Once again, we find ourselves with our nation at war.

I haven’t written anything about it yet because I wanted to see how expensive and long it will be. I think it may be both. Don’t let anybody tell you that this is like the other 9 places we have engaged in military combat in the past year.

Iran is a nation of 93 million people that are educated, sophisticated and smart. Their leadership may want to behave as if it were the 12th century, but their weapons and technology are in 2026. Because their weapons and technology are why the Trump administration has engaged.

As I write this, I know of six service members that have been killed. Some could be my own children and grandchildren at this point. I feel for the families who have lost someone that probably should not have been sacrificed without the president expressing a real reason why to the American people.

I haven’t heard the president and his team use the same rationale twice for the war. It isn’t even a war between the U.S. and Iran, but the entire gulf is embroiled. There may be no turning back and the man who so desperately wanted the Nobel Peace Prize has gone out of his way to make war the hallmark of his administration.

It has been one of those times in the year where it has been three weeks between issues. That means we have more than a regular edition. We have more stories than usual so settle down and see how many you can get through.

Stacey Hetherington has a yearly calendar she puts together featuring mothers. It has nothing to do with her duties as a commissioner. It highlights the lives and families of Martin County. Take a minute to read about some of these extraordinary women.

We have all our usual columnists. Andy Noble, Bill West, Stacy Ranieri and Pastor Chad. There is also Brent’s food column, Clay Scherer, David Hafner, and host of others.  Our columnists are not paid but do this as a public service to contribute to our community.

Sit back relax and have another cup of coffee as you read this week’s Friends & Neighbors.

Have a great Sunday Morning!

If you have ever worked in any restaurant whether it was a diner or fine dining, you learn one thing. It is exceedingly hard work. The hours are atrocious. Conditions are stressful and when a shift ends, you want decompression time before going home. You become a denizen of after-hour joints and all-night diners.

I haven’t set foot in a professional kitchen for a very long time. Maybe if culinary schools were as ubiquitous when I graduated from high school as they have become, I might have considered it. A hotel managing partner offered to pay for Cornell University’s program if I worked for him for a couple of years. I declined.

Though I continued to mostly work in the food industry through college to make a living, I knew that my future was far from the grind of that industry. That was never truer once I became involved in real estate where I could make more money faster. To me, working was about money not the love of the occupation.

I never loved real estate or any other business I was in. My only true passion was food. To this day, I am the one that prepares most of our meals. It isn’t because my wife cannot do so. Cooking has become my hobby and relaxation.

I am way too old to ever work in a kitchen again. I wouldn’t have the stamina to do one shift. What I miss the most though is the rush. I have worked breakfast, lunch, and dinner lines. The exhilaration of putting out dishes for customers to enjoy, one after another, is as close to being perfect joy as I have ever felt. It is an immediate response to “how I’m doing.”

When I looked at the dirty dishes coming back in, I would always want to know but seldom did, why there was anything left on those plates. Did I screw up somehow? Was it less than perfect for the lady at table 9? It wasn’t that no one ever complained openly but you could try to fix that. Steak not done enough, you could give it more fire. If the meat was over cooked, fire up another.

As I grew older, I watched cooking shows. The “Food Network” when it first started showed people how to cook using recipes. I was never interested in that. What I really cared about was picking up a technique I didn’t know. Once the network went full-on show business with competitive cooking, I never watched it.

I went back to PBS and in recent years their “Create” channel. A couple of things I would always watch would be “Test Kitchen” not for the recipes but the science. Cooking is chemistry, and once you understand a few principles you can apply them when you are in the kitchen. I loved watching Julia Child she was a master of techniques. If I see any of her shows are going to air even now, I am right on board.

But the greatest cooking teacher of all time is Jacque Pépin. No matter how many times I have seen one of his episodes, I watch again as a refresher course. It is like the culinary education I never had.

Sometimes I think that I should have stayed in the kitchen. I then quickly realize that the life I have had would never have been possible. And I have had a great life up so far.

Many are trying to fondly remember the 1950s as some halcyon period of bliss. It was anything but. Childhood diseases were still causing death and lifelong impairments. The decade began with children still catching polio. The Salk vaccine was not widely available until 1958.

I remember standing in line to receive my first vaccination at a N.Y.C. Health Department clinic. There were no vaccines for Measles, Rubella, Chicken Pox, or Mumps. By the time they came along, I had already contracted all of them. Like most kids who had those diseases, I probably was out of school a couple of months altogether. I caught the Mumps at the end of August, so I sat out most of September.

Smallpox, Diphtheria, and Pertussis already had vaccines by the time I was a baby. I had a slight scar from the Smallpox inoculation, but it is so faint now it isn’t noticeable.

Edward Jenner Father of Smallpox Innoculation

Millions of Americans would be dead today without the protection of vaccines. During the 1950s, thousands of kids did die because there were no vaccines to protect them. We had nothing to cure us but bedrest and a hope we would come out the other side.    

The 1950s were a time when American families had one car, one TV, and a modern entertainment system was the HI-FI sitting in the living room playing 33 1/3rd LPs. It is true that immigration was virtually non-existent since the early 1920s. Blacks stayed in their own neighborhoods and the assets of the rich were nowhere near the “$Billion Club.”

Ike was our president and although popular he wasn’t thought of as very partisan. When he first contemplated running, no one knew whether he was a Republican or a Democrat. American men had served in World War II or Korea or both. Donald Trump was playing Little League in Cunningham Park where my son would play in the late 1980s.

For Americans, the 1950s may have been a simpler time but it was not a better one. We had less of everything. No one had tomatoes in winter. Lettuce was iceberg only. And most middle-class Americans ate many more leftovers and only went out to restaurants a few times a year. Take-out was bringing home a pizza or Chop-Suey from the Chinese Restaurant.

We had fewer clothes to wear, toys to play with, and vacations were going to the beach or mountains for a week. No matter how much people tell you about the good old days, today is better.

I was reading about the three golf courses in the District of Columbia that were leased to the National Links Trust by the National Parks Service.

For some time, the president has felt that the golf courses could be run better and intends to turn the East Potomac Golf Links into a championship level course. They have only been leased since 2020, and the reason the lease arrangement was created was to have private investment pay for improvements. Trump recently dumped construction waste on the East Potomac course from his White House Ball Room project. The entire taking  and abrogating of the leases by the Trump administration breaks with an 1897 law that mandates the public spaces be forever held and used as a park for recreation.

East Potomac was charging $42 for 18 holes during the week and $48 on the weekends. For Washington, that seems like a fair price for a public course. That brings us back to why have municipal courses?

Local governments have a responsibility to provide recreation for their residents. They should provide it for free or for a minimum amount. From athletic fields to passive parks to playgrounds, it is something all good governments should have.

Some types of recreation are more expensive than other types. Golf courses definitely fall in that category. Does that mean governments should not have those? I don’t believe so.

I believe things like a municipal golf course should be provided at a very reasonable rate. Private golf courses charge substantially more than the $42 that East Potomac did. A round at Trump’s Doral courses, except for the Blue Monster which has championship status, costs between $150 and $260. Many golfers, especially those who are not wealthy and country club members, need a less expensive alternative. 

Which brings us to Sailfish Sands, the Martin County owned course. The cost for a resident to play 18 holes ranges from $36.95 plus tax to $81.95 plus tax depending on time of day and whether it is a weekend. More expensive than Washington but still less expensive than a private course for the most part.

It should be even cheaper. I don’t believe that there need to be many amenities attached to a municipal golf course. As usual with politicians, the Martin County golf course grew until it became a way to accomplish other things. There is a very nice clubhouse and of course the hitting bays offering a Top Golf experience. All are superfluous to the playing of golf. Even New York City offers 18 holes at a range of $36 to $52 with kids and seniors paying much less.

There are 2 things we should think about in Martin County. One is why we need to make a simple county golf course into a recreational Mecca? The second is why we pay more to play golf than residents do in New York and Washington, two incredibly expensive places except apparently to play golf.

I looked on the Supervisor of Elections website to see who had filed to run in the August and perhaps November elections.

There were five candidates, four of whom were running for the school board. Three of those were incumbents…Christia Li Roberts, Jennifer Russell, and Amy Pritchett. There was a challenger to Roberts who has filed, Cherie White. White worked for Stuart for her entire career retiring as the city clerk. She has worked since “retirement” in other government jobs.

Of the three current school board members, Roberts has been there the longest, and this will be her last term because of term limits. I served with Li on the Stuart LPA more than a decade ago. I can attest to her thoroughness. If a site plan stated there were 52 parking spaces, she would make sure to count every space listed. A few times, she found that the written narrative had more than the actual plan.

She is a numbers cruncher by profession, and that is her strong suit on the school board. I have seen her repeatedly correct the staff when they have something wrong. She can be annoying at times and pedantic. Yet I know if she states a fact, she is usually right.

When Russell and Pritchett each served as chair, they ran good meetings. Pritchett was the local Moms For Liberty leader before being elected. Russell was Governor DeSantis’ pick last time. Unless they are pulling strings behind the scenes very quietly, I don’t think they have made much of a difference since going on the board.

Probably most of that is because Florida education policy is so set by the legislature and state bureaucracy that many decisions have been removed from local control. It is not only the counties and municipalities that have to worry about preemption.

Our last declared candidate so far is John Kazanjian for County Commission District 4 who is running for Sarah Heard’s seat. John was in law enforcement and then the head of the Palm Beach PBA which represents Martin County deputies as well as officers in Stuart and other municipalities. While he has done an equitable and fair job representing his members, do we want the fox watching the henhouse?

Public Safety is our largest expense by far. Between fire and sheriff, it consumes most of the budget. The only consistent commissioner who has occasionally voted against their contracts is Heard. She mostly is a lone voice for some fiscal restraint.

Heard has not filed to run again, but I am assuming she will. I think her stand on much reasonable development is wrong. But when it comes to money and most other things, she is right on the mark.

In the next month or so others will file. The most watched person will be Boss Collins for the District 2 Seat held by Stacey Hetherigton. I can’t think of someone who should be more roundly defeated and sent back to obscurity. And that goes if he decides that Stacey is too much of an opponent for him and he again runs for the city commission. The Boss has brought nothing but corruption, cost, and chaos to Stuart. He will do the same in Martin County.

Understanding how government works is not just for elected officials, it is a life skill every citizen needs. From local zoning decisions to national legislation, civic knowledge empowers people to participate meaningfully in their communities. However, recent research shows that many adults lack a basic understanding of how government functions, highlighting why strong civics education is essential.

A 2025 national survey conducted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation found that 58% of American adults failed a basic civics test, despite 74% saying they believed they could explain how government works. This gap between confidence and actual knowledge highlights a widespread misunderstanding of governmental roles and responsibilities. Another U.S. Chamber study reported that more than 70% of Americans failed a basic civic literacy quiz, and only 25% say they feel very confident explaining how the system works.

Even foundational concepts can be unclear. In a recent survey, 70% of adults could name all three branches of government, which is an improvement from prior years, but that means nearly one-third could not. Earlier data found 17% of adults could not name any branch at all, and only 5% could correctly identify all five First Amendment rights. These are not obscure facts; they are the building blocks of civic participation.

Why does this matter? Because civic misunderstanding affects real-world decision-making. Many people, for example, struggle to distinguish between different levels of government authority. They may not realize that a county commissioner manages local services such as infrastructure, budgets, and zoning, while a state agriculture commissioner oversees statewide agricultural policy and regulation. Similarly, confusion often arises about whether an issue should be addressed by a city council, state legislature, or U.S. Congress. When citizens do not know which office does what job, they may direct concerns to the wrong officials, or disengage entirely, believing their voice does not matter.

As we enter another election season, I worry about citizens not understanding the different roles of the various elected positions. I worry because people can be deceived by candidates who make promises or accusations to win votes based on that misunderstanding. I am seeing it already.

Encouragingly, though, Americans overwhelmingly recognize the value of civic learning. More than 90% say civics education is important to the country’s success, yet fewer than half believe it is being taught well. This consensus suggests strong public support for improving civic instruction in schools, community programs, and adult education initiatives.

Strong civics education benefits more than elections. It builds critical thinking, strengthens communication skills, and fosters respectful dialogue across differences. It also helps individuals evaluate information, understand public policy debates, and participate constructively in community problem-solving. In other words, civics knowledge is not just about government, it is about citizenship.

As communities look toward the future, investing in civic literacy is one of the most practical steps we can take to strengthen democracy. When people understand how decisions are made, who makes them, and how they can be involved, they are more likely to vote, volunteer, attend meetings, and advocate for their communities. Knowledge turns frustration into action and confusion into confidence.

In a time when information is everywhere but understanding is not, civics education remains one of the most powerful tools we have for building informed citizens and resilient communities. I encourage you to seek out civics education resources, even if you feel you are well educated. The Sandra Day O’Connor Institute may be a good place to start: https://oconnorinstitute.org/.

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

The Humane Society of the Treasure Coast serves as Martin County's only open-admission, no-kill animal organization made possible through support from individuals, businesses, and foundations in the community. A well‑funded shelter is best equipped to provide humane, effective solutions, address animal homelessness, and promote responsible pet ownership.

Monthly contributions create a dependable stream of funding that helps us prepare for unpredictable intakes - lost pets, owner surrenders, injured strays, or animals displaced by emergencies - rather than react to them. This stability ensures that all animals entering our shelter receive consistent access to food, medical care, and safe housing, even during busy seasons or community crises.

Recurring donations enable us to host programs directly benefiting the public, such as low‑cost vaccinations, spay/neuter, and microchipping clinics, which keep pets healthy and safe by reducing stray populations and preventing disease outbreaks.

Your support also goes toward enrichment, socialization, and training of the shelter animals to help them become more adoptable, and allows us to host educational programs and animal‑assisted therapy visits.

Donators are partners in our mission – you are investing beyond our immediate needs and elevating our community services for years to come. A modest monthly gift, multiplied across many supporters, becomes a powerful force for good. Every dollar plays a role in transforming an animal’s life and can make the difference between an animal simply surviving and truly thriving.

Below are just a couple of ways to show support, and you can learn more about all of our giving opportunities at https://hstc1.org/Give

Faithful Friends Program

Join a special group of supporters as a Faithful Friend. This is the easiest way to give with automatic, monthly payments, selected to fit your budget, either through credit card or direct debit (ACH).

Pets of the Month Program 

Some animals take longer than others to find their forever homes, so we highlight different dogs, cats and critters each month in an effort to find their perfect adopter! Sponsor a Pet of the Month to help cover the cost of their adoption benefits. 

Thank you to everyone who has given, continues to give, and is considering a gift to HSTC.

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

I am a sports fan through and through. I played sports growing up, and if my television is on, chances are some kind of sporting event is playing in the background. With the Olympics wrapping up, I’m reminded again of why I love sports. It’s not just the competition or the unscripted outcome that draws me in. For me, it’s the teamwork required for success—especially at the highest level.

Take the U.S. men’s hockey team, for instance. If you read the headlines, you’ll likely see stories about the heroic performance by goalie Connor Hellebuyck or the game-winning goal by Jack Hughes. While their performances were certainly outstanding, without their teammates they are not bringing home a gold medal. Any team is only as strong as its weakest link.

Hockey is a physically demanding sport in which teams rotate four offensive lines and three defensive pairings. Not every player makes the score sheet, but every player must fill their role for the team to succeed. The same holds true for nearly every team sport. Each member must faithfully carry out their part for the team to win. Yes—even curling.

This principle even extends to individual sports like figure skating. While the skater may be the only one on the ice, behind every performance stands a team of coaches, trainers, choreographers, and supporters preparing the athlete for that moment.

Of course, teamwork is not a new concept, and it certainly isn’t unique to sports. The same principles apply to music, theater, business, and a host of other areas of life. But what if we expanded that idea even further? What if we applied the principles of teamwork to the world itself?

Imagine holding to the ideal that each city, each state, each region, each country, and each continent has a role to play—not for individual victory but for the success of the whole team called humanity. Each player is unique, speaking different languages and holding different beliefs, yet all are bonded together by the shared goal of building a better world.

In many ways, this vision echoes a deeply biblical idea. The apostle Paul once described humanity like a body with many parts, each with a different role but all necessary for the whole to function well. No one part can say to another, “I don’t need you.” When one part suffers, the whole body suffers. When one part thrives, the whole-body benefits.

Under that kind of team mindset, resources would not be hoarded but shared. Differences would not be threats but strengths. Mutual respect would help ease tensions, and unity would become the goal rather than tearing the team apart.

Given the tensions in the world today, this may sound like a far-fetched fantasy. The idea of countries working together to build peace and harmony rather than engaging in armed conflict can feel almost unimaginable.

And yet, every Olympic Games reminds us of that cooperation across borders is possible. Athletes from across the globe gather, compete fiercely, and still shake hands afterward. Rivals on the field can recognize that they are part of something bigger than themselves.

Perhaps that glimpse is a small reflection of what God intends for the world—a creation where people recognize their shared humanity and their shared responsibility for one another.

Maybe the lesson sports offer us is this: success isn’t just about who scores the goal. It’s about whether the team learns how to play together. And if the world could begin to see itself as one team—even imperfectly—we might just find that the victory we are all hoping for is peace.

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

He says Introvert. She says Extrovert. I say OTROVERT.

For years, we’ve been told we fall into one of two camps. 

Introvert or extrovert. 

You either recharge alone or you recharge in a crowd. You dread networking events or you thrive in them. You slip out early (aka ghosting) or you’re the last one standing, holding court by the bar. 

But what if neither label quite fits anymore? 

I recently came across a newer term that stopped me in my tracks: otrovert. And the more I sat with it, the more it felt uncomfortably accurate - in the best possible way. Otrovert is a personality type coined in 2025 by psychiatrist Dr. Rami Kaminski to describe individuals who don’t draw energy from groups or from belonging to a crowd, but from deep, one-on-one connection. Not isolated. Not antisocial. Not shy. Just nourished differently. 

And if I’m honest, this idea resonates with me deeply. Especially now. 

When I was younger, I loved group dynamics. Dinners with eight people around the table. Committee meetings. Community gatherings. Fundraising galas. Rooms buzzing with conversation. 

I fed off that energy. It felt stimulating and expansive and alive. 

Somewhere along the way, that changed. 

These days, I barely enjoy a girls’ night out with six women. Not because I don’t love them. I do. But because the experience often feels scattered. Conversations are half-finished. It’s hard to get past the surface. I go home feeling a bit drained. 

But put me across the table from one person, over coffee, lunch, or dinner, and it’s a completely different story. 

Those one-on-one moments mean the world to me now. 

That’s where I feel present. That’s where I listen better. That’s where stories unfold. I walk away feeling energized.  

What I find interesting is that this seems to hold true whether we’re talking about personal life or professional life. The setting may change, but the outcome is often the same. 

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

In Where the Money Is, we noted roughly 4% of the land in Martin County generates close to 25% of the County’s property tax revenue. A small share of acreage carries a large share of the revenue funding schools, roads, beaches, and land acquisition for conservation. It allows residents to enjoy those amenities without placing the full burden on homeowners.

In Zoned Out, we examined how land use decisions shape that balance over time. A designation on a land use map sets direction for decades.

Jeffrey Chamberlin, President of SLC Commercial in Stuart, spoke at a recent Treasure Coast industry luncheon attended by brokers, lenders, developers, and economic development professionals. During a discussion of industrial conditions along Florida’s east coast, he described how tightening inventory in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach is pushing some manufacturers north.

One example involved a 70,000-square-foot industrial building south of Fort Pierce. It had sat underutilized for decades and carried a reputation as obsolete. The ceilings were low and the layout reflected another era. It lacked features common in newer facilities, yet it offered usable square footage at a moment when available space farther south had grown scarce.

The buyer was a Broward manufacturer responding to rising land values, higher lease rates, insurance increases, and shrinking inventory in the tri-county market.

Land in those counties continues to narrow for employment use as redevelopment moves into older corridors and operating costs escalate. Firms widen their search area when remaining space no longer supports their cost structure.

Martin County once depended on flower groves, orange groves, and cattle. Acreage produced income directly from the ground. Today, commercial and employment land serves a comparable role. Parcels used for production generate revenue from buildings, equipment, and payroll rather than rows and herds.

When land is designated for housing or other non-employment use, future production capacity on that acreage is removed. Commercial and industrial inventory contracts.

Proposed State property tax reforms add another dimension. If limits on residential taxation advance, a greater share of County revenue must come from non-residential sources. The composition of the tax base becomes central to long-term fiscal stability.

Martin County’s supply of buildable employment land remains limited. Outside a handful of recent developments, entitled sites are scarce. Water and sewer capacity, transportation access, and allowable uses determine how much productive acreage remains available.

Working the land for a fiscally healthy community means ensuring an adequate share of acreage remains available for production.

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

 Florida has skin in the game when Washington debates Iran - not because we’re eager for war, but because our state’s prosperity is now tightly wired to global stability and U.S. credibility.

Start with the obvious: Florida is a retiree state at scale.  In 2024, Florida had about 5.0 million residents age 65+.  The Census Bureau’s latest QuickFacts puts 65+ at roughly 21.8% of Florida’s population – more than one in five Floridians.  And Social Security data show over 5.16 million beneficiaries in Florida as of December 2024.

Now extend that forward.  Florida’s senior population is projected to climb materially in the coming decades - one widely cited state estimate puts Florida’s 65+ population at about 6.64 million by 2040, meaning millions more households relying on steady checks, stable markets, and predictable costs.

That’s the part too many commentators miss: for Florida, geopolitics is personal finance.

Retirees don’t have the luxury of “riding out” prolonged volatility the same way a 35-year-old might.  A serious regional conflict – or the market shock of believing a nuclear-armed Iran is inevitable – can hit retirement accounts through higher energy prices, inflation expectations, risk-off selling, and tighter credit.  When markets convulse, the damage isn’t theoretical; it’s grocery bills, insurance renewals, prescription costs, and the monthly draw from a 401(k).

South Florida is even more exposed than it used to be.  The economy is increasingly built around finance – capital and talent migrating from New York into West Palm Beach and Miami.  Florida has become a magnet for retirees and money aided by its tax structure.  Capital moves where it trusts the future.  If global investors conclude the U.S. will tolerate nuclear proliferation in one of the world’s most combustible regions, they will price that risk everywhere – stocks, bonds, and borrowing costs.

There’s also the human reality.  South Florida has one of the most significant Jewish and pro-Israel communities in America.  For many families here, Iran’s threats are not abstract foreign-policy chess – they’re tied to identity, safety, and whether the civilized world still draws hard lines.

None of this is an argument for recklessness.  It’s an argument against complacency.  Florida’s retirees – today’s and the next wave arriving massively over the next 20 years – are living on the premise that America can keep markets, energy flows, and global security from tipping into permanent instability.

In Florida, “doing nothing” doesn’t stay overseas.  It lands on the Treasure Coast in the form of a smaller nest egg and a more expensive life for all.

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

Remember life before cell phones, the internet, or the near instant gratification of Google, Amazon, or Spotify?  We had to wait.  We had to use card catalogues at the library and keep dimes in the car ashtray for emergency phone calls from public payphones.   We could buy a record album at Sam Goody or wait for the random chance of a song we liked on a favorite radio station.  Shopping could be downtown, though specialty shopping could involve the Yellow Pages.  In between the above tasks, there was quiet. 

Cell phones and the internet have robbed us of quiet time.  The technological progress of telecommunication engineering has forced us to be uninterrupted recipients of data and cognitive intrusion.  Where once there was quiet, our minds are now flooded with layers of noise and data, leaving little room for the slow process of thinking and filling our minds with our own thoughts. Even when we try to sleep, is there a smartphone on the nightstand? 

Those of us who were adults when cell phones and the internet rewove our social fabric may remember a quieter, calmer mind.  Frustration tolerance and patience were necessary as there was always empty space between gratifications and thoughts.   

We did not evolve to have constant noise in our heads.  Is it no wonder that anxiety has become a default setting for so many of us, not to mention an overreliance on technology to problem solve and think.   The age of cognitive and communication technologies has us all living with saturated bandwidth, and this deprives us of focused and precise attention to important details in life.   The solution?  We should turn off our devices whenever possible.   We should actively engage in quiet time and mindfulness.  This would be the cognitive parallel to periodic fasting and cleansing.

The flooding of our bandwidth with doomscrolling and cognitive noise has been shown to be a risk factor for anxiety and depression.  This is not dissimilar from the fact that 13% of Americans were obese in 1960; today 42% of Americans are obese.  We sit too much; we eat too much; we face screens too much.  Consider whether you graze processed foods throughout the day.  Everyone picks their poison, but we can modify our lifestyles to improve not simply our health but our quality of physical and psychological life.  We need to improve our tolerance for quiet, boredom, and unnatural hunger.  Constant junk food grazing, social media gratification, and online proxy-pleasure are the definition of an addiction, whether it be chemical, behavioral, or psychological.   

There are many paths to better living, but there has been a recent resurgence of Stoicism, the philosophy of Greco-Roman antiquity which teaches mental resilience, stress management, emotional regulation, and planned fasting as exercises to strengthen the mind and body. Many current psychotherapeutic methods borrow heavily from stoicism.  Even planned fasting has been shown to be medically beneficial in trying to have a daily ketogenic span to avoid weight gain and cognitive decline. Ketones are produced from the breakdown of fatty acids when other caloric sources are unavailable.  Studies have shown that ketogenic diets are particularly beneficial to prolonging cognitive and mental health.  Obesity and elevated serum glucose are risk factors for dementia. Ketones are neuroprotective and an alternative energy source to glucose for the brain. A quiet mind is the psychological equivalent to fasting, and this too is protective against flooding the mind with unnecessary psychological junk food such as doomscrolling and social media.

Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius was a proponent of stoicism and collected his thoughts into pithy statements known as the Meditations of Marcus Aurelius. Stoicism teaches that while we cannot control external events, we can control our reactions and develop resilience.  It teaches that we should live within our bandwidth.  We need to filter out any noise and data that is unnecessary.  We need to carefully curate what we put in our bodies and minds.

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

This is a second of a five part series on Real Estate Taxes

PART II

Part I of this article left off with… We, the people, are offered wants and needs piecemeal and as though they are interchangeable.  If we knew the County’s needs as a whole, WE could make better choices and relay those to the Commissioners.  The County Commissioners could do a better job of keeping US informed by explaining the County from a 10,000 foot view.  They are really the only ones who know what the left hand is doing.  They attend meetings and events throughout the County ad nauseam.  They have facts and figures and expert advice simply by request.   They understand the difference between wants and needs.  But, they need us to have what we want. 

Keeping US informed would not be an easy task.  Foremost there are limited avenues available.  There is the County website, of course.  But most people don’t go to it.  Commissioner Hetherington puts out a newsletter and Commissioner Ciampi has early morning breakfasts.  Kudos to them for trying.  But retirees and blue-collar workers are not likely to attend those breakfasts.  Hetherington’s newsletter only goes as far as her email list. 

If only there was some investigative reporting.  There’s not.  MCTA believes that professional writers could make even a banal county commission meeting interesting enough to read about. Then WE would know where our tax dollars are going.  Special interests seem to call in the articles that newspapers print.  Perhaps that’s why they are failing.  So, citizens get “news” from social media which is dangerously irresponsible. 

The Commissioners do need to ask more questions and better questions.  They rely on staff too much.  We don’t mean to infer that there is anything nefarious going on with staff.  Oh, there might be a Post-It notepad in someone’s purse, but who can resist?  MCTA has found the county staff to be accessible and honest as long as you know the questions to ask. Think of it, they have a job to do, and they want to do it to their best ability.  They also want to keep their jobs and if they can expand their position, it’s job security.  It’s human and reasonable.   Commissioners need to press.  Instead of asking if an item is making money and accepting a “yes”, they can press and ask if there are extenuating circumstances ie. Are there subsidies or indirect allocations propping up a potential boondoggle?  At least 3 of the Commissioners have been there long enough to understand this.  They need to meet more often with the County Comptroller.   The Comptroller has loads of interesting information.  She (Carolyn Timmann) is independent of the Commission and a valuable and objective resource.

Staff can be more forthcoming.  We hope, and we have not witnessed otherwise, that staff feels uninhibited with their opinions and even advice to Commissioners.  They are professionals as Commissioner Ciampi likes to point out.  The Commissioners’ doors should always be open to them, rain or shine.  Consider though, that it is their job to carry out the wishes of the Commissioners.  It would only be human to put that responsibility before any, even welcome, constructive criticism. 

* You do have us, the MCTA.  We will continue to try to keep you informed.  We have instituted an INSIGHTS series of events which will feature a prominent issue or speaker of importance to you, the taxpayer.  And, of course, there is our monthly newsletter which will report on Commission meetings and other taxing authorities.  To get invitations to the INSIGHTS events or to sign up for the newsletter go to www.mctaxpayers.org.    Email us at mctaxpayers1950@gmail.com

Watch for Part III in the next F&N

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

I have written previously about my respect and admiration for public schools including my elementary school, JD Parker Elementary in Stuart.  I had great teachers (they were firm, but fair), learned a lot, and it seemed everyone from the neighborhood went to school there.  Imagine my excitement when recently I was invited to come back to campus and participate in career day! Afterall, it was in 5th grade while at JD Parker that I made my first insect collection!

I don’t have children so I never had the opportunity to perform such a role as a parent.  And I hadn’t spoken to children about insects or entomology since probably graduate school in Gainesville, FL.  The good folks at Junior Achievement invited me to join a group of parents during a January Career Exploration Fair.  I was super excited and it didn’t disappoint.

PHOTO 1

In preparation, I had organized with a friend of mine who works for a local research facility, to obtain samples of live insects relevant to urban pest management.  I had American cockroaches, German cockroaches, Pharoah’s ants, eastern subterranean termites, and the real showstopper, bed bugs!

I have to admit; I was a bit nervous on the morning of during check-in.  Then I saw a couple of folks I knew and we shared a bit about our respective planned presentations.  The excitement and pride the parents exhibited was pretty cool.  One of my friends builds houses for a living and I’m sure the kids loved his props and story about becoming a carpenter.

We were escorted to our individual rooms where one group at a time, different classes of students would come through.  It was all ages.  I started each by describing what an entomologist is and what I do as a career (pest control, a.k.a. urban pest management).  Then one by one, I revealed my insect friends while describing what they were, how they live, why they sometimes become pests, and answered questions.  There were lots and lots of questions.  So many that we never had time to cover everything before it was time to switch out the group of students. It was amazing how interested the children were and how undeterred they were about getting up and close to the live specimens.  Most of the adults in the room kept their distance.

Photo #1 is me holding a container of American cockroaches.  These are fun to show because they are pretty sizable and everyone can relate to cockroaches.  Or if you are originally from up north, like Tom, you might call them palmetto bugs.

Photo #2 is my favorite from the event.  This was the grand finale when I was showing off the bed bugs.  It represents so well, what the event was like.  Look closely at this photo.  Do you think that young man in the back with the blue shirt, was excited?  Look at each person’s face (even the teacher sitting on the floor).  They are absolutely glued to the subject being discussed and eager to learn more.

I don’t know who enjoyed the event more, the students or me.  I mentioned to some of my professional colleagues that it was the most fun I had at work in a long time.  After seeing the impact firsthand, I can confidently say these Career Exploration Fairs matter.  If you are interested learning more or getting involved in Martin County schools, reach out to Erica Eggerman at EEggerman@juniorachievement.com. Tell her the Bug Guy sent you.

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

I’ve always thought of Tausha’s Seafood Market as one of those beloved local gems that quietly gets everything right. It combines the best elements of a classic fish market with thoughtful touches that set it apart from the ordinary.

From the moment I walk in, I’m greeted by chilled coolers perfectly organized with the day’s catch, each portioned out in clear ziplock bags resting on beds of ice. Everything is easy to see, easy to choose, and unmistakably fresh. It’s seafood presented with pride and transparency, and once you’ve shopped there, it’s easy to understand why locals rave about it.

This is also the place where most of our seafood dinners begin. I usually have a few favorites in mind, but I like to see what looks best that day. Strawberry grouper is one I come back to often. It’s mild, flaky, and works beautifully whether I’m pan-searing it or putting it on the grill. Snapper is another regular in our house, reliable and versatile enough for just about anything. And when I’m in the mood for something a little heartier, swordfish is hard to pass up, especially for grilling.

Beyond the fish itself, the variety at Tausha’s is impressive. There’s a strong assortment of clams, crab, and shrimp, along with all the right accoutrements to turn a good piece of seafood into a great meal. I also appreciate the fresh produce available right in the market, which makes it easy to grab everything I need for dinner in one stop.

Then there are the extras that make the place feel personal. The homemade fish dip is a must if it’s available, perfect for an easy appetizer or to snack on while dinner’s coming together. The daily soups are another bonus. They’re comforting, flavorful, and often end up coming home with me whether I planned on it or not.

Part of what keeps me coming back is the people. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely helpful without being pushy. They know their product, they care about it, and it shows.

Tausha’s Seafood Market has earned a permanent spot in my routine. Between the freshness, the thoughtful presentation, and the ease of building a great meal from start to finish, it’s one of those local places that makes cooking at home something to look forward to. And that’s saying a lot.
 

Brent Hanlon’s opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

Volunteers are the heartbeat of nonprofit organizations, making a meaningful and lasting difference in the lives of our neighbors.

For many years, AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers have strengthened our community through mentorship, meal delivery, holiday support, and countless acts of service that often go unseen but never unnoticed.

Over the past year, we have witnessed firsthand how federal budget cuts have impacted local organizations. Because our AmeriCorps Seniors program was primarily federally funded, our Board of Directors thoughtfully evaluated how we would respond if those funds were reduced or eliminated—and how to responsibly plan for the long-term sustainability of our organization and the volunteers who give so generously their time and talent.

These discussions led us to take a broader look at our overall volunteer engagement strategy—both where we are today and where we hope to go in the future. The AmeriCorps Seniors grant limited participation to residents age 55 and older. While that program created meaningful impact, it also restricted our ability to fully engage individuals and groups of all ages who want to serve. Volunteers under age 55 were directed to other staff members, unintentionally creating a fragmented approach to engagement rather than a cohesive, community-wide strategy.

After careful consideration, we made the difficult decision to conclude our partnership with the AmeriCorps Seniors Program and the Director position associated with the grant. Please know this decision was not easy, and it was not taken lightly—but was driven by the federal funding uncertainty, the limitations of the grant, and the desire to expand our volunteer efforts to better serve and engage our entire community.

While the federal grant may be ending, volunteerism at United Way and throughout Martin County is not. United Way remains committed to providing meaningful engagement opportunities for individuals of all ages as we continue on our mission to improve the education, financial security, and health for everyone in our community.

We are deeply grateful to the AmeriCorps Seniors who have, and continue to give, their time, talents, and heart to Martin County. Their service strengthens local nonprofits, supports children and families, and makes a lasting difference in countless lives. Their legacy of service will continue to inspire us.

As we navigate this transition, our goal is to build upon the strong foundation created through the AmeriCorps Seniors program and grow a more inclusive volunteer effort that engages neighbors across generations.

Upcoming volunteer opportunities will be shared with those who would like to receive communications about service opportunities in our community. If you are interested in receiving ongoing volunteer updates, please complete a Volunteer Application at: UnitedWayMartin.org/Volunteer

Currently, the following opportunities are available:

1. Caring Children Clothing Children is looking for volunteers to assist with clothing pick up and more. 4CMartin.org/Contact
2. Children’s Museum has various positions they are looking for assistance with. ChildrensMuseumTC.org/Become-a-Volunteer
3. Council on Aging is looking for Meals on Wheels volunteers and more.  coamartin.org/volunteer
4. House of Hope is looking for volunteers to help glean and more! hohmartin.org/volunteers
5. United Way is looking for volunteers to assist with the Citizen’s Review Process. UnitedWayMartin.org/CitizenReviewPanels

We thank the community for its continued support and look forward to serving all of Martin County together. As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me at chdiez@unitedwaymartin.org or 772-283-4800.

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

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

At the Business Development Board of Martin County, we not only love what we do but we also love telling others about what we do. Still, we’re mindful of the fact that when it comes to the world of economic development, many people have vague or even inaccurate ideas about what’s involved.

For existing and expanding businesses, the BDB helps save vital time and energy. For residents, the BDB helps generate nonresidential ad valorem tax revenue. For example, tax revenues from properties and businesses that are commercial in nature—such as industrial buildings—provide nonresidential tax revenue. That can help reduce the need for property tax increases on local residents, which may play a vital role in the months ahead with property tax elimination likely on the November ballot.

First, let’s start with what the BDB does NOT do:

• We do NOT host regular networking events or sessions like the chambers of commerce.
• We do NOT offer courses dedicated to credentialing or continued education like professional associations.
• We do NOT consistently shape the economic policies of local governments.

Martin County is home to five strong and diverse chambers of commerce, several professional associations and the Economic Council, which excel at such services and more. We partner with them in our shared commitment to strengthening our local economy and play a complementary role to their efforts.

The BDB does:

• Focus on helping existing business, above all else
• Support commercial development and sustained job creation
• Promote Martin County as an ideal place to do business, especially in our legacy and growing industries of marine, aviation and advanced manufacturing
• Help businesses grow, expand and stay in Martin County (connecting owners and entrepreneurs to resources, e.g. capital/technical assistance, permitting process, etc.)
• Help attract companies to the county from outside the area (as we’re the primary point of contact and liaison for business attraction leads from such partners as Florida Department of Commerce, FPL’s Economic Development team and site-selection consultants)
• Provide key services such as site selection, project advocacy, navigating the approval process, availing essential resources, brokering introductions and more.
• Enhance the business climate. This includes conducting in-person visits with local businesses to learn about their operations and create solutions for their pain points.
• Administer the Martin Loan Fund. These visits helped us realize that many local businesses struggle with accessing the necessary capital to grow. So, we partnered with local lender Inclusifi to help small businesses and entrepreneurs secure loans with better, more flexible terms than offered at traditional banking institutions.
• Serve as secretary and liaison for the Martin County Industrial Development Authority, which offers low-interest, tax-exempt loans to qualified projects.

Recently, we’ve assisted in Hinckley Yacht Services’ expansion as well as Power Systems Manufacturing’s return to Martin County with its 180,000-square-foot facility. We also helped a Weedoo Boats, Choice Waste of Florida and Catch Boatworks—to name a few.

Such additions matter to local taxpayers and could soon mean a lot more. When businesses make capital improvements and invest in equipment here, the county’s overall taxable value increases and its revenue is diversified.

As the Legislature is advancing toward a statewide referendum in November to eliminate property taxes, the BDB’s role helping retain and attract expanding businesses—and therefore, helping replace potentially loss revenue—will grow even more critical to maintaining our local levels of service.

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

Gil Smart (VoteWater) and Eve Samples (Friends of the Everglades) updated the February 26th Rivers Coalition meeting on how this year’s legislative session in Tallahassee was going as far as environmental issues are concerned.

It wasn’t good news.

Gil warned us last month: “If last year’s legislative session’s theme was facilitating sprawl, this year’s is sprawl on steroids.” And since the Republican-controlled legislature can pass anything it wants, at this point the only possible changes in the disturbingly-large number of bad bills in the pipeline are tweaks to the bills.

With one possible exception. Some North Florida Republican legislators have voiced concerns about the Everglades water management process. South Florida Republicans haven’t yet, but if they notice the desertions they may be persuadable. The bills are HB 701 and SB 1120.

Gil’s bottom line: “Right now the worst bills are all the pro-growth bills like ‘Blue Ribbon Projects’; House Bill 299 is on the House floor but Senate Bill 354 still has to clear the Rules Committee this week, and in both cases it would be helpful for people to reach out to our local legislators and tell them to oppose these bills.”

The bad news from Tallahassee doesn’t stop there. Florida Forever, the state’s conservation and recreation land acquisition program which is funded by doc stamps, started in 2001 at $300 million/year. Funding was cut to zero during the Great Recession but rebounded to $100 million in 2018-2023 and then came all the way back up to $270 million last year. Alas; this year the Governor requested only $115 million. Even worse, the Senate wants to appropriate just $35 million for Florida Forever. The House’s number:  A Big Fat Zero.

Meanwhile, Lake Okeechobee hasn’t seen any serious effects from the drought thus far. It’s currently at 12.26 feet, and it would have to drop below 11 feet for 80 days before triggering any real concerns. The main problem with the lake right now Is actually to the west: The Caloosahatchee River needs fresh water, but the low lake level is preventing it from getting enough. At least the drought is giving the St. Lucie Estuary a breather from discharge threats.  

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

Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer, yet it remains the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. The good news is that screening can detect colorectal cancer early, when it's most treatable. It can even help prevent cancer by identifying and removing precancerous polyps.

If you're 45 or older, it's time to get screened. If you have a family history or other risk factors, talk with your doctor about whether you should start even earlier.

Why Screening is Essential

Colorectal cancer develops slowly, often without symptoms in its early stages. By the time warning signs like rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, or changes in bowel habits appear, the disease may already be advanced. That's why screening is so important.

A colonoscopy remains the most effective screening tool—not only does it detect cancer, but it can also prevent it by removing precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer. There are other screening options available, including at-home stool-based tests, and your doctor can help determine which option is right for you.

Dr. Sarah Vogler, Chief of Staff for Cleveland Clinic Florida and a board-certified colorectal surgeon, emphasizes that early detection saves lives. "For most people at average risk, colorectal cancer screening should begin at age 45 and continue regularly through age 75, with earlier screening for those at higher risk," says Dr. Vogler, who specializes in the evaluation and surgical treatment of colorectal diseases and has extensive experience in minimally invasive and robotic techniques.

The bottom line? Early detection can mean the difference between a highly treatable condition and a life-threatening disease.

Who is at Risk?

While age is the biggest risk factor—leading to the recommendation to start screening at 45—other factors can increase the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer, including:

• Family history – If a parent or sibling has had colorectal cancer or polyps, you may need earlier or more frequent screening.
• Lifestyle factors – Smoking, obesity, heavy alcohol use, and a diet high in processed meats and low in fiber can contribute to increased risk.
• Medical conditions – People with inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis) are at higher risk.

If any of these apply to you, talk to your doctor about when you should start screening and which test is best for you.

Trusted Experts in Colorectal Cancer Care

Dr. Vogler joined Cleveland Clinic Florida in 2021 as Associate Chief of Staff and Regional Director of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Care, and was named Chief of Staff for Cleveland Clinic's Florida market in 2024. She received her medical degree and MBA from the University of Cincinnati and completed her general surgery residency at the University of Utah and a colon and rectal surgery fellowship at the University of Minnesota.

Cleveland Clinic's gastroenterology and colorectal cancer programs are nationally recognized, accredited programs and offer:

• Specialized expertise – Board-certified, fellowship-trained physicians who focus exclusively on diagnosing and treating colorectal cancer.
• Comprehensive, team-based care – Our experts include gastroenterologists, oncologists, surgeons, genetic counselors, and patient navigators who guide patients through every step of their care.
• Advanced screening and treatment – From leading-edge colonoscopy techniques to the latest surgical and non-surgical treatment options, we provide the highest level of evidence-based care.

Beyond providing world-class treatment, we recognize that a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. That's why our patient navigators ensure that every patient has the support, resources, and expert guidance they need from diagnosis through treatment and recovery.

What You Can Do Today

Colorectal cancer is preventable, and early detection is key. Here's how you can take control of your health:

• Schedule your screening if you're 45 or older—or earlier if you have risk factors.
• Know the warning signs – rectal bleeding, persistent changes in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss should never be ignored.
• Encourage your loved ones to get screened, especially those with risk factors or a family history.

At Cleveland Clinic, we are committed to saving lives through early detection, expert care, and patient-focused treatment. If you haven't been screened yet, now is the time. Talk to your doctor today, it could save your life.

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

In Martin County, our environmental heroes don’t wear capes. They wear gloves and outdoor gear, wade into seagrass beds, beautify public spaces and lead on hands-on nature adventures.

This year, Keep Martin Beautiful is shining a spotlight on 28 such champions with its Environmental Stewardship Awards, a celebration of the people and projects making a difference in the community’s natural landscape.

From restoring fragile shorelines and reviving local waterways to organizing community cleanups and nurturing the next generation of eco-conscious citizens, this year’s nominees demonstrate that protecting the environment takes creativity and persistence. Each reflects a deep commitment to protecting the waters, open spaces and neighborhoods that make Martin County unique.

The Environmental Stewardship Awards ceremony will take place Thursday, April 30, at Willoughby Golf Club. It promises to be more than just a formal gathering. It’s a chance for volunteers, students, educators, business leaders, and environmental advocates to mingle, share stories, and celebrate the projects that are quietly transforming the county.

Martin County Commissioner Ed Ciampi and Stacy Weller Ranieri, President of The Firefly Group, will return as emcees, guiding the evening with a mix of insight, humor and enthusiasm.

Tickets are $175, with discounts for students, teachers, and nominees, and attendees can support the cause further through sponsorships or a silent auction. A list of nominees and details are available at www.keepmartinbeautiful.org.

These awards serve as a reminder that meaningful change often begins close to home with neighbors rolling up their sleeves, children learning to care for nature, and communities working together to preserve the beauty around them. In Martin County, it seems, stewardship isn’t just a buzzword. It’s a way of life.

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

So what actually makes a brand last when everything around it keeps changing? From my perspective, it comes down to a few fundamentals: authenticity, consistency, emotional connection, and the ability to adapt. Those things haven’t changed. What has changed is how AI helps us strengthen them.

AI gives you clearer insight into what your customers care about, helps you personalize experiences without losing the human touch, and allows you to respond faster and more thoughtfully. Used well, it’s not about chasing trends—it’s about building something meaningful and lasting. Here are some of the fundamentals and AI prompts that can help you (this assumes AI ahs access to your data and environment).

Authenticity: Staying True

AI isn’t here to define who you are as a brand. What it can do is help you understand how people already experience you. By keeping AI “in the loop” with reviews, feedback, and social conversations, AI can show the themes that repeatedly come up—what customers value, appreciate, and trust. This helps you to stay aligned with what’s genuine and avoid drifting away from your brand.

Example prompts:

• “Review customer feedback and identify the top values people associate with our brand.”
• “Find real customer stories that reflect who we are.”

Consistency: Building Trust

People trust brands that feel familiar and dependable. When your voice, visuals, and tone are consistent, customers know what to expect—and that builds confidence over time. AI helps by reviewing content across channels and letting you know when you are drifting from your core.

Example prompts:

• “Review our digital channels and flag where our branding or voice feels inconsistent.”
• “Create friendly, on‑brand welcome messages for new customers.”

Emotional Connection: Personalization at Scale

The strongest brands make people feel noticed. AI makes that possible even as you grow—by helping you segment audiences, anticipate needs, and communicate in ways that feel personal instead of mass‑produced. When it’s done right, personalization feels less like marketing and more like a relationship.

Example prompts:

• “Identify long‑term customers and draft personalized thank‑you messages.”
• “Review support interactions and suggest more empathetic responses.”

Adaptability: Evolving to Stay Relevant

Brands that last don’t stand still—but they also don’t chase every new idea. They evolve thoughtfully, keeping their identity intact while responding to what’s changing around them. AI helps you spot trends early, understand shifting customer needs, and adjust before you’re forced to react.

Example prompts:

• “Identify emerging industry trends and suggest how our messaging should evolve.”
• “Monitor competitor activity and recommend smart ways to adapt.”

At the end of the day, AI is just a tool—but it’s a powerful one. When you use it to support authenticity, consistency, emotional connection, and thoughtful change, you’re not just building a brand people remember. You’re building one they trust and come back to again and again.

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

Caring for a loved one can be both rewarding and challenging. From helping with daily tasks to offering companionship and reassurance, caregivers perform a wide variety of activities. While caregiving can be deeply meaningful, it can also be physically demanding, emotional draining, and financially challenging. Many caregivers juggle full-time jobs, family responsibilities, and personal commitments – often putting their own health and well-being last. Over time, this can lead to stress, burnout, and isolation.

A Trusted Local Resource 
The Area Agency on Aging of Palm Beach/Treasure Coast, Inc. (Agency) is a trusted local resource dedicated to helping caregivers find the support they need – not only for their loved ones, but for themselves as well.
 
The Agency provides caregivers with guidance and connections to a wide range of services, including:

• Respite care to provide temporary relief
• Caregiver support groups for connection and encouragement
• Training and educational programs
• Referrals to local community resources

Our trained specialists understand the challenges caregivers face. With compassion and expertise, they can help identify resources that make caregiving more manageable and sustainable.

One Call Can Make a Difference

A call to our Helpline connects you with knowledgeable Information and Referral Specialists who are familiar with local programs and resources. During the call, the specialist will ask a few basic questions and explore community resources options that may be available based on your situation.

You do not need to navigate caregiving alone.

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.

Every year, Martin County gets visitors that are rarely talked about — and they don't need a hotel or an AirBnB.

Thousands of dark silhouettes can be seen gliding through the water just offshore as blacktip and spinner sharks make their annual migration south along Florida's Atlantic coast. The sharks typically appear in mid-January and remain through early spring until heading north again.

One way to see the migration in action is to sit on the beach and watch the horizon. Spinner sharks earned their name from how they jump clear out of the water, rotating like a top. Blacktips have also been observed to jump out of the water. If you have one available, a plane is also a great way to view the migration.

FAU researchers have been flying an airplane along the coast from Miami to Jupiter since 2011, counting sharks from the air. Leading that effort is Dr. Stephen Kajiura, a professor at Florida Atlantic University's Elasmobranch Research Laboratory — arguably the foremost authority on this migration. In prior years, his team has recorded as many as 15,000 sharks on a single day. The odds, he has noted, are that anyone in the water is within 60 feet of one.

If the water is salty, there are sharks present.

Before you cancel your beach plans, context matters. The blacktips are simply doing what snowbirds do: following the warmer water— and some of their favorite foods. Like tourists flock to key lime pie, the blacktips and spinners seek the Spanish mackerel, and other tasty morsels found offshore this time of year.  The sharks are critically important to the ecosystem, sweeping through the waters to weed out weak and sick fish. Think of them as the ocean's maintenance crew.

As the cold months end, the blacktips migrate north toward mating grounds off the Carolinas and Georgia, where they spend the summer. Research has revealed that many travel as far north as New York.

So next time you're at the beach, keep an eye on the horizon for a fin or a spinning show. You’re watching one of the most remarkable wildlife migrations on the East Coast, happening right in your backyard.

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

Each year, communities across the nation come together in March to honor the humanitarian spirit that drives the American Red Cross. March is Red Cross Month (MIRCM)—a time to recognize volunteers, partners, supporters, and all who help ensure that lifesaving services are available whenever and wherever they’re needed. Here in Martin County, we invite residents, businesses, and community leaders to join in showing your support throughout the month.

For more than 140 years, the American Red Cross has responded to emergencies with compassion and care—whether providing shelter after a disaster, training millions in CPR and first aid, or supporting military families in their times of greatest need. Red Cross Month gives us an opportunity to highlight this mission and inspire others to join in making a difference.

Light Up Your Community in Red on Giving Day – March 25

This year, we are asking Martin County to shine bright in support of neighbors who rely on Red Cross services. On Red Cross Giving Day, March 25, we invite you to “Light Up Your Community” or local business in red.
This simple but powerful gesture shows your city’s commitment to:

• Disaster relief for families affected by home fires, hurricanes, and other crises
• Emergency preparedness education that strengthens community resilience

Whether it’s illuminating a building façade, lighting your office lobby, or adding red accents to storefronts, your participation helps honor the mission and inspire others to get involved.

Wear Red and Share Your Support

We also welcome all Martin County residents to Wear Red with us on Red Cross Giving Day, March 25. Wearing red symbolizes the core values of the American Red Cross: compassion, readiness, and hope. Help us expand the message by posting your photos and messages on social media using #SFLRedCross and #MIRCMSFL. Every shared image sparks awareness and motivates others to take part.

Visit Us in the Community Throughout March

Meet the Red Cross team at the Stuart–Martin Chamber Home, Hurricane & Boat Show (March 6–8) for preparedness tips and local resources. We’re also excited to participate in The Family Wellness Expo on March 21 at the Guy Davis Sports Complex and Family Center, a great opportunity to connect, learn safety skills, and discover how you can serve Martin County.

Join the Mission and Make an Impact

Thank you for your continued support of the American Red Cross and for helping us make a meaningful difference for neighbors in need. Now more than ever, we need people like you to help move the mission forward by volunteering. From disaster response to community outreach, volunteers are the heart of our work.

Visit RedCross.org/Volunteer to explore opportunities and sign up today—and invite a friend or colleague to join you. Together, we can build a stronger, safer, more prepared Martin County—one act of service at a time.

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

Somewhere along the way, the business world decided that growth is the only goal worth having. Bigger revenue. More locations. A staff so large you need a spreadsheet just to remember everyone’s name. And if you’re not chasing that, well, what are you even doing?

I’m here to tell you: plenty, actually.

I’ve been running my business for years, and at some point I made a deliberate choice to stop growing for the sake of growing. Not because I gave up, and definitely not because I’m lazy…ask anyone who’s watched me answer emails at 6 a.m. in my pajamas. I stopped chasing “bigger” because I figured out what “right” actually looked like for me.

Here’s what nobody tells you about rapid growth: it costs more than money. It costs your sanity. I’ve watched fellow business owners double their staff and triple their headaches. They’re managing managers now, sitting through meetings about meetings, and they haven’t actually talked to a real customer in months. That’s not a dream. That’s a corporate horror movie.

When your business is the right size, your size, something magical happens. You actually know your customers. You know that Janet always orders the same thing, that Mike prefers a call over an email, and that the Rodriguez family has been coming to you for seven years. That kind of relationship doesn’t scale. It evaporates (for you) the moment you hire a team to “manage the customer experience.”

Your employees feel it too. At a smaller, intentional operation, people aren’t just badge numbers. They have real responsibility, real visibility, and a real relationship with the person signing their paycheck. Turnover drops. Morale climbs. You’re not hemorrhaging training costs every six months because someone felt invisible and bolted for a bigger company.

There’s also something deeply underrated about sustainability. Growing beyond what you can comfortably support is like eating an entire Thanksgiving dinner and then deciding to run a 5K. Sure, technically possible. Deeply unpleasant. When I set a realistic goal for my business, I stopped making quick decisions. No more panic-hiring. No more taking on bad clients just to cover the overhead monster I’d created.

Setting intentional growth goals, ones tied to what you actually want your life and business to look like, is one of the smartest strategic moves you can make. Ask yourself: what size lets me serve my customers brilliantly? What size lets me sleep at night? What size makes Monday mornings something other than a low-grade existential crisis?

That number is different for everyone. For some, it’s solo. For others, it’s a tight team of ten, and yet others it is small when it is 50. The point is that you get to decide, and staying there, proudly and purposefully, is not settling. It’s strategy.

The businesses I admire most aren’t necessarily the biggest. They’re the ones that do what they do exceptionally well, treat their people right, and have an owner who still seems to enjoy what they’ve built. That last part matters more than any revenue milestone.

So if you’ve ever felt guilty for not wanting to become a franchise empire, stop. Define what success looks like in your own words, build to that point, and then, here’s the revolutionary part, enjoy it.

Small is not the consolation prize. Sometimes, it’s the whole point.

Would you like to know more about small business operations? Email me @ Chriss@CDAMKTG.com and let’s start a discussion.

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

DuBois Park is marketed as a calm, family-friendly lagoon. On a recent afternoon, it was full of children wading in the shallows under the watch of lifeguards.

But the data tell a different story.

Between March 2024 and February 2026, 103 Enterococcus samples were collected at DuBois:

• 55% exceeded 35 CFU/100 mL, the EPA’s long-term marine benchmark.
• The most recent reading was 111 CFU/100 mL — more than three times the EPA benchmark.

These are not isolated spikes. They reflect recurring variability.

For Jim, a Jupiter resident, that variability raised concern.

“I went in thinking it was safe,” Jim said. “Afterward, I developed an ear infection, a throat infection, and liver inflammation. That’s when I looked at the data.”

Bud Howard, Director of Information Services for the Loxahatchee River District, put it plainly:

“Given the studies that show substantial concentrations of enteric bacteria in pristine estuarine systems…is restoration even possible, and should we all play in these waters at all, especially during falling tide or upstream of incoming marine water?”

Not Just DuBois

Martin County has recently issued water quality advisories at:

• Roosevelt Bridge
• Charlie Leighton Park
• Stuart Sandbar
• Sandsprit Park

A Broader Lesson

The Loxahatchee River District operates as a special taxing district, providing watershed-specific oversight funded directly by residents. Over the past decade, the District and surrounding municipalities have invested heavily in reducing septic systems within the watershed.

Yet even with significant septic removal and infrastructure upgrades, bacterial exceedances in tidal estuarine systems remain common.

That should be instructive.

Martin County should not assume that septic-to-sewer conversions alone will resolve estuarine bacterial variability. Septic removal may reduce certain inputs, but tidal dynamics, stormwater runoff, wildlife contributions, sediment disturbance, and upstream discharge remain structural forces.

We have a nearby example: major infrastructure investment does not eliminate estuarine fluctuation.

Water quality is the goal. Septic-to-sewer is one tool — not the solution.

The Real Question

Martin County’s estuary is hydrologically complex. The North and South Forks converge here, along with canal discharges tied to Lake Okeechobee management. Variability is structural, not incidental.

If hydrology is unique, oversight must be equally deliberate.

Martin County does not control all the water that enters our borders.

But we do control how rigorously we measure it, how clearly we communicate it, and how seriously we respond.

Water quality defines Martin County. Predictable variability demands predictable protection.

The standard should not be minimum compliance. The standard should be public health.

And that begins with treating data sampling and analysis as a matter of consequence — not routine.  Martin County deserves a serious conversation about how we define “safe.”

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

Jordan Bromberg, MD, FACP Medical Director

Bridging the Health Care Gap for Uninsured Martin County Residents

Over the last decade, from 2016 to 2026, health care costs in the United States have risen nearly twice as fast as salaries across our country. Florida ranks as the 4th most expensive state for overall healthcare costs. In Martin County, Florida, roughly 14.2% of residents under age 65 lack health insurance, and a substantial share of residents report being unable to access medical care due to cost.

Since 1995, Volunteers in Medicine Clinic (VIM) has been serving as a health care safety net for uninsured Martin County residents. VIM delivers comprehensive health care - ranging from primary care and preventive screenings to specialty services, diagnostics, surgeries, cancer treatments and medications - completely free of charge for eligible patients.

VIM fills the gap between Martin County individuals who are not eligible for government assistance, do not have private health insurance and cannot afford to pay for healthcare. VIM provides high-quality health care services to 18 - 64 year-old adults residing in Martin County and living below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level. In 2026 the 250% Poverty Level is $39,900 for a family of one, $54,100 family of two, $68,300 family of three, $82,500 family of four, and continues based on family size.

VIM has a small paid staff and 80 volunteers aiding patients, including a social worker supporting those patients in need of other resources and referrals. VIM operates with over 100 volunteers including physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, nurses, medical assistants and lay personnel. Cleveland Clinic Martin Health partners with VIM to deliver advanced medical services at no cost, including complex and routine surgeries, comprehensive cancer diagnosis and treatment, and a wide range of specialty care services, ensuring patients have access to high-quality medical expertise.

For three decades, VIM has been a beacon of hope, meeting the essential healthcare needs of our community with compassion and dedication. As national healthcare costs climb toward $5.6 trillion in 2025, uninsured Martin County Residents approach 2026 with growing challenges – but thanks to VIM, they have a trusted place to turn for care, support and healing.

The clinic encourages uninsured Martin County adults who need medical care to reach out. If you are uninsured and struggling to afford healthcare, VIM is here for you. For more information, or to support the clinic, call 772-463-4128 or visit vimclinic.net.

Dr. Jordan Bromberg’s opinions are his own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

Did you know that Florida statutes require business owners to file an annual Tangible Personal Property Tax Return DR-405 on or before April 1st pursuant to Florida Statute 193.052 and 193.062? 

When a new business opens in Martin County, the Property Appraiser’s Office will mail a “New Business Owner” packet – which contains valuable information regarding Tangible Personal Property (TPP), business marketing tools, and a timeline of important events.   

TPP, also known as business personal property or business assets, is defined as everything used in a business other than inventory and items of real estate.  It includes machinery, equipment, furniture, fixtures, signs, supplies, lease equipment, and furnishings in rental units, etc. Typically, automobiles, trucks, or other licensed vehicles are not included, though some of the fixtures on these vehicles may be applicable if they are used primarily as a tool or equipment. Personal items, such as a computer, printer, and phone may be declared if they are used for business purposes.   

New and previously taxed owners or lessors in possession of assets on January 1st, who have a proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or operate as a self-employed agent or contractor, are required to file a timely TPP Tax Return by April 1st. The TPP tax return also serves as an application for up to a $25,000 exemption off the assessed value of all qualifying items. Businesses operating in more than one location should file for each location.  

If a business closes prior to January 1st, a TPP Tax Return should still be filed, and a deactivation letter can be mailed to the Martin County Property Appraiser’s TPP Department. It should include the last date of business as well as the disposition of assets. Assets that have not been disposed of must continue to be reported as idle equipment. Additionally, if a business has been sold, contact the office for more information.  

The Martin County Property Appraiser’s Office will mail TPP Tax Return DR-405 forms to existing businesses in our database.  Not receiving a form does not relieve a business of its obligation to file. Blank TPP Tax Returns can be found under the Tangible Personal Property Forms section of the Martin County Property Appraiser’s website at www.pamartinfl.gov. Completed forms can be mailed or hand-delivered to the Martin County Property Appraiser’s TPP Department located at 3473 SE Willoughby Blvd. Suite 101, Stuart, FL 34994.   

To learn more about Tangible Personal Property, please visit the Martin County Property Appraiser’s website, email TPP@pamartinfl.gov, or contact the TPP Department by phone at 772-288-5609. 

Jenny Fields’s opinions are her own and may not reflect Friends & Neighbors viewpoint.

Stacey Hetherington is more than a commissioner.

She is a mother, businesswoman, Martin County Republican Committee Woman, churchgoer, and avid community activist. Long before she ran for elected office, she was part of the Martin County Community. She was born and raised in Indiantown with a family that goes back generations in Florida.

For the past couple of years, she has put together a calendar celebrating women in our county. I learn something new every time I look at it. Let’s face it, women are what holds society together.

Over the next four issues we will be highlighting the entire calendar. This edition will cover January, February, and March. Take a minute to read what the Martin County Difference is. It isn’t about land or politics or policy but about people. These 12 women, one for each month, is what we are all about.

Stacey is a well-rounded person.

Thanks, Stacey, for allowing Friends & Neighbors to highlight and celebrate your calendar and the women it highlights.

About the #OneToughMother Calendar

The #OneToughMother Calendar is a community-driven project created to honor and celebrate extraordinary women who demonstrate strength, resilience, compassion, and unwavering dedication to our children and  our community. The idea began during Stacey Hetherington’s 2018 county commission campaign, when she was referred to as “#OneToughMother.” The phrase stuck and has since grown into a meaningful way to recognize remarkable mothers and maternal figures throughout the community.

Each year, women are nominated by friends, family members, and community members who want to shine a light on the quiet strength, sacrifice, leadership, and love these mothers show every day. Many of the honorees have faced personal hardships or tragedy, yet continue to move forward with grace and determination while uplifting those around them.

The calendar serves as a tribute to the women who nurture, advocate, lead, and inspire — not only within their own families but across the wider community. It is also a reminder that motherhood takes many forms, and that strength often shines brightest during life’s most challenging moments.

Below are the 2026 #OneToughMother Calendar honorees:

January – Mary Ellen Huff

Mary Ellen Huff is a woman of deep strength, unwavering faith, and boundless compassion. A devoted mother and pillar of her family, she has long been known for her caring nature and commitment to those she loves. After the recent and unexpected loss of her husband, Mary Ellen has demonstrated remarkable resilience, continuing forward with grace even in the face of profound heartbreak. With deep roots in Hobe Sound and strong ties throughout Martin County, she remains a steady and loving presence in her family and community. Her courage and perseverance embody the true spirit of a #OneToughMother.

February – Joanna Greene

Joanna Greene is a dedicated professional in health and human services, a community leader, and a devoted mother. Known for her positive spirit and resilience, she manages the demands of her career, volunteer leadership, and family life with grace. Joanna supports her children wholeheartedly and continues to show strength and optimism through life’s challenges. Her commitment to helping others and her ability to lead with compassion make her a true example of a #OneToughMother.

March – Amanda Foster

Amanda Foster is a hardworking professional, devoted mother of two, and respected mortgage lender. After moving to the United States from England, she built a new life through determination and perseverance, eventually earning her citizenship. Amanda is deeply involved in the community, supporting numerous nonprofit organizations including Habitat for Humanity. Her generosity, thoughtfulness, and work ethic have made a meaningful impact on those around her. She is a shining example of resilience and dedication.

SafeSpace’s Aim for Freedom Event Raises Over $25,000 to Support Survivors of Domestic Violence

SEBASTIAN, Fla. – On Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, SafeSpace and the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office hosted the second annual Aim for Freedom Clay Shoot at the Indian River County Shooting Range, bringing together local businesses, law enforcement, volunteers, and community supporters for a day of friendly competition in support of survivors of domestic violence.

         James Betancourt, Lary Melton, Owen Viersma, Bob Munni

The event featured 47 players across 12 teams competing throughout the day. The Indian River County Sheriff’s Office team earned first place, taking top honors among a strong field of participants, followed by CyberMack Consultants in second place and 5K Services in third.

By the end of the event, more than $25,000 had been raised, nearly doubling both attendance and funds raised from the previous year. Participants also demonstrated generosity beyond the course, including Jeff Andros of CyberMack, who donated back the value of a St. Augustine getaway he won to further support SafeSpace’s mission. Proceeds from the event will directly support SafeSpace’s critical programs and services, including emergency shelter, advocacy, counseling, and prevention education.

        Claudia Wahl, Jeff Andros, Brian Hock, Alex Hock, and Jennifer Fox

“Aim for Freedom continues to show what’s possible when our community comes together with a shared purpose,” said Event Chair and Indian River County Sheriff's Office Chief Financial Officer Aimee Cooper. “From the incredible turnout to the generosity shown throughout the day, this year’s event truly exceeded our expectations. The funds raised will have a direct and meaningful impact on survivors and families who rely on SafeSpace for safety, support, and hope.”

SafeSpace extends sincere thanks to the many volunteers who gave their time to ensure the event’s success, with special appreciation to United Way of Indian River County for its assistance in coordinating volunteer support.

The event was made possible through the support of Presenting Sponsors Hayes Construction, JL2 Architect, and Wharton Smith, along with CyberMack Consultants, Mullinax Ford, MBV Engineering, Gorilla Ammunition, Tier One Medical, Chick-fil-A, Robert Kirrie with 5K Services, Toyota of Vero, Piper Aircraft, Contender Roofing LLC, Thompson Remodeling, McCall Agency, Level 4 Telecom, Minuteman Press Vero Beach, and Schlitt Services.

David Katz, Martin Gould, Aimee Cooper, Chelsea Deveau, Alexis Gragg, Amy Hammes, Jennifer Fox, & Joleen Garcia

Planning is already underway for next year’s event. The community is encouraged to save the date for Jan. 30, 2027, and sponsorship opportunities for 2027 are now open. Businesses and individuals interested in reserving a sponsorship position are invited to get involved.

For more information about SafeSpace or upcoming sponsorship opportunities, visit SafeSpaceFL.org.

About SafeSpace

SafeSpace is the Treasure Coast’s only state-certified domestic violence center, serving survivors and their children 24/7. Since its founding, SafeSpace has provided more than 500,000 safe nights of shelter to over 40,000 victims and children. Its comprehensive programs include shelter, legal advocacy, financial literacy, counseling, prevention education, and specialized children’s services.

Funds raised through the Aim for Freedom Clay Shoot will directly support these essential services, ensuring survivors find refuge, support, and the resources needed to build safe, independent lives.

Glitter, Glamour and Serious Purpose Highlight the 4th Annual House of Hope Cirque du Soirée

STUART, Fla. – Glitter and glamour were everywhere at the sold-out House of Hope’s 4th annual Cirque du Soirée gala this February 7th at Piper’s Landing & Yacht Club. From the enchanting decorations to the sparkle of rollerblade artists who appeared to glide across ice and the dazzle from the items on the Bling Bar, it was a night to remember.

Cirque du Soirée is a major fundraising event for House of Hope. Funds raised support Project HOPE (Helping Others Progress through Empowerment), providing case management, financial assistance, job support and healthy food for local families in need.

Jeff Pedersen, Kari Pedersen, Stephen Pedersen, Abby Pedersen, Timothy Pfister, and Cory Pfister, Rob Ranieri.

This year, $133,000 was raised from ticket sales, sponsorships, bidders at the Live Auction, and generous guests who raised their hands and pledged financial gifts during the Call to the Heart.

Amid the fun of a gourmet dinner, interactive tabletop gaming, a card reader experience, and the dance music of Soul Survivors Band, guests were also treated to a testimonial that highlighted the serious purpose of the evening’s entertainment.

Marcie Balow, Pastor Chad Fair, Andrew High, Kelli Glass-Leighton, Patricia McCluskey, and John McCluskey 

The audience heard from a gentleman who is now employed at House of Hope, but he shared how much he and his family depended on the nonprofit organization when he was young. He is returning the kindness shown to him by spreading kindness to current House of Hope clients working to overcome hunger and hardship. “I am grateful that House of Hope creates moments of kindness that stay with a child forever,” he said.

“I’m astounded at how our Cirque du Soirée committee can make the event fresh and exciting for our guests year after year, and also so meaningful,” House of Hope CEO Rob Ranieri said. “We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped create this amazing evening, including our Presenting Sponsor, the Pedersen Family Foundation, who consistently provide unwavering support for our mission.”

Sponsors for the gala include:

AWESTRUCK SPONSOR

Pedersen Family Foundation

BRILLIANT SPONSORS

Cleveland Clinic
Immanuel Palm City + Stuart
Ashley Capital
St. Lucie Jewelry & Coins

DREAMER SPONSORS

HBKS Wealth Advisors
Davies + Co

SHIMMER SPONSORS

Hooks Construction
REMAX of Stuart
Premier Group at ONE Sotheby’s International Realty
Peter & Diane Avonda
Timothy & Maureen Cotter
The Firefly Group
Jensen Beach Garden Club
Singles in Service
The Seefried Center
Lucido & Associates

House of Hope CEO Rob Ranieri addresses attendees during Cirque du Soirée 2026

Special thanks go to Piper’s Landing & Yacht Club for its beautiful venue, Steven Martine for his photography, Reed Hartman for his auctioneering skills, Frankie Benitez for her gorgeous crooning during the cocktail hour, and ECP Event Rentals & Design for helping to bring the evening to life.

A full event photo album is available on House of Hope’s Facebook page.

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.

Stuart, Fla – Every community has Unsung Heroes. They are the neighbors who show up quietly, the volunteers who never seek recognition, the mentors, helpers, and steady hands whose impact is felt far beyond what is seen.

In celebration of the 10th Anniversary of the Sage Awards, the Council on Aging Martin County is introducing a new and meaningful honor this year: the Unsung Hero Award. For the first time, the community is invited to help identify the seniors who deserve this special recognition.

The Sage Awards honor individuals age 60 and better who continue to lead purposeful, engaged lives, using their experience, skills, and compassion to strengthen our community. Traditional award categories include the Chairman’s Award, the Charlie Kane Award, and awards in the categories of Arts & Culture, Community Service, Education,  Faith Based, Health Science & Medicine, and Military & Veteran Support.

The new Unsung Hero category shines a light on seniors whose contributions often happen behind the scenes. These are individuals who volunteer faithfully, mentor generously, and uplift others through consistent acts of kindness, leadership, and service, often without public acknowledgment.

Because Unsung Heroes rarely call attention to themselves, the Council on Aging Martin County is asking friends, neighbors, colleagues, and community members to speak up on their behalf.

If you know a senior whose quiet dedication would be deeply missed if they stepped away, now is the time to nominate them.

Submitting a nomination is easy. A short online form is available at https://coamartin.org/ways-to-give/sage-awards asking for basic information and a brief explanation of why your nominee deserves recognition as an Unsung Hero.

Nominations must be submitted by end of day on Monday, March 1. The Unsung Hero will be honored at the Sage Awards Banquet on March 25 at Piper’s Landing Yacht and Country Club.

Community members are encouraged not only to nominate, but also to attend this milestone celebration. Sponsorship opportunities and individual tickets are available.

For nomination details, sponsorship information, or to purchase tickets, visit www.coamartin.org/foundation/sage-awards.

About the Council on Aging of Martin County

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

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

Stuart-Martin Chamber of Commerce Presents the 2026 Home, Hurricane & Orchid Show

A Celebration of Preparedness, Home Inspiration, and 47 Years of Orchid Excellence

The Stuart-Martin Chamber of Commerce proudly announces the return of the highly anticipated 2026 Home, Hurricane & Orchid Show, taking place March 6–8, 2026, at the Martin County Fairgrounds in Stuart, Florida – Presented by All American Roofing and 3B Protection.

This beloved annual event brings together homeowners, families, local businesses, and garden enthusiasts for a dynamic weekend focused on home improvement, hurricane preparedness, horticulture, and community connection. Now celebrating the 47th Annual Orchid Show, this year’s event promises an exciting and colorful experience — complete with a lively Disco theme for the orchid exhibition.

Event Details

Friday, March 6, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Saturday, March 7, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Sunday, March 8, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Location: Martin County Fairgrounds

2616 S.E. Dixie Highway

Stuart, FL 34994

Admission: FREE and open to the public.

More Than a Show — A Community Resource

The Home, Hurricane & Orchid Show is more than an expo — it is a trusted gathering place where education meets opportunity and neighbors meet neighbors. In a time when many homeowners feel uncertain about who to hire or where to turn for reliable services, this event offers something invaluable: face-to-face connection.

Attendees can meet reputable local contractors, home improvement specialists, hurricane preparedness experts, and service providers all under one roof. It is an opportunity to ask questions, compare solutions, and build relationships with businesses that live, work, and invest right here in our community.

We hear it all too often — stories of unlicensed contractors, online scams, or out-of-area services that disappear after the job is done. The Chamber believes strongly in strengthening trust within our local economy. This event allows residents to shake hands, look business owners in the eye, and confidently say, 'I trust my neighbor.'

What Attendees Can Expect

Home Improvement & Hurricane Preparedness

• Local vendors showcasing products and services to improve, protect, and upgrade homes.

• Hurricane safety exhibitors offering storm-ready tools, tips, and educational resources.

• Expert advice tailored specifically to Florida’s unique climate and coastal conditions.

Food, Fun & Family Activities

• Delicious food vendors and a variety of spirits available for purchase.

• Activities for kids and fun for all ages.

• Live music, networking opportunities, and community engagement.

Celebrating the 47th Annual Orchid Show

A highlight of the weekend is the 47th Annual Orchid Show, presented in partnership with the Martin County Orchid Society.

For decades, the Society has been dedicated to promoting the appreciation, cultivation, and conservation of orchids throughout the Treasure Coast. Their annual show is one of the region’s most anticipated horticultural events, featuring award-winning blooms, rare varieties, and creative displays that captivate both seasoned collectors and first-time admirers.

This year’s Disco-themed Orchid Show adds a vibrant twist to an already stunning exhibition. Attendees can explore displays from nine orchid vendors, receive expert advice on orchid care and repotting, learn about pest management, and discover varieties that thrive in South Florida.

Supporting Local on the Treasure Coast

The Home, Hurricane & Orchid Show reflects what makes the Treasure Coast special — a community that shows up for one another. By attending, residents are investing in local families, supporting small businesses, and strengthening the economic backbone of our region.

When we support local, we build resilience. We create relationships. We grow together.

For more information or to apply, contact Amber at stuartmartinchamber.org.
Visit www.stuartmartinchamber.org for full event details, exhibitor information, and sponsorship opportunities.

February has been a busy month on campus! Both the Banner Lake Academy  and Banner Lake Early Learning Center have been enjoying Valentine’s Day parties! Staff and students dressed up in fun pink, red, or heart decorated outfits. Art class was full of heart paintings and fun happy sunset pictures.

Our STEAM program has been buzzing with excitement this year—especially in robotics! Each challenge we introduce is designed to blend in math and ELA skills, so students are growing their engineering and computer literacy abilities without even realizing how much they’re learning.

Our fourth-grade students have taken on the challenge of building and working with more advanced robots called Pilot. They use computers to set up communication with the robots and then maneuver them with precision using PlayStation controllers. On special challenge days, Mr. Yeshua sets up an obstacle course where students race their robots against one another, putting their problem-solving, coordination, and teamwork to the test.

Meanwhile, our younger learners—from third grade down to kindergarten—are working with beginner-friendly robots named Treads. Using iPad-based controls, they’re getting an accessible, hands-on introduction to technology, engineering, and creative problem-solving. Everyone is learning at their own pace, and the growth we’ve seen has been incredible to watch!

We have officially begun our recorder unit and the enthusiasm is real! Students selected recorders in different fun colors and jumped right into learning the basics of reading sheet music with Ms. Sarissa. Their first piece? The beloved classic “Hot Cross Buns.”

So far, they’re off to a fantastic start, and the school is filled with the sounds of budding musicians discovering their rhythm.

Banner Lake Cub would like to thank Jeff and Lisa Leiden for their generous sponsoring of our STEAM program.

A Disney Tribute Concert for All Ages

We are excited to invite you to the Treasure Coast Community Singers first concert of 2026 “Disney Through the Decades.” Directed by Dr. Doug Jewett and accompanied by Carol Paul, the voices of eighty local singers join together for a truly magical afternoon. Journey with them as they perform music from Pinocchio, The Jungle Book, Beauty and the Beast, Pocahontas and many more.

Under the direction of Kay McDonald, the Youth Chorus for children in grades K-4, will warm your heart with “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” and “Feed the Birds”. Director Marguerite Krull leads the Middle/High School chorus for young people grades 5-10 will get your toes tapping with “Be our Guest” while “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes” will bring a smile.

 The first performance is Saturday March 14thh at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2221 NE Savannah Road, Jensen Beach. The encore performance is Sunday March 15th at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church Pittenger Center Ross Hall, 701 SE Ocean Boulevard, in Stuart. Appetizers, desserts and beverages are included with the encore presentation. Both concerts start at 3pm. Mark your calendar now!  Let TCCS take you on a musical journey with their concert “Disney Through the Decades.” Bring your family and friends for an afternoon filled with music, nostalgia, and fun. Don’t miss this magical event!

To purchase tickets, go to www.tccsingers.org

TCCS is sponsored by The Arts Council of Martin County, St. Lucie Cultural Alliance, Women Supporting the Arts, and the National Endowment for the Arts.  TCCS is Gold Guide Star rated.  The organization is a 501(c)3, non-profit group.

Impact100 Martin Invites Community to

 Impactful Conversation on Healthcare

STUART, Fla. (Feb. 26, 2026) – Healthcare is a complex subject, one that affects the life and well-being of every one of every age. How much do you really know about what healthcare services are available in our community, who provides them, and what else our community needs?

Impact100 Martin is holding an Impactful Conversation on Thursday, March 12, to explore these topics. Emily Carmichael, the Director of Health Planning for the Health Council of Southeast Florida (HCSEC), will lead off the discussion by presenting data-driven insights on the health status of Martin County and the four surrounding counties that make up the Southeast Council.

Karen Hermanson, Impact100 Martin chair for this event, explained why Carmichael’s information is crucial to the conversation. “We need to start at the beginning if we’re going to have discussions that lead to solutions,” Hermanson said. “Healthcare is planned, and we want to know what the plan says and then what programs can be developed from that plan.”

Impact100 Martin is a women-driven philanthropic organization that has changed the landscape of philanthropy in the community, contributing $2.32 million to local nonprofits over eight years. Healthcare is a key issue for the membership as one of its five focus areas: Arts & Culture; Environment, Preservation & Recreation; Education; Family; and Health & Wellness.  “We challenge ourselves to understand the needs of the community as we review applications for our $100,000 Impact Grants,” Hermanson said. “The more educated we are, the better impact we can have in analyzing and funding programs.”

The March 12 Impactful Conversation also includes a presentation on the role of First Responders and a snapshot of programs that are already addressing health and safety needs in Martin County.

This is only the first of many presentations on the subject of health, Hermanson says. “We’re starting with the big picture and we’ll get into specifics in future conversations.”

Impact100 Martin is inviting the entire community to join its conversations about the most pressing problems and solutions in Martin County and the Treasure Coast.  The Impactful Conversation on Healthcare will be held at the Elliott Museum on March 12. The doors open at 11 a.m., and the program runs from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The $15 cost includes lunch.

To secure a spot, register by March 5 through the Impact100 Martin website, www.impact100martin.org.

To learn more about Impact100 Martin,  become a member, or sign up for the Grants Award Celebration, , visit www.impact100martin.org.

ABOUT:

Impact100 Martin is a nonprofit organization with a mission of creating positive, lasting change in the community through collective giving. Founded in 2017, it is a chapter of the national Impact100 Movement founded by philanthropist Wendy Steele to transform communities through the power of women’s philanthropy. It is a member-driven organization that awards grants in $100,000 increments each year to local nonprofits in the areas of arts & culture, education, family, health & wellness, and environment, preservation & recreation. Detailed information about membership, grants, and community impact is available at the website www.impact100martin.org, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Impact100Martin or on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/impact100-martin-county.

. Three New Gardens Help House of Hope Bring Nutrition Education and Fun to Martin County Children

STUART, Fla. – Carrots growing deep in the ground, peppers sprouting on a bush, bananas hanging from a tree – these are all astonishing sights for the school children when the House of Hope’s Traveling Nutrition Education Garden comes to visit.

Now, thanks to three new gardens installed at Martin County Parks & Recreation facilities, more children will learn where their food comes from and why fresh fruits and vegetables are important to their health.

County Commissioners Sarah Heard and Stacy Hetherington are funding new gardens in their district and will join House of Hope for ribbon cuttings in March.

Children in the Parks & Recreation after school program already take part in a nutrition education program that teaches the importance of healthy habits and good nutrition. Now the children at three sites will have the opportunity to visit a garden on the premises, gather what’s ready for picking, taste some of the harvest, and learn quick and easy recipes that they can do at home.

The gardens of fruits, veggies, herbs, edible flowers and pollinators have been installed and will be maintained by Urban Abundance. The company typically maintains organic raised bed gardens for individual homeowners or renters, but they’re eager to be involved in helping young people learn about soil, plants, fertilizers, and the joy of growing one’s  own fruits and vegetables.

“House of Hope committed itself to helping our community improve its nutrition,” said House of Hope CEO Rob Ranieri, “and over the past few years, we’ve come up with innovative ways to do that. Our Growing Hope Farm in Palm City has been a gamechanger for providing fresh fruits and vegetables to our clients and food pantry partners, for example, and our Nutrition Education Gardens are a way to both teach young people and get them excited about what they’re learning.”

The three new garden sites are located at the GAAP ( Golden Gate Alternative Afterschool Program and at REACH (Reimagining Education and Career Help) in Stuart and at JASE (the Jensen After School Experience) in Jensen Beach,

House of Hope’s gardening and nutrition education programs have been operating since 2016. The nonprofit  sponsors several gardens across the county, with significant funding from the Children’s Services Council of Martin County. Last year more than 12,300 individuals benefited from these nutrition education programs.

“Health matters,” Ranieri said, “and all of the research says that good nutrition is key. We’re pleased to be front and center in helping our community members appreciate where our food comes from and why nutrition is important.”

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 43,800 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

Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation Awards $8.4 Million Grant to the
Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties to Expand Impact
Transformative three-year investment will focus competitive grantmaking on youth and families, economic opportunity, and workforce development

West Palm Beach, Fla. (February 23, 2026) — The Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation has awarded an $8.4 million grant to the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, significantly expanding resources available to nonprofit organizations across the region. The landmark gift will effectively double the Community Foundation’s competitive grantmaking capacity over the next three years, strengthening support for organizations on the front lines. The Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that leads partnerships with donors, nonprofits and community members to address the region’s chronic and emerging issues.

The Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation’s investment reflects a shared commitment to equipping youth and adults with the tools needed to achieve independence and long-term self-sufficiency. Through this partnership, grantmaking will prioritize Youth and Families—supporting leadership development, mentorship, skills training, and families strengthening and preservation, and Economic Opportunity, with a focus on job training and workforce development that drives economic mobility and improves quality of life.

“This partnership with the Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation allows us to build on the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties’ strong legacy of local impact,” said Julie Fisher Cummings, Chair of the Community Foundation’s Community Impact Committee. “By providing multi-year support, we can more effectively sustain the small- and mid-sized nonprofits that form the backbone of our region’s nonprofit ecosystem—while responding directly to the priorities our partners consistently identify as most urgent.”

The funding allocation includes: $1.5 million for nonprofits serving the Glades communities of Belle Glade, South Bay, and Pahokee; $3 million for youth and family service organizations; $3 million for economic mobility organizations; and $600,000 for capacity-building grants to strengthen nonprofit infrastructure, leadership, and sustainability. This partnership also deepens the Community Foundation’s ability to provide multi-year funding and capacity-building investments  while encouraging innovative, community-driven solutions.

The Community Foundation is currently in the process of completing its 2026 competitive Community Impact grantmaking cycle, with award recipients to be announced in late Spring 2026. Nearly 500 nonprofit organizations have applied for support, which marks a 20% increase in need from last year. In 2025, the Community Foundation awarded more than $5.6 million in grants to 159 nonprofit organizations across Palm Beach and Martin Counties. Over its 54-year history, it has distributed funding to more than 3,600 nonprofit partners.

“Our competitive Community Impact Grants serve as a lifeline for nonprofits across Palm Beach and Martin Counties, and they are made possible through the generosity of partners like the Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation,” said Danita R. DeHaney, President and CEO of the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties. “Each year, the demand for support continues to rise, reaching new levels in 2026. This extraordinary investment helps close the gap—ensuring that organizations in every corner of our region have the resources they need to create lasting opportunity and measurable change.”

About the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties 

The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties is a nonprofit organization that leads philanthropy locally. The foundation provides charitable expertise and vehicles to increase the investment options on behalf of individuals, family foundations, and corporations. Since 1972, the foundation has distributed over $275 million in grants and scholarships aimed at closing the area’s opportunity gaps. With its vast network of donors and nonprofit partners, the foundation supports initiatives that improve youth and education, economic opportunity, thriving communities, and crisis preparation and response. Learn more at https://yourcommunityfoundation.org.   

About The Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation
The Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation is dedicated to supporting communities by creating and strengthening access to opportunities through education. The foundation believes in the power of education as a catalyst for economic mobility, youth and family development, and professional growth for nurses and allied health workers. To learn more, visit www.delucafdn.org.

Ladies Night Out Returns March 5 to Benefit The Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast

Stuart, FL – Gather your friends — this is a won’t-want-to-miss night out.

The Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast invites the community to its highly anticipated Ladies Night Out on Thursday, March 5, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Temple Beit HaYam, 951 SE Monterey Commons Blvd., Stuart, FL 34996.

This elevated shopping soirée benefits hands-on educational programs and scholarships for local children across the Treasure Coast.

With more than 22 boutique vendors secured, guests will enjoy curated shopping featuring fashion, accessories, art, gifts, and specialty items. What makes this event truly unique is the array of complimentary spa-style experiences included with admission.

Confirmed services include psychic readings with Christiana Gaudet, massage therapy by Blanca Rodriguez, stretch sessions by Soul Soak, PCA Skin smoothing hand peels by Kristen Clayton of Skin Serenity Spa, and Fairy Hair sparkle strands by Friday. Guests can also capture the fun at the interactive 360° photo booth sponsored by All Area Roofing.

In addition to shopping and pampering, attendees will have the opportunity to purchase tickets for a chance to win a Vintage Genuine Louis Vuitton Multicolor Aurelia handbag and a new Louis Vuitton Key Cles pouch. Guests can also bid on stunning designer purses and participate in opportunities to win amazing baskets filled with curated goodies — adding even more excitement to an already unforgettable evening.

Confirmed sponsors include Marsha Cetta, Tracey Armstrong and Chris Clifton, Susan Maxwell of RE/MAX of Stuart, Donna Follmer, Napoli Orthodontics, and All Area Roofing.

This year we are excited to welcome Frances Peyton, meteorologist with WPTV as our emcee for the evening.

The Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast extends heartfelt thanks to its generous sponsors and spa service providers whose support, talent, and community spirit make this special evening possible. Their partnership helps ensure that every child — regardless of ability or financial circumstance — has access to joyful, hands-on learning experiences.

Proceeds directly support the Museum’s mission to provide interactive educational programming and expanded access opportunities throughout the Treasure Coast.

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities remain available. https://givebutter.com/a3oNFJ

For more information, visit www,childrensmuseumtc.org or contact Christina McIntosh at 772-225-7575 ext. 205.

Council on Aging Accepts United Way Foundation Challenge to Benefit Martin County Seniors and Meals on Wheels

Stuart, FL - Competition to raise funds for the Pep Rally Gala this year has just notched up to “High Stakes!”

The United Way Foundation of Martin County has issued its first ever Challenge Grant to help the Council on Aging Martin County purchase a new vehicle for delivering Meals on Wheels.

The Pep Rally Gala teams have been raising money toward the purchase of the new vehicles, competing among themselves to raise the most funds, earn bragging rights, and make a substantial contribution to the quality of life in the community.

The Challenge Grant will match what is raised at the February 28 Pep Rally Gala up to $45,000.

“To say we are honored is an understatement,” said Council on Aging CEO Karen Ripper. “To be the first organization to receive a challenge grant from the United Way Foundation is a true vote of confidence in our organization and in the Meals on Wheels program, specifically.”

Council on Aging Martin County prepares more than 125,000 meals in its commercial kitchen at the Kane Center, delivering them to homes throughout Martin County and to four Senior Dining Centers. One of the Senior Dining  delivery trucks is 17 years old, and the other vehicles are catching up to it in years and miles driven. Senior Dining Sites are located in Hobe Sound, Stuart, Jensen Beach and Indiantown.

Because the trucks have to be able to keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot during the delivery cycle every day, they are expensive to replace. The teams raising money for the Pep Rally Gala fundraiser have their hearts set on raising funds to help with the purchase of new vehicles, and the United Way Foundation Challenge Grant has renewed their determination.

“Our Foundation exists to strengthen the long-term sustainability of United Way and the partners who serve our most vulnerable neighbors,” said Phil Wintercorn, chair of the United Way of Martin County Foundation Board. “This challenge grant for the Council on Aging’s Meals on Wheels truck is exactly the kind of capital project we’re here to support. A new temperature-controlled vehicle means more than deliveries — it means healthier meals, greater reliability, and peace of mind for the seniors who count on this service every day.”

“We are so grateful for this level of support, Ripper said, “and hope to inspire our community not only to help us raise the funds needed to meet this challenge, but also to take advantage of the opportunity to get to know who we are and the impact we have on Martin County’s seniors!”

Details on the Pep Rally Gala Team standings and information about the event are on the Council on Aging Martin County website, www.coamartin.org. Tickets are still available for the February 28 celebration, and there is still time to support a favorite team.

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.

I had lunch recently with Wes Carlton. In my mind, Wes is a cattleman’s cattleman. He has ranches and farms both owned and leased in several Florida counties. Yet it seems his heart is firmly in Bull Hammock, his ranch in Martin County.

Wes and his family have been Florida ranchers for several generations. His son is carrying on that tradition. Several months ago, he gave me a tour of his ranch and areas of western Martin County.

The old saying “you don’t know what you don’t know” came to my mind that day. I always believed that Allapattah was the way Florida was supposed to look. Wes disabused me of that notion when he showed me the invasives all over and the non-native vegetation including the grasses. In its own way, Allapattah was no different than any front yard in the county with non-native vegetation and exotics.

At one point, Allapattah was managed by the Carltons and other families and used for cattle production. Wes is still heartbroken over the management of the property being handled by the state. He swears that it would never be in the condition it is if the water and the land management had remained with the ranchers.

Wes and the other ranchers love what they do, but they do what they love because it is profitable. Touring Bull Hammock you can’t stop thinking this is the way South Florida once was. Along with the beef cattle, there is an abundance of wildlife from deer to foxes to small mammals. And guess what you see…fresh water everywhere. It flows as it was meant to as a “River of Grass.”

I guess it is impossible for South Florida to ever go back to that. The more I know, the more I believe that South Florida Water Management District and the Army Corps of Engineers have too many competing constituencies to effectively manage our water. I am doubtful that they ever will be fixed.

The state and the feds have bought so much land that Wes wonders how we will ever feed people not only here but throughout the world. Bull Hammock sold its development rights to the state which placed a conservation easement on it. This allowed the Carlton family to continue doing what they have always done, which is ranching.

There is one thing that Carlton knows and that is his beef feeds people. Every acre that is lost is one less acre in agriculture. Pigs and chickens are raised indoors in factories. For most of us that buy our food at supermarkets, both are tasteless. It is factory food at its best. Beef is different. Most cows end up on feedlots, but they start out in pastures like Wes’. A good steak has a taste like no other.

If we left ranchers like the Carltons to manage our public lands, I don’t believe they would put profit over outcome. They are not like the packing houses or even the government. The Carltons and most ranchers have been doing this for generations. It isn’t a job or even just a business…it is a calling.

Guys like Carlton should speak to every student in Martin County because most have no idea what it takes to feed the country. Even those in 4-H don’t necessarily grow up on a ranch or a farm. I would be glad to introduce Wes and others to Dr. Maine.

If you want to see a real American, look no further than Carlton.

I have received several emails from people telling me about a secret airport expansion. It is no secret and isn’t an expansion.

The FAA, the federal regulating body, left little room for Martin County to maneuver with the 63 acres that was already part of Witham Field and that the county would like to lease. To call it an expansion would be a misnomer. The land has been part of the airport for some time…maybe from its inception.

What precipitated the problem is that the FAA wants airports used for aeronautical activities only. Even Daher, which wants to expand its footprint, needs to conform to the criteria required by the federal government. Daher is or soon will be one of Martin County’s largest and best paying employers. Even they must comply.

Martin County wants to entice various aeronautical developers that have the financial means to build their projects without financial support from the county. Several have contacted the county to have unsolicited discussions. I think we can all agree that not using government funds to fulfill our obligations is a good thing.

There will be many more discussions before anything comes to fruition. It seems to me that this current fuss was caused by a dissatisfied bidder for one of the parcels. That resulted in a complaint to the FAA which the county is dealing with now.

In my opinion, I can’t think of a worse place to have an airport today. Witham Field in some iteration has been there for more than 80 years. And once the county took government money, it is stuck and must comply or pay back the many millions of dollars. That is not likely. Witham Field will remain right where it is and as an airport.

The master plan for the airport has been on the county’s website since 2023. You can read it here  

The county’s response to the FAA complaint that was filed because someone was ruled ineligible since the requirements were not met can be found here 

Once again, the Brightline Station is a topic of interest as if there is something new. There isn’t.

This is not even whether you are for or against a station coming to Martin County. As far as the people of Martin County are concerned, there has not been any greater amount of money they will be obliged to spend or taken from their real estate taxes. In fact, no money that the county will put up will come from real estate taxes.

Back when they settled the lawsuit with Brightline’s predecessor, Martin County obligated itself to contribute $15 million in cash to the cost of the station. That is still the same. So why the increased costs and the amount ballooning to $87,150,000?

Two reasons inflation and time. The grant process began under the Biden administration with their priorities and necessities having to be included in the grant. A change of administration meant that a new grant had to be submitted with some things that had to be jettisoned and others added. That is very standard when new bureaucrats replace old bureaucrats. It didn’t help that under Biden his administration gave all the grant money to blue states instead of some coming to the Free State of Florida.

Here is what the station consists of now. I am quoting from the application. “The station will be approximately 10,200 square feet in size, with an adjacent platform measuring about 660 feet in length. In addition to the station and platform, the Project includes necessary rail improvements to facilitate train service to and from the station, surface parking, a convenient drop-off/pickup area to accommodate passengers, a family room, a mother’s room, family-friendly waiting areas, and security fencing. While on the train, guests will enjoy a smooth boarding process, assigned seats, wide aisles, storage for strollers, clean restrooms, and a variety of food options.”

The Trump administration is especially family friendly requiring baby changing tables in the rest rooms plus these other amenities. “Expanded Waiting Area: A large waiting area will make travel more comfortable for parents, guardians, and children.

• Play Space: A designated play space at the facility will keep children engaged while they wait for trains.

• Mother’s Room: The Martin County Brightline Station will include a private mother’s room for breastfeeding parents to pump milk or nurse their infants.

• Family Restroom: The station will have a family restroom to improve accessibility and convenience for passengers with children, older adults, and people needing assistance.”

There is also more of an emphasis on safety:

“• Fencing: Approximately two miles of additional fencing will be installed along the tracks near the Martin County Brightline Station to prevent trespassing and reduce fatalities.

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) Technology: The Project will seek to implement the latest in AI technology to increase safety along the project limits within Martin County. As the AI industry is rapidly evolving, the Project team will decide the most appropriate AI technology to be implemented the during Final Design phase. Assuming the Project team identifies a viable AI solution, the tool that reflects the best results for accident reduction at the most cost-effective price will advance to Construction. “

All of which adds to costs.

Congressman Mast has been fighting with Florida East Coast Railroad (FECR), the owner of the tracks, crossings, and rights of way, because of their hauling of garbage to Fort Pierce. But he still supports Brightline, which is FECR’ s tenant. Senators Scott and Moody are also supporters of the station along with our state legislative delegation.

To reiterate, the county’s expense obligation for the station is $15 million in cash plus the land value on which the station will sit of $2,870,000 plus the parking lot. Martin County already owns this land so there are no additional costs. The land and station will revert to Martin County if Brightline fails or at the end of the lease. 

It is presently anticipated that the $15 million which is the county’s cash share will be bonded. The money to pay the bond will come from the county’s share of the gas tax which must be used for transportation projects only. There is no ad valorem at all in this project.

For you and me, it is the same deal as it was when the settlement was signed. There is truly nothing new to see here.

You can read the entire grant application here 

Here is another example why local control is preempted.

Newfield has its own chapter in the Comp Plan. It was so unique that the creation of the “town” did not fit in any one category. One thing that was not mentioned was “lake” depths.

“Lake” depths can be no more than 20 feet deep under the county’s code. The reason that lake is in quotation marks is because these are not true lakes but rather ones dug by the property owner. For all intents and purposes, the lakes are either for drainage or as part of the topography.

The deeper the lake the less oxygen is in the water leading to anaerobic conditions. Anything deeper than 15 feet requires a geotechnical report for safety and soil stability. Mattamy Homes, the developer, wants to go to 40 feet in some instances.

The reason is they need the fill for construction purposes to raise the elevation to build. There are two ways to obtain the needed fill. One is to truck in hundreds if not thousands of loads clogging highways and inconveniencing Martin County residents. The second is to take it from the property by deepening the lakes.

The code permits a depth of 40 feet under some circumstances. Mattamy hired the engineer that helped write the code. He prepared the geotechnical report and testified that the lakes could go to that depth.

Environmental requirements are still in place. Littoral plantings are still necessary. Staff stated that this will be a place for avian activity. If you were going to make an exception, this would be a good reason.

Commissioner Heard was against it. It looked like mining to her. She cited environmental reasons. All excellent criteria only in this instance I believe wrongly applied.

Two reasons for this to happen is it will take trucks off the road. Heavy trucks driving miles to deliver what is already on the property is an environmental problem. The second is expense. The developer would be buying a product that is on his property in abundance and by not using the fill there, the cost of homes in Newfield will increase.

If Tallahassee looks at this because Mattamy Homes complains to state officials, guess what happens? Another preemption is passed. Would that be better than using a little common sense?

Fortunately, 4 commissioners saw it that way and the vote was 4-1 with Heard dissenting to allow the exception.

From the very beginning of the meeting, Martin County was becoming aware of what happens when the state decides to preempt local governments from decisions in what were once local matters. Nothing more illustrated that fact than a slaughterhouse being built next to Lake Okeechobee.

Chancey Bay is a 2046-acre cattle ranch in Western Martin County. It has A-2 Agricultural Zoning, and the land use is agricultural. It has been a ranch for a long while, but a few years ago new owners from down south acquired it. The proposed Kosher slaughterhouse will have 26 acres devoted to it and the facility itself will be 56,784 square feet.

Most such facilities in the U.S. are about 10-20,000 feet. The cost per square foot is about $450 to build according to Texas A&M, a noted expert on ranching. That translates into a $25.5 million dollar investment. This isn’t chump change.

A Kosher facility is even more expensive because of added steps including salting and soaking stations, different slaughtering requirements, specialized cutting tools, and other requirements of Jewish law. The processes are overseen by Rabbinic supervisors that may live near or on the premises.  This adds more dollars to the cost.

Almost 6 years ago, the current owner presented a plan to the Martin County Development Department. Then they went silent. In March of 2025 the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) sent a letter to the county stating that the plant would be exempt from local rules under the “Florida Right to Farm Act”.

Here is where the slaughterhouse becomes questionable. The owners of the farm and slaughterhouse will be bringing in cattle from all over the Southeastern United States to be processed. These aren’t just cows which are raised on the ranch, in Martin County or even on the Treasure Coast.

It looks to me like this is a full-fledged packing house for Kosher Beef to be distributed throughout the Southeastern U.S. if not the country. Why wouldn’t this use be classified as an industrial business? It would then be under the purview of Martin County for design and permitting. The state and feds would have an interest in making sure health laws were being followed.

The “Florida Right to Farm Act” has been given broader and broader interpretation. It would seem FDACS has really given this proposed operation the broadest of interpretations. Was this the intent of the Florida Legislature?

Slaughterhouses use an inordinate amount of water…350 to 450 gallons per steer. Kosher slaughter requires more because of soaking and salting. Usually only the front half of the cow is used, the back half and offal are sold for non-Kosher purposes.  The wastewater and parts now salvageable must be disposed of somehow. That is what the county and many citizens are afraid that massive contamination will happen.

There were several public speakers, no one spoke in favor. The Guardians of Martin County’s president, Tony Zunino, spoke against it. Executive Director Greg Braun (who contributed an article to our last edition) made his own presentation to the commission.

What Braun recommended was that the county engage outside counsel who are experts on the farm act to give their opinion on whether this use should be exempt from local control. Commissioner Capps made a motion to do that. But Commissioner Ciampi had a better and, for now, less expensive alternative. The county legal staff should do research on this.  Ciampi was throwing out numbers like $500,000 for outside counsel. I think that is high though I agree that County Attorney Elder and her staff can do preliminary research as well as any big law firm associate.

At the same time, John Maehl from county staff was tasked with seeing if he could take a tour of the property to see what all is entailed. I think there is very little chance of that happening, but it doesn’t hurt to try.

Martin County is currently working with FDACS on funding conservation land. According to Ciampi, it probably would not be advantageous to begin litigation against them now. There he has a point.

I still don’t believe some of the commissioners understand that if you poke the bear, the bear will eat you for lunch. Every time someone in Tallahassee hears a commissioner in Martin County say how special we are, I bet another bill is written for a little more preemption. Every decision this commission or any commission makes to rein in property rights is noticed in the legislature and there are consequences.

The only thing we are special at is shooting ourselves in the foot. You can see the Guardians presentation and their paper on this matter here 

Stuart put out a call for people to apply for the position of city manager. 82 people responded. Most were not qualified, some were applying from out of state, which is always a tricky proposition, but maybe there were a few good possibilities.

Here is one thing I learned about trying to find new city managers…it is a crapshoot. The committee that weeded the possibilities down to 13 was made up of Robin Cartwright of the “She Who Must Be Obeyed” reference, Vice-Mayor Little Boss Sean Reed, Karen Chambers Cuffy (from the city’s human resource department) and former city manager Dan Hudson who, in my mind, was the only person that was qualified to be there.

I don’t know who came up with the procedure, but narrowing the selection down to 13 is still a big number. The only information the committee had to review was the resumes. I didn’t see any attached materials, background checks, references, or any other documents. Perhaps there was a diamond hiding in the rough, but because of the paucity of materials, the committee would never know.

There were no preliminary interviews either in person, by Zoom, or by phone. Several of the finalists were included in that group because they were veterans. But did all vets make the short list because of veteran status regardless of qualifications? Usually, those applicants would receive a 5 or maybe 10 points for being vets…no one was given any points. So, no matter what qualifications or education the applicant had, they were bumped up. The non vets were finalists because at least someone had a feeling.

The interim manager is the human resource director. I wonder if this is the way all hiring is done in Stuart. Real qualifications be damned.

Since Boss Collins took over the day-to-day running of the city, it is going downhill even faster than I thought it would. Let’s face it, the Boss has always had a checklist so he could boast when he ran for higher office…including his tenth of a mill decrease in taxes, to illegally changing the LDRs, to firing Mortell. It’s all in his plan of increased cost, corruption, and chaos. I doubt that is a winning strategy.

We need to get rid of these clowns and hire back a city manager that knew what he was doing, and that is Mike Mortell.  Business is running for the exits because of Boss Collins. His programs are anti-family and anti-Christian. The Bible has many warnings of false prophets. The Books of Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Peter, John, and especially Matthew who in several places warns about such. Matthew 7:15 tells us to beware of wolves in sheep’s clothing.

If there ever was a false prophet who has come to Martin County, Boss Collins is it.

Ran on our Facebook page Feb 17th.

With Mayor Boss Collins trying to buy the old high school building, a new chapter opened in the utter foolishness of having this character in charge of the city and its finances.

This is not something that just came into his head the day he announced it at a school board meeting last month. For months, he has been trying to get staff to meet with the district and derail the Arts Foundation’s bid for the building. It will be too bad for the Foundation if they ever think they can partner with someone who has a problem with keeping his word.

Collins now is trying to back down from the statement about making the parcel a park, but he was deadly serious. He even said he would not want to spend the money to remediate the building. He would take the building down. As the property owner, the city would be obligated to keep the building in good order if it remained.

If Stuart owned the building, it would be responsible for everything inside that would need to be done. Even if a lease was negotiated with the Foundation, what would happen if they didn’t perform?  The city would inherit the bad publicity of having to evict the Arts Foundation from a deteriorating site.

Collins hates the private sector so much that he would rather spend tax dollars to buy up unneeded land to prevent the possible ultimate sale to a developer bringing tax dollars to the city coffers. Or maybe teacher housing could go there. But the Boss would rather spend millions to prevent something than allow private business to pay ad valorem taxes to the city or public servants having a place to live.

When Mayor Boss tells you he is a small businessperson, it is another of his falsehoods. He has no respect for property rights unless a friend is involved. This is just another example of his not caring about taxpayer costs, his corruption, and the chaos he brings. Collins is now trying to export all three, unnecessary costs, corruption, and chaos to the county level.

Commissioner Rich made a motion to conduct an independent investigation into how Interim City Manager Boglioli was informed that he was no longer interim city manager. There was no second for the motion to have that independent investigation. I was disappointed that Eula Clarke didn’t second it. It would not have passed anyway with Little Boss Reed and the Ever-Faithful Giobbi along with Collins voting no.

If Clarke believes she will be spared a Collins backed opponent in the August election by going along with the Boss, she is mistaken. Collins will smell the weakness and jump all over her. The only thing he understands is someone who will stand up to him. The first question he asks when he is about to do something wrong is “what can they do to me?” So far, the answer has been nothing but that may be ending.

Mayor Boss Collins even acknowledged that he spoke to Joli before the meeting telling him that Roz Johnson Strong was going to replace him. That means that Collins had already spoken to Strong…all done without the commission’s knowledge unless he is communicating with Little Boss Reed and the Ever-Faithful Giobbi in violation of the sunshine law.

While everyone else on that commission except Rich may believe that it is proper for the Boss to call the shots from behind the scenes, it is against the city’s code of conduct, if not contrary to state law. If City Attorney Baggett could be even less visible, I am sure he would be. He is the one who should be calling balls and strikes, what is permitted or not, but you wouldn’t know it by his incredible shrinking persona.

The interim city manager’s attempted explanation of her incredibly shrinking finance department is laughable. Since Boglioli left, three other people have decided to do the same. You can say it was retirement or expected, but it has happened in less than a month. You would think if what she said is true, as the HR Director, she would have been prepared with replacement candidates.

I also understand that the finance manager hired through nepotism of his Uncle Lee is not working out. No surprise there. Looking at his resume would tell you that staying very long anywhere isn’t usual for this fellow. And hiring someone with almost no government experience is a recipe for disaster.

Interim Finance Director/Interim City Manager Strong offered the job of Finance Director to two outside candidates who declined. I don’t know whether they would be qualified or not, but they were smart enough not to sail on this sinking ship. As time goes on, expect other city people who are qualified to abandon ship also. Boss Collins has made the city a living hell for those working there.

There will be some things coming out shortly that will only go to make the firing of the interim manager, Boglioli, look like a walk in the park.

This meeting also had an agenda item where we get to see Boss Collins, with the help of City Attorney Lee Baggett, shirking his responsibilities to obey his oath as a city commissioner. Baggett offered a tutorial on how to circumvent the spirit of the law.

Florida statute quite clearly states that all members of local boards whether elected or appointed must vote when items come before them. They are not permitted to abstain except for two specific reasons, neither of which applied to this item. In this case, it was simply a vote that Collins did not want to have on his record.

Here are the details.  Mayor Boss Collins is a chiropractor. His office is at 412 SE Osceola, owned by Michael Benedetti. Collins is a tenant. Benedetti and Collins are not related in any way.

Benedetti owns another building at 400 SE Osceola. He wants to be able to have a barbershop or a salon which under current zoning is not a permitted use. In order to have the salon, the use and zoning must be changed. Benedetti was asking for the property to have a new zoning classification of CPUD (Commercial Planned Unit Development).

There were no neighbors or gadflies or random people opposing the reclassification. This was uncontroversial.

But no matter how uncontroversial this vote was, Mayor Boss Collins was in a quandary. He has never voted for a zoning change. He uses it as an excuse to turn things down all the time. A good example would be the proposed zoning change for the hotel on Federal Highway. You know…the one the city has been fighting in court and wracking up legal fees about.

Collins wanted Benedetti’s property to pass but didn’t want to vote in favor, even for his friend. He tasked Baggett with finding a way for the Boss not to vote. We all know a lawyer will always find a precedent for allowing his client to evade their responsibilities. And Lee was no different.

As an aside, many people think that the city attorney is the commission’s attorney. That is not true. Baggett represents the City of Stuart and is not there to find ways for commissioners to skate the law.

Voting is an affirmative duty of a board member. It quite clearly states in statute that a member must vote except in certain circumstances. One is if a family member such as a spouse or parent has an interest in what is being voted upon. The statute doesn’t say you must abstain if it is a family member, but it specifically lists those family members which require the voter to abstain.  A wife yes but a third cousin no.

Collins also said that Benedetti was a friend. Nowhere in the statute does it have a carve out for friends. In a small place like Stuart, if you are here for any length of time, you will call many people friends. Many of which vote for you because you are friends.

The second reason you are required to abstain from voting is if you will receive a financial benefit or loss. In this case, unless Boss Collins is going to receive something of value for his vote (i.e. a renumeration), he is obligated to cast his vote. There is no conflict of interest. Nor is there even an appearance of such.

On the dais, Collins said he had no conflict. When he disclosed ex parte discussion, why would he not just say that Benedetti was his landlord at another location and vote as he is obligated to do under statute. The only impropriety here was Collins’s action.

When he runs for county commission, his campaign speech can include that he never voted for a zoning change. Collins sure orchestrated one, but his fingerprints didn’t touch the vote. Baggett did not represent the city but one commissioner trying to skirt if not the letter, then the spirit of the law.

The matter was so uncontroversial that the vote was 4-0 in favor of the zoning change with Collins abstaining.

Mayor Boss Collins is unofficially beginning his campaign for the August election. The question is for what office…Stuart Commission or County Commission?

On March 12th he is allowing the City of Stuart to pay for his campaign kick-off by having him host his own Town Hall at The Flagler. Of course, all expenses will be picked up by the city. The Boss never misses an opportunity to allow more costs on the backs of the taxpayers. It is corruption 101 and he is all for it.

Let’s remember that the City of Stuart is following an illegal Land Development Code right now. Collins, Little Boss Reed, and the Ever-Faithful Giobbi passed their new code just about outlawing any new multi-family housing anywhere in the city. It is in violation of Florida statute. That has resulted in nothing being approved since the Boss took his seat.

The cost of the new Brightline Station will not be anywhere near the millions that he claims to be paid by Martin County. Further the city is not contributing one cent toward the station. He made sure Stuart would have no seat at the table by having the Politburo pull out of the deal.

Mayor Boss Collins’ term is expiring this year. From his indication, it looks like he will be challenging County Commissioner Stacey Hetherington for the District 2 seat. That is probably a smart move on his part because with all the chaos, costs, and corruption he has fostered, I doubt whether he could win another city race. He needs new voters to dupe.

Stuart has no growth. It is 98% built out. A moratorium would be superfluous within the city. And until the legislature changes statute, anything he would want to do is illegal and just waiting for the state to come in.

So, I am betting Collins is having the city throw his kickoff party for a run for county commission.  We already know niceties like election law and ethics doesn’t bother the Boss. This will be a cost that he is placing on the taxpayers instead of old Chris. That is a move right up his alley.

It even sounds like a campaign kick-off. According to his campaign literature masked as an announcement he will be discussing building moratorium, density codes, and no Brightline. That would be his platform in a county run. He has done his best to tell us what he is against. What he is for is hidden until he springs it on you.

Mayor Boss Collins has an implementation problem. Ideas aren’t debated; he speaks right over people at public comment. He dictates his whim and waits for Ever-Faithful Giobbi to make the motion that will be seconded by Little Boss Reed usually to pass 3-2 with Rich and Clarke voting no. That is how Stuart passed the illegal LDRs in violation of state statute.

I don’t think he has the reach in a county race. I don’t think he has the money. I don’t think he has the supporters. He has not been a part of any community organization. He has never volunteered for anything or been on any non-profit board. It is all about Chris smothered in zealotry and not true Christian values. Stacey Hetherington is just the opposite, but I need not go into that here. She isn’t ripping off the taxpayers.

Vote for Mayor Boss Collins and cost, corruption and chaos will be the results.

On the School Board agenda at the February 17th meeting, there was a request from the Arts Foundation for an extension to the signing of their lease for the old High School.

I have always thought that the Arts Foundation would never have the $30 plus million needed to fulfill their plans. I still don’t. However, that organization has a vision of something better for the county and city. What CEO Nancy Turrell wants to do is for all the right reasons. In my mind, it isn’t likely to happen.

Mayor Boss Collins has just decided to interfere in this deal between the board and the Arts Foundation. He wants Stuart to buy the old high school building, knock it down (I guess) and turn it into a park. He had his best charming devilish smile gleaming as he addressed the school board.

That stretch of Ocean Boulevard from the school board property to Confusion Corner is nothing but one big park. It has Tennis Courts, Shuffleboard Courts, Bandshell, Memorial Park, The Old County Court House (current home of the Arts Foundation), and Gazebo Park. Then one block over there are the baseball fields on MLK Blvd and then one block further is the 10th Street Recreation Center with a track and more ball fields. The population of Stuart is 20,000. The city has 30 other parks besides those mentioned in their 7 square miles.

You can interpret the Collins bid two ways. The good way, the misguided way, is he just loves grass and wants the residents to pay millions to maintain vast stretches of lawn. Recently when discussing a budget shortfall, the Boss’ trusted sidekick, Laura Giobbi, said grass just won’t be cut as often in our parks. I am sure she will be voting for what Chris wants. In two years, I can’t remember one time they have disagreed. Stuart will just add some more deferred maintenance.

The more cynical me just thinks it is a way to disrupt the lease and perhaps eventual sale of the property to the Arts Foundation. Collins is the agent for bringing Stuart chaos, cost, and corruption. Ted Astolfi, the CEO of the Economics Council and the husband of Nancy Turrell, spoke out to our legislative delegation condemning Collins, Little Boss Reed, and the ever-faithful Giobbi. Astolfi asked them to speak to the governor about removing the lawbreakers.

And how will Mayor Boss Collins purchase the building? With Stuart’s part of the ½ cent sales tax that was passed for the buying and maintaining of environmentally sensitive lands. Mayor Boss probably thinks that if the Arts Foundation doesn’t lease the property, perhaps the school board will build affordable employee housing on the property. You know a place for teachers to live. He couldn’t stand more “renters” in his city.

We know that Collins believes that homes for people are bad, but another unneeded park facility is good no matter what the public purpose of the funds raised by the sales tax were for. The city recently requested a grant to help clean up a creek and perhaps for vegetation management. Why not use the ½ cent proceeds for what we voted for and not for Collins’ vengeance against Nancy and Ted.

Mayor Boss Collins may want you to believe he is an environmentalist, but he is not. He couldn’t care less about the muck in our city waterways. The ½ cent sales tax could also be used to help homeowners connect to sewer by making it less expensive. Or perhaps to plant trees that the Boss says he is all for.

I would suspect that Collins has at least one ally on the school board that will do his bidding. And maybe he has one or two more sitting up there. The Arts Foundation Board needs to stop prevaricating and sign the lease. Otherwise they will be thrown over so that Collins can check another box on his road to higher office.

This is a small thing, but it may be a harbinger of things to come.

The village is methodically putting together a youth sports program. It will not be run by government but be housed in a recently formed nonprofit. Residents have stepped up to assume responsibility. One of those residents is Terry Sims.

Mr. Sims was a high school and college basketball player. He currently works as the athletic director for a large high school in Palm Beach County. Sims and his family recently moved to Terra Lago in Indiantown. He will be in charge of the volunteer athletic program.

I always believed that the village would be changed once the new residents moved into the village and became established. Terry Sims is the first of many new residents that will change the face of Indiantown. Once their residency requirement of a year is met, they will most likely see them take positions on boards and other civic organizations…even the village council.

Indiantown will only be the better for it.

The FPL annexation of almost 6000 acres into the municipality will significantly increase the size of the Village of Indiantown.

FPL will now come into the development office and request building a power substation on their property with the land use of Light Industrial that they received with the annexation. The big question in many people’s minds is whether this is a prelude to approving Silver Fox, the proposed 2 million square foot data center. Will that project end up using too much water and too much power? Residents are afraid that outcome will result in more costs for them.

At the meeting, FPL’s representative said that the electricity rates for the village will not increase. According to them, 100% of the cost of power generation for any plant will be paid by the center. That may alleviate some of the fears of Indiantown residents but not all of them.

There is nothing like Silver Fox anywhere in Florida. Though it will bring 400 good paying jobs to the village, the biggest drawback may be the water usage to cool the operating systems. There will supposedly be lakes on the site to draw water from, but depending on the amount of water needed, they can be exhausted relatively quickly. Does Indiantown really want to use their wells to provide water to manufacturers instead of residents?

Close loop systems drastically reduce the amount of water necessary for data centers. The latest technology reduces that use by up to 95% by minimizing evaporation and blowdown. All of this must be studied by the village’s staff to make sure that this project is in Indiantown’s best long-term interest.

Concil Member Waters-Brown, while voting for the annexation, wanted staff to give her an explanation for how the data center was going to affect the village. The center itself was not on the agenda, and at this point, there is no way staff can accurately answer the questions. Instead of playing “gotcha” and playing to the crowd, Waters-Brown should be taking time to speak with staff ahead of the meeting.

It would be a good idea to have a community meeting headed by staff to outline the proposal once more is known. There should be a panel with a few experts including representatives from the proposed center and FPL. Then fears and questions could be allayed even before the project goes before the board.

This probably is a great idea for Indiantown because of the increased tax revenue and jobs. Yet if the council agrees with that, they need to bring the community along. The residents shouldn’t be ignored, and the council needs to make sure that bad information doesn’t sink a good project.

Anne Scott can be a real pain at times. And I believe she makes trouble and complains when it is not justified. She was 100% correct about this issue and there is no way she should have had to go through the aggravation and expense that rectifying this entailed.

There was a spec house built next door to Scott’s house, The developer filed plans and proceeded to build. Unfortunately, the driveway and landscape plans did not follow the plans that had been approved.

I am not going to get into designing aesthetics. The mere fact that it did not follow the approved plans is enough for me and it appears the same can be said for the commissioners.

What compounded the problem was the driveway was apparently not where it was supposed to be, made of the wrong material, and had a turnaround that was again incompatible with those pesky plans. Instead of the town’s building official signing off on the driveway, the developer hired a private inspector who did.

A private sector is great for many things. What it is not so good at is sticking to those pesky drawings and rules. In this case, building personnel did go over and found the discrepancy.

But instead of turning the matter over to Code Enforcement, the town employee turned to the new Development Review Board, the successor to the Independent Review Board. The Independent Review Board was the one that had approved of the original plans. The Development Review Board heard the matter and came up with several changes.

Scott was unhappy and then appealed the decision to the commission. Under the changes to the LDRs, the commission has the right to set aside the board’s decision and hear new evidence instead of looking only at the evidence presented at the board hearing. This was the first time that an appeal was conducted under the new rules.

Scott’s attorney made a very compelling case. When it was the developer and the new owner’s turn, they withered under the grilling by Commissioner Field. Finally, a brief recess was called so the two sides could work towards compromise.

The compromise was that they were going to follow the plans with a few deviations. Anne Scott will review them. The builder was contrite but the phrase that was bandied about a few times was “better to beg forgiveness than ask permission.”

In a small exceedingly wealthy town like Jupiter Island where construction can take several years to complete, why aren’t there more inspections? The legislature did not do anyone any favors by allowing private inspections except spec builders and developers. It creates problems like this and could pose real safety concerns.

I understand town employees do not want to alienate any of the wealthy residents of this island. Many of the residents are way too concerned about having their way and having the money to back it up. Even with that in mind, there are ordinances and regulations that provide a course of action. In this case, Code Enforcement should have taken over and enforced the code.

Scott prevailed but that is no way to begin a relationship with a neighbor. It is unfortunate that another route wasn’t or couldn’t be taken.

The entire matter was adjourned in contemplation of a settlement.

Tom’s Articles

From Medium

"Is The News Worth It?"

Here

"How Little Remains"

Here

From Martin County Moments

"Two Bills One Insular Reason"

Here

"Just what The City Needs Another Park"

Here

"Mayor Boss Collins Begisn Campaign"

Here

"How To Circumvent The Law"

Here

Other Articles

Tallahassee Report: "Alex Andrade's public records bill advances with unusual coalition of allies"

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Barrons: "America's Cattle Crisis: a Shrinking Herd. Soaring Beef Prices, and Little Relief in SIght"

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The Capitolist: "Boca Raton Lures Quatum Computing Firm D-Wave From Silicon Valley"

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Washington Post: "See Chat GPT's hidden bias abour your state or city"

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Florida Phoenix: "Florida House proposes bar on emergency dollars for immigration enforcement"

Here

The Capitolist: "Florida Housing Market Slows in 2025, But Rebound Signs Emerge"

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Florida Phoenix: "For Indigenous Americans it's unthinkable, but true. ICE is arresting, detaining Native Americans"

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The New York Times: "Something Happens When Bus Rides Are Free"

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Wall Street Journal: "The Mega-Rich Are Turning Their Mansions Into Impenetrable Fortresses"

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Florida Phoenix: "Florida House votes to rename Palm Beach airport after Donald Trump"

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The New York Times: "What Replaces Deported Immigrant Workers? Not Americans.

Here

Wall Street Journal: "The Pronoun Wars in Public Schools"

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Route Fifty: "Transit agencies look 'to rewire' tech infrastructure"

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The New York Times: "U.S. Archbishop Will Be Beatified, One Step Away From Sainthood"

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The Washington Post: "Your backyard could be a home. Here's how to build one."

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Wall Street Journal: "Americans Are Leaving the U.S. in Record Numbers"

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Florida Phoenix: "DOJ: Trump administration won't pay for 'Alligator Alcatraz' construction costs"

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The Economist: "As global press freedom dwindles, corrupt politicians rejoice"

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Route Fifty: "Feds want to stop states regulating, blocking prediction markets"

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The Capitolist: "Florida Senate Approves Data Center Bill"

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The New York Times: "Trump's Challenge to Free Market Capitalism"

Here

The Economist: "The war against PDFs is heating up"

Here

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