




Dear Readers,
April is a month of momentum. The year is no longer new, but the season still feels ripe with possibility. It’s a time when ideas take root, plans shift into action, and we think about the future—what we’re building, where we’re growing, and how we’re investing in what matters most.
They say April showers bring May flowers, but we already saw nature at its finest last month at the Kips Bay Decorator Show House Palm Beach, where Belden’s Florist created a striking tropical live wall adorned with graceful white orchids and delicate blue butterflies. It was an enchanting reminder that some things flourish not through luck, but through care, patience, and vision— just like the best investments in life.
Some returns can’t be measured in numbers but in the stories we preserve. Ron Davis, our cover feature, has spent his career capturing extraordinary lives through film. With Lifestory Docs, he transforms personal histories into cinematic documentaries, ensuring that legacies are honored for generations. His work proves that meaningful stories don’t fade with time.
For others, creating a legacy starts with where they plant roots. West Palm Beach is in the midst of a transformation, drawing those who appreciate a lifestyle that blends sophistication with coastal charm. With panoramic waterfront views and thoughtful design, The Berkeley reflects this evolution with a simple truth: where we choose to live shapes how we experience life.
Of course, no foundation is stronger than financial security. Growing up as a first-generation American, Claudia Box saw how financial uncertainty can shape a family’s future. That experience led her to help others navigate wealth-building—not with complicated jargon, but with the understanding that stability isn’t just about numbers. It’s about having choices, opportunities, and peace of mind.
And then there’s the wealth we create beyond ourselves. Jonathan Duerr believes in paying success forward, whether through his work with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society or his support for Place of Hope. His dedication to giving back proves that fulfillment isn’t found in what we accumulate, but in what we share.
Whether focusing on home, legacy, or the people around us, the choices we make today shape the lives we lead tomorrow. After all, the greatest returns come not just from what we gain—but from what we give, build, and leave behind.
Wishing you prosperity in every sense of the word,
DENISE DELAUNAY-WOOD,PUBLISHER @PALMBEACHCITYLIFESTYLE
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Denise Wood
denise.wood@citylifestyle.com
AREA DIRECTOR
David Wood
david.wood@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Arsine Kaloustian
arsine.kaloustian@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Olivia Wood | olivia.wood@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Chrissy Brahney
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
8: Jeff and Nicola Marcus, Andrea and Steve Wynn and Amy Phelan at the Palm Beach Police & Fire Rescue Ball 9:
and Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York at Cancer Alliance's Shop the Day Away Luncheon 10: Sharon Bush and Bob Murray at the Winter Ball for the Boys and Girls Club of Palm Beach County 11: Diana Retzer, Farley Rentschler and Norka Aron at the American Red Cross Ball 12: Dave and Sasha Aronberg at a private dinner party hosted by Cindy and Ron McMackin, benefitting the Nature Conservancy 13: Nancy Brinker and Mami Kisner at Promise Fund’s Annual Bridge Lighting celebration 14: James Borynack & Adolfo Zaralegui at the Palm Beach Zoo gala
Amazing place and amazing hosts! The place is just as described and close to everything you would need! The house was packed with all the amenities you would need and the hosts go above and beyond to make sure you have a wonderful stay.
I’d recommend and am looking forward to staying with you again!
Moses - January 2025
With over 19 years of experience, Jonathan Duerr offers unmatched expertise in Palm Beach County real estate. Specializing in residential resale and new construction, he has a proven record of creating and closing deals from Jupiter to Miami.
Jonathan is also a dedicated community leader, supporting organizations like the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Place of Hope, and Cancer Alliance. As President-Elect of the PB Board of Realtors and host of the Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival, his commitment to the region is unparalleled.
Combining traditional strategies with cutting-edge marketing, Jonathan delivers expert guidance, market insights, and successful negotiations.
In a world where self-care is an investment, Panthera Palm Beach offers beauty with enduring impact. Founded by licensed esthetician Meghan Ross, this veteran and woman-owned studio provides sought-after services like skincare, lashes, permanent makeup, and spray tans. As the beauty industry thrives, Panthera is proof that investing in yourself yields undeniable returns. Confidence and quality never fade, making Panthera a true standout in luxury beauty.
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Jewelry isn’t just an accessory—it’s a legacy and a tangible asset. At A’list Fine Jewelry in West Palm Beach, rare vintage finds and bespoke designs offer both sentimental and financial value. Unlike fleeting trends, fine jewelry retains its worth, often appreciating over time as a stable asset class. Whether designing a custom piece or acquiring a vintage treasure, A’list blends beauty, craftsmanship, and investment potential—proving that exceptional jewelry stands the test of time and value.
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The newly opened One Flagler office tower in downtown West Palm Beach is quickly establishing itself as a financial hub, securing leases with major firms like OceanSound Partners and GoldenTree Asset Management. Designed by architect David Childs, the 25-story tower is part of West Palm’s growing appeal for financial and investment firms. As more companies relocate from traditional financial centers, One Flagler represents the city’s increasing prominence in the global investment landscape.
ARTICLE BY ARSINE KALOUSTIAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISSY BRAHNEY
THE
Most millennials are navigating life’s major milestones— careers, families, homeownership—without a solid financial safety net. Studies show that two thirds of millennials don’t have life insurance, leaving their families financially vulnerable if the unexpected happens. Meanwhile, another two thirds have no retirement savings, often putting off long-term planning in favor of immediate expenses.
Many avoid life insurance and retirement savings due to common misconceptions. A major barrier? Cost. More than half of millennials overestimate how expensive life insurance is, assuming it’s unaffordable. But in reality, starting early with a small policy can be an accessible and powerful step toward financial security.
That’s where local experts like Claudia Box come in. A licensed life insurance agent and financial protection strategist, Claudia helps families understand how small financial moves today can create generational wealth for the future. Losing her father at a young age showed her firsthand how financial insecurity can impact a family, shaping her passion for helping others prepare for the unexpected.
“The goal isn’t just to protect what you have today. It’s about building a foundation that lasts for generations.”
With financial uncertainty on the rise, millennials are realizing that wealth isn’t just about how much you earn—it’s about how well you protect and grow what you have. The good news? It’s never too late to start. Here, Claudia shares five key strategies to help millennials build security and long-term stability today.
1. Change Your Money Mindset
Financial security isn’t just for the wealthy—it starts with small, intentional steps. The earlier you begin, the more time your money has to work for you.
2. Use Life Insurance as a Wealth Tool
Life insurance isn’t just about covering funeral expenses; it’s a way to create tax-free, six-figure wealth for your family. Many policies also accumulate cash value that can be used during your lifetime.
3. Prioritize Retirement Savings
Relying on Social Security isn’t a plan. Whether through a 401(k), IRA, or policies that offer living benefits, investing in retirement early allows compound interest to work in your favor.
4. Diversify Your Income
Multiple streams of income—from side businesses to investments—create financial flexibility and long-term security. Certain financial tools, including life insurance policies, can also provide steady cash flow.
5. Budget Smarter, Not Stricter
It’s not about giving up everything you love— it’s about knowing where your money goes. Understanding your needs versus wants allows you to invest in the future without sacrificing the present.
Planning for the future can feel overwhelming, but small, consistent steps make all the difference. Claudia encourages her clients to focus on protection as much as growth, balancing today’s needs with longterm stability. “The goal isn’t just to protect what you have today,” she says, “it’s about building a foundation that lasts for generations.”
With the right knowledge and planning, millennials can break financial cycles, create lasting security, and ensure their families are protected—starting now.
ARTICLE BY ARSINE KALOUSTIAN
PHOTOGRAPHY RENDERINGS COURTESY OF THE BERKELEY
In recent years, West Palm Beach has transformed into a premier destination for luxury living. Once a quieter alternative to Palm Beach, the city has emerged as a vibrant hub for highnet-worth residents, top financial firms, and world-class real estate developments.
The skyline tells the story. Luxury home prices have nearly doubled since 2019, fueled by an influx of executives, investors, and developers who see West Palm Beach as the next great luxury market. Major firms have relocated here, billion-dollar projects are reshaping the city, and a thriving cultural scene has taken root.
At the forefront of this evolution is The Berkeley, the first luxury high-rise on the western edge of downtown. Overlooking the tranquil waters of Clear Lake, this new landmark offers an elevated standard of living in West Palm Beach.
Developed by Al Adelson, the visionary behind The Bristol Palm Beach, in partnership with Sympatico Real Estate, The Berkeley will rise 26 stories over Clear Lake, offering 193 meticulously designed residences. Catering to families and retirees, it features 2- to 5-bedroom layouts ranging from just under 2,000 to nearly 5,000 square feet, with prices starting at $1.9 million.
Each home maximizes space and scenery, boasting West Palm Beach’s largest balconies, Italian Snaidero cabinetry, SubZero and Wolf appliances, and wide-plank white oak flooring. Spa-inspired bathrooms feature soaking tubs, rainfall showers, and imported stone finishes, while a flex room adapts as an office, gym, or lounge.
The Berkeley offers a rare combination of privacy and connectivity, placing residents close to the best of West Palm Beach:
• Steps from “Wall Street South”, where hedge funds, private equity firms, and major financial institutions now call home
• Minutes from The Square, the city’s premier destination for fine dining, luxury shopping, and social clubs
• Nearby is the Kravis Center, hosting world-class Broadway performances and cultural events
• Effortless travel, with Palm Beach International Airport just 10 minutes away and Brightline’s high-speed rail linking Miami, Orlando, and beyond
More than just a residence, The Berkeley offers a full-service luxury lifestyle, with amenities designed to rival a five-star resort:
• Two private amenity decks—one dedicated to families, the other an adults-only retreat
• A rooftop infinity-edge pool, with panoramic views of downtown and the waterfront
• A state-of-the-art wellness center, spa, and fitness club
• Private dining and social lounges, ideal for entertaining or unwinding
• Indoor and outdoor dog runs, ensuring every resident—including pets—experiences the highest standard of living
“The city has emerged as a vibrant hub for high-networth residents, top financial firms, and world-class real estate developments.”
West Palm Beach has become a magnet for high-net-worth buyers, investors, and businesses, reshaping its reputation as both an exclusive enclave and financial hub, while Brightline’s expansion has further driven demand, elevating property values and fueling new development.
Now, plans have been approved for a Vanderbilt University business school campus near The Berkeley. This addition will reinforce West Palm Beach as not just a financial powerhouse, but a center for innovation, education, and high-end living.
Mayor Keith James praised The Berkeley’s role in this shift, stating, “The Berkeley will fill a void … and have a widespread impact on the city.”
West Palm Beach is no longer just a coastal retreat—it’s a global luxury destination. The Berkeley embodies this transformation, offering a rare mix of urban sophistication, waterfront tranquility, and unparalleled amenities.
With its unmatched lakefront location, expansive residences, and first-of-its-kind status, The Berkeley is more than just another high-rise—it’s a milestone in the evolution of West Palm Beach.
For more information, visit theberkeleypalmbeach.com or call (561) 220-0000.
ARTICLE BY ARSINE KALOUSTIAN
Some investments promise big returns—this one delivers instant gratification. Thick-cut, spiceglazed, and caramelized to perfection, each piece of Billionaire’s Bacon is crowned with pickled onion and a touch of edible gold. Whether served at a high-stakes brunch or alongside an aged whiskey, this indulgent bite is as extravagant as it is irresistible.
• For the Bacon: 1 lb thick-cut bacon (cut into thirds), avocado oil spray
• For the Glaze: 1 cup brown sugar, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp cayenne, salt & pepper
• For the Pickled Onion: 1 red onion (thinly sliced), ½ cup red wine vinegar, 1 tbsp sugar, 1 tsp salt
• To Finish: Edible gold flakes
Step 1. Prepare the Tray: Line a baking sheet with foil, place a rack on top, and coat with avocado oil spray for crisp caramelization.
Step 2. Glaze the Bacon: Mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Press onto bacon.
Step 3. Bake: Arrange on the rack and bake at 400°F for 20-25 min until crispy.
Step 4. Pickle the Onion: Simmer vinegar, sugar, and salt; pour over onions and let sit while bacon bakes.
Step 5. Assemble: Top bacon with pickled onions and gold flakes. Because true luxury is bite-sized.
Jonathan Duerr is Serving, Inspiring, and Giving Back
For many, success is measured by career achievements, financial milestones, or personal accolades. But for Jonathan Duerr, success is about something deeper—faith, compassion, and the unwavering belief that true wealth is found in the lives we lift up along the way.
As a Senior Sales Executive with ONE Sotheby’s and ALBA Palm Beach, he has made his mark in luxury real estate, but beyond the polished properties and high-stakes negotiations, his true passion lies in serving others. For Jonathan, philanthropy isn’t a side project—it’s part of who he is.
Jonathan’s faith is the guiding force behind both his personal and professional life. It’s not just something he turns to in times of need but the foundation of how he approaches every decision, challenge, and opportunity.
That belief is something he shares with his fiancée, Naiomy, who he describes as his rock, his life and faith partner. Together, they embrace a philosophy of Faith, Family, and Philanthropy, recognizing that true success lies not in personal achievements, but in what we do for others.
Jonathan’s heart for giving was shaped early on by his parents, Bart and Lee Duerr, who
ARTICLE BY ARSINE KALOUSTIAN
instilled in him the responsibility to serve others. His father, Bart, who passed away in October 2024 after a battle with stage 4 pancreatic cancer, was his greatest inspiration. A man of unshakable faith and selflessness, Bart spent his final months still attending physical therapy twice a week, church every Sunday, and making weekly visits to the New Smyrna Beach Boys & Girls Club.
“My dad showed me that no matter what life throws at you, you keep your faith, you keep showing up, and you keep giving,” Jonathan reflects. That commitment to service now fuels his own dedication to philanthropy, ensuring that he carries forward his father’s legacy of faith-driven generosity.
This year, Jonathan serves as Event Chair for the American Cancer Society’s Fork Cancer, honoring his father’s memory and his sisters still battling cancer. For him, it’s more than an event—it’s a mission
to provide families facing cancer with the resources, support, and hope they need.
He leads fundraising, awareness initiatives, and community outreach, rallying his network to maximize impact. “Cancer doesn’t just affect the person diagnosed—it affects entire families. That’s why this fight is so personal,” he says.
While Fork Cancer holds special significance this year, Jonathan remains committed to other causes close to his heart. He continues to support Place of Hope, ensuring foster children have safe, loving homes, and his long-standing work with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) has helped raise millions for cancer research and patient support.
Being a top real estate professional and a dedicated philanthropist requires long days and even longer nights, but for Jonathan, his work and mission go hand in hand. “Luckily, I run my own business, so I am able to do both at the same time,” he says.
The legacy he hopes to leave is clear: “That I put others before myself. That I lived a life God has called us to live. That even if I only had an impact on one person, but it truly helped that person, it would be enough.”
As he often reflects:
“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”
ARTICLE BY KRISTY BELLEY
The drink that makes you look forward to TAX DAY
• 1½ oz. Gin
• ¾ oz. Dry Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Sweet Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice
• 2 Dashes Angastura Bitters
• Orange Twist
• Glass Type: Coupe
1.
2. Add everything to your shaker with ice.
4. Pour into your coupe.
5. Twist your orange peel again, like you did last summer.
7. Enjoy being done with taxes.
8. And a good cocktail.
The Income Tax Cocktail likely popped up during the Prohibition party scene of the 1920s. Its exact origin story remains a bit blurry, but it was definitely a hit in speakeasies.
The name? Well, it's like a cheeky nod to the idea that sipping on this cocktail might be more fun than paying actual taxes! Made with gin, sweet vermouth, orange juice, and a dash of bitters, it's like a boozy adventure for your taste buds, with hints of citrus and herbs. Despite its vintage roots, the Income Tax Cocktail still brings the party vibes, transporting you back to the roaring '20s.
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Dandelion greens are a nutritious and easy addition to any meal, perfect for salads or cooked dishes. They are rich in vitamins A, C, K, chlorophyll, and fiber, making them a great choice for digestion and overall health. Their light flavor and texture enhance salads and sandwiches.
Broccoli is often hailed as a nutritional powerhouse, packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals that support overall health. Known for being high in vitamins A, C, and K, it also contains important minerals like potassium, iron, and calcium. In addition, it’s a rich source of beta-carotene, flavonoids, and fiber. Whether raw or cooked, broccoli is an excellent choice for immune system support, making it one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables available.
Kale is loaded with essential nutrients such as vitamins C, B6, E, K, and manganese. It contains twice as much selenium as spinach and is an excellent source of calcium. Kale’s unique properties help bind to cholesterol and lower oxalate levels, which promotes calcium absorption and makes it suitable for those prone to kidney stones. Additionally, it provides eye health benefits, thanks to lutein, and its disease-fighting properties make it a great addition to salads, smoothies, and more.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Boost your health by adding a generous serving of fresh greens to your daily diet. While both cooked and raw vegetables offer health benefits, consuming them raw often provides the most nutrients. Raw greens are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, helping to lower inflammation and reduce the risk of disease.
Artichokes are not only delicious but also packed with fiber, which aids in digestion. They are a great source of plant protein, potassium, and antioxidants like polyphenols. Artichokes also provide essential nutrients, including vitamins C, K, folate, magnesium, and B vitamins.
Asparagus is versatile and can be enjoyed grilled, sautéed, baked, or even raw. Packed with vitamins C, E, B, K, folate, and copper, it’s a great source of fiber. It also helps lower cholesterol and provides a variety of antioxidants that aid in healing. Asparagus is a perfect side dish that complements both light and robustly flavored meals.
Spinach is a popular green known for its mild flavor and impressive nutritional profile. Rich in vitamins A, C, K, as well as magnesium, potassium, and iron, spinach is great for overall health. It also provides antioxidants that support eye health and includes calcium for stronger bones. However, because spinach has a higher oxalate content, it should be consumed in moderation by those with a history of kidney stones.
Brussels sprouts are a highly nutritious cruciferous vegetable, known for their vitamin C, K, and folate content, as well as carotenoids and fiber. These vegetables can be shaved, sliced, sautéed, boiled, or grilled, offering a range of flavors from mild to bitter, depending on preparation.
From extravagant weddings to private celebrations, we offer concierge-style services to make every event personalized to your vision.
Start the journey to an elevated experience — call Sarah today!
Some gifts last a lifetime, and then there are those that redefine the very meaning of legacy. Filmmaker Ron Davis has created something truly exceptional with Lifestory Docs from Docutainment Films—an exclusive experience that transforms personal histories into heirloom-quality films. This is not just a gift; it is the pinnacle of luxury, an investment in a story that will be told for generations. Davis, an award-winning director known for acclaimed documentaries such as Harry & Snowman and Life in the Doghouse, brings his unparalleled storytelling expertise to those seeking the ultimate in bespoke gift-giving. Lifestory Docs is a full-scale cinematic production—complete with scoring, on-location shooting, and intricate post-production— crafted with the same level of artistry as a feature film. “This is not a simple slideshow or home video montage,” explains Davis. “It is a professionally produced, deeply personal tapestry that captures the essence of a life.”
ARTICLE BY ARSINE KALOUSTIAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISSY BRAHNEY
One such project was a surprise 60th birthday film for philanthropist Becky Gochman, premiering before 600 guests at a private estate. More than a gift, it was a moment of reflection, a celebration of a life’s journey, and an experience that will be treasured for years to come. Davis’s ability to craft deeply personal yet universally resonant narratives has made Lifestory Docs the ultimate in exclusive gift-giving.
Beyond its luxury, Lifestory Docs is a passion project that fuels Davis’s commitment to documentary filmmaking. Each commissioned film provides vital funding that allows him to pursue independent projects—documentaries that explore untold stories, amplify underrepresented voices, and capture the profound connections that define human experience. These projects often take years to complete, requiring extensive research, travel, and dedication. Lifestory Docs is not just about preserving individual legacies; it ensures that meaningful storytelling continues to thrive, enriching culture and history with every frame.
Despite working with high-profile clients, Davis remains committed to the emotional heart of storytelling. His dedication to capturing human connections elevates Lifestory Docs beyond luxury. “It is an intimate, powerful way to honor the people and moments that matter most,” he says. He and his husband Luis make their home in Wellington, where they share life with their four beloved rescue dogs. It is this balance—between the glamour of cinematic storytelling and the sincerity of human experience—that makes Lifestory Docs so extraordinary.
In an era where stories risk being lost, Ron Davis offers something enduring: a film that captures not just moments, but meaning—a true investment in legacy that will be cherished for generations to come.
APRIL 1ST
Palm Beach Round Table Annual Fundraiser Brunch
Maltz Jupiter Theatre, Jupiter | 12:00 PM
Enjoy a delightful brunch followed by a matinee performance of Guys and Dolls, all while supporting a mission dedicated to intellectual exchange and community engagement. This special event offers a unique opportunity to connect with influential leaders in a vibrant setting. For more details and reservations, call (561) 832-6418
APRIL 3RD
The Colony Hotel, Palm Beach | 11:30 AM
Chaired by David Busch and Farley Rentschler, this event features interactions with animal ambassadors, insights into wildlife rehabilitation and education initiatives, a gourmet lunch, and a live raffle for a private VIP animal experience with the CEO. Proceeds support the Sanctuary’s conservation efforts. For tickets and sponsorships, call 561-575-3399 or visit buschwildlife.org
APRIL 3RD
The Colony Hotel, Palm Beach | 6:00 PM
Step into an evening of purpose at Spring for Hope, the annual St. Jude Palm Beach Cocktail Party. This unforgettable night features live music, gourmet hors d’oeuvres, curated cocktails, and inspiring stories of resilience—all in support of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. For tickets and sponsorships, visit stjude.org.
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APRIL 4TH
Boys & Girls Club: Barefoot on the Beach
The Beach Club | 7:00 PM
Enjoy an unforgettable evening of coastal elegance, featuring gourmet dining, handcrafted cocktails, and lively entertainment under the stars. Guests will mingle barefoot in the sand, participate in an exciting live auction, and support vital programs for local youth. With a vibrant atmosphere and meaningful mission, this exclusive celebration makes a lasting impact. For tickets, visit bgcpbc.org.
APRIL 6TH
Dinner Dance
Club Colette, Palm Beach | 6:00 PM
The 7th Annual Pups4Patriots™ Dinner Dance is set to continue its tradition of supporting American Humane’s mission to provide service dogs to veterans and first responders in need. Building on last year’s success, which raised $4 million, this year’s event promises an evening of philanthropy and celebration. For more information, visit americanhumane.org.
APRIL 11TH
Cancer Alliance of Help and
The Breakers, Palm Beach | 6:00 PM
This glamorous evening features a thrilling dance competition with local celebrities paired with professional dancers, live performances, and exquisite dining. Distinguished judges will award honors in multiple categories, including best male and female dancers. The prestigious People’s Choice Award will be given to the dancer who raises the most funds. Tickets and sponsorships are available at cahh.org