JupSpotlight 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 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 sit-down dinner, a raffle, and silent and live auctions.

Ducks Unlimited on page 2

Palm Beach Island Hospice Foundation 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.

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

and Carol

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 co-chaired Hospice Evening, and most recently, Gracewear honored her by

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

Safer Communities Start With Year-Round Tree Care Across Palm Beach County

Trim Regularly, Stay Safe

When storms threaten Palm Beach County, many residents rush to trim their trees. The instinct is understandable, but the timing is risky. Cutting branches right before severe weather can leave dangerous debris scattered across yards and streets. Those loose limbs can become projectiles in high winds, endangering homes, vehicles and lives.

Why Year-Round Trimming Matters

The Solid Waste Authority of Palm Beach County (SWA) encourages residents to adopt a year-round trimming plan. Regular maintenance strengthens trees, making them more resistant to wind damage. Healthy, well-balanced trees are less likely to snap or uproot during storms.

This proactive approach benefits everyone:

• Homeowners enjoy safer properties and less cleanup.

• Neighbors are protected from flying debris.

• The community sees faster recovery, as crews can collect smaller amounts of debris more efficiently.

How Trimming Reduces Storm Impact

Proper trimming is more than cosmetic. It’s a form of storm preparation. Trees maintained throughout the year are better equipped to withstand high winds. They shed fewer branches, which means less debris cluttering streets after a storm. That reduction allows neighborhoods to be cleared more quickly, restoring normalcy sooner.

Timing Makes The Difference

Arborists recommend trimming during a tree’s dormant season or well before storm season begins, making the ideal trimming window Dec. 1 through April 30. This gives trees time to heal and grow stronger before facing severe weather. By contrast, trimming immediately before a storm leaves fresh cuts exposed and creates piles of debris that may not be collected in time.

A Shared Responsibility

Storm preparedness is more than stocking supplies and securing shutters. It includes taking responsibility for the environment around each home. Every resident who

Ducks Unlimited from page 1

Proceeds from the banquet support Ducks Unlimited’s conservation projects nationally and locally, including work in Jonathan Dickinson State Park, the Loxahatchee 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.

commits to year-round trimming contributes to a safer, cleaner and more resilient Palm Beach County.

When storms pass, crews work tirelessly to remove debris. The amount they face depends on choices residents

make before the storm arrives. By trimming regularly, residents help lighten the load, speed recovery and protect their neighbors.

Learn More

The SWA provides resources to guide residents in proper tree care, unincorporated Palm Beach County pickup guidelines and storm preparation. For pickup guidelines in unincorporated Palm Beach County, visit swa.org/ yardwaste. Visit swa.org/storm to find trimming information and learn how you can help keep our community safe.

Closing Thought

Storms are inevitable, but dangerous debris does not have to be. With a year-round trimming plan, residents protect their property, safeguard their neighbors and support the SWA’s mission.

Happy year-round trimming!

Are you investing with facts or headlines?

Burns Wealth Management Group

Robert Burns

jpmorgan.com/burnswm

is a registered trademark owned by The American College of Financial Services. Investments & Wealth Institute™ (The Institute) is the owner of the certification marks “CPWA,” and “Certified Private Wealth Advisor.” CPWA, and/or Certified Private Wealth Advisor signifies that the

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,

Hospice from page 1

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 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.

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

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.

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 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.

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

The Singles Scene Column© on page 6

Florida Community Property Trust – Is It Right For You?

By Anné DesormierCartwright, JD, Esq.

A Florida Community Property Trust (CPT) is a modern estate planning tool that allows married couples to elect community property treatment for their assets— despite Florida being a non–community property state. Created under the Florida Community Property Trust Act, a CPT is designed primarily to provide significant income tax advantages while maintaining the flexibility of a revocable trust.

The primary benefit of a CPT is the full step-up in basis at the death of the first spouse. In traditional Florida planning,

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,

only the deceased spouse’s share of jointly owned assets typically receives a step-up in basis. However, when assets are properly transferred into a CPT, 100% of the trust assets may receive a step-up, potentially eliminating large capital gains taxes if the surviving spouse later sells those assets. This can be especially valuable for couples who own appreciated real estate, long-held investments, or business interests.

To create a CPT, both spouses must sign the trust agreement and transfer assets into the trust. The trust must clearly state the intent to be treated as community property under Florida law. Importantly, the law generally requires joint action by both spouses to amend or revoke the trust, which is a key distinction from standard revocable trusts.

While CPTs offer powerful tax benefits, they are not appropriate for every client. Careful consideration must be given to issues such as creditor exposure, blended families, and the treatment of separate property. Transferring assets into

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.

a CPT may change how those assets are characterized, which can have unintended consequences if not properly addressed.

For the right client, typically a married couple with appreciated assets and a desire for tax efficiency a Florida CPT can be a highly effective planning strategy.

Questions about your estate plan? Call our office at (561) 694-7827 and schedule a consultation, Elder & Estate Planning Attorneys PA, 480 Maplewood Drive, Suite 3, Jupiter. The content of this article is general and should not be relied upon without reviewing 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 legal needs. An attorney client relationship is not created through the information provided.

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.

The Golf Learning Center

Sportsbox

By Tom F. Stickney, Director of Operations

One of the newest trends in golf instruction has been the addition of AI-assisted 3-D Motion Analysis for both the coach and the player. It allows you to take a video of the player from the frontal or down the line view and then using AI, it converts this into an avitar complete with 3-D Movement Analysis. This avitar can be shown from any angle giving the player a unique way to see and understand his swing and this coupled with the “numbers” helps the coach to uderstand what his student can do realistically on the physiology side. Sportsbox measures over

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 4.08acre 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.

50 different parameters during the swing, so nothing is left to chance!

Here I have put up a sample PGA Tour player’s swing I filmed on the lesson tee to show you the simple benefits of using this technology. From the frontal view you can see that the club has made its way to the top with some width, the shoulders appear turned to a reasonable degree and the hips have made enough of a turn so the weight can be shifted and the player can get “behind” the ball at the top. From the down the line view you can see that this player has worked the club around the body to the top and the arm structure is solid as well.

While all this is wonderful to look at in 2-D, there can be some mistakes made or some instructor bias applied to what is actually seen and this is where Sportsbox 3-D Motion Analysis comes into play. By coupling the numbers with the different views we are able to identify positions that the player is in, what they can “do” physically and how they are moving into that position while swinging.

In this swing we can see that the player has made a 96 -degree shoulder turn, a 40-degree hip turn, and his head has moved off the golf ball 1.3 inches. Thus from a fundamental standpoint on the instructor side we can see that the “look” of this swing does indeed match up with the numbers produced

and this provides valuable information moving forward. However, oftentimes this is not the case, because even the most trained eye can be fooled by turns, bends, and tilts at any time.

Basically what is being shown is that this player has maximized his shoulder turn and arm swing at the top and the numbers prove that any more rotation would be detrimental to his physiology.

The head has moved a touch laterally so that this player is loaded into their rear foot but not excessively—we know this because each value has a Tour-validated average that is constantly being updated and both the player and the instructor can view this together.

The wonderful thing about 3-D Motion Analysis like this is the ability to shoot video on the course, while playing, and see how different the numbers might be on the course. We know that practicing golf is one thing but playing golf is another and finally we have a way to audit and validate what the body is doing on the golf course, on the lesson tee, and at home in practice without the instructor.

If you’d like further information on Sportsbox, its benefits, or what your swing looks like using this technology, then email toms@jonathanslanding.com and we’ll take a look!

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 multi-compartment nest houses, which are vital for the birds’ survival. These efforts are essential because the birds depend on human-provided 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 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.

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

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 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 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.

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.

• 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.

Jupiter Medical Center’s 49th Annual Black-Tie Ball Raises $1.7 Million To Expand Services

Donor generosity accelerates progress toward $15 million goal for Margaret W. Niedland Breast Center Program expansion.

Jupiter Medical Center recently hosted its 49th Annual Black-Tie Ball at The Breakers Palm Beach, with generous presenting sponsors Linda and John Purdy. The evening brought together philanthropists, community leaders, and supporters for a celebration of the hospital’s mission and future.

Featuring an incredible band, a $350,000 matching gift from the Booth Foundation, and a lively auction, the event raised more than $1.7 million for the expansion of the Margaret W. Niedland Breast Center. The ball was chaired by Suzanne Niedland, daughter of the center’s namesake.

“The Black-Tie Ball is a powerful reflection of the community’s belief in Jupiter Medical Center and our mission to provide exceptional care close to home,” said Amit Rastogi, M.D., MHCM, president and CEO of Jupiter Medical Center. “The generosity shown, especially through the matching donation from the Booth Foundation, will have a lasting impact, helping us expand access to advanced breast health services and continue delivering the highest standards of quality, safety, and patient experience.”

Last fall, Jupiter Medical Center, the region’s only independent, not-for-profit health care system, announced a fundraising goal of $15 million to expand the Margaret W. Niedland Breast Center. To date, the foundation has raised $10 million toward its goal, thanks to a transformational lead gift from Dorothy J. Thomson whose name is recognized in the center’s Healing Garden—a serene, restorative space designed to bring comfort and reflection to patients and families.

The foundation is also deeply grateful for Suzanne Niedland’s generous gift, which will be recognized through the naming of the Suzanne L. Niedland Atrium, a welcoming beacon of hope and healing for all who enter.

The center opened in 2015, performing 18,000 breast imaging studies and 12,400 general imaging procedures in its first year. Since opening, the center has more than doubled its annual volume, performing 40,000 breast imaging studies and 32,000 general imaging procedures last year. The expansion will add 13,000 square feet of advanced technology, including three CT scanners, a second MRI, expanded mammography, and a dedicated ultrasound biopsy room. These enhancements will increase patient capacity, reduce wait times, and support earlier, more precise diagnoses—ensuring patients receive timely, coordinated care in a comfortable and thoughtfully designed environment.

During her remarks, Traci Simonsen, Chief Philanthropy Officer of Jupiter Medical Center Foundation, expressed appreciation to attendees and sponsors, including presenting sponsors Linda and John Purdy, for their support, noting that at the onset of the evening, the event had already raised a remarkable $1 million. She then acknowledged Suzanne Niedland for her passion and purpose, which propelled the creation of the center and has now been instrumental in its expansion.

“Thank you to our ball chair, Suzanne Niedland. Because of her extraordinary vision to build the Margaret W. Niedland Breast Center, and now to expand it, she is an inspirational example of how to put vision into action,” said Simonsen.

Black-Tie Ball committee members included Lee Ann and Jeffrey Alderton, Vera Alfieri, Veronica Atkins, Donna DeMaio-Bijou, Nika Ciarfella, Randell and Rebecca Doane, Michael and Terry Dooley, Joel and Nancy Hart, Ambassador Bonnie McElveen-Hunter and Gil Kemp, Howard and Kerrie Lance, Kelly Luchini, William and Janine Mayville, Alan and

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Penny Murphy, Linda L. Purdy, Leslie C. Quick III, Thomas C. Quick, Patricia Quick, Dr. Marc and Janna Ronert, Kathryn Lighton Shafer, Dorothy J. Thomson, Dr. Jill Waibel, Marigil M. Walsh, Dennis K. and Roseanne Williams.

Equally vital to the ball’s impact are the generous sponsors whose support makes the expansion possible. This year’s sponsors included Linda and John Purdy, The Quick Family, Suzanne Niedland, Florida Atlantic University, Ensemble Health Partners, Patrick and Marie O’Connor, Joe and Patsy Petri, Veronica Atkins, Robins & Morton, Dorothy J. Thomson, The Tiano Family, Kerrie and Howard Lance, Lee Ann and Jeffrey H. Alderton, Michael and Theresa Hammond, Dr. Marc and Janna Ronert, Carlton Fields, Sina Companies, TD Bank, Nancy La Vista and Mark Schwartz, Northern Trust, Robert Stilley and MaryLynn Magar, Mark and Pam Weinstein, Chris and Susan Pappas Family Foundation, PAM Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Jupiter, SBA Communications Corporation, bfw Advertising, My Personal Pediatrician – Ivy Faske, M.D., Cooperative Services of Florida, Inc., Rebecca and Randell Doane, K2 Real Estate Advisors, Deborah and Dennis Glass, Pioneer Linens, Lisa and Jack Langer, FindAWay4Kids, Jim Cleary, Ambassador Bonnie McElveen-Hunter and Mr. Gil Kemp, In Honor of Barbara Crowley and Melvina Young, and Palm Beach Illustrated.

The Black-Tie Ball remains one of Jupiter Medical Center Foundation’s signature philanthropic events, serving as both a celebration of progress and a catalyst for future growth. Next season, the ball will celebrate its 50th anniversary.

To learn more about the expansion campaign or to make a gift, please visit jmcfoundation.org. For more information about Jupiter Medical Center’s services, visit jupitermed.com, call (561) 263-2234, or follow Jupiter Medical Center on Facebook and Instagram @jupitermedicalcenter or on ‘X’ @JupiterMedCtr.

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