Pulitzer Prize-Winning Columnist Bret Stephens to Open
2026 Rappaport Speaker Series in Stuart
Stuart, Fla. – Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist and New York Times op-ed columnist Bret Stephens will open the 2026 Rappaport Speaker Series on January 15, bringing his sharp analysis and fearless commentary to the Treasure Coast.
Known for challenging conventional wisdom and grounding his arguments in hard facts, Stephens commands attention across the political spectrum. His global reporting and outspoken views have earned him international recognition - and even a ban from Russia - making his appearance in Stuart a highly anticipated event.
Stephens kicks off the 2026 season with his presentation titled “America at a Crossroads – The Future of Conservatism.” A political contributor for NBC and MSNBC, Stephens will offer a candid examination of the ideological forces shaping American politics and the evolving role of conservatism in a divided nation.
Stephens brings decades of journalistic experience to the discussion. In addition to his work at The New York Times, he previously served as deputy editorial page editor at The Wall Street Journal, overseeing international opinion, and spent 11 years as the paper’s principal foreign-affairs columnist. Earlier in his career, he was editor-in-chief of The Jerusalem Post, directing its news, editorial, digital, and international operations.
Each year the Rappaport Speaker Series brings nationally recognized voices to Temple Beit HaYam in Stuart establishing itself as a trusted forum for thoughtful dialogue and intellectual exchange on the Treasure Coast.
Following Stephens’ January presentation, the series continues with two additional speakers:
On February 26, Dr. Laurie Santos, Yale University professor, psychologist and host of the popular podcast The Happiness Lab will present
“Calm Amidst the Chaos – The Science of Happiness.”
On March 26, Eve Samples, former journalist and executive director of Friends of the Everglades, will speak about
“Everglades on Trial – A Test for Environmental Policy in America.”
Tickets for Bret Stephens’ January 15 event are $50. Series tickets for all three events are $100. All presentations begin at 7 p.m. at Temple Beit HaYam. Tickets are available at www.RappaportSpeakerSeries.com.
The Rappaport Speaker Series is supported by the Phyllis & Jerome Lyle Rappaport Foundation through a grant to Temple Beit HaYam and is designed to broaden civic understanding on issues of national and global importance. Past speakers have included renowned figures such as David Gergen, advisor to four U.S. presidents; Marty Baron, former editor of The Washington Post; and bestselling author Mitch Albom, author of Tuesdays with Morrie.
“My husband Jerry and I founded the Rappaport Speaker Series to bring distinguished, intellectually honest voices to Florida’s Treasure Coast,” said Phyllis Rappaport. “The 2026 lineup reflects that mission, and Bret Stephens exemplifies it. His willingness to challenge assumptions, confront difficult truths, and elevate public discourse makes him exactly the kind of speaker we believe our community needs right now.”
More information about the Rappaport Center, the Speaker Series, and the 2026 presenters is available at www.RappaportSpeakerSeries.com and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RappaportCenterSpeakerSeries.
About the Rappaport Foundation
The Phyllis & Jerome Lyle Rappaport Foundation partners with leading institutions in Boston and beyond to cultivate emerging leaders in public policy, mental health, neurodegenerative research, and the arts. The Foundation has a long and proud history of supporting emerging leaders, including civic leaders who improve the lives of their constituents and communities, medical researchers who have unlocked the mysteries of the brain, mental illness and Alzheimer’s disease, and artists who enrich lives, ignite imaginations, and challenge us to see the world in a new light. In Stuart, Florida, the Foundation sponsors the Rappaport Center Speaker Series to promote informed dialogue on issues of national and international importance.
About Temple Beit HaYam
Founded in 1993, Temple Beit HaYam is a Reform Jewish congregation in Stuart dedicated to Torah (lifelong learning), Avodah (worship), and Gemilut Chasadim (acts of kindness and justice). Temple Beit HaYam is a Reform Jewish Congregation committed to Torah (life-long Jewish education), avodah (worship through prayer and service) and gemilut chasadim (acts of loving kindness). The Temple offers Hebrew and religious training to youngsters from kindergarten through high school, has active Sisterhood and Brotherhood programs, and is an active cultural hub, hosting concerts, lectures, and community events that enrich the Treasure Coast.
United Way of Martin County’s Toys For Tots Holiday Project Brings Joy and Hope to Hundreds of Families
STUART, FL – For nearly four decades, United Way of Martin County has ensured the holiday season is a time of hope and joy for local families. This tradition continued with the successful completion of the annual Toys For Tots Holiday Project, a community-wide effort designed to support children and families facing financial hardship.
M.C. Fire/Rescue assembled 250 bikes from the Zweben Bike Drive
As the local coordinating organization for the Marine Corps Reserve Toys For Tots program, United Way of Martin County partners with the Martin County School District and dozens of nonprofit agencies, schools, and community organizations to screen and refer families in need. Through these partnerships, the 2025 Holiday Project provided assistance to more than 854 families, reaching 2,674 children across Martin County.
Baird one of 151 collection sites
Just after Thanksgiving, the Martin County Fairgrounds transformed into a bustling distribution department store. Over the course of the project, 359 volunteers donated 1,536 hours to sorting, organizing, and distributing gifts, ensuring families were met with a welcoming, respectful, and dignified holiday shopping experience.
Thanks to the generosity of community members and local businesses, the Holiday Project collected and distributed 24,523 toys, including 428 bicycles and 26,878 pounds of food, helping families celebrate the season with joy and relief. Any remaining gifts were thoughtfully redirected to children and students served by local social service agencies, extending the project’s impact even further.
Event Sponsor Phil Wintercorn and Williamington Trust
Ashley Capital launched a new litterary initiative this year
“The Toys For Tots Holiday Project represents the very best of our community,” said Carol G. Houwaart-Diez, President & CEO of United Way of Martin County. “Because of our partners, volunteers, and supporters, hundreds of families were reminded that they are seen, supported, and not alone during the holiday season.”
Leaders United's Stephanie Quirantes and Melanie Fleming
This monumental effort was made possible by the generosity of volunteers, local businesses, community organizations, sponsors, and individual donors. United Way extends a special thank you to Wilmington Trust, Ashley Capital, STS Aviation Group, Zweben Law Group, iHeart Radio, WPTV, Waste Management, Martin County Fire Rescue, AmeriCorps Seniors, and House of Hope, as well as our referral partners and the 151 local businesses that served as toy collection sites throughout the county. Together, their generosity strengthened families, uplifted children, and helped ensure the holidays were brighter for those who needed it most.
The Toys For Tots Holiday Project is one of United Way of Martin County’s largest volunteer-driven initiatives, requiring months of planning, coordination, and collaboration. Each year, it serves as a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when community comes together with a shared purpose.
Santa
For more information about United Way of Martin County and opportunities to get involved, visit UnitedWayMartin.org.
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About United Way of Martin County
Since 1972, United Way of Martin County has been dedicated to creating long-term social change and providing support to residents. With a mission to improve the education, financial security, and health in Martin County, United Way invests in impactful programs that enhance quality of life and ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive. To learn more about United Way of Martin County, visit www.UnitedWayMartin.org.
Aim for Freedom Sporting Clays Event Returns Jan. 31, 2026
Sebastian, Fla. – After raising more than $13,000 in its inaugural year, the Aim for Freedom Sporting Clays Shoot is returning for 2026, and organizers are setting their sights even higher. SafeSpace, in partnership with the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office, will host the Second Annual Aim for Freedom Sporting Clays Shoot on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, at the Indian River County Shooting Range.
Committee Members: Aimee Cooper, Jennifer Fox, Chelsea Deveau, Natalie Thomas-Darissaw, Ann Rodriguez
The community-driven event brings together local businesses, residents, and law enforcement for a day of friendly competition with a shared purpose: supporting survivors of domestic violence across the Treasure Coast.
The Aim for Freedom Clay Shoot offers an energetic day on the course, complete with great food, exciting raffle items, and special awards for top shooters. Participants may register as a team or individually, making the event accessible for all experience levels.
Proceeds from the event benefit SafeSpace, helping fund emergency shelter, counseling, advocacy, and other essential services for individuals and families seeking safety and healing.
“Aim for Freedom is about more than hitting targets. It’s about standing with survivors and showing them they are not alone,” said Indian River County Sheriff's Office Chief Financial Officer Aimee Cooper, “The response to this event has been incredibly encouraging, and we’re excited to welcome the community back for another impactful day in 2026.”
2025 Clay Shooting Team Owen Viersma, Robert Munni, Tim Weimer, Bryan Gardner
Registration Details
Team of four: $600
Individual: $150
Sponsorship opportunities are now available, including a limited number of premium sponsorships. Early registration is encouraged, as space is limited.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026
Location: Indian River County Shooting Range
10455 102nd Terrace
Sebastian, FL 32958
Registration & Breakfast: 8:00 a.m.
Shotgun Start: 9:00 a.m.
To register or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, visit SafeSpaceFl.org.
SafeSpace extends its sincere thanks to the 2026 Aim for Freedom Clay Shoot sponsors, whose generosity helps ensure the continued delivery of life-changing services across the Treasure Coast.
Bob Fields 2025 Clay Shooting Winner
2026 Event Sponsors: Toyota of Vero, Hayes Construction, Kay Betancourt Orthodontics, Emerald Medical, Jimmy’s A/C & Refrigeration, MBV Engineering, Thompson’s Remodeling, Piper Aircraft, Coastal Protective Products, Level 4 Telecom, PCP Tactical/Gorilla Ammo, Bob Schlitt, Minute Man Press, Elevate Vero Beach, Gino Nutrition.
SafeSpace and the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office look forward to another meaningful day on the course in support of a future free from domestic violence.
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.
Save the Date!
The 5th Annual Garden Expo Bigger & Better Than Ever! Saturday, March 7, 2026 – 9 AM to 3 PM
*NEW LOCATION* Memorial Park, 300 SE Ocean Blvd, Stuart, FL
The Jensen Beach Garden Club’s much-loved Garden Expo is growing — literally! Now in its 5th year, the popular spring event is moving to Memorial Park in downtown Stuart, offering more space, more food trucks, and more fun than ever. Visitors can enjoy free parking, an easy shuttle service, and free raffle prizes every hour throughout the day.
With over 40 plant and garden vendors, this year’s Expo will showcase the best local vendors offering lush tropical plants, native species, vibrant orchids, and unique finds like bonsais, herbs, and outdoor art. Stock up on gardening supplies, learn from live presentations, and enjoy hands-on demos. It’s a fun and educational day for all plant lovers, from beginners to seasoned pros! Presenters include sessions on succulents, vegetable gardening, anthuriums and everything you wanted to know about the C-44 Reservoir and Storm Water Treatment Area. It’s a full day of shopping, learning, and celebrating everything green and blooming.
More than just a garden show, the Garden Expo helps the community grow, too, thanks to the many sponsors and volunteers. One hundred percent of Expo proceeds fund college scholarships for local students pursuing horticulture and environmental studies, as well as camperships for children attending the Florida Oceanographic Society and Environmental Studies Center summer programs. The Club also supports Junior Master Gardener programs and the House of Hope Community Gardens.
“This event has truly blossomed,” said Dana von Rinteln, JB Garden Club President. “Each year we see more people discovering the joy of gardening, learning from our experts, and taking home something beautiful.” Don’t miss this incredible day of plants, community, and fun—see you at the Expo! Follow the Jensen Beach Garden Club on Facebook and Instagram, or visit
👉 www.jensenbeachgardenclub.com/garden-expo
Santa brought holiday cheer to Banner Lake Academy and the Early Learning Center on Friday morning, December 19th! His visit began in the infant rooms and continued room by room through the toddlers and up to VPK. The VPK students were especially thrilled, cheering, jumping, and smiling as Santa entered their classrooms. After visiting the Early Learning Center, Santa continued on to the Academy, where he took time in each classroom to talk with every
student and listen as they whispered their holiday wishes. One of Santa’s favorite moments was hearing from a second-grade student named Chris, who shared that his dream is to become a business owner one day. The visit ended with kind words, smiles, and hugs shared betweenSanta, students, and staff.
The holiday fun continued on Saturday morning, December 20th, as community children and families gathered to welcome Santa once again. Santa arrived in a firetruck with local firefighters. Despite the warm morning, Santa sat with each child, talking and listening as gifts were distributed through Harry and the Natives and Banner Lake’s Outreach Program. It was another successful morning celebrating the season.
Banner Lake would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Friends at Loblolly for their generous gift donations for our students. We also appreciate Premiere Realty, United Way, and Chasin a Dream. Thank you for all that you do for our children!
MartinArts Presents 35th Annual All Florida Juried Art Show
Exhibit Dates | January 9 - February 28, 2026
Juror’s Talk by Donne Bitner | Saturday, January 10, 11AM
Court House Cultural Center Gallery: 80 SE Ocean Blvd, Stuart FL 34994
https://www.martinarts.org/court-house-cultural-center/currentexhibitions.html
Celebrating a 35-year legacy, this exhibition showcases recent works by Florida artists across a wide variety of media. The collection highlights the diverse creativity and talent flourishing throughout the state, from traditional to contemporary art.
Featuring Artists:
Ilene Adams, Glen Allen, Josie Capozzi, Suzanne Carlson, Daria Cheatham, Karen Christopher, Ariel Collins, Stephanie Cunningham, Michael Davis, Katie Deits, Nancy Dillen, Gabriele DiTota, Janas Durkee, Christian Feneck, Susan Finn, Marine Fonteyne, Todd K. Fox, Torenzo Gann, Viktor Genel, Arlet Gomez, Jill Heveron, Jack Hill, Heather Ivins, Lynn Kalber, Richard Kaminskas, Claudia Jane Klein, Lisa Lloyd, Susan Martin, Judith Mistor, Leonardo Montoya, Leslie Neumann, Raymond Olivero, Jeff Olson, Sally Painter, Sar Powell, Elizabeth Quigley, Sudie Rakusin, Galal Ramadan, Dan Remmel, Linda Reymore, Jack Rink, Paula Rucket, Ricky Schenk, Kyle Selley, Eileen Shaloum, Renee Simler, Jennifer Sky, Greg Smith, Mark Stall, Richard P Stevens, Monica Swartley, David Taylor, Ryan Toth, Marcelle Zanetti
The second annual Festival of Giving, held in November 2025, was a tremendous success—creating meaningful impact across our community and celebrating the true spirit of the season.
Formerly known as the Festival of Trees, this beloved event was hosted for 16 successful years by Tykes & Teens before coming home to The Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast in 2024. In its new location, the Festival of Giving has expanded its mission to spotlight the inspiring stories of dozens of nonprofits across the five counties served by the Museum’s education team.
What hasn’t changed is the magic. Guests were dazzled by beautifully decorated trees, wreaths, and centerpieces generously donated by individuals, businesses, and organizations throughout the 10-day event. Each display helped bring attention to the nonprofit it supported, blending creativity with purpose.
The 2025 Festival of Giving was proudly presented by Tracey MacLeod, Realtor with Illustrated Properties, The Ngo Group. Tracey’s passion for the event and its impact runs deep—we’re thrilled to share that she has already committed to returning as presenting sponsor for 2026!
In just its second year, the Festival of Giving benefitted 50 nonprofits whose missions align with the Museum’s focus on children, families, education, and even our furry friends. These organizations benefitted not only financially, but also through increased visibility as their stories were shared with the community throughout the Festival.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of our supporters, the event raised more than $70,000, with over $34,000 distributed directly to the participating nonprofits.
The week was filled with excitement and special moments, beginning with a visit from T.A. Walker, who filmed a Shining a Light segment for WPTV, followed by a VIP Reception honoring our event and entry sponsors. We welcomed more than 150 business leaders to a networking breakfast and that same day hosted WPTV’s Let’s Hear It event, where over 50 individuals and groups shared stories about what’s happening in our community—it was truly inspiring.
Throughout the Festival, we enjoyed outstanding performances from Martin County High School Opus, Treasure Coast Community Singers, Indian River Pops Orchestra, Florida Arts & Dance Company, Crystal Lake Elementary School, Jensen Beach Elementary School, and Radiant Voices. Thanks to the generosity of Seacoast Bank, we were proud to make a donation to each of these talented groups.
Midweek fun included a family night with a special visit from Santa, sponsored by Deakins Carroll Insurance. We wrapped up the Festival in style with our signature Night Before Christmas Adult Pajama Party, sponsored by Hurricane Boat Lifts. With more than 140 guests in attendance, it was the perfect festive finale.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who helped make the 2025 Festival of Giving such a success—our sponsors, donors, nonprofits, performers, and community partners. Thank you for sharing in the spirit of giving.
We can’t wait to welcome you back November 13–21, 2026, for the Third Annual Festival of Giving!
U.S. Sugar Invests in Transformative Mental Health and Adult Literacy Initiatives in the Glades
New Partnership with the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties
Lays Foundation for Long-Term Community Impact
West Palm Beach, FL (January 6, 2025) – The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, a nonprofit organization that leads partnerships with donors, nonprofit organizations, and community members to address the region’s chronic and emerging issues, today announced a new investment by U.S. Sugar to strengthen mental health support and expand adult literacy opportunities for families in the Glades. The total investment is approximately $105,000.
With this commitment, U.S. Sugar is forming a strategic partnership with the Community Foundation to address root-cause challenges and build long-term community resilience. With strong agricultural, economic, and cultural ties to the Glades, U.S. Sugar is deepening its community role through a more structured, intentional approach to lasting regional transformation.
“This partnership represents a new chapter for the Glades, one rooted in collaboration, long-term investment, and a shared vision for healthier, stronger families,” said Danita R. DeHaney, president & CEO of the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties. “U.S. Sugar’s commitment goes beyond a grant. It signals a deeper, strategic role in creating the kind of lasting change this community deserves.”
U.S. Sugar leaders echoed that sentiment: “U.S. Sugar has been part of the Glades community for generations, and we are committed to investing in the long-term success of the families who live and work here,” said Brannan Thomas, Community Relations Director for U.S. Sugar. “By partnering with the Community Foundation, we can support proven programs that strengthen mental health, expand literacy, and create meaningful opportunities for young people and parents alike. This work reflects our belief that strong communities grow from strong families.”
The partnership will fund two high-impact initiatives: Rebound and Recovery Mental Health Initiative and a new Adult Literacy Program that designed to support intergenerational learning and family engagement.
Rebound and Recovery: Strengthening Youth Mental Health
U.S. Sugar’s investment will support the implementation of Rebound and Recovery, an evidence-based cognitive-behavioral program developed by Florida State University (FSU) that improves the emotional and social well-being of adolescents. Delivered at Crossroads Academy, the program will equip students with skills to build resilience, understand the connection between emotions and behavior, manage stress, and improve decision-making. The program is scheduled to begin mid-January 2026 and includes:
Train-the-Trainer Model for Long-Term Sustainability: Crossroads Academy interventionists, including behavioral health staff, ESOL and ESE coordinators, and school counselors, will complete 15 hours of FSU-led training through after-school sessions and professional development days.
Student Leadership Development: After completing the curriculum, about ten students will be selected for a Student Train-the-Trainer cohort. These emerging leaders will receive five hours of training to reinforce program messages among peers and help strengthen the overall social-emotional climate of the school.
Student Sessions: Fifteen structured modules will be delivered during the school day or in after-school programming, covering topics such as emotional-behavior connections, stress management, healthy relationships, problem solving, and recognizing anxiety or depression.
Adult Literacy in the Glades: Strengthening Families Through Education
In addition to youth mental health support, U.S. Sugar is helping expand family-centered literacy initiatives in a region where 47% of third graders read below grade level. Building on the Community Foundation’s $200,000 grant to Boldin Community Impact for after-school literacy programming, U.S. Sugar’s investment supports a new Adult Literacy Program delivered partnership with the Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County.
The program provides parents with foundational literacy and language skills, boosting their confidence and strengthening the home-to-school connection. A dedicated Adult Literacy Specialist will oversee all instruction and engagement. The initiative will launch in January 2026 and continue throughout the calendar year.
The program includes three integrated components:
Parent Learning Academy: Held twice weekly while children participate in Boldin Community Impact’s after-school programming, the Academy provides structured literacy instruction and teaches parents how to support their children’s learning. Each cohort will enroll approximately ten families, with two to three cohorts anticipated in 2026.
Parent and Child Together (PACT) Time: Twice a week, parents and children participate in guided shared reading, discussions, and hands-on literacy activities. PACT helps families reinforce skills at home and build routines that make reading a meaningful, everyday experience.
Family Literacy Nights: Hosted quarterly at Pahokee Elementary, these two-hour evening events bring families together for interactive literacy activities, projects, and shared meals. These evenings reinforce skills introduced in the Academy and celebrate family learning.
About the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties
The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties is a nonprofit organization that leads philanthropy locally. The foundation provides charitable expertise and vehicles to increase the investment options on behalf of individuals, family foundations, and corporations. Since 1972, the foundation has distributed nearly $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 U.S. Sugar
U.S. Sugar is a South Florida-based farming and processing company that sustainably grows sugarcane, citrus, sweet corn and other winter and spring vegetables that feed American families. The company was founded in 1931 by Charles Stewart Mott, a visionary leader who hailed from a long line of farmers. Since the beginning, the company’s success has been rooted in traditional farming values and respect for the land. U.S. Sugar also operates a sugar refinery in Savannah, Georgia that produces retail and store-brand sugar for customers throughout the southeast. Along with operating its 300-mile railroad, in total, U.S. Sugar sustainably farms 255,000 acres in Highlands, Glades, Hendry, Palm Beach and Martin counties in Florida and serves as a vital part of our rural communities, providing 3,000 jobs, community leadership, and philanthropic support. For more information, please visit www.ussugar.com.
Nonprofit video spotlight of Boldin Community Center: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MWemOzB2l00
As we begin 2026, Play Treasure Coast Sports is off to a strong start with a packed schedule of winter training and competitive events. From rowing and swimming to gymnastics, softball, and karate, here’s a look at what’s happening on the Treasure Coast in the weeks ahead:
Upcoming Events
Dec. 8 – Jan. 14: IRSC Swimming Winter Training
Indian River State College – Massey Campus
Dec. 27 – Jan. 14: CSCAA Swimming & Diving Winter Training
Sailfish Splash Waterpark
Jan. 1 – Mar. 31: Vero Beach Rowing Center Winter/Spring Training
Vero Beach Rowing Center
Jan. 1 – Feb. 28: Jackie Robinson Training Complex Spring Training – Session 1
Jackie Robinson Training Complex
Jan. 1 – Jan. 30: MLB Umpire Prospect Development Camp
Jackie Robinson Training Complex
Jan. 9 – Jan. 11: Coastal Classic Gymnastics
Havert L. Fenn Center
Jan. 17 – Jan. 18: Florida Half Century Softball
South County Park
Jan. 31: Florida AAU Karate Kick-Off Tournament
Havert L. Fenn Center
If you’re considering a location for your next sporting event or training program, the Treasure Coast (Indian River County, St. Lucie County & Martin County) offers exceptional venues, strong community support, and reliable year-round weather. We’d love to show you what’s possible. Feel free to reach out to one of Play Treasure Coast Sports staff members and let us help you find your gold on the Treasure Coast.
You can explore our facilities here or check out more upcoming events here.
All the best this month,
“When Policy Hurts People” — Forum to expose local impact of immigration policies on Treasure Coast Families
STUART, Fla. — Pro-Families, a non-profit organization based in Martin County, and concerned citizens who have formed a coalition, will present “When Policy Hurts People,” a free, public forum which will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Jan 11, at Unity of Stuart, 211 SE Central Parkway. The forum will address immigration enforcement and how it affects Treasure Coast residents, and ways to support impacted neighbors.
“Our immigration policies are hurting families, our friends and neighbors here in Martin County and the Treasure Coast,” said Roberta Scott, a board member of Pro-Families who is involved in organizing the event along with Larry Condon. “Some people are not aware of what is going on right here in our local community, because ICE and Border Control agents are not as visible in our streets as they are in cities like Chicago and Los Angeles, but as of December 17, according to the official Florida Board of Immigration Enforcement, Martin County was ranked as highest in the state for “suspected unauthorized alien encounters, with 728 such ‘encounters.’”
Local immigrants will share their stories on how immigration policies and practices are affecting their families and friends. An immigration lawyer will also be present to share insights into some of the legal issues and how the changing regulations are affecting clients. Community efforts to help will be discussed. A Q&A session with the attorney, immigrants and volunteers who are helping in the community will follow.
For more information, contact Roberta Scott at 772-631-1233.
VERO BEACH, FL – The Vero Friends of the Atlantic Classical Orchestra (ACO) is pleased to announce its  annual benefit concert on January 12, 4:30pm, at Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club. This year’s program, entitled “Violin Virtuosity,” will spotlight violinist Hina Khuong-Huu and pianist Lindsay Garritson.
Hina Khuong-Huu, winner of the Elmar Oliveira International Violin Competition, and award-winning pianist Lindsay Garritson will perform Beethoven’s Sonata for Violin and Piano, No. 5, Op. 24 (“Spring”), Ernst’s The Last Rose of Summer, Kreisler’s Three Pieces (Schön Rosmarin, Liebesfreud, La Gitana), and Sarasate’s Caprice Basque, Op. 24.
Guests will have an opportunity to meet and mingle with the musicians and the ACO's Maestro David Amado during an après-concert reception featuring cocktails and hors d'oeuvres.
Tickets are $160 per person. Seating is limited.
The public is invited to attend. 
For more information or to purchase tickets, call (772) 460-0851 or click HERE.
Orchid Island Golf and Beach Club is located at One Beachside Drive, Vero Beach. For more information, visit OrchidIslandFL.com.
ABOUT ORCHID ISLAND GOLF & BEACH CLUB
Orchid Island is a private and intimate residential golf course community, offering gracious waterfront and golf course homes, an award-winning Arnold Palmer golf course, a state-of-the-art Tennis & Fitness Center and an intimate Beach Club perfectly suited for leisurely gatherings, club activities and exceptional dining. For two consecutive years Orchid Island has gained certification as being one of "America's Healthiest Clubs" from Prevo Health Solutions, as well as being awarded the designation of being a "Distinguished Emerald Club of the World." For more information, visit orchidislandgolfandbeachclub.com.
ABOUT ATLANTIC CLASSICAL ORCHESTRA
Established in 1990 by founders Andy and Jean McMullan, the Atlantic Classical Orchestra has earned a stellar reputation as one of the premier professional orchestras in the region. Under the distinguished leadership of Music Director David Amado since 2016, the orchestra continues to make waves in the classical music world. Amado, a two-time Grammy nominee and Music Director Laureate of the Delaware Symphony, brings his immense talent and passion to every performance. With a diverse repertoire encompassing baroque to contemporary music, the Atlantic Classical Orchestra's talented ensemble of 42 musicians captivates audiences with their exceptional artistry. Annually, they deliver 12 mesmerizing Masterworks concerts in Vero Beach and Stuart, Florida, showcasing their versatility and virtuosity. For more information, call (772) 460-0851 or visit atlanticclassicalorchestra.com.
Chirag Choudhary, MD, MBA, Appointed Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at Cleveland Clinic Martin Health
Port St. Lucie, Fla., January 6, 2026 – Cleveland Clinic has announced the appointment of Chirag Choudhary, MD, MBA, as Vice President and Chief Medical Officer (VP/CMO) for Cleveland Clinic Martin Health, which includes Martin North, Martin South, and Tradition hospitals, effective immediately.
Dr. Choudhary has served as VP/CMO at Cleveland Clinic Tradition Hospital since March 1, 2024. He was appointed interim VP/CMO of both Martin North and Martin South hospitals following Dr. Rishi Singh’s transition in September 2025. In his new role, he will oversee clinical operations, safety, and quality initiatives across Martin Health — guiding continued growth and improving access to world-class care in Martin and St. Lucie counties.
“Dr. Choudhary has been instrumental in driving quality and clinical excellence at Tradition Hospital,” said Conor P. Delaney, MD, PhD, President of Cleveland Clinic Florida Market. “His leadership has helped elevate patient care, expand our services, and strengthen our mission to provide the highest level of care for our communities. I look forward to seeing the continued success he will bring across our Martin Health hospitals.”
Since joining Cleveland Clinic in 2009, Dr. Choudhary has held multiple leadership roles, including Chief Medical Officer at Euclid Hospital in Ohio, Director of Critical Care for the Ohio East Region, Associate Medical Director of ICU Operations for Ohio and Florida, and Medical Director of Respiratory Therapy and ICU at Marymount Hospital in Ohio. His leadership in critical care and enterprise-wide standardization during the COVID-19 pandemic has been widely recognized across the Cleveland Clinic network.
During his tenure at Tradition Hospital, Dr. Choudhary has helped achieve several key milestones:
· Strengthened clinical programs, including expanding the Comprehensive Stroke Center, which saw significant growth in patient volume and outcomes.
· Recruited additional cardiologists and specialists, broadening access to advanced cardiovascular and specialty care within the community.
· Oversaw the expansion of Tradition’s HealthPark 2, increasing patient access and optimizing the continuum of outpatient and specialty services on the Treasure Coast.
Dr. Choudhary earned his medical degree from Mysore University in India, completed his internal medicine residency at SUNY Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York, and his pulmonary and critical care fellowship at Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. He also holds a Master of Business Administration from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland.
Cleveland Clinic Martin Health continues to experience substantial growth as part of the Cleveland Clinic Florida region, which includes Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital and Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital. Dr. Choudhary’s leadership will help drive ongoing development of integrated, high-quality care across the region.
About Cleveland Clinic Martin Health
Cleveland Clinic Martin Health is part of Cleveland Clinic’s Florida market. It features three hospitals, Cleveland Clinic Martin North Hospital, Cleveland Clinic Martin South Hospital and Cleveland Clinic Tradition Hospital, with a total of 521 beds, a free-standing emergency center, and numerous outpatient centers and clinics across Martin and St. Lucie counties on Florida’s east coast. Cleveland Clinic Martin Health offers preventive, primary and acute hospital care, as well as cancer care, heart center, wellness and rehabilitation services, and much more. Cleveland Clinic’s Florida market is an integral part of Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, where providing outstanding patient care is based upon the principles of cooperation, compassion and innovation. Physicians at Cleveland Clinic are experts in the treatment of complex conditions that are difficult to diagnose. For more information, visit www.clevelandclinicflorida.org.
