charitable giving, the cookoff has become a cherished tradition in Tequesta, bringing together people to honor and support our nation’s heroes. This year’s cook-off is not just about great food and fun; it’s a powerful fundraising event with 100 percent of the proceeds benefiting five veterans’ charities: Wounded Veterans Relief Fund, Southeast Florida Honor Flight, Operation 300, Warriors Renewal Coalition and Tequesta Friends of Public Safety, Inc. These organizations work tirelessly to support and uplift our veterans and their families, and your participation directly contributes to their vital work.
“The Joe Namath Charitable Foundation (JNCF) is proud to return and support the 13th Annual Tequesta Chili Cook-Off benefitting our veterans.” –The JNCF Event Highlights
• Live Music: Dance to energetic performances by No Big Deal Band.
• Pipes and Drums: Experience the stirring sounds of traditional military music.
• Military Flyovers
• Celebrity Guests and Judges: Meet notable personalities and culinary experts who will help judge the chili competition.
• Craft Beer: Sip on a diverse selection of craft beers from Tequesta Brewing Company.
• Award Ceremony: Celebrate our veterans and Gold Star families during a special awards presentation.
• Chili Competition: Taste and vote for your favorite chili among 32 competing teams from public safety, the military and the private sector.
• Silent and Live Auction
Tickets: 21 and older, clear bag, no pets event. Tickets available at https://tequestachilicookoff.com/ticket-sales.
• General Admission: $30 (includes entry and access to chili tastings). Tickets online and in person at Tequesta Brewing Company, McCarthy’s Irish Pub and Tequesta Fire Rescue. Ticket prices go up to $35 on the day of the event.
• Mug/T-Shirt Ticket: $60 (includes general admission items plus a 16-ounce glass beer mug and event T-shirt. Tickets online only.
• VIP Experience: $100 (includes Mug/T items plus entry to the VIP tent with upgraded food, drinks, and exclusive event swag. Contact
• Contact: Captain David McGovern, (561) 262-7087, dmcgovern@tequesta.org or Cyndi McDonald, (561) 3712819, info@tequestachilicookoff.com.
Pipes and Drums. Photo by Liz McKinley Photography
Judges 2023. Photo by Liz McKinley Photography
Firefighters to the rescue. Photo by Liz McKinley Photography
City of WPB FR. Photo by Liz McKinley Photography
Chili attendees. Photo by Liz McKinley Photography
Awards Ceremony. Photo by Liz McKinley Photography
Joe Namath Foundation. Photo by Liz McKinley Photography
Chili. Photo by Liz McKinley Photography
SouthErn profilE from page 1
Jupiter Inlet, and back to the finish line at Carlin Park. The event also featured a duathlon for those who opted to skip the swim, and the option to participate in a relay.
Conquering Joint Pain with Robotic Precision and Surgical Excellence
With hip or knee pain, everyday activities may be difficult and painful to perform. At the Center for Joint & Spine Care at Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center we offer innovative solutions to relieve joint pain including many minimally invasive robotic-assisted joint replacement options.
With a fleet of surgical robots to choose from, including the ROSA® Knee System, Mako SmartRobotics™, CORI™ Surgical System, and NAVIO™ Surgical System, your surgeon will create a personalized joint replacement surgical plan designed for greater precision and fewer incisions, along with less pain and a quicker recovery.
Robotic-assisted Joint Replacement Surgery Benefits may include:
• Less Pain
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to
Photos courtesy of Tracey Benson Photography
Julie Brown, Debbie Pingue, Becky Mitchell
AnnMarie Foss, Edward Foss, Yolanda Debalo
Brian Elkins, Caitlyn Bergman, Katie Velotta, Brittany Cartwright, Sean Reed
Mona Anderson, Nano Swetman, Bob Hohnodel, Mercedes Loftos, Meredith Anderson
Jenn Shapiro, Tracy Baynham
Lara Trump
Becky Mitchell, Julie Brown, Dr. Ahmed Elhaddad, Debbie Pingue
Rob Lucarelli, Mariana Lamb, Adrienne Capps, Tamra FitzGerald, Jay Lessing, Michael Albanese
Bernardo Neto, Lauren Neto, Jon Colclasure, Charlotte Emilia
Bill Picciano, Claudia Garrell, Matt Young
Linda Robb, Barbara Shafer
The loss of a beloved owner can be utterly devastating for a senior dog or cat. These elderly pets often form intensely close, codependent bonds with their human families, and when that support system is suddenly taken away, the grief they experience can be profound.
It’s not uncommon for grieving pets to withdraw, lose interest in eating and playing, vocalize incessantly, or even act out in destructive ways as they struggle to cope with the absence of their person. The sadness and sense of loss is palpable in their eyes, as they search in vain for the familiar sights, sounds, and affection they’ve grown accustomed to.
Thankfully, there are organizations like The Pet Cottage that specialize in caring for pets who have lost their humans, due to death, disability, or deployment. This local animal nonprofit has become a haven for senior dogs like Fiona, a 14-year-old Shih Tzu, and Shamus, an 11-year-old terrier mix, who were left grieving after the recent passing of their devoted owner, Margaret.
SouthErn Spotlight from page 1
(STEM) intersect with aviation. It’s a great way to spark curiosity in young minds and ensure the entire family is entertained and inspired.
A highlight of Friday night’s twilight airshow is the spectacular drone show, a high-tech visual experience that will light up the sky with dazzling formations. Combined with the fireworks display, this futuristic show promises to be a mesmerizing blend of technology and art.
Of course, aviation enthusiasts won’t want to miss the final performance of the A-10 Thunderbolt II Demo Team. Known for its powerful presence and incredible low-level maneuvers, the iconic “Warthog” will make its last appearance at the Stuart Air Show before the team’s retirement. This historic moment will be one of the weekend’s most anticipated events.
Reflecting on the show’s growth, Chrissy Valvano, Director of Operations for the Stuart Air Show, shared her excitement: “As someone who’s grown up in this area for over 30 years, seeing the Stuart Air Show grow has been incredible. This year feels especially meaningful with the A-10 Final Demo Performance—it’s truly a historical moment. Being part of the community and witnessing such an iconic event makes me proud of how far the show has come. It’s like watching history unfold right here at home, and I couldn’t be more excited!”
Tickets are selling fast, so don’t miss your chance to be part of this incredible event. Visit StuartAirShow.com to purchase tickets and find out more about the exciting performances and family-friendly activities.
Join us for a weekend full of aerial thrills, hands-on fun, and delicious food, as we celebrate the future of flight and aviation’s storied past at the 2024 Stuart Air Show.
The Stuart Air Show is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports local charities and celebrates aviation’s history. Proceeds from the event benefit community organizations.
With their advanced age and special needs, rehoming these pups proved extremely challenging for Margaret’s mourning family, who even considered the heartwrenching option of euthanasia.
But the Pet Cottage exists to give these vulnerable, elderly animals the love and support they so desperately require, and they’ve found the perfect new guardians in Melanie, Les, and their senior mother Nonnie, who have been seeking to open their home to a furry companion after the recent loss of their own three senior dogs – Coconut, Pippi and Jazmine.
By matching rescued pets with caring Forever Guardians and covering all their medical expenses, the Pet Cottage ensures that no matter what, these cherished animals will live out their golden years in the comfort and security of a loving forever home.
It’s a vital service that comes at great cost, as the organization currently oversees the care of 53 pets, 47 of whom are seniors, your generous donation can make all the difference in the lives of Fiona, Shamus, and countless other deserving animals in need.
To become an active part of our work for all pets please consider donating today!
Your heart will grow a whole size bigger, and our tails will wag even more.
The Pet Cottage
Wendy Derhak, Founder/Executive Director 17049 Thunder Road, Jupiter, FL 33478 View https://www.thepetcottage.org or call (561) 818-5025 for more information.
Visitors are welcome by appointment.
Peanut, Sugar, Angel and Tuffy
Fiona Shamus
Residents of Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast now have another way to connect with award-winning care: Tampa General Hospital Concierge Health, a service of Tampa General Hospital Primary Care. As part of Florida’s leading academic health system, TGH Concierge Health delivers the highest level of primary care with white-glove service and personalized care plans. Laurie P. Rothman, MD, a board-certified physician in family medicine with over two decades of experience in Palm Beach County, offers preventative care, wellness and metabolic health for adults and adolescents ages 12 and up. For the very best care — with service to match — call (561) 559-0955.
all about KidS from page 6
for Child Counseling, this part of the series focused on how Palm Beach County Schools are helping students with mental health and behavioral concerns – and how pediatricians can tap into available supports to help their patients. The goal of the event was to help pediatricians connect their patients to school-based mental health services – from prevention to crisis support.
Featured guest speakers included Dr. Seth Bernstein, executive vice president at United Way of Palm Beach County, and Dr. Mary Claire Mucenic, director of behavior and mental health for the School District of Palm Beach County.
Overarching themes of the evening included the superpower in being an advocate for children’s mental health and the necessity of not waiting for a child to fall apart before helping.
Dr. Bernstein provided the history of mental health supports in schools over the last few decades and the research that supports early intervention and reaching children before diagnosis.
“All children should get the supports that they need and not have to rely on a diagnosis to bill Medicaid or insurance,” Bernstein stated.
Bernstein also shared his personal story of undergoing his parents’ divorce and his introduction
Stronger To gether. For You.
Bariatric and General Surgery
At the Palm Beach Digital Surgery Institute, Dr. Eduardo Parra-Davila, Dr. Abraham Betancourt and their medical team are highly trained and experienced in robotic-assisted bariatric (weight loss) surgery, as well as the diagnosis and surgical management of a broad spectrum of conditions including abdominal wall hernias, gallbladder disease, endocrine surgery, benign and malignant conditions.
Treatments Include:
• Bariatric Surgery - Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy
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• Colorectal Cancer / Diverticulitis / Rectal Prolapse
• Endometriosis / Incontinence
• Hemorrhoids
• Gallbladder Disease
• Gastroesophageal Reflux
• Robotics and Minimally Invasive Surgery
To make an appointment call 888-213-6743 or scan the QR code
All About Kids on page 8
Dr. Seth Bernstein, Dr. Shannon Fox-Levine
Dr. Anna Irizarry Cardona, Dr. Claire Mucenic
Sam and Karry Meshberg
Kate Wagner, Dr. Marshall Stone, Jamie Lorne
Stephanie Noel, Denise Lafoy
Mackenzie Halley, Kelly Benavidez
Dr. Shirley Stickle, Emily Underwood, Tracy Lockett
Angela Hampton, Dr. Ivy Faske, Phillip Colaizzo
Jane Robinson, Cynthia Rosenbaum, Yassaira Martell
Abraham Betancourt, MD Bariatric & General Surgeon
Eduardo Parra-Davila, MD, FACS, FASCRS Bariatric, Colorectal & General Surgeon
all about KidS from page 8
Statewide Leaders To Convene With Dr. Nadine Burke Harris To Support The Well-Being Of Babies
Pioneer of ACEs/former Attorney General of California to lead discussion to better shape the future of Florida’s youngest generation.
What
Center for Child Counseling in partnership with Florida Association of Infant Mental Health are hosting “Celebrate Babies with Nadine Burke Harris, M.D.” on Tuesday, October 22, to help better shape the future of Florida’s youngest generation. With Kathy Leone as the honorary chair and WPTV Channel 5’s Ashley Glass as the emcee, the hybrid event will take place at The Breakers by special invitation only and online for the public from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Dr. Burke Harris is the former attorney general of California and an internationally renowned pediatrician,
public health advocate, and author. She is best known for her pioneering work in the field of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and toxic stress. Joining the event virtually, Dr. Burke Harris will lead statewide business and system leaders in an interactive conversation that explores the profound impact of early adversity and trauma on childhood development. The event is taking place during Celebrate Babies Week—a week dedicated to celebrating infants, toddlers, young children, their families, and early childhood professionals across the globe.
Kathy Leone will host 175 by-special-invitation-only attendees at The Breakers. Registration to attend virtually is $25 and open to the public. For more information, visit centerforchildcounseling.org/celebratebabies.
“’Cause every girl crazy ‘bout a sharp dressed man”- ZZ Top
As October begins, witness wardrobe changes and cooler weather, signaling the best time of the year has arrived (and so have you). Sweaters, boots, and extra cuddles resurface as requirements of Fall, while summer trends and flings fade away. In fashion, as in love, certain things never go out of style—they evolve, adapt, or return new and improved. Today, we will draw a relatable comparison between the pursuit of romantic happiness and the ideal wardrobe that will create your best date night look. You want a good “fit”--right?
The Rules.
As always, if you are TAKEN, do share these words of hope with your single, divorced, and widowed family and friends. We are sure you would be thrilled to see your favorite single people smile brighter this holiday season. No one wants to be the fifth or seventh wheel at the dinner party this season. The last quarter of the year can and will be epic. Believe it and own your role in it. This is not a one-man job. Acquire a connector in the know.
Just The Facts.
With the holidays being the biggest trigger for singles, you may catch yourself reminiscing about past loves and daydreaming about what it was like to be a “dynamic duo” during the most wonderful time of the year. You are likely to be yearning for traditional courtship of days gone by. This does still exist--and we enjoy reminding people of this long forgotten dating norm. We believe in it. Some singles may feel uncomfortable in our modern tech era (like a fish out of water). This means It’s time to ask for help...privately...and not online. It’s time to get set up by a trusted friend (i.e. your matchmakers). If you are already working with a matchmaker, it’s time to ask and accept their advice. Be open to change and adventure or you will go nowhere. Everything will stay the same and you will feel the same way on December 31st. Open your heart.
The Hunt. The pursuit of love is much like the hunt for the perfect date night wardrobe. This can take time, experimentation, and timing. You are in luck because we, as matchmakers, are much like the stylists at a fabulous custom boutique, ready to take on the challenge with and for you. Dating is similar to browsing the fashion racks, and both require patience, a little adventure, and the confidence to know when something fits just right. You may be struggling to find your Plus One but that is normal when you know you are in the right place. Bar none; matchmaking is a solid ticket to a happy ending in 2024. The pond is continually restocked, just like any popular boutique.
Try It On. Have you ever walked into a store and tried on an outfit, but nothing seemed to feel right? Or maybe you’ve found yourself in a fitting room with something that looked perfect on the hanger, but once you put it on, you realize it’s not for you. Dating can feel the same. You may meet someone who checks all the right boxes on paper, but doesn’t feel quite right when you’re together. Next, please.
Don’t get stuck on one look. Every date won’t lead to the perfect match--but you must elevate the odds and let someone else do the vetting and setting up for you. You can adjust your expectations on your search and learn more about yourself. Also, don’t forget to work on yourself--this is a bonus for you and your future partner. If you find yourself striking out again and again--ask for help. Don’t be closed minded and blame the date or anyone else. It takes two and consider each encounter as a learning experience to help you become the best version of yourself. Regardless of your age, we should all be able to grow and learn and adapt. That is attractive.
The Perfect Fit.
Patience is a virtue. We recently had a success story of two CEOs in the club. It took the gentleman four months to find his “perfect” fit, and the woman was one and done in her first month! Finding someone you connect with will not always happen overnight. However, the wait will be worth it. Love can appear unexpectedly (love at first sight). Just don’t settle for a relationship that doesn’t fit your needs and values long-term. A perfect fit is more than just superficial--it also requires the possibility of longevity. Will it stand the test of time? Look for someone emotionally, financially, and physically aligned with you and your dreams for your future Trust Your Stylist (aka Matchmaker).
You may feel like you can do it alone but you can’t. You have a job and you are not The Pro. You would not do your own doctoring or lawyering, right? Bonding with your matchmaker, being honest, and trusting the
constructive advice they may give you will exponentially increase your chances of finding your perfect match that fits like a glove. Hire the best in the business. Be a smart person and connect to the right people at the right time with the right mindset (looking for a true match).
On that note, thank you to our new applicants who have PRE-BOOKED their First Interview in advance. Clients who get started in October have a higher chance of meeting an ideal dating partner before the holidays and the turn of the New Year 2025 for the most important kiss of the year. Make the last three months of this year count. Your future self will thank you later. We can’t wait to meet you in our gorgeous office on PGA Boulevard-where we have been for ten successful years and counting! Make the last quarter of the year the best part of the year and end with a powerful and life changing win!
Connection is Key: Behind the Scenes at Revolution Dating!
And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave, O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.
Upscale single, divorced, and widowed clientele from all over the U.S.A. are ready to live and love off-line and the demand for authentic matchmakers is soaring--especially in our local area. To add to this huge need, this month marks the inception of Coupling Season---so do tell your single friends and family to make some moves in the last quarter of 2024. Revolution Dating specializes in representing clients from the Northeast to Palm Beach for decades. Take a look at these special September moments. This could be you too! Now is the time to get moving and grooving with The REV and celebrate the life we have been given from the land of the free and the home of the brave. Get ready for a Revolutionary October. Now is the perfect time to REV-up your love life. You only live once and to this we say: “What are you waiting for?”
#TellYourFriends
Why Science clearly confirms what our experience already knows—what happens early in life impacts everything. For better or worse, we carry our early events with us for the rest of our lives, and into our future families and communities.
Society is grappling with big, complex issues: a youth mental health crisis, crime and overflowing jails, uncontrollable addiction, and generational cycles of abuse and trauma left on repeat. These dilemmas are often the result of unbuffered, untreated trauma experienced early in life.
But there are solutions we’ve been building for more than 20 years, so we have reason to celebrate! Our babies can be better from birth—for the rest of their lives.
Dr. Burke Harris is the woman who thrust the subject of adverse childhood experiences into our national consciousness and dialogue. Our understanding of ACEs today is due to her insights and work in revealing how early adverse events affect lifelong health and wellbeing—for individuals, families, and communities.
When
Tuesday, October 22, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. (in-person registration begins at 12 p.m.)
Where
The Breakers Palm Beach (by special invitation only) 1 South County Road, Palm Beach, FL 33480 Online registration is $25 and open to the public: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/mcg5krt/ lp/26e63720-0d0f-43f2-a9cf-cd1c2baa7d71
About Nadine Burke Harris, M.D.
Nadine Burke Harris, M.D., MH, FAAP, is an internationally renowned pediatrician, public health advocate, and author—best known for her pioneering work in the field of ACEs and toxic stress.
Dr. Burke Harris is the founder and former CEO of the Center for Youth Wellness in San Francisco, an organization dedicated to improving the health of children exposed to ACEs. Dr. Burke Harris served as California’s first Surgeon General, where she focused on addressing the root causes of health disparities and promoting early interventions for childhood trauma. Her influential book, The Deepest Well: Healing the Long-Term Effects of Childhood Adversity has brought widespread attention to the impact of early adversity on long-term health and well-being.
Celebrate Babies’ Donors And Corporate Partners
Donors and corporate sponsors who are making this important conversation possible include: Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County, The Children’s Movement of Florida, The Breakers Palm Beach, Stephens & Stevens Marital & Family Law, Valley Bank, Sunshine Health, and Jane Robinson.
CFCC’s Fighting ACEs initiative to build traumainformed communities is made possible with the generous support of Quantum Foundation, Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, and private donors.
Publisher M. Sean Reid S. Miller • E.
Sales
Tom English, Laura Berrio, Bret McCormick
Production Manager Lee Nostrant
Production Department
Special Edition Hot Tips By: Kelly Leary, M.S. & Miranda Capparelli
supporters will raise funds for children and adults with disabilities.
Community Rallies At 2024 Fire Truck Pull, Raising $26,500 For Autism Support
The 2024 Fire Truck Pull, held Saturday, Aug. 31, 2024, at Gardens Park in Palm Beach Gardens, brought together teams of first responders, business leaders, college athletes and more for a day of competition and philanthropy. This year’s event raised an impressive $26,500 to benefit students and adults with autism who attend Connections Education Center, a nonprofit school in West Palm Beach.
In a thrilling display of power and teamwork, teams competed to see which could pull a real fire truck 30 feet fastest. The Palm Beach Gardens Police Department emerged as the champions in the Fastest Pull category, completing the 30-foot fire truck pull in just 10.03 seconds. The Palm Beach Gardens Fire Rescue team claimed victory in the Lowest Combined Weight Pull category, pulling
Stronger To gether. For You.
Advanced Breast Care in the Palm Beaches
CONDITIONS AND TREATMENTS:
• Benign Breast Disease
• Breast Cancer
• Cryoablation of Breast Tumors
• High Risk Surveillance
• Oncoplastics
• Intraoperative Radiation Therapy The experienced and compassionate breast surgeons at Palm Beach Health Network Physician Group provide patients with diagnostic procedures and tissue-conserving surgical options utilizing some of the most advanced technology.
Photos courtesy of Tracey Benson Photography
Jessica (Arc model) Arc model
Julie Menitoff, Aaron Menitoff
Raquel Williams, Charlotte Gill, Molly Lombard, Pamela Payne
Fit and Psyched awarded second place
PBG Police, first place, Fastest Pull
Kathleen Minnick, MD Breast Surgeon
Donna H. Kleban, MD, FACS Breast Surgeon
ClEvEland CliniC florida nEWS
Cutting Colon Cancer Out Of The Family Tree
About five of every 100 people with colon or rectal cancer have the disease because of a gene passed down through their family. Researchers at Cleveland Clinic in Florida are investing in specialists and resources to identify these families at risk, with the goal of preventing inherited colorectal cancer from ever developing at all.
Giovanna da Silva, M.D.
The focus is on familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). “Familial” means inherited, or passed down through families. Adenomas are specific types of polyps that can become cancer. People with FAP have a 100 percent chance to get colorectal cancer, and parents with FAP have a 50/50 chance of passing it down to their children.
“We want to get the word out about our program, so we can let as many people as possible know if they’re at risk, educate others in their family and offer each one
the latest medical care, education and support,” says Giovanna da Silva, M.D., a Cleveland Clinic colorectal surgeon and researcher in Florida.
The centerpiece of the program is the Jagelman Registry, a database of patient information of families with FAP. Using this data, physicians at Cleveland Clinic in Florida work with teams elsewhere to research the condition and share the latest medicines and other treatments. Besides colon polyps, FAP can also cause growths or cancer in the stomach, pancreas, bone and other areas. The earliest preventive care ranges from medicines that stop the growth of polyps to simple colonoscopies to remove those that have not yet become cancer.
“Using the registry, we’re able to let patients know what screenings they should have and how often,” says Dr. da Silva. “That can save their lives and those of their family members. We’re definitely very proud of our program, and we’re looking forward to helping more and more patients through it.”
To make an appointment with Dr. da Silva or another Cleveland Clinic specialist in Florida, call (877) 463.2010 or visit ClevelandClinicFlorida.org/ Access today.
good WorKS from page 12
Connections serves 140 individuals, many of whom might not have access to high quality services without the school. More than 80 percent of the school’s students live below the poverty line, 94 percent come from minority families and over 50 percent live in single parent homes or with grandparents.
This year’s Fire Truck Pull also featured a Special Needs Registry enrollment drive by the Palm Beach Gardens Police, allowing families with children who have autism or other special needs to register their children, ensuring that police are better informed in case of an emergency.
For event highlights and more information, visit connectedpb.com/fire truck pull.
Learn more at connectedpb.com.
Photo credit Connections Education Center
PBG Police pulling Spectators
Habitat For Humanity Of Greater Palm Beach County Announces Veterans Build 2024, Presented By Vertical Bridge
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County (HFHGPBC) has announced its annual Veterans Build event, presented by Vertical Bridge, will be held on November 1, with multiple job sites across Palm Beach County. This annual fundraiser and community build/ repair effort supports veterans and active service members in our community.
With nearly 76,000 veterans living in Palm Beach County, Habitat is committed to honoring those who have served our nation through initiatives like Veterans Build. This program ensures that veterans can achieve or maintain the American dream of homeownership, providing them with a safe and affordable place to call home. The community can support Veterans Build in three impactful ways: by becoming a sponsor, fundraising and building, or by donating to the American Dream Fund –a dedicated fund for Veterans Build 2024. Immediately after the build, participants will gather for the American Dream Barbecue, a reception at the Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center where guests will celebrate the impact of Veterans Build and honor the veterans and active service members in attendance.
This year’s event is once again presented by Vertical Bridge, a dedicated annual partner and champion for veterans in Palm Beach County. “Vertical Bridge is proud to sponsor the Veterans Build with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County, marking our seventh consecutive year of suppÅort,” said Ron Bizick, CEO of Vertical Bridge. “Giving back and making a difference in our communities is deeply important to us. Seeing the stability this housing provides to those who have devoted themselves to defending our nation’s freedom is especially fulfilling.”
Veterans Build 2024 cochairs are Clint Lowe, director of Engineering Transformation and Footprint Strategy at Carrier and U.S. Army Veteran; and Michael Maglio, vice president of Industrial Sales at NuStar Building Materials and U.S. Marine Veteran. Both chairs are honored to lead this year’s event, dedicated to ensuring that veterans in our community feel supported and connected as they transition from military to civilian life. By helping provide a stable foundation of affordable homeownership, they are committed to giving veterans a sense of security and belonging.
Anyone wishing to learn more and get involved is invited to attend the kick-off party on Thursday, October 10, from 6 to 8 p.m., hosted by the Maglio family at a private residence in Jupiter Farms. Guests will enjoy an award-winning pig roast, tableside paella, red, white, and brews, live music by the Steel Pony Band, and a silent auction while learning how they can support Veterans Build 2024. R.S.V.P. is required, visit https:// app.giveffect.com/campaigns/33470-veterans-build-kickoff-party.
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County
welcomes corporate partners, volunteers, and service members to help build and improve homes for veterans in our community.
Committed sponsors include Vertical Bridge (Presenting Sponsor); Carrier (Challenge Coin Sponsor); MISSION UNITED (Grant Funder); Hubbard Radio/WFTL 50 (Exclusive Radio Sponsor); Art Roffey & Gail Danto, and BallenIsles Country Club and Seacoast Bank (Community Builder Sponsors); Clear Touch, Document
Events and Party Tents; Gunster; Humana; FPL; Pratt & Whitney; and Grimes; Mariza Brussolo, Boynton Beach Arts and Cultural Center; and Restore Construction Group, Inc (Hope Builder Sponsors); Magen Protective Services (Security Sponsor); and Starbucks (Coffee Sponsor); and Baptist Health (Hospitality Tent).
Committee members include Cochairs Clint Lowe and Michael Maglio; Honorary Cochairs Anne DesormierCartwright and Ryan Paton; Committee reserves: Julia Dattolo and Charles (Chuck) Millar; Committee members: Brandon Albers, Nicholas Cannon, Carey Clarke, Andrew Filauro, Amy Kemp, Donna Kerner, Debbie Meyers, Anthony Nastase, Jonathan Oakley, Anta Plowden, Jon Raybuck, Art Roffey, Ivan Rosa, and Melissa Royal.
To learn more about Veterans Build 2024 sponsorship and/or volunteer opportunities, visit https:// habitatgreaterpbc.org/veterans-build/.
To discover more, visit www.habitatgreaterpbc.org and follow us online at @HabitatGPBC.
For any inquiries, contact Kristen Bardin, director of Advancement, at kristen.bardin@habitatgreaterpbc.org.
Nonprofit News on page 15
Storage Systems, Inc; Grimes
Cochairs of Veterans Build 2024: Michael Maglio and Clint Lowe.
Photo by MasterWing Creative Agency
Impact The Palm Beaches Announces Start Of $100,000 Grant Process For Local Nonprofits
Impact the Palm Beaches is seeking applications from local nonprofit organizations interested in receiving a $100,000 grant to create effective change in Palm Beach County. The 2024/25 grant process opens on September 29 and initial proposals must be submitted by October 25.
Eligible Central and Northern Palm Beach County nonprofits may apply for grant funding that supports their mission, programs, or services.
“As we kick off our 10th year, Impact the Palm Beaches remains committed to partnering with local organizations to make a meaningful and long-lasting impact on the communities they serve,” shared Lisa Johnson, 2024/25 copresident of Impact the Palm Beaches. Impact has set a goal of 500 members this year. “As our membership continues to grow, we are able to support an increasing number of organizations and initiatives, expanding our efforts to uplift communities.”
For eligibility requirements and more information, please visit www.impactpalmbeaches.org.
Impact the Palm Beaches seeks to fund programs and projects that reach underserved populations and address or satisfy unmet needs, solve a problem, or create an opportunity for strategic change, can demonstrate specific measurable outcomes, and are sustainable well into the future.
Nonprofits can submit applications that align with any of the five Impact focus areas: Arts and Culture, Education, Environment and Animal Welfare, Family, and Health and Wellness. Grant requests can include new
or expansion of existing programs and initiatives. Impact also considers requests for capital projects.
“Impact has awarded grants that address a variety of needs in our community, including mental health, affordable housing, homelessness, food insecurity, job training, arts funding, hygiene, high school graduation, marine preservation, foster care, and so much more,” said Missy Agnello, Grant Committee Cochair. “We are excited to continue working with our area nonprofits to ignite change in our community.”
Impact grants will be awarded at an Annual Awards Celebration on April 30, 2025, at the Kravis Center.
Since its establishment in 2015, Impact the Palm Beaches has granted almost $2 million to local nonprofit organizations that are making transformational changes in our community.
*The three $100,000 Impact Grants winners for 2024 were the American Association of Caregiving Youth (Caregiving Youth Project), Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies (Basics4Babies Emergency Pantry), and The Lord’s Place (Project Divert: A Homeless Shelter
Diversion Pilot Initiative). Additionally, two $48,000 Merit Grants were awarded to Busch Wildlife Sanctuary (for the rehabilitation flight cages for large birds) and Take Stock in Children Palm Beach County (for the program expansion in Central and Northern Palm Beach County).
To learn more about the Impact the Palm Beaches grant recipients, visit ImpactPalmBeaches.org.
Impact members contribute $1,100 annually, which includes a $100 administrative fee, and each member’s $1,000 donation is pooled together to fund multiple $100,000 grants. The full amount of membership is taxdeductible. Impact grants fund the following service areas: Arts and Culture, Education, Environment and Animal Welfare, Health and Wellness, and Family.
Impact 100 is a worldwide organization with more than 60 chapters and steadily growing. Their motto is “One Woman, One Meeting, One Vote.” It is designed for women who want to find an efficient and collaborative means of creating transformational change in their community. Women can become as involved as they wish in the process.
The Town of Palm Beach United Way is the fiscal agent of Impact the Palm Beaches.
Attention Dog Owners
It is your responsibility to pick up after your dog. It’s the law. Some of you have been negligent in doing so. Please keep our community beautiful!
Photo by Capehart
2024 Impact the Palm Beaches Impact Grant winners
Won’t My Spouse And Kids Inherit Everything When I Die?
Part 1 Of 2
By Anné Desormier-Cartwright, JD, Esq.
You may think that if you die while you are married, everything you own will automatically go to your spouse and children. But you are thinking of state rules that apply if someone dies without leaving a will. In legal jargon, this is referred to as dying intestate . In that case, the specifics will vary depending on your state’s law, but generally, your spouse will receive a share of what you own, and the rest may be divided among your children or parents, depending on your situation. Exactly how much your spouse will inherit depends on the state law, though.
Now, it may seem like so far, so good. Your spouse is getting an inheritance, and so are the kids. But here are some examples of how the laws can fail in many common family situations.
First, when it comes to who will get your money and property, most states’ laws presume that a family comprises a married couple and their biological children. But because that is not how many families are structured, things can quickly become legally complicated.
One analysis identified 50 different types of family structures in American households. 1 Approximately 40 percent of all marriages in the United States are remarriages for at least one spouse, 2 and—through
adoption and stepfamilies—millions of children are living in blended families. Unfortunately, the laws have not kept up, and absurd results can occur if you rely on intestacy as your estate plan. Stepchildren whom you helped raise (but did not legally adopt) may end up with no inheritance, while a soon-to-be-ex-spouse may inherit from you.
For example, Carey and Blake each have a child from a prior relationship (Carey has a daughter, Rose; Blake has a son, Whitley) living with them full-time. During the marriage, Carey and Blake have a child together named Penny. Carey and Blake treat all three children the same. Yet when Carey dies without a will or trust, her family must rely on state law to determine who receives Carey’s assets. Everything that was owned solely by Carey is divided between Blake, Rose, and Penny. Although treated like a son, Whitley would be entitled to nothing. This may not be the outcome Carey would have desired. Without an estate plan, however, nothing more can be done. With a will or trust, you can control what happens to your money and property and who will benefit from your hard work, essentially eliminating the risk of regrettable results.
The best way to safeguard and pass along what you have worked so hard to build is to talk to a qualified estate planning attorney. Protect yourself, your family, and your money and property by contacting us today.
Look for next month’s article to finish this conversation.
If you have questions about your estate plan and what documents you should have in place to plan your estate, schedule a free consultation today by calling our office at
561-694-7827, Anné Desormier-Cartwright, Esq., Elder and Estate Planning Attorneys PA, 480 Maplewood Drive, Suite 3, Jupiter, FL 33458.
The content of this article is general and should not be relied upon without review of your specific circumstances by competent legal counsel. Reliance on the information herein is at your own risk, as it expresses no opinion by the firm on your specific circumstances or legal needs. An attorney client relationship is not created through the information provided herein.
To comply with the U.S. Treasury regulations, we must inform you that (i) any U.S. federal tax advice contained in this newsletter was not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, by any person for the purpose of avoiding U.S. federal tax penalties that may be imposed on such person and (ii) each taxpayer should seek advice from their tax advisor based on the taxpayer’s particular circumstances.
1David H. Lenok, The 50 Most Common Family Types in America , WealthManagement.com (July 20, 2016), http:// www.wealthmanagement.com/high-net-worth/50-mostcommon-family-types-america.
2 Jannik Lindner, Remarriage Trends: Statistics Show Complex Dynamics for Couples Blending Families, Gitnux (July 17, 2024), https://gitnux.org/remarriage-statistics.
northErn notES
Gopher Tortoises
By Katie Roundtree, Director of Finance and Administration, Northern Palm Beach County Improvement District
Gopher tortoises are one of five North American tortoise species and one of the oldest living species on the planet. They are the only tortoise found naturally east of the Mississippi River. It is a state-designated threatened species in Florida and is found in parts of all 67 Florida counties. The gopher tortoise is about nine to eleven inches long when fully grown and is a tan, brown or gray color. Juveniles tend to be lighter brown and yellow-orange. Once they reach adulthood, they can live almost 90 years! They are identifiable by their stumpy, elephant-like hind feet and flattened, shovel-like forearms
covered in thick scales. These shovel-like forearms are used to dig extensive burrows for homes.
As their name insinuates, gopher tortoises spend almost 80 percent of their time in burrows. Burrows average about 15 feet long and about 6 1/2 feet deep. Gopher tortoises are ectotherms which depend on their
environment to maintain their body temperature. Their burrows help maintain a stable temperature and protect them from extreme temperatures and fire. Here in South Florida, they are active all year round. In contrast, in colder parts of Florida, they remain in their burrows during cold winter months. Gopher tortoises are keystone species because their burrows provide shelter and provide refuge for more than 350 other species, such as burrowing owls, mice, indigo snakes, rabbits, opossums, foxes, gopher frogs and invertebrates.
Because of their burrowing needs, they prefer welldrained, sandy soils in habitats such as longleaf pine sandhills, scrub, pine flatwoods, dry prairies and coastal dunes. They are also found in urban areas, as many of their natural habitats have been developed by humans. A habitat with well-drained soil, abundant plants to forage, and open sunny areas is ideal for gopher tortoises. Gopher tortoises are herbivorous and feed on low-growing plants. They may drink water pooled after rainstorms, but most of their water needs are supplied from the plants they eat.
Locally, there are large populations of gopher tortoises in preserves maintained by Northern within Abacoa and Botanica. Some of Abacoa’s preserves have trails within them where you may catch a glimpse of a tortoise. Northern’s environmental team works hard to maintain these pristine natural lands so that native animals and plants can thrive for years to come.
Because gopher tortoises are protected in Florida, handling and relocation of gopher tortoises is illegal unless conducted under a valid permit issued by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). An FWC relocation permit must be obtained before disturbing burrows and conducting construction activities. Lucas Schaffer, Northern’s environmental manager, has taken courses and is certified as a Gopher Tortoise Authorized Agent. As such, he is allowed by the FWC to survey, trap, transport and relocate tortoises as necessary.
It is illegal to kill, harass or destroy gopher tortoises; however, if you see a tortoise crossing a busy road, FWC grants permission to move the gopher tortoise across the road in the same direction as it was heading as long as it is safe for you to do so . Do not move the tortoise to another location or put it in a car, as this constitutes illegal possession. If you see a sick or injured tortoise, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator, such as Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, at (561) 575-3399 for assistance.
Source: myfwc.org.
Fun fact: April 10 is Gopher Tortoise Day! On this day every year we raise awareness and appreciation for the gopher tortoise and all the benefits they provide to the ecosystem. You can help celebrate Gopher Tortoise Day by hosting an event in your community, asking your local city or county commission to formally adopt April 10 as Gopher Tortoise Day, and educating others on the importance of protecting gopher tortoises. Or simply admire a gopher tortoise from a distance and observe how they get around!
NPDES tip: Do not pile garbage, trash, leaves, limbs or garden debris in swales – this adds pollutants which can wash into downstream waters. Do not park vehicles in the swale – this compacts the soil so less runoff soaks in.
Photos by Lucas Schaffer, NPBCID
For decades, Jupiter’s parks and recreational offerings have served residents well and provided countless memories for visitors young and old. Now many of our most cherished facilities, some over 20 years old, are showing signs of age and require upgrades to meet changing trends and expectations here in town.
Town Of Jupiter News
We on the Town Council recognize this need, and last year we promptly prioritized and supported a comprehensive planning effort to breathe new life into our recreational spaces as a strategic item. This plan is now being finalized after a public workshop in March, a resident survey in May, and many other meetings with key stakeholders. To get a head start on implementing plan recommendations, we approved and funded a number of exciting projects in the coming
By Vice Mayor Malise Sundstrom
year through our operating budget and capital improvement plan (CIP) that will showcase our commitment to providing top-notch recreational experiences for all Jupiter residents. In fact, through the remainder of this year and into 2025, our CIP calls for an investment of almost $10 million in our parks and facilities.
Major Playground Upgrades
We’re embarking on an ambitious $3.2 million effort to create a flagship playground at Indian Creek Park and complete significant playground replacements at Maplewood Park, Jupiter Community Park, and Abacoa Community Park by September 2025. These upgrades will feature modern amenities like artificial turf, shade structures, and new equipment to keep our parks safe, appealing, and on par with the best in the region. Over the next five years the town plans to upgrade all 12 public playgrounds.
Multi-Purpose Field Replacement:
This year we’re launching an ongoing project to replace aging grass and old irrigation systems in our parks to give sports teams and visitors like-new fields to enjoy. By implementing a rotational timeline for both multipurpose and diamond sport
fields, we’ll minimize disruptions and keep alternative fields open throughout the process.
Town Park Upgrades
Water bottle filling stations, new Little Free Libraries, lightning detectors, new benches and picnic tables, and new landscaping are being planned for many town parks, with Abacoa and Jupiter Community Parks, Lighthouse Park, Jupiter Village Park, Maplewood Park, the Heights of Jupiter Park, and F.I.N.D park seeing improvements completed in 2025.
These projects represent just the beginning of a long-term commitment to revitalizing Jupiter’s recreational facilities. As we complete the recreation master planning process this year and start to implement the plan, we’ll continue to seek community input and make changes where needed. We invite you to stay engaged, visit our improved facilities as they come online, and share your experiences with us. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to enhance our town’s public spaces for all to enjoy.
Palm Beach County Property Appraiser
Dear Taxpayer,
Welcome fall!
The end of the 2024 tax year is fast approaching! This month, my office will certify the ad valorem tax roll to the Palm Beach County Tax Collector’s Office. The Tax Collector will mail the 2024 tax bills on Nov. 1.
It is also petition season. Hearings are beginning for property owners who filed a petition because they disagree with their property assessment or denied exemption. They are led by the Palm Beach County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller’s Value Adjustment Board (VAB). On average, the number of petitions filed in Palm Beach County is low, typically less than 1 percent of the total parcels in the county.
As we move into the final months of the year, I’d like to remind all property owners to review their homestead exemption status to determine whether they might qualify for additional property tax saving benefits. There are several other exemptions such as those for seniors, the disabled, and members of the armed forces. You can research them all at pbcpao.gov.
Also in this month’s newsletter, a note on sales verification, an important process that helps inform our valuations.
I hope you find this information useful and your autumn enjoyable.
Respectfully,
Dorothy Jacks, CFA, FIAAO, AAS, Palm Beach County Property Appraiser
Members of the Palm Beach County Property Appraiser’s Office at the International Association of Assessing Officers (IAAO) Annual Conference; Property Appraiser Dorothy Jacks, CFA, FIAAO, AAS is on the far right and IAAO President Rebecca Malmquist, CAE is in the center.
Additional Exemptions
Property owners may be eligible for additional exemptions. In order to qualify for the following additional exemptions, you must have a homestead exemption on your property.
Limited Income Senior Exemption
A $25,000 exemption is available to those 65 or older with an adjusted gross income below $36,614, not including taxexempt bond interest or non-taxable social security income. You will be asked to provide a copy of your Federal 1040 Tax Form or your Social Security 1099 Form. The county’s senior exemption does not apply to other taxing authorities, such as the school district and other municipalities.
In addition to the countywide exemption, some municipalities offer additional tax savings.
Boynton Beach – $25,000
Delray Beach – $25,000
Greenacres – $5,000
Haverhill – $50,000
Juno Beach – $50,000
Jupiter – $50,000
Jupiter Inlet Colony – $50,000
Lake Park – $10,000
Lake Worth Beach – $25,000
Lantana – $25,000
Loxahatchee Groves – $50,000
North Palm Beach – $25,000
Palm Beach Gardens – $25,000
Palm Springs – $25,000
Royal Palm Beach – $5,000
South Palm Beach – $25,000
Tequesta – $25,000
Wellington – $50,000
West Palm Beach – $25,000
The city of Boynton Beach also offers a Super Senior exemption for those who meet the qualifications of the limited income senior citizen exemption and who have:
• Maintained the ownership and have been a permanent residence of the property for at least 25 years.
• A property with a market value of less than $250,000 at the time of application.
Widow/Widower Exemption
Florida grants a $5,000 exemption to widows and widowers. You will be asked to submit a copy of the deceased spouse’s death certificate. If the surviving spouse remarries, they are no longer eligible to receive the additional exemption.
Living Quarters Of Parents Or Grandparents Exemption (Also Known At The Granny Flat Exemption)
Homesteaded property owners who add living quarters for a parent or grandparent can apply to have all or part of the value of this new construction deducted from the assessment.
Civilian Disability Exemptions
Full or partial exemptions are available for individuals with the following disabilities:
• Quadriplegic
• Paraplegic
• Hemiplegic
• Legally blind
• Total and permanent disability, requires wheelchair for mobility
• Total and permanent disability, does not require wheelchair for mobility
Some of these exemptions have income limitations. Visit our website at pbcpao.gov for more information on these exemptions or to download and print forms. You can always call us at (561) 355-2866 or email us at myexemption@pbcpao.gov.
Did You Know? We Call To Verify Sales Data
Our work entails setting the market value for each property, and so property sales data is an important tool to show where the market is in Palm Beach County. Before we use sales data, we first make sure that the details of each sale reflect the market. Only sales that meet the definition of market value are used in developing estimates of market value for similar properties.
To verify sales information, our appraisers regularly contact the market participants (sellers, buyers, brokers, attorneys, etc.) involved with real estate sales. We try to obtain details regarding property sales from someone directly involved with each transaction. We then use this data to determine which sales represent market value and will be used in the development of property appraisals.
Answering our questions about property sales gives our office reliable data from which we can then create appraisals that are fair, equitable, and reflect the market.
Offices Open On Columbus Day
The Palm Beach County Property Appraiser’s Office (including all of our Service Centers) will be open on Columbus Day, Monday, Oct. 14.
Local Government on page 22
John D. MacArthur Campus at Jupiter Florida Atlantic University
STARRY NIGHTS AUTHOR SERIES
Pulitzer Prize-winning author Jennifer Egan will speak on Wednesday, Oct. 30 at 3 p.m., at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute on the John D. MacArthur Campus.
Egan’s visit is part of the annual Starry Nights author series, presented by the Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College in partnership with the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. The series brings world-renowned authors to Jupiter for an engaging and inspiring peek between the lines. In addition to the public talks, each author provides a special interactive session with Honors College students and faculty.
“We are delighted to welcome Jennifer Egan to Florida Atlantic,” said Rachel Luria, associate dean of Student Affairs at the Honors College and associate professor of rhetoric and composition. “Starry Nights is about providing our students and community with rare opportunities to interact with beloved contemporary authors. Particularly for our students, these experiences can illustrate the path of a literary career and show the importance of perseverance and tapping into your creativity.”
Egan has authored numerous novels, including New York Times best-seller “Manhattan Beach,” which was awarded the 2018 Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Fiction; and a “Visit from the Goon Squad,” winner of the 2011 Pulitzer Prize.
Attendance to the Starry Nights lecture is $20 for members of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute and $25 for non-members.
SCAN TO REGISTER.
Celebrating 25 Years of Honors
The Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College is celebrating 25 years of academic excellence on the John D. MacArthur Campus. A special Anniversary Celebration event is set for Nov. 14 at the Pelican Club in Jupiter, featuring celebrity real estate broker Ryan Serhant as the evening’s keynote speaker. Sponsorship opportunities and tickets are available now.
Copper and Neurons
A new study from FAU Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute discovered a compelling link between copper regulation and neural health. Copper plays an important role in the function and viability of mitochondria—the powerhouse of the cell—and helps protect cells from harmful molecules that can damage proteins and DNA. Findings from this study suggest that copper deficiencies can lead to neurological issues and that maintaining adequate copper levels could be important for brain health.
SCAN TO READ MORE.
Fulbright Specialist Award
Gregg Fields, Ph.D., FAU’s Interim Vice President for Research, was recently selected to the highly competitive Fulbright Specialist Program. Fulbright Specialists engage in two- to six-week, project-based exchanges at host institutions across the globe, based on the grantee’s expertise and the needs of the receiving country. As a grantee, Fields will share his unique knowledge in medical science, which seamlessly blends biology, chemistry and groundbreaking treatment strategies for conditions including rheumatoid arthritis and Alzheimer’s disease.
SCAN TO READ MORE.
Toxic Algae in Lake O
What’s really “fueling” toxic algae in Lake Okeechobee?
A new study from FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute revealed that combating harmful algal blooms in Lake O requires managing both phosphorus and nitrogen, and that human waste played a role in influencing toxic Microcystis blooms. Findings also underscore the importance of rainfall in driving these big blooms.
SCAN TO READ MORE.
Dear Friends:
Our office was recently advised by the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) that they are warning drivers who have illegal Florida license plates, which have been altered or customized, such as with air brushing or vinyl wrapping.
Tax Talk
“The goal of our customer service is to build trust with our clients through communication and knowledge of our services. We strive every day to do this by incorporating the LEAP principles (listening, empathizing, apologizing, problem solving) with all our interactions allowing us to provide exceptional service.” –
Michelle Arias,
Central Service Center Manager
“As a leader, I think it is my responsibility to recognize my team for the good that they do, knowing that leads to better customer service,” says Jim.
And what about when things are not going perfectly? Jim notes that, “We have a great team environment for discussing challenges.”
A common concern voiced by clients is the long lead time for making a reservation at one of our service centers.
“We’re researching a whole new reservation system,” Jim says. “The goal is to enable us to take more clients by decreasing the lead time.”
In fact, since 2020 citations for unlawful altered Florida license plates have increased nearly 100 percent. FHP is being proactive in raising awareness of this and if you are caught with one of these customized or altered plates, you can receive a moving violation citation, which includes a fine of $60 (plus fees) and three points on your license! If you have one of these altered Florida license plates and it cannot be returned to its original condition, I strongly encourage you to make a reservation to visit one of our service centers to get a replacement license plate by visiting www.pbctax.com/reservations.
Anne M. Gannon, Constitutional Tax Collector, Serving Palm Beach County
Customer
Service
Appreciation Week – Going Above And Beyond!
At our office, we make customer service our No. 1 priority! In honor of Customer Service Appreciation Week, October 7 to 11, I asked a few of our service center managers to share their thoughts on exceptional customer service and here is what they had to say:
“Exceptional client service enhances our agency’s reputation. Quality customer service is the distinguishing factor that sets us apart from other agencies. We prioritize the client’s needs by being effective and empathetic.” – Brian Applebaum, South County Service Center Manager
“Customer service directly impacts public trust and satisfaction. When residents interact with us, they often do so during critical moments in their lives, original identification issuance, driver license testing, vehicle ownership, or establishing a new business. Our focus on exceptional customer service ensures that these interactions are efficient and respectful, which can significantly enhance the public’s perception of the government.” – Matthew Johnson, Westlake Service Center Manager
Title: Chief Operations Officer
Hometown: Wildwood, NJ
Favorite Activity: Attending various cultural events in Palm Beach County and beyond
Favorite Food: Veal chop
There are more than 330 tax collector’s office (TCO) employees, and I thought you might be interested in getting to know some of them. We will start with someone who is behind the scenes, but very much a part of your experience as a client.
Jim McConnell, our chief operations officer, is a member of our senior leadership team, and he oversees the operation of our six service centers throughout the county. Jim is responsible for approximately 200 employees who provide service to our clients, so I asked Jim how he helps ensure that our clients receive exceptional customer service during each visit.
Jim says, “I’ve given my managers the ability to make decisions on their own. We talk about customer service in most of our meetings. The managers jokingly ask one another, WWJD: What Would Jim Do? And the answer is: serve the client.”
He adds that an important component to success – both for his team and for the customer experience – is recognition. “When clients leave a positive review for an employee, that feedback is passed along.”
Stay tuned to future editions of Tax Talk to read about improvements we are making in our service centers and across the agency. And keep an eye out for opportunities to learn more about our team and how we are serving you in upcoming “Faces of the TCO” profiles!
Jim with his shih-tzu, Charlie
Palm Beach County Votes 2024
GENERAL ELECTION
3 EASY WAYS TO VOTE
VOTE-BY-MAIL
REQUEST IT
Visit VotePalmBeach.gov, call (561) 656-6208, or email votebymail@votepalmbeach.gov
See ballot drop off locations at VotePalmBeach.GOV
RETURN IT
Deadline to request aVote-by-Mail ballot is 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 24, 2024. Vote-by-Mail ballot pickup is not available at our offices from October 26th through November 5th unless, due to an emergency, the voter is unable to go to a designated early voting site or to his or her assigned polling place on Election Day (See F.S. §101.62(3)(d)(5)).
Please have your Florida Driver License, Florida ID card, or the last 4 digits ofyour Social Security number available when making your request.
Mail your Vote-by-Mail ballot using pre-paid postage, or drop it off inside any of our four offices during business hours. You may also drop it off at designated drop off locations across the county starting October 21, 2024.
TRACK IT
Voters can sign up for BallotTrax at VotePalmBeach.gov or by scanning this QR code to get alerts via email, text (SMS), and/or voice message with updates about the status of their ballot or if there is an issue so that it can be corrected right away.
EARLY VOTING
See Early Voting locations at VotePalmBeach.gov
Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, through Sunday, Nov. 3, 2024
Polls are open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Registered voters in Palm Beach County can vote at any of the 26 Early Voting locations conveniently located county wide. Visit VotePalmBeach.gov for Early Voting locations, directions, wait times, or to make an appointment. You can also check our website to see when pet adoptions will be available at Early Voting locations!
ELECTION DAY
Election Day is Tuesday, November 5, 2024. Polls are open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
On Election Day, you must vote at the polling place that is assigned to your precinct. Polling places may change! Visit VotePalmBeach.gov to confirm your polling place before you go vote.
In Your CommunItY
Live Like Jake Announces Sell-Out Of Seventh Annual Be The Light Gala Fundraiser On October 4 At Pelican Club, Jupiter
Live Like Jake, the local foundation created in the memory of Jake Roarke Morrison announces that tickets to its upcoming “Buoys & Bourbon”-themed gala are sold out.
The Seventh Annual Be the Light gala fundraiser took place October 4 at the elegant, waterfront Pelican Club, Jupiter. Along with special libations celebrating this year’s theme, the evening includes a live and silent auction, open bar, hors d’oeuvres, a sumptuous dinner and dessert, dancing, awards ceremony, and a live musical performance by country music artist, Ricky Young.
“We are absolutely overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and excitement for this year’s gala,” says Live Like Jake Founder, Keri Morrison. “Having our Be the Light Gala underneath the actual beams of the lighthouse could not be
more perfect, and we are so grateful to the Live Like Jake community for the opportunity. Based on the response, I know we are not alone in our enthusiasm, which bodes well for support of our mission to end childhood drowning,” says Morrison. “We have fun surprises in store, and I can’t wait to welcome everyone on October 4 at the Pelican Club.” All monies raised from the fun-filled event go to support Live Like Jake’s mission of raising awareness for drowning prevention through self-rescue swim scholarships, outreach programs and financial assistance to families who have lost a child or have a child with critical care needs.
Sponsors for the night include: The Atkins Family, Life Saver Pool Fence, Infant Swimming Resource (ISR), The Weinberger Family, Counter Forced Labor Technologies, Hobgood Estate Services, Ritter & Ramsey General and Cosmetic Dentistry, Window Doctor, Trelles Injury Law, 16 Handles, The Forgatch Group – Compass, Atlantis Car Wash, Allyson Sullivan & Lang Realty, Nanny, Pandora, Illustrated Properties and Love, Tito’s.
Table Sponsors: A&S Electric; Premier Pediatrics; Dr. Michael Connor, MD; Guardian Angel Inspections, Inc.;
Feast Of Little Italy
Lee Petereit; The Gilbert Family; The Barone Family; The Broadhead Family; and The McCarty Family.
For information about future events, scholarships, or the foundation, please visit www.livelikejake.org or call (561) 441-7611.
About The Live Like Jake Foundation
Committed to honoring the life and joy of Jake Roarke Morrison, the foundation’s mission is to raise awareness for drowning prevention. Following the 2013 tragic drowning of their 2-year-old son, Keri Morrison and her husband Roarke created the Live Like Jake Foundation to raise awareness for childhood drowning prevention. Partnering with other drowning prevention agencies and instructors, supporting other families who have experienced the same loss; providing an indoor, heated pool dedicated to infant swimming resource (ISR) instruction, and connecting with their community, the foundation has been able to provide thousands of self-rescue swim scholarships and critical care funds around the nation.
Visit livelikejake.org and facebook.com/livelikejake and @livelikejake3939 on Instagram.
The Galbani Feast of Little Italy returns to Abacoa in Jupiter on November 1 to 3.
The cultural festival, known for its Italian ambiance, national Italian American entertainers, and authentic food, will offer free admission. This year’s theme is Celebrating Italian American Heritage and Culture.
With every step in Abacoa, visitors will find food vendors serving authentic Italian dishes—fresh pasta, sausage, peppers, arancini, braciole, and many more classic dishes. Then, enjoy a not-to-be-missed Italian dessert with homemade zeppoles with powdered sugar, sfogliatella, and cannoli. The Gardens Pizza and Pasta Pizza Eating Contest will take place on Saturday, Nov. 2, at 12:30 p.m. on stage. The public is invited to participate.
This year, the La Cucina Galbani® Cooking stage will feature nationally known chefs, including Galbani Celebrity Chef Marco Sciortino from the hit TV show Come Dine with Me, local favorites Anthony Acampa from Fat’s Where the Flavor’s At, Nina Tomasik from Nina’s Bakery, and PGA
Chef Thomas Op’t Holt, and many others. Do not miss a taste of the free Voga wine seminars by wine connoisseurs throughout the weekend.
The feast is pleased to announce the return of its fabulous Master of Ceremonies – Virginia Sinicki, an on-air personality from the KVJ show on 979WRMF. Beginning Friday night, Franco Corso – the Voice of Romance will serenade the audience with Italian ballads. The stage headliner on Friday night is Tony Quaranti performing “The Sinatra Songbook.”
Saturday entertainers will perform the best of Italian ballads by Vanessa Racci and Italian classics by Angelo Venuto, and all the favorites. Streetlife Serenader will headline Saturday evening with “A Tribute to Billy Joel,” Sunday, the fun continues with Avianna Rossi, Philipe Harari and Elio Scacio known as “The Sicilian Tenor.” Headlining will be internationally acclaimed singer Anthony Nunziata performing “Bocelli and Beyond.”
Cheers! Salute! Toast to your Italian American heritage with a beer, prosecco, spritz, or cocktail. The Bar Italia, Aperol Spritz Piazza, or Voga Prosecco Lounge will be the places to be seen. Spoil yourself and the entire family and relax in your own private VIP villa located near the stage. Your villa includes a large table, eight seats, and waiter/waitress service. Or enjoy reserved stage pod seating with four chairs and a table, which includes waiter/waitress service. Reservations are available at Eventbrite.com.
Chef Marco Anthony Nunziata
HonorIng
Palm Beach North Chamber Of Commerce Honored With Five Awards
At Florida Festivals And Events Association 2024 “Sunsational” Awards
The Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce its recent recognition at the Florida Festivals and Events Association (FFEA) 2024 “SunSational” Awards, where the organization earned five prestigious honors.
The Chamber’s ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival, presented by Tampa General Hospital received significant accolades, securing second place for both the Mobile App category and the Television campaign category, third place for its Commemorative Poster, and third place in the PR/ Media Campaign category. These awards underscore the festival’s commitment to delivering an exceptional cultural experience that resonates with the community and visitors alike.
In
Additionally, the Chamber was recognized with a second place award in the Multi-Agency Program category for its collaboration with the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County on the impactful event, “Confronting Hate: Insights from the Israeli Frontline.” This program
“We are incredibly honored to receive these awards, which reflect the hard work and creativity that go into making our events and programs successful,” said Brian Elkins, Director of Events at the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce. “We are deeply grateful to our members, community partners volunteers, and everyone involved in these initiatives. Their support is crucial in helping us achieve our mission.”
These recognitions are in alignment with the Chamber’s strategic imperatives, which focus on enhancing the quality of life in Palm Beach North while fostering a prosperous economy. The Chamber remains committed to creating an environment where businesses can thrive and the community can flourish.
For more information about the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce and its upcoming events, please visit www.pbnchamber.com.
Your CommunItY from page 25
For the entire family, there will be festival rides and carnival games for all ages.
Little Smiles will be on site with fun kids’ activities.
The feast is committed each year to supporting the charity, Little Smiles and the Little Smiles toy drive kicking off at the festival. Attendees are encouraged to bring a new unwrapped gift.
The nonprofit organization works tirelessly to bring smiles to the faces of children by giving kids the chance to be kids during difficult times.
Festival hours are 4 to 10 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. Parking is free, and admission is free. To learn more and for a complete schedule, visit www.feastoflittleitaly.com.
THERE’S A NEW DERMATOLOGIST IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD.
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 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.
Make an appointment to see Dr. Fisher in Palm Beach Gardens at 10355 N. Military Trail, Suite A, by calling (561) 622-6976.
Flavor South Florida Kicks Off Restaurant Month With Downtown, VIP Celebration
Foodies, restaurateurs, local celebrities, and media personalities celebrated Flavor South Florida at a VIP kickoff party on Sunday, August 25 at The Ben, Autograph Collection in Downtown West Palm Beach.
Guests enjoyed cocktails, light bites, and music at The Ben’s downstairs restaurant, Proper Grit, before heading to the hotel’s rooftop restaurant, Spruzzo. Flavor South Florida’s CEO, Kerri Paizzi, wore a showstopping dress by Garbage Gone Glam, made from all the participating restaurants’ prix fixe menus. Partygoers ended the night with libations, desserts, and panoramic views of the West Palm Beach waterfront.
and Sampson Photography
Photos by Tracey Benson Photography
Sarah Scheffer, Kerri Paizzi, Michelle Ribeiro
Kate Monahan, Megan Hayes
Jared Freeland, Kerri Paizzi, Michelle Ribeiro
Rachelle Gibbs, Kenny Gibbs
Virginia Sinicki, Michelle Ribeiro, Taylor Morgan
Mia Ravaschieri, Morgan Toledo, Cody Moral
Kerri Paizzi, Amber Schlick
Olivia Ferreira, Savvy Hedrick, Miranda Capparelli
Carmine Gialanella, Tyla Martin Ewa Habberstad, Eric Habberstad
Kerri Paizzi
Beril Gutierrez, Jorge Gutierrez
Jordanna Hermann, Sandra Krut, Michelle Palischak
Jaime Cittabino, Brie Mazin, Katie Costa, Sarah Sarpolis
Vote For Solid Investment Strategies
By Sally Sima Stahl
With the presidential election just a few weeks away, the public is naturally interested in not just the outcome but what the results will mean for issues of national importance. As a citizen, you likely share these concerns—but how about as an investor? After the votes are counted—or even before—should you make some moves in anticipation of possible changes in policy?
Let’s look at the big picture first, through the lens of history. The financial markets have performed well—and at times, not so well—under Democratic and Republican presidents alike. And the same is true about which party controlled Congress.
While it might be an overstatement to say that decisions made in Washington have no effect on the markets, it’s not always so easy to draw a direct line between what happens there and how the markets perform. For one thing, political candidates often make promises that are not fulfilled, or, if they are, have different results than intended. Also, other institutions can have a significant impact on the markets. For example, the Federal Reserve, which controls short-term interest rates, can certainly affect many market sectors. And there will always be external events, such as foreign conflicts and even natural disasters, that can make short-term impacts on the investment world.
So, rather than making changes to your portfolio in anticipation of what might happen if certain candidates get elected, or even in response to actual policy changes,
look to other factors to drive your investment decisions.
These factors should include the following:
• Your goals – You probably have short- and longterm goals you’d like to achieve. For your short-term goals, such as a wedding, a down payment on a house or a long vacation, you may want to invest in instruments that provide stability of principal. For your long-term goals, most important of which may be a comfortable retirement, you’ll need to own a reasonable number of growth-oriented investments.
• Your risk tolerance – When you build and maintain your investment portfolio, you’ll need to accommodate your individual risk tolerance. All investments carry some type of risk, but you need to be comfortable with the overall risk level of your investments.
• Your time horizon – Where you are in life is an important consideration when investing. When you are young and just starting out in your career, you may be able to focus more on growth, as you have time to overcome the inevitable short-term market downturns. But as you near retirement, you may want to consolidate any gains you may have achieved, and lower your risk level, by moving your portfolio toward a somewhat more conservative approach. Even in retirement, though, you will need some growth potential to stay ahead of inflation.
• Your needs for liquidity – As you invest, you’ll need to maintain an adequate amount of cash and cash equivalents in your holdings. Without this liquidity, you might be forced to sell long-term investments in case you have unexpected expenses.
In any case, when it comes to investing, you may want to pay less attention to what names are on the ballot—and instead “vote” for the longer-term strategies that reflect your needs and goals.
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.
Angina or chest pain can occur due to cardiac and noncardiac causes. Often, chest pain is a symptom that causes individuals to seek medical attention, and rightfully so. Dr. Oral Waldo, a cardiologist with Cardiovascular Care – Palm Beach Health Network
Understanding Chest Pain: A Cardiologist’s Perspective
Physician Group and onstaff at Good Samaritan Medical Center and Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center, aims to shed light on the various aspects of chest pain. Dr. Waldo emphasizes the importance of prompt evaluation and the importance of identifying potential underlying cardiac issues. While chest pain can be caused by a variety of factors, it is crucial to recognize when it might be indicative of a cardiovascular problem.
“Chest pain is one of the most common reasons for which adults seek the care of a cardiologist. Chest pain can present from a cardiac or noncardiac origin,” says Dr. Oral Waldo.
Cardiac causes of chest pain include angina or chest pain resulting in discomfort that occurs when the heart muscle
doesn’t receive enough oxygen-rich blood. It is often described as a pressure, squeezing, or burning sensation in the chest and can be triggered by physical exertion or stress. Another cardiac cause of chest pain can be a myocardial infarction also known as a heart attack. A heart attack occurs when there is a sudden blockage of blood flow to a part of the heart muscle. Chest pain during a heart attack is typically more severe and prolonged than angina and may be accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, and lightheadedness.
Non-cardiac causes of chest pain can include gastrointestinal issues due to conditions such as acid reflux, gastritis, or peptic ulcers that cause chest pain. The pain may be burning or sharp and might be exacerbated by certain foods or lying down. Musculoskeletal problems can also cause chest pain due to strained muscles or inflammation in the chest wall that can lead to chest pain. Repetitive motion injuries, muscle strains, or conditions like costochondritis can also mimic cardiac chest pain. Additional causes of chest pain can be respiratory conditions, pneumonia, pleurisy, or inflammation of the lining around the lungs. Individuals with asthma may also experience chest tightness and discomfort.
Any chest pain should prompt a visit to a healthcare professional, especially if the pain is severe, persistent, or associated with other concerning symptoms. Quick and
accurate diagnosis is crucial in determining the underlying cause and initiating appropriate treatment.
“Chest pain is a symptom that demands attention and a thorough evaluation. If you experience chest pain, don’t hesitate to seek medical care and if it’s severe call 911,” says Dr. Waldo.
Cardiologists use various diagnostic tools to evaluate chest pain, including electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG). This test records the heart’s electrical activity and can help identify abnormalities indicative of heart problems. Blood tests can include enzymes released into the blood during a heart attack, such as troponin, can be detected through blood tests. Imaging studies or tests like echocardiograms, stress tests, and coronary angiography can provide detailed images of the heart and blood vessels, aiding in the diagnosis of cardiac conditions.
Preventing cardiac chest pain involves adopting a hearthealthy lifestyle. Engage in regular exercise, eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to support heart health and help control risk factors such as high blood pressure and cholesterol. Quitting smoking is also one of the most significant steps one can take to improve heart health.
To learn more about cardiology care and Dr. Oral Waldo, cardiologist, visit – pbhnphysiciangroup.com. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Waldo call his office at (561) 407-0611.
American Academy Of Pediatrics Guidelines Call For Childhood Obesity Treatment For Disease Prevention
Children diagnosed with obesity should be treated early and aggressively with nutritional support, therapy, medication, and in some extreme cases, weight-loss surgery for teens 13 and up, according to new guidelines from the
American Academy of Pediatrics. It is the first time in 15 years the academy has updated its guidance.
More than 14 million kids live with this common, chronic disease, the academy says, adding that if obesity is untreated,
it can lead to short-term and long-term health issues, including cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
Heart disease is the number one killer among men and women, which helps explain why the academy updated its advice. In addition to heart disease, heart attack, stroke, heart failure, arrhythmia, and heart valve problems are all associated with cardiovascular disease.
Dr. Abraham Betancourt
While it may seem extreme to some to encourage weight-loss surgery on a child as young as 13, the old method of “watchful-waiting,” taking a “wait-and-see” approach, was not working. Early intervention helps lead to a healthier heart throughout that child’s life.
Good Samaritan Medical Center robotic and bariatric surgeon Dr. Abraham Betancourt stated that the updated guidance is long overdue. However, before deciding on surgery, he said patients and their parents need to fully understand the procedure.
“You have to be very cautious,” said Dr. Betancourt. “It is not about chronological age. It is about, I would say, ‘How mature is the patient?’ because if you are going to undergo and put a patient through surgery, and you want to have the best outcome of the surgery, you have to be sure that the patient understands what the challenges are ahead.”
Dr. Abraham Betancourt is a gastrointestinal and bariatric surgeon with nearly 20 years of experience in practicing patient-centered medicine. His practice has focused on people who sometimes feel most vulnerable in the healthcare world, including patients facing chronic morbid obesity. Dr. Abraham Betancourt is a bariatric and general surgeon with the Palm Beach Digital Surgery Institute, a general surgery and robotic surgery practice focused on providing minimally invasive treatment options and care for patients suffering from colorectal disease, endometriosis, hernia, and life-threatening obesity. Dr. Betancourt is on staff at Good Samaritan Medical Center in West Palm Beach.
In addition, Dr. Betancourt is fluent in Spanish, his native language, and English.
Palm Beach Digital Surgery Institute is located in the Victor Farris Building adjacent to Good Samaritan Medical Center at 1411 N. Flagler Drive, Suite 8900, West Palm Beach, FL 33401. For more information visit palmbeachdigitalsurgeryinstitute.com or call (561) 227-9238.
Find information on bariatric surgery at Good Samaritan Medical Center by visiting goodsamaritanmc.com/services/ bariatric-surgery or call (866)-306-2225.
Dr. Oral Waldo
Advocacy And Civic Engagement In Government
Advocacy and civic engagement are fundamental to a healthy democracy. These practices allow citizens to influence government policies, hold officials accountable, and actively shape the decisions that impact their communities. When citizens and organizations engage, they can drive government responsiveness, transparency, and effectiveness.
Advocacy refers to the efforts of individuals, groups, or organizations to influence public policy and government decisions. These efforts can take various forms, such as lobbying, public campaigns, and grassroots mobilization.
By Vice Mayor Maria Marino Commissioner’s
It often involves educating decision-makers and the public on specific issues, persuading them to adopt certain policies or actions.
Civic engagement is a broader concept that encompasses any activity that allows citizens to be involved in public life. This ranges from voting and participating in town halls to volunteering and joining community boards. Civic engagement emphasizes collective action to address societal issues and fosters a shared responsibility between citizens and their government.
A recent example of effective advocacy and civic
engagement occurred in Palm Beach County when the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) unveiled its 2024/25 Great Outdoors Initiative. This initiative is aimed to increase public access, recreation and lodging at Florida state parks. However, the proposal to amend the Unit Management Plan of Jonathan Dickinson State Park (JDSP) to develop environmentally sensitive lands into a golf course sparked wide concern.
Local residents, outraged by the potential environmental damage, quickly mobilized. They reached out to elected officials at the local, state, and federal levels, voiced their concerns, and organized protests. In a matter of days, thousands of residents had signed petitions and coordinated protests. As a result, the outcry attracted attention from officials across the state, including Florida Cabinet members, U.S. Congress representatives, and state senators. These leaders called for increased transparency and urged FDEP to withdraw the proposal.
As Vice Mayor of Palm Beach County and a member of the Loxahatchee River Management Coordinating Council, I was acutely aware of the proposed plan’s potential impact on the Loxahatchee River, a designated National Wild and Scenic River. Protection of water quality and lands has been a hallmark of our success as a county, much of which is a direct result of various partnerships between the county and FDEP. However, the plan amendment was directly detrimental to environmentally sensitive lands and water quality to the Loxahatchee River. Along with my colleagues, I penned a letter to the secretary of the FDEP, expressing our opposition to the proposal and requesting its withdrawal. Advocacy empowers individuals to take action on issues they care about, fostering a sense of ownership over the direction of government policy. As an elected official, I often have the opportunity to hear from constituents daily through letter writing, phone calls, public comment on agenda items, and additionally once a month during Matters by the Public. When individuals realize that their voices can have an impact, they become more involved in the political process. Advocacy and civic engagement are crucial to the health of a democracy. As demonstrated in Palm Beach County, when citizens come together to advocate for change, they can profoundly impact their government and community for the better. Thank you for staying engaged and making your voices heard. If you’re interested in learning more about the Palm Beach County boards and committees that citizens may participate in, please visit https://secure. co.palm-beach.fl.us/ABC/Pub_ABCReports.aspx. As always, please contact me if I can be of assistance at (561) 355-2201 or by email at MMarino@pbc.gov.
American Sanctuary: Mutiny, Martyrdom, And National Identity In The Age Of Revolution
I cannot recall ever enjoying a scholarly work of early American history so interestingly and vividly told, so extraordinarily researched and impressively detailed, exciting as any novel, and as timely in subject as next month’s presidential election!
The date was September 21, 1797. The event was a vicious mutiny by the crew of a British naval vessel, HMS Hermione , in the Caribbean off the coast of Puerto Rico. Little remembered today, its aftershock was to lead directly to the election of Thomas Jefferson over the incumbent John Adams as president of the United States … and the resulting lasting image of America as a sanctuary of freedom for those fleeing from persecution in other lands—an issue that dominates today’s political campaigns just as it did the one in 1800.
I must admit that, although it was published in 2017, I had never heard of American Sanctuary and was fortunate to come across it by accident on a table stacked with books while shopping in a market. Its author, A. Roger Ekirch, is a professor of history at Virginia Tech, has written four earlier books, received a Guggenheim Fellowship and is widely recognized as one of our finest historians.
The details that enrich this narrative, garnered from the author’s extraordinary research, add enormously to the overall experience, as do the many contemporary portraits and illustrations from that period.
Revolutionary and early American history being one of my preferred reading tastes I was surprised never to have heard of the very significant event that is the pivotal subject of this book: the mutiny aboard HMS Hermione Nor, shockingly, was it ever mentioned in any class, even through college.
At the time the mutiny took place—after the United States had already won the Revolutionary War several years earlier and declared itself an independent nation—
By Nils A. Shapiro
one of the most objectionable policies of the British crown and its navy was the practice of “impressment”: the stopping and boarding of other nations’ vessels, capturing members of their crews and forcing them to sail and work as seamen on British ships, most likely never to see their families again.
Such was the case of many on the Hermione’s crew as it sailed near the island of Puerto Rico on that September day in 1797. Adding to what was already a tinder box of a situation was the fact that this ship’s captain, Admiral Hugh Pigot, was a disciplinarian so stern that whipping and other punishments for minor crew offenses became unbearable and sparked the bloody insurrection that ended in the death of the captain and other officers.
One of the main leaders of the mutiny was a man whose name throughout this book varies between Thomas Nash (if he was actually Irish) and Jonathan Robbins, depending upon whether his claim to have been an American from Connecticut was true or not.
Turning 65 or new to Medicare?
Eventually, after the mutiny Robbins made his way to the U.S. and was tracked down by the British government, which demanded that President John Adams turn over the “mutineer and murderer” to Britain for punishment. It was awkward timing, for Adams was then in the process of ratifying an economic trade treaty with Britain that had just been negotiated.
Save up to $164.90 on your Part B premium
Adams had to weigh the success of the treaty against the American public’s anger about the British policy and actions of impressment on the high seas and the idea of turning over to Britain a claimed American citizen who “had the right to regain his freedom after having been the victim of such impressment” and return home.
Turning 65 or new to Medicare? Save up to $174.70 on your Part B
Adams’s decision to turn Robbins over to Britain— where he was executed by hanging without a trial— Adams’s Federalist Party’s defense of his decision, and the consequences of Jefferson’s Republican Party’s national electoral campaign focused on driving the public’s anger, form the major part of this compelling story.
Eventually—and critical in light of today’s political climate and immigration crisis—the American people eventually decided that, whether or not Jonathan Robbins (or Thomas Nash, if that was his real name) was in fact an American should be have to fear being turned away. It is to this day at the heart of our nation’s self-image, symbolized by the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor and the inscription on her base addressed to “the huddled masses yearning to be free.”
Our Medicare Advantage plan, HumanaChoice Florida H5216-311 (PPO), gives you up to $164.90 back each month through the Part B giveback benefit. This will return part of your Part B premium to you through a credit to your Social Security check or by reducing the monthly premium you pay directly to Medicare. That’s not the only way our plan is looking out for your wallet, your goals and your health. It also comes with benefits beyond Original Medicare, such as:
Turning 65 or new to Medicare? Save up to $164.90 on your Part B premium
• Part B premium reduction, putting up to $164.90 back into your Social Security check each month*
• No referral required to see innetwork specialists
• Routine dental, hearing and vision coverage
This is the story of how and when that all started. I loved every word of it.
Our Medicare Advantage plan, HumanaChoice Florida H5216-311 (PPO), gives you up to $164.90 back each month through the Part B giveback benefit. This will return part of your Part B premium to you through a credit to your Social Security check or by reducing the monthly premium you pay directly to Medicare. That’s not the only way our plan is looking out for your wallet, your goals and your health. It also comes with benefits beyond Original Medicare, such as:
• Part B premium reduction, putting up to $164.90 back into your Social Security check each month*
Our Medicare Advantage plan, HumanaChoice Florida H5216-311 (PPO), gives you up to $174.70 back each month through the Part B giveback benefit. This will return part of your Part B premium to you through a credit to your Social Security check or by reducing the monthly premium you pay directly to Medicare. That’s not the only way our plan is looking out for your wallet, your goals and your health. It also comes with benefits beyond Original Medicare, such as:
• No referral required to see innetwork specialists
• Part B premium reduction, putting up to $174.70 back into your Social Security check each month*
• No referral required to see in-network specialists
• Routine dental, hearing and vision coverage
• Routine dental, hearing and vision coverage A more human way to healthcare™
A more human way to healthcare™
* The Part B Giveback Benefit pays part or all of your Part B premium and the amount may change based on the amount you pay for Part B. The Part B Giveback Benefit pays part or all of your Part B premium and the amount may change based on the amount you pay for Part B. Humana is a Medicare Advantage PPO organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in any Humana plan depends on contract renewal. Applicable to HumanaChoice Florida H5216-311 (PPO). . At Humana, it is important you are treated fairly. Humana Inc. and its subsidiaries comply with applicable federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, ancestry, ethnicity, marital status, religion or language. English: ATTENTION: If you do not speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 877‑320‑1235 (TTY: 711). Español (Spanish): ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 877‑320‑1235 (TTY: 711). 繁體中文
* The Part B Giveback Benefit pays part or all of your Part B premium and the amount may change based on the amount you pay for Part B. The Part B Giveback Benefit pays part or all of your Part B premium and the amount may change based on the amount you pay for Part B. Humana is a Medicare Advantage PPO organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in any Humana plan depends on contract renewal. Applicable to HumanaChoice Florida H5216-311 (PPO). . At Humana, it is important you are treated fairly. Humana Inc. and its subsidiaries comply with applicable federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, ancestry, ethnicity, marital status, religion or language. English: ATTENTION: If you do not speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 877‑320‑1235 (TTY: 711). Español (Spanish): ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a
