JupShores MAY 2026

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.

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.

Northern Notes

Purple Martins – Beautiful Birds That Need Our Help

By Katie Roundtree, Director of Finance and Administration, Northern

Palm Beach County Improvement District

Purple martins, North America’s largest swallow species, migrate up to 7,000 miles from the rainforests of Brazil and the Amazonian Basin to the eastern United States and Canada. Their long journey highlights their resilience and inspires admiration in bird enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Graceful in flight, musical in its pre-dawn singing, this big swallow is one of our most popular birds. Purple martins (Progne subis) are the only bird species in eastern North America that is totally dependent on humans for nesting sites today. Over most of their range east of the Rocky Mountains, they are unable to nest naturally and rely on humans to provide nest boxes. Martin housing has a long history: some Native American tribes reportedly hung hollow gourds around their villages to attract these birds, emphasizing our role in their survival. Thousands of human “martin landlords” maintain multicompartment nest houses, which are vital for the birds’

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.

Town Of Jupiter News on page 2

survival. These efforts are essential because the birds depend on humanprovided housing to nest and raise their young. Human involvement directly supports Purple martins’ continued presence and success.

Putting up martin houses used to be so common that John James Audubon used them to choose his lodgings for the night. In 1831, he remarked, “Almost every country tavern has a martin box on the upper part of its sign-board; and I have observed that the handsomer the box, the better does the inn generally prove to be.”

Purple martins are highly social birds. After leaving the nesting colony and the care of the purple martin landlord, they form large, communal roosts where they sleep at night before and during migration. They also form communal roosts on their South American wintering grounds, often with other martin species.

Fledgling martins become independent relatively quickly compared to other hole nesting birds. These young martins are fairly good flyers on their first day out of the nest, and

Bill’s Box

By Bill Thompson

Hello out there. How’s everyone doing today?

I’ll take a chance to prognosticate nice spring weather with some needed rain for lawns and plants in our village, The Shores of Jupiter. What a great place to live.

I can be designated a Shores pioneer, having moved into a brand new home in January 1989. There are a few of us still around. We overcame a few challenges in earlier days. The county wanted to build a road to connect Martin County to Indiantown Road—right through the middle of our Shores. Very long struggle reduced to a reference, The Shores board of directors sued our county and prevailed with a settlement that negated the road plan just in time. To resolve the traffic problem, Board member at the time, Jim Kuretski, walked off another route that served as a reliever road now named Island Way. The route served also the traffic laden Loxahatchee River Road. That is your history lesson for the day.

Harley and I are great pals. He has given me an invite to share his bed.

Mark Twain said, “Always do right; it will gratify some people and astonish the rest.”

Copy deadline for June is May 12, 2026

Deadline for the June Issue is May 12

Mail or email to:

Bill Thompson, 18583 Lake Bend Drive billthompsonsoj@gmail.com

The Shores of Jupiter website:

www.theshoresofjupiter.org

Disclaimer

Copy appearing herewith may not be the viewpoint of The Shores Board of Directors or its newsletter editor. Nor should responsibility be assigned for accuracy or validity or articles contributed by residents or other articles chosen by the publisher or the editor.

Realtime Property Management of South Florida LLC

Alexa Edwards, Property Manager 612 N. Orange Ave., Bldg C-4, Jupiter, FL 33458

The Shores Of Jupiter Homeowners Association Inc.

Board Of Directors, Committee

Board Of Directors:

John Hornyak, President

David Lindley, Vice President

Cynthia Clemente, Secretary

Barry Parker, Treasurer

Sal Greco, Director

Amy Lemelin, Director

Ryan Warren, Director

Architectural Control Committee:

Sal Greco, Chair

John Hornyak

Compliance Committee: Ryan Warren, Chair

Lakes And Parks Committee:

David Lindley, Chair

Crimewatch Committee: Bill Thompson, Co-Chair

Sal Greco, Co-Chair

Welcoming Committee: Amy Lemelin, Chair

John Hornyak

Infrastructure

David Lindley, Chair

Communications and Newsletter Editor: Bill Thompson, Chair

Events & Social Media Committee: Barry Parker, Co-Chair

Kristi Parker, Co-Chair

Francesca Brown

Tracey Lavoll

Anais Maristany-Diaz

Dena Martin

Webmaster

Kristi Parker

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 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

Town Of Jupiter News from page 1

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.

Northern Notes from page 1

their flying skills improve daily with guidance from their parents. After about a week or more out of the nest, many young martins begin to catch their own food and soon become independent.

Martins are aerial insectivores that consume insects in flight. Dragonflies are a favorite, as well as moths, butterflies, flies, beetles, wasps, and other flying insects. Studies have shown purple martins eat around 262 billion insects each year. Many of these insects are both human and agricultural pest species. However, purple martins do not eat many mosquitoes. Martins feed high in the sky during the daytime, so they do not come into contact with mosquitoes very often. The purple martin not only gets all its food in flight, but also all its water. It skims the surface of a pond, scooping up water with its lower bill.

Purple martins have experienced a significant decline, losing one-third of their population over the last 50 years. Key factors like habitat loss, competition from invasive species, decreasing prey availability, and climate change contribute to this decline, emphasizing the need for active conservation efforts to protect these birds for future generations. European starlings and house sparrows often push purple martins out of local areas by taking over all of the nest sites, including houses that people put up specifically for the martins.

To track the purple martins’ migration or learn how to support their conservation, visit purplemartin.org. The website offers resources on attracting and caring for the birds, including a free booklet available by emailing info@ purplemartin.org or calling (814) 833-7656.

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 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.

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.

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-

The Singles Scene Column© on page 4

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

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

For many college-bound 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 collegelevel expectations.

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.

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.

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.

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,

Jupiter Senior Softball 2026 Winter League

By Mike Richmond

Three teams won division championships and two were victorious in playoff games in the 2026 Jupiter Senior Softball Winter League that ended March 27.

The competition featured 14 teams among three divisions with players ranging in age from their 50s to their 80s and above. The oldest was Bill Pollak, a retired dentist who observed his 91st birthday February 11.

The Jackals team, managed by Mike Berger, won the Red Division championship with a combined record of 20-4 in the first and second halves of the season. The White Division Champion team Dirty Dozen, managed by Artie Katulak, was 17-4-1.

Katulak’s team also won the division playoffs in a doubleheader, defeating the Deja Vu team managed by Gil Morejon, 22-21, and Vic Troiano’s Warriors, 13-12. Teams with the best winter league record are honored as champions while playoff victors earn “bragging rights.”

The Blue Division’s “Bruise Brothers” team, managed by Bob Failla, took championship honors with an overall record

of 20-4-1. The Blue Hens team, headed by by Bobby Davis, and had an 11-11-3 record, but won the playoffs over two competing teams. Davis said they were elated about winning the playoffs because they lost their starting shortstop early in the competition “and struggled” the remainder of the season.

League Commissioner Richard Sewell lauded the players for their camaraderie and willingness to help make the Winter League a success. He singled out players who volunteered to serve as umpires, saying, “A good umpire staff makes a great game for everyone.”

The January to March Winter League is the cornerstone of the Jupiter Senior Softball Association’s year-round season. Pickup games and limited spring and fall leagues are played the remainder of the year. Persons 55 and older are eligible and new players of all skill levels are always welcome. Games are every Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning at Jupiter Community Park beginning at 8:30 a.m. with batting practice.

For more information and to register online, go to www.leaguelineup.com/jssa or contact Rick Tuyn at (248) 302-1682.

Arnie

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 selfesteem. 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.

Lighthouse For The Blind

Hi

and partners.

Fifth Annual EnVision 20/20 Luncheon

Here are two of our favorite moments from the luncheon: • We were honored to recognize Maria Beaudouin with the David B. Cano, M.D. Servitude Award at our Fifth Annual EnVision 20/20 Luncheon. Her son accepted the award on her behalf, and it was a deeply meaningful moment as we reflected on Maria’s lasting impact and dedication to the Lighthouse mission.

• Our emcee, Kelly Merbler, shared powerful words on leadership and the importance of showing up with purpose, heart, and service to others. Her message was a wonderful reflection of the spirit behind this special event.

“The Mountain Is Still There”

– Niurka Walker’s Story

On March 11, 2021, Niurka Walker drove herself to the eye doctor. It was the last time she ever got behind the wheel.

After years of living with myopia degenerative disease, Niurka’s vision had reached a turning point. In a single

day, she lost her ability to drive and her ability to continue working. The independence she had built her life around was suddenly gone. That is when she found the Lighthouse.

Through our assistive technology program, Niurka learned to use screen reading tools that reopened the digital world. The experience gave her a new sense of what was possible. She enrolled at Southeastern University and is now a college student, proving that vision loss does not have to mean the end of your ambitions.

“Do not be afraid,” Niurka says. “The mountain is still there. You just got to find another way to go around it and climb it.”

Mission United

We are so proud of our very own Joan Friedman! Joan, our director of Development for Treasure Coast and Okeechobee, recently participated in Mission United through the United Way of St. Lucie & Okeechobee—representing Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches, Treasure Coast & Okeechobee.

As part of the Boots United program, Joan showed up to support our veterans right here in our community, and that says everything about who she is.

Thank you, Joan, for going above and beyond and for making us all proud. You are a shining example of what it means to serve!

Volunteer Appreciation

We recently recognized something truly powerful –people who give their time, energy, and heart to others. Our volunteers are the quiet force behind everything we do. Thank you for showing up, caring deeply, and for making a difference in ways both seen and unseen. We are stronger because of you – and we are so grateful!

Palm Beach County Property Appraiser’s Office

Dear Taxpayer:

Our office is in the final stages of preparing the 2026 estimated taxable property values, which will be shared with Palm Beach County’s taxing authorities later this month. These early estimates help local governments begin developing their budgets and considering proposed millage (tax) rates.

Property taxes fund essential local services that residents rely on every day. Your total tax bill is distributed among several taxing authorities, each responsible for specific services. Depending on where you live, your property taxes support the school district, Palm Beach County government services, your municipality, fire rescue, water management, and other special districts.

In this month’s newsletter, we’re highlighting our Public Services Support team and providing information on exemptions available to surviving spouses. I hope you find this informative.

Respectfully,

Dorothy Jacks, CFA, FIAAO, AAS, Palm Beach County Property Appraiser

Exemptions For Surviving Spouses

Certain property tax exemptions are available to surviving spouses who meet specific eligibility requirements. To qualify for the exemptions below, the property must have a homestead exemption.

Widow/Widower Exemption

Florida provides a $5,000 exemption for widows and widowers who were widowed prior to January 1 of the tax year.

• Applicants must have a homestead exemption

It’s important to remember that while our office determines the value of your property, we do not set millage rates, collect taxes, or decide how tax dollars are spent. Those decisions are made by the taxing authorities.

Later this summer, the proposed millage rates—along with your property’s market, assessed, and taxable values—will appear on your Truth in Millage (TRIM) Notice, which is mailed to all property owners in August. The TRIM Notice will also include public hearing dates, where you can speak directly to taxing authorities about their proposed budgets and millage rates.

• If the surviving spouse remarries, the exemption no longer applies

• Divorced individuals do not qualify

To apply, submit a copy of the deceased spouse’s death certificate along with a written request. (Florida Statute 196.202)

First Responder’s Surviving Spouse Exemption (F.S. 196.081(6).

If you believe the market value of your property is inaccurate, you have the right to file a petition with the Value Adjustment Board through the Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller. For more information, visit pbcpao.gov or contact our office at (561) 355-2883.

A surviving spouse of a first responder who died in the line of duty may qualify for a total exemption on their homestead property (Florida Statute 196.081 (6) ).

Palm Beach County Property Appraiser’s Office on page 7

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 mixed-breed, Betty, cast the deciding vote—and Betty said yes.

Palm Beach County Property Appraiser’s Office from page 6

Surviving Spouse Of A Disabled Veteran

The surviving spouse of a deceased veteran who qualified for a disabled veteran exemption may receive a full exemption on their homestead property (F.S. 196.081) Not sure if you qualify? Contact Exemption Services at (561) 355-2866 or visit pbcpao.gov—we’re here to help.

Department Spotlight: Public Services Support

Our Public Services Support team plays a key role in helping residents access property data and public records. From simple address labels to complex, customized reports, the team handles hundreds of requests each year using data from our Geographic Information System (GIS) and appraisal systems.

In the past year, the team:

• Processed 941 Data Run Requests/Variances (including address labels, maps, owner lists, and variancerelated reports)

• Fulfilled 1,085 Archive Record Requests (such as tax rolls and building cards, some dating back to 1977)

• Assisted with 2,100 Impact Fee Record Requests (helping determine if a structure previously existed on a property for potential fee credits)

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.”

• Generated 5,816 Preliminary Building Cards (preliminary values prior to the final tax roll; values are subject to change)

• Produced 152 Custom/Specialized Reports, including:

○ Tax roll data by assessed value

○ Homestead counts by municipality

○ Full tax roll or appraisal datasets

○ Sales and subdivision reports

○ Lists of vacant properties or property types

○ Estate-related property searches

○ Mailing labels and geographic data files

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.

• 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.

What We Do Not Handle

To help direct you to the right resource, please note that our office does not handle:

• Survey requests

• Delinquent tax inquiries

• Property auction information

While many tools—such as maps, sales data, and mailing lists—are available on our website, public services support is available to assist with more specialized requests. Call us at (561) 355-2881 or email pa-pubsvc@pbcpao.gov.

Seasonal Reminders

Snowbirds: Be sure to review homestead and rental rules to maintain eligibility.

Hurricane Season: Keep a copy of your property record for insurance and recovery purposes.

Buying or Selling: Use our Tax Estimator to understand potential changes in your tax bill.

Office Closed – Memorial Day

All Palm Beach County Property Appraiser’s Office locations will be closed on Monday, May 25, 2026, in observance of Memorial Day.

We honor and remember the men and women who gave their lives in service to our country.