November 3, 2024

I can’t believe it is almost the end of another year.

As we drift into November, the holidays are quickly approaching. Soon the election season will turn to Thanksgiving and Christmas. I can’t wait.

In this week’s edition we continue with reporting on the chaos in Stuart government. The countdown to two new county commissioners assuming their seats and how we need to keep an eye on the school board.

We have our regular columnists and a special guest columnist. J Corey Crowley has submitted a column regarding Port Salerno that I thought should be included in our newsletter not because we agree but because it is a point of view.

If you haven’t already done so, please go vote. It is important that we all have our choices counted. The August primary was near normal but still a dismal turnout. While who becomes president is very important that also goes for our local officials. Ignoring local races allows just a few people to select who will call the shots in Martin County, your town, and school board.

Remember we are always looking for different points of view. If you think you want to join our roster of columnists, let me know. Do you have a special talent that you would like to tell people about—here is the place. This is a community publication that wants a lot of community input.

The same goes for our local non-profits. If you are a CEO or on the board you should be sending your press releases, even flyers, and photos here. If you are a legitimate 501c3, let us tell Martin County about you. The good thing is it is free. Send us an email and I will make sure you are on our list for notification.

Have a great Sunday Morning!

When you become a grandfather yourself, you realize how much of the story of your early life will be lost to your children and grandchildren. All they will ever have are the stories and their childhood memories.

My paternal grandfather came to this country as a young man. However, my grandmother once told me that he was born here and that his parents did not want to stay so went back to Italy when he was a toddler. Therefore, he would have been born a U.S. citizen.

I have no proof of any of this. He died 50 years ago, and my grandmother passed subsequently as did my father who was their only surviving child. My grandfather’s brother who was 2 decades older than he died long ago. All my grandmother’s 9 siblings and their spouses have gone to their heavenly reward. No one left to ask for verification.

My grandmother was born in the U.S., but half her brothers and sisters were not. Why they would know about my grandfather’s family more was because my grandmother and grandfather were cousins. Their grandmothers were sisters. Most of my relatives on both sides of my father’s family were from the same village in Calabria. When they came here, they all went to the Pennsylvania coal mines to work. 

Then when the mines were closed in 1930, they ended up coming to New York City and most settled in the same small apartment house. The stories I listened to as a kid were charming, alarming, and funny. Sitting around the table, the food was good and who wouldn’t like watching them play cards, arguing, and having a good time.

My grandmother was a waitress in an old-school red sauce place. Everybody in the kitchen from the owner to the dishwashers were from the owner’s village somewhere around Naples. His girls (as he called the waitresses) could be from anywhere in Southern Italy.

One day my grandfather took me to an employee party there. Some of my aunts were also invited along with my great grandmother. They all began speaking in their own dialect which may have never been understood outside their Calabrian village. None of the Napolitano kitchen people had the slightest idea what they were saying. My grandfather turned to the owner and said in Neapolitan, “I have been telling them for years that they don’t speak Italian.” Then the two men laughed.

Why did my grandfather speak the Neapolitan dialect? I don’t know. He also spoke some French. Where did he learn that? Another story was as a young man in the coal mines he got on the wrong side of a boss and left for two years until things cooled down. My uncle Frank, his brother, said he went to Canada, probably Montreal.

I have been asked why don’t you do research into your family? Knowing the name of the ship they sailed on won’t really tell me who they were and what thoughts went through their minds. My grandfather or great grandparents’ ship’s name will be another fact like the Nina, Pinta, and Santa Maria.

I have always replied that I know who they were. Why they came here was for a better life. Their accomplishments were that their children and grandchildren went to college. While some became doctors, lawyers, business owners, cops, and teachers.

We all have these stories from an immigrant past. Some are more recent than others. It is a continuum story of the American experience. Hundreds of Americans today are their descendants. I can’t turn away from those roots even if I wanted.    

I remember the stories from childhood and the knowledge of who they were is with me.    

According to his wife in a Facebook post, Chris Collins derives his authority and makes his decisions through the intersession of Jesus.

Jacklyn Collins was responding to a post on Facebook that asked, “What makes Collins a force?” Mrs. Collins replied, “Jesus.”

Two of America’s greatest early 20th century court room attorneys battled it out in the 1925 Scopes criminal trial about teaching evolution. Clarence Darrow was for the defense and William Jennings Bryan helped the local prosecutor. Bryan had run for the presidency three times. He was a populist Democrat who also claimed to be an expert on the Bible.

In a surprise move, Darrow called Bryan to the stand as just such an expert. Bryan was someone who took the Bible literally. Darrow read different passages and Bryan refused to back down from his literal reading of the verses even when the quoted passages defied logic. As Darrow proceeded in his examination, Bryan looked and sounded more unhinged.

Finally, Darrow said, “I am exempting you on your fool ideas that no intelligent Christian on earth believes.” Bryan was visibly shaken and died of a cerebral hemorrhage soon thereafter. The trial ended with Scopes’ conviction.

William Jennings Bryan was a great orator. He truly always believed in helping the regular men and women on the farms and prairies of America’s heartland. His “Cross of Gold Speech” deploring the nation’s gold standard and its consequences on those people should be read even today by all in public office.

Though he believed in taking the Bible literally, Bryan never believed Jesus was giving him advice. Jesus did not provide him some temporal authority over others that entitled the “Great Commoner” (one of Bryan’s nicknames) to run roughshod. His talent may have derived from God, but he didn’t claim that Jesus was whispering in his ear.

When I was a kid if someone heard voices, they could claim to be one of two things… a future saint or a crazy person. I doubt whether Chris Collins is a future saint. And I don’t believe he is a crazy person. His is a calculating Christian who seeks to derive maximum benefit for the intended…named Collins.

Collins preaches a type of Christianity that is devoid of actual charity or kindness. He is a devotee as the pharisees were in word but not in deed. I think he believes he will bring about his version of the Kingdom of God to Stuart and all of Martin County. He is far from converting me to his flock.

A fictionalized play and a movie based on the Scopes trial starring Spencer Tracy and Frederick March was titled “Inherit the Wind.” The title was based on Proverbs 11.29: “Whoever troubles his own household will inherit the wind, and the fool will be servant to the wise of heart.” The household of Stuart is now broken thanks to Collins and his two assistants.

It is a shame that he and some other elected officials think that they will rule this county as a theocratic autocracy. No dissent will be tolerated. And that, fellow citizens, is the word according to Collins.

I am visiting friends on Lake Sacandaga in upstate New York.

Toward the end of October, most of the leaves still on the trees have already lost their vibrancy. Yet the mist on the water as the sun rises is like a morning shower that we take before embracing the day. The temperature is in the 40s but by 10:00 am it will climb to the low 70s which is unusual for this time of year.

The difference between the early morning here and on the St. Lucie River at home is perspective. While the air is crisp and invigorating on the Sacandaga, the St. Lucie is more languid and laid back. In Upstate New York, I check the weather daily. At home, I do so only on Saturday morning to see if any hurricanes are brewing for the week.

Nature in both places is a gem. The Sacandaga is really a reservoir. It is a man-made lake. Decades before my friends built their dreamhouse, we came here to camp as teenagers. That was long before most of the lake was lined with homes. Several times when the water was low because of drought, you could see the remnants of an old town in the middle of the lake.

For many years, while Florida and the Feds took a passive regulatory view of Lake Okeechobee and the St. Lucie, New York State was quite strict. Even today, trees on your property around the Lake cannot be removed without a permit. Permanent docks are also prohibited.  If you have a floating dock, it must be removed in the fall.

Sacandaga wasn’t there a hundred years ago. In a completely different way, Lake “O” has been around forever. There are not as many constituencies in New York trying to get their way as there are in South Florida. It just is easier for the government to do the right thing in New York.

In a couple of months if the conditions are just right, the people will be snowmobiling on the lake and parkland in this region which is about 20 miles from Saratoga Springs. Much has changed here and in Florida from the first time I saw them. To me both are being overbuilt but there is not much you can do when the land is in private hands. Like Florida, even New York has property rights though environmentally New York has stronger protections.

Sitting on the hill overlooking Sacandaga Lake as the sun comes up, it is beautiful. It is beautiful when I sit from almost any room in my house in Stuart overlooking the St Lucie. The sunsets are the best I have ever seen. In both places, I wonder what they will look like 50 years from now.

It is wrong to try and recall Stuart Commissioner Chris Collins.

There has been some talk and effort that people would like to recall Collins. Elected two years ago, what has he done that would warrant such drastic action? I can’t find it anywhere except sour grapes and perhaps buyer’s remorse.

This newsletter has not been kind to either his policies or demeanor on the dais. He deserves his nickname Boss Collins because of the way he acts publicly. I am ashamed that he represents the city. However, if anyone ever elected has fulfilled his campaign promises, it is Chris Collins.

We should be looking at ourselves as voters. He received support and help from many people who now regret their actions. Some supported Collins because he is a Republican and his opponent was an NPA (code name supposedly for Democrat). I know of one developer and contractor who gave Collins money and support from a number of his businesses because the developer wanted to get even with Collin’s opponent for voting against his project.

Most people were angry about increased development, especially Costco. That was a big factor in Chris’ win. Collins was duly elected and should be able to serve out his term no matter how much I and others despise his policies. This is what is called democracy.

If Collins or any other elected official has broken the law, the Florida Ethics Commission or law enforcement should be involved. And if necessary, Governor DeSantis can remove him from the commission. Unless someone has some proof of misfeasance or malfeasance, Collins will remain a political problem and not a criminal one.

What we need to do is beat him and his cronies at the ballot box. He was elected because too many people stayed home. Collins worked hard and knocked on many doors…some twice. The candidate that runs against him will need to work even harder.

This doesn’t mean this publication will let up on Boss Collins. We will continue to oppose any policy that we believe is bad. So, absent any legal wrongdoing we are stuck with him for the next two years. Remember that is our fault for not getting out our vote and for placing political party over good government.

Martin County Forever Issues Last Minute Alert:

 Time to Vote Yes to Buy the Land

This is it! Tuesday, November 5, is Election Day and it’s our chance to cast a vote and determine our future.

On the ballot in Martin County is a referendum to protect natural lands, water quality and wildlife habitat for our own sake and for future generations.

There are 46,000 acres at risk of development in four key areas: Blueways, Indian River Lagoon South, Loxahatchee & St. Lucie Headwaters, and Pal-Mar.

If you’ve been reading our columns over the last two years, you know how important it is to VOTE YES to Buy the Land. 

All of these pieces of property are ripe for development. More importantly to our future, they are also key in protecting the quality of our water supply, ensuring safe drinking water, and to helping keep Martin County the very special place we cherish.

If we want to preserve the land, we need to buy the land. Otherwise, it will be developed and gone forever. The best way to do it is through a half-cent sales tax that lasts for ten years – a sound investment to preserve these unique properties. The sales tax would not apply to groceries, prescription meds, school supplies or to the portion of any purchase over $5000, and about 37.5% would be paid by people who don’t live in Martin County.

Concerned that funds might not be used as intended? The grassroots organizers of the referendum included safeguards and accountability to make sure the revenue raised is used as voters intended.

• A Citizens Environmental Lands Oversight Committee will screen proposed purchases and serve as the advisory panel for the Martin County Board of County Commissioners 

• An Annual Audit of land and properties purchased will be conducted.  

• Monies raised can only be used for purchases within the four key areas
• Some funds may be used to buy permanent Conservation Easements to help sustain working farms by limiting uses of the land to protect its environmental value while keeping the land on the tax rolls.   

The clock is ticking. This referendum puts the future of Martin County in our own hands. If we don’t buy the land now, it can be developed and gone forever. 

If you need more information before you vote, go to www.martincounty forever.com.

Vote Yes on November 5 to Buy the Land.

Matheson’s & Snedeker's opinions are their  own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

When determining my choices on the ballot I began to wonder why we “retain” judges. 

Everyone else is “re-elected”.   I called an attorney friend of mine who introduced me to a very useful website…https://supremecourt.flcourts.gov/Justices.  There you can see pictures of those you are about to “retain”…or not. 

Some of them look really young.  I always think of judges as a bit older.  You can read their biographies.  Including which Governor appointed them.  If you are a Rick Scott or Ron DeSantis fan, you probably want to vote to retain all the judges on the ballot this time.  Since by law judges cannot tell us their political party affiliation, who appoints them gives us a valuable clue as to their political leanings.  It shouldn’t matter.  Judges are to be impartial in all decisions.  I don’t doubt that they are.  But knowing they are valued by someone of my preferred political posture allows me to feel I am making somewhat of an informed decision.

Appellate and Circuit Judges in Florida are initially appointed by the Governor who must choose from a list given him by a judicial nominating commission.  In 1972 Florida's voters overwhelmingly approved a constitutional amendment changing from election to a merit retention system for all appellate judges. This amendment came after three Supreme Court Justices were investigated for improprieties such as bribery. 

Under threat of impeachment, two of them resigned.  The third was forced to undergo “complete mental and physical testing to retain his seat on the bench.”  The dirt: “Justice McCain was accused of lobbying a lower court to overturn a bribery conviction of one of his supporters and accepting a $10,000 bribe to do so.  He resigned the day before the Florida House would have voted to impeach him.  He was eventually disbarred from the practice of law. 

While the Florida Supreme Court was considering a decision involving a multimillion-dollar utility lawsuit, Justice Boyd was accused of soliciting a memorandum from counsel for the utility company, sharing that memorandum with Justice Dekle and using that memorandum in rendering the opinion for the court.  The JQC (Florida Judicial Qualification Commission) investigated the accusations and recommended Justices Boyd and Dekle be removed from the bench.  Another panel reviewed the findings of the JQC and recommended in a 6-1 vote to publicly reprimand Justice Boyd rather than remove him from his seat on the Court.”

This seemed to be the prevailing explanation for turning to the merit system.  To me it comes up short.  So, we had some bad judges which were elected by the people.  Is that a reason to take the responsibility away from the people forever?  Seems like the judicial system was successful in removing those bad judges. 

This reminds me of when Martin County took the election of the School Superintendent away from the people.  This also reminded me of why I don’t like amendments to our constitution.  Too binding for too long and too hard to get rid of if you want to change your mind.

Under the merit system judges serve 6-year terms and even if retained ad nauseum, a judge’s mandatory retirement age is 75.   In case the judge is not retained by the voters, the Judicial Nominating Committee will present new choices for the Governor.

If you want to watch judges live go to https://wfsu.org/gavel2gavel/

All referenced quotes come from https://www.searcylaw.com/why-we-have-merit-retention-hard-lessons-from-the-1970s/

Darlene VanRiper’s opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

Gambling on a Legend

Pete Rose died. He is still not in the Baseball Hall of Fame. He gambled on  baseball. He is banned for life. The fellow that banned him declares he will never get into the Hall of Fame.

I feel like I am watching the police captain in “Casablanca” shut down the gambling room after the dealer hands him his winnings.

Arguably the greatest ball player since Babe Ruth, the ban remains because Rose admitted to gambling in his autobiography. He was Charlie Hustle, right?  We are shunning him because he told the truth.

 Florida allows sports betting. Celebrities shill for the gambling sites and when I watch tennis, I get to see the betting guys give the odds on the matches. Comics do skits where the bettors bet on their friends’ antics. The amazing kid that just broke several major league baseball records also had a gambling scandal, but that was his manager, so we don’t hold it against our newest bankable star.

Pete Rose who admitted his crime and accepted his punishment is still banned. In “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” Big Daddy says “There ain't nothin' more powerful than the odor of mendacity.”

Nicki van Vonno’s opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

"The face of American agriculture is changing. Nearly 10% of U.S. jobs are related to agriculture and the increasingly complex nature of production requires more training and education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—the STEM fields—to stay competitive and meet the needs of a growing world for food, fuel, and fiber.” – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack.

At the same time, it is estimated that 40% of new agriculture jobs go unfilled each year. The question agriculture groups are asking is how do we bridge that gap and fill this important industry with skilled people ready to provide a secure and stable food future for our country? There is a quote attributed to Chinese philosopher Confucius that I like to use, and it applies here, “If your plan is for one year plant rice. If your plan is for ten years plant trees. If your plan is for one hundred years educate children.”

The 4-H Youth Development Program plays a significant role in supporting the U.S. domestic food supply by fostering agricultural skills, promoting leadership, encouraging youth engagement in agriculture, and offering hands-on opportunities to learn about farming in real world situations.

1. 4-H helps young people develop essential skills in animal care, crop management, and sustainable farming practices through hands-on livestock and horticulture projects. These practical skills prepare future farmers and ranchers to contribute to the nation’s food production.

2. 4-H nurtures future leaders in agriculture, encouraging youth to take on responsibilities and leadership roles in their communities. These programs build confidence and decision-making abilities that are crucial for leading farms and agricultural enterprises that meet food demands responsibly.

3. Many 4-H projects emphasize sustainable practices and emerging technologies, teaching youth how to manage resources wisely and adapt to new and upcoming challenges. This innovation helps ensure a resilient domestic food supply.

4. By connecting urban and rural youth, 4-H raises awareness of the importance of agriculture in food production, fostering understanding and support for agricultural policies. This outreach helps build public support for farming initiatives that benefit the food supply.

5. 4-H programs train future workers in the agricultural sector, a key component of the U.S. workforce. By introducing young people to various aspects of agriculture, including science, technology, engineering, and math, 4-H provides a pipeline of skilled individuals ready to contribute to the nation’s food system.

One of my assignments as the UF/IFAS Extension Martin County 4-H Youth Development Agent is to the Florida 4-H Executive Board where I teach ambassadorship skills to over 30 4-H members from across the state. At a recent executive board meeting, I was helping the youth develop their personal stories so they can effectively deliver elevator speeches. One of my ambassadors stood and delivered a thoughtful speech on the importance of agriculture education and providing hands-on learning opportunities to youth. She shared that she attended the Southeast Dairy Youth Retreat at the University of Florida this past summer and was surprised to learn how many opportunities there are for a career in agriculture. She added that from the weeklong event she now has an interest in learning more about agriculture.

Through education, skill-building, and leadership, 4-H is preparing the next generation to sustain and innovate within the U.S. food supply chain. We are bridging the gap and supplying this important industry with skilled people who will provide a secure and stable food future for our country.

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

As a funding organization dedicated to bringing financial and human resources to our community, we collaborate with local funders—including Bank of America, Children’s Services  Council, Community Foundation of Martin and St. Lucie, Community Foundation of Palm Beach and Martin, Hobe Sound Community Chest, Lost Tree Foundation, Mariner Sands Charity Week and of course United Way of Martin County—to assess our community’s current needs and determine how best to support them

Following recent disasters, such as the tornadoes accompanying Hurricane Milton, our community has come together to help. Many people who were spared from devastation are eager to give back and support those in need. 

In the aftermath of such weather disasters, we work closely with local, state, and federal agencies to assess community needs and provide necessary support. We rely on established human service providers like House of Hope and the Salvation Army, whose missions focus on empowering individuals and families year-round. These agencies have the expertise and capacity to ensure everyone receives help without duplicating services.

While we all want to assist our community—an admirable aspect of humanity—it’s vital to be strategic in our efforts. By coordinating our resources, we can allow those experienced in providing support to lead recovery efforts.

The road to recovery will be long for many in our community. While immediate assistance is crucial, we must also consider long-term recovery. Here are a few suggestions on how you can help now:
 

• Help an elderly neighbor clean up their yard.
• Help the communities that have been hit the hardest clean debris.
• Donate cleaning supplies, gift cards (small denominations $10 - $25) to House of Hope or Salvation Army. (they have processes so that there isn’t duplication) or canned goods and canned meat.
• Donate to anyone of the funders to assist in long term recovery. (Okay I am biased here United Way would be my choice (I may be biased, but I recommend United Way since we are Martin Board of County Commissioners charity of choice, United Way is the disaster recovery organization that manages fund distribution and deploys volunteers as necessary.) 
• Donate diapers, wipes, and baby formula to Martin County Healthy Start.

This list isn’t all inclusive, but it gives you an idea of what to do.

While many quality organizations are helping, we must channel our resources to the largest providers that can effectively assist individuals and families now and in the future. They have the staff, case managers, and infrastructure to make a lasting impact.

Let’s work together as one community to support our friends and neighbors. Thank you for your consideration. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call me at 716-531-5510 or my office at 772-283-4800. I would love to answer any questions you may have.

Carol Houwaart-Diez’s opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

The Things We Think and Cannot Say PC Addition

“The Things We Think and Cannot Say,” was the title of the manifesto that Jerry Macquire, played by Tom Cruise, wrote to try to change the sports agency business. 

I’m certainly not an agent but as a pastor there are some things that just should not be said.  One of those things is who to vote for.  Notice what I did not say.  I did not say politics. 

The reality is Jesus was political, he spoke out against the Roman Empire and was put to death by the Roman Empire.  So, to say politics is a topic off limits in the church would fall against the gospel itself.  However, there is a VERY fine line that needs to be toed. 

Any time the church is getting in line behind any candidate of any political flavor it becomes problematic.  The gospel by nature is meant to disrupt the status quo and is meant to shine a light on the shortcomings of society in order to bring about a greater good for all of society. 

Sadly, the political rhetoric has done a fantastic job of shining a bright light on the shortcomings of society, it just doesn’t offer any fixes.  I’ve had far too many conversations over the last week with people who are angry, sad, and/or scared about the election and the aftermath.  What does the church have to offer?  How can the church speak into the divide. 

Certainly not by backing any candidates or doing any victory laps on November 6th and beyond.  The book of Daniel offers some guidance for all of us over the next few days and beyond.  Simply put, God is in control, always has been and always will be.  God is present in the midst of our joys and our sorrow, our trials and our triumphs. 

How does the church speak into the divide?  Prayer.  Our plan is to offer a prayer station on election day offering people some simple prayers.  I’ll leave this one for you to pray in the coming days.

God of peace, in a time of division and uncertainty, we ask for Your spirit of unity to fill      hearts and our nation. Calm our fears and anxieties as we navigate differences of opinion and perspective. Help us to love one another, to seek common ground, and to build bridges of understanding. May we honor one another as Your children, working together for the common good. Amen.

Chad Fair's opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

The October 24 Rivers Coalition meeting featured a presentation by Merritt Matheson on the “Martin County Forever Conservation Initiative”. This is the half-cent sales tax increase referendum on the ballot to raise money to acquire and preserve environmentally-important land. Merritt, a former mayor of Stuart, co-chairs the two-year effort.

A) It is a referendum. This means future County Commissions can’t change it. The only way it can be changed is via another referendum.

B) Acquisitions are specifically limited to four areas: 1) Blue Water (small parcels of land adjacent to water bodies), 2) The Indian River Lagoon Watershed (mainly land in the area of the St. Lucie Canal), 3) Loxa-Lucie (the headwaters of the Loxahatchee and St. Lucie Rivers) and 4) Pal-Mar.

C) Proceeds can also be used to buy conservation easements permanently limiting land uses to protect its conservation value. Importantly, all easements will be in perpetuity and irrevocable.

The half-cent sales tax is expected to generate $18 million/year during its ten-year lifespan. This means $140 million in bonds could be issued immediately upon voter approval and land acquisitions could begin early next year. Significantly, acquisitions of this nature are typically made using matching funds, so Martin County’s $140 million would end up being leveraged to several times that. The acquisition process, though, must be initiated by a local government, which makes the Martin County sales-tax referendum the keystone of the process.

The Martin County Forever team is well aware that the last such initiative in 2006 led to some serious problems. Per the referendum, proceeds from that half-cent sales tax were to be split 50/50 between purchasing conservation lands and creating improved parks. The sales pitch, though, emphasized “purchasing conservation lands”, and the “creating improved parks” part, although hiding in plain sight, was glossed over. The result: Sailfish Splash. Matheson emphasized that the Martin County Forever team has included some very strong safeguards in the initiative to avoid any possible future hanky-panky with the proceeds from this initiative. The proceeds can be used to buy land -- and nothing else.

More information is available on Martin County Forever’s website: https://www.martincountyforever.com/

The Martin County League has not taken a position on this referendum but is a member of the Rivers Coalition, which supports it. 

Meanwhile, some friends at Sandhill Cove recently took a tour of U. S. Sugar’s operations. U. S. Sugar made a really slick presentation which insists they are doing nothing whatsoever to harm anything or anybody. I asked Mark Perry what the biggest thing was that they left out. “Overdraining”; they’re discharging water into canals which drain into water treatment areas, which keeps water from Lake Okeechobee from flowing south. There are others; suffice it to say that a sugar-sponsored tour (which I thought was fascinating when I took it) is a commercial, not a documentary.
 

Walter Deemer's opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

On Dec. 13, the Business Development Board will host its annual Martin County Business Awards at Hutchinson Shores Resort & Spa in Jensen Beach. The popular event—which reached capacity attendance for the past five years—culminates by unveiling the surprise winner of our most esteemed honor, the Charlene Hoag Leadership Award.

Named after the late Martin County commissioner, the award celebrates individuals who’ve demonstrated a legacy of leadership that prioritizes community and puts others first. Contemplating this upcoming event recently—and wondering about the identity of the-yet-to-be-named winner—made me especially excited about the caliber of leadership at the BDB and the possibilities ahead.

                    IM Group                       

For nearly a year, Dan Hudson—a distinguished government administrator and finance manager with the City of Stuart, Martin County and Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, among others—helmed the BDB as interim executive director. Recently, he handed the wheel to William Corbin, a certified economic developer with an accomplished career in the Atlanta-metro area. Our search committee selected William among nearly 100 applicants to serve as our executive director. We’re incredibly impressed by William, very grateful to Dan, and encouraged by the progress being achieved on multiple fronts.

Our board of directors—an extremely talented and dedicated group of leaders representing diverse industries, disciplines and local governments—continues to collaborate effectively in advancing our mission of assisting existing employers, conducting business retention and attraction services, and strengthening the economic climate. Members who serve on the executive board agreed to extend our terms by an extra year to ensure continuity and consistency.

                                                        Grind Hard Ammo

Now, the BDB is playing a key role in a lot of the positive activity underway across Martin County, such as:

• Power Systems Manufacturing: Originally founded in Martin County before moving out of the county, the company that specializes in manufacturing and servicing gas turbines for the aerospace industry is returning and will create 180,000 square feet of space and more than 100 high-wage jobs.
• IM Group: The Italian company we helped in establishing its North American headquarters in Jensen Beach is expanding.
• Grind Hard Ammo: After working with us to open its Stuart location—a nearly $60 million capital project—the company is building a second facility in Indiantown.
• Hinckley Yachts: The legacy company in Martin County’s 1.2 billion marine industry recently broke ground on a 44,000-square-foot expansion, inviting William to join the speakers commemorating the occasion.
• Site options: Our team is helping guide businesses to existing and incoming sites ideal for manufacturing, distribution and industrial job creation such as South Florida Gateway, Sands Commerce Center, Ashley Capital’s Sunrise Grove and Martin Commerce Park, Palm City Industrial Park and Newfield Workplace District.
• Village of Indiantown: Recently we joined Mayor Carmine Dipaolo, Taryn Kryzda, village manager, and others to learn more about the remarkable projects coming online in the state’s newest municipality, including Sedron Technologies, east Coast Metal Structures, Baystate Milling, Blue Cat USA, Indiantown Marine Center and more.

Opportunity—recognized and pursued by quality leadership—can produce outcomes that greatly benefit the entire community. Knowing the strength of the team we’ve assembled, I’m looking forward to the list above growing longer, and Martin County’s future shining even brighter.

In addition to volunteering as chair of the Business Development Board of Martin County, Susan Rabinowitz is the Treasure Coast Market President and Business Banking Market Executive for the Palm Beach and Treasure Coast markets for Bank of America.

In addition to volunteering as chair of the Business Development Board of Martin County, Susan Rabinowitz is the Treasure Coast Market President and Business Banking Market Executive for the Palm Beach and Treasure Coast markets for Bank of America.

Susan Rabinowitz's opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

Pawsitive Manners Club

Every year, over 400 dogs find themselves surrendered to the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast (HSTC) due to a variety of different reasons. Through other non-profit partners and community organizations, HSTC is able assist pet owners by providing resources needed to properly care for their pet, some of which include free pet food, low-cost vet care, and other important necessities. 

Another resource that HSTC is proud to offer is discounted obedience classes for pet owners in the community. Although our current training classes are considered low-cost, unfortunately, some people still struggle to afford to properly train their pet.  

In response to the need, HSTC created the Pawsitive Manners Club – an initiative dedicated to providing even lower-cost or free obedience training for both people and their dogs. The mission of the Pawsitive Manners Club is simple, we want to keep pets in their homes where they belong. Despite loving their animals, many families who struggle to care for their pet with behavior issues believe that surrendering them to the shelter is the only option. HSTC’s Pawstive Manners Club is available to provide the necessary resources and support to prevent that from happening.  Through obedience training and positive reinforcement techniques, HSTC aims to provide dog owners with essential tools to prevent behavior issues.

The Pawsitive Manners Club offers both private and group session training classes to ensure pet owners feel comfortable and confident in their dog’s behavior.  The group training classes consist of a 6-week training course, are 1 hour in length and occur on the same day each week.  Private classes are one-on-one sessions with our Lead Trainer, Heidi Fischer.  Class type is determined based on the needs of the dog; however, both class options have the same goal of helping the animal become the best version of itself.

The Pawsitive Manners Club was made possible by a generous donor whose contributions cover a large portion of class fees.  Last year, HSTC also raised money to support this program through our Giving Tuesday fundraising efforts.  We are proud to announce that we will be participating in Giving Tuesday again in 2024 to continue to raise funds for the Pawstive Manners Club.  

Giving Tuesday, which falls on December 3, is a global movement dedicated to generosity and support for non-profit organizations. This is a key fundraising day for charitable organizations and nonprofits, and thanks to a generous donor, our shelter will be matching donations dollar for dollar. This means that contributions will have double the impact to support affordable pet obedience and behavior training classes for those who need it the most!

To learn more about Giving Tuesday and to support our Pawsitive Manners program, please visit our website at https://hstc1.org/Giving-Tuesday. Anyone interested in donating can do so on our website, over the phone at 772-600-3216, or by mailing a check to 4100 SW Leighton Farm Ave, Palm City, FL 34990. Each contribution, no matter how small, adds up to create significant change for the people and pets in our community.

We thank you so much for your support!

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

Senator Gayle Harrell recognized by the Southeastern Association of Area Agencies on Aging…

On October 21, 2024, Senator Gayle Harrell was awarded the Aging Impact Award at the Southeastern Association of Area Agencies on Aging annual conference.  The award recognizes individuals who positively impact seniors on a statewide basis.

The nomination for the award was submitted on behalf of the eleven (11) Area Agencies in the State of Florida. Area Agencies are a local resource who work to keep seniors independent in their homes and out of institutional care for as long as possible. This contributes to a higher quality of life and more cost-effective delivery of care as compared to an institutional setting, such as a nursing home.

“It was an honor to accept the Aging Impact Award on behalf of Senator Harrell” said Charlotte Mather-Taylor, President, Florida Association of Area Agencies, “Senator Harrell continues to have a profound impact on older adults across the State of Florida through her work in the Florida Legislature.” 

Senator Harrell represents Florida Senate District 31, which includes Martin, St. Lucie and Palm Beach counties.  She was elected to the Florida Senate in November 2018 after serving eight terms in the Florida House of Representatives from 2000-2008 and 2010-2018. Collectively, over 20 years of experience advocating for sensible public policies supporting older Floridians.

Senator Harrell consistently supports legislation that improves access, affordability and accountability of healthcare including a focus on enhancing the quality-of-care Floridian’s receive.  A major interest of Senator Harrell’s is supporting older adults with home and community-based services that help seniors remain at home and avoid costly nursing home care.  She recognizes the quality of life that an older adult realizes by living independently in the community.

The impact that Senator Harrell has on Floridians is staggering.  As Chair of the Appropriation Committee on Health and Human Service, the committee recommends a Health and Human Services Budget of more than $46.5 billion dollars.  Many of these services directly benefit Florida Seniors.

I am pleased that Senator Harrell is recognized for her outstanding public service in Florida and nationally.

Dwight D. Chenette's opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

As I begin to write my last column for Friends and Neighbors, I think about all of the friends I have made over the past 50 years as the Chief Executive Officer of Helping People Succeed. You may have already heard that I am retiring effective December 31, 2024.

I have grown up at Helping People Succeed—formerly Pioneer Occupational Center for the Handicapped (before my time), Tri-County Rehabilitation Center, Tri-County TEC,

Tri-County Training Employment and Community, and, finally Helping People Succeed. As I remember many fun and exciting as well as difficult times, I realize that many of you have also “grown up” here as well—we’ve done it together.

To even begin to thank those who have been a part of Helping People Succeed’s and my growth, the numbers become extraordinary. It started with board members Joan Jefferson, David Balongue and Doug Sands hiring me and is ending with board members Heidi Bosley, Tom Campenni, Allen Herskowitz, Rosie Portera and Beth Prinz—members of the CEO Selection Committee choosing my successor. Our boards have always cared about our success and the positive outcomes for thousands of people served.

I cannot begin to count the number of employees I’ve had the pleasure to work with. When I started, we had 27 employees and today, we have 170+ working in Martin, St. Lucie and Okeechobee counties. We have always worked together as a team growing together to help those who need services to become part of the community. The people I have worked with are beyond comprehension—they care, they’re competent, they’re strong and sometimes pushy—but we get the job done!

In closing, beginning next month, you’ll be hearing from a new Helping People Succeed Chief Executive Officer. I think you’ll find that she has the expertise, competence, and, most especially, the passion to keep the organization viable for at least another 50 years!

The future is bright for the organization and for me. As I begin my new chapter, please know that I appreciate and value each of you. Lots of love always.

Suzy Hutcheson's opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

Restoring Martin: A Community’s Spirit Shines After the Storm

Years from now, when we tell stories of Hurricane Milton and the devastating tornadoes of 2024, the heartwarming spirit of our community and the way people jumped in to help one another will be one of things we will look back on fondly.  Our local unsung heroes, families, businesses, nonprofit groups and government workers at all levels came together to assist storm victims in their recovery and rebuilding efforts.

The storms left more than just damaged properties and structures behind. As the winds and water receded, it became clear that our beautiful natural environment had also suffered, and in some areas, was decimated. Martin Grade, with its stunning canopy of trees, was damaged. Many parks were filled with debris. Our beaches and waterways, recently cleaned by over a thousand volunteers as part of the annual International Coastal Cleanup, were strewn with everything from palm fronds and vegetation to large pieces of plastic and wood and other building materials.

Keep Martin Beautiful volunteers mobilized in the aftermath of Milton, using all of the passion and expertise they’ve developed over their years of environmental stewardship, to get to work and remove litter.

Some of our volunteers, armed with supplies from Keep Martin Beautiful headquarters, set out immediately after the storm to collect debris. Our Adopt-a-Road groups turned their attention to the roadways that needed care. Individuals and groups headed to the beach and returned with bags full of litter.

On October 19, Keep Martin Beautiful was proud to partner with the United Way of Martin County and Martin County government for a morning of full-on litter removal. Based at Stuart Beach, our volunteers combed the sand and dunes along Martin County beaches. They brought back bags of debris and great stories about the experience of working together for the common good - to restore the area we all love and call home.

As we approach the Thanksgiving season, we can all be grateful for the generous spirit that is helping our community recover. Keep Martin Beautiful salutes everyone who came out to help in the aftermath of the storm. While full recovery will take a while, we know that our organization, like so many others, will keep at the task of caring for our neighbors and our community - making Martin County beautiful again.

Would you like to be a Keep Martin Beautiful volunteer? For more info, contact Keep Martin Beautiful at 772-781-1222, email info@keepmartinbeautiful.org or visit keepmartinbeautiful.org.

Tiffany Kincaid's opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

November is shaping up to be a really important time for teachers in the Martin County, and we are already off to a positive start because our union sister, Vanessa Molina-Council, was named 2024-25 District Teacher of the Year! Congratulations to her for this well-deserved honor.

On November 5th, voters will be asked to continue supporting our schools by voting to renew the existing millage referendum. First approved in 2018 and renewed in 2022, millage funds have been used for school safety & security, mental health services, recruitment & retention of teachers, professional development, and other academic initiatives.

This referendum is particularly important because it will allow these programs to continue, uninterrupted, beyond 2026, while a ‘no’ vote would cause an interruption or perhaps a cancellation of them entirely. For our teachers, who count on the recruitment and retention stipend as part of their salary, this would be devastating. For the students who rely on the security measures and mental health services funded by the millage, the impact could be far worse.

Those are awfully big risks to take for something that isn’t going to raise your taxes any higher than they currently are. On behalf of my students and colleagues, I will be voting YES to continue the millage, and I hope that you will too!

Another issue affecting teachers is the state of contract negotiations with the school board. We are currently at an impasse over the 2024-25 contract, and we are scheduled to present our case before a special magistrate in the next month. At issue is a 1% increase to supplements for teachers who do extra work and $275 for teachers in the Western Zone (Indiantown) to resolve a dispute that has gone on for far too long.

Whether you are a teacher waiting for a salary increase, a parent who wants a stable and supportive learning environment for their children, or a taxpayer concerned about district funds being used to prolong negotiations and pay exorbitant attorney’s fees (which are more than what teachers are asking for), I am sure that you would support a positive outcome for teachers and students. That is why we are asking the school board to follow the decision of the special magistrate and avoid any further delays in negotiations.

When parents and educators work together, there is no limit to what the children in Martin County can accomplish. As a teacher for 16 years, I am proud of the partnerships I have made with my students’ parents, and I know my colleagues feel the same. With your help, we can renew the millage and end the impasse.

To find out how you can help, email me at Matt.Theobald@floridaea.org. Thank you!

Matt Theobald's opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

This Week's Article by Jesse Adamson

In today's fast-paced world, finding moments to slow down can be challenging, especially for busy individuals juggling multiple responsibilities. Mindfulness breaks offer a simple yet effective way to reset for a busy professional or caregiver who is working on reducing their list of obligations.

Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the moment, aware of your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings without judgment. Incorporating mindfulness breaks into your daily routine can help reduce stress, improve concentration, and enhance your overall quality of life.

Even just a few minutes can make a significant difference. Start by setting aside time for a short break between tasks. During this time, engage in deep breathing exercises: inhale slowly through your nose, hold the breath for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth. Make noise when you breath, if you are able and willing—it is a freeing experience. This simple practice helps calm the nervous system.

Mindful observation is another quick technique. Choose an object around you, such as a plant or a piece of art, and spend a few moments observing it in detail. This exercise encourages you to shift your focus away from stressors and anchor yourself in the present.

By integrating mindfulness breaks into your day, you can slow down, recharge, and approach your tasks with renewed clarity and calm. Let’s create lives that we love through slowing down when we can.

Anne Posey's opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

Riding Whole-Heartedly into the Holidays:
Business Entrepreneur Back to Work and Family After Heart Surgery

Kevin Sharkey has a full life as owner of Sharkey’s Air Conditioning in Stuart, Florida. He is also a philanthropist: founder of Molly’s House, named for his young daughter Molly who lost her battle with leukemia several years ago. Molly’s House provides accommodations for patients and families while they undergo treatment at medical facilities in Stuart.  

The 72-year-old businessman is an avid motorcycle rider who leads an active life despite what he calls “a few dings and dents.”

In 2018, he had cardiac stents put in to reopen clogged arteries after experiencing pain down his arm. At that time he had been busy with his wife’s medical issues and recalls postponing a visit to the doctor.

In April 2024, Mr. Sharkey began feeling pressure from his shoulder and knew it wasn’t normal. This time he knew he needed to act and did not hesitate.

He immediately made an appointment to see his cardiologist, thinking he needed another stent. But he woke up from a cardiac cath to the news that he needed triple bypass surgery. He underwent an 8 ½ hour surgery at Cleveland Clinic Martin North. By the next day, he was up and walking around the hallway of the hospital. He was discharged after 3 ½ days and underwent seven days of cardiac rehabilitation at home. “Now I’m a member of the zipper club,” he said.  

Mr. Sharkey’s cardiac surgeon, Michael Howard, MD, at Cleveland Clinic, said this was a widow maker – a greater than 85 percent blockage in the left descending artery, which carries 50% of the blood to the heart muscle. “Surgery is critical when you have that type of obstruction,” Dr. Howard said. “He could have had a deadly heart attack,” had he not been treated.   

Mr. Sharkey had surgery on May 2, 2024, fully recovered from surgery, and returned to work at the end of May. It was a life-changing event for Mr. Sharkey — as it is for many patients who go through open heart surgery. 

For Dr. Howard, a triple coronary bypass is something he does every day. His cardiothoracic surgery expertise in planning this type of intervention, along with the team of caregivers at Martin North, is exceptional. Mr. Sharkey’s quick recognition of the problem and swift action is equally exceptional – it saved his life. His resilience is admirable. He followed instructions, did the cardiac rehab and is here to enjoy the simple things in life, like family, friends, and a motorcycle ride. In fact, he rode his Harley 1,700 miles only 7 weeks after his heart surgery.

Mr. Sharkey thanks Dr. Howard for his swift recovery and his ability to continue riding and running his local business. “I am very grateful for Dr. Howard’s professionalism,” he said.                                                                              Dr. Michael Howard

As a community hospital leader, I’m thankful for people like Mr. Sharkey and proud of the collaboration between Cleveland Clinic specialists like Dr. Howard and community physicians from Cardiology Associates who assessed Mr. Sharkey and made the connections to get him ready for the cardiac surgery he needed. We are all thankful to be able to work together for the good of the patient.

About Dr. Howard
Michael Howard, MD, received his surgery training at Hospital Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile. After his general surgery residency in Chile, he completed a thoracic and cardiovascular surgery in Chile and then moved to Cleveland Clinic in Ohio to complete a cardiothoracic surgery fellowship and then an additional fellowship in thoracic surgery and lung transplantation. He is one of three cardiothoracic surgeons based at Cleveland Clinic Martin North. For information and appointments: 772.419.2137 or visit this page.

Rishi P. Singh's opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

Leadership and Business in the Midst of a Hurricane: The Importance of Adaptability and Technology

As leaders and business owners, we constantly face challenges requiring quick thinking, strategic planning, and adaptability. Some situations, like an oncoming hurricane, test our leadership to the extreme. Hurricanes’ unpredictability and destructive force can greatly impact businesses. Economic or social storms can have a similar effect. 

During such crises having a clear emergency plan is vital. Leaders must maintain calm and stability amid chaos. This requires strong communication and quick decision-making skills as employees look to us for guidance and reassurance in uncertain times.

Technology plays a vital role in preparedness and management. Staying informed and preparing for multiple outcomes is necessary. Technology enables businesses to continue operations during and after a crisis. This might be done with cloud-based systems and remote work options minimizing business impact.

Technology aids disaster recovery, with virtual communication tools and data backup systems helping businesses quickly recover. This is crucial for small businesses that can't sustain prolonged operational interruptions.

The threat of chaos should be enough to cause any business owner or manager to prepare their operation for the worst. The question you should ask yourself is, am I doing this? If you patronize a business that you depend on, are they doing this?

Our recent experience with the side effects of tornados spawned by Hurricane Milton is a great example of the unexpected. We were out of the eye’s fury yet still had a dramatic effect on us.

Importantly, anytime you find a gap in your technology you need to fill the gap. Don’t be that business that loses thousands of dollars a day during an emergency because you didn’t want to spend $120 a month in redundancy or protection. Technology and services do have a cost, but in today’s world, without working tech you might as well close up shop. I like to think that gambling is for Vegas, not your business.

It takes good management and leadership to be prepared, and it takes reaching out to professionals who can help develop and implement the plan you need to be effective. The most important aspect of this is, don’t put it off. We might be at the tail end of the hurricane season, but what about economic upheaval. Get your plan in place, then once a year review it and make sure it is sound. If you do, you will greatly increase the chance that your business will survive and thrive like mine has for 39 years.

Eric Kiehn’s opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

Holiday Hustle – From Jolly Sales to Toilets That Gurgle!

Running a small business during the holiday season is like trying to wrap a cat in Christmas lights—it’s chaotic, confusing, and occasionally results in scratches. But despite the mad rush of Black Friday, the absurdity of customer behavior, and the tinsel-covered stress, it’s also the most beautiful time of the year for small business owners. Here are some humorous yet helpful tips to survive and thrive as the year comes to a festive end.

Black Friday: A Retailer's Gladiator Arena

Ah, Black Friday. It’s the one day of the year when adults behave like overly caffeinated toddlers on a sugar high, diving for that 30% off scented candle like it’s the last lifeboat on the Titanic. As a small business owner, you know the drill: clear the aisles, double-check your insurance, and brace for impact. But while you’re at it, make the most of the hype by offering exclusive deals to your loyal customers before the doorbusters hit. Consider a “VIP Early Bird Sale” for regulars. You’d be amazed at what people will do to feel special, even if it’s just being let in 15 minutes early to browse your socks.

Capture Those Holiday Moments (For Social Media)

If there’s one thing people love more than shopping, it’s showing off their shopping on Instagram. Set up a festive photo booth corner in your shop—complete with ridiculous holiday props like reindeer antlers and oversized candy canes. Invite customers to snap a pic, tag your business, and offer a small discount or a freebie for doing so. It’s like free marketing but with fewer sleigh bells and more hashtags.

Repairs Before Relatives: A Gift for Your Sanity

If you're a repair company, the holidays are a golden opportunity to drum up business. Pitch your services with the angle that no one wants a backed-up toilet while the family is over or a leaky roof while the in-laws drop hints about your “budget priorities.” Create a promo called “Fix-It-For-the-Family” to encourage pre-holiday repairs. 

And don’t forget the little things—like fixing that front lawn reindeer that “ran over Grandma.” Because nothing ruins the Christmas spirit faster than a wobbly Rudolph. The best part? All these repairs might be tax-deductible so that clients can feel good about their end-of-year spending spree.

Gift Cards: The Last-Minute Savior

Let’s face it, gift cards are the ultimate “I have no idea what to buy you, but I care enough to give you this” solution. Stock up on gift cards and promote them as the perfect gift for that hard-to-shop-for cousin who insists they don’t need anything but then secretly hates whatever you get them. And here’s a pro tip: offer a bonus card for customers who buy more than one. It’s like a BOGO, but with less guilt and more holiday cheer.

Stay Sane (Sort of)

Amid all the holiday madness, remember to take a deep breath. Embrace the chaos, laugh at the absurdity, and make a little extra. Have more ideas? Write in and let us hear them!

Chriss David’s opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

In an effort to inform you, the taxpayer, as to what your tax dollars pay for, the MCTA will offer a description of our county’s services from time to time. 

Utilities and Solid Waste Director Sam Amerson and Assistant County Administrator, Matt Graham gave us a tour of the North Water Treatment Plant located in Jensen Beach.  We were immediately struck by the expanse of the 20 acre property on which it sits.

The complexity yet simplicity of the system was impressive.  It seems like a simple thing…to provide clean drinking water safely and reliably to 105,000 people daily.   But channeling 8.8 million gallons of water through reverse osmosis, filtering all that water to be sure it is clean, adding and subtracting 5 chemicals and adjusting alkalinity and pH to be sure the taste is right is a task for well trained and dedicated experts. 

Our drinking water is initially drawn from wells fed by the surficial aquifer which is widespread and shallow… around 100’ deep. It consists of rainfall, surface water bodies, and groundwater flow. You can imagine what it picks up along the way.  Alternatively, our drinking water can also be from deeper wells fed by the deep aquifer which can be 1,500’ below.  These alternate sources can be blended with the product water from our Reverse Osmosis Treatment System.  Essentially high pressure forces the water through sand filters and membranes where it is stripped of everything foreign. Then minerals are added back.  Degasifiers and service pumps, deep water injection wells are all involved.  On site storage silos enable 8 million gallons to be on hand continually.  Not all water meets the mark even after the processing.  Water that is rejected is sent below the aquifer some 3200’ deep.  After processing 5 high service pumps push the water to your tap. 

The testing and monitoring never cease.  The whole thing is operated by licensed operators 24/7. Data from analyzing and testing the process never ceases.  

Considering the recent issues Riviera Beach has had with its water, the MCTA wanted to check out our system.  It is award winning and to our observation very well run.  A good use of taxpayer’s dollars to be sure.

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

By: John Grant  Retired Florida Senator and President of Seniors Across America

To say there is a lot going on in our country right now would be a gross understatement. And it seems the nearly 55 million seniors living in the United States are especially affected by all this chaos.

For instance, Medicare Advantage open enrollment just started and goes through December 7th. You can’t go online or watch TV without being bombarded with all the ads. 36-million seniors are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan.

According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, nearly two-thirds of those participants roll over the same plan each year. But this year five million seniors may have changes to their current plan or will be losing it all together. So, folks 65 and older have a lot of homework to do to make sure they have the medical coverage they need.

Then COLA, or the Cost-of-Living-Adjustment, for 2025 just came out. The slight increase of 2.5% indicates inflation is moderating; however, many seniors will tell you it won’t be enough to counter rising costs. In 2023, a record 40-year inflation allowed for an 8.7% increase. This year SS recipients got a 3.2% increase. Next year’s COLA bump translates to just about $50 more a month for seniors.

Which leads me to the November election. Hopefully, seniors, like all Americans, are doing their homework and deciding who they will elect to represent them for the next four years. Early voting in Florida varies by county but is mandatory statewide from October 26 through Nov. 2nd. Election day in Florida is Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024.

There are a number of important issues at risk including medical coverage costs, the economy, and the future of Social Security. Both presidential candidates are talking about all these issues and have come up with different plans to protect the Social Security Trust Fund.

Who you vote for in Congress matters too because ultimately Congress needs to come up with a long-term solution to fund Social Security benefits. The annual Social Security and Medicare trustees report that came out in May indicates the program will be depleted by 2036 if changes are not made.

So, clearly there’s a lot going on. But seniors have an advantage facing all this turmoil. They have years of experience riding the wave of life’s ups and downs. They’re a resilient and hopeful generation and they often live by the mantra “This too shall pass.”

I’m sure seniors are not alone in hoping everything slows down real soon.

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

By: J Corey Crowley, Chairman Salerno Downtown Authority

Much has been made over my relationship with Commissioner Heard (Sarah).  Let me give you my side of the story.

Being an “ally” with Sarah is like being friends with a bowling ball.  I can point to it and show it to people but I’m not entirely certain it doesn’t want to roll off the shelf and smash my head while I sleep.  

It has been hard for me to understand the backlash from the community but let me explain it in the only way that has made sense to me. Think of Port Salerno as the Natives and think of developers as the Ranchers in this little fiction.  The County Commission is elected from this crowd and sometimes the representative is a Native that supports the Ranchers and sometimes they are a Rancher that pretends to support the Natives.  There are very few elected officials that fight consistently to support the Natives.  Sarah is certainly one of them.

This is what makes this story interesting because everyone is trying to figure out why the most consistent anti-growth, anti-development vote over the past two decades in Martin County would ever talk to a developer let alone meet with one on a regular basis.  Sarah voted against every change to the comprehensive plan and every Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) rezoning.   That is what Martin County wants.  The people of Martin County want to slow things down.  WAY down.  They like their ruralish lifestyle and cannot suffer the idea of being like Boca or, God forbid, Miami.  But, the rules were passed and Sarah understands the rules. 

But why are we even here?  Why is Sarah meeting with me and why am I meeting with Sarah?  Let me start with my intention.

It is in my interest to meet with Sarah because there is nobody else to meet with.  When the developers read the rules it seems like the Natives want their community transformed.  But they don’t.  They want things to stay the same.   Sarah doesn’t want any development but also understands that we have the right to develop and she is trying to mitigate the issue as best she can.  If there was anyone else at the county to meet with I would meet with them.  Sarah is last on my list of people I would choose to work with on development but she is also the only name on that list.

What are Sarah’s intentions?  Firstly she wishes that I would go away.  Secondly she wishes that I would disappear.  I think, more than anything, she wishes that I would vanish and take the CRA rules with me.  But …. Since I’m here to stay, she would prefer to know what the plans are than to be surprised by them.  I’m not entirely sure that sharing my plans is in my best interest but I genuinely want to build something special and so I’m willing to take that risk.  

We are two years into this process. I’m no longer optimistic that we can all work together.   The community is going to end up losing an opportunity to build something special but I understand why now.  It’s frustrating but hopefully Martin County will learn from this and try to make a more substantial peace between the residents and the developers in the future.  If you want more car washes, retirement homes and apartment complexes then keep doing what you have been doing.  If you want something better then do something different.  You can start by reading the rules.  It’s hard to make progress when everyone is getting their information from clowns on Facebook.

J Corey Crowley's opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

Editors Note: While we do edit columns by our contributors. Mr. Crowley's was left unedited by us.

“Homestead vs. Non-Homestead” 

If you are a homeowner and have the Homestead Exemption, your assessed value is limited from increasing year to year to a maximum of 3%. But did you know that even Non-Homestead properties benefit from an assessment limitation? Check out this chart to learn more.

Helping People Succeed’s

2025 Art for Living Calendars on Sale Now!

It’s that time of year when Helping People Succeed distributes its popular Art for Living Calendars, available for residents and guests at local business outlets, including Barnes & Noble Book Store in Jensen Beach. Looking for that perfect gift? Helping People Succeed's 2025 Art for Living Calendar reflects the beauty we have right here on the Treasure Coast! Each month is represented by one of our talented local artists. The calendars sell for only $25.00 each.

Our featured artists this year include: William Kramer, Charles T. White, Susan Clifford, Pamela Patterson, Pat Hoshino, Kirsty Smith Innis, Dan Mackin, Laura DeBerard, Marian Vitale, Holly Cannon, Mallo Bisset, Elisa Peppe and Don MacIntosh.

Pam PattersonWe are also thankful for our underwriters: Dale Forbes, Snook Nook, Ildiko Insurance Advisors, LLC, Hoskins Turco Lloyd & Lloyd, EW Consultants, Leonardo & Company, Stuart Business Systems, Water Point Realty, Mary Kay Buckridge, Oral-Facial Surgical Associates, All Creatures Animal Hospital, Sandhill Cove Retirement Living, Seacoast Bank and Aycock Funeral Home.

The calendars are available for sale at the Helping People Succeed office, 1601 NE Braille Place, off Savanna Road in Jensen Beach as well as throughout the Treasure Coast. For a complete listing of outlets where you can purchase a calendar – visit our website at hpsfl.org.

Calendar Artist Artwork will be on display at the Trinity United Methodist Church October 4 through November 8, 2025. The church is located at 2221 NE Savannah Rd, Jensen Beach, FL - 10 am to 1:00 pm Monday through Thursday and 10 am to 12 pm on Fridays.

You can also view the original work of arts on the Second Floor Art Gallery at the Elliott Museum from mid-December, 2024 through April of 2025. The Museum is located at 825 NE Ocean Boulevard and is open daily.

Serving our community for 60 years, Helping People Succeed helps develop healthy families in Martin, St. Lucie, Okeechobee and Indian River counties by providing numerous parenting, mental health and behavioral support programs. Helping People Succeed also provides support services designed to enable adults with special needs to fully participate in volunteer and employment roles in our community.

For more information, visit our website at hpsfl.org or contact Jeraldine Guaba at 772.320.0836.

Martin Artisans’ Guild Presents “Tis the Season Exhibit

By Jackie Holfelder

Whatever holidays you celebrate between now and New Year’s Day, they will be merrier and brighter and more festive if you include ‘Tis the Season in your revelry.

Enjoy the conviviality at Martin Artisan Guild’s annual holiday exhibit from November 6-January 4 at The Palm Room Art Gallery & Artisans Boutique, located at 3746 SE Ocean Boulevard in Stuart’s Harbour Bay Plaza.

                                                                  Denise Jackson

The opening reception takes place from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on November 6 and will feature the live music, cash bar and delectable appetizers for which all Martin Artisan Guild events have become known.

Return to the Palm Room for a second round of seasonal joy at the “Meet the Artists” event on December 4 from 4-6 p.m.

The talented artists with work in Tis the Season include:

Caryl Pomales

Denise Jackson

Dinija Berkien

Dot Galfond

Glen Allen

James J DeMartis

Jane Baldridge

Jose Farinos

Kim Beltrame

Laura Kay Whitiar Darvill

Mark Stall

Michaleann Bellerjeau

Patricia Pasbrig

Sally Browning Pearson

Sue Klahne

                                                                     Sue Klahne

Gallery hours are noon- 6 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Days, when it is closed.

Photos Provided by Martin Artisan Guild

For more information, visit www.martinartisansguild.org.

Martin County PAL Operation Nutcracker

Martin County PAL invites you to participate in our upcoming Operation Nutcracker!

Purchase a Nutcracker for $100, put your personal touch on it, and showcase your

creation at our Nutty Cocktail Party on Thursday, November 21st, from 5:30 PM to

7:30 PM at our facility - 1284 SW 34th St, Palm City.

Each decorated Nutcracker will be auctioned off during the event, with proceeds directly

benefiting our LEAD after school program!

Want to make an even bigger impact? Check out our sponsorship options:

• Cheer Sponsor ($500): Includes a 15” Nutcracker to decorate.

• Feast Sponsor ($500): Includes a 15” Nutcracker to decorate.

• Entertainment Sponsor ($500): Includes a 15” Nutcracker to decorate.

• Community Give-Back Sponsor ($250): Helps fund 50 Nutcrackers for

PAL youth to paint and deliver to assisted living facilities during the holidays.

Every Nutcracker sold and decorated is a step toward giving back to our community in a

meaningful way. Don’t miss your chance to get involved, have fun, and make an

impact!

Entry deadline: November 20th. For more details, please contact us today at

info@martincountypal.org or visit our website www.martincountypal.org

ARC of the Treasure Coast Finds Success with Project Search

By: Keith Muniz, President & CEO 

Just two years ago, ARC of the Treasure Coast became part of a state pilot program called Project Search Youth. Funded originally by the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council, and the Florida Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, the 9-month internship is designed to educate, train and hire adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities within the community work force setting.

Through on-the-job training, Monday through Friday several hours a day, young adults learn new tasks within the healthcare, food services, and hospitality business settings. The intent is for each intern to use the skills gained to find employment within the company or in the surrounding community. The ultimate goal being long-term employment outcomes for people in the program.

Now, ARC of the Treasure Coast is sharing a Project Search Success Story that proves the program works. Elias is a Treasure Coast resident who interned at Cleveland Clinic North in PACU and pre-op and proudly worked as a greeter at the hospital's front entrance. His winning smile was the perfect attribute needed to excel as a greeter.

With ARC’s individualized coaching and the hospital staff’s work-based instruction, Elias thrived during his internship learning competitive, transferable and marketable job skills. The hospital was impressed with his spirit and work ethic. Elias gained confidence and self-esteem and increased his independence.

His dedication and excellence earned him a recognition coin from Cleveland Clinic, marking the first time a volunteer received such an honor. Elias was also awarded a scholarship from the Garwin Family, presented annually by Cleveland Clinic to an outstanding intern.

The Advocates for the Rights of the Challenged, is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to assisting and supporting children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to achieve their fullest potential through residential, vocational, behavioral, and other related healthcare services. Businesses and/or individuals interested in the Project Search program should visit: https://www.seeconline.org/project-search/

Elias now works for ARC of the Treasure Coast in the after-school program, and he truly exemplifies determination and achievement. Congratulations, Elias!

Pinot & Picasso, Celebrating

Helping People Succeed’s Diamond Jubilee Year!

By Glenna Parris

Pinot & Picasso, An Evening of Fine Wine and Art, will be celebrating their Diamond Jubilee Year on Saturday, November 23, 2024 to benefit Helping People Succeed.

Graciously hosted once again by Bill Lichtenberger, the soiree kicks off with cocktails from 5:30 – 7:00 pm., followed by dinner with select wine pairings and entertainment at the elegantly appointed Harbour Ridge Yacht and Country Club.

The silent auction will have a little something for everyone and the live auction, led by auctioneer Reed Hartman, will give guests an opportunity to bid on a fishing charter with the award-winning captain VJ Bell and the 61’ Unbelievable.  

Guests will also meet and greet local artists as Helping People Succeed unveils it’s 2025 Art for Living Calendar. This year’s artists include William Kramer, Charles White, Susan Clifford, Pamela Patterson, Pat Hoshino, Kirsty Innis, Dan Mackin, Laura DeBerard, Marian Vitale, Holly Cannon, Mallo Bisset, Elisa Peppe and Don MacIntosh. Their artwork will also be on display and for sale with proceeds to benefit Helping People Succeed.  

Hue-Yun, a world class harpist and pianist, will perform throughout the evening and guests will also be able to view a one time showing of a private collection of Picasso’s original work and other unique pieces.

Tickets are only $250 per person and sponsorship opportunities are available.

The mission of Helping People Succeed, which has been improving lives on the Treasure Coast for 60 years, is to transform lives by realizing potential, creating hope and building futures through education, counseling, training and employment.

For more information, contact Glenna Parris at 772.320.0778 or gparris@hpsfl.org or visit www.hpsfl.org.

Council on Aging Martin is Getting Fired Up for

New Pep Rally Gala 2024

STUART, FL - It’s the World Series, the NFP Playoffs, and March Madness rolled into one! It’s the 50th Anniversary Pep Rally Gala for the Council on Aging Martin County, and it’s coming to the Kane Center in Stuart on November 9.

Twelve teams of energetic supporters have already formed and are raising money in a fierce competition for bragging rights at this new fundraising event. Prizes will be awarded to the top three teams at the Pep Rally Gala.

“It’s going to be a fun night for the teams and everyone who attends the event,” said Council on Aging Martin President and CEO Karen Ripper. “The ultimate winners, though, will be our clients, whose needs range from Meals on Wheels delivered to their homes daily to assistance with rent, prescriptions, and navigation through the social services network.”

Teams include Council on Aging Martin Staff Members, Council on Aging Martin Board Members, Closets by Design, EP&C Auctions and Real Estate, FPL, Lotus Loft, New Home Dream Team, Nikki Norton and Team Purple, Orange Theory Fitness, Raymond James, Seacoast Bank, and Water’s Edge Health Care & Assisted Living.

Friends but also competitors, representatives from some of the teams competing for bragging rights as the most successful fundraisers for the Council on Aging Martin County Pep Rally Gala are (l to r): Michele Davidson - Team Water’s Edge Health Care & Assisted Living; Bill Clifford - COA Board member; Leslie Warren, Jenny Yingling, and Patty McAuley  - Team Seacoast; Andrea Turke - Team New Home Dream Team; Tabitha Hopkins - Team Orange Theory Fitness; Nicole Natasha and Erica Curtis  - Team New Home Dream Team; Amber Stephan - Team Lotus Loft; Michele Dyer – New Home Dream Team and Chuck Cleaver – COA Board Member.

Each team has a goal of at least $2,000. They’re exercising all of their creativity to raise funds. Orange Theory Fitness, for example, is hosting a fun 1.5 workout to raise money and competing mightily against Lotus Loft Yoga Studio. New Home Dream Team members are looking to a variety of fundraisers to show their huge heart for seniors including a giveback night hosted by Hurricane Grill & Wings in Palm City. Team Captain Duff Mahan of Seacoast Bank is enjoying a chance to meet new people in the community as he and his wife, Devon, raise funds.

Individual tickets for the Pep Rally Gala are available at $175, and groups of ten can reserve a seated lounge space within the event for $1600. Sponsorship opportunities are still available.

A Leaderboard at coamartin.org/peprallygala shows the current status of each team. Click on a favorite team or two to make a donation, improve their chances of taking a trophy, and help the Council on Aging make a difference in the lives of Martin County’s seniors.  
 

About the Council on Aging Martin County

The Council on Aging Martin County is the community’s hub for senior resources and the county’s Lead Agency on Aging. Founded in 1974, the organization offers expertise, programming and support for older adults and their families to help seniors maintain lives of quality and purpose. Services include Day Primary Care Center, Memory Enhancement Center, Adult Day Club, Meals on Wheels, care management, caregiver support, and a robust offering of educational, cultural, fitness and wellness programs.

The Kane Center located at 900 SE Salerno Road in Stuart is the Council on Aging Martin County’s headquarters and is also an event venue available to the public. It serves as a special needs hurricane shelter when necessary. The Council on Aging Martin County also operates senior outreach facilities in Hobe Sound, Jensen Beach, East Stuart and Indiantown. A 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, the Council on Aging receives funding from state and federal agencies and relies on philanthropic support from the community, including other agencies, private foundations and individual donors. For more information, visit www.coamartin.org.

Excitement in the Air: The Children’s Museum Presents the Reimagined Festival of Giving

Thanks to the generous support of our presenting sponsors—Gina Staten, The Ngo Group, and Illustrated Properties—the Children's Museum of the Treasure Coast is thrilled to invite the community to the inaugural Festival of Giving this November!

Building on the beloved legacy of the Festival of Trees, which has benefited Tykes and Teens for 16 years, this year marks a new chapter as Tykes and Teens passes the torch to us. We’re excited to keep this cherished tradition alive, with some delightful twists that promise fun for everyone!

Prepare for a dazzling display of over 60 beautifully decorated trees, wreaths, and centerpieces! This year, each sponsor has chosen to support either the museum or a local nonprofit focused on children, families, or education. These organizations serve our five main counties: Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee.  Guests attending the festival can purchase tickets to win all of these pieces to enjoy for years to come in the comfort of their homes.

The festivities kick off with "A Breakfast Story," a Council of Chambers networking breakfast where the inspiring stories of over 40 nonprofits will come to life. Sponsored by Colorado Pawn & Jewelry, this event requires registration and is expected to fill up quickly with 150 guests!  Register at https://app.dvforms.net/api/dv/vAvOw

Join us for four magical days of celebration during these open to the public hours:

- Monday, November 18 from 11 AM - 7:30 PM

- Tuesday, November 19 - Thursday, November 21 from 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM

During these hours, the museum's exhibits will be closed to ensure a focused experience on the festival.

During general museum hours when the museum is open for families to play, create and imagine, the festival is closed to the public for the safety of our young guests.

On Wednesday, November 20, we’ll host Family Night, featuring holiday crafts, a visit from Santa, and performances by talented local student groups. Throughout the week, enjoy local acts performing with festive cheer every evening.

The celebration culminates in what is sure to become a truly unique holiday tradition on Friday, November 22—our Pajama Party Cocktail Bash sponsored by Elder Home Care Services! Leave the formal attire at home and come dressed in your coziest holiday pajamas. Enjoy delicious holiday appetizers, an extravagant dessert grazing table, and live music, plus exciting surprises! This 21+ event will feature a contest with prizes for the best pajama ensembles. Tickets are available for advance purchase online at https://app.dvforms.net/api/dv/5vzYe.

Finally, the grand drawing for our trees, wreaths, and centerpieces will happen on Saturday, November 23 and winners will be contacted promptly. Winners can pick up their items on Sunday, November 24, from 8 AM to noon.

With so much joy packed into these five days, the Festival of Giving promises to be an unforgettable experience for our community. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

For questions, please contact Christina McIntosh at christina@childrensmuseumtc.org or 772-225-7575 ext. 205. To purchase tickets and register for events, visit www.childrensmuseumtc.org/festival-of-giving.

Join us in spreading the spirit of giving this holiday season!

TREASURE COAST COMMUNITY SINGERS PERFORM HANDEL’S MESSIAH

Start your holiday season with the Treasure Coast Community Singers presentation  of George Frideric  Handel’s “The Messiah”. The Chamber Singers, directed by Dr. Douglas Jewett, will feature four professional soloist:  Soprano Sydney Carbo; Mezzo Soprano Marguerite Krull; Tenor Pedro Veldez; Baritone Mark Sullivan.  They will be accompanied by a String Ensemble and TCCS very own  master pianist, Carol Paul. Be prepared to be amazed at the artistic and moving performances of  Unto Us A Child is Born, Hallelujah, and more! This concert will be a memorable and moving beginning of your holidays.

Check your calendar now! Share this concert with your family and friends. Gift the concert to those you love. Tickets are available now at www.tccsingers.org/event. Concert dates are November 16th, Trinity United Methodist Church, 2221 NE Savannah Rd, Jensen Beach and November 17th at St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 350 NW California Blvd, Port St Lucie. Both concerts start at 3:00pm. This is a don’t miss event for the Treasure Coast.

TCCS is sponsored by the Arts Council of Martin County, St Lucie Cultural Alliance, Women Supporting the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts. TCCS is a Platinum GuideStar rated 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

New Horizons of the Treasure Coast and Okeechobee announcesthe untimely passing of its CEO, Mr. William Wims 

Ft. Pierce, Florida – October 23, 2024 – New Horizons of the Treasure Coast and Okeechobee is deeply saddened to  announce the passing of William Wims, our President and Chief Executive Officer, who died unexpectedly early yesterday in Fort Pierce, Florida. 

The entire NHTCO family mourns this profound loss. On behalf of our Board of Directors,  management team, and employees, we extend our heartfelt sympathies to Mr. Wims’s family during  this incredibly difficult time. 

           Mr. William Wims, CEO of New Horizons of the Treasure Coast and Okeechobee

William Wims believed in treating every person who entered the doors of NHTCO with respect. He  would visit the inpatient floor and group home building daily. His friendly approach allowed him to  build relationships with clients who knew him by name. Mr. Wims ensured NHTCO team members  were always ready to help the community, for example working with the mobile response team and  assisting with post-hurricane crisis support. His visionary leadership will leave a lasting impact on  our organization. 

We will honor William’s legacy by continuing to uphold the values and commitment he instilled in  all of us and have asked COO, Gregory Jackson, to keep that vision going as interim CEO. 

Debbie Hawley, Chairman of the New Horizons of the Treasure Coast and Okeechobee’s Board of Directors, issued the  following statement on behalf of the Board of Directors: “We are deeply grieved by William’s  passing. As we navigate through this difficult time we will continue to support the family and staff while also meeting the community’s needs.”  

Mr. William Wims, CEO with members of his team from the Adult Stabilization Unit,  Jennifer Demko (left) and Sarah Maharajh.  The team received a generous holiday gift in 2023 from the Villas of Three Oaks Book Club including pillows for use on the unit.

About New Horizons of the Treasure Coast and Okeechobee 

New Horizons of the Treasure Coast and Okeechobee is the region’s most comprehensive mental  health and substance use recovery agency, with nine facilities across four counties serving 14,000  children and adults annually, regardless of their ability to pay. Founded in 1958, New Horizons has  provided a safety net for those in crisis and helps achieve health in 

both mind and body. 

During commissioner comments at the October 22nd meeting, Chair Harold Jenkins immediately wanted to address the Brightline Station.

After weeks of being jerked around by the Stuart Commission, the business owners in Downtown were ready for the grownups to take over. And the grownups quickly took charge. For all intents and purposes, what Stuart’s elected officials want is immaterial going forward. They forfeited their seat at the grownup table.

In a unanimous decision by the commission, they authorized County Administrator Don Donaldson and Attorney Sarah Woods to proceed with an RFP, make a deal with Brightline, and apply for the grant by the mid-December deadline. While they were sitting at the children’s table, I hope Boss Collins and his politburo consisting of Reed and Giobbi understand the great harm they have done to the relationship with the county and their own businesspeople…the merchants of Downtown.

The RFP will be for two sites on property owned by the county. The original site, at the courthouse, and now a secondary site at the Martin County Fairgrounds which is outside the city. Probably Brightline will prefer the Downtown site as would the people of Martin County. The tri-partite deal just became a much simpler proposition for the two remaining parties.

Boss Collins’ tactic of trying to insinuate Stuart into the 2018 settlement agreement was only one of his ploys that backfired. All the nonsense about Brightline paying its fair share that Collins used maybe rang true for those in his Facebook world but not in the real one where he is supposed to be governing.

Reed tried to suggest secret deals and illegal meetings had taken place at the county. This was sharply rebuked by Jenkins and Donaldson. The third member of the politburo, Laura Giobbi, seems to be only tangentially involved in governing. That is a good thing.

County Commissioner Smith spoke and said that time is of the essence since both California and Texas want all the federal grants they can get for rail. The $50 million grant is potentially the smallest of the requests being contemplated by the Feds. There is over a billion dollars set aside for these purposes.

Commissioner Ciampi has watched every meeting of Stuart since Boss Collins took the reins. He said they had gone off the rails (perhaps pun intended). Since the city is not going to open their checkbook, then they no longer have a say. The adults have placed the children’s table in another room, so they won’t hear the noise as the kids proceed to play their games.

The proponents of the station were in the chamber as were a few of those who opposed the station. But it was clear that the business owners of Downtown were finally being listened to by the adult leadership. One after another spoke about how Stuart’s commission had failed. That the Boss and his guys were laughing stocks in Florida. One speaker was happy that the adults had taken over.

The county left the possibility of the city rejoining but no one really believes that. For several years now, the county and city have worked together in a true partnership in many matters. This has now come to an end. It will become more apparent when the Collins/Stuckey proposal to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to sue the Army Corps and other agencies to stop the discharges begins.

Also at this meeting, John Maehl from the Eco-System Division gave a report about the excellent work that has been done with the Corps. That includes reducing Lake Okeechobee discharges by 70%. Stuart and the county have been working hand in hand for the past several years to accomplish that. The county and every other environmental department and group will now cut the city loose.

While the two commissions were sitting at the grownup table for a while that is now coming to an end…as it should. There is a reason why the kids are not allowed to join the adults to eat during family celebrations such as Thanksgiving. The kids usually spill stuff and interrupt talking gibberish. Important matters stay with the adults, and the kids are shunted off where they can do the least damage and act silly like kids do.

Martin County is now back on track to have a Brightline Station. This will all be decided by the next county commission. Two new members are coming aboard. Blake Capps, who is taking Jenkins’ seat, is an attorney and businessperson. He has been active in the community for years.

Eileen Vargas is an unknown quantity by most. I suspect that she will not be in favor of the station. I know she and Collins speak frequently.

I believe the final vote to approve Brightline’s proposal in December will be 4-1 at the county commission and going forward. Perhaps even at the county, the grownup table will be down one place. I hope other chairs are not taken away in the years to come. 

Martin County has posted the high-speed passenger rail station RFP.

The county has wasted no time in preparing and disseminating the RFP to those interested. On Tuesday, the county commission tasked staff with moving forward expeditiously. They certainly have.

While the entire reason the city was originally part of the tri-partite agreement was because, by statute, Stuart can lease property without an RFP and the county cannot. Stuart’s involvement is now over.

The RFP is written in such a way that only a company operating on the FEC tracks could apply. I expect a quick turnaround so that the grants can be applied for by the mid-December deadline.

This is leadership. Too bad the City of Stuart is fast becoming a “has been.”

Some have said it is too quick and not enough time to deliberate. At this point anyone that needs more time to deliberate in my opinion are like the mythical undecided voters…either lying or their voter card should be taken away. After years you are either for, against, or don’t care.

You can look at the RFP by going here 

We have been covering this story since 2023. The EAR (Evaluation & Appraisal Report) is driven by state statute that requires the county to update its comp plan every 7 years. There have been many public meetings such as workshops, the LPA, and now two commission meetings. This is anything but rushed.

This hearing was known as the transmittal hearing which is needed to send the updates for each section of the comp plan to the state for review. It is due in Tallahassee by November 27th. If it is late, there are penalties. Jenkins was right to state those wanting it slowed are injecting hysteria into a routine matter.

No matter what some may believe, there is nothing sacred about a comprehensive plan including Martin County’s. Things change in 40, 30, 20 or even 7 years.

40-year-old technology is not as accurate as today’s. It only makes sense that the plan reflects the most accurate data possible. But people become excised because it changes Maggie’s Plan. Maggie Hurchalla was a long time Martin County commissioner, environmentalist and author of the original plan.

Some of what she wrote was great. But not all and certainly even she would not say that new technology to more accurately chart wetlands or preserve areas shouldn’t be used. That is part of the update. Most of it is to reflect changes in state statute and to conform one element’s definitions with another. Terms simply become dated, and meanings change.

Blake Capps and Eileen Vargas take their seats on November 19th. There isn’t enough time to wait until then. But here is the good news…this is a transmittal hearing allowing it to go to Tallahassee for approval. When it comes back, there is an adoption vote and that will be by the new commission.

There only was one person in the chamber who spoke. Not exactly a groundswell of opposition. The vote was 4-1 with Heard dissenting.

Three Lakes (aka Apogee Golf Club) bought property on both sides of Kanner Highway for their golf course. It was their choice…not mine or yours. All along they wanted a tunnel to tie the 2 pieces of property together, and that was how it was originally presented and approved by the commission.

It is true that having the government fund their tunnel was stopped by reporting done by Friends & Neighbors and others. So low and behold, the tunnel idea was scrapped so that a bridge could be built. A bridge to span Kanner Highway, a road that they promised would maintain its rural character.

The excuse was that a tunnel would require moving trees to elevate the roadway, most of which were replanted from other places on the property. When the tunnel was completed, why couldn’t they do so again.

When they were told that the roadway would have to be elevated by FDOT, they claimed it came as a complete surprise. Throughout the process, they had their engineers who must have given them some idea of what a tunnel entailed. Let’s not forget they were receiving a state grant to build a tunnel. And still it came as a big surprise about the elevation.

One of Apogees club members, Randy Cropp, is a bridge builder, and he now is on their design team. The tunnel engineers have been dismissed. FDOT controls Kanner Highway since it is a state road. The agency was not at the commission meeting to give testimony, so the bridge builder relayed what they told him. There is still nothing in writing to back anything up.

The bridge will be 170 feet wide and have a height of 16.8 feet at grade, which is the same as the Turnpike and I-95 spans according to the applicant.  Of course, the bridge now will be used not only for golf carts but also cars and trucks. The entrance on Kanner will be closed. The gate house will be on Bridge Road.

There are also massive changes to how golf “cottages” are configured. There will be no more of them or the total number of bedrooms, but each cottage can have up to 12 bedrooms per “cottage” if the total number of bedrooms remains the same in the original formula. With the clubhouses, spas, tennis courts, pools etc., it is now a hotel and resort for all intents and purposes.

The bridge itself as portrayed in the rendering doesn’t show the approaches. It seems impossible to be 17 feet above grade and not have substantial roadway infra structure attached. It appears none of these factors matter to the three commissioners that voted yes. Rural Lifestyle was a good idea that has now been ruined by selfishness.

Take heart though, Jenkins and Smith won’t be there when the text amendment comes back from Tallahassee. I can’t see Vargas or Capps voting to approve this. I hope I am right.

No one told Apogee to set up their project on two sides of a road. They believed that money would determine the outcome. So far, they have been proven right. I hope when it comes back for adoption, the billionaires will be proven wrong.

At a special workshop held so that Boss Collins could give his marching orders to staff regarding changing the LDRS, Zoning, and Comp Plan, it was obvious who was in charge.

Remarkably only three commissioners were present, Collins, Reed, and Clarke. Mayor Rich had COVID and was unable to attend. Commissioner Giobbi made staff jump through hoops to put her on Google TEAMS to be able to participate, and she dropped off after about 30 minutes.

As senior commissioner, Clarke was the presiding officer. As has become quite common during these meetings, Boss Collins was anxious to have side conversations with Manager Mortell during staff presentations and public comment. When he started to do it this time and pulled his usual chagrined outrage, “I want to consult with my manager” when challenged, Clarke quickly paused the meeting to allow him to do so. With all attention on the Boss, the aside came to an end and there weren’t more of them.

While some in the audience pleaded for exceptions to have their projects move forward, Boss Collins quickly said, “no exceptions and let’s get this done.” That ended that. The property owners, brokers, and other real estate professionals now know what it is like to be under the thumb of Boss Collins.

In responding to their concerns, the Boss said that he wanted to change the codes two years ago when he was first elected, but the other commissioners said no. Imagine Collins, not yet Boss, being ignored by the majority.? He still went on diatribes that could last some time but so what. Let’s remember that he was elected by fewer than a hundred votes and with the help of people who should have known better. His then backers are some of his most bitter critics today.

While the rest of the state and country are moving away from increased parking calculations and to more density, the Boss wants to go in the opposite direction. When he finishes, Stuart will be lucky to have any real estate, business or even citizens who wants to do anything such as improve their properties or open new business. That would suit him fine because he believes he will maintain his control without any new development.

Clarke, who is a land planner besides being an attorney, made some comments, but she probably saw the futility in arguing. Mr. “Enough is Enough” Reed barely spoke. He is in favor of increased parking requirements even though he received parking waivers for his family’s businesses (and that was under the existing code which are not as severe as those proposed.)

Boss Collins gave Mortell his marching orders, and you knew what they were when he uttered the phrase, “in my opinion.” For his opinion is the only one that counts in the Socialist Soviet Republic of Stuart or maybe more relevant the Caliphate of Stuart on the St. Lucie.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the Commissioner Code of Conduct.

I know many of our readers won’t believe this, but I agree with Commissioner Collins. It should be scrapped. There is no enforcement mechanism, and by state statute there can’t be.

The Florida Commission on Ethics and ultimately the governor is responsible for how a local elected official comports themselves. If there is criminality, then the State Attorney or another law enforcement agency will handle the matter. Ultimately, it is the voters who decide the official’s fate.

The guidelines outlined in the code are helpful, but they are still guidelines. It was always just an honor code that may be fine for a prep school but not adult elected officials. Commissioners govern their own deportment. Having an unenforceable piece of paper even if signed means nothing.

Commissioner Reed said many things during his comments. The one thing that makes absolute sense is that all commissioner and manager emails be placed on the website so that everyone can read them. This has been standard policy in the county for at least a decade.

When I was in city hall to make a public records request the day after this meeting, my request was number 46 waiting to be answered. Where the clerk once received maybe 5 public records request per week, now there is a continuous flow of them.

The new commission majority has stirred up a hornet’s nest and the ZIP has only increased how much business owners are mad because of the delays. The new commission majority may believe the instituting of a new code will happen eminently, but I don’t believe that will be the case. At best, this won’t be done before the end of the year, and that will be rushing it. There will not be any workshops for the public included in that time frame.

Rich tried to get it back on track with a motion to allow nonresidential projects to come forward. It was seconded by Clarke. The motion failed 2-2 with Giobbi absent.

Despite the best efforts by Congressman Mast, the Federal Railroad Administration’s CRISI grant for $42.2 million to replace the railroad bridge was not on the list released this week.

The total project cost is slated to be $218 million. All other money is in place for the project except this last piece. What happens without it is not clear at this point.

I have heard a conspiracy theory about why the grant was denied. It was to punish Stuart for their reversal of the deal with Martin County and Brightline. While as much as I would like that to be true so I could keep hammering away at Boss Collins and his politburo, I don’t buy it.

While the Boss and the commission minions do not want a Brightline station, the bridge is something that would replace an outdated source of trouble for the city. I think everyone can agree that having a three-mile backup for freight trains across the city, because of a bridge failure, doesn’t help anyone. Even our 1955 Studebaker City Commission recognizes that.

I hope every Martin County resident, including those in Stuart, realizes that Brightline is not going away. Not having a new bridge would result in more frequent breakdowns which would be an inconvenience for both passenger and freight trains. Such a breakdown could be more harmful for our businesses, especially the marine industries. Getting to the hospital and also isolating neighborhoods for possibly even a few days is not something to joke about.

Nor do I think Mast would pull support from a project that would allow at least 80% of the boats to pass underneath the new bridge without opening. Boaters and the marine industries that support their passion would be all over him. The congressman may no longer be as open to bringing Stuart grant money (and rightfully so) after the city backed out of a deal, but I believe that is as far as any sane politician would go.

That doesn’t mean the awarding of grants is not political. Looking at the list, hundreds of millions of dollars went to electoral toss up states. There were also grants for places where a Democratic Senate candidate was fighting for survival such as in Ohio and Montana.

We just maybe were the victims of our red success. There is no reason to throw money to a place where everyone knows that Trump will sweep a week before an election. That is politics.

Florida East Coast Railroad should try again when the next cycle is announced. This bridge is a vital link in our transportation system. Funding this improvement is no different than replacing a bridge connecting two sides of a highway.

You can view the list of grants here 

In our last edition, we pointed out that Stuart Commissioner Chris Collins gave the invocation at the school board meeting. In doing so he was wrong  as well as the members of the board for allowing it.

Let me be quite clear, I am not saying there should not be an invocation before a government meeting. The courts have ruled that it is allowed under certain guidelines. Not only weren’t those guidelines followed by the board, but they also ignored their own policy. We called them out about it, and they have now responded:

I received this from School Board Attorney Anthony George:

Dear Tom:

I am responding to your October 17, 2024 email to the Martin County School Board on the qualifications to give Opening Prayer at the Martin County School Board meetings.

As attorney for the Martin County School Board, when the meeting ended, I discussed the matter with Chair Russell. 

I later spoke with Dr. Collins both as a professional courtesy (heads up) and to discuss his religious involvement with his church.  My purpose was to determine if he met the criteria of an eligible religious speaker as defined in the Establishment Clause federal appellate cases and as incorporated in School Board Policy 0169.2 Prayer at the Opening of School Board meetings.  (Attached.)

LawInsider’s definition of a religious leader states a “(r)eligious leader means an individual who is associated with, and is an authorized representative of, a religious organization or association or a religious corporation (sole), including a member of clergy, a minister, a pastor, a priest, a rabbi, an imam, or a spiritual advisor.”   Their definition appropriately parallels the Establishment Clause cases.

The October meeting had no previous religious leader scheduled to give the opening prayer.  Before the agenda deadline (October 8th for the October 15th meeting), Dr. Collins offered to give the Opening Prayer.  He was added to the agenda to give the Opening Prayer.

Two mistakes occurred.  I made recommendations to Superintendent Maine and Chair Russell to assure it does not happen in the future. 

First, while Dr. Collins is elected as a City of Stuart Commissioner, he did not come to give the Opening Prayer in his capacity as an elected City Commissioner for the City of Stuart.  Dr. Collins should not have had his elected capacity listed on the agenda.  The City of Stuart is also bound by the Establishment Clause of the U.S. Constitution (part of the First Amendment).

Second, I provided the Superintendent’s Office the above definition of a religious leader.  I recommended that staff verify, first online, then by call and discussion if necessary, that anyone requesting to give the Opening Prayer is an eligible religious leader as defined in the Establishment Clause cases and as required in school board policy.  Superintendent Maine confirmed his staff will take that step going forward.

You are correct that Dr. Collins is not an eligible religious leader to give the Opening Prayer.  Going forward, only eligible religious leaders will give the Opening Prayer [per School Board policy 0169.2 Prayer at the Opening of School Board meetings (attached) and the federal appellate courts’ Establishment Law cases].

As always, you can call me or email me if you have further questions on the October Opening Prayer.

My response:

Tony:

Thank you so much for answering my inquiry. 

I believe that Commissioner Collins, with the expressed encouragement of school board members, knew exactly what they were doing was inappropriate. The public needs to be vigilant that our public bodies stay within the boundaries of the Establishment Clause as the court has defined them. 

It is important that staff as well as board members immediately prevent such actions in the future. It is not school board members that decide which religious leaders (or no leader at all in Commissioner Collins case) say the invocation. The policy adopted by the board needs to be rigidly adhered to by all.

Even though I am a minister, I will refrain from placing my name in the rotation for leading the invocation at present. There are more than enough religious clergy in Martin County to fulfill that requirement. 

Mr. George is an upstanding and principled person doing the job of representing his client. Unfortunately, our politics are no longer inclusive but exclusive. That is too bad for our country, our state, and our county. Collins being at the podium and billed as a Stuart Commissioner is what is wrong. To some elected officials that are now in office, they don’t believe there is a separation between what is commonly called church and state.

Do we intend to go down the path of a theocracy as some may want. We must resist. The fight is not about prayer and God but rather the rights of all to worship in their own way, or not participate at all.

You can see the school board policy here 

In case you did not read the last edition’s story you may find it here 

SEWALL’S POINT COMMISSION MEETING

How many of us have been to Stringers Tavern & Oyster Bar and had a good meal and good service but perhaps only a few other tables had customers? This is not a winning formula for success.

The place is immense, and it costs money to run and maintain. The owners have come up with an alternative to keep the place in business. They want to rebrand and open a liquor store. The new restaurant will be called “The Catch,” and the package store will be in what now is the back or banquet space.

The owner did state that they made a mistake pouring so much money into the renovation and that the menu may be too upscale. Along with the liquor store, the menu will be less complicated and more for families. That was the original intention when the ownership that operates Conchy Joe’s and the Dolphin Bar took over the old Prawn Broker space.

However, I believe they should have called their new retail alcohol endeavor, a fine wine and premium liquor establishment. It is all about marketing. Package store gives off a down- scale vibe. That was picked up on by members of the public and commissioners.

A few commissioners stated that they should make the back a breakfast place. Another suggested that since they owned the Dolphin Bar, they were cannibalizing their market. That could all be true, but when does the government start telling the private sector what to sell?

The commission had already banned Marijuana shops if Amendment 3 passes in Sewall’s Point. Will they also tell this legal business what they can do too? It isn’t as though the citizens of the town don’t have a drink or glass of wine. I am not even mentioning weed here.

Tompeck as well as other commission members wanted more citizen input. In the free market, here is the citizen input…if you don’t like the product, you don’t buy it. Stringers is looking to change their format because not enough people are buying their product. The same customer evaluation will take place for a liquor store or the downscale restaurant being proposed.

It is amazing how many people say they are capitalists and then want to impose their ideas on private business. If the commission prevents this from happening, then in all probability, the current business will close. Is that better? 

a

Both Harold Jenkins and Susan Gibbs-Thomas are stepping down from elected office. The Indiantown Council gave each a plaque for their service.

Jenkins has been in Indiantown’s corner from the very beginning. Either he or his aide or both have attended almost every meeting of the council. He has fought hard for his constituency in the village from the very beginning, even before incorporation. He will be missed.

Susan Gibbs-Thomas is the last of the original council to leave. She was the first mayor and returned for a second time. Gibbs-Thomas grew into the job of council member and mayor after a few growing pains.

Interestingly, she resigned from her council seat early to fulfill a requirement because she decided to run for the commission position that Jenkins is stepping down from. She lost that race to Blake Capps, a Hobe Sound businessman, who has been active in local affairs for many years.

Susan, in her remarks, said she could have pursued being re-appointed to the seat by the council. Her current term doesn’t end until 2026. She said that she believes in term limits. That is an accurate statement because she tried to have a charter change to enact them months ago, but the rest of the council would not go along.

Commissioner-elect Blake Capps should continue in the same spirit as Jenkins when it comes to the village. I believe he will. I know he would if he is fortunate enough to keep Jenkins’ aide, Collen Paskowitz. She is one of Martin County’s treasures.

It was time once again to give out grants from the Indiantown Trust Fund.

The trust fund was set up by FPL years ago to assuage guilt for decommissioning power plants. This was before the village was incorporated…when Indiantown was known as the stepchild of Martin County.

FPL gave $1 million to be held by the county, but now transferred to the village, for 25 years. The fund sunsets on July 23, 2025, and the principle reverts to FPL. There are some initial discussions that perhaps the Palm Beach and Martin Counties Community Foundation will take over administering the money and FPL will not close the fund.

This year the committee, which is made up of residents, Susan Gibbs-Thomas, and staff, made the following recommendations:

• $5,000 for Holy Cross Church
• $5,000 for House of Hope
• $5,000 for Indiantown Chamber of Commerce
• $5,000 for Indiantown Warriors Soccer Club
• $5,000 for 4-H

The committee recommended retaining 25% of the interest which is allowed according to the trust fund documents. It amounted to $23,250 and is kept in a separate fund. The council voted to adopt the committee’s recommendations.

There was a bit of controversy regarding Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church. They applied for a grant to remove their carpet and install tile. Since this was a capital improvement, a grant could not be issued according to the terms of the trust document. Council Member Vernestine Williams-Palmer, a church attendee, needed an explanation of why they were not eligible.

You can see the agenda item in detail here 

With the resignation posed by Gibbs-Thomas. the question is how to fill the seat. Her term ends in September 2026.

The Village Charter, section 7(2)(c)(1) states “A vacancy on the council shall be

filled by a majority vote of the remaining members of the council for a period of

time until the next election when a council member shall be elected for the

remainder of the term vacated. If more than 6 months remain in the unexpired term and a majority of the remaining council members cannot reach a decision within 60 days after the vacancy occurs, the vacancy shall be filled by a special election.”

The council in essence is appointing someone for two years. There are plenty of municipalities that have two-year terms. A 60-day limit to force a selection places a time constraint also.

An election can be costly if the council can’t agree on someone. Yet with two years remaining it seems the voters should decide who represents them and not the council. The four existing members may be trying to pick the person they believe is best suited. Aren’t the voters responsible for doing so? Even if the voters pick someone that a majority of the council does not approve of.

Those who have lived in the village for at least one year should make their desire to be picked known to the council members. The council will bring forth recommendations at the next meeting.

Tom’s Articles

From Martin County Moments

"Inherit The Wind May Be Stuart's Ultimate Faith"

Here

"Stuart Rail Bridge Has Setback"

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Other Articles

The New York Times: "A Radical Approach to Flooding in England: Give Land Back to the Sea"

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News Service of Florida: "Initiative System in for Overhaul?"

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The New York Times: "How Neanderthals Evolved to East Starch"

Here

Route Fifty: "In a state with school vouchers for all, low-income families are choosing not to use them"

Here

The Washington Post: "A few weird tricks to fix Congress"

Here

The New York Times: "Reinvnting Concrete, the Ancient Roman Way"

Here

Climate Connections: "Why widening highways doesn't reduce traffic congestion"

Here

The New York Times: "Why Does This Building by the Subway Need 193 Parking Spaces:

Here

The Washington Post: "Trump proposals could drain Social Security in six years, budget group says"

Here

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