April 13, 2025

One of my jobs at Friends & Neighbors is to choose and enter the graphics. 

As far as time is concerned, that takes hours. I believe that a picture is worth a thousand words. I also try to inject some humor into the selections for two reasons, one to enhance the story and two to show a little humor. 

What we do is inform and give you information, but it doesn’t just have to be boring. I think the graphics and photos help. I hope they also make you smile occasionally.

As I told you last week, Polly and I are going to Italy for a few weeks. This is a smaller than usual edition.  
We will see you back here in the second week of May feisty as ever.

Have a great Palm Sunday and Easter. Happy Passover to all our Jewish friends and neighbors. Christians and Jews should read Exodus for a great story of trial, tribulation, and triumph. And the best quote of the Book “The Lord will fight for you; you need only be still.” (Exodus 14:14) 

It is in this book of the Bible that the 10 Commandments are given to Moses and ultimately us. How often do we look behind the verses and concentrate on the Word. We must see behind the words for the true meaning of where God is sending us.

We have several guest columnists including Sheriff Budensiek on Resource Officers. Also, Bill West on the business environment, John Grant on seniors, and the Martin County Taxpayers Association.

 Have a great holiday. And I will see you in May. 

I am always a little amused when friends from the north tell me they could never live in Florida because they would miss the seasons. 

When I try to tell them that we do have seasonal changes they stare at me incredulously. I think the perpetuation of the myth of being seasonless is because of snowbirds. You may believe I am crazy but let me explain.

We are not snowbirds, but we do go back and forth up north all through the year. By doing so we experience what are commonly referred to in the Carol King song as winter, spring, summer, or fall. They each have a distinct personality.

Most northerners in their imagination believe that by the end of March, spring has arrived. That is not even close to the truth. I can’t even tell you how many times April has not brought showers but a snowstorm so that the May flower timeline is set back a bit. This year at the end of March I was in New York State by Saratoga, and it was snowing and 30 degrees. The same thing happened to us in Chicago a few years ago when we encountered 25 degrees and snow showers on Mother’s Day.

I have had Memorial Days at the beach and other times I still had to wear a wool sweater. I have seen summers where it is as hot and humid as any Florida August.  At other times summer has meant all rain all the time. There is nothing like a steamy New York sidewalk in July. 

Without doubt the best time of the northern year is autumn.  The utter humidity of the summer is gone, and the frigidity of winter has not arrived. The days are perfect with brilliant sunshine and the nights are cool without being cold. Between Halloween and New Years is the prettiest time. Decorations, holidays, and bustle fill the air. 

Florida on the other hand is absolutely perfect from Christmas till Easter. Like the “Three Bears” porridge not too hot and not too cold. We have very little rain during our winter. And for most of it, if so inclined, you can dispense with air conditioning. Then with the advent of hurricane season the days become hot, humid, and rainy. And summer in Florida lasts a long time.

It isn’t that the heat and humidity are stifling as much as the summer keeps on going through September, October, and November. By the time hurricane season is over we have had six months of summer. I am worn down.

Don’t let anyone say Florida lacks seasons. We do have them. The seasons are fewer and one is just not as pleasant as the northern calendar. But then we don’t have to shovel snow. 
   

Should a board be able to act as an independent body that has broad discretion and make final determinations? Or is the board only empowered to look at the matters before it and help staff to recommend what the elected body should do?

I thoroughly see advisory board members in the realm of the second. Let me give you an example of what I mean. And how deciding to go in the first direction leads to advisory board irrelevance.

Recently Martin County’s LPA was asked to look at changes to Rural Lifestyle. At their meeting, the BOCC made it quite clear to staff that they wanted to change the way secondary and independent urban services districts were interpreted for that use. They did not ask staff to come up with ending the land use or for expanding it. Those two things were not in the equation.

The task of the LPA was to look at the staff’s proposal and see whether it accomplished the BOCC’s wishes. One member wanted to discuss how bad 20-acre ranchettes were and how Rural Lifestyle is better. I agree that 20-acre ranchettes are nothing but sprawl. Yet that land use wasn’t the matter before the LPA. 

The staff not only crafted changes to Rural Lifestyle that I believe carry out the BOCC’s instructions, but they added critical language that preserves the property rights of those projects existing as Rural Lifestyle developments. One member at first was opposed because some of the language was not in keeping with his beliefs. Yet he did come around and saw it was critical to prevent lawsuits if existing property rights were ignored.

The vote was 3-1 in favor of the changes with one absence and one dissent because the dissenter wanted more areas for Rural Lifestyle. 

As an advisory board member, I am not a free agent. Whether I think we should change a policy or the LDRs is irrelevant. My job is to make sure that staff are adhering to what is in the code and that the applicant is not asking for something that is contrary to what is there.

Being an advisory board member is very much like being a district court judge. I enforce the law as written and look at precedents after making sure of the facts. Yet there are times when I do have some discretion in making my decisions.

There was another recent instance when a project was asking for a change because the LDRs said one thing and the Comp Plan another. When I spoke to the applicant before the meeting, I was assured that allowing for a 40-foot instead of a 30-foot height limit would not result in the top floor being living space but as an outdoor patio for the views of Lake Okeechobee. I thought that was a good idea. When I was at the hearing and was asking to insert that as a condition, they rejected the idea. I voted no.

The conflicting code allowed discretion on my part. The BOCC did vote yes, and the extra floor was allowed as occupied space. Though my no vote was in the minority at the advisory board, I still liken it to being overturned on appeal by a higher court.

Advisory board members complain about not being taken seriously by the elected officials. I have that same sentiment at times. Having been an elected official, I always tried to watch the meetings and speak to my appointee to see what the thoughts were. I urge the elected members who have appointed me and others to do the same. 

I believe advisory board members should only decide and base their votes on what is before them. They are not appointed to substitute their ideas for that of the elected commission. I may think one thing but when it comes to how I decide a matter as an advisory board member, my beliefs in most instances are immaterial. 

I am there to help the commission reach decisions based on existing criteria and not insert my judgement for theirs. If they ask, I can give my opinion. Otherwise I am in a seat to help them achieve their objectives and make sure that staff is doing the same.

As a kid, I knew people who were members of organized crime. 

Many kids looked up to them as role models. They always had flashy cars, good clothes, big bankrolls, and both a wife and a girlfriend. Many had great senses of humor. They were generous to neighborhood kids. In the summer, the “Good Humor” Man knew to drive slowly when kids and crooks were both out. However, there was two outcomes if you became involved in their business…death or prison and perhaps both.

If one of the “boys” did you a favor, there was always a payback. If they lent you a few bucks, you knew the “vig” was expected with payment in full on time. You could bet on a game or a horse with them but unless you wanted a problem, you had better have the money if you lost.

Most of the kids figured out that it was better to go to school and have a job instead of having what seemed to be a glamourous life. Many of us figured that it wasn’t so glamorous. It was just another scam. Many of us didn’t want to emulate Mafia bosses. Being a thug is no badge of honor or even something to joke about.

In his mind, Chris Collins has become a “godfather.” Not the one you have when you are baptized or confirmed but one who a lower-level crook holds allegiance and kicks back to. I figure he must believe that the people of Stuart and Martin County want a godfather or manipulative political boss to be in charge of their government.

He is way off base. Even though Collins acts as if he can steam roll over his fellow board members and citizens, I don’t believe that the majority of voters, taxpayers, and citizens want him to decide their fate. This isn’t about policy but morality. He believes that by being the biggest loudmouth at a meeting, he wins. He intimidates just the same as a thug would. 

Many of the people I grew up with instinctively knew that being a godfather or boss was a ticket to nowhere. We didn’t emulate them, we rose above them to be educated, have good jobs, open businesses, be in the professions and pillars of our communities. Now in the Italian American world, there are few bosses left. We left godfathers and bosses behind. I think Martin County should also.      

The absurdity of paying fees on a restaurant check has now reached new heights.

In most cases when I see a fee for using a credit card, I pay in cash. Now in more and more places, there are other fees called “restaurant operation” fees. What is that all about?

I ate at a local restaurant last night, and the menu said it was because of the fast-changing prices. Ha!!!! What does that even mean? Their operations fee was 3.75%. It wouldn’t have made a difference if I paid cash or not. What the charge was quite simply was a nearly 4% increase on the printed menu’s stated prices.

Fortunately, they didn’t have a credit card fee on top of their operations fee. Then the bill would have been roughly 7% more than the menu prices before tax and tip.  It seems you need to scour the menu and any wall postings before you sit down to make sure you know what you are paying.

I know when we are confronted with inflation (as I write this the numbers for March just came out and on a yearly basis the CPI was 2.4%), but what is the justification for an operations fee that is higher than the inflation rate? A business owner used to be able to calculate his costs and change his menu prices. It appears that is not the case anymore.

Years ago, prices were more stable so you could know your costs with some confidence and could count on them being stable for months at a time. Now it is a bit different. However, something that was done back then when ingredients of an item surged in price was that even though it may stay on the printed menu, customers were told the item was unavailable.

While it was much more difficult to print changes back then, it no longer is. In most restaurants, the patron will receive a sheet with a list of specials that change daily.  More formal menus can change just as easily if need be. 

A percentage increase on posted prices is just a way of having price increases appear to be temporary when they are permanent. At the restaurant I mentioned earlier, if the dish has a cost of $30 then the real price is $31.13.  If you add tax and tip it would come to 39.50. Then add the 3% credit card fee that some places also charge, and your $30 menu item costs over $40. 

There should be truth and transparency about what a consumer is being asked to pay. They should not have to take out their calculators and do what I did above. Going forward, I wouldn’t be surprised to see a “tariff” fee tacked onto the bill. You have to make hay while the sun shines. 

Agriculture is the backbone of civilization and so important to our everyday lives. 

Yet many people today have limited understanding of from where their food comes and how it's produced. This disconnect between consumers and producers- farmers and ranchers- has led to a number of common misconceptions about agriculture. Debunking these myths is key to building a more informed public and fostering appreciation for the work farmers and ranchers do every day.

One of the most widespread misconceptions is that agriculture is outdated or low-tech. In reality, farms utilize cutting-edge research and technology such as GPS-guided equipment, drones for crop monitoring, and precision agriculture software that uses data analytics to improve yields and reduce waste. Far from being stuck in the past, modern agriculture is at the forefront of innovation, using science and technology to feed a growing global population sustainably.

Another myth is farms are large, corporate-owned operations. While large agribusinesses do exist, the vast majority of farms in the United States and around the world are still family-owned and operated. According to the USDA, about 98% of U.S. farms are family farms, many of which have been passed down through generations. These families are deeply invested in the land, their animals, and the quality of the food they produce. And even if a farm is large, that does not mean they do not care about the environment or using best farming practices.

A third common misconception is that farmers use excessive chemicals or hormones without regard for safety. In truth, farmers must follow strict guidelines set by government agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Pesticide and herbicide use is carefully managed, and withdrawal periods are strictly observed to ensure no harmful residues remain in food products. Similarly, the use of hormones in livestock is regulated and not allowed in certain animals, such as poultry.

Some people also believe that organic farming is inherently better or more sustainable than conventional farming. While organic practices offer certain benefits, both systems have strengths and challenges. Conventional farming can often produce higher yields using fewer resources, which can be crucial in feeding the global population. The key is not to pit one system against the other, but to understand that both can play a role in sustainable food production.

Finally, there is a growing notion that agriculture is harmful to the environment. While it’s true that farming has environmental impacts, many farmers are adopting conservation practices to protect soil, water, and biodiversity. Techniques like no-till farming, cover cropping, and rotational grazing help maintain healthy ecosystems. Additionally, many farms participate in conservation programs and sustainability certifications.

By addressing these misconceptions, we can build greater trust and transparency between producers and consumers. Agriculture is not only a science and a business, it is a way of life rooted in stewardship and responsibility. As the global population grows and food systems evolve, it is more important now than ever before for people to understand the realities of agriculture and the essential role it plays in our lives.

David Hafner’s opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

Keeping Your Pets Healthy

We all want what’s best for our pets, and regular veterinary check-ups are essential for maintaining the health and well-being of your beloved animals.

It’s highly recommend that your pet visits a veterinarian at least once a year. These routine visits allow veterinarians to monitor your animal's overall health, catch potential issues early, and provide necessary vaccinations. During a check-up, the vet will perform a thorough examination that includes assessing your pet’s weight, dental health, and any signs of illness.

One of the key benefits of regular check-ups is preventive care. By identifying problems before they become serious, you can often avoid costly treatments and ensure a longer, healthier life for your pet. Additionally, these visits provide an opportunity to discuss any behavioral changes or concerns you may have with your veterinarian.

It's also important to keep in mind that different pets have varying needs based on their age, breed, and lifestyle. Regular veterinary visits can help tailor a healthcare plan specific to your pet’s requirements. 

Although the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast (HSTC) is not a public clinic, we do offer low cost spay/neuter services for dogs, cats and rabbits, and occasional vaccination day events to the public. The HSTC’s public spay/neuter program is the largest low-cost spay/neuter program on the Treasure Coast. Every year over 2,300 dogs, cats, and rabbits are brought to our shelter clinic by responsible pet owners. We also partner with veterinary offices to provide low-cost spay/neuter vouchers outside of our shelter.

While the primary mission at the HSTC is to care for our community's homeless pet population, we still happy to be able to provide support, resources, and services to Martin County pet owners. We also know that veterinary care can be costly, and we can provide a list of low-cost veterinarians in the area for those who inquire. All of our clinic resources can be found at www.htsc1.org/public. 

Our next pop-up Vaccine Clinic event is taking place on Sunday, May 4th at our shelter located at 4100 SW Leighton Farm Ave, Palm City. Our dedicated team of veterinarians and vet techs will be on-site, ready to provide expert care for your dogs and cats. We want to ensure that your pets stay healthy by getting essential vaccinations that will keep them protected against common diseases. To sign up, simply visit: www.hstc1.org/clinic. 

Prioritizing regular veterinary check-ups is crucial for ensuring that your furry companions live happy and healthy lives. We are pleased to be able to provide these services to keep your pets happy and healthy.

Frank Valente's opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

What the heck are peptides and what do they have to do with longevity?

If you have been scrolling through social media lately, I am sure you have been inundated with posts about peptide therapy and how it can extend your life. What exactly are they talking about?

Peptides are short chains of amino acids, and amino acids are the building blocks of proteins.  Peptides are basically short proteins that are about 2-100 amino acids long. Because of their smaller size they can penetrate tissues more easily and interact with specific receptors making them perfect candidates for targeted therapies.  For example, insulin is a peptide hormone with 51 amino acids that is produced by the pancreas and helps regulate the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and protein.

In the context of longevity, peptides are being investigated for their ability to combat the hallmarks of aging, such as mitochondrial dysfunction, cellular senescence (when a cell stops dividing but still remains metabolically active. It is triggered by stressful events or part of natural aging.  Senescent cells release factors that can lead to age related diseases including cancer, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases), and inflammation. Peptides offer a pro-active approach to maintaining health rather than just treating a disease process.

One of the most well studied peptide in anti-aging medicine is BPC-157. This is a synthetic peptide derived from a protein found in stomach acid. BPC-157 has shown promise in accelerating wound healing, repairing muscle and tendon injuries, and reducing inflammation. It enhances tissue repair by stimulating new fibroblast activity (the cells that help create collagen).  And helps enhance blood flow to wounds by promoting the formation of new blood vessels.  

Further BPC-157 encourages production of various growth factors.  It interacts with the nitric oxide system which plays a major role in muscle repair, vasodilation (dilation of blood vessels) and modulating the immune system.  However, most of these effects have been seen in animal studies.  There have not been randomized controlled studies in humans, so we are unsure how safe it is in actual people. 

It is not currently approved by the FDA, so most people are buying this supplement online from shady companies.  Currently on the list of prohibited items by the World Doping Agency due to safety concerns because of the lack of human studies.  Hopefully in the next decade studies are done to help clarify if these promising results seen in animal trials carry over to the human realm.

With regard to metabolic health the world has recently been taken by storm by two peptides that have changed the weight loss playing field!! Both Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are synthetic glucagon like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists.  They mimic the action of GLP-1 which stimulates the release of insulin from the pancreas and suppresses appetite by quieting down food noise. It also slows stomach emptying which makes you feel full longer.  I have already written a separate article about these two peptides, so I am not going to go into any more detail currently.

Another peptide gaining attention is Epitalon which targets the pineal gland, a tiny gland in your brain that produces melatonin and influences telomere length.  Telomeres are like the bumpers at the end of our chromosomes, and they protect our chromosomes from damage.  But as we age our telomeres shorten.  Epitalon has been shown to stimulate an enzyme called telomerase that extends telomeres and can potentially slow cellular aging.  Again, there is a lack of human trials, but animal studies have demonstrated increased lifespan and reduced age-related pathologies. 

CJ-1295 and Ipamorelin are two peptides that stimulate growth hormone release.  They are being studied for their ability to improve muscle mass and energy levels.  Age related declines in growth hormone leads to loss of muscle mass which in turn leads to frailty.  We all know that when an elderly person falls and breaks a hip there is a very high risk of death in the following year. 

Thymosin alpha-1 has been found to boost immune function which can counter the weakened immune system that leaves older adults susceptible to infections and chronic disease.

Despite their potential, peptide therapies are not yet mainstream due to limited data and regulatory hurdles.  Hopefully with continued research we may find that peptides are the cornerstone of the longevity revolution!

Michele Libman’s opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

House of Hope recently honored our incredible volunteers at our annual appreciation breakfast. It was a fantastic morning celebrating remarkable milestones with over 140 attendees.

So much of our success is driven by the passion and dedication of our amazing volunteers. The generous gift of their time and talent allows us to reach over 26,000 people across the region in a meaningful way with our wide range of programs and services. Last year, over 900 volunteers contributed nearly 42,000 hours of service to our organization. Volunteers help drive our mission to empower our community to overcome hunger and hardship.

Some volunteers assist us on a set schedule in our pantries, Elisabeth Lahti Nutrition Center, Growing Hope Farm, thrift stores, enrichment centers, administrative office and more. Others support us by volunteering for one-time service projects across our organization. Whether on a weekly basis or just occasionally, our volunteers make what we do possible and we are fortunate to have them as a part of our team.  

We are nearing that time of the year when many of our seasonal volunteers move on to their second homes or start their summer travel plans. However, at House of Hope, the work never slows down. We continue to grow and the need for our services across the region grows right along with us. So whether you are an adult who wants to share your talent and meet like-minded individuals, a student seeking a meaningful way to attain your volunteer hours, or a group or club that wants to build comradery while doing something valuable, we absolutely can use your help. 

House of Hope excels at finding the right fit in our organization for individual volunteers, or developing meaningful projects for group participation. Last year we distributed nearly 1.2 million pounds of food, reached over 8,100 individuals with nutrition education, produced over 27,000 meals in our Nutrition Center, harvested and packaged 1,500 packages of fresh produce every week at our farm, distributed nearly 190,000 items through our clothes closet program at our thrift stores, and so much more.

The helping hands of volunteers impact all of those astonishing numbers. We hope that you will consider joining us in whatever way works for your schedule. If you want to learn more about House of Hope, if you or someone you know needs our services, or if volunteering is something you are ready to engage in, please visit our website at www.hohmartin.org. 

Thank you for helping us to grow hope in our community.

Rob Ranieri’s opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

Just as alumni and fans of University of Florida recently earned collegiate basketball’s biggest bragging rights by winning the March Madness “chompianship,” Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County is aglow over one of our own making it to the Final Four. 

Last column I told you about Mildred winning BGCMC’s Youth of the Year—our most prestigious annual awards tradition—and I’m by no means finished bragging about her. 

A 10th grader at South Fork who’s a dual enrollment student in honors classes, Mildred’s district victory advanced her to the state round. In Tallahassee, she faced a field of more than 20 district Youth of the Year winners from across Florida. Earning a coveted spot among the final four contestants required her to give a speech in the old Senate chambers of the Historic Capital, built in 1845. 

“It was really never-wracking,” she said. “The competition was intense.”

Mildred’s personal story captivated the crowd. Her father died when she was very young, forcing her mother to raise her and her two siblings on her own. She describes feeling “devastated” in the fifth-grade when they moved to Hobe Sound from Jupiter—until she discovered BGC.

“It became my second home,” she shared. “The club environment changes lives. It gives people a new start, a new beginning and a helping hand when needed.”

Initially shy, Mildred remembered worrying about the judgements of her peers, preferring to withdraw from others during those early days at the club. While the “learning activities, educational field trips and fun experiences” helped her open up, our staff’s steady encouragement made the biggest difference in her overcoming her fear of what others think.

“They told me, ‘You will always be your biggest critic, but that’s the reason why you’ll go far in life.’'

A born leader, Mildred is now president of Keystone Club, former president of Torch Club, and a junior sous chef on our Fork in the Road food truck as member of our culinary team. The latter equips her with vital job skills and allows her to earn a paycheck “so I can financially help my mom out.”

Once worried that she’d never be able to afford college, Mildred also won BGC’s Copper Key Scholarship, enabling her to attend any college or university in Florida for free. She’s considering Florida Atlantic University for a degree in nursing. 

Knowing she was dejected enough to end up going in any direction, Mildred is thankful for the path that led her to BGC because “without it, I don’t know where I would be. But what I do know is, I don’t fear failure anymore. I know if I ever get knocked down, I can count on my club to pick me right back up.”

Spoken like a true champion, Mildred. We will be here for you—in your certain victories, unavoidable difficulties and any occasion in-between that life brings you. 

Keith Fletcher's opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

I am reluctant to say that Spring is here - but it is. 

What happened to the season commonly referred to as winter? I think I only used my sweaters and jackets for a total of 5 days. I know this is why I live in Florida and why so many people relocate to our beloved state. 

Now that spring is formally here, what can we do to bring more value to our home?  Even if we do not want to sell it, we may want it to shine out to our visitors and our neighbors. There are items that we all know to do but often neglect. I include myself on this list. 

Outside of your home you can always do the obvious things to increase its curb appeal. Do you want to add mulch to your planter beds, plant some beautiful flowers or pressure wash the exterior of your home? An important but often overlooked item is trimming your trees and shrubs. The trimming makes your plants healthier and most importantly, if you cut them away from the physical home, it may reduce bugs getting into your home. Finally, doing it now will reduce the possibility of doing it during hurricane season. 

Do you have a sprinkler system in your yard? When was the last time you either checked it yourself or had a professional evaluation? The year has been dry so far. The spring growing season is coming. Adequate irrigation will ensure a lush lawn for the upcoming season. In Florida, water is a precious resource and a broken head or one that is watering the street is wasting valuable water and not helping your lawn or garden. 

Now let's move indoors. Did you change your filters at the beginning of the year? If not, make it a spring-cleaning item. Change your air conditioner filter, refrigerator water filter, refrigerator air filter, water filters and any other filters you may have in your home (or car). Read any manufacturer literature on the proper amount of time between changes.

Do you like to spend hot days in your home? I know the answer. Now is a great time to get your Air Conditioning system serviced BEFORE the hot summer months. A qualified AC technician can often fix a problem before it is too late. They check freon levels, check pressures, clean your drain line and more. This routine maintenance before the summer starts may save some sleepless nights during the summer months. 

See my market stats and always use a local Realtor for your buying and selling needs. 

John Gonzalez’s opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

To The Good Life

I am adapting quite well to retirement life. There have been opportunities for me to have bonus time with my grandchildren and time for traveling. 

Palm City and Martin County have the best people, beautiful waterways, and beaches. I am always reminded how fortunate I am to live here. 

I love driving along Martin Highway and the Veterans Memorial Bridge to see the large amount of people walking or running the bridge. The mural on the wall of the Palm City Post Office welcomes you to Palm City as you cross the Veterans Memorial Bridge. I am grateful to Martin County District 5 Commissioner Ed Ciampi for the American flags placed on the light posts at every holiday to honor our country and veterans. 

The new restaurants and The Patio at Palm City Place have encouraged residents and visitors to enjoy walking along Mapp Road. Palm City Place is being used by families, children, and adults for fishing, playing games, and walks along the path. 

The Patio at Palm City Place has been hosting monthly music events. These events are part of the Patio Playlist. The next one is scheduled for Saturday, April 26th, from 6:00-9:00PM. There will be food and drink trucks, so bring your chairs and blankets to enjoy the evening. This event is sponsored by GCY Surveyors and Mappers and Tami Karol Insurance. 

The 30th Annual Palm City Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament is on Friday, May 2nd. This is your chance to play on the gorgeous, private golf course at Piper’s Landing Yacht and Country Club. 

Enjoy our wonderful Palm City in Marti County!

Missi Campbell’s opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

By Bill West 

Exit & Acquisition Expert Acquisitions Experts LLC

As we look to the future, it’s worth turning our attention to part of our local economy that often flies under the radar: manufacturing.

Martin County has a surprisingly strong advanced manufacturing base, particularly in the aerospace, defense, and marine sectors. These operations are often discreet—tucked into industrial parks, working behind the scenes—but their impact is anything but small. They provide skilled, high-wage jobs. They bring dollars into our region. And they support a wide ecosystem of contributory businesses, from precision machining and automation to specialty fabrication and engineering.

Unlike many other sectors, manufacturing brings outside money into our community. These businesses export their products across the country and around the world—bringing revenue back to Martin County, where it becomes payroll, equipment, investment, and local property ownership. The result is a durable, job-rich sector that strengthens everything around it.

A Diverse and Durable Base
Martin County’s manufacturing sector stretches across industries—from boats to biotech, airframes to air fresheners. It includes large, global exporters and small, family-owned shops. And while their buildings may blend in, their output reaches far beyond our borders.

-  Marine Manufacturing: Legacy and Leadership
Our reputation for marine craftsmanship is nationally known—and globally respected. World-class yacht builders such as:

• Willis Custom Yachts
• Jim Smith Tournament Boats
• Garlington Landeweer Yachts
• Bonadeo Boat Works
…lead the way in performance and custom design. Supporting them is a dense network of marine systems producers like:
• Armstrong Nautical Products
• Gyro Gale Stabilizers
• Seatorque
• Bausch Enterprises
• Stuart Boatworks
These companies design, fabricate, and integrate the high-performance parts that fuel Florida’s marine dominance.

-  Aerospace and Advanced Manufacturing
Aerospace and tech manufacturing is rapidly expanding in Martin County. 

Notable firms include:

• Daher, investing $30 million to assemble TBM aircraft in Stuart
• Pursuit Aerospace, a global supplier of engine components
• Additec, EB Airfoils, and Probuild 3D, pioneers in additive and advanced manufacturing
• IM Group, now operating its North American HQ here
These companies contribute critical technologies to aviation, defense, and high-performance engineering—manufacturing parts and systems with global impact.

-  Precision Machining & Fabrication
Smaller in footprint, but essential in function, Martin County’s fabricators and machinists make everything from brackets and housings to finely tuned aerospace components. Standouts include:

• South East Machine
• Unlimited Metal Fabricators
• Chicago Stainless
• I-Town Metalworks
• Value Tool & Engineering

These businesses serve construction, marine, defense, and infrastructure markets. They may operate quietly—but their work is foundational.

-  Infrastructure & Environmental Technology
Several Martin County manufacturers support infrastructure, transportation, and environmental resiliency:

• Hog Technologies, exporting surface prep systems for airports and roadways
• Air Burners, producing biomass waste burners for wildfire control and disaster recovery
• Trenchbadger, provider of trenching tools for the irrigation industry 
Their work supports real-world challenges around safety, sustainability, and infrastructure.

-  Consumer & Specialty Goods

Martin County also produces branded consumer and specialty goods with reach far beyond the county line:

• Old Florida Tortilla Chips
• Paradise Air Fresheners
• 3D Potter, maker of ceramic 3D printers
• Custom Agronomics, Bioserene, and Awareness Technology 

Biotech and Health Sciences
These companies reflect the creativity and entrepreneurial strength of our local economy.

The PSM Expansion: A Signal of What’s Next
Among the newest additions to this industrial landscape is Power Systems Manufacturing (PSM). Known for its work in gas turbine systems, the company is now launching a new aerospace division—right here in Martin County.
PSM will occupy 185,000 square feet at South Florida Gateway, bringing 101 new high-wage jobs and over $17 million in capital investment. The project shows that Martin County can not only compete—but win—against major metro areas when it comes to attracting clean, high-skill industry.
Small Footprint, Outsized Impact

Just 4% of Martin County is zoned for industrial and commercial use, yet those properties contribute nearly 25% of the County’s general fund revenue. That’s an impressive return—and a strong argument for strategic investment in industrial space and workforce-ready infrastructure.

Most of these businesses are locally owned. Many own their real estate. And nearly all of them reinvest here—in equipment, in talent, and in long-term community value.

Looking Ahead
Martin County isn’t chasing smokestacks. But we are building something that lasts. These manufacturers are proving clean, advanced, small-footprint industry that not only belongs here—it thrives here. And as demand for domestic production grows, we’re in a strong position to lead.

The companies are here. They’re hiring. They’re investing. And they’re building the next chapter of Martin County’s economy—quietly, capably, and right on time.

Bill West’s opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

It is April 8 and believe it or not the wind has been blowing the last few days to the point where the beach was unfishable. 

In the 13 years I have lived here I have never seen a fall, winter, and now spring where the unfishable days have greatly outnumbered the fishable surf days. It is time for Mother Nature to give us a break. The good news is the pompano have started to show as they begin their northern migration from south Florida. 

The days that have been fishable the last couple of weeks anglers in Juno, Hobe Sound, and Martin and St. Lucie County have been putting some nice pompano and whiting in their coolers. The bite has turned into the afternoon time slot as it usually does in the spring. A high tide in the afternoon from 2 to 6 pm will be the time slot you will want to be setting up on your favorite beaches. 

Fishbites new EZ Flea Electric Chicken has been out producing all of the other colors and scents by big numbers. The standard orange and white EZ Flea is catching some pompano also but the Electric Chicken has been on fire . Fishbites is having a hard time keeping up with the demand and the only local store that has inventory is the Snook Nook on Indian River Dr in Jensen Beach. 

The other bright spot on the beach is the snook action. Early morning is producing some pretty good snook fishing for anglers throwing swim baits or live lining live croakers. Remember these fish will be right in the first trough some make your casts north and south, not east and west. As the surf temperature continues to rise look for the big jacks and tarpon start to show as the bait schools start to make their appearance in bigger numbers. Fishing the beach is going to get hot just like the rising daytime temperatures. 

Good luck this month and catch em up. 

Paul Sperco’s opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

Gene Zweben’s opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

Your Best Self at Any Age: The Council on Aging Sage Awards

How old is too old? At the Council on Aging Martin County, we believe that’s not a useful question. A better question is how we can be our best selves and have a meaningful life at any – and every – age.  The honorees at our annual Sage Awards ceremony have figured out an answer, and we’re delighted to share their accomplishments. 

The Sage Awards were created to honor standout senior residents who live purposeful lives by offering their experience, professional skills and compassionate hearts to their communities, while displaying a positive image of aging to younger generations. It is the only awards ceremony to focus solely on recognizing the contributions of seniors on the Treasure Coast!  The honorees come from various walks of life but share a remarkable demonstration of leadership, unwavering dedication, and willingness to try something new.  

This April, we turned the spotlight on seven community members who exemplify these qualities: Gert Rodgers, an accomplished healthcare administrator with a passion for quality care for all who is a tireless advocate for seniors and issues of aging; Tom Campenni, a successful businessman who is the founder and publisher of the community digital newsletter Friends & Neighbors; Nick Blount, a retired executive from FPL who is an outstanding leader and volunteer for causes and projects that improve the life of the community; Tony Anderson, a former educator and school board member who remains an energetic champion of education for all students; Kristal Wion Eckhardt, the founder of the highly successful drama department at Martin County High School who continues to be an active member of the arts community; Jordan Bromberg, MD, a revered medical practitioner on the Treasure Coast who now serves as the Medical Director for the Volunteers in Medicine Clinic; and John P. Glynn, Jr., a proud veteran himself who is driven to honor the men and women who have served their country by promoting and volunteering for veterans’ causes.  

They join the ranks of previous Sage honorees dating back to 2015. Read about them on our website www.coamartin.org and renew your optimism for what we can achieve regardless of age. 

The research on aging is clear: regular physical activity helps maintain mobility, balance, and strength, reducing the risk of falls and chronic conditions like heart disease and arthritis. It keeps the body strong and the mind sharp.

It’s also clear that our mental health benefits from contributing to the community and maintaining a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Volunteering, mentoring, or participating in local events fosters social connections, which are crucial for preventing loneliness and depression. Staying engaged with others creates a support system that enhances overall quality of life.

That wealth of knowledge has inspired the work of the Council on Aging Martin County in creating the Kane Center, offering programs for social interaction and physical activity, and encouraging people to view aging not as a time when one’s world grows smaller but rather as a time for engaging in meaningful activities. 

We urge you to stay active at any age. Check out the activities and volunteer opportunities at the Kane Center – they may be just what you’ve been looking for. And let us know the seniors in your life that you believe are deserving of being a Sage Awards honoree in 2026..

Karen Ripper's opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

The Vital Role of Martin County Sheriff’s School Resource Officers

By Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek

In today’s educational landscape, the importance of safety and security within schools cannot be overstated. The Martin County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) School Resource Officers (SROs) exemplify commitment and professionalism in ensuring our children’s safety. 

These dedicated officers are more than mere security personnel; they are vital members of the school community, serving as trusted mentors and guardians of our most precious assets; our children. Their primary mission revolves around ensuring safety in schools. “Our SROs are at the top of their class when it comes to addressing school safety and fostering a positive learning environment,” says Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek. The presence of SROs helps maintain a secure atmosphere, as they are trained to respond to incidents, assess potential threats, and implement necessary safety protocols. This proactive approach contributes significantly to a culture of safety and reassurance among students and educators alike. 

But the role of SROs extends far beyond the perception of law enforcement. They cultivate relationships that are meaningful and impactful. “Building positive relationships with students is crucial. It’s about being approachable and being a figure, they trust,” Sheriff Budensiek points out. By being visible and accessible, SROs create an atmosphere where students feel comfortable reaching out for guidance and support. Collaboration between SROs and school personnel is another hallmark of the program’s success. SROs work hand in hand with administrators, teachers, and mental health professionals to devise comprehensive safety plans tailored to each school’s unique needs. These partnerships ensure that safety measures are effective while fostering a holistic approach to student well-being. “Our SROs are trained to collaborate with educational staff to create programs that address specific challenges within each school, making them an integral part of the educational system,” adds Sheriff Budensiek. 

Training is a continual process for SROs at MCSO. They undergo specialized training to stay updated on the latest safety practices and protocols, ensuring they are equipped to handle any situation that may arise. “Keeping our deputies updated on training reinforces their ability to react swiftly and effectively in potentially volatile situations,” emphasizes Sheriff Budensiek. This dedication to ongoing education illustrates MCSO’s commitment to the safety and security of all students in Martin County. 

Beyond their duties in crisis prevention and resolution, SROs profoundly impact the overall school culture. Their dedication fosters an atmosphere where students can focus on learning and personal development, ultimately enhancing educational outcomes. The positive interactions initiated by SROs help students build resilience and develop a sense of security, contributing to a thriving educational environment. 

In conclusion, the work of the MCSO SROs is indispensable in nurturing secure learning environments in Martin County. Their commitment not only safeguards our children but also enriches their educational experience, ensuring that they flourish in a supportive atmosphere dedicated to their success.

John Budensiek’s opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

Martin County Supervisor of Elections Congratulates Non-profit Organizations for Their Participation in the Adopt-A-Precinct Program!

Martin County Supervisor of Elections, Vicki Davis, congratulates the following non-profit organizations for members who provided outstanding service as election workers during the 2024 elections: Kiwanis Club of Martin County, Daughters of The American Revolution, Stuart Rotary Club, and PEO Chapter-P. Together, these non-profit organizations earned a total of $10,730.00 through their participation in the Adopt-A-Precinct program.

The Adopt-A-Precinct program is a unique partnership that allows organizations to engage in the democratic process while supporting a worthy cause. By adopting a specific precinct for an election cycle, organizations provide the necessary personnel to work at the polling site. In return, the Supervisor of Elections writes a check directly to the organization rather than paying individual workers.

This collaboration not only helps ensure the election process runs smoothly with qualified workers at each precinct, but it also provides organizations with the opportunity to raise unrestricted funds for their mission. It's a win-win: enhancing the election experience, supporting community service, and empowering non-profits to fundraise.

We thank these organizations for their hard work and dedication to the electoral process and to their community. By forming these partnerships, we can provide additional workers to serve Martin County's voters while directing valuable resources to deserving causes.

For more information on how your organization can participate in the Adopt-A-Precinct program in 2026, please contact the Martin County Elections Center at 772-288-5637 or visit us online at MartinVotes.gov.

Vicki Davis’s opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

County Real Estate

The County is responsible for the maintenance of 116 buildings and structures.  Over 2.1M square feet with a total replacement value of $235.29 Million according to insurance. Every year the General Services Department must provide a list of capital improvements needed to those buildings.  Some of interest for next year’s budget begin with the Courthouse office complex.  There are 2 A/C handling units on each of the 2 roofs which are over 30 years old. They are each bigger than tractor trailers.   It’s time to replace them.  It will cost approximately $8.1million.  But it should be done within the next 5 years just to be on the safe side.  

The Supervisor of Elections facility on Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd needs more room.  The more the voting population grows, the more storage space Supervisor Davis needs.  The plan is to expand the current building onto the west parking lot.  The cost will be $3 million.  It needs to be done asap.

The historical House of Refuge built circa 1876 will get a state grant for a new roof.  But wood rot was also found.  Projected cost to fix the rot is $1 million to the County.  

Martin County has purchased some property west of I-95 on which to build an Operations Complex.  It would replace the old buildings housing General Service, Vehicle Maintenance, Mosquito Control, Public Works and others located in buildings built sometime in the late ‘70’s.  This would open up 14.8 acres across from the fair grounds which could be utilized by the airport.  Most likely to house more vendors garnering more money for the airport.  The Complex out west is in the design phase.  Upon completion it will have cost around $91 million. 

Martin County Tax Payers Associates' opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

Shining a light on Florida’s Insurance Shell Game – It’s Time for Transparency

   By John  Grant CEO of Seniors Across America, Retired Florida Senator

There are so many insurance reform bills before Florida lawmakers right now it’s hard to keep up with all of them. But I’m particularly interested in the ones that call for transparency within the industry.

For years, Floridians have paid the highest homeowners insurance premiums in the nation not because of exposure to hurricanes, but rather homeowners were told too many lawsuits and fraudulent roof replacement scams were to blame. 

When the crisis hit a boiling point in 2022, Governor DeSantis and Florida lawmakers passed a bill reducing excessive litigation based on the insurance industry’s explanation of the issue.
But now a report has come out revealing that in 2022 the insurance industry might have been playing us all by running a sophisticated sort of shell game, crying poor, and raising premiums while hiding billions in profits by funneling money into affiliate companies. 

This shameful practice and the industry report are now under investigation but that doesn’t help the people who had to move out of the state or lost their homes as a result of excessive premiums. According to the U.S. Census Bureau in 2022, 276,000 people moved out of Florida and it’s believed insurance premiums drove them out. You can be sure many were seniors on a fixed income. 

Two bills introduced during this legislative session, Senate Bill 1656 and House 1429, call for insurers to file a “transparency report” when filing rate requests with regulators. These companies would have to break down costs like profits, affiliate payments, litigation fees and claims.

It makes you wonder why we didn’t have a transparency system in place to begin with, but nevertheless, the time has certainly come to make it law now. Both bills have a few committee stops before lawmakers vote, but so far, they seem to have growing support.

John Grant’s opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

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Each April, we observe Child Abuse Prevention Month—a time to bring communities together in raising awareness about child abuse and neglect, promoting prevention efforts, and recognizing the importance of supporting families. Countless individuals, businesses, and organizations are working every day to change the tragic outcomes of child abuse. At Hibiscus Children’s Center, we’ve been part of this vital mission for over 40 years, helping children move from crisis to hope—hand in hand with our generous and compassionate community.

Celebrate Earth Day with us at The Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast! This weekday event is perfect for kids not in school, homeschool groups, and anyone looking for a fun and educational way to honor our planet.

Darren J. Mills, Partner at Stern, Kilcullen & Rufolo in West Palm Beach
Mills is a seasoned legal and financial professional who serves clients in New Jersey, Florida, and internationally. He has a proven track record in asset protection, tax planning, and wealth transfer. In addition to being licensed to practice law in New Jersey and Florida, he’s a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Florida. Mills is a Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®) and a Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU®) with The American College. He’s also a member of the Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners (TEP®) and the Palm Beach County Estate Planning Council. Mills has been a sought-after speaker and author on various topics, including asset protection, taxation, and estate planning. His expertise has been featured in professional journals, and he has authored a comprehensive treatise on asset protection and wealth transfer tax planning for Florida residents. Mills obtained his bachelor’s degree and law degree from Seton Hall University and a Master of Science in taxation from Fairleigh Dickinson University.

Richard Vaughan, Associate at Jones Foster in West Palm Beach
Vaughan is a member of the Jones Foster Private Wealth, Wills, Trusts & Estates, and Corporate & Tax Practice groups. He focuses on estate planning, trust and estate administration, business planning, and transactional corporate law. Vaughan is a member of The Florida Bar’s Real Property, Probate & Trust Law Section and its Tax Section. Richard develops comprehensive estate plans for individuals and families to efficiently preserve their assets, including the use of revocable and irrevocable trusts. He handles all aspects of estate and trust administration from probate matters to asset distribution. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of South Carolina, his law degree from the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law, and a Master of Laws in Estate Planning from the Heckerling Graduate Program at the University of Miami School of Law. He also holds an MBA from the University of Memphis Fogelman College of Business and Economics.

 

Treasure Coast Hospice to Observe National Healthcare Decisions Day 2025
Advance Care Planning Information and Tools Offered at Local Libraries
 

(STUART, Fla. April 2, 2025) – In observance of National Healthcare Decisions Day on Wednesday, April 16, Treasure Coast Hospice will distribute advance care planning materials at local libraries in Martin, St. Lucie and Okeechobee counties. Staff and volunteers will offer information and tools for the public to talk about their wishes with loved ones, including Five Wishes, America’s most popular advance directive, at the following library branches from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., unless noted: 

Martin 
Blake Library, 2351 SE Monterey Road, Stuart
Hobe Sound Public Library 10595 SE Federal Highway, Hobe Sound
Hoke Library, 1150 NW Jack Williams Way, Jensen Beach (12 – 2 pm only)
Peter & Julie Cummings Library, 2551 SW Matheson Avenue, Palm City 
Robert Morgade Library, 5851 SE Community Drive, Stuart (12 – 2 pm only) 

Okeechobee
Okeechobee Public Library, 206 SW 16th Street, Okeechobee 

St. Lucie 
The Susan Broom Kilmer Library, 101 Melody Lane, Fort Pierce
The Zora Neale Hurston Library, 3008 Avenue D, Fort Pierce
Lakewood Park Library, 7605 Santa Barbara Drive, Fort Pierce
The Morningside Library, 2410 SE Morningside Boulevard, Port St. Lucie

Founded in 2008, National Healthcare Decisions Day is observed annually on April 16. Its goal is to increase the number of Americans who have completed an advance directive (“living will”), in which they name the person who will make medical decisions for them in the event they are seriously ill and can’t speak for themselves. Experts say only about 20-30% of Americans have completed an advance directive even though all people age 18 and older should have one. 

“Advance care planning empowers individuals to shape their future healthcare decisions and ensures their end-of-life wishes are honored with compassion and respect,” said Treasure Coast Hospice CEO Jackie Kendrick, CHPCA.

Treasure Coast Hospice staff and volunteers will encourage community members to prepare their advance directives by distributing Five Wishes, America’s most popular advance care planning program at participating area libraries. Five Wishes, a 12-page booklet that helps guide individuals in discussing personal, family and spiritual matters, in addition to medical and legal concerns, is a valuable tool for beginning difficult family discussions. When completed, it meets the legal requirements of 46 states and is useful in those states that still require state forms and mandatory notices. To meet the cultural needs of the community, English, Spanish and French Creole versions of Five Wishes will be available.

“Five Wishes deals with the things people say matter most to them,” said Aging with Dignity President Paul Malley. “It allows them to clearly state what kind of treatment they want or don’t want so their families aren’t left to guess or second-guess. Treasure Coast Hospice is providing a helpful service to the whole community by offering Five Wishes, and it’s a sign of their commitment to understand and honor the wishes of those whom they serve.”

About Treasure Coast Hospice
Treasure Coast Hospice is a non-profit community organization of skilled professionals and dedicated volunteers whose mission is to provide access to compassionate, caring, expert and professional hospice and grief support services to patients and families at the end of life. Founded in 1982, Treasure Coast Hospice has grown to serve more than 4,000 patients annually in Martin, St. Lucie and Okeechobee counties. Thanks to the generous support of our community, the Treasure Coast Hospice Foundation is able to fund comprehensive hospice and grief support programs for Treasure Coast Hospice, including three Inpatient Units for those who need a higher level of care, the specialized pediatric program Little Treasures, music therapy, massage therapy, virtual reality experiences, individual and group bereavement services, and Camp Good Grief for children who have experienced the loss of a loved one.

About Aging with Dignity 
Founded in 1996, Aging with Dignity is a national non-profit organization that seeks to protect the God-given human dignity of the most vulnerable among us.  Five Wishes is an advance care planning program created with help from national legal experts, with initial development and distribution funded by a grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

 

World Art Day 2025

 Get ready to unleash your inner artist!   

The Children's Museum of the Treasure Coast is teaming up with the Jensen Beach Art League to bring you a colorful World Art Day celebration on Tuesday, April 15th!    
Every year, people around the world celebrate the magic of art in all its forms—painting, sculpting, music, dance, and more!     This special day is all about taking a moment to appreciate beauty, spark creativity, and explore different artistic styles from around the globe.

Join us from 10 AM to 12 PM, when amazing artists from the Jensen Beach Art League will be at the museum, leading hands-on activities in a variety of art mediums!     Kids and families can create, explore, and get inspired—because art is all about having fun and expressing yourself!   

 Important Info:
  Included with museum admission (Members get in FREE!)
  Check our event Facebook page for details on guest artists!
If you have any questions, reach out to our Events Coordinator, Christina McIntosh at   772-225-7575 ext 205 or   christina@childrensmuseumtc.org.
   So get ready to unleash your imagination, and let’s make some masterpieces together! See you there!   

 

 

Pickleball charity event to benefit shelter animals at Humane Society

PALM CITY, Fla. — The shelter animals at the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast (HSTC) are going to benefit from the growing popularity of pickleball. Starting at 8 a.m. on Sunday, April 27, the HSTC will host Pickle for Paws III at Harbour Ridge Pickleball Center, 13500 NW Gilson Rd, Palm City.

Event Chairpersons Michael & Kim Izzolo and Robbie Jacobs

The players will hit the courts in the men's doubles, women's doubles and mixed doubles 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 divisions. The national anthem and ceremonial first serve will take place promptly at 8 a.m. to kick-start the games. Awards will directly follow the event’s conclusion later that afternoon.

The cost to participate is $60 per player. To sign up, visit https://tinyurl.com/mud5mrm2. All proceeds benefit the HSTC.

Event Sponsor Bill Lichtenberger played the first serve at last year’s Pickle for Paws event.

In addition to the pickleball play, there will be courtside attractions. They include Misty’s Pals Pet Therapy teams (trained dogs and their handlers) and adoptable pups from the shelter looking for their “furr-ever” homes. In addition to the meet and greets, there will be a 50/50 raffle, silent auction, as well as a variety of items also being raffled off, adding even more fun to the day’s activities.

Michael and Kim Izzolo and Robbie Jacobs are chairing the event. Sponsors include Harbour Ridge, Stuart Stamp & Engraving, Michael Leonard’s Salon, MGM Originals Painting & Photography, and Premier Pickleball League. 

For more information, call Michael Izzolo at 772-529-5384. 

Misty’s Pals Team member Sallie Snyder and Jessie Lou

About the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast – The Humane Society of the Treasure Coast (HSTC) is a no-kill animal welfare organization located at 4100 SW Leighton Farm Ave. in Palm City, FL. Since 1955, it has been the leading advocate for animal protection and well-being in the Martin County area. A 501(c)3 private, nonprofit organization, the HSTC is independent and locally operated and relies on donations to support its programs and services. Follow the HSTC on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/humanesocietyTC and Twitter at https://www.twitter.com/hstc1. For more information, visit https://www.hstc1.org or call 772-223-8822.

 

A Day of Elegance and Impact: The 15th Annual Molly’s House Polo Classic

On March 1, 2025, the 15th Annual Molly’s House Polo Classic, presented by the Herold-Cadorette Family, unfolded in spectacular fashion, blending the heart-pounding excitement of polo with the sophistication of an elegant social affair—all in support of Molly’s House, a place of comfort for families navigating medical challenges. Under brilliant blue skies, guests arrived at Port Mayaca Polo Club for a day that epitomized grace, generosity, and community spirit.

A Mission That Matters: Voices from Molly’s House

Amidst the excitement of the match and festivities, the heart of the Polo Classic was truly felt during the moving speeches that reminded everyone why we gathered. Katie Bartlett, Executive Director of Molly’s House, took a moment to share the story of Bonnie, who later spoke herself, moving the audience as she shared how Molly’s House saved her life by providing a safe and convenient place to stay during her care. Her words were a powerful testament to the mission of Molly’s House and the impact of every donation and sponsorship.

Katie also introduced and recognized several current Molly’s House guests who joined us for the day. Dakota, a 7-year-old boy who has been staying at Molly’s House with his family for four months, was in attendance, along with his family. A special silent auction item even featured a beautiful piece of Dakota’s artwork, further connecting guests to the individuals they were supporting. Also joining in the festivities were Laiyah and her mom, whose journey through medical challenges has been made a little easier thanks to the comfort and support of Molly’s House.

Thanks to the unwavering generosity of all sponsors, supporters, donors and attendees- this year’s event reached new heights, raising an astounding $176,700, with a net total of $133,238 funds raised for Molly's House—a true testament to the power of community giving.

A Heartfelt Thank You

Events like the Molly’s House Polo Classic are made possible through the dedication of our planning committee:

• Betsy Herold – Polo Classic Committee Chair

• Joe Endress – Molly’s House Board President

• Kate Wiegerink – Molly Sharkey’s Family Representative

• Jean Caligiuri – Events Committee Member

• Katie Bartlett – Molly’s House Executive Director

• Mimi Wild – Molly’s House Program Director

• Sarah Siebritz – Molly’s House Events and Community Relations

Their leadership, along with the tireless efforts of our volunteers and the incredible generosity of our sponsors, ensures that Molly’s House remains a beacon of hope for families in need.

Looking Forward to Next Year

With another successful Polo Classic in the books, we are already looking ahead to March 7th, 2026—eager to continue this tradition of philanthropy, sport, and celebration. Until then, we extend our deepest gratitude to all who made this event possible—our sponsors, guests, volunteers, and supporters.

Because of you, Molly’s House remains a home away from home for those who need it most.

 

 Bahama Mama Mia 2025 – An Unforgettable Evening Awaits!

Martin County PAL is thrilled to invite you to Bahama Mama Mia 2025, an exclusive pop-up event inspired by the breathtaking Amalfi Coast. On May 1st, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, guests will experience an elegant evening filled with live entertainment, gourmet cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and an incredible luxury raffle featuring two exclusive getaway trips.

Adding to the excitement, the event location will remain a mystery until the day of the event. Ticket holders will receive the exclusive venue details at 3 PM via text and email, heightening the anticipation for this unforgettable night.

Guests are encouraged to dress in Amalfi Coast Chic, embracing the effortless sophistication and Mediterranean charm of this stunning destination. Think breezy linens, stylish prints, and timeless coastal elegance as you prepare to immerse yourself in this one-of-a-kind experience.

As part of this extraordinary evening, we are raffling off two luxury vacations, giving attendees the chance to win a dream getaway! This is your opportunity to enjoy a night of indulgence while supporting Martin County PAL’s mission to develop, healthy productive leaders of the future.

Tickets are limited, and this event is expected to sell out quickly. Secure your spot today and don’t miss out on the ultimate Bahama Mama Mia experience! Additionally, sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses looking to gain premium exposure while supporting a meaningful cause.

To purchase tickets or learn more about sponsorships, visit www.martincountypal.org. For additional information, please contact madison@martincountypal.org

We can’t wait to celebrate with you at Bahama Mama Mia 2025—see you there! 

 

Road to Victory Military Museum! It’s truly commendable how the museum honors veterans and educates the public about their sacrifices and the importance of our freedoms.

• Location: The museum is situated at 319 Stypmann Ave, Stuart, FL 34994, near the tennis courts.

• Collection: Visitors can explore large displays of artifacts and memorabilia related to significant historical events, including WWI, WWII, the Korean Conflict, the Vietnam Conflict, the Persian Gulf, Iraq, and Afghanistan.

• Exhibits: The museum showcases historical artifacts, uniforms, militaria, photos, and military vehicles. Coming Soom M60 tank, combat, full tracked:

• Purpose: By paying homage to veterans, the museum plays a crucial role in informing the public about their noble endeavors and the importance of our freedoms as Americans.

• Hours of Operation: Free admission

o Saturdays: Open to the public from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

o Appointments: Available for schools, small groups, and veteran organizations.

• Community Involvement: The museum’s members actively participate as docents, mechanics, and maintenance personnel. They also engage in reenactments and community events.

• Student Engagement: The museum encourages students aged 14 to 20 to actively participate.

For more details, you can contact them at 772-210-4283.

Open Sat & by appt. text, message. or call.

  We have a large display of artifacts & memorabilia from WWI/WWII/Korean Conflict/Vietnam Conflict/Persian Gulf/Iraq and Afghanistan. We display historical artifacts, uniforms, militaria, photos, & military vehicles. We pay homage to veterans while informing the public of their noble endeavors and our freedoms as Americans.

 

The Martin County Fair Board has had quite a shakeup.

For some time, that organization has not been able to get out of its own way. The board has let their current location on Dixie Highway in Stuart become run down. Their lease is for 365 days a year, and they have been responsible for the grounds for decades. They answer to no one.

I don’t understand why the county thought that the Fair Board could magically take care of a substantially larger property in Indiantown if they couldn’t do it at the current 12 acres in Stuart. Besides, why is such a valuable asset being given to an entity that should be managed by our county government?  Perhaps to perpetuate a poor practice that may have been appropriate in the rural county we were 50 or 60 years ago is improper today.

Setting aside the above, the Fair Board has been in turmoil for years. At the conclusion of this year’s fair, the president, vice president and admissions chair tendered their resignations. This was after another lackluster event. Right before this year’s fair, the president and fair manager decided to forbid long time volunteer Daryl Magill from having a role for no stated reason. 

Daryl, who has been involved in fairs for 50 years, is a true entertainment professional. The last time I spoke to him; he had just sung the national anthem for the Mets at Clover Park. He was aware of the shakeup but couldn’t give me a reason for why. Magill was not sure whether he would return or not now that Chester Edwards, the last president, is gone. Remember that the fair manager who was also involved with Daryl’s ouster is still there.

Putting aside Daryl, let’s face it, what is happening now isn’t working. Today a dysfunctional organization dictates to the rest of us what can happen on a county property 365 days each year. Do we rent out our parks to one entity and then check back in a couple of decades to see how it is going?

Indiantown is going to be putting on something called a heritage festival next January. It is a county fair in everything but name because a county fair can only be called that if a recognized fair board is in charge. The village is going to have it at Timer Powers Park. 

The village was almost denied because Chair Heard and Commissioner Vargas were either unaware or didn’t understand what was happening. Both the Martin County Parks Department and the legal staff came up with agreements that would have indemnified the county for liability from the amusement rides. As if someone who was hurt at the fairgrounds would have prevented the county from being a party to a negligence suit. Both commissioners were wrong in voting no.

Going forward, whether a fair takes place at a park or at what will be the Indiantown Fairgrounds, the county should be in charge of the physical plant. There is no getting around the fact that managing our own real estate is the way to go for utmost accountability. 

That doesn’t mean that the Martin County Fair Board can’t lease the new fairgrounds for two weeks or a month. But so too can everyone else. It could be a larger venue for the rodeo. There could be concerts or many other events. What we can’t have is anyone except the county in charge.

I anticipate the Stuart Commission Chamber being packed on Monday night with people ready to do battle to save Terra Fermata from the chopping block.

It isn’t only that one venue that may be affected but several throughout the city. Should outdoor music lovers be worried if the sound ordinance has a revision? They probably should. But what worries me more is the constant anti-business bias of the commission majority.

I wonder if this craving for outdoor music has a generational breakdown to it. Laura Giobbi is the commissioner who is taking on this battle and she is my age. Most of those complaining are social security recipients. But I would say most of the patrons of Terra are also either receiving pensions or are close to doing so. It is the battle of the geezers.

Will younger people be at the meeting speaking for or against changing the sound ordinance? Or do they have more important things to do like making a living and finding a place to live. Since Laura, Sean and Boss Collins have come into office, more and more freedoms are being curtailed.

No more apartments, no more jobs, no Brightline, no freedom to develop the property you own, no, no, no…and now no more music. 

I have no dog in this fight. My tastes run to classical, jazz, and standards. I didn’t like rock when I was a kid, and though I am more tolerant, I still haven’t developed a taste. I currently hear Terra Fermata music from the front of my house and Sailor’s Return from my back. I know how some people feel. 

Yet Stuart is looking more and more like Bomont from “Footloose” than the small-town Collins, Giobbi, and Reed say they want. If you are a small friendly town, there should be more of a libertarian vibe to it instead of a Stalinist lock step. 

You must wonder about the stage being built at Memorial Park. Doesn’t the city intend to have concerts there? And that really is the middle of town. 

Giobbi also has it out for a small business in East Stuart. She keeps claiming they are making noise. The police, code enforcement, and Giobbi herself have been there 20 times and there was no noise. The business probably employs 25 people and are open 8-5 Monday through Friday and 9-1 on Saturdays. They are on a commercial street, should they disappear too in her attempt of sterilization of Stuart? 

Stuart, named the “best small coastal town,” has a commission that doesn’t want tourists. Boss Collins, along with Giobbi, killed the new hotel on Federal Highway. They don’t want Brightline which would help the Downtown businesses by bringing people here. No new buildings except for single-family homes on large lots. And now there will be no entertainment allowed. 

Is this what the voters wanted when they put these 3 in office?  Stuart is becoming a sterile suburban enclave where once a vibrant city stood…thanks to Boss Collins, Giobbi and Reed.

The Second Budget Workshop was all about the Martin County School Board’s customers…the children.

The district is like any business that sells products. In this case, the product is education. Like every business, the key is to keep customers happy and grow that list. According to the Unweighted Full-Time Equivalent (UFTE) measurement, the number of students grew by 722.85 from February 2024 to October 2024. 

Unfortunately, the growth has mostly occurred for the students receiving Family Empowerment Scholarships (FES) or scholarships. That category grew by 770.5 UFTEs to 2231.75. Public Charters increased by 61.88 students to 1547.85. Traditional schools, which include virtual students, lost 109.53 UFTEs.

Since 2023 when Governor DeSantis signed the bill expanding the FES program, not only special needs students are eligible to receive “scholarships,” but private school tuition is funded with the per pupil allocation being deposited and administered through a personal education savings account that is administered by a third party. 

There is a limited amount that can be distributed this way. I believe if they increased the percentage of students that could apply even more would. To learn more about it you can go here 

How much the school district can spend per student is determined by the Weighted Full Time Equivalent (WFTE) which considers what programs a student needs and how much to provide them. FERP (Florida Education Finance Program) calculates the amount of money that can be spent on each student. In the 24/25 year, that amount is $7524.32 per WFTE. That is $130.38 less than the previous calculation.

I won’t even say that the district is losing customers due to the product mix. Much of it is the result of new competitors. Public Charters and scholarship students were not competitive before the beginning of this decade. Now students can go to a private school and receive at least some of their tuition back.

Our public schools should begin operating as charters do. We are truly in a voucher educational system. The state should allow traditional public schools more freedom to operate on a level paying field. Charters and those using scholarship money should be required to have the same standards. I hope the regulations that traditional public schools must follow become less stringent and more similar to the other two and not the other way around.

To look at the entire presentation go here

At this meeting, the last few pieces of medical insurance for July 1st were settled.

One of the concerns raised by employees was that there was a $350 copay only for imaging in the current HMO plan. In the Cigna plan, the employee would have to pay their deductible beside the copay then the plan coverage would kick in.  Cigna agreed that only the copay would apply to imaging. 

The employees feared that if they needed an MRI in the first few months of the year, they would have to come up with $2350 (deductible + copay) before the plan began paying. For many employees, that would discourage them from seeking care. 

Cigna lowered the High-Deductible Health Plan so that the employee would not have a premium at all. This was important for the board because they feel it helps with recruitment. That results in savings of $541.66 per employee, and the board still pays only $6500 per employee as their contribution regardless of which plan is chosen.

The board will also contribute $750 per employee to the HSA (Health Savings Account) for a total of $921,750.

The last piece of business was whether to continue subsidizing those receiving family benefits prior to July 2020, the date after which no new employees received a subsidy. There are currently 128 families enrolled. If they move to the High-Deductible Plan, they will receive a $250 subsidy for the next 12 months and then it ends. The motion was made by Powers and seconded by Russell. It passed 3-2 with Moriarity and Roberts dissenting.

Roberts voted no because she wanted the subsidy to end this year while Moriarity voted no because he would like to continue the subsidy. However, since it did pass, it looks like the board is increasingly looking to tighten their offerings for medical insurance.

You can see the entire presentation here 

There is something very exciting about what is going on in Indiantown. You can feel it everywhere within the village. 

For so long, Indiantown was a backwater that no one paid much attention to. For the record, let me state that it is fast becoming the place to be. I have already written extensively about the businesses that have moved there. I have also done the same regarding the number of homes that are being or will be built there. The village is now projected to have 7500 new residents within the next decade.

Where the Village Hall is located now on Osceola will probably be too small soon. This council is against trying to have a “Taj Mahal” built which is the opposite of the past council. But they will need to expand in response to their population doing the same.

With a little prodding from Manager Kryzda and Mayor Dipaolo, the properties on the side and back of Village Hall can be purchased. It was agreed that Kryzda should have two appraisals done to be able to move ahead with the purchases for expansion. Once appraisals have been completed, then it will come back to the council for approval to buy the lots. 

There was discussion at the BDB regarding a business incentive plan. Taryn Kryzda believes it would be a good tool to have in her toolbox when she is looking to recruit businesses here. Attorney Vose explained to the council what it entails. 

If passed the plan would lessen the tax burden to businesses locating to the village for any of their Tangible Personal Property (TPP) as well as any additions to a new building or addition built onto an existing one. The amount would be up to the village. It would be for 10 years and if it were a data center for 20 years.

The exemption would need to be passed by the voters in a referendum. The council asked that the referendum language be drafted so the council could have further discussion. 

Whether you agree with having subsidies or not, contemplating them means that there is a reason to do so. People and businesses want to be in Indiantown. The government wants that to happen. It is the opposite of Stuart’s commission. And that is too bad.

Today is Palm Sunday. We are entering Holy Week. 

When you stop and ponder all that happened to Jesus between today and next Sunday, Easter, how could it have been possible? Christ entered Jerusalem in triumph and in a few days had the crowds turn against Him demanding His death. And within three days of His crucifixion and death, He arose from the dead, the Son of God.

The Romans had only conquered Jerusalem in 63 BC, and Herod the Great was declared “King of the Jews” by the Roman Senate in 40 BC. The Maccabees and Hasmoneans control of Judea was still very much within living memory when Jesus was born. That probably is what precipitated Herod’s decree sending the Holy Family’s flight into Egypt. 

The Jews were considered by the Romans a rebellious people so the crucifixion of one more revolutionary zealot was business as usual. Herod Antipas, the son of Herod the Great, was the ruler of Galilee and Perea for Christ’s life. Nazareth was under his nominal control as was most of the land surrounding the Sea of Galilee. 

When Jesus entered, Jerusalem was governed by the High Priest Caiaphas and a council. It was with the Sanhedrin that Jesus was accused of blasphemy. They wanted Jesus executed, and the only person who could order that was the Roman Governor, Pilate.  While the description of Pilate’s verdict in the Gospels is of vacillation. Both the secular versions written by Josephus and Philo have Pilate taking a much more vicious and political stance for the execution.

The Prophecies of Isaiah were known to the Jewish people.  From the very beginnings of Jesus’ ministerial life, He fulfilled what was foretold by the prophet. Christ always had the scriptures foremost in His mind, and they were reflected in His teachings. 

Holy Week was meant to be “Shock and Awe.”  It begins as adoration of a man by a rebellious people looking for a political savior, then comes betrayal, suffering, and death, followed by the Resurrection of the Son of God. The next 40 days until His Ascension is a period of doubt and belief by His apostles and followers. Christianity is born.

Our Christian foundation is one that requires faith in the improbable but not the impossible. Exactly what is required to be a Christian today? Is it the performance of good works? Or do you merely need to believe in Jesus as your Savior?  

To me Christianity, is about being a servant of others besides the acknowledgement of Christ as God. If all being a Christian means is acknowledging Him as the price of salvation, then what is required is not enough. We are not living as the Gospels teach with one’s obligations to all of mankind. If the former is the case, then how can you be living a life emulating Christ?  

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