ArtFest By The Sea At Juno Beach, Presented By Palm
Celebrates 35th Anniversary With A Focus On Sustainability And Coastal Conservation
The 35th anniversary of ArtFest by the Sea at Juno Beach, presented by Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center, was a resounding success, drawing tens of thousands of art lovers, community members, and environmental advocates for a weekend of creativity and conservation along the stunning coastline.
The festival’s commitment to sustainability was on full display this year, with initiatives like the Recycle Right
Beach Gardens Medical Center
program educating attendees on responsible waste disposal and efforts to protect marine life through conservation exhibits at Loggerhead Marinelife Center. These efforts reinforce ArtFest by the Sea’s role in not only celebrating art but also preserving the natural beauty that makes the area so unique.
“Reaching 35 years is a testament to the incredible artists, dedicated volunteers, and the passionate community that make this event possible,” said Brian Elkins, Director of Events at the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce. “ArtFest is more than just an art festival—it reflects the high quality of
BallenIsles Charities Foundation Awards Record
$1,475,000
In Grants To 61 Local Organizations’ Programs
The BallenIsles Charities Foundation, made up of members and residents of BallenIsles Country Club, recently announced that 61 not-for-profit and civic organizations’ programs serving the local Palm Beach County community are recipients of financial grants totaling a record $1,475,000. Since the Foundation’s inception in 2011, more than $9.7 million has been awarded to benefit local Palm Beach County community organizations.
The funds raised are a credit to the generosity of BallenIsles residents, local businesses and corporate sponsors, contributions from volunteers, as well as BallenIsles club management and the community association management. Each of the organizations selected to receive a financial grant were carefully vetted through the application and review process. Organizations receiving grants for programs, are in the following
categories: Civic, Health and Human Services, Environmental, and Educational.
“As president of the BallenIsles Charities Foundation, it fills me with immense pride and joy to announce the awarding of $1,475,000 in grants to 61 exceptional nonprofit organizations within our Palm Beach County community. This remarkable
BallenIsles Charities Foundation on page 2
Fashion With A Purpose: 1000 NORTH Hosts Sold-Out Luncheon Benefiting Place Of Hope
On Thursday, Feb. 6, 1000 NORTH and Sherrye Sammons Fenton hosted a “For the Love of Fashion” luncheon benefiting Place of Hope. Guests enjoyed a luxurious, three-course prix fixe lunch and a runway show with clothing from the modern fashion brand STAUD. Sponsored by LifeWave, the event featured live music by the talented saxophonist Eirinn Abu and a trunk show showcasing jewelry pieces from Emily & Ashley.
Dr. Nicholas Perricone, a world-renowned dermatologist, author and philanthropist, attended the luncheon. Founder of Perricone MD, Dr. Perricone is recognized for his innovative, holistic skin care and wellness system.
Proceeds from the event benefited Place of Hope, a nonprofit dedicated to
ArtFest By The Sea At Juno Beach on page 5
2024-2025 BallenIsles Charities Foundation Board of Directors: Linda Greenhouse, Diane Brill, Allen Hirsch, Carl Ekstein, Jody Passov, Mark Freeman, Ken Horner, Chere Goldstein
Barbara Gilbert, Lisa LaFrance
Hillary Laros, Dr. Nicolas Perricone, Sherrye Sammons Fenton, Gina Franano
Music And Art Unite
Jason Newsted & Friends Perform At Lighthouse ArtCenter
The Lighthouse ArtCenter (LAC) in Tequesta recently hosted two sold-out benefit concerts featuring six-time Grammy Award winner Jason Newsted & Friends on February 14 and 15. These exclusive performances were set against the backdrop of the “Tyler K. Smith: Brainz ‘N Boltz” exhibition, creating a unique fusion of live music and visual art.
Tyler K. Smith’s Brainz ‘N Boltz exhibition, which ran from January 16 to February 22, showcased his imaginative “Bombotz” universe—a collection of futuristic robots and characters brought to life through sculptures, drawings, and ceramics. Smith’s work draws inspiration from his upbringing on a mechanized farm and his diverse career in art, theater, television, and film, resulting in dynamic creations that blend mechanical elements with human-like anatomy.
The concerts provided attendees with an immersive experience, as Newsted’s music resonated amidst Smith’s artwork, enhancing the sensory impact of both art forms. Proceeds from the concerts were donated to the Lighthouse ArtCenter, supporting its mission to inspire, engage, and connect all walks of life through the universal language of art.
Expressing her gratitude, LAC Executive Director Jeni Licata remarked, “We are deeply thankful to Jason
Commissioner’s Update
Free Tax Services Offered To Palm Beach County Residents
By Mayor Maria G. Marino
It’s that time of year when the United Way of Palm Beach County teams up with IRS-certified Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) volunteers for a tax-free filing campaign. This initiative offers free, confidential, and secure tax preparation and e-filing for qualified taxpayers. Taxes
Filed Free provides two easy and stress-free ways to file at no cost: taxpayers can file online at www.MyFreeTaxes.com anytime and anywhere, or they can meet with an IRS-certified volunteer in person at one of 16 locations throughout the county. Volunteers are available to assist in English, Spanish, Creole and sign language, with no appointment required.
BallenIsles Charities Foundation from page 1
achievement is a true testament to the generosity and spirit of our BallenIsles members and residents. Together, we are making a meaningful difference in the lives of those around us, and I am thrilled to see our collective efforts uplift our local community,” said BallenIsles Charities Foundation President Mark Freeman.
In addition to monetary donations, through BallenIsles Community Services, BallenIsles’ residents volunteer at local organizations – from feeding the hungry, building homes with Habitat for Humanity and donating household goods and medical supplies, to wrapping presents for children during the holiday season.
For more information on The BallenIsles Charities Foundation, visit www.BallenIslesCharitiesFoundation. org. For more information on BallenIsles Country Club, visit www.BallenIsles.org.
To make it easier to prepare your return please bring the following items to the VITA sites:
• Last year’s Federal Income Tax Return (2024 income tax returns)
• Social Security Cards for you, your spouse (if married), and all dependents listed on the return
• Correct birth dates for all names listed on the return
• All W-2s for 2024, including spouses
• Form 1098 – Mortgage interest, property taxes
• Form 1099 – DIV, G, INT, MISC, NEC, K, Q, R, RRB, SSA for 2024
• Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of your refund (This is optional, but it gets your cash to you fast)
• A Photo ID card (driver’s license, etc.), including spouse’s, if married and filing joint return
Newsted for his generosity and support. His performances not only enriched our Brainz ‘N Boltz exhibition but also significantly contributed to our mission of making art accessible to everyone.”
Lighthouse ArtCenter serves as a cultural hub in northern Palm Beach County, offering high-quality visual arts programming that inspires creativity, supports artists, and connects diverse audiences. For information on upcoming exhibitions, events, and classes, visit lighthousearts.org.
• For Dependent Care Credit, bring care provider’s name, address, SSN/EIN, and amount you paid
• For Education Credit, bring 1098T or 1098E and amount paid for qualified expenses
• Form 1095-A, Health Insurance Marketplace Statement
If married and filing a joint return, both spouses must come to the VITA site.
VITA volunteers will NOT prepare Schedule D (Complex), Schedule E, Employee Business Expenses, Moving Expenses and Nondeductible IRA.
This Free Tax Assistance is offered from Thursday, January 22 to Tuesday, April 15. Don’t miss this deadline!
To find a VITA site location near you, call 211 or visit www.TaxesFiledFree.org.
Jamie Bond, Thomas Burke, Gina Franano, Sherrye Sammons Fenton
Julie Andron, Mike McGann, Nina Pucillo
Danielle Smith, Colette Henderson, Marcie Kipper
Jill Weitzman, Lynn Weitzman, Allison Weitzman
Danielle Tortorello, Jennifer Stano
Rachel Rieber, Alicia Kaufman
Pam Cappucio, Lana Arnold, Bebe Landsman
Pamela Cherry Nicole Silvester, Susan Youngs, Michelle Silvester, Carla Christensen
Photos by Tracey Benson Photography
ArtFest By The Sea At Juno Beach from page 1
life in Palm Beach North, where art, community, and environmental stewardship come together to create something truly special.”
As ArtFest, coproduced by the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce and Howard Alan Events, looks ahead to the future, its dedication to the arts, community, and environmental responsibility will continue to shape the event, ensuring it remains a cherished tradition for years to come.
Eric Emerson
Chris Letourneau
Rob Sommer, Andrew Lofholm, Holly Mlodzinski, Lisa Cook, Amanda Blanchard
Molly Leach
Jeff Beige
Melissa Dacunha, Davin Lau, Amanda Blanchard
Palm Beach’s New Waterfront Theater And Cultural Arts Center Renamed Glazer Hall
Formerly The Innovate, the nonprofit venue will revitalize the historic Royal Poinciana Playhouse into a vibrant, community-focused theater.
Longtime Palm Beach residents Jill and Avie Glazer have recognized a remarkable opportunity to transform the vacant, long-neglected and historic Royal Poinciana Playhouse into a vibrant, state-of-the-art cultural center in the heart of Palm Beach. Originally named The Innovate, the nonprofit waterfront performing arts center will now be renamed Glazer Hall in honor of the Glazers’ extraordinary vision, dedication and financial commitment in excess of $15 million.
Set to debut in the 2025-2026 season, Glazer Hall stands as a testament to the family’s unwavering commitment to restoring and revitalizing this architectural gem and enriching Palm Beach’s cultural landscape. Spanning 27,000 square feet and estimated to cost more than $30 million, the nonprofit theater, cultural center and event space will serve as a premier destination for the performing arts and a cornerstone of Palm Beach’s vibrant cultural community.
The Glazer family, Palm Beach residents since 2002, share a deep passion for philanthropy, with extensive support of educational, medical, and cultural organizations across the U.S.
“Glazer Hall will be Palm Beach’s first new nonprofit arts organization in more than 60 years,” said Jill Glazer. “We are thrilled to support this special place that will bring individuals of all ages together through dynamic performances, inspiring programs, vibrant cultural events and more, including dance, film, music and fascinating lectures and conversations.”
“The Royal Poinciana Playhouse has languished in the dark for far too long. We felt it was time to turn on the lights and bring this jewel box back to life,” said Avie Glazer. “Glazer Hall will be a thriving cultural hub – fostering community, inspiring innovation, and serving as a force for social good through the power of the performing arts.”
As co-founders and cochairs of Glazer Hall, Jill and Avie Glazer have been guided by a clear vision: to restore this historic Palm Beach landmark and transform it into a vibrant hub for the arts. Their dedication to this cherished institution reflects their deep commitment to preserving Palm Beach’s cultural heritage and creating a space where the community can come together to experience the power of the performing arts.
“The mayor and town council unanimously supported renaming the new arts venue Glazer Hall to recognize longtime town residents Jill and Avie Glazer,” said Town of Palm Beach Council President Bobbie Lindsay. “The Glazers’ unwavering support and dedication to ensure a first-class arts venue operates at the former playhouse site will benefit us all.”
“Opening Glazer Hall amplifies Palm Beach’s ability to connect with a variety of arts experiences,” said Wendy and Howard Cox. “We are looking forward to enjoying these multifaceted presentations in a unique setting.”
Glazer Hall will be open year-round as an intimate, inclusive and versatile space for the community. The nonprofit performing arts center will pay homage to the former Royal Poinciana Playhouse by retaining some of John Volk’s historic architectural details, while also boasting a 400-seat theater with retractable seating, a state-of-the-art audiovisual system, a wall of windows overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway and exclusive private spaces.
“The renaming of the new performing arts center at the playhouse to Glazer Hall is an appropriate recognition of the Glazer family’s commitment to restoring this performing arts venue,” said Michael Pucillo, chairman and CEO of the Palm Beach Civic Association. “Palm Beach has been without a performing arts venue on the island for a very long time, and the Glazers’ commitment to restoring and bringing back this venue will greatly benefit our community. I believe Glazer Hall will be an important addition to our community that Palm Beachers will enjoy for decades to come.”
“The Glazers’ commitment to the playhouse project extends beyond their generosity; it reflects their vision for what this venue can represent for Palm Beach – a place to gather, celebrate and be inspired,” said Samantha David, president of WS Development. “Together, Jill and Avie are creating a space that will enrich Palm Beach’s arts and culture while bringing the community together for generations to come. We remain exceptionally grateful for their contribution and commitment to such an enormous endeavor.”
For more information on Glazer Hall and how to support its mission, please contact Victoria Peyton at contact@ glazerhall.org, call (561) 576-7860, or visit glazerhall.org. Jill and Avie Glazer have been deeply involved in philanthropy and education for decades. Avie, cochairman of Manchester United and owner of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, actively supports causes in education and the arts. Together, they have championed organizations such as the Glazer Children’s Museum and Tulane University’s Glazer Family Club. Avie also serves on the board of trustees at Washington University in St. Louis. Jill, a Tulane graduate and former trustee and current emeritus member of the Board of Tulane, has led and supported initiatives at Tulane University, Palm Beach Day Academy, the Cowen Institute and Hillel Community Day School. She has been recognized with the Tulane Alumni Volunteer Award and the Hillel School Volunteer Award. For nearly 25 years, the Glazers have called Palm Beach home, dedicating their time and resources to enriching their communities.
courtesy of Glazer Hall
Jill and Avie Glazer
Photo
Financial Focus®
Time For Some Financial Spring Cleaning
By Sally Sima Stahl, Edward Jones
Spring is here – which means it’s once again time to wash the windows, organize your cabinets and steam your carpets. This year, in addition to tidying up around your house, why not also consider some financial spring cleaning?
Here are some suggestions to consider:
• “De-clutter” your investment portfolio. When you embark on your home cleaning mission, you might notice that you have redundancies – three blenders, two vacuum cleaners, and so on. Similarly, you might find duplications in your investment portfolio, perhaps in the form of multiple, near-identical stocks or mutual funds. If so, then it might be worthwhile to consider selling some of these investments and using the proceeds to boost your portfolio in other areas in which you may be lacking.
• Cut back on “overgrown” investments. Now that winter is over and you’re venturing outside more, you may notice
some overgrown shrubbery or some tree branches that need pruning. And while it may sound counterintuitive, you might also have some investments that have grown too big for your needs. For example, you might own some growth-oriented investments whose value has increased so much that they now take up a larger percentage of your portfolio – and carry a higher degree of risk – than you originally intended. If that’s the case, you might be better off by selling some of these investments and purchasing others to help bring your investment mix back to its desired alignment.
• Dust off your investment strategy. With more sunlight now pouring in your house, you might notice that the corners of your walls and ceiling may need a good dusting. And as you continually work to strengthen your financial foundation, you may need to dust off your investment strategy, especially if you’ve recently experienced changes in your life, such as a marriage, addition of children, new job, and so on. And as you move closer to retirement, you may also need to adjust your strategy in some ways. For one thing, you might want to adopt a more conservative investment approach in the years immediately preceding your retirement, though you’ll still need to have some growth potential in your portfolio to help keep you ahead of inflation.
• Protect yourself from financial dangers. As you go about your household spring cleaning, you may find actual physical dangers that need to be removed or stored more safely, such as sharp objects or broken tools. And as you navigate daily life, you may also find threats to your financial safety – the need
for an expensive home improvement, or a major car repair or an unexpectedly large medical bill. If you don’t have the money available to pay these expenses, you might be forced to dip into your retirement accounts or run up your credit card or take out a high-rate loan. To protect yourself from having to make these moves, you may want to maintain an emergency fund containing several months’ worth of living expenses, with the money kept in a liquid account, separate from those you use for your daily living expenses.
Of course, some of these moves can take some time –but by getting started on them soon, you can help put your financial house in better shape by the time the next spring cleaning rolls around.
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.
The Salty Zebra Bistro: Where European Tradition Meets Florida’s Fresh Ingredients
Adding a fresh dimension to Tequesta’s evolving culinary landscape, The Salty Zebra Bistro brings something delightfully different to the table. The restaurant offers a reimagined approach to bistro classics that honors tradition while playfully pushing boundaries, complementing the area’s existing dining options with its own distinctive character.
The creative force behind this exceptional establishment is Executive Chef and partner David Chapman, whose impressive pedigree includes heading the kitchen at Daisies, a Michelin-recognized pasta destination in Chicago, and serving as executive chef at Green Zebra (recipient of a Michelin Green Star for sustainability). His diverse background informs every aspect of The Salty Zebra’s menu, where European techniques merge seamlessly with locally sourced ingredients.
“We wanted to create something different for the area,” explains Seamus O’Brien, who co-owns the restaurant with wife Stephanie and Chef David. “A place that respects culinary traditions but isn’t afraid to have some fun with them.”
That philosophy manifests brilliantly in dishes like their Burgundy escargot, which adheres to classical preparation with a Pernod garlic-parsley butter, and an 18-hour bone beef broth French onion soup that would make Parisian bistro chefs nod in approval. Yet the menu also reveals Chapman’s innovative spirit in dishes like the dry-aged honey-glazed duck breast and their interpretation of steak frites –a perfectly grilled picanha steak served with triple-cooked parmesan potato wedges and cognac-bone marrow au poivre sauce.
Rotating specials feature whatever is freshest from local waters, from grilled swordfish to their tuna tartare, a playful riff on steak tartare complete with capers, cornichon, and quail egg.
Vegetarians will find The Salty Zebra particularly accommodating, reflecting Chapman’s passion for plant-based cuisine honed during his years at Green Zebra. “Creating thoughtful vegetarian dishes is about celebrating vegetables rather than just removing meat,” Chapman explains. This philosophy is evident in standout dishes like local lion’s mane mushrooms with Malaysian curry and coconut squash velouté. “Our vegetarian dishes are designed to be stars on the menu, not afterthoughts.”
Even desserts receive the same attention to detail, with options like coconut rice pudding with caramelized local fruit, frosted pistachios, and passionfruit sorbet. The Valrhona chocolate tart finished with local banana and cassis sorbet exemplifies their commitment to combining world-class ingredients with local touches.
feel equally comfortable celebrating special occasions or enjoying a casual weeknight dinner. A carefully curated wine list features unique selections from both Old and New World producers, many unavailable elsewhere in the area.
Value-conscious diners will appreciate the daily four-course prix fixe menu for $45, available from 5-6 PM, alongside happy hour specials. The restaurant has also introduced themed evenings, including “Bubbles and Pearls” Tuesdays, where Chef David personally shucks oysters in the lounge – offering a halfdozen of three varieties with a flight of bubbles for $30, plus $2 individual oysters all night.
Wine enthusiasts should note the upcoming collaboration with locally-owned Wine Proxy for a special five-course wine dinner on April 7th, with limited seating available.
The Salty Zebra isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel, but rather to remind us why we fell in love with the bistro concept in the first place – honest, skillfully prepared food served in a warm, welcoming environment. That they’ve managed to do so while adding their own distinctive flourishes makes them not just a welcome addition to Tequesta’s dining scene, but an essential one.
The bistro’s commitment to quality is evident in every aspect of the operation. All pastas are made fresh daily in-house, including a standout lentil ravioli served with house-made Italian sausage, broccolini, and Marcelli Formaggi pecorino, finished with 12-year balsamic vinegar. The seafood program shines in dishes like their local red snapper with butter poached Key West pink shrimp, sweet corn bisque, and andouille – a clever Florida take on a traditional seafood boil.
The Salty Zebra’s appeal extends beyond its food. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between sophisticated and relaxed – a convivial bistro environment where diners
Northern Notes
Raccoons – Misunderstood Masked Marauders
By Katie Roundtree, Director of Finance and Administration
Northern Palm Beach County Improvement District
Trash pandas, bandits, thieves—these are all nicknames for northern raccoons. Raccoons, common throughout Florida, are a testament to the adaptability of wildlife. They can thrive in both urban and rural environments, even as their natural habitats shrink. A large part of their success is due to their adaptability to new challenges and opportunities, whether that’s nesting in cozy chimneys, invading chicken coops, or breaking into trash bins, their reputation as sneaky thieves who prefer to steal trash to survive is a testament to their intelligence and resourcefulness.
Raccoons are about the size of a small dog and weigh around 1 to 25 pounds when fully grown. They are most notable for their black eye masks and ringed tails. Raccoons also have flat feet, with their hind legs longer than their front legs, giving them a hunched appearance. Their feet have five moveable toes, allowing them to grab and handle food. Both a raccoon’s front and rear paws resemble a human hand, featuring five slender, fingerlike toes that enable them to easily manipulate food and objects. Raccoons have extremely sensitive front paws with specialized hairs, allowing them to easily locate and identify objects by touching them. This sensitivity increases when their paws are wet. While it appears that raccoons “wash” their food by dunking it in water, they are actually using this behavior to enhance their sense of touch. In fact, their scientific name, Procyon lotor , literally means “washing dog.” When raccoons dunk their food in the water and, seemingly, wash it, they are really just making their paws more sensitive. Water increases the tactile nerve responsiveness of their paws, allowing them to learn more about what they are holding and eating. The highly developed nerves in their forepaw pads and their manipulative abilities help them to identify items. Their forepaws are almost like a second set of eyes. They will often rub and roll objects in their hands or will even rub their hands together when they are not holding anything.
Raccoons are also extremely intelligent and good at solving complex problems. Some measures of intelligence have placed raccoons above cats but below primates in their ability to distinguish between objects. They have exceptional memories and can remember the solution to tasks for up to three years without reinforcement.
Raccoons will eat almost anything. Raccoons are not fussy about their choice of food. Although classified as a carnivore, the raccoon eats as much, if not more, plant matter as animal matter during the year. When ripe fruits, acorns, and seeds are available, raccoons feed heavily on them. At other times and places, they will feed on bird and turtle eggs, insects, crayfish and crabs, frogs, fish and small mammals. They’ll eat dead animals that they encounter, raid bird feeders for seed and pet food bowls for kibble and check out garbage cans that aren’t secured.
Raccoons are not fussy about their living quarters either. Under normal conditions, they usually select a den in a hollow tree limb instead of the trunk. Dens in trees may be anywhere from ground level to 60 feet above ground. However, in urban areas, raccoons demonstrate their adaptability by choosing a wide variety of “cavities,” including rock and debris piles, attics, crawl spaces beneath homes, decks, sheds, culverts, sewer drains and the burrows of other animals. This adaptability is a testament to their resilience and survival skills in the face of changing environments.
Like all living creatures, raccoons play a critical role in their ecosystems. Their role can be similar to that of a gardener or pest control, and they’re often referred to as a natural “cleanup crew.” The raccoon diet, a mix of plants, invertebrates and small mammals, serves a unique purpose in the ecosystem. When they consume berries and nuts, raccoons act as natural gardeners, distributing seeds to promote the growth of new plants and trees. Their digging behavior contributes to soil turnover, promoting decomposition and plant renewal.
Raccoons help control populations of parasitic species like lizards, frogs, toads and rats. When these creatures grow abundant, raccoon populations rise to curb the population growth. Raccoons also help protect bees by feeding on wasps, one of the bee’s main predators.
Perhaps their most important role in the ecosystem is consuming carrion (or dead animal carcasses), which helps keep the ecosystem clean. In addition to benefiting ecosystems, raccoons also help keep urban areas clean by consuming dead animals on our streets.
While raccoons can carry diseases such as rabies and roundworm, good hygiene and not handling raccoons can limit the spread. The best advice is to leave them alone, give them their space, wash your hands after gardening, and secure trash cans or other tantalizing targets. If you suspect a raccoon is sick or behaving unusually, it’s best to contact local wildlife authorities for assistance.
NPDES tip: Your neighborhood drainage system is not a garbage disposal – don’t treat it like one. Encourage residents to take responsibility and to not dump chemicals, fertilizer, paint, oil, etc., in inlets or pipes. Discourage sweeping of lawn clippings and dirt into street drains and disposing of lawn clippings and other debris (wood, concrete blocks, Christmas trees, etc.) directly into retention lakes. Keep drainage facilities clear of vegetation, trash, improperly and illegally discarded appliances, shopping carts, tires, cars, garbage bags, etc.
The Pet Cottage Post
Bonded Pairs: Two Hearts, One Home
play together, nap together and look out for one another, making them easier to integrate into a new home than many expect.
thrive—even after Simba developed diabetes. Thanks to TPC’s lifelong medical support, they remain healthy, happy, and together.
At The Pet Cottage (TPC), many of the pets who come to us arrive in bonded pairs—siblings or lifelong companions who have spent every moment together. When they lose their human, they rely on each other for comfort and security. Separating them can cause profound distress, anxiety, and depression, making their transition even more heartbreaking.
That’s why we are dedicated to keeping bonded pairs together. Through our Lifelong Guardianship Program, we ensure that these pets remain by each other’s side, finding a new home where they can continue their journey together.
The Comfort Of Companionship
Just like people, animals form deep emotional bonds. Whether they’re littermates, lifelong housemates, or best friends who found each other later in life, their connection provides stability, confidence and a sense of security— especially during times of upheaval.
When bonded pairs are separated, they often experience:
• Depression and withdrawal—losing interest in food, play, or interaction.
• Increased anxiety—pacing, whining, or destructive behavior as they search for their missing companion.
• Health issues—stress-related illnesses or weakened immune systems due to emotional distress.
Keeping them together eases their transition into a new home, helping them feel safe and secure as they adjust to their new environment.
The Reward Of Welcoming A Bonded Pair
For Guardians, welcoming a bonded pair into their home means twice the love, twice the joy! These pets bring an instant sense of family, often providing companionship and entertainment for each other. They
Many bonded pairs are already well-adjusted, socialized and trained, making the experience smoother for their new families. Plus, there’s something truly special about witnessing the deep unspoken connection between two animals who have spent a lifetime together.
Forever Homes For Lifelong Friends
Some of our most heartwarming success stories come from bonded pairs finding their perfect Forever Guardians.
Sofia and Skylar , a bonded brother-and-sister Maltipoo duo, lost their mom suddenly in 2023. Alone and terrified, they were rescued by The Pet Cottage and placed with Ellen and Bryan Daly, where they have since thrived. Now, they spend their days happily by each other’s side, completely adjusted and loved in their new home with their dog companion, Betty.
For Shamus and Fiona, two senior dogs left behind after their owner’s passing, staying together made all the difference. They found comfort and stability in their Forever Guardian family, allowing them to continue their golden years with the love and security they deserve.
For Smokey and Simba, bonded brother cats, staying together meant everything. After their owner suffered a severe injury, The Pet Cottage ensured they were placed with a loving Forever Guardian, where they continue to
How You Can Help
By becoming a Lifelong Guardian for a bonded pair, you’re not just giving them a home—you’re preserving a relationship that means everything to them. The Pet Cottage ensures that no Guardian has to take on this commitment alone, covering veterinary care and offering ongoing support.
If you’re ready to change two lives forever, consider welcoming a bonded pair into your heart and home. Your support makes these matches possible. Donate today and help us keep best friends together, where they belong!
The Pet Cottage
Wendy Derhak Founder/ Executive Director
To schedule a tour or for more information contact us at (561) 818-5025. Learn more at thepetcottage.org.
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
Shamus
Sofia and Ellen
Skylar and Sofia
Simba and Smokey
Jupiter Senior Softball News
Veteran softball player, Mike Manasia, 92, has been enshrined as the Jupiter Senior Softball Association’s 2024 Hall of Fame inductee.
A large crowd of softball players and members of Mike’s family attended the February 28 enshrinement ceremony at Jupiter Community Park.
The Hall of Fame (HOF) was established 2020 to honor JSSA members who have made an extraordinary impact on the softball organization. And Manasia’s selection is a testament to his impact he has had on the senior softball program and his teammates.
At his enshrinement, Vic Troiano presented Manasia his framed Hall of Fame citation which lauds his many accomplishments, including the following:
“For 25 years Mike has been a fierce on-field competitor, and his famous phrase, ‘I can’t do it alone guys’ has become legendary throughout the organization. His remarkable longevity and sense of principle remain a model to be admired by everyone.”
In expressing his gratitude Manasia, who was a pitcher, said it was a great honor to be recognized by his friends and teammates and was not something he expected. “It was ‘a
ADHD Looks Different In Girls
By Jim Forgan, Ph.D., Licensed School Psychologist
Savannah explained,
“My 13-year-old daughter’s a wreck at home. She is disorganized, argumentative and has trouble accomplishing day- to-day tasks on her own and following a routine. However, at school and sports she is very driven and motivated, is very personable, and has strong verbal skills. Help me understand her!” My school neuropsychological testing revealed Savannah’s daughter had ADHD. ADHD looks different in girls as compared to boys. Three key differences are that ADHD in girls is often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed because they are more likely to have inattention symptoms rather than hyperactivity. In elementary years boys are diagnosed at a 4 boys to 1 girl ratio but by adulthood, that evens out to a 1:1 ratio as more girls self-refer for testing. Second, girls show more internalized symptoms like anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem, which can be mistaken for other conditions. Third, girls are really good at masking or hiding their symptoms which makes ADHD harder to recognize. Savannah’s daughter had significant emotional dysregulation which came out in her mood swings. She experienced frequent emotional ups and downs and struggled with frustration which made her irritable and sensitive. This led to arguments if things were not going her way. My testing also revealed she had difficulty with friendships. Her emotional dysregulation struggles affected her ability to maintain stable friendships. She had teammates but not one really close friend.
Early recognition and appropriate support can help girls learn to manage these challenges effectively. Consider getting yourself or your child tested if you are concerned about ADHD or struggle with difficulty focusing, forgetfulness, zoning out, trouble with organizing, impulsive decision making, or emotional dysregulation. We test individuals ages 6 through 25 for ADHD. A great self-help resource is Raising Girls with ADHD by Mary Anne Richey. We also test students from age 2 through college for dyslexia, anxiety, depression autism, and more. Call us at (561) 625-4125 to discuss your child or learn more at www.JimForgan.com.
Mike Manasia, right, with the framed Hall of Fame citation presented by Vic Troiano
and friends who
included, left to right, Frank Truskaloski, Annette Fongione, Trissie Sloan, Jane Memmelo, Michael Manasia, Marianne Manasia, Lauren Manasia and Dianne Maher.
great gift.’” His brass nameplate as the 2024 inductee was added to the Hall of Fame plaque on display at the park.
When he retired from playing in December 2023, Manasia was 91 and the oldest active player in the Jupiter Senior Softball program. A native of New York, and Army veteran of the Korean War, Manasia said he knew it was time to hang up his cleats when his eyes began to deteriorate.
Mike’s son Michael, and daughters Diane Maher and Annette Fongione were among family members and friends present for his HOF induction. Others were son-in-law Frank Truskaloski, daughter-in-law Marianne Manasia, mother-in-
Jane Memmelo, grand-daughter
and Mike’s friend Trissie
The Jupiter Senior Softball Association has been a staple in the community since it began playing games at Jupiter Community Park in 1999.The slow-pitch softball program is open to persons 55 and older and there is no upper age limit. Games are every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings, beginning with batting practice at 8:30 a.m.
Registration can be made online at www.leaguelineu. com/jssa or for more information contact Gary Newman at (917) 623-0791.
Family
attended Mike Manasia’s Hall of Fame enshrinement
law
Lauren Manasia
Sloan.
Palm Beach Dramaworks Announces 2025/26 Season
The Crucible, Driving Miss Daisy, The Mountaintop, The Seafarer, And The World Premiere Of Vineland Place
Opening Night Oct. 24
A diverse and impressive array of four acclaimed plays and one world premiere, each of which, in its own way, speaks with an immediacy to today’s audiences, make up Palm Beach Dramaworks’ (PBD) 2025/26 season, Producing Artistic Director William Hayes announced recently.
Two of those plays, Katori Hall’s Olivier Awardwinning The Mountaintop , which opens PBD’s 26th season on Oct. 24, and Arthur Miller’s Tony Awardwinning The Crucible , beginning March 27, are inspired by moments in American history that resonate deeply but couldn’t be more different. The Mountaintop is a twocharacter fantasia on Martin Luther King’s last night on earth. The Crucible , of course, is inspired by the Salem witch trials and will feature one of the largest casts in PBD history. The remainder of the schedule is made up of Conor McPherson’s much-lauded The Seafarer , opening Dec. 12, which is set on Christmas Eve and is so unsentimental and offbeat that it’s the ideal holiday play for PBD; Alfred Uhry’s beloved, Pulitzer Prizewinning Driving Miss Daisy , beginning Feb. 6, 2026 which reflects on aging and overcoming prejudice; and the world premiere, on May 15, 2026 of Steven Dietz’s Vineland Place , an ingenious mystery that was featured in the company’s 2025 Perlberg Festival of New Plays. Subscriptions go on sale in April.
2025/26 Season
The Mountaintop By Katori Hall
Oct. 24 to Nov. 9, 2025
It’s April 3, 1968. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., having just delivered one of his most memorable speeches,
returns to the Lorraine Motel and encounters Camae, a beautiful, mysterious maid. She shares some upsetting news that compels him to confront his life and legacy – “warts and all,” as Hall has said. This spellbinding, inspired fantasia on the great civil rights leader’s last night on earth won the 2010 Olivier Award for Best New Play.
The Seafarer
By Conor McPherson
Dec. 12 to 28, 2025
It’s a devil of a homecoming when Sharky Harkin returns to Dublin on Christmas Eve to look after his belligerent, alcoholic brother Richard, who’s recently gone blind. Two of their old boozy friends join them for an evening of drinking and poker, and one of them brings along a newcomer, the portentous Mr. Lockhart, who compels Sharky to confront his past. This suspenseful, dark, and humorous fable is a powerful and ultimately moving tale about second chances and redemption.
Driving Miss Daisy
By Alfred Uhry
Feb. 6 to 22, 2026
This beloved, heartfelt, Pulitzer Prize-winning play is the story of an unlikely, life-changing friendship between Daisy Werthan, a 72-year-old Jewish widow, and Hoke Coleburn, a Black chauffeur hired by her son Boolie. Set in Georgia, the play unfolds over a 25-year period, beginning in 1948. Daisy is initially hostile to Hoke, but despite seemingly insurmountable differences, their relationship blossoms into one of mutual respect and affection.
The Crucible
By Arthur Miller
March 27 to April 12, 2026
A masterful, riveting exploration of the 1692 Salem witch trials, this timeless and timely Tony Award-winning play is also an allegory for McCarthyism and the House Un-American Activities Committee’s modern-day witch hunts. Convinced that witches are living among them, Salem is gripped by mass hysteria, paranoia, fear, and retribution, with neighbors turning on and turning in neighbors, and religious fervor turning a blind eye to justice. Miller considered The Crucible his finest play.
Vineland Place (World Premiere)
By Steven Dietz
May 15 to 31, 2026
For young writer Henry Sanders, it seemed like the perfect job: finishing the long-awaited final book of the novelist who was his hero. Hired by the novelist’s widow, Henry finds himself instead in a rapidly developing mystery. Vineland Place is an intimate thriller, filled with dangerous surprises to the final pages.
Palm Beach Dramaworks is a professional, nonprofit theatre company founded in 2000 and located in the heart of downtown West Palm Beach. Each season, the awardwinning company produces five shows and offers a wide variety of programs for students at the theatre and in schools. Committed to fostering the future of theatre, PBD has become a hub for playwrights in Florida and around the country to nurture their work through the Perlberg Festival of New Plays. PBD is a member of Theatre Communications Group, Florida Professional Theatres Association, the Cultural Council of Palm Beach County, and NNPN. In 2024, PBD was honored as Non-Profit of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches.
Evening performances are Wednesday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Matinee performances are Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. Post-performance discussions follow Wednesday and Thursday matinees. There are a few differences in the schedule for The Seafarer due to the Christmas holiday. Please check palmbeachdramaworks.org for dates.
Subscription packages are available for four or five plays. Single tickets go on sale on July 22. Individual tickets for all performances are $95, except for opening night of each production ($115) and previews ($75). Student tickets are available for $15 with a valid K-12 or university/college ID, and anyone under 40 pays $40 (no additional fees) with a photo ID. Tickets for educators and active military are half-price with proper ID (other restrictions apply). Group rates are also available. Tickets can be purchased through the box office, in person or by phone at (561) 514-4042, Ext. 2, and online 24 hours a day at palmbeachdramaworks.org.
The Don & Ann Brown Theatre is located in the heart of downtown West Palm Beach, at 201 Clematis Street.
