40th ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival Presented By Tampa General Hospital
February 15 To 16, 2025 10 a.m. To 5 p.m. Daily
Celebrating four decades of art and fun, the ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival is a two-day outdoor fine-art festival at
1000 NORTH Hosts
Sold-Out Charity Luncheon And Fashion Show
Couture For Change
Fall into fashion! On Thursday, November 14, 1000 NORTH hosted a soldout luncheon and fashion show by Sherrye Sammons Fenton, supporting The Gary & Vivienne Player Foundation. LifeWave Florida sponsored the event with its CEO and founder Thomas Burke.
Guests enjoyed lunch on The Terrace while watching an elegant runway show, featuring Anne Fontaine’s Parisian-inspired collection of fashion essentials. The fashion show was accompanied by a captivating saxophone performance from renowned musical artist Eirinn Abu.
Twenty-Second Annual Archival Evening Honoree
Reception Celebrating Jane Holzer Supports Historical Society Of Palm Beach County
Kelly Williams and Andrew Forsyth graciously hosted the Archival Evening Honoree Cocktail Reception at
their Palm Beach home on Tuesday, December 3, for the chairs, sponsors, and members of the Legacy Circle and Host Committee for the Twenty-second Annual Archival Evening of the Historical Society of Palm Beach County (HSPBC). This year, the HSPBC honored Jane Holzer at its signature invitation-only event at The Colony Hotel,
40th ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival on page 2
Debra Feinsinger, Sherrye Sammons-Fenton, Andrew Kato, Dana Smith, Marci Kipper Thomas Burke
Eirinn Abu
1000 NORTH Hosts on page 9
John Archer and Bill Bone
40th ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival from page 1
The Gardens North County District Park in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. The show brings together a unique juried exhibition of more than 275 fine artists from all over the country and features children’s activities, live music, and demonstrations that provide an arts experience like no other in South Florida. Patrons are sure to find the perfect piece of art for their home at ArtiGras. For more information visit artigras.org. Tickets in advance are $15; $20 at the gate.
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Seabreeze
Northern Notes
Nightjars, Nighthawks
And Chuck Will’s Widows
By Katie Roundtree, Director of Finance and Administration, Northern Palm Beach County Improvement District
Nighthawks and Chuck Will’s Widows are common birds in South Florida, but most people have never seen one. They are members of the Nightjar family and are medium-sized nocturnal or crepuscular (active at dawn and dusk) birds in the family Caprimulgidae . Nightjars are found worldwide, except Antarctica and certain island groups such as the Seychelles. Nightjars are primarily found in Europe, while Nighthawks and Chuck Will’s Widows are found more in the New World. Nightjars, Nighthawks and Chuck Will’s Widows belong to a family of birds with the folk name “goatsuckers.” The family name, Caprimulgidae , literally means “milker of goats” and is based on an ancient belief that the birds milked goats with their enormous mouths each night. In reality, the birds’ attraction to livestock was likely due to the presence of insects.
Chuck Will’s Widows are the largest of the Nightjars and are primarily nocturnal. They have enormous mouths that, when open, can catch flying insects like beetles and moths but can even catch small birds or bats on occasion. Their name is an onomatopoeia from its song. As is often the case with Nightjars, the Chuck-Will’s-widow was named due to its song, which to many sounds like a phrase composed of the words “chuck,” “will’s,” and “widow”: “Chuck Will’s Widow. Chuck-will’s-WID-ow. Chuck-will’s-WID-ow.”
The first syllable of the call is often hard for humans to hear. You can hear their distinctive call in the evening or pre-dawn hours.
As is the case with many Nightjars worldwide, Nighthawk and Chuck Will’s Widow numbers are declining. The factors driving these declines are elusive, but habitat
destruction, declining insect populations, and pesticide contamination have all been suggested as potential culprits.
These fantastic but rarely seen birds are an integral part of the Florida ecosystem. Now that the evenings are cool, enjoy a walk by a preserve area in or around your neighborhood.
As a defense, these birds can hide in leaves on the ground, spread their wings and open their mouths to resemble cottonmouth snakes preparing to strike.
Listen for the call of the “widow” or watch the looping Nighthawks as they search for dinner.
NPDES tip: Storms occur all year round. Make sure your yards and trees are trimmed neatly to avoid flying debris during a storm. Dispose of your trimmings and clippings properly—do not put them into storm drains or lakes!
They are unique birds with a distinctive look characterized by long wings, small feet, short legs, and very short bills. They have short bills but have enormous mouths when opened to allow them to catch insects at night. They have bristles around their beaks called rictal bristles, which are stiff hair-like feathers that arise around the base of the beak. The function of rictal bristles is uncertain, although several possibilities have been proposed. They may function as a “net,” helping to capture flying prey. Some evidence suggests that they may prevent particles from striking the eyes. There is also evidence that the rictal bristles of some species may function tactilely, like that of mammalian whiskers, to help detect prey.
Widows can be found in various habitats, most commonly in open areas with some vegetation. Locally, they live in and around upland preserves. Nighthawks usually spend their days hidden, sometimes in plain view, thanks to their cryptic gray, brown, and blackish plumage and the birds’ squat, “neckless” shape. They often prove challenging to spot even while roosting quietly on a tree branch or fence post.
Time for a change?
Burns Wealth Management Group
Robert Burns
They usually lay their eggs directly on the ground rather than in a nest. They are incredibly good at camouflage, and their coloring allows them to blend in remarkably well with the leaves and trees around them. Their soft plumage is colored to resemble bark or leaves, protecting them from their primary predators: foxes and raccoons. As a defense, these birds can hide in leaves on the ground, spread their wings and open their mouths to resemble cottonmouth snakes preparing to strike. Some species perch face lengthwise along a branch rather than across it as birds usually do to hide during the day, blending seamlessly with tree bark.
The Common Nighthawk’s erratic, acrobatic flight style gives the bird its folk name “bullbat.” They fly alone or in groups in a looping pattern. This dusky hunter jerks and weaves through the air on long, pointed wings, flashing distinctive white wing patches.
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Portfolio Manager 3825 PGA Blvd, Floor 9, Palm Beach Gardens, Florida 33410 561.694.5666 robert.m.burns@jpmorgan.com jpmorgan.com/burnswm
Tampa General Continues To Enhance Its Services On Florida’s East Coast
Since 2020, Tampa General Hospital (TGH) has been creating a framework of state-of-the-art services for patients in the Palm Beach County and Treasure Coast areas. More than 70 providers in 12 medical specialties practice in 17 area locations, and two TGH imaging centers offer patients convenient access to a comprehensive list of diagnostic imaging exams.
As the system continues to grow, it’s natural that area residents have questions about what this expansion means to them. The information below addresses the most commonly asked questions. What Is Tampa General?
Tampa General is Florida’s leading academic health system and has been for more than 50 years.
As the teaching hospital and partner of the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa General pioneers breakthrough treatments, conducts game-changing
clinical research and trains the next generation of health care professionals.
Consistently recognized for world-class care, Tampa General is ranked as the No. 2 hospital in Florida by U.S. News & World Report for 2024/25, and is nationally ranked among the top 50 hospitals in the nation in eight specialties. Additionally, Tampa General was ranked as “high performing” in 15 procedures and conditions and among the top 10 percent of hospitals in the nation in three additional specialties.
Why Does Tampa General Have Facilities On The East Coast Of Florida?
Tampa General is partnering with leading physicians on the East Coast to help the community connect with academic health care to improve access to groundbreaking clinical research and top-quality care for patients with complex conditions.
When A Practice Joins Tampa General, What Does This Partnership Mean For Patients?
Patients don’t need to take any action. Their current level of care will continue, and even be enhanced. Patients continue to see the same doctor at the same location. Accepted insurances, copayments and medical records will remain the same.
Patients will have access to several benefits when a practice partners with Tampa General, including:
• A convenient path to the highest level of academic-based care
• Access to a wider variety of clinical research trials by Tampa General and its partners at the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine
• The opportunity to receive enhanced personal treatment plans
• Access to minimally invasive and complex surgeries that utilize state-of-the-art technologies
• Options for advanced immunotherapy treatment
What Happens If A Patient Needs To Go To Tampa For Complex Care Or Surgery?
If a patient needs complex care in Tampa, a nurse navigator with specialized expertise will coordinate their care, transferring medical records and other needed paperwork and information.
Patients will also be connected with a Tampa General health ambassador who can help arrange travel and accommodations, and handle any other logistical needs, so that their trip is as smooth as possible. As part of the Tampa General network, each affiliated Palm Beach County medical provider and their practice will support a patient’s treatment, offering presurgical and postsurgical care after complex surgery in Tampa.
Tampa General on page 7
Helping Disorganized, Forgetful, And Scattered Adolescents
By Jim Forgan, Ph.D., Licensed School Psychologist
A parent described her eighth-grade son to me, “He has struggles following multiple oral instructions at the same time. His information retention in the short term is challenging especially for unpreferred topics. He has completed homework and forgot to turn it in. He waits until the last minute to start projects or studying for exams. What a hot mess!”
This mom was describing her son’s executive functioning weaknesses. The term executive functioning
encompasses our brain’s ability to manage different systems such as planning, organizing, maintaining effort, remembering, self-regulating, attending, and completing tasks. School success depends, in part, on having strong executive functioning skills. Executive functioning weaknesses can cause smart kids to become scattered, disorganized, and forgetful. These weaknesses might be accompanied with ADHD or learning disabilities but can also be stand-alone difficulties. Our executive functions improve with age and fully mature in our late teen years to early 20s. Thus, there’s hope for your student’s growth. Executive functioning skills can be learned, practiced and improved. This month I am offering an in-person executive functioning course for students in grades 6 through 9. Your student can join us for three, 90-minute sessions of fun, interactive activities to learn executive
The Singles Scene© January 2025
Come Alive In 2025
“Twenty Twenty-Five is a blank book to write your own love story.”~~Matthew Leary (Kelly’s son)
Happy New Year to our favorite people in this vast community of movers and shakers. You are ahead of your time, and we thank you for your keen talent for noticing the beauty in life.
Staying rooted in our overly tech world and maintaining traditional values is essential. People like you hold the gift of love and compassion near and dear--and that is why we are here today. True romance will never go out of style. It is up to people like us--to share this cheerful news about real life and love (offline) with our family and friends. Let’s keep love alive in 2025. Thank us later. It’s true: The older we get, the quicker time flies. Life is moving at a rapid speed, and instant gratification has taken over. In contrast, it is important to have meaning in your life beyond a computer screen. This is a unique year, marking a quarter of a century. The world has shifted, and we must cherish and embrace the opportunity to seize the day.
Milestone moments and huge transitions are coming, and we hope everyone is revving up their engines. The national trends are noting a massive movement away from online dating and towards matchmaking. Quality single people report “online dating burnout,” so much so that even twenty-somethings have vowed to ditch the apps. In days of too much tech, the last thing successful singles want to do is waste their time and energy looking for love on a computer or speaking to an algorithm designed to keep them single and addicted to the next dopamine rush. We call this “What’s Next Syndrome.” Sounds spooky, right?
We urge you to follow the mainstream trajectory to love offline and highlight meeting your matchmaker in person eye-to-eye before you try again. You don’t have to be a multi-millionaire to work with a matchmaker, but you do have to show personal, emotional, and financial security. If you know us, then you know that our corporate headquarters (where we have proudly shined for eleven years) is in one of the most upscale business neighborhoods positioned cleverly to head all of South Florida and the Treasure Coast. Our presence is organically up and down the entire East Coast of the USA. For years, we have been matching clients who have second homes in Nantucket, Manhattan, Greenwich, and Cape Cod, to name a few. We call these clients “jet-setters,” which sounds much cooler than “snowbirds.” We are honored to know many fascinating CEOs, trailblazers, doctors, lawyers, and geniuses. This job has opened doors for us over the years, which means those doors are open to you too, as a client. Thanks to our incredible clientele, we get smarter every day just by spending time with our elevated ever-changing and growing membership platform. Our clients become friends--and nothing is more natural than being introduced by a friend (in the know).
With that, welcome to 2025. It’s time to come alive and/or help a friend or family member that you know to be stuck in a rut or hiding in their comfort zone. There is no time like the present to flip the script and start the year with zeal, clarity, and steadfastness.
Our new clients report an instant feeling of lightness and excitement as soon as they shut their dating apps down--for good. A new female client stated, “The apps felt icky, unnatural, and desperate.” Another new male client called us and said: “My adult son recommended I work with a Matchmaker, and the kids know best!”
The Revolution Resolution.
Our clients desire stability and a high hit rate that you cannot find on a dating app. Intelligent people aim to avoid the clutter. They prefer to maximize their time and efficiency by increasing the odds of meeting like-minded people via in-person connections. They value our friendly advice and most of them listen to our guidance with respect and gratitude.
No Time Like the Present.
People are HOT in a good way. We are geared up for the power of change and action. Love is not about luck—it is about timing. You have to be in the right place, at the right time, to meet the right person. The new year brings this time. This year is about expansion and conquering excellence in and out of the boardroom.
So, what is more important than lifelong health and happiness with someone you love? Read the room. You are at bat. You’ve got this, and we can’t wait to meet you. Hot Tip: Do secure your reservation to meet the matchmakers as our January and February calendars are booking up quickly. Mention this article for special treatment when you speak to one of our team members on the phone. All calls are confidential. Let’s get this new year started!
XOXO – Kelly & Miranda #LoveOffline #MatchmakingRoyalty #TellYourFriends #ComeAliveIn2025 #YouHaveArrived
Kelly Leary © has 34 years in the dating industry and a master’s degree in clinical psychology. She has also 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 members are pre-screened in person, including background checks. 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 “UN-single” through their exclusive club memberships, Kelly and her Team also provide feedback from your 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 North East. Call the central hotline at 561-630-9696 (XOXO) or scan the QR code below to hold your place in the club.
Behind The Scenes with The REV!
Thank you December and Welcome January! It's 2025 and quality single, divorced, and widowed people are ready to love offline once and for all. Your resolution is right in front of you and has been for years. Your timing could not be better and you are in good company. With use of 34 years of expertise and connections, we know you are feeling it too. REV-up your love life with this amazing bunch below. Happy New Year from our hearts to yours! First Interviews are complimentary for a short time only. Reserve your appointment today. #TellYourFriends
functioning skills related to organization, planning, time management, memory, and attention. The group size is limited to 10 students.
We will use games, scenarios, and videos to illustrate points and practice skills. Students receive written handouts to keep which summarize the new skills. We are approaching this mastermind course for teens using a cognitive behavioral framework. That means that if you can change your thinking and learn new skills, you can change your behavior. Your student can learn skills for success this year and beyond. Are you tired of being your child’s only executive assistant and ready for your adolescent to hear about success skills from someone other than yourself?
Call (561) 625-4125 if you would like to sign up or if you need school neuropsychological testing to give you understanding and answers. Learn more at JimForgan. com/executive.
East Coast physicians join Tampa General as a reflection of their commitment to advance research, innovation and technology to transform health care for their patients.
Tampa General Hospital East Coast Provider Network*
TGH Advanced Kidney Care
David S. Amrose, M.D.
Imtiaz M. Ather, D.O.
Kerim Oncu, D.O.
Alberto Ortiz, M.D.
TGH Cancer Institute
Robert S. Scoma, M.D.
Marcus Eby, M.D.
Jason M. Hechtman, M.D.
Mark J. Meyer, M.D.
TGH Cancer Institute – Cancer Center Of South Florida
Abraham B. Schwarzberg, M.D.
Kelly Foster, M.D.
Varun Gupta, M.D.
Vijay Narendran, M.D.
Marshall Posner, M.D.
Talya Schwarzberg, M.D.
Sujal Shah, M.D.
Raymond E. Tsao, M.D.
TGH Concierge Health
Laurie P. Rothman, M.D.
TGH Digestive Health Center
Jeffrey Garelick, M.D.
Glenn H. Englander, M.D.
Sonja Olsen, M.D.
Robert S. Raymond, M.D.
David Schwimmer, M.D.
Sheldon Taub, M.D.
TGH General Surgeons Of The Palm Beaches
Itzhak Shasha, M.D.
TGH Heart And Vascular Institute
Amy Mostafavi, M.D.
TGH Imaging
Walter H. Forman, M.D.
Donald W. Goodwin, M.D.
Robert L. Stickle Jr., M.D.
Hunter Wasserman, M.D.
TGH Pulmonary Care And Sleep Institute
Jay S. Maizes, M.D.
Alan Bakst, M.D.
Luis J. Peña-Hernández, M.D.
Carlos Sanchez, M.D.
Denzil Seedial, M.D.
David Weissberger, M.D.
Adam Wellikoff, M.D.
TGH Urology Group Of Florida
Lawrence M. Yore, M.D.
R. Neill Borland, M.D.
Murray G. Goldberg, M.D.
Emanuel E. Gottenger, M.D.
David S. Meinbach, M.D.
Edward M. Scheckowitz, M.D.
David Weinstein, M.D.
*Physicians only. Network list is current, as of December 6, 2024.
For more information about Tampa General providers in the Palm Beaches, visit TGH.org/ThePalmBeaches.
Tampa General from page 6
Unique New Year’s Edition: by Kelly Leary, M.S. & Miranda Capparelli
The Revolution Dating Team Celebrates the Holidays! #ExcellentHumans
New Client Drop: Meet Luis! #Professional Engineer
Kelly’s Son, Matthew, joins the Team on his own watch!
New Client Drop: Meet Lynn! #Golden Bachelorette
Welcome Ashley (on right) to our Cupid Team!
Eirinn Abu
A trunk show was also on display, showcasing stunning pieces from Kendra Scott. A portion of the proceeds from all clothing and jewelry purchases benefited The Gary & Vivienne Player Foundation. The foundation was established to nurture and educate underprivileged and vulnerable children near Johannesburg, South Africa, driven by the Players’ commitment to support and uplift young lives. For more information or reservations, visit 1000NORTH. com or call (561) 570-1000.
Sherrye Sammons-Fenton, Gloria Hollis, Gale Brophy
Nan O’Leary, Barbara Nicklaus
Barbara Nicklaus, Sherrye SammonsFenton
Gale Brophy, Mike McGann
Jeanie Porter
Amanda Leigh-Hall, Sherrye SammonsFenton
Tamra FitzGerald, Beth Neuhoff, Andrew Kato
Anne Fontaine Collection
Christina Van Vilet Rynasko
Christina Van Vilet Rynasko, Nina Pucillo, Jeanie Porter, Sandy Donavan, Crissy Poorman, Sherrye Sammons-Fenton, Allison Weistzman, Edwige Gilbert, Catherine McGlennon
Theresa Player, Amanda-Leigh Hall, Nan O’Leary, Barbara Nicklaus, Susan Waterfall
Photos courtesy of Tyler Benson Photography
Save The Date!
The Fourth Annual Jensen Beach Garden Expo – Bigger And Better Than Ever!
Mark Your Calendar For Saturday, March 1
From 9 a.m. To 3 p.m. It’s Free!
Join us for Jensen Beach’s favorite springtime tradition!
The Jensen Beach Garden Expo returns on March 1, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the beautiful Indian Riverside Park, in front of the Dockside Pavilion. With more parking, extra food trucks, and fabulous door prizes, this year’s Expo promises a garden celebration like no other.
What’s In Store?
This specialty garden show showcases the best local vendors offering lush tropical plants, native species, vibrant orchids, and unique finds like succulents, herbs, and outdoor art. Stock up on gardening supplies, learn from live presentations, enjoy hands-on demos, and win free door prizes donated by our vendors throughout the day. It’s a fun and educational day for all plant lovers, from beginners to seasoned pros! Presenters include sessions on dragon fruit, edible plants, bonsais and pests in the landscape.
Growing Our Community
More than just a garden show, the expo helps our community flourish. Proceeds support college scholarships for local students pursuing studies in horticulture, environmental sciences, and related fields. We’re also proud to fund camp scholarships for kids at the Florida Oceanographic Society and the Environmental Studies Center, as well as programs for Junior Master Gardeners and the Community Gardens of the House of Hope.
Thank you to our sponsors! Special thanks to Lindstrom Air Conditioning & Plumbing, and to our many generous sponsors who make this event possible.
Don’t miss this incredible day of plants, community, and fun—see you at the expo!
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram and check out our website: https://www. jensenbeachgardenclub. com/garden-expo.
Quantum Foundation Makes $500,000 Grant To Community Foundation For Palm Beach And Martin Counties’ African American Museum And Research Library (AAMRL) Project
Funding Will Support Architectural Design And Planning For AAMRL On Historical Roosevelt High School Site In West Palm Beach
Quantum Foundation has announced a $500,000 grant to Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties’ newly established African American Museum and Research Library (AAMRL) Fund. The grant will support architectural planning and design for the project. Quantum Foundation’s mission is to inspire and fund initiatives that improve the health of Palm Beach County residents. Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that leads partnerships with donors, nonprofits, and community members to solve the region’s chronic and emerging issues.
Earlier this year, Community Foundation received approval for funding from the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners to plan and develop a new African American Museum at the historic Roosevelt High School site (1601 N. Tamarind Ave.) in West Palm Beach. The AAMRL will celebrate and preserve African American history and culture in West Palm Beach, the state of Florida, and beyond. The project will include exhibit space, a research library, and extensive opportunities for community engagement through lectures, educational programming, workshops, seminars, special exhibitions, cultural programs, oral history projects, research opportunities, and youth programs.
“Over the past five years, we have strategically supported projects and programs to enhance the physical and social conditions for residents in Coleman Park,” said Eric Kelly, president of Quantum Foundation. “These neighborhoods, which reflect the lowest life expectancy in Palm Beach County, are home to some of the most extraordinary cultural landmarks. While we’ve made strides, there is still much work to be done in addressing the underlying systems that impact this community. We are proud to support the African American Museum and Research Library, which serves as a powerful reminder of our shared history and furthers our ongoing commitment to this area.”
“The Palm Beach County African American Museum and Research Library initiative would not be possible without the generosity and support of partners like Quantum Foundation,” said Danita R. DeHaney, president
and CEO of Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties. “Quantum Foundation’s $500,000 grant, dedicated to architectural planning and design, represents a crucial first step in creating a lasting cultural institution that will preserve and celebrate African American history for generations to come.”
According to DeHaney, the AAMRL will stand as a transformative anchor institution in the historic Coleman Park neighborhood, fostering community pride, economic growth, and cultural vitality while honoring the area’s rich African American heritage. This initiative is a collaboration between the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners, Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, The School District of Palm Beach County, and various community stakeholders.
Once home to West Palm Beach’s two all-Black high schools, in recent years, the Roosevelt High grounds became the Roosevelt Full-Service Center. The Roosevelt Center, owned by the The School District of Palm Beach County, became a community center with neighborhood resources, services, and alternative school programs on site.
The school district has already commenced phase one of the Roosevelt Center renovation project. Phase two of the project will provide for renovation of the buildings at the Roosevelt Center that will house the research library and for construction of a new 20,000-square-foot twostory building to house the museum.
For more information or to donate to Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, please visit yourcommunityfoundation.org/give-now/.
Danita DeHaney and Eric Kelly
Commissioner’s Update
Palm Beach County: Driving Innovation, Safety, And Growth For A Brighter Future
By Mayor Maria G. Marino
It’s truly an honor to become the mayor of a county that is a driving force for economic growth, innovation and quality of life. Palm Beach County stands as a beacon of progress, built not by chance, but through thoughtful planning, consistent effort, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Palm Beach County thrives on strategic investments that yield transformative results. For every dollar invested in economic development, we see exponential returns— more businesses, more jobs, and a stronger tax base. We’ve proven that we act local while thinking global.
Public Safety is the foundation of any thriving community. From emergency management during storms to initiatives by Palm Beach County Fire Rescue and the Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office (PBSO), we are committed to ensuring residents feel secure. A shining example is our whole blood program, one of only 121 in the nation, which enables medically trained first responders to perform lifesaving blood transfusions in the field. Through its safety education, the Drowning Prevention Coalition reached nearly 24,000 people, and 2,200 kids ages 2 to 12 took free or reduced-cost swim lessons.
Investments in public safety provide tangible returns: stronger communities, lower insurance premiums, and enhanced quality of life. When people feel safe, businesses thrive, families grow, and communities flourish. That’s the kind of return on investment we can all celebrate.
What makes Palm Beach County such a desirable destination for businesses and families? It’s the outstanding quality of life, with 110 parks, beaches, and recreational areas that turn living here into a dream.
These spaces are more than just amenities; they are vital investments in our shared well-being. Programs like Park Rx, also known as Park Prescriptions, is part of a national initiative that encourages healthcare professionals to prescribe time spent in nature to improve patients’ health and well-being.
This past year, we completed two major restoration projects in our estuaries: Sawfish Island and Tarpon Cove. These initiatives created critical seagrass, oyster reef, and mangrove habitats, supporting wildlife, improving water quality, and enhancing coastal resilience. Coastal resilience is important for maintaining our pristine beaches and natural habitat. The county spent nearly $6M this past year on dune projects and beach renourishment and over 1.4 million cubic yards of sand was placed on county beaches. That volume would fill 150 Jupiter Lighthouses!
Education in Palm Beach County is more than Vanderbilt. In addition to our higher education options, we have three technical high schools in our county. College may not be for everyone, but education is.
Palm Beach County is buzzing with transformational projects designed to meet the needs of yesterday and today while anticipating tomorrow. Recent accomplishments include the completion of the PBSO District 1 Marine Unit Facility, the Supervisor of Elections Production Facility, and the Canyon Branch Library. Upcoming renovations at Roger Dean Stadium and expansions to the Animal Care and Control Building will further enhance our infrastructure. Solid Waste Authority has the No. 1 renewable energy facility in America.
Transportation is another cornerstone of our growth strategy. By collaborating with all 39 municipalities, we are developing a Countywide Transportation Master Plan that ensures safe, efficient, and sustainable mobility for everyone. With more than 550 interlocal agreements spanning public safety, coastal protection, facilities, and broadband, we’re fostering a spirit of collaboration that benefits every corner of our county. Our ISS department, using $50M in federal funds, has installed broadband poles and more than 500 miles of fiber optic cabling. Free Internet broadband is available in 17 branches of our libraries and 47 county parks. And by partnering with agencies like the Boys and Girls Clubs and 86 schools, we are bringing Wi-Fi to homes that would otherwise be unable to have this necessary tool for kids to do their homework. Pair that with many interlocal agreements with our municipalities, we are delivering broadband at a discounted price which is passing a huge savings on to all our residents.
Palm Beach County is an award-winning county, locally, statewide and nationally. We are rewriting the rules of what’s possible. Through precision, patience, and strategy, we’re driving excellence and ensuring every resident and every business sees the benefits of living, working, and thriving here. Together, we’re creating a future where innovation meets sustainability, and prosperity is shared by all.
For more information on the latest news and initiatives in Palm Beach County, please visit: www.pbc.gov.
Samantha Fisher, M.D., F.A.A.D., sees patients of all ages at the Dermatology Associates in the Palm Beach Gardens office after more than 13 years of experience practicing medical, cosmetic dermatology and Mohs surgery for skin cancer treatment.
Dr. Fisher received her Medical and Bachelor of Science degrees with honors from the University of Florida, where she completed her postgraduate training, including serving as Chief Resident in Dermatology.
Her past professional experience includes providing Dermatology services to patients in Stuart , FL from 2013-2024, Naples, FL from 2012-2013, and as Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Florida Department of Dermatology in Gainesville, FL from 2011-2012.
Dr. Fisher looks forward to providing you with excellent dermatology care.
Dermatology Associates of the Palm Beaches is a group practice of board-certified dermatologists and fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons providing general dermatology, surgical dermatology, and cosmetic dermatology services. These physicians trained at some of America’s great medical institutions and conduct research into the most advanced treatments. Our physicians are also recognized leaders in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer.
Tax Talk
Dear Friends:
Each day, at approximately 11 a.m., my team and I receive an email report from our client satisfaction survey vendor highlighting the surveys we received from clients the previous day. I enjoy reading the surveys, especially the comments where clients tell us what we are doing right and what needs improvement. We strive for exceptional service on each and every interaction with our clients, both in-person and on the phone, and most of the time we get it right, but there are times that we miss the mark. In either case, it is important that we hear from our clients so we can address issues and make corrections where needed, but at the same time, it is so rewarding to hear from clients who rave about the service they have received from a member of my staff. That commitment to exceptional from every member of our team is the driving force behind our industry-leading client satisfaction results, where 87 percent of our clients say that their experience with our office was exceptional or very good!
Anne M. Gannon,
Constitutional Tax Collector, Serving Palm Beach County
Get Yours Now! The 2025 Tax Planner & Services Guide
As we worked on this latest edition, one of our priorities was to align with the information on our new website, www. pbctax.gov, so the two complement one another. We made the guide easy to use with color coding guides to services and QR codes that will take you right to our website for more information on a specific topic.
Visit www.pbctax.gov/tpsg to request a copy of the 2025 edition. When you receive the guide, we will invite you to respond to a brief survey to provide us with your feedback so we can keep enhancing this signature publication. I hope you enjoy this publication as much as we enjoy providing it to you!
Faces Of The TCO: AJ Starks
Title: Director of Contact Center Operations
Hometown: Memphis, Tenn.
Favorite Activity: Manning the grill or the smoker Favorite Food: My smoked brisket
This month, in our “Faces of the TCO” series, I am pleased to shine the spotlight on the director of our Client Care and Research Center (CCRC).
of such a great team of professionals, all moving in the same direction to deliver exceptional customer service.”
A Better Journey
Our new website, www.pbctax.gov has been online for over a month now and I hope you have enjoyed exploring all the new features. One feature that I want to highlight is the enhancements made to our reservation system. We created a new more intuitive interface, featuring pop-up icons to provide information about topics related to our services.
We are excited to announce that our 2025 Tax Planner & Services Guide will be available beginning in January. This comprehensive guide is designed to keep you informed, connected, and empowered as you navigate our organization’s services, values, and resources. Inside, you’ll find everything from taxes to motor vehicles services and driver’s license/ID card services. There is also a monthly calendar to help you keep track of your payment deadlines.
Ajani “AJ” Starks joined my Senior Leadership Team in 2022, and he oversees 40 employees whose main responsibility is to answer client questions and concerns via phone and emails. Handling an average of 1,700 calls a day is not an easy task, and to do so effectively, AJ and his team have developed strategies to ensure all clients receive exceptional service. AJ says, “Client feedback is important to us, and we monitor calls and utilize call monitor forms to provide our client care representatives with feedback. With this comes challenges servicing clients who are unsatisfied with some aspect of our services. I remind the team that it is not personal and to show empathy towards the client, and we specifically train staff for these calls.” Employee recognition is important, and AJ says, “We celebrate wins and best calls, and in fact, we just held our first annual CCRC Awards, recognizing exceptional achievements, such as ‘Most Calls’ and ‘Client Service Excellence.’ I feel lucky to be a member
During your “journey” to make a reservation online, we first present you with a list of documents that you will need for your transaction. Next, upon indicating which documents you have by checking “Yes” or “No” and before you officially schedule your reservation, we present you a summary checklist of the document(s) you need to bring with you to your reservation. You can then print the list or email it to yourself to view or print later. Keep in mind that this document is not confirmation of a reservation, as you still have to select a date, time and location. This checklist is designed to help you easily keep track of the documents you need to gather. Once you have the opportunity to use our enhanced reservation-making system, tell us your feedback by visiting www. pbctax.gov/website-feedback/.
Palm Beach North Chamber Of Commerce
Hosts Annual Holiday Mixer, Raising Funds For Literacy Efforts In Our Public Schools
The Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce celebrated the season in style last week at The Gardens Mall during its Annual Holiday Mixer. The event brought together prominent business executives, including Michael Mitrione and many others, for an evening of connection, celebration, and community impact.
This year’s Holiday Mixer was not only a festive occasion but also a meaningful one. Thanks to the generosity of attendees, the chamber raised $1,350 for the Palm Beach North Education Foundation. These funds will provide essential literacy materials for an entire classroom, supporting local students in their educational journey and ensuring brighter futures within our community.
“The Annual Holiday Mixer is always a highlight of our year, and this year was no exception,” said Noel Martinez, president and CEO of the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce. “We are deeply grateful to everyone who attended and contributed to this incredible cause. Together, we’re making a tangible difference in the lives of our local students.”
The evening was filled with festive cheer, offering attendees the opportunity to strengthen relationships, forge new connections, and reflect on the accomplishments of the past year. As 2025 approaches, the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce looks forward to continuing its mission of fostering a high quality of life in Palm Beach North while building a prosperous economy, developing regional leadership, and becoming a resilient and connected region.
For more information, visit www.pbnchamber.com.
Rob Taylor, Alex Martinez Slaton, Katie Thompson, Kathleen Joy, Carrie Combes, Noel Martinez
Jimmy Glenis, Bruny Rosa, and Eddie Tybuszynski
Angel Adams, Alex Slaton, Traci Rollins, and Betsy Cohen
Mike Bauer, Stacey Bauer, Mark Holbert, and Corey Saban
Alex Martinez Slaton, Ashley Verturo, and Narupa Baldeosingh
Michael Mitrione, Susan Kaplan and Chip Armstrong
Sarah Kudisch
Benzaiten Center For Creative Arts Showcasing Their Own Creative Director, Eli Cecil
Eli Cecil who is the extremely talented creative director for the Benzaiten Center for Creative Arts is an artist on the move. Eli is represented in galleries across the country, he has worked with glass artists in Murano, Italy, his work adorns many homes in Palm Beach County and he just curated the highly successful “Hot Glass” exhibition at the Cornell Museum at Old School Square in Delray Beach. The man gets around!
So, the Benzaiten Center thought it was an excellent time as part of their 10th Anniversary Season to showcase one of their own and who better than their wildly talented Mr. Cecil? He is known for his beautiful and graceful blown glass bonsai trees and ikebana arrangements. He will have all new pieces for these upcoming events, which
kick off Thursday night January 9 with a Meet the Artist Dinner. This is an elegant sit-down, three-course dinner held in the center’s fine art gallery where the artist is given the opportunity to tell his story of how he got into world of fine art, what inspires him and the challenges of working with hot glass. This event is $100 a person.
The following night is one of the center’s famous Artist Blow-Outs. This particular one will be held the following night on Friday the 10th of January. Eli will perform for three hours to the music of a live band, with drinks
and nibbles. For anyone who has not attended one of these muscular, fiery events, you’re missing out!
This year Benzaiten had to raise the price a bit because last year they were all sold out. It is still a great deal at $25 per person. Premium seating is reserved for $50 a person. There are 25 premium seats. You can sign up and pay for these events by visiting their website. Go to the Events tab and then scroll down to either the Meet the Artist Dinner or the Visiting Artist page.
So you never miss out on any of the fun events taking place at the center, be sure to sign up to be on their mailing list. Or better yet, become a member, which will entitle you to multiple discounts and privileges. This way you will always be up to date about their many class and special workshop offerings as well as their much-anticipated Visiting Artist events. Also, check out the center’s tremendously fun fundraising events, which help them raise money for their many kids’ and scholarship programs.
www.benzaitencenter.org
(561) 508-7315
Hours
Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Find Us
1105 Second Avenue South, Lake Worth Beach, FL 33460
GPS doesn’t always get you here: Exit I-95 at Sixth Avenue and go east. Take a left at the blue Kwik Stop Store and then a right on Third Avenue South. Park in our parking lot or anywhere on the street.
Eli’s ikebana vase
Eli working on one of his bonsai trees
Eli Cecil with two of his bonsai trees on display at the prestigious Habatat Gallery in Detroit
Lighthouse ArtCenter Presents Tyler K. Smith: Brainz ’N Boltz
A Futuristic Journey Into The Fusion Of Art And Technology
Lighthouse ArtCenter is proud to present “Tyler K. Smith: Brainz ’N Boltz,” a solo exhibition of painting, drawing, and sculpture from January 16 through February 22. For the exhibition, Tyler K. Smith has created a cast of fantastical characters and futuristic machines that revel in technology and race through a smog-choked world.
Inspired by his upbringing on a farm where he was constantly repairing machinery by day and absorbing the popular culture of the 1960s on TV at night, Smith brings an imaginative vision and technical mastery to his “BOMBOTZ” universe. Drawing on his diverse career spanning art, theatre, television, and film, Smith depicts the visceral and the mechanical in harmony to create dynamic and powerful gestural statements that celebrate dramatic action and embody extreme speed.
“Brainz ’N Boltz is a must-see for art enthusiasts, sci-fi and comic book fans, and anyone who appreciates the intersection of highbrow and lowbrow culture,” said Anthony Record, curator at Lighthouse ArtCenter.
The exhibition includes 10-foot-tall robots made from painted cardboard, graphite drawings on 8-foot-long panels, painted ceramics, as well as a display of sketchbooks, 3-D models, and archival photos that illustrate Smith’s creative process and the development of his “BOMBOTZ” universe.
The exhibition opens with a reception on January 16, from 5 to 7 p.m.. at Lighthouse ArtCenter Gallery, 373
Tequesta Drive, Tequesta, FL 33469. Guests will have the opportunity to meet Tyler K. Smith and a reallife BOMBOT (his son in costume). Members receive free admission; a $5 suggested donation is available for nonmembers.
Brainz ’N Boltz will feature two exclusive concerts by Jason Newsted and Friends in a special celebration of Smith’s work in the gallery. Six-time Grammy Award winner and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Jason Newsted will perform live, surrounded by Smith’s artwork, creating a one-ofa-kind immersive experience where music and visual art unite. Concert details and ticket information can be found at lighthousearts.org.
The Pet Cottage Post
The Pet Cottage: Where Pets And People Belong
Happy New Year! As we welcome 2025, we’d like to share the story of The Pet Cottage, a unique organization where pets and people belong, where hearts grow bigger, and where those who are often overlooked—senior pets and people— are treated with the dignity, patience, compassion, and love they deserve. When pets lose their humans due to death, disability, deployment, or challenges such as dementia, Alzheimer’s, or cancer, their world is turned upside down. Often these pets are older, facing health issues themselves, and feeling scared and uncertain about their future. That’s where The Pet Cottage steps in, transforming a heartbreaking situation into one filled with hope and care.
Super Junior: Getting A Jump Start On College Planning
By Peggy Forgan, M. Ed
Junior year is a critical time for college planning. It’s when high schoolers start to focus on their future and make decisions that really count. And with most students just 10 months away from applying to college, it’s clear that the 11th grade is crunch time.
Class 101’s Super Junior program helps students get ahead of the curve before application season even begins. Here’s everything you need to know about becoming a Super Junior, and why it’s one of the best ways to bring your student up to speed.
A Super Junior is an 11th grader who wants to get a head start on college planning. By completing our fast-track Super Junior program, students start the planning process when it matters the most: during the application preseason. That way, when application season rolls around on August 1 of their senior year, they are well ahead of their peers.
Junior year is the most crucial time for students to take ownership of their grades, sharpen important skills, and begin the college admissions process. All of this is time-consuming and overwhelming, from prepping for standardized tests to finalizing resumes. The Super Junior program alleviates the stress of college planning by helping students achieve their goals before senior year.
All Super Juniors will complete a “Super Junior Checklist” specifically designed to help them put their best foot forward. Here’s a look at the seven things they will accomplish in 90 days:
1. Create a top 10 list of colleges and universities
2. Complete three college visits (either virtual or in-person)
3. Take DISC assessment & review report
4. Establish baseline SAT score
5. Document top 10 trends from baseline score
6. Create a resume with all activities listed
7. Have a parent meeting to review all items on your checklist
All students who complete the program will earn a Super Junior certificate and will be entered for a chance to win a new laptop! The Class 101 Super Junior is underway.
Call (561) 418-7897, email pforgan@class101.com or visit class101.com/palmbeachfl if you are ready for your student to become a Class 101 Super Junior.
The Pet Cottage doesn’t just rescue pets; it provides a Forever Promise. Unlike shelters, which focus on adoption, The Pet Cottage offers Lifelong Guardianship. This means every pet that enters their program is cared for, loved, and supported for life. From medical care and surgeries to behavioral support and a stable home environment, The Pet Cottage ensures that no pet feels abandoned again.
A Story Of Healing: Meet Mister And Beary
Recently, two new members joined The Pet Cottage’s Lifelong Guardianship Program: Mister and Beary, a bonded senior pair who lost their mom to cancer. When they arrived, it was clear they needed immediate attention.
On December 17, Beary underwent emergency surgery for painful bladder stones. Thankfully, the surgery was successful, and Beary is now recovering comfortably under our care. Mister, however, will require a more complicated surgery this month to address his condition. These procedures, coupled with prescription diets and ongoing care, are part of our commitment to ensuring that these two sweet dogs live happy, healthy lives.
Sadly, this isn’t uncommon. Many pets entering The Pet Cottage’s program come with untreated medical conditions or signs of neglect—not out of malice, but because their humans were struggling with their own health challenges. Yet, thanks to generous donor support and grants from foundations like the Haseley Family Foundation, the Cathleen McFarlane Foundation, the Peter H. Kamin Family Foundation, and the Knopf Family Foundation, The Pet Cottage provides the veterinary care and nurturing needed to restore these pets’ health, support their well-being, and ensure they thrive for the rest of their lives.
How You Can Help
The Pet Cottage is always in need of compassionate Forever Guardians. There is a special need for guardians who can welcome bonded pairs, large senior dogs, and cats. Guardians provide a loving home environment, while The Pet Cottage takes responsibility for the pet’s medical needs. It’s a partnership of love and care that makes a life-changing difference for pets in need and the seniors who love them. As we look ahead to 2025, The Pet Cottage remains committed to its mission: ensuring that every pet who loses their human will always have a home, care, and love. If you’d like to learn more, donate, or become a Forever Guardian, visit https://www.thepetcottage.org/. Together, we can create a world where pets and people truly belong. #ThePetCottage #ForeverPromise #LifelongGuardianship #SeniorPets #CompassionInAction
Celebrating 25 Years Of Palm Beach Dramaworks
In May 2024, Palm Beach Dramaworks (PBD) was honored as Nonprofit of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches. It was an acknowledgement of the theatre’s contribution to the community; recognition of the artistry, commitment, and leadership of its cofounders, Producing Artistic Director William Hayes and Managing Director Sue Ellen Beryl; and the perfect prelude to the company’s 25th anniversary season, which opened on November 1.
It’s been a remarkable journey. PBD launched in December 2000: the company had no backers, no money, and no clear vision of what the theatre should be. Hayes knew he wanted to produce work that would challenge and move audiences and illuminate the human condition, and he believed there were local audiences hungry for that type of fare. But what that meant in terms of play selection was unformulated. Beryl borrowed $10,000 from an employer, and PBD rented an old, soon-to-be demolished 200-seat theatre at Palm Beach Atlantic University, where it produced three shows that first season.
The company spent the next two seasons at a 45-seat theatre carved out of an 800-square-foot storefront on Clematis Street, before turning office space into an 84-seat theatre on Banyan Boulevard, which became its home for the next eight years. It was there that PBD’s vision came into sharp focus. They even gave it a name: Theatre to Think About.
More than a catch phrase or a brand, Theatre to Think About is a guide to the kind of work PBD has been producing for most of its existence. The company has distinguished itself with a mixture of classic, contemporary, and world premiere plays that take audiences on an entertaining and emotional journey, stir the imagination, and stimulate discussion and debate. An important part of that mix are works by the likes of Edward Albee, Eugène Ionesco, and Jean-Paul Sartre, playwrights who pushed the envelope. They were risky choices early on when the theatre was trying to establish itself. But their plays helped develop PBD’s reputation and grow its audience – to the point where the company outgrew its theatre.
In 2011 – on 11.11.11 – PBD moved into its state-of-the-art, 218-seat home on Clematis Street, renovating an old theatre to its specifications. The city of West Palm Beach facilitated the move to what became the Don & Ann Brown Theatre; the city purchased the building on PBD’s behalf and leased it to the company, which agreed to purchase it within five years. Thanks to generous support from donors, PBD purchased the venue outright two years earlier than scheduled.
Each season, the award-winning company produces five shows and offers a wide variety of programs for students at the theatre and in schools. Committed to fostering the future of theatre, PBD has become a hub for playwrights in Florida and around the country to nurture their work through the Perlberg Festival of New Plays. In 2016, PBD was the recipient of the Muse Award for Outstanding Arts and Cultural Organization given by the Cultural Council of Palm Beach County. In 2020, the company received the Bill Von Maurer Award for Theatrical Excellence, a special Carbonell Award given to the theatre company that “exemplifies excellence for the totality of its programming: productions, educational outreach, developmental programs, and audiences served.” PBD has had a significant financial impact on the downtown West Palm Beach community as well, as patrons frequent
Chief Financial and Operating Officer Rudina
Producing Artistic Director William
Director Sue Ellen Beryl
local restaurants, shops, and hotels. The company also collaborates with area businesses to promote special dinner and theatre packages, contributing to the tourism industry.
and
On November 8, with many local dignitaries in attendance, PBD held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially begin the 25th anniversary celebration, led by Hayes, Beryl, and Chief Financial and Operating Officer Rudina Toro. Mayor Keith James proclaimed November as PBD month in West Palm Beach, and Congresswoman Lois Frankel – who, as mayor, was the driving force behind the city’s purchase of the theatre for PBD – also delivered remarks.
The company will celebrate its milestone season again on March 15, when it holds its annual gala at the Cohen Pavilion at the Kravis Center. But the real celebration takes place eight
times a week at the theatre, where patrons can watch gifted artists in distinguished productions of superb plays. That, in itself, is reason to rejoice.
Photos by Curtis Brown Photography
Celebrating 25 years with longtime PBD artists
Michael Zeff, Rudina Toro, Bill Hayes, Sue Ellen Beryl, Congresswoman Lois Frankel, Mayor Keith James, Rep. Kelly Skidmore
Toro,
Hayes
Managing
Rebecca Weiss and Coleen LaCosta
