By Katie Roundtree, Director of Finance and Administration, Northern Palm Beach County Improvement District
Northern owns and maintains approximately 2,000 acres of preserves throughout the 128-squaremile district. It is an integral part of many of our residential communities
and a pristine area of native Florida that we strive to protect. Since these areas sometimes lie behind residents’ houses, we receive many calls to trim back trees or remove trees that are not aesthetically pleasing. If it is warranted or threatening personal property, we will trim back or
remove vegetation, but in most cases, trees should be left in their native state. Why is this? Why can’t we make the preserve areas look like parks?
First and foremost, we are required by permit with the South Florida Water Management District not to remove or kill any native trees or plants in the preserve. These native trees and vegetation, such as cabbage palms, provide many benefits to wildlife. They are not just trees, but homes for many animals, such as squirrels, raccoons, frogs, lizards and others. Small rodents, lizards, insects and even rare plant species rely on the uncut “boots” of a palm for a home. Squirrels and birds will use the palm thatch as nesting material and will often nest in the palm. One time, preserve crews removed three cabbage palms from behind a resident’s home. When one of the palms dropped to the ground, seven newborn squirrels fell out of it. Staff had to build a temporary “home” for the babies close to the tree, hoping the mother would return to find them. Many bird nests are also lost due to trimming plants and trees.
A 2019 study in South Florida found that cavity nesters, native woodpeckers specifically, favored palm snags, which are dead palm trees, over pine trees or maples in urbanized tropical regions: even more of a reason to keep standing snags in the preserve. We received a request from a resident to remove a maple snag located behind their home. It wasn’t threatening any property; it was just a bit of an eyesore. Northern staff went to investigate, and as soon as they got close to the tree, a woodpecker flew towards them and into a small cavity it had built in the tree. Not only was there a nest, but there were several baby chicks inside that the woodpecker was feeding. Even more importantly, many of these birds and their nests/eggs are protected by federal law (The Migratory Bird Treaty Act).
Northern Notes on page 2
Commissioner’s Update
Welcoming Joseph Abruzzo As County Administrator
By Maria G. Marino
On behalf of the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners, I am pleased to share that on July 24, 2025, the Board unanimously approved a contract appointing Joseph “Joe” Abruzzo as our next county administrator. Abruzzo will officially assume the role on August 19, 2025, under a five-year contract with renewal provisions. This moment marks a pivotal transition in our county’s leadership. Following the retirement of Verdenia Baker on May 31, 2025, after nearly four decades of extraordinary
public service, including 10 years as county administrator, Palm Beach County enters a new chapter. In the interim, Todd Bonlarron, former assistant county administrator, stepped up to serve as interim county administrator. Todd’s steady and capable leadership during this transitional period has ensured continuity in our day-to-day operations, and the Board is deeply grateful for his dedication to public service.
The county administrator’s role is one of immense responsibility, overseeing a $9 billion budget and more than 7,000 employees who serve the 1.6 million residents of Palm Beach County. After a comprehensive process that drew 240 applicants, Abruzzo was selected from a field of four outstanding finalists. His background in both financial management and administration, coupled with his understanding of county operations, made him the clear choice.
Abruzzo has served as Palm Beach County’s clerk of the circuit court and comptroller since his election in 2020, where he has led approximately 650 employees, managed a $70 million budget, and has safeguarded nearly 6 billion annually in public assets. His experience as the county’s chief financial officer, treasurer, auditor, and clerk to both the Board and the circuit court has given him a rare and valuable perspective on the inner workings of our government. Prior to his current role, Abruzzo also
By Bill Thompson
Now, what to write about that won’t appear to be “past news.” That invites general observations and good will.
As of this day, August 10, I am putting my mind to subjects still pertinent in early September when your newsletter hits your mailboxes. So far, I am stuck on a frequently spoken phrase by my erstwhile irrigation guy when he doesn’t how to fix something. “Oh well.” Observations
Some of us could do a better job returning trash containers to “out of sight” after trash/garbage pickup, including me. If you are home and you know your friends and neighbors are not, it is a nice gesture to take the containers to the garage door. My good friend John does that for me even if I am home but may be still in bed or a state of blissful unawareness. On the rare day I am out early, I’ve been known to do that for neighbors whom have jobs outside the home. To pat my back, I did three homes just the morning.
Yesterday, I met Reggie and Alison who are scheduled to move into The Shores this September 1, 2025. They will get a welcoming visit and gifts delivered by Amy Lemelin, HOA board member and chair of our Welcoming Committee. Our new neighbors will be living on the south section of Lake Bend Dr.
Not to be “poor pitiful Pearl,” Dawn and I are exhausted from a painful and tedious procedure to declutter after 36 years in our home. Selecting endless stacks of paper to file or toss. Some must be shredded to protect sensitive ID information. Our targets include the stuffed garage, much of which is business files and loads of tools, unused but useable, hoarded for 40-plus years. Sound familiar?
Box on page 4
Deadline for the October Issue is September 16
Mail or email to:
Bill Thompson, 18583 Lake Bend Drive billthompsonsoj@gmail.com
The Shores of Jupiter website:
www.theshoresofjupiter.org
Disclaimer
Copy appearing herewith may not be the viewpoint of The Shores Board of Directors or its newsletter editor. Nor should responsibility be assigned for accuracy or validity or articles contributed by residents or other articles chosen by the publisher or the editor.
Realtime Property Management of South Florida LLC
Alexa Edwards, Property Manager
612 N. Orange Ave., Bldg C-4, Jupiter, FL 33458
The Shores Of Jupiter Homeowners Association Inc.
Board Of Directors, Committee
Board Of Directors:
David Lindley, President
John Hornyak, Vice President
Cynthia Clemente, Secretary
Barry Parker, Treasurer
Sal Greco, Director
Amy Lemelin, Director
Ryan Warren, Director
Architectural Control Committee:
Sal Greco, Chair
John Hornyak
Compliance Committee:
Ryan Warren, Chair
Lakes And Parks Committee:
David Lindley, Chair
Crimewatch Committee: Bill Thompson, Co-Chair
Sal Greco, Co-Chair
Welcoming Committee: Amy Lemelin, Chair
John Hornyak
Infrastructure
David Lindley, Chair
Communications and Newsletter Editor: Bill Thompson, Chair
Events & Social Media Committee: Barry Parker, Co-Chair
Kristi Parker, Co-Chair
Francesca Brown
Tracey Lavoll
Anais Maristany-Diaz
Dena Martin
Webmaster
Kristi Parker
We also get requests to remove rodents from preserves. Northern staff do not treat for rodents or any other pests in the preserves. The baits and poisons used for that purpose are designed to attract and kill rodents but are also known to attract other non-target mammals. Aside from the risk of primary exposure to non-target mammals in the preserves, there is also the risk of secondary exposure.
Rodents, including mice and rats, are a key component of the food chain in the natural ecosystems throughout the preserves. Many of the desired animals in the preserves rely on rodents as food, including animals such as hawks, owls, bobcats, foxes and snakes. When the rodents are poisoned, they become weak and are easy prey for predators. If these predators eat the poisoned rodents, they will get secondary exposure to the poison and will likely die. If we start targeting organisms on the lower end of the food chain, this will disrupt the rest of the food chain and could cause serious harm to the health of the preserves. It’s essential to understand the delicate balance of nature and the potential consequences of our actions.
In addition to preserving native vegetation, it is crucial to prevent the introduction of non-native houseplants into the preserves. Many residents may not realize that disposing of unwanted houseplants by throwing them into the preserves can lead to the establishment of invasive species. These non-native plants can outcompete native flora for resources, disrupting the delicate balance of the ecosystem and harming the wildlife that relies on native plants for food and shelter.
served in the Florida Legislature, where he gained critical experience in state-level budgeting and policy.
Throughout the public interview process and commissioner deliberations, Abruzzo consistently demonstrated his commitment to transparency, innovation and collaboration. He expressed a clear vision for modernizing government system by leveraging technology, including artificial intelligence, to enhance efficiency while maintaining a people-first approach.
The Board’s decision on June 17, to select Abruzzo was made after thoughtful interviews, public forums and private deliberation. In the initial vote, he received support from the majority of commissioners, and, in a show of unity, the Board later cast a unanimous vote to affirm his appointment. His professionalism, humility and deep-rooted commitment to public service resonated strongly with all of us.
We are also mindful of the legacy left by Verdenia Baker, whose long and distinguished career set a high standard for
Invasive species can spread rapidly, often leading to a decline in biodiversity and negatively impacting the health of the preserves. It’s essential to dispose of non-native plants responsibly, such as through composting or proper waste disposal, rather than releasing them into natural areas. By ensuring that only native plants thrive in the preserves, we can help maintain their ecological integrity and promote a healthier habitat for local wildlife. We all have a role to play in protecting these valuable natural spaces and supporting the unique ecosystems they harbor.
An essential part of preserving the preserves is to let nature be nature. As a community, we play a crucial role in this. Removing exotic species of plants and allowing for nature to take its course are necessary for the health of the preserves and the rest of our environment in South Florida. Nature is not always perfectly groomed, but for everything there is a purpose. What may seem like an old, ugly tree to you may be home to birds and other wildlife. Leaving the preserves in their natural state is required and the right thing to do. It’s a responsibility we all share.
NPDES tip: Planting a rain garden with native plants somewhere around your home helps lock rain water in the ground, reducing the flow of pollutants and poisons into the drains. Using organic fertilizers and pesticides in your garden further protects and brings health to your yard and all the species living there.
excellence in county administration. She led with wisdom, grace, and an unwavering commitment to the public good. We again extend our heartfelt thanks to her for a lifetime of service to Palm Beach County.
As we welcome Abruzzo into this new role, we look forward to working closely with him as we continue to build on the progress of recent years. His official transition will begin in August.
Palm Beach County, proudly holding a AAA credit rating, is charting a future rooted in innovation, financial responsibility and outstanding public service. With Abruzzo as county administrator and the continued collaboration of our dedicated staff, partners and residents, I am confident we will rise to every opportunity and challenge that comes our way.
Please join me in welcoming Joseph Abruzzo as our next county administrator.
As always, if I can be assistance to you, please contact me at (561) 355-2201 or mmarino@pbc.gov.
“The proof of love is in the works. Where love exists, it works great things. But when it ceases to act, it ceases to exist.” – St. Gregory the Great
As the pressure to live the “perfect” summer dissipates, you will begin to feel extra space. Pressure makes diamonds, and it is an ideal month to reignite your sparkle. If you are a parent of school-age children or college-age adults, you likely just gave the backto-school motivational talks. “Make new friends. Join clubs. Study hard.” Having children is a lifelong commitment to love forever. However, back to school means “back to you.” Once again, we thank all of you for following us for so many years and for sharing this enlightening news with your single family and friends. We love you back.
Along with flirting with the last quarter of the year, single adults are thinking about what it would be like to be in a relationship again. This is called “healthy stress,” and it will move you forward. “Unhealthy stress” will freeze you in your spot and hold you back. What would you tell your younger self entering into a new chapter of life? Thoughts of coupling off are unavoidable this time of year, don’t stress the inevitable. As the prelude to cuffing season, September invites us to embrace change, leave our comfort zone, and experience the journey of falling in love (again). In the same way you encourage young people to go after their dreams, we urge you to take your own advice while you are youthful enough to enjoy it! Connection.
September merges an ending with a beginning, a time when the universe seems to take a collective breath. We are in a moment of subtle yet profound change. Leaves are changing, and the energy is different this time of year. This
prepares us for the revolution that lies ahead – the prospect of finding deep and meaningful connections before the year ends. Biological factors are at play. Whether you like it or not, the human body will biologically seek emotional support through relationships—super loaded this time of year. It’s science. Love is in our DNA. Above a healthy eating lifestyle and ten thousand steps a day--longevity is contingent on connection. Anticipation.
As the days grow shorter, the anticipation of cuffing season begins to build. This idea of “cuffing season” may be seen as just one of many cultural influences through the media, but there’s no denying that you have not felt this feeling too. This is the prequel to holiday romance. Your new beau will be chiming in soon. Believe it and live on this trajectory and it will present itself—because you are living “as if” it has already happened. Fight it or buck it and you may have another holiday season solo. It will be a “you problem” if you do. This is a two-man job--and it won’t happen unless your mind and body are living it...before it even happens. This can lead to thrilling adventures and unexpected encounters that culminate in lasting relationships. It is said that relationships that begin in the Fall Season have a higher rate of longevity and sustainability.
Behold The Learning Curve.
Just as nature adapts to the seasons, you can too. You can overcome any hurdles that may be blocking your (romantic) growth. Today we know more than we did yesterday. Our knowledge of what you need and who you need is at your service and has been for 34 years and counting. We meet clients who are easy to match because of their own strengths. Likewise, we have clients who need some tweaking. We urge you to keep your ears open, because no one is perfect, and you might need some work to prepare for your new plus one. Be open to learning as you enter into a relationship again and embark on a new dating journey.
The Solution.
Welcome September with the excitement of a child on the first day of school. Pretend you are on a college campus again. Make new friends. Try new things. Join new clubs. Get yourself out there and be seen by new (single)
people. Say goodbye to your old life and greet your new life with open arms and an open heart. You can be living a completely different reality by the holidays. Let’s hit the last part of 2025 with the strength and courage we instill in our children as they go to school.
There are people ready and excited to meet you. Someone is waiting to fall in love -- with you. Be present and available so they can find you. Reach out to connect to the hottest and most well-respected matchmaking firm, ideally located just for you. Stay in love with life. Let it love you back.
College Or Trade School: Helping Your Child Choose The Right Path
By Peggy Forgan, M. Ed., Class 101 Owner/College Advisor
Choosing what comes after high school is one of the most important decisions your child will make. While college has long been the traditional route, trade schools are emerging as an equally valuable option. Understanding both pathways can help you guide your child toward a future that matches their strengths, interests, and goals.
College provides a broad education and is often essential for careers in fields like medicine, law, business and
education. A four-year degree can open doors to leadership positions and higher earning potential over time. However, it requires a significant financial investment and demands that students be academically and socially prepared for the challenges of campus life.
Trade schools offer focused, hands-on training in skilled professions such as plumbing, HVAC, welding, electrical work, cosmetology and more. These programs typically take one to two years to complete and can lead directly to well-paying jobs in high-demand fields. Trade careers provide stability, lower student debt, and a faster path into the workforce.
Early planning and open conversations are crucial. Encourage your child to explore their interests through job shadowing, internships, or high school courses that expose them to various industries. Research both college and trade
programs carefully, considering cost, job placement rates and earning potential.
At Class 101 North Palm Beach, we understand that every student’s path is unique. Whether your child is preparing for university or a trade school, what matters most is making informed decisions based on their talents and passions. Class 101 also offers a Discovering Careers package for high school students, helping them explore potential career paths and make confident choices about their future.
For more information, call Class 101 at (561) 418-7897, email Peggy at pforgan@class101.com, or visit class101. com/northpalmbeachfl. By starting these conversations early and utilizing resources like Class 101, you can help set the foundation for your child’s confident and successful future.
From Overwhelmed To On It: A Parenting Expo
By Jim Forgan, Ph.D., Licensed School Psychologist
Parenting a child who learns differently can be both rewarding and overwhelming. You might find yourself asking questions like: How can I help my child stay organized? What do these test results really mean? How do I prepare my teen for college? If you’ve ever felt unsure of where to turn for guidance, my parenting expo focused on learning differences is the perfect place to start. My expo brings together experts and educators to offer you real-world strategies and support. From managing executive functioning challenges to decoding neuropsychological testing, the five sessions are designed to turn confusion into clarity. One of the biggest advantages of attending? Connection. You’ll meet other parents who share similar challenges and triumphs. Knowing you’re not alone can be incredibly powerful. Plus, networking with professionals and fellow
Bill’s Box from page 1
Friends say, “Just throw everything away, for god’s sake.” Not that easy! When our home is fit and we can have visitors, there will be one helluva party for those far and wide. Well, – maybe fifty.
Town Of Jupiter Code Enforcement
If we park cars on the grassy verge between the sidewalk and the street or allow guests to do so, we are subject to fine by Code Enforcement. The same goes for parking that blocks any portion of the sidewalk. If not observed by the police or code inspector, a neighbor can call Code Enforcement to report the infraction. It is not worth taking the chance. One can find a number for code enforcement or the police department on the Town of Jupiter website. Street parking when needed is permitted on a temporary basis.
The Longshore Speedway
Time trials as in NASCAR for the Daytona 500 are conducted daily between 5 and 9 p.m. and anytime on weekends. The most prominent among contestants is said to be a grey Mustang with a great roar I can hear distinctly across the lake. Though the sound appeals to gearheads such a I, but is most annoying to most. Bothers me too. Then there is the speed this rocket machine makes well in excess by far the posted 30 mph speed limit. No matter the thrill it gives the driver, it is bound to have potentially critical consequences by human injury or even death. Driver skills, heavy duty brakes, innocent walkers and pets and wildlife are at risk. Even an incorrigible youngster who feels invincible is expected to know this level of recklessness is unacceptable. The driver could be from The Shores or one of the communities to the north who access their homes through The Shores. Does anyone have a license plate number? The photographer would have to be on scene and snap quickly.
Letters To The Editor
I’m not receiving them. Someone must have something to say. What about grateful words to our HOA board of directors who keep this village looking prize-winning and property values intact or escalating. They are selfless volunteers working on behalf of all of The Shores homeowners.
parents often leads to resources you didn’t even know existed.
The expo sessions are tailored to meet you where you are. For example, if you’re navigating the special education system, you’ll gain practical advocacy tips to make your voice heard. If you have a high schooler with learning differences, you’ll walk away with a roadmap to help them transition to college with confidence.
Another key focus is strength-based parenting and learning to see ADHD and other learning differences not just as challenges, but as opportunities to unlock your child’s unique gifts. Sessions like “Unlocking Strengths” help reframe your perspective and offer tools for positive parenting.
Fall in Love at Revolution Dating
Upscale single, divorced, and widowed clientele are ready to live and love offline and the demand for quality matchmakers is soaring. With record-breaking match success and clients enrolling every day, it is clear everyone wants the love we give. Revolution Dating specializes in screening and representing clients from
In just one day, you’ll gather information it might take months to research on your own. Whether you’re new to the journey or deep in the trenches, this expo is designed to equip, empower and encourage. Investing a few hours in this event could transform the way you support your child for years to come.
Join us on Saturday, Oct. 11 in Jupiter. The cost is $10 of which all proceeds benefit the Carter Viss Foundation for boating safety. Learn more about the expo at JimForgan.com/ expo or call (561) 625-4125 to discuss your child and your concerns for possible learning disabilities, dyslexia, ADHD, autism or anxiety.
the Northeast to Palm Beach for decades. Take a look at the love overflowing out of the Revolution Dating Corporate Headquarters of Love in PGA Commons, where they have been established for eleven successful years and counting. Do tell your single friends about this grand gesture of love and hope in your local area. He who hesitates is lost, so get “unstuck” and book your first interview today. September is the perfect time to REV-up your love life. #TellYourFriends #FallInLove
Thrills, Heritage And Community Pride Soar At The 2025 Stuart Air Show
Honoring The Past, Inspiring
The Future, Nov. 7 To 9, Witham Field, Stuart
The skies above Stuart will roar to life this November as the 2025 Stuart Air Show returns for three unforgettable days of aviation excellence, history, and community spirit. From cutting-edge fighter jets to rare pieces of living history, this year’s lineup promises to inspire, entertain and unite audiences of all ages.
The Ultimate Lineup
Headlining the show is the F-35 Lightning II Demo Team, showcasing the most lethal, survivable and connected fighter aircraft in the world. Flown by Demo Pilot Major Melanie “MACH” Kluesner, the F-35’s agility and raw power will demonstrate why it’s a cornerstone of national security and a symbol of technological advancement.
Joining the roster is the VFA-122 West Coast Rhino Demo Team with the F/A-18F Super Hornet, delivering high-speed maneuvers and thunderous flybys that will shake the skies. For precision and elegance, the Northern Stars Aerobatic Team will dazzle with intricate formations and gravity-defying stunts.
On the ground, history buffs will be in for a rare treat— the B-29 Superfortress “Doc,” one of only two flying in the entire world, will be on static display. Visitors can stand in the shadow of this World War II icon, a reminder of the bravery and ingenuity that helped shape history.
Friday Night Spectacle
The weekend kicks off with the famous Friday Night Air Show & Dirty Flight Suit Party presented by TD Bank on Nov. 7. Gates open at 4 p.m., with flying starting at 5:30 p.m. As night falls, the sky will light up with illuminated aerobatic routines, a dazzling fireworks finale, and a choreographed drone show set to music.
Weekend Fun For All
On Saturday and Sunday, gates open at 9 a.m., with aerial performances beginning around 11:30 a.m. and continuing until 5 p.m. Beyond the aerial thrills, the Stuart Air Show offers interactive exhibits, displays from local organizations, food vendors, and activities for all ages— making it more than just a show, but a full community
MAKING MAKING MOVES MOVES
Honoring Service And Inspiring The Next Generation
The Stuart Air Show is proud to offer discounted tickets for veterans, seniors and youth, recognizing the contributions of those who have served and ensuring families across the Treasure Coast can enjoy the event.
Director of Operations Chrissy Valvano shared, “This year’s show is a celebration of both our future and our history. We’re thrilled to bring together world-class performers, historic aircraft and our amazing community for a weekend that inspires pride, wonder and connection.”
Event Details
November 7 to 9
1895 Flying Fortress Ln., Stuart, FL 34996
Tickets on sale now at stuartairshow.com
From the thunder of modern military jets to the timeless beauty of historic warbirds, the 2025 Stuart Air Show is where history takes flight and the future soars. Don’t miss the Treasure Coast’s most thrilling event of the year!
Financial Focus
A Retiree’s Guide For National Financial Security Month
By Sally Sima Stahl, Edward Jones
If you’re retired, it’s easy to let your finances go on autopilot. Since October is National Retirement Security Month, it’s a good time to revisit some areas that can impact your longterm financial security and help your money last a lifetime.
Consider these suggestions:
• Manage your withdrawal rate. You’ll likely need to tap into your retirement accounts—your IRA and 401(k) or similar employer-sponsored plan. But think carefully about how much income you withdraw every year. If you take out too much, especially in the early years of your retirement, you risk outliving your resources. You have the option of withdrawing from these accounts at age 59½. Once you turn 72, you’ll be required to take out at least a certain amount each year based on your age and account balance.
• Estimate health care costs. When you turn 65, you will be eligible for Medicare, but you may still need a Medicare supplement plan, both of which will require
premium payments. You’ll probably also incur a variety of other unreimbursed expenses for doctor visit copays or deductibles, prescription drugs and vision, hearing and dental care. Additionally, about 70% of adults ages 65 and older will need some form of long-term support, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. This may include a paid home health aide (average cost of $77,792 per year), an assisted living residence (average cost of $70,500 per year) or nursing home care (private room average cost of $127,750 per year). (Cost estimates are from Genworth 2024 Cost of Care Survey.) Over the course of your retirement, these can add up, so be realistic when budgeting for health care expenses in retirement.
• Consider when to take Social Security. You can start receiving monthly Social Security checks at age 62, but your payments will generally be larger if you wait until your “full” retirement age of 66 or 67. (The size of your payments will “max out” at age 70.) If you believe you have longevity working in your favor, and you can afford to wait, you may well be better off by delaying Social Security as long as possible.
• Avoid investing too conservatively . Once you’re retired, you might think you should take as few chances with your investments as possible—after all, you have less time for them to bounce back from a downturn than you did during your working years. Nonetheless, it’s important to consider keeping a reasonable percentage of growthoriented investments in your portfolio to help you stay ahead of inflation. Even at a low rate, inflation can erode your purchasing power over time.
The Pet Cottage Post
The Heart Of Belonging: Love In Every Season
By Wendy Derhak, founder of The Pet Cottage
When Poppy and Auggie, two beautiful Cocker Spaniels, came to The Pet Cottage after their mom passed away, we hoped they might stay together forever. While searching for the best Forever Guardians for each of them, we met a family of Cocker Spaniel lovers who were eager to add another to their home.
In July, Auggie joined their family and is now living his best life— playing soccer in the yard, enjoying the company of his new Cocker companion, Freckles, and soaking up attention from the grandchildren.
who ensure they are safe, happy and loved every day. Oct. 4 – Gratitude Luncheon
And Open House
We’d love to share more stories like these with you in person. Join us Saturday, Oct. 4 from 12 to 2:30 p.m. at The Pet Cottage Sanctuary in Jupiter Farms for our Gratitude Luncheon and Open House potluck. Bring your favorite dish to share and meet Forever Guardians, volunteers, and some of our beloved residents—including Poppy.
Please RSVP to thepetcottage@hotmail.com so we know how many wonderful friends to expect. It’s our way of saying thank you to everyone who makes this work possible, and a chance for new friends to see what love in action looks like.
Save The Date – Nov. 15 – Community Celebration And Silent Auction
• Keep your generosity in check. If you have grown children who need financial help, or grandchildren heading to college someday, you’d no doubt like to do what you can to assist them. However, the hard truth is that they have more time than you to find workable financial solutions, whereas if you deplete your funds through your generosity, you could put yourself in a precarious position. So, be as giving as you can afford—but try not to go beyond that. By preserving your financial independence, you’ll end up benefiting your family as well.
Retirement is ideally an enjoyable time in your life, especially if you feel financially stable. So, take time to check in periodically to keep that stability on track.
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.
Freckles, Auggie and Maverick
Meanwhile, Poppy is happily making her own fun here at the Sanctuary. She’s independent, curious, and full of personality—a complete hooligan in the best way. She loves going for walks, sniffing out every interesting scent, and investigating anything that catches her attention. She gets along well with other dogs, but she’d really love a guardian who can give her plenty of one-onone attention and enjoy her clever, endearing quirks. And at the end of the day, she’s happiest curling up on the couch with her person for a good cuddle.
Stories like Poppy and Auggie’s are why The Pet Cottage exists. We adapt to each pet’s needs, celebrate when they find their Forever Guardians, and continue caring for those who remain with us—whether for a season or for life.
At The Pet Cottage, our mission is simple but lifechanging: we provide lifelong care for pets who have lost their person due to death, disability or deployment. Many of these pets are seniors themselves, often overlooked in shelters. We place them with loving Forever Guardians and cover all veterinary expenses, provide monthly checkins, and offer emergency support. Some pets live at our sanctuary, surrounded by dedicated volunteers and staff
Mark your calendars for our November 15 community celebration—There’s No Place Like Home: A Celebration of Care—honoring Dr. Vinoski and his staff. This special evening will be held at Blue Ridge Farms at sunset and will feature happy hour appetizers, community connection and a silent auction.
Ticket information will be available soon. If you have items, services, or experiences to donate for the silent auction, please let us know—every contribution helps us keep our Forever Promise to the pets in our care.
Whether you join us for the potluck, attend the November celebration, volunteer, or simply share Poppy’s story, you’re
helping us create a circle of care—where tails keep wagging, hearts stay open, and every season of life is met with love, dignity, and belonging.
To learn more, visit www.thepetcottage.org or call (561) 818-5025.
Elvis says, “Bring your favorite dish!”
Auggie
Poppy, August 2025
Tax Talk
Dear friends:
The other day I mentioned to a colleague about a potential visit I was planning to Marathon later this year and we both started listing all the wonderful opportunities and resources we have as residents of South Florida. We are fortunate to have so many things to do right in our own backyard. We have year-round great weather and a unique variety of attractions and resources. For instance, the Florida Keys are a nearby treasure, perfect for a quick weekend getaway.
We also have several regional cruise ports, making it easy to hop on a ship for a quick trip to the Bahamas or other islands without the hassle of a flight. And for a truly unforgettable experience, a view of a nighttime rocket launch from Cape Canaveral is an absolutely astounding sight on a clear night.
Enjoy whatever is left for your summer doing what brings you the most pleasure because we are so fortunate to have so much to do and see as residents of Palm Beach County!
Anne M. Gannon, Constitutional Tax Collector, Serving Palm Beach County
Park Here!
As of July 1, expectant mothers are now eligible to apply for a temporary disabled parking permit. Applicants must complete Form 83040, Application for Expectant Mother Parking Permit at www.pbctax.gov/onlineforms. The form must be completed and signed by the applicant and physician. The permit costs $15 and will be valid for one year from the date of issuance.
Completed applications may be submitted through one of the options below:
• Mail to: Tax Collector, Palm Beach County, P.O. Box 3715, West Palm Beach, FL 33402-3715 – Be sure to
include copy of valid Florida driver license/ID card and payment (money order or check).
• Drop boxes located in all Palm Beach County Tax Collector Offices (8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m.) – Be sure to include copy of valid Florida driver license/ID card and payment (money order or check).
• Make a reservation for in-person service at www.pbctax. gov/reservations.
Faces Of The TCO: Steve Weiss
Title: Chief Excellence Officer
Hometown: Lakeland, Florida
Favorite Activity: Surfing
Favorite Food: Seafood or steak
One of the key areas of our office that you may not know about is our Excellence Department. Led by Chief Excellence Officer Steve Weiss, this team has several important functions that impact our day-to-day operations, which you may encounter as a client.
Steve’s team is responsible for corrections to the tax roll, which is provided to us by the Property Appraiser’s Office. If a home ownership changes, or someone qualifies for an additional exemption, Steve’s team will handle that correction. They also handle transactions related to delinquent property taxes, including tax certificates and tax deeds.
“I’m super proud of my team because of their commitment to public service,” says Steve, who has been with our organization for five years. “They take great pride in their work with helping clients with any property tax-related issue they may be facing.” However, Steve notes, “The reason we are called Excellence is because we assist all departments in the organization with process improvement projects.”
When Steve is not leading his team of 11 analysts, he enjoys spending time with his two daughters, ages 19 and 16. He also loves spending time on and in the water surfing, fishing, swimming and free dive spear fishing.
Road Test Process Gets An Upgrade
Great news for anyone preparing for their road test with our office! We have been piloting a new system to make the process faster and more efficient for everyone and the results are impressive.
Previously, the road test examiners would take shifts during the day, which contributed to delays whenever a change of examiner took place. To streamline this process, we now have a designated road test examiner assigned each day. This dedicated person focuses solely on conducting tests, ensuring a streamlined experience for you.
This change has had a significant impact as there has been a 37% increase in our daily road test capacity since launching this new process at our North County and Central service centers. We plan to implement this at other service centers soon. This means shorter wait times, more available reservations, and a quicker path to getting a license. To schedule a road test or any service with our office, visit pbctax. gov/reservations.
We are committed to providing exceptional service and are constantly evaluating how we can improve, and this is another example of our commitment to exceptional service.
