The 41st Edition Of The ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival Now Accepting Artist Applications
Festival Will Run Feb. 14 To 15, Over Presidents’ Day Weekend 2026
As the ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival presented by Tampa General Hospital, heads into its 41st year, the festival is looking for talented artists to join in the fun February 14 to 15, 2026, in Palm Beach Gardens. ArtiGras is currently running their annual call of artists with applications available on zapplication.org.
Artists are invited to apply for jury selection in 12 fine art categories: ceramics, digital art, drawing and printmaking, fiber (wearable and non-wearable), glass, jewelry, mixed media, painting, photography, sculpture, and wood. ArtiGras awards over $15,000 in prize money, including a first-place winner in each category and one overall Best of Show.
ArtiGras also offers the “Emerging Artist” category for local artists. This program offers selected developing artists mentoring services, professional booth photos and
Community Foundation For Palm Beach And Martin Counties
Awards
$1.4 Million Through 115 Scholarships To Local Students
Scholarships Awarded To Palm Beach And Martin County Students Headed To College This Fall; Community Foundation Has Provided $19.1 Million In Scholarships To Date, Totaling Nearly 3,500 Awards
The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties awarded $1.4 million in college scholarships through its 2025 Scholarship Program. A total of 115 scholarships were granted to students enrolling in college this fall, continuing the Community Foundation’s longstanding commitment to expanding access to higher education.
The Community Foundation, a nonprofit organization, is dedicated to fostering partnerships with donors, nonprofits and community members to address the region’s chronic and emerging civic and social issues. The foundation offers both need- and merit-based scholarships funded through more than
Palm Beach North Chamber Of Commerce
Hosts Annual Golf Classic To Support Local Entrepreneurs
The Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce hosted its 13th Annual Chamber Golf Classic. Proceeds from the tournament benefitted the chamber’s Local Business Resource Center, a key initiative designed to help new entrepreneurs successfully launch and grow their businesses. Through workshops, mentorship, and resource sharing, the center plays
a vital role in advancing the success of small businesses throughout the Palm Beach North region. This event presented by Alvarez & Marsal was hosted
ArtiGras on page 2
complimentary tent rental. Qualifications include artists who have never exhibited in a show and
Community Foundation on page 4
Golf Classic on page 4
Jason Kraus, Brett Leone, Maria Marino, Albert Vandenberg, Matthew Hedrick
Neil Curran, Laura Curran
Florida. Emerging Artist applicants should proceed in the same manner as professional artists and submit their artwork online through zapplication.org.
Known as one of the nation’s top art festivals, ArtiGras, in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, annually attracts tens of thousands of art lovers and collectors. The two-day outdoor festival, produced by the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce, showcases a juried exhibition of galleryquality art and offers a unique opportunity for visitors to interact with and purchase directly from the artists.
Deadline for artists to apply online for inclusion in ArtiGras is Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2025. Artists can email artists@artigras.org, call (561) 748-3942 or visit www. artigras.org for more information.
Along with more than 250 onsite artists, the 41st edition of ArtiGras will feature interactive art exhibits, children’s activities, live music, and a youth art competition among food and art demonstrations. For more information visit www.artigras.org.
Financial Focus®
Does The 4% Rule Still Make Sense For Your Retirement?
By Sally Sima Stahl, Edward Jones
You may have heard of the “4% rule” when it comes to retirement. The idea is simple: After you retire, you withdraw 4% of your investment portfolio each year. In theory, this helps ensure your savings last for your lifetime. While this rule can be a helpful starting point, it’s not a one-size-fits-all—and it’s definitely not a substitute for a plan tailored to your specific needs, wants and wishes.
The truth is, how much to withdraw in retirement depends on factors like when you retire, if you’ll work part time, how long you expect retirement to last, your lifestyle goals, inflation and whether you want to leave a financial legacy to heirs. So, the 4% rule should be viewed as more of a guide than a strict rule.
Let’s start with age. The 4% rule is often based on someone retiring at 65 and expecting to live until about 92. But if you retire earlier, you may want your portfolio to stretch further. In that case, you might need to start with a lower withdrawal rate, maybe closer to 3%. And if you retire later, you might safely withdraw a little more—perhaps 4.5% to 5%—depending on your financial situation.
Your retirement lifestyle also plays a big role. Are you planning to travel the world or spend more time at home? If you expect higher spending in the early years of retirement, you may need to adjust your withdrawal rate or plan to reduce spending later to balance things out.
Your financial flexibility matters too. If you have less wiggle room with your expenses, rely heavily on your portfolio for income or want to preserve wealth for your heirs, a more conservative approach might be wise. In this conservative scenario, your portfolio withdrawals may be met from interest and dividends. Think of your withdrawal
rate as existing on a spectrum from more conservative to less conservative, with your personal situation determining where you land.
Then there’s inflation. A well-built strategy usually includes small annual increases in withdrawals to keep up with rising costs—about 2.75% per year. But you don’t need to take a raise just because the calendar says so. If the markets have had a tough year or you don’t need the extra income, it might be smart to skip an increase. Being flexible can improve the chances your money will last.
It’s also important to understand what’s known as your “portfolio reliance rate”—how much of your retirement income comes from your investments versus other sources like Social Security or pensions. The higher this percentage, the more conservative you may want to be with withdrawals. And don’t forget the IRS. If you’re drawing from a traditional IRA or 401(k), you’ll need to take required minimum distributions (RMDs) once you reach age 73. Your RMD for any year is the account balance as of the end of the prior calendar year divided by a life expectancy factor according to the IRS. These RMDs need to be accounted for in your strategy.
The bottom line? The 4% rule is a useful starting point, but it’s just that—a starting point. A good financial advisor can help you build a strategy that reflects your age, your goals and your full financial picture. By revisiting your plan regularly and staying flexible, you’ll give yourself the best shot at turning your savings into a secure, fulfilling retirement.
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.
Strout
Community Foundation from page 1 for students who may not otherwise struggle to afford college.
100 donor-established funds. This year, the Scholarship Program received 829 completed applications and the average award totaled $12,000.
“We were truly inspired by the caliber of this year’s applicants,” said Dr. Joanne Julien, chair of the Community Foundation’s Scholarship Committee. “Each scholarship recipient demonstrated academic achievement, a strong sense of resilience and tremendous potential to make a lasting impact in their communities and careers.”
Since launching its scholarship program in 1985, the Community Foundation has distributed over $19.1 million in scholarships to nearly 3,500 students in Palm Beach and Martin counties. The scholarships help reduce student loan burdens and open doors to higher education
at Frenchman’s Reserve Country Club and brought together professionals and community leaders for a day of connection, friendly competition and support for local business growth. A highlight of the event was the Beat the Pro challenge, where Palm Beach County Mayor Maria Marino joined golfers on the course for a fun and friendly competition.
“The Chamber Golf Classic is more than just a great day on the course—it’s about investing in the future of our business community,” said Noel Martinez, president and CEO the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce. “Thanks to the support of our sponsors and players, we’re able to continue providing the tools and resources that help local entrepreneurs thrive.”
Throughout the day, players enjoyed tournament staples like Hole in One, Longest Drive and Closest to the Pin contests, along with meals, raffles and plenty of camaraderie. The chamber extends its thanks to presenting sponsor Alvarez & Marsal, as well as all the players, sponsors, and volunteers who helped make the day a success.
To learn more about the Local Business Resource Center or upcoming chamber events, visit pbnchamber. com and pbnbiz.com.
For more information, visitwww.pbnchamber.com.
“Our goal is to support students who have the passion and ability to succeed, but not always the financial means,” said Danita R. DeHaney, president and CEO of the Community Foundation. “This investment in their future is also an investment in the future of Palm Beach and Martin counties.”
To learn more about the scholarship program, visit https:// yourcommunityfoundation. org/about-scholarships/.
Not all advice is equal.
Burns Wealth Management Group
Robert Burns
® Managing Director Wealth Partner, Portfolio Manager 3825 PGA Blvd, Floor 9, Palm Beach Gardens, Florida 33410 561.694.5666 robert.m.burns@jpmorgan.com jpmorgan.com/burnswm
Photos by Tracey Benson Photography.
Golf Classic from page 1
Maria Marino
The Singles Scene Column©
Tradition Takes The Crown (Again)
By Award-Winning Matchmakers Kelly Leary, M.S. & Miranda Capparelli
“keep your way of being love, keep this glow, others will come to you just to feel this”~~butterflies rising
Welcome to the Matchmaking Era. The recent exodus away from digital dating and AI algorithms has driven upscale singles back to traditional dating methods. Fear of over sharing information online leaves only one option for quality singles: In-Person Matchmaking. Read on to learn more about this powerful movement away from internet dating, and do share this article with your single family and friends. People need more hope and inspiration in an age of cold technology. Thank us later!
Fun Fact: We have had an astronomical number of phone calls from parents of adult children, as well as adult children calling for their divorced or widowed parents. In the past, we had issues with this type of phone call, and we requested that the actual (potential) client call us directly. However, there have been so many in the last few years that we have adapted to the needs of our society. Many adults are concerned about their single parents dating online, and parents worry about their single adult children. They don’t want them online dating as the horrors have reached new heights. In a world where dating values are collapsing, quality singles are shutting down, and we are happy to be part of the solution.
Signs You Have Been Online Dating For Too Long And Need To Stop:
1. Your possible dates are coming on too strong, quickly. Mystery is still a part of dating, but society has become wary of it. Everyone wants to know it all up front. This takes the fun out of traditional courtship at the very best and could be a complete nightmare at the very least.
2. Your list of must-haves has morphed into a list of what you don’t want. When did this happen? It likely comes
from a long line of disappointing dates, catfish, ghosts, and wasted years.
3. You find yourself doing a deep dive into your date’s social media. Are you a P.I.? Most of what you see on social media is not accurate. What exactly are you looking for and why can’t you find out on your dates? This is the way it was done before social media became an (unreliable) tool.
4. You are tired of mind games and wasting your time. You are ready to throw in the towel on love altogether. Dating (online) is worse than waking up at 4:00 am to go to the gym. Most would agree they would rather go to the gym that early than go on an online date.
5. You keep thinking the next one will be the big win, just like in Las Vegas. Everyone is feeling down about the dating process in 2025, and this has given rise to our favorite topic: MATCHMAKING. Tradition has gone sideways, and technology is no longer helping people find love. Marriage is on the decline, and divorce is on the rise.
Dating apps were intended to make love easier to find. On the contrary, love is not valued the way it used to be, nor is commitment. Temptation abounds. Being lured into the next best thing by artificial intelligence has given us a sense of false reality. Apps promised convenience, access, and a range of options. Yet, all you see is burnout, disconnection, and a whole lot of wasted energy and emotion…oh, don’t forget the significant mental health effects.
The truth is, dating apps have ultimately gamified love. The sacredness of love has been misunderstood and exploited. Sincere and successful human beings are becoming shallow behind a screen. Technology has trained our brains to chase the next swipe or the next dopamine hit. Worst of all, they have led many to believe it is normal. It is not normal, hence the massive return to tradition.
Studies show digital dependence is designed to keep you single (and hooked).
• App users reported experiencing dating-app fatigue at a rate of 78% (80% of women, 74% of men), with young adults being the most affected.
• Prolonged app use leads to emotional exhaustion, validation addiction, and mental strain, amplifying anxiety, depression, and sometimes eating disorders.
• Clinicians note users can become hooked on the dopamine rush of matches, with continuous swiping
leading to feelings of objectification, low self-esteem, and psychological fatigue.
These statistics above are why matchmaking is more important than ever. This is the reason family and friends are worried about their single friends. Due to high demand, new clients are encouraged to reserve their spot immediately. Lucky for you, our headquarters is close to you. As soon as you reserve your first appointment, a sense of enthusiasm, inspiration, and relief will take over. Cuffing Season is in full swing, and your timing is exquisite. These are the days (and nights) to remember. Make them revolutionary.
We are looking forward to seeing you this August before the Fall Season 2025 hits! It is going to be a very busy season ahead and having a Plus One makes it all more fun. LIVE Matchmakers are standing by to guide you to the next step in our fun and easy process. Do call or register for more information today. You got this!
Xoxo - Kelly & Miranda
Kelly Leary, M.S.© is CEO and Founder of Revolution Dating which she launched in 2014. Kelly has 34 years in the dating industry and a master’s degree in clinical psychology. She has been written about in Modern Luxury Magazine Palm Beach and Modern Luxury Manhattan, The Palm Beach Post, The Shiny Sheet, Stuart News, Jupiter Magazine, and many more. Revolution Dating clients are pre-screened in person, including background checks and ID verification. Professional photos are taken by the staff. Revolution Dating is NOT online dating or blind dating. In addition to providing matchmaking services that make singles “UNsingle” through their exclusive club memberships, Kelly and Miranda also provide feedback from dates when appropriate. Mock Dates are available by request. Single Coaching Sessions and Evaluations are also available by request for non-members or as an add-on to some memberships. *All inquiries are confidential. *Specializing in representing jet-setting clients with a second home in the Northeast Area.
Do call the central hotline at 561-6309696 (XOXO) or scan the QR code to the right to hold your place in the club. Why wait? Just Date!
The Singles Scene Column© on page 6
The Singles Scene Column© from page 5
Let Cuffing Season Commence!
Start SAT Prep Early: Why Fall Is Best For Juniors
By Peggy Forgan, M. Ed., Class 101 Owner/ College Advisor
Welcome New Client (Former Member of the British Parliament)! #SeniorSingles
Enjoy these Behind The Scenes photographs from the Corporate Headquarters of Revolution Dating on PGA Boulevard where this landmark business has been for eleven successful years. Upscale single, divorced, and widowed clientele are attracted to the “love offline” approach to dating and the demand for quality matchmakers is soaring. Romance and opportunities are heating up at this wildly successful Matchmaking Firm. Revolution Dating specializes in screening and representing clients from the Northeast to Palm Beach for decades. Lucky for you, their main office is in our local area. Isn’t it time you did something for you? If so, secure your First Interview today. Summer is flying by and we are officially entering Cuffing Season so don’t miss out on finding your match before the holidays. Every day, clients are pairing off two at a time, and every day, new enrollments are getting started. Life is very exciting in this office, and they love to share the love with all of you. Have and wonderful August! #TellYourFriends
Revolution Dating Newlyweds Looking Fabulous! #SummerLove25
It’s Wedding Season! #YoungProfessionalSingles
For high school juniors with college on the horizon, preparing for the SAT is a critical step and timing makes all the difference. While many juniors wait until spring to begin test prep, starting in the fall offers several key advantages that can lead to better scores and reduced stress.
First, taking a practice SAT in the fall of junior year gives students an early baseline to work from. It familiarizes them with the structure of the test, types of questions, and time constraints. With this insight, students can begin to identify their strengths and areas for improvement long before official test dates approach. This extra time allows for more targeted studying, fewer cramming sessions, and greater confidence going into the real test.
Second, fall prep also helps balance the demanding junior year schedule. Spring is often packed with AP
exams, finals, and extracurricular responsibilities. Starting SAT prep in the fall spreads out the workload, giving students the ability to prepare at a more manageable pace. This reduces anxiety and increases retention of strategies and content.
Moreover, early preparation can open doors to scholarship opportunities and competitive summer programs that require SAT scores early in the year. Students who wait until spring may miss out simply because they weren’t ready in time.
Confidence is another major benefit. Students who start early feel more in control of the process and less overwhelmed as deadlines approach. With less pressure and more preparation, performance typically improves which can lead to more Bright Futures funding.
To support students, Class 101 North Palm Beach is offering a 6-week SAT prep course beginning Aug. 9. This course is limited to 10 students and is a strategic move that can give juniors a valuable edge in the college admissions process. Students will take a practice SAT test on Aug. 9 in order to receive a baseline score.
For more information or to register, call or text Peggy at (561) 418-7897, email pforgan@class101.com, or visit class101.com/northpalmbeachfl.
See Kelly & Miranda in the August Issue of Modern Luxury Palm Beach! #DynamicWomen
Cupid’s at Deck84 for a Palm Beach Chamber of Commerce Event! #PBSingles
The Golf Learning Center
Physical Testing
By Tom F. Stickney II, Lead Teaching Professional Jonathan’s Landing
“I was a good athlete back in the day!” says the golfer 30 years removed from college days and 50 pounds ago yet their goal is to play golf at the highest level they can. Is this possible, can they actually improve or will their body even let them swing the club efficiently?
3-D motion analysis helps to identify your fundamental inefficiencies caused by stability and mobility issues.
What does this mean for the “average golfer” coming out for a lesson? They first must understand that poor mobility, stability, and strength are the root causes of their mechanical inefficiencies. The shape you are in physiologically is the judge and jury pertaining to how you swing the club; thus, if you want to improve you must begin by working on your body.
Thankfully for us golf specific fitness programs are now the rage – especially in Jupiter – the golf mecca of the United States. It all began with The Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) introducing us to using movement screening and physiological testing for golfers before trying to “fix” the client’s swing. With their lead we are seeing players – thanks to Tiger – using the gym to complement their practice time so that they can become more complete athletes first and better golfers, second.
Testing single leg balance on the right and left side
Testing upper and lower body disassociation in the backswing and downswing
As you look around Jupiter you will find that most country clubs have golf instructors and/or fitness trainers that possess certifications in golf fitness and there are even gyms that specifically cater to these types of programs such as Hit it Great (Joey D’s,) Ben Shear Golf Performance, and Lifetime Performance, etc. So, it is not hard to find a golf trainer that will help improve your body while we, the teaching professionals, work on your golf swing. Together we can help you get to the next level but one without the other makes the process much harder. If you are having issues within your golf swing and need some assistance, I would first go through a physical movement screening at your club or one of the facilities listed above to help you (and your teaching professional) better understand why you “move” the way you do. From there you both will be armed with the correct information to help improve your golf swing while you are working
on your golf-body yes, this will take some time, but I promise you will be better off in the end. For questions or comments email toms@ jonathanslanding.com.
Jonathan’s Landing Golf Club
Tom has been a full-time instructor for over thirty years and has taught at The Four Seasons, Punta Mita, in Mexico; Bighorn Golf Club, in Palm Desert, California; The Club at Cordillera in Vail, Colorado; and The Promontory Club in Park City, Utah, as well as several others. He was a fifteen-year recipient of Golf Magazine’s, “Top 100 Instructors in America” award, ranked as one of the “Best Instructors in Florida,” and is noted by Golf Digest as one of their “Top 75 International Instructors.” In his spare time, he enjoys scuba diving, playing golf, and learning more about the golf swing.
Poor physical health contributes to faulty swing characteristics.
Testing internal and external shoulder rotation
Tom F. Stickney II, Lead Teaching Professional,
The Pet Cottage Receives $25,000 Grant From Grey Muzzle Foundation To Support Senior Dog Medical Care
The Pet Cottage, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing lifelong guardianship for pets whose humans can no longer care for them, has been awarded a $25,000 grant from The Grey Muzzle Foundation. This funding will directly support veterinary care, medications, and preventatives for senior dogs living at the sanctuary and in forever guardian homes.
This generous support from Grey Muzzle allows us to fulfill our promise of lifelong care with renewed confidence and
Preparing For College With Learning Differences
By Jim Forgan, Ph.D., Licensed School Psychologist
Transitioning from high school to college is a significant milestone for students with ADHD, learning disabilities, or autism. With thoughtful planning, selfadvocacy, and the right support systems in place, students can thrive in higher education. Here are ways to help students prepare for this exciting new chapter.
Understand the laws and your rights. Unlike high school, where services are provided under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), colleges operate under ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. These laws ensure access, not success, so students must actively request accommodations. By twelfth grade help your teen understand their diagnosis and how it impacts their learning. Discuss how accommodations help.
Update evaluations and documentation. Colleges often require current documentation of a learning difference to grant accommodations. A comprehensive school neuropsychological evaluation within the last three to five years is typically needed. Work with us to ensure documentation includes specific diagnoses, functional limitations, and recommended accommodations. We test college students as well as provide psychoeducational testing for LSAT, GRE, MCAT, and professional boards. Learn and practice self-advocacy skills. In college, students are expected to take charge of their own learning needs. This means contacting the disability services office, attending meetings, and communicating with professors about accommodations. Practice selfadvocacy in high school and have your student ask for help, schedule their own appointments, and take responsibility for organizing materials.
Explore campus support services. Most colleges have an office of disability services, tutoring centers, and academic coaching. Some even offer specialized programs for students with learning differences. Visit the campus and schedule a meeting with the disability services office to ask questions about the types of support available.
Work with a college planner. My wife is a college consultant and works one-to-one with ninth through twelfth grade students. She provides a comprehensive approach and specializes in helping students with diverse needs.
Call (561) 625-4125 if you would like to discuss your child and your concerns for possible learning disabilities, dyslexia, ADHD, autism, or anxiety. Learn more at www. JimForgan.com.
the steadfast support of our community,” said Wendy Derhak, founder and executive director of The Pet Cottage. “So many of the dogs who come to us are in their golden years and require ongoing medical support. This grant helps ensure they receive everything they need to live healthy, comfortable lives surrounded by love.”
The Grey Muzzle Foundation received a record number of high-quality applications this year and selected The Pet Cottage for its impactful work with senior dogs. The award is part of a named grant made possible by one of Grey Muzzle’s high-level donors, further underscoring the importance of collaborative compassion in meeting the needs of aging pets.
From providing sanctuary care for bonded pairs to matching senior dogs with loving forever guardians— often seniors themselves—The Pet Cottage gives dogs a soft place to land when their world changes due to death, disability or deployment. The organization believes that
every pet deserves to age with dignity, and this grant will make that vision even more possible.
For more information or to support The Pet Cottage’s mission, visit www.thepetcottage.org.
Tuffy, 12, and Sugar, 8 BJ on red bench
Lola Grace
Nora, 8 years old
Free Program For Fathers And Kids Ages 6 to 11
Center For Child Counseling Is Offering A 13-Week Program To Help Youth And Empower Their Father Figures
Center for Child Counseling (CFCC) is supporting fathers and father figures in building stronger bonds with their children. Through the agency’s Stop Now and Plan (SNAP ® ) program, a new fatherhood initiative offers tools and guidance to help fathers grow as parents and role models. Fathers and their children, ages 6 to 11, are invited to join the free 13-week evidence-based program. Groups begin Aug. 18.
The program aims to help youth and their father figures improve communications, pro-social skills and family relationships. It is funded by the Florida Network of Youth and Family Services as part of its Father First initiative.
According to Stacy Gromatski, CEO of Florida Network, “We are excited to partner with the Center for Child Counseling in helping fathers and father figures in our lives to learn, grow and push toward being better
every day with the right resources, encouragement and connection. We stand together with all dads, showing that perfection isn’t the goal, but being present is.”
The SNAP ® Fatherhood Groups are open to any father, stepfather, grandfather, uncle or male caregiver of a child who wants to strengthen their relationship and parenting approach.
If you are interested in learning more or have questions about the program, please email SNAP@ centerforchildcounseling.org.
For more information about the Father First initiative, visit fatherfirstfl.com.
Center for Child Counseling has been building the foundation for playful, healthful and hopeful living for children and families in Palm Beach County since 1999. Its services focus on preventing and healing the effects of adverse experiences and toxic stress on children, promoting resiliency and healthy family, school and community relationships. Visit our website www.centerforchildcounseling. org or Twitter: @ChildCounselPBC, Facebook: @CenterforChildCounseling or Instagram: @ childcounselpbc.
By Christine Frederick, CEO of The Lord’s Place
I called Broward County my home for the last 25 years—fulfilling a personal mission to leave it better than I found it. I am now part of your community as the new chief executive officer of The Lord’s Place and re-pledge the same mission—I hope to make Palm Beach County better than today.
You may ask how Palm Beach County could get any better when West Palm Beach is ranked fourth in Henley & Partners’ list of “World’s Fastest Growing Wealth Hubs” as reported by The Palm Beach Post While West Palm Beach and Palm Beach experienced a 112% increase in millionaires between 2014 and 2024, the number of individuals experiencing homelessness in Palm Beach County increased by 33% during that same time period. I envision a better Palm Beach County where everyone, regardless of wealth, has access to affordable, safe, and stable housing. Increased wealth should not equate to increased homelessness.
With two months under my belt working at our county’s leading homeless-service agency, it’s evident that in every facet of The Lord’s Place programming there is a pathway to hope with no dead end at any point.
From the moment a client walks through the doors of our Fortin Family Campus engagement center, there’s hope of filling their bellies for the day—giving them the strength to then focus on something other than their hunger. When the Street Outreach Team seeks out unhoused individuals hidden in wooded areas in their tents or behind abandoned buildings, they plant seeds of hope as they build trust, connect them to community resources, and eventually a roof over their heads. When a client with a behavioral health issue, substance abuse challenge or serious medical condition comes to us, they find hope through our CARE team with access to counseling and other resources. When reentering society after recently being released from incarceration, we provide hopeful pathways to “second chances,” to become productive citizens once again. Our children and youth find hope in breaking the intergenerational cycle of trauma that comes from being unhoused through the mentorship, tutoring, and pro-social activities they receive.
As I join the fabric of your community in doing the necessary work to end homelessness, I invite you to join me in ensuring that these pathways to hope continue. It is my hope that as each individual graduates from our programs or supportive housing, they will be thriving—not just surviving—in Palm Beach County where they have the opportunity to find work and housing and can afford to live.
Together, let’s be a part of the solution in moving the needle forward. Together, let’s share our time, talents and increased wealth to decrease and end homelessness. Together, let’s make Palm Beach County better than today.
For more information on The Lord’s Place’s essential and hopeful work that helps ensure a better Palm Beach County, visit www.TheLordsPlace.org.
Cardinal Newman High School Announces Dr. Anup Sinha
As Director Of M. Scott Powell Scholars Program
Cardinal Newman High School (CNHS) is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Anup Sinha as director of the M. Scott Powell Scholars Program, a prestigious academic enrichment opportunity for the school’s highestachieving students. Located in West Palm Beach, CNHS has been providing a college preparatory Catholic education for over 65 years and is dedicated to developing students in mind, body, and spirit.
Dr. Sinha, a member of the Cardinal Newman faculty since 2012, brings a unique background to the role. He holds degrees from Emory University and Wayne State University. Before teaching, he trained as a physician and worked as a professional baseball scout. At CNHS, he
teaches chemistry and serves as the moderator of both the National Honor Society and the Honor Council. Named in honor of longtime educator M. Scott Powell, the Scholars Program challenges top students through monthly field experiences, peer discussions and a junior/ senior-year capstone research project.
“The Powell Scholars Program is about broadening horizons and inspiring a lifelong pursuit of knowledge,” said Sinha. “I’m honored to carry on Mr. Powell’s legacy by guiding our brightest minds toward discovery, service, and purpose.”
“We are excited to have Dr. Sinha lead this important program,” said Charles Stembler, president of Cardinal Newman High School. “Cardinal Newman is a place where students are known, challenged and supported. The Powell Scholars Program brings that to life—it reflects what we’re all about: mentorship, faith, curiosity and serving others, all while helping students grow into the best version of themselves.”
For more information, visit cardinalnewman.com.
Joint Ownership—Simple Now, Complicated Later (Part 1)
By Anné DesormierCartwright, JD, Esq.
Joint ownership of property is often seen as a quick way to avoid probate. When one owner dies, the other automatically inherits the asset—no court required. But what looks like an easy solution can lead to major problems.
First, joint ownership exposes you to the other owner’s liabilities. If they get sued or file for bankruptcy, creditors may come after the jointly held asset.
Joint ownership also raises tax concerns. If you add an adult child to your home’s deed, you could trigger capital gains tax when the home is sold. Rather than inheriting the property with a stepped-up tax basis, they may face a large tax bill on decades of appreciation.
When you share ownership of real estate, you also share decision-making power. Want to sell or refinance? You’ll need your co-owner’s full cooperation. If they say no, you may be stuck—or forced into an expensive legal battle to force a sale.
Adding an unmarried partner to your home may count as a taxable gift under IRS rules.
Second, your estate plan may be undermined. Joint property passes outside your will, so if you name only one child as a joint owner, your other children could be cut out entirely—even if your will says otherwise.
Third, blended families complicate matters. A surviving spouse who inherits joint property can remarry, diverting assets to a new partner or their children—disinheriting yours.
Joint ownership seems appealing, but it carries longterm consequences that often go unrecognized. In the next part, we’ll explore how joint ownership can create legal roadblocks during incapacity and safer alternatives to joint ownership that preserve control and protect your family’s future.
If you have questions about your estate plan, schedule a free consultation today by calling our office at (561) 694-7827 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 reviewing 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 legal needs. An attorney client relationship is not created through the information provided.
Statement On Elimination Of The Florida-Only Business Rent Tax
“After nearly a decade of Florida Chamber-led advocacy, the Florida-only Business Rent Tax— once a $3 billion burden on local businesses— has finally been eliminated, and this final round provided another $900 million in annual savings for Florida’s job creators. This is a major win for Florida’s competitiveness and local businesses, who will reinvest those dollars into their employees, growth, and communities. We appreciate the Florida policymakers who have helped chip away at this tax on local business over the years and are thrilled to see it eliminated altogether, once and for all.”
Dr. Anup Sinha
The Pet Cottage Post
The Heart Of Belonging: Life’s Sweetest Season, Shared
By Wendy Derhak, Founder of The Pet Cottage
At 91 years old, Norma could have been told, “You’re too old for a dog.” But at The Pet Cottage, we believe in something different.
We believe that love has no age limit—and that the deep companionship between a senior person and a senior pet is something worth nurturing and protecting. Norma recently welcomed Ret, a 16-year-old poodle, into her home after his person passed away. They became fast friends, two old souls who found comfort, purpose, and joy in one another.
When You Support The Pet Cottage, You Make This Kind Of Bond Possible
We provide lifelong veterinary care and medication for the pets we place with our Forever Guardians—so people like Norma can say *yes* to love without worrying about the financial burden. Many of our Guardians live on fixed incomes, and while the financial support matters, our commitment goes beyond that. We are also there in emergencies, for check-ins, and whenever help is needed to ensure their pet can remain safely and happily at home. This wraparound support is what makes it possible to
connect senior people with senior pets in a meaningful, lasting way.
That’s where we step in.
That’s what your support makes possible.
Every day, we care for pets who have lost their humans due to death, disability or deployment. Many of these pets are seniors themselves— graying muzzles, cloudy eyes, stiff joints—and often overlooked in traditional
shelters. But at The Pet Cottage, they are cherished. They are promised a forever home.
Some stay at our sanctuary. Others are welcomed into loving homes like Norma’s. And we don’t just drop them off and wish them luck.
We tuck them in—with monthly check-ins, a network of volunteers, vet transport, emergency support, and more. We show up with heart and follow through with structure. Because being part of The Pet Cottage means being part of a pack.
Whether you’re a Forever Guardian, volunteers like Lynn and Lisa (our incredible sister duo who show up every week), or a donor who believes in this mission, you are part of something meaningful. Purposeful. Needed. You help people feel less alone. You give aging pets a place to land. You make it possible for someone like Norma to open her door, and her heart, one more time.
And in return?
You get to witness what it looks like when love comes full circle—and if you’re lucky, your heart just might grow three sizes bigger.
And if you feel called to do even more, we’re growing our team. We’re hiring a new Guardian support and operations coordinator to help us deepen our impact. If you’re passionate about people, pets, and purposeful work, we’d love to hear from you.
To learn more, become a Forever Guardian, make a donation, or explore how you can be part of The Pet Cottage community, please visit www.thepetcottage.org or call us at (561) 818-5025.
You’re also welcome to reach out directly to Wendy Derhak, founder and executive director, at wendy@ thepetcottage.org.
Together, we write a story where pets and people find each other at just the right time—and every chapter that follows is filled with love, connection, and the kind of belonging that makes life sweeter.
IMPERIUM HOME
Norma, 91 years old, July 2025
Lisa, Ronnie and Lola Grace Lynn, Lisa, Sugar and Tuffy
Nonnie and Fiona, the Shihtzu, 15 years old
Michelle and Sally
Ron, Scooter and Holly
Norma and Ret
