Chasin A Dream Foundation’s Annual Gala Raises Over $550,000 For Local Children Battling Life-Threatening Illnesses
Chasin A Dream Foundation’s annual gala was an unforgettable evening of generosity and impact, raising over $550,000 to support local children facing lifethreatening illnesses.
Held on March 13, at The Pelican Club in Jupiter, Fla., the golf-themed gala, Fairways Fore Good, highlighted Chasin A Dream’s signature Locals Helping Locals® initiative,
creating an inspiring and meaningful night. A standout moment of the evening was the Warrior Runway, a cherished tradition at Chasin A Dream galas, where a dozen “Warriors” take the stage, receiving a well-deserved celebration in front of an audience moved by their strength and resilience. Chasin A Dream Warriors are children in the community with life-threatening conditions, supported by Chasin A Dream’s mission. Samantha Kerrigan of WPEC Channel 12 was the event chair and the emcee for the evening. Other notable attendees include Tanya Lorigan and Keith Lorigan, Terra Brown, Barbara and Richard Halpern, Ashley Mock, Brian Pandiscio, Gene Sauers, Dr. Edward Davidson, Judy Borinstein, Brenda Diuro and Missy Weldhorn.
A Dream on page 2
Marine Community Celebrates Palm Beach International Boat Show’s Expansion
At Ribbon-Cutting
The marine community celebrated the 2025 Palm Beach International Boat Show’s five-day expansion on Wednesday, March 19, during a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a kickoff party in downtown West Palm Beach.
The Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County (MIAPBC) and Informa Markets, owner and producer, respectively, of the boat show, gathered for the official ribbon-cutting
Ceremony And Kickoff Party
Later that evening, members of MIAPBC and Informa Markets, and other marine industry executives, enjoyed a night of food and drinks inside the Windward
Boat Show on page 5
Despite Drop In Point-In-Time Count
By Cornie Thornburgh, Chair of The Lord’s Place Board of Directors
As Board Chair of The Lord’s Place, a local nonprofit providing programs and services to end homelessness, we
serve our most vulnerable neighbors. On any given night there are thousands of men, women, and children – hidden in the shadows of Palm Beach County’s paradise – who do not have a safe and permanent place to call home.
Annually, we participate in the U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD)mandated Point-in-Time Count (PIT). PIT is a count of sheltered and unsheltered people experiencing homelessness on a single night in January. As reported by The Palm Beach Post , the January 2025 PIT count
recently released reflects 1,520 individuals and families in Palm Beach County who are struggling without a place to call home. This reflects a decrease of more than 28 percent, after staggering increases that were reported in 2023 and 2024.
The Hidden Crisis: Homeless Service Demands Increase
Although the count is a vital tool for resource development and planning, it serves as one measure of Palm Beach County’s progress in decreasing homelessness and success in housing homeless ceremony outside of the show’s Windward VIP Lounge. They were joined by West Palm Beach Mayor Keith James, Palm Harbor Marina owner Cheryl Chase, and commissioners from the City of West Palm Beach.
Chasin
Lori Griffith, Sam Kerrigan
Chris and Jill Gallagher, Tanya and Keith Lorigan, Michelle and Karl Ruppert
Ribbon cutting with Mayor Keith James (center), Cheryl Chase (middle left), city commissioners, MIAPBC and Informa Markets
Michelle Patino, Antonio Martinez
Chasin A Dream from page 1
Key contributors to the event were Anna Flowers – floral arrangements, Sand & Salt Salon – hair and makeup for Warrior children, Garb – clothing for Warrior Runway, Jupiter Golf Carts – donated a golf cart to the live auction, Alexis Bleiler and Jaxel Media – Gala video, Jupiter Wedding Photo and Tracey Benson – photography for event.
The evening’s live auction, led by auctioneer Neil Saffer, opened with an emotionally charged moment as a painting created by Warrior Deneilia B., who is bravely battling neuroblastoma, was auctioned for $10,000—with every dollar going directly to support her fight. Later, a Jack Nicklaus portrait by acclaimed sports artist Kyle Lucks, personally autographed by the golf legend himself, became one of the night’s most coveted items, helping to drive substantial contributions to the foundation’s mission.
“This event is about more than fundraising – it’s about giving these Warrior children and their families the recognition, support, and community they deserve,” said Lori Griffith, founder of Chasin A Dream, in her emotional speech. “Over 92% of every dollar donated to Chasin A Dream goes directly toward our families, and your donations, sponsorship, and show of support tonight helps us provide vital resources and relief to children facing unimaginable challenges.”
To support Chasin A Dream Foundation, donations can be made through their website at chasinadream.org, and volunteers are always welcomed to join the mission.
Gene Sauers, Brian Pandiscio, Scott Henley
Auctioneer Neil Saffer, Artist Kyle Lucks
Joan Dipastino, Kelly Giordano, Chantal Raynor
Missy Weidhorn, Deneilia Bennett, Lori Griffith
Tracy Ward, Kim Riviecchio, Lisa Bahr
John Hannan, Lori Griffith, Marco Hannan
Ashley Mock, Dawn Parry, Terra Brown
Marco Hannan, Kayden Jurgens, Sophia Ferreira, Rose Loretta, Brooklyn Gonzalez, Sydney Whitaker, Lori Griffith, Roman Burnette, Luke Veitz, Deneilia Bennett, Sam Kerrigan
Kimmie Meissner, Karen Paxton Sam Kerrigan, Nancy Kerrigan
Patrick Arnold, Jess Logan, Tara and Benji Moser
Roger and Jaime Estrada
Tyler Smillie, Sammi Siragusa
Fish & Wildlife Foundation Of Florida Toasts 30 Years Of Conserving Wild Florida At A Night For Nature
The Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida celebrated its 30th anniversary during A Night for Nature on Friday, March 28. Held at Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach, the sold-out event raised more than $820,000 to support the foundation’s conservation and outdoor programs.
The Nashville chic soiree featured an evening of country music, with performances from country music singers Tyler Farr, Dave Kennedy, James Otto, Shawn Camp and Rob Snyder. Decked out in boots, denim and diamonds, guests enjoyed dinner, cocktails and a live auction of exclusive items. They also got the chance to meet a “wild” group of guests, including a turkey, a baby alligator, a snake and a barn owl.
This year’s cochairs were Laura Coburn Russell; Tucker Frederickson; John Lacy; Robert Spottswood, Jr.; and Joshua Kellam. Following welcome remarks from Russell, Kellam
populations. The recent statewide legislation makes it illegal to camp on public property and has led many of those we seek to move into the shadows. This makes it increasingly difficult to get accurate results.
The School District of Palm Beach County uses another tool to count public school students who are experiencing homelessness. According to the school district’s latest count, there are 4,252 students in our county without a place to call home.
And, as observed by The Lord’s Place staff, we are seeing an ever-increasing number of local residents seeking services because they no longer have a secure roof over their heads. Since our fiscal year began July 1, 2024, we have served a total of 1,891 men, women, and children so far –an additional 312 individuals experiencing homelessness compared to the previous year-to-date.
presented Mike Sole with the Foundation Lifetime Conservation Achievement Award. Spottswood then honored Travis Thompson of All Florida with the Chris Janson Creativity in Conservation Award. Country music sensation Chris Janson congratulated Thompson in a heartwarming video message.
As a token of appreciation, Call to the Heart donors were gifted a plush burrowing owl for their commitment to conserve wild Florida for future generations.
More information can be found at wildlifeflorida.org.
Photos by Tracey Benson Photography
The great news is that the county and community partners, like The Lord’s Place, are working harder than ever to serve our at-risk neighbors. As an example, previous PIT count surveys showed a rise in senior homelessness which led The Lord’s Place to recently open Burckle Place III, an intergenerational housing facility for 21 women. We are also getting ready to open Bill’s Place, a facility for men 55 years and older.
The not-so-good news is this year’s decreased PIT count could mean a reduction in allocated federal and state resources to provide housing and supportive services designed to assist individuals and families out of homelessness and into stability. The unsettling reality is a gap exists between the number of unhoused people we count and the actual number who lack permanent shelter – perhaps those who are couch surfing, living in their cars, hidden in wooded areas, encampments, or at
work or school. Therefore, we continue to face a shortfall in the resources we have to serve this population. Now more than ever, agencies like ours are having to turn to private donors to mitigate the impact of these potential cuts to ensure continued support for our neighbors in need.
The Lord’s Place, along with the county and our community partners, will continue to play a key role in advocating for more resources. As ambassadors for those experiencing homelessness, our work will never be done until every individual in Palm Beach County is accounted for and has a home.
If you are interested in bridging the gap and having a positive impact on ending homelessness, please consider sharing your time, talent, and resources with agencies that are doing the work. For more information, visit www. TheLords P lace.org
Phil Stone, Byron Russell, Laura Russell, Rodney Baretto
Country singers Tyler Farr, Rob Snyder, Dave Kennedy, Shawn Camp, James Otto
Robert Spottswood Jr., Josh Kellam, John Lacy
Mike Sole, Jeannie Sole
Chuck Collins, Judge Sherri Collins Tucker Frederickson, Andrea Phipps
Sheriff Ric Bradshaw, Dorothy Bradshaw Keenan Baldwin, Townsend Tarapani, Senator Jim Boyd
Valerie Boyd, Senator Kathleen Passidomo, Jeff Garguilo
The Hidden Crisis from page 1
George Gentile, Jamie Gentile Kathi Doole, Andrew Doole
Ryan Doyle, Allison Doyle
Elena Murphy, Martin Murphy
Dilan Sarac, Co Hooning, Andrea Tagliaferro
Martin Murphy, Ray Graziotto, Tamra FitzGerald, Austin Burkett, Mallory Doremus, Doug West
City Commissioners Christina Lambert, Shalonda Warren, Joseph Peduzzi and Christy Fox
Jeff Freeman, Alyssa Freeman, Judy Visscher, Charlie Visscher
Peter Lucia, Phyllis Lucia
Photos by Tyler Benson Photography
Annual Plein Air Festival Captivates Collectors
Lighthouse ArtCenter’s vibrant arts scene reached new heights as the 12th Annual Plein Air Festival’s Collectors’ Party drew over 500 art enthusiasts and collectors on March 7. Guests had the exclusive opportunity to mingle with 29 award-winning plein air artists from around the globe and acquire freshly painted masterpieces capturing the rich landscapes and cultural essence of Palm Beach and Martin counties.
The weeklong festival celebrates the tradition of plein air painting and featured artist demonstrations, workshops and a prestigious competition with over $15,000 in cash and prizes. Artists brought local coastlines, gardens and landmarks to life in real-time, presenting their works at the Lighthouse ArtCenter Gallery.
Internationally renowned artist Mary Garrish served as the festival judge, honoring exceptional talent at the
Commissioner’s Update
VA Center Renamed In Honor Of American Hero
Thomas H. Corey
By Mayor Maria G. Marino
Hundreds gathered on April 4, at the invitation of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to celebrate the renaming of the West Palm Beach VA Medical Center. The honor was bestowed in memory of the late Thomas H. Corey, a decorated Vietnam War veteran and lifelong advocate for wounded service members. This dedication serves as a lasting tribute to Corey’s unwavering commitment to his fellow veterans and his extraordinary service to the nation.
Born in 1945, Thomas H. Corey served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. In 1968, while leading his unit on a mission, he was severely wounded by enemy fire, leaving him a quadriplegic. Corey earned recognition as a highly decorated combat veteran for his service, receiving the Combat Infantry Badge, the Bronze Star Medal, two Purple Hearts, the Air Medal, the Army Commendation Medal and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross.
Despite his life-changing injury, Corey relocated to Palm Beach County in 1972 and dedicated his life to improving conditions for disabled veterans, turning adversity into advocacy. As a dedicated veterans’ leader and advocate, he served on advisory boards for local government, including the VA Medical Centers in Miami and West Palm Beach. For more than 15 years, he worked as an ombudsman and program specialist at the West Palm Beach VA Medical Center, helping to support and guide fellow veterans.
As a longtime president of the Vietnam Veterans of America, Corey worked tirelessly to ensure that veterans received the healthcare, benefits and recognition they deserved. He was instrumental in advancing policies for improved VA medical care, PTSD treatment and disability compensation. His advocacy extended beyond U.S. borders, as he worked on efforts to address the effects of Agent Orange and assist veterans in Vietnam.
I extend my gratitude to former U.S. Senator Marco Rubio, now U.S. Secretary of State, and Congressman Brian Mast for their commitment to memorialize Thomas H. Corey. Corey’s legacy is one of resilience, leadership and service. By renaming the West Palm Beach VA Center as the Thomas H. Corey VA Medical Center, the nation reaffirms its gratitude for his sacrifices and contributions, ensuring that future generations of veterans receive the care and support he spent his life fighting for.
Palm Beach County Veterans Services assists and counsels former and current members of the Armed Forces to apply for benefits, including housing, disability compensation, education, employment, financial assistance, health care, and other resources. More information can be found at: https://discover.pbc. gov/communityservices/seniorservices/Pages/VeteranServices.aspx or by calling (561) 355-3084.
Collectors’ Party Awards Ceremony.
12th Annual Plein Air Festival’s Award Winners Grand Prize: Jeff Steiner for Biking Palm Beach –$4,000 (Sponsored by Jane and Patrick O’Neill)
First Place: Crista Pisano for Sleeping Palm – $2,500 (Sponsored by Elaine and Peter McCombs)
Second Place: Marc Anderson for Romulus and Remus – $1,500 (Sponsored by Martie and Bob Sachs)
Third Place: Manon Sander for Coffee Break – $500 (Sponsored by Glenda and Jeff Hoops)
Artists’ Choice Award: Marc Anderson – $500
Honorable Mentions ($350 each) sponsored by Sue and Tom Manzi, recognizing exceptional works such as: Best Off the Beaten Path: Palms Dancing in the Breeze –Natalia Andreeva
Best Seascape: Big Surf – Olena Babak
Best Architecture: Steel Horizon – Harsh Agrawal
Best Nocturne: Diner After Hours – Carl Bretzke
Best Local Hot Spot: Flagler Museum – David Savallano
The festival concluded with a high-energy Battle of the Brushes live painting event and auction on March 8, celebrating artistic excellence and fostering community engagement. Additional sponsors contributed to the success of the event, including American Art Collector, Jupiter Magazine, and Plein Air Magazine
For more information, visit lighthousearts.org or call (561) 746-3101.
Jeni Licata, Peter McCombs, Elaine McCombs, Crista Pisano (First Prize winner) and Mary Garrish
Crista Pisano, Sleeping Palm (First Prize Winner)
Jeff Steiner, Biking Palm Beach (Grand Prize Winner)
Jeff Steiner
Photos by Gail V. Haines
Jupiter Senior Softball News
Three teams won division championships in the 2025 Jupiter Senior Softball Winter League that ended March 28.
The competition featured 15 teams among three divisions with players ranging in age from their 50s to their 80s. The oldest was retired dentist Bill Pollack, who celebrated his 90th birthday February 11.
The division champions were: Red Division Team 1, managed by Brian Havermann. The team also won the division playoff and had a 20-5 overall record. Other champions were the White Division Sultans of Swinging, Gil Morejon, Manager; and Blue Division Swingers R Us, managed by Dan Richter.
Division champions are honored for their season record, while playoff teams earn “bragging rights.” And the White Division’s Gladiators, managed by Art Katulak, had something to boast about: A 10-0 shutout victory against their opponent, the Stallions.
“Never in my 22 years in the league do I remember there being a shutout in the playoffs,” said John Katulak, Art’s brother and assistant manager. Pete Sporn was the winning pitcher. The Blue Division’s Scott’s Scottsmen, managed by Scott Johnson also were playoff victors.
League Commissioner Paul Storch termed the Winter League a success, thanks to all who participated, including a number of fans who turned out for games, plus the work of board members of the Jupiter Senior Softball Association (JSSA). “And of course it was the players themselves,” Storch said. “We had a record 185 players participating in the league this year, and a crop of new players.”
The Winter League is the cornerstone of the senior softball program’s year-round season. Following the
league, pickup games are held the rest of the year and new players are always welcome. Persons 55 and over are eligible. Games are every Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning at Jupiter Community Park, beginning at 8:30 a.m. The slowpitch softball program is sponsored by the nonprofit JSSA in cooperation with Jupiter’s Parks and Recreation Department.
Registration can be made online at www.leaguelineup. com/jssa sponsorship opportunities are also available. For more information contact Gary Newman at (917) 623-0791.
Blue Division championship team members in front row, left to right, are Alan Rubin, Allen Trefry, Doug Carr, Steve Mosler, Lloyd Dropkin and Pete Cohane. Back row, left to right, are Phil Watson; Mike McClanahan; Jeffrey Schwartz; Dan Richter, manager; John Mayne; Steve Gresek; and Mike Richmond. Photo by Sharon Gresek
White Division championship team members are front, Barry Skolnik. Second row, left to right, Ken Mair, Norm Falick, Pete Furio, Michael Berry. Back row, left to right, Gil Morejon, manager; Antonio Papa; Jim Denkus; Paul Cooney; Ken Lees; Mike Weber; and Bill Smith.
Photo by Mike Richmond
Red Division championship team members in the front row are, left to right, Mick Sipula, Temple Houston, Walter Ward, George Sinisko, Ron Horne and Rick Coluccio. Back row, left to right, Sheldon Isaacson, Jorge Garcia, Don Spieller, Joe Elicone, Steve Kurman and Brian Havermann, manager.
Golden Heart Luncheon Celebrates Barbara Nicklaus And Raises Over $1.1 Million For Children’s Health Care
Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation raised more than $1.1 million, a new record, for world-class pediatric care during its annual Golden Heart Luncheon. Held at The Country Club at Mirasol on February 28, the luncheon honored Barbara Nicklaus on her 85th birthday.
The sold-out event was filled with surprises and touching moments at every turn. Marie Osmond, singer-actress and cofounder of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, gave a heartfelt and inspiring speech. Christian Guardino, a Children’s Miracle Network “Miracle Patient,” a semifinalist on America’s Got Talent, and a top contender on American Idol, delivered a soulful performance of several songs. In a touching moment, Zachary “Lucky” DeTray, a former patient of the Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, made a special appearance for his dear friend Barbara. The afternoon concluded with a surprise birthday cake and happy birthday wishes from friends, family members, and her husband, Jack Nicklaus.
Jack and Barbara Nicklaus founded the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation in 2004. It was founded in an effort
to provide families access to the best level of pediatric health care in Palm Beach County and beyond. Raising $216 million to date, the foundation supports Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, which has helped children from every state in the union and
119 countries. The foundation also gives back to many other children’s health care organizations across the country and around the world.
Jack Nicklaus, Marie Osmond, Barbara Nicklaus
Laura Russell, Erin McGould
Laura Andrassy, Tina Egge
Photos by Tracey Benson Photography
Christian Guardino
Suzanne Citron, Lorraine Willms, Joy Nicklaus, Malyn Gentry
Trisha Armstrong, Barbara Nicklaus, Jeannie Tisbo, Vaneli Martinov, Jill Davis
Cherie Lucks, Delores Colton
Rhonda Titherington, Margaret Luce Birthday celebration with Jack and Barbara Nicklaus
Allison Nicklaus, Roxanne Shulman, Alicia Dahill
Event Chair, Nan O’Leary (center), with Mackenzie O’Leary, Mallory O’Leary, Kelly O’Leary, and Lily O’Leary
Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League Prepares For Kitten Season
Temporary Foster Volunteers Urgently Needed
Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League anticipates another busy kitten season this spring. To prepare for this influx, the organization is looking for temporary foster homes to help care for the kittens. All necessary training and supplies will be provided; you just need to supply the love!
During kitten season, many neonatal kittens are brought to the Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League daily because they have been separated from their mothers. Many of these kittens are too young to eat
on their own and require round-the-clock care, including being bottle-fed every two to four hours. These kittens are placed with foster families who help nurture them until they are old enough to be adopted. The goal is to have enough foster volunteers to care for the kittens so they don’t have to grow up in a shelter environment.
“Fostering is rewarding – and incredibly important,” said Sue Berry, CEO of Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League. “When you become a foster volunteer, you are providing these kittens with a safe and healthy environment and providing individualized attention that is so important to their behavioral development. Kittens raised in foster care are typically more social and adapt more easily to new homes once adopted.”
Peggy Adams provides all the training, supplies and support for foster families. Community service hours are also available for fostering. For more information, please visit PeggyAdams. org/Foster or call (561) 686-3663.
Want to help, but can’t foster? Last year, the Peggy Adams’ nursery cared for 1,200 kittens before they moved into foster homes. To keep the nursery stocked and support its dedicated fosters, Peggy Adams is asking for essential supplies from its Amazon Wishlist at peggyadams.org/help/donate/wishlists/. All items donated help provide kittens with the warmth and care they need to grow into healthy, happy cats.
Did you know? Kittens less than four weeks old have little chance of survival if separated from their mothers. In fact, cats and kittens are the most at-risk animals for euthanasia in Palm Beach County. Most discoveries of newborn kittens don’t call for human assistance, and no intervention is generally best until kittens can eat independently. For more information on what to do if you have found kittens, please visit PeggyAdams.org/ Found-Kitten-Resources.
Peggy Adams also reminds the community if you’ve spotted adult cats near kittens, it’s time to take action! The Trap, Neuter, Vaccinate and Return (TNVR) program ensures they live long, healthy lives outdoors while preventing more litters from being born. TNVR surgeries are free for all zip codes in Palm Beach County and is offered Monday through Friday. Traps are available with a fully refundable deposit.
Four Ways To Approach Reading Problems
By Jim Forgan, Ph.D., Licensed School Psychologist
Your child’s reading problems are real-life problems since reading is required in all school subjects. The percentage varies depending on the definition of “reading problems,” but approximately 20 percent of children have reading problems. This includes conditions like dyslexia and other reading difficulties. There are four ways to approach your child’s reading problems. The least favorable approach is a wait and see approach. Some parents are told statements such as, “Give it more
time and she’ll catch on soon,” or “Boys are just slower to read than girls.” Well-intentioned advice can actually cause your child considerable setback. Kindergarten through second grade is when children concentrate on learning to read but from third grade onward children must read to learn. Hence, mandatory third grade retention if your child does not pass the high stakes reading testing.
A second approach is for you to work with your child at home. While you might not be a professional teacher, you can teach your child to read by purchasing reading materials. One parent book is Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons. You might require your child to use reading websites such as ABC Mouse, Starfall, Raz-Kids, or Nessy. These supports help many children learn to read.
Many parents hire a tutor as a third approach to reading struggles. I recommend one-to-one reading tutoring as
the best way to make reading gains. There are plenty of teachers tutoring after school at libraries, homes, and businesses. Most schoolteachers who tutor use an eclectic approach to teaching reading.
Call for school neurological testing when your parental instinct is telling you your child’s struggles are more than developmental and might be dyslexia. In this approach we test for dyslexia and other learning disabilities. Our testing pinpoints exactly what is causing the struggle so you can provide targeted support rather than try and see support. If it is dyslexia, Florida gives parents money to help with tutoring costs.
Call (561) 625-4125 if you would like to discuss your concerns for dyslexia, ADHD, autism, or anxiety. Learn more at www.JimForgan.com.
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Learn how our advanced surgical options can make a difference for you at jupitermed.com/ortho
Financial Focus®
How To Cope With Market Volatility
By Sally Sima Stahl, Edward Jones
The financial markets always go through periods of instability. And we may see more of that now, given concerns about tariffs, inflation and the economy. As an investor, how can you deal with this volatility?
Some investors try to take advantage of market ups and downs by attempting to follow the age-old advice to “buy low and sell high” – that is, they seek to buy stocks when they feel prices have bottomed out and they sell stocks when they think the market has reached a high point. In theory, this is a great idea, but in practice, it’s essentially impossible, because no one can really predict market highs and lows.
Rather than trying to anticipate highs and lows, your best strategy for coping with the price fluctuations of the financial markets is to diversify your investment portfolio by owning a mix of stocks, bonds and other types of securities. Different types of financial assets can move in different directions at any given time – so, for example,
Three Reasons To College Plan The Summer Before Senior Year
By Peggy Forgan, M.Ed., College Planner
The summer before your senior year of high school is a critical time for college planning.
Rising seniors will be applying to colleges in just four to five months and there’s a lot to get done. By planning ahead, you can reduce stress and ensure you’re prepared for the exciting but busy months ahead.
First, start by researching colleges that align with your goals, considering factors like location, size, academic programs, and campus culture. Create a list of schools you’re interested in and arrange virtual tours. Then, begin organizing application materials.
Second, if you need to retake the SAT or ACT, the summer provides time for preparation. Many students also take summer courses or internships to strengthen their applications and gain a competitive edge.
Writing a draft of your application essay is a third key point. Writing drafts over the summer allows for thoughtful reflection and less pressure during the school year. You’ll have time to revise and seek feedback from teachers, family, or college counselors.
There is much to organize and keep track of in the coming months and Class 101 offers expert guidance to help you with every step of the college planning process. Come work with the experts who will guide you every step of the way and make sure no detail is overlooked from researching schools, essay writing, completing applications, and applying for scholarships to ensure you’re on track for success.
Best of all, college planning isn’t just for seniors. Students in grades 9 and 10 can also benefit from getting started early. By beginning the process now, you’ll have more time to build a strong academic profile, explore extracurriculars, and identify specific colleges that align with your goals.
A proactive approach this summer sets you up for success as you navigate the college admissions process.
For more information or to schedule a free 30-minute consultation contact Peggy Forgan at (561) 418-7897 or email pforgan@class101.com.
stocks may be up while bonds are down, or vice versa. If you only owned one of these types of assets, and the market for that asset class was down, your portfolio could take a bigger hit than if you owned a variety of asset types.
And you can further diversify within individual asset categories. Stocks can be domestic or international, largecompany or small-company – and these groupings can also move in different directions at the same time, depending on various market forces. As for bonds, they too don’t always move in a uniform direction, or at least with the same intensity – for instance, when interest rates rise, bond prices tend to fall, but longer-term bonds may fall more than shorter-term ones, which are closer to maturity with fewer interest payments remaining. Conversely, when rates are falling, longer-term bonds may be more attractive because they lock in higher yields for a longer time. Consequently, one diversification technique for bonds is to build a “ladder” containing bonds of varying maturities.
Some investments, by their nature, are already somewhat diversified. A mutual fund can contain dozens, or even hundreds, of stocks, or a mixture of stocks and bonds. And different mutual funds may have different investment objectives – some focus more on growth, while others are more income-oriented – so, further diversification can be achieved by owning a mix of funds.
Furthermore, some investors achieve even greater diversification by owning alternative investments, such as real estate, commodities and cryptocurrencies, although these vehicles themselves are often more volatile than those in more traditional investment categories.
While a diversified portfolio is important for every investor, your exact level of diversification – the percentages of your portfolio devoted to stocks, bonds and other securities – will depend on your individual risk tolerance, time horizon and financial goals. You may want to consult with a financial professional about creating the diversified investment mix that’s right for your needs. Ultimately, while diversification can’t guarantee profits or protect against all losses, it can help you reduce some of the risks associated with investing and better prepare you to deal with the inevitable volatility of the financial markets – two key benefits that can help you over the many years you’ll spend as an investor.
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 Pet Cottage Post
A Day In The Life At The Pet
Cottage: Where Every Tail Tells A Story
Tucked away in Jupiter Farms is a place where pets who’ve lost their humans find love, care and a promise: they will never be alone again. The Pet Cottage is a sanctuary for pets whose people have passed away, become disabled or deployed. Once accepted into the program, these pets are promised a home for life.
Most of the 62 pets currently in their care live with Forever Guardians in the community. But some— those with medical or behavioral needs— stay at the sanctuary, including 14 dogs and one cat who live on-site.
A typical day begins well before sunrise.
“At 3:40 a.m., GiGi, a senior Jack Russell with dementia and Cushing’s disease, let me know she was ready to go out and eat,” shares the founder.
“So, up we go.”
Dashie, a pit bull mix, and Angel, a senior chihuahua, join GiGi on the early morning outing. The rest of the dogs remain sleeping in their cozy crates or small cottages on the property. After morning meditation and
journaling, the founder starts her work for The Pet Cottage— writing grants and planning the day.
By 7 a.m., it’s light enough to begin the full morning routine. Elvis, a large shepherd mix, is let out into his favorite park. Peanut, Sugar Baby and Tuffy are next, bounding with energy. Poppy and Auggie, a bonded pair of cocker spaniels awaiting placement, follow soon after.
Poop is scooped, tails are wagged and fresh air is enjoyed before everyone heads back inside. Nine of the dogs eat the same food, while a few are on special diets. Medications
are handed out, and the feeding routine stretches across the main house and the two additional cottages that house bonded pairs like Mister and Beary, and Dottie and BJ.
By 8:30 a.m., staff and volunteers begin arriving. Chloe, the volunteer coordinator, joins the morning pack walk—Angel in her stroller and the rest on leashes. A Facebook Live posting captures the fun for followers. Back inside, crates are cleaned and dogs are rotated depending on needs.
Sophie, a shy Maltipoo, eats breakfast in the guest room. “She was traumatized and isn’t comfortable with the other dogs, or many people—except me,” the founder says. Throughout the morning, volunteers help with cleaning, organizing donations, giving baths and, of course, showering the dogs with affection. The part-time assistant handles data tracking and veterinary records from one of the cottages, keeping dogs company while she works.
By mid-morning, the founder is in the office thanking donors, writing grants and preparing for board meetings. Some days include vet visits—The Pet Cottage pays for all medical care for the life of each pet. In the afternoons, meetand-greets are held with prospective guardians, with guidance from Franzi, their professional dog trainer.
By 4 p.m., it’s dinnertime. Dogs are fed, medications are given and evening routines begin. The day winds down with playtime, last walks and cuddles.
By 8:30 p.m., the house is quiet. Everyone is fed, safe and resting.
“It’s a full, beautiful day,” the founder reflects. “Busy— and so satisfying. I love my life.”
Join Our Pack
To schedule a visit call (561) 818-5025. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @thepetcottage. Learn more or donate at thepetcottage.org.
Wendy Derhak, Founder and Executive Director The Pet Cottage – Forever Promise. Forever Home.
