Vero Beach Magazine September 2023

CENTRAL BEACH

Built 2022 exquisite riverfront! 4BR/4BA/3 car garage pool home, 5,261 SF, dock/boat lift.

Michelle Clarke 772.263.0386

$7,900,000 | MLS# 269088

MARBRISA

Oceanfront pool and clubhouse. CBS, newer roof and A/C. 3BR/3.5BA vista of the pond.

Debbie Bell 772.473.7255

$1,600,000 | MLS# 267748

PALM ISLAND PLANTATION

3BR/3BA penthouse with a den. Lives like a house.

Debbie Bell 772.473.7255

$998,000 | MLS# 267735

SEASONS

West Indies style spacious 3BR/3.5BA home with screened lanai. Close to beach.

Mary Frances Driscoll 772.766.5942

$995,000 | MLS# 268259

INDIAN RIVER CLUB

Stunning panoramic golf views! Custom 3BR+ office, 3BA, 3-CG. New roof July 2023.

Peggy Hewett 772.321.4282

$889,000 | MLS#269167

BRIDGEPOINTE

Brand new 2 story with 2,400 SF living. 3BR/3BA with+sized garage.

Chip Landers 772.473.7888

$724,900 | MLS# 266423

RIVERWIND

Lakefront 3/3 with screened courtyard & lake views at owners bedroom & kitchen.

Chip Landers 772.473.7888

$879,900 | MLS# 267468

OCEAN CLUB 1

Oceanfront top floor! Beautifully renovated 2BR/2BA.

Cheryl Burge 772-538-0063

$425,000 | MLS# 268004

OCEAN CLUB 2

Oceanfront sunrise and sunset views! Furnished 2BR/2BA. Move in!

Cheryl Burge 772-538-0063

$530,000 | MLS# 264773

VILLAGE SPIRES

Life is great at The Village Spires! Vero’s only 13 story condos located in the heart of town. Only 4 units per floor. All with floor to ceiling impact sliders and 84 Ft. wrap-around balcony. Private beach access and heated oceanside pool. Walk to shops & restaurants. Beth Livers 772.559.6958

CASTAWAY COVE

Beautiful Custom Built home with Breathtaking river views. The 3800 sft split plan features a 52x14 ft Ensuite Master wing, formal Living and Dining, a Chef’s Kitchen open to the River room, Office/Den, 12Ft+ Ceilings, 9.5Ft elevation, 3 covered porches, New Metal Roof on order, 110 Ft on River, Dock/Lift. Must See! 3BD/4BA/3GR. Offered at $3,575,000. Gretchen Hanson 772.713.6450

DIAMOND LAKE

Gorgeous sunsets at this Lakefront home in Diamond Lake. Gracious 4 bedroom / 3 bath home. 2665 Sq Ft of living space with expansive lake views. Private. Gated. Oversized 36’ deep garage! Offered at $550,000. Andrew Harper 772.633.6336 | MLS# 269805

3377 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach, FL | 772-231-1270

BHHSFloridaRealty.com

the luxury of resort Style living At home

Ocean Breeze

by Tommy Bahama Home

JUST ADD WATER

The Brevard Zoo is set to be joined by a sister facility to the north: the Aquarium and Conservation Center

By Chris Fasolino

TRAVELING LIGHT

Having painted in Venice, Paris, and New York City, plein air and maritime artist Leonard Mizerek has found anchorage in Vero Beach

By

Chris

Fasolino

ADD A SPRING TO YOUR STEP

Just two counties away, the cool, clear waters of Blue Spring beckon

By Teresa Lee Rushworth

LIQUID BEAUTY

Images poured in for our annual photo contest; now it’s time to soak up the splendor STEVEN

Blue Skies. Cool Water. Warm Welcome.

Life on John’s Island. A private, member-owned club located north of Vero Beach, this gem plays host to miles of unspoilt beaches, naturefilled river access, elegant residences, and watercolor sunsets. These serene offerings each combine luxury with traditional appeal. Replete with gorgeous architectural details, spacious living areas and lush grounds - all of our homes take advantage of prime location with access to an incredible array of amenities for by-invitation-only John’s Island Club members. We invite you to indulge in a life of bliss in John’s Island.

VERO VIBES 24

WILDE SIDE

Though Florida’s 1920s boom was followed quickly by a bust, it foreshadowed our modern-day growth

By Evelyn Wilde Mayerson

FACES

The duo of Caleigh King and Paige Dupuy have embarked on a wine adventure they want to share with the whole community

By Ann Taylor

INDIAN RIVER INSIGHTS

A strong current drives longtime charity leaders

By Jeffrey R. Pickering

CLASSIC CARS

The Orlando Auto Museum: classic, movie, military, rare, and eccentric vehicles from around the world

By Patrick Merrell

COASTAL LIFE 48

SPACES

Marine life provides a timeless and colorful decor theme

By Valerie Cruice

HOMEGROWN

The key to successful gardening in Florida is to cooperate with nature

By Nickie Munroe

KIM BOTALLICO

134

The art of charcuterie brings variety and panache to

By Chris Fasolino

141

CALENDAR

Great wines have stories as intriguing and exotic as the lives of their connoisseurs

By Chris Fasolino

146 BUSINESS

Christina Marie Bowsher & John Incampo

Test your powers of persuasion

ON THE COVER:

The third annual Vero Beach Magazine Photo Contest yielded many great water-themed images. See the story on page 90.

Photograph by Bob Joy

10 VERO BEACH MAGAZINE CONTENTS 114 120

COASTAL CHIC STUDIO

Changing Tides

It’s only fitting that the theme of our September issue is water. It can be very refreshing, especially during our long, hot summers, but it’s also ever-changing, sometimes in subtle ways and sometimes more dramatic ones. And, one can argue, without change there is no growth.

You’ll notice that a wave of change has washed over Vero Beach Magazine this month, resulting in a little growth spurt! I’ve been out in the community quite a bit over the last year, learning more about you, our readers, subscribers, and advertisers, asking what more you’d like to see on our pages. While getting to know you, I’ve been able to hear about new things you might like to see, and I’ve listened.

Homegrown, our new gardening column by local environmental horticulturist Nickie Munroe, will develop the green thumb in all of you, focusing on natives and helping you plant vegetables, flowers, and ornamentals in the right seasons so your outdoor space will look its best all year long. We’d also like to introduce you to more of your neighbors and their stories, so Ann Taylor will take care of that with Faces. By the Book, a review by the owners of the Vero Beach Book Center, guides you toward some fascinating reads, and if you’re looking to brighten up parts of your home, take a look at Spaces. Valerie Cruice will talk this month about how (and why) we like to decorate with a marine theme in our Vero Beach abodes.

In addition to the new content we’re showcasing, we will always have some unforgettable features each month. Our September cover story shows off entries from our third annual photo contest, which focused on all things water. If that isn’t enough liquid beauty for you, we take you on a relaxing trip through Blue Spring State Park and give you tips on how and when to best enjoy this Central Florida gem. Maritime artist Leonard Mizerek has anchored himself along with his plein air paintings in Vero Beach, and the Brevard Zoo is on a voyage to open a huge new destination that will entertain and educate us while helping the Indian River Lagoon: the Aquarium and Conservation Center.

I so hope you like what we’ve done, and I would love to hear what you think about the small but informative changes we’ve made to the magazine. Drop me a line or give me a call. What else do you want to see?

Kelly Rogers editor@verobeachmagazine.com

Refreshing Reading

What is more perfect than being revitalized on a hot summer day? How about a fresh new look and feel to the first, the only Vero Beach Magazine? That’s right! You asked for some changes and additions and even made some recommendations, and your feedback has given us some good ideas.

As you will notice, we not only expanded our content for your enjoyment, we’ve refreshed our look as well. I think you are really going to love the new landscape as much as I do. Our small town is growing, so we thought now would be a great time do a little bit of growing of our own.

Speaking of revitalization and refreshment, as you explore this issue you will notice it is all about—what else?—water! It flows throughout the pages and makes some special appearances in the images from our photo contest, which I’m sure you will enjoy as much as I have.

I hope you will embrace the fresh start of the magazine, and, by all means, let me know your thoughts. We observe Labor Day this month, and while it’s not entirely certain who first had the idea for such a public holiday, everyone likes the rejuvenation that comes from a three-day weekend. I don’t know about you, but I plan to be out on or in the water for a good bit of my long weekend. I’m sure I’ll see some of you out there, too, and I hope we get a chance to say hello. Don’t forget to sign up for Vero Beach Insider, our weekly e-newsletter at verobeachmagazine.com We will keep you up to date with what’s happening in our community. Have a sensational September!

Teri Amey-Arnold, Publisher publisher@verobeachmagazine.com

VeroBeach

KELLY ROGERS

Editor in Chief

OLGA M. GUSTINE

Creative Director

TERESA LEE RUSHWORTH

Senior Editor

RENÁE TESAURO

Editor at Large

ANN TAYLOR

Senior Writer

JENNY FERNANDEZ-PRIETO

Art Director

JANINE FISHER

Senior Graphic Designer

LEONOR ALVAREZ-MAZA

Digital Imaging Specialist

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Valerie Cruice, Chris Fasolino, Elizabeth Leonard, Evelyn Wilde Mayerson, Patrick Merrell, Nickie Munroe, Jeffrey R. Pickering, Amy Robinson

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kim Botallico, Coastal Chic Studio, Steven Martine, Patrick Merrell

About Us

Vero Beach Magazine is the first magazine to be dedicated exclusively to Vero Beach and remains the only local magazine with verified circulation. A minimum of 10,000 magazines are distributed monthly, to at least 30,000 readers in almost every state, including Alaska and Hawaii.

Vero Beach Magazine’s staff is committed to using print media to make Indian River County a better place for all residents, mindful of environmental and historic preservation, while underscoring the best aspects of life in this charming oceanfront community.

Winner of numerous awards since its inception, starting with the Florida Magazine Association’s Best New Magazine Award in 1998, Vero Beach Magazine has made its greatest impact by providing meaningful information to readers about the needs of local nonprofit organizations in Indian River County, inspiring philanthropy and prompting nonprofit coverage by many other media companies.

Our office is located at 3375 20th Street, Suite 100, on the corner of 34th Avenue and State Road 60, in Vero Beach. Visitors are welcome by appointment from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, for subscription, article, and advertising questions.

Vero Vibes

WILDE SIDE | FACES | INDIAN RIVER INSIGHTS | CLASSIC CARS

The duo of Paige Dupuy and Caleigh King have embarked on a wine adventure they want to share with the whole community. STEVEN MARTINE

All Roads Lead to Florida

The final, melancholy echoes of the end of World War I soon ignited into the Roaring Twenties, a flamboyant period also called the Jazz Age and reflected in literary works such The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. People were singing “Making Whoopee,” “My Blue Heaven,” “Ain’t Misbehavin,’” and “Swanee,” a song made famous by Al Jolson about the region of the wild, blackwater Suwannee River of northern Florida.

quitoes, Mediterranean fruit flies, and ticks dominated the outdoors.

BY EVELYN WILDE MAYERSON

It was a time characterized by golfers in knickered “plus fours” and flappers with bobbed hair. Both women’s suffrage and prohibition had been enacted into federal law a few years earlier, the latter turning Florida’s extensive coastline into a major point of entry for bootlegged liquor. According to legendary Florida columnist Ernest Lyons, Stuart was the rum-running headquarters because of its proximity to the western tip of Grand Bahama Island.

The Jazz Age introduced another phenomenon: It was also the time of Florida’s boom and bust. The decade opened with the state’s one-party system, dominated by Democrats, as it had been since Reconstruction, while mos-

An increase in railroad construction and railway service, including the 18-passenger trains run by the Florida East Coast Railroad between Jacksonville and Miami, in tandem with the draining of the Everglades by the dredging of canals, a project undertaken after a major push from earlier Governor Napoleon Broward, led to a dramatic increase in Florida real estate and land development. Newly claimed land sold for $15 an acre.

Suddenly, Florida and the quick prosperity it offered was in the nation’s eye. Private business groups promoted the idea that you didn’t have to be rich to own a second home in Florida, and, in case you were, the state legislature amended the state constitution to prohibit income taxes and estate taxes.

What really spurred Florida’s boom was the assembly line production of the automobile and the introduction of installment buying, both of which made the Ford Model T accessible to the middle-class family. Now Florida was only a few days’ drive from the North.

THOUGH FLORIDA’S 1920s BOOM WAS FOLLOWED QUICKLY BY A BUST, IT FORESHADOWED OUR MODERN-DAY GROWTH

BOOM & BUST

Left : The Sleepy-Eye Lodge in Vero Beach was built by Indian River Farms to accommodate prospective land buyers. Below: In 1923, 24 businessmen crossed the Everglades in 10 cars to encourage the state to pave the Tamiami Trail.

[ORIGINAL SOURCE CITATION], WORLD DIGITAL LIBRARY

Inexpensive transportation meant that tourists to Florida were no longer just the wealthy, although highways were a challenge. Most state roads were dirt. Some byways even contained remnants of corrugated logs from the time of the Seminole Wars. Others, particularly in coastal areas, were paved with shells taken from ancient Indian mounds.

e Dixie Highway linking the Midwest to the South was not yet completed, and the Atlantic Highway, which originated in 1911 as the Quebec-Miami International Highway, was still a primitive auto trail.

Despite the lack of macadam, thousands of new developments were platted through the state and promoted through the voices of pitchmen. e buying frenzy made it commonplace for a property to change hands two or three times in a day. Entrepreneurs like John Collins turned mangrove swamps into Miami Beach; George Merrick, with the help of William Jennings

Bryan, who huckstered lots from a oat, turned pine barrens into Coral Gables; architect Addison Mizner stamped the style of Mediterranean Revival onto Palm Beach and Boca Raton; and Florida native H. Carl Dann, the developer of 61 parcels of land, established Orlando.

Vero Beach, a rural municipality surrounded by citrus and cattle, still named “Vero” since its incorporation in 1919 with the slogan “Watch Vero Grow,” was exchanging elds for residential neighborhoods, empty lots for commercial buildings. e city built the rst toll bridge to the barrier island in 1920—a wooden structure with sabal palm pilings and a metal swing-span. At the time, the nearest bridges were in Cocoa to the north and Hobe Sound to the south. e year before, Riomar, a subdivision of 52 lots that stretched from the Indian River Lagoon to the ocean, was founded on the barrier island by the East

View Development Company. Two years later, both Riomar and Vero made the front page of e New York Times when President-elect Warren G. Harding played a round of golf on Riomar’s greens.

On the mainland, the Fellsmere Farms Company in the northwest portion of the county was successfully engaged in ongoing development despite dealing with frequent ooding. Farther east, closer to the lagoon, Iowa businessman Herman Zeuch,

who invited Midwestern prospective buyers on “sunshine and opportunity excursions,” was assigning the streets of his Indian River Farms Native American tribal names such as Cherokee, Mohawk, and Kickapoo.

In January 1925, the year Indian River County was carved out of St. Lucie County, Vero changed its name to Vero Beach, and Wabasso citrus growers shipped an astonishing 340 railroad cars of fruit, Forbes magazine warned that

“You can look without buying, but don’t buy without looking.”

– HERMAN ZEUCH

Herman Zeuch hosts prospective Indian River Farms land buyers. He used to say, “You can look without buying, but don’t buy without looking.”

Four gentlemen farmers show off their buckwheat crop at Indian River Farms.

The Tatum brothers—Judson, Bethel, Johnson, and Smiley—were prolifi c entrepreneurs who developed land in the greater Miami area during the boom of the 1920s.

[ORIGINAL SOURCE CITATION], WORLD DIGITAL LIBRARY

WILDE SIDE

Florida land prices were not based on real estate value. About the same time, the IRS had begun to scrutinize the Florida land boom as a giant sham operation. Despite the efforts of Governor John W. Martin to reassure Northern editors—meeting, for example, with New York publishers at the Waldorf Astoria—the Northern press continued to blast the speculative excesses of buying and selling Florida real estate.

It might have blown over, as bad press sometimes does, becoming only newsprint fit to wrap fish in, except for a few unrelated incidents that came together like a perfect storm. The first was in Octo-

ber, when the three major railroad companies—the Atlantic Coast Line, Seaboard Air Line, and Florida East Coast—responded to the overwhelming influx of freight by restricting nonessential shipments, which included building materials. In addition, commodity brokers were speculating on goods, ordering a surplus of supplies shipped to general destinations, creating stranded railroad cars, further choking railroad traffic statewide. The Interstate Commerce Commission called for an embargo on shipping so freight houses could be cleared of the backlog. Florida builders were left in the middle of construction

with no supplies.

To add to this gridlock, in January 1926, the Prinz Valdemar, a 241-foot Danish schooner, sank in the turning basin of Miami Harbor, further blocking access to Florida’s east coast. Things

dragged on for months.

The final blow to Florida’s boom occurred in September 1926 when a Category 4 hurricane came out of nowhere to devastate the Greater Miami area, traverse the peninsula, and cause catastrophic

The transport of building materials into Florida was hampered for six weeks in 1926 when the four-masted Prinz Valdemar capsized in Miami Harbor.

STATE ARCHIVES OF FLORIDA

damage to Florida’ gulf coast before emerging into the Gulf of Mexico near Fort Myers. Weather forecasting in those years relied on reports from ships at sea. e scattered positions of vessels meant

that it was not until the hurricane was nearly upon the Virgin Islands, less than a few days away, that anyone knew it was coming. With more than 250 deaths statewide, stupefying structural damage

that left many thousands homeless, and ooded communities, the 1926 hurricane was considered the country’s greatest natural disaster since the San Francisco earthquake of 1906.

While devastated communities were still picking up the pieces, land buyers defaulted on their payments. Newcomers began leaving the state, withdrawing their money from local banks. Realtors and developers abandoned their projects, leaving scores of failed developments such as Aladdin City, Fulford-bythe Sea, and Okeelanta. e state chamber of commerce tried to revive Florida’s shattered image with a picture

postcard campaign, urging residents to send untarnished views of their communities to friends out of state, but the campaign was fruitless. Finally, in the last months of the year, Florida banks began to fail, putting the state into an economic decline that preceded the Great Depression by three years.

Florida didn’t really take o again until after World War II, although now it seems that Florida’s growth is inevitable and irrepressible, like the hammocks, which, if untended, quickly reclaim themselves, or a croton cutting that will take root almost the minute you stick it into the ground.

ALIMENTARI GOURMET MARKET | BELLE COSE | CITRON BISTRO | CLIFF NORRIS REAL ESTATE | COASTAL COMFORTS | G. MATHEOS EYEWEAR HOOS ARCHITECTURE | ISLAND CASHMERE | J. MCLAUGHLIN | JEAN-PIERRE KLIFA | JOHNNY WAS | MEGHAN CANDLER GALLERY NOTEWORTHY BY DESIGN | OODLES OF WALLPAPER | SALON DEL MAR | SANDRA MORGAN INTERIORS | SEA BAGS OF MAINE | TOMMY BAHAMA

Le to themselves, Florida’s hammocks are irrepressible.

KELLY ROGERS

Your Island Expert

SIP AND SHOP

Taste Buds

THE DUO OF CALEIGH KING AND PAIGE DUPUY HAVE EMBARKED ON A WINE ADVENTURE THEY WANT TO SHARE WITH THE WHOLE COMMUNITY

BY ANN TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEVEN MARTINE

Caleigh King and Paige Dupuy were two strangers who happened to meet and discover they had something in common: a passion for wine. The more they got to know each other, the more the idea of having their own wine shop went from “We have to be crazy” to “Let’s go for it!”

On February 22 of this year, Dupuy and King officially opened The Cellar Sip and Shoppe in the Portales de Vero building on Ocean Drive. Since then it’s become the place to sample, savor, and learn about vino varietals.

“I’ve always loved wine but had no idea I was going to go into it,” says King, who grew up in Vero Beach. “I graduated from UCF in marketing and communications and followed it up with an internship at a winery in Oregon, where I learned about the process that goes into making wine and totally fell in love with the industry. Then I met Paige and we clicked.”

The click couldn’t have happened at a better time. After 10 years as a real estate agent, Dupuy, an enthusiastic people person, was ready for a career change. Already knowledgeable about wine and eager to learn more, she had found a kindred soul. She also found the perfect beachside location.

“It was just what we’d been looking for,” Dupuy says. “We do a lot of events, so we wanted to have an open space and furniture we could move around. We sketched what we wanted our shop to look like and it works.”

A bonus was the already-in-place floor-toceiling wood panel on the wall, where over 100 bottles are displayed. In the center, a tasting station features 16 different wines on a rotating basis. Movable tables and chairs plus a small cluster of colorful upholstered chairs provide plenty of interior seating, while on the patio, oak barrel–base tables and stools add places to sip and enjoy.

And that’s what it’s all about. King shows how it works: “You get a tasting card, like this,” she says, holding one up. “You tap it

on the label you want to try, and choose a half or full glass of wine. It works just like a bar tab.”

“We do a lot of market research and tend to have wines you can’t find at Publix or ABC,” Dupuy adds. “We also do a lot of local networking and working with other small businesses when we do our events. It’s about community. We want people to know us, and vice versa. I may not remember your name right away, but I’ll usually remember the wine you like. I tell people, ‘Don’t feel intimidated; try something new.’ One of the best things about wine is having new experiences, expanding your horizons. It’s fun.”

Opposite page: Caleigh King and Paige Dupuy enjoy introducing customers to a variety of wines.

This page, from top right: The tasting station features 16 wines at a time, on a rotating basis. The Cellar strives to carry wines one may not find at Publix or ABC. Caleigh King does a taste test.

Staying Power

A STRONG CURRENT DRIVES LONGTIME CHARITY LEADERS

Spark plug.

president and CEO in 2015.

BY JEFFREY R. PICKERING

Not the first impression I had of Allen Cornell, Riverside Theatre’s longtime producing artistic director and CEO. The setting was one of a series of welcome dinners hosted by late Indian River Community Foundation client Bob Theis, as I began my tenure as the organization’s

While Bob’s intention was to introduce my wife, Stephanie, and me to several of the “movers and shakers” (as he called them) who led some of the most successful local nonprofit organizations, the quiet start to our meal had me thinking that I had misread the letter he had written me

describing whom we would be dining with. That is, until Stephanie asked Cornell about the performances scheduled for the upcoming season. A light flickered in Cornell’s eyes. His posture shifted and his head tilted, focused and intense. He found his mark, thanked our host for the meal, and over the next hour

Allen Cornell has been a “spark plug” in the engine of Riverside Theatre for more than 40 of its 50 years.

STEVEN MARTINE

proceeded to take Stephanie and me through chapter and verse of the carefully curated performances that would mark our first “season” as Vero Beach residents. It was showtime, and both Cornell and his supporting cast (i.e., Theis) earned a standing ovation.

Hal Williams, founder of the Rensselaerville Institute and veteran advisor to philanthropists and grantmaking foundations worldwide, says that human energy is the scarcest and most important resource for high achievement. It is just one of the characteristics he uses to define what he calls “spark plug leaders.”

Spark plug leaders have energy. They are action oriented. They focus on and achieve results. They take personal responsibility. They are team players.

After more than 40 years leading Riverside Theatre,

Allen Cornell has demonstrated mastery of each of these qualities and more, all of which were displayed prominently at Riverside’s recent 50th anniversary celebration. You do not have to look far, however, to find these same characteristics in many more nonprofit leaders in our community.

On my first visit to McKee Botanical Garden, Christine Hobart seemed like someone I might meet there. Not necessarily because of her personal appearance or style, but because of the way she fit perfectly into the serene natural beauty of this beloved place. She smiled, shook my hand, and then quietly led me on a walk through the 18-acre campus that is home to more than 10,000 native and tropical plants and one of Florida’s largest and most celebrated collections of water lilies.

Christine Hobart, shown here with her friend PeanutButter, is the longtime executive director of McKee Botanical Garden.

Hobart has worked at McKee for more than 25 years, 17 of which she has served as the organization’s executive director. And while she demurs when praised for the nonprofit’s success, the results speak for themselves. Like Cornell, Hobart also checks all the boxes for what it means to be a spark plug leader.

I believe that the prospect of being personally responsible for a place that holds the 100-year-old vision of local legends Arthur McKee and Waldo Sexton is a daunting obligation for anyone. In this beautiful natural environment, Hobart has been, well,

a natural—earning high praise from many, including another veteran leader of an environmental organization.

For almost two decades, Ken Grudens’ energy and optimism have been making an impact by leading a local nonprofit with a powerfully simple purpose of protecting the land that protects the lagoon. The measurable results the Indian River Land Trust has achieved under Grudens’ leadership are significant.

The Land Trust is responsible for conserving more than 1,200 acres of natural lands, including over 12 miles of Indian River Lagoon

shoreline. The names of the places that Grudens and his colleagues steward feel like warm salt air moving across a lush shoreline, reminiscent of a land to be remembered. Oyster Bar Marsh. Coastal Oaks Preserve. Cove Island. Bee Gum Point. Pine Island.

Grudens seems to eat, sleep, and breathe this work, mindful of the progress that has been made and restless with the next opportunity. Before his passing, longtime trustee and financial supporter Bill Buck told me he believed that Grudens had one of the most important jobs in our community.

“Given the pristine nature

Jeff Pickering, Tatiana Wallace, and Crystal Bujol enjoy their partnership.

The Community Foundation’s Jeff Pickering and the Land Trust’s Ken Grudens celebrate their collaboration at the beautiful Toni Robinson Waterfront Trail.

of this land and the wide variety of animals and plants that depend on it, the stakes are very high,” he said. “Yet he carries the weight of this responsibility with pride.” High praise and an even higher standard that I am confident Grudens will continue to uphold.

Twenty years is a long time to lead any organization. In my opinion, Crystal Bujol deserves double the credit, considering that much of her tenure as founder leading the Gifford Youth Orchestra has been meted out in some of the squeakiest, off-key increments known to man—at least at the start, when her patience is tested while sitting through

lesson after lesson filled with the screeching sounds of a beginning violin student or the warbling tone of a new singer.

One look at the final performance of 11-year GYO student and recent Vero Beach High School graduate Tatiana Wallace makes it all worth it. In addition to becoming a virtuoso with a resume that includes dozens of volunteer performances to benefit numerous community organizations, Wallace learned leadership skills giving her the confidence to pursue college while continuing to teach violin to future GYO students.

Under Bujol’s leadership, the GYO has developed into the premier nonprofit music education program in Indian River County. It is well positioned for greater impact as it begins a campaign to fund the construction of a permanent home on 45th Street in Gifford—a daunting task for many, but for Bujol, this challenge is music to her ears.

We live in one of the most generous communities in America. Whatever inspires you to give, donating to organizations led by people with “spark plug energy” is guaranteed to change the world. It is the only thing that ever will.

Jeff Pickering, right, presents a grant check to Ken Grudens.

Christine Hobart beams over a 2019 endowment grant from the Community Foundation.

COLLECTIONS

Heavy Metal Collection

THE ORLANDO AUTO MUSEUM: CLASSIC, MOVIE, MILITARY, RARE, AND ECCENTRIC VEHICLES FROM AROUND THE WORLD

Walking through the doors of Dezerland Park in Orlando, you’ll nd yourself in a cornucopia of indoor entertainment.

ere’s bowling, laser tag, pinball, go-karts, restaurants, event spaces, minigolf, bumper cars, virtual-reality games, trampolines, a movie theater, and an axe-throwing facility.

PATRICK MERRELL

As if that’s not enough, there’s also the Orlando Auto Museum—home to one of the largest car collections in the world. It’s so vast and varied, you’ll likely have trouble viewing all 2,000 vehicles in one visit.

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY

This “Cushman Chevy Tribute” scooter was built in the style of the iconic Chevy

Banned from building aircra a er WWII Messerschmi turned to cars When the ban was li ed in the company returned to aircra production and sold its car line to FMR This FMR Messerschmi KR weighs pounds and can go mph

Ads for this Studebaker Champion touted its bullet-nose design as “The Next Look” in automobiles It was gone by the next year

The world’s longest car made using six Cadillac Eldorados measures feet inches It has wheels a jacuzzi pu ing green and can seat

This Cadillac Series Convertible with its gorgeous Art Deco front end detailing is one of only seven known examples to still exist

CLASSIC CARS

e 20-plus themed areas of the museum o er something for everyone: Cars of Europe, Cars of the Stars, Military Pavilion, Gatsby Lounge, Americana, Harley Lounge, and more.

If you’re into Batman, you’ll nd a room lled with Batmobiles. Another hall houses the world’s largest collection of James Bond vehicles, worth an estimated $100 million. Included in it are two silver Aston Martin DB5s as well as airplanes, a tractor-trailer, a helicopter, motorcycles, watercraft, and various cars from the Bond lms.

ere are three other “world’s largest” collections to be found within the walls of the museum: the Micro Cars Lounge (a few photos of their hood emblems are shown above); the Motorized Bike Lounge; and the Vespa Lounge, which includes examples from 1950 to 2018. I could go on, but I think I already have.

Michael Dezer is the man behind the museum’s vehicles. Over the past 50 years, while amassing a fortune from developing real estate, Dezer also pursued his second passion: collect-

ing cars. And he’s still at it. “Last week, we had another 15 cars come in,” says Lana Vegosen, director of marketing and events at the facility. “He’s still actively purchasing—much to our delight and dismay. And I say ‘dismay’ because little by little my event spaces are getting packed with cars.”

In an unusual twist for a museum, all of the exhibits in it are for sale. eoretically, that should help free up space, but as Vegosen points out, “Mr. Dezer really does not like to part with his vehicles. ey’re precious to him.”

French and Spanish explorers adorn the hoods of respectively a LaSalle and a DeSoto

Yuri Gagarin was given a GAZ M Volga a er his orbital flight This emblem is from a M Israel British-built Sabra Sport

Italy Autobianchi Bianchina microcar

Spain Biscúter Zapatilla microcar

Germany Zündapp Janus microcar

“I know a Russian billionaire o ered him millions of dollars for the engine alone of the James Bond Toyota 2000GT,” Vegosen says, “and he turned it down.” Toyota specially built that sports car for the lm You Only Live Twice. “Actor Chris Hemsworth o ered him $1.8 million for the Mad Max police Interceptor we have, and he turned it down.”

So, if you do visit the Orlando Auto Museum with the idea of driving away in one of its cars, be sure to bring plenty of cash ... and then some.

Mike Corbin who set a land speed record for an electric-powered motorcycle in mph created this Corbin Sparrow

United States Duesenberg Model X

France s’ Panhard Dyna Z

United States Frazer Manha an

United Kingdom Morgan /

The Ecto from the Ghostbusters film is a converted Cadillac Miller-Meteor ambulance

Visitors to the ride and game areas of Dezerland can rent four-wheeled “light bikes” for ge ing around

VERO BEACH | PALM BEACH | NANTUCKET

ALEXANDRA C. NUTTALL, ASID

TRENDING

Up-Scaling

MARINE LIFE PROVIDES A TIMELESS AND COLORFUL DECOR THEME

BY VALERIE CRUICE

It first appeared, to our knowledge, about 25,000 years ago: the earliest representation of a fish in a home. In the Fish Rock Shelter deep in the Dordogne region of France, floats a life-size relief sculpture of a male salmon. On the other side of the Pyrenees, a pictograph of a halibut decorates an 18,000-year-old cave in Andalusia, Spain. Swimming through history since about 1500 B.C., the exuberant Dolphin Fresco mural adorns the walls of the ancient Minoan Palace of Knossos on the island of Crete in shimmering, vividly colored mosaics.

Sea creatures, it seems, are not confined to the water.

We humans like to bring them into our world—to document a catch, to enjoy their personalities, to revel in their myths. We ascribe our

own qualities to them. Salmon are stubbornly determined; dolphins symbolize guidance, intelligence, and joyfulness. Sharks are fearless; angelfish are cute. From our first goldfish won by tossing a ping-pong ball into a fishbowl at a school fair, to incorporating a massive aquarium in a living room design and populating the tank with exotics that match the color scheme, fish and other aquatic animals—in various forms and references—reside with us in our homes.

Like our ancestors, we tend to decorate our domiciles with marine life, immersing ourselves in the undersea environment. Whether immortalizing a catch through the detailed art of gyotaku or slipping into a bed made up in Garnet Hill’s Turquoise Fish design, we surround ourselves with our finned friends.

Whimsical fish adorn the walls of this bedroom decorated by Leah Muller Interiors.

“They make our space coastal and colorful,” says Elizabeth Read Pusser, co-owner of Oodles of Wallpaper in Vero Beach. “This is what we all aspire to when we come to this area.” Wallpapers such as Acquario by Cole & Son, or Mr. Blow by Abnormals Anonymous, in colorways featuring gold, create a fantasy world in which one feels submerged in a shimmering, highly stylized oceanic environment.

Pusser goes beyond wallpaper, however, to incorporate piscatory references in her clients’ homes. One of her clients has a glass-and-metal chandelier over the kitchen island that suspends glass fish lit from within, and glass “bubbles” floating among them. In a new build in Vero Beach, she has brought the subaquatic swimmers into the living room via pillows in Manuel Canovas’ Fidji pattern.

On a wall in another project, Pusser mounted a trio of hand-carved fish found at an art fair. She likes to incorporate crafts to bring the local marine vibe inside. “It’s really cool to be able to exploit these local craftsmen,” notes the designer.

Another way to scale up your space is through items that reference characteristics without depicting the entire creature. In the same way

zebra stripes or leopard spots come into our homes, fish scales become a chic organic element. The table can be set in Herend’s Fish Scale china pattern, while iridescent tile glimmers on multiple surfaces in the bathroom; the tessellated rhythm of fish scales enlivens any room. And speaking of the bathroom, Leah Muller of Leah Muller Interiors installed a sleek white sink that resembles a modern Moby Dick and surrounded it with “scaley-looking” gray tile.

Sandra Morgan of Sandra Morgan Interiors has designed numerous coastal homes in and around both Vero Beach and Greenwich, Connecticut, where she has studios. The designer incorporates abstract art, such as Penny Putnam’s mixed media Coy Koi as a subtle and clever nod to the colorful carp.

At the other end of the spectrum, Morgan has had requests from clients for the real thing. “I’ve had two male clients who were hooked on aquariums. With one, we had to build the whole first floor around a 6-by-8-foot tank. The other client wanted an aquarium in the library. His wife wouldn’t hear of it. They settled for fish wallpaper in the powder room,” she says.

In

Like our ancestors, we tend to decorate our domiciles with marine life.

Left: Hand-carved fish discovered at an art fair play a key role in this design by Oodles of Wallpaper. Above: Shiny silver tile sets a fitting backdrop for the whale-inspired sink Leah Muller selected for this bathroom.

this Oodles-designed room, pillows evoke the sea with patterns of whales and coral.

HORTICULTURE

Green umb in the White Sand

THE KEY TO SUCCESSFUL GARDENING IN FLORIDA IS TO COOPERATE WITH NATURE

BY NICKIE MUNROE ENVIRONMENTAL HORTICULTURE AGENT UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA’S IFAS INDIAN RIVER COUNTY EXTENSION

When I returned to Florida in 2016, the rst thing I did was touch the soil. Letting that sugar sand run through my ngers brought a smile of familiarity to my face. en, looking at my dirty hands and feeling the residual soil on them con rmed I was not in Alabama anymore. It is very common for natives and transplants alike to complain about the quality of our soil— the immature formation that will not hold moisture or nutrients for the roots of the plants we want it to support.

Why trust me for gardening advice?

One month after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in horticulture, I started working as the environmental horticulture agent and Master Gardener coordinator here at University of Florida’s IFAS Indian River County Extension. Since then, I have done a lot of gardening in Central Florida. Even with my knowledge

of how plants work and what their needs are, I still nd many aspects of Florida gardening di cult. My work allows me to help others with their own gardening pursuits.

Let’s begin with the issues associated with gardening in Florida.

Our soil is just the beginning of our troubles. ere is an excess of salt that most people from the interior of our country have never had to deal with. en there is the sun that reminds us with its powerful light and sti ing warmth of why Florida is called the “Sunshine State.” Of course, let us not forget the seemingly random abundance and scarcity of rainfall we receive annually. And where do we begin with the insects, diseases, and other threats that attack our precious plants?

ere is a lot going on in our environment that would discourage the most diligent gardener. Avid gardeners may relinquish

their desires for homegrown tomatoes and the bright, colorful beds seen in magazines, but it is not necessary to admit defeat. Florida is di erent from all the other states, and we must work with our environment to achieve the desired outcomes.

e answer to most of these issues is Florida-Friendly Landscaping management techniques. It is a very practical system based on selecting the right plants and putting them in the right places. For example, the common complaint is the “backward” nature of vegetable gardening down here. Gardeners in more northerly states enjoy a bounty of crops during summer months, while we generally limit our food growing during those excessively hot months.

In our part of Florida, tomatoes are best planted in August, on the cusp of fall. en a second rotation can be started

Zinnia (far le ) and celosia plants (below) are great to use for temporary color in the summer when Florida gardens look bare. Begonia (le ) can thrive in shade all year.

in January, with enough time for a crop before our weather becomes too hot again. If you follow the national magazines or other popular gardening media, you will think yourself a failure. e reality is that you can achieve your desired results if you adjust your plans to include the vagaries of Florida.

Wondering what to do in your September garden? Here are a few FloridaFriendly tips:

• If your summer beds are looking peaked, plant celosia, marigolds, and zinnia for bright temporary color. For more permanent color, penta, plumbago, and begonia (in shade) are great options.

• You may restart the kitchen garden with leafy vegetables, tomatoes, squashes, and beans. Cool-season and warm-season crops generally overlap. We can grow all kinds of things down here! Start small

and grow items you want to use.

• Several herbs that will tolerate the remnants of our summer heat can be included in kitchen gardens as well. Mexican tarragon, mint (keep in a pot), basil, and rosemary (totally a perennial down here) are excellent choices.

• Be on the lookout for insect damage on your turfgrass. e sooner you notice, the better it will be for your landscape. Adjusting to gardening in Florida takes time. Speak kindly to yourself and to your plants.

Marigolds are hardy plants that will bloom in the summer.

CAREGIVERS

Mindful Memory Care

PURPOSEFULLY DESIGNED MEMORY CARE COMMUNITIES CAN HELP LOVED ONES WITH ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE OR DEMENTIA THRIVE—MIND, BODY, AND SOUL

e all think we’re going to take care of our husbands forever, until one day we realize we can’t,” says 83-year-old Myra Greenfield, describing the agonizing decision to place Richard, her husband of 63 years, in a memory care facility. “I thought this should never be happening to him.”

BY RENÁE TESAURO

“We had a great life,” Myra reflects, as she reminisces about their family’s moves throughout New Jersey and New York for Richard’s job as a hospital and nursing home administrator. He was an avid fly fisherman with an adventuresome spirit, she says, recounting their extensive travels throughout the United States and abroad. They retired to Vero Beach in 2002.

Over time, Myra says, Richard lost interest in the things he loved. He stopped doing sudoku and crossword puzzles, paperwork, taxes, and even driving. “He’d claim he got hacked on the computer or that he didn’t feel like driving.”

At first, Richard’s reluctance to drive was not an issue; “I like to drive,” Myra explains. But that all changed one day. “Richard was driving me home after I had dental surgery. I was asleep in the car. He got lost, tried to turn around, and got into an accident. When he got retested for his driver’s license in 2017, he couldn’t do the written test. We had no idea anything was wrong until he was tested by a dementia expert after the accident.”

Following a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, Myra cared for Richard at home, taking advantage of the social respite and caregiver education classes at the Alzheimer & Parkinson Association of Indian River County and the DayAway program offered by the Senior Resource Association.

One of the caregivers had purple hair, which Richard admired, so Myra dyed her own hair purple and has maintained that look ever since. The daycare programs provided a safe and

Left: Myra Greenfield participates in a cooking class. Below: Myra has sported purple hair ever since her husband, Richard, liked the look on a caregiver. TERRY

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engaging environment for Richard while Myra could go grocery shopping, do errands, and go to the gym. But when COVID hit and those support services temporarily ended, Myra was solely responsible for Richard’s care, and it took a toll on her own health.

“I never resented taking care of him,” she explains. “I never once lost my cool. He’s such an easygoing person; but it got to the point where I wasn’t sleeping at all.”

In May 2022, after some trials and errors with another memory care facility, Myra moved Richard into Certus Premier Memory Care Living, a purposefully built community designed exclusively for residents with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Richard, now 90 and wheelchair bound, occupies one of 64 single-

The “town center” at Certus serves as a gathering space for residents of both 32-suite “neighborhoods.” Such elements are inspired by the Dutch village of Hogeweyk, an innovative dementia treatment facility.

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occupancy suites, and Myra visits him faithfully every day.

“Our rooms are intentionally designed to look like bedrooms so that residents are out and about and involved in our engagement programs throughout the day,” says community relations director Terry Tillman. “While some assisted living facilities have memory care units, ours is an entire memory care community, designed to provide a homelike atmosphere where residents feel comfortable, safe, and successful.”

The community, Tillman explains, borrows elements from Hogeweyk, a Dutch village outside Amsterdam that is a gated treatment facility for those living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. It is widely considered a model for those living with memory deficits, as residents of Hogeweyk can shop, stroll, wander, and live as independently as possible—all within the confines of a 1950s-era village. The reasoning behind the 1950s look is that people with Alzheimer’s typically have better long-term than short-term memory. They tend to be more comfortable living in the past than in the present. The village concept,

research shows, creates an environment that is familiar and less confusing, enabling residents to actively participate in daily life.

Incorporating elements from the Dutch model, Certus features two identical neighborhoods (each with 32 suites), two exterior courtyards with raised garden beds, two dining rooms, a theater, a fitness room, a beauty salon, and a town center where everyone can gather. While residents’ days are customized to their individual abilities, needs, and prefer-

ences, they are free to utilize all spaces (indoor and out) independently without the risk of wandering off-site.

Aside from the facility’s design, Tillman points out, “there are little researchbased nuances that set us

CONSIDER MEMORY CARE IF YOUR LOVED ONE:

Is becoming increasingly agitated, combative, or defensive, particularly later in the day (a condition called sundowning). Is withdrawn and avoiding favorite activities.

Is neglecting personal hygiene. Forgets to eat or forgets that a particular meal has already been eaten.

Wanders and you are concerned about his/her safety. Has sleep problems that have become unmanageable. Lives in conditions that are unsafe.

Is unable to manage medications properly. Has caregiving needs that impact your own physical and mental health or safety.

apart from other memory care providers. White on white is difficult to distinguish in later stages of Alzheimer’s, so baseboards, handrails, blinds, and accent walls are darker colors. Our dementia-friendly flooring is skid resistant and especially comfortable and safe for those who walk with a shuffle. We serve meals on red plates because research shows red increases appetite, while dark blue suppresses appetite. If someone is eating too quickly, we serve their meals on blue plates. Lime green is the most prevalent color seen with aging eyes, so our care providers wear lime green shirts. Toilet seats are also lime green. Many hip fractures happen in the bathroom because people misjudge the toilet.”

People with Alzheimer’s have difficulty distinguishing between day and night. For this reason, explains Tillman,

“Loved ones adapt quickly to the new routine.”

– TAMI LEEBERG

A Certus resident enjoys a rainy day indoors; the community’s theater is in the background.

Special events help keep things interesting, and music is often evocative of fond memories.

lighting throughout the building is like that found on the International Space Station. It mimics daylight and night to help regulate residents’ circadian rhythms. Even nightlights are rose colored, rather than white, based on research that shows light in the amberto-red spectrum can restore natural sleep cadence.

“Our mission is to provide evidence-based neurological stimulation that helps people with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or related memory loss thrive in place,” says Joshua Freitas, a memory care program developer, researcher, and author who serves as corporate education director and chief research

o cer of the Certus Institute, the research and development arm of Certus Senior Living.

“Wherever they are in their journey, we join them and help them navigate throughout their day in a digni ed way. Our research division shows that residents in our town center environments improve cognitively within the rst three months by creating and sustaining meaningful relationships. ey neurologically challenge each other. It’s like training for a marathon. If you’re running with a group, you’re encouraged to keep up with them.”

“Optimal memory care is not just about the building and the design; it’s also about

the sta ,” adds Freitas. “Our sta members go through dementia training and satisfy the certi cation requirements of the National Institute for Dementia Education as well as the state.” Part of their train-

ing is to complete a dementia simulation, o ered by the Alzheimer & Parkinson Association of Indian River County. e organization’s 27-foot RV serves as a rolling classroom, providing a rsthand look at

An art party stimulates creativity among a group of Certus residents.

the challenges people with dementia face daily.

Education also extends to the families of Certus residents and caregivers in the community, observes Freitas, a frequent lecturer and author of e Dementia Concept. He says the Certus Institute is currently developing a product to help homebased caregivers become more informed about dementia and about easing a loved one’s transition to a memory care facility. “All too often,” Freitas points out, “people wait until they’re in crisis mode to search for a memory care facility.”

“Sometimes loved ones wander away or get into a car

accident. ey might be in the hospital and then the family must gure out what to do next,” says Donna Caperello, executive director of Certus at Vero Beach. “I always ask families, ‘What was the rst thing your loved one did that made you realize something was wrong?’ One woman said her husband kept leaving the refrigerator door open. Another said her husband kept getting lost. It’s a good idea to research your options ahead of time.”

“Because dementia is on the rise, families today are doing more to identify it earlier through testing,” says Tillman. Still, she admits, many people have overwhelming

FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A MEMORY

CARE FACILITY:

What is the facility’s philosophy and approach to care?

Is the staff trained and certified in dementia care?

Does the facility conduct background checks on its staff?

What is the staff-to-resident ratio?

Do rooms have emergency call buttons and shower grab bars?

Are entrances and exits secure?

Are care plans, programs, and activities customized to meet residents’ needs?

Does the facility offer educational support for families?

Is the facility designed to resemble a home-like environment?

Is there 24-hour access to medical care?

How is medication managed?

How often are housekeeping, laundry, and linen services provided?

Raymond A. Della Porta, DMD

Raymond A. Della Porta II, DMD Scott Elliott, DMD

guilt about placing a loved one in a facility.

“It’s important for family members to understand, it’s much harder on them than their loved one,” observes Tami Leeberg, a nurse practitioner and co-founder of Practitioners in Motion, which provides mobile acute and primary care services to assisted living and memory care facilities, senior living communities, and group and private homes throughout Indian River and Brevard Counties. “Loved ones adapt quickly to the new routine, make friends, and become actively engaged.

Caregivers can become the wife, daughter, and sister again. Transitioning is surprisingly easy, and that helps take away the guilt.”

Myra Greenfield acknowledges that the transition has been harder for her than for Richard. “The day I brought him here and got his room set up, they told him they were having hamburgers for lunch, and he just walked away. Although I’m very good at separating myself from him when I’m not here, nights alone are hard. I feel like half of me is missing. The other day, I took home one of his pillowcases just to have him close.”

Memory care patients often form special bonds with their caregivers, who, at Certus, are clad in lime green because studies show it is a color easily distinguished by aging eyes.

Past Imperfect

FICTIONAL PODCASTER BODIE KANE MUST DREDGE UP SOME UNCOMFORTABLE MEMORIES

BY CHAD AND ELIZABETH LEONARD OF THE VERO BEACH BOOK CENTER

STAFF PICKS

I HAVE SOME QUESTIONS FOR YOU

by Rebecca Makkai Viking Press, 2023

This novel is a mystery/thriller that takes place at a posh New Hampshire boarding school in the mid-1990s. Bodie Kane, a successful L.A.-based podcaster, film producer, and alumna of The Granby School, is invited back to campus as a guest instructor to teach a two-week course. She has mixed emotions upon returning, as her years at Granby were overshadowed by her own personal issues and one horrific crime, the murder of her roommate, Thalia Keith.

As much as Bodie wants to avoid getting drawn back into reliving those memories, including the conviction of Omar Evans, a favorite (and only minority) athletic coach at the school, her students are intrigued and want to explore the case in a podcast of their own.

Bodie is forced to reexamine her past as she guides her students, but this time through the eyes of an adult. She has memories that now take on new meaning and open the possibility that authorities may have convicted the wrong person.

I Have Some Questions for You is a suspenseful book that takes the reader right back to high school; the strange and awkward period of life known as the teenage years is rendered with an accurate amalgam of complex relationships, misunderstandings, and miscommunications that contribute to the mixed emotions people often feel when looking back on their own experiences, but with the addition of one tragic event that defined this fictional class of 1995.

Rebecca Makkai was a Pulitzer Prize finalist for her 2018 work The Great Believers.

WRECKER

by Carl Hiaasen

This Vero Beach resident’s latest gift to his readers of all ages is set to be released in late September, and if it’s anything like his previous novels, filled with Florida bad guys and gals, strap yourself in for a fun ride.

OBJECTS IN THE REARVIEW MIRROR

by Deborah A. Dell

In the early 1970s, the University of Notre Dame began admitting undergraduate women, who soon became leaders in the classroom and on the sports fields. This nonfiction work takes a look at those times.

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Breast Cancer Awareness Month is approaching. Please help me raise money and spread awareness this October by signing up for a flock of flamingos! Send a flock to your yard, a friend’s yard, or simply donate to this great cause. All proceeds stay right here locally to help breast cancer patients in Vero Beach.

REALTOR®

Below: When Taki is on guard at the front door, not much goes unnoticed. Right: Elsa stays on alert, especially if someone is in her yard.

TRAINING

Mine!

GUARDING BEHAVIOR IS HARDWIRED IN DOGS, SO IT IS UP TO OWNERS TO STAY IN CONTROL

BY AMY ROBINSON

Very young children can grasp the concept of ownership. Parents may be embarrassed on play dates or at daycare when their child knits his brows and shouts “Mine!” as he snatches a toy from a playmate minding his own business. Sharing has to be taught and rewarded. Most dogs have a similar tendency to claim items, such as socks they found in the laundry room or reading glasses dropped on the oor. e more

we want it back, the more it is prized.

Possession defense is called “resource guarding.” “Resource guarding occurs when the dog nds something valuable that they want for their own,” says Rick Bailey, owner of LoveDog Inc. in Palm City. “You can’t predict what a dog nds valuable. Some will go after another dog over a water bowl. Most won’t. ey’ll share water because they know it is abundant.”

It is usually something that is not normally available to the dog that becomes valuable enough to elicit a toothy reaction, but not always. “You could give four dogs the exact same toy, and three of them may want what the fourth dog has,” Bailey says.

Resource guarding is related to territory defense, but with one main di erence: Dogs that don’t like interlopers in the home or yard are taking a macro view, as opposed to

defending one thing. Their primal instinct to protect home and hearth is usually rewarded, even if the owner isn’t saying “Good dog.” Just the act of going to the door and looking out tells the dog his alert system is working.

Jeanette Ditlefsen owns Elsa, a German shepherd adopted from a rescue in South Florida. Just a week into their time together, Ditlefsen noticed Elsa’s territory defense of the home and yard. “When someone knocks at the front door, Elsa will bark loudly a few times and then turn to look at me,” she says, “but if there are workmen or landscapers in the backyard, her reaction is much bigger.”

To the dog, this makes perfect sense. People in the back are not asking for entry in the proper way. They are often in uniform with hats and handheld equipment like blowers and edgers. The dog observes this perceived threat and barks with great intensity. Eventually, the workers recede

and drive away. To the dog, that is mission accomplished.

Like most owners, Ditlefsen would like to strike a balance. “I’m glad she barks when someone is at the door, but if the person is invited in, I want her to accept that and relax,” she says. “I don’t want Elsa to be aggressive toward people or other dogs, but it would be nice out in public if she would alert me to sketchy people approaching us—to growl or bark so they keep a distance.”

Some dogs will take this too far when out walking, indiscriminately threatening neighbors, joggers, or friends who just want to stop and chat, as if there were a magic space around the owner that no one can enter. This same dog, when walked by a dog walker or trainer, does not display this tendency. “That is almost always a lack of discipline,” says Bailey. “A lot of people think their dog is protecting them when it is actually claiming a space as his own. If they don’t have good

A dog may guard a territory or a particular person or object.

Ask Amy

amy@verobeachmagazine.com

I adore my elderly neighbor and her dog, Greta. However, the dog is a very overweight dachshund. I know that this breed has back problems later in life, and I can see that all this weight is making her swaybacked, which can’t be good for her. How can I broach the subject with my neighbor? Is there a polite way to do this? I’d love to help but don’t want my neighbor to stop speaking to me over this.

This is a tough one. You would never mention that one of her grandchildren was obese, right? Dogs are often treated like children, so you must tread carefully, even though the dog’s health is at risk. Greta has probably never seen a meal she didn’t like. Some veterinarians won’t tell clients their dogs are eating too much for fear of offending them, but perhaps Greta has not been to her veterinarian in a couple of years. I’d suggest asking your neighbor who her vet is, and then offering her a ride there if she ever needs to go. You can also tell her you were watching a dog show online and saw a beautiful dachshund. Print a photo and show it to her, which will clearly show a healthy weight and a straight back. Be aware that if neither of these approaches works, you may have to resign yourself to giving the dog a loving pat when you see her.

I am taking care of my granddog for a few days and noticed that she doesn’t want to eat unless I am in the room. Even then, she will take a bite from her bowl and then look around to see if I am still there. She is definitely a shy dog, but I’m wondering if there is a larger issue here that we need to know about.

– Cathy in Vero Beach

If the dog finishes the bowl with you close by, then we know she likes her food and likes to eat. Why she craves this oversight is less clear. She may just have separation anxiety. You could leave the room and still be within her sightline, but this would not be close enough for her. It’s possible that the dog thinks she will be shut into that room alone. It may be that her owners have made mealtime a big deal, hovering nearby and encouraging her to finish. This puts a little pressure on her, and now she expects people to watch and comment. We can put a happy spin on her dining dilemma by remembering that all dogs descend from their highly social ancestors: wolves. Pack mentality comes with shared activities such as eating, hunting, sleeping, and playing. These majestic canines are very rarely alone. Your granddog may seem quirky, but she is right in line with her genealogy.

– Donald in Vero Beach

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control over the dog, then someone else with more con dence can walk the dog with no incident.”

“We can’t forget that dogs are pack animals,” Bailey adds. “Ninety-nine percent of them are born followers. ese dogs are not cut out for a leadership role, and if owners are not good leaders, that is when we see these dogs making bad decisions leading to aggressive behavior, overreactions, and overterritorialism.”

A true protection dog is another animal entirely. “When you are training for personal protection, you teach the dog when, where, and how to bite,” says Tara Wekstein, owner of Elite Florida Canine College in Vero Beach. She notes that usually the dog’s presence is deterrent enough. “If someone comes

onto the property and looks like they don’t belong, the dog owner or handler can give an alert command that tells the dog to spool up, bark, growl, and pounce in place while staying next to the owner.”

Wekstein stresses the need for a thorough education for both dog and owner, starting with obedience training. “We always have them trained on and o leash with voice commands and hand signals before starting with protection. e owner needs to have complete and total control.” Protection dogs di er from guard dogs. “Personal protection dogs are suitable for family living,” she explains. “ ey bond with their people and are specically trained to protect their loved ones. A guard dog patrols a property or area and may not be good

Tara Wekstein and Iko, her personal protection dog, prepare for an exercise.

with family members.”

A dog trained for personal protection has a repertoire of skills, including alert on command, pursue on command, bite on command, and, most important, disengage when called o , even in mid-pursuit. Calling the dog o is the hardest part to get right. “ ese are high-drive dogs who think this work is a fun game. Tails are high and wagging,” says Wekstein, who owns Iko, a Dutch shepherd who radiates eagerness during his practice sessions.

e decoy, usually a man, wears a crush-proof sleeve or a full bite suit made of Kevlar, nylon, or padded fabric blends, so the owner can work on sending the dog out to bite on command. “A well-balanced protection dog sees the decoy as a

sparring partner of sorts, having no malice toward him,” says Wekstein.

“ is same decoy can take the suit o and pet the dog immediately after the exercise.”

Pet dogs come hardwired with the instinct to safeguard themselves and what they love, but without good oversight, many make bad judgment calls while performing these duties. When welcoming guests, don’t just wait and see how the dog will react; keep him on leash and listening to you as people come inside. Toys or bones that are guarded should be available to the dog only during training sessions. Snarling or growling over the food bowl can intensify when guests are present, so have the dog eat in his crate. Safeguarding himself and his family starts with your guidance.

Gregory Allan Ness Principal Designer

Crystal Lemley Senior Designer

Sam Brignoni’s 3-year-old cane corso, Oso, targets decoy L.J. Morrison during a training session.

Just Add WATER

BY CHRIS FASOLINO

Brevard

At the new aquarium, visitors will get an inside look at sea turtle and manatee rehabilitation, and little ones will enjoy interactive, hands-on learning experiences.

Imagine yourself on a voyage across the ocean to a beautiful new land. You are excited about what lies on the horizon. Along the way, however, you find fascinating ports and islands to explore, making the journey itself worthwhile and rewarding.

That’s the kind of voyage that the staff, supporters, volunteers, and friends of the Brevard Zoo are on now. The horizon is an exciting destination: a new aquarium. Along the way, related marine projects are already helping the Indian River Lagoon. Furthermore, a manatee care facility will be up and running at the zoo by the end of this year; it will eventually be shifted to a new location at the aquarium, where it will be expanded to provide even more care for injured manatees.

The new Aquarium and Conservation Center will be located on the shores of the Banana River, near Cape Canaveral, and will focus on the fascinating flora and fauna of local waterways, including the Indian River Lagoon. It will feature immersive environments designed to help visitors appreciate the natural wonders of the area, and it will also serve as a center for

research in marine biology and related sciences.

It is estimated that the aquarium will draw half a million visitors every year, create 900 jobs, and have an annual economic impact of $85 million, along with promoting and fostering a wide array of conservation projects. The website ourlegacycampaign.org, which can also be reached from the Brevard Zoo website, has artists’ conceptions and CGI videos showing what future visitors can expect to enjoy.

Keith Winsten is the CEO of the East Coast Zoological Society (doing business as the Brevard Zoo). The umbrella of the East Coast Zoological Society includes both the Brevard Zoo and the aquarium project. Winsten explains why the aquarium will be special and how related projects are already helping the Indian River Lagoon. “The zoo was built by the community almost 30 years ago, and it’s been very volunteer driven,” he says. “We’ve ended up getting deeply involved in Indian River Lagoon conservation—and that was what drove us to look at the idea of an aquarium.”

In an intriguing analogy, Winsten likens this undertaking to the zoo’s other conservation projects, including

those designed to help the Florida scrub jay and the Perdido Key beach mouse. The latter is an endangered species that is considered essential to the health of dune ecosystems; these mice store more seeds than they eat, and these seeds can grow into plants that stabilize sand dunes. “Our conservation focus has increased over the years,” Winsten says. Why? “Because we answer the call.”

An important call now is the concern for manatees and for the seagrass on which they feed. The new aquarium will include a manatee critical care facility that will be open for visitors. For now, an early version of the manatee care center has been added to the zoo, albeit without public access.

This facility complements the zoo’s Sea Turtle Healing Center, which for years has been providing excellent care to injured sea turtles, releasing hundreds of them back into the ocean. At the new aquarium, the Sea Turtle Healing Center will be expanded, and, for the first time, open to the public. So the aquarium will let visitors see manatees and sea turtles and learn firsthand about their treatment.

Why the head start on manatee care, even before public access is an option? Olivia Escandell, conservation manager for the East Coast Zoological Society, explains: “Manatee care centers in Florida are always filled.” She likens the Brevard Zoo facility to “bed space.” Injured manatees that have been stabilized at other facilities are brought here to complete their rehabilitation before being released.

Winsten points out another advantage: “It gives our vets hands-on experience with manatees. We have a great vet staff, but manatees are like nothing else.” Working with manatees that are already stabilized will prepare the veterinarians to take on more challenging cases at the aquarium’s critical care facility; there, manatees will be cared for from rescue to release.

While Brevard Zoo is currently equipped to handle the later stages of manatee rehabilitation leading up to release, the new aquarium will offer more intensive care for sick and injured manatees.

“I always find Floridians very caring about wildlife.”

— KEITH WINSTEN

What challenges do you imagine veterinarians would face in working with manatees? The size of the animals is a major factor. At the Brevard Zoo’s care center, the pools have been designed with floors that rise, in order to help pull the enormous animals out of the water for treatment. Manatees also require a lot of food. The Sea Turtle Healing Center has added an algae farm, and those algae will also serve to supplement the diet of the manatees. “It’s always a continuum here,” Winsten says.

The care of both manatees and sea turtles also exemplifies the connections with Indian River County. “We work with sea turtles from Indian River County,” Winsten says, “and I know we will be working with manatees

from Indian River County, too. We’re a regional asset.”

The connection is also implicit to one of Winsten’s key goals for the aquarium project. “We’re always trying to model for the community how to care, and I always find Floridians very caring about wildlife.” He cites a familiar example: consideration for sea turtles during nesting season. Every Vero Beach resident is acquainted with the orange ribbons on stakes in the sand that mark off sea turtle nests—a local example of care and concern for marine creatures. Those are exactly the kinds of attitudes the aquarium is being designed to foster.

The aquarium’s focus on the lagoon and other Florida waterways is what will make it so distinctive, explains Escandell. “This is not about Indo-Pacific corals and fish,” she says wryly. “It’s the fish of the Indian River Lagoon and the Atlantic, it’s the species of the St. Johns River like river otters and alligators. It’s all about what makes this place so special.”

Escandell has extensive firsthand involvement with the East Coast Zoological Society’s lagoon preservation projects, including the establishment of oyster beds and clam beds that help improve water quality. “We have planted over 200,000 clams in Indian River County,” she notes. That includes 15 clam beds, with particular success on the coasts of Vero Beach and Sebastian. “We’re hoping to do oyster projects in Indian River County, too,” following up on the success of oyster projects in Brevard County, where “the majority of our historic oyster population had been lost, but now we have dense, robust reefs. People didn’t believe it could happen, but I’ve seen it happen.”

Another expanding area is seagrass restoration, which is in the experimental phase for the East Coast Zoological Society. The pilot project includes two sites that are near the northern border of Indian River County. Even after just a couple of weeks, new

Clockwise from above: Seagrass restoration bolsters the main food source for manatees. Oyster beds are planted to help remove harmful nutrients from local waters. A tiny clam will join the filtration efforts.

Left: A green sea turtle, restored to health at Brevard Zoo’s Sea Turtle Healing Center, awaits its release into the ocean. Above: While at the center, turtles receive the best of care.

growth of seagrass was already being reported; over the course of a year, the sites will continue to be monitored to learn more about the best ways to encourage seagrass restoration.

“We’re hoping to learn from this project in order to devote more resources to major seagrass restoration,” Escandell explains. These projects are important for the health of manatees in the wild, since seagrass is their key food source.

Collaboration is essential in environmental work, Escandell points out. With manatee rescue and rehabilitation, the East Coast Zoological Society is supporting the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Lagoon projects often involve working with Florida Atlantic University’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, along with the support of the National Estuary Program, which has recognized the Indian River Lagoon as an ecological environment of national importance.

Escandell herself is in a unique position to appreciate the importance of this work, as well as the potential of

the new Aquarium and Conservation Center. Today, she is a conservation manager, but her work at the zoo began 10 years ago when she was a volunteer. “I would take days off from my job to go and volunteer at Brevard Zoo. It paid off!”

Escandell had always loved the zoo, ever since she grew up going there with her grandmother; in fact, her grandmother was a zoo employee. “When I was a toddler, I went to the zoo a lot. And I always loved the lagoon and wanted to be a marine biologist.” Now, as she works to help the Indian River Lagoon, the enthusiasm that began in her childhood has only grown and deepened.

And she is looking forward to the rest of the voyage. “People tell me all the time that they love the zoo. And with the aquarium on the horizon, things can only get better!”

It is estimated that the aquarium will draw half a million visitors every year.

Top: The 14-acre campus of the new aquarium will be near Cape Canaveral.

Above: Staff of the Sea Turtle Healing Center release a rehabilitated turtle back into the ocean.

Artist Leonard Mizerek finds his inspiration in nature from light, sky, and water.

LIGHT TRAVELING

HAVING PAINTED IN VENICE, PARIS, AND NEW YORK CITY, PLEIN AIR AND MARITIME ARTIST LEONARD MIZEREK HAS FOUND ANCHORAGE IN VERO BEACH

BY CHRIS FASOLINO PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEVEN MARTINE

Sailboats gliding upon a vibrant teal sea. Peaceful Florida marshland beneath a sky that is clouded yet glimmering with morning light. The colorful harbor of Key West, with sunshine sparkling on the turquoise waters. An ocean sunset glimpsed through the sails of a schooner. The rooftops of Paris under a dawn sky. A cresting wave flecked with the opalescent hues of morning or evening.

These are a just a few of the beautiful images that can be found in the paintings of Leonard Mizerek. Influenced by Impressionism, he is an artist who loves the ocean and is drawn to maritime themes. Having found inspiration in varied travels, and having earned international acclaim, Mizerek has now chosen to call Vero Beach his home.

His accolades include a Merit Award at the Coos Art Museum, the Salzman Award at the National Arts Club’s Exhibiting Artist Members Show, and the treasured Iron Man Award from the American Society of Marine Artists. He has had exhibitions at the Mystic Seaport Museum, the Delaware Art Museum, and the San Diego Maritime Museum as well as numerous other venues. He has been an artist in residence at the Museum Yvonne Jean-Haffen in Dinan, France, where three of his paintings are now in the museum collection. His work has been featured in Sea History, Fine Art Today, American Art Review, and Marine Art Quarterly. So it is of great interest that, with a wry tone that nevertheless conveys genuine enthusiasm, he calls Vero Beach “the center of the universe.”

Mizerek explains: “Vero has so much variety—the inlet, the mangroves, the Jungle Trail, plus the culture and the people. I said, ‘I want to land here.’” And as befits his maritime perspective, he has found a

Above: Sunset Offshore, oil on canvas, 24 x 48 inches

Right: Sunshine in the Keys , oil on canvas, 40 x 60 inches

Some of the local spots Mizerek frequents for inspiration while painting en plein air are McKee Botanical Garden, Jungle Trail, and the balcony of his home at Village Spires.

favorable anchorage, having purchased a beachfront condo at the Village Spires. He plans to divide his time between there and New York City.

Of his Vero Beach home, Mizerek says, “I wake up every day to a beautiful sunrise.” The ocean vistas and ever-changing play of light are inspirational to his work. “I like to set a mood and get a sense of the light. And the skies are so clear and vibrant here.” His wife, Carolyn, says of their home, “We sacrificed square footage for the view. It’s all about the sky and water.”

Given Mizerek’s fascination with light, water, and reflections, it is no surprise that he loves to paint en plein air—in the tradition of the Impressionists—although he may finish a work in his studio. His artistic travels have allowed him to paint while visiting some of the world’s great locations. In Venice, he enjoyed setting up his easel alongside the canals—“they are just luminous.” In Paris, he painted his rooftop scene from a balcony and ensconced himself on the banks of the Seine and in cafés—“I’m always around places where I can eat,” he jokes. When he was in Provence painting the fields of lavender, tourists stopped to take pictures of him. “I was wondering if I should put on a big hat.”

Where does he find inspiration in Vero Beach? The balcony of his new home is one favorite spot. “I set up my easel here just like I did in Paris,” he says. He also enjoys Sebastian Inlet State Park “for the dunes and the openness,” adding, “It’s great to revisit it, because it’s different every time you go back.”

McKee Botanical Garden is another place he appreciates, because “you get up close and personal” to a fascinating variety of plants. This is especially valuable since Mizerek will sometimes use a composite approach; a water lily, for example, might be observed at McKee but included in a painting that is primarily based on a different location, allowing him to bring together some of his favorite discoveries. The Jungle Trail is another special place for him. “With the heat of the jungle and the vegetation, it’s

“I put a color on my palette and then look at nature to see where it might be.”

— LEONARD MIZEREK

Morning Light on the Seine, oil on canvas, 30 x 40 inches

Calm Sunset , oil on canvas, 24 x 48 inches

new material compared to up North. And I see the horizon! When you don’t see the horizon, you’re missing half the joy.” Spoken like a true artist and a true sailor.

Of course, painting en plein air in Florida does have its challenges. “Wind, mosquitoes, blazing heat,” says Mizerek with a droll smile, naming a few. Then there are alligators. Once, while painting in the marshes, he recalls, “I got so immersed in my work that I was not paying attention, and along came a 12-foot alligator. I had spotted him in the distance but had not noticed that he was coming directly toward me—and there he was at the foot of my easel.”

Above: Paris Sunset , oil on canvas, 15 x 30 inches

Right: Last on the Beach , oil on canvas, 20 x 16 inches

“I like to set a mood and get a sense of the light. And the skies are so clear and vibrant here.”

— LEONARD MIZEREK

Breaking Sea , oil on canvas, 24 x 48 inches

Left: Mizerek has the perfect perch for his latest paintings, an oceanfront view from his Village Spires condominium.

Right: Bright Day Sailing , oil on canvas, 24 x 36 inches

Below: Moonlight Arrival , oil on canvas, 36 x 30 inches

Mizerek abandoned the canvas and fled to his car. After investigating the palette, perhaps to see if it was edible, the gator moved on. “Apparently, he was not an art lover,” Mizerek jokes. The artist retrieved the painting and finished it, adding a shadowy shape in the water. “Yes, it was a suggestion of my newfound friend.” Thankfully, Mizerek has a sense of adventure; after all, he once participated in an event in which artists painted scenes from Patrick O’Brian’s seafaring novels while gallery visitors were served rum, so a swashbuckling flair is part of his personality.

The inconveniences and even occasional risks of painting en plein air are well worth it for the inspiration that comes from being immersed in nature. “You get what I call lucky surprises,” Mizerek says. Changing light can be very rewarding, as is the firsthand study of color in nature. “I put a color on my palette and then look at nature to see where it might be. Some of these radiant colors today have a wonderful spark to them.” Although by itself a radiant color might seem unnaturally bright, Mizerek will overlay it with other colors, allowing the light to come through in a way that conveys natural phenomena.

John Stringer of the J.M. Stringer Gallery has been representing Mizerek’s work for two decades, and he is now happy to have the artist as a neighbor. “We’re on a journey with artists,” Stringer says. “What gives me the greatest satisfaction is seeing them evolve and achieve success.” He believes that Mizerek’s work is about emotion—“the emotion one feels when looking at a beautiful scene on the water. He uses light to evoke that emotion.”

A noble example is the painting Moonlight Arrival, which Mizerek has chosen to hang in his new Vero Beach home. It is always of interest to see which paintings an artist chooses to live with. Moonlight Arrival portrays a graceful sailing

vessel anchored for the night in peaceful waters; a warm yellow light from its cabin counterpoints the silvery moonlight. It is an appropriately cozy image for a home, while also being undeniably beautiful. It manifests the themes present throughout Mizerek’s art: his love of light, reflections, water, and sky. All considered, it is a truly fitting choice for the artist’s own anchorage.

Add a to Your Step SPRING

JUST TWO COUNTIES AWAY, THE COOL, CLEAR WATERS OF BLUE SPRING BECKON

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY TERESA LEE RUSHWORTH

On a hot summer afternoon, the 72-degree waters of Florida’s springs are first bracing and then gloriously refreshing to the people jumping or stepping in to swim, explore, or drift lazily on an inner tube. But in winter, that same 72 degrees creates a desirable warm-water refuge for manatees escaping the colder rivers and coastal waters.

Here in Indian River County, we are blessed with our fair share of Florida’s natural beauty. One phenomenon we lack, however, is a spring. Florida has hundreds of them—more than any other state, in fact—but they are all to the north and west of our area. The good news is that, with a robust day trip or a leisurely overnight getaway, we, too, can enjoy the exhilarating charm of an authentic Florida spring.

The most prolific springs, known as first-magnitude springs, gush more than 100 cubic feet of fresh water per second—that’s more than 65 million gallons per day! Some of our springs have attained fame: Many movie scenes have been filmed at Silver Springs; the mermaids of Weeki Wachee are renowned the world over; and Crystal Springs near the town of Zephyrhills produces the water that makes its way to grocery store shelves around the Southeastern United States as Zephyrhills bottled water.

Most of the state’s 33 first-magnitude springs are several hours away, but the closest, Blue Spring, is just over two hours away and well worth the drive. Both history and natural beauty are on full display at Blue Spring, sometimes referred to as Volusia Blue, as there are several “Blue Springs” in Florida, and they are distinguished by prefixing them with the names of their respective counties.

Top left: West Indian manatees feel right at home in the spring, especially in winter. Center left: A spring breeze makes for a pleasant day at Blue Spring State Park. Lower left: The Florida spotted gar is a denizen of the spring, feeding on small fish and crustaceans. Opposite page: A tuber enjoys the view while riding the spring’s gentle current.

JONI

NALUPHOTO

Volusia Blue Spring is within Blue Spring State Park, just outside the small town of Orange City, on the St. Johns River. The spring run is less than half a mile long. At the north end is the “boil,” where 102 million gallons of water, filtered naturally by the limestone that underlies our peninsula, surges up to the surface, causing a visible movement of the water. The small current generated by the spring is negligible to paddlers but quite evident to swimmers and tubers, who must expend extra energy while headed upstream, but are rewarded with its gentle assistance on the way downstream.

A string of buoys marks the end of the swimming area; nearby, a long, railed platform allows visitors to observe the serene beauty of the flora and fauna as well as the

frolicking of human visitors enjoying the spring. Three sets of steps give swimmers access to the spring waters. There seem to be two schools of thought on how best to enter the chilly water: one brave, sudden dunk or the more reticent, incremental approach.

Either way, the result is a thoroughly delightful escape from the summer heat and an opportunity to get an upclose look at the plethora of fish that inhabit the crystalclear water. Many visitors bring goggles or snorkeling gear for this very purpose.

A second platform, closer to the boil, is the preferable entry point for tubers beginning their float downstream and for snorkelers who want to explore the springhead area. Tubes can be rented near the entry point, but many visitors opt to bring their own.

During the peak hours between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., paddlers are prohibited from entering the swimming area.

Both history and natural beauty are on full display at Blue Spring.

Above: A lone snorkeler explores the springhead, which gushes forth more than 100 cubic feet of water per second. Left: A mosaic manatee adorns the boardwalk. Right: The boardwalk parallels the spring run, providing an excellent vantage point for sightseers and park staff.

That leaves plenty of time in the morning and early evening for those exploring the spring run via the kayaks or canoes available for rent on-site. Visitors are welcome to bring their own kayaks and canoes, but the distance from the nearest parking area to the put-in point is less than ideal.

Blue Spring State Park is a designated manatee refuge, so when manatees enter the scene, visitors are instructed to give them a wide berth—at least 20 feet. Park employees and volunteers make it clear that the water is their home and humans are not to interfere with them in any way. However, manatees are curious creatures with no natural fear of humans, so incidental proximity is inevitable. It is not unusual to hear a child shout with glee, “It came right up to me!”

People are fascinated by manatees. When one swims near the platform, everyone gathers and becomes enchanted—taking photos or videos, sharing their observations with one another, or just standing transfixed by the spectacle. The excitement ratchets up even higher when a mother approaches with her calf.

What is it about these creatures that mesmerizes children and adults, Floridians and Minnesotans, Englishmen and Germans? Blue Spring’s proximity to Orlando makes it a destination for tourists from all over the nation and the world as well as for locals availing themselves of the irresistible waters in their own backyard. For some, the sighting of a West Indian manatee is an exhilarating novelty; for others, manatees are familiar neighbors. Regardless, these aquatic mammals possess an exotic quality that appeals to all. Perhaps it is their gentle innocence and unhurried composure, combined with their prodigious proportions.

The universal appeal of

This platform, one of two at Blue Spring, is quiet in the early morning; by afternoon it will be bustling with spring lovers.

Above: Occasional protruding fallen trees dot the spring run, but even fully submerged logs bring no surprises in the transparent water. Lower left: Manatee moms with their calves are a common and heartwarming sight. Lower right: This past winter, a record 729 manatees gathered at Blue Spring.

JHVEPHOTO

THIERRY EIDENWEIL

manatees is evidenced by the fact that, as crowded as the park is with spring enthusiasts in the summertime, even more visitors flock there in winter, when paddling, tubing, and swimming are prohibited! From November through March, the spring run is off limits to humans, but it becomes a veritable Grand Central Station for manatees. Hundreds of them gather in the spring run, venturing out only on warmer days to forage for nearby plants to eat.

A boardwalk runs parallel to the spring run, offering a scenic and nonintrusive vantage point for visitors to observe the manatees and for park employees and volunteers to conduct daily manatee counts.

While the spring itself is the main attraction, Blue Spring State Park includes additional features to round out one’s visit. Hiking, picnicking, and birding are popular activities, and two-hour pontoon boat tours of the St. Johns River offer relaxing and informative adventures.

History buffs will find something especially for them at the park. The 150-year-old Thursby House sits atop an ancient Indian midden less than 40 yards from the spring. Now a museum and interpretive center, the house was built in 1872 by Louis Thursby, who had arrived with

his family via steamboat in 1857. Having left his Brooklyn birthplace to seek his fortune in Florida, Thursby purchased 133 acres, planted crops that included citrus, and built Thursby Landing, which became a regular stop for the then-popular steamboats that plied the St. Johns.

Vero Beach residents wishing to check out our nearest major spring have a nice variety of options. With an early start, a daytrip is definitely doable, but an overnight or longer stay allows for a fuller experience. Campers are in luck, as Blue Spring State Park has a lovely campground for both tents and RVs. It also has six two-bedroom rental cabins that are close to the spring. For the less rustic traveler, lodging will not be a problem. Even though Orange City is somewhat limited in its accommodations, Deland, home of Stetson University, is just a few minutes away. Some may prefer a full-on Orlando-area getaway that includes a daytrip to Blue Spring.

A word to the wise: To dodge the biggest crowds, stick to weekdays when visiting Blue Spring and other popular springs, and arrive early; a finite number of day-trippers are allowed into the park at a time.

Yes, it may take a bit of doing to get to a Florida spring— but once you’re in, you won’t want to get out!

The Thursby House was built in 1872 and acquired by the Florida Park Service exactly 100 years later. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2000.

BLUE SPRING STATE PARK

2100 W. French Ave., Orange City

386-775-3663

Open every day of the year from 8 a.m. to sundown

Admission: $6 per vehicle (two to eight people)

Camping: $25 per night

Cabins: $95 per night

LIQUID BEAUTY

IMAGES POURED IN FOR OUR ANNUAL PHOTO CONTEST; NOW IT’S TIME TO SOAK UP THE SPLENDOR

WINNER: INDIAN RIVER LAGOON

Photographer: JAMIE WHEATLEY

Subject: Kayaking along the Indian River Lagoon in Sebastian

HONORABLE MENTION: INDIAN RIVER LAGOON

Photographer: JENNIFER JONES

Subject: Sunrise from Royal Palm Pointe

Photographer: BOB JOY

Subject: An early morning view from Gifford Dock Road

There are many ways to look at an image—from the eyes, from the heart, or from an experience—but when it comes to the 2023 Vero Beach Magazine Photo Contest, it’s all of those, but with a swimsuit on!

We asked our Vero Beach Magazine readers to participate in our annual themed contest, and this year the focus is on water. We can’t go far in our beloved county without seeing it in one form or another while walking on the beach, boating on the lagoon, looking out our windows, or, in the summertime, feeling it when the afternoon storms roll in.

The categories we offered included views of the ocean, our

Photographer: BILL & JENNIFER LARRABEE

Subject: A 2022 SpaceX launch reflected on the Indian River Lagoon

beautiful Indian River Lagoon, a look at what’s underwater, and weather; we also threw in an “abstract” option for pictures that don’t quite fit anywhere else. While watching the entries come in, we found that many of you enjoy watching the sunrise over the ocean by the pier in Vero Beach, and even more enjoy the sunset on the lagoon. Not too many of you get to see the views beneath the surface of the ocean, but when you do, the view is spectacular! Thanks to all who sent in their images for us to see, and our wholehearted congratulations to the winners and honorable mentions in this year’s contest. We wish we had room to publish them all!

WINNER: OCEAN

Photographer: KELLY SPRINKLE

Subject: Serenity at sunrise underneath the pier

HONORABLE MENTION: OCEAN

Photographer: BOB JOY

Subject: Surf competition at Sebastian Inlet

Photographer: ELIZABETH CAROTHERS

Subject: Foam dancing in the ocean in Indian River Shores

WINNER: WEATHER

Photographer: JENNIFER JONES

Subject: Thunderstorm off the coast of Grand Harbor Beach Club

HONORABLE MENTION: WEATHER

Photographer: STEVE GRAUL

Subject: Storm over The Driftwood Resort

Photographer: JOHN NICHOLS

Subject: Lightning on the ocean near Sea Oaks

WINNER: UNDERWATER

Photographer: BILL & JENNIFER LARRABEE

Subject: SS Breconshire shipwreck off the coast of Vero Beach

WINNER: ABSTRACT

Photographer: ELIZABETH CAROTHERS

Subject: An early morning view of the ocean from Bermuda Bay

HONORABLE MENTION: ABSTRACT

Photographer: DENISE KACAVAS

Subject: Light painting at Riverside Park

Photographer: CHARLOTTE STEVENSON

Subject: McKee Botanical Garden water lily pond

New & Noteworthy

September Scoop

Keeping

HERE COMES THE VENUE

SEPTEMBER 17: HERITAGE CENTER PRESENTS TRANSFORMED SPACE

GIFT IT SOME THOUGHT

SEPTEMBER 18–23: “THINKING OF YOU WEEK” AT NOTEWORTHY BY DESIGN

“Thinking of you week” is the perfect time to get in touch with others through a quick note. When you stop by the store during this time, Noteworthy will be providing a complimentary greeting card and stamp to encourage handwritten notes. Send a card on Noteworthy!

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HOPE & HONOR

CANCER SOCIETY NAMES MARNI PARENT-HOWDER HONOREE

IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS

UNIQUE SCULPTURE PRESENTED

The American Cancer Society proudly announces Marnie ParentHowder as honoree of the 2023 Denim & Diamonds Hope Gala presented by the Bernard Egan Foundation. Parent-Howder will share how advanced surgical treatments saved her life from brain cancer. The Denim & Diamonds event is co-chaired this year by Heather Reeb and Robb Falana, both of whom have suffered the tragic loss of loved ones to cancer and are passionate leaders determined to promote the research and programs that will advance prevention, education, advocacy, and treatment so more people will survive cancer.

AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY

772.205.3990 | denimdiamonds23.givesmart.com

This quirky, fascinating sculpture titled Little Things by awardwinning sculptor Joe Thompson is just one of many fantastic art finds available now at Fantastic Finds. Pop by the store and grab this item if it speaks to your artistic interests.

FANTASTIC FINDS

4300 U.S. Hwy. 1 | 772-794-7574 | fantastic-finds.com

Health navigators help guide individuals and families in making the best healthcare decisions for their current situation. In 2022, TCCH health navigators registered 10,304 patients for the sliding fee discount program; helped 24,984 enabling services such as food, housing and insurance; and worked with the IRC Hospital District to provide 4,088 people with additional medical assistance.

people with people with additional medical assistance.

Migdalia Flores has been a TCCH health navigator for 27 years. During this time, she has been collecting gently-used clothes for patients.

772-257-8224

www.tcchinc.org /services/health-navigator/

“ It is in my heart.”

- Migdalia Flores, Health Navigator Fellsmere Health Center

“I see patients and they tell me their needs, so I try. I can’t ignore when someone needs healthcare.”

If It Leaks, Call

New & Noteworthy

WINNING & LOSING

NEW PROGRAM AT ODPS

Semaglutide, an injection that is part of a medically supervised weightloss program, is now available at Ocean Drive Plastic Surgery. It is tailored for your specific needs and goals with the intention of helping promote weight loss. A consultation is required, so contact the office for scheduling.

OCEAN DRIVE PLASTIC SURGERY 5070 Hwy. A1A, Suite A–E | 772-234-3700 oceandriveplasticsurgery.com

VB Home is showcasing its latest Sorella and Glenn lamp shades. These stylish handmade covers are available in a variety of patterns and forms that will go well with a current theme or serve as the perfect inspiration to freshen up your style.

VB HOME 615 Beachland Blvd. | 772-492-9348 | vbhome.us

New & Noteworthy

LET’S FLAMINGLE

REALTOR LAUNCHES ANNUAL FUNDRAISER

Cathy Curley, top producing agent at Dale Sorensen Real Estate, is bringing her flamingos out of hibernation to raise money for the American Cancer Society’s Breast Cancer Alliance once again. Last year Curley founded and sponsored this FUNdraiser, which raised over $17,000 for local breast cancer patients. She is excited to get the whole community involved this year and turn Vero “pink” for this great cause. Sign up now for a flock of flamingos to visit your yard or to send a flock to a friend at flamingofundraiservb.com.

CATHY CURLEY

772-559-1359 | cathycurleyrealestate.com

COLORED IN STYLE

LATEST ADDITIONS FOR BLAZERS AVAILABLE

CARE TO VISIT

VNA MOVES TO NEW OFFICE

New colorful ties and pocket squares have arrived at Vernon Scott. Whether you are livening up your favorite blue blazer or also looking to acquire an updated Vernon Scott sport coat, these perfect options will only add to the look. The shop also has more subdued choices, so visit now and set yourself up for season.

VERNON SCOTT RESORT WEAR 818 Beachland Blvd. | 772-231-3733 | vernonscott32963.com

The Visiting Nurse Association of the Treasure Coast (VNA) is thrilled to announce its move to a new location in town. The VNA’s new home is in the Parc 24 building located just off Indian River Boulevard. The VNA will continue to offer high-quality home health, private duty, hospice care and community health services from the new location, holding to its commitment of offering health care to all, regardless of a person’s ability to pay. This move better reflects the VNA’s current workforce, which includes many who work in a hybrid remote capacity.

VNA

445 24th St., Suite 300 | 772-202-8570 | vnatc.com

PURSES WITH PURPOSE

NEW HANDBAGS AT SASSY

Sassy Boutique presents Sea & Grass, a brand with a vision of creating high-quality, collectible, and sustainable products that combine east and west design elements while simultaneously giving back to its communities. These signature handbags and totes aim to elevate closets and lives, and in turn the success has allowed the creation of the Areeya Scholarship Fund, which offers educational subsidies for children and families who weave these bags.

SASSY BOUTIQUE

3365 Ocean Drive | 772-234-3998

NEIGHBORS IN NEED

COASTAL VAN LINES HOSTS ANNUAL FOOD DRIVE

LIFTING THE FOG

FOG-FREE LED MIRROR FOR SHOWER AVAILABLE

Coastal Van Lines invites you to participate in its annual food drive for National Hunger Awareness month. CVL, which serves as a yearround drop-off location for food donations, will take all contributions to the Treasure Coast Food Bank. If you would like to donate but are unable to bring your items to drop off, Coastal Van Lines will arrange to pick them up for you.

European Kitchen & Bath has a wonderful selection of contemporary design, natural-looking LED lighting that includes a highly versatile built-in defogger. This feature offers great lighting to make shaving easier than ever. Visit the store to have a closer look.

Novalee invites you to participate in this year’s food drive.

New & Noteworthy

NAME IN LIGHTS

LOCAL SHOWROOM RECOGNIZED NATIONALLY

GOING PLATINUM

COMPANY CELEBRATES 70 YEARS

LED Capstone Lighting & Fan Showroom is celebrating! The Vero Beach–based store entered the Furniture, Lighting & Decor Magazine competition at Lightovation in the Dallas Market Center, and, out of hundreds of showrooms, placed as one of five finalists in the under $2 million category for Showroom of the Year. LED Capstone also won the subcategory for Exceptional Community Involvement based on its wide range of efforts to support our local nonprofits.

LED CAPSTONE LIGHTING & FAN SHOWROOM

4005 U.S. Hwy. 1 | 772-205-2529 | ledcapstone.com

DO YOU SEA WHAT I SEE?

NEW JEWELS AT ROYAL PALM JEWEL

Royal Palm Jewel continues to present gorgeous, eye-catching pieces, and this aquamarine slice with a natural rock crystal quartz layer certainly meets the mark. It features a seahorse on one side and a diamond shell on the reverse. Visit the store to see this beautiful pendant for yourself.

Arthur Rutenberg began homebuilding in 1953 and from the very beginning was an industry pioneer. Today, his innovative and revolutionary ideals serve as the foundation of Beachland Homes luxury homebuilding company, with a continued focus on customer experience, honoring Rutenberg’s legacy. Your vision always guides the process, serving as the ultimate inspiration. Call to start your custom homebuilding journey.

AR HOMES | BEACHLAND HOMES

772-492-4018 | arhomesverobeach.com

A WHIRL OF ACTIVITY

SUNRISE ROTARIANS HAD A BUSY SEASON

ROYAL PALM JEWEL 53 Royal Palm Pointe | 772-766-3165 | royalpalmjewel.com

In May, members of Sunrise Rotary Vero Beach served a Mother’s Day brunch at St. Francis Manor, a nonprofit that provides affordable housing for local seniors. That enjoyable event joins many other projects that sent Sunrise Rotarians out into the community over the past year: reading to children, granting scholarships, giving books and laptops to students, funding a variety of youth-related programs, and engaging in environmental activities such as park cleanups.

SUNRISE ROTARY VERO BEACH sunriserotaryverobeach.org

LED Capstone owners Mitch & Teresa Zavala, second and third from right, accept the award.

A ROUND OF APPLAUSE

UNITED WAY THANKS CITRUS GOLF TOURNAMENT CO-CHAIRS

United Way expresses its utmost appreciation to Rusty Banack and Martin Bireley, the Citrus Golf Tournament co-chairs, for their relentless commitment and hard work in leading this annual golf outing, now in its 37th year. The tournament’s success is a testament to their dedication and has contributed over $600,000 to the annual campaign. Every dollar raised through the tournament is invested in programs that have a direct and measurable impact on the health, education, and financial stability of the community. The United Way is truly grateful for their hard work and commitment to making a difference.

UNITED WAY OF INDIAN RIVER COUNTY

1836 14th Ave. | 772-569-8900 | unitedwayirc.org

From left to right: Bryce Bass, Rusty Banack, Martin Bireley, and Scott Turner

New & Noteworthy

WITH DISTINCTION

FRESH SELECTION AT FINDLAY

ONE-OF-A KIND ENCOURAGEMENT

NEW JEWELRY AT M. MAISON

Alexander Calder was a world-renowned artist with a distinct style. Although he is most recognized for his sculptures, Calder also worked in various traditional and experimental mediums. This newly acquired work, Vagues, is an excellent example of the playful lithographs he created. Visit Findlay Galleries to view its selection of joyful Alexander Calder prints and multiples.

FINDLAY GALLERIES

165 Worth Ave., Palm Beach | 561-655-2090 | findlaygalleries.com

M. Maison welcomes a fresh line of jewelry, LOLA, a brand known for designs created with beautiful, high-quality 925 sterling silver and gold vermeil jewelry. Each piece has its own inspirational message on the back meant to mark important moments in people’s lives. Select some fashionable motivation when you visit M. Maison.

M. MAISON

3403 Ocean Drive | 772-231-4300 | mmaisonvero.com

EXCITING SIGHTING

2024 GMC ACADIA COMING SOON

LINUS CADILLAC BUICK GMC 1401 U.S. Hwy. 1 | 772-562-1700 linusautomotive.com | linuscadillac.com

Photographers have captured camouflaged images of what appears to be the redesigned 2024 GMC Acadia out on a road test in Michigan. The Acadia is expected to return to the larger footprint it had early in its life cycle when it was built alongside the Buick Enclave and Chevrolet Traverse. The 2024 model will introduce all-new exterior styling, new front lighting bits, and a super cruise semi-autonomous driver assist system. For the latest information on the 2024 GMC Acadia, contact Linus.

Vagues by Alexander Calder, lithograph on paper, 22 3/4 x 30 1/2 inches

Float Hope of Indian River County, a nonprofit organization committed to teaching children to swim, welcomes Beata Brewster as its first executive director. Established in 2017, Float Hope has heretofore relied on its strong core group of donors; now, it is ready to grow to the next level by seeking local grants. With her prior nonprofit experience and expertise as an attorney, Brewster will be tasked with “professionalizing” Float Hope in terms of broadening its funding sources and helping it to serve more children.

Information Systems Technician 2nd Class Cristian McAdams of Vero Beach made his hometown proud when he appeared recently in a release from the Defense Visual Information Distribution Service

The Sebastian River High School alumnus joined the U.S. Navy in 2021 and is stationed aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz, which is currently conducting routine operations with the 7th Fleet in the IndoPacific region. McAdams was checking network scans on the carrier when Communication Specialist 2nd Class Samuel Osborn snapped a photo to share with the folks back home. ❀

Shoe Salon and Boutique

With awe-inspiring views that spread across 1,400 acres, the Crane Club at Tesoro is the crown jewel of Florida’s Treasure Coast. This exclusive private oasis offers the finest combination of lavish indoor and tropical outdoor settings. With more than 130 years of experience, Lessing’s Hospitality Group is proud to expand our mission of remarkable hospitality to Florida.

All Aboard!

THE ART OF CHARCUTERIE BRINGS VARIETY AND PANACHE TO SOCIAL GATHERINGS

BY CHRIS FASOLINO PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIM BOTALLICO

Are you looking for a simple and yet truly elegant way to entertain? Consider a charcuterie board—a selection of cooked meats, along with cheeses and other accompaniments. This approach offers variety and interest for every palate. Both in selection and presentation, a charcuterie board gives you ample opportunity for creativity and flair.

A local expert in the art of charcuterie is Christina Hash, owner of Tasteful Grazings in Vero Beach. The idea for Tasteful Grazings came about when Hash, a former resident of California, wanted to recreate the atmosphere of Napa Valley wine tastings for some of her friends here in Vero. She put together an 8-foot-long “grazing table” to accompany the wine selections. Her friends loved it, and they suggested that charcuterie could be a business venture for her. Hash soon began working with The Cellar Sip and Shoppe on Ocean Drive, providing charcuterie boards to accompany their wine tastings. That collaboration has continued, and Hash’s own clientele base has developed from there.

What tips does she offer for putting together your own charcuterie board? “You’re having a tasting throughout the board,” Hash explains. Therefore, you want variety—“sweet, savory, salty, and sour.” Prosciutto, Genoa salami, and herbed salami are all “gotos.” For cheese selections, “I love Brie, Gouda, sharp cheddar, and I would definitely include a manchego. You want a range of cheeses, from mild to assertive.” The Brie, she adds, is delicious paired with a fig spread or honey.

Then, there’s presentation—a key element of planning a charcuterie board. “The eye is captivated by color and variety,” Hash says. Therefore, she advises separating colors. “If you have green grapes, don’t put

them all on one side; put some on the opposite side. If you have olives, place them away from the green grapes.” Creativity enhances presentation. “I make salami ‘rivers’ that go from one end of the board to the other, or I do a stair-step effect with cheese.”

For the board itself, “wood-grain or ceramic platters look good,” Hash suggests. However, she especially loves palm leaf–style or bamboo boards, which are biodegradable in addition to being made from renewable resources—an appealing touch in a nature-friendly community like Vero Beach.

Charcuterie boards combine artistry of presentation with the delight of sampling a variety of meats and cheeses. This makes them a great choice for foodies and a memorable option for entertaining.

Christina Hash is the owner of Tasteful Grazings in Vero Beach.

Dessert Board

Red raspberries

Strawberries

Black-and-white cookies

Petite Ecolier European

Biscuits

Swiss rolls

Mini cheesecake bites

Dark chocolate wafers

Macarons

Assorted chocolate truffles

Candied popcorn

Blueberries

Place a small bowl of raspberries along the edge of the board. Opposite them, stack 4–5 strawberries.

Prop a few of the cookies and biscuits on the right and left sides of the board, leaning them against one another.

Slice Swiss rolls, place in the center, and surround with cheesecake bites.

Stack the wafers at an angle on the edge of the board near both the raspberries and strawberries. Place macarons, one in front of the other, working from the outside of the board toward the center.

Fill space between macarons and cookies with assorted truffle chocolates. Fill remaining spaces with popcorn and blueberries.

Brunch Board

2 bagels

5 croissants

2 waffles

24 slices Italian dry salami

4 mini muffins

8 oz. cream cheese spread

2 yogurt parfaits

1 box Boursin garlic-and-herb cheese

2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced in half

4 slices prosciutto

Fruit (orange slices, strawberries, red raspberries, green and red grapes)

Fresh herbs

White cheddar chunks (to fill in empty spaces) Vase of flowers/syrup jar, if desired

If using a vase of flowers or syrup jar, place on board first; if using both, place on opposite sides. Prop larger items like bagels, croissants, and waffles along the sides of the board, slightly overlapping. Avoid placing too many of the same types of items together.

Place salami roses opposite each other and connect with a “river” of mini muffins. In the river’s curve, place a small bowl of cream cheese spread and top with orange slices or berries. Fill in the empty space between the cream cheese and side of the board with green grapes. Place the parfaits together on opposite side. Place a couple handfuls of blueberries in an empty space near the muffins and set the Boursin cheese on top of them. Top the Boursin with fresh herbs. Add eggs and prosciutto in the area between the Boursin and parfaits.

Continue to arrange the food around the board, filling in any open spaces with small fruits, nuts, or cheese chunks. Layering creates a fuller, more eye-catching board. Feel free to substitute in your favorite brunch or breakfast foods.

To make a salami rose: Roll up one piece of salami. Wrap a second piece around the “seam.” Continue to wrap until it starts to take the shape of rose petals. Place the rose into a small bowl or ramekin to hold the shape and then gently fan out the flower.

To make yogurt parfait: Fill a small cup about 3/4 of the way with The Greek Gods Honey Vanilla Yogurt, then add granola, leaving enough room to top with blueberries.

Charcuterie Board

2 packages (4 oz. each) herbed salami

1 Sartori BellaVitano Merlot cheese wedge

1 manchego cheese wedge

1 large log blueberry-covered goat cheese

1 small Brie cheese wheel

2 mini Dalmatia Fig Spread jars

6 or 7 pieces prosciutto

5 pieces Italian dry salami

2 or 3 large handfuls blueberries

Red grapes

Olives

Red raspberries and blackberries

Nuts or trail mix for fillers

6 salted caramel chocolates

Fresh herbs (rosemary, sage leaves, thyme)

Fold one piece of herbed salami in half and then half again. Repeat with second piece. Connect the two pieces at their openings. Continue these steps for the remaining pieces of salami, placing them on the board back to back as you go.

Slice the Merlot cheese wedge by cutting from the widest part down to the smallest, about 1/4 to 1/8 -inch thickness and place on opposite side of board in a stair-step pattern from biggest to smallest. Place a small bowl of olives nearby.

Cut the manchego wedge into triangle-shaped pieces and overlap in a crisscross pattern along bottom of board.

Cut the blueberry goat cheese into 12 even slices; nestle 4 along the curve in the row of Merlot cheese and repeat with the rows of herbed salami and manchego.

Cut the Brie wheel into 12 pieces, place just north of the center of the board, and top with berries.

Fold the prosciutto slices longways in an accordion fashion while gathering at the bottom, creating fans. Add a few of the fans near the goat cheese at the bottom and also by the Brie and goat cheese toward the top.

Fold each of the Italian dry salami pieces in half and place back to back by the bowl of olives.

Fill in open space with nuts, trail mix, and blueberries. Place jars of fig spread as desired. Add chocolates and fresh herbs last.

From Monks to Swashbucklers

GREAT WINES HAVE STORIES AS INTRIGUING AND EXOTIC AS THE LIVES OF THEIR CONNOISSEURS

BY CHRIS FASOLINO

From medieval monks in a remote mountain refuge to seafaring heroes in Patrick O’Brian’s popular adventure novels, the wines of Priorat have attracted a varied and colorful array of admirers.

The region of Priorat lies to the southwest of Barcelona, though it seems far removed from the elegance and flair of the great city; it is a mountainous region that appealed to monks seeking isolation. Indeed, it was 12th century monks who began making wine there, in addition to giving the area its name—Priorat as in “prior,” a title similar to “abbot.”

Priorat wine is a classic example of the adage that great wines are born from difficult conditions. The arid and rocky landscape makes for vines that are low in yield, but high in quality. Where else but in winemaking would “low yield” be a good thing? With vines, a smaller number of grapes means that more of the plant’s energy and nutrients are being channeled to each individual grape, resulting in an explosion of rich, bold flavors.

An unusual copper-colored soil is a distinctive feature of Priorat. Known as “llicorella,” it is quite rocky—full of slate and shale—making it part of the challenge of growing vines there. Yet it is also key to the triumph, as it is able to retain water in the dry environment, and its unique nature makes for unique wines. Furthermore,

the mountainous landscape of Priorat means that vines are still terraced in the traditional manner, and they are even pruned and harvested by hand.

Where does Patrick O’Brian come in? The author of Master and Commander was evidently a fan of Priorat wines himself, and he made them a favorite of his classic character

The distinctive soil and dry climate of the Priorat region contribute to the low yield—and high quality—of its grapes.

Stephen Maturin, who was a ship’s physician, swashbuckling adventurer, British intelligence agent, naturalist, and wine connoisseur. Yes, that’s one character— imagine a young Sir David Attenborough as a spy and you’ve got a pretty good idea. Since Maturin’s family background was in part Catalan, the choice was particularly appropriate.

Excellent examples of Priorat wines can be found from Perinet Winery, nestled in the Catalan mountains. Perinet Merit is a

blend that includes Garnatxa and Carinyena, key grape varieties of Priorat (you may know them by their French names, Grenache and Carignan). This deep red wine has the robust yet elegant qualities the region is known for. There are pronounced notes of spice, especially freshly grated nutmeg and allspice. This would be a great choice to pair with the kind of charcuterie boards featured in this month’s The Dish column. What an amazing coincidence— one worthy of an adventure novel!

The vast majority of grapes grown in the Priorat region are red varieties.

Destination: Love

Christina Marie Bowsher and John Incampo were married April 22, 2023 at Perry Lane Hotel in Savannah, Georgia.

The bride is the daughter of Alysia and Jay Bowsher of Vero Beach, where her grandparents Rosemarie and Ted Wilson have lived since 1991. Prior to settling in Orchid Island 10 years ago, the Bowshers had vacationed in Vero Beach for over 30 years. Christina is a 2014 graduate of the Savannah College of Art and Design.

The groom is the son of Christine Serpico and John Incampo, both of Long Island, New York. He is a 2015 graduate of the Savannah College of Art and Design.

Having met 10 years earlier in Savannah, the couple planned a destination wedding there. Eighty-six friends and family members gathered to see them exchange their vows on Perry Lane’s scenic rooftop. Just as they did so, raindrops fell, but the sun returned in time for some stunning sunset photos.

The newlyweds are planning a September 2023 trip to Greece. They reside in Long Island, where Christina works as a prevention specialist with the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation and John is a product designer with LeagueApps.

CHRISTINA MARIE BOWSHER & JOHN INCAMPO

Mr. and Mrs. John Incampo

Top: Samantha Incampo, Tori Dunn, Erin Bowsher, the bride, Katie Hall, Erin Comerford, Rachel Landolph, Isabella Serpico

Lower left: The first kiss

Lower right: The wedding party gathers on the steps of Savannah’s historic First Baptist Church, built in 1833.

Gathering for Good

LOCAL NONPROFITS SERVE THE COMMUNITY & CREATE MEMORABLE MOMENTS

Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon

ALZHEIMER & PARKINSON ASSOCIATION

Susan Large, Sue Hill, and Sue Schadt shared the honor of Volunteer of the Year when the Alzheimer & Parkinson Association of Indian River County held its Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon May 23. The event was hosted by Northern Trust. Volunteers are the backbone of the “connections” facet of the organization’s mission to “improve the quality of life for individuals and families in Indian River County who are affected by memory and movement disorders through support, education, and connections.” Volunteers assist with office work, memory screenings, social respite groups, the Dementia Experience, fundraising, Project Lifesaver, and more.

Eileen O’Donnell, Kenny Borchers, Amy Lore

Susan Large, Peggy Cunningham, Sue Hill, Sue Schadt

Michelle Dion, Scott Alexander, Peggy Cunningham

Nancy Bryant, Susan Micheel

Lisa Cadiere, Chasity Arensen

Bubs Baird, Lynne Wiley, Sandy Stauffer

Barbara Cahoy, Charles Brashears, Miriam Marrero

THE SCENE

‘Springtime in Paris’

HIBISCUS CHILDREN’S CENTER

Oak Harbor Club served as an elegant venue for Hibiscus’ annual signature event, the Blue Ribbon Luncheon & Fashion Show. This year’s theme was “Springtime in Paris.” Guests at the sold-out affair enjoyed a gourmet lunch and a silent auction, and professional models showed off the latest fashions from local boutiques. Proceeds from this popular event support the teens of Hibiscus Village, who have been removed from their homes due to neglect, abuse, and/or abandonment and are being cared for with a view to helping them heal and build a more positive future.

Distinguished Lecturer 25th Season Wrap-Up

RIVERSIDE THEATRE

This year, Marybeth Cunningham joined Debbi Peniston and Frannie Atchison, founders of Riverside Theatre’s Distinguished Lecturer Series, to co-chair the series’ 25th season. The trio welcomed Mike Pompeo, the 70th U.S. secretary of state; retired General James Mattis, the 26th U.S. secretary of defense; and Bjorn Lomborg, author and president of the Copenhagen Consensus Center. The fourth scheduled speaker, author and historian Walter Isaacson, was unable to appear, but he has been added as a fifth speaker to the 2024 lineup. Proceeds support Riverside Theatre.

Connie Murphy, Elke Fetterolf, Roni Fuster, Helen Robertson, Jan Harrell, Mary Wright, Christine Endres

Barbara Rice, Lisa Giessert

Jan Harrell, Suzanne Bertman

Helen Robertson, Marie Ek, Linda Teetz, Shirley Becker

Lewis Eisenberg, Mike Pompeo

Marybeth Cunningham, Frannie Atchison, Debbi Peniston

Brian Foley, Bjorn Lomborg

MARYANN KETCHAM

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May Pops

CLEVELAND CLINIC INDIAN RIVER FOUNDATION

More than 600 supporters gathered at Windsor’s polo field for the 32nd annual May Pops event featuring the Brevard Symphony Orchestra with guest vocalists Sarah Uriarte Berry and Sal Viviano. Under the baton of Christopher Confessore, the ensemble performed several beloved Broadway hits, including “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” from Jersey Boys and selections from Les Miserables Proceeds from the event, which neared $500,000, will help enhance technology, facilities, and patient care at Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital.

Major sponsors: Marlynn and Bill Scully; Mrs. Herman F. Becker; Keena and Chris Clifford; Bob Williams; Karen Katen

Sarah Uriarte Berry, Christopher Confessore, and Sal Viviano with the BSO Kit and Sue Barrow

General admission attendees settle in on the lawn.

Bill Scully, David Fitzimons, Ellie Naess, Kathy and Bob Hugin

Liz Post, Dr. Dean Harter, Helen Post, Les Gwyn-Williams

Chris Clifford, Dr. Richard Milsten, Keena Clifford, Laura Colton, Ann Costello, Rich Colton, John Costello, Nancy Milsten

Jack and Penny Rohrbach

Arnie and Pamela Sheiffer

Eric Flowers, Alyssa Offutt, Lynn Babicka, Dr. Dean Harter, Rob and Roxanne Hall, Danny and Tia Adkins, Richard and Lara Andrews

Tony and Sally Woodruff, Pat and Carol Welsh, Warren and Ginny Schwerin

Crystal Jubilee Opening

GALLERY 14

June 2 was a big day at Gallery 14, where art lovers gathered for the festivities opening the Crystal Jubilee Invitational, an exhibition celebrating the gallery’s 15th anniversary. The show’s chair, Mary Ann Hall, presented prizes to the award winners, who were selected by popular local artist Shotsi Cain LaJoie. First place went to Judy Burgarella for her painting Shimmering in the Moonlight. Ellen Lindner received second place for her fabric collage titled Daydream

For their joint work, a sculpture called Fascinator, Ginny Piech Street and Anita Prentice took third place. Amanda Leshko received an honorable mention for her painting Celebration Dance, and Reed Dixon received one for his painting 15

It was a highly competitive show in which artists created works representing their interpretations of various qualities of crystal, the traditional 15th anniversary gift.

Judy Burgarella with her winning work

Austin Hunt, Stephanie Russell

Jay and Linda Knoll

Fascinator by Ginny Piech Street and Anita Prentice

Mary Ann Hall, Amanda Leshko

Roberto Wong, Rubby C. Martinez

Yvonne Steere, Gwen Reeve

Ellen Lindner with her fabric collage Daydream

Jingyu Xu, Jane Lawton Baldridge, Terry Long

Don and Pam Barr, Jo-Ann and Roger Titley

Steve Schindel, Evan Schwarze

Richard and Lynette Brockway

Offshore Fishing Tournament

FIREFIGHTERS BENEVOLENT ASSOCIATION

On Father’s Day weekend, anglers turned out in droves to participate in the second annual Firefighters for Clean Water offshore fishing tournament, put on by the Indian River Firefighters Benevolent Association to help increase awareness of the importance of our lagoon and other local waterways. Participants gathered at the Sebastian Saltwater Marina Restaurant and 60 boats took to the water. The day was a great success, and the firefighters donated $10,000 to the nonprofit Captains for Clean Water.

Major local sponsors: The Brandit Agency; Toyota of Vero Beach; Kia of Vero Beach; MidCoast Tire Service; Fellsmere Feed, Tack, & Farm Supply; Elliott Merrill Community Management; ABCO Garage Door Co.; Americhem; Jimmy’s A/C & Refrigeration; Dyer; George E. Warren LLC; Gotta Go Green; Southern Plumbing; Shoreline Shutters; Indian River Distillery; Vero Marine Center; Florida Shutters; Vero Millwork; Steger Marine Services

Awards Picnic

YOUTH SAILING FOUNDATION

Stormy weather didn’t dampen the spirits of the 150 young sailors and family members who gathered for Youth Sailing Foundation’s inaugural Awards Picnic May 6, though it did drive the festivities, held on the grounds of the ELC, indoors. Participants enjoyed a barbecue dinner catered by Wild Thyme before cheering the winners of the Seamanship Award, Corinthian Award for exceptional sportsmanship, the New York Yacht Club Sailor of the Year Award, Parent of the Year, Golden Tow Hitch, and SAIL (Sportsmanship, Attitude, Integrity, and Leadership) Awards.

Award sponsors: Barth Construction; Louise and Tom Kappus

Christen Brewer, Will Willmot, Mike Holliday, Matt Bloch, Brad Eskew

Mike Holliday, Brad Eskew

Sebastian Saltwater Marina Restaurant

Moses Hightower, Phil Barth, Nicholas LaRochelle

Sailors and families enjoy a barbecue dinner by Wild Thyme.

Stu Keiller, Kenleigh Flynt

Mia Lloyd, Julia Linus

Julia Linus, Jennifer LaRochelle

“Rules like ‘don’t wear white after

Day’ … are antiquated.”

– STACY LONDON

Shaping September

WITH ITS ENDLESS INSPIRATIONS & VARIATIONS, ART IS ALWAYS IN SEASON

‘NEXT CONTEMPORARIES’ WITH A TWIST

THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30

This month, Findlay Galleries is highlighting the artists of its “Next Contemporaries” collection on a weekly basis. The work of Ptolemy Mann, Noah Landfield, Henrik Simonsen, and Thomas Rouxeville will be compared and contrasted via this alternating focus. Ptolemy Mann, whose work is shown here, is

an American artist living and working in the UK. She is fascinated with color and its dynamics. In addition to her painting, she has worked extensively with textiles.

Findlay Galleries

165 Worth Ave., Palm Beach 561-655-2090 findlaygalleries.com

Skyscape by Ptolemy Mann, acrylic on canvas, 59 1/16 x 78 3/4 inches

ONGOING EVENTS

THROUGH SEPTEMBER 2

CRYSTAL JUBILEE INVITATIONAL

Gallery 14 wraps up its Crystal Jubilee Invitational in celebration of its 15th anniversary. Artists from near and far have created pieces inspired by the various qualities of crystal, the traditional 15th anniversary gift. The final reception will be held during the First Friday Gallery Stroll September 1.

Gallery 14

1911 14th Ave. 772-562-5525

gallery14verobeach.com

THROUGH SEPTEMBER 3

‘TREASURE COAST CREATES’

VBMA’s Holmes and Titelman Galleries are filled with works by artists from Indian River, St. Lucie, and Martin Counties for the inaugural juried fine art exhibition of recent works by living local artists, “Treasure Coast Creates.”

‘JACK TWORKOV: DRAWINGS

1948–1981’

The simultaneous exhibition at VBMA straddles the two distinct periods of Jack Tworkov’s long career: his Abstract Expressionism and his later embrace of a mathematical, geometrical approach, which linked him to Minimalism.

Vero Beach Museum of Art

3001 Riverside Park Drive 772-231-0707

vbmuseum.org

THE SCULPTURES OF CATHY FERRELL

SEPTEMBER 1–30

As part of its “Through the Artist’s Eye” series, J.M. Stringer Gallery presents the sculptures of Vero Beach resident Cathy Ferrell, who is currently working in bronze, in very limited editions. A versatile sculptor who has also worked in wood, stone, and precious metals, Ferrell travels extensively for field research and commissions. She holds a master of arts degree in sculpture from the University of Miami and is a member of numerous prestigious organizations, including the Salmagundi Club, Pen and

Brush, the Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club, and the Society of Animal Artists. The gallery’s summer vacation ends October 3; this exhibition can be enjoyed at jmstringergallery.com/ cathy-ferrell

J.M. Stringer Gallery of Fine Art 3465 Ocean Drive 772-231-3900

jmstringergallery.com

‘INFINITE VARIATIONS’

SEPTEMBER 30–JANUARY 28, 2024

In its Holmes and Titelman Galleries, VBMA presents “Infinite Variations: The Imaginative Worlds of M.C. Escher,” the largest traveling private collection of Escher’s works in the world. The printmaker, who died in 1972, explored the relationships between art and science, reality and illusion, chaos and order, and logic and absurdity. The exhibition includes woodcuts, lithographs, and drawings, as well as all of the eight mezzotints he created in his career. VBMA Senior Curator Anke Van Wagenberg is particularly enthusiastic about sharing the work of her fellow Dutchman with our community: “Escher has to be one of the most recognized artists of the 20th century,” she says.

Vero Beach Museum of Art

3001 Riverside Park Drive 772-231-0707

Rising Trout by Cathy Ferrell, bronze, 11 x 16 x 13 inches

Drawing Hands , 1948, by M.C. Escher (1898–1972), lithograph, 11 1/8 x 13 1/16 inches. Private collection, image copyright M.C. Escher Co.

GALLERY GUIDE

Call

museum-quality shows of contemporary art.

3125 Windsor Blvd. 772-388-4071 windsorflorida.com/the-gallery

GALLERY VERITAS

This gallery is a working studio housing seven artists and an art library.

1422 20th St. thegalleryveritas.com

J.M. STRINGER GALLERY OF FINE ART

The gallery offers worldwide collections of original paintings, objets d’art, sculptures, and select antique furnishings.

3465 Ocean Drive 772-231-3900 jmstringergallery.com

ART AT THE EMERSON

The Emerson Center’s gallery shows works by local artists in six themed exhibitions per year.

1590 27th Ave. 772-778-5880 artattheemerson.com

ARTISTS GUILD GALLERY

This cooperative-owned fine art gallery offers works in diverse styles and media by its ownerartists as well as associate and consignor artists.

1974 14th Ave. 772-299-1234 artistsguildgalleryofvero beach.com

ART WORKS

Various U.S. artists are featured, representing a range of styles. Classes, art parties, and other events are available.

2036 14th Ave., Suite 106 772-559-5230 artworksofvero.com

ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER

The Lagoon and Tidal Rooms are dedicated to nature-related art.

255 Live Oak Drive 772-589-5050 discoverelc.org

FINDLAY GALLERIES

Renowned globally for its distinguished roster of contemporary and abstract artists, the gallery specializes in 19th- and 20th-century Impressionism, European Modernism, l’Ecole de Rouen, l’Ecole de Paris, and 20thcentury American art.

165 Worth Ave., Palm Beach 561-655-2090 findlaygalleries.com

THE GALLERIES AT FIRST PRES

This venue displays the works of local artists in quarterly threeartist installments.

520 Royal Palm Blvd. 772-562-9088 firstpresvero.org

GALLERY 14

The gallery features a diverse array of works in a variety of media by its eight owner-artists and multiple others, along with monthly guest exhibits.

1911 14th Ave. 772-562-5525 gallery14verobeach.com

THE GALLERY AT WINDSOR

This independent art space annually invites curators of

THE LAUGHING DOG GALLERY

The vast showroom offers works from more than 350 contemporary American craftsmen who create art glass, ceramics, sculpture, furniture, and fine art jewelry.

2910 Cardinal Drive 772-234-6711 thelaughingdoggallery.com

MAIN STREET VERO BEACH STUDIOS AND GALLERY

The handcrafted jewelry of Clair Brunetti, who creates custom works and repairs and updates older pieces, is showcased. 2036 14th Ave. 772-643-6782 mainstreetverobeach.org

MEGHAN CANDLER GALLERY

This friendly, uplifting gallery has a beautifully curated collection of paintings by more than 40 contemporary artists of the abstract, Impressionist, and realistic styles.

6160 Hwy. A1A Village Shops 772-234-8811 meghancandlergallery.com

OCEAN DRIVE GALLERY

The oil abstracts of Elise Geary and representational narrative paintings by Jill Kerwick are

featured, along with acrylic rural and outdoor scenes and seascapes by two more artists.

3349 Ocean Drive, Suite 8 772-579-7667 eliseartist.com

oceandrivegalleryverobeach.com

PALM HOUSE STUDIO & GALLERY

The work of several awardwinning artists is featured, and commissions are welcome.

3227 Ocean Drive, 2nd floor 772-231-6816 palmhousegallery.com

RAW SPACE

This innovative alternative cultural venue promotes a spectrum of artistic disciplines.

1795 Old Dixie Hwy. 305-213-9411 artconceptalternative.org

SEBASTIAN RIVER ART CLUB

The club offers classes, demonstrations, workshops, and art shows.

1245 Main St., Sebastian 772-321-9333 sebastianriverartclub.com

VERO BEACH ART CLUB

This independent nonprofit serves 450 members and the community through education, exhibitions, social events, and monthly meetings with special programs and guest artists. 1903 14th Ave. 772-217-3345 verobeachartclub.org

VERO BEACH MUSEUM OF ART

The largest accredited art facility on the Treasure Coast, VBMA presents international exhibitions from lenders and from its permanent collection, also offering classes, lectures, film studies, concerts, children’s programs and interactive Art Zone, sculpture parks, and museum store.

3001 Riverside Park Drive 772-231-0707 vbmuseum.org

Me Coral by Lisa Cave, acrylic and mixed media, 30 x 24 inches, at The Galleries at First Pres

RECEPTION: FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 5–8PM

“September 11 is one of our worst days, but it brought out the best in us.”

Mary Ann Hall Moonlight Seranade Barbara Landry Moluccan Cockatoo Pair

Closed September. Open for Gallery Stroll, by appointment or by chance

– LAMAR ALEXANDER

Explore, Enjoy & Engage

EDIFYING EXPERIENCES AWAIT AS LOCAL NONPROFITS MAKE SEPTEMBER PLANS

‘American Icons’

On Sunday, September 24 at 3 p.m., Space Coast Symphony Orchestra will present a concert called “American Icons,” featuring compositions by Kevin Scott, Kenneth Fuchs, Leonard Bernstein, George Gershwin, and Duke Ellington. Pianist Alessandro de Fonseca, a native of Brazil known for his “colorful contrasts and fiery playing,” will make his debut with SCSO. The performance will take place at the Community Church, 1901 23rd St. SCSO’s Symphony for Everyone program allows for flexible ticket pricing so that everyone in the community can have access to classical music. For more information, call 855-252-7276 or see spacecoastsymphony.org.

Lagoon Exploration

eHarbor Branch Oceanographic Institute now offers informative excursions on the Indian River Lagoon aboard its pontoon boat Discovery. Expert guides will instruct up to 30 passengers in some of the research methods used by HBOI’s scientists, including the interpretation of water-quality data yielded by a network of environmental sensors and the remote operation of a submersible to observe underwater habitats. A variety of wildlife will also be identified. HBOI has been carrying out marine research on the Treasure Coast since 1971; it became part of Florida Atlantic University in 2007. Boat tours depart from the Harbor Branch facility, located just south of Vero Beach at 5600 N. U.S. Hwy. 1, Fort Pierce, every Friday at 10:30 a.m. and every Saturday at both 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Tours cost $40 per person and last 90 minutes. To obtain more information or sign up for a tour, call HBOI’s Ocean Discovery Center at 772-242-2293 or visit fau.edu/hboi/bookatour.

eBackstage Tours

While attending a show at Riverside Theatre, have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes or exactly what staging a performance entails? Backstage Tours allow guests to peer behind the red curtain and see set designs and props up close, escorted by some of the talented people who make the magic happen. Tours also include the wardrobe area, paint shops, dressing rooms, and rehearsal hall. Capacity is limited, so call the box office at 772-231-6990 to reserve a spot. Tours take place at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on select Fridays throughout the year and last about an hour. The next two tours are scheduled for September 8 and October 6. The cost is just $5. For more information, visit riversidetheatre.com

GOURMET MARKET

We are proud to donate a portion of the proceeds from every purchase to Dina’s Dynasty Ovarian Cancer Fund

We are proud to donate a portion of the proceeds from every purchase to Dina’s Dynasty Ovarian Cancer Fund

Open

“We’ve ended up getting deeply involved in Indian River Lagoon conservation.”

– KEITH WINSTEN, “Just Add Water,” p. 70

At Salon Del Mar we specialize in the art and mastery of haircutting and dimensional color that boost the appearance of fuller, thicker hair.

As licensed Trichologists, we know how to treat hair loss and create cuts and styles that enhance the appearance of fuller, thicker hair for a more youthful look. Often, hair loss can be resolved with simple, natural, and non-surgical solutions. With advanced technology we are treating hair loss at the root of the problem.

Call for your appointment!

included. we’re here to help you create the wedding invitation of your dreams.

eCoastal Cleanup

Coastal Connections and Keep Indian River Beautiful are joining forces to lead some 1,000 local volunteers as they participate in the International Coastal Cleanup, an initiative of the Ocean Conservancy, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, September 16. During the month of September, millions of people around the world will be pitching in to pick up trash that is at risk of ending up in our oceans. Here in Indian River County, the focus will be on 20 waterfront parks along the beaches and the lagoon. Volunteers are encouraged to register online at coastalconnections.org

SEPTEMBER 1

ART RECEPTION

Gallery 14 will hold the final reception for its Crystal Jubilee Invitational exhibition. 5–8 p.m.

Gallery 14 1911 14th Ave. 772-562-5525 gallery14verobeach.com

SEPTEMBER 9

TUNNEL TO TOWERS

This 5K run/walk, founded in memory of FDNY firefighter Stephen Siller, who ran from the entrance to the Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel to Ground Zero carrying 60 pounds of gear, serves as a fundraiser to help families of fallen first responders and service members. 7:15 a.m., $12–$35

Tunnel to Towers Foundation at Riverside Park 3280 Riverside Park Drive t2t.org

6TH ANNUAL OUT LAUGH HUNGER

An evening of laughs benefiting our neighbors in need will be headlined by comedian Devin Siebold, who will be joined by James Yon and Jake Klark. Cocktail hour begins at 6 p.m., with the show at 7. $45 Treasure Coast Food Bank at IRSC Bailey Auditorium 4600 Kirby Loop Road, Fort Pierce 772-489-3034 stophunger.org

SEPTEMBER 12

MEET AN ASTRONAUT

The “Astronaut of the Day” at Kennedy Space Center September 12 and 13 will be Ken Cameron, a veteran of three shuttle missions. Visitors can meet him at the Astronaut Encounter, Chat with an Astronaut, and the autograph opportunities at The Space Shop and Shuttle Express. Times vary, regular admission fees apply

Kennedy Space Center Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island

855-433-4210 kennedyspacecenter.com

SEPTEMBER 15

COMEDY ZONE

Riverside Theatre presents Comedy Zone and Live in the Loop, with two comedians and local bands as well as food and beverages available from the grill. Comedy Zone is recommended for guests 18 and older. September 15–16, 22–23, and 29–30; Live in the Loop: 5:45 p.m.; general admission free, reserved seating available; Comedy Zone 7 and 9 p.m., $25

Riverside Theatre

3250 Riverside Park Drive

772-231-6990 riversidetheatre.com

SEPTEMBER 16

SADO WORKSHOP

Yoshiko Hardick teaches the traditional Japanese “way of tea,” including preparation, serving, and behaving properly as a guest at the tea ceremony. Registration is required. 1–3 p.m., $50

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach

561-495-0233 morikami.org

AUSTEN WALDRON, MORIKAMI MUSEUM AND JAPANESE GARDENS

RECURRING EVENTS

EVERY SATURDAY

FARMERS MARKET

Browse the produce, culinary delights, and other wares of more than two dozen vendors at the Vero Beach Farmers Market, at the corner of Ocean Drive and Dahlia Lane, across from Humiston Park. 8 a.m.–noon

Business Inspiring Kindness 2901 Ocean Drive verobeachfarmersmarket.com

EVERY FIRST FRIDAY FIRST FRIDAY GALLERY STROLL

Enjoy an evening walk in downtown Vero Beach, pop into some galleries, and perhaps grab a beverage or a bite at a café. September 1 and October 6; 5–8 p.m.

Main Street Vero Beach

Downtown along 14th Avenue 772-643-6782

mainstreetverobeach.org

SEPTEMBER

SUNSET STROLL

Guests will have the opportunity to stroll through Morikami’s six gardens, enjoy beverages from the Sake Station, view Japanese calligraphy, and experience live taiko drumming performances.

5:30–8 p.m., $8

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach 561-495-0233 morikami.org

SEPTEMBER

THE ADDAMS FAMILY THE MUSICAL

For three consecutive weekends, audiences can enjoy a show starring the beloved Addams Family characters, with music by Andrew Lippa and book by Marshall

EVERY LAST FRIDAY

DOWNTOWN FRIDAY

Main Street Vero Beach holds a community street party with live music, street vendors, and food trucks. September 29, 6–9 p.m., free

Main Street Vero Beach

Downtown along 14th Avenue 772-643-6782 mainstreetverobeach.org

EVERY LAST SATURDAY

VBMA FREE ADMISSION

Admission is free for everyone on the last Saturday of each month. September 30, 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Vero Beach Museum of Art 3001 Riverside Park Drive 772-231-0707 vbmuseum.org

Brickman and Rick Elice. Fridays 7:30 p.m., Saturdays 2 and 7:30 p.m., Sundays 2 p.m.; $35–$40

Vero Beach Theatre Guild 2020 San Juan Ave. 772-562-8300 verobeachtheatreguild.com

SEPTEMBER

FREEDOM K

The Substance Awareness Center of Indian River County will hold its 5K Freedom Run & Walk to celebrate recovery journeys and raise funds to continue working to free local residents from substance misuse. 7:30 a.m.; $30 adults, $15 children 12 and under Substance Awareness Center of IRC

at South Beach Park 1702 Ocean Drive 772-770-4811 sacirc.org

NICOLACE MARKETING

Maureen Nicolace

772-299-4889, maureen@nicolacemarketing com

Public relations, marketing plans, media placement, graphic design, marketing, and staff development

SQUARED STUDIOS

Amanda Robinson

772-713-6884, squared-studios com

M arketing, advertising, and graphic design from concept through production

SKY ADVERTISING

321-777-0140, skyadinc co m

Full-service marketing, including brand creation; photography and videography; digital, print, and broadcast advertising; and website creation

VERO MARKETING

Lindsay Candler

772-473-0654, veromarketing com

Creative graphic design, print marketing, and website design

Test your powers of perception

BY JANINE FISHER