June 15, 2025

It has been a momentous few weeks on the national level, the state and right here in Stuart.

While we had the debacle that was California, the State of Florida with still no budget, and here we have had some good news. Andres Duany, who helped save Stuart once along with Joan Jefferson, a forward-thinking commission and residents came back to reminisce and warn about how so easily all can be ruined.

Stuart has a new police chief, Flamur Zenelovic, known as “Z”.

Mankind is in a perpetual fight with itself. Always trying to swing from this to that. It just doesn’t seem we can ever reach equilibrium.

The sheriff in his article tells us about what he has done since taking office earlier. David Hafner relives an accident that occurred years ago. Dr. Michele delves into men’s prostates and Attorney Gene Zweben talks about divorce.

We have all our other columnists, constitutional notices, and letters to Tom. Remember we are always looking for more writers so if you think you have an idea for a column, let me know.

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Have a great Sunday Morning!

The Chicago Sun Times laid off several hundred staffers recently. Apparently, it was some smart bean counter who came up with the idea that the newspaper should “write” articles by using Artificial Intelligence. An early effort created an article naming the best summer reading for 2025. Unfortunately, many of the books did not exist. 

Today when I want to verify facts, I go on the web and google the answer. Most times I continue on to the source materials that result from the search, but not always. I wonder how often the answer I am given is AI driven and is it accurate? Most of us in the post-library era must go on trust.

As a student, like many of my generation, I spent hours in a library looking things up. I became a wizard with the library’s index cards showing me the location of a book by row and shelf based on the Dewey Decimal System. The books on the shelves were easy for us to find once we mastered it. Entire generations of student employees and volunteers spent hours returning books to the stacks.

Of course, there are still shelves of books but nowhere near what there once were. Reference books from encyclopedias to technical books were at the local library waiting to be explored.

There were also reference books in many homes. My mother bought our edition of the Funk & Wagnall Encyclopedia at the A&P Supermarket one volume at a time.

A new volume came out every month. She also bought a series of history anthologies that way. Having those reference books in our home spared me from having to trudge to the library as often as some of my classmates.

As students progressed in their education, the neighborhood or school library didn’t always have the research material you needed. While the library at the Lincoln Center campus of Fordham University, my school, was rather good, I still found myself at the New York Business Library in the lower thirties on 5th Avenue. And I spent some time at the main branch at 42nd Street and 5th Avenue.

I once did a paper on Clement Clarke Moore. I lived in Chelsea at the time. Not the Chelsea of today but a place that still had a Nabisco factory, the docks, and if you got up early enough, sides of meat being transported through the streets to be butchered. Moore founded an Episcopal seminary which is still there but very much changed. I was allowed access to some of his papers, and the maps and original documentation painted a picture of a Chelsea in the 18th century with orchards instead of sidewalks.

The last time I really researched in libraries was the early 1990s. I was doing real estate consulting. I needed census materials, and the library had it.

With the internet, computers, and online resources, research is at my fingertips. It is fast and there is a world of knowledge for anyone to see. Just be careful if you decide to use AI for your assistant.

The recently signed Florida Senate Bill 606 has a provision regarding food service providers.

Beginning July 1, 2026, all food service providers that apply fees will be required to disclose the charges on menus, written contracts, and digital platforms. They must specify the amount or percentage of the charge and its purpose in a font size equal to or larger than the rest of the menu. Itemized receipts must list gratuities, operations charges, and taxes on separate lines.

A small victory for the consumer who is tired of being ambushed when a bill is presented. You will be able to know by going to the business’ website before entering the restaurant whether they are going to charge a credit card fee or a service charge. That is a big improvement over the current “silent” system of not knowing until presented with the bill which leaves you no time to decide to bring cash with you to avoid the credit card fee that is charged on the total bill including tax and tip.

A May 17th article in the Sakatoon StarPhoenix printed in Saskatchewan, Canada, reports that Canadians are fed up with the tipping situation in their country. It is now illegal in Quebec Provence for terminals to calculate tips on the post tax amount.

And the provision in the “One Big Beautiful Bill” now making its way through Congress includes no taxing of tips as income. Isn’t that an affront to the many millions of people who are either paid hourly or have salaries and must pay taxes from the first dollar earned. Creating different classes of how income is taxed opens the door to an unfair and eventually corrupt system.

Entire industries now from counter clerk to waiter believe a tip should go with the bill in America. All employees should receive an adequate wage for their work. Employers should have to provide it instead of it being left to the vagaries of customers.

Would that cause things like our restaurant bills to increase? Sure, they will but the bill received will be on the prices we saw for the items we ordered. Going out to eat should not involve a math quiz. Both staff and customers would appreciate it. Everyone will know what they are paying and earning for a delightful experience.  

I never thought of Marco Rubio as sincere. I knew that the first time I saw him in Stuart during an algae bloom crisis. He came, had a public meeting, and promised that he would make sure it wouldn’t happen again. He was going to report back to us. I do not think in the decade plus he has been back since.

I had a meeting with him in Washington when I went to lobby on behalf of Florida cities. He was not there but his chief of staff was and at least he seemed confident and knowledgeable. Another time the senator did speak to me outside a meeting room in the Senate. I don’t even remember what the senator promised so I doubt the promise was ever delivered upon.

As Senator Rubio advanced in the senate, the folks back home were too unimportant, and his mind was on more weighty matters than being accountable to constituents. During the 2016 presidential campaign, he did last longer than Jeb in the sweepstakes of losers to Trump. He then went back to the august body of the senate until the beginning of this year when Trump picked Rubio to be his secretary of state.

Some of the weighty matters he became known for like immigration reform, being tough on Russia, and a friend to Ukraine seemed to dissipate into the Florida warm air once chosen for his new role. There was nothing too craven for Marco to do including the sickening sound of cabinet officers kissing Trump’s you-know-what as the president went around the room calling on them to praise him. What did Marc Antony say in “Julius Ceaser?”

He must be a great suck-up because the president just keeps giving him more work than just State. Marco is the head of USAID, acting head of the National Archives, and is now Trump’s National Security Advisor. Marco, for all his 30-plus years on government payrolls, has never worked this hard.

The last time someone was both the National Security Advisor and Secretary of State was 50 years ago under the Nixon administration. Add the other two jobs and it becomes laughable. But there is so much in this administration that is.

The most absurd Trump appointment is that of Thomas C. Fugate, a 22-year-old recent college graduate who is now head of the Department of Homeland Security’s Center for Prevention Programs and Partnership. That is the department’s office for countering domestic violent extremism and administrating multimillion dollar prevention grants. It appears from a recently deleted LinkedIn profile that Fugate’s last paying job was at H-E-B grocery store in Austin where he stocked shelves and bagged groceries.

But his real reason for being appointed to head a multimillion-dollar agency was his internship at the Heritage Foundation and being a Trump campaign volunteer. Trump always will put loyalty to him over competence. Governing is such a time-consuming thing when you are a showman…and Trump is more showman than anything else.

When did Rubio abandon his self-respect to be a toady? The signs were always there, and for 30 years, the voters of Florida ignored them. If there is one thing that Donald Trump can ferret out, it is a person’s weaknesses. Trump is a modern-day Mr. Scratch, Mephistopheles, Beelzebub, or Lucifer. Just like Jabez Stone in the Stephen Vincent Benét story of “The Devil and Daniel Webster,” did Rubio pledge his soul for an earthly reward of money and power?

It is amazing what little it takes to tempt a person. Secretary Rubio has been on the cusp of being a presidential contender. Was the role of senator not enough? Trump knows which will succumb to his charm and promises of being more than what they were. A senator is only one of a hundred others. Do Trump’s bidding and you are promised more. Just ask Mike Walz.

Little Marco is all that is wrong with a system that has been corrupted by Trump. It wasn’t as if corruption and vanity were not Washington staples. Now the guy in charge is beckoning for those too weak to resist to follow his siren song  to America’s own shipwreck.

We should all be uneasy about the military being deployed in our streets. We should all be alarmed when law enforcement wear masks and dress in fatigues as if they are erstwhile soldiers while hiding their humanity from the people they are there to serve and protect. We should all condemn the inhuman treatment of any person by the Trump administration for any reason.

I think what we can all agree with is that if a person here is undocumented and commits a crime in America, they should be punished for it and then be deported. And if they entered the country illegally, they should be subject to deportation after receiving due process.  I don’t think any of that is controversial or being disputed by most Americans.

Many of those now being rounded up are here under legal programs. They could be here because asylum was requested which is perfectly legal under U.S. law. Many are here under refugee programs protecting vulnerable individuals from places such as Haiti, Venezuela, or Afghanistan.

Those populations were placed in that program because a president used his executive authority to allow them to remain. Another president like Trump can take their safe haven away and begin deporting them. This would be another example of a broken Congress unable to do its job by its refusal to make laws which would supersede an executive order. They would rather be cheerleaders for political views that pass laws and take responsibility.

Ever since the return of Trump, we have heard the phrase “this is not who we are.” Yet for about 40% of the population, this is exactly who Americans are. There has always been a streak of cruelty that masquerades as patriotism. Remember in the past that we had witch trials, banishments, and human bondage wrapped up and called the American way. There have been persecution of make-believe communists, gays, Blacks, and immigrants throughout our existence.

In 1862, 392 Dakota men were sentenced to death in trials that took no more than 5 minutes. President Lincoln let stand the death sentences of 39 of them with one being reprieved right before execution. They were hung before a crowd of 4000 spectators. That was the largest mass execution in U.S. history. Of the 38 executed, one was a White captive and the other a Dakota, both of whom had been exonerated at trial. Oops…mistakes happen.

Blacks have suffered lynchings throughout American history. The Tuskegee Institute recorded 3,466 lynchings of Black people from 1882 to 1968. The largest mass lynching in American history occurred in Los Angeles in 1871 where 19 Chinese immigrants were killed with 15 of them being lynched. The second largest lynching in American history is of 11 Italians in New Orleans in 1891. Some of those victims’ bodies were torn apart and kept as souvenirs by the crowd.

We may sing the battle cry of freedom, but equality is in the eye of the beholder. We have systematically enjoyed seeing the downtrodden suffer. For some, it makes them feel more superior than those being persecuted. This is who some of us we really are.

Some Americans like Trump want the rest of us to be afraid. It amplifies their own egos. Why George Washington was the greatest American is because he relinquished power both as a general and president to repeated cries to seize the army and government by his supporters. He said no to the idea of the “Indispensable Man.” Trump will be judged as one of the worst Americans because he has shown he can’t.

The morning June 24, 2022, started just like any other day. I awoke early and prepared for the day, enjoyed a cup of coffee, took care of my livestock, and then headed off to work. What I didn’t know is this day would be anything but typical.

I was living in Palm City and working in the northern outskirts of Indiantown. It was a drive I very much enjoyed taking each day. I drove past cattle pastures, sugarcane fields, and sod farms, and regularly spotted native wildlife like deer, otters, and birds of prey. The 40-minute commute was a quiet time for me to gather my thoughts. But my route also had its challenges.

My route was County Road 714 west to Allapattah Road (County Road 609). There I would turn left at the four-way stop and continue to State Road 710. Then I would turn northwest and continue until I reached Springhaven Avenue. If you watch the crash reports on the news and on the Martin County Sheriff’s Office social media pages, you already know this route is plagued with horrible crashes that have taken many lives. Knowing this, I was always very cautious to look every which way before making lane changes or taking turns.

On the morning of June 24, I approached the four-way stop at Allapattah. After the vehicle in front of me went through the intersection there was still one vehicle to my right. I waited for that vehicle to go and now it was my turn. I looked every which way. There was no other vehicle at any of the other stop signs, so I proceeded through turning to the left toward Indiantown. But I never made it through the intersection.

About halfway through the intersection I noticed a dump truck was coming right at me. The last thing I remember before impact was looking out my window and seeing the grill of that huge truck just a couple feet away from my driver’s side window. The next thing I recall is my senses coming back to me and I am already on the phone with 911 dispatch. I have no idea how long between consciousness that was, but what I do know is I was covered in blood and dazed. My windshield and driver’s window were smashed, and my truck had been pushed to the side of the road from the impact. The dump truck went through the intersection and into the ditch on the other side.

I remember doing silly things like texting my boss to say I don’t think I’ll make it in today and throwing out my leftover pizza lunch so it wouldn’t go bad and smell up the truck. The magnitude of what had just occurred still hadn’t registered. My phone started flooding with texts from people asking if that was me in the accident, but I was just trying to figure out how to get out of my truck without getting cut by all the broken glass.

Police and Fire Rescue arrived, checked me out, and gave me an ambulance ride to Tradition Hospital. That’s where the scariest part of all happened. As I was awaiting imaging, I started to feel myself pass out. At this point I still didn’t know how severe my injuries were and all I could think about was if I pass out, I may never wake up again. So, I fought it with everything I had and I came back around. I am not a person who lives in fear, but that was a moment I can say for certain I was afraid.

The other driver accepted all fault. He completely blew through the stop sign. The tire marks on the ground suggest he didn’t start breaking until he was already hitting me. I went home from the hospital that day, with a bunch of stitches in my forehead and a concussion that lasted quite a while. It took me a long time to reach a point where I could return to work due to the constant pain. Even today I am physically limited because of that accident. But that day God had a hand on me, of that I have no doubt, and I am grateful to be here with my family doing the things I love. 

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

Technology that Enhances Pet Care

In today's digital era, technology has a significant impact on virtually every facet of our lives, both human and animal alike. Now and days, there’s a tremendous number of technical solutions that can make being a pet parent much easier and more accessible. That being said, it is essential to conduct your own research on these products, as they may not be suitable for all pets.

For example, if you're a pet parent, you know how tough it can be to leave your furry friends at home while you're out and about. One of the best ways to keep an eye on your pets is with an at-home camera. These nifty gadgets let you check in on your fur babies from anywhere, so you can see what they're up to and make sure they're not getting into too much trouble! Some cameras even allow you to talk to your pet through a speaker when you’re not home.

If you're planning to be away for longer periods, pet sitting apps are a game changer. They connect you with trusted pet sitters in your area who can come over and give your pets the love and attention they need while you're gone. You can read reviews, compare rates, and even schedule meet-and-greets—all from the comfort of your couch. Many pet apps also take care of background checks so that you can ensure your pet is in good hands.

Another cool new gadget is an automatic litter cleaner. These machines take care of cleaning the litter box for you, ensuring that your kitty always has a clean place to do their business without any hassle on your part. With these tools at hand, being a pet owner is easier than ever!

Then there are those nifty GPS collars that help you keep track of your pet’s whereabouts. If your adventurous pup decides to go on a little exploration mission, you can easily locate them through an app on your phone. Although GPS collars are important, it’s recommended that you always make sure that your pets are microchipped and their chip is up to date. Our shelter offers microchipping services at low cost every day of the week. Just give us a call at 772-600-3203 to schedule your microchip service. 

Overall, smart devices and technology are not just about convenience; they’re about enhancing the bond between pets and their owners while ensuring our beloved companions live happy and healthy lives. From the way we communicate and access information to the way we manage our daily routines and responsibilities, technology is an integral part of our daily lives. Again, it’s important to do your research on new technological products to make an informed choice and discover what works best for you and your pets. These innovative tools can empower us to create a more nurturing environment that caters to our pets' unique needs.

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

What do I need to know about prostate cancer screening?

Ever since former President Biden was diagnosed with prostate cancer that had already metastasized to his bones, I’ve had many patients asking me about prostate cancer screening. Here is what you need to know.

Except for skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in men in the United States.  The average age of diagnosis is 66 years old, and as you get older your risk of developing prostate cancer increases.  In fact, autopsies have shown that 50% of men aged 90 and above have prostate cancer at their time of death.   Where things get confusing is that most prostate cancers are very slow growing and the common adage in medicine is that most men will die WITH prostate cancer and not FROM prostate cancer.

This is why screening for prostate cancer has become very controversial.  There are many risks that accompany screening.  In 2012 the United States Preventative Task Force recommended AGAINST screening for prostate cancer.  This led to a much lower number of prostate cancers being diagnosed.  In 2018 they revised their recommendations which now states that “For men aged 55 to 69 years, the decision to undergo periodic prostate-specific antigen (PSA)-based screening for prostate cancer should be an individual one. Before deciding whether to be screened, men should have an opportunity to discuss the potential benefits and harms of screening with their clinician and to incorporate their values and preferences in the decision.

Screening offers a small potential benefit of reducing the chance of death from prostate cancer in some men. However, many men will experience potential harms of screening, including false-positive results that require additional testing and possible prostate biopsy; overdiagnosis and overtreatment; and treatment complications, such as incontinence and erectile dysfunction.

In determining whether this service is appropriate in individual cases, patients and clinicians should consider the balance of benefits and harms on the basis of family history, race/ethnicity, comorbid medical conditions, patient values about the benefits and harms of screening and treatment-specific outcomes, and other health needs. Clinicians should not screen men who do not express a preference for screening."

While screening increases the detection of prostate cancer it has not been shown to affect the mortality rates of prostate cancer. According to date from the CDC 97% of men diagnosed with prostate cancer are still alive 5 years after diagnosis. The rate actually jumps to 100% for localized prostate cancer (cancer that has not spread outside the prostate gland).

What are the risk factors for prostate cancer?? As mentioned before age is a risk factor as most prostate cancers are diagnosed at age 65 and above. African American men and Caribbean men of African ancestry are at higher risk than Caucasian men. Family history is also important. Having a brother, a father or a son with prostate cancer increases your risk.. especially if they were diagnosed at a younger age.

Certain genetic changes such as carrying the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes can increase your risk. Obesity has been found to increase the risk of developing prostate cancer. especially the aggressive type of cancer. Some studies suggest a diet high in red meat can increase your risk of developing prostate cancer. Finally, exposure to certain chemicals such as those used in farming or manufacturing may increase the risk of developing prostate cancer.

The PSA test measures the amount of a protein called Prostate Specific Antigen in the blood. If you look at your lab results you will see that the normal range is listed as 4.5 and below. However, we are learning that this isn’t the best metric to go by. The urologic society recently published age specific PSA ranges. Men under aged 50 should have PSA levels of 2.5 or below. Men between 50 and 60 should be 3.5 or below and between 60-70 the number should be 4.5 or below. The PSA is a very sensitive test which means that if you have a very low number, you can be reassured that there is a low likelihood that you have prostate cancer, an elevated number can be caused by numerous conditions.

Men who have an enlarged prostate, a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia may have an elevated PSA. Men who have an inflamed prostate, a condition called prostatitis may also have a falsely elected PSA level. This can be seen frequently in men who are cyclists as this sport puts a lot of pressure on the area where the prostate is located.

If you do choose to have a PSA level done and it comes back elevated the first thing that should be done is to repeat the test to make sure it wasn’t a false positive reading. In addition thanks to advances in technology an elevated PSA level does not automatically lead to prostate biopsies anymore. We have advanced imaging options such as a prostate MRI which can localize abnormal tissue in the prostate and if seen the urologist will know exactly where to perform the biopsy.

We also have additional blood tests such as a test called the 4K test which calculates your risk of having an aggressive type of cancer. Depending on your age, if your 4K score is low you may decide to forego the biopsy. There are also urine tests that can find the PCA3 gene which is a gene specific to prostate cancer.

As you can see there is a lot of nuance to screening for prostate cancer. It is very unfortunate that President Biden was diagnosed with a particularly aggressive form of cancer that spread to his bones but that is not the norm. Men should discuss their individual risks and what their preferences are with their personal health care provider before deciding to proceed with the PSA test.

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

House of Hope’s mission is to empower our community to overcome hunger and hardship.  We take a comprehensive approach to the work, offering a variety of programs and services in basic needs as well as life skills. Clients have access to case management, family centered coaching, financial assistance, housing support, nutrition education, early learning, career coaching, smoking cessation, English as a second language, sewing, and more. Even with all of these resources available, our pantry services are still our most needed program. Now that summer is here, the need for access to healthy food will actually increase due to seasonal employment and lack of availability of free and reduced school breakfasts and lunches. At House of Hope, all of our services, including pantry, are always offered at no cost for our clients and partners.

House of Hope has pantries located in Stuart, Jensen Beach, Hobe Sound and Indiantown. We use a Client Choice model in all locations. Our pantries are like a small grocery store, where shoppers can make wise food choices based on the preferences and nutritional needs of their families. Client Choice pantry shopping is offered to enrolled clients monthly, or more often, depending upon household circumstances. They are welcome to “shop” from a supply of nutritionally balanced groceries, including fresh produce, frozen meat, canned and dry goods, bread and pastries, dairy products, deli products, and other miscellaneous products such as condiments, snacks, baking products, and more.

We also provide a section in each pantry for our clients that are experiencing homelessness. These clients may access the pantry on a daily basis following the schedule of our location that is closest to them. They have access to fresh salads, sandwiches, side items, cold drinks, snacks, toiletries and more.

A key goal of our pantries is to feed people well. Last year we distributed nearly 1.2 million pounds of food, and over 500,000 pounds of it was fresh and healthy. We reach nearly 12,000 people each month with direct services, and another 18,000 through our food bank services for a total of 30,000 lives touched.  We use food to influence the health of the households that we serve, knowing that healthy kids are better learners and healthy adults are better earners.

If you would like to get involved in our mission, please visit our website at www.hohmartin.org. Please consider joining us as a volunteer, or hosting a food drive. If you or someone that you know needs our support, please visit the website or call us at (772)286-4673. Thank you for helping to grow hope in our community.

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

“Great Futures Begin Here!”

That’s more than merely the motto at Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County. It’s our promise to the nearly 1,000 children we care for daily—and our dedicated staff thoroughly embraces their responsibility to keep it.

Summer is always a special time at BGCMC. It’s when we really get to stretch our creativity in arranging programs and events to ensure the children’s days at the clubs are full and fun. While there’s plenty of field trips and sports contests, the fun is far from frivolous. Some of it is seriously fun.

We’re proudly unveiling two new summer bootcamps, both of which align with our robust youth workforce development initiatives.

Robotics Bootcamp – Introduction to Fourth Generation Manufacturing. Participants will learn basic robotics assembly, component identification, and early-stage programming techniques. They’ll work on a VEX platform, which will support long-term learning in the field of robotics, as well as more advanced programming languages such as Python and C++. That may sound like gibberish to you (and me). But these codes are actually the industry-standard, strengthening their foundational understanding of the field, and embodying our emphasis of preparing our interested members for potential careers in advanced manufacturing. 

Super Starter Kit UNO R3 (Arduino) Project Bootcamp: So, this collection of words likely sounds even more confounding. But—like teenage slang—it typically makes perfect sense to kids interested in computer programming, which it exceeds in both specialization and practical application. This course is the nexus where programming, electronics and advanced manufacturing control systems intertwine. Participants will explore fundamental concepts in computer architecture and apply them over a series of hands-on projects.

For club members who enjoy working with their hands in more traditional ways, we’re offering exciting instructions in skilled trades. In July, our instructor Greg Burnell will lead two boot camps for kids in seventh- through 12th grades to inform and hone their carpentry skills. They’ll create everything from park benches to birdhouses to shelving sets to water-cooler stations. They’ll bring their final products back to their individual clubs for use (and bragging rights).

For some of our members, such programs will simply confirm that their interests lie elsewhere. Others may awaken a fascination that defines their future career path. In our club environments where they’re safe, accepted and respected, they’re free to have fun, learn and explore the possibilities.

Thanks to the support of a generous community, we’re able to offer these new programs, complementing our existing youth workforce initiatives and on-the-job placement opportunities such as drone piloting certifications, culinary arts, fashion design, construction services, HVAC and more. Who knows? These boot camps may also spawn the next great renaissance in carpentry craftsmanship or inspire a new generation of innovations that advance human development.

At BGCMC, we don’t know exactly what these great futures hold, but it’s a joy and blessing to watch them begin.

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

Stuart, Where Legacy Takes Flight

On Memorial Day, as flags waved and vintage uniforms returned to the streets of Stuart, our city paused to remember. The center of reflection stood on more than just ceremony. It stood on legacy — the kind built not only in battle, but in vision.

Captain Francis Alexandre Adams was that kind of visionary. A veteran of three American wars, he marched through Stuart in his Spanish-American War uniform well into his 90s. But Adams gave Stuart more than symbols. He gave it direction.

After settling here in the late 1940s, Captain Adams helped secure Witham Field’s lease to Grumman Aircraft Engineering Corporation. It wasn’t just a transaction — it was an act of foresight. When others saw flower farms, Captain Adams saw potential.

Grumman’s “Plant 77” went on to build and test critical Navy aircraft, employ hundreds, and establish Stuart as a serious node on the nation’s aerospace map. This created potential still drives our economy today.

As we honored the fallen this Memorial Day, another kind of salute has been taking shape at Witham Field. Daher Aerospace, a global aircraft manufacturer, has been expanding its U.S. operations — right here in Stuart. Their investment is bringing production of TBM and Kodiak aircraft to Stuart, creating high-skill jobs in avionics, composite fabrication, and precision manufacturing.

                                     Former Gruman Assembly Plant

The connection isn’t abstract — it’s literal. The very hangars Grumman once occupied are being reimagined by Daher. What began as a defense contract site is evolving into a global innovation hub. This thread runs straight from Captain Adams’ handshake in 1948 to the REACH Center manufacturing workforce investments being made with Daher today.

                                            Daher Stuart Aircraft Assembly

This is the kind of legacy Memorial Day asks us to consider — not only what was lost, but what was saved.

Why did some give all?  It was for us. It was for what continues. It was because they cared about us…today.

Captain Adams knew this…he lived it. These were his friends. He risked all then he honored this legacy by continuing to build a better future for us.

Stuart doesn’t just remember with parades. We remember through progress. Through hangars that still hum with activity. Through companies like Daher, who see the value in roots as much as wings.

As the echo of taps faded into the sound of the helicopter overhead, we marked more than a holiday. We marked a turning point — a community still honoring its past by building its future. Captain Adams would be proud. He believed in flags. But he also believed in flight.

Captain Adams passed on September 24th, 1975. While this was 50 years ago, we benefit from his foresight and energy today. You can find the park honoring him and a memorial plaque downtown under the ficus at Confusion Corner.

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

I recently returned from Washington DC where I attended the National Association of Realtors (NAR) Legislative Meetings.

I attended workshops, seminars and ultimately met with Florida legislators to discuss Realtor and homeowner legislation. The goal is to present ideas and support for national legislation that will positively impact our consumers - the homeowner.

I never miss the presentation of our NAR economist, Dr. Lawrence Yun. Dr. Yun speaks openly and frankly about the economy, especially how it relates to home values, trends, and concerns. He was forthright when he discussed interest rates and the overall consumer demand. There is still a demand for more housing in the U.S. “Affordable” homes are harder to find in the current interest rate and insurance market.

It is important to say, it is his opinion, that interest rates could come down. He is not sure of the rationale behind the Fed holding off on an interest rate decrease. Home buyers are reluctant to purchase when rates appear to be “too high”. High rates coupled with higher insurance premiums are a barrier for buyers and may even affect sellers that are locked into historically low rates. Once the purchase begins it should spur even more economic growth.

Home transfers (whether new homes or resales) are good for the economy. Many professions benefit from a robust housing market. The Realtor has a better selection of homes to sell, the title company writes more policies and the mortgage market becomes more competitive. Further, plumbers, electricians, pool companies, construction companies and more all thrive when more homes sell.

To help stimulate the home sales in the U.S. NAR is supporting several bills in the Congressional pipeline. Two bills were easy asks for our legislators. First, there is a proposal to raise the capital gains exception on your primary residence from $250,000 per individual and $500,000 for a married couple to $500,000 and $1,000,000 respectively. Second, individuals currently may take up to $10,000 from an IRA (or qualifying account) for a down payment on their primary residence. A bill in Congress is proposed to raise the amount to $50,000. This legislation may help many individuals and couples pay for the fees, downpayment and mortgage points when purchasing a home.

I am hopeful that the NAR efforts and the Congress will help homeowners, home buyers and will bolster property rights for all Americans. It is an honor to talk to our legislators. This year I was fortunate to be in meetings with Senator Rick Scott, Senator Ashely Moody and our Congressman Brian Mast. I am grateful for their efforts for the property owners in Florida.

Remember - please use a local Realtor.

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

Father’s Day

Father’s Day is a chance to honor and thank our fathers for their positive influence on our lives. It is also an opportunity to thank extended family members and maybe even positive role models not even related to you for their dedication to our upbringing. This day gives us all time to show our appreciation and gratitude to the men that have enhanced our lives as we have grown into responsible members of society.

While I was teaching Kindergarten at Crystal Lake Elementary, I noticed that we had quite a few students that did not have a positive male role model. I attended a conference and decided to look for a program that invited male family members to participate in school. I found WATCH D.O.G.S., which stands for Dads of Great Students. It was started by a couple of gentlemen in Colorado after Columbine occurred. Their main goal was to add additional “eyes” to a school campus for safety.  The WATCH D.O.G.S. program has two goals:

1. To provide positive male role models for the students, demonstrating by their presence that education is important.
2. To provide extra sets of eyes and ears to enhance school security and reduce bullying.

We found at Crystal Lake that the students LOVED seeing these volunteers on campus! They wore special shirts to identify them for the day. Children expect to see their moms at school, but when their dads showed up, it was a totally different experience. The bonus was that students who did not have a positive male role model in their lives at home, now had one at school. The WATCH D.O.G.S. loved to share stories of how the children responded to and wanted to learn from them.

Mentorship goes beyond our schools. We are very fortunate in Martin County to have many non-profits that benefit from volunteerism. Volunteering can change your life! It gives you additional purpose and warms your heart to know that you are helping someone and filling a gap that has been left empty.

If you are interested in becoming a mentor, I would suggest that you contact one of these local organizations or check in at one that speaks to your heart.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County         

772-545-1255

Caring Children Clothing Children                              

772-221-8777

Healthy Start Coalition                                                     

772-463-2141

Martin County PAL                                                              

772-919-2441

Martin County School District                                       

772-219-1200

Operation 300                                                                      

772-530-0081   

Project Lift                                                                              

772-221-2244          

Become a volunteer and make a difference in the lives of others! Happy Father’s Day!

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

How to Navigate the Divorce Process: A Step-by-Step Guide for Individuals

Divorce can feel like you're stepping into the unknown. In Florida, it’s called a dissolution of marriage. While emotional, the legal steps are straightforward if you know what to expect. This guide breaks down the process so you feel more prepared.

Step 1: Are You Eligible to File in Florida?

One spouse must have lived in Florida for at least six months. Proof includes a Florida ID or utility bill. Next, choose your divorce type:

• Simplified divorce is faster but only works if there are no minor children, no alimony, and full agreement on everything.
• Regular divorce is for everything else.

You’ll need documents like your ID, marriage certificate, pay stubs, tax returns, and property or insurance records.

Step 2: Filing and Serving the Divorce Papers

One spouse files the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage in the county where either lives. It states the marriage is “irretrievably broken” and lists requests like property division or support. The filing fee is about $408. After filing, the other spouse must be officially served. They have 20 days to respond or file a counter-petition.

Step 3: Financial Disclosures and Parenting Plans

Both sides exchange financial affidavits showing income, debts, assets, and expenses. This is required in every case. If children are involved, a parenting plan is needed to outline time-sharing, decision-making, and support. Being thorough now helps avoid conflict and speeds court approval.

Step 4: Discovery, If There’s Disagreement

If there’s no agreement on money, parenting, or property, discovery allows both sides to gather info like bank statements, loan documents, or emails. It helps ensure both parties have full financial information before negotiating.

Step 5: Working Through Mediation

If disputes remain, mediation is often next. A neutral third party helps find common ground on support, parenting, or property. Mediation can save time, cost less, and keep things private. Even if full agreement isn’t reached, it often narrows what needs to be decided in court.

Step 6: Parenting Plan Is a Must (If Kids Are Involved)

Florida requires a parenting plan for children under 18. It covers time-sharing, major decisions like school or healthcare, and child support. Parents are encouraged to agree on a plan, but if not, the court will decide based on the child’s best interests.

Step 7: Agreement or Trial

If both sides agree, that becomes a marital settlement for court approval. If not, the case goes to trial, where a judge decides on parenting, support, and finances. Appeals are possible but add time and cost, so agreeing outside court is usually better.

Step 8: Divorce Is Final When the Judge Signs

Once the judge signs the Final Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage, the divorce is official. Both parties must follow orders like transferring property or making support payments. Even after court, there are still steps to take, but staying focused helps.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Divorce isn’t simple, but knowing the process helps you make smarter choices. Florida law offers a clear path to take it one step at a time and stay focused on your goals.

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

Scamming Seniors: The Lowest of the Low Part 2

Here we are in hurricane season again, when the threat of storms is a huge concern. As if that wasn’t worry enough, seniors also have to be aware of the scams that can follow in a storm’s aftermath.

As a group, seniors tend to be trusting. It’s a reflection of their upbringing, and unfortunately, it can lead to their believing that people who come to the door and say, “We can help,” legitimately want to help.

At the Council on Aging Martin County’s annual Hurricane Expo at the Kane Center, Marty Jacobsen, a Deputy Regional Director of the statewide Seniors vs. Crime Project, shared some alarming stories of how seniors across the state have been victimized by scurrilous individuals after severe storms.

Scammers arrive after a horrific event like the tornado damage our area experienced during Hurricane Milton and claim to be contractors. They get a commitment from the homeowner, then set about hiring anyone they can, regardless of licensing and standards, skimming off a portion of the payment, and then abandoning the homeowner to whatever happens next.

In one particular instance, a senior is about to lose her home because “a nice young man” convinced her to sign a contract for new windows and a roof. The contract contained a clause that put an insurmountable lien on her house, and her home is now in foreclosure.

While this can happen to any unsuspecting homeowner, we are concerned with seniors, who are particularly vulnerable to losing what they have worked a lifetime to accumulate. Sadly, we can seldom help them recover what they’ve lost, even when we involve law enforcement.

So what can you do? There are some simple rules: Never answer the phone if you don’t know the caller. Never sign anything without reading it. Don’t share personal information. Get advice before you commit to any big financial commitment.

One of the hardest of the rules is to report a scam. Seniors may be reluctant to report. As Jacobsen has found in his work, seniors may feel foolish (they’re not: scammers are incredibly clever) or fear that their family may question their mental capacity (not so: anyone can be taken in by a scam).

So the work of Seniors vs Crime is essential. Its website, www.seniorsvscrime.com, can help you learn about a multitude of scams – financial, travel, telemarketers, tech support, romance, charity scams – the list is long. It also guides you on what to do if you or a senior you love has been a victim of the lowest of the low – scammers of our seniors.

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

It is Monday June 9th, and I am happy to report the surf fishing action along our Martin County beaches is as hot as the weather.

The surf has been calm this month so fishing conditions could not be better. The anticipated whiting and croaker bite traditionally kicks off in June but the last ten days in May were outstanding. This is the time of year to get your kids, grandkids, nieces, and nephews involved as this is "fun" fishing.

A light action 7-foot spinning rod paired with a 2000 or 3000 sized spinning reel is all you need. These tasty fish are found in the first trough on the beach 5 to 15 yards from the edge of the surf. Fishbites Bloodworm scented bait tipped with a small piece of shrimp is all you need. The whiting and croaker rigs that you buy should have smaller number 6 or 4 sized hooks as these fish have small mouths.

Most mornings that I have fished I have been keeping between 20 or 30 of the whiting and croaker and providing some of the best tasting fish that Florida has to friends and neighbors for their summer fish frys. With the schools of croakers showing in the numbers they are, count on the snook to start making their presence known along the surf.

The snook season is closed for the summer but you can have a battle by lining a live croaker in the first trough. Please remember to release the snook quickly and unharmed so they can spawn. As the surf continues to warm more schools of bait will be moving into the area so the tarpon and snook fishing will steadily improve.

I did get a few calls this week about the availability of the Bloodworm Fishbites and the Snook Nook in Jensen Beach is well stocked.

Good luck this month and catch em up.

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

Finding Hope Under the Summer Sun—The transformative Power of “Camp Hibiscus” for Kids

For most children, summer camp means canoe rides, s’mores by the fire and long days filled with sunshine and laughter.  But for children who have experienced the trauma of abuse and neglect—many of whom now live at the Tilton Family Children’s Shelter in Jensen Beach—summer camp can mean something far deeper: a chance to feel normal, to heal and just to be a kid again. 

These children have often faced circumstances most of us can scarcely imagine.  Removed from their homes due to unsafe conditions, they now live in a structured environment designed to meet their therapeutic and emotional needs.  While residential care offers vital stability and support, it can also feel isolating—cut off from many of the typical joys of childhood. 

That’s where Camp Hibiscus comes in.

For a child who has endured years of chaos or mistreatment, the experience of being outdoors, surrounded by trees and water and fresh air, can be profoundly restorative.  Camp Hibiscus provides a safe space where kids can step away from labels, appointments and reminders of trauma, and instead engage in simple joys: swimming, learning archery, making friendship bracelets or sharing stories around a campfire. 

But beyond these activities, Camp Hibiscus offers something more meaningful—relationships. 

Camp “counselors,” trained in trauma-informed care, often become the trusted mentors and role models.  Their consistent, kind presence can help rebuild a child’s belief in adults and in themselves.  Camp becomes a place where children are not defined by their past but are celebrated for who they are and who they can become.

For many of these kids, it may be the first time they’ve ever experienced the freedom to choose what activity they want to try or the first time they’ve ever been told, “You can do this,” and truly believed it. 

These moments matter.

They build confidence.  They plant seeds of resilience.  They remind children that joy is possible—even after all they’ve been through. 

The value of Camp Hibiscus for kids in residential care cannot be overstated.  It’s not just a break from the routine—it’s an opportunity for healing, discovery and hope.  When we invest in summer camp for kids, we’re doing more than giving them weeks of fun.  We’re helping them write a new chapter—one filled with laughter, belonging and the belief that a brighter future is within reach. 

For more information about Hibiscus Children’s Center and how you can get involved to help children, please visit us at HibiscusChildrensCenter.org.

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

The Quiet Rebellion: Choosing Pages Over Pixels

Reading has been one of my great passions for as long as I can remember. As a kid, my nose was always buried in a book, much to the annoyance of my younger sister, especially during road trips when I’d effortlessly vanish into a book and tune out everything, and everyone, around me.  

Now, we live in a world of ever increasing and constant stimulation. Screens flicker, notifications buzz, and the endless social media scroll beckons. It's a seductive lullaby, with its promise of instant gratification. But in this digital age, are we losing something vital? Are we trading depth for breadth, contemplation for consumption?

The numbers paint a stark picture. Book reading is in nationwide decline, with fewer than half of adults reading at least one book a year. According to Gallup polls, the decline is seen more among college graduates, women, and older Americans. Less than a third of Americans read books for pleasure. 

We seem to be losing ourselves in the endless stream of content, a passive audience to fleeting narratives. Yet, within the pages of a book lies a quiet rebellion - a reclaiming of our cognitive and emotional landscapes.

Consider the act of reading. Unlike the passive consumption of a streaming series, a novel demands active participation. We construct worlds in our minds, visualize characters, and grapple with complex themes. This mental gymnastics strengthens our critical thinking, sharpens our focus, and expands our vocabulary – skills that atrophy in the face of mindless scrolling.

The benefits of engaging with narratives extend beyond the cognitive. Fiction, in its essence, is an exercise in empathy. We walk in the shoes of characters vastly different from ourselves, experiencing their joys, sorrows, and moral dilemmas.

This realization has fueled my mindful reset. So, I’ve set a goal  to read at least two books a month. It doesn't matter if it's historical fiction, an intriguing murder mystery, a dive into dystopian landscapes, or the imaginative realms of sci-fi and fantasy. The point is to actively engage with a story, to wrestle back control from the endless rabbit hole of digital media.

In the battle between screen and story, I’m choosing plot twists over push notifications. Join me. Let’s limit the screen time and turn the page! If you're on a reading journey of your own, I’d love to hear what’s on your nightstand. Drop me a note at stacy@fireflyforyou.com.

Stacy Weller Ranieri's opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

Continued Innovation for a Safer Martin County

Since taking office in January, I have made it my priority to advance the Martin County Sheriff’s Office by strengthening our technology and enhancing our ability to protect and serve this community. Public safety is constantly evolving, and staying ahead of threats requires a commitment to innovation. I want to take a moment to update you on three important advancements we’ve made in just the past few months — improvements that are already making an impact. 

First, I created a Digital Forensics Unit. In today’s world, digital evidence plays a critical role in solving crimes, from cybercrimes to violent offenses. Recognizing this, we invested in state-of-the-art technology and training for our forensic specialists. Our upgraded capabilities allow us to more effectively extract and analyze digital evidence from cell phones, computers, and other electronic devices. These advancements give our investigators the tools they need to track criminal activity faster and with greater accuracy, ensuring we stay one step ahead of those who would do harm to our community.

Another major advancement is the launch of our Citizen Input Dispatch System. This new technology allows citizens to connect directly with our 911 dispatchers through live-stream video during an emergency. When you call for help, you now have the ability — if you choose — to stream live video from your phone, providing dispatchers and responding deputies with real-time visuals of the situation before they even arrive. This additional layer of information helps first responders assess and prepare more effectively, which can make a crucial difference when seconds count.

We have also made significant enhancements to our Aviation Unit. Our helicopters and pilots play an essential role in search and rescue operations, vehicle pursuits, and suspect tracking. With updated equipment, including advanced infrared and camera systems, our Aviation Unit can now provide better support to ground deputies day or night. The upgrades allow for more precise suspect location and tracking, which increases public safety and reduces risk to both our deputies and the citizens we serve.

These advancements are only the beginning. As your Sheriff, I am committed to ensuring that the Martin County Sheriff’s Office continues to evolve with the times, bringing in the right technology and the right people to keep our community safe. I believe that innovation, paired with strong relationships between law enforcement and the public, is key to maintaining the quality of life we all value so much in Martin County.

Thank you for your continued support and trust. Together, we are building a safer and stronger community.

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

Stop Blaming the School Board — They’re Not Magicians

Let’s get something straight: the Martin County School Board isn’t out here trying to shortchange school safety. They’re just stuck trying to make miracles happen with a budget that’s been squeezed so tight by the state of Florida, it squeaks.

Here’s the deal: the sheriff’s office recently asked the district for a 63% increase in the cost of school resource officers. That’s right — from $3.28 million to $5.35 million. Naturally, the school district had a few questions, like: Where exactly do you think we’re going to find an extra $2.1 million? Under a desk somewhere?

The district came back with a $4 million offer — still a big jump — but the sheriff’s office wasn’t having it. After weeks of back-and-forth, they finally settled at $4.5 million a year. Crisis averted. Sort of.

But let’s talk about the bigger issue: this whole showdown highlights how Florida public schools are getting the short end of the stick. Again.

People love to slam school boards when programs get cut or when things don’t run perfectly. But here’s a fun fact: most of a district’s budget is legally tied up in things they can’t reallocate — capital projects, restricted funds, and state-mandated nonsense that Tallahassee never actually funds.

So when the state says, “Hey, you need an officer in every school,” but doesn’t send the money to pay for it, guess who gets stuck figuring it out? That’s right — your friendly neighborhood school board.

This isn’t just a Martin County problem. It’s a Florida problem. Year after year, Florida ranks embarrassingly low in per-student funding. Then lawmakers pat themselves on the back for “increasing education spending” when all they’ve really done is shuffle the same dollars around and slap a new label on them.

The bottom line? Local school boards aren’t failing our kids — the state is. So maybe instead of roasting the board at every meeting, we should aim a little higher. Like, say, the people in Tallahassee who keep expecting districts to do more with less.

Until Florida decides to take public education seriously, school boards will keep playing this no-win game. And no, they’re not magicians. They’re just trying to stretch a dollar farther than it was ever meant to go.

By the way, that BIG BEAUTIFUL abomination of a BILL?  Zero increased funding to public education.  It only invests in more privatization.  It’s about to get a lot worse.

Sydney Thomas' opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

The MCTA continues its series on the budget process by explaining 2 more Capital Improvement requests.

Miscellaneous CIP

Calling something “miscellaneous” has always called for extra scrutiny.  However, the $510,300 request for 2026 is clearly all about communication.  $10,300 is needed for communication equipment.  The lion’s share of $500,000 is for countywide radio replacement for police, fire and emergencies.

Public Buildings are an ongoing issue.  They need an additional $1,450,000 for a total of $7,863,369 in 2026 to replace generators, the Supervisor of Elections building expansion, courthouse security entryway between buildings.

Last year’s accomplishments included renovations of the Hobe Sound library and the jury room at the Courthouse, fire station 32’s roof and a fleet service fueling system.   The Department is currently engaged in building a Hobe Sound ocean rescue building, the restoration of the House of Refuge, expansion of the building department facility and replacing the Supervisor of Elections’ generator which quit unexpectedly. 

MCTA recalls when in 2017 voters overwhelmingly rejected a sales tax increase for infrastructure improvements.  At that time there was a $430 million backlog of projects.  That tax would have generated $230 million.   In contrast the voters just last year approved  a sales tax increase in order to purchase land for conservation. 

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

ARC OF THE TREASURE COAST ANNOUNCES DIRECTOR

FOR ITS NEW TIP/EVENT CENTER IN PORT ST. LUCIE

PORT ST. LUCIE, FL. – The ARC of the Treasure Coast is pleased to announce it has named Jennifer Rooks as the Director of its Therapeutic Intervention Program (TIP) and Event Center located in Port St. Lucie. Rooks is a dynamic community leader with more than 12 years of experience in workforce development, nonprofit leadership, and strategic planning.

Before joining ARC of the Treasure Coast, she managed youth employment initiatives, led workforce development programs, and secured key partnerships and funding to expand services. Her early career in early childhood education helped build a foundation in operations, family engagement, and team leadership. 

Earlier this year, the ARC of the Treasure Coast purchased the property at 451 SW Ravenswood Lane which was formerly the Vista Gardens Ballroom. The facility will soon be home to the ARC of the Treasure Coast’s Therapeutic Intervention Program (TIP) and Event Center which will benefit hundreds of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Monday through Friday during regular business hours the facility will be used for ARC programs. After hours and on weekends, the Center will be available to rent for events like weddings and banquets, weekly club meetings or church services.

Rooks is skilled in program development, staff training, grant writing, and building collaborative networks. She has completed Tier 1 and Tier 2 of the Master Class in Leadership through Spot on Strategies, attended Purdue University, and holds several credentials supporting her work in nonprofit leadership. 

Congratulations, Jennifer!

###

About ARC of the Treasure Coast: The ARC, (Advocates for the Rights of the Challenged) is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to empowering children and adults with I/DD through residential, vocational, educational, behavioral, and other healthcare services.  ARC provides support, assistance, and training that enhances the abilities of children and adults with disabilities to thrive each day and achieve their fullest potential.

School is out, Summer is in!

Pre-K and 3rd Grade Graduation
Class of 2025

On May 29th, Banner Lake Club joyfully celebrated the achievements of its youngest and oldest elementary students with a heartwarming Pre-K and 3rd Grade graduation ceremony.

The event began with 19 enthusiastic Pre-K graduates taking the stage. Their three classroom teachers shared heartfelt reflections on each child’s growth and readiness for kindergarten. Highlights included a student-led Pledge of Allegiance, a charming poem recital, and a spirited class performance filled with singing and dancing. Each graduate proudly received a certificate and a congratulatory handshake from Ms. Wendy, our director. A special moment was shared when the Pre-K teachers gave a big shout-out to Ms. Mercedes and Ms. Felicia for their invaluable support and dedication.

The celebration continued as 13 third graders marked the end of their time at Banner Lake Club in style. The ceremony featured meaningful speeches from both staff and students, making the moment truly memorable. Ms. Wendy presented each student with their graduation certificate, and the class shared favorite memories from the school year. A touching photo slideshow highlighted special moments, and the students sang their hearts out to “We Are the World,” “Greatest Love of All,” “Count on Me,” “How Far I’ll Go,” and closed with an emotional performance of “Good Job.” It was a beautiful day filled with pride, joy, and celebration.

The Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast Unveils Redesigned Newsroom Exhibit Sponsored by WPTV

Stuart, FL – On Thursday, May 15, 2025, The Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast proudly celebrated the grand reopening of its beloved Newsroom Exhibit, newly redesigned and sponsored by longtime partner WPTV. This exciting upgrade marks the continuation of a successful four-year collaboration with WPTV, which originally brought the idea of a hands-on news experience to life for young guests.

Originally launched in 2019, the Newsroom Exhibit allowed children to explore the world of journalism and news broadcasting. This latest transformation brings a fresh and dynamic focus on weather reporting, offering an immersive opportunity for young visitors to step into the shoes of a meteorologist. Through playful engagement, children can learn about weather, science, television journalism, and public speaking—all while simply having fun.

“The new exhibit perfectly captures the essence of what we aim to provide—an enriching, hands-on learning environment disguised as pure play,” said Tammy Calabria, Executive Director of The Children’s Museum. “We are grateful to WPTV and especially to meteorologist Erica Prete, whose passion and creativity brought this vision to life.”

The updated exhibit allows children to develop critical skills in communication, confidence, and creativity, aligning with the Museum’s mission to provide a safe, engaging space for children and families to explore and learn through imaginative play and educational programming.

The Museum extends heartfelt thanks to the WPTV team for their hard work and commitment to the project. A special thank you goes out to All American Signs and Graphics for transforming WPTV’s vision into an interactive and visually captivating exhibit wall. The Museum also recognizes the generosity of the Home Depot in Jensen Beach, who donated and delivered materials that made installation possible.

Operational support was provided by the Museum’s own John Sloan, Director of Operations, whose efforts helped bring several key components of the exhibit together.

The ribbon-cutting celebration was supported by generous donations from Natalie’s Orchid Island Juice Company, Fresh Market in Stuart (Ocean Blvd), and Starbucks in Stuart (US1 & Monterrey). The event was well-attended by local chamber executive directors, dignitaries and community leaders as well as local business owners. We are so grateful they joined us for this special occasion.

The Children’s Museum takes great pride in its community partnerships, which play a vital role in bringing new and updated exhibits to life. This event is just one of many exciting upgrades planned to keep the Museum a vibrant and engaging place for families across the Treasure Coast.

For more information about exhibit sponsorship opportunities, please contact Executive Director Tammy Calabria at 772-225-7575 ext. 203 or via email at tammycalabria@att.net.

MartinArts Presents Timeless Martin: A Centennial Celebration

Court House Cultural Center Gallery

80 SE Ocean Blvd, Stuart, FL 34994

Exhibit dates: July 8–August 30, 2025

Opening Reception Friday, July 11th | 5:30–7PM

Gallery Hours: Tuesday, 10AM - 6PM | Wednesday - Saturday 10AM-4PM

                           Stuart Feed Store by Danuta Rothschild

Featuring works from MartinArts artist members, the 4th Annual Members Showcase will pay tribute to the enduring beauty, spirit, and culture of Martin County over the past 100 years. From pristine beaches and waterways to historical landmarks and unique local traditions, the showcase will honor what makes our area not just a destination, but a home. Whether you’re a longtime resident or found your way over, we invite you to reflect, remember, and rediscover what makes Martin County unforgettable. A special collection of original works by our members will be available for purchase, with all proceeds supporting arts education programs.

                    Standing Strong Since 1875 by Sharon Ferina     

Keep Martin Beautiful Awards its First Environmental Stewardship Scholarships

Stuart, Fla. – Keep Martin Beautiful awarded its first Environmental Stewardship Scholarships to Martin County high school students this spring. The scholarship program is a new initiative of the nonprofit charged with preserving and enhancing the quality of life in the community.

“It’s essential that we educate today’s youth to take on critical leadership roles in caring for the planet,” said Keep Martin Beautiful President Jennifer Stull-Wise. “With our scholarship program, we’re reaching out to students to say, ‘We believe in you, we need you to learn all you can to help the environment, and we’re willing to help.’”

Jennifer Stull-Wise, Aliyah Gomez, Cameron Burke, and John Vanilla at Clark Advanced Learning Center’s 2025 Scholarship Night.

The scholarship program was initially set up to award a $500 scholarship for a student pursing a degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Environmental Policy, Conservation or Marine Biology or a related field.

“The response to our call for applications was beyond our expectations. In fact, the response was so overwhelming and the quality of candidates was so exceptional that we decided to award both the initial $500 scholarship and also a $250 scholarship,” Stull-Wise said.

Cameron Burke of Clark Advanced Learning Center was awarded the $500 scholarship for his leadership in mentoring Green Club students at SeaWind Elementary along with his own volunteer efforts with numerous environmental projects. Cameron will study Civil Engineering this fall.

Reilly Weidner, Sarah Ladd, and John Vanilla at Jensen Beach High School’s 2025 Scholarship Night.

Sarah Ladd of Jensen Beach High School is the recipient of the $250 scholarship for her work with Earth Savers and the Environmental Studies Center. Sarah will study Marine Biology this fall.

“This first year of the Keep Martin Beautiful Scholarships has been a huge success, showing our scholarship committee that the opportunity to identify and assist worthy students is enormous and rewarding,” Stull-Wise said. “In future years we hope to expand the program so we can award a scholarship to a student at each high school in Martin County.”

Keep Martin Beautiful is seeking additional sponsors to expand the Environmental Stewardship Scholarship program. It is an opportunity for individuals, businesses and organizations to make a difference in the lives of students who will be the environmental leaders of tomorrow.

To learn more about Keep Martin Beautiful, its upcoming International Coastal Cleanup and other environmental projects, and the new scholarship program, contact Keep Martin Beautiful at 772-781-1222, email info@keepmartinbeautiful.org or visit keepmartinbeautiful.org.

About Keep Martin Beautiful

Keep Martin Beautiful (KMB) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community organization founded in 1994 as an affiliate of Keep America Beautiful. Its mission is to preserve and enhance the quality of life in Martin County through litter prevention, the promotion of recycling, improvement of solid waste management practices, and beautification and community revitalization activities. KMB signature events and programs include the Environmental Stewardship Awards, the International Coastal Cleanup, the Great American Cleanup, the Adopt-A-Road and Adopt-A-Street programs, as well as other educational and outreach activities. Find KMB on Facebook at facebook.com/KeepMartinBeautiful, follow KMB on Instagram instagram.com/keepmartinbeautiful, visit KeepMartinBeautiful.org or call 772-781-1222.

Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club Hosts 

Annual Family 5K Walk & Run
Event Benefits Local Youth Mentoring Organization

VERO BEACH, FL – Altruism and athletics came together at the 2025 Family 5K Walk & Run hosted by Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club in Vero Beach, Florida. More than 200 club members and their families participated in the annual event, which featured a scenic course, continental breakfast, and an awards ceremony.

 Rob Tench, Phil Barnes, JohnMark Jenkins, Jen Moore, Bill Kennedy

Afterward, Orchid Island General Manager Rob Tench and Club President Bill Kennedy presented a $32,000 check to Phil Barnes, Executive Director of the Youth Guidance Mentoring Academy. The Vero Beach-based organization provides essential mentoring andeducational programs for children and young adults with limited resources in Indian River County.

Supporting the community through philanthropic efforts is so important to our members, and fitness is also a big part of the lifestyle here at Orchid Island,” said Rob Tench. “It was a wonderful morning for our members to combine charity with some friendly competition on a beautiful day in South Florida.”

Phil Barnes expressed deep appreciation for the club’s generosity. “We’re thrilled and honored to be the beneficiary of this year’s Family 5K Walk & Run and cannot thank Orchid Island enough for their support. Proceeds will directly fund youth programs, including summer camps and certification training in the construction trades.”

Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club is located at One Beachside Drive, Vero Beach. For more information, visit OrchidIslandFL.com.

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION FOR PALM BEACH AND MARTIN COUNTIES SELECTS BORA ARCHITECTURE & INTERIORS TO DESIGN AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM & RESEARCH LIBRARY

Renowned Design Firm to Lead Vision for Transformational Cultural Project in West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach, FL (June 3, 2025) – The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, a nonprofit organization that leads partnerships with donors, nonprofit organizations, and community members to address the region’s chronic and emerging issues, is proud to announce that Bora Architecture & Interiors has been selected as the lead architectural design firm for the future African American Museum & Research Library (AAMRL) in West Palm Beach. The 37,000-square-foot facility will be constructed on the historic grounds of Roosevelt High School and serve as a cornerstone of revitalization for the Coleman Park neighborhood.

AAMRL_Museum RENDERING

Bora Architecture & Interiors, a nationally acclaimed firm based in Portland, Oregon, was chosen following an extensive national search conducted collaboratively by the AAMRL Advisory Council, the AAMRL Board of Directors and the Community Foundation project team. From an initial pool of 40 candidates, Bora distinguished itself as the top choice among five finalists, earning the commission based on its visionary approach and extensive experience designing civic and cultural spaces. Notable Bora projects include the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, OH; the Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts in Davis, CA; the Mesa Arts Center in Mesa, AZ; and the Van Cliburn Concert Hall and School of Music at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, TX.

For this significant project, Bora assembled a “Design Collective” that brings together expertise in architecture, landscape design, community engagement and storytelling. For the architectural design, Bora will collaborate closely with Florida-based STORYN Studio for Architecture. Other key team members include Hood Design Studio for landscape architecture and placemaking, Local Projects for exhibit design, and Dr. Nashid S. Madyun for storytelling.

             Bill Watson, Jeanie Lai, Everald Colas, and Danita DeHaney

“We are honored to be entrusted with this transformative and culturally meaningful project,” said Design Principal Jeanie Lai of Bora Architecture & Interiors. “Our team is dedicated to creating spaces that inspire, educate and connect communities — and we are excited to bring that same spirit to the AAMRL in West Palm Beach.”

“This project is about more than bricks and mortar,” said Danita R. DeHaney, president & CEO of the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties and Chair of the AAMRL Board. “It’s about honoring the profound contributions of African Americans to our region and creating a space that informs, uplifts, and brings people together. We knew we needed a visionary architectural partner to create a cultural cornerstone that will act as an anchor for the Coleman Park community, and we’ve found that in Bora.”

The AAMRL will serve as a beacon of cultural pride, economic opportunity and educational empowerment in the Coleman Park neighborhood, once the center of Black life in Palm Beach County. It is a collaborative effort led by the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners, the School District of Palm Beach County, and engaged community stakeholders.

The site — 1601 N. Tamarind Avenue — holds deep historical significance, once home to West Palm Beach’s historic Roosevelt High School before becoming the Roosevelt Full-Service Center. Roosevelt alumni and community members have been advocating to turn the site into something more for many years. The Community Foundation joined the effort in June 2024 when the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners approved $1 million in funding for the museum’s planning and development.

The School District of Palm Beach County, which owns the site, has already begun renovations under Phase I, with Phase II encompassing the research library’s restoration and the construction of a new two-story, 20,000-square-foot museum building. Plans for the museum include exhibit space, a research library, and community-focused areas that will host lectures, educational programs, special exhibitions, oral histories, youth initiatives, and more.

Learn more at https://yourcommunityfoundation.org/african-american-museum-and-research-library/.

About the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties 

The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties is a nonprofit organization that leads philanthropy locally. The foundation provides charitable expertise and vehicles to increase the investment options on behalf of individuals, family foundations, and corporations. Since 1972, the foundation has distributed nearly $250 million in grants and scholarships aimed at closing the area’s opportunity gaps. With its vast network of donors and nonprofit partners, the foundation supports initiatives that improve youth and education, economic opportunity, thriving communities, and crisis preparation and response. Learn more at https://yourcommunityfoundation.org.   

Camp Spark 2025 – Martin County PAL

Looking for a summer camp for your child that goes beyond games and crafts? Camp Spark 2025 is where purpose meets passion. This isn’t your average day camp—it’s a trades-inspired experience packed with real-world learning, leadership development, and hands-on skill-building that empowers youth for life.

Camp Spark is open to boys and girls ages 11–14 and focuses on everything from law enforcement and fire training to career skills, athletics, and mentorship—all in a safe, structured environment led by positive role models.

New this year: Culinary fun meets culture with Italian cooking and pizza-making, giving campers a hands-on taste of the culinary world while learning teamwork and creativity in the kitchen.

• Only 2 weeks left this July — and spots are limited!
• 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM daily (lunch included)
• Just $45 for an unforgettable week of growth, grit, and guidance

This is your child’s chance to explore future career paths, build confidence, and develop life skills that matter—without ever feeling like they’re in a classroom.

👉 Register now at www.martincountypal.org or reach out to info@martincountypal.org for more information.

Let’s make this summer count—one spark at a time!

LEADERship Martin County Welcomes New Program Director

Martin County, FL.— The Stuart/Martin County Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the appointment of Amber Ducote as its new LEADERship Martin County Program Director. A native of Martin County, Ducote brings a dynamic blend of entrepreneurial experience, deep community involvement, and a strong personal connection to the program she now leads.

Ducote began her career in downtown Stuart as an account executive at Tara Biek Creative before launching her own firm, KaleidoMinds Marketing, in 2012. Through KaleidoMinds, she has worked extensively with local small businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations, making her a familiar and trusted face throughout the area.

Since early 2024, she has served as Event Coordinator for the Council on Aging of Martin County. Ducote is also a long-standing member of the Stuart/Martin County Chamber of Commerce and a proud graduate of LEADERship Martin County’s Twisted 20 class. Additionally, she is a founding member of the Young Professionals of Martin County.

"I’m incredibly honored to step into the role of Program Director," said Ducote. "LEADERship Martin County shaped who I am as a leader, and I’m excited to give back to the program that has given so much to me and this community. I look forward to connecting future leaders to the people, places, and purpose that make Martin County so unique."

Founded in 1990 by the Stuart/Martin County Chamber of Commerce, LEADERship Martin County is a premier leadership development initiative dedicated to educating and inspiring community-minded professionals. The program provides an immersive, behind-the-scenes look at local institutions, offering participants a deep understanding of the county’s government, economy, education system, environmental resources, and more.

Ducote stepped into the role June 1st after Cindy LaConte announced her retirement after 10 years as Program Director (32 years total with the Chamber). It is with deep appreciation and gratitude that we congratulate Cindy and thank her for her unwavering dedication, vision, and compassion. Cindy is leaving behind a legacy that has touched countless lives and shaped dozens of Martin County’s most influential government, business and social service leaders.  From her thoughtful program development to the encouragement she offered every individual, Cindy has embodied the heart and spirit of LEADERship Martin County. While we will miss her steady presence, we are excited to announce Amber Ducote as the new Program Director.

“Amber’s energy, creativity, and deep-rooted connection to Martin County make her a perfect fit for this role,” said Joe Catrambone, President & CEO of the Stuart/Martin County Chamber of Commerce. “Her passion for this community is contagious, and we’re thrilled to see her bring that passion to the next generation of leaders.”

When she’s not managing programs or volunteering, Amber enjoys life in Martin County with her husband, Duke, and their two children, Max and Anna.

For more information on LEADERship Martin County or to apply for the upcoming class, visit https://stuartmartinchamber.org/the-chamber/leadership/

About the Stuart/Martin County Chamber of Commerce:
The Stuart/Martin County Chamber of Commerce is the voice of business in the community. Playing a significant role in the economic climate, the Chamber’s purpose is to inform, unite and promote the business. The Stuart/Martin Chamber acts as the front door to the community offering maps, welcome guides, visitor information and a community event calendar. For business members, the Chamber provides opportunities for leadership, networking, advertising, and essential advocacy locally, in Tallahassee and in D.C.  

Over the years, I have been rather rough on Stuart Main Street for accepting thousands of dollars from the City of Stuart every year. I still may take that position in the upcoming budget discussion. Now I want to give them a compliment.

On May 30th Stuart Main Street put on a program that was superb. They assembled Stuart’s movers and shakers of the 1980s and early 1990s to show how Downtown was revitalized. Many of us were not born or living in Stuart or Martin County at the time.

If you are only used to seeing Flagler and Osceola Streets as they have appeared in the last 20 years, you may have given no thought to the bad old days. I first came to Stuart in the mid-1990s with my then girlfriend, Polly. We would come down to visit her mother who had moved here in 1971.

While Polly’s younger brother finished high school here, she was already in college when they arrived in Stuart. Her memories of Stuart were on breaks and summers of those years. And yes, like so many others, she recounted to me how you could roll a ball down the street and not hit anyone…it was so dead.

Interestingly most people who are still around from that period realize how fragile the economy of Downtown is even today. Until the malls and suburbanization happened beginning in the 1950s, it was a real city with stores that sold goods to residents not just tourists. Downtown was revitalized and repurposed for survival. It could easily revert.

I guess everyone from those days would say that Joan and Peter Jefferson were the main catalyst for revitalization. Peter was an architect from down south who saw the possibilities of the Post Office Arcade Building. He recognized the bones were there for a rebirth. His wife, Joan, was the politician in the family and moved the effort along as both commissioner and mayor.

The Jeffersons and McMillans sunk their savings into the arcade project and Downtown began to resemble something again. Then through the Treasure Coast Planning Council, Andres Duany and his wife and business partner, Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk, came to Stuart. They wrote, presented, and birthed the revitalization plan that has come to be known as New Urbanism.

Main Street’s board and Executive Director Candace Callahan put on an amazing event outlining this history. The panel consisted of former Stuart News Editor Nancy Smith; Joan Jefferson; Ann McMillan; Jim Dirks, the owner of Stuart-Stained Glass who was there at the inception; and Dan Hudson, former city manager who was instrumental in incorporating many of Duany’s ideas. It was moderated by Jacqui Thurlow-Lippisch.

I wish the panel discussion had been longer. There wasn’t sufficient time and there were no questions taken from audience members. The panelists combined knowledge and experience on this subject deserved an evening of their own. I was sad when they left the stage.

The next speakers were the conceptual founders of modern Stuart, Andres Duany and Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk. They looked at the community and saw a walkable downtown instead of a blighted area. A city thrives when it encompasses all the necessary elements for people living there.

In my opinion Stuart has a way to go before that happens. We have entertainment, restaurants, professional businesses and mostly one type of retail store. There are now buildings where people live. But there are still missing elements to complete what was started.

There needs to be more urban living in Downtown. Because without sufficient residents the retail establishments needed to be more than a tourist destination wouldn’t open. There were once pharmacies, department stores, and food markets. The residents need to be able to shop for basics without getting into cars.

Duany was a visionary 40 years ago. He wanted mixed use structures and people of all economic groups clustered together. Instead of the auto, there is public transit. The city concept isn’t built around cars but people.

Our present commission majority will never save what they say they want, which is our small-town feel. To have that, you need to have vibrancy…not blocks and blocks of single-family homes divorced from schools, jobs, and shopping. The vision that Duany, the Jeffersons, the McMillans, and Smith wanted for Stuart was that.

Stuart almost went under the wrecker’s ball because stores moved to malls, jobs to office parks, and housing went to suburbs. This looks like the dream of Boss Collins, Giobbi, and Reed. Instead of the Herbert Hoover saying of “a chicken in every pot,” theirs is a car for every resident with two parking spaces for each.

We tried that in the 1970s and 1980s and it failed. We need to go back to Duany’s vision and not ask for more suburbia. A small town means a town…not a name for a place with no cohesiveness of purpose.

There was much to be learned from the panel discussion, the Duanys, and finally listening to Blake Fontenay the author of Saving Stuart Florida: Rebuilding America’s Happiest Seaside Town.  If you want to get a feeling for what Stuart was then, this is the book for you.   

The Stuart City Commission has hired Ruth Holmes as its environmental attorney.

She will report directly to the commission. What does that mean exactly? Less than you may believe.

City Manager Mike Mortell directs every other employee in the city with a few exceptions. True most of what the manager does is direct through his department heads, but everyone is accountable to him. The chain of command is very recognizable.

City Attorney Lee Baggett reports directly to the commission. They are supposed to direct him. But just like Mortell, if it isn’t policy, the commission shouldn’t need to give much direction.

The environmental attorney is a different case. It isn’t like Baggett, who is responsible for things that every city and county attorney has been doing for years. It isn’t as if there is a shortage of contracts to read or ordinances to write or lawsuits to tackle.

In my research, I have found no other instance where a municipality in the state has a position like environmental attorney. There is a job description, but it is so amorphous as to be useless.

The commission somehow sees value in spending a good $300,000 of taxpayer money on this position. There is a salary of $175,000 plus benefits such as car allowance, mileage, insurance, other standard perks, 80 hours from day one in her PTO bank, and she gets to keep outside employment.

The last thing is standard. In almost every municipal attorney’s contract, a clause like that is included. It depends how much the attorney takes advantage of the provision. I understand that she will be keeping her client, the Pal Mar Water Control District.

This position was created because of politics more than the environment. Boss Collins wanted to check this off as an accomplishment when he runs for higher office next year. The City of Stuart gets to contribute to his campaign in a big way.

I have heard that this new attorney will not be challenging the federal or state government in court. As of today, she will be all alone in the office because there are no plans to hire other staff. The Collins crew may have gotten the right person but there is no war to wage. Maybe a few border skirmishes.

Perhaps she can help obtain permits to cut the mangroves. Or she can ask permission to dredge the creeks. Things that are now done by a $45,000 clerk in public works.

In the next few months, you are going to hear about cutting waste, fraud, and abuse. Collins already cut the BDB so he can portray himself as a budget cutter. He wants to cut taxes and it will result in about $40 per household less. Yet the money for this one position will negate everything else.

When those who are already working for the city, like the guys and gals mowing the grass or picking up the garbage, want a few bucks more, the answer will be no. When we want to hire another EMT, police officer, or buy a piece of equipment, the answer will be that we can’t afford it. But we have an environmental attorney. Vote Boss Collins!

Stuart and Martin County are known throughout Florida for being negative about any new development occurring.

Originally Palm City was worried that locating Costco on Martin Highway at the intersection with the Turnpike would result in sheer havoc to the community. They did their best to defeat it and they won. Instead of Costco they now have Wawa, Tractor Supply, a Car Wash, and other such businesses.

Even more naysayers tried to stop Costco from going in on a 50-acre property on Kanner Highway bordered by Willoughby and Indian Street in Stuart. It was going to be a traffic nightmare they claimed. The upshot now that it is open is that you do not even know it is there.

Some of the same people warn that once the apartment complex is built on the property, then the traffic will happen. All studies have shown that you won’t even notice any increase in traffic. Science and reality should never interfere with a good false narrative.

Undoubtedly as more and more things are built where nothing existed before, the traffic count will increase. Kanner Highway is a six-lane roadway. It will take more than several hundred additional autos to create backups. If anything, cars speed to the traffic lights where they may have to wait for them to change before proceeding. If you can drive more than the speed limit, then you are not caught in a traffic jam.

No matter how many times Chris Collins and his followers are corrected about the Brightline station, they continue to mislead the public. Stuart was never going to have to come up with the money to build the station. Their contribution would have been negligible and there were multiple outs built into the agreements. But why let the truth get in the way of a good narrative?

While we have not heard much about Brightline lately, it is far from dead. In fact, the chances of Martin County’s grant being approved look better and better every day. I just read that Rusty Roberts, once a V.P. at Brightline, was appointed Senior Policy Advisor to the Federal Railroad Administration.

Roberts led the lobbying efforts for the railroad as it rolled out between Miami and Orlando. Before that, he was the Chief of Staff for Representative John Mica for 17 years, the former House Transportation and Infrastructure Chair. There are other Brightline alumnae scattered through the FRA including people who worked on this very deal.

Fortress Group, the owner of Brightline in 2020, forgave a $120 million loan to one of Trumps’ companies. The company has also received multiple permits to build an LNG terminal and to transport LNG on Florida East Coast Rail. And while current CEO, Wes Edens, appears to be a Democrat, he is not a stranger to the president or his businesses.

The NIMBY crowd has continued to alarm people about major projects happening here. They fight everything instead of trying to make things better. That is a losing dead-end strategy.

Atlantic Fields, which was ridiculed for developing an old orange grove, could have resulted in 1000 homes ranging from $300,000 to $400,000. Instead, last year each lot was selling for $6 million. There will be 330 homes. That doesn’t count the value of the houses yet to be built. According to the property appraiser, the development contributed 2.9% of the increased market value and 4.8% to the taxable value in the county.

The footprint is minimal and the county services that will be needed are almost zero. Yet that didn’t stop the usual suspects from trying to stop it. Why…would they rather see more intense development and users of public resources?

When people say development doesn’t pay for itself that may be true if you choose the wrong development. Cookie cutter homes without commercial components are big users of government resources without a corresponding increase in needed tax revenue. That is the difference between Atlantic Fields and what I fear “Story” will be.

Middle Class tract housing is a huge local population booster with increases in the need for public safety, schools, and public works. That type of development never pays for itself. We need to stay away and steer in other directions.

Concentrated urban walkable development is a net revenue producer. If you have 100 single-family homes that will be spread over many acres then, public infrastructure investment is higher. If you put a hundred apartments in two or four buildings, the demand for infrastructure is less.

That is why developments such as Newfield, though built on tracts of open land, are concentrated around village centers. There are plenty of opportunities for real nature reserves and even farming, but residents can walk to jobs, schools, and shops within the village center.

While it may be a curse to Boss Collins, the entire idea about “New Urbanism” is just how increased population will not hurt our existing residents. At the Main Street event the other night, the renowned planner and designer of our downtown plan several decades ago, Andres Duany stressed that. That is what led to Stuart’s revival in the 1990s. If we had followed the Collins’ model of more cars and parking lots, the entire Downtown would have been bulldozed by now.

For Martin County and especially Stuart, the next stage is a successful rail system. Brightline gives us the best hope for achieving that. We will not only bring tourists to Stuart, but a percentage of us will get out of our cars and use trains to go south and north.

The future isn’t people in cars and single-family homes but rather more clustered living and public transit. Martin County wants to desperately not build over our empty lands. That can only be achieved by more concentrated development.

The state has already said that the Martin County way of excluding people from using their land through zoning will not be allowed. If not careful, the state will mandate one code for all. SB180, limiting changes to zoning and LDRs will take away local control in some instances. Most of the state is not nearly as indignant as Stuart is. That is because in Stuart Boss Collins attempted to take away extensive property rights by a rewrite of the codes. He is a bad legislator, and he doesn’t recognize it. But Tallahassee did and stopped it.

It is time to retire the rhetoric of “no” and substitute for a more can do YIMBYism. Our future and our children’s future demand it.     

In late 1973 or early 1974, I took the New York City Police exam. I was in college at the time and many of my classmates were officers. Both my wife and I thought it would be a good steppingstone to eventually going to law school.

I was called, interviewed, background checked, and mentally screened. In 1975, I was told to report for the next class at the academy. Now came crunch time, and I had to decide whether being a cop was for me. I never had to make that decision because the city’s fiscal crisis determined it for me. All classes were cancelled for the next 4 or 5 years.

I probably would have made a lousy cop. I never felt that I was deprived because of not wearing blue. However, I always had a soft spot for those who did after that.

Being a police officer is a hard job. Any big city department with big city problems must be nerve racking. So too even here in little Stuart, the job is what all law enforcement jobs are… hours surrounded by tedium that are laced with adrenaline and a little fear when answering a call. That is what I was thinking as I sat in the Lyric Theater at the new chief’s swearing in.

Newly sworn Chief Flamur Zenelovic returned to the Treasure Coast after being a member of the Rochester, New York Police Department for 20 years. He started as an officer in Stuart in 1995 and in 2004 went back to Rochester where he was born because of family considerations. He returned to Stuart in 2023 and became one of two captains. Now he is the chief.

Stuart PD is a close-knit department. Fathers and sons, wives and husbands, brothers serving or having served together It is really family. Former Chief Dyess was one of Zenelovic’ s mentors. Newly minted Captain Mike Gerwin was mentored by Zenelovic. What goes around comes around.

I’ve known 4 Stuart chiefs. They have all been different in some ways but the same in one important one. I believe they all wanted the best for Stuart in their hearts. As time goes on, this chief will put his own stamp on the department. It will be similar to how Dyess changed the place from his predecessor, Ed Morley, and how Joe Tumminelli changed the department form Dyess.

Good luck, Flamur Zenelovic from an admirer of the women and men in blue.  

It is amazing to me how much time can be wasted on nothing. And discussion of the Stuart Housing Authority surely qualifies.

After over an hour of grilling of the Fort Pierce Housing Authority that runs the Stuart Housing Authority, one thing is certain. There are 70 units in the complex plus 94 Section 8 vouchers for the city.

The reason that Fort Pierce is in charge is because about 7 or 8 years ago, the Feds discovered the misappropriation of funds by an employee. Instead of reconstructing the Stuart Authority, HUD handed the entire operation to the Fort Pierce Authority. However, the seven commissioners of the Stuart Authority remain. The Stuart City Commission approves those nominees.

For the most part over the years, nominees (if they could be found) were rubber stamped by the city commission. Current Mayor Rich believes that he can appoint two commissioners, and they will make sure the Stuart Authority will be operated in a better way. Maybe he is right, but as someone who at one time in my professional career had 1,000 Section 8 vouchers in his management portfolio, I am going to say there is very little leeway in that program for local changes. And I suppose it has even become harder than it was in the past.

The housing complex in East Stuart could be improved, but given the money allocated by the federal government, the project looks to be in good condition. I don’t think it can be improved to any great degree. Then why is the attention paid by the commission?

There is a tendency among some, Clarke and Rich, to think that the government can solve the problem if money is provided. They never seem to understand that money should be given but that the day-to-day operations are best left to the private sector for things like housing.

Instead, the federal government is retreating from the Section 8 program where private owners own and manage the housing and some of the rent is government money. That has the advantage of having people of all income levels living together instead of shunting the poor into disadvantaged communities. This is where liberals fail to see the good that comes by using the market.

The other item to take note of was that there was a workshop regarding traffic calming on 10th Street. The commission was presented with options, one of which is planting trees. It will come back to the commission with prices.

Chief Zenelovic said that Stuart PD will have more traffic enforcement.  The commissioners seemed to agree with more tickets. Though I have a feeling if there are too many written commissioners will want to dial back that part because of complaints.

You can see the presentation here 

Laura, you once again spoke about me as an “unfriendly neighbor” for writing about what you say as a commissioner from the dais.

I must set you straight on things you stated at the last commission meeting. You were out of sort because Mayor Rich’s comments at the Main Street Event on May 30th were not complimentary to some commissioners claiming that they were anti-business. I was at the event where he spoke, and he never mentioned you by name. (Rich’s comments attached here  )

Which then leads me to ask how do you know what was said? I know as a devoted Facebook adherent that you are always scrolling. If you are reading posts from other commissioners, you may be violating sunshine. Even if reading someone other than a commissioner, I wonder if they are acting as a conduit which could also be a violation. I suggest that you check with the city manager and attorney.

Since becoming a commissioner. You have consistently voted against business interests.  From not approving the hotel on Federal Highway to the flooring store to the BDB, you have constantly voted no. You were for the BDB before you were against it after the Boss spoke at a commission meeting. I don’t know how you go to an organization meeting, sit among its members, and then deprive them of the one thing you can do to further their aims, which is to pay Stuart’s dues.

Regarding your claim that you are not a member of a politburo because you are not a Communist, I don’t believe you are a member of the Communist Party, though you show an incredible antithesis to the notion of individual property rights. However, your assumption that you can’t be a member of a politburo is absolutely false.

While the term usually refers to the executive committee of a Communist party, according to the Writer’s Reference Center, a reference resource for writers as its name implies, the center also provides this definition, “by extension, any group in control of an organization or state.” You, Collins, and Reed acting in unison exhibit the characteristics of a ruling body where dissent is not tolerated. Further the reference site “Synonym.Com” lists commission as a synonym for politburo. You are just as much a member of the Politburo of Stuart as Khrushchev was a loyal Soviet Russian Politburo member to Stalin who was Lenin’s loyal follower.

The use of the word politburo is already accepted to include committees outside the realm of politics. In an article describing the Nobel Committee on Literature the author, Mahmud Rahman, wrote: “Why do we—whether supporting the Nobel choice or opposing it—behave as if the Nobel Committee is the anointed arbiter of world literature? Why do we act as if it’s the Politburo of the World Republic of Letters?”

Finally, as an elected official, you are a public figure that by running for election have voluntarily become an “all purpose” public figure. Your words and actions as a commissioner are subject to discussion both pros and cons by those who read or hear them. So yes, to me as an “unfriendly neighbor” who is your constituent and one reporting and commenting on your public actions…you are a member of the Boss Collins Politburo. 

Commissioner Giobbi’s remarks can be found here 

The School Board Workshop on June 3rd was a short meeting.

The $8 million SRO agreement with the Martin County Sheriff’s Department wasn’t mentioned except by Darlene Van Riper who spoke for Martin County Taxpayers Association during public comment. But even her comments were confined to broad strokes and no specifics. That is because as of now no specifics have been released.

The question is where the money for the increased expense coming from on both sides? Perhaps we will find out at budget time. According to other news reports, there are a total of 38 deputies assigned to the SRO unit including a lieutenant, 3 sergeants, and 2 corporals.  On the Martin County Sheriff's website, it states there are 30 deputies in the SRO unit. Part of the narrative is the following: “with one deputy in each high school. Middle schools, alternative school, and special needs schools throughout the county have one or more deputies that service the school. The elementary schools are serviced by deputies assigned to the middle schools.”

The school district has paid for a second officer in each high school for at least the past five years. It was also my understanding that each elementary school had its own SRO, and they were not sharing….

The website goes on to states that, “To find what deputies are assigned to which schools, view the School Resource Officers section of our Staff Directory.” I did and only 11 deputies including a floater and “Off Duty Coordinator” were listed. There were no school assignments next to their names. All of which leads me to ask who is keeping track of what the school district is paying for is being delivered.

On the school board’s website, they list the following schools: 12 elementary schools, 5 middle schools, 3 high schools. Alternative Education Programs: Environments Studies Center, Riverbend Academy, Spectrum Academy, Adult Education Center, and Willoughby Learning Center. There are 4 charter schools. If you add up the traditional public schools (the first three categories listed), you will have 23 SRO positions with each of the high schools having 2 deputies. If there is 1 officer at each of the others mentioned, not including the Adult Education Center, there are 8 more SROs. There are 6 supervisory positions listed above. That adds up to 37.

I am not sure if I am right at all in my allocations because nowhere does the district list if there are SROs in their alternative education facilities and who pays for them. Further there is no accounting for vacation or sick deputies. However, in the press releases there was an amount for overtime of $600,000.

At some point, we will see budgets. And the real costs will be known including where the additional money comes from. But, it doesn’t matter since whether it is in law enforcement or school budgets, it all comes from the taxpayer.

I took a tour of the old high school building on East Ocean with others from the Martin County Leadership Alumnae last week. I thought I should go into the space and reexamine my opinion about the project. Since I have been a critic of the entire idea of converting the building into an arts center, I think it deserves a second look.

I arrived early for the tour and as I waited outside the building, I really looked at the facade. It was like my grammar school in original appearance. However, over the years they have closed and bricked up many windows here. Several years ago, when I went by my old grammar school, it looked remarkably the same. My old school building is at least 20 years older than this building. 

Once Nancy Terrell arrived, we went into the old school board meeting room. There were photos and artwork hanging on the walls. We chatted while we waited for others to arrive.

The tour itself was informative. It was explained that another building would be built right behind this one which would house most of the new stage. This performing arts theater would have about 200 seats and would be able to have much more room for sets than even the Lyric.

At one time in the days before air conditioning, ceilings were higher to allow for better air circulation. In my school, a different boy each day would be tasked with using a pole with a hook attached to open and close the huge windows in the classroom during the warmer months. This building has transoms over the door that would be opened to increase the circulation again very much like where I went to school.

The lunchroom in the basement was tiny and definitely meant for the children of yesteryear. There were beams throughout that I needed to bow down to pass under. In the 1920s it may have been adequate for kids but not today. It was antiquated even back in the 1950s when plans were made for the new MCHS on Kanner Highway.

The school board administrative offices moved into the building. It was like that until the board meetings moved to the new headquarters a few years ago. Where board meetings were held was the last official school function. Since then, the building has been closed except for things like these tours.

The price tag for rehabilitation and building the new wing has gone up to $30 million. It is a noble gesture to try and save this building. However, with all the budget constraints, is this rehab and repurposing the best use of taxpayers or even private philanthropic dollars?

There is nothing remarkable about this school building. Maybe some in Martin County may believe there is. Yet as I wrote above, my grammar school is older and still in use as one in New York. Architecturally speaking, is it worth the cost? I still think not.

Nancy and others have their hearts in the right place. Unfortunately, when all levels of government are cutting arts programs, education programs, and those for the poor like Medicaid, how do we justify spending tax money on what I would see as an extravagance. I don’t think you can.

I hadn’t been to an Ocean Breeze meeting in a couple of months. The meeting was pretty much what I expected until the matter of having a charter review committee came up. That is when Seawalk thought its rights were being violated.

There are badly run meetings and there are badly run meetings…this is really a badly run meeting.

The president of the council, Kevin Docherty, spends most of the meeting with his head down as the colloquy from the council and audience goes right over it. While today there were two members absent, the two gentlemen on the council who were there, George Ciaschi and Michael Heller, waited to be recognized.

I can’t say the same for Council Member Janet Galante who never was quiet. She spoke over other members and the public making Stuart’s Chris Collins look gentlemanly. Unfortunately, Docherty could not reign her in and it was nothing but one big shouting match.

Galante made a motion to move ahead with creating a charter review committee including spending up to $10,000 for expenses when going through the more than one year process. It was seconded by Ciaschi. Docherty then called for public comment.

Liz Reese, a former council member and now just a Seawalk resident, was against the motion going forward. She was mad because of the $10,000 expenditure and because of what she believes is the town’s negligence dealing with the shoddy work of DR Horton, Seawalk’ s developer and builder.

Apparently, she believes that the Seawalk part of town should have some special say because they pay 67% of the taxes in town. Reese went on to state that the Resort residents don’t pay any tax at all…implying what exactly? That they shouldn’t have a vote? Reese also said that she wants out of the town and that Seawalk should unincorporate.   

She went on for more than three minutes I know because Galante kept saying that out loud and under her breath. Docherty just kept his head down most of the time acting as a bystander and not the chair.

Then someone from the Resort took the microphone and went on forever saying Liz should unincorporate but that has nothing to do with the vote. That went on interminably with Galante speaking out of turn as if this was her living room. Heller made a motion to table the item but that died for lack of a second. Finally, the question on the original motion was called and it passed 3-1 with Heller dissenting.

The reasons why DR Horton didn’t do a good job and how the town was not on top of things were brought up again. Both Heller and Reese, who also lives there, felt that the town could not properly supervise the developer because of only having part-time employees. The developer hired its own building inspectors which is allowed by state statute. And besides the town’s building official is a contractor so none of the current employees would be very affected.

The Town of Ocean Breeze could not by law inspect those homes to see if they were built according to code. Heller would not let it go claiming that legally they may not be responsible but morally they were. That is just nonsense.

Each homeowner in Seawalk should have done their due diligence. It was up to them to ascertain whether their house was built to code. In both Seawalk and the Resort, the town has spent considerable money trying to get both owners to fix the problems. The Town has spent $36,025.50 on the Resort and $93,221.12 on Seawalk.

Another thing that Liz and her neighbors at Seawalk should understand is that political candidates do not have to pay property taxes to be elected. And the amount of taxes paid doesn’t matter either. It is how many votes a candidate gets at the ballot box. It is hard to imagine that the owners of properties in the Resort haven’t included the cost of taxes into the rent.

One thing Reese could be right about is the need and reason for Ocean Breeze to continue to exist. She should be looking into whether Seawalk could unincorporate. There may be none and a move to unincorporate isn’t out of the question. However, if they are going to be a town and have town meetings, the council needs to follow parliamentary procedure and rules of order.

The presiding officer needs to be in control of the meeting or step down. The entire council needs several lessons from both their consultant and attorney. There needs to be some decorum.

I don’t know whether shopping for food in Martin County is an awful or good experience. It depends on my mood.

I never go to Walmart or Target to find groceries. And I am not a fan of Fresh Market, Aldi, or Sprouts. Though I do think Sprouts’ fish counter is good especially if you want whole fish. I don’t believe the extra cost is justified for their other stuff.

Like so many, I do the bulk of my grocery shopping at Publix. Over the years the quality there has gone sadly downhill with the prices going in the opposite direction. More and more of their fruits and vegetables are in hermetically sealed packages. No human hand should pick out his own lettuce. 

 I used to like Winn Dixie. But even there, the quality and freshness have really deteriorated until now they too will be gone.

Years ago, I loved Stuart Fine Foods. That was my preferred place until expansion to Palm City got in the way to their success.  Too bad…

My now go-to places would be New England Seafood for fish, Country Club Produce for vegetables, and the Olde Butcher Shoppe for meat. It seems that we are going back to an earlier time before regional and national grocery chains.

When I lived in Manhattan on 9th Avenue and 18th Street, we had independent butchers, fish mongers, 

bakeries, pasta, and vegetable stores. More than 50 years ago on a Friday night around midnight, my wife and I would borrow my in-laws’ car and drive to 9th Avenue between 36th and 41st Street to buy produce from the stores that lined the Avenue. They were open all night.

I believe it was on 38th Street and 9th Avenue where there was a poulterer that had live birds. I would be able to pick out a goose that he then would dispatch and clean. Those places are now gone. And it isn’t only there but throughout the country. Now we have Publix.

Tom’s Articles

From Medium

"Killing A $44 Billion Per Year Export Industry"

Here

From Martin County Moments

"The Absurdity Of The Nimby"

Here

"Stuart Main Street Was Spot On"

Here

Other Articles

Washington Post: "Just how bloody was medieval England? A 'nurder map' holds some suprises"

Here

The New York Times: The Upshot: "A Complete List of Ecerything in the Republican Bill, and How Much It Would Cost or Save"

Here

The Economist: "America has found a new lever to squeeze foreigners for cash"

Here

Florida Phoenix: "The 'One Big Beautiful Bill' contains an ugly favor for Florida's sugar industry"

Here

Wall Street Journal: "A New 'Revenge Tax' Aimed At Foriegn Investors Is Rattling Wall Street" 

Here

The Economist: "Which universities will be hit the hardest by Trump's war on foriegn students" 

Here

Paul Krugman Substack: "Wake Up and Smell the Corruption"

Here

The Washington Post: "Veterans recoil at Trump plan to end Afghans' deportation protection"

Here

The Upshot:  "Who Really Benefits From No Tax On Tips"

Here

The Economist: "Oausing foreign appkications to American universities is a terrible idea"

Here

The New York Times: "Trump's War on Nature Is Up Against a Powerful New Resistance Movement"

Here

The New York Times: "U.S. Scientists Warn That Trump's Cuts Will Set Off a Brain Drain"

Here

Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia's Indictment For You To Read Yourself

Here

Wall Street Journal: "A Good Republic Is Hard to Keep"

Here

The Washington Post: "This is what a war on knowledge looks like"

Here

The Upshot: 'Yhe Imports the U,S, Relies On Most From 140 Nations, From Albania to Zimbabwe"

Here

The Washington Post: "Let's Stop Pretending 'no tax on tips" is anything but a political ploy"

Here

The Washington Post: "How Argentina and the United States switched places"

Here

Wall Street Journal: "Trump's Crackdown on Foreign Students Threatens to Disrupt Pipeline of Inventors"

Here

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