Drum Roll Please ...
Jupiter Law Center’s 19th Annual Fundraiser Benefiting The Aicardi Syndrome Foundation Is A Huge Hit!
Jupiter Law Center and its guests rocked and rolled at its annual costume party fundraising event to benefit the Aicardi Syndrome Foundation, a 501(c)(3) volunteerbased nonprofit organization dedicated to funding research and conferences to raise awareness of Aicardi Syndrome and improve the lives of Aicardi children and their families. Last year brought out characters from Saturday Night Live!, bringing tons of laughs and improv. This year, it was ivory keys on dueling Howl at the Moon pianos and wooden sticks beating the drums, with guests dressed as their favorite singer/musicians.
Little
Smiles
19th
With the support of the firm’s friends, Jupiter Law Center has raised over $620,000 in donations to the Aicardi Syndrome Foundation since 2005.
The annual event is a passion project for Jupiter Law Center’s principal attorney, Adam Gumson, and his wife Lissa, whose oldest daughter, Ava, was diagnosed as an infant with Aicardi Syndrome, a rare congenital neurological seizure disorder which inhibits the normal development of motor skills, sight and speech, causing mild to profound developmental delays. When she was diagnosed, the Gumsons were informed that Ava’s life expectancy was no more than two years.
Annual
Stars Ball – Under The Big Top: A Night Of Magic
Celebrating 25 Years Of Helping Kids Be Kids During Difficult Times
The Little Smiles 19th Annual Stars Ball, held on October 5, transformed the Hilton in downtown West Palm Beach into a magical circus “Under the Big Top.” This year’s event, attended by 450 guests, celebrated twelve incredible children who were nominated as “Stars” by the facilities where they receive treatment. It was a night of festivities and community, all to support Little Smiles’ mission of helping kids be kids during difficult times.
The evening blended circus magic with Hollywood glamour, beginning with the grand entrance of the Stars, announced by Virginia Sinicki, Kevin Rolston, and Jason Pennington of the KVJ Show 97.9 WRMF. Dressed to impress, the Stars were escorted down the red carpet, basking
in the spotlight and signing autographs as fans cheered them on. Accompanied by music from Digital Vibez, they made their way to center stage, where the KVJ Show 97.9 WRMF hosts celebrated each Star with enthusiasm.
The Arc Of Palm Beach County Celebrates
A Night Of Creativity And Philanthropy At Wild Pants Party
The Arc of Palm Beach County wrapped up its “funraising” campaign with an exciting celebration and runway show at their Wild Pants Party on Friday, November 1, at Loggerhead Marinelife Center. More than 150 guests wore
vibrant, eye-catching pants, and raised vital funds to support children and adults with disabilities.
evening
and philanthropy.
Drum Roll Please on page 2
Little Smiles on page 4
Virginia Sinicki, Kevin Rolston, and Jason Pennington of the KVJ Show 97.9 WRMF
Wild Pants Party on page 6
The event featured an exhilarating
of fashion
The audience cheered as
Pamela Payne, Aaron Menitoff, Julie Menitoff, Charlotte Gill
Leo (The Arc Student)
The ballroom perfectly captured the Under the Big Top theme with a flowing fabric canopy draped from the ceiling creating the illusion of an authentic circus tent. Tables were
Brittany Perdigon, Samantha Shepherd
Now 20, Ava continues to defy the odds. She attends The Learning Academy on the campus of the Els Center of Excellence and although she is non-verbal, severely delayed and has multiple daily seizures, she is a happy, joyful girl whose smile and laugh lights up a room. What started as a small party with friends and family hosted at the Gumsons’ home in the early years has blossomed into a major annual event held for the last five years at Tequesta Country Club. The monies raised since 2006 help the foundation fund research grants at both Baylor University and the University of California at San Francisco and underwrite the cost for Aicardi families to attend the everyother-year family conference where people from all over the world gather to exchange information. This, in turn, enhances each family’s ability to care for its own Aicardi child. Since only 4,000 girls worldwide are afflicted with Aicardi Syndrome, there is very little money for research and the foundation is made up entirely of volunteers (mostly the affected families and their extended family and friends).
From the sequenced head caps of ABBA to the wild hair and famous black and white face makeup of KISS to John Lennon, Sonny and Cher, Tina Turner, Willie Nelson, Madonna and Elvis, partygoers reached into the archives for inspiration.
The muse for this annual affair – Lissa and Adam’s daughter Ava – came as a Pink Lady from Grease (as did many others in attendance), bobbing her head and cheering on those who boogied on the dance floor. The tip jars on the pianos were lined with generous donations as guests requested their favorite songs, with 100 percent of the band’s tips donated back to the cause. Photo ops in front of a blanket of draped gold tassels adorned with famous album covers and disco balls set the mood and the food, drinks and service from Tequesta Country Club staff made it a rocking (and rolling!) good time.
“Because the condition is so rare and affects such a small population, research is just so limited, and the only way for us as families to encourage institutions to delve deeper into the causes of Aicardi Syndrome is to fund research grants,” Adam Gumson stated. “And the family conferences are so essential to creating and developing a community of families who are all going through the same things, like what medicines and diets work best to combat seizures, what medical procedures and therapies have helped, what
equipment and other technology have improved the quality of life” chimed in Lissa Gumson. Adam Gumson continued, “One family conference costs over $100,000 when calculating all of the food, rooms and audio visual equipment necessary to put on a successful conference, so our party, and other families’ fundraising efforts, are absolutely essential to support the continuation of the great work that the foundation does.” The Gumsons have become more and more active in the foundation over the years, with Adam lecturing at the conferences on various topics such as estate planning, guardianship and fundraising, and assuming the presidency of the foundation this past June.
Lissa handles a variety of tasks, too, and the Gumsons’ other two children, Lilly and Zane, attend the conferences and assist with child care and speak on the sibling panel, answering questions from new families about what it is like to have a sister with Aicardi Syndrome. “Their participation has helped them feel like they are not alone since they get to see and meet other families, and especially other siblings, dealing with similar issues, and both of them have become so much more grounded and empathetic by just being present at the conferences and being
exposed to the highs and lows of living with an Aicardi child. No one wanted to be a part of this club but, if there is a silver lining, it is that it has introduced us to such incredible people from all over the world and taught us and our children that there is a higher calling to help others than just being concerned with ourselves. It has been incredibly rewarding for our whole family to be so involved,” Lissa commented.
To learn more about Aicardi Syndrome, the Aicardi Syndrome Foundation or Ava Shaye Gumson and/or the other Aicardi girls, log on to www.aicardisyndromefoundation.org and/or www.ouraicardilife.org or contact Jupiter Law Center at (561) 744-4600 if you have any other questions about Aicardi Syndrome or about how you can help support the foundation.
The
Brittany Perdigon, executive director of Little Smiles Florida, reflected on the event: “The Stars Ball is about celebrating these brave children and showing them the love and support they deserve. It’s
Caedyn Fairbanks with KVJ
Judy Martyak who receives the Amy A. Reilly Humanitarian Award
Steve Grandizio, Etta Oller, JPD Officer Sam Razzano
Chip and Sally Lubeck with circus performers
Abilena Cruz
Armando and Hedy Fana
Brittany and Hector Perdigon
Chip and Sally Lubeck
Daniele and John Majer
Luke and Amanda Lostroscio
Tim and Susan Damon
Little Star signing autographs
Stilt walker and juggler
Jupiter Senior Softball
A crowd of about 60 Jupiter Senior Softball players turned out for a Veterans Day ceremony honoring all who have served in the military.
The event at Jupiter Community Park featured players gathered around a large American flag donated by the family of the late Gerry Elias, the Jupiter Senior Softball Association’s 2023 Hall of Fame honoree.
The Veterans Day tribute was followed by four regularly scheduled slow-pitch softball games.
Army veteran Gary Vitaletti, explained that November 11, 1919 was proclaimed as Armistice Day by President Woodrow Wilson to commemorate the first anniversary of the cessation of fighting in World War I. Following the World War II and the Korean War, congress again amended the name of the holiday. “This time to honor those who participated in all U.S. wars, calling it Veterans Day in 1954,” Vitaletti said.
More than a dozen veterans in the audience were also recognized for their service with a round of applause when they were asked to step forward. They included veterans of of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard and National Guard.
The ceremony concluded with Ron Nolan, an Army veteran of the Vietnam War, playing a recording of the National Anthem in honor of all who have worn a uniform in defense of our country. Then it was “play ball” as players took to the fields for scheduled games.
The senior softball program is open to persons 55 and older, and new players are welcome. Games are every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday morning beginning at 8:30 a.m. at Jupiter Community Park. Sponsorships are also available.
For more information contact Gary Newman at (917) 6230791 or to register online go to www.leaguelineup.com/jssa.
Another highlight was the presentation of awards that were given to Little Smiles founder Chip Donohue and to nurse Judy Martyak who received the Amy A. Reilly Humanitarian Award. Their dedication and compassion have made a lasting impact on the organization and the children it serves.
The evening would not be possible without the leadership of cochairs Samantha Shepherd and Virginia Sinicki and the generous support of sponsors including Ameriprise Financial The Nickler Group, Bronx House Pizza, Cataldo & Son Plastering, Inc., Debt Helper, David S. Feldman, M.D., Ernst Young, FPL Home, Frank and Herta Suess, Garage Living, Gioia Family, Good Greek Moving & Storage, Ideal Nutrition, Jackie and Bert Klawonn at BWG Realty, Joseph Lubeck, The Donohue Group at J.P. Morgan Wealth Management, The Leandro P. Rizzuto Foundation, Ocean Properties, Platinum Title Insurers, Reilly Foam Corporation, Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, St. Mary’s Medical Center and Palm Beach Children’s Hospital, Vertical Bridge, and Waferworld.
Little Smiles Florida has been making a difference in the lives of children throughout South Florida for 25 years. In 2023 alone, the organization brought smiles to over 55,000 local children, working closely with 34 pediatric facilities, including hospitals, shelters, medical daycare centers, foster homes, and local law enforcement.
For more information about Little Smiles Florida and their ongoing efforts, visit littlesmilesfl.org. Little Smiles from page 4
Award-Winning Orthopedic care
Jupiter Medical Center is proud to be recognized by Healthgrades® as one of America’s 100 Best Joint Replacement Programs. This distinction, along with a five-star rating for total knee and total hip replacement and outpatient joint replacement accolades, distinguishes Jupiter Medical Center as one of the nation’s leading hospitals for orthopedic care.
The medical experts at The Anderson Family Orthopedic & Spine Center of Excellence at Jupiter Medical Center are at the forefront of joint replacement and spine care. The team ensures seamless care from diagnosis to rehabilitation by utilizing leading-edge technology to perform innovative procedures in a state-of-the-art center.
You deserve the nation’s best orthopedic care. Visit jupitermed.com/ortho to learn more.
Rick and Elizabeth Wilson, Justin and Samantha Shepherd, Robert and Christina Bowman
Veterans of various military branches were honored in a November 11 Veterans Day ceremony.
models hit the catwalk sporting colorful patterned pants. Guests enjoyed an open bar, tasty bites, a silent auction,
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a live D.J., and a lively fashion show that truly embodied the spirit of fun!
Event cochairs Julie and Aaron Menitoff defended their title and took home their third consecutive Wild Pants Championship Belt. Wild Pants sponsors, including the
Gehring Group, Morgan & Morgan, FPL, Boarderie Cheese & Charcuterie, Angelwish Fund, and Legends Radio, assisted The Arc in reaching its fundraising goal.
Andrew Goodyear, Heidi Breen
Toni May, Maria Marino Danielle Ford
Jennifer Devalerio, Lauren Sher Gudrun Sawerthal, Mary McCord
Monty Foster, Sally Sevareid
Ilene Emanuel, Adam Emanuel, Zoe Kron, Richard Tunich
Aquannette Thomas, Pam Myers, Rhonda Rogers Bob Pearson, Leanne Hoey, Jim Finck, Susan Faby
Melissa Schumacher, John Critschett, Padget Kirkland
Susan Faby, Anne Messer, Teressa Holbrook
Tamra FitzGerald, Cathy Law, Michelle Noga
Paul Menitoff, Aaron Menitoff, Rita Menitoff, Julie Larson, Nancy Larson
Photos courtesy of Tracey Benson Photography
Palm Beach North Chamber Of Commerce Honors Anné Desormier-Cartwright As 2024 Woman of the Year
The Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that Anné DesormierCartwright, Esq., president and founder of Elder & Estate Planning Attorneys PA, has been named the 2024 Woman of the Year. This prestigious recognition celebrates her exceptional leadership, dedication, and longstanding commitment to making a positive impact within the Palm Beach North community.
Desormier-Cartwright has been a driving force in the region, providing essential legal services throughout Florida, particularly to underserved populations such as seniors, individuals with disabilities, and veterans. Her work includes the creation of the “VOTE – Honor a Veteran Campaign,” which helps seniors in assisted living facilities access mail-in ballots and promotes civic engagement.
As an honorary cochair of the Habitat for Humanity Veterans Build and an active member of organizations such as the Women in Business Council, National Association
of Women in Construction, and the Wounded Veterans Relief Fund, Desormier-Cartwright’s dedication has left an indelible mark on the community.
“Anné’s commitment to leadership and service exemplifies the values we honor with this award,” said Alex Martinez, chair of the Women In Business Council. “Her contributions have enriched our community in countless ways.”
Desormier-Cartwright was formally recognized at the Woman of the Year Luncheon held on October 30, where chamber members and community leaders gathered to celebrate her achievements.
For more information about Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce, visit www.pbnchamber.com.
Ashley Vertuno, Timothy Burke, Traci Rollins Noel Martinez, Anné Desormier-Cartwright, Julia Dattolo
Brittany Cartwright, Anné Desormier-Cartwright, Noel Martinez
Lighthouse ArtCenter Unveils Newly Renovated 3-D Building
Lighthouse ArtCenter (LAC) is pleased to announce the reopening of its newly renovated 3-D building at 395 Seabrook Road, Tequesta, FL 33469. This extensive yearlong renovation will enhance the creative experience for students of all ages and skill levels, instructors, and the local community.
The upgraded building features an expanded roster of classes and instructors, offering programs from introductory pottery wheel lessons to advanced hand-building techniques. These enhancements will allow LAC to host more visiting artists and introduce new ceramics offerings during summer camps for children, promoting artistic development within the community.
“We are incredibly grateful to our contributing LAC Board Members, community members, and an anonymous grant that made this project possible,” said Jeni Licata,
My Child Is Slow To Get Going
By Jim Forgan, Ph.D. Licensed School Psychologist
Eve’s nickname is “Eeyore” one parent told me. She was feeling frustration when dealing with her child completing tasks slower than everyone else. Whether it was doing homework, completing simple household chores, or getting out the door in the morning, Eve was slow or the last one to go. It required constant reminders and mom felt like she was always nagging. She hypothesized her daughter was perhaps lazy, unmotivated, or did not understand what to do. But what really perplexed this mom was that Eve was slow regardless of if the activity was something fun or routine. It could be getting ready for a fun day at the waterpark and she was still slow.
There are many reasons why a child is completing tasks at a much slower pace than their peers. One reason is your child could have slower processing speed so even simple tasks will take them longer to complete. This can leave your child feeling overwhelmed, mentally fatigued, and discouraged. Second, your child could have a weak working memory and struggle to keep track of the tasks they are assigned and often forget what to do next. This can especially be noticed if you give your child multiple tasks at once. Third, your child may have weaker inhibition which means that they have a hard time resisting distractors. Your child could be cleaning their room and find something they misplaced and become distracted playing with this and not cleaning up. Fourth, your child might have ADHD, Predominantly Inattentive Presentation or what we used to call ADD.
Seek answers and understanding so you can do something different instead of becoming frustrated with your child and straining your relationship. A school neuropsychological evaluation will help you get to the root cause of why your child is completing tasks so slowly. Our evaluations assess all of these potential causes and provide specific and helpful recommendations to improve your child’s functioning in the home and school settings. Call us at (561) 625-4125 to discuss your child or learn more at www.JimForgan.com.
executive director. “The community interest has been strong. Registration for classes in the newly renovated building is open, and several classes are already full.”
Originally built in 1973, Lighthouse ArtCenter purchased the building in 2019 from Jupiter Medical Center after leasing it for about 20 years. The acquisition followed a whirlwind fundraising campaign, including benefit concerts from former Metallica bassist and local supporter Jason Newsted.
The newly renovated 3-D studio will empower students to create a variety of projects, including abstract and figurative sculptures, mugs, teapots, and platters. With classes available during both day and evening hours, participants can choose from 8-week courses, shorter multi-day workshops, and special events like Wine Down Wednesday and Select Fridays from 6 to 8 p.m., fostering a fun and communal learning environment.
“The instructors bring a wealth of diverse expertise to the table, and now they have a state-of-the-art facility that perfectly complements their skills and techniques,” said Director of Ceramics and Sculpture Chad Steve. “I am confident that both students and faculty will produce their finest work yet in the coming year.”
Registration is open for classes and workshops. For more information, visit lighthousearts.org.
Feeling like you paid too much in taxes this year?
Learn about investment strategies that could potentially lower next year’s tax bill. Contact your financial advisor today to learn how.
Sally S Stahl, CFP®, AAMS™ Financial Advisor
1851 W Indiantown Rd Ste 106 Jupiter, FL 33458 561-748-7600
“Celebrate!” Exhibition: Dec. 5 - 14, 2024
Featuring artwork created by students from Lighthouse ArtCenter’s 16 outreach programs alongside art by our talented faculty.
Chad Steve, Ron Shaw
Front of building left view
Jamie Bates, 3 Wings Visiting Artist, instructing a workshop
Palm Beach North Chamber Of Commerce President And CEO Noel Martinez Honored With 2024 Florida Chamber Chair Award
The Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce that Noel Martinez, our president and CEO, has been honored with the prestigious 2024 Florida Chamber Chair Award. Presented by the Florida Chamber of Commerce’s Board Chair Keith Koenig at the annual Florida Chamber meeting, this award celebrates Martinez’s exemplary leadership and dedication in advancing initiatives that are driving positive change across the state.
The Florida Chamber Chair Award recognizes individuals who have gone “above and beyond” to support the Florida Chamber’s mission and deliver meaningful progress toward securing a prosperous future for all Floridians. As chair, Koenig remarked, “These recipients have truly moved the needle on our goals, helping us accomplish big things for Florida.”
Joining Noel Martinez in receiving this distinguished award are:
• Javi Correoso – Head of Policy and Communications, Uber Technologies
• John Couris – President and CEO, Tampa General Hospital
• Heather Kasten – President and CEO, Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce
• Karen Moore – Founder and CEO, The Moore Agency
• Andry Sweet – President and CEO, Children’s Home Society of Florida
• John Trevathan – Vice President of Corporate Services, Guidewell and Chair, Florida Chamber Leadership Cabinet
• Sam Verghese – COO, Florida Virtual School
• Michele Watson – CEO, Florida Association of Children’s Councils and Trusts
• Michael Wynn – President, Sunshine Ace Hardware
“Receiving this award from the Florida Chamber is a tremendous honor,” said Martinez. “It reflects the hard work and dedication of our entire team at the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce and our collective vision to establish Palm Beach North as the best place to live, work, and play. I’m deeply grateful to the Florida Chamber for this recognition and look forward to continuing our work to secure Florida’s future.”
The awards highlight a shared commitment among these leaders to foster growth, innovation, and success throughout Florida’s business landscape. Please join us in congratulating Noel Martinez and his fellow recipients for their remarkable achievements and ongoing dedication to the Florida Chamber’s mission.
Their efforts are paving the way for a stronger, more resilient Florida.
About Palm Beach North Chamber Of Commerce
Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest and most active business organizations in Southeast Florida. They were awarded the “Chamber of the Year” for the state of Florida in 2023. Serving businesses in the eleven municipalities that make up Palm Beach North, the chamber fosters a partnership of private, public, educational, and civic organizations working together to ensure Palm Beach North is Florida’s “Prosperity Coast.” The chamber’s four strategic imperatives are: a prosperous economy, high quality of life for all residents, a smart and connected region, and regional leadership. For more information, visit www.pbnchamber.com.
Noel Martinez, Heather Kasten, Karen Moore, Keith Koenig
Financial Focus®
Consider Tax-Smart Charitable Gifts
By Sally Sima Stahl
As we enter the annual season of giving, you might be thinking of charities you wish to support. But you also might be wondering how to gain some tax benefits from your gifts.
It used to be pretty straightforward: You wrote a check to a charity and then deducted the amount of the gift, within limits, from your taxes. But a few years ago, as part of tax law changes, the standard deduction was raised significantly, so fewer people were able to itemize deductions. Consequently, there was less financial incentive to make charitable gifts.
Of course, this didn’t entirely stop people from making them. And it’s still possible to gain some tax advantages, too.
Here are a few tax-smart charitable giving strategies:
• Bunch your charitable gifts into one year. If you combine a few years’ worth of charitable gifts in a single year, you could surpass the standard deduction amount and then itemize deductions for that year. In the years following, you could revert to taking the standard deduction.
• Make qualified charitable distributions . Once you turn 73 (or 75 if you were born in 1960 or later), you must start taking withdrawals from your traditional or inherited IRA. These withdrawals—technically called required minimum distributions, or RMDs—are taxable at your personal income tax rate, so, if the amounts are large enough, they could push you into a higher tax bracket or cause you to pay larger Medicare premiums.
But if you donate these RMDs directly to a qualified charity, you can avoid the taxes. And because these donations, known as qualified charitable distributions (QCDs), will reduce the balance on your IRA, you may have lower RMDs in the future.
Of course, if you need some or all your RMDs to help sustain yourself in retirement, the use of QCDs may not be of interest to you. Keep in mind, though, that you can start making QCDs at 70½, even before you must start taking RMDs. QCDs up to $105,000 can be taken in 2024.
• Consider a donor-advised fund . If you’re interested in a long-term charitable giving arrangement, you might want to consider establishing a donoradvised fund. You can put many types of assets into this fund, and then direct it to make grants periodically to the charities you’ve chosen. You get an immediate tax deduction for your contribution, and, if you donate appreciated assets, such as stocks, you’ll avoid the capital gains taxes you would have incurred if you simply sold the stocks and then gave the money to the charities. One note of caution, though—your contributions to a donor-advised fund are irrevocable, and once the assets are in the fund, you can’t use them for anything except charitable giving.
These strategies—QCDs and donor-advised funds in particular—can be complex and involve several issues of which you should be aware. So, you should consult your tax advisor before taking action. But if any of these techniques are appropriate for your situation, give them some thought—because helping a charitable group and getting tax benefits for doing so is a “win” for everyone.
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.
Medicare Corner With Kathy O
Since the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period is ending Dec. 7, I’d like to offer some general Medicare tips and advice.
The single most important thing you can do for yourself is to have your own agent. Your agent is an amazing resource to reorder lost cards, answer benefit questions, give a list of specialists, review notices, claim statements and so much more. Your agent can even answer questions about those pesky TV ads and all the gossip from your friends about Medicare. Best of all, there is no cost to have an agent.
Moving? Do not change your address with your Advantage, supplement or drug plan carrier prior to your move without first speaking to your agent – if you don’t have one, find one. When you call member service and change your address, they may cancel your plan at the end of the current month, even if you don’t move until next month. This could unknowingly leave you with no coverage.
The Special Enrollment Period for moving outside your plan service rules are: 1) If you tell your plan before you
move, your chance to switch plans begins the month before the month you move and continues for two full months after you move or 2) If you tell your plan after you move, your chance to switch plans begins the month you tell your plan, plus two more full months.
It is also important to change your address with Medicare. This is done through Social Security by phone or online at ssa.gov.
Why is Social Security involved when I need services with Medicare? Social Security (SSA) is the gatekeeper for Medicare. Your earnings are tracked by SSA and you must qualify with 40 work quarters to receive Medicare. Medicare also relies on SSA to determine your Part B Premium and if you receive SSA benefits, to collect your premium. If you are not receiving SSA benefits, you will be billed quarterly by Medicare.
If you still need to review or change your Medicare plan, Open Enrollment is Jan. 1 to Mar. 30 and you may qualify for a Special Enrollment. Call me! If you have new Medicare Topic suggestions, email me at czak82@aol.com.
I speak Medicare: Supplement, Drug Plan and Advantage Plan.
For your free Medicare Plan review please call me. Kathy Olejniczak, Agent, at (561) 835-5413 or cell/text (561) 212-7640.
The Pet Cottage Post
Bridging Hearts Between Seniors And Pets
In a world where companionship can last a lifetime, The Pet Cottage stands as a beacon of hope, uniting senior individuals with pets in need. This nonprofit organization, based in Jupiter, has been instrumental in cultivating meaningful relationships between vulnerable pets and seniors, ensuring both find solace and purpose in each other’s company.
A Mission Of Compassion
The Pet Cottage’s mission is to provide lifelong guardianship for pets who have lost their owners due to death, disability, or deployment. By matching these animals with senior individuals, the organization not only offers a loving home to the pets but also enriches the lives of seniors through the joy and responsibility of pet companionship.
Stories Of Transformation
One heartwarming story is that of Sophie, a 12-year-old Maltipoo. After her owner suffered a stroke, Sophie was left alone and frightened. When a family member discovered her, Sophie was terrified, severely matted, in pain, and had
become aggressive. Upon joining The Pet Cottage’s Lifelong Guardianship Program, she received essential veterinary care, grooming, and, most importantly, love. Dedicated volunteers, Michelle and Matt, provided the extra TLC and time needed to build trust with Sophie. Today, she thrives in the home of Forever Guardians Scott and Maryann, bringing joy and companionship to their lives.
Impact By The Numbers
In the past year, The Pet Cottage has welcomed 66 pets into their program, each finding a new home through their Lifelong Guardianship initiative. Additionally, 60 human seniors have experienced the profound benefits of pet companionship, discovering renewed purpose and joy.
The Role Of Generosity
The organization’s success is deeply rooted in the generosity of its supporters. Donations directly fund various aspects of pet care, including:
• Veterinary Examinations: $20 covers a basic exam at the local vet clinic, ensuring each pet’s health is assessed upon arrival.
• Specialized Treatments: $78 funds a six-week Cytopoint injection for Sparky, a senior Shih Tzu suffering from chronic itching.
• Annual Health Screenings: $115.50 supports comprehensive bloodwork for senior pets, aiding in early detection of potential health issues.
• Chronic Condition Management: $512 supplies a year’s worth of insulin for Simba, an orange tabby cat with diabetes.
• Emergency Care: $1,500 covers the cost of an emergency room visit for a pet in crisis.
A Call To Action
As the year draws to a close, The Pet Cottage invites the community to consider making a year-end donation. Such contributions are pivotal in sustaining their mission, ensuring that both pets and seniors continue to receive the care and companionship they deserve.
How To Contribute
Donations can be made online at (https://www. thepetcottage.org/), or by mailing contributions to: The Pet Cottage 17049 Thunder Road Jupiter, Florida 33478
A Message Of Gratitude
“Every story we share has a hero, and you are the hero in ours,” says Wendy Derhak, founder and executive director of The Pet Cottage. “Your generosity transforms lives, ensuring pets receive lifelong care and seniors find joy, pride, and a sense of belonging.”
This holiday season, consider becoming a part of The Pet Cottage’s compassionate community ( our pack). Your support can make a world of difference, one pet and one senior at a time. Wendy Derhak, Founder/Executive Director Call (561) 818-5025 for more information. Visitors are welcome by appointment.
• Hyperwellness Package – Including: 50-minute custom massage or facial, with one complimentary enhancement; Access to wellness and fitness classes; Two-hours of Aayush experience; Complimentary beverage bouncer to use in LALA or TULA; Beach access.
• Daily Harmony Hour Daily – Our version of Happy Hour in the Palm Beaches, with a wellness touch. Enjoy a special menu in the oceanfront lobby at LALA lounge, from 4m to 6pm!
• Weekly Sunday Brunch – Indulge in breakfast favorites with a Mediterranean-inspired twist. Now serving à la carte brunch every Sunday at TULA from 11am to 2:30pm!
• Pop-Up Holiday Bar – At TAAZA, located inside Amrit Ocean Resort, 3100 North Ocean Drive, Singer Island – Riviera Beach, FL 33404, Thursday-Saturday Nights in December!
• For a Limited Time – Treat yourself to 30% OFF all Spa and Nail Services (50 minutes or longer), Plus 30% OFF full Highlights and Women’s & Men’s Haircuts.
Claire with Sugar Baby
Mickey and Angel
Sophie and Scott
Wendy and Angel
Walking the Pack 2023/24
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