Jupiter Ocean May 2026

Ducks Unlimited Draws Record Crowd To Palm Beach County Annual Banquet

The West Palm Beach Chapter of Ducks Unlimited raised more than $250,000 to conserve waterfowl populations nationwide during its Palm Beach County Annual Banquet

Palm Beach Island Hospice Foundation

on Saturday, Feb. 21. The event drew a record attendance of more than 200 supporters to Trump National Golf Club in Jupiter, where guests enjoyed cocktails, a sitdown dinner, a raffle, and silent and live auctions. Proceeds from the banquet support Ducks Unlimited’s conservation projects nationally and locally, including work in Jonathan Dickinson State Park, the Loxahatchee

Ducks Unlimited on page 2

Celebrates Service and Leadership At Spring Luncheon

The Palm Beach Island Hospice Foundation held its annual board meeting and Spring Luncheon on April 1, at Club Colette in Palm Beach. Following the board meeting, members gathered for a delightful luncheon, celebrating the foundation’s ongoing impact and future initiatives. Mark W. Cook, chairman and president of Palm Beach Island Hospice

Foundation, shared exciting news that the highly anticipated Hospice Evening 2027 will take place on Thursday, Feb. 4, 2027, at The Breakers Palm Beach. He also expressed heartfelt appreciation to the board for their unwavering support, generosity, and invaluable guidance, which continue to play a crucial role in the foundation’s success. Proceeds from Hospice Evening 2026 directly benefited the Palm Beach Island Hospice Foundation’s mission to advance excellence in end-of-life care, with a special emphasis this year on pediatric palliative care and physician education.

Fish & Wildlife Foundation Of Florida Celebrates Conservation At A Night For Nature

The Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida marked more than three decades of protecting wild Florida at its annual A Night for Nature celebration on Friday, March 27. Held at Trump National Golf Club in Jupiter, the sold-out event surpassed $1.3 million in support of the foundation’s conservation initiatives and outdoor programs.

Since 1994, the nonprofit has worked with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and its partners to ensure Florida remains a place of great natural diversity and beauty. The foundation is also the state’s largest

During the luncheon, the board also recognized supporters whose leadership and service have made a meaningful impact on the foundation. Carol Baxter and Nanette Cassidy, esteemed chairmen of Hospice Evening 2026, were honored with the 2026 Hospice Ambassador Award for their exceptional dedication and leadership. Cassidy was unable to attend the luncheon.

Ann Summers, a supporter of the foundation for over 25 years, received the prestigious 2026 Hospice Hero Award. In 2008, she cochaired Hospice Evening, and most recently, Gracewear honored her by naming a piece the Palm Beach “Armor of God” Cuff. Summers chose the Palm Beach Island Hospice Foundation as a beneficiary of a portion of the proceeds, further extending her legacy of giving in a way

River Estuary, Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park, the Upper Everglades Basin, and the Kissimmee River.

For more information about Ducks Unlimited visit ducks.org.

Photos provided by Media Applications Group.

that reflects both her faith and compassion. This esteemed recognition highlights her unwavering commitment to care and community.

Mark W. Cook was also honored with the 2026 Hospice Hero Award. His more than two decades of service to the organization reflect a rare combination of loyalty, vision, and steadfast leadership. A second-generation supporter, Cook has long championed the belief that hospice care is

a vital part of the community. His leadership has helped shape the foundation’s strength and impact today. His service goes beyond Palm Beach, and his influence is felt across multiple organizations that share a common purpose: ensuring compassionate, high-quality care for individuals and families at life’s most vulnerable moments. The board expressed its deep gratitude for the wisdom, time, and heart he has invested in this mission.

For more than 43 years, the Palm Beach Island Hospice Foundation has been a beacon of comfort, contributing over $29.5 million to support hospice care. Its ongoing commitment to funding essential programs and services has helped thousands of adults, children, and their families receive compassionate, integrative end-of-life care.

Through its fundraising efforts and the dedication of its independent volunteer group, the foundation continues to provide critical resources that support hospice services throughout Palm Beach County.

The Palm Beach Island Hospice Foundation is located at 44 Cocoanut Row, Suite M-207B, Palm Beach. To learn more, visit HospicePB.org or call (561) 832-8585. Photos courtesy of Capehart.

Burns Wealth Management Group

The Singles Scene Column©

Welcome To Renewal

By Kelly Leary, M.S. & Miranda Capparelli

“Everything you want is on the other side of fear.”~~ Jack Canfield

There is something unmistakable about the month of May. The air feels lighter, the days stretch longer, and everywhere you look there is a quiet sense of renewal. We are entering a season that invites reflection--but more importantly--prompts action. Action strikes when the level of dissatisfaction with the status quo becomes no longer acceptable. Think about weight loss. We often don’t make the changes we need to until the pants don’t fit, right? Taking action will give you back ownership, especially when you make the decision and do it...the results come with time, but you know if you stay on track, there is no way you can fail. Dating is foolproof — if you do it right. You will find your person. You can find your person and they are likely looking for you too!

As top matchmakers, we believe that change has a rhythm, and spring is when it begins to awaken again. We thank you for spending time with us today, and as always, do share this column with someone you know who could use a morale boost. Let’s face it, people need people.

Heading into summer is the perfect time to lick our wounds, pause, and ask ourselves an honest question. Are you where you hoped to be in (romantically and socially) this year? For some, the answer is “yes,” and we celebrate you. For others, there is a lingering sense that something is missing. Not failure. Not defeat. Just…unfinished possibility...an emptiness. There is power in knowing where you are in life and making adjustments in your personal pursuit of happiness. Stop the train, sit, and evaluate yourself. Where are you in life, and where do you want to be moving forward?

The connections you begin now, the introductions you accept, the conversations you lean into are the ones that will carry you through summer and take root by fall. By the time the holidays arrive, those who chose to act in the spring are rarely still searching. In other words, timing matters more than people think.

Yet despite this, so many singles remain stuck in a holding pattern. Not because they don’t want love, but because modern dating has made the process feel confusing, impersonal, and at times, exhausting. Digital destruction sets in. The endless cycle of swiping, messaging, and wondering “what if” has created a culture where people are constantly searching, but rarely connecting in a meaningful way. People are sick of it--and searching for “real” matchmakers, and lucky for you, the most established matchmakers in the USA happen to be headquartered in your backyard. We are real, tangible, and our successful track record is miles long.

So get clear on your goals and desires. Understanding your “why” in dating is important . For some, it’s companionship—a partner to share dinners, travel, and life’s everyday moments. For others, it’s a deeper vision: marriage, family, building a future together. Whatever your reason may be, it deserves intention and action.

Love, despite what modern culture suggests, is no longer something that happens passively. It requires a decision. It requires presence and an open mind. Finding love and companionship requires stepping outside of your comfort zone. What is the alternative? Getting older alone? (This should not be an option.)

As agents of change, we have spent decades refining an approach that brings people back to traditional dating values: personal, thoughtful, and grounded in real human connection. There are no algorithms deciding your future. Your profiles are not circulating endlessly online (designed to keep you single). Instead, choose a deliberate process—one that begins with truly understanding who you are and what you’re looking for, and continues with carefully curated introductions designed to align with that vision. We put the chivalry back in dating and courtship. We believe in and thrive on getting to know someone privately in real life...slowly... like we used to before the internet.

So what’s next? It is easy. Call. Start. Meet. You are one step away from a completely different life.

First, we would meet you face-to-face in our beautiful office, where we have been since 2014. We create real connections that don’t begin with a swipe, but with a conversation. Most importantly, this personalization restores an emotion that has been quietly lost in the current social climate: confidence in the dating process. When you know that the people you are meeting are vetted, aligned, and equally serious about finding something meaningful, everything changes. The pressure fades. The guesswork disappears. Opportunities simply show up—and they stick.

If you’ve been waiting for the “right time,” consider this your signal and run with it. You are the governor of your life and you hold the keys in your hand. Join the adventure with us.

We are honored to be part of so many love stories, weddings, and new babies, and we remain deeply grateful for the trust our clients place in us. This is a responsibility we don’t take lightly—and we continue to be inspired every single day.

Action relieves anxiety. With that, are you ready to say “yes” to your dreams? If so, we look forward to meeting you. Happy Mother’s Day to all of the fabulous women out there, and do mention code MOM2026 when you speak to your matchmaker for the first time. Gentlemen, we know you follow the ladies, so I am sure we will be booking solid all month long. Reserve your first private appointment today!

XOXO, Kelly & Miranda

#WhyWaitJustDate #BeRevolutionary #HomeOfTheBrave #GetConnected #TellYourFriends

Kelly Leary, M.S.© is CEO and Founder of Revolution Dating which she launched in 2014. Leary has 35 years in the dating industry and a master’s degree in clinical psychology. She has been written about in Modern Luxury Magazine Palm Beach, Modern Luxury Manhattan, The Palm Beach Post, The Shiny Sheet, Stuart News, The Coastal Pearl, Jupiter Magazine, and many more. Revolution Dating clients are pre-screened in person, including background checks and ID verification. Professional photos are taken by the staff. Revolution Dating is NOT online dating or blind dating. In addition to providing matchmaking services that make singles “UN-single” through their exclusive club memberships, Kelly and Miranda also provide feedback from dates when appropriate. Mock Dates are available by request. Single Coaching Sessions and Evaluations are also available by request for non-members or as an add-on to some memberships. *All inquiries are confidential *Specializing in representing jet-setting clients with a second home in the Northeast Area or Mountain Country. Do call the central hotline at 561-630-9696 (XOXO) to hold your place in the club. Why wait? Just date!

Couples Galore At Revolution Dating!

We are celebrating more than just love—we are celebrating 12 incredible years at our corporate headquarters in the PGA Commons , where Revolution Dating has proudly grown, thrived, and connected extraordinary singles throughout our community and beyond. Our successful single, divorced, and widowed clients are choosing to live—and love— offline. As a full-service, boutique matchmaking firm, Revolution Dating specializes in personally screening and representing clients who value discretion, quality, and genuine connection. As we reflect on this milestone, we also take a moment to celebrate the women who inspire us every day. Happy Mother’s Day to all of the incredible mothers in our community—and especially to our very own Kelly, whose heart, leadership, and dedication continue to shape so many love stories. There is so much more to come for Revolution Dating and the remarkable clients we serve. If you’re ready to hear more success stories—and become one yourself—we invite you to secure your first appointment today.

private funder of outdoor education for children and teens, and helps ensure continued public access to traditional outdoor recreation.

Why Autism In Girls Is Easy To Miss

By Jim Forgan, Ph.D., Licensed School Psychologist

She doesn’t look autistic. Autism does not look the same and for girls, it often presents in ways that are quieter, more subtle, and more frequently overlooked. For years, autism research and diagnostic criteria were largely based on how it appears in boys. As a result, many girls with autism go undiagnosed or are labeled as anxious, shy, or socially immature rather than recognized as neurodivergent.

One of the primary reasons autism presents differently in girls is due to “masking.” Many girls are highly motivated to fit in socially and will consciously or unconsciously imitate peers by copying facial expressions, rehearsing conversations, or forcing eye contact. While this can help them blend in on the surface, it often comes at a significant emotional cost, leading to exhaustion, anxiety, and burnout. Because these girls may appear socially competent in structured settings like school, their struggles can be easily missed by educators.

Girls with autism also tend to have interests that appear more socially typical. While a boy might have an intense interest in trains or numbers, a girl might develop a deep, all-consuming interest in animals, books, celebrities, or friendships. The key difference is not the topic itself, but the intensity and rigidity of the interest which is often overlooked because the content seems age-appropriate.

Social differences in girls can also be more nuanced. Rather than being obviously withdrawn, some girls with autism may be overly social but struggle with the depth and reciprocity of relationships. They may have difficulty navigating complex social dynamics like friendships, gossip, or unspoken rules, which become more demanding in later elementary and middle school years. This is often when challenges become more visible.

Additionally, girls are more likely to internalize their difficulties. Instead of external behaviors like impulsivity, they may experience anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem. This internalizing profile can further mask the underlying autism and delay appropriate identification and support.

Recognizing how autism presents in girls is critical. When we test and identify early, support can be provided to help her thrive. Call (561) 625-4125 to discuss your child. Learn more at www.JimForgan.com.

With a Nashville-inspired flair, the evening brought guests together for a lively celebration of country music and conservation. Performances by Larry Fleet, Shawn Camp, Channing Wilson, Dave Kennedy, James Otto, and Rob Snyder set the tone, as attendees enjoyed dinner by the bite, cocktails, and a live auction featuring exclusive experiences and items. Guests also had the opportunity to encounter some of Florida’s native wildlife up close, including a baby alligator, a snake, and a barn owl.

This year’s event was once again co-chaired by Laura Coburn Russell, Tucker Frederickson, John Lacy, Robert Spottswood, Jr., and Joshua Kellam. Following opening remarks from Russell, Kellam presented Robert Spottswood, Sr., with the Foundation Lifetime Conservation Achievement Award, while Rodney Barreto honored Commissioner Wilton Simpson with the Chris Janson Creativity in Conservation Award.

More information about Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida can be found at wildlifeflorida.org.

Photos courtesy of Tracey Benson Photography.

The Pet Cottage Post

Forever Promise … Forever Home. Remember Sofia And Skylar?

By Wendy Derhak, Founder and Executive Director, The

Pet Cottage, Jupiter Farms, Florida, thepetcottage.org

In August of 2023, I introduced you to two little Maltipoo siblings who had just arrived at The Pet Cottage in the most heartbreaking of circumstances. Their person, Rita, a 78-year-old woman living alone, had fallen in her bathroom and passed away. A week went by before anyone found her — and when they did, Sofia and Skylar were still by her side, without food or water, waiting. They arrived at our sanctuary trembling together in the back of a crate.

You fell in love with them then. I thought you’d like to know where they are now.

This month, Sofia and Skylar turn seven years old. They are buckled into their car seat together—Sofia in her pink harness, Skylar in his orange—tongues out, heading somewhere wonderful. They are thriving.

They found their Forever Home with Ellen and Bryan Daly, long-time Jupiter Farms residents. Bryan is the founder of EPIC, one of the most vibrant networking communities in Palm Beach County, and it was through that community that he and The Pet Cottage first found each other.

Ellen and Bryan had shared their lives with three beloved Maltese, each one adored, each one mourned when the time came. When I reached out about Sofia and Skylar, they opened their hearts again without hesitation. Bryan will freely admit that walking them through the door was, at first, about making mama Ellen happy. But he fell in love with them too. Their big, beautiful mixedbreed, Betty, cast the deciding vote—and Betty said yes. Sofia and Skylar are the sweetest little lovebugs. They are velcroed to each other and to Ellen, following her from room to room, curling up beside her, never far from her. Sofia brings a spark of personality into every

room. Skylar, her devoted brother, is her shadow and her protector. Together they are exactly what Ellen and Bryan needed.

Sofia was later diagnosed with a heart murmur. She manages it with ongoing medication and veterinary care— all of it covered by The Pet Cottage, as we promise every pet in our program, for life. Dr. Vinoski and his team have been with her every step of the way.

“What surprised us most is that it’s not just about helping the dogs—it’s what it gives back to you,” Ellen and Bryan shared. “At this stage of life, you start to wonder if you should even have a pet again. But with The Pet Cottage, you can, because you’re not alone. There’s a plan. It really becomes a win-win-win—for the dogs, for the family, and for us as guardians.”

This is the Forever Promise—no pet left without a plan, and no person left without the chance to love again. How You Can Be Part Of This

• Support our mission. It takes resources to keep every promise. Please consider a donation at thepetcottage.org.

• Does your pet have a plan? If something happened to you tomorrow, we can help. Reach out at wendy@ thepetcottage.org.

Understanding Cancer and Clinical Trials–

A Free Community Education Program

• Become a Forever Guardian. Open your home to a pet who needs you. We cover all veterinary costs for life.

• Learn more. Visit thepetcottage.org or find us @ thepetcottage on Facebook and Instagram.

Wendy Derhak is the founder and executive director of The Pet Cottage, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit sanctuary at 17049 Thunder Road, Jupiter, FL 33478, (561) 818-5025, wendy@thepetcottage.org, thepetcottage.org.

YOU’RE INVITED! Join our FREE community course designed to help you understand cancer and explore treatment options, including clinical trials. Our expert-led sessions empower you with tools and knowledge to make informed decisions. Featuring local oncology research specialists, and dedicated Oncology Clinical Research Nurses.

You will learn:

• What is cancer?

• How cancer develops in the body

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• Common myths and fears – “Am I a guinea pig?”

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Space is limited. Family and caregivers are welcome! For more information, dates and times or to register, please email ClinicalResearchGroup@jupitermed.onmicrosoft.com.

Scan to learn more

Town Of Jupiter News

Historic Preservation: Suni Sands Site

By Jim Kuretski, Mayor, Town of Jupiter

Earlier this year, the Town of Jupiter reached a mediation settlement agreement with the Suni Sands property owners. The agreement did not approve any development. It simply set the ground rules for how the town and property owners move forward, while protecting a historic site.

The New Reality Of Florida College Admissions And How To Get Ahead

By Peggy Forgan, M. Ed., Class 101 Owner/College Advisor

For many collegebound students, attending college in Florida is an appealing option. With well-known schools like the University of Florida, Florida State University, and the University of Central Florida, students have access to excellent academic programs, vibrant campus communities, and affordable tuition. However, admission to these universities has become more competitive than ever. At the University of Florida alone, nearly 92,000 students applied for a recent freshman class, with just over 18,000 admitted, an acceptance rate of around 20%. Similarly, Florida State University received over 80,000 applications with an acceptance rate near 25%, while the University of Central Florida admitted roughly 40% of its more than 60,000 applicants.

In recent years, application numbers have surged while acceptance rates have declined. Students now compete with top applicants from across the state and beyond, so meeting minimum admission requirements is no longer enough to secure a spot. Many highly qualified students are turned away each year.

Successful applicants distinguish themselves through a combination of strong academics and planning. Taking rigorous coursework such as Honors, AP, or dual enrollment classes demonstrates a student’s willingness to challenge themselves and prepares them for college-level expectations.

This site, also known as the Sperry property, is 10.43 acres in overall size, abuts A1A roadway on the south and the Jupiter Inlet Waterway on the north. It has well documented archeological and historical significance to the Town of Jupiter and State of Florida. Archeologists found evidence of 5,000 years of human habitation. It is the location of a 4.08-acre archeological midden and the original center of Jupiter. Located on the south side of the Jupiter Inlet, it was the northern terminus of the Celestial Railroad.

Refer to the photo from 1889:

The property owners had filed a Request for Relief pursuant to FLUEDRA to consider whether the town’s Certificate to Dig (CTD) is unreasonable or unfairly burdens use of the

property. The CTD prohibited digging and development anywhere on the designated 4.08-acre archeological site.

The mediation settlement agreement provides an opportunity to resolve all legal disputes. The property owners can develop upon 4.94 acres of the property, while dedicating the 4.08-acre archeological site to the town and selling another 1.41-acre waterfront parcel to the town.

The property owners are planning to develop a historic inn that will embrace and complement the archeological site and its rich history. They are obligated to submit development applications to the Town of Jupiter and subject to the normal public hearing process and Town Council approvals. If mutual agreements are reached at that time, the town (and public) will gain 5.49 acres of the property, including the Suni Sands Shell Midden, through a combination of dedication and purchase.

The archeological site will be limited in uses other than for conservation or as open space properties with pedestrian access for town sponsored events related to educational, cultural, historic, ceremonial and archeological uses as determined by the town.

The 1.41-acre waterfront parcel will be limited in uses to conservation, open space and/or as a passive park. This waterfront parcel has about 275 feet of frontage along the Jupiter Inlet with extraordinary views. This prospective future town park may include a dock similar to that which existed at the terminus of the Celestial Railroad and other amenities to capture and preserve the rich history directly associated with the Suni Sands site.

Stay tuned.

Financial Focus®

Four Estate Planning Myths That Could Cost Your Family

By Sally Sima Stahl, Edward Jones

Consider this scenario:

A teacher of 30 years and mother of three passes away at age 58. She leaves behind a modest home, a retirement account and cherished family heirlooms – but no estate plan. Her children, still grieving, find themselves navigating a confusing probate process, disagreeing about when to sell the house and considering who gets their grandmother’s ring. This mom wasn’t wealthy by most measures, but her lack of planning created confusion, conflict and uncertainty at a time when her family needed clarity. Her story reminds us of an important truth: Estate planning is about easing conflict and making sure what you have goes where you want it to go.

As you think about your own legacy, consider these myths that can lead to costly mistakes and unintended outcomes.

Myth 1: Estate planning is only for wealthy people. The desire to make things easier for loved ones has nothing

Beyond academics, extracurricular involvement plays a critical role. Colleges look for students who show commitment, growth, and leadership rather than simply participating in many activities. Whether through athletics, clubs, part-time jobs, or community service, students who take initiative and deepen their involvement stand out. Standardized testing is another key component. All public universities in Florida require SAT or ACT scores, making early planning essential. Starting with a practice test helps students establish a baseline, determine which exam is the best fit, and build a strategic testing timeline instead of rushing the process.

to do with net worth. Formally documenting your wishes reduces the burden on family members and gives you control. Without a plan, your state’s laws will decide how your estate is handled, and you may not like what those laws say.

Myth 2: Having a will is all you need. While a will is important, it only takes effect after death. That means it offers no protection if you become incapacitated and cannot make decisions for yourself. It does, however, allow you to name legal guardians for dependent children.

The foundation of most estate plans includes a will (which directs asset distribution), a financial power of attorney (for financial decisions), a health care power of attorney (for medical decisions), and a medical directive (to share your end of life wishes). While not everyone needs a trust, there are several that allow you to make special provisions, such as for minor children, a special needs family member or even a cherished pet. Consulting with a financial advisor and an estate planning attorney can help determine the right combination based on your situation.

Myth 3: Equal distribution is always fair. It’s likely that the individuals in your estate plan, especially if they are adult children, have different family and financial situations. You may have one child who’s extremely successful financially while another is struggling. Or you may have assets, such as a house or ownership of a family business, that are more suitable for one beneficiary

One of the biggest mistakes families make is waiting too long to begin. Starting in 9th or 10th grade gives students the time to build a well-rounded profile, explore their interests, and approach the application process with confidence.

You do not have to navigate this process alone. At Class 101 North Palm Beach, I work one-on-one with students to create a clear, personalized plan and help them maximize their opportunities. If your student is in high school and you are unsure where to start, I invite you to schedule a free consultation by contacting pforgan@ class101.com, visiting class101.com/northpalmbeachfl/, or calling (561) 418-7897.

than another. It’s important to consider any unique circumstances as you develop your estate plan.

Myth 4: I can set it and forget it. You’ll want to review your estate plan every few years or when a major life event occurs. Life is full of changes, such as marriages, divorces, new children and relocations, and they will likely impact your goals. Reviewing your plan helps keep everything aligned with your wishes and serves as a reminder to keep your beneficiaries on all your assets up to date.

Ultimately, estate planning is about helping ensure your voice is heard and your loved ones cared for, no matter what the future holds.

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 Stahl, CFP, ChFC, AAMS 1851 W. Indiantown Road, Ste. 106, Jupiter, FL 33458.

A New Era of Care

Introducing the Tim and Jayne Donahue Patient Care Tower

Jupiter Medical Center is thrilled to announce the grand unveiling of our state-of-the- art five-story, 92-bed Tim and Jayne Donahue Patient Care Tower. This innovative expansion further elevates the award-winning care we are renowned for, ensuring an unparalleled patient experience. The tower represents a bold vision focused on patient-centered care, featuring floors dedicated to Oncology, Orthopedics, and Cardiac Care, each meticulously designed to meet the unique needs of our patients. Modern simulation labs offer training opportunities for clinicians, empowering them to remain at the forefront of excellence. We invite you to discover how we are transforming health and wellness in our community