September 2025 LIV VERO Magazine

CASA MARIANA: WHERE ARCHITECTURE BECOMES ART

OYSTER FARM

Indian River Lagoon, Sebastian

Treasure Coast Shellfish LLC

Photograph by Victoriya Knapp

LEGACY has a

SERVING YOU WHERE YOUR ARE

Our Plans, Your Vision

Whether building on your lot or in one of Vero Beach’s premier communities, our mission is to turn your dream home into a masterpiece. Call us at 772–492–4018 or visit ARHomesVeroBeach.com to learn more.

“I JUST ENJOY LYING ON THE COUCH AND READING A MAGAZINE.”

-- David Sedaris. American author, humorist.

12 Editors’ Letter

PIECES of the larger whole

18 Floating staircases are cornerstones of modern residential design.

HOME STYLES

20 Tropical Modernism

Marrying modernism, folk building traditions, tropical climate, and indigenous cultures.

AT HOME

24 Casa Mariana

Restoring a Spanish Revival classic with a modern twist.

AT HOME

32 Island Harbor Custom Builders

Rising stars in the dynamic market for luxury coastal homes.

SURFACES

38 Walls That Speak

Color has the power to transform.

HOME SCENTING

42 How Fragrance Shapes the Home Experience

Choosing a fragrance that is as memorable as the space itself.

APPLIANCES

44 Laundry Day—Upgraded Samsung’s all-in-one washer & dryer is a game changer.

FURNISHINGS AND ART

46 The Gallery of Estate Treasures

Elegance is timeless: mixing old and new in the modern home.

NEW COMMUNITY BUSINESSES

54 Caldwell Trust Company

Looking to earn trust in Vero Beach and beyond.

REAL ESTATE FLAIR

58 O’Dare Boga Dobson

Stylish unveiling of a stunning $25 million oceanfront property.

Steven Lawrence Meyer, Principal, Haus of Lawrence.

IS A WAY OF LIFE

FASHION

62 From Vogue to the Villa Ashley Barone’s journey to resort wear royalty.

FASHION

66 Wrapped in Elegance The beauty of the robe.

ARTIST TO ARTIST

70 For the Love of Art and Teaching

Tim Sanchez and the divine gift of painting.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

78 Finding Primary Care

Part 1: Painting the primary care landscape.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

82 Chest Pain and Heart Attack What to do and what care to expect in Vero Beach.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

88 Hospital-Level Care at Home Innovative Cleveland Clinic program brings acute care to you.

ART

92 LIV VERO Gallery 1 Artist Regan Kenyon.

COMMUNITY ADVOCATES

94 Fighting Human Trafficking Lynne Barletta and the Florida Faith Alliance.

EDUCATION

98 Beyond the Classroom Walls

The life-changing impact of student travel.

OUR REEF

104 Nearshore Hardbottom Reef

Our type of ocean reef in Vero Beach.

NATURE

112 Sea Turtle Nesting: Just the Facts

Part 2 interview with Quintin Bergman, Coastal Resource Manager for Indian River County.

TRANSFORMATIVE FOOD

116 Indian River Lagoon Premium Oysters

Part 2 interview with Nicolette Mariano, Founder and President, Treasure Coast Shellfish LLC.

TRANSFORMATIVE FOOD

122 Green Gold

Mastering the perfect pesto with Chef Kevin Anthony.

ENTERTAINMENT IN THE CITY

125 What’s the Tea?

The pulse of Vero Beach.

128 Finito

Livvero.com @livveromagazine

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Be heard: We want to know what you think and how we can serve you better.

Send comments to Jim Field at jim@livvero.com.

Photograph courtesy of Moda Baronessa.

Victoriya Knapp retrieves her drone.

EDITORS’ LETTER

WE ARE SO GRATEFUL

Days pass quickly. We are caught up in daily activities, the peaceable undertakings and normal commotion of life. A common reminder we all know is to pause, take a deep breath, focus in the present, recall to ourselves those things we should—we must—be grateful for.

Here is our list:

Our team. The LIV VERO team is an amazing group of talents and marvelous, generous individuals. We each contribute, yet help each other as needed, to get things done. The team spans three continents and expands organically, daily it seems. Bright personalities, intelligent, industrious, creative free spirits. I dared to hope that we might someday gather such a team. We are blessed.

Our contributors. Our articles are fundamentally about people, and also nature. But even when we profile nature, an important and endearing aspect of a story is about people appreciating, cherishing, and protecting that nature. We

consider the individuals we write about as collaborators and contributors—they are sharing something vital about themselves with us, and you. They open themselves to us, they reveal, there is honesty, it is extending a large hand. They don’t need to do this; it is voluntary. We are blessed.

Our readers. I cannot tell you how much positive and encouraging feedback we have received from our readers. A lot of suggestions as well. It would seem to brag by sharing this, but, at the same time, it would be rude to not acknowledge this kindness—people making a personal effort to praise and embrace. We are blessed.

Our advertisers. In the humblest of voices: we are honored by our advertisers, thankful for their support, and committed to providing an unparalleled media platform for showcasing their products, services, and invaluable contributions to our community. Each advertiser is a special relationship for us. We are blessed.

An Expansion to Note

This issue marks the inclusion of healthcare into LIV VERO’s repertoire of regular reporting. We will be different in covering the market for healthcare in Indian River County, looking closely at our two acute care hospitals, numerous outpatient centers, group practices . . . also encompassing senior care, home care, hospice, mental health services, etc.,— there’s so much to profile. We intend to bring a measured eye to this landscape, the purpose being to assist citizens in understanding the breadth of services offered and making informed healthcare decisions.

Joshua McMiller.

Chris Foster.

Engel & Völkers proudly expands luxury real estate services to Hutchinson Island!

Led by License Partner Claire Higgins, our new shop at 4007 N Highway A1A brings elevated listings and dedicated advisors to the Treasure Coast. Visit us to experience the charm of Hutchinson Island and discover how Engel & Völkers can be your gateway to remarkable properties and personalized service.

Visit us today or call to speak with a local adviso r.

• Estate Planning (including wills)

• Trusts

• Powers of Attorney & Healthcare Directives

• Probate & Trust Administration

• Business Entity Formation

• Real Estate (including full buyer & seller representation, closing agent title services, deedsa, leases & contracts) SERVICES PROVIDED:

FLOATING STAIRCASES

Cornerstones of Modern Residential Design

by Diane Field Photograph by Yuri Semenyuk

Staircases used to be strictly functional and devoid of any aesthetic appeal. They could be dangerous if too steep, too shallow, or irregularly spaced. Oftentimes they are carpeted for better footing and to reduce the clatter of shoe against wood. When confined to a cramped space, the handrails—let’s face it—are there for safety.

Erase this from your mind. Modern architecture has brought us “floating staircases”—engineering marvels that minimize or hide the supporting structure to give the impression that the steps are floating in space.

Today, floating staircases are a cornerstone of modern residential design, removing visual obstructions to create a spacious, airy, light, minimalistic look, maximizing living space. Simply put, to see one is to want one for your home, if structurally possible.

Staircase Construction 101

Stair “stringers” are used to support a staircase. In traditional stair systems, stringers are made from lumber and

installed on each side of the stairway, with a third in the center for additional support. These stringers are built inside the walls, hidden in drywall, becoming a structural membrane of the house. Individuals steps are connected to each other by “risers”—vertical pieces of wood your toes might strike.

In contrast, floating staircases remove the vertical riser, and thus are also called “open riser” staircases. In terms of structural support, there are three approaches:

Wall mounted cantilever. Each “tread” (i.e., step) is anchored into a load-bearing wall or hidden steel beam with no visible side supports.

Stringer supported. A central spine beam or hidden side stringer—typically made of steel—supports the staircase from below. These are called mono or double stringers.

Suspended. Treads are hung from above using thin steel rods or cables.

The structural support mechanism is paired with several types of railing and handrail options, including glass panels, cables, or rods. Depending upon the type of stairway, stair treads can be made from wood, metal, or plastic, including nonslip materials. A steel mono stringer, for example, uses a metal bracket to hold each stair tread securely in place.

Styles of Staircases

A common configuration is the straight stair, moving from one floor to the next in an unbroken, linear direction. A style conducive to a relatively constricted space is the L-Shaped or 90-degree stair, incorporating a landing platform. Finally, there is the spiral staircase, a classic in the design world for use in very tight spaces, such as a small apartment.

Engineering prowess, manufacturing and installation precision, and refined design aesthetics combine to make floating staircases truly sculptural pieces in the home—objects that entertain the mind and bedazzle the eye. Next time you see one, you’ll be able to tell your host all about its technical details!

Steel mono stringer, 90-degree staircase with cable railing and wood treads. Home of Purusha and John Mostoller in The Moorings.

PRIVATE WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC (WFAFN), Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. WFAFN uses the trade name Wells Fargo Advisors. Ad.

Contact Us

3387 Ocean Drive

Vero Beach, Florida

(772) 200-3973

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TROPICAL MODERNISM

Unifying Architecture, Nature, Local Cultures

by Jim Field

Tropical modernism is a style of architecture that marries modernist principles with folk building traditions in tropical climates, creating structures where architecture coexists and enhances nature.

The movement emerged in the mid-20th century in regions such as South Asia, the Caribbean, Latin America, and Africa. Local architects adapted the purist International Style of modern architecture—originating in Western Europe in the 1920s—to accommodate local weather, materials, and cultural influences.

The core architectural approach, referred to as “passive design,” uses a building’s form, orientation, and natural resources (e.g., sun, wind, shade, landscaping, rainfall) to provide comfort, minimizing mechanical systems (e.g., air conditioning) and utilities (e.g., electricity, potable water). In this way, architecture facilitates sustainability practices and aligns seamlessly with nature.

Defining Characteristics

A tropical modern home is not simply a modernist home situated in lush tropical vegetation, but must deliberately incorporate signature design elements to align naturally with the attributes and

hardships of tropical climates.

Climate-responsive design. Buildings combine features to protect against heavy rain, intense sun, high temperatures, and humidity.

• Positioning of foundation to maximize cross-ventilation, shade, natural cooling.

• Deep overhangs and verandas to protect from heavy rain and intense sun.

• Lightweight structures—roofs and walls—to avoid trapped heat.

• Pitched roofs to shed heavy rains quickly.

• Large windows and doors to open the entire wall, with shading systems.

• Open floor plan to allow breezes inside house, natural light to penetrate rooms.

• High ceilings to keep warm air away from floor level.

Use of local materials.

Goal is to integrate modernist and folk craftmanship, maintaining a deep reverence for local building traditions.

• Timber, stone, terracotta clay, concrete, often left raw to withstand humidity.

• Natural materials add warm, natural tones, introduce texture to the home.

• Stair treads, railings, screens, doors, ceilings, feature walls use wood, stone, clay.

• Tables, chairs, beds, other furniture typically made of local wood.

• Plant-based materials such as bamboo and rattan used in some regions.

• Natural, local materials promote sustainability, minimize transportation.

Indoor-outdoor integration.

Merging of interior and exterior spaces to promote natural ventilation, sense of openness, oneness with nature.

• Large openings—sliding panels, louvered windows, folding walls— verandas, courtyards, to create air flow and extend living spaces into the landscape.

• Open floor plan, living and dining areas, bedrooms spill out to exterior terraces, patios, courtyards, views of nature.

• Private gardens with specialty plantings, water features, comfortable seating populate the property.

Notable Examples

Kandalama Hotel, Sri Lanka, architect Geoffrey Bawa. The design intent was to create a structure that almost vanishes into its surroundings. Combines environmental respect, cultural authenticity, architectural drama. Completed 1994.

Liljestrand House, Honolulu, Oahu, architect Vladimir Ossipoff. Built on a steep hillside overlooking Honolulu, the house appears to float above the landscape. The structure’s long, low forms and cantilevered decks echo the contours of the hillside. Completed 1952.

Crystal Lemley SENIOR DESIGNER

Gregory Ness-Vasko PRINCIPAL DESIGNER

Photograph by Yuri Semenyak

HOME

SPANISH REVIVAL WITH A MODERN TWIST

A Sense of Timelessness Ensues

by Renee Morad photography by Jeff Holt

When Steven Lawrence Meyer, Principal of interior design firm Haus of Lawrence, first walked through Casa Mariana, a 1920s Spanish Revival home in Coral Gables, Florida, he was overcome with inspiration.

The house’s blend of historic charm and outdated features spoke to his passion for restoring older properties. The building presented the perfect mix of budding promise and glaring obstacles—a true invitation for an interior designer who never backs down from a challenge.

As Meyer walked on the house’s terracotta floors and traversed open archways from one room to the next, he instinctively knew that this project would be different. He had found a house that he would not only transform into a modern display of elegance, but that he would transform into his own home.

Meyer and his fiancé Andy, a realtor with the The Reynolds Team in Vero Beach, FL, had agreed to leave their fast-paced Miami lifestyle and reprieve to the quieter city of Coral Gables. They were attracted to the community’s lush greenery, Mediterranean architectural style and relaxed vibes. They would look at new real estate listings on the local market now and again.

When Meyer first visited Casa Mariana, his fiancé was away on business. Upon his return, Meyer drove him over to Casa Mariana, held open the door for him and, carrying a bottle of champagne, announced that they would make this house their new home.

Taking Design Chances

“I was drawn to the home’s sense of timelessness, and my fiancé just gave me the go ahead to run with everything,” Meyer said. “I wanted to honor the time period but make upgrades that would be more fluid and wouldn’t age quickly.”

Meyer set out to preserve the home’s most appealing original features while revamping the layout to make it more livable for modern day needs. He wanted to shape the home to reflect their love for entertaining, transforming the small kitchen and dining area into a spacious,

open plan kitchen. The space integrated different levels, which led to the need for custom-made stools with built-in steps. “This space was designed with the intention to be very inviting,” Meyer said.

Meyer also removed a wall that separated the living room from the dining room. This transformation created a flow of space that leads the eye to the living room’s 22-foot ceiling peak, evoking a sense of grandeur. At the peak, there was an original brass-lined circular window—a nautical porthole—that Meyer decided to keep for the aesthetics and because it met impactresistant standards. He also preserved the Spanish red tile in the living room to capture the charm and character that attracted him to the home to begin with.

AT HOME

SPANISH REVIVAL WITH A MODERN TWIST

In addition, Meyer decided to remove the second floor loft to open up what felt like a “claustrophobic, low-ceilinged space below,” he said. The shift allowed natural light from the former loft windows to pour into the living room, transforming the feel of the entire space and creating a much more inviting, airy environment.

One of the bigger risks involved removing several interior walls to reimagine the flow of the home entirely. “At the time, it felt like a gamble, especially in a historic structure, but the final outcome was an open plan layout that feels both timeless and modern,” Meyer said. “It dramatically enhanced the livability of the space.”

Meyer styled these changes with bespoke furniture and vintage finds throughout the home. “I get tremendous design inspiration from collecting antiques and often buy pieces during my travels and ship them home,” Meyer said.

A few favorites include a French countryside table sourced at an antiques fair in Texas; a paper mâché vessel handmade in India; a ceramic vase from Turkey; and handmade mugs found in a small hut in Guatemala. One of the couple’s more playful additions is an old cowbell from a market that now serves as a shot bell when they entertain. “It’s all about layering in those unexpected, joyful moments,” Meyer said.

Heavy Lifting: Bones and Infrastructure

When Meyer found his home, it was evident that he was buying a fixer upper, but he was “truly not prepared for the amount of work that this house wanted and needed,” he explained. He quickly rose to the challenge and addressed the property’s glaring obstacles.

For starters, there was a tree growing on the side of the primary bedroom that lifted the foundation and sent a crack through the wall—with roots invading the inside of the wall. Meyer had to go through a formal approval process with the City of Coral Gables to have the protected oak removed. While he would have loved to preserve it, the home’s structural integrity had to come

first. Once removed, he lifted the home from the crawl space and installed new supports, including a steel I-beam beneath the house and further supports inside the walls.

There were also holes in doors, broken windows, black mold and a leaking roof. Meyer worked quickly to update the home’s plumbing, install impact-resistant windows and replace the HVAC system.

Embracing Lessons Learned

Meyer has taken the lessons learned from his home revamp—from embracing risks to preserving historic elements—and applied them to his interior design career at Haus of Lawrence.

“The biggest takeaway was learning to trust my instincts—even when a design move feels bold or unconventional,” Meyer said. “I realized that the most successful spaces come from a mix of intuition, problemsolving and a deep respect for a structure’s

story. That balance has become a guiding principle in my work with Haus of Lawrence.”

Since his home project, Meyer has completed many exciting residential and commercial design projects, including the full interiors of a home in Castaway Cove in Vero Beach, a luxury condo in downtown Miami, large private residences in Coconut Grove and Coral Gables and a med spa in Fort Lauderdale. He also designed the lighting for Lafayette Steak House in Brickell, Miami in collaboration with interior design firm Escala Forma. He is developing another immersive clubrestaurant concept that is set to open in the fall of 2026 in Miami Beach.

“Casa Mariana wasn’t just a renovation; it was a turning point,” Meyer said. “It gave me the opportunity to merge my longstanding love of antiques with my work in interior design, bringing two passions together in a meaningful way.”

SPANISH REVIVAL WITH A MODERN TWIST

“I REALIZED THAT THE MOST

SUCCESSFUL SPACES COME FROM A MIX OF INTUITION, PROBLEM-SOLVING, AND A DEEP RESPECT FOR A STRUCTURE’S STORY.”

The home reminded Meyer that design isn’t just about aesthetics, but about storytelling. “The project helped me reconnect with the emotional side of interiors and showed me how to channel my passion for history and craftsmanship into my art,” Meyer said.

Meyer feels strongly that his future success with his interior design firm will continue to build on his very valuable experience renovating Casa Mariana. “The project completely reshaped how I approach my work at Haus of Lawrence,” Meyer said.

WHEN MEYER FIRST VISITED CASA MARIANA, HIS FIANCÉ WAS AWAY ON BUSINESS. UPON HIS RETURN, MEYER DROVE HIM OVER TO CASA MARIANA, HELD OPEN THE DOOR FOR HIM AND, CARRYING A BOTTLE OF CHAMPAGNE, ANNOUNCED THAT THEY WOULD MAKE THIS HOUSE THEIR NEW HOME.

APPLIANCES

ISLAND HARBOR CUSTOM BUILDERS

Rising Stars in Luxury Coastal Homes

Interview with Brian Neu

Conducted by Chris Foster photography by LIV VERO Magazine

In just seven years, Island Harbor Custom Builders has evolved from its first $80,000 project to creating some of the most exceptional luxury homes in Indian River County. Founded by Brian Neu and Jesse Guthrie, the company may be relatively new, but its vision, craftsmanship, and dedication to quality have earned it a reputation as one of the region’s top builders.

I sat down with Brian at one of the company’s most ambitious projects yet—the Indigo Residence in Micco, also known as Little Hollywood.

BN: I’m Brian Neu, co-owner of Island Harbor Custom Builders, along with Jesse Guthrie. We launched the company in Indian River County about eight years ago. We started small—handling residential and commercial builds—but over time, the quality of our work attracted bigger and more complex jobs.

Currently, we’re at the Indigo Residence, an 11,000-square-foot home under roof. We’re wrapping up the framing stage now. Earlier this week, our framing subcontractor and his crew flew the roof trusses, and we’re preparing the window and door openings. The green coating you see is a liquid flashing that seals them against weather and moisture.

It’s an exciting project with an overall build timeline of around 18 months. We are a few months into it and expect to finish in 2026.

CF: You mentioned your first project was an $80,000 job. How did Island Harbor begin?

BN: We met because our families lived in the same neighborhood—Island Harbor— which is how we picked the name. “Island” felt tropical, “Harbor” felt safe—it just fit.

That first job was a huge milestone for us. We celebrated with a glass of bourbon. Fast forward seven years, and we’ve increased our revenues more than tenfold and are now handling multiple multimillion-dollar new builds simultaneously.

Brian Neu and Jesse Guthrie.

AT HOME ISLAND HARBOR CUSTOM BUILDERS

CF: Do you have a favorite project so far?

BN: One of my favorites was the Graff Residence on A1A. It was a remodel, but with major new construction—cabana, detached garage, pool—about $5 million worth of work.

Indigo is my favorite among our current projects. Its design features a courtyard with a koi pond, located right on the Sebastian River. The client’s vision is amazing, and she has been wonderful to work with.

CF: How has technology evolved for you since the early days?

BN: When we started, we worked at my kitchen table. Now, we have an office with 11 employees, including a designer who creates 3D renderings so clients can visualize their investment before we even break ground.

CF: What’s next for Island Harbor?

BN: We’re also building the Jen Residence on Sanderling in Vero—a 10,000-squarefoot beachfront home with sweeping Atlantic Ocean views. It’s still early in the process, but it will be spectacular.

AT HOME ISLAND HARBOR CUSTOM BUILDERS

Chris Foster Closing:

Island Harbor Custom Builder’s evolution from a neighborhood connection to a premium construction company illustrates that vision, trust, and quality craftsmanship can turn a young business into a key player in the luxury home market. With projects like Indigo and Jen, Brian and Jesse are not just constructing houses— they’re defining the next phase of coastal living in Vero Beach.

8800 US Route 1 STE 1, Sebastian, FL 32958

772-918-8161

Instagram: @islandharborbuilders

Website: islandriverbuilder.com

WALLS THAT SPEAK

Color Has the Power to Transform

by Chris Foster

In any home, walls are more than just boundaries: they are the silent storytellers of our daily lives. Color has the power to transform not only the appearance of a space but also how we feel inside it. The right shade can make a room feel spacious or cozy, lively or calm. Choosing paint isn’t just a design decision—it’s a way to set the tone for how you live.

The Power of White

I have always loved the perfect white. It’s a clean canvas that lets architecture, art, and furnishings stand out while quietly making their own statement. One of my favorites is Benjamin Moore’s White Dove—a warm, soft white that feels timeless yet modern. It reflects light beautifully, creating a fresh, airy vibe suitable for both traditional and contemporary spaces.

When choosing your ideal white, consider undertones. Cooler whites can feel crisp and modern, while warmer whites add softness and coziness. Lighting also plays a key role—a color that looks bright in the morning sunlight might appear totally different in the evening. Always test your paint on multiple walls before making a final decision.

Making a Statement with Color

While white exudes elegance and versatility, a well-placed accent wall can add depth and subtle drama to a home. Instead of bold, saturated colors, consider a muted celadon green for a soft, nature-inspired freshness; a smoky sage for understated sophistication; or a warm champagne beige that quietly elevates the space with a hint of luminosity. These tones whisper rather than shout, allowing the architecture and décor to breathe while still defining the room.

Accent walls can also stand out through texture—limewash finishes for a soft, layered look, grass cloth for a touch of organic luxury, or even a faint metallic glaze for added depth. When paired with a perfect neutral like White Dove, these statement walls become elegant focal points that feel timeless rather than trendy.

Color Mood Guide: How Your Wall Colors Influence Your Feelings

• White Dove – Fresh & Timeless

Creates a bright, airy space that feels clean, balanced, and open. Perfect for versatile, long-lasting style.

• Muted Celadon – Renewal & Calm

Soft, nature-inspired green that encourages relaxation, mental clarity, and a gentle feeling of rejuvenation.

• Smoky Sage – Grounded & Sophisticated

A refined, slightly deeper green that adds warmth, stability, and understated elegance to a space

• Champagne Beige – Comfort & Warmth

Soft and glowing, it fosters a feeling of ease and connection—perfect for gathering areas.

The Science of Color and Emotion

Color psychology reveals that the shades around us can subtly influence mood, behavior, and even productivity. Soft greens—like celadon or sage—are linked to nature and balance, helping to lower stress and promote a feeling of renewal. Warm neutrals, such as champagne beige, evoke a sense of security and comfort, encouraging relaxation and connection.

There is also a physiological aspect: certain wavelengths of light reflected by color can influence our circadian rhythm and energy levels. Bright whites can increase alertness during the day, while muted, low-saturation colors help the nervous system relax as evening approaches. In this way, your choice of wall color isn’t just a style decision—it’s a subtle daily influence on your well-being.

Color and Energy

Before selecting a color, consider the kind of energy you want in the room. Is it a space to recharge? To entertain? To focus? Let that intention guide you, and you’ll create a home that not only looks beautiful but also supports how you live.

Final Brushstroke

The walls of your home should reflect your life, your style, and the experiences you want to create. Whether you embrace the quiet elegance of the perfect white or

the soft sophistication of a muted accent wall, remember: your walls aren’t just backgrounds—they’re the frames for the life you’re living. Choose colors that speak to you, and your home will always tell the right story.

REMEMBER: YOUR WALLS AREN’T JUST BACKGROUNDS— THEY’RE THE FRAMES FOR THE LIFE YOU’RE LIVING.

HOW FRAGRANCE SHAPES THE HOME EXPERIENCE

Choosing a Fragrance That Is as Memorable as the Space Itself

by Chris Foster photography owned by M Boutique Intl.

Walk into any space—whether a welcoming home or a cozy boutique—and your nose will reveal what to expect before your eyes notice it. Fragrance is nature’s first impression, instantly setting the emotional tone. It can draw you in with curiosity and warmth . . . or quietly signal that it’s time to move on.

The art of fragrancing a home goes far beyond just lighting a candle. From handpoured aromatherapy candles to stylish reed or ultrasonic diffusers, the choices are countless. The key is choosing a scent that reflects your personality and tells your story—one that stays with your guests long after they leave.

The Science of Scent & Memory

Scent is the only sense that sends signals directly to the brain’s limbic system— the area responsible for emotion and memory—without first being processed by the thalamus. That’s why a single note of gardenia can instantly take you back to a childhood veranda, or the faintest whiff of Tuscan leather can evoke a beloved handbag or a hidden library in Florence.

When we inhale fragrance molecules, they bind to receptors in the nose that activate

electrical impulses to the olfactory bulb, which sits just above the nasal cavity and connects to the hippocampus and amygdala. These structures control both emotional response and memory recall, making scent the most personal and evocative design element in any space.

Brief History of Fragrance in the Home

Humans have been scenting their living spaces for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians burned resin and aromatic woods in temples and homes to purify the air and honor the gods.

In 9th-century Arabia, perfumers distilled essential oils from rose, oud, and amber— blends that still inspire modern luxury perfumery. During the Renaissance in Europe, sachets of dried herbs and flowers were placed in rooms to mask unpleasant urban odors, while the French aristocracy made scented candles and potpourri symbols of refined living.

Today, the tradition continues with both artisanal and high-tech methods, from small-batch hand-poured candles to ultrasonic diffusers that emit fragrance without heat.

Tips for Choosing an Exquisite Home

Fragrance

Begin with your story. Choose a fragrance that triggers something personal—a place you’ve loved, a mood you want to experience, or a memory you’d like to keep close.

Think beyond the familiar. Seek out complex notes such as jasmine sambac, black pepper, tuberose, oud wood, bergamot peel, pink peppercorn, or ambergris. For something bold yet refined, explore Tuscan leather or smoked vetiver.

Match the scent to the space. A hallway or foyer might benefit from the airy sophistication of white gardenia or orange blossom. A dining room could carry the sensual depth of cardamom, incense, or cashmere wood.

Layer for complexity. Combine a base note diffuser (such as warm tonka bean or amber resin) with candles in complementary floral or spice notes to create an evolving sensory experience throughout the day.

Let the seasons inspire you. Rotate fragrances to keep them fresh. Crisp neroli and grapefruit blossom for warmer months; rich saffron, myrrh, or black fig for cooler seasons.

Where to Begin

One of my favorite places to discover rare and beautiful scents is Delirium Candles. Their curated collection of candles and diffusers offers everything from intoxicating florals to rich, complex blends that turn any space into a signature experience.

5 Most Elegant Notes to Try This Season

1. Jasmine Sambac. Velvety and intoxicating, this rare jasmine blooms at night, releasing a deep floral aroma with hints of green freshness— perfect for creating an atmosphere of understated luxury.

2. Tuscan Leather. Rich and refined, this note evokes aged leather bound with hints of suede and warm woods. Ideal for a study, library, or any space where sophistication rules.

4. Pink Peppercorn. Bright yet subtly spicy, pink pepper adds a modern twist to florals and citruses—bringing vibrancy and intrigue to entryways and entertaining spaces.

5. Tuberose. A lush white floral known for its creamy, intoxicating aroma. Historically worn by royalty, it’s a scent that commands attention in living rooms and salons.

6. Black Fig. Earthy, sweet, and slightly green, black fig layers beautifully with woods and resins for a warm, enveloping fragrance—perfect for cooler evenings.

STEP INTO A HOME, AND THE SCENT TELLS YOU EVERYTHING BEFORE YOU EVEN SIT DOWN.

LAUNDRY DAY— UPGRADED

Let’s be honest, laundry day doesn’t exactly spark joy.

You start with a mountain of clothes that could rival Everest. You wash a load, forget about it, and return hours later to find it’s developed that lovely “gym bag” scent. Then it’s on to the dryer, where socks mysteriously vanish into the void. By the time you’re done, you’re convinced laundry is less a chore and more a full contact sport.

Now imagine if you could toss in a load, walk away, and come back to clean, dry clothes: no transferring, no remembering, no wrestling with laundry purgatory. Enter Samsung’s All-in-One Washer & Dryer, a new appliance that’s here to rescue your weekends (and your sanity).

This unit is a game-changer. Designed to wash and dry in the same drum, it eliminates the need for a separate dryer entirely. That means less bending, less switching, and less chance of forgetting about your wet clothes until next Tuesday. For busy families, professionals, or anyone who’s ever wished laundry could just do itself, this is as close as it gets.

Samsung has packed in smart features, too. With AI OptiWash™ and Dry, the machine actually senses the weight of your load and adjusts the cycle for optimal time, water, and detergent use. Translation? Your favorite shirt gets the TLC it deserves without wasting energy, or soap. Pair it with the SmartThings app, and you can start, stop, or schedule a cycle right from your phone.

Capacity isn’t an issue either. Samsung’s all-in-one unit is built with a generous drum that can handle family-size loads, so you’re not stuck running 12 tiny cycles just to keep up. And if you choose the ventless option, it can be installed in more places than a traditional laundry pair. Closet? Condo? Tiny utility nook? Done.

IMAGINE IF YOU COULD TOSS IN A LOAD, WALK AWAY, AND COME BACK TO CLEAN, DRY CLOTHES.

Now let’s talk about what really matters: your time and money. Running separate washer and dryer cycles adds up in energy and effort. This all-in-one model is not only energy efficient, it streamlines the whole process. That’s hours back in your week, plus savings on utilities.

And when you buy from Capritta Appliance & Air Conditioning, you’re not just getting Samsung’s cutting-edge laundry tech, you’re getting local service that lasts for the life of your unit.

In her role as Marketing and Design Project Manager, Linette Capritta blends brand building with business development, leveraging her expertise in digital marketing and interior design to influence both the company’s public image and its growth trajectory.

Photographs courtesy of Capritta.

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Tailored memberships available to support your beauty + wellness goals.

ELEGANCE IS TIMELESS

Mixing Old & New in the Modern Home

by Chris Foster photography by LIV VERO Magazine

There’s a special magic when history blends with modern design. A sleek contemporary interior can instantly feel more soulful, more layered, and infinitely more stylish when paired with pieces that tell a story.

Whether it’s a gilded mirror, a handcarved table, or a vintage vase, these elements add depth and help create a home that feels both elegant and personal.

In Vero Beach, Christopher Vicari and Manny Comitini, owners of The Gallery of Estate Treasures, have cultivated their keen eye for this very balance.

Christopher recalls how his mother’s passion for collecting beautiful pieces— antiquities, heirlooms, and art from her travels—inspired his own love for design. “My mother taught me that elegance isn’t about following a single style,” he shares. “It’s about layering history with the present. That’s where real beauty lives.”

The idea is as practical as it is stylish. Investing in meaningful antiques or vintage finds often adds lasting value to a home, both financially and emotionally. Unlike mass-produced décor, these pieces feature craftsmanship, rarity, and provenance that only become more important over time. When placed thoughtfully within a modern space, they elevate the room beyond the ordinary, creating a dialogue between past and present.

Adding pieces doesn’t mean turning your space into a museum. The key is contrast— such as an ornate chandelier above a minimalist dining table or a centuriesold rug grounding a modern sofa. The combination feels fresh and purposeful, letting each element stand out.

At The Gallery of Estate Treasures, Christopher and Manny curate collections that inspire homeowners to tell their own stories through their interiors. Their philosophy encourages us to view design not as fixed, but as a living reflection of our origins and future paths.

Ultimately, a home with a mix of old and new feels lasting—never frozen in time, but timeless.

“IT’S ABOUT LAYERING HISTORY WITH THE PRESENT. THAT’S WHERE REAL BEAUTY LIVES.”

Christopher Vicari.

FURNISHINGS AND ART

ELEGANCE IS TIMELESS

5 Stylish Ways to Combine Old & New

1. Anchor with an heirloom. Start with one statement antique—like a mirror, chandelier, or rug—and let modern furniture frame it.

2. Mix materials. Pair aged woods or patinated metals with sleek marble, glass, or lacquer for instant sophistication.

3. Play with scale. A bold vintage piece, like an oversized painting, adds drama to minimalist surroundings.

4. Keep it functional. Choose antiques that can serve a purpose—like a writing desk repurposed as a console—so the look feels intentional, not cluttered.

5. Blend through color. Tie the room together with a cohesive color palette, letting old and new elements speak the same design language.

772-492-9757

4344 US Route 1 North Vero Beach, FL 32967 Instagram: the_gallery_vero_beach Website: thegalleryverobeach.com

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CALDWELL TRUST COMPANY

Looking to Earn Trust in Vero Beach & Beyond

by Sheryl Vieira, Vice President of Marketing & Communications photography by LIV VERO Magazine

Since 1993, Caldwell Trust Company has earned trust by helping Florida families protect, manage, and grow their wealth. As an independently owned firm founded and led by the Caldwell family, we have built a reputation for personalized service and long-term relationships. Now, we are bringing that trusted expertise to Vero Beach, expanding from our Gulf Coast home to Florida’s East Coast.

Not Just a New Office - A Local Commitment

Our arrival in Vero Beach goes beyond opening a new location. It’s a promise to serve a community that values stability, discretion, and enduring partnerships. We know wealth management is about more than numbers; it’s about protecting your family’s legacy and providing peace of mind for generations to come.

A Legacy of Trust and Independence

Roland G. Caldwell founded the company in Venice, Florida, with a clear mission: to put clients first. Over 30 years later, under the leadership of his son, R.G. “Kelly” Caldwell Jr., Chairman, President & CEO, Caldwell Trust Company has doubled its assets under management to over $2 billion, all without mergers or outside investors.

That independence matters. It means we answer only to you, not shareholders or external pressures. This allows us to focus on what matters most: your family’s goals and values.

Local Leadership in Vero Beach

Leading our Vero Beach team is David L. Osgood, AWMA®, Executive Vice President and Market Director for the East Coast. With 35 years in wealth management and deep ties to the community, David brings trusted, tailored advice to local families, retirees, and business owners.

“Vero Beach thrives on relationships,” David says. “I’m proud to continue working here with Caldwell Trust Company—a firm that shares my commitment to tradition, personal service, and planning for the long term.”

David’s local reputation and client-first approach make him the right leader to guide our growth in Vero Beach.

Why Vero Beach? Why Now?

Expanding to a new market requires more than a good location, it requires the right people and culture. “We’ve watched the East Coast carefully for years,” Kelly Caldwell explains. “We didn’t want to plant a flag just to grow. We waited until we found the right leader, the right team, and a community that shares our values. With David and his team, we found all three.”

Vero Beach’s mix of long-established families, successful retirees, and entrepreneurs fits Caldwell Trust Company’s expertise in multi-generational wealth planning. This community values a financial partner who will be there for the long haul, not just another transaction.

What We Offer You

Clients in Vero Beach receive the same comprehensive suite of services that have helped families across Florida protect and grow their wealth for decades:

• Trust & Estate Administration

We provide personalized management of family trusts, navigating complex legal and financial requirements with care and precision.

David Osgood

(L-R) William James “Jamie” Bryan, R.G. “Kelly” Caldwell Jr., Rebecca Lachance, David Osgood.

• Investment Management

We provide customized portfolios tailored to align with your goals and risk tolerance for steady growth.

• Retirement Planning

We develop strategies to protect income, manage risks, and maximize assets through retirement.

• Legacy Strategies

We carry on your legacy and values to the next generation.

Our approach is proactive and personal. You won’t get a cookie-cutter plan. Instead, you receive advice tailored to your family’s unique needs, delivered by advisors who live and work here.

Rooted in Vero Beach - Your Community Caldwell Trust Company doesn’t view itself as a distant institution. We know trust comes from presence and participation.

That’s why we’re already involved in Vero Beach through local events and nonprofit work, following a model we’ve practiced for over 30 years on Florida’s West Coast. Our team understands that belonging means more than having an office here, it means showing up, listening, and contributing to the community’s growth.

“You can’t just put your name on a building and expect to belong,” David Osgood says. “You have to be present, help the community, and build genuine relationships.”

A Commitment and A Culture That Builds Trust

With nearly 50 employees across Venice, Sarasota, and Vero Beach, Caldwell Trust Company remains selective about who joins our team. Our culture is built upon integrity, personalized service, and client relationships that continue across generations.

Kelly Caldwell puts it plainly: “The right people keep our culture strong. That’s non-negotiable.” Our clients benefit from a team that knows trust is earned, not given. We take the time to understand your goals, adapt as your needs change, and act with your family’s best interest in mind.

R.G. “Kelly” Caldwell Jr.

What This Means for You

If you live in Vero Beach and desire a financial partner who offers:

• Stability built on 30+ years of experience

• Trusted advisors with deep community roots

• Customized wealth strategies tailored to your family

• Personal service free from outside distractions, then Caldwell Trust Company is ready to work with you.

Our new Vero Beach office provides direct access to David Osgood, William James Bryan (Jamie), Rebecca Lachance, and the entire Caldwell Trust Company team. Contact us to discuss how we can protect your wealth and plan your legacy.

Sheryl Vieira.

Founded

Headquarters Venice, Florida

Offices

Venice, Sarasota, Vero Beach, Lakewood Ranch (coming soon)

Assets Under Management

$2+ billion (2025)

Employees ~50 across all offices

Leadership

• R.G. “Kelly” Caldwell Jr., Chairman, President & CEO

• David L. Osgood, AWMA®, Executive Vice President & Market Director –East Coast

• H. Lee Thacker, Jr., CFP®, Senior Executive VP, Secretary & Trust Officer

• Scott Antritt, Senior Executive VP & Trust Officer

• Jan Miller, Senior Executive VP & Trust Officer

• Leonard Nagel, Senior Executive VP & Chief Technology Officer

Services

• Trust & estate administration

• Investment management

• Retirement planning

• Legacy strategies

1993 by Roland G. Caldwell

Jamie Bryan and Rebecca Lachance.

LUXURY IN EXPERT HANDS

a stunning $25 million oceanfront property

FASHION

Photograph courtesy Moda Baronessa

FROM VOGUE TO THE VILLA

Ashley Barone’s Journey to Resort Wear Royalty

by Ashley Barone

When I first walked through the doors at Vogue, I knew I wasn’t just there to absorb fashion—I was there to shape it.

Surrounded by icons, driven by deadlines, and constantly immersed in trend forecasting, I began to see the bigger picture: fashion isn’t just seasonal. It’s emotional. It’s transportive. And more than anything, it should feel like an escape.

That realization sparked the idea for my own resort wear line—Moda Baronessa an expression of effortless elegance with timeless silhouettes for women who love summer but dress purposefully.

Vogue as My Foundation

My time at Vogue taught me to be precise, polished, and to harness the power of storytelling through clothing. Whether I was assisting on editorials, pulling for red carpets, or working behind the scenes on styling concepts, I learned to see fashion not just as garments but as a visual conversation.

That editorial eye is reflected in every piece I now produce.

Designing for the Jet-Set Woman

My resort wear collection is made for movement—through countries, identities, and moods. I design for women who might check into a boutique hotel in Positano one

week and manage a creative team back in New York the next.

My silhouettes are flowing yet purposeful. My fabrics are natural, breathable, and often sourced from artisan communities. Think elevated kaftans, structured linen sets, hand-embroidered wraps—all designed to move with you and to make a statement without ever shouting.

Fashion with Depth, Not Just a Destination

Resort wear is often associated with the idea of “vacation clothes.” I see it differently. I think of it as freedom dressing: garments that allow women to be their most authentic selves—whether

“MY RESORT WEAR COLLECTION IS MADE FOR MOVEMENT-THROUGH COUNTRIES, IDENTITIES, AND MOODS.”

FROM VOGUE TO THE VILLA

barefoot on the coast or holding a cocktail at a rooftop bar.

The Future: Conscious Luxury

As I grow the line, sustainability stays my top priority. I am committed to partnering with ethical manufacturers and reducing waste because true luxury isn’t genuine if it damages the planet.

What’s next? A flagship pop-up, possibly in Tulum or Mykonos, along with deeper collaborations with textile artisans from India and Morocco—places I’ve traveled to and drawn inspiration from for years.

Conclusion: Style

Is a State of Mind

From editorial pages to sketchbooks, my journey has always been about storytelling. Now, through my brand, I get to share that story through fabric, fit, and feeling. And the best part? It’s only the beginning.

Email: ashley@modabaronessa.com

Instagram: @modabaronessa Website: modabaronessa.com

“MY TIME AT VOGUE TAUGHT ME TO BE PRECISE, POLISHED, AND TO HARNESS THE POWER OF STORYTELLING THROUGH CLOTHING.”

WRAPPED IN ELEGANCE

The Beauty of the Robe

by Chris Foster

Not all fashion is on the runway. Some of the most beautiful pieces quietly remain at home, in the calm of early mornings or the stillness of evenings. Here, style is more about how it makes you feel than about being seen. Few garments embody the perfect balance of comfort and elegance as effectively as the robe.

Once simply functional, the robe has become a symbol of ease and modern luxury. In silk, cashmere, or cotton, it can transform an ordinary ritual into something worth lingering in. To slip into a robe is to permit yourself to slow down—to enjoy the moment.

The Language of Fabrics

Every robe carries its personality:

Cashmere brings warmth and polish without weight.

Turkish waffle weave is breezy and light, perfect for coastal mornings. Silk falls fluidly, adding a quiet sense of glamour.

Plush cotton terry is a spa-like indulgence, restoring and comforting.

Choosing a robe is like selecting a mood— calm, indulgent, effortless, or refined.

Living in the Robe

The robe has moved beyond the bedroom. Today it’s part of the lifestyle aesthetic— draped over bare feet on cool stone floors, tied casually while sipping coffee, or thrown lightly over swimwear after a day in the sun.

Comfort as Couture

Luxury doesn’t always make a loud statement. Sometimes, it’s as simple as fabric against skin or the ritual of tying a sash before starting your day. The robe demonstrates that elegance and comfort can go hand in hand—they can be one and the same.

At LIV VERO, we celebrate fashion in all its forms. Sometimes, the most stunning fashion is discovered in the quietest places: at home.

HERE, EVERY ROBE SPEAKS OF QUIET LUXURY—EACH FABRIC, A WHISPER OF SELF-CARE MADE ELEGANT.

FOR THE LOVE OF ART AND TEACHING

Tim Sanchez and the Divine Gift of Painting

by Joshua McMiller Photography by Joshua McMiller

At first glance, Tim Sanchez carries himself with the kind of ease you often see in those who have spent their lives around both beauty and discipline. His words, like his brushstrokes, are deliberate.

When you listen to his story, you begin to understand why he has lived at the intersection of creativity, education, spirituality, and love. His journey is not just the making of an artist, but of a teacher, a seeker, and a man who believes deeply in the gifts life gives us.

Early Influences

Sanchez grew up on Long Island, New York, surrounded by the ordinary rhythms of suburban life but feeling the extraordinary pull of art. From a young age, he knew he wanted to be an artist. His parents, however, worried about his choice. “My mother told my father, ‘Speak to him,’” he recalls with a smile. “They didn’t want me to be poor, and that’s how they saw artists.”

Their fear was understandable—art has never promised security. Sanchez was undeterred. When he later told his parents that he would become a teacher, their anxiety finally softened. Teaching,

after all, meant a steady career. What they could not have known then was that Sanchez would bring just as much artistry to teaching as he did to painting.

A Lifelong Education

Art school was not a straight line for Sanchez, but rather a mosaic of experiences and teachers. He studied at Buffalo State, Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, Long Island University, Adelphi, and elsewhere, each adding another layer to his understanding.

“I kept seeking out different teachers, different perspectives,” he says. “It wasn’t about finishing quickly. It was about growing, about seeing art through as many eyes as possible.”

That hunger to learn eventually became the same hunger he instilled in his students. He remembers the first art teacher who inspired him, who showed him that art could be both skill and magic. It was that model he carried with him when he entered the classroom.

The Teacher

For Sanchez, teaching was never a compromise. It was an extension of who he is. Over the course of his career, he rose to become the Director of Art for a Long Island school district, and in that role he transformed how young artists saw themselves.

He curated gallery shows for his students where their work wasn’t simply pinned to cork boards but displayed in professional settings, framed and lit like any serious exhibition right in the High School. Parents, administrators, and community members would gather for openings each month, celebrating art not as a pastime but as something alive and necessary.

“Art wasn’t just something stuck on a refrigerator,” Sanchez says. “It was made to be shown.”

He took students into Manhattan’s SoHo galleries, exposing them to the heart of the art world, and guided them through portfolio reviews that prepared them for college applications. The results spoke for themselves: many of his students were accepted into top art schools without ever facing rejection with 100% college placement.

“Confidence,” Sanchez says, “is as important as technique. You have to believe your work belongs.”

The Artist

Even as he taught others, Sanchez remained deeply committed to his own practice. His paintings are vibrant and thoughtful, often carrying both precision and freedom. He has developed a method of deliberately placing “mistakes” into his work, forcing himself to solve them in inventive ways.

“I don’t want my work to become repetitive,” he explains. “So I challenge myself by creating problems that need fixing. It keeps me alive, keeps me awake in the process.” This self-imposed discipline reflects not only his technical mastery but also his philosophy: art is about movement, evolution, and never becoming too comfortable.

Faith and Spirit

Threaded through all of Sanchez’s life is a deep Catholic faith. “I’m a strong Catholic,” he says firmly. “It has given me nothing but joy. It gives me purpose.” He does not separate his spirituality and his art as the two are entwined. “God gave me this talent,” he reflects, “and if I don’t use it, that would be a waste.”

For him, painting is more than expression. It is an offering, a way of honoring the gifts he believes are divinely given. This faith provides the anchor to his restless curiosity and creativity.

FOR THE LOVE OF ART AND TEACHING

Love and Legacy

Perhaps the most grounding influence in Sanchez’s life has been love. For more than forty years, he has shared his life with his partner, Jim. Their relationship has weathered decades of change in society, offering both stability and joy.

“He’s my rock,” Sanchez says simply, with warmth. That kind of enduring partnership; one built on patience, loyalty, and devotion; mirroring the same qualities that have shaped his art and teaching.

His love life, he admits, does play into his art. Love, after all, sharpens one’s capacity to see beauty and resilience in the world.

Looking Forward

Even now, Sanchez does not consider his journey complete. He continues to explore, to push, to experiment. He remains curious about where art is heading, even as he holds firm to the value of authenticity.

It’s that search for authenticity that defines Sanchez’s life. From his classrooms to his canvases, from his prayers to his partnership, he has built a life that is both grounded and expansive.

Q&A WITH TIM SANCHEZ

JM: Did you ever want to be anything else other than an artist?

TS: No.

JM: What moves you to actually go to the canvas?

TS: It’s a feeling. I can almost feel it in my hands. Something in me pulls me toward the painting and it’s God-given.

JM: What do you think about the direction of art, especially digital art and AI?

TS: Like anything, it has to be carefully monitored. When new things like Giclées first came out, I thought they would take over, but they didn’t. The real thing will always matter. People will always search for authenticity.

JM: Does your love life play a role in your art?

TS: Absolutely. I’ve been with my partner Jim for more than forty years. That kind of love and support is a gift, and it sustains everything I do.

To speak with Tim Sanchez is to glimpse a life shaped by dedication to art, to teaching, to faith, to love. His story reminds us that art is not just what is painted, sculpted, or drawn. It is how one lives.

Instagram: timothyjsanchez

Storm Shutters, Gates, and Awnings

OPTIMAL ENJOYMENT OF YOUR INDOOR AND OUTDOOR SPACE

HEALTH & WELLNESS

To our Readers and Advertisers

by Jim Field

Beginning with this issue, LIV VERO Magazine will report monthly on the market for healthcare in Indian River County. Our purpose is to inform citizens about healthcare resources available to them, assisting all of us to make wise decisions leading to healthier lives and improved quality of life. Our articles will be researched and written by us. We will interview local healthcare professionals across the continuum of care. We will cover the business, professional talent, and service offerings of our acute care hospitals, outpatient centers, clinics, physician practices, assisted living, home care, and other integral for-profit and 501(c) (3) health and wellness providers. We will showcase new, emerging offerings. When available, we will report on quality performance metrics and costs of care for consumers. I was a healthcare researcher, writer, consultant, publisher, and national speaker for nearly three decades. This is a return to my roots . . . in my Florida hometown.

FINDING PRIMARY CARE

Part 1: Painting the Primary Care Landscape

by Jim Field

Nearly everyone is searching for a primary care physician (PCP). Many who currently have a PCP of record are disenchanted and looking for someone different. Perhaps an equal number aren’t cared for by a PCP, but would like to find a “good” one—if that were possible. And even those who are satisfied with their PCP are open to entertaining options. The patient population is restless.

Poor State of Health

It is neither a secret nor an exaggeration to say that primary care in our country is in a state of acute disarray. The reasons are many and their roots complex.

There is a chronic shortage of PCPs nationally, acutely so in many regions, the deficit projected to worsen deep into the future. PCP income levels have fallen relative to others professions and the cost of living. Volume of patients seen is prioritized to maximize throughput, and thereby revenue, at the cost of time spent with patients. The pace of visits coupled with the prevalence of chronic disease, poverty, mental illness, and extreme old age has contributed to high rates of PCP disillusionment, job dissatisfaction, and burnout.

The medical establishment has tried to compensate. Many physicians—PCPs and specialists alike—have foregone private practice for group practices, where on-call coverage is infrequent or nonexistent, expensive malpractice insurance is included in compensation, and the demands of running a small business are replaced by a company owner and stable salary.

The clinical and business model of most group practices—which solves for the shortage of physicians and takes advantage of lower cost physician “extenders”—is to leverage a core number of MDs and DOs (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) using a large cadre of NPs, PAs, APRNs (Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, and Advanced Practice Registered Nurses, respectively), and other clinical staff.

New Approach

The upshot of all this is that primary care is not what it used to be. Marcus Welby retired half a century ago. (The series, starring Robert Young, ran from 1969-1976). Indeed, his PCP children also retired, and more recently his PCP grandchildren. Forget

about the days of spending a casual 30 minutes talking to your PCP. Furthermore, don’t be disappointed should a different PCP enter your exam room. And prepare for the day when eventually an NP will become your primary caretaker in the practice.

If PCPs themselves have altered their expectations about their profession, then we, in turn, need to alter our expectations about what we expect to receive from primary care. Specifically, we need to understand how this care model now works, understand what it does and does not do, understand its strengths and weaknesses, and use this knowledge to maximize the current value of primary care to our benefit. In short, we need to relearn everything we think we know about this one component of broader medicine. Otherwise we court disappointment and perpetual frustration, and risk giving up on primary care services entirely—which decidedly would not be in our best interests.

This two-part article walks you through how best to approach contemporary primary care from a consumer’s perspective.

What is Primary Care?

Primary care is composed of a wide range of services focused on an individual’s overall physical and mental health across their life span. “Primary” refers to front line, foundational, and ongoing care accessed routinely before referral to physician specialists. Ideally, primary care functions to coordinate patient care services, with long-term patient-provider relationships ensuring personalized and consistent care.

Examples of primary care include preventive services (e.g., screening, vaccines), diagnostic services (e.g., blood panels, X-rays), educational services (e.g., instruction, counseling), acute care (e.g., infections, minor injuries), and management of chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension).

Various types of physicians provide primary care services, each trained and oriented to delivering a distinctive type and mix of services to defined patient populations:

• Family Medicine. Devoted to providing comprehensive, continuous care for individuals and families across all ages, sexes, and conditions. In some practice locations (e.g., rural areas), will provide a broad assortment of services associated with other specialties. Residency training covers internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics/gynecology, psychiatry, surgery.

• Internal Medicine. Focused on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases, covering all organ systems, in adults (age 18 and older). Practice approach emphasizes evidencebased medicine, problem-solving for undifferentiated symptoms, and coordination of care. Residency training includes hospital, outpatient, and sometimes intensive care settings.

• Pediatric Medicine. Devoted to the health, growth, and development of infants, children, adolescents, and young adults. Scope of care includes prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases, encompassing physical, emotional, and social health.

• Geriatric Medicine. Directed to the care of older adults (age 65 and older) with the goal of promoting healthy aging, functional independence, and quality of life. Scope of care emphasizes advanced age related maladies, including multiple chronic illnesses, dementia, frailty, and mobility issues.

• Obstetrics/Gynecology. Not typically considered primary care, but services can assume this role for women’s health. Gynecologists specialize in the female reproductive system, including reproductive health, menstruation, fertility, contraception, and menopause. Obstetrics specializes in pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.

In terms of practice organization, PCPs can be solo practitioners, members of a PCP group practice, or members of a multispecialty group. Physicians choose to practice with other physicians for a host of reasons, including collegiality, the sharing of expertise and work load, and the sharing of practice expenses. Physician practices can be owned by the physician(s) making up the practice—referred to as a “private practice”—or external entity such as a hospital/health system, health insurance company, or investment firm.

Do I Need Primary Care?

This is a personal choice. There are some (an estimated 20-30% of US adults) who choose to avoid all types of medical care until symptomatic and forced to seek assistance. However, most individuals recognize the benefits of receiving some primary care services on a systematic basis, albeit they may be highly selective about what they receive and imprecise as to timeframe.

Most specialists will not provide primary care services, thus necessitating a PCP relationship if such care is desired. Furthermore, most private insurance companies (not Medicare) will require beneficiaries wanting to see a specialist to first consult a PCP and secure a formal referral. In sum, unless you are an individual foregoing basic healthcare services—or inappropriately using an Emergency Room as your primary care provider—you should seek out a PCP relationship.

Two Hard Truths

There are two hard truths to know about physicians before selecting one to care for you. First, their competency, performance, and compassion run the gamut from great to poor—just like you’d find in any other profession and work scenario.

Yes, all physicians attend medical school, undergo additional postgraduate education, serve in positions that entail supervised on the job training, and must pass a battery of exams. But even this rigor cannot prevent a meaningful number of inferiors from getting through. As a consumer, just know that you must separate wheat from chaff, and this is your task to do.

Second, this task, unfortunately, is extremely hard to do in practice, based as it is, 95% versus 5%, on personal observation, intuition, and gut feel as opposed to statistics and science.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

FINDING PRIMARY CARE

Medicine is an esteemed profession and mega business that somehow has escaped accountability for self-reporting on the clinical and humanistic performance of its practitioners and facilities. Stated bluntly, it is shocking—in a world ruled by and inundated with data of all kinds—how little information that we, as consumers, are allowed to have about people and organizations who are licensed to directly impact our health and survival. The little information you may glean from a website or pamphlet is rarely on point as to whether you will be cared for competently and safely. All to say that whether you are searching for a PCP, specialist, or hospital, you’re going into the hunt almost completely blind.

That said, take some solace in knowing that you are not alone—and most importantly, that there are things you can do by personal initiative to fill in the blanks partially and protect yourself. Please continue reading!

Best Methods of Selection

Hands down, there are two best ways to find any physician, and for purposes of this article, a PCP. The first is to receive a word-of-mouth referral from a physician who knows something first-hand and substantive about the professional performance and personal attributes of the physician they are recommending to you. Absent objective data on physician performance, the next best evidence is observed performance by a credible, competent, ethical, and discriminating physician, who can call balls and strikes. A secret in health care to receiving truly first-rate care is as simple as finding out which physicians and hospitals that other physicians send their loved ones to.

A second-best avenue is to receive a word of mouth referral from an individual whose judgement you trust and who has had some solid experience with the physician in question. Again, lacking objective data, this type of personal impression and feedback can go a long way in eliminating blatantly mediocre performers. While still highly imperfect— after all, what this person may value in a physician may differ in whole or in part from what you do—it may abbreviate the shopping that you invariably must do.

Apologies beforehand, but even with a physician derived referral, you still have to shop and evaluate. And once you’ve preliminarily chosen a PCP—in effect giving them a test drive—you must approach this physician in a very tactical way to make sure that you receive the care that serves your personal needs and issues.

To summarize, to be a successful consumer of today’s primary care, you must (1) know its context, (2) locate a promising candidate PCP, (3) evaluate them skillfully, and (4) use them in a directed way to best serve your ends.

Part 2 in the October issue will provide best practices for shopping for, evaluating, and utilizing a Primary Care Physician.

FIND PHYSICIANS

AND HOSPITALS

THAT OTHER PHYSICIANS SEND THEIR LOVED ONES TO.

CHEST PAIN AND HEART ATTACK

What

to Do and What Care to Expect in Vero Beach

by Jim Field and Alan Rosenbaum, MD

There are two medical emergencies that each of us should know about and plan to manage aggressively: heart attack and stroke. Both can cripple or kill quickly, so deserve our highest attention—literally every minute counts in seeking care; the faster care is received, the less damage to critical tissues, translating into a higher probably of a better outcome than if care is delayed.

But how should we respond? Is it prudent to observe and wait—reducing the chances of a false alarm, and the waste of time and money this entails—or should we act immediately? Should we drive ourselves or a symptomatic individual to Urgent Care or purposefully proceed to an Emergency Room? Should we take medication(s) on hand or take any special steps to help ourselves?

Most importantly, what medical treatment(s) can we expect to receive in Vero Beach? Are these therapies considered to be the “standard of care”

across the US? How do we know that the caregivers qualified to treat these conditions will actually be on site and available when we need them—especially outside of normal working hours?

Finally, what if we are just visiting Vero Beach and are unfamiliar with the local healthcare landscape? Can we trust the care here, or should we try to make it home to physicians whom we know? Would it be possible to stage the treatment— initiating certain steps here, for example, but deferring others (e.g., more technically challenging ones) until later?

Truth to be told, the average citizen knows little to nothing about what goes on inside the four walls of acute care hospitals and outpatient care centers. This is perfectly normal: until we need medical attention for a specific disorder, there’s no need to concern ourselves about theoretical scenarios. That said, there are select medical conditions—again, heart attack and stroke especially—where knowledge beforehand and decisive actions can make an enormous difference in medical outcomes.

To educate us about chest pain and heart attack, I asked Dr. Alan Rosenbaum to share guidance on current care practices at Indian River Cleveland Clinic Hospital. To be a good citizen and friend, readers are encouraged to pass along this article to those who may benefit from the information herein. Next month we will provide a similar write up on stroke.

By Dr. Alan Rosenbaum

Imagine you’re at home, when all of the sudden you feel an unusual sensation in your chest, a pressure as if someone is sitting on your chest. You wonder if you’re having a heart attack. With a few tips on how to proceed and treatment options available right here in Vero Beach, you can feel a bit more prepared.

First, call EMS (911) immediately. If you’re truly having a heart attack, then it’s important to receive urgent evaluation in the Emergency Room (ER).

There are certain types of heart attacks that need to be treated urgently to save heart muscle. In those cases, the later you get to the hospital, the worse the prognosis.

You should never transport someone or yourself to the hospital with a suspected heart attack. On the way emergency procedures may be necessary, necessitating paramedics.

When calling EMS tell the operator you think you’re having a heart attack. While waiting for EMS, you may take aspirin, nitroglycerin under the tongue, or oxygen if available. If someone is nearby, they should stay with you until EMS arrives. Inside the hospital, an ER physician will evaluate you urgently. There are generally

two types of heart attacks, both types usually caused by fatty plaques within a coronary artery.

The first type is visible on electrocardiogram (ECG), and this situation calls for urgent treatment— referred to as “primary angioplasty”—to open up the blockage with a “stent”—a small collapsible tube deployed at the site of the blockage to keep the artery open long-term. If this type of heart attack is suspected, the ER physician will immediately call the interventional cardiology team, and you will be taken urgently to the cardiac catheterization laboratory for the procedure.

If you have the other type of heart attack— not visible on ECG—urgent treatment may not be necessary if you are stable with no further symptoms. In this situation, you’ll be admitted to the hospital until the cardiologist can evaluate your case to decide further treatment.

You should know that Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital has a robust Interventional Cardiology program. I know the doctors well, and they are extremely well trained with lots of experience. I’ve worked with them extensively on many cases, and they are simply wonderful doctors.

One of them will be available 24/7/365, and the Interventional Cardiology program is well coordinated with the ER. If urgent cardiac catheterization is necessary, the cardiac catheterization team is called to the hospital regardless of hour, aiming for a 60-minute maximum time interval between ER presentation and stent (in compliance with national professional standards). All personnel live close to the hospital so that these standards are met.

Hopefully you will never need the services of the Interventional Cardiology program at Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital, but if you do, you can count on them.

Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital cath lab team. Back row from left: William Mirabal, Samantha Long, Joseph Rodriguez, Andrew Guzman, Hallie Russell. Front row from left: Amy Navinskey, Dr. Carlos Gonzalez Lengua, Dr. Mistyann-Blue Miller, Lilly Roberts, Elizabeth Elliott. Photograph by Jim Field.

CHEST PAIN AND HEART ATTACK

We have everything necessary to manage heart attacks right here in Vero Beach, with excellent results that consistently meet American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association standards.

Dr. Alan M. Rosenbaum is a general, noninvasive cardiologist, with training at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio and University of Pittsburgh. He most recently worked at Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital until his retirement in 7/2023.

Primer on Primary Angioplasty

- An emergency non-surgical procedure used to treat patients who are having a heart attack—specifically, an STelevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

- Also referred to as primary percutaneous coronary intervention or primary PCI.

- “Primary” refers to the fact that it is first-line treatment.

- The preceding standard of care was intravenous clot-busting drugs: thrombolytic therapy.

- A catheter is inserted into an artery (groin or wrist) and guided to the coronary artery tree; dye is injected to identify one or more blocked arteries; a balloon at the tip of the catheter is inflated to open the artery, restoring blood flow; one or more stents are implanted at the site of blockage to keep the artery open.

- Primary angioplasty emerged as the national standard of care for STEMI heart attacks in the late 1980s to early 1990s.

Cardiac cath lab. Photograph courtesy of the Cleveland Clinic.

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HOSPITAL-LEVEL CARE AT HOME

Innovative Program Brings Acute Care to You

by Jim Field and Brenda Silva photography by Joshua McMiller.

Most people would agree that there is nothing enjoyable about a visit to the Emergency Room.

Should you be admitted to an inpatient bed, there’s no telling how long the ensuing stay might be. In this foreign setting, there will be pervasive bright lights, rotating caregivers, tests and questioning, bland food—all sorts of intrusions and discomforts to deal with. Inevitably, day and night blend together. While grateful for the care received, the wish of every patient is rapid and successful resolution of the difficulty at hand, followed by swift discharge to home.

The situation can be particularly trying if you must remain in the hospital for an extended period even though your condition is sorted out and you’re in recovery mode. The holdup is that you still require some type of medical care requiring supervision, although beyond this, there’s nothing else significant going on. So you lay in a bed watching TV.

This article introduces an alternative to this conventional pathway—an innovative program offered by Cleveland Clinic that—get ready for this—brings hospitallevel care into your home. Its purpose is to eliminate those final few days of low-intensity inpatient care, returning patients quicker to their own environment.

Hospital Care at HomeSM Program

The program was founded in April 2023 by Richard Rothman, MD, a hospitalist by specialty, who also serves as Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of the Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital. The “problem” solved by the program is that select patients are not best served by extended recovery in the hospital. The “opportunity” created by the program is enhanced patient outcomes, higher patient satisfaction, and lower costs of care.

Hospitals are generally safe environments but do carry inherent risks. At Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital, patient outcomes rank among the best nationally, with notably low mortality and infection rates. However, on a national level, hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) affect an estimated 3.2% of patients admitted to hospitals throughout the United States and contribute to more than 100,000

deaths annually. (Covid-19 is a respiratory viral HAI.)

As mentioned, many patients find the hospital setting disorienting, stressful, and exhausting—the antithesis of a healing atmosphere. A single day in a low-acuity hospital bed can cost thousands of dollars, some of which, depending upon insurance coverage, may be charged to patients.

A major push within healthcare over the past two decades has been to transition services to the outpatient setting. Not too long ago, same-day surgery was considered innovative (and even shocking); now it’s commonplace and expected. Some of these shifted services were easy to redesign. Technology made others possible. And this is precisely the case with the Hospital Care at HomeSM program, a product of creative thinking and digital technology.

Having spent years shepherding his vision from concept to reality, Dr. Rothman’s enthusiasm is palpable. “Cleveland Clinic’s Hospital Care at Home delivers highquality, hospital-level care in the comfort of patients’ homes, promoting faster healing and enhanced patient satisfaction. By leveraging technology and a dedicated care team, patients receive continuous monitoring and support, leading to improved outcomes and reduced hospital

Dr. Richard Rothman founded the Hospital Care at Home program and continues to champion as Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital.

readmissions.

“We’re operating in a re-imagined environment where we’ve created models for virtual physicians in many specialties who are now able to interact with the patient virtually across miles. We can capture complex images at the patient’s home, including echocardiogram, and have it read by a Cleveland Clinic cardiologist.

“Hospital Care at Home is a great example of how the way we deliver hospital care will continue to evolve. Technology embedded in the patient’s home gives us visibility into what’s happening in real time. We’re finding out that we’re able to do much more than just treat the patient for their acute condition—we can improve the lives of patients and those they live with—we’re able to see the patient holistically. We’re providing additional patient benefits by virtue of intervening in a number of things that we wouldn’t be able to pick up on from the brick-and-mortar hospital.”

Patient Selection

In medicine, clinical success is highly dependent upon selection of patients who are predisposed to benefit from a given therapy. In short: proper selection = improved outcomes. Screening for the Hospital Care at Home program is conducted in the Emergency Department and the hospital’s medical/surgical inpatient units. Attending physicians and nurses are constantly evaluating patients to determine program eligibility.

Julia Rodecker, RN, Assistant Nurse Manager with the program, describes the selection process. “A typical patient for us is someone that requires hospitalization, but doesn’t need to be confined to a hospital room. We take all ages and demographics. However, there are exclusion criteria that the physicians use when evaluating a patient. Examples of contraindications include patients requiring large volumes of oxygen and continuous monitoring, intensive care unit level patients, and cases requiring continuous cardiac drips and/or monitoring.

“Conditions considered for the program include cellulitis, congestive heart failure (CHF), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, diverticulitis, colitis, and kidney infections. An ideal diagnosis, for example, is urinary tract infection (UTI), which is non-complicated but requires IV antibiotics. Maybe the patient is 40 years old and they can walk and talk and move around and their kids are at home, but they’ve got this UTI and they require IV medication. They just want to get home and receive their treatment and be with their family.”

Criteria specific to the patient and family include the following. The home must be within a 25-mile radius of the Cleveland Clinic hospital. The program team will assess and ensure that the patient has basic necessities at home such as safety, reliable power supply, air conditioning, and supportive family members. Having a family member at home is ideal but not a requirement; the program will send caregivers to the home daily, and also food. The patient must agree to participate and be able to use a phone or digital tablet. Temporary internet service can be set up if needed.

The hospital comes to the patient in the form of in-person visits from paramedics and nurses.

A portable X-ray machine is brought to a patient’s home. Vendors work in tandem with Cleveland Clinic Hospital Care at Home staff to coordinate imaging needs for each patient.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

HOSPITAL-LEVEL CARE AT HOME

Facilitating Technology and Clinicians

The patient management and communication hub of the program is known as the CIViC (Clinically Integrated Virtual Command) Center, located on 37th Street. Inside, a cadre of clinicians sit before large screens populated with patient chart information, daily calendars, and real time images of patients at home. The CIViC operates 24/7/365, with an RN Manager onsite reporting up to the attending inpatient hospitalist, who has clinical responsibility for program patients.

In the home, patients are provided with a digital tablet, which is their centerpiece for routine, and if needed, emergency communication. Every evening patients receive a detailed schedule of events that will take place the following day. On that day, hourly event reminders are sent to ensure the household is ready.

The patient and family can FaceTime a CIViC clinician any time they wish using the tablet. Emergency calls are tabletinitiated as well. The reality is that for patients and families, caregiver assistance is only seconds away.

In addition, clinicians visit the home— typically at least twice a day—to perform assigned tasks. Hours for routine visits span 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (to respect patient sleep, the program avoids scheduling appointments during the night). Depending upon the specific patient’s care needs, the in-home care team could include paramedics, RNs, phlebotomists, equipment/supply technicians, and other healthcare professionals such as physical or occupational therapists. Individual treatment plans may consist of medication management, lab services, IV antibiotics, infusions, rehabilitation services such as physical and respiratory therapies, imaging, meals and more.

Program Performance

The program launched in 2023 with 27 eligible patients under management. Within six months, the program had enrolled and discharged 277 patients, recording an

average stay of 5.3 days. Dr. Rothman notes that “patient feedback was notably positive, with experience scores exceeding those of traditional inpatient care.”

Program enrollees are still considered hospital inpatients—not home care patients—for reimbursement purposes. Specifically, Medicare pays the hospital similarly to an inpatient stay, a practice followed by select commercial insurers. Similarly, program enrollees are subject to inpatient-equivalent copayments and stipulations. Program patients are not responsible for the cost of technology and equipment introduced into the home.

Future Direction

Validating the program’s effectiveness and acceptance by patients, the Cleveland Clinic Florida health system has expanded Hospital Care at HomeSM to their other acute care hospitals, including Weston/ Broward County. Built to scale its operations, the CIViC Center in Vero Beach will virtually manage program patients up and down Florida’s Southeast Coast.

Counting all participating hospitals, the program in aggregate has enrolled nearly

4,000 patients. The average daily census was 7 patients, peaking at 12. Impressively, the care model has avoided 11,000 hospital days. Currently, the daily census is capped at 26 patients, with that number expected to increase as staff are added. The program is expected to expand further to Cleveland Clinic hospitals in Ohio; once again, Vero Beach’s CIViC Center will scale to serve as the management/ communications hub.

Building on the program’s demonstrated success, Dr. Rothman speaks powerfully to its larger promise. “As we build more volume, we open conversations of clinical research and applied learning. In a model like this, because it is so novel, clinical research will guide the patient population that’s enrolled. In the future, we want more research on the viability of the program for patients who are acutely ill. We want to know which patients do better at home versus the brick-and-mortar hospital. We need to think of tempering our excitement for Hospital Care at Home, despite the fact that we see so much potential in it, and allow the clinical research to speak for the care delivery model in the future.”

(L-R) Hospital Care at Home Medical Director Samantha Daniel, M.D. and leadership team: Corinne Rozier, Danielle Crow, Julia Rodecker, Richard Rothman, M.D. at the CIViC Center in Vero Beach. The map shows locations of Florida patients currently participating in the program.

LIVVERO GALLERY 1

Introducing: LIV VERO Gallery

LIV VERO Gallery is a curated space within each issue dedicated to celebrating fine art and the artists who inspire us, telling stories that resonate with our community and beyond. Each showcased piece is available for purchase; inquiries please contact jim@livvero.com. Art lives here. Let it live with you.

Regan Kenyon

Artist Statement

My paintings are rooted in the language of abstract expressionism, guided by intuition and shaped by the experiences of travel. Each canvas becomes a map of movement, emotion, and discovery, an unfolding record of moments felt rather than seen. When I work, I am not striving to depict a place or a memory directly, but rather to translate the essence of my encounters with new landscapes, people, and atmospheres into color, gesture, and rhythm.

The layers of paint, shifting tones, and spontaneous marks are born out of a dialogue between inner response and external influence. I allow brushstrokes and textures to emerge freely, often surprising myself with the directions they take. In this way, the paintings echo the unpredictability of travel itself, with unplanned turns, collisions of cultures, and the wonder of finding beauty in the unexpected.

Jewel Box, 36 x 36 in., acrylic on canvas.

Cabo 36 x 36 in., acrylic on canvas.

Vibrant hues, bursts of movement, and interwoven textures suggest both chaos and harmony, mirroring the emotional spectrum of journeying into the unknown. These works are invitations to pause and feel, moving beyond geography and beyond narrative, to experience painting as a space where memory, intuition, and imagination converge.

Through this process, I seek not only to capture but also to share the transformative spirit of exploration.

Blue Eddy 60 x 48 in., oil on canvas.

Roil Blue 24 x 36 in., oil on canvas.

Coral Garden II 36 x 36 in., oil on canvas.

FIGHTING HUMAN TRAFFICKING

Lynne Barletta and the Florida Faith Alliance

by Jim Field

There are many factors contributing to the greatness of our country. One of these is the willingness of fellow citizens to devote their lives to GREAT causes that help the disadvantaged souls among us. Through vision, leadership, force of personality, moral suasion, these crusaders enlist others to assist their cause, donating time and money. These activists are forces to be reckoned with—dynamos, restless, optimistic, determined. Indeed, they are a special breed.

One such person is Lynne Barletta. I was introduced to her by a friend who wondered if LIV VERO Magazine might be interested in profiling her and her cause. I did some research and spoke with Lynne by phone to hear her story firsthand. I was blown away by her passion; by the importance of her mission; by the scale of her undertakings; and by the results she has achieved.

The purpose of this article is to highlight the “best” of Lynne and her worksin-progress. In practice, there is too much activity to capture in detail, thus necessitating a CliffsNotes of sorts. My hope is that readers will attach to her cause, engaging further in a way that best

works for them—there are many avenues for involvement—spreading the word to others. Lynne—thank you!

Florida Faith Alliance. Founded by Lynne. A Florida-wide movement uniting churches, communities, and civic leaders to stop human trafficking through education, prevention, and action. A faithbased nonprofit 501(c)(3), the FFA trains and mobilizes first responders, churches, schools, and government agencies to make real arrests, rescues, and achieve real impact.

FFA vision. A world where all children and adults are safe from the threat of human trafficking. FFA mission. Stop human trafficking with a focus on fighting child trafficking through prevention, education, action, protection, collaboration, restoration, and legislation for advocation. FFA promise. Passionately empower prayer, engage volunteers, work with law enforcement and legislators to eradicate the travesty of child trafficking, while collaborating to help establish housing and healing programs for survivors.

Tragic statistics. In 2024, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) received 20.5 million reports related to suspected child sexual exploitation, covering 29.2 million incidents and including 62.99 million files (33.1 million videos; 28 million images). A 2025 PubMed meta-analysis (systematic review) estimated 8.1% of children report past-year online child sexual exploitation or abuse (OCSEA), including solicitation and non-consensual exposure.

UPCOMING EVENT SEPTEMBER 18, 2025

Polish American Social Club Fundraiser/Awareness Sept 18, 2025 – 6:00 pm 7500 US HW 1 Vero Beach,  FL 32967 Reservations requested by: September 11 772-532-9706 or email stephanyTAA@yahoo.com

Training tomorrow’s leaders at the Gifford Youth Achievement Center.

Faith Leader. Founder in 2002 and Paster of Visionary Church in Stuart, Lynne inspires her congregation to rise in leadership and live out their faith with their families and in their community.

Visionary Educator. Founder in 2010 of the Visionary School of Arts for children, whose mission is to change lives through fine arts and leadership training, empowering at-risk, traumatized, and gifted children through creative skills, business skills, and strong character.

Impactful Teacher, The Power of Art. Creator of the transformational healing video curriculum in 9-week courses, Lynne’s program has brought restoration to hundreds of trafficked, abused and atrisk children and adults. Her curriculum is used in multiple schools and organizations with teaching teams. Visionary School of Arts implements The Power of Art curriculum for leadership training.

Powerful Influencer, Don’t Take the Bait. This transformative educational program teaches children and teachers how to avoid trafficking tactics. It has already been implemented in schools, with profound results.

Award-Winning Advocate. Lynne received the 2024 Ashley Moody Community Advocate Award from Florida’s Attorney General, honoring her outstanding work in protecting the vulnerable and advocating for systemic change.

Select Accomplishments

Proclamations. 19 anti-trafficking Proclamations signed to support Human Trafficking Awareness Month, to include City of Vero Beach, Town of Indian River Shores, City of Sebastian, City of Stuart, St. Lucie County, Martin County, Palm Beach County. St. Lucie County and Port St. Lucie trained 2,000 employees with the FL Attorney General 100% Club to recognize signs of human trafficking and turning in tips.

Live presentations. 80+ live awareness presentations directly impacting 3,900 people, including First Responders 40+, Law Enforcement Officers, Sheriffs and State Attorney 20+, FL Health Department Supervisors 100+, Churches/Members 500+, Principals, Nurses, School Counselors 300+, Women’s Organizations 100+, Republican Clubs 500+, Child Services Supervisors 40+.

Law enforcement. 100s of arrests/rescues generated by live presentations through audience awareness and tips to law enforcement.

Across all programs and activities, Lynne has gathered a large following of dedicated volunteers, including a cadre of trained presenters to conduct outreach across the Treasure Coast and Florida. Donations may be made on the FFA website.

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM WALLS

The Life-Changing Impact of Student Travel

by Rikki Bischoff

Student travel is more than just a fun break from routine. It’s an essential educational experience. Whether through school-organized trips or family travel, stepping outside the classroom and into the world promotes deeper learning, personal growth, and a broader worldview, not only for students, but for the chaperones who accompany them.

One of the most significant benefits of student travel is the firsthand exposure to different cultures and perspectives. As reported by the Institute of International Education, travel experiences lead to a more comprehensive understanding of global issues, diverse cultural practices, and different educational systems. This kind of immersion fosters critical thinking skills and encourages students to interpret the world through multiple lenses, an increasingly important skill in today’s interconnected world.

As a Saint Edward’s teacher, school counselor, and parent, I am passionate about encouraging students to explore the world beyond the classroom walls through real experiences. This summer, our family was fortunate enough to travel to places we had only read about in history books, bringing the past to life in unforgettable ways.

I’ve taught about the ruins of Ephesus, the splendor of the Colosseum, and the impact of ancient Greek philosophers, but it wasn’t until we stood under the towering dome of the Hagia Sophia or strolled through the cobblestone streets of Dubrovnik that I truly understood the power of experiential learning. These experiences turn classroom lessons into powerful, lasting memories.

This summer, a group of Saint Edward’s students and teachers traveled to the Galápagos Islands to observe unique ecosystems, discuss conservation with local guides, and deepen their commitment to environmental responsibility. Their reflections spoke volumes, not only about what they had learned, but how the experience had shifted their perspectives.

Rising senior Mikey Ladd reflected on his experience, saying, “My recent journey to the Galápagos Islands was a truly transformative experience, one that challenged me in unexpected ways and left me with a deep appreciation for both the natural world and the power of immersive learning.”

Upper School Math Department Chair Sandy Baker jumped at the opportunity to chaperone. She says, “I found myself uniquely positioned—more than just living out an extraordinary adventure—to share in the unfiltered awe and delight of my students as they encountered the unspoiled richness of these remarkable islands. Over the course of our trip, I heard students reflect on getting dirty and working hard. They stepped outside of their comfort zones—literally sleeping in tents and taking cold showers. We all tried new foods, many of us ate goat for the first time, and we drank amazing fresh juices at each meal. We embraced the lack of technology by playing card games, telling stories, and being present in our downtime.”

“Most notably, we reflected on each day’s lesson. I witnessed intellectual growth, personal growth, and spiritual growth. It was in these moments that I realized these students are true stewards of the environment—not just for our Indian River Lagoon, but for the planet as a whole.”

As one of our instructors, Mica Stacey, a biologist and underwater photographer for conservation said, “The ocean connects us all.”’

Galapagos landscape.

According to the Global Education Benchmark Group, students who have traveled are more likely to demonstrate empathy and understanding toward different cultures and people. This empathy fosters not only a greater appreciation for diversity but also encourages a more global mindset, one that can lead to more inclusive attitudes and behaviors in their future communities, workplaces, and relationships.

Travel isn’t just about the places we go, but what we learn about ourselves along the way. Whether it’s navigating unfamiliar public transit in Rome or ordering dinner in an unfamiliar language, students are taking risks and learning how to problem solve. They become more resilient and adaptable. These skills are critical for success in both academics and life.

Personal growth often happens most powerfully outside our comfort zones. On our visit to Croatia, we hiked along the Adriatic coast and explored ancient city walls. While the views were stunning,

Acropolis of Athens, Greece.

Galapagos giant tortoise., Photograph by Sandy Baker.

EDUCATION BEYOND THE CLASSROOM WALLS

what stood out most was watching my children gain confidence as they tackled new challenges. Travel isn’t just about geography; it’s also about growth.

The academic benefits of travel are just as important. A student who has stood before Michelangelo’s David in Florence or walked the same paths as Socrates in Athens, is far more likely to retain and appreciate what they’ve learned in class. Travel makes abstract concepts real and relevant. It sparks curiosity and motivates students to ask deeper questions, to learn more, and to make connections about what they have been taught in the classroom.

There’s also something powerful about shared experiences that come from group travel. Whether it’s a three-day class trip to the middle of the state or a science-based adventure to the Florida Keys, traveling with peers fosters teamwork, communication, and trust. Students return with stronger bonds, new friendships, and a greater sense of community. These connections often extend beyond the trip, strengthening the culture of our schools and classrooms.

As a counselor, I often work with students who are anxious about their futures, their identities, or maybe their ability to succeed. Travel has the power to change those inner narratives. A student who has navigated a foreign city, connected with someone from a different background, or overcome travel-related fears returns more self-assured and open-minded. That kind of growth is hard to replicate within four walls.

Ultimately, student travel expands hearts as much as it expands minds. Whether it’s walking through the ancient ruins of Greece, exploring the biodiversity of the Galápagos, or simply trying a new dish in a foreign restaurant, each moment builds knowledge, character, and connection. As educators and parents, we have the opportunity and responsibility to create these experiences whenever we can.

THE WORLD IS THE GREATEST CLASSROOM WE HAVE.

Dubrovnik, Croatia.

Photograph by Victoriya Knapp

ENVIRONMENT

NEARSHORE HARDBOTTOM REEF

Our Type of Ocean Reef in Vero Beach

by Jim Field

underwater photographs by Paul

The reef system off Vero Beach is not what we have been conditioned by TV documentaries to think of: an underwater city of reef-building corals, crystal clear blue water, colorful organisms, sponges and sea fans, literally teeming with fish.

That said, our reef is equally interesting and biologically diverse, playing a central role in the preservation of our island and beaches. It hosts and serves as a breeding site for over 1,100 species—sea turtles, fish, and invertebrates. It is a massive, everchanging and ever-evolving ecosystem. It is merely a different type of ocean reef.

THIS ARTICLE WILL TELL YOU THE BASICS— EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW AT A GENERAL LEVEL—TO APPRECIATE OUR REEF.

Seldes.

Location and Scale

Nearshore hardbottom reefs are a dynamic shallow water ocean ecosystem that are constantly exposed to wave energy and sand movement. Along Florida’s Southeast Coast, these reefs extend from St. Augustine all the way south to Miami Dade.

Hardbottom formations parallel the shoreline along the entire extent of Indian River County. The landward edge is roughly 60 yards offshore, beginning at a water depth of between 6 and 12 feet, and can extend to 1,000 yards offshore in some locations. The hardbottom is estimated to occupy 90% of the nearshore zone of Indian River County. The total nearshore hardbottom habitat in Indian River County is estimated to encompass 3,740 acres.

Underlying Materials and Contour

The hardbottom is predominantly coquina rock limestone—a limestone composed of broken shell debris. Mixed in with this limestone is assorted sediment—sand, shell-hash, and mud.

Characterized as “low to medium relief,” rock limestone may rise off the

Photograph by Victoriya Knapp.

bottom to a height of 10 feet or so. The elevated, irregular bottom disrupts wave patterns and reduces wave energy as waves approach the shoreline. The inconsistent character of the offshore bottom relief influences the shoreline profile. Passageways between limestone rock deposits provide channels for sand movement and allow sand loss from the beach.

Worm Rock

Another major structural component of our reef is “worm rock,” created by sabellariid worms, tiny bristle-like marine organisms. Sabellariids produce their rock by collecting loose sand grains, shell fragments, and other sediment particles, cementing these together with a secreted glue, then building tubes from these particles, which fuse together to form a honeycomb mass. Over time, millions of worms, doing what they do, will add massively to the hardbottom footprint.

Worm rock and coral fragments found on our beach. Photograph by Victoriya Knapp.

Photograph by Victoriya Knapp

NEARSHORE HARDBOTTOM REEF

The species of sabellariid worm found in our area is Phragmatopoma caudata

Adults grow two inches long and 1/8 inch in diameter. Worm rock structures at Wabasso Park are said to be seven to nine feet tall. Our churned up, sandy ocean water is not ideal for corals, but perfect for sabellariid worms, since they use these particles to build their colonies. Thus, the worm is perfectly adapted to Vero Beach— and thus its vast presence.

Negligible Coral

Our nearshore hardbottom reef is largely lacking of corals, with only two species observed in very low abundance— scleractinian coral species Oculina robusta and Siderastrea siderea

Dominance of Algae

Whereas corals are rare, the nearshore hardbottom habitat is dominated by macroalgae, with 23 different known genera (genus is a taxonomic rank above species). Impressively, this macroalgae makes up approximately 15-25% of the reef terrain.

One prevalent type is Gracilaria, typically red to reddish-brown, presenting as bushy, branching fronds that looks like tangled, wiry seaweed. Another is referred to as “turf” algae, a fine, low-growing, filamentlike species (including red, green, and blue-green algae) that spreads to create thick, multi-layered mats over hard substrates.

Marine Life

Our nearshore hardbottom reef is host to thousands of marine species and serves as a nursery and foraging habitat for many vital and important marine animals. Notable species include: pink shrimp, spiny lobster, sea turtles, gray snapper, mahogany snapper, porkfish, red drum, snook, king mackerel, Spanish mackerel, pompano, bluefish, and many types of sharks. These species interact with many other ocean ecosystems, making them invaluable to our ocean’s biodiversity.

In closing, our reefs contribute in many significant ways to life in Vero Beach. They protect against shoreline erosion. They are a precious habitat for marine life. Finally, they also serve a recreational value for fishing, snorkeling, birdwatching, and photography. Hopefully, having read this article, you’ll never look offshore again without thinking about them.

In future issues we will report regularly on our reef, entering them (on scuba) to document and photograph all the creatures we encounter.

THE REEF IS A MASSIVE, EVER-CHANGING AND EVER-EVOLVING ECOSYSTEM.

Phragmatopoma caudata.

At Saint Edward's School, creativity moves to its own beat. Middle school students amplify their voice through music, pottery, textiles and numerous showcases.

Go Fur t her

SEA TURTLE NESTING: JUST THE FACTS

Part 2: Managing Sea Turtle Nests

Interview with Quintin Bergman

Conducted by Jim Field photography by Ecological Associates, Inc.

Editor’s Note: Quintin Bergman, Coastal Resource Manager for Indian River County, is a driving force behind efforts to renourish our beaches and protect our sea turtle populations. I asked Quintin to assist in preparing this series of articles, our objective being to provide a detailed accounting of sea turtle nesting, imparting readers with an “upfront and close” sense of the undertaking.

JF: Quintin, thank you for spending time with me to create another article on sea turtle nesting in Indian River County. In Part 1, we concentrated on the turtles themselves. In this article, I’d like to focus on management of the nests by the County and other organizations. Together, the two articles will provide readers with a rounded sense of this amazing annual event.

QB: And we’re grateful to have this opportunity to educate citizens about the management and science end of nesting.

Nest Monitoring Requirement

JF: Can you trace the County’s official involvement in sea turtle nesting? How did it start?

QB: It goes back to the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973. Prior to this landmark legislation, sea turtles were hunted for their meat, eggs, shells, skin, oil, and even captured as pets. The ESA is the primary law in the US for protecting threatened and endangered plants and animals. All sea turtles found in US waters and beaches are protected under the ESA.

Separately, going back to the late 1990s, Indian River County issued permits to install emergency shoreline structures— seawalls—to protect vulnerable private property from acute erosion caused by storms. This prompted legal challenges, claiming in part that the structures would

Quintin Bergman.

cause injury to sea turtles—for example, modification of habitat that could affect their breeding or feeding behavior—in violation of the ESA. Responding to this, the County applied for an Incidental Take Permit (ITP), which would allow continued use of the structures and possible negative impact on the turtles. As a condition of receiving the ITP, the County would have to establish a Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP), which it did in 2005. Finally, the HCP has four pillars: Nest Monitoring Program, Beachfront Lighting Program, Predator Control Program, and Sea Turtle Education Program. The HCP covers all 22.4 miles of the County’s coastline.

JF: That was a great summary. It would seem that the intruding structures ended up creating the impetus for what has become a large-scale sea turtle conservation movement in the County. So something feared gives way to something good.

QB: It would seem so. And our County is unique in this respect—only a handful of other Counties in Florida have a similar conservation mandate. And I’ll also mention—and this is important—that as a function of the County’s beach renourishment initiatives, there is an additional overlay of requirements for sea turtle monitoring. So we have two layers of regulation that work in unison with each other.

Nest Monitoring Activity

JF: That’s a great story. Now, as a perpetual beachgoer, with the start of nesting season in March, I find myself accompanied in the early mornings by one or more four-wheelers, motoring up and down the shoreline, tending to nests. Can you tell me what’s going on?

QB: First of all, we’re blessed to have a large group of organizations dedicated to preserving and growing our sea turtle population. These include in part, besides my group, Disney Conservation, Sebastian Inlet State Park, Sebastian Inlet District, Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge, and Coastal Connections Inc. In the past and today, each of these groups contribute to the larger effort, which could include field data collection. And the County contracts with Ecological Associates, Inc., a private consulting firm (Jensen Beach), to conduct monitoring services and assist with overseeing the HCP.

So the folks you see on the ATVs—allterrain vehicles—are EAI staff biologists and technicians. For the most part, they are young, extremely dedicated folks and budding scientists—did I mention young?— because what they do is very hot and grueling hard work.

JF: Tell me about this. What’s the method to what they’re doing?

QB: To set the context, along our 22.4 miles of beach, between 7,000 and 11,000 nests are laid each year by about 1,200 to 2,000 adult female turtles. Individual staff will go out to assigned areas because there’s a

lot of terrain to cover.

The practice is to conduct monitoring surveys daily on ATVs. Staff will go out in groups to assigned sectors because there’s a lot of terrain to cover. They start the survey about 30 minutes before sunrise, looking for signs of new nests, counting every single crawl, recording a GPS location, any specifics like if the turtle encountered a wall, or beach furniture, atypical findings.

Going one step further, roughly 10% of nests will be marked with stakes and ribbon, the purpose being to gather reproductive data once the nest has hatched. Overall, the goal is to mark every 21st or 22nd nest in a standardized sequence to produce a randomized sample.

The vast majority of nests are loggerhead nests, so we mark maybe every 24th nest. Green turtles are scarcer and we mark every third or fourth nest. And leatherbacks are almost rare, so we mark every leatherback nest.

JF: How do you know which turtle species lays a given nest?

QB: Easy, with a bit of experience. Each turtle leaves a signature crawl pattern in the sand. Loggerheads have alternating flipper strokes. Greens are synchronized. And leatherbacks are just massive—they’re bulldozers.

SEA TURTLE NESTING: JUST THE FACTS

JF: OK, please continue.

QB: So the staff are stopping at each crawl, entering GPS coordinates, marking a subset, working their way up and down the beach. Over weeks they will record any disturbances during incubation—was a nest washed out by a wave, did people mess with it? And then entering hatching season, the assignment changes: once a marked nest has hatched—actually waiting a few days—to delicately excavate the remains of the nest, counting and recording how many eggs were successful and how many perished. The biologist rarely finds hatchlings since most have already emerged and made their way into the ocean. As I mentioned before, for that one staff member on an ATV, it all takes a lot of time in the Florida sun, a lot of effort. It may look like pure fun, but it’s fun and work combined.

JF: So what is the big picture on sea turtle monitoring and conservation efforts in Indian River County?

Where do we stand? We’ve discussed the negative human impact on our beaches—trash, seawalls, beach furniture, artificial lights—repelling adult females and disorienting them. We’ve discussed the obstacles that nature presents—high tides, flooding storms, natural predators. Against all these, how has the turtle population changed over time?

QB: We’re seeing a trend towards an increasing number of nests. All of this work, all of this effort, is starting to pay off. The major insight to appreciate is that it has been half a century since the Endangered Species Act. If we assume that sea turtles are 25 years of age when they begin to reproduce, then this 50-year time frame encompasses two generations of turtles. So it has taken two generations to begin to see a return from our investment in protecting them. Nature changes slowly; large creatures live a long time; conservation is a multi-generational commitment on our end. We need this positive trend to continue. We all share this responsibility.

“NATURE CHANGES SLOWLY; BIG CREATURES LIVE A LONG TIME; CONSERVATION IS A MULTI-GENERATIONAL COMMITMENT ON OUR END.”

Loggerhead turtle.

TREASURE COAST SHELLFISH LLC

Part 2:

The Oyster Farm

Interview with Nicolette Mariano Conducted by Jim Field photography by Victoriya Knapp and Joshua McMiller

Editor’s Note. At first light we drove our pontoon boat—Josh, Victoriya, and me— north on the Indian River Lagoon from Vero Beach to Sebastian. Forty minutes underway, sighting the waterfront at Riverview Park, we looked northeast across the water—through and around two spoil islands—to an area where we expected to find our destination: Treasure Coast Shellfish’s oyster farm.

We were looking for low structures on the water in a somewhat confined space—and for Nicolette’s boat. Perhaps a minute later, we locked in on both. We texted Nicolette that we had arrived. I threaded a shallow, narrow passage between two islands to deeper water and increased speed to close the farm. We greeted Nicolette and her team, placed our throttle in neutral—the boats drifted towards each other. We transferred Josh to Nicolette’s boat to shoot close-up fixed images. Victoriya stayed with me on the pontoon and launched her drone, capturing video and fixed images. Later that day, after returning to Vero, Nicolette—Founder and President—and I debriefed.

JF: What did we witness this morning? What was going on?

NM: So welcome to the farm! As background for your readers, the farm is just under seven acres. We’re using about 40% of this area. Currently we have 36 lines, each 150 foot line holds 14 floating cages, and each cage holds four bags of oysters, yielding 2,016 total bags of oysters. The oysters came from our dockside nursery after reaching a desirable size. They’re at the farm to grow further until we harvest them. It is literally—substituting water for dirt, a boat for a tractor—a farm. We tend it and work our crop. That’s what you saw this morning—one chore we do to tend our product.

Nicolette (third from right) and team.

JF: Great set up, thank you.

NM: Just one more bit of background. Our baby oysters in the nursery take a lot of maintenance. They are tiny— candy Skittle size—and thus are in bags with smaller-size mesh holes—for example, 2, 4, and 6 millimeters. To keep water flowing through the bags—water brings food to the oysters—we need to manually clean the mesh bags three days a week—scrubbing—removing barnacles, hair algae, all kinds of organic matter that might clog the mesh holes and impede water flow.

Having grown to a sufficient size, the juvenile oysters leave the nursery for the farm. They’re transferred into larger mesh bags—6, 9, and 14 millimeters—with more water flow, and so it’s grow, grow, grow. But we’ve moved beyond the need to manually scrub bags clean. Our husbandry practice changes to a different method to keep the oysters clean, healthy, protected, and growing.

TREASURE COAST SHELLFISH LLC

JF: And that’s what we saw this morning?

NM: Exactly. What you saw was a process we call desiccation—the act of air drying the oysters, removing moisture as thoroughly as possible. Oysters in their natural environment set—that is, attach themselves to structure (e.g., a rock) and each other—in the intertidal area. Intertidal means that both the structure and oysters are exposed to air during both low tides of the day. Exposure to air and sun kills or knocks back biofouling organisms—such as barnacles and sea squirts—that can clog the mesh and prevent the oysters from being able to feed on algae—also pesty crabs that feed on the oysters. So because this is a farm, and we raise oysters in a subtidal area (i.e., one that remains submerged underwater

even during low tide), we have to mimic Mother Nature’s tidal action by rotating the cages—flipping them so that oysters in their mesh bags sit out of the water, as if it were low tide.

JF: Got it. How often do you do this?

NM: In general, our goal is to desiccate weekly—at least once per week, sometimes twice a week. But our desiccation protocol will change depending upon season and the prevailing weather. For example, right now it’s really sunny and really hot. We don’t want to overexpose the oysters to either of these. We might go for a longer period of days between desiccations. We definitely will shorten the duration of exposure to direct sunlight. Today we came out early in the morning and we’ll return in the early afternoon—hey, I don’t

want to be baking in the sun too long, let alone my fragile oysters. And then in winter with the cold we’ll modify these times to what we think is best. In general, we air dry five or six hours, depending upon sun intensity, air temperature, size of oyster, thickness of shell.

Now, having said all this, there’s the bigger weather picture to factor in. When storms come in, we might not be able to get to the farm for an extended period of days. The farm is definitely exposed to elements where it’s located in the lagoon. When the weather kicks up, we can get three foot swells and chop out there. We might not desiccate for a while. Which means when we get back out to the cages we might have to do some scrubbing. You play it by ear.

TREASURE COAST SHELLFISH LLC

JF: And recalling what I learned about oyster farming from last month’s article, mixed in with desiccation you’re retrieving oysters from the farm in their bags to grade them—put them through the mechanical grader—and then refill the bags.

NM: That’s correct. Every two weeks we sort them by hand, we inspect each one, pass them through the grader, chip the growth edge of their shells—in your last issue we discussed why we do this—then place them back in bags with similarlysized oysters, an appropriate size mesh, an appropriate number of oysters by volume— and take them back out to the farm for another period of growth.

JF: Being both a swimmer and diver, I was fascinated and impressed by your team working the cages in the water. That takes physical stamina, resiliency, and strength—just this raw willingness to get wet whenever needed and to endure whatever conditions nature can brew. You have to be a tough cookie. NM: It’s just a day at work! The farm is our office.

JF: Well, it was wonderful to watch. Oyster farming is really an artisanal undertaking—done by hand, labor intensive, basic tools.

NM: At least that’s the way we do it at this stage in our company’s development. Some oyster operations are very large and much more automated. However, by hand grading we keep the quality and consistency of our oysters to our high specifications for the half shell market.

JF: A final question for today: being that we’re in hurricane season, what do you do should a significant tropical disturbance be forecasted to hit our area?

NM: In theory we’d sink the farm to protect both the oysters and the equipment. We’ve never had to do this, and I hope we never will. We would also probably take the oysters from the nursery out to the farm to protect the gear and babies from battering against the dock.

“WE HAVE TO MIMIC MOTHER NATURE’S TIDAL ACTION BY ROTATING THE CAGES—FLIPPING THEM SO THAT OYSTERS IN THEIR MESH BAGS SIT OUT OF THE WATER, AS IF IT WERE LOW TIDE.”

The farm as you know isn’t protected where it’s located. You can’t have the gear and oysters on the surface getting beaten up in severe wind and waves—let alone floating debris. But it’s no different for us than a homeowner weighing the need to put up shutters. Do we wait it out to see how the storm actually moves? If we act too early and the storm heads elsewhere, we’ve wasted all this effort. Conversely, if we wait too long, conditions many prevent us from even getting to the farm—you know how quickly water conditions can get dangerous. It all goes back to the fact that we’re farmers. Success for us means dealing with whatever Mother Nature throws at us, and prevailing against the odds.

The next article in this series will focus on the regulatory side of Florida’s aquaculture industry. To be followed by a gorgeous, full exposition of fall oyster harvest.

GREEN GOLD

Mastering the Perfect Pesto

by Chef Kevin Anthony and Chris Foster

photography by LIV VERO Magazine

Some dishes define a region, while others embody it so fully that they become its essence. Pesto alla Genovese is one such dish—the culinary crown jewel of Liguria, where the sea breeze blends with the aroma of sun-ripened basil growing along the Italian Riviera.

It’s here, amid this scenic landscape, that pesto evolved from just a sauce—it became a way of life, green gold that merges tradition, simplicity, and elegance in a single spoonful.

Tradition in Every Twist

Classic Ligurian pesto is deceptively simple: fresh basil, pine nuts, ParmigianoReggiano, Pecorino, garlic, and extra virgin olive oil, ground into a velvety, emerald paste. Each ingredient reflects its origin— basil from Ligurian hillsides, cheese aged in northern cellars, and oil pressed from centuries-old groves. Tossed with pasta, often corkscrew-shaped fusilli or the region’s beloved trofie, it becomes a dish that captures both the landscape and the culture.

An Inspired Reimagining

In my kitchen, tradition is the foundation, but creativity is the brushstroke. For this dish, I replace pine nuts with toasted pecans—a subtle shift that makes all the difference. Their buttery undertones and gentle crunch add a new depth, enhancing the nutty flavor while softening the sharpness of garlic and cheese. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice not only brightens the herbal freshness of the basil but also preserves its luminous green hue, making every bite look as vibrant as it tastes.

Elevating the Everyday

The result is a pesto that generously coats each twist of fusilli, creating a balance of richness and lightness. But in the spirit of refinement, I elevate it further: finishing with a touch of shaved Chilean black truffles. Their earthy aroma and

luxurious depth elevate the dish from a rustic Riviera staple into something transcendent—a dialogue between old world tradition and modern sophistication.

The Essence of Green Gold

What makes pesto special isn’t just its ingredients but the harmony among them. The brightness of basil, the richness of aged cheeses, the smoothness of olive oil, and the subtle surprise of pecans and truffles—all coming together in a way that feels both familiar and fresh. It’s a dish of generosity, meant to be shared, enjoyed, and remembered.

For me, crafting the perfect pesto is more than just cooking; it’s storytelling. It reflects Liguria’s cliffs and coves, incorporates global influences into its heritage, and brings joy by turning something simple into something unforgettable.

This is pesto at its finest—green gold on a plate.

“IN MY KITCHEN, TRADITION IS THE FOUNDATION, BUT CREATIVITY IS THE BRUSHSTROKE.”

772-532-2915

Instagram: @cheflargoomba Website: club27hospitality.com

ENTERTAINMENT IN THE CITY

THE PULSE OF VERO BEACH

On the Scene

SUNSET SATURDAY

September 14th at Humiston Park. Enjoy live music from local bands, food trucks, vendors, and a breathtaking oceanfront sunset.

COMEDY ZONE AT RIVERSIDE THEATRE

Every weekend in September, enjoy live performances by nationally touring comedians in an intimate setting. Dinner and drinks are available on-site.

VERO BEACH WINE + FILM FESTIVAL POP-UP

This month’s pop-up screening will be announced through the festival’s official channels—expect wine pairings and gourmet bites alongside an award-winning film.

SUNSET PADDLE TOURS

Various Dates & Times @ Environmental Learning Center  Experience Vero’s waterways at golden hour with these guided ecopaddle adventures

FARMERS MARKET OCEANSIDE

Every Saturday morning at Humiston Park, offering fresh local produce, artisanal goods, flowers, and specialty food vendors.

VERO BEACH MUSEUM OF ART

American Perspectives: Stories from the American Folk Art Museum Collection is on display through September, featuring over 80 works from the 18th to 21st centuries.

MCKEE BOTANICAL GARDEN

Stickwork by Patrick Dougherty is still on display—massive, whimsical sculptures made entirely from woven sticks.

The Tee — September in Vero

September in Vero Beach strikes that perfect balance between summer’s end and the start of our busy season. The crowds are smaller, the breezes gentler, and it’s an ideal time to enjoy the events and experiences that make our town unique.

Mark Your Calendar

UNDER THE OAKS PREVIEW EVENTS

While the main art show is in March, several artists are hosting preview nights and workshops this month— check with local galleries for specific dates.

EXPERIENCE LIVE IN THE LOOP AT RIVERSIDE THEATRE

Enjoy free outdoor concerts every Friday and Saturday evening in September, featuring local and regional bands.

ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER PROGRAMS

Kayak excursions, guided nature walks, and eco-education events happening all month.

Completed in 2025, this West Indies-inspired estate blends timeless design with modern luxury Behind the gates of the exclusive enclave of Seagrove East, the home offers over 3,000 sq ft of screened outdoor living, a resort-style saltwater pool, and lush, tropical landscaping.

Built to last with a 50-year metal roof, impact-rated windows and doors, and concrete block construction, every detail speaks to quality and durability Inside, enjoy two elegant primary suites, four ensuite guest rooms, vaulted ceilings, and natural finishes including limestone and bamboo flooring Expansive living spaces offer the perfect setting for both elegant entertaining and tranquil relaxation.

Additional features include dual laundry rooms, 24/7 gated security, and access to two private beaches with optional private dockage available

Luxury coastal living at its finest.

Now Offered at $1.995 million.

Sherry Goff | Luxury Coastal Specialist

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

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sherrysellsvero@gmail.com

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FINITO

Collaboration thrives through genuine friendships

(L-R) Joshua McMiller, Chris Foster, Jim Field, and Kristin Dobson.