nothing says “you’re not my priority” like a glowing screen between you. Presence is appealing. Live in real life.
Don’t Fixate on What You Dislike About Your Date The second you start listing flaws internally, you stop being present. Overthinking kills chemistry. Stay curious instead of critical.
Don’t Order Like a Wolf or Drink Like a Fish
Just don’t do it.
Don’t Talk About Politics, Religion, or Your Ex Controversial deep dives on a first date? Risky. There is a time and place for those conversations. The first martini usually isn’t it.
Don’t Text More Than 5–7 Words
Long emotional paragraphs after one date? Overwhelming. Keep it light. Keep it simple. Mystery is magnetic.
Last but not least, DO call and/or register your name at REVOLUTION DATING if you are serious about finding your plus one (minus the exhausting discovery process). Surround yourself with professionals who understand compatibility, values, and long-term success. Online swiping fatigue is real. Curated introductions are the future. May the road rise up to meet you! Xoxo & Happy Saint Patrick’s Day, Kelly and Miranda
#FindBlissIn2026 #MatchmakingRoyalty #MatchmakingEra #TellYourFriends #LuckOTheIrish
Kelly Leary, M.S.© is CEO and Founder of Revolution Dating which she launched in 2014. Kelly has 35 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, The Coastal Pearl, Jupiter Magazine, and many more. Revolution Dating clients are pre-screened in person, including background checks and ID verification.
The Singles Scene Column© on page 4
& Music Festival from page 1
The streets of Abacoa will be filled with Mardi Grasthemed decorations and banners, featuring lots of purple, green, and gold. Attendees will be transported to Bourbon Street upon arrival, as the aroma of Cajun food fills the air. Come get a taste of “N’awlins” with authentic Cajun food featuring an expanded menu featuring a crawfish boil by Louisiana John, and lots of other dishes of crawfish etouffée, jambalaya, and Virginia’s seafood and meat gumbo, po’ boys, muffalettas, fried shrimp and chicken, crab cakes, oysters, red beans and rice. There will also be beignets, cider donuts, and more. There will be a crawfish-eating contest on Saturday. Enjoy the Bourbon Street atmosphere with all the classic cocktails such as Hurricanes, Grenades, and a Champagne Hurricane. There will be authentic Louisiana music all weekend!
Two amazing charities will be on site all weekend at The Cajun Crawfish and Music Festival. First, we have Maddie’s Fight Foundation. They are incredible at helping families dealing with childhood cancer. Second, we have our beloved Little Smiles, which helps children go through personal or medical crises. Visit their booths to learn more about these children’s charities. They will be on site, raising awareness of their cause and collecting donations.
Experience Louisiana in style, reserve a VIP stage pod with four seats near the stage with a table including
Scene Column© from page 3
cocktail service, or a private VIP Creole cottage with eight seats and a table under a tent, including cocktail service. These are available for purchase on Eventbrite.
Tickets are $5, and children ages 12 and younger are free with an adult. Sponsorship opportunities are available. General lawn seating will also be available for those who would like to bring their own chair/blanket to enjoy the all-day entertainment. For more information, visit www. cajuncrawfishmusicfestival.com.
For more information, visit: www.littlesmilesfl.org. Visit: www.maddiesfight.org.
Calendar Listing
The Eighth Annual Cajun Crawfish & Music Festival (benefiting Little Smiles and Maddie’s Fight Foundation) is Saturday, April 11, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday, April 12, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., at Abacoa Amphitheater in Jupiter. The event is $5, and children 12 and under are free. VIP stage pod seating and Creole cottages are available. The event will feature authentic Cajun food, an expanded menu including crawfish boil, jambalaya, gumbo, shrimp po’ boys, and live New Orleans and Cajun zydeco music. For more information, visit cajuncrawfishmusicfestival.com.
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 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 add-on to some memberships. *All inquiries are confidential *Specializing in representing jet-setting clients with a second home in the Northeast Area or Mountain Country. Do call the central hotline at 561-630-9696 (XOXO) to hold your place in the club. Why wait? Just date!
Lucky in Love with Revolution Dating:
Your Lucky Charm is be right in front of you. Revolution Dating, the long-standing Award-Winning
Matchmaking Firm, is connecting real upscale singles in real life. See what goes on behind the scenes at the Corporate Headquarters of Love. We appreciate those of you who share your love openly, but for those who want to remain confidential, we got you! Have an incredible March, and remember it is never too late to date. #TellYourFriends #LuckyInLove #KissMeImIrish
Cajun Crawfish
Single or Taken, Refer a Friend! #SpreadTheLove
Brand New RD Couple Goes Public on Valentine’s Day! #SeniorDating
Happy Birthday to Our CEO & Founder Kelly! #BirthdayLove
Beautiful New Client Drop... Meet Victoria! #AuthorClients Special Luxury Gifts For New Clients! #LoveLanguage
The Singles
Revolution Dating Wedding Season Has Begun! #YoungProfessionals
BESPOKE HOMES AS MAGNIFICENT AS THEIR WATERFRONT SETTING
Discover Jupiter’s premier waterfront enclave ideally situated on a stunning peninsula of land directly on the Intracoastal Waterway. Anchored by 13 private boat slips up to 60 feet in length, Forté Luxe is your gateway to the Palm Beaches, Atlantic Ocean, and enchanting Intracoastal Waterway, where excursions for sport and leisure are effortlessly accessible.
CONSTRUCTION | DELIVERY SUMMER 2026
Understanding Your Child: Anxiety, Dyslexia, Or Both?
By Jim Forgan, Ph.D., Licensed School Psychologist
As a parent, noticing your child’s strengths and challenges can be both rewarding and worrisome. A mom explained, “My fourthgrade daughter adapts easily to needs of others, is kind, patient and displays good teamwork, is an outside of the box thinker, and is organized on tasks. My concern is she is very anxious a lot. She also avoids reading and writing tasks. Does she have anxiety or dyslexia?”
These qualities are remarkable and speak to this young girl’s resilience and creativity but it’s natural for you to
wonder: is this anxiety, dyslexia, or both? Anxiety can manifest in many ways. Children may worry excessively about doing tasks “perfectly,” avoid challenging activities, or experience physical symptoms like stomachaches before school, in school when it’s learning time, or during homework. Anxiety doesn’t diminish intelligence or creativity, and it can even accompany highly capable children who care deeply about performance and others’ feelings.
Dyslexia, on the other hand, specifically affects reading, spelling, and writing skills. Children with dyslexia may avoid reading or writing tasks because they are frustrating and require extra mental effort. They often understand concepts orally and think creatively, but struggle with decoding words or expressing their creative ideas on paper.
Twenty-five percent of children with dyslexia also have anxiety. A child with dyslexia may develop anxiety related to reading or writing tasks, creating a cycle of
Jupiter Senior Softball News
Scott Logan, a standout ball player and former Commissioner of the Jupiter Senior Softball Association (JSSA), was enshrined Jan. 26 as the organization’s 2025 Hall of Fame honoree.
A large crowd of senior softball players plus Logan’s family members attended the event at Jupiter Community Park prior to Winter League games. The JSSA Hall of Fame was created in 2020 to memorialize “those very few members who have made an extraordinary impact on the association.” Hall of Fame Presenter Rick Tuyn, said Logan’s award is well deserved. “He is being recognized for the years he has devoted to the Jupiter Senior Softball Association, most of it behind the scenes, and for ensuring that new members felt welcome.” Tuyn, who is a JSSA board member, also lauded Logan for strengthening the Association’s relations with the Town of Jupiter.
Logan, who turned 87 on Feb. 15, served on the association’s board of directors including serving as commissioner for three
years. His off-field leadership included organizing several successful donation drives that collected hundreds of pounds of supplies and more than $1,000 in other donations to assist the nonprofit Warriors Renewal Coalition.
Logan’s Hall of Fame selection is not his first such honor. In 2021 in recognition of his many contributions to senior softball, he was inducted in the National Senior Softball Hall of Fame. And previously, in recognition of 25 years of refereeing high school and college wrestling matches, he was inducted in the Southwestern Pennsylvania Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2012. Richard Sewell presented Logan with a framed copy of his Hall of Fame citation, that lists Logan’s many contributions to senior softball and his community, including the following: “Scott truly exemplifies the core tenets listed in the JSSA Mission Statement.”
avoidance and worry. Determining which is present, or if both contribute, is essential to providing the right support for your child.
Early identification and support are key. For anxiety, strategies such as predictable routines, mindfulness, and gentle encouragement can help children feel safer and more confident. For dyslexia, evidence-based interventions, multisensory reading programs, and accommodations at school can reduce frustration and build skills. I always encourage parents to also focus on your child’s strengths to boost confidence and help your child thrive alongside any challenges.
Reach out if you notice ongoing anxiety or reading difficulty. A school neuropsychological evaluation will provide answers. Call (561) 625-4125 to discuss your child and dyslexia, learning disabilities, dyslexia, ADHD, autism, or anxiety. Learn more at www.JimForgan.com.
As the 2025 Hall of Fame honoree, Logan’s brass nameplate was added to the award plaque on display at the park. Logan, who is a retired Pennsylvania school teacher and principal, expressed his thanks for being honored by the association. He was joined at the enshrinement by his wife Ethel, daughter Amy and her husband Jeff Tomlinson, who is also a JSSA member.
The year-round slow-pitch senior softball program is open to persons 55 and older and new players of all skills are welcome. Games are Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings at Jupiter Community Park beginning at 8:30 a.m.
For more information go to www.leaguelineup.com/jssa or contact Rick Tuyn at (248) 302-1682.
Photos by Mike Richmond
Hall of Fame honoree Scott Logan with, left to right, Richard Sewell, Paul Storch and John Cariero
Rick Tuyn introduced Scott Logan as JSSA’s 2025 Hall of Fame honoree.
Thelma B. Pittman Jupiter Preschool Celebrates 60 Years Of Service To The Community
Sixty years ago, the Thelma B. Pittman Jupiter Preschool opened and has been operating ever since. In 1966, Thelma Pittman had to take her children to a daycare center in southern West Palm Beach because there were no daycare centers in the northern Palm Beaches that accepted black children.
Rather than complain about the unfairness of the situation, Thelma decided to start her own daycare center. In order to accomplish this, she convinced the West Jupiter Volunteer firemen to pull their fire engines out of their garage during the day, so she could operate her school. Thelma began with thirteen students, but little by little, the word spread and the school began to grow, attracting not just black students, but white and Hispanic students as well.
this problem, the school acquired the old West Jupiter Volunteer fire station, and in January 2006 they began construction of a larger facility. The new addition was completed and opened in September of the same year. The school was then given a certification for 105 students.
Program, and the State of Florida’s Department of Children and Families with their “Gold Seal of Excellence.” The school also received national recognition through their accreditation by the (NAEYC) National Academy of Early Childhood Programs.
Realizing that the Jupiter Preschool needed a proper building, Thelma began rallying the community to help her. She convinced many of the citizens of Jupiter to create the Jupiter Preparatory School Auxiliary to aid in soliciting money, materials, and labor to construct a building for the school. In August of 1969, they broke ground, and the building was completed in February 1971. The new school was licensed for a capacity of 35 students. Over the years, additions were added to the building that increased the preschool’s capacity to 65.
As Jupiter continued to grow, the Jupiter Preschool tried to accommodate the ever-growing number of parents seeking a daycare center for their children. Unfortunately,
In January 1994, after thirty years of dedicated service, the school was renamed the Thelma B. Pittman Jupiter Preschool. When Thelma retired, her daughter Ruth Lawson assumed the position of executive director and ran the school for many years until she left to pursue an opportunity with Palm Beach County. Currently, the school is in excellent hands with its current executive director, Sandra DeAllie.
The Covid Pandemic was a low point for the school as daycare centers were not allowed to operate normally. However, the Thelma B. Pittman Jupiter Preschool persevered and is thriving once again.
Throughout the years, the Thelma B. Pittman Jupiter Preschool has always maintained the highest standards as
The main goal of the Jupiter Preschool is to provide a safe and healthy environment for children to grow and learn. This is accomplished by providing a well-trained staff and a low child-to-teacher ratio who provide an ageappropriate curriculum. The school has always maintained the highest standards at one of the lowest tuition rates in Palm Beach County.
Additional information and a tour of the school can be arranged by calling Sandra DeAllie at (561) 746-7120 or visiting our website www.tbpittman.org
Sixty years after its creation, the school is still thriving and is a true tribute to the vision and tireless effort of its founder, Thelma B. Pittman.
The best value in Juno Beach is getting even better. Exceptional coastal living is around the corner at The Waterford. For more than 40 years, we’ve continually invested in enhancing our Juno Beach community, reimagining everything from social spaces and amenities to luxury residences. Come see for yourself. Visit us to discover why so many have chosen a no-maintenance retirement lifestyle with predictable costs and the confidence of a community that values your future.
Financial Focus®
How Outdated Beneficiary Choices Can Derail Your Plans
By Sally Sima Stahl, Edward Jones
When you open a retirement account or buy a life insurance policy, you’re asked to name a beneficiary. It might seem like just another form to fill out, but this simple step can affect your family’s future.
Many people don’t give beneficiary designations much thought after signing the initial paperwork. It may have been years ago, and life has moved on. But this might surprise you: These designations can override what’s in your will or living trust. That means your retirement accounts and insurance proceeds could end up going to someone you didn’t intend, creating what professionals call an accidental inheritance.
Life changes quickly. You might get married, divorced or remarried. You might have children or stepchildren. A loved one might pass away. You may decide to give to your favorite charity. Any of these events could mean it’s time to update your beneficiaries.
March Madness And The College Admissions Game Plan
By Peggy Forgan, M. Ed.,Class 101 Owner/College Advisor
Every March, basketball fans fill out brackets, cheer for underdogs, and watch powerhouse teams battle it out during March Madness. While the tournament may seem worlds away from college planning, the lessons behind it are surprisingly similar and incredibly valuable for high school students preparing for their future.
In March Madness, winning teams do not rely on talent alone. They succeed because of preparation, strategy, and adaptability. College planning works the same way. Students who start early, understand the process, and adjust their game plan over time put themselves in the best position to succeed when senior year arrives.
Think of ninth and tenth grade as the regular season. This is when students build a strong foundation by focusing on grades, exploring interests, and getting involved in meaningful extracurricular activities. Just like a team developing chemistry before the tournament, students are shaping the academic and personal story they will eventually present to colleges.
Junior year is the conference championship. The stakes are higher and expectations increase. This is when students often take more rigorous courses, prepare for the SAT or ACT, research colleges, and begin identifying schools that are a strong academic decisions made during this year can which colleges make the final bracket
Senior year is the tournament itself. Applications, essays, deadlines, and decisions all move quickly, much like a fastpaced game. Students who planned ahead tend to feel calmer, more confident, and better prepared Those who wait until the last minute may feel rushed or overwhelmed and may end up with fewer strong options.
March Madness also reminds us that surprises happen and flexibility matters. A smart college match, and likely schools, just as a bracket includes favorites and potential upsets. Success is not about choosing the most popular option but about
With the right preparation, strategy, and guidance, students can approach college planning with To find out more about our services, North Palm Beach at (561) 418-7897 or visit class101. com/northpalmbeachfl/.
The rules can get complicated. For example, after a divorce, some (but not all) states have laws that automatically revoke your beneficiary designations for IRAs, bank accounts and insurance policies. But no matter where you live in the U.S., the designations for 401(k) plans and pensions stay in place until you change them. In community property states, couples must split 50-50 the assets they acquired during marriage, adding another layer of complexity.
There are other considerations, too. It’s a good idea to name a primary and a contingent beneficiary. If your primary beneficiary dies before you do, the contingent beneficiary receives your assets. Without this backup plan, your carefully considered wishes could go awry.
Naming minor children as direct beneficiaries isn’t usually a good idea. Children can’t legally receive and control assets until they become adults, so a court would have to get involved and appoint a guardian for managing the money. Instead, you might set up a trust or name a custodian to oversee the funds until your children are mature enough to handle them responsibly.
For family members with special needs, you’ll want to be especially careful as about choosing your beneficiary. Some choices may jeopardize their eligibility to receive government benefits such as government disability payments or Medicaid. An estate attorney can help you make important beneficiary decisions.
One major benefit of proper beneficiary designations is that they can help your loved ones avoid probate, a timeconsuming and potentially expensive legal process.
For these reasons and others, it’s important to review your beneficiary designations regularly, especially after major life events. Contact your retirement account administrator or insurance company to update any outdated information.
A financial advisor can help you understand how your beneficiary choices fit into your financial strategy and ensure your assets go where you want them to go. It may also make sense to work with a legal professional who can help you ensure your beneficiary designations align with your plans for transferring your estate assets.
Don’t leave these important decisions to chance. Taking time now to review and update your beneficiaries can help give you a sense of security and protect the people you love.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor, Edward Jones, Member SIPC.
Edward Jones is a licensed insurance producer in all states and Washington, D.C., through Edward D. Jones & Co., L.P., and in California, New Mexico and Massachusetts through Edward Jones Insurance Agency of California, L.L.C.; Edward Jones Insurance Agency of New Mexico, L.L.C.; and Edward Jones Insurance Agency of Massachusetts, L.L.C.
Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax advice. You should consult your qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.
Contact us at (561) 748-7600, Sally Stahl, CFP, ChFC, AAMS, 1851 W. Indiantown Road, Ste. 106, Jupiter, FL 33458.
10th Annual SWA Run AWAY 5K
Benefitting Resource Depot Returns Saturday, April 11
Trail Run To Be Held At Solid Waste Authority Greenway Trail System In West Palm Beach
What: The 2026 SWA Run AWAY 5K returns to West Palm Beach on Saturday, April 11, celebrating the 10th anniversary of this one-of-a-kind community event. The 5K takes place on the Solid Waste Authority (SWA) Greenway Trail System and benefits Resource Depot, a nonprofit creative reuse center that works to inspire creativity, conservation and community engagement through reuse of waste. True to its name, the SWA Run Away 5K takes participants “away” into nature, winding through cabbage palms, cypress hammocks, marshes and lush pine flatwoods, with scenic glimpses of Grassy Waters Preserve and the Renewable Energy Park. The race celebrates the harmony of industry and nature, while bringing awareness to recycling and solid waste issues.
When: Saturday, April 11; Race start: 7:30 a.m. (rain or shine!)
Where: SWA Palmetto Trailhead Parking Area (southern entrance to SWA Greenway Trail System at the bend where 45th Street becomes North Jog Road), West Palm Beach, FL 33412
Registration: $35 (plus sign-up fee) – includes race bib, t-shirt, finisher’s medal, and finish line video. Price increases after March 7, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.
Youth 10 and under: $15 (plus sign-up fee) – includes bib, t-shirt, finisher’s medal, and participation award.
Sleep-in virtual option: $25 (plus sign-up fee) –includes race t-shirt and bib.
Group and team registration available –Gather a group of six or more and enjoy a $5 discount on each registration fee. (Does not apply to youth registration). Plus, groups will receive a special shoutout at the race!
To register or learn more, visit: resourcedepot.org/swarun-away-5k.
Medicare Corner With Kathy O
Medicare Season Is Over— Or Is It? What You Need To Know Right Now
Medicare at any time—whether you retire or continue working. Medicare education is not just a fall discussion; it is a year-round process. Are Those “Too Good To Be True” Medicare Commercials Really True?
What If I Don’t Qualify?
Even if you do not qualify for Medicaid or LIS, you still have options. Medicare Advantage members have until March 31 to make changes, and there are also various special enrollment periods throughout the year that may allow adjustments based on life events or circumstances.
Many people believe that once the Annual Enrollment Period ends in December, their Medicare decisions are locked in for the year. The truth is—not necessarily. If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan and did not make a change during the annual enrollment period, or you are unhappy with the change you made, you still have options. The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period runs through March
Lately, many television ads and phone solicitations promise extra benefits such as money for groceries, utility bill assistance, or prepaid “flex cards.” These advertisements are designed to generate calls, but the benefits promoted often apply only to a limited group of individuals.
In most cases, the plans offering the richest additional benefits are available to people who are “dual eligible”— meaning they are enrolled in both Medicare and Medicaid. Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides health coverage for individuals and families with limited income and resources. To qualify in Florida, you must meet specific income and asset guidelines. Applications and eligibility information are available through the Florida Department of Children and Families at https://myaccess.myflfamilies.com.
Perhaps most importantly, it is wise to work with a dedicated local Medicare agent who understands your specific needs and can provide consistent guidance. Relying on random call center representatives can lead to confusion and enrollment in plans that may not truly fit your situation. Medicare decisions impact both your health and your finances. If you have questions or concerns about your coverage, now is a good time to review your options. The Medicare season may seem over—but for many beneficiaries, important opportunities are still available.
I specialize in supplements, Advantage Plans, Prescription Drug Plans and those Dual Plans and I am happy to help you review your coverage. I represent United Healthcare, Humana and more carriers.
If you have Medicare Topic suggestions, email me at
I speak Medicare: Supplement, Drug Plan and
For your free Medicare Plan review please call me. Kathy Olejniczak, Agent, (561) 835-5413 or cell/text,
The Pet Cottage Post
Forever Guardianship, Forever Love: Three Hearts Healing Together
By Wendy Derhak, Founder/Executive Director
When you walk into Gail’s home, it doesn’t take long to meet the real hosts of the house. Smokey may be watching cautiously from a distance, while Simba is already at your feet—curious, friendly, and hopeful you brought a snack. Together, these two handsome boys have filled Gail’s home with warmth, rhythm, and quiet companionship.
Gail has been a Forever Guardian with The Pet Cottage since 2016, welcoming Smokey and Simba after they lost their person to a serious head injury. At the time, Gail herself was navigating deep loss. Her husband had passed away in 2012, and she was still learning how to move forward alone.
“I kept saying no,” Gail remembers. “I can barely take care of myself right now. I can’t take care of a pet.”
Special Deals
Having grown up on a farm where animals lived outdoors, the idea of indoor cats—and the responsibility that came with them—felt overwhelming. But when two bonded cats urgently needed a home, Gail agreed to try.
Three grieving hearts found themselves under one roof.
In the beginning, Smokey and Simba stayed hidden beneath the bed, coming out only for food and water. Slowly, trust grew. Smokey, whom Gail believes may be a Russian Blue, is intelligent and cautious—and remarkably skilled at opening cabinets and doors. Simba, a 17-pound orange tabby with a mischievous streak, is bold and affectionate, greeting visitors and inspecting grocery bags with enthusiasm.
“The boys love each other,” Gail says. “You’ll often find them cuddling, with Simba licking Smokey’s face.”
Then, during one energetic chase through the house, Smokey broke his hip. Gail was frightened and overwhelmed—but she was not alone. The Pet Cottage coordinated immediate veterinary care and covered the cost of surgery. Smokey endured weeks of crate rest and careful rehabilitation.
“I was so busy taking care of them,” Gail shares, “that I started looking outside myself and feeling less sad and lonely.”
Caring for them began to heal her.
Over the years, new challenges have come. Simba was diagnosed with diabetes and now requires insulin injections twice daily. Smokey has battled sensitivities that once left bald patches from over-grooming. Through every appointment and adjustment, The Pet Cottage has remained a steady presence—coordinating care, providing medical support, and walking alongside Gail.
Today, their life together is rooted in reassurance. Smokey perches nearby while Gail reads her Bible each morning. Simba curls beside her at day’s end. When she pulls into the driveway after work, both boys are waiting in the window.
“They are such an important part of my life,” Gail says. “I know the Lord put them in my life as a comfort.” This is Forever Guardianship. It is a lifelong promise— ensuring pets who lose their person receive stability, medical care, and a loving home for the rest of their lives. And sometimes, in that promise, healing flows both ways.
Feb. 11, The Pet Cottage purchased our sanctuary property. Because of you, our community, we now have ownership of the place our resident pets call home. What was once simply the home base for our daily work is now a permanent foundation for our mission. Together, we have secured stability for the pets in our care today and for those who will need us in the future. We invite you to celebrate this extraordinary achievement with us at our Open House and Housewarming Celebration on April 11. We love growing our pack. Please consider making a donation to support pets like Smokey and Simba—or open your home and heart as a Forever Guardian yourself. For more information, visit thepetcottage.org or call (561) 818-5025.
Gail and Simba
Simba and Smokey
Smokey and Simba, brothers
Smokey at the vet, 2026
Northern Notes
The Dry Season
By Katie Roundtree, Finance Director, Northern Palm Beach County Improvement District
One uncontrollable factor affecting Northern services more than any other is the weather. Warmer temperatures in the summer months create the potential for increased rainfall, flooding, and hurricane activity. Cooler temperatures in the winter months typically mean dryer air, less rain and canals and lakes with lower water levels. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasts a drier than normal pattern in South Florida with slightly warmer than average temperatures for the period from February through April 2026, which encompasses most of the area’s dry season.
The National Weather Service has forecast that La Niña conditions will likely begin to diminish through April. La Niña is the cold-water phase of the ENSO (El Niño Southern Oscillation) cycle. It is characterized by cooling of the waters in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific. This cooling of the equatorial Pacific to below normal values affects large scale weather systems across all of North America. The main
impact of La Niña in Florida is typically very dry conditions in winter and early spring. The prolonged dry weather and lack of rainfall can intensify drought conditions, leading to water shortages for both residential and agricultural use. This not only puts pressure on local water management systems but also increases the risk of spring wildfires. Extended droughts can lead to stricter water restrictions, stressed vegetation, and lasting impacts on the region’s ecosystem and economy.
A warmer and drier than normal winter and dry season decreases the likelihood and frequency of severe weather events such as tornadoes, flooding, strong winds, and hail, but does not eliminate them. Also, as we experienced in early February, a few strong cold snaps and freezes typically occur during La Niña winters, even though the average temperatures over an extended period may be warmer than usual.
As the winter months continue, we can anticipate some environmental realities outlined in NOAA’s forecast. The most significant and most visible effect is the lowering of water levels across the county. Water levels in the waterways within Northern’s jurisdiction, including neighborhood lakes, fluctuate based on rainfall in the area. During extended dry periods or droughts, the lack of rain accelerates the drop in water levels as evaporation outpaces replenishment. Persistent drought conditions can leave lakes, canals, and marshes at historically low levels, affecting water quality and availability for residents, wildlife, and agriculture. When it is raining consistently, water levels are maintained at or near maximum; when it is not, water dissipates, and levels fall.
The level of water in the lakes can also be affected by irrigation demands. Many areas have irrigation pipes in lakes that draw water to irrigate lawns and landscape. In periods of little to no rain, water is not being replaced fast enough to counteract the effects of irrigation. In those instances, lake levels will decline.
During the rainy season, we move water through waterways in accordance with SFWMD criteria. Water is allowed to rise to a certain level, then released to maintain that level and prevent flooding in the area. In the dry season, rain events are monitored to ensure that lakes and canals do not reach maximum levels, though this is less likely given the limited rainfall. When lake levels drop, Northern receives calls asking staff to pump water back into lakes; unfortunately, we cannot do this. Only rainfall can increase the amount of water in our water bodies.
Additionally, Northern was not created to pump water into areas, but to drain the lands within its jurisdiction to make it habitable for development. Our enabling legislation in 1959 even went so far as to declare water as a “common enemy.” Thankfully, public opinion of water has changed over time, and we have found ways to conserve it. There are times, though, when water is scarce, and until the rains begin again, it will remain scarce, causing lakes and canals to be low.
According to NOAA, we can look forward to more cool, clear days than rainy ones in the coming months. While we enjoy the cooler temperatures, please remember we are still in the dry season, which means low water levels across the county. We have to be patient and let nature take its course.
NPDES tip: Do not burn any trash in your yards, and don’t dump any debris into lakes and canals.
A New Era of Care
Introducing the Tim and Jayne Donahue Patient Care Tower Jupiter Medical Center is thrilled to announce the grand unveiling of our state-of-the- art five-story, 92-bed Tim and Jayne Donahue Patient Care Tower. This innovative expansion further elevates the award-winning care we are renowned for, ensuring an unparalleled patient experience. The tower represents a bold vision focused on patient-centered care, featuring floors dedicated to Oncology, Orthopedics, and Cardiac Care, each meticulously designed to meet the unique needs of our patients. Modern simulation labs offer training opportunities for clinicians, empowering them to remain at the forefront of excellence. We invite you to discover how we are transforming health and wellness in our community
