Busch Wildlife Sanctuary’s Sixth Annual Wine In The Wild Fundraiser A Resounding Success
The Busch Wildlife Sanctuary celebrated its Sixth Annual Wine in the Wild fundraising event, an enchanting evening under the stars at the nonprofit’s new Jupiter Farms campus filled with craft cocktails, savory snacks, a live and silent auction, and meet-and-greets with the organization’s animal ambassadors who call the sanctuary home.
Over 350 dedicated donors gathered at the facility, wandering along the sanctuary’s paved nature trails and enjoying over a dozen food and beverage stations on the path.
From imported wines and craft beers to specialty cocktails – including the Honey Drop, made with Tito’s Handmade Vodka, honey syrup, orange bitters, and fresh lemon juice, and the Palm Beach Spritz, featuring the locally-owned Munyon’s Paw-Paw Premium Florida Liqueur – the stations were paired with small bites such as grilled marinated shrimp, miniature carne asada tacos, charcuterie skewers, and Maryland-style crab cakes.
An enticing silent auction featured desirable items and experiences such as signed memorabilia from Taylor Swift, Arnold Palmer, and Lionel Messi; local excursions to attractions including Lion Country Safari and a Mets Spring Training Game; and even vacation packages including a sixnight stay in a luxury villa in Belize for eight guests and a private villa in Bali for six guests.
The night ended with an inspiring message from Chief Executive Officer Amy Kight, who highlighted the many additions made to the nonprofit’s state-of-the-art facility in the last year – including a children’s playground and custombuild ponds for the river otter and black bear habitats – in addition to exciting milestones ahead.
“We are beyond excited to unveil incredible new initiatives that will help us further our mission and
Busch Wildlife on page 2
Hannah’s Home Hosts Largest Gala Celebrating Growth
Hannah’s Home of South Florida gathered its biggest crowd to date and celebrated accomplishments from the past year at its Sixth Annual Gala, Home is Where the Heart is, on Thursday, Feb. 6. Nearly 350 guests gathered at the picturesque Pelican Club for an elegant evening themed around love, family, and community.
“I was overwhelmed by the outpouring of support,” said Carol Beresford, founder of Hannah’s Home. “There are so many in need, and this community has come together again and made this event spectacular.”
The event was chaired by beloved community natives Lauren and Miles Mikolas. Lauren is an accomplished author and former Jupiter kindergarten teacher and Miles is a twotime MLB All-Star and current starting pitcher for the St. Louis Cardinals.
“Hannah’s Home stands out for the fact that it’s local—that was a big draw to us. We’re helping women in our own community,” said Lauren Mikolas. “I think there’s nothing else you should be doing with your time if not helping a mother and her baby, so, [we’re] very excited to be a part of it.”
For the fourth consecutive year, Nicholas A. Mastroianni
Roll The Dice For A Good Cause: The Arc Of Palm Beach County To Host Casino-Themed ‘Show Us
Hit the jackpot for a night of giving at The Arc of Palm Beach County’s Show Us Your Hearts Gala! Join us on Saturday, April 5, for an unforgettable evening of charitable gaming and glamour. The casino-chic event will take place from 6 to 11 p.m. at the Cohen Pavilion at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach.
All donations and proceeds from the gala will raise money for The Arc’s vital services and programs, which are improving the lives of people with disabilities and
their families. Guests will enjoy an open bar, hors d’oeuvres, a gourmet dinner, professional casino-style gambling, and fabulous gaming prizes, along with silent and live auctions. The event’s charitable gaming features poker, blackjack, roulette, craps, and slot machines. Whether you are
Your Hearts’ Gala
a seasoned player or new to the games, gracious croupiers will ensure an enjoyable experience for all.
“We invite the community to attend out biggest event of the year to help support our groundbreaking community programs that challenge expectations and inspire new possibilities,” said Charlotte Gill, chief development officer of The Arc of Palm Beach County. “Join us in creating a world where every person, no matter their ability, is not only
Cristie Pela and Laura Ferrick
Breanna Evans
Roll The Dice For A Good Cause on page 4
Cochairs Tara and Brian Evans
Hannah’s Home Hosts Largest Gala on page 5
Evelyn Soto, Betsy Evans and Emily Hinson
Dale Hedrick and Cathy Burk
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serve the community on a global platform,” Kight said, alluding to the construction of South Florida’s largest rehabilitation flight enclosure and a yearlong veterinary internship program between Busch Wildlife Sanctuary and Loggerhead Marinelife Center beginning in July.
Aaron Zigelsky and ViHo the barn owl
“None of this would be possible without the ongoing support and dedication of our community,” Kight said. “Their commitment truly drives our progress, and together, we’re building a brighter future for our wildlife and environment.”
The Sixth Annual Wine in the Wild was the nonprofit’s most successful year yet, raising nearly $300,000, with all proceeds directly benefiting Busch Wildlife Sanctuary’s mission.
The organization has been a staple in the community since established in 1983, providing lifesaving care to thousands of sick, injured, and orphaned wild animals annually and invaluable environmental education to residents of all ages. For more information, visit www.buschwildlife.org.
Thank you to the Wine in the Wild 2025 Premiere Sponsors: Sharon E. Glasrud, The Murray and Sylvana Klein Family Foundation, Don and Penny Pray, George and Paula Michel, Town & Country Feed & Supply, Inc., Jupiter Magazine, Brian Marketing Group, and Shaw-Ross International Importers.
Silvia Zervos and Jack Wegman
Max and Joseph McNamara
Dana Storm, Gineen Ortega, Cindy Vofel, Sharmaine Mirabella
Jessica Duhon, Ashleigh Walters, Katherine Shattow, Nicole Newsted, Heather Johnston
Marvin and Marianne Guerra, Amy Kight, Sylvana and Murray Klein
Lloyd Schiller and Brooke Samples
Ed and Juli Rutkowski
Donna MacKay, SallyAnn Weger, Susan Johnson, John and Pam Evans
Sarah Beattie and Astrid, the red-tailed hawk
Photos by Brian Marketing Group
The Pet Cottage Post
The Birth Of The Pet Cottage: A
Tribute To Joan McCabe
The Pet Cottage is more than just a sanctuary for pets—it is a testament to the love and devotion of one remarkable woman, Joan McCabe. Joan was a beautiful soul, full of warmth and kindness, whose love for her pets was immeasurable. She was a client of mine when I ran a small personal training business for women, and over time, she became a cherished friend. Joan shared her life with three senior cats—Shadow, Smokey, and Jeremy— who were her family and her greatest joy.
When Joan was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, her first concern was not for herself, but for her beloved companions. What would happen to them when she was gone? She searched for solutions, but none existed. Determined to ease her heart, I made a promise: I would care for her cats as she had, ensuring they were safe and loved.
Shadow, at an astonishing 21 years old, passed before Joan. When the time came, Smokey and Jeremy, then 17, came to live with me. They thrived in my care, living to be 20. But Joan’s story revealed a much larger truth—she was not the only one in this predicament. Many pet owners, facing illness or life-altering events, had no plan for their beloved animals. I witnessed this firsthand through my relationship with hospice during Joan’s illness. The need was clear, and when Joan passed on March 11, 2012, I, Wendy Derhak, honored her legacy by founding The Pet Cottage.
What started with Joan’s three senior cats quickly grew. The next animals in need were three dachshunds— Charlie Brown, Ivy, and Peanut—whose owner had passed away. The demand for a safe, loving place for pets in these situations continued to grow. In April 2015, The Pet Cottage officially became a nonprofit, dedicated to providing lifelong guardianship for pets who lost their humans due to death, disability, or deployment.
From those first rescues, The Pet Cottage has flourished. Today, we provide care for over 51 dogs and eight cats. While our initial focus was on pets whose owners had passed, we quickly expanded to include those affected by disabilities such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. We also recognized the needs of military members, ensuring their pets had a safe place when deployment or relocation made it impossible to keep them.
One of the most beautiful aspects of this journey has been the realization that senior people make extraordinary Forever Guardians. Many of the pets in our care are older and need calm, loving homes. Many seniors, facing loneliness, long for companionship. The greatest challenge to welcoming a senior pet into one’s home is often the cost of care, particularly veterinary expenses. The Pet Cottage removes that burden by paying all veterinary expenses allowing these perfect matches to be made.
The Pet Cottage is more than just a place—it is a promise. It is a tribute to Joan McCabe and to all those who love their pets like family. None of this would be possible without the generous support of our donors and community. You are the superheroes who make this mission a reality.
There are many ways to support our work, from joining our Happy Tails monthly donation program to making one-time contributions. Every donation helps us fulfill our forever promise to these beloved pets and provide pet companionship to senior individuals, matching pets who have lost their humans with seniors who long for a loving companion.
To learn more about The Pet Cottage, visit our website at thepetcottage.org, follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and check out our YouTube channel at The Pet Cottage Official. To visit, please call to make an appointment at (561) 818-5025.
Thank you for being part of our pack!
Joan McCabe
Does Your Revocable Living Trust Reduce Your Federal Estate Tax Bill?
By Anné DesormierCartwright, JD, Esq.
Many believe that once they set up and fund a revocable living trust, property held in the trust will completely avoid federal estate taxes after they die. A living trust does not provide any unique estate tax avoidance strategies.
The primary mechanisms for reducing estate taxes—the unlimited marital deduction and the charitable deduction—apply whether money or property (sometimes referred to generally as assets) are held in a trust or held directly by an individual. The unlimited marital deduction allows the transfer of assets to a U.S. citizen surviving spouse free from estate tax, while the charitable deduction permits tax-free transfers to qualifying charitable organizations. These deductions are not exclusive to living trusts but can be incorporated into a trust-based estate plan to ensure that assets are distributed tax-efficiently.
Before delving into estate tax planning, it is important to understand that estate taxes come into play only when someone gifts assets during their lifetime and at their death that combine to exceed a certain threshold value. This threshold is called the federal lifetime exclusion amount and is currently $13.99 million for 2025. Unless the trustmaker and the trustmaker’s revocable living trust have combined assets exceeding this amount, there will likely be no federal estate tax due at a trustmaker’s death. However, for purposes of this article, we will assume that the trustmaker’s assets owned individually and in the revocable trust are valued at more than the lifetime exclusion amount.
Caution: If you live in a state with a state estate tax, you need to work with an experienced estate planning attorney to ensure that these concerns are addressed appropriately, as state estate tax thresholds are often lower than the federal threshold and may require additional planning.
Single Trustmakers And Estate Taxes
Of the two planning strategies mentioned above—the unlimited marital deduction and the charitable deduction— only the charitable deduction tool is available to single individuals. With this tool, all assets in a person’s trust left to qualifying charitable organizations will be removed from
Roll The Dice For A Good Cause from page 1
included but honored and celebrated. The best part of the evening is that everyone leaves a winner having made an impact on so many lives.”
This year’s cochairs, Tara and Brian Evans, began their journey with The Arc of Palm Beach County 18 years ago when they sought specialized education and care for their daughter Brenna, who has disabilities. In 2006, Tara and Brian enrolled Brenna in The Arc’s Potentials School, now Bodwell Academy.
Through The Arc, Brenna was able to take her first steps using a gait trainer and communicate for the first time with a communication device, two incredible milestones that will forever be cherished.
“The Arc of Palm Beach County cares about helping individuals with disabilities from birth to old age,” said Tara Evans. “We are celebrating The Arc’s 19 unique programs dedicated to empowering children and adults with disabilities across the county. The gala allows us to present our mission to a large audience and showcase the high-quality care and commitment we bring to individuals and families.
the trustmaker’s taxable estate. On the other hand, the assets left to noncharitable beneficiaries will likely be exposed to federal estate tax liability if the remaining assets exceed the current federal exemption amount. In other words, if your beneficiaries are your children, your brothers and sisters, your nieces and nephews, your best friend, another trust, or even a for-profit business, then the property they inherit through the trust could be subject to federal estate tax depending on the size of your remaining estate. Otherwise, any property distributed to qualifying charitable organizations through the trust passes free from federal estate tax.
Married Trustmakers And Estate Taxes
Married couples have both the charitable and unlimited marital deductions available to them. The charitable deduction functions the same way as described above for the single individual. With the unlimited marital deduction, all qualifying transfers of assets held in your trust that pass to your U.S. citizen spouse after your death will likely not be subject to estate taxes due to the unlimited marital deduction. However, to be deemed a qualifying transfer, the assets must either pass to the spouse outright or be held and administered in a special type of trust for your spouse’s benefit.
On the other hand, if you are married and you create and fund a revocable living trust and name both your spouse and your children as current beneficiaries after you die, the portion of the trust passing to your spouse (utilizing the unlimited marital deduction) will likely not be subject to federal estate tax, and the portion passing to your children may be subject to estate tax (depending on the value of the assets and the federal lifetime exclusion amount available to you when you pass). If you include one or more qualifying charitable organizations as beneficiaries, the portion passing to the charities will likely not be subject to estate tax.
Do You Need a Revocable Living Trust?
If a revocable living trust does nothing to reduce your federal estate tax bill that cannot be done by holding the assets in your own name, why should you consider setting one up? There are at least three good reasons:
1. To avoid probate. Assets held in your revocable living trust at the time of your death will avoid the court proceeding known as probate. Depending on your state of residence at the time of your death, this could save a great deal of time and thousands of dollars in legal fees and court costs.
Tickets for the Show Us Your Hearts Gala are $550 per person, with tables starting at $5,500. Sponsorship and underwriting opportunities are available.
The casino gaming tables are provided for entertainment purposes only by Casino Party Nights Florida, Inc. Players must be age 18 or older to play and must be present to win prizes. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit arcpbc.org/events or call (561) 842-3213.
Photos courtesy of Jessica Lynn Photography
2. To plan for mental incapacity. If you become unable to manage your affairs while you are still alive, the successor trustee you name in your revocable living trust will be able to manage trust assets for your benefit without the need for court involvement. Like the benefit of avoiding probate discussed above, removing the need for a court-supervised guardianship or conservatorship could save time and thousands of dollars in legal fees and court costs, depending on your state of residence.
3. To keep your final wishes private. A revocable living trust is a private agreement that remains private after you die. In most cases, the only people who will need to know the terms of the trust and what will occur during administration are the trustee and your named beneficiaries. Usually, this document is not required to be filed with the court, which will prevent strangers from knowing what you own and how you want what you own to be distributed and managed.
Final Thoughts On Revocable Living Trusts And Estate Taxes
For many people, a revocable living trust is the ideal way to organize their final affairs. While the estate tax avoidance tools used by a living trust are not exclusive to such trusts, they can be incorporated into a trust-based estate plan to capture the general benefits that living trusts offer and provide equally important additional benefits unrelated to tax savings.
If you are interested in learning more about a revocable living trust and its benefits for you and your loved ones, call us.
If you have questions about your estate plan and what documents you should have in place to plan your estate, schedule a free consultation today by calling our office at (561) 694-7827, Anné Desormier-Cartwright, Esq., Elder and Estate Planning Attorneys PA, 480 Maplewood Drive, Suite 3, Jupiter, FL 33458. The content of this article is general and should not be relied upon without review of your specific circumstances by competent legal counsel. Reliance on the information herein is at your own risk, as it expresses no opinion by the firm on your specific circumstances or legal needs. An attorney client relationship is not created through the information provided herein.
To comply with the U.S. Treasury regulations, we must inform you that (i) any U.S. federal tax advice contained in this newsletter was not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, by any person for the purpose of avoiding U.S. federal tax penalties that may be imposed on such person and (ii) each taxpayer should seek advice from their tax advisor based on the taxpayer’s particular circumstances.
The Evans Family Tara and Brian Evans with daughter Breanna
Tara and daughter Breanna Evans
II, founder of the Mastroianni Family Foundation, underwrote the event as title sponsor. Proceeds from the event come at a crucial time, as the organization is completing two new cottages to provide four resident mothers and babies
independent housing as they continue in the program.
Hannah’s Home serves single, homeless pregnant women aged 18 to 30, offering safety, life and relationship skills training, educational support, parenting education, spiritual development, and licensed childcare.
Through case management, they also receive expert prenatal care, medical care, mental health counseling, and other critical needs met. Since opening in 2012, the home has served over 100 women and their children.
About Hannah’s Home Of South Florida
Helping homeless, single, pregnant women and their babies overcome adversity, find hope, and learn to live victoriously.
As their crisis stabilizes, a rich program is offered aimed at equipping them and their baby to flourish independently.
Medicare Corner With Kathy O
So many commercials offering money for food, utilities and flex cards – is it too good to be true?
We all see those commercials promising everything but the kitchen sink. These ads are designed to prompt you to call and most likely you will be disappointed, and they will try to enroll you in a plan that was not the advertised plan. Usually, the advertised plans with free benefits are for people who are dual enrollees, enrolled in Medicare and their state Medicaid program.
Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides health coverage to individuals and families with limited income and resources. How do I qualify? You must live in Florida and meet certain rules, such as having limited income and savings per the Medicaid limits. The website to apply is https://myaccess.myflfamilies.com and all the information you need is on their site.
Medicaid is either partial or full benefits. If you do not qualify after applying, you may be eligible for LIS (lowincome subsidy) to assist with cost of medications.
If I Don’t Qualify For Medicaid – What Can I Do?
It’s important to have a dedicated agent that you can speak with consistently to answer your questions, not random agents in a call center. It’s not too late to review your Medicare coverage. There is an open enrollment period through Mar 31 for Advantage Plan members and many special enrollment periods that allow you to make changes to your Medicare coverage now.
I specialize in supplements, Advantage Plans, prescription drug plans and those dual plans and I am happy to help you review your coverage.
If you have Medicare topic suggestions, email me at czak82@aol.com.
I speak Medicare: Supplement, Drug Plan and Advantage Plan.
For your free Medicare Plan review please call me. Kathy Olejniczak, agent, at (561) 835-5413 or cell/text (561) 212-7640.
Paul and Carol Beresford
Lauren and Miles Mikolas
Dennis Cunningham and Tyler Cameron
RJ Alvarez, Ron Hilo, Karen Hilo and Brenna Alvarez
Lisa Chitty and Becky Zaharion
Nicholas A. Mastroianni and Jon Ledecky
Financial Focus®
Key Decisions For Retired Couples
By Sally Sima Stahl, Edward Jones
Once you and your spouse retire, you’ll have some decisions to make –decisions that could affect your quality of life in your retirement years. What are these choices?
Here a few of the most important ones:
• How much should you withdraw from your retirement accounts? By the time you retire, you may have contributed for decades to an IRA and a 401(k) or similar employer-sponsored retirement plan. But once you retire, you’ll probably need to draw on these accounts to help pay your living expenses. Consequently, both of you will need to be sure that you don’t withdraw so much each year that you risk running out of money later in your retirement. One common guideline is to aim for an annual withdrawal rate of 4 percent, but everyone’s situation is different based on age, pre-retirement income, lifestyle, health, travel plans and other factors. (Once you turn 73, or
Colon Cancer
75 if you were born in 1960 or later, you will have to take certain amounts, based on your age and account balance, from your traditional IRA and traditional 401(k) each year.)
• When should you take Social Security? The answer to this question depends on many factors, such as your age and other sources of income. You can take Social Security as early as age 62, but your monthly payments will typically be bigger if you wait until your full retirement age, which will be age 67 if you were born in 1960 or later. And if you can afford to wait even longer, your payments will “max out” when you reach age 70. Your decision on when to take Social Security can affect your spouse – and vice versa. If the lower-earning spouse claims Social Security before their full retirement age – again, age 67 – their own retirement benefit and any potential spousal benefit will be reduced. (Spousal benefits are given to the lower-earning spouse if their full retirement benefit is less than half the other spouse’s full retirement benefit.)
• Should you downsize? If you live in a big home and your children are grown, you may find it economical to downsize. Of course, this is also an emotional decision, but you may find that you can save money by moving into a smaller home.
• Where should you live? Some states are far more expensive to live in than others. You’ll want to weigh your decision carefully, considering the cost of housing, food, income and real estate taxes, transportation and health care in whatever state you choose.
Screenings
According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the U.S.
While the number of overall colorectal cancer-related deaths has actually been dropping for several decades thanks to more people getting regular colon cancer screenings and advances in treatments, colorectal cancer for people under 50 has been increasing. Why? Researchers aren’t sure and are investigating.
So, when should you get a colonoscopy?
Since 2021, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, an independent, volunteer panel of national experts in prevention and evidence-based medicine, recommends that colorectal cancer screenings start at age 45, as compared to the prior recommendation of age 50.
A colonoscopy screening doesn’t only detect cancer but it can also help prevent cancer by finding polyps that can be removed before they have a chance to turn into cancer.
At What Age Should You Get Your First Colonoscopy?
What exactly is a colonoscopy?
During the procedure, healthcare providers use a flexible camera to look inside your colon and rectum.
And for most people, the colon cancer screening age starts at 45. The current recommendation is mainly for average-risk individuals, meaning those who don’t have a family history of colorectal cancer or symptoms. With colorectal cancer, there are a number of risk factors. Some can be reduced while others are beyond your control.
Risk factors that you can manage include:
• Being overweight
• Have you finished your estate plans? If not, now is the time. You’ll want to work with your legal professional to create whatever documents are needed – a will, living trust, power of attorney – to help ensure your assets go where you want them to go, and that your financial and health care choices will be protected if you become physically or mentally incapacitated.
Of course, many of these same issues will apply if you are single, divorced or widowed. But if you are married, you and your spouse will want to discuss all your choices and then decide which steps to take. Once you’ve got your plans in place, you may well find that you can fully enjoy your retirement years.
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 Sima Stahl, CFP® , AAMS™, 1851 W. Indiantown Road, Ste. 106, Jupiter, FL 33458.
– When To Start
• Not exercising regularly
• Too much red or processed meats in your diet
• Not enough vitamin D in your diet
• Smoking
• Heavy alcohol use
You should watch out for rectal bleeding, changes in bowel movements (meaning going from having frequent ones to being constipated or having diarrhea), abdominal pain and weight loss. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, contact a healthcare provider immediately for a diagnosis.
What About People Who Are At Higher Risk Of Colon Cancer?
What makes you high risk? Risk factors that are beyond your control include:
• Being older
• A history of colorectal polyps, colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• A family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
• Having a hereditary cancer syndrome like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
• Your race or ethnic background
• Being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes
If you have a strong family history of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease or a hereditary cancer syndrome, you’d be considered higher risk and might need to be screened before the age of 45.
Overall, the lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer is about 1 in 24 for men and 1 in 26 for women. The hope is that these newer guidelines will increase screenings and help identify health issues before they become severe, allowing for more effective treatment and better outcomes. You may be able to schedule a colonoscopy at Cleveland Clinic in Stuart or Port St. Lucie without an office visit. Visit ClevelandClinicFlorida.org/Colonoscopy to learn more.
Benvenuti! Galbani Festa Italiana Of Wellington
March 29 And 30 To The Amphitheater
The inaugural Galbani Festa Italiana of Wellington will be held at the amphitheater on March 29 and 30.
The inaugural Galbani Festa Italiana of Wellington will create an experience rich in Italian culture through food, music, art, and tradition. There will be food booths serving up all the Italian favorites from sausage and peppers, pasta, from pizza to Italian ice, zeppoles and lots more.
There will be stage entertainment all weekend on the Beachside Golf Cars stage and the Mistress of Ceremonies is Virginia Sinicki of The KVJ Show on 979WRMF. Performing will be Italian American entertainers or a tribute to them. There will be performers all day Saturday and Sunday. Saturday night will feature Blonde Ambition, a tribute to Madonna. Sunday will feature a Rat Pack tribute. Other performers include Franco Corso, the voice of Romance; Angelo Venuto, and Philippe Harari.
Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets for seating. Special VIP seating is also available for purchase on Eventbrite.com. There will be a stage pod for four people with a table, and VIP villas with a table and seating for eight. Both offer bar service.
A special area to highlight is the Aperol Spritz Piazza. Salute! The Aperol Spritz Piazza will be the place to be seen. Toast to your Italian American heritage with a Birra Moretti Italian beer in The Moretti Beer Garden. In addition, there will be the Schumacher Auto Group family picnic area for festivalgoers to sit and eat while enjoying the concerts.
Another highlight is the La Cucina Galbani ® Cooking stage that will feature nationally known chefs, including Galbani Celebrity Chef Marco Sciortino. Known for his dynamic personality and culinary mastery, Chef Marco will be showcasing his signature dishes, blending authentic Italian flavors with his own innovative twists.
Dr. Hemang B. Panchal, MD, MPH, FACC, FSCAI, is board-certified in cardiology, interventional cardiology, echocardiography, and nuclear cardiology. He recently established his new cardiology practice, South Florida Heart & Vascular, located in Jupiter, FL.
Hospital Affiliations:
• Jupiter Medical Center
• Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center
• Good Samaritan Medical Center
• Cleveland Clinic Tradition Hospital
• Cleveland Clinic Martin North and South Hospitals.
For more information, please visit our website at www.sfheart.org.
Festivalgoers are in for a treat as Chef Marco brings his passion for Italian cuisine to life, offering mouthwatering creations that highlight the rich heritage and exceptional quality of Galbani products.
Local favorite Anthony Acampa from Fat’s Where the Flavor’s At , and many others will also be featured. Do not miss a taste of the free Voga wine seminars by wine connoisseurs throughout the weekend. On Saturday, there will be a pizza eating contest by The Sicilian Oven and Galbani will host the Celebrity Cheese Stacking Competition for Charity.
For the entire family, there will be festival rides and carnival games for all ages. Little Smiles will be on site with fun kids’ activities. The official festival charity is Little Smiles. This nonprofit organization tirelessly works to bring smiles to children’s faces by allowing them to be kids during difficult times. They will be on site with kid-friendly activities.
South Florida Heart & Vascular
4425 Military Trail, Suite 102 Jupiter, FL 33458
Phone: 561-208-5246
Fax: 561-245-5399
Email: infosfheart@gmail.com
We offer same-day or next-day appointments whenever possible.
Highlights of Dr. Panchal:
• 13+ years of experience
• Well-published in top-rated journals, including the Journal of the American College of Cardiology and Circulation.
• Helped reform the guidelines by the American College of Cardiology.
• Reviewer for many journals, including the American Heart Journal, British Medical Journal, and many others.
A special thank you to our inaugural sponsors: Galbani, Beachside Golf Cars, Schumacher Auto Group, Aperol Spritz, American Bath and Shower, Stormtight Windows, Birra Moretti, Voga Italia, Fat’s Where the Flavor’s At , and Tom Cerrito, who spearheaded getting this festival to Wellington, of Cerrito Electric.
Admission is $5, and children twelve and under are free with an adult. Sponsorships are available and special VIP seating will be available on Eventbrite. com. Festival hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. To learn more visit https:// wellingtonfestaitaliana.com.
Chef Marco
Jupiter Senior Softball News
John Katulak, a stalwart of the Jupiter Senior Softball Association (JSSA) for more than two decades, was enshrined Feb. 7 as the organization’s 2023 Hall of Fame inductee.
A large crowd of senior softball players plus Katulak’s family members attended the event at Jupiter Community prior
Navigators Are Here To Help Guide You Through Court Document Prep
By Joseph Abruzzo, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller, Palm Beach County
As your Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller for Palm Beach County, I am excited to share a valuable resource that is making a real difference in our community: our free document preparation assistants, known as “navigators.”
Navigator assistance is available for free by appointment at our West Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens and Delray Beach locations. Navigators can assist you in completing court documents and can give you procedural information for most family law and county civil actions.
Navigators can assist you with filing many of the forms that we offer, including divorce, legal custody and tenant eviction complaints. You can find a full list of forms available on our website at mypalmbeachclerk.com/selfservice.
While our navigators are here to help, they cannot provide legal advice or represent you in court. Also, they are unable to assist with certain specialized forms such as those involved in probate, mortgage foreclosure, or guardianship cases.
To schedule an appointment with our navigator, please call (561) 355-7048.
And for those who prefer to tackle things on their own, we have a range of how-to videos and workshops at https://www.mypalmbeachclerk.com/services/selfservice-center/how-to-videos-toolboxes.
Do not hesitate to take advantage of this free service – we are here to help make navigating the court system as easy as possible.
About The Clerk Of The Circuit Court And Comptroller, Palm Beach County
The Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller is Palm Beach County’s protector of public money and records including marriage licenses, court documents, financial reports and real estate records. Visit www. mypalmbeachclerk.com and find us @ClerkPBC on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn and X.
to Winter League games. Scheduling conflicts delayed his formal induction until February.
The JSSA Hall of Fame was created in 2020 to memorialize “those very few members who have made an extraordinary impact on the association.”
Katulak’s accomplishments include serving 12 years on the JSSA Board of Directors under five different commissioners. He was assistant commissioner, treasurer, entertainment director and founder of the sponsorship program with local businesses.
Richard Sewell, JSSA vice-commissioner, presented Katulak with the framed Hall of Fame citation which lauded him for his service and accomplishments, including the following. “His intricate knowledge of the game is legendary to those who play alongside him, and it has been said he exudes an on-field presence that possesses ‘one of the loudest voices’ but also the biggest heart. He truly exemplifies the core tenets of the JSSA Mission Statement.”
Katulak, who turns 76 on March 18, said, “It was a great honor to be respected by all of my peers in softball and I appreciate it very much.” He was joined at the enshrinement by his wife Debbie, brother Arthur (also a JSSA member) and his wife Millie Frantz. As the 2023 Hall of Fame
inductee, Katulak’s brass nameplate was added to the award plaque on display at the park.
The Hall of Fame was established in 2020 in honor of longtime JSSA member Ted Battistone who received the award posthumously.
Other honorees are Mike Richmond, 2021; Gerry Elias, 2022; and Mike Manasia, 2024.
The Jupiter slowpitch softball program is sponsored by the nonprofit Jupiter Senior Softball Association in cooperation with Jupiter’s Parks and Recreation Department.
For more information go to www.leaguelineup. com/jssa or contact Gary Newman at (917) 623-0791.
Smart But Scattered Adolescent Workshop
By Jim Forgan, Ph.D., Licensed School Psychologist
A parent described her son to me, “Sam is struggling with school and his grades. This year in sixth grade he is struggling with the workload, executive functioning, and expectations of the grade. The demands are more. I constantly have to stay on top of him or he’d be failing.” This mom was describing her son’s executive functioning weaknesses. He was smart but scattered. Executive functioning skills are crucial for success in school, social settings, and everyday life.
This month I am offering an in-person one-day executive functioning course for students in grades six through nine. Your student can join us fun, interactive
and videos to illustrate points and practice skills. Students receive written handouts to keep which summarize the new skills.
Developing executive functioning skills is an ongoing process in adolescence, and teens often need instruction to improve these areas. Weak executive functioning skills can impact academic performance, relationships, and overall well-being, so interventions like workshops and coaching can be helpful if your teen struggles in these areas.
Adolescents face academic pressures, social dynamics, and life changes. Teens with strong executive functioning skills can handle uncertainty and stressful situations with more resilience. By understanding and supporting the development of these skills, your student can improve their ability to navigate the complexities of adolescence and prepare for greater independence as they grow into adulthood. Join us so your student can learn these important skills for success.
Call (561) 625-4125 if you would like to sign up or if
John Katulak admires his Hall of Fame citation that he received from Richard Sewell.
Northern Notes
Loggerhead Shrikes – Nature’s Butcherbird
By Katie Roundtree, Director of Finance and Administration, Northern Palm Beach County Improvement District
The Loggerhead Shrike is a gray and white bird that resembles a Mockingbird at first glance. Both are types of songbirds with a similar overall gray, black and white pattern and are about the size of a cardinal or robin. The shrike has blacker wings, a larger head, a black mask, and a heavy, hooked bill, unlike mockingbirds that have grayer wings, a smaller head and a thinner bill. The Loggerhead Shrike’s black mask acts like the black paint athletes wear to keep the sun’s glare from impeding eyesight.
Where they truly stand out is in their unique hunting techniques. The shrike, a carnivorous bird, has a preference for lizards, bugs, and small animals, unlike the seeds and berries that mockingbirds enjoy. Their hunting style is both fascinating and terrifying for their prey. Shrikes hunt from above, diving down to snatch their prey in their hooked bill. The upper part of the shrike’s hooked bill
features a pair of builtin projections called “tomial teeth.” These specialized “teeth” are used to dispatch rodents by striking the nape of the neck, instantly paralyzing them, and then shaking them with enough force to break their necks. They are quick and efficient hunters, earning them the nickname “butcherbirds.” Their genus name, Lanius, is derived from the Latin word “butcher.” Shrikes can also hover over prey, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.
These remarkably intelligent birds then impale their prey on barbed wire, thorns, tree branches, or other sharp objects to immobilize and kill it, if their beak hasn’t already done the job. This practice, akin to a human’s pantry or larder, also helps them store food for days if food is scarce. A large pantry can serve to attract mates or feed juveniles.
The Pet Cottage Wins $10,000 In Great Charity Challenge Pet Parade
Southeast Equestrian Takes First Place, Bringing The Mission Of The Pet Cottage To Life
The Pet Cottage is thrilled to announce that its incredible team, led by Southeast Equestrian, won first place in the Great Charity Challenge’s highly anticipated pet parade, securing a $10,000 prize to support the organization’s mission of providing lifelong care for pets in need.
With outstanding creativity and heart, the Southeast Equestrian team brought The Pet Cottage’s mission to life in a visually stunning way. The parade entry featured:
• Children dressed as seniors , walking alongside beloved pets
• A miniature replica of The Cottage , complete with a real dog inside, symbolizing the safe and loving homes the organization provides
This practice can also help remove toxins, making the prey safe to eat after a few days. For instance, impaling a toxic monarch butterfly helps break down toxins, making it safe to eat after a few days.
Another reason for their macabre tendency to impale their prey is due to their tiny feet and legs. Their beak and hunting abilities are similar to hawks and falcons, but their passerine feet are similar to songbirds and can only perch on branches instead of using them like hawks and falcons to rip and tear. The barbed wire and sticks hold the prey in place so the shrike can eat it. Don’t judge their feet too quickly, though; shrikes have been known to carry prey the same size as themselves.
Loggerhead Shrikes are typically found in open areas with scattered shrubs and trees, but the species can also be found in more heavily wooded habitats with large openings and very short habitats with few or no trees. They particularly like tree snags (dead trees), where they can perch high up to look for prey.
These vicious, intelligent, ruthless birds are amazing animals in our area. Next time you see a gray and white bird, look closely and see if it might be nature’s butcherbird.
NPDES tip : Safely use and dispose of pesticide. If all of the pesticide cannot be properly used, check with your solid waste management authority to find out when and where to properly dispose of this type of hazardous waste.
Photos by Lucas Shaffer, NPBCID Environmental Manager
• Adorable miniature horses , adding a magical touch to the performance
• Incredible teamwork and leadership, making this inspiring vision a reality
“This was such a beautiful and joyful moment for The Pet Cottage,” said Lisa Gendal, Chairman of the Board. “We are incredibly grateful to Southeast Equestrian for their dedication, talent, and generosity in representing our mission so beautifully. Winning this award means even more resources for the pets and people we serve, and we couldn’t be more excited!”
The Great Charity Challenge, hosted annually at the Winter Equestrian Festival, brings the equestrian community together to support local charities, with millions of dollars awarded to deserving organizations. The Pet Cottage is honored to have been a part of this impactful event and deeply appreciates the support of all who made this victory possible.
For more information about The Pet Cottage and how to support its mission, please visit www.thepetcottage.org. About The Pet Cottage
The Pet Cottage is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing lifelong care for pets who have lost their humans due to death, disability, or deployment. Through its unique guardian program, The Pet Cottage places these pets with Forever Guardians, providing companionship and purpose for seniors while ensuring the pets receive love and stability for the rest of their lives.
Jupiter High School Band To Honor Veterans With Performance In Hawaii’s National Vietnam Veterans Day Parade
The Jupiter High School (JHS) Band has been selected to march in the National Vietnam Veterans Day Parade in Hawaii on March 29. This prestigious event will pay tribute to the men and women who served the nation in the Vietnam War and beyond, upholding the cause of freedom and liberty.
The JHS Band has a strong tradition of honoring veterans within their community. Past initiatives include participating in the 2023 Memorial Day Parade in Washington, D.C., which included a special ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The JHS band also hosted a free concert for military families in 2024 featuring guest conductor Frank Ticheli. This year, the band is deepening its connections with local veterans through a special performance at the “Stories of Service” event in Egret Landing in March. This event will celebrate local military veterans by providing an opportunity for them to share their stories. Veterans interested in attending the “Stories of Service” event should contact Liz Murphy at infojhsband@gmail.com.
“We are incredibly honored to participate in the National Vietnam Veterans Day Parade in Hawaii,” said Ryan Ross, JHS director of bands. “Marching in the parade allows our students to express their gratitude for the sacrifices made by our veterans. It also provides them an opportunity to connect with them on a deeper level. It’s a privilege to be a part of such a meaningful event.”
Emma Bennett, lead drum major, who also participated in the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier ceremony, shared, “It’s an amazing way to conclude my senior year. From the solemn experience at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, to now marching in Hawaii for these heroes, it’s a full-circle moment and a true honor.”
Skylar David, junior drum major, added, “Ending my senior year with this pinnacle adventure and experience in Hawaii is beyond exciting. I can’t wait to share our music and show our appreciation for the veterans.”
The Jupiter High School Band is actively seeking community support to elevate its program and expand its outreach. Donations will help fund essential needs such as music, instruments, travel and uniforms, as well as special initiatives like the military outreach program. One of the band’s near-term goals is to perform for veterans at the West Palm Beach Veterans Center, but additional funding is needed for travel expenses.
Your support can make a difference! To contribute, please visit https://jhsband.betterworld.org/donate.
To learn more about the band visit us here: https://sites. google.com/view/jupiterband/home
About Jupiter High School Band
The Jupiter High School music program is a highly accomplished and competitive program, consistently earning top honors at the state level. Most recently, the Spirit of Jupiter Marching Band placed second in the state, showcasing their exceptional talent and dedication. In 2024, the program was awarded the prestigious Otto Kraushaar Award for earning straight superior ratings, a testament to its excellence. Additionally, the jazz band continues to impress, achieving a superior rating in their most recent performance. To learn more about the program and its achievements, join us on social media on Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube.
Palm Beach North Chamber Of Commerce Hosts Sold-Out
Forum With Four County Commissioners On Regional Growth
Four of Palm Beach County’s seven commissioners took center stage at the sold-out Business Before Hours: Palm Beach County Update on Wednesday, Jan. 22, hosted by the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce. Over 400 attendees gathered for a pivotal discussion on the region’s most pressing issues and future developments.
This highly anticipated forum provided an invaluable opportunity for community members to gain insights into the current state of affairs, future plans, and strategic initiatives shaping the county’s growth and prosperity. Attendees engaged directly with our esteemed panelists.
• Palm Beach County Mayor Maria Marino, District 1
• Palm Beach County Commissioner Gregg Weiss, District 2
• Palm Beach County Commissioner Joel Flores, District 3
• Palm Beach County Commissioner Bobby Powell, Jr., District 7
The commissioners shared their perspectives, answered audience questions, and explored solutions to enhance the county’s quality of life.
In addition to the discussion, the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce’s Education Committee organized a school supply drive benefiting Lake Park Elementary School, with attendees generously contributing supplies to support local students and teachers.
For more information, visitwww.pbnchamber.com.
