February 2018

The U.S. homeownership rate rose in the last quarter of 2017 to 64.2 percent from 63.7 percent in 2016, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

The yearly increase is the first one since 2004. The Florida Association of Realtors credits the increase to young, first-time buyers. The homeownership rate in households headed by people under the age of 35 rose to 36 percent in the last quarter from 34.7 percent a year earlier, making it the largest increase of any age group during the period.

Increasing jobs, easier credit, and tax breaks are good incentives for renters to start looking at the market. Recent federal tax changes could enhance the overall economy and give renters the opportunity to save for a downpayment.

Start your search with

Each year for the past 34 years, the Treasure Coast Woodcarvers hosts the Treasure Coast Woodcarving Show in Jensen Beach.

It is a 2-day event where local carvers come display their work, give demos, and more. Come watch these pros carve incredible sculptures and show you how they create intricate masterpieces. The show is a juried competition and winners will be announced at the end of the day. This is a family event made fun for everyone so bring the kids for activities like a sweet potato carving class. 

This year's featured artist is Mike Sullivan, a Jensen Beach resident hailing from Canada, who has won numerous awards in both the U.S. and in Canada. One particular award worth mentioning is the Caricature Carvers of America Special Merit

The Honor Bar, a new addition to the recently renovated Royal Poinciana Plaza in Palm Beach has been receiving great reviews since it has opened.

The Palm Beach location is the restaurant’s fourth location throughout the United States, with other locations in Beverly Hills, CA., Montecito, CA., and Dallas, TX. The restaurant is located next to the highly-rated Palm Beach Grill, in fact they share the same kitchen and are both run under the hands of the executive chef, Andrew Schor.

The Honor Bar is a small intimate place with 12 booths and tables and a centralized kitchen between the main bar. The restaurant is different than their Palm Beach Grill neighbors and serves walk-in guests for only lunch and dinner.
The menu is small and features a selection of

The FPL Eco-Discovery Center in West Palm Beach will host its 2nd annual ManateeFest, featuring a fun list of family-friendly events to enjoy this weekend.

The event is for all ages to come and enjoy tours, complimentary face painting, selfie stations, a photo experience featuring Mia the Manatee, marine-life themed stations, exhibits, story time, and much more. There will be a list of fun activities including the Manatee Lagoon Passport game. Where participants receive a passport booklet and go throughout the facility and receive passport stamps and potentially win a prize.

There will also be a book signing with Robert Scott Thayer, the author of “Kobee Manatee” a children’s book that highlights that marine adventures of Kobee the manatee and his daily