December 7, 2025

Thanksgiving has come and gone. I hope you had as good a holiday as I did. Polly and I were in Connecticut for our Pilgrim feast. It was smaller than usual with just our immediate family.

 I began dressing in cheap costumes for holidays when my granddaughter was a toddler. I wasn’t going to do so this year but when I asked her if I should she asked me to do so. For about an hour after all was cooked, I donned my Amazon Pilgrim outfit, and she as my sous chef took a photo together.

We always have the traditional Thanksgiving meal but of course we also have the Italian one. My sous chef has become a great meatball maker. Polly is our desert chef, and my other daughter makes several loaves of bread for the table.

Christmas now is right around the corner. We have one more issue for the year on December 21st.   While this is a quiet time most years… not this one. We have several stories we will be working on for that edition.

Today is December 7th. It is the “Day that will live in infamy.” Pearl Harbor where the U.S. Pacific Fleet was bombed by the Japanese on this day in 1941. It was the birthday of my father who was having a party when the news was announced, he later told me. It was also the birthday of the fictional Vito Corleone, the Godfather which we found out in the “Godfather Part II”.

The New York Football Giants were playing the Brooklyn Dodgers (the football team) at the Polo Grounds. True to form the Giants lost 21-7.

I want to remind our readers to turn to our Facebook page to see our latest between editions. Now have a quiet morning reading our latest edition.

Have a great Sunday Morning!

Thanksgiving is one of the main holidays of the year.

When I was young, most people did not work on holidays like this one. Stores were closed. There was always a need for first responders and emergency medical people to work.  The only other places that were open were hotels and some restaurants. I worked in both as a teenager.

Not every food service establishment was open. Those that were had to prepare the traditional Thanksgiving meal. Dressing, mashed potatoes, gravy, probably green beans, and maybe some sort of sweet yam dish…but especially turkey.

When I was about 15, I was working in an American style restaurant that had enough customers wanting them to open for the holiday. When I reported for work on Tuesday afternoon after school of that week, I already knew I was in for a long shift. They had told me that they would need me to help with the Thanksgiving preparations.

I saw turkeys roasted at home for as long as I could remember, but only on Thanksgiving Day.  It was not something that was prepared any other day of the year in my family. My mother or grandmother would rub herbs and butter inside and out. Then they would cut up carrots, celery and onion and place it in the cavity of the bird. Then on Thanksgiving morning, it was popped into an oven before dawn. The oven always seemed too small to do the job.

When I reported for work that Tuesday afternoon, Rafael who hailed from the Dominican Republic, was already cutting up the uncooked turkeys and cursing in Spanish about the “pavos” as he called them. He then told me to come over so he could show me how to break the birds down into the breast and then legs and thighs.

That was almost 60 years ago, but today a chef would order turkeys already cut into pieces. Back then if the turkeys were being cooked institutionally, they would be broken down by staff. There were several reasons for doing so. White and dark meat cook at different temperatures. It is not easy to get it right when cooked as one unit. In this way, each piece comes out perfectly if the kitchen staff knows what they are doing.

First the wings come off…then the legs and thighs. We then took the breasts from the carcass. All the while leaving the skin intact so that we could have a good presentation for the waiters to carve at the table. Everything was roasted separately. The carcasses were used to create the stock for the gravy.

When I worked in a diner a year or two later, breasts were bought as stand alone. They would cook the breast on the bone in a large pot of water with aromatics. Once cooked and cooled, the breast meat was removed from the carcass, the skin was thrown away, and the carcass would be picked clean. It became “chicken salad.” The stock created was strained and it became the basis of soups, mainly the chicken soup that was featured every day.

There are probably much better methods today of doing what I did then. Some of what I describe would have the Health Department closing that kitchen today. It was a more primitive time without a culinary school graduate in the place.

Most of the people I worked with were immigrants form all over the world. In the kitchens, they were mostly Hispanics from Puerto Rico or the Dominican Republic, but Mexicans and others were not unknown. In one place, the kitchen staff were Blacks mostly from the South. The chefs were usually Italians, but the best ones for roasting meats were German. I worked with a couple of French chefs and occasionally, an American like me.

Isn’t that what Thanksgiving is all about? Originally a bunch of foreigners from across the sea and the Americans known then as Indians sitting down and sharing a meal. Sometimes we forget that is the difference from being an American and any other nationality.

There is no “American blood.” Becoming an American means you are part of the melting pot. That is regardless of the status of your papers. Remember those Pilgrims who had just landed were the newest immigrants of 1620...no visas needed.

I read in TC Palm that a report from The American Farmland Trust stated that Martin County will lose more farmland unless better land-management practices are enacted.

The study was written in 2022, so it is almost 4 years old.  They found that about 2.2% of the then existing farmland will be gone by 2040.  There were 588 farms on 179,342 agricultural acres in the county. Yet I have more hope than what the study suggests. I think the acreage lost will be reduced significantly.

Martin County passed a ½ cent sales tax, and it is projected to bring in about $20 million over its ten-year span to buy environmentally sensitive land outright or if possible, have agricultural and conservation easements. It is not only sales tax money but also it can be used to leverage grants with the state and even private organizations to stretch the dollars further.

Last year, Bull Hammock Ranch sold the development rights of 588 acres to the State of Florida to preserve the land in perpetuity in ranching and agriculture. I toured the ranch earlier this year with the owner, Wes Carlton. It was only there that I began to see what preservation is all about and how the government is far behind private property owners like Carlton in that regard.

Along with other governmental entities, I believe that Martin County can help preserve the land. But placing land in trust or buying for the public purpose of keeping it as natural as possible is only half the answer. The other half lies in not wasting land.

Sprawl is the other contributor to taking land out of agricultural production. Much of our developed land is not used as productively as it should be. Our environmental footprint overuses much of our resources by not clustering as much development as possible in cities and towns. When we encourage single-family development with large yards, we encourage the destruction of farmland to meet demand.

Newfield in Palm City is an example of clustering single-family homes, duplexes and multi-family homes together leaving vast swaths of open space. Every duplex that is built instead of building a single-family home preserves farmland because that is not needed to house a family. Why is that so hard for people to grasp?

If local municipal and county government can’t write ordinances encouraging more density, then the state governments will do so. This fight is happening all over the country in Blue and Red States. We will end up losing more and more farmland and open land if we don’t see the problem is us and our outdated land development and zoning codes.

When politicians discuss economics, they usually can’t see the forest for the trees. They draw straight lines when economies and business are co-dependent on more than just one or two things.

Take for example the following fact. Since Trump was inaugurated last January, the Bureau of Labor Statistics has determined that there are 78,000 fewer manufacturing jobs through August. Some other sources peg the loss at 94,000.

Trump and his administration are attempting to re-home factories to this country by using exorbitant tariffs as the stick. The result is that there are fewer plants than this time last year according to the Institute for Supply Management. Some of the loss is just a continuing trend, but probably the main reason is that Trump has reversed Biden policies on clean energy which has resulted in the elimination of 35 projects and their jobs.

The current administration plans to increase U.S. manufacturing not by having American owned plants being built, but rather by encouraging foreign companies to construct plants in America to avoid tariffs. As we have seen recently, a Korean auto manufacturer building a plant in the U.S. had ICE swoop in and arrest and deport over 400 of its nationals. They had been setting the plants up. Their removal from the U.S. has forestalled Americans being employed there.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has suggested that much of the work in any new plants built will be done through robots and AI. That is in complete opposition to what the president has promised his blue-collar base which is hundreds of thousands of new jobs. Even in China, the use of robotics and artificial intelligence have reduced the number of factory employees while still allowing an increase manufacturing output.

Those most likely to be employed in factories forty years ago were minimally educated workers with a high school diploma or less. Now because of the nature of the modern factory, many of the same workers cannot perform the necessary tasks. There is also the matter of substance abuse which claims a larger share of the population who can’t pass a drug test than in the past. Company management is not going to allow an employee to touch a multi-million-dollar piece of equipment if he is or recently was under the influence of drugs. We simply don’t have enough factory workers able to meet the current demand.

In most factories of the past, employees with a high school diploma or equivalent could enter the middle class by working there. There were strong unions which bargained for high wages and benefits. That significantly increased the price of the products produced which resulted in off shoring to cheaper wage climates.

President Trump needs to define what he means by good jobs. If he expects labor to be paid enough to recreate the 1950s, then we will have the same results that we had in the 1970s. Plants will close because it becomes too expensive to make the product. How is that helpful?

Working in a factory is no longer a guy on an assembly line tightening a bolt and being paid today’s equivalent of $30 or $40 an hour. What is needed now are maintenance technicians…someone servicing the complicated and sophisticated machinery used in the manufacturing process. Those workers often have an associate’s degree and advanced training on specific equipment.

The Trump administration has consolidated many different job training programs into one. That would be a positive step, but they have cut the budget for training substantially which negates the benefit. What we have now is an underfunded good idea for government-backed training for manufacturing employees.

All of this shows that our economy does not function in silos. Even with the best intentions, not only Trump but his predecessors to a lesser degree want outcomes that are far from realistic. You can’t just announce a policy and expect it to work as you want.

The economy, trade, and employment are complicated and best left to markets to decide. What government can do is make sure that there are fair outcomes by enforcing monopoly laws including labor contracts throughout all industries. The United States must recognize that because a shirt or a car is made somewhere else that does not necessarily hurt Americans. It allows them to have more purchasing power.

We have always been known for implementing cutting edge technologies. We should not try to recreate the past but go into the future. That means the current administration and those in the future have to educate workers, prevent monopolies, and promote fair trade at home and in the world.

Every couple of years, a push is made to ban house members and senators from trading in stocks.

There are periodic scandals of insider trading by elected members because of their insider knowledge. Is it true or not? Of course, it is true that they are using information that they have from serving in the U.S. Congress. It isn’t like Warren Buffet was elected and you could think that congressmen are doing superb stock investment on their acumen alone.

The argument against forbidding trading is that senators and congresspersons shouldn’t be treated differently because of their positions. If that were true, they wouldn’t have their own parking lot just steps from the terminal at Reagan International Airport. Their perks are many and, in most cases, we shouldn’t deny them.

However, elected representatives should not be in Washington to become rich either. Yet they do. To verify that, one need only look at their net worth before they were elected and then again after a few years of being called “the Honorable.”

Besides not becoming rich while being elected to public service, they should not be elected public servants forever either. We should have term limits for Congress. That was one of the big mistakes that the Founders made. They discussed it but thought that no one would want to be there in perpetuity.

Madison and the rest made a mistake. An error that wasn’t as apparent at our inception or well into the 19th century. But once we started to elect ward healers instead of those good and honorable men that were envisioned, everything became a game of politics instead of good governance. Giving members healthcare and retirement benefits and staying as long as possible became the norm instead of the exception. It was their job.

Congress today is full of career politicians who, once elected, become part of the gerontocracy that creates laws for things they no longer understand. As Congress ages they just don’t have the energy to even write laws. They just simply turn over their authority to the executive branch. We, as a nation, are much poorer for that.

Perhaps banning stock trading, bond trading, and holding their money in any other investments except a money market account would spur them to leave. Even better would be real term limits being inserted into the Constitution. After four terms in the House and two in the Senate, they are out of there.

New blood entering our institutions is an important ingredient in keeping our democracy alive and functional. We need to stop being the rapidly aging gerontocracy that is in Washington now. Let us have elected representatives who understand the problems of people in their twenties, thirties, and forties instead of people who are the ages of their parents and grandparents. Women and men in their seventies, eighties, and nineties should not be either making our laws or running the executive branch.

Agriculture has always been at the heart of Martin County, from the cattle ranches and horse barns to nursery operations scattered throughout our community. But today, something new is happening, something you may call a true renaissance in agriculture. Across the country and right here in Martin County, people are seeking a deeper connection to their food, where it is grown or raised, and the people who produce it. And as this movement grows, it is strengthening youth development, bringing families closer, and building stronger communities in every corner of the county.

This renewed interest in agriculture is especially visible among young people. Youth across Martin County are embracing hands-on agricultural experiences that teach responsibility, leadership, and problem solving. Some are feeding market animals before school, tracking their project budgets, and preparing for the county fair. Others, especially in suburban and urban neighborhoods, are learning to grow herbs on patios, care for vegetables in raised beds, or participate in school greenhouse and hydroponic programs. Whether large or small, these experiences give youth a direct connection to their food and a sense of pride in producing it.

Families are rediscovering agriculture as well. On farms and ranches, daily chores naturally bring family members together, encouraging shared decision making and teamwork. Now even families living in the heart of town are finding meaningful ways to embrace the agricultural lifestyle. Planting a backyard garden, setting up a hydroponic system, starting a compost bin, or cooking meals with homegrown produce all offer opportunities to learn and grow together. Many Martin County families make agriculture part of their weekly routine by visiting farmers markets, participating in U-pick opportunities, or building relationships with local growers through Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs. These simple connections satisfy the growing desire to know where food comes from and who grows and raises it.

This agricultural renaissance is also building stronger communities. Youth programs such as 4-H, FFA, and school-based gardening clubs continue to expand, giving young people the chance to work alongside volunteers, mentors, and agricultural professionals. Community gardens, ag education workshops, and environmental stewardship programs create shared spaces where residents can connect with both their neighbors and the land.

Even in urban and suburban areas, agriculture is becoming increasingly accessible thanks to innovative approaches. Families are exploring hydroponic tower gardens, container citrus trees, microgreens, pollinator gardens, and backyard chickens (where permitted). Students have opportunities to explore ag-based STEM programs, environmental science initiatives, and hands-on gardening that mirrors the county’s unique ecosystems.

Agriculture isn’t defined by acreage, it is defined by connection and passion. Whether you live on a ranch in Indiantown, a neighborhood in Palm City, on the water in Jensen Beach, a golf community in Hobe Sound, or an apartment in Stuart, you can be part of this growing agricultural renaissance. By supporting youth programs and embracing simple, meaningful agricultural activities at home, we can all help cultivate a stronger, healthier, more connected Martin County.

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

Living Advent: Bringing Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love into the World

While the world speeds towards Christmas, for many churches it’s the beginning of the season of Advent.  As the season of Advent unfolds, Christians around the world prepare to celebrate the coming of Christ—not only in the story of Bethlehem but also in the ways God continues to be present in our lives today. Advent invites us into a rhythm of reflection, anticipation, and action, focusing on four central themes: hope, peace, joy, and love.

Hope: Advent begins with hope—the confident expectation that God’s promises are true. In a world often shadowed by uncertainty, hope is more than wishful thinking; it is the call to actively participate in bringing light to dark places. Volunteering at a local shelter, mentoring a young person, or simply offering a listening ear to someone in need are ways we embody hope in our daily lives.

Peace: The prophets foretold a Messiah who would bring peace—not only as the absence of conflict, but as justice, reconciliation, and wholeness. During Advent, we are reminded that peace begins in our hearts and radiates outward. Practicing patience, resolving disputes, and engaging in community initiatives that foster understanding are tangible ways to enact this peace.

Joy: Joy is the deep, enduring gladness that comes from knowing God’s presence in our lives. It is more than happiness; it is a spirit that persists even amid challenges. Sharing laughter, celebrating small victories, and cultivating gratitude in ordinary moments can spread this joy to those around us.

Love: The culmination of Advent is love—the embodiment of God’s grace made visible in our actions. Love is most powerful when it crosses boundaries, reaching beyond our comfort zones to embrace the stranger, the marginalized, and the vulnerable. Simple acts such as donating to a local food pantry, visiting someone who is lonely, or advocating for social justice can transform communities and reflect God’s love in action.

Advent is not only about waiting; it is about preparing the world for Christ’s presence here and now. As we light each candle on the Advent wreath, let it remind us that our faith is meant to move beyond devotion into deeds. By living hope, peace, joy, and love, we become agents of God’s kingdom in our neighborhoods, workplaces, and homes.

This season may our hearts and hands be open, so that the light of Christ we await in the manger shines through our words and actions. In doing so, we do not merely commemorate a historical event—we participate in the ongoing story of God’s love in the world.

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

Bringing Home a New Best Friend This Holiday Season

The holidays are filled with kindness, family, and giving. One of the most meaningful gifts you can give is a safe, loving home to a pet in need. Adopting during the holiday season can be a beautiful way to start a new chapter, not just for the animal, but for your whole family too.

For shelter pets, holidays can be a lonely time. Loud noises and long days in a kennel are hard on them. When you open your home during this season, you’re giving them something truly special: warmth, comfort, and love. Many pets seem to know when they’ve found their family and watching them relax and open up can be an unforgettable experience.

That said, it’s still important to be prepared. The holidays are often busy with shopping, meals, and visitors. If you plan ahead, you can make the transition smooth and happy for your new pet. Make sure someone in your family has time each day for feeding, walks, play, and quiet bonding time. A little routine goes a long way in helping your pet feel safe and secure.

Creating a safe space in your home is another key step. Pets are naturally curious, especially in a new environment. Before bringing them home, take a few minutes to pet-proof your space. Keep decorations like tinsel, ribbon, and fragile ornaments out of reach. Hide electric cords and place plants like poinsettias and lilies where pets cannot reach them. These small steps help keep your new friend safe while they explore.

Bringing home a pet during the holidays can also bring extra joy to your celebrations. Imagine morning walks in the cool winter air, a cozy nap by the tree, or playing with new toys together. Pets become part of your holiday traditions, and they create memories that last long after the decorations come down.

It’s also important to remember that pets are a lifelong commitment, not just a holiday surprise. Instead of giving a pet as a surprise gift, invite your family members to be part of the adoption process. This helps make sure everyone is ready and excited to welcome the new pet home.

Adopting a pet is not just about saving an animal, it’s about gaining a loyal friend. That is why each year we have a Home for the Holidays adoption special. From December 1st through December 23rd, all animals are only $25 at our shelter. Give & receive the greatest gift there is by adopting a shelter pet this holiday season! Learn more at https://hstc1.org/Home-for-the-Holidays.

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

Every December, the world encourages us to reinvent ourselves. We’re nudged to set big resolutions, make sweeping promises, and emerge from the holidays somehow transformed. But in reality, most of us enter January simply hoping for a quiet moment and a fresh cup of coffee.

What if the pressure to change isn’t necessary?  What if smaller intentions are enough?

The truth is, sweeping life makeovers rarely stick. They sound heroic but buckle under the weight of real life: deadlines, families, aging parents, work crises, unexpected detours, and the simple fact that most of us don’t have the bandwidth to transform our entire existence during the first few months of the new year.

So this year, I’m opting for something different. I’m creating a micro-list instead of a bucket list.

I’ve started thinking about things, not in terms of resolutions but as gentle shifts. Small choices that feel grounding instead of overwhelming. Little habits that fit into real life instead of competing with it.

Here’s a sampling of some of my small things:

• Watch the sunrise more often
• Stretch for one minute each morning
• Take Dusty, our rescue dog, for a walk through a different local nature preserve or park each month
• Devote more time to painting
• Drink more water
• Work through my shelf of books, or finally give them away
• Buy BOGOs at Publix to donate to House of Hope at least once a month
• Spend more time with my favorite girlfriends (you know who you are)
• Put my phone away during dinner
• Watch the sunset more often  

Small things may not sound dramatic, but they create momentum. They are sustainable. And over time, one tiny shift leads to another. In the end, you didn’t reinvent yourself. You just gently course-corrected into a life that feels more like you.

That feels like a better way to start the year.

So while other people are crafting color-coded resolution spreadsheets, I’ll be over here choosing my handful of small things. And who knows. With enough of them, it just might turn into a pretty big year.

Are you still making big resolutions, or might you try a less stressful micro-list this year? I’d love to know what’s on your list. Send me an email at stacy@fireflyforyou.com and let me know.

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

The Miracle on 10th Street

Miracle on 10th Street returns Saturday, December 13, from 11:00 to 1:00 beside Guy Davis Park in East Stuart. Each December, toys and warm food pass into excited hands, the way they have for twenty-five years.

Late morning will settle gently over 10th Street with cars pausing in line along the curb. People arrive on foot from nearby streets. Children stay close to a parent or grandparent until their age is called, then step forward when it is their turn.

In the early 2000s, Arnold “Stan” Stanberry looked at his own neighborhood and decided Christmas morning should feel the same there as it did everywhere else in town. Toys came in through church friends, business relationships, and quiet conversations. Storage was borrowed wherever it could be found. The first year the event fit inside the 10th Street Recreation Center.

Each year a few more families arrived, until the room no longer held what was gathering. Tables moved outside. The work widened on its own, still anchored on the same block.

Stan moved through faith, business, and equality with the same steady presence. He served as president of the Martin County NAACP, led the Martin County Community Development Corporation, and worked with the Christian Business Fellowship while developing a youth entrepreneurship program selling office supplies across the region. A fellow Pensacola native, we became fast friends. He lived close enough to feel responsible for what happened on his street.

Stan died in 2007. Arnold was a tall man, with hands that swallowed mine whole in a handshake. I smiled when I was told he died of an enlarged heart. He obviously had a huge heart. I just didn’t think it would kill him.

Pastor Jerry Gore carried the work forward through the NAACP with his vice president, Jimmy Smith. Under their leadership, Miracle on 10th Street settled in and has become an annual tradition.

Today, Jimmy Smith carries the responsibility as president of the Martin County NAACP. Most of his work never reaches print. It lives in meetings, in kitchens, in phone calls taken after hours, in the ordinary weight of community life. He also runs two busy businesses.  Then, each December, he makes room again on 10th Street for this familiar pause in the year, for the tables, the food, the toys, and the families who already know where to gather.

The miracle has never been the toys. It has been the return. The same block. The same neighbors. The same quiet leadership, year after year.  The same big heart.  It is The Miracle on 10th Street.

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

A Treasure Coast 2026 Reset:  Winter Is the Perfect Time to Reclaim Our Community’s Future

Every December, as a soft winter breeze rolls across the St. Lucie River and holiday lights glow along downtown Stuart, the Treasure Coast quietly transforms.  While northern U.S. cities are already bracing for snow and slowdowns, our region comes alive - seasonal residents return, local businesses fill, people are outdoors and active, and community events spill into every weekend within the Treasure Coast of Florida.

But beneath the festive energy lies an important opportunity: winter is the perfect moment for the people of Martin County to reclaim the conversation about our community’s future.

Over the past year, residents have watched a string of contentious debates - from growth and infrastructure to Brightline, a 4th international airport, and economic development as a whole - along with moments when the tone from City Hall feels out of step with what our citizens actually want?  These issues are not just policy disputes; they are reminders that the voters and taxpayers who love this community deserve competent, thoughtful, and qualified public servants in the future who put the public’s interest first rather than their own self-interests or beliefs, whether personal or spiritual.

Winter gives us a clearer view of what is worth protecting.  This is the season when Stuart feels most like the place its residents cherish: bustling yet relaxed, vibrant but not overwhelmed, full of small businesses thriving from a combination of both loyal locals and northern winter visitors.  It is a time when we are reminded of why people move to our cherished coastal community and why so many fight to preserve the longstanding character of this place we call home.

At the same time, we sit between two rapidly growing regions - Palm Beach County to the south and Port St. Lucie to the north.  Families continue choosing the Treasure Coast for its safety, charm, and slightly slower pace (yet growing).  Growth pressures won’t pause simply because we prefer things “the way they’ve always been…”  The Stuart City Commissioners would have you believe there is a growth problem, yet, the facts don’t support it – to the contrary.

That’s why leadership matters more than ever.  Elected officials should reflect the values and priorities of the residents - not personal agendas, petty politics, or decisions made in isolation.  Competent leadership listens, collaborates, seeks expert guidance, and sees the long-term picture.  It treats the community with respect.  It recognizes that people’s voices - not government personalities - are the heartbeat of this region.

As homeowners, renters, business owners, and local leaders gather this winter for festivals, markets, boat parades, and family celebrations, we should carry forward one simple question:

Are we being served by leaders who protect our future - or by leaders protecting their own interests?

The Treasure Coast is not just the place we live.  It’s a place we’re shaping.  And the tone we set this season - through engagement, voting, advocacy, and expecting better - will determine the community we hand off to the next generation.

This winter let’s give ourselves the gift of clarity.

Let’s ensure the future of Martin County belongs to the people who love it most.

Andy Noble’s opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

Diagnoses: Categories or Dimensions?

Where do diagnoses come from?

Imagine the first medicine man/woman in a primeval tribal society diagnosing an evil or illness in a member of his/her clan.  There must have been much trial and error in connecting cause and effect.  The absence of a visible cause likely led to attributing an illness to an unseen cause. Many have pondered how the first oyster was determined to be food, and when those who dined on oysters turned yellow with a belly ache, were the oyster beds determined to be possessed by evil spirits or Hepatitis A?  Throughout the history of human illness and the evolution of healing as skill set and science, healers were constantly formulating theories and experimenting with treatments, and names had to be chosen for the illness and the treatments.  In the beginning, all diagnoses were put into categories.  The Greeks of antiquity gave us the first categorical system of diagnosis with the concept of invisible humors: blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile.  Fever was an illness until it was discovered that bad humors or dirty water led to the fever, and then the attributed cause was linked to the fever.  Drinking fetid water would lead to swamp fever. Eureka, early man begins public health interventions by teaching clan members to only drink fresh water.   

In time, multiple ills were attributed to multiple environmental exposures or the vexing of any number of spirits or deities.  Everything has a cause.  Easy, well not so much.  It took the advent of modern science to recognize that one exposure could cause multiple distinct illnesses.  Tuberculosis and syphilis are considered great imposters in medicine; these bacterial infections could lie dormant in a healthy body for years and then manifest in disparate ways, easily mistaken for distinct illnesses, rather than distinct presentations of the same illness. Tuberculosis can initially be asymptomatic or can present as a bone infection of the spinal causing collapse of the spine (Pott’s Disease) in the absence of respiratory symptoms (Consumption).  Syphilis can initially be asymptomatic or can present as a chancre sore or without a chancre sore but with distinct neurological symptoms: dementia, stroke, wide based gait or any other. Syphilis can infect any organ and have the corresponding symptoms of the infected organ. 

Such is the case with psychiatric diagnoses as well.  There are many diagnoses caused by distinct causes, and any one cause can be attributed to several distinct psychiatric disorders.   This describes the transition in medicine from what was “categorical medicine” to the current understanding of what is “dimensional medicine”.  It does not suffice to simply treat a symptom; it is more important to prevent a causative exposure or to treat the cause of a medical or psychiatric illness.   In the present and looking forward, it does not suffice to simply diagnosis anxiety, depression, or psychosis, as multiple conditions, vulnerabilities, and exposures can lead to multiple disorders which have overlapping diagnostic criteria.  Pinning the category matters less than actually understanding the disease process as dimensional.  High blood pressure, elevated lipids, diabetes, chronic fatigue, and even dementia can result from obesity, so while all the diagnoses may be definable, it is more effective and efficient to treat this collection of diagnoses as dimensions of the same underlying metabolic disorders.

Psychiatric diagnoses have been the most difficult diagnoses in medicine to understand as dimensional.  Consider the category of psychosis, the condition whereby an individual has delusions, paranoia, hallucinations, and a loss of connection to the world known as negativism.  There are multiple distinct and unrelated pathways to developing a psychotic illness.  Individuals with autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, neurogenetic disorders, cannabis use, stimulant use, developmental adversity, and neurological infectious illness are at increased risk of developing psychosis compared to the general population; there is also the 1% of humanity who has the psychotic illness of schizophrenia without any risk factors.  In a dimensional understanding of psychosis, psychosis is not simply one illness, but many disease processes with a psychotic outcome or presentation. Many diagnostic labels represent historical basket categories of illnesses without consideration for the underlying causes.

The current cutting-edge scientific research has been discovering new causes for all infirmities of the mind.  These include the identification of genetic variants of brain receptors for multiple neurotransmitters, poor nutrition, metabolic disorders, inflammatory disorders, and exposure to toxic substances, including substances that popular culture would have us believe are innocuous, such as cannabis, which significantly increases the risk of most psychiatric disorders.

At the present time, thought leaders in psychiatry continue the process of changing how we officially diagnose psychiatric disorders.  The current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM5) has officially begun the historical and scientific process of transitioning from categorical diagnoses to dimensional diagnoses, and I think it is all for the better, as it focuses on root causes and not labels laden with historical stigmas. 

Dr. Louis Velazquez​’s opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

The (not so) Silent Majority 

Let’s talk about trees.  Many people might think about the joy of walking or hiking a trail in a park or nature preserve where trees make up a significant part of the experience.  It’s natural for humans to enjoy the connection to nature and the outdoors.  It’s visually appealing and it’s pleasant.  And these areas enjoy among the greatest level of political support from residents.  Just look at the response from locals last year when Tallahassee peeps wanted to reduce some trail and park lands here.

However, the wonderful experience of walking among trees and enjoying the shade doesn’t have to be limited to isolated preserves.  Cities can also consist of an urban forest or urban tree canopy. In fact, the city of Stuart CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency) has a program for residents to receive a free shade tree planted in their front yard within the street right-a-way.  Click this link for more details. Residential Street Tree Program | Stuart, FL    

This is a wonderful investment in the community which all residents can enjoy and benefit from.  It makes walking along sidewalks much more pleasant for all residents.  Because this program has been so popular there has been discussion about how to expand beyond the boundaries of the CRA and put resources in place to support planting trees along right-a-ways across the city.  There are a lot of considerations that go into a program like this such as proper sidewalk development, pedestrian traffic, maintenance, integration with overhead and underground utilities, and automobile traffic.  Fortunately, several other cities have already been doing this so we don’t have to re-invent the wheel. 

It is my hope that our community leaders and city staff continue discussions and develop a long term plan to make our city more walkable and pedestrian friendly.  It is no secret that our neighborhoods with the most mature tree canopies are among the most popular for walking and highest valued in the marketplace.  Why not use community resources to invest in those neighborhoods or streets which are currently tree deserts and improve city life for everyone.

And if we needed any further data to clarify the value of trees in the lives of residents, I’ll simply ask what do you think more than half of you will be bringing into your homes this month?  A tree of course.  I wish everyone a safe and happy Holiday.

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

The Heart of Christmas in Martin County…

For those of you who know me, this is my favorite time of year. The spirit of hope, family, and joy can be felt in many places throughout Martin County and across our country. We all have our own feelings about the holidays — some love them, some struggle with them — and each reason is personal.

My love for the season comes from the magic my parents created when I was growing up (and okay, if I’m being honest, it was mostly my mom — sorry to all the dads out there, but in my family she was the holiday powerhouse!). As more time passes since my parents’ passing, the memories they created and the love they poured into my sisters and me have shaped who I am today. That’s why the United Way Holiday Project, in conjunction with Toys for Tots, means so much to me. It brings hope and dignity to hundreds of families right here in Martin County.

The holidays are meant to be a time of joy — a season filled with warmth, generosity, and connection. Yet for many families in Martin County, this time of year can be incredibly difficult. Financial strain, medical hardships, housing instability, and rising costs can make it nearly impossible for parents to create the magical Christmas they dream of for their children. That’s where our community steps in.

Through The Holiday Project (formerly White Doves) in conjunction with Toys for Tots, United Way of Martin County works hand in hand with nonprofits, schools, churches, and civic organizations to ensure every family who needs assistance receives it — and receives it only once. This coordinated system protects the dignity of families, prevents duplication of services, and ensures that every donated dollar and toy achieves the greatest possible impact.

Why I feel working together matters.  When organizations operate separately, some families may be served more than once while others receive nothing at all. But when programs share information and coordinate together:

• More children receive gifts
• More families receive holiday support
• Our community gains access to MORE free toys from the national Toys for Tots Foundation
• Dollars typically spent on toys can be redirected to urgent needs like food, housing, and utilities

Collaboration doesn’t just support families during the holiday season — it strengthens the entire social safety net of Martin County. Our program already works closely with House of Hope and Salvation Army to ensure that assistance goes where it is needed most. Imagine how much more we could achieve if every holiday program in Martin County shared their lists or coordinated with us. Together, we could eliminate gaps, expand services, and reach every child who needs support.

Some ask why we run the Holiday Project in conjunction with Toys for Tots?   Because we know, behind every wrapped gift is a story.  A parent relieved knowing their child will wake up to Christmas morning excitement.  A teenager who learns the community has not forgotten about them.
A child who discovers that kindness exists — and that they matter.  That is what the holidays are truly about.

None of this would be possible without the generosity and commitment of the people and organizations who make this project come to life: donors, volunteers, businesses, schools, faith partners, civic groups, and nonprofit agencies. Whether someone donates a toy, logs volunteer hours, sponsors a family, or simply spreads the word — every contribution lights up a home in Martin County.

This Christmas, we celebrate more than gifts.  We celebrate compassion.  We celebrate community.

And we celebrate the belief that no child in our community should ever be left behind.

Thank you to every partner and supporter who plays a role in this extraordinary effort. Because of you, children will feel the magic of Christmas, parents will feel supported, and families across Martin County will experience the joy and dignity that every holiday season should bring.

From everyone at United Way of Martin County — may the spirit of giving fill your home with peace, hope, and warmth. And may we carry that spirit with us into the new year as we continue working together to build a stronger community for all.

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

It’s the most wonderful time of the year!  The holidays are full of traditions, memories, hopes, family, food and friends.  They also can be a time of stress and angst for some.  For those who have lost loved ones, who are struggling financially, or who are suffering with a mental health challenge, this most wonderful time of the year can trigger challenges.

We live in a most giving and collaborative community which is why it is important to raise this “other side” of holiday time.  I am asked often by generous community members, “how can I help?” Today, I want to share an answer to that, so that those of you who are looking to help, during the holiday time or after, have some concrete ways to do so.

First, consider reaching out directly to a non-profit agency to ask them directly how you might help them or the population they serve.  For us at Helping People Succeed, the help that is most helpful during the holidays is donating to one of our families in need, leading a drive to secure our most needed donations (diapers and developmental toys), or donating to one of our programs.  Every non-profit organization has the answer to “what do you need”, so don’t hesitate to call and ask!

Second, consider becoming a regular donor to a nonprofit of your choice.  Setting up a recurring monthly donation is one of the best ways to “set it and forget it” and regularly support the mission of an agency that resonates with you.  Just call and ask them how to do this.  A regular $20 monthly donation goes farther than you may think and ensures you are consistently helping the causes that mean the most to you.

Finally, support your loved ones needing additional mental health support during the holidays.  Gather information to share about compassionate providers like Helping People Succeed.  Whether someone needs someone to talk to, assistance with medication to manage the difficult times, or recurring mental health therapy, be that friend or family member who can gently and compassionately help them connect to services.  Never hesitate to refer them to or contact us directly at 772-320-0770 or info@hpsfl.org.

I wish each of you a wonderful holiday season and thank you for being willing to help make it joyous for others as well!

Kara Stimpson's opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

It’s been more than 10 days since Thanksgiving, so it’s likely that the last of your holiday leftovers have been gobbled up. (Except—if your family is anything like mine—the cranberry sauce. Has anyone ever actually eaten all the cranberry sauce?)

In this season of generosity, we’re still feeling grateful here at the BDB. We’re particularly thankful for the Martin County Commission’s recent approval of the Economic Toolkit. As these tools are put to work on behalf of our economy, we believe everyone will appreciate the results.

Designed for existing and expanding Martin County businesses, the toolkit enables qualified employers in targeted industries (such as advanced manufacturing) to seek specific tax relief in exchange for high levels of investment and high-wage job creation. The toolkit also encompasses expedited permitting, training and workforce grants and select reimbursements for qualified, impactful projects that expand the taxbase and support infrastructure improvements.

In addition to support from local business leaders and organizations, the toolkit earned the endorsement of the Martin County Taxpayers Association, which wrote: “If we are going to have a dynamic and resilience economy, we must have the right tools to attract businesses. The Taxpayers Association believes the toolkit goes a long way in doing just that. It goes a long way to promote a diversified and sustainable environment.”

We couldn’t agree more. A big “thank you” to the county commissioners, Taxpayers Association, Economic Council, Stuart Martin County Chamber and everyone who took the time to speak publicly or send emails supporting the Economic Development Toolkit.

Expanding business

We’re excited to announce that Power System Manufacturing is celebrating its ribbon cutting in Stuart in a private ceremony later this month. Originally founded in Martin County before moving out of the county, the company that specializes in manufacturing and servicing gas turbines for the aerospace industry is returning and will create 180,000 square feet of space and more than 100 high-wage jobs.

Spirit of giving

Our monthly newsletter, Martinomics, publishes tomorrow and we hope you’ll sign up for it. Our lead story is inspired by the spirit of the season. We speak with the leaders of local nonprofits about the generosity of the business community and how its countless contributions of time, treasure and talent are making a major difference in the lives of local children and families in need.

While this is not the type of indicator that might show up in traditional economic metrics, it certainly speaks to a strong—and best of all, kind—economy. That’s something we can all be grateful for and proud of.

Hoping everyone enjoys a very Happy Holiday season!

William T. Corbin's opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

Rivers Coalition president Mark Perry opened the November 20th meeting by reminiscing about the time the Coalition was formed back in 1998. It had one overriding goal -- “Stop The Discharges!” The nearly-annual discharges from Lake Okeechobee caused fish kills, created a dangerously-unhealthy river, and resulted in several “Lost Summers.”

The Rivers Coalition and its 105 member organizations were at the forefront of the decades-long fight to “Stop The Discharges!” After many frustrating years it paid off; the newly-adopted Lake Okeechobee System Operating Manual, over five years in the making, virtually eliminates harmful discharges of polluted lake water to Florida’s east coast except for emergency situations.

Alas, we still have to deal with polluted water. The main problem now is harmful runoff from the watershed, and the fertilizer and pesticide usage that creates it isn’t going to go away anytime soon.

The battle for a clean, healthy river rages on…

Eve Samples and Gil Smart, from the Friends of the Everglades, presented an overview of the 2026 Florida Legislative session. Regrettably, the recent trend for Tallahassee to strip away home rule is gaining momentum. The legislature is apparently trying to create an even playing field in all 67 counties. Including environmental standards.

The problem: What’s right for Broward County isn’t right for Martin County … and what’s right for Liberty County up in the panhandle certainly isn’t. The ultimate result of these “horrible bills” would thus be undesirable standards for almost every county in Florida. Including ours.

You will undoubtedly be getting calls for action from environmental organizations during the legislative session on the really, really bad bills (like HB 479, which eliminates the ability of local governments to enact water quality standards that differ from the state’s, and HB 299, which fast-tracks some development projects and thereby removes them from local reviews).

RSVP          

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

Giving back to the community through donations, partnerships and engaged caregivers  

Every three years, Cleveland Clinic Martin Health conducts a Community Health Needs Assessment to help guide our charitable outreach and local partnerships. From this work, we’ve identified three key priorities where we can make the greatest impact: Access to Care, Behavioral Health, and Food Insecurity. With these needs in mind, our Community Impact team is actively working alongside local organizations and residents to create meaningful, sustainable solutions for the people we serve. 

Access to Care
To expand access to care, we installed blood pressure monitoring stations at both the Kane Center and the 10th Street Community Center. These stations allow community members to conveniently check their health while on site, empowering them to stay informed and proactive about their well-being.

In addition, Cleveland Clinic sponsored free prostate screenings for men in Martin and St. Lucie Counties. The Robert and Carol Weissman Cancer Center hosted the event at Martin North. 25 men were screened free of charge and were able to get access to the right care if needed. In addition, we proudly sponsored Ride United through the United Way, a program that provides community members with Lyft rides to help them get to medical appointments, ensuring transportation is never a barrier to care. 

Cleveland Clinic also engages with younger audiences through collaborations with multiple partners in Martin County. Cleveland Clinic hosted mini med school in all of the Boys and Girls Clubs, the Children’s Museum and Banner Lake School. Cleveland Clinic caregivers presented lessons with key takeaways in six areas: pediatrics, cardiology, dermatology, neurology, gastroenterology, and pulmonology. Participants received a card to take home with tools to share with parents. The goal of Mini Med School is to teach kids about careers in health and medicine and also teach them about chronic disease prevention in a fun atmosphere. 

Throughout the year, Cleveland Clinic sponsored educational tables at Healthy Kids Day. YMCA hosts this free community event aimed at inspiring kids to keep their minds and bodies active throughout the summer months. In Stuart, Cleveland Clinic volunteers hosted a lung health exhibit where kids and adults learned the dangers of vaping and made a model of healthy lungs.

Adults interact with Cleveland Clinic staff at community talks and educational events that range from stroke prevention, to congestive heart failure, to learning more about new technology, artificial intelligence, and medical imaging. 

Behavioral Health
To support behavioral health in our community, Cleveland Clinic funded a hygiene closet at every Boys & Girls Club in Martin County, ensuring children have access to essential items that help them feel confident, clean, and ready to thrive. We also partnered with Volunteers in Medicine and i-Mind to provide free mental health counseling for residents in need, and we help fund the walk-in mental health clinic at Tykes & Teens to ensure timely support for youth and families. Additionally, we brought art therapy to the children at Hibiscus Children’s Center, offering them a safe outlet for expression and emotional processing. Our team also collaborates with NAMI and the Hanley Center to expand local behavioral health programming and strengthen community-wide mental wellness resources. 

Food Insecurity
To address issues of food insecurity, Cleveland Clinic collaborates with the Council on Aging’s Meals on Wheels program and local congregate meal sites by helping fund these essential services. We also partner with House of Hope to offer nutrition classes, bring a traveling nutrition garden to children throughout the community, and support the expansion of the Growing Hope Garden, which produces fresh fruits and vegetables for individuals and families facing food insecurity. In addition, our caregivers host an annual summer cereal drive that provides hundreds of families with breakfast staples—an effort that earned them the 2025 Hope Award from House of Hope. 

Through these initiatives, our caregivers and community partners are making a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of residents across Martin County. Together, we are building a stronger, healthier, and more resilient community for everyone.

Dr. Chirag Choudhary's opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

Year-Round Gift Giving: The Environmental Stewardship Awards

We’re all on the quest for the perfect gifts for families and friends this holiday season.  It takes creativity, determination, and sometimes a bit of luck to score just the right item.

Hopefully you’re finding the search to be a joy, not just another pressure point in your busy life.

At Keep Martin Beautiful, we delight in the knowledge that some members of our community give gifts to the environment all year long. Their generosity and concern don’t have a season. They see a problem or an opportunity, and they’re on it!

Take for example the hundreds of individuals, families, businesses and organizations that are part of the Adopt-a-Road program. Or the hundreds of volunteers who turn out to clean up our beaches and waterways during the International Coastal Cleanup or who take on a project to improve their neighborhood during the Great American Cleanup.

Their time and effort are gifts that help to keep Martin beautiful.

There are many others in our community who have found innovative ways to improve the environment. Some are departments within the city or county government, others are students and teachers in our schools, and still others may be individuals who simply had a good idea and acted on it.

You can give these gift-givers the thanks they deserve by nominating them for a 2026 Environmental Stewardship Award.

Every two years, Keep Martin Beautiful honors organizations and individuals who are improving our local environment and helping to make Martin County such an extraordinary place to live! The nomination process is very simple. There are no entry fees and self-nominations are encouraged!

If you know a person or group who has done something noteworthy for our environment, go to www.keepmartinbeautiful.org  and nominate them today. Nominations close on Monday, December 15.

And while we’re on the subject of gift-giving, here are a few reminders:

1. Wrap it Right:

• Swap wrapping paper for recycled goodies—or the comics page for a laugh.
• Wrap with a scarf for a two-in-one surprise.
• Or go rogue and skip the wrapping entirely!

2. Deck the Halls Sustainably:

• Choose a live Christmas tree with roots for replanting, or an artificial one made from recycled materials.
• Bring in natural decor like painted pinecones or branches.

3. Gifts That Give Back:

• Shop locally or at thrift stores for unique, meaningful finds.
• Gift experiences like concerts, classes, or spa days.
• Donate to a nonprofit in someone’s name.
• Give eco-friendly items like plants.

4. Clean Up Green:

• Recycle and repurpose where possible.
• Use eco-friendly cleaning products.

From all of us at Keep Martin Beautiful, we wish you a joyous and eco-friendly holiday season!

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

Tech & Business 2035: A Decade of Intelligent Automation and Sustainable Growth

I am often asked where do you think things will be years from now. As is always the case when trying to predict the future, you have a pretty good chance of getting it wrong. On the other hand it is fun to think about it so I thought it would be good exercise to look 10 years down the road. Not just relying on my experience but from other thought leaders here is what we might be looking forward to.

From AI agents to quantum breakthroughs, the next ten years will redefine global markets and everyday life.

The next ten years promise a seismic shift in technology and business, driven by artificial intelligence, connectivity, and sustainability. AI will dominate the innovation landscape, evolving from today’s generative models into autonomous “agentic” systems capable of making decisions and executing tasks without human intervention. These AI agents will transform industries by optimizing workflows, predicting consumer needs, and enabling hyper-personalized experiences. [startus-insights.com]

Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) is expected to emerge as the most transformative force of the decade. Unlike narrow AI, AGI will integrate perception, cognition, and decision-making, blurring the lines between physical and digital worlds. Businesses will leverage AGI for real-time problem-solving, bringing in an era of intelligent automation. [eu.36kr.com]

Connectivity will also leap forward. By 2030, 6G networks and low-Earth orbit satellites will deliver near-zero latency, enabling seamless communication for autonomous vehicles, industrial IoT, and immersive virtual environments. This infrastructure will support the rise of ACES vehicles—autonomous, connected, electric, and shared—making smart transportation mainstream. [pluralsight.com]

Quantum computing is poised to unlock previously unsolvable problems in finance, healthcare, and logistics. Early applications will focus on secure communications and complex modeling, while breakthroughs in quantum hardware will accelerate adoption in high-stakes industries. [sciencenewstoday.org]

On the business front, digital transformation spending is projected to hit $3.9 trillion by 2027, as companies race to integrate AI, robotics, and clean energy solutions. Sustainability will become a core business driver, with climate-tech innovations and green energy investments reshaping global supply chains. [startus-insights.com]

However, the economic outlook is nuanced. Goldman Sachs predicts U.S. equity markets may underperform globally, with emerging markets and Asia leading growth—fueled by structural reforms and AI-driven productivity gains. [businessinsider.com]

10 Years from now things will look very different. I don’t agree with all the notes above, but I can see much of what is being described as happening. I just watched a YouTube video of a personal EVTol that has been around since 2023 and is going into production for purchase next year, no pilots license needed, perspective, 100 years ago airplanes were in their infancy. Where we will be in 10 years, I believe, will shock and astound but more likely be seen by everyday people as just normal. I’m looking forward to it.

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

Are You Election Ready for 2026? Plan Now.

As we approach the close of 2025 and prepare to enter a new election year, now is the time to make your election plan.  The 2026 elections will be here before you know it and with our fast-paced lives and travel plans, one of the most convenient and secure ways to ensure your voice is heard in 2026 is to vote-by-mail.

In Martin County, voters are no longer waiting until Election Day to cast their vote. On an average 40% of voters choose to Vote by Mail.

Voting by mail is an option available to every registered voter. Here are a few important facts about voting by mail you need to know:

• All vote-by-mail ballots are counted, regardless of whether an election has a close race or not

• Vote-by-mail requests are only valid for an election cycle and must be renewed for every election cycle

• Vote-by-mail ballots cannot be forwarded. To mail a vote-by-mail ballot to a different address, visit MartinVotes.gov to fill out a request form

• You can verify your ballot was received at MartinVotes.gov, sign up on ‘Ballottrax’, or call the Elections Center at 772-288-5637

• Florida is a no-excuse state. Voters do not need a reason to request a vote-by-mail ballot

• Secure Ballot Intake Stations (drop boxes) are available during early voting hours inside all early voting sites, to provide a secure option to deliver your voted ballot

• All vote-by-mail ballots must be received at the Elections Office by 7 p.m. on Election Day

To request a vote-by-mail ballot for the August 18, 2026, Primary Election and November 3, 2026, General Election, call 772-288-5637 or visit MartinVotes.gov to complete the online request form.

As your Supervisor of Elections, my top priority is providing you with the best customer service experience. If there is anything my staff or I can do to assist you, please let us know.

Happy Holidays

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

Social Isolation and the Holidays

The holiday season is often a time of joy, family gatherings, and celebrations. However, for many seniors, this time of year can amplify feelings of loneliness and social isolation.

Why Seniors Experience Isolation During the Holidays

Several factors contribute to increased isolation among seniors during the festive season:

• Loss of Loved Ones: Many older adults have outlived friends, spouses, or family members, making gatherings feel bittersweet or even painful.
• Physical Limitations: Mobility challenges, chronic illnesses, or lack of transportation can prevent seniors from attending social events.
• Geographic Distance: Adult children and relatives may live far away, making in-person visits difficult.
• Digital Divide: While technology can bridge gaps, not all seniors are comfortable with video calls or social media.

The Impact of Isolation

Social isolation is not just an emotional challenge—it has profound health implications. According to the National Institute on Aging, loneliness is associated with:

• Increased Risk of Depression and Anxiety: Persistent feelings of isolation can lead to mental health struggles.
• Cognitive Decline: Studies show that socially isolated seniors are more likely to experience memory loss and dementia.
• Physical Health Risks: Loneliness correlates with higher blood pressure, weakened immune systems, and increased mortality rates.
• Reduced Quality of Life: Seniors who feel disconnected often report lower levels of happiness and life satisfaction.

Ways to Support Seniors During the Holidays

1. Reach Out Regularly: A simple phone call or video chat can brighten someone’s day.
2. Include Them in Traditions: Whether it’s baking cookies together or sharing holiday stories, small gestures matter.
3. Leverage Technology: Help seniors set up easy-to-use devices for virtual gatherings.
4. Community Engagement: Encourage participation in local senior center events or faith-based activities.
5. Volunteer Programs: Many organizations offer holiday meal deliveries or companionship visits - consider signing up or referring seniors.

Creating a Sense of Belonging

The holidays should be a time of connection, not isolation. By prioritizing outreach and empathy, we can ensure seniors feel valued and included. A warm conversation, a shared meal, or even a handwritten card can transform loneliness into joy.

Know Us Before You Need Us

The Area Agency on Aging is dedicated to promoting the well-being and independence of seniors, adults with disabilities, and their caregivers. We offer resources, support, and advocacy to help you live safely and independently.

📞 Helpline: 1-866-684-5885

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

What the Spirit of Christmas holds for us all

When I think about the spirit of Christmas, I can’t help but see it through three lenses: past, present, and future, especially as a small business owner.

The Spirit of Christmas Past

Growing up, Christmas wasn’t about fancy gifts or big budgets. It was about feeling seen and loved. I remember the small things: a handwritten note, neighbors dropping off homemade cookies, the way local shop owners knew our names and asked about our families.

Those memories stay with me. They remind me that what people remember most isn’t the price tag, it’s the feeling. As a small business owner, I carry that with me. Every time someone walks through my door or reaches out online, I have a chance to recreate that sense of warmth and connection that meant so much to me as a child.

The Spirit of Christmas Present

Today, the holidays can feel rushed and stressful. People are juggling work, family, bills, and a never-ending to-do list. It’s easy for the season to turn into one more thing we have to “get through.”

This is where I believe small businesses can shine. Right now, in this present moment, I can choose to slow things down. I can greet people by name, listen to their stories, and treat every interaction as more than just a transaction.

Whether it’s going the extra mile on a project, offering flexible options, supporting local charities, or simply responding with kindness and patience, I want my business to feel like a safe, welcoming place, a little pocket of peace in a busy world.

The Spirit of Christmas Future

The future of Christmas, the way our community will experience it in years to come, depends on the choices we make now. As a small business owner, I ask myself: How can I be part of the change I want to see?

I can:

• Support other local businesses so money stays in our community.
• Partner with nonprofits and causes that matter, especially during the holidays.
• Create opportunities for others through referrals, collaboration, and encouragement.
• Use my voice, my platforms, and my work to spread hope instead of fear, unity instead of division.

I can’t fix everything. But I can be intentional. I can decide that my business will stand for generosity, integrity, kindness, and community, not just in December, but all year long.

Being the Difference This Season

This Christmas, my goal is simple: to be the difference for at least one person every day. Maybe it’s a client who feels understood, a partner who feels supported, a stranger who feels seen, or a team member who feels appreciated.

The spirit of Christmas past reminds me where my heart comes from.
The spirit of Christmas present reminds me how powerful this moment is.
And the spirit of Christmas future reminds me that every small act of kindness can echo far beyond this season.

As a small business owner, I don’t just want to celebrate the holidays, I want to live their meaning. And this year, I’m choosing to be the difference.

Is there a business topic you would like to know more about?  Would you like a review of your business?  Shoot me a message and let's start a discussion. Chriss@ChrissDavidAndAssociates.com

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

‘Twas the Year of Impact – Wrapping Up 2025

As we deck the halls and trim the tree, we’re reflecting on the incredible gifts of partnership and community spirit in Martin County this year. From lifesaving efforts to joyful celebrations, 2025 was truly a season of giving.

A Season of Safety & Joy

Like gifts under the tree, partnerships in Martin County brought hope and protection. Together, we installed hundreds of smoke alarms, taught fire safety, and responded to home fires—saving lives along the way. Every alarm is a heartbeat of safety. Like the glow of holiday lights, these alarms brought warmth and security to families when they needed it most.

Joy in the Skies – Honoring Our Heroes

One of our favorite traditions? Supporting our military heroes at the Stuart Air Show! With jets soaring like Santa’s sleigh and crowds cheering in holiday spirit, we celebrated those who serve with pride and gratitude. It was a reminder that community is the greatest gift of all.

Show Your Love – Learn Lifesaving Skills

This season, give the gift that truly matters: safety. Learn CPR and first aid through the American Red Cross and show your loved ones how much you care. These skills could make you the hero of your own holiday story.

Be a Shelter Hero – A New Year’s Resolution Worth Keeping

Looking ahead to 2026, the need for Red Cross Shelter Heroes is greater than ever. When disasters strike, trained volunteers provide comfort and hope—like a guiding star on a winter’s night. Training is provided, and the difference you’ll make is life-changing.

The Holiday Season Is Upon Us – Double Your Impact!

This year, honor friends and family with a charitable gift that gives back. Donations made on select dates in December—2nd, 3rd, 12th, 16th, 22nd, 27th, 29th, and 31st—will have double the impact! On these dates, gifts made at redcross.org/mission will be matched dollar for dollar by generous partners, making your contribution twice as powerful for those who need it most.

Wishing You Peace, Joy & Hope for 2026

From all of us at the Pam Beach & Treasure Coast Chapter of the American Red Cross, thank you for being part of this incredible journey. May your holidays be merry and bright, and may 2026 bring safety, strength, and love to all!

Traci Mitchell's opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

Rappaport Speaker Series Unveils Dynamic Lineup for 2026 Season

Stuart, Fla. - The Rappaport Speaker Series returns in 2026 with a trio of compelling thought leaders whose insights promise to challenge, inspire, and spark meaningful conversation on the Treasure Coast.

As a meeting place for sharing ideas and a center for intellectual debate on the Treasure Coast, the Rappaport Center will host three nationally recognized voices tackling these intriguing topics.

January 15 – Bret Stephens: “America at a Crossroads – The Future of Conservatism”

Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Bret Stephens, a New York Times op-ed columnist and NBC/MSNBC contributor, will offer a candid look at the state of conservatism and the forces shaping American politics today. Formerly the Wall Street Journal’s deputy editorial page editor and principal foreign-affairs columnist, Stephens is known for his sharp analysis and fearless commentary.

February 26 – Dr. Laurie Santos: “Calm Amidst the Chaos – The Science of Happiness”

Dr. Laurie Santos, Yale University professor, psychologist and host of the acclaimed podcast The Happiness Lab, explores how science-backed strategies can improve well-being and resilience in turbulent times. A leader in the field of positive psychology, her research focuses on the cognitive and behavioral biases that affect our choices and happiness.

March 26 – Eve Samples: “Everglades on Trial – A Test for Environmental Policy in America”

Journalist-turned-environmental advocate Eve Samples, executive director of the nonprofit Friends of the Everglades, will share an insider’s look at Florida’s ongoing water and land policy battles. A former USA TODAY Network–Florida opinion editor and former TCPalm editor, Samples brings her deep understanding of environmental advocacy and journalism to one of the state’s – and the nations -most pressing conservation issues.

All events begin at 7 p.m. at Temple Beit HaYam in Stuart. Series tickets are $100 and can be purchased online at www.RappaportSpeakerSeries.com. Individual event tickets are also available.

Supported by the Phyllis & Jerome Lyle Rappaport Foundation through a grant to Temple Beit HaYam, the Speaker Series fosters civic dialogue and broadens understanding on issues of national and global significance. Past presenters have included renowned figures such as David Gergen, advisor to four U.S. presidents; Marty Baron, former editor of The Washington Post; and bestselling author Mitch Albom, famous for his books including Tuesdays with Morrie.

"My husband Jerry and I founded the Rappaport Speaker Series to bring distinguished voices to Florida's Treasure Coast. Our 2026 lineup delivers on that vision, featuring thought leaders in politics, psychology, and environmentalism addressing issues that shape the world and our own community," said Phyllis Rappaport.

More information about the Rappaport Center, Speaker Series, and this year’s presenters can be found at www.RappaportSpeakerSeries.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RappaportCenterSpeakerSeries.

About the Rappaport Foundation

The Phyllis & Jerome Lyle Rappaport Foundation partners with leading institutions in Boston and beyond to cultivate emerging leaders in public policy, mental health, neurodegenerative research, and the arts. The Foundation has a long and proud history of supporting emerging leaders, including civic leaders who improve the lives of their constituents and communities, medical researchers who have unlocked the mysteries of the brain, mental illness and Alzheimer’s disease, and artists who enrich lives, ignite imaginations, and challenge us to see the world in a new light. In Stuart, Florida, the Foundation sponsors the Rappaport Center Speaker Series to promote informed dialogue on issues of national and international importance.

About Temple Beit HaYam

Founded in 1993, Temple Beit HaYam is a Reform Jewish congregation in Stuart dedicated to Torah (lifelong learning), Avodah (worship), and Gemilut Chasadim (acts of kindness and justice). Temple Beit HaYam is a Reform Jewish Congregation committed to Torah (life-long Jewish education), avodah (worship through prayer and service) and gemilut chasadim (acts of loving kindness). The Temple offers Hebrew and religious training to youngsters from kindergarten through high school, has active Sisterhood and Brotherhood programs, and is an active cultural hub, hosting concerts, lectures, and community events that enrich the Treasure Coast.

Pep Rally Gala Teams All Fired Up to Benefit Martin County Seniors and Meals on Wheels

Stuart, FL – Creative cuisine, cheerleading stunt work, game-changer cocktails, a danceable playlist of live music, and a fiercely-contested team challenge that will better the lives of local seniors for years to come – that’s the promise of this year’s Pep Rally Gala to benefit the Council on Aging Martin County.

“This is a gala unlike any other,” said Andrea Levy, committee member and captain of Team Lotus Loft. “The Council on Aging Martin County has been serving seniors for 51 successful years. We’re celebrating that tremendous achievement and getting all fired up for the future.”

The event on Saturday, February 28, begins at 6 p.m. at the Kane Center. Chef’s Table will provide an amazing spread, the band Girlfriend Material will play lively, get-up-out-of-your-seat-and-dance music, and there will be surprises throughout the evening starting with a Progressive Cocktail Tour.

The 2026 Pep Rally Gala Committee: Bottom from left: Casey Caplan, Andrea Turke, Natalie Nastasia, Mubina Dunn, Tara Baldwin, Alison Shingary, Taylor Emerick; Middle: Julie Collins, Devon Senical, Kristy Roman, Lindsay Benson; Back: Erica Curtis, Michelle Dyer, Ellise Ryan, Tabitha Lavery, Amber Stephan. Not pictured: Andrea Levy, Kim Palsin, Dakota Minervini, Katie Diamond.

Last year, teams competed for bragging rights and raised significant funds to benefit Council on Aging programs. This year, they have their sights set on a very specific goal: $80,000 to purchase a meal delivery vehicle to support the Meals on Wheels program.

“Every day our volunteers deliver more than 580 meals to seniors in need throughout our county,” explained CEO Karen Ripper, “along with meals to our four congregate dining sites. They bring nourishment, programming and socialization to our clients. The Meal Delivery Truck will be a game changer in how well we are able to deliver hot meals to our congregate dining sites in Jensen Beach, Stuart, Hobe Sound, and Indiantown.”

The 2026 teams are now forming. A team can be a business, neighborhood, or group of friends. The only requirement is, according to Andrea, “a willingness to get fired up and help us raise funds for seniors in our community.”

It’s quick and easy to become a team. Just line up the team members, choose a name and logo, and sign up at  coamartin.org/peprallygala.

The most important goal of the Pep Rally Gala is to help vulnerable seniors, especially at a time when cuts to government programs have made their needs greater than ever. There are also valuable perks that come with forming a team or being a sponsor.

Sponsors will have their names included in press releases, bi-weekly email blasts to update the status of the competition, and all marketing materials. Teams that raise more than $2,000 will enjoy  their own table at the event and receive ten tickets. At the $5,000 and above level, sponsors will also be honored as a contributor with a listing on the new Meal Truck.

“The Pep Rally Gala will be incredible fun from start to finish,” said Michelle Dyer, committee member and captain of the New Home Dream Team. “We invite the community to get rowdy with us and help Council on Aging continue their amazing work.  Together, we can fight Senior hunger and isolation!”

For tickets and sponsorship information, contact Michele Leigh Jacobs at 772-223-7803, mjacobs@coamartin.org, or the Council on Aging Martin County website www.coamartin.org. 

About the Council on Aging Martin County

For seniors, their families, and caregivers, the Council on Aging Martin County is their trusted and comprehensive hub for senior resources. We work with the community to reduce anxiety, depression, loneliness, and hunger. Together, we help seniors live a safer, healthier, and happier life.

From our Adult Day Club, Day Primary Care Center, case management, and memory enhancement programming, to our nutrition and exercise classes, games to improve memory, concerts and social events, the Council on Aging’s Kane Center on Salerno Road is a beehive of activities. Services also take to the road – like Meals on Wheels, providing a hot meal and a warm smile to more than 580 homebound and needy Martin County senior residents in their home each day, or Senior Dining Centers at locations throughout the county in Stuart, Jensen Beach, Indiantown and Hobe Sound. The Elder Care Mobile Outreach Bus brings knowledgeable and compassionate staff directly to seniors in local neighborhoods.

For 51 years, the Council on Aging Martin County has been working tirelessly to inspire a community that embraces, uplifts and encourages seniors to maintain lives of quality and purpose. Stay healthy. Be active. Eat well. Get help when you need it from the Council on Aging Martin County. Please visit us in person, online at coamartin.org, or on social media, and learn more about the many services of the Council on Aging Martin County. Our staff and volunteers are ready and eager to help.

PALM CITY, Fla. - Organic, all natural, cage free, free range – what’s science and what’s marketing hype? This year’s Farm City luncheon dug into the confusing stew of food labels to help consumers make informed, confident choices.

“I work in agriculture every day,” said Rick Hartman, President of One Martin, “and I can still find some of these descriptions confusing or downright misleading.  We were glad to bring in experts to help people sort out the truth from the dazzle or misdirection on food labels.”

The sold-out crowd at the Nov. 20 event at Rockin’ H Ranch in Palm City heard from University of Florida professors Dr. Danielle Treadwell and Dr. Todd Thrift as they sorted out fact from fiction.

Summer Ernst, Ryan Taylor, Rick Hartman, and Michelle McNally at the 2025 Farm City Luncheon.

“Healthy food choices shouldn’t be complicated,” insisted Dr. Treadwell, Associate Professor and State Extension Specialist. She described the American diet as “energy rich and nutrient poor” and warned against chasing after products that have labels that are marketing, not science-based. “All natural, cage free, hormone free, free range – these are all claims that have no certified authentication,” Treadwell added.

Dr. Thrift, Associate Professor of Cow-Calf Management and Beef Cattle Nutrition, emphasized that many labels lack oversight. He shared a common example: the popular phrase “no added hormones” on the packaging for a cut of meat.  

“All meat and plants naturally contain hormones,” he said, “and no cattle raised in Florida are given added growth hormones.” He also underscored that Florida beef is free from antibiotics at harvest. “There are no antibiotics in your food,” he said. “There’s a test for that, and inspectors would shut you down if they found it.”

The takeaway? Trust labels that say “USDA Certified.” Beyond that, look deeper before accepting marketing claims at face value. And when in doubt, buy local. “That’s definitely the label with the most validity,” Thrift said. “It assures freshness and helps the local economy at the same time.”

The Farm City luncheon menu got the stamp of approval from both speakers for its high nutritional value and local sourcing. Donations of beef came from Adams Ranch in Fort Pierce, the potatoes and vegetables from Agri-Gators in Palm City, and the salad greens from House of Hope’s Growing Hope Production Farm in Palm City.

Deb Duvall, Paula Hundt, Sue Whittington, and Gloretta Hall at the 2025 Farm City Luncheon.

Now in its eighth year, the Farm City Luncheon has become a beloved community tradition that brings together farmers, ranchers, business, civic and government leaders, and residents to celebrate the people and places behind our local food system. Past programs have highlighted multigenerational farm families, aquaculture as part of agriculture, and stories from the fields and ranchlands that shape our county’s economy and way of life. The event is presented by One Martin in partnership with the Martin County Farm Bureau and a broad range of supporters in recognition of Farm-City week.

“We’re grateful to everyone who had a part in bringing food to our tables today,” Hartman said, “and to the agricultural community that is critical to our food supply here and across the nation.”

One Martin is so grateful for the generous support of the community partners who made the luncheon possible. Luncheon sponsors include Legacy: Apogee Golf Club, Ashley Capital, Becker Tree Farm; Stewardship: Midbrook 1st Realty; Tradition: Atlantic Fields Club, Gunster, Hartman Real Estate, Star Farms Corp., R.V. Johnson Insurance and Auto-Owners Insurance; Heritage: 2GHO, Agri-Gators, Bull Hammock Ranch, CAPTEC Engineering, EW Consultants, Inc., Family Lands Remembered, Lucido & Associates, Ralicki Wealth Management & Trust Services, Shearwater Marine, Swallowtail Enterprises, Team Parks, UES, Wedgworth’s, and Yamacraw Hill, LLC.

To view the photo album from the event, visit the One Martin Facebook page.

For more information about One Martin and the annual Farm City Luncheon, go to www.onemartin.org/farm-city-week/, email info@onemartin.org , or call 772-287-5272.

About One Martin

One Martin is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a more informed citizenry and providing opportunities for civil discussion on topics of importance to Martin County. To learn more, visit www.onemartin.org or follow along on Facebook at www.facebook.com/OneMartinCounty

Dogs to make a splash at humane society’s annual Pooch Plunge

Dogs of all sizes and breeds will take over Sailfish Splash Waterpark at the Pooch Plunge.

STUART, Fla. — The holiday season for dogs will begin on Saturday, Dec. 6, with the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast’s 12th annual “Pooch Plunge.” Presented by the Bark Park, the event of the year for dogs of all sizes and breeds will have the opportunity to swim, splash and play at Sailfish Splash Waterpark, 931 SE Ruhnke St., on that date starting at 10 a.m. The waterpark will close for the winter once the event ends.

Dogs have fun at the Pooch Plunge catching balls, swimming and running about.

This year, the humane society is basing the sessions on the dog’s size, as follows:
10 a.m. – 11  a.m. - Small Dogs (Under 30 lbs.)
11  a.m. – Noon - Open swim (all dogs)
Noon – 1  pm - Large dogs (30 lbs. and over)

The Pooch Plunge offers an opportunity to have a photo taken with Santa, as pictured here with Russ & Joan Swinehart and their dog Harper.

The Pooch Plunge gives dogs the chance to test the waters while surrounded by other furry friends.

Fall into Learning with Banner Lake!

Fire Safety Fun: Martin County Firefighters Visit Banner Lake Students

This fall, students at Banner Lake received an exciting and educational visit from the Martin County Firefighters. The brave men and women of the fire department taught the young learners crucial lessons about fire safety, ensuring the students understood important preventative measures and what to do in an emergency. The highlight of the visit for many was the opportunity to see the enormous fire trucks up close, giving the students a firsthand look at the equipment and vehicles used daily to protect the community.

Literacy Link: Martin County's Monthly Gift of Reading

Young learners receive books monthly for every BLELC student from the Library Foundation of Martin County through their 1,000 books before Kindergarten program. It gives each of our students a book every month during the school year.

Tablet Time: What’s really happening?

Presented by Family First Social Services, I.T. Expert Yeshau Clark hosted a seminar focused on practicing healthy digital boundaries. Parents and Caregivers attended this seminar in person with a dinner and some attended remotely. Important details were discussed about children using today’s technology.

Mini Med Clinic with Cleveland Clinic

Cleveland Clinic’s Mini Med School teaches children about chronic disease prevention while creating interest in careers in medicine and health care. Banner Lake’s students were visited on Nov 14th.

Giving Thanks: A Banner Lake Academy Family Event!

Banner Lake Academy celebrated Thanksgiving with our amazing families. Our campus was filled with warmth and gratitude on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, as Banner Lake Academy hosted its annual Thanksgiving celebration. Students, teachers, and family members gathered to share a traditional meal and reflect on the many things we are thankful for this year. The event fostered a wonderful sense of community and provided a beautiful opportunity for families to connect and celebrate the holiday season together. Thank you to everyone who joined us!

House of Hope Tournament Serves Up Howling Good Time

STUART, Fla. – An exciting blend of fierce competition, Halloween creativity, and community spirit made the 2025 edition of House of Hope’s annual Serve Some Hope Tennis & Pickleball Charity Tournament a howling success.

Rene Espinal and Chris Peddicord, representing The S.E.E.K. Group at Morgan Stanley, were awarded the Men's Pickleball 4.0 Doubles Silver Medals.

The weekend festivities kicked off on Halloween evening with a special Costumes and Cocktails event paired with the Mixed Doubles Tennis Invitational at the beautiful Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club. Men’s, Women’s and Doubles teams in both tennis and pickleball took to the courts on Saturday and Sunday, November 1 and 2, for fast-paced tournament  play. In all, 130 participants battled for bragging rights while raising more than $31,000 in donations.

Brigite Babine and Nancy Pribble were awarded the Women's Tennis 3.5 55+ Doubles Gold medals. (Left to right in photo) Brigite Babine, Fabio Vasconcellos, and Nancy Pribble.

“This event is always fun,  but its purpose – to raise funds that go directly into helping our friends and neighbors in need – has never been more serious,” said House of Hope CEO Rob Ranieri. “Between constantly rising prices and recent government cuts to benefits, many families right here on the Treasure Coast are struggling every day to put food on the table. We’ve experienced a 50% increase this year in the number of people needing our help, and the numbers keep growing.”

House of Hope reaches more than 30,000 people each month in Martin, St. Lucie, Okeechobee, and even parts of Vero and Palm Beach County, empowering them to overcome hunger and hardship. Last year alone, House of Hope distributed nearly 1.7 million pounds of food, including more than 600,000 pounds of fresh produce; allocated more than $266,000 in financial assistance; supported 30 area nonprofits with food and clothes closet items; and helped more than 40,000 individuals through its basic needs, food bank, enrichment, workforce development, financial assistance and nutrition education programs.

“A successful tournament depends on the work of a lot of people. We want to give a special shout-out to everyone at Harbour Ridge for giving us access to their beautiful location,” Ranieri said.

Players and spectators dressed to impress for the costume contest at the Annual Tennis Invitational & Costumes and Cocktails Halloween Party. (Left to right in photo) Larry Shull, Guadalupe Avinzano, Tom Whittington, Sue Whittington, and Brigite Babine

Tournament sponsors include Lichtenberger Family Charitable Fund at the Community Foundation Martin - St. Lucie, Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club, HBKS Wealth Advisors, Urban Abundance, Alan B. Miller Medical Center, Brigite & John Babine, Florida Power & Light Company, Sue Whittington (Travel Advisor) Ticket to Paradise Travel by Cruise One, Susan & Dave Yeager, The S.E.E.K. Group at Morgan Stanley, Ashley Capital, Conviva Care Center, Diadem Sports, Gerelco Electrical Contractors, Maureen M. Holley, DMD, South Florida Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, and Walter & Nancy Pribble."

A full recap of the winners in both the Men’s, Women’s and Mixed Doubles Divisions for Tennis and Pickleball is available on the House of Hope website,  hohmartin.org/servehope, and a photo album of the event has been posted on  facebook.com/Hohmartin/photos_albums.

“We congratulate all the participants,” Ranieri said, “not only for their skill and determination on the courts but also for giving their tremendous energy to helping the people we serve.”

To learn more about House of Hope or make a donation, visit House of Hope’s website at www.hohmartin.org or call 772-286-4673.

About House of Hope

Founded in 1984, House of Hope is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers Martin County residents to overcome hunger and hardship. House of Hope touches the lives of more than 30,000 people each month, helping with basic needs such as food, clothing, furniture, financial assistance, as well as longer-term case management services that help build life skills for a more self-sufficient future. 

The organization has service centers in Stuart, Hobe Sound, Indiantown, and Jensen Beach, with thrift stores in Stuart, Hobe Sound, and Indiantown. House of Hope’s Centers for Enrichment at Golden Gate in Stuart, in Jensen Beach, and at KinDoo Family Center in Indiantown offer free programs, technology, and workshops designed to enhance life skills, earning potential, health, and overall well-being.

House of Hope also operates the Growing Hope Farm in Palm City and several nutrition gardens that provide sustainable sources of fresh produce for clients as well as nutrition education and vocational opportunities to the community. For more information, visit hohmartin.org or call 772-286-4673. Updates and announcements can also be found on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

Education Foundation of Martin County announces Teacher of the Year Award winners

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — The Education Foundation of Martin County announced its Teacher of the Year winners during its high-energy celebration on November 14 at the MidFlorida Credit Union Event Center. Chanda Leon of Martin County High School took top honors and was named the 2025-2026 Martin County Teacher of the Year. She will now represent Martin County in the Florida Department of Education's statewide Teacher of the Year competition.

Devin Carlson, managing partner of Audi Stuart, Infiniti Stuart & Alfa Romeo Stuart, the event’s lead sponsor; Martin County High School Principal Lori Vogel; Overall and High School Teacher of the Year Chanda Leon; and Martin County Schools Superintendent Michael Maine (Photo by Paul Careccia)

Before being named the overall winner, Leon was announced as the high school category winner, sponsored by Keiser University. Cassie Mailhot of Stuart Middle School was recognized as the middle school category winner, sponsored by the Education Foundation of Martin County, and Alexis Gray of Palm City Elementary won the elementary school category, sponsored by Cigna Healthcare.

Erica Johnson, community relations coordinator of Keiser University, sponsor; High School winner Chanda Leon; and Martin County Schools Superintendent Michael Maine (Photo by Paul Careccia)

Devin Carlson, managing partner of Audi Stuart, Infiniti Stuart & Alfa Romeo Stuart, the event’s lead sponsor, presented Leon with the award.

- Dr. Jennifer DiTrapani-Gimbal, president of the Education Foundation of Martin County; Middle School winner Cassie Mailhot; and Martin County Schools Superintendent Michael Maine (Photo by Paul Careccia)

Publix Store Manager Dipal Smith presented the Spirit Award trophy to Felix A. Williams Elementary Principal Sara Tuthill. Publix Super Markets Charities sponsored the Spirit Award. (Photo by Paul Careccia)

Leon, the top winner, originally planned to become a medical doctor. But after earning her biology degree and studying for the MCAT, she needed a job. When she heard about a substitute teacher shortage offering triple pay, she applied and was placed in a third-grade classroom. That experience changed everything and led to her 27-year teaching career, in which she has taught students with academic struggles, language barriers, and personal hardships.

Ermelinda Carvalho, Dr. Louis Velazquez, Joseph & Stacy Annone of Treasure Coast Urgent Care and Treasure Coast Psychiatry (Photo by Doreen Poreba)

“My mission has always been to help them see they are capable of more than they think,” said Leon. “That’s what inspired me to become an educator; the chance to build confidence and resilience in others.”

Laura Matheson, one of Leon’s students from a decade ago, recently said, “Mrs. Leon’s dedication to promoting student achievement and success was observed well beyond the boundaries of her classroom … She invested in my success outside of honors biology by cheering me on at volleyball games and OPUS concerts, and invested in others by sharing what other school and community events our peers would be participating in … Within the classroom, Mrs. Leon was intentional in providing a learning environment that nurtured the social development of positive, mindful young adults. At the end of each period, we’d proclaim, ‘I will do my best. I know I can. I am a WINNER!’”

Stephanie Moreno, Murray Middle School Teacher of the Year, makes her way to the stage as her colleagues celebrate their favorite art teacher. (Photo by Paul Careccia)

Middle school winner Mailhot stated that her upbringing, which was marked by addiction and instability in her home, inspired her to become a teacher. In her darkest moments, there were teachers who helped her to hold on when she felt she couldn’t. To this day, she still turns to her high school civics teacher and cheer coach for advice.

- Tammy Crouse, Susan Jaworski, Amber Shirk and Education Foundation of Martin County Board Member Patty McAuley of Seacoast Bank (Photo by Doreen Poreba)

“Teaching isn’t just about lessons — it’s about seeing the child behind the grade,” said Mailhot. “Ms. Clark did that for me. And now, I’m proud to do the same for others.

Her principal, Dr. Christopher Jones, said she is an exceptional educator, a natural leader, and an advocate for student success.

“As an expert civics teacher, Cassie brings both depth of knowledge and a passion for democratic education into every lesson,” he added. “Her instructional practices are impeccable … Cassie’s classroom environment is warm, welcoming, and highly engaging, creating a space where students feel safe to take risks and even the most skeptical student is excited to learn.”

Ermelinda Carvalho, Dr. Louis Velazquez, Joseph & Stacy Annone of Treasure Coast Urgent Care and Treasure Coast Psychiatry (Photo by Doreen Poreba)

Elementary school winner Alexis Gray was just 23 years old when she learned that she had cancer and was told her life expectancy was five years or less. So instead of pursuing a career in business or advertising, as she had planned, her diagnosis made her realize just how fragile and unpredictable life could be.

“But I was also given a gift, a chance to truly think about the kind of life I wanted to live —  one with purpose, meaning, and happiness,” she said. “I knew I wanted to make a difference and  spend time doing something that mattered. During recovery, I spent time reflecting on what I loved — children, learning, school, and the inspiring stories from my family of  educators. The obvious answer was clear. I was meant to teach.”

For the past 18 years, teaching has been her passion. Lauren Rabener, her principal, said, “Mrs. Gray is a consistently highly effective teacher who brings compassion and innovation to everything she does. Her classroom is a place where students are challenged, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential … Throughout her career, Mrs. Gray has produced exceptionally high levels of student achievement, driven by her deep understanding of data-informed instruction, her strong classroom management, and her ability to build meaningful relationships with students and families.”

Susie Fote, Brandi Sesta, Jessica Urbay, Coral Kelly, Michelle Rolon and Walnide Fabre of Felix A. Williams Elementary (Photo by Doreen Poreba)

A total of 24 educators from across the district were nominated for this year’s Teacher of the Year program. Nominees are selected by their peers at each school and complete a comprehensive portfolio and take part in a rigorous interview process. The community also plays a role by voting online for their favorite nominee, adding an extra layer of excitement and support for the educators. The winner is revealed each year at the Education Foundation’s Teacher of the Year Awards Celebration, an upbeat, spirited event unlike any traditional ceremony. The evening is marked by cheering, dancing, dramatic entrances, and school teams decked out in themed outfits, all contributing to an atmosphere that feels more like a community pep rally than a formal program. This year, Felix A. Williams Elementary School earned the event’s coveted Spirit Award, sponsored by Publix Super Markets Charities, for its exceptional enthusiasm, theme and props.

Crystal Lake Elementary Teacher of the Year, Trevor Lawson (pictured at center with suit and tie), poses for a photo with his family and colleagues at the Teacher of the Year celebration. (Photo by Paul Careccia)

In addition to Audi Stuart, Infiniti Stuart, & Alfa Romeo Stuart as the presenting sponsor, other  top sponsors included HCA Florida Healthcare, Robert J. Weissman, Martin County Administrative & Supervisory Association, Proctor Construction Company, Treasure Coast Urgent Care, The Gehring Group - A Risk Strategies Company, Coral Shores Behavioral Health, Cook Shell Contractors, TD Bank, Conchy Joe’s Restaurants, Centegix, Hedrick Brothers Construction, Briana Lawson Foundation, Florida Power & Light Company, FoodShop, Harvard Jolly PBK, and Seacoast Bank.

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION FOR PALM BEACH AND MARTIN COUNTIES WELCOMES 15 NEW PHILANTHROPIC ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS

PAC Members Represent South Palm Beach County, Central Palm Beach County and Martin County

West Palm Beach, FL (November 18, 2025) – The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, is 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 welcome 15 new members to its Philanthropic Advisory Council (PAC). The PAC is a collaborative group of trusted professional advisors who provide strategic insight and guidance to help the Community Foundation serve donors as well as the broader community. 

Brandon Royce Simon

“Our Philanthropic Advisory Council continues to grow in both expertise and reach with the addition of these 15 outstanding professionals,” said Mary Katherine Morales, vice president for Philanthropic Services at the Community Foundation. “Their diverse experience in estate and tax planning, financial services, and community leadership will strengthen our ability to build meaningful partnerships and expand the impact of philanthropy across Palm Beach and Martin Counties.”

The new PAC members will play a vital role in expanding the Community Foundation’s engagement from South Palm Beach County through the Treasure Coast. 

New South Palm Beach County-Based PAC Members:

• Elaine Bucher, Gunster
• Joshua Goldglantz, Gunster
• Marjorie Horwin, Kaufman Rossin
• Thomas Jedrej, Benchmark Financial
• Bill Miller, Miller Wealth Advisors
• Mickey Rosenzweig, Rosenzweig Financial Services
• Brandon Royce Simon, Nelson Mullins
• Kaley Barbera Willert, Northern Trust

New Central Palm Beach County-Based PAC Members:

• Willem Erwich, Northern Trust 
• Melissa Gannon, Castle Wealth Management
• Diane Peterson McNeal, Dynamic Financial Strategies
• Christina Worley, Castle Wealth Management

New Martin County-Based PAC Members:

• Stacy Jo Coffee-Thorne, Freedom Support Solutions LLC
• Salvador Orofino, The Preferred Legacy National Trust Bank
• Todd Thurlow, Thurlow & Thurlow PA

About the Professional Advisory Council (PAC)
The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties relies on a network of partners across key sectors to address our region’s most pressing needs. One of its most impactful alliances is with the professional advisors who guide clients inspired to make a difference. Through the PAC, the Foundation works with attorneys, accountants, financial planners, trust officers, and other professionals who share a commitment to purposeful philanthropy. Together, they help transform community challenges into opportunities for growth and success—crafting philanthropic strategies that inspire, engage, and amplify charitable impact across Palm Beach and Martin Counties.

To learn more about the Community Foundation’s Philanthropic Advisory Council, visit: https://yourcommunityfoundation.org/philanthropic-advisory-council/.
 

THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION MARTIN-ST. LUCIE ANNOUNCES NEW BOARD MEMBERS: BRAD GOULD AND STEVEN RIVERA

Elizabeth A. Barbella, President & CEO of The Community Foundation Martin-St. Lucie, announced the appointment of two new Foundation board members:  Brad Gould, Partner at Comiter Singer; and Steven Rivera, Senior Vice President and Market President – Treasure Coast for Truist Financial Corporation.

“Brad and Steven bring extensive legal and financial expertise to our board, and they share a strong commitment to give back to their community,” said Barbella. 

Brad Gould is Chair of the Corporate and Tax Practice at Comiter Singer, where he focuses primarily on high-net worth individuals, families, and their closely held businesses on a broad range of tax, corporate, and estate planning matters. Board Certified in Tax Law by The Florida Bar and a licensed Certified Public Accountant, Brad brings a multidisciplinary approach to structuring complex transactions and resolving sophisticated tax and estate planning issues for businesses, individuals, and fiduciaries. Brad serves as a trusted advisor in corporate law, tax planning, business succession, estate planning, and probate and trust litigation. He is a frequent speaker and published author on estate planning, tax and business law topics. Brad has served as Chair of the S Corporations Committee of the American Bar Association’s Tax Section, and is a Fellow of the American College of Tax Counsel. He holds a J.D. from the University of Florida Levin College of Law and both a B.S. in Accounting and a Master of Accounting from the University of Florida.

As President for the Treasure Coast Market for Truist Financial Corporation, Steven Rivera oversees the commercial banking division in Martin, St. Lucie and Indian River Counties, and is responsible for the bank’s overall commitment to serve these markets. Steven is passionate about giving back to his community. His current board service includes the Healthy Start Coalition of St. Lucie County; he has previously served on the boards of the St. Lucie County Chamber of Commerce and The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County. Steven is co-chair of the Men’s Giving Club, a collective giving Fund under The Community Foundation. Steven has been a proud St. Lucie resident for over 25 years, and he, his wife and two children enjoy being part of our growing community.

About The Community Foundation Martin-St. Lucie

Founded in Stuart in 1988, The Community Foundation is the largest community foundation grantor to Martin and St. Lucie Counties.  Together with its Fundholders and partners, The Foundation invests over $7 million annually in local nonprofit organizations, creating important, lasting changes for the enrichment and betterment of our community.  In the past decade alone, The Foundation has awarded over $31.55 million in grants and scholarships, with over 80 percent of this funding invested right here in Martin, St. Lucie and Okeechobee counties.  To learn more about The Community Foundation Martin-St. Lucie, visit www.tcfmsl.org or call 772-288-3795.

Treasure Coast Hospice Community Remembrance Ceremonies Honor Loved Ones

(STUART, Fla. Nov. 17, 2025) – Treasure Coast Hospice will hold its annual remembrance ceremonies in December, giving the community an opportunity to come together to honor loved ones during the holiday season. The ceremonies will be held in Ft. Pierce, Stuart, and Port St. Lucie:

Stuart – Thursday, December 4 – Gazebo Park, 80 SE Ocean Blvd., 6 pm

Ft. Pierce – Tuesday, December 9 - Downtown Gazebo, corner of Indian River Dr./Ave. A, 6 pm

Port St. Lucie – Thursday, December 11 - Lakeside Gazebo at Tradition, 6 pm (candle lighting ceremony)

The seasonal remembrance events offer inspirational words and messages of hope, time to reflect and remember loved ones, and live holiday music.

“For many who have lost a loved one, the holiday season can be difficult, bringing a mix of emotions,” said Director of Grief Support and Pediatrics Jacki Nardone, LCSW. “Each year, our remembrance ceremonies continue to grow, offering even more members of our community a meaningful opportunity to acknowledge and express their grief while being surrounded by a supportive group of people who have faced similar experiences.”

Guests at the Stuart and Ft. Pierce events will be able to acknowledge their loss by writing the names of their loved ones on special memory tags that are placed on a decorated tree. For those who are unable to attend their local ceremony, memory tags will be created and placed for anyone who completes the form at www.TreasureHealth.org/tag. The trees will be displayed in the downtown gazebos throughout the holiday season.

About Treasure Coast Hospice

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

Giving back to the community through donations, partnerships and engaged caregivers  

Every three years, Cleveland Clinic Martin Health conducts a Community Health Needs Assessment to help guide our charitable outreach and local partnerships. From this work, we’ve identified three key priorities where we can make the greatest impact: Access to Care, Behavioral Health, and Food Insecurity. With these needs in mind, our Community Impact team is actively working alongside local organizations and residents to create meaningful, sustainable solutions for the people we serve. 

Access to Care
To expand access to care, we installed blood pressure monitoring stations at both the Kane Center and the 10th Street Community Center. These stations allow community members to conveniently check their health while on site, empowering them to stay informed and proactive about their well-being.

In addition, Cleveland Clinic sponsored free prostate screenings for men in Martin and St. Lucie Counties. The Robert and Carol Weissman Cancer Center hosted the event at Martin North. 25 men were screened free of charge and were able to get access to the right care if needed. In addition, we proudly sponsored Ride United through the United Way, a program that provides community members with Lyft rides to help them get to medical appointments, ensuring transportation is never a barrier to care. 
 
Cleveland Clinic also engages with younger audiences through collaborations with multiple partners in Martin County. Cleveland Clinic hosted mini med school in all of the Boys and Girls Clubs, the Children’s Museum and Banner Lake School. Cleveland Clinic caregivers presented lessons with key takeaways in six areas: pediatrics, cardiology, dermatology, neurology, gastroenterology, and pulmonology. Participants received a card to take home with tools to share with parents. The goal of Mini Med School is to teach kids about careers in health and medicine and also teach them about chronic disease prevention in a fun atmosphere. 

Throughout the year, Cleveland Clinic sponsored educational tables at Healthy Kids Day. YMCA hosts this free community event aimed at inspiring kids to keep their minds and bodies active throughout the summer months. In Stuart, Cleveland Clinic volunteers hosted a lung health exhibit where kids and adults learned the dangers of vaping and made a model of healthy lungs.

Adults interact with Cleveland Clinic staff at community talks and educational events that range from stroke prevention, to congestive heart failure, to learning more about new technology, artificial intelligence, and medical imaging. 

Behavioral Health
To support behavioral health in our community, Cleveland Clinic funded a hygiene closet at every Boys & Girls Club in Martin County, ensuring children have access to essential items that help them feel confident, clean, and ready to thrive. We also partnered with Volunteers in Medicine and i-Mind to provide free mental health counseling for residents in need, and we help fund the walk-in mental health clinic at Tykes & Teens to ensure timely support for youth and families. Additionally, we brought art therapy to the children at Hibiscus Children’s Center, offering them a safe outlet for expression and emotional processing. Our team also collaborates with NAMI and the Hanley Center to expand local behavioral health programming and strengthen community-wide mental wellness resources. 

Food Insecurity
To address issues of food insecurity, Cleveland Clinic collaborates with the Council on Aging’s Meals on Wheels program and local congregate meal sites by helping fund these essential services. We also partner with House of Hope to offer nutrition classes, bring a traveling nutrition garden to children throughout the community, and support the expansion of the Growing Hope Garden, which produces fresh fruits and vegetables for individuals and families facing food insecurity. In addition, our caregivers host an annual summer cereal drive that provides hundreds of families with breakfast staples—an effort that earned them the 2025 Hope Award from House of Hope. 

Through these initiatives, our caregivers and community partners are making a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of residents across Martin County. Together, we are building a stronger, healthier, and more resilient community for everyone.

64th Stuart Christmas Parade Names Well-Known Business Leader as Grand Marshal

STUART—Santa Claus isn’t the only celebrity set to appear at the Stuart Christmas Parade.

Accomplished business leader Joe Catrambone—who’s served as president and CEO of the Stuart Martin County Chamber of Commerce for more than 30 years—will be honored as the Grand Marshal of the parade celebrating its 64th anniversary in operation.

“When considering several candidates well deserving of recognition as the Grand Marshal of the Stuart Christmas Parade, Joe Catrambone definitely stood out for his distinguished history of leadership at the Stuart Martin County Chamber,” says Jennifer Crow, president and CEO of the Visiting Nurses Association of Florida, which is presenting the parade. “His legacy advocacy on behalf of the local business community is widely known and greatly appreciated and we’re grateful for the opportunity to honor his service.”

The 64th Annual Stuart Christmas Parade—presented by the Visiting Nurse Association of Florida—will take place at 7 p.m. Dec. 5 along scenic East Ocean Boulevard.

“I had no idea I was even being considered for Grand Marshal of the Stuart Christmas Parade but I was very pleasantly surprised when I received the call, and I’m truly grateful for the honor,” says Catrambone. “This is something I’ve never imagined doing, and that makes it all the more special. I appreciate the VNA for making this moment possible.”

The theme of this year’s parade is “Celebrating 100 Years of Martin County.” The occasion carries special significance for VNA of Florida as well. The award-winning home-healthcare provider—which employs nearly a thousand, serves more than 20 counties and has performed millions of home visits—got its start in Stuart and will celebrate its 50th anniversary in operation next year.

The rich history and unique characteristics of the county are sure to capture the imaginations of the parade participants and come alive in the creativity of their floats. As parades past attest, competition is intense for the most innovative float decorations and set designs.

The award categories recognize large and small floats separately for best illumination and best music. There are also the Classic Christmas Award, Judge’s Choice Award, People’s Choice Award and best high school and middle school marching bands.

The event attracts thousands of attendees and is by far the largest holiday event in the county. By teaming with the City of Stuart for logistical support, VNA of Florida’s role in putting on the parade is a natural extension of its longstanding commitment to the community. Having organized and sponsored several largescale community events, including launching the Stuart Air Show. 

For parade registration, sponsorship opportunities or to volunteer, please visit www.StuartChristmasParade.com or contact StuartChristmasParade@VNAflorida.org or call Aleisha Coleman at (772) 286-1844..

About Visiting Nurse Association of Florida:

Founded 49 years ago, Visiting Nurse Association of Florida is a Medicare-certified home health and private care services agency that provides award-winning health care for patients in the comfort of their own homes, including post-surgical care, Alzheimer’s monitoring, post-hospital care, physical therapy, and much more. The company also owns and manages three assisted living communities—Grand Oaks of Palm City, Grand Oaks of Jensen Beach and Grand Oaks of Okeechobee, which are distinguished for providing superior healthcare, luxurious amenities and Alzheimer’s memory care.

Hi Tom,

I hope you're doing well. December tends to fly by, and there’s a lot happening across the Treasure Coast before we close out the year.

From national team training to youth triathlons and regattas, the region is busy hosting athletes of all ages and levels this month. Here’s a quick look at what’s going on:

• Dec. 1–31: Sebastian River Rowing Winter Training – Sebastian River Rowing Club
• Dec. 4–7: USA Softball High Performance Program National Selection Event – Jackie Robinson Training Complex
• Dec. 6–7: Junior Olympic Sailing Festival – US Sailing Center of Martin County
• Dec. 6–7: Kickoff Soccer Vero Beach Winter Cup – Hobart Soccer Complex
• Dec. 6: Rotary Club Kids Triathlon – Victor Hart Sr. Community Enhancement Complex
• Dec. 7: Treasure Coast Tri Winter – Jetty Park
• Dec. 8–Jan. 14: IRSC Swimming Winter Training – Indian River State College Massey Campus
• Dec. 13–14: Treasure Coast Swimming Harry Meisel Invitational – North County Pool
• Dec. 14: IRSC Swimming Winter Training – Indian River State College Massey Campus
• Dec. 27–Jan. 14: CSCAA Swimming and Diving Winter Training – Sailfish Splash Waterpark

It’s a great reminder of how many high-quality facilities are available here, along with the kind of weather and hospitality that make hosting winter events easy. If you’re planning for 2025, we’d love for you to consider bringing your next event to the Treasure Coast.

You can explore our venues here or see more events coming up here.

Wishing you a strong end to the year,

Rick Hatcher, STS

President/CEO
Play Treasure Coast Sports 

-Treasure Coast Sports Commission

Sports ETA Hall of Fame - Class of 2023

Chrysanthemum Ball Celebrates 30 Years of Generosity and Community

What began as a small gathering of passionate neighbors has grown, over three decades, into one of the community’s most beloved traditions. This year, the 30th anniversary of the Chrysanthemum Ball, fondly known as the Mum Ball, brought that legacy to life in unforgettable ways.

For thirty years, the Mum Ball has helped turn generosity into incredible impact, advancing the care patients receive every day at Cleveland Clinic Martin Health.

                                Betsy Herold & Debbie Textor

This year’s event, held on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the Hutchinson Shores Resort and Spa raised nearly $800,000. Proceeds will ensure continued investment in innovative programs and expanded services, such as Emergency Department renovations and an upgraded cardiac catheterization lab.

“The Chrysanthemum Ball represents the very best of who we are as a community,” said Chirag Choudhary, MD, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Cleveland Clinic Tradition Hospital and Interim Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Martin North and South Hospitals. “For 30 years, the community’s generosity has fueled innovation, expanded access to care and allowed us to deliver excellence where it matters most — right here at home.”

This was the reorganization meeting. For a moment, I thought I was watching a City of Stuart meeting.

Capps immediately moved to nominate Heard for a second term and Vargas seconded the motion. No one can say that Sarah Heard has not been a good chair. And no one could deny that for years she was not allowed to be chair.

She was denied because the board majority was angry over lawsuits and the public records and sunshine trial that she underwent. Heard was found not guilty and was re-elected, which means on both the criminal and the civil matters, the voters wanted her to remain as a commissioner. Once that happened, she should have gone back into the rotation for chair. With the election of Capps and Vargas, she now has had that chance two years in a row which is a good thing. But I hope not three years which would be a bad thing.

The vote to continue Heard in the chair position was 5-0.

Vargas nominated Vargas to be vice chair. She explained that she has a wealth of knowledge, experience and is a successful businesswoman. She also touted her Miami Dade experience. It seemed to her that she is the wind of change, and her win was more meaningful than Ciampi and Capps who were re-elected and elected at the same time.

There was not a second.

Ciampi was nominated for the position by Hetherington and seconded by Ciampi. He said that Vargas only had a year’s experience on the commission and she was not ready for a leadership position. The back and forth between the two went on and it was not collegial. The vote for Ciampi was 4-1 with Vargas dissenting.

Then came time for appointment to a number of boards. Vargas jumped in requesting to be the member of the canvassing board and wanted other board changes. Hetherington, who was the member for the commission, cannot be on it since she is up for re-election. Ciampi had been the alternate which means that he should be the new member.

Again, Vargas gave a history of why she would be the better choice. Ciampi offered to nominate her to be the alternate. It became quite heated with her insinuating that she was the one representing the people. Perhaps she wants to be there so badly to help Boss Collins if his race with Hetherington is too close?

The rest of the commission sided with Ciampi, and except for the canvassing board, all appointments stayed the same. On the canvassing board, Ciampi will be the member and Vargas the alternate. Boss Collins and his incivility have invaded the county commission.

In the last edition, I wrote that I would not report on the minute details of grant applications and grant receipts for Sewall’s Point’s sewer and road projects. I am reporting on this new development because the county commission has voted to move forward with providing 340 connections.

One of the stumbling blocks to moving forward had been that the county had refused to provide the entire 340 units as grinders instead of gravity. Sam Amerson, the Director of Utilities, has said that the county would provide only small areas of no more than 300 hook-ups with a grinder system, and all the rest would either be vacuum or gravity. He has been concerned that he wouldn’t have the manpower to provide service to them with portable generators on trucks if there were a power outage.

Martin County is committed to making sewers available throughout the county. It will take years to do so and lots of money. In this case, the county does not have to provide the money. Sewall’s Point is doing so with grants.

The town is under some time constraints because the grant money must be spent by the end of June 2026 or go back to the state. The town is again counting on the kindness of others because of their refusal to use their own tax dollars.

Capra gave his presentation that you can see here 

He could probably do it in the dark since he has given this presentation or a close variation so many times. Manager Bob Daniels spoke about how much the county’s help is needed. And remember the town is handling the work up to the installation of the grinders. Residents like Jacquie Thurlow Lippisch spoke in favor.

The five town commissioners were there and spoke. Kaija Mayfield, Dave Kurzman, and Frank Fender spoke and asked for county help to allow the grinders. Even Vinnie Barile made a short statement in support.

Frank Tidikis, a town commissioner, wanted the commission to reject the request because the town accepted the grant money knowing that they didn’t have the county’s support. While he may have a point about the town hoping for the best, is it appropriate as a commissioner for him to try and kill a project that would benefit the town. This even after a majority of commissioners voted to move forward in this matter.

There are actual photos of sewage coming up and spreading on the roads and lawns when it rains. Is it a good idea to continue to have septic systems because of the town commission’s not wanting to assess their residents now instead of trying to accomplish the task with other people’s money?

Capps as usual summed it up perfectly. In some respects, it is an emergency situation that requires a measure of flexibility. Because of the lagoon, it is geographically important. The 134 additional grinders being requested should not be a big thing.

Hetherington said Martin County’s septic to sewer program is a model for the state. There is a benefit, and she doesn’t want the money sent back. Hetherington also said that in 2030 there will be no choice but to hook up to a much better but more expensive septic system. Ciampi stated that this should sound an alarm when black muck is coming up from a drain field.

Vargas, who is Sewall’s Point district commissioner, chastised the town commission, knowing what the county policy was and accepting the grant anyway. The area is not in the BMAP (Basin Management Action Plan). She has vast experience with grants and said they should just send the money back. Other areas were prioritized first for septic to sewer.

Heard stated that there is a cap on grinders. Sewall’s Point knew that back in 2022. Instead of voting for either a vacuum or gravity system, which is more expensive, they voted for the least expensive way to provide sewers. Further they didn’t allow a mechanism for the residents to pay over time through their tax bills. Residents throughout the county can hook up once sewer is available and have several years to pay for the installation. Again, that would necessitate the town somehow finding the money to loan to the homeowner.

I certainly wouldn’t argue with Vargas or Heard over the points they made. And if the Sewall’s Point Commission were a child needing discipline, then sending them home without their sewers would be an appropriate punishment. But at some point, if this money goes away, then Martin County will pay for the sewers in the future while in the meantime raw sewage will be flowing into the lagoon.

The most valid argument for not doing this is that individual homeowners will not have the opportunity to spread out the cost of hook-up over several years. That will discourage property owners from hooking up until they must. This obsession with not having any taxpayers in Sewall’s Point pay for their own projects is pathetic.

The vote was 3-2 to provide the grinders with Heard and Vargas dissenting.

Interestingly, in government a person is hired and then their contract is negotiated. Elysse Elder’s contract was no different.

Elder’s salary of $255,600 and benefit package was the same as the last county attorney, Sarah Woods. In the state of Florida, the average county attorney makes $267,052. Elder has been with the county for 7 ½ years and currently has 4 attorneys and an administrative person in her department. At some point, she will hire a fifth attorney to return to the same previous strength under Woods.

She has extensive litigation experience. She is one of 302 board certified attorneys in local government in Florida. Florida has 98,000 members of the bar.

Ciampi moved that the contract, which was the same one Woods had, be adopted. It was seconded by Capps. Heard needed a more rational nexus between the amount of the salary. I am perplexed by what that means.

Vargas said the salary was too high. It is a very rich contract, and she can’t justify it. She believes that there needs to be a ceiling. Vargas claimed that lawyers in Martin County are making $60,000. (I would love to see the proof of that.) and suggested that the other commissioners need to think more like businesspeople.

Ciampi stated though she has a small staff, she gives legal advice to every department in the county. He doesn’t believe the compensation is out of whack at all. He also said Vargas was not being fair to staff. How does it look to call into question Elder’s ability after they hired her?

Vargas said Ciampi was not a businessperson like her. He hinted at her out of control expenses. Vargas also said there weren’t that many people in this county. Why would that matter?  County attorneys are not paid by the head.

The vote was 3-2 with Vargas and Heard dissenting.

There is no possible scenario where the county commission is going to vote to expand the Urban Service Boundary and allow over a thousand homes to be built. This time was no exception either.

When you add that staff recommended denial also, you should realize you have a good chance of going nowhere. The vote was 5-0 for staff’s recommendation…that was a no.

The applicant tried to argue that staff were using a flawed residential capacity analysis. Their argument may have validity but no elected official in Martin County will ever vote to break the USB. So why did they come forward?

There are two scenarios. The first is they could go to court and win there. The second is that this property is an agricultural enclave surrounded by different zoning uses. There was a bill in the legislature last year which would require local governments to give a better use in those situations.

I wonder what will happen next. Apogee Golf Course is right next door. Maybe they will buy it and incorporate it into their Rural Lifestyle project.

Mike Braid, a local businessman, is a contemporary of mine.

He grew up and attended a Catholic high school and went to St. John’s University in Queens, N.Y. He ended up in the sometimes not too nice world of New York commercial real estate. I attended a Catholic high School, Fordham University, and ended in the same commercial real estate world.

I never knew Braid there, but we did business with some of the same people. You learned to have things (including real threats by actual bad guys) roll off your back. And you learned to read people. You wouldn’t have survived otherwise. Braid has bluster.  At 76 years old, he and I may understand each other but some younger people may not understand us as well.

Commissioner Sean Reed is a guy in his early thirties. Apparently, he has led a fairly sheltered life. It is obvious when you see him on the dais that he has very little experience dealing with the real world. Even so you will often hear him talk about his family business, day care centers, in which he participates. I don’t how much he is really doing, especially in an executive capacity.

Just before the Downtown rally was held to support retaining Mike Mortell as city manager, Reed made a criminal complaint against Braid. Being a creature of social media, Reed posted it there for all to see. It didn’t take a detective to find that out. He claimed Braid was extorting him to not vote to oust Mortell.

What was the result of this extortion? A public revelation exposing Sunshine violations committed by Reed, Giobbi, and Collins. That would be the improbable way that Mortell’s job would be saved. The most that Braid could do is file a complaint with the Florida Ethics Commission. You must be kidding me!

Reed is the perfect example of being a perpetual adolescent. I listened to the audio phone conversation between Braid and Detective Pesci who was assigned to investigate the case. What a waste of taxpayer dollars. And how much it shows that Reed doesn’t understand anything about being a commissioner and, even worse, about being an adult.

Sean must never have received a real threat. Most adults would have just laughed this off and went about their business. The last thing they would do is call the police over something like this. Reed told the officer he never felt physically threatened, but he sure didn’t act it.

Most guys Braid’s age had run into bullies by middle school. It was resolved by going around to the back of the school building or in a back alleyway and having a fight. That would usually clear the air. I guess kids like Reed never did that. They probably went to the principal instead.

The detective ended his conversation with Braid saying that what he had said was pretty much how it went down. The detective knew that because Reed had captured the conversation on his Ring Camera device and given it to the detective. In Florida, you need both parties to consent to record a conversation. I wonder if Braid has a civil suit against Reed. Maybe Mike should consult with his attorney and see.

Reed is the one that Stuart PD should be investigating. Chapter 934-03 is extensive in stating that all parties must consent to being recorded and it is a felony. It seems the recording must be intentional. A good case can be made that Reed knew that his Ring device was capturing the conversation and therefore there was intent. 

Mike Braid probably won’t care about any of that. Because after living 76 years, he has better things to do than play those games. That is why Braid was the only adult in this conversation with Reed, and Sean Reed has a long way to go before he grows out of adolescence.

The City of Stuart under the direction of its commission continues to break the law.

This is in connection with the state statute that forbids local government from changing its LDRs. It was enacted under SB180 last spring.  There was a judgement against the City of Ocoee in Orange County this week stating that they can’t change their comp plan and make it more restrictive.

Ocoee asked the Florida Department of Commerce for permission to change its comprehensive plan. The DOC refused because under state law no plan amendment can be more restrictive than what was in effect as of August 2024. Ocoee then filed with the Department of Administrative Hearings asking them to overturn the DOC’s decision. The DOAH refused.

However, Stuart’s fact pattern is different. They didn’t even bother to change their comprehensive plan before changing their LDRs. In order to change the plan, they would have to have hired experts and conducted real community meetings to solicit input. But, with Boss Collins as their only expert, they just changed their codes. The new codes are now in violation of Stuart’s comp plan. The City of Stuart is acting as if they are a sovereign state instead of a municipal corporation under the laws of the State of Florida.

What this decision does is show that Stuart’s attempts to litigate the constitutionality of the law forbidding the changes they made will probably be decided in favor of the state. That will be no surprise to many of us. But what will the sovereign “State of Stuart” then do? Still refuse to follow the law?

Where is the governor in all of this? Where is the attorney-general? Collins, Giobbi, and Reed are not only refusing to follow Florida statute in this case but refusing to do so with multiple statutes pertaining to the process for changing LDRs under the law. The commission is lawless. Our residents are in the grip of outlaws.

And where is the city attorney? Apparently, he is hiding in his office and more afraid for his job than his obligation and oath he took. When does the cravenness stop?

Someone in the city should file the lawsuit under the law. No doubt the resulting ruling would show that the commission is in violation of the Florida Statute. But like so much, the city is full of talkers but no one person will step up and do the right thing. Until then, we will continue to be known as a lawless town.

Campbell Rich celebrated his last meeting as mayor.

I believe Rich is celebrating because it can’t be any fun to chair meetings with the Boss in charge. Even though he hasn’t assumed the mayoralty yet, Collins has been calling the shots since August 2024 when Reed and Giobbi were elected and created Stuart’s Politburo. Just because you have the gavel it doesn’t mean you are calling the shots.

What Campbell was able to do for the past year was try to have a modicum of decorum in an indecorous circus. That in and of itself was no small feat. His last full meeting was the final one for November.

In assuming the mayoralty, Boss Collins will now be the boss in name as well as fact. He has been minding his manners since Mortell’s firing. Perhaps he was waiting to see what the backlash would be or just the calm before the storm. The agendas have been extremely light.

Will Collins do what mayors are supposed to do, which is show up at ribbon cuttings and ceremonial occasions? If past is any judge, the answer will be no. He is the least visible commissioner that we have had in years.

I have only known Campbell Rich for about three years having met him when he was first running for office. I haven’t always agreed with him politically, but his rationale for his opinions has been thought out after his research. Not so with the Boss and Politburo. That is why they are so dangerous. Facts will never be part of their deliberative process.

The three of them have no institutional knowledge. With his sell out to the fire union after his promise to reduce taxes, Collins is only creating the basis for Martin County Fire Rescue to take over. What Collins has created is unsustainable. And with Mortell gone, there will be no one to fight back.

The citizens of Stuart should thank Rich for his service as mayor. The corruption of city government is just beginning and will accelerate when Boss Collins becomes mayor December 8th. The lawless city will become even more lawless.

It was time for the school board’s annual re-organization meeting.

Marcia Powers was nominated to be chair by Board Member Russell and seconded by Board Member Moriarity. Li Roberts, who was nominated for vice chair, withdrew her name. Then Moriarity accepted the nomination. Both Powers and Moriarity were elected by unanimous vote.

It almost seemed as if it was going to be similar to the infighting that occurred at the BOCC.

It wasn’t. That doesn’t mean there was no jockeying for positions. The participants were just more cordial than at the BOCC meeting of the same day.

Kaija Mayfield wanted to be mayor. She was nominated by Frank Fender in a joint motion that named him second. Frank Tidikis nominated Vinny Barile as mayor stating that Mayfield should be vice-mayor. Just like Mayfield Barile wants to be mayor. Both have held the position previously.

The current mayor, Dave Kurzman, wants everyone to work in unity with the manager. As Friends & Neighbors has reported in the past it seems that both Tidikis and Barile are not pleased with Manager Daniels. However, Barile states that he can work with Daniels and if Barile says it you should believe it.

Fender like Kurzman is very aware of the chaos in the City of Stuart and what happened there with the sacking of Mike Mortell by Giobbi, Reed, and Collins. No Sewall’s Point commissioner wants to have that reputation.

Barile was then voted in as mayor and Mayfield as vice-mayor. Tidikis stated that he would support Mayfield for mayor next year as did others. A good end to what could have been what happened at the BOCC or worse how the City of Stuart has operated since the ascendancy of Collins, Reed, and Giobbi.

For about a year, the lot that the town owns at 7 Heritage Way has been on the market. It has been valued at over $600,000. They have received a contract for $615,000 from Medalist Builders Group, LLC as buyer.

Kurzman believes they should reject the contract because it is under market. He believes the price should be $750,000. There have been no other offers.

An attorney at the offices of Glen Torcivia, the town’s attorney, had additional terms that should be included. One of the terms was that the contract should not be assignable. Tidikis believes it should be. He also stated that no tax has been received for several years from the property and that it should be back on the tax rolls.

Tidikis then made a motion for the manager and attorney to negotiate better terms. It was seconded by Mayfield. The vote was 3-2 with Kurtzman and Fender voting no.

You can see the contract and attorney’s revisions here 

It really is unfortunate that the land owned and being sold by the village was not treated more like a business deal.

The listing agreement between Indiantown Realty and Indiantown lapsed after a year. Neither the broker nor the village had realized it. In the interim Mayor Dipaolo, who had supposedly found a buyer, signed a non-disclosure agreement with that buyer for the property. However, what the buyer is proposing is an option contract. The buyer will put up money to buy the property if certain terms are met, but the closing isn’t for several years.

The way it stood before the meeting was that if the sale went through, no commission would be owed because Indiantown Realty (Kevin and David Powers) had not been the procuring cause of the sale with this supposed buyer who has yet to be identified by Dipaolo. That case was not on the agenda tonight. Only the fact that the listing agreement had been retroactively amended.

The commission structure would be 5% if the Powers didn’t have another broker to deal with and if so, the village would pay 6%. If this deal with the undisclosed buyer is signed within 60 days, then the village will pay 4% to the Powers. The village would probably pay for a bridge in Brooklyn also.

Only Councilperson Onsager called it what it was… a giveaway. Even if the council decided to sign another listing agreement with the Powers, then the undisclosed buyer should be exempt. I could even understand if the undisclosed buyer must come forward and identify himself. He could have a reasonable time limit to negotiate the terms for concluding the deal. But he can’t remain in the shadows any longer.

The village attorney who negotiated this deal extension on behalf of the council did a poor job in protecting the interest of the village. The contract with Indiantown Realty will go on until May of 2027 and then may be cancelled with 30 days’ notice. I wonder why this contract for real estate services wasn’t an RFP from the beginning.

Indiantown needs to grow up and begin to act as a local government, not a club for those who know the secret codes.  Dipaolo needs to now complete the deal with this undisclosed buyer and have Attorney Vose complete a contract within 60 days to save a couple of thousand dollars of taxpayer money. Kryzda should be much more involved in all of this. She runs the village…not the mayor.

The only person on the village side who understood the ramifications of the listing contract and the deal was Onsager. She should have been the person negotiating with Indiantown Realty. No one should blame the Powers for cutting the best possible deal they could for themselves. All the village had to say was no and put out the RFP. They didn’t.

The vote was 3-2 in favor of signing the contract with Palmer and Onsager voting no. I hope Onsager runs for re-election.

As a side note, the manager or the attorney should have insisted that when Palmer was called to vote by the clerk, she needed to vote then. Council people don’t have the option of passing until the others vote and then returning. It isn’t fair to the four other members. When that happens, it should be recorded as a no vote.   

Next year Indiantown Council will continue to have two meetings a month. Is it necessary?

This meeting was done in under an hour. The meeting before lasted an hour and thirteen minutes. Most are that length. The shortest this year was 39 minutes and 31 seconds.

Staff must be available during the meetings. The attorney must be paid to be there. And what is the Council trying to accomplish by just having a meeting?

Sewall’s Point recently went to a single monthly meeting without seeming to be rushed to get the necessary business done. Jupiter Island has always had only one meeting. Is it time for Indiantown to consider whether one meeting is enough for now?

That doesn’t mean at some future date the council couldn’t go back to more meetings if necessary. But in 2025 it really hasn’t warranted the expense of two meetings a month.

There were several other things that happened at the council meeting.

The council approved buying the Beaver Ecoworks water trailer after more than a year of using it to filter wastewater. According to their contract, the amount for the village to buy out the lease is $470,925. It will be paid for by a grant. The vote was 5-0.

Kimley Horn, the village’s engineer, will be paid to do a Comprehensive Vulnerability Assessment. The assessment examines systems, determines where they are vulnerable, and how to correct them. It will be paid for entirely by a grant from Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program (FRDAP). 

New playground equipment will be installed at Booker Park costing $254,825. The existing equipment is 15 years old which apparently, with today’s standards, is ancient. The equipment should be installed at the beginning of the year. 

At the last meeting, the council decided to re-sign a lapsed contract with Indiantown Realty as the village’s broker for the vacant parcel next to the market as you enter town.

Councilperson Onsager was adamantly opposed to doing so unless there was a carve out not to pay a commission for a group that had only spoken to Mayor Dipaolo about that property. The council overrode her and signed giving Indiantown Realty the exclusive.

There was no reason to be concerned.

Indiantown Realty must have been close for a while in bringing another group to the council. That is probably when they checked their listing agreement and had found that it expired. A short time after their listing agreement was signed, a contract was dropped off at Village Hall.

The offer is for $3 million but it is not a straight deal. What the buyer Is offering is really an option to buy within a fixed time period. They will pay $75,000 for the option but have an entire year to decide whether to proceed. Then on top of that, there is another $75,000 for an additional year’s option. Option money is in addition to the sales price.

They will have 90 days from signing the contract to do their due diligence. During that period of time, they can have their money refunded if they decide to withdraw. After that the contract goes live, they need to pay $75,000 if they want to extend the contract for another year.

The price stays the same, and the property is tied up for two years. It hasn’t sold in 5 years so maybe it is not likely for another buyer to swoop in. Supposedly it is for a medical campus and will be a non-profit. They will put together a conceptual site plan by December 5th.

Onsager wants a “kick-out” clause especially if the 2nd year option is exercised. A kick-out clause will allow the village to go ahead with another offer if the first buyer can’t close within a certain amount of time. Their option money will be refunded.

Brown was not too upset over the wait since the property had already been on the market for several years. And she wasn’t very concerned about the loss of real estate taxes on the lot because of the buyer’s nonprofit status. It is only one lot of many lots, and the medical use would be important for the village. Currently, there are no medical practitioners within the village.

The mayor who had a secret buyer that had not come forward was in favor of working on this offer. Dipaolo said that there was another piece of land his people were going to work on.

I would only advise that a term be added so that the contract cannot be assigned without the consent of the village. These terms are being accepted on the condition of there being a medical use. If for some reason the prices for property go higher, the buyer could assign the contract to a non-medical user and the village would not have succeeded in having something valuable to them.

You can see the current proposed contract here  

The meeting unfortunately had to be adjourned when the mayor became ill. It was continued a few days later. Though held on two separate days it was one meeting, and I will treat it that way here.

Over the course of the two days, Commissioner Taddeo was in person for the first with Field absent. Taddeo was absent from the 2nd session with Field present. Commissioner Warner appeared telephonically for both sessions.

Scott, during her comments that she read, attacked the Development Review Board (DRB) for not following the code. She happens to be right they are not following the code as written. That is a serious problem. Especially because the board is not advisory. The only way to overturn their decision is to appeal to the commission.

She said that she is the only commissioner who cares about this. She has always been adamantly opposed to requiring a supermajority commission vote to overturn the DRB. I don’t believe she is the only commissioner who cares about the way DBR deliberates.

Scott went so far as to say maybe she should give up her seat on the commission and become a Development Review Board member. I don’t understand why either Taddeo, Townsend or Warner didn’t take her up on the offer. Those commissioners and Field clearly do not enjoy serving with her.

Commissioner Scott then attacked something that has been part of the Rules of Procedure for as long as I can remember. To have a quorum to conduct a meeting, three of the five commissioners must be present. Then to pass a motion or ordinance, two of the three must vote in the affirmative. This system ensures that business can be conducted. Scott objects to that. And has done so from the first day she took her seat, and a vote went against her.

She was so vitriolic that even Commissioner Field, who agrees with her regarding the DRB, had an exchange as to the way she expressed herself. When Field came on the commission, he was her natural ally. She chased him away.

Kimley Horn has not pleased the commission with the work they had done on the Comprehensive Plan. There was no mistake in saying that this was their last chance to write a plan that the commission wants. The firm seems to have done so this time. Townsend, Taddeo, and Warner had read the draft and came with comments. Scott said she hadn’t read it because there was no cover page so she didn’t know what to do with it.

Three other commissioners knew what to do but not Scott. Once again, she complained. Townsend, Taddeo, and Warner went through the plan and had comments and gave them to the consultant. Scott will probably come back with a long list of comments in several months after the rest of the commissioners are ready to approve a draft.

Lastly it was time to approve an ordinance adding and removing certain language mainly having to do with the newly created Development Review Board. Some of the provisions had already been passed. This would remove inconsistent language for the most part. Scott wanted separate ordinances for each change.

This will also come back now as nine or ten different ordinances for first reading. Maybe the board should take Scott up on her offer to resign from the commission and be placed on the Development Review Board.

You can see a transcript of her commission comments here 

Tom’s Articles

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